Like many emerging nations, Myanmar is complex and understanding the factors that make it so can take time.  However, the emerging Asian nation needs not be wholly understood to be appreciated: there's aesthetic and natural beauty at every turn and it is indeed mesmerising.  

Life still holds on to tradition, thanks to a delayed entry into the world of tourism.  At heart, it is a country of tradition and values.  As you move around the country, said tradition will be seen in everyday life.  

The changes that are happening following the democratically elected government of 2015 are still restricted to urban centres; life in rural centres remains as it has for decades.  It's what I loved most about visiting Myanmar, lifting the lid on a novel way of living.

Tradition aside, there are swathes of natural beauty, gilded pagodas and genial smiles almost everywhere.  I don't know if the recent changes and continuing development will have a negative impact.  I hope they don't.  

However, I'd recommend going soon so you can see a country almost untainted by tourism.