29 December 1998

To whom it may concern

I wish to commend wholeheartedly TAY ZA( S.S.T TOURISM CO LTD, Kamayut Township, Yangon, Myanmar) as an excellent tour manager, and also to recommend his company, S.S.T Tourism Co.Ltd, for tours into the remotest parts of Myanmar.

Tay Za was in charge of all arrangements for a botanical research tour by Dr Charles Nelson and Mr David Sayers to Mount Victoria ( Natmataung National Park ) earlier this month. This involved seven days travel including a two-day trek from Camp 8 on Mount Victoria to Mindat via Esakan. He carried out his task with the greatest efficiency and professionalism, giving personal attention to all details. He made a reconnaissance trip in advance, to ensure that camps and rest hourses were accessible and available. The tour was made the more enjoyable by the cheerfulness, good humour and hard work of all involved including the local drivers and porters engaged by S. S.T Tourism.

Both Mr Sayer and I were especially impressed by the quality and quantity of the food provided during the Mount Victoria trek. This is a remote area, yet all the food was prepared freshly, and so I also happily commend SOE MIN AYE as an outstanding expedition cook.

As well as being thoroughly professional in his work, Tay Za is a most pleasing companion, and he speaks excellent English. The success of the tour and our enjoyment of it were due in no small measure to him.

E. Charles Nelson B. Sc., Ph. D., F. L. S.
[formerly Taxonomist, National Botanic Gardens, Glasnevin, Dublin, Ireland]

_____________________________________________________________________________