Leading Myanmar Traveling Tips
Myanmar or Burma? Why Did it Change Its Name?
The nation formally called Burma gained independence in 1948 from occupying forces, yet it had not been until 1989 that the ruling military junta altered the nation's name from Burma to Myanmar following a military coup.
Politically, the name Burma was seen as a relic of the country's previous British colonial past, and Myanmar as much more inclusive of the many ethnic groups in the country. Various other names were likewise changed, which is why you will certainly 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 and on the world stage. This post breaks down the changes, what you 'should' say as well as the inquiry: does it even matter?
Best Times to See Myanmar
There are usually three periods in which you can see Myanmar:
October to March: Dry, winter
March to May: Hot, summer period
May to October: Wet, rainy season
The popular, high season is November to February when the climate is warm but not stifling, and draws in the greatest number of visitors. This, in turn, makes the restricted holiday accommodation options tricky to secure as well as will imply attempting to book in advance or deal with paying out for the much more pricey alternatives left over.
March to May is the time when the temperature level rises in Myanmar and impending rainfalls are due. There is a limited number of vacationers which makes it easy to book accommodation but it is extremely hot.
Visas
An e-Visa is available to travellers from these 100 countries.
To get one, go to the official e-Visa website. You'll be required to submit a passport photo as well as pay a charge of $50.
It takes under 10 mins to apply as well as you should obtain 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 stands for 90- days from the day of issue as well as enables you a 28 day stay in Myanmar
Obtaining a visa from your local embassy might be less costly-- if you wish to save some money, getting a visa by means of your local Myanmar embassy might be cheaper. For example, the cost is simply ₤ 14 in the UK however $40 in the USA, so do your research and also don't neglect to factor in mailing expenses.
It is only possible to go into Myanmar on an e-visa at Yangon, Mandalay and Nay Pyi Taw international airports; and at 3 Thai-Myanmar land border crossings Tachileik, Myawadi (Myawaddy) and also Kawthoung (Kawthaung). Check the immigration internet site for the current at the time you take a trip.
Reaching Myanmar
Flights to Myanmar are the usual choice for visitors as the initial mode of entrance, with routine scheduled services from Bangkok. Yet, thinking about where Myanmar lies-- surrounded by China to the North and also northeast, Thailand and also Laos to the eastern and India and Bangladesh to its west-- there are numerous avenues for land access, although not every one of them are advised because of safety and security.
No matter, you need to define a "Port of Entry" in your online application which denotes exactly how you will certainly be reaching Myanmar. You will be given a list of choices, where you will need to choose among the following:
Myanmar Designated International Airports:
Mandalay (situated right in the middle of Myanmar)
Yangon (located in the south)
Nay Pyi Taw (located in between Mandalay and Yangon)
Crossing at Land Border Checkpoints:
Tachileik (in the Shan State of eastern Myanmar on the boundary to northern 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 Area 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 boundary of Southeastern India).
In truth, you can enter Myanmar at any designated "Port of Entry" however it is best to stay with the one you initially mentioned when possible to prevent any hold up in the handling of your visa upon arrival.
You can leave at any of the International Airports as well as Land Border Checkpoints because your exit point does not need to be mentioned up front. In addition, you may leave at the Htikee Land Boundary Checkpoint, although entry from here is not possible.
Flying in and out of Yangon is more affordable as well as has more connections than Mandalay.
Navigating Myanmar-- Cross Country
Credit: myanmartours.us
Myanmar's local transport options might be discouraging but the cross country propositions are far more attractive.
Distances are far, road travel is sluggish and flying is inexpensive so it may be your far better choice.
You can still reserve flights the old-school method by wandering into a travel agent.
Flying within Myanmar is a little bit like flying in the older days-- check-in involves ticking people off a listing of printed names, baggage claim can mean leaving the airport and getting your bag off a trolley by the aircraft as well as flight announcements are made by a person holding up a sign and also calling your flight (in incomprehensible English). It actually is an experience. And a lot of fun if you do not let it get you stressed.Buses are budget friendly with competing businesses and also a series of high-end levels.
Credits: seawander.asia
The majority of buses travel overnight which is fantastic for not losing a day of sightseeing and tour, yet isn't so terrific for sleep. Likewise, you'll tend to arrive at weird times in the early morning and also won't be able to check into your hostel or hotel till 2 p.m. That's a great deal of hrs waiting for a 'top-up' nap. Think about if it will certainly be cheaper to fly if you're going to book accommodation the same night to rest straight away.
Buses are very cold, the deluxe buses will certainly offer you a covering however, use your warm layers.
Even the VIP bus does not have a toilet onboard so anticipate to stop every couple of hrs for a food and toilet break-- a bit discouraging if you're trying 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 early hours of the early morning. Pack your iPod, purchase some heavy-duty extreme ear plugs or kindly request the sound to be switched off.
Never ever ask a driver regarding reaches of the southern Mon State and Tenasserim region are usually out-of-bounds to tourists unless you have obtained a government visa beforehand. In some places you'll require a guide to chaperone you. Check before you make plans.
Leaving the beaten path is difficult-- even within the 'open' parts, Myanmar's developing infrastructure means that there are set routes you can travel and you'll struggle to go differently. Trying to do otherwise might be very expensive.
Work your sightseeing and tour around the heat-- Myanmar is famous for its sunrises and also sundowns, which likewise corresponds nicely with remaining inside (possibly for a snooze or pool dip if you have one) during the mid-day .
Anticipate to go barefoot a great deal in temples on seriously grubby floorings. In temples where birds are nesting or monkeys and also dogs hangout, you can expect to step in a lot of animal faeces while you're checking out Myanmar's temples. Socks aren't permitted 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 mindful temple visitor, most of Myanmar's temples are places of worship, not simply sights for tourists. Respect 'do not climb/do not enter' indicators as well as keep your voice down-- people will certainly be praying.
Expect to pay an access charge for Bagan and 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 affordable accommodation than you could a few years back. Things are gradually getting better for solo tourists, though expenses are still far more of what you'll pay elsewhere in Southeast Asia.
Guesthouses are rustic yet lovely. The holiday accommodation offers a feel for what a local house may be like, basic but magnificently decorated in teak wood) and the morning meal was generally exceptional. And also, it's nice to place cash into the hands of the citizens, not some big brand chain.
Many hostels, hotels as well as guesthouses give a towel but you may need to provide a refundable $10 down payment on check-in. Hotels will certainly additionally supply some form of toiletries. Some hostels and also guesthouses do too, but it can't be relied on.
Be cautious about the curfew-- some guesthouses might lock the door at night, leaving you unable to get to your bed. Check before you go out for the night.
Reserve holiday accommodation and also transportation beforehand throughout peak season. The tourist industry in Myanmar appears to have actually experienced a boom which the facilities has actually fallen short to maintain speed with. The majority of resorts are tiny and also boutique like so if there's somewhere certain you intend to stay it's vital to book beforehand. It is specifically essential to book ahead during high period (November to March). In some rural areas, monasteries will take tourists in for a small fee if there are no areas readily available. However do not count on the local monks being able to help you out.
Food and Drink in Myanmar
Order local dishes: it is always the best selection. There are noodles during the night bus stops, fermented travel myanmar blog tea leaf salads in local restaurants and a fantastic range of curries and also salads
Use chopsticks: Lots of items of cutlery are wiped with a not so fantastic looking water supply and also dishcloth. Packaged chopsticks are an optimal alternative.
Tell the staff if you do not eat something. If you like a little spice in your meals specify how much spice you like as the chefs often tend to go easy on visitors!
The fish is delicious as well as a terrific, fresh option in many dining establishments.
There is quite a lot of sugar in the food as well as beverages. If you aren't a fan of sugar there's an option to skip the sugar (tea, coffee, fresh blended juices), ensure you request for 'no sugar'.
Salads feature heavily on menus yet don't expect a fresh crunch-- most salads are seasoned and seasoned in oil, salt and lime juice as well as do not usually include salad leaves.
Hygiene standards are low in Myanmar as well as you could get ill once.
Street food isn't as prolific as other places in Southeast Asia yet you can locate it and it's great. Street food will tend to be about 1,000-1,700 kyat a dish (under $2).
You can not consume the water yet most hotels, hostels and guesthouses supply totally free water either in bottles in your space or through a big water dispenser at reception. Or else, mineral water is extremely cheap.
Alcohol is widely available with beer, rum and whiskey being preferred alternatives.
Beer stations are very easy to find and also enjoyable areas to get a beverage with the locals if you do not wish to being in a restaurant.
Understand that there isn't a late night culture in Myanmar-- most restaurants close by 9 p.m. and also bars do the same around 10-- 11 p.m. This is a nation where meditation at sunrise is a lot more preferred than late night alcohol consumption.
Huge chains can not be located as well as brands are in short supply. Myanmar isn't a nation of fast-food chains and beyond beverage brands like Coke and also Schwepps Tonic, you're going to be purchasing local brands and also eating from local restaurants.
Shops are little, family owned affairs-- you will not find a 7-Eleven. There are a couple of equal 'Grab 'n' Go' shops dotted around, however mostly you're going to get snacks and drinks from small, local businesses. They can look a little bit intimidating, like you're intruding by walking in. Do not fret, just step in, they want your business.
There are people smoking indoors- this can be a shock if you come from a nation where cigarette smoking in public places has long been outlawed.
Health and Safety in Myanmar
Health
Myanmar is an exceptionally safe country-- most of the populace is Buddhist as well as with an idea in karma, crime levels are exceptionally reduced.
Still, you need to take the typical precautions of utilizing 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 dirty and also there isn't always soap in washrooms so use your sanitiser before you touch anything that will certainly go near your mouth.
Look out for the dust- Myanmar can be very dusty so do carry something to cover your mouth as well as nose when cycling around. Additionally take care with your a/c-- Myanmar can be as hot. Subsequently, many visitors use the a/c in their room however sleeping in low temperature levels can make you unwell.
Fruit is very easy to find so top up your body immune system with nutrients in this way. However, as it's frequently pre-cut, search for a vendor that has kept the flies away as well as if it's sluiced with water, make certain it's filtered water.
Safety
Many government advisories caution against travel to parts of Rakhine (Rakhaing) State in western Myanmar, where clashes between local authorities and the minority Muslim (Rohingya) communities has led to the mass displacement of thousands of individuals. Some other parts of the country remain 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 primarily in Kachin and also Shan States, near to the frontiers with China and also Thailand, as well as far from the major tourist destinations.
Exact details on disputes and closed locations can be challenging to come by. Check your government's recommendations 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 travellers on the ground.
What to wear in Myanmar
A lot of the locals dress conservatively| as well as cover their shoulders and also legs in spite of the high temperatures, as well as you will certainly make everyone much more comfortable if you follow suit.
Knee length shorts, long skirts, elephant pants and also t-shirts are the outfit of choice. These are strongly encouraged and also typically enforced for entering the temples and pagodas.
Credits: backpackinglikeaboss.com
Every person wears skirts-- males and females alike-- the longyi, a long skirt, is the popular traditional dress in Myanmar for both males and females. Numerous vacationers pick one up as they're breezy in the heat as well as tick the 'traditional wear' box. They are convenient for sightseeing so get an affordable one a the market if you have the chance.
Flip flops are crucial! Entering pagodas means going barefoot and flip flops are the very best footwear option. Dealing with shoelaces in the scorching heat is an unwelcome distraction. Bring some cleaning wipes for your feet after seeing a pagoda.
Myanmar is a conservative nation so you'll blend better if you dress conservatively (covering your knees and shoulders). You will find people in shorts and strappy tops in the cities as well as at the beach yet elsewhere it's less common.
Culture
Credits: parallelsandmeridians.com
The local people are exceptionally genteel and not used to confrontation so pack your best manners as well as your patience. Travel can be discouraging, warm as well as sluggish but keep in mind: you picked to check out Myanmar which it's not the same as being at home is no good reason to take it out on the locals. Nonetheless, bargain hard with the taxi drivers.
You may get stopped a lot by citizens who want to talk. Visitors are no more a novelty in most of Southeast Asia yet Myanmar is different. Normally the people are wonderful as well as more than happy to appear in photos and attempt as well as converse with limited usual words or sign language.
You mayalso get stared at a lot which is generally best handled by offering a smile and a mingalabar (hello there in Burmese). Burmese English can be hard to understand, be patient, listen hard as well as if you're paying for a guide, ensure they have good clear English before you book.
Credits: toddholdenarmstrong.blogspot.com
The red stained sidewalks are a consequence of spitting red coloured saliva after eating betel quids, small parcels which contain tobacco, spices and also areca nuts wrapped in a betel leaf. It's possibly popular| because it supplies a hit that's equivalent to six 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.
Lots of locals have the tell tale red stained teeth as well as cab drivers typically roll down the window in slow-moving traffic to spit after eating on the betel quids.
There is some begging by youngsters in Myanmar and as heartbreaking as it is, you shouldn't give to the kids. Why not? Read this great article by Uncornered Market.
Credits: mekongtourism.org
It's common to see yellow circles pasted on the faces of the Burmese women. This is Thanaka, a cosmetic paste made from ground bark, which is a beauty product in Myanmar as well as additionally serves as a sunscreen.
It's also common to hear a kissing noise in the cafes as well as dining establishments as citizens make use of the kissing sound as an ask for service. Apparently it's easier for staff to identify the place of the kissing audio so do not be alarmed!
Burmese Phrases
The two most important expressions you require in Myanmar are:
Hello there: Ming-gu-la-bah
Thank you: Jay-zu-de-bar-dee
Not only is it polite, but it is well received. Be prepared for most locals to giggle in reaction-- they are not mocking you; they are just not anticipating it.
Various other practical concerns in Myanmar
Laundry is usually done by hand and is billed per item as opposed to kilo so try to turn up with your clothes laundered and also unless you want to turn over $20 for a load of washing, pick the items you truly need washing and also wash your smaller sized items on your own as you go.
Toiletries are simple to find by but 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't manage anything apart from bodily fluids.
Myanmar has that odd half-hour difference| to its time zone so it's 6 and a half hrs in advance 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, far better still, purchase a local SIM. You can obtain one at a lot of flight terminals when you land or in one of the stores in the street and also the shop staff will have you set up in about 5 minutes. You can find out more regarding your network selections right here. Still, with 1 mbps taken into consideration to be a 'quick' link, don't anticipate to be downloading videos at any time. Online access has actually improved, with wi-fi the standard-- most hotels, guesthouses as well as coffee shops have it for free-- as well as the net is currently spreading tomore remote places. However tightly squeezed bandwidth and also power failures can make using the web an aggravating exercise.
Do your research beforehand or pack a guidebook, and don't expect to Skype home very often, it's barely possible to get a messenger service to operate at times!
You'll be much better with a knapsack than a travel suitcase. Travel suitcases aren't ideal on dusty, sandy, unevenroads. Entering and also out of myriad forms|types|kinds} of transport as well as hefting it up many steep staircases isn't far better.