Burmese youth celebrate the coming New Year and Water Festival with song and dance, washing away the sins of the past.

Others seek the solace of quiet temples to pray for prosperity.

The festivities come a day after British Prime Minister David Cameron's visit - the first major Western leader to travel here in 50 years.

Residents say the historic visit may herald positive omens for Myanmar's future.

SOUNDBITE) (Burmese) MERCHANT MG OO SAYING:

"That type of Western leader has not visited our country for so long. I believe his visit will support our country's development. I believe it is good for our nation."

Cameron met with popular pro-democracy activist Aung San Suu kyi and called for an end to some sanctions, bringing hope that Myanmar will be able to reverse economic stagnation under decades of military rule.

The official Burmese New Year begins on Monday.

Jessica Gray, Reuters