Top Myanmar Travel Tips
Myanmar or Burma? Why Did it Modify Its Name?
The country officially called Burma got independence in 1948 from occupying forces, however it had not been up until 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 more inclusive of the numerous ethnic groups in the country. Various other names were additionally changed, 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 and also Myanmar are still used interchangeably, on the ground and on the world stage. This write-up breaks down the modifications, what you 'should' say as well as the question: does it even matter?
Ideal Times to Go To Myanmar
There are generally three seasons in which you can visit Myanmar:
October to March: Dry, winter season
March to May: Hot, summertime season
May to October: Damp, rainy period
The popular, high season is November to February when the weather condition is warm however not stifling, as well as draws in the greatest number of visitors. This, consequently, makes the limited holiday accommodation choices difficult to secure as well as will imply attempting to book in advance or face paying out for the much more costly alternatives left over.
March to May is the time when the temperature rises in Myanmar and also approaching rainfalls are due. There is a minimal number of travelers which makes it easy to book holiday accommodation but it is unbelievably warm.
Visas
An e-Visa is readily available to visitors from these 100 countries.
To get one, go to the official e-Visa web site. You'll need to upload a passport photo as well as pay a cost of $50.
It takes under 10 mins to apply as well as you should get authorization within 3 working days.
Print out your e-Visa letter, show it when you get here and you're in.
Your e-Visa letter is valid for 90- days from the day of issue as well as enables you a 28 day stay in Myanmar
Getting a visa from your local consular office might be more affordable-- if you wish to save some money, applying for a visa through your local Myanmar consular office might be more affordable. As an example, the price is just ₤ 14 in the UK yet $40 in the U.S.A., so do your research and do not neglect to consider mailing costs.
It is only possible to enter Myanmar on an e-visa at Yangon, Mandalay and also Nay Pyi Taw international airports; and at three Thai-Myanmar land border crossings Tachileik, Myawadi (Myawaddy) and also Kawthoung (Kawthaung). Read the immigration web site for the most up to date at the time you take a trip.
Getting to Myanmar
Flights to Myanmar are the common option for travellers as the very first mode of access, with regular scheduled services from Bangkok. However, taking into consideration where Myanmar lies-- surrounded by China to the North and northeast, Thailand as well as Laos to the east and also India as well as Bangladesh to its west-- there are numerous methods for land entry, although not all of them are recommended because of safety and security.
No matter, you must specify a "Port of Entry" in your on the internet application which denotes exactly how you will be getting to Myanmar. You will be provided a list of alternatives, where you will certainly require to choose among the following:
Myanmar Designated International Airports:
Mandalay (located right in the center of Myanmar)
Yangon (situated in the south)
Nay Pyi Taw (located in between Mandalay as well as Yangon)
Crossing at Land Border Checkpoints:
Tachileik (in the Shan State of eastern Myanmar on the border to northern Thailand)
Myawaddy (in the Kayin State of southeastern Myanmar on the border to western Thailand)
Kawthaung (in the southernmost part of Myanmar, in the Tanintharyi Region on the boundary of the Thai Peninsula and the collection of islands)
Tamu (in the Sagaing Area of northwestern Myanmar on the border to northeastern India).
Rih Khaw Dar (a six-hour drive from the border village of Khawmawi in the northwestern Chin State of Myanmar on the border of Southeastern India).
In reality, you can enter Myanmar at any designated "Port of Entry" yet it is best to stick to the one you originally stated ideally to prevent any kind of hold up in the handling of your visa upon arrival.
You can exit at any one of the International Airports as well as Land Border Checkpoints considering that your exit point does not need to be stated up-front. In addition, you might exit at the Htikee Land Boundary Checkpoint, although access from here is not possible.
Flying in and out of Yangon is cheaper and also has a lot more connections than Mandalay.
Navigating Myanmar-- Cross Country
Credit: myanmartours.us
Myanmar's local transport choices might be irritating but the long distance propositions are far more enticing.
Distances are far, road travel is slow-moving as well as flying is budget friendly so it may be your better option.
You can still book flights the old-school means by wandering into a travel agent.
Flying within Myanmar is a little bit like flying in the older days-- check-in entails ticking people off a listing of printed names, baggage claim can mean leaving the flight terminal and also getting your bag off a trolley by the plane as well as flight announcements are made by a person holding up a sign and also calling your flight (in incomprehensible English). It really is an experience. And also a great deal of fun if you do not let it get you stressed.Buses are affordable with competing companies as well as a variety of deluxe levels.
Credits: seawander.asia
Most buses travel overnight which is wonderful for not losing a day of sightseeing, yet isn't so terrific for sleep. Additionally, you'll have a tendency to reach at weird times in the early morning and also will not be able to check into your hostel or hotel up until 2 p.m. That's a lot of hours waiting for a 'top-up' snooze. Think about if it will be cheaper to fly if you're going to book accommodation the same evening to rest straight away.
Buses are really cold, the high-end buses will provide 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 toilet break-- a little bit frustrating if you're trying to rest through the night.
Night buses are not sleeper buses, despite the fact that these are the buses which bring you to your location around 3 or 4am. What's even more, some still play their funky local music CD's as well as cheesy video up until the early hrs of the early morning. Pack your iPod, purchase some sturdy extreme ear plugs or kindly request the sound to be turned off.
Never ever ask a driver regarding reaches of the southern Mon State as well as Tenasserim region are typically out-of-bounds to visitors unless you have gotten a government visa beforehand. In some locations you'll need a guide to chaperone you. Check before you make plans.
Getting off the beaten path is difficult-- even within the 'open' parts, Myanmar's developing infrastructure indicates that there are set routes you can travel and you'll struggle to go any other way. Attempting to do otherwise may be extremely costly.
Work your sightseeing around the heat-- Myanmar is well-known for its sunrises and sundowns, which additionally corresponds nicely with staying inside (possibly for a nap or pool dip if you have one) during the mid-day heat.
Anticipate to go barefoot a great deal in temples on seriously grubby floors. In temples where birds are nesting or monkeys and dogs hangout, you can anticipate to step in a great deal of animal faeces while you're discovering Myanmar's temples. Socks aren't allowed either so you simply have to get used to it. Have wipes for your feet so you can wipe some after each visit.
Be a thoughtful temple visitor, the majority of Myanmar's temples are places of worship, not simply sights for vacationers. Respect 'do not climb/do not enter' signs and also keep your voice down-- individuals will be praying.
Expect to pay an entry fee for Bagan and also Inle Lake-- this fee is charged to all foreigners and there's no getting around it. The costs are: Bagan-- $20; Inle Lake-- $10.
Lodging in Myanmar
Credits: tripadvisor.com
Hostels are gradually opening, meaning you can sleep in more inexpensive accommodation than you could a couple of years back. Things are gradually getting better for solo visitors, though prices are still much more of what you'll pay in other places in Southeast Asia.
Guesthouses are rustic but captivating. The accommodation gives a feeling for what a local house could be like, basic however beautifully decorated in teak wood) and the breakfast was generally exceptional. And also, it's nice to place cash into the hands of the residents, not some huge brand chain.
A lot of hostels, hotels as well as guesthouses supply a towel yet you might have to offer up a refundable $10 deposit on check-in. Hotels will certainly likewise supply some form of toiletries. Some hostels as well as guesthouses do as well, yet it can not be counted on.
Beware 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 as well as transport in advance throughout peak period. The tourist industry in Myanmar appears to have actually experienced a boom which the facilities has fallen short to keep pace with. The majority of hotels are tiny and also boutique like so if there's someplace certain you want to stay it's necessary to book in advance. It is especially vital to book ahead during high period (November to March). In some rural areas, monasteries will take visitors in for a small cost if there are no rooms readily available. Yet don't depend on the local monks being able to help you out.
Food as well as Drink in Myanmar
Order local dishes: it is always the very best choice. There are noodles at night bus stops, fermented tea leaf salads in local dining establishments and a fantastic selection of curries and also salads
Use chopsticks: Numerous items of cutlery are wiped with a not so wonderful looking water supply as well as dishcloth. Packaged chopsticks are a suitable alternative.
Inform the staff if you don't eat something. If you like a little spice in your dishes specify how much spice you like as the chefs have a tendency to go easy on travelers!
The fish is tasty and also a fantastic, fresh option in most restaurants.
There is quite a great deal of sugar in the food and drinks. If you aren't a fan of sugar there's an alternative to skip the sugar (tea, coffee, newly blended juices), see to it you request for 'no sugar'.
Salads feature heavily on menus however don't anticipate a fresh crunch-- most salads are marinated as well as seasoned in oil, salt as well as lime juice and also do not generally include salad leaves.
Hygiene standards are reduced in Myanmar and also you might get ill once.
Street food isn't as prolific as various other locations in Southeast Asia however you can discover it and also it's excellent. Street food will tend to be about 1,000-1,700 kyat a meal (under $2).
You can not consume the water yet most hotels, hostels and also guesthouses supply complimentary water either in bottles in your area read more or through a large water dispenser at reception. Otherwise, mineral water is very economical.
Alcohol is commonly available with beer, rum as well as whiskey being preferred options.
Beer stations are very easy to find as well as fun locations to get a drink with the locals if you do not intend to sit in a restaurant.
Understand that there isn't a late night culture in Myanmar-- most restaurants close by 9 p.m. and bars follow suit around 10-- 11 p.m. This is a country where meditation at dawn is more preferred than late night drinking.
Large chains can not be discovered and also brand names are in short supply. Myanmar isn't a nation of fast-food chains and beyond beverage brands like Coke and Schwepps Tonic, you're going to be getting local brands and consuming from local restaurants.
Shops are small, family owned affairs-- you won't locate a 7-Eleven. There are a few comparable 'Grab 'n' Go' stores populated about, but primarily you're going to purchase treats as well as beverages from little, local businesses. They can look a bit intimidating, like you're intruding by strolling in. Don't fret, simply step in, they want your business.
There are people smoking indoors- this can be a shock if you come from a country where smoking cigarettes in public locations has long been banned.
Health and Safety in Myanmar
Health
Myanmar is an unbelievably safe country-- a lot of the populace is Buddhist and also with a belief in karma, crime levels are incredibly low.
Still, you ought to take the common preventative measures of using hotel lockers or safes for your belongings. Women travellers should not experience any type of harassment or different treatment.
Do take hand sanitiser-- the cash is filthy and there isn't always soap in shower rooms so utilize your sanitiser before you touch anything that will go near your mouth.
Watch out for the dust- Myanmar can be very dusty so do carry something to cover your mouth as well as nose when biking around. Likewise take care with your a/c-- Myanmar can be as warm. Subsequently, several travellers use the a/c in their room yet sleeping in low temperatures can make you unwell.
Fruit is easy to come by so top up your immune system with nutrients that way. However, as it's usually pre-cut, try to find a vendor that has actually kept the flies away and if it's sluiced with water, make sure it's filtered water.
Safety
Most 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 led to the mass displacement of thousands of individuals. A few other parts of the country stay shut to foreigners because of conflict in between the government and also various ethnic militaries gathered in eastern and northern Myanmar. These locations are mainly in Kachin and Shan States, near the frontiers with China as well as Thailand, as well as far from the significant visitor destinations.
Accurate info on conflicts and closed locations can be challenging to come by. Check your government's recommendations prior to travelling, and ask about the situation once you are in Myanmar. Lonely Planet's Thorn Tree travel forum is an excellent source of information from visitors on the ground.
What to wear in Myanmar
Most of the locals dress conservatively| as well as cover their shoulders and legs regardless of the high temperatures, and also you will make everyone a lot more comfortable if you follow suit.
Knee length shorts, long skirts, elephant pants as well as t-shirts are the outfit of choice. These are highly encouraged and usually enforced for going into the temples and also pagodas.
Credits: backpackinglikeaboss.com
Everyone uses skirts-- males and females alike-- the longyi, a long skirt, is the popular traditional dress in Myanmar for both men and women. Several vacationers pick one up as they're breezy in the warmth and also tick the 'traditional wear' box. They are practical for taking in the sights so grab a cheap one a the market if you have the chance.
Flip flops are vital! Getting in pagodas indicates going barefoot as well as flip flops are the most effective footwear choice. Battling with laces in the scorching heat is an unwanted interruption. Bring some cleaning wipes for your feet after checking out a pagoda.
Myanmar is a conservative nation so you'll blend much better if you clothe conservatively (covering your knees as well as shoulders). You will find people in shorts as well as strappy tops in the cities as well as at the beach however in other places it's much less common.
Culture
Credits: parallelsandmeridians.com
The local individuals are remarkably genteel as well as not used to confrontation so pack your best manners and your patience. Travelling can be discouraging, warm and also slow-moving but keep in mind: you picked to check out Myanmar and that it's not like being at home is no good reason to take it out on the citizens. However, bargain hard with the taxi drivers.
You may get stopped a lot by locals who want to chat. Tourists are no more a novelty in a lot of Southeast Asia but Myanmar is different. Generally individuals are charming and more than happy to appear in photos and try and also talk through minimal common words or sign language.
You mayalso get stared at a whole lot which is typically best managed by offering a smile and a mingalabar (hi in Burmese). Burmese English can be difficult to comprehend, be patient, listen hard and if you're spending for a guide, make certain they have great clear English before you book.
Credits: toddholdenarmstrong.blogspot.com
The red stained pavements are a consequence of spewing red coloured saliva after eating betel quids, small parcels that contain tobacco, spices as well as areca nuts covered in a betel leaf. It's probably popular| since it delivers a hit that's equivalent to 6 mugs of coffee. But, as well as being dangerous when chewed long term, the spin-off is bright-red saliva which is spewed out, most times onto the ground.
Lots of residents have the tell tale red discolored teeth and taxi drivers often roll down the window in sluggish traffic to spew after eating on the betel quids.
There is some begging by children in Myanmar and as heartbreaking as it is, you shouldn't give to the kids. Why not? Read this fantastic write-up 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 item in Myanmar and likewise acts as a sun block.
It's also common to hear a kissing sound in the coffee shops and also dining establishments as locals make use of the kissing sound as an ask for service. Apparently it's easier for staff to identify the location of the kissing sound so don't be startled!
Burmese Phrases
The two essential phrases you require in Myanmar are:
Hey there: Ming-gu-la-bah
Thanks: Jay-zu-de-bar-dee
Not only is it polite, yet it is well received. Be prepared for many locals to giggle in reaction-- they are not mocking you; they are just not anticipating it.
Various other practical concerns in Myanmar
Laundry is generally done by hand as well as is charged per item rather than kilo so try to show up with your clothing laundered and unless you want to turn over $20 for a load of washing, choose the items you really require washing as well as wash your smaller items on your own as you go.
Toiletries are simple to find by however tampons are not so bring what you require with you.
You can not flush toilet paper or sanitary products-- this is really typical in developing countries where the plumbing system can not deal with anything besides bodily fluids.
Myanmar has that unusual half-hour difference| to its time area so it's 6 and a half hrs ahead of GMT.
Most of the plug sockets of Myanmar have several 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 get over it or, much better still, buy a local SIM. You can get one at most airport terminals when you land or in one of the shops in the road and the store staff will certainly have you set up in about 5 minutes. You can learn more concerning your network options below. Still, with 1 mbps considered to be a 'quick' link, don't expect to be downloading video clips at any time. Online access has actually improved, with wi-fi coming to be the norm-- most hotels, guesthouses and also coffee shops have it free of charge-- as well as the net is now spreading tomore remote places. Yet tightly squeezed bandwidth and also power failures can use the net a frustrating exercise.
Do your research ahead of time or pack a guidebook, as well as don't anticipate to Skype home very often, it's hardly possible to get a messenger service to work at times!
You'll be much better with a backpack than a luggage. Travel suitcases aren't ideal on dusty, sandy, unevenroadways. Entering and out of myriad forms of transport and hefting it up numerous steep stairs isn't better.
Thanks for reading this guide to Top Traveling Tips for Myanmar