Leading Myanmar Travel Tips
Myanmar or Burma? Why Did it Change Its Name?
The nation formally called Burma acquired independence in 1948 from occupying forces, but it had not been till 1989 that the ruling military junta changed the nation's name from Burma to Myanmar following a military coup.
Politically, the name Burma was seen as a relic of the nation's former British colonial past, as well as Myanmar as much more inclusive of the many ethnic groups in the nation. Various other names were also altered, which is why you will see Rangoon currently referred to as Yangon.
For tourism, Burma travel is Myanmar travel. Same same, as they say in Southeast Asia.
Both the names Burma as well as Myanmar are still made use of interchangeably, on the ground as well as on the world stage. This short article breaks down the modifications, what you 'should' say and also the question: does it even matter?
Ideal Times to Go To Myanmar
There are generally 3 seasons in which you can go to Myanmar:
October to March: Dry, winter
March to May: Hot, summer season
May to October: Wet, rainy period
The popular, high period is November to February when the weather condition is warm but not stifling, and also brings in the greatest number of visitors. This, in turn, makes the restricted holiday accommodation options difficult to secure and will indicate attempting to book in advance or deal with paying out for the more expensive alternatives left over.
March to May is the time when the temperature level increases in Myanmar as well as upcoming rainfalls are due. There is a minimal number of tourists which makes it easy to book holiday accommodation yet it is incredibly hot.
Visas
An e-Visa is readily available to tourists from these 100 countries.
To obtain one, go to the main e-Visa website. You'll need to upload a passport photo as well as pay a cost of $50.
It takes under 10 minutes to apply as well as you should get authorization within 3 working days.
Print out your e-Visa letter, show it when you arrive and you're in.
Your e-Visa letter is valid for 90- days from the date of issue and also enables you a 28 day stay in Myanmar
Getting a visa from your local consular office may be cheaper-- if you want to save some cash, obtaining a visa through your local Myanmar consular office may be more affordable. For instance, the cost is simply ₤ 14 in the UK however $40 in the United States, so do your research and also don't forget to consider mailing expenses.
It is only possible to enter Myanmar on an e-visa at Yangon, Mandalay and also Nay Pyi Taw international airports; as well as at 3 Thai-Myanmar land border crossings Tachileik, Myawadi (Myawaddy) and also Kawthoung (Kawthaung). Check the immigration site for the most recent at the time you take a trip.
Reaching Myanmar
Flights to Myanmar are the typical option for visitors as the very first mode of entrance, with normal scheduled services from Bangkok. But, taking into consideration where Myanmar is located-- surrounded by China to the North and also northeast, Thailand and Laos to the east and India as well as Bangladesh to its west-- there are multiple methods for land access, although not all of them are advised because of safety and security.
No matter, you must specify a "Port of Entry" in your on the internet application which denotes just how you will certainly be reaching Myanmar. You will certainly be given a list of alternatives, where you will require to pick among the following:
Myanmar Designated International Airports:
Mandalay (located right in the center of Myanmar)
Yangon (situated in the south)
Nay Pyi Taw (positioned in between Mandalay and also Yangon)
Going Across at Land Boundary Checkpoints:
Tachileik (in the Shan State of eastern Myanmar on the border to north Thailand)
Myawaddy (in the Kayin State of southeastern Myanmar on the boundary to western Thailand)
Kawthaung (in the most southern part of Myanmar, in the Tanintharyi Region on the boundary of the Thai Peninsula and also the cluster of islands)
Tamu (in the Sagaing Region of northwestern Myanmar on the boundary to northeastern India).
Rih Khaw Dar (a six-hour drive from the boundary village of Khawmawi in the northwestern Chin State of Myanmar on the border of Southeastern India).
In truth, you can go into Myanmar at any designated "Port of Entry" yet it is best to stay with the one you initially specified when possible to avoid any kind of hold up in the handling of your visa upon arrival.
You can exit at any of the International Airports and Land Border Checkpoints because your exit point does not need to be stated up-front. In addition, you may exit at the Htikee Land Border Checkpoint, although entry from here is not possible.
Flying in and also out of Yangon is less costly as well as has extra links than Mandalay.
Getting around Myanmar-- Cross Country
Credit: myanmartours.us
Myanmar's local transport options might be discouraging yet the cross country propositions are far more attractive.
Distances are far, road travel is slow-moving as well as flying is cost effective so it may be your much better option.
You can still reserve flights the traditional way by wandering right into a travel agent.
Flying within Myanmar is a bit like flying in the older days-- check-in entails ticking people off a list of printed names, luggage claim can mean leaving the flight terminal and also getting your bag off a trolley by the aircraft and flight announcements are made by an individual holding up a sign as well as calling your flight (in incomprehensible English). It truly is an experience. And also a lot of fun if you do not let it get you stressed.Buses are inexpensive with competing firms and a variety of luxury levels.
Credits: seawander.asia
A lot of buses travel over night which is terrific for not losing a day of sightseeing and tour, but isn't so excellent for sleep. Also, you'll have a tendency to reach at strange times in the early morning and also won't have the ability to check into your hostel or hotel till 2 p.m. That's a great deal of hours waiting for a 'top-up' nap. Take into consideration if it will certainly be less costly to fly if you're going to book accommodation the very same evening to rest immediately.
Buses are really chilly, the luxury buses will certainly give you a blanket but, wear your warm layers.
Even the VIP bus doesn't have a toilet onboard so anticipate to stop every couple of hrs for a food and also toilet break-- a little bit frustrating if you're attempting to sleep through the night.
Night buses are not sleeper buses, although these are the buses which bring you to your destination around 3 or 4am. What's more, some still play their funky local song CD's and also cheesy video up until the very early hrs of the early morning. Pack your iPod, purchase some sturdy extreme ear plugs or kindly request for the sound to be switched off.
Never ever ask a vehicle driver about reaches of the southerly Mon State and Tenasserim area are generally off-limits to travelers unless you have actually requested a government visa ahead of time. In some locations you'll require a guide to chaperone you. Check before you make plans.
Leaving the beaten path is challenging-- even within the 'open' parts, Myanmar's developing infrastructure means that there are set routes you can travel and you'll struggle to go any other way. Attempting to do otherwise could be really pricey.
Work your sightseeing around the heat-- Myanmar is famous for its daybreaks as well as sundowns, which additionally matches perfectly with remaining inside (maybe for a nap or pool dip if you have one) during the mid-day heat.
Anticipate to go barefoot a whole lot in temples on seriously grubby floors. In temples where birds are nesting or monkeys as well as dogs hangout, you can anticipate to step in a lot of animal faeces while you're exploring Myanmar's temples. Socks aren't permitted either so you simply need to get used to it. Have wipes for your feet so you can clean off some after each visit.
Be a mindful temple visitor, a lot of Myanmar's temples are places of worship, not just views for travelers. Respect 'do not climb/do not enter' signs and also keep your voice down-- people will certainly be praying.
Expect to pay an access fee for Bagan and also Inle Lake-- this charge is charged to all foreigners and there's no getting around it. The fees are: Bagan-- $20; Inle Lake-- $10.
Holiday accommodation in Myanmar
Credits: tripadvisor.com
Hostels are slowly opening, implying you can rest in cheaper accommodation than you could a couple of years ago. Things are gradually getting better for solo tourists, though costs are still far more of what you'll pay somewhere else in Southeast Asia.
Guesthouses are rustic but lovely. The holiday accommodation gives a feel for what a local house might be like, basic but magnificently decorated in teak) as well as the morning meal was normally remarkable. Plus, it's nice to put money right into the hands of the locals, not some big brand chain.
The majority of hostels, hotels and guesthouses supply a towel yet you could have to offer up a refundable $10 down payment on check-in. Hotels will likewise provide some form of toiletries. Some hostels as well as guesthouses do also, but it can not be relied on.
Be careful about the curfew-- some guesthouses might lock the door at night, leaving you unable to access your bed. Check before you go out for the night.
Reserve lodging and also transportation in advance during peak season. The tourist industry in Myanmar seems to have actually experienced a boom which the infrastructure has failed to keep speed with. The majority of resorts are tiny and also boutique like thus if there's someplace specific you want to stay it's essential to book beforehand. It is especially essential to book ahead during high period (November to March). In some rural areas, monasteries will take tourists in for a small cost if there are no rooms available. Yet do not count on the local monks being able to help you out.
Food as well as Drink in Myanmar
Order local dishes: it is always the best option. There are noodles at night bus stops, fermented tea leaf salads in local restaurants and also a remarkable array of curries and also salads
Use chopsticks: Numerous pieces of cutlery are wiped with a not so great looking water supply and dishcloth. Prepackaged chopsticks are an optimal alternative.
Inform the staff if you don't consume something. If you like a little spice in your dishes mention how much spice you like as the cooks tend to go easy on tourists!
The fish is tasty and a wonderful, fresh choice in the majority of dining establishments.
There is quite a great deal of sugar in the food as well as beverages. If you aren't a fan of sugar there's a choice to skip the sugar (tea, coffee, fresh blended juices), ensure you request for 'no sugar'.
Salads feature heavily on food selections yet don't anticipate a fresh crunch-- most salads are marinated as well as seasoned in oil, salt and also lime juice as well as do not usually feature salad leaves.
Hygiene standards are low in Myanmar and also you might get sick once.
Street food isn't as prolific as other areas in Southeast Asia but you can discover it as well as it's excellent. Street food will tend to be about 1,000-1,700 kyat a meal (under $2).
You can't consume the water yet most hotels, hostels and also guesthouses supply free water either in bottles in your space or using a large water dispenser at reception. Otherwise, mineral water is really inexpensive.
Alcohol is widely available with beer, rum and scotch being prominent alternatives.
Beer stations are very easy to locate and fun places to get a drink with the locals if you don't intend to being in more info a restaurant.
Know that there isn't a late night culture in Myanmar-- most dining establishments close by 9 p.m. as well as bars do the same around 10-- 11 p.m. This is a nation where meditation at sunrise is more popular than late night alcohol consumption.
Large chains can not be discovered as well as brands remain in short supply. Myanmar isn't a nation of fast-food chains as well as beyond drink brands like Coke and also Schwepps Tonic, you're going to be purchasing local brands and consuming from local dining establishments.
Stores are small, family owned affairs-- you will not discover a 7-Eleven. There are a few equal 'Grab 'n' Go' shops dotted about, yet mainly you're going to buy treats and also drinks from tiny, local businesses. They can look a bit intimidating, like you're intruding by walking in. Don't fret, just step in, they want your business.
There are individuals smoking indoors- this can be a shock if you come from a country where smoking cigarettes in public locations has actually long been banned.
Health and Safety in Myanmar
Health
Myanmar is an incredibly safe area-- most of the populace is Buddhist and with an idea in karma, criminal activity levels are extremely reduced.
Still, you should take the common safety measures of making use of hotel lockers or safes for your valuables. Female visitors should not experience any kind of harassment or different treatment.
Do take hand sanitiser-- the money is gross as well as there isn't always soap in washrooms so use your sanitiser prior to you touch anything that will go near your mouth.
Keep an eye out for the dust- Myanmar can be extremely dusty so do bring something to cover your mouth and nose when biking around. Likewise take care with your a/c-- Myanmar can be as warm. Consequently, lots of tourists use the a/c in their room but sleeping in low temperature levels can make you sick.
Fruit is easy to come by so top up your body immune system with nutrients this way. Nevertheless, as it's usually pre-cut, look for a seller that has kept the flies away as well as if it's sluiced with water, ensure it's filtered water.
Safety and security
The majority of government advisories advise against traveling to parts of Rakhine (Rakhaing) State in western Myanmar, where clashes in between local authorities as well as the minority Muslim (Rohingya) communities has actually brought about the mass displacement of countless individuals. Some other parts of the country continue to be shut to foreigners as a result of problem in between the government and also different ethnic armies clustered in eastern and northern Myanmar. These areas are mostly in Kachin and Shan States, near the frontiers with China as well as Thailand, as well as far from the major traveler destinations.
Accurate info on disputes as well as closed areas can be hard to find. Check your government's guidance prior to taking a trip, as well as ask about the situation when you are in Myanmar. Lonely Planet's Thorn Tree travel forum is a great source of information from visitors on the ground.
What to wear in Myanmar
Most of the locals dress conservatively| and also cover their shoulders as well as legs in spite of the heat, and you will certainly make everyone a lot more comfortable if you do the same.
Knee length shorts, long skirts, elephant pants and tees are the attire of choice. These are highly encouraged and often enforced for getting in the temples and pagodas.
Credits: backpackinglikeaboss.com
Every person uses skirts-- men and women alike-- the longyi, a long skirt, is the popular traditional dress in Myanmar for both men and women. Lots of tourists pick one up as they're breezy in the warmth and also tick the 'conservative wear' box. They are practical for sightseeing so grab an inexpensive one a the marketplace if you have the opportunity.
Flip flops are necessary! Entering pagodas means going barefoot as well as flip flops are the most effective footwear choice. Dealing with shoelaces in the blistering heat is an unwelcome distraction. Bring some cleansing wipes for your feet after checking out a pagoda.
Myanmar is a conservative nation so you'll blend better if you dress conservatively (covering your knees and shoulders). You will find individuals in shorts and also strappy tops in the cities and at the beach but somewhere else it's less typical.
Culture
Credits: parallelsandmeridians.com
The local individuals are remarkably genteel and also not used to confrontation so pack your good manners and your patience. Travelling can be frustrating, hot and slow but keep in mind: you selected to go to Myanmar and that it's not like being at home is no good reason to take it out on the citizens. Nonetheless, bargain hard with the cab drivers.
You may get stopped a great deal by residents who want to talk. Visitors are no longer a novelty in most of Southeast Asia yet Myanmar is different. Usually individuals are wonderful and also more than happy to appear in pictures and try and also talk with limited usual words or sign language.
You maylikewise get stared at a great deal which is generally best handled by offering a smile and also a mingalabar (hey there in Burmese). Burmese English can be hard to understand, be patient, pay attention as well as if you're paying for a guide, make certain they have great clear English before you book.
Credits: toddholdenarmstrong.blogspot.com
The red stained sidewalks are a consequence of spewing red coloured saliva after chewing betel quids, little parcels that contain tobacco, spices as well as areca nuts wrapped in a betel leaf. It's possibly popular| since it supplies a hit that's equivalent to 6 cups of coffee. Yet, as well as being dangerous when chewed long term, the by-product is bright-red saliva which is spewed out, most times onto the ground.
Great deals of citizens have the tell tale red stained teeth as well as cab drivers typically roll down the window in slow-moving traffic to spit after chewing on the betel quids.
There is some begging by kids in Myanmar and also as heartbreaking as it is, you shouldn't give to the kids. Why not? Read this great short article by Uncornered Market.
Credits: mekongtourism.org
It's common to see yellow circles pasted on the faces of the Burmese girls. This is Thanaka, an aesthetic paste made from ground bark, which is a beauty product in Myanmar and likewise acts as a sunscreen.
It's also common to hear a kissing noise in the coffee shops as well as dining establishments as citizens use the kissing noise as a call for service. Apparently it's much easier for staff to recognize the area of the kissing sound so don't be startled!
Burmese Phrases
The two essential expressions you require in Myanmar are:
Hey there: Ming-gu-la-bah
Thanks: Jay-zu-de-bar-dee
Not only is it respectful, yet it is well received. Be ready for the majority of locals to giggle in response-- they are not mocking you; they are just not anticipating it.
Other practical concerns in Myanmar
Laundry is normally done by hand as well as is charged per item instead of kilo so try to turn up with your clothes washed and also unless you intend to hand over $20 for a load of washing, select the items you really require washing and also clean your smaller items yourself as you go.
Toiletries are easy to find by yet tampons are not so bring what you require with you.
You can not flush toilet paper or sanitary products-- this is very usual in developing nations where the plumbing system can't manage anything aside from bodily fluids.
Myanmar has that odd half-hour difference| to its time zone so it's 6 and a half hours in advance of GMT.
Most of the plug sockets of Myanmar have multiple adaptors for European and North American 2-pin connects as well as British three-pin.
Wi-fi is bad in Myanmar so you either need to overcome it or, better still, acquire a local SIM. You can obtain one at many airports when you land or in among the stores in the street and also the shop personnel will have you set up in about 5 mins. You can read more concerning your network options below. Still, with 1 mbps thought about to be a 'fast' link, do not anticipate to be downloading videos at any time. Online accessibility has actually improved, with wi-fi the norm-- most hotels, guesthouses and cafes have it totally free-- and also the internet is currently spreading tofarther locations. However tightly squeezed bandwidth and power interruptions can use the internet a discouraging exercise.
Do your research in advance or pack a guidebook, as well as do not anticipate to Skype home extremely often, it's barely possible to get a messenger service to work at times!
You'll be much better with a knapsack than a suitcase. Luggage aren't suitable on dusty, sandy, unevenroads. Getting in as well as out of myriad forms|types|kinds} of transportation and also hefting it up several steep staircases isn't much better.