To me, it makes little sense to learn about parts of the world with which one has no connection. For example, there was a reason to know where Fes is located as we planned our Morocco trip. There's hardly a reason to know more than basic trivia unless one is actually planning to experience a place firsthand. I have been very fortunate to have done a fair amount of globe trotting. My recent fascination with SE Asia stems from the fact we already have air tickets.
I knew practically nothing about Burma (Myanmar) other than it's location on the globe. I knew very little about the fact Britain first gained control over the area of Rangoon (Yangon) during the middle of the 1800's. At the turn of the last century, it is reported to have had infrastructure comparable to that of London. The decades since, of course, have contained their share of heartache. Now that things are back in the hands of a civilian government, the country has a lot of catching up to do. I feel blessed to be in a position to glimpse the country during this historic time.
This picture from much further north, shows the temples of Bagan. Now we're not talking about a mere century of history but a whole millennium. I was always a 'big picture' type of student in school. I still like thinking of the great ebb and flow of history and humankind. One thousand years ago was an exciting period of development in this section of the world. The more I learn, the more I want to know.
We're planning to see Burma for a few weeks while in Asia next winter.