Inle Lake is on a plateau at about 2,900ft and is surrounded by a several small villages, including Nyaungshwe where we stayed at the May Guesthouse.  It also has villages built right on the marshy lake.  We rented a boat and spent most of the afternoon exploring the lake.  This series of photos shows both their traditional culture as well as their dependence on tourism.  Many of their activities are based on the tradition of fishing, leg rowing and floating gardens which likely has been constant for hundreds of years.  Tourism mixes in a series of workshops producing items such as lotus and silk weaving to cheroot leaf cigars.  Overall, we had a great tour of the lake.  And although we usually try to avoid tourist spots, it was fascinating nonetheless.  Including the hand full of Padaung “long neck” women weaving in one of the workshops.  These women stretch their necks by using brass rings.