Top Myanmar Travelling Tips
Myanmar or Burma? Why Did it Change Its Name?
The nation formally referred to as Burma gained independence in 1948 from occupying forces, yet it had not been up until 1989 that the ruling military junta  changed the country's name from Burma to Myanmar following a military coup.
Politically, the name Burma was viewed as a relic of the country's previous British colonial past, and also Myanmar as much more inclusive of the numerous ethnic groups in the country. Other names were additionally 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 and Myanmar are still utilized interchangeably, on the ground as well as on the world stage. This short article breaks down the modifications, what you 'should' say as well as the inquiry: does it even matter?
Ideal Times to Visit Myanmar
There are normally 3 periods in which you can see Myanmar:
October to March: Dry, winter
March to May: Hot, summer season
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, consequently, makes the restricted lodging alternatives tricky to secure and will imply trying to book ahead or deal with paying out for the more costly alternatives left over.
March to May is the time when the temperature climbs in Myanmar and approaching rainfalls are due. There is a minimal number of tourists which makes it easy to book holiday accommodation but it is incredibly hot.
Visas
An e-Visa is available to travellers from these 100 nations.
To obtain one, go to the official e-Visa web site. You'll need to upload a passport photo and pay a fee of $50.
It takes under 10 mins to apply and also you should get approval 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 date of issue as well as enables you a 28 day stay in Myanmar
Obtaining a visa from your local consular office may be cheaper-- if you wish to save some money, getting a visa through your local Myanmar embassy may be less costly. As an example, the expense is just ₤ 14 in the UK but $40 in the USA, so do your research as well as do not fail to remember to factor in mailing costs.
It is only possible to get in Myanmar on an e-visa at Yangon, Mandalay and also Nay Pyi Taw international airports; as well as at three Thai-Myanmar land border crossings Tachileik, Myawadi (Myawaddy) as well as Kawthoung (Kawthaung). Read the immigration website for the latest at the time you travel.
Reaching Myanmar
Flights to Myanmar are the normal alternative for visitors as the initial mode of entry, with normal scheduled services from Bangkok. Yet, considering where Myanmar is located-- surrounded by China to the North and northeast, Thailand as well as Laos to the eastern and India and Bangladesh to its west-- there are several methods for land entry, although not all of them are encouraged because of safety and security.
Regardless, you must specify a "Port of Entry" in your on the internet application which denotes how you will certainly be getting to Myanmar. You will be given a listing of alternatives, where you will need to choose one of the following:
Myanmar Designated International Airports:
Mandalay (situated right in the center of Myanmar)
Yangon (located in the south)
Nay Pyi Taw (located in between Mandalay and Yangon)
Crossing at Land Boundary 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 cluster of islands)
Tamu (in the Sagaing Region of northwestern Myanmar on the border to northeastern India).
Rih Khaw Dar (a six-hour drive from the boundary town of Khawmawi in the northwestern Chin State of Myanmar on the boundary of Southeastern India).
Actually, you can go into Myanmar at any designated "Port of Entry" yet it is best to stick to the one you originally stated preferably to prevent any kind of hold up in the processing of your visa upon arrival.
You can leave at any one of the International Airports and Land Boundary Checkpoints given that your exit point does not need to be mentioned up front. Furthermore, you may exit at the Htikee Land Boundary Checkpoint, although entrance from here is not possible.
Flying in and also out of Yangon is more affordable as well as has more links than Mandalay.
Navigating Myanmar-- Long Distance
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Myanmar's local transportation options may be irritating however the cross country propositions are much more appealing.
Distances are far, road travel is slow-moving and also flying is cost effective so it may be your better option.
You can still book flights the old-school method by wandering right into a travel agent.
Flying within Myanmar is a bit like flying in the older days-- check-in includes ticking individuals off a list of printed names, baggage claim can mean leaving the airport terminal and also getting your bag off a trolley by the airplane 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 budget-friendly with competing firms as well as a series of deluxe levels.
Credits: seawander.asia
A lot of buses travel overnight which is terrific for not losing a day of sightseeing and tour, but isn't so excellent for rest. Additionally, you'll tend to arrive at odd times in the morning and won't have the ability to check into your hostel or hotel till 2 p.m. That's a great deal of hrs waiting on a 'top-up' nap. Take into consideration if it will be less costly to fly if you're going to book accommodation the same evening to sleep immediately.
Buses are really chilly, the high-end buses will certainly provide you a blanket yet, wear your warm layers.
Even the VIP bus does not have a toilet onboard so expect to stop every few hours for a food and 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 location around 3 or 4am. What's even more, some still play their funky local song CD's and cheesy music videos until the early hrs of the morning. Pack your iPod, buy some heavy-duty extreme ear plugs or kindly ask for the sound to be turned off.
Never ever ask a vehicle driver about reaches of the southern Mon State and Tenasserim area are usually out-of-bounds to travelers unless you have made an application for a government visa in advance. In some places you'll need a guide to chaperone you. Check before you make plans.
Leaving the beaten path is tough-- even within the 'open' parts, Myanmar's developing infrastructure implies that there are set routes you can travel and you'll struggle to go any other way. Attempting to do otherwise could be extremely expensive.
Work your sightseeing around the heat-- Myanmar is famous for its dawns as well as sunsets, which also matches well with staying inside (probably for a nap or pool dip if you have one) throughout the mid-day .
Anticipate to go barefoot a great deal in temples on seriously unclean floors. In temples where birds are nesting or monkeys and also dogs hangout, you can expect to step in a great deal of animal faeces while you're checking out Myanmar's temples. Socks aren't permitted either so you just 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, most of Myanmar's temples are places of worship, not simply sights for visitors. Respect 'do not climb/do not enter' signs as well as keep your voice down-- people will be praying.
Anticipate to pay an entry fee for Bagan as well as Inle Lake-- this cost is charged to all foreigners and there's no getting around it. The fees are: Bagan-- $20; Inle Lake-- $10.
Lodging in Myanmar
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Hostels are gradually opening up, implying you can rest in cheaper accommodation than you could a few years earlier. Things are gradually getting better for solo visitors, though prices are still far more of what you'll pay elsewhere in Southeast Asia.
Guesthouses are rustic however enchanting. The holiday accommodation gives a feel for what a local house might be like, basic however perfectly decorated in teak wood) and also the morning meal was normally remarkable. And also, it's nice to put money right into the hands of the locals, not some big brand chain.
Most hostels, hotels and also guesthouses provide a towel yet you might have to provide a refundable $10 down payment on check-in. Hotels will certainly likewise provide some form of toiletries. Some hostels as well as guesthouses do as well, however it can't be depended on.
Be careful about the curfew-- some guesthouses may lock the door at night, leaving you unable to access your bed. Check before you go out for the night.
Book accommodation and transportation beforehand during peak season. The tourist industry in Myanmar appears to have actually experienced a boom which the facilities has actually failed to maintain pace with. Many resorts are tiny and boutique like so if there's someplace specific you wish to stay it's necessary to book beforehand. It is particularly important to book in advance during high season (November to March). In some rural areas, monasteries will take tourists in for a small fee if there are no spaces available. However don't rely upon 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 remarkable array of curries as well as salads
Use chopsticks: Many items of cutlery are wiped with a not so wonderful looking water supply as well as dishcloth. Packaged chopsticks are an ideal choice.
Tell the staff if you don't eat something. If you like a little spice in your meals mention how much spice you like as the chefs tend to go easy on travelers!
The fish is scrumptious and also a terrific, fresh choice in the majority of dining establishments.
There is quite a lot of sugar in the food and drinks. If you aren't a fan of sugar there's a choice to skip the sugar (tea, coffee, newly blended juices), see to it you ask for 'no sugar'.
Salads feature heavily on menus but don't expect a fresh crunch-- most salads are marinated and 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 may get sick once.
Street food isn't as prolific as other locations in Southeast Asia yet you can locate it and it's excellent. 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 also guesthouses supply cost-free water either in bottles in your area or myanmar military facebook via a big water dispenser at reception. Or else, bottled water is extremely affordable.
Alcohol is extensively offered with beer, rum as well as scotch being popular options.
Beer stations are easy to find as well as fun places to get a drink with the locals if you do not wish to sit in a dining establishment.
Know that there isn't a late night culture in Myanmar-- most restaurants close by 9 p.m. and 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.
Huge chains can't be located as well as brand names remain in short supply. Myanmar isn't a country of fast-food chains and also beyond drink brand names like Coke as well as Schwepps Tonic, you're going to be buying local brand names and also eating from local dining establishments.
Stores are tiny, family owned affairs-- you will not find a 7-Eleven. There are a couple of comparable 'Grab 'n' Go' shops dotted about, but mainly you're going to buy treats as well as beverages from tiny, local businesses. They can look a bit intimidating, like you're intruding by strolling in. Don't worry, simply step in, they want your business.
There are people smoking indoors- this can be a surprise 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 area-- most of the populace is Buddhist as well as with an idea in karma, criminal activity levels are extremely low.
Still, you need to take the normal preventative measures of using hotel lockers or safes for your valuables. Women travellers should not experience any harassment or different treatment.
Do take hand sanitiser-- the money is filthy and there isn't always soap in bathrooms so use your sanitiser before you touch anything that will go near your mouth.
Keep an eye out for the dust- Myanmar can be very dusty so do carry something to cover your mouth and also nose when cycling around. Likewise take care with your a/c-- Myanmar can be as warm. As a result, numerous travellers use the a/c in their room but sleeping in low temperatures can make you unwell.
Fruit is very easy to find so top up your immune system with nutrients this way. However, as it's frequently pre-cut, look for a seller that has actually kept the flies away and also if it's sluiced with water, make certain it's filtered water.
Safety and security
The majority of government advisories warn against travel to parts of Rakhine (Rakhaing) State in western Myanmar, where clashes in between local authorities and also the minority Muslim (Rohingya) communities has led to the mass displacement of countless people. Some other parts of the nation stay shut to foreigners as a result of problem in between the government and various ethnic militaries gathered in eastern and northern Myanmar. These locations are mainly in Kachin and Shan States, near to the frontiers with China and Thailand, and also far from the major visitor destinations.
Exact info on problems and closed locations can be challenging to find. Check your government's advice before travelling, as well as inquire about the situation once you are in Myanmar. Lonely Planet's Thorn Tree travel forum is an excellent source of news from visitors on the ground.
What to wear in Myanmar
A lot of the locals dress conservatively| and also cover their shoulders and legs regardless of the heat, as well as you will make everyone much more comfortable if you do the same.
Knee length shorts, long skirts, elephant pants and tee shirts are the clothing of choice. These are highly encouraged and typically enforced for entering the temples as well as pagodas.
Credits: backpackinglikeaboss.com
Everybody wears skirts-- males and females alike-- the longyi, a long skirt, is the popular traditional dress in Myanmar for both males and females. Many vacationers pick one up as they're breezy in the warmth and tick the 'traditional wear' box. They are convenient for taking in the sights so pick up an inexpensive one a the marketplace if you have the opportunity.
Flip flops are crucial! Getting in pagodas indicates going barefoot and also flip flops are the most effective footwear choice. Struggling with laces in the blistering heat is an undesirable distraction. Bring some cleaning wipes for your feet after seeing a pagoda.
Myanmar is a conservative nation so you'll blend much better if you dress conservatively (covering your knees as well as shoulders). You will find individuals in shorts and also strappy tops in the cities and also at the beach yet in other places it's much less typical.
Culture
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The local people are remarkably genteel as well as not used to confrontation so pack your best manners as well as your patience. Travel can be discouraging, hot and also slow-moving yet bear in mind: you selected to check out Myanmar and that it's not like being at home is no good reason to take it out on the citizens. Nonetheless, haggle hard with the cab drivers.
You may get stopped a whole lot by residents that wish to talk. Visitors are no longer a novelty in most of Southeast Asia however Myanmar is different. Generally individuals are beautiful and also are happy to appear in photos and try as well as converse with minimal common words or sign language.
You mayadditionally get stared at a lot which is normally best managed by offering a smile and also a mingalabar (hello in Burmese). Burmese English can be hard to understand, be patient, pay attention and if you're paying for a guide, make certain they have great clear English before you book.
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The red stained sidewalks are a consequence of spitting red coloured saliva after chewing betel quids, little parcels which contain tobacco, spices as well as areca nuts covered in a betel leaf. It's possibly popular| since it supplies a hit that amounts to six cups of coffee. However, as well as being dangerous when chewed long term, the byproduct is bright-red saliva which is spewed out, the majority of times onto the ground.
Lots of locals have the tell tale red stained teeth as well as cab drivers often roll down the window in slow traffic to spit after chewing on the betel quids.
There is some begging by kids 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 as well as additionally acts as a sun block.
It's also common to hear a kissing sound in the coffee shops and also dining establishments as citizens make use of the kissing noise as a call for service. Apparently it's simpler for staff to determine the location of the kissing audio so don't be surprised!
Burmese Phrases
Both crucial expressions you need in Myanmar are:
Hey there: Ming-gu-la-bah
Thanks: Jay-zu-de-bar-dee
Not only is it polite, but it is well received. Be ready for the majority of citizens to giggle in response-- they are not mocking you; they are just not expecting it.
Various other practical concerns in Myanmar
Laundry is normally done by hand and is billed per item instead of kilo so try to turn up with your clothes washed and unless you wish to turn over $20 for a load of washing, select the items you actually require washing and clean your smaller items on your own as you go.
Toiletries are simple to find by however tampons are not so bring what you need with you.
You can not flush toilet paper or sanitary products-- this is really common in developing nations where the plumbing system can't manage anything aside from bodily fluids.
Myanmar has that strange half-hour difference| to its time area so it's 6 and a half hours in advance of GMT.
Most of the plug sockets of Myanmar have multiple adaptors for European as well as North American 2-pin connects as well as British three-pin.
Wi-fi is bad in Myanmar so you either have to get over it or, far better still, purchase a local SIM. You can obtain one at most flight terminals when you land or in among the shops in the street and also the store staff will have you set up in about 5 minutes. You can find out more concerning your network options here. Still, with 1 mbps taken into consideration to be a 'fast' connection, don't expect to be downloading video clips at any time. Online access has improved, with wi-fi the standard-- most hotels, guesthouses and cafes have it totally free-- as well as the net is now spreading tofarther places. However tightly squeezed bandwidth as well as power blackouts can use the net a frustrating exercise.
Do your research beforehand or pack a guidebook, and also do not anticipate to Skype home very often, it's barely possible to get a messenger service to work at times!
You'll be better with a backpack than a travel suitcase. Suitcases aren't perfect on dusty, sandy, unevenroads. Getting in and also out of myriad forms of transportation and also hefting it up lots of steep staircases isn't much better.
Thanks for reading this guide to Top Traveling Tips for Myanmar