Top Myanmar Travel Tips

Leading Myanmar Traveling Tips
Myanmar or Burma? Why Did it Change Its Name?
The country officially referred to as Burma got independence in 1948 from occupying forces, however it wasn't up 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 former British colonial past, as well as Myanmar as more inclusive of the numerous ethnic groups in the country. Various other names were also 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 and Myanmar are still utilized interchangeably, on the ground and on the world stage. This article breaks down the modifications, what you 'should' say and the inquiry: does it even matter?
Ideal Times to Go To Myanmar
There are commonly three seasons in which you can visit 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 weather is warm yet not stifling, and attracts the greatest number of visitors. This, in turn, makes the minimal holiday accommodation alternatives tricky to secure as well as will indicate trying to book ahead or deal with paying out for the much more pricey alternatives left over.
March to May is the time when the temperature level increases in Myanmar and also impending rainfalls are due. There is a minimal number of tourists which makes it easy to book accommodation however it is unbelievably warm.

Visas
An e-Visa is available to travellers from these 100 countries.
To obtain one, go to the official e-Visa internet site. You'll be required to upload a passport photo and also pay a fee of $50.
It takes under 10 mins to apply and 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 day of issue as well as permits you a 28 day stay in Myanmar
Obtaining a visa from your local consular office might be cheaper-- if you intend to save some cash, requesting a visa through your local Myanmar consular office may be cheaper. As an example, the price is simply ₤ 14 in the UK however $40 in the USA, so do your research and also don't forget to factor in mailing expenses.
It is only possible to enter Myanmar on an e-visa at Yangon, Mandalay and also Nay Pyi Taw international airports; and also at three Thai-Myanmar land boundary crossings Tachileik, Myawadi (Myawaddy) as well as Kawthoung (Kawthaung). Check 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 choice for travellers as the first mode of access, with routine scheduled services from Bangkok. But, taking into consideration where Myanmar lies-- bordered by China to the North as well as northeast, Thailand and also Laos to the east and also India as well as Bangladesh to its west-- there are multiple avenues for land access, although not all of them are advised because of safety.
No matter, you need to define a "Port of Entry" in your online application which denotes how you will be reaching Myanmar. You will certainly be given a list of choices, where you will certainly require to select one of the following:
Myanmar Designated International Airports:
Mandalay (situated right in the middle of Myanmar)
Yangon (located in the south)
Nay Pyi Taw (positioned in between Mandalay and Yangon)
Crossing at Land Boundary Checkpoints:
Tachileik (in the Shan State of eastern Myanmar on the boundary 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 Area on the boundary of the Thai Peninsula and also the collection 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 border 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 originally stated when possible to avoid any hold up in the processing of your visa upon arrival.
You can exit at any one of the International Airports and 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 Border Checkpoint, although access from here is not possible.
Flying in as well as out of Yangon is less expensive and has more links than Mandalay.
Navigating Myanmar-- Long Distance

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Myanmar's local transportation alternatives may be discouraging yet the long distance propositions are far more attractive.
Distances are far, road travel is slow and flying is budget-friendly so it might be your better option.
You can still book flights the traditional method by wandering 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 getting your bag off a trolley by the airplane as well as flight announcements are made by an individual holding up a sign and 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 companies and a variety of high-end levels.

Credits: seawander.asia
A lot of buses travel over night which is terrific for not losing a day of sightseeing, yet isn't so terrific for rest. Also, you'll often tend to reach at weird times in the morning and won't be able to check into your hostel or hotel till 2 p.m. That's a lot of hrs 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 same night to take a nap immediately.
Buses are really cold, the deluxe buses will certainly provide you a blanket however, use your warm layers.
Even the VIP bus doesn't have a toilet onboard so expect to stop every couple of hours for a food as well as toilet break-- a little bit irritating if you're attempting to rest through the night.
Night buses are not sleeper buses, even though these are the buses which bring you to your destination around 3 or 4am. What's more, some still play their funky local music CD's and tacky video up until the early hrs of the early morning. Pack your iPod, purchase some heavy-duty extreme ear plugs or kindly ask for the sound to be turned off.
Never ask a vehicle driver about reaches of the southern Mon State and also Tenasserim area are usually out-of-bounds to visitors unless you have obtained a government visa ahead of time. In some areas you'll require 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 established routes you can travel and you'll have a hard time to go differently. Attempting to do otherwise could be very costly.
Work your sightseeing around the heat-- Myanmar is well-known for its sunrises and also sundowns, which also corresponds nicely with staying inside (maybe for a snooze or pool dip if you have one) throughout the mid-day warmth.
Anticipate to go barefoot a whole lot in temples on seriously grubby floorings. In temples where birds are nesting or monkeys as well as 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 wipe some after each visit.
Be a considerate temple visitor, most of Myanmar's temples are places of worship, not simply 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 entry charge for Bagan and Inle Lake-- this cost is charged to all foreigners and there's no getting around it. The charges are: Bagan-- $20; Inle Lake-- $10.


Accommodation in Myanmar

Credits: tripadvisor.com

Hostels are gradually opening up, meaning you can rest in cheaper accommodation than you could a few years earlier. Things are gradually getting better for solo tourists, though costs are still far more of what you'll pay elsewhere in Southeast Asia.
Guesthouses are rustic yet lovely. The lodging gives a feeling for what a local house might be like, basic however beautifully decorated in teak wood) and also the breakfast was generally exceptional. And also, it's nice to place cash into the hands of the locals, not some huge brand chain.
Most hostels, hotels and guesthouses give a towel but you may need to offer up a refundable $10 deposit on check-in. Hotels will certainly additionally supply some form of toiletries. Some hostels as well as guesthouses do as well, yet it can not be relied on.
Beware the curfew-- some guesthouses may lock the door at night, leaving you unable to get to your bed. Check before you go out for the night.
Reserve accommodation and transport ahead of time throughout peak period. The tourist sector in Myanmar appears to have actually experienced a boom which the facilities has actually failed to keep pace with. Most resorts are little as well as boutique like so if there's somewhere specific you intend to stay it's vital to book beforehand. It is specifically necessary to book ahead during high period (November to March). In some rural areas, monasteries will take tourists in for a small charge if there are no areas readily available. However don't depend 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 tea leaf salads in local dining establishments and a remarkable range of curries and also salads
Use chopsticks: Lots of pieces of cutlery are cleaned with a not so great looking water supply and also dishcloth. Packaged chopsticks are an optimal option.
Inform the staff if you do not eat something. If you like a little spice in your meals specify just how much spice you like as the chefs often tend to go easy on travelers!
The fish is delicious and also an excellent, fresh choice in the majority of restaurants.
There is rather a lot of sugar in the food and also drinks. If you aren't a fan of sugar there's an alternative to skip the sugar (tea, coffee, freshly blended juices), make certain you request 'no sugar'.
Salads feature heavily on food selections however do not expect a fresh crunch-- most salads are marinaded and also seasoned in oil, salt and lime juice as well as do not typically feature salad leaves.
Hygiene standards are reduced in Myanmar and you may get ill once.
Street food isn't as prolific as various other places 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 dish (under $2).
You can't drink the water but most hotels, hostels as well as guesthouses supply complimentary water either in bottles in your space or using a huge water dispenser at reception. Otherwise, bottled water is really inexpensive.
Alcohol is commonly available with beer, rum and whiskey being popular alternatives.
Beer stations are simple to discover as well as enjoyable areas to get a beverage with the locals if you do not want to being in a dining establishment.
Realize that there isn't a late night culture in Myanmar-- most dining establishments close by 9 p.m. and bars do the same around 10-- 11 p.m. This is a nation where meditation at dawn is more preferred than late night alcohol consumption.
Huge chains can't be found and brand names are in short supply. Myanmar isn't a country of fast-food chains and also beyond drink brands like Coke as well as Schwepps Tonic, you're going to be purchasing local brand names and also eating from local restaurants.
Shops are little, family owned affairs-- you won't locate a 7-Eleven. There are a couple of comparable 'Grab 'n' Go' stores dotted about, but primarily you're going to purchase treats as well as drinks from small, local businesses. They can look a little bit intimidating, like you're intruding by strolling 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 nation where smoking cigarettes in public locations has long been outlawed.
Health and Safety in Myanmar
Health
Myanmar is an incredibly safe country-- most of the populace is Buddhist as well as with an idea in karma, crime levels are exceptionally reduced.
Still, you should take the normal precautions of making use of hotel storage lockers or safes for your valuables. Women travellers should not experience any type of harassment or different treatment.
Do take hand sanitiser-- the cash is dirty and also there isn't always soap in restrooms so utilize your sanitiser prior to you touch anything that will certainly go near your mouth.
Watch out for the dust- Myanmar can be very 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 travellers use the a/c in their room however sleeping in low temperature levels can make you sick.
Fruit is simple to come by so top up your body immune system with nutrients that way. However, as it's usually pre-cut, look for a seller that has kept the flies away and if it's sluiced with water, ensure it's filtered water.
Safety
A lot of government advisories alert against traveling to parts of Rakhine (Rakhaing) State in western Myanmar, where clashes between local authorities and also the minority Muslim (Rohingya) communities has caused the mass displacement of countless people. Some other parts of the country remain shut to foreigners as a result of problem in between the government as well as different ethnic armies gathered in eastern and northern Myanmar. These areas are mostly in Kachin as well as Shan States, near to the frontiers with China as well as Thailand, as well as far from the major tourist locations.
Precise details on disputes and closed areas can be tough to come by. Check your government's advice 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 an excellent source of news from visitors on the ground.

What to wear in Myanmar
The majority of the locals dress conservatively| and cover their shoulders and also legs in spite of the high temperatures, and also you will make everybody a lot more comfortable if you do the same.
Knee length shorts, long skirts, elephant pants and also tees are the clothing of choice. These are strongly encouraged as well as commonly enforced for going into the temples as well as pagodas.

Credits: backpackinglikeaboss.com
Everybody wears click here skirts-- males and females alike-- the longyi, a long skirt, is the popular traditional dress in Myanmar for both males and females. Several visitors pick one up as they're breezy in the heat and tick the 'conservative wear' box. They are practical for sightseeing and tour so grab an inexpensive one a the market if you have the chance.
Flip flops are vital! Entering pagodas means going barefoot as well as flip flops are the very best footwear selection. Dealing with shoelaces in the blistering heat is an unwanted interruption. Bring some cleaning wipes for your feet after visiting a pagoda.
Myanmar is a conservative nation so you'll blend better if you dress conservatively (covering your knees as well as shoulders). You will certainly find individuals in shorts and strappy tops in the cities and at the beach but elsewhere it's less common.

Culture

Credits: parallelsandmeridians.com
The local people are remarkably genteel as well as not used to confrontation so pack your good manners as well as your patience. Travel can be irritating, warm and also slow-moving yet bear in mind: you picked to visit Myanmar which it's not like being at home is no good reason to take it out on the residents. Nevertheless, haggle hard with the taxi drivers.
You may get stopped a lot by residents who wish to chat. Tourists are no more a novelty in a lot of Southeast Asia yet Myanmar is different. Typically the people are charming and also more than happy to appear in photos and try and also talk with limited typical words or sign language.
You mayalso get stared at a whole lot which is usually best handled by offering a smile and also a mingalabar (hello in Burmese). Burmese English can be difficult to comprehend, be patient, pay attention and if you're spending for a guide, ensure they have good clear English before you book.

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The red stained sidewalks are a consequence of spitting red coloured saliva after eating betel quids, little parcels which contain tobacco, spices as well as areca nuts wrapped in a betel leaf. It's possibly popular| since it delivers a hit that amounts to six cups of coffee. Yet, 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.
Great deals of locals 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 should not give to the youngsters. Why not? Read this brilliant post by Uncornered Market.

Credits: mekongtourism.org
It's common to see yellow circles pasted on the faces of the Burmese ladies. This is Thanaka, a cosmetic paste made from ground bark, which is a beauty product in Myanmar as well as also works as a sun block.


It's also common to hear a kissing sound in the coffee shops and restaurants as residents utilize 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
Both crucial 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 ready for the majority of citizens to giggle in reaction-- they are not mocking you; they are just not anticipating it.

Various other practical concerns in Myanmar
Laundry is normally done by hand as well as is charged per item rather than kilo so try to turn up with your clothes washed and also unless you want to hand over $20 for a load of washing, pick the items you actually need washing and clean your smaller sized items yourself as you go.
Toiletries are easy to find by yet tampons are not so bring what you require with you.
You can't flush toilet tissue or sanitary products-- this is really typical in developing countries where the plumbing system can not 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 also North American 2-pin plugs as well as British three-pin.
Wi-fi is bad in Myanmar so you either need to get over it or, better still, acquire a local SIM. You can get one at the majority of airport terminals when you land or in one of the stores in the street and also the shop personnel will have you set up in about 5 mins. You can learn more concerning your network options here. Still, with 1 mbps taken into consideration to be a 'quick' connection, don't anticipate to be downloading videos whenever. On-line access has actually improved, with wi-fi becoming the standard-- most hotels, guesthouses and coffee shops have it absolutely free-- and the web is currently spreading tomore remote places. However tightly squeezed bandwidth and power interruptions can use the net an aggravating exercise.
Do your research beforehand or pack a guidebook, and also don't expect to Skype home very often, it's hardly possible to get a messenger service to operate at times!
You'll be much better with a knapsack than a suitcase. Luggage aren't suitable on dusty, sandy, unevenroadways. Entering and also out of myriad forms|types|kinds} of transportation and also hefting it up many steep staircases isn't much better.

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