I meet a number of expats who live in mid and downtown. I like it up here in uptown and being one of relatively few foreigners in the area.

In my little neighbourhood, I enjoy the greeting I receive each morning and evening, especially from the children.
Its a poor part of town with open drains and water channels. People wash from buckets or standpipes in the street and some live in wooden houses amongst the concrete apartments.

There are two little classroom school facilities, and a few shops selling basic foodstuffs and provisions.
On many days, monks will walk through the area barefooted carrying their tins and will stop at houses for food. Nuns are also a feature of life here from time to time.

Stray dogs are numerous but they are generally docile with the occasional fighting in the early hours!
Another aspect I find amusing is the plastic baskets which hang down from the various floors of the apartments so that items can be lifted up without having to walk downstairs.

Its a real community with unwritten rules about behaviour including quietness between the hours of 10pm and 6am. All in all, a great place to experience Myanmar life for six months.