20 June 2001

Dear Sir or Madam:

This letter is to endorse the SST tourism company of Myanmar as an outstanding agent for those wishing to undertake trips to the wonderful travel destinations that exist in the Union of Myanmar.

During February and March of 2001, I had occasion to use their services to assitst me in organizing and conducting a 6-week expedition by foot into Myanmar's newest nation park, the remote and beautiful Hkakabo Razi region in the northernmost part of the country along the border with Tibet. This arduous journey required extraordinary planning and preparation as well as meticulous day-to-day management of logistics. Naturally, permits were required from several government branches; equipment and supplies had to be packed; 60 porters (speaking 4 different languages) had to be hired; and so forth. In addition,emergency plans had to be made to anticipate the various contingencies (accidents, illness, delays) that always occur.

All of these arrangements were handled by SST with the greatest thoroughness, efficiency, and professionalism. Futhermore, the SST staff, led by U Tay Za, was unfailingly honest and courteous, often uner difficult circumstances. I recommend their sevices without reservation, and would be happy todiscuss my experience with any who would like additional information regarding my personal experience with the company.