Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda Festival 2016

Hi all, I hope you are well.

I am planning a trip to Myanmar in Oct/Nov 2016 and would like some advice in regards to the Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda Festival

I am legally blind (with some sight in one but minimal) and use a white cane to help get around as well as the sight I have left. I would be travelling solo and if possible hooking up with other travellers/locals or guides in the area. Whilst my eyesight would mean Id miss much of the detail of the Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda Festival I would still be able to see the basic sight of the golden boat etc and of course take in the atmosphere and sounds.

From those that have been before where/what part of the festival would I be most likely to get the best view of the action and enjoy he festival? I have read online that Lin Kin on the 8th of October offers the best sightseeing plus from there the festical goes to Nyaung Shwe which is most likely where I'd be staying. Would this be the best place to experience the festival or would people recommend other places/dates such as the opening ceremony?

Is it possible to hire a boat or go on a tour of the lake which can get close to the festival boats whilst on the water? And do the normal Inle Lake type tours still operate at this time? If so, are they more expensive at this time?

How long would people recommend to stay in the area so as to enjoy the festival plus the normal sights to see in the area?

Finally, any recommendations where to stay or where not to stay in the area would be appreciated. I plan on staying at lower budget places on the trip as have to watch the budget and was considering staying at one of the places with dorm accommodation at Nyaung Shwe might be beneficial as an opportunity to meet and perhaps absorb the festival with others.

Any advice/recommendations etc etc on the above and the festival in general would be greatly appreciated. Thank you and happy travels

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