Leading Myanmar Traveling Tips
Myanmar or Burma? Why Did it Change Its Name?
The nation formally known as Burma got independence in 1948 from occupying forces, but it wasn't until 1989 that the ruling military junta altered the country's name from Burma to Myanmar following a military coup.
Politically, the name Burma was viewed as a relic of the nation's former British colonial past, and also Myanmar as much more inclusive of the numerous ethnic groups in the country. Other names were additionally 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 also Myanmar are still utilized interchangeably, on the ground and also on the world stage. This write-up breaks down the changes, what you 'should' say and the concern: does it even matter?
Ideal Times to Visit Myanmar
There are usually 3 periods in which you can see Myanmar:
October to March: Dry, winter
March to May: Hot, summertime period
May to October: Damp, rainy season
The popular, high season is November to February when the weather is warm however not stifling, as well as brings in the greatest number of visitors. This, consequently, makes the restricted lodging choices challenging to secure and also will imply attempting to book in advance or deal with paying for the more pricey alternatives left over.
March to May is the time when the temperature increases in Myanmar and also upcoming rains are due. There is a minimal number of travelers that makes it very easy to book accommodation but it is extremely hot.
Visas
An e-Visa is available to tourists from these 100 countries.
To obtain one, go to the official e-Visa website. You'll need to submit a passport photo and also pay a charge of $50.
It takes under 10 minutes to apply and you should get approval 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 and also enables you a 28 day stay in Myanmar
Obtaining a visa from your local consular office might be less expensive-- if you want to save some money, applying for a visa through your local Myanmar embassy might be more affordable. For example, the expense is simply ₤ 14 in the UK yet $40 in the U.S.A., so do your research and don't forget to consider mailing expenses.
It is only possible to go into Myanmar on an e-visa at Yangon, Mandalay and Nay Pyi Taw international airports; and also at three Thai-Myanmar land boundary crossings Tachileik, Myawadi (Myawaddy) and Kawthoung (Kawthaung). Read the immigration internet site for the current at the time you travel.
Reaching Myanmar
Flights to Myanmar are the normal option for tourists as the first mode of access, with regular scheduled services from Bangkok. However, considering where Myanmar lies-- surrounded by China to the North and northeast, Thailand as well as Laos to the eastern and India and also Bangladesh to its west-- there are multiple for land entrance, although not every one of them are recommended because of security.
Regardless, you need to define a "Port of Entry" in your on-line application which denotes how you will be getting to Myanmar. You will certainly be provided a list of choices, where you will certainly require to pick one of the following:
Myanmar Designated International Airports:
Mandalay (located right in the middle of Myanmar)
Yangon (situated in the south)
Nay Pyi Taw (situated in between Mandalay and 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 most southern part of Myanmar, in the Tanintharyi Region on the border of the Thai Peninsula and the cluster of islands)
Tamu (in the Sagaing Area of northwestern Myanmar on the boundary 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).
In truth, you can go into Myanmar at any designated "Port of Entry" yet it is best to adhere to the one you initially mentioned if possible to prevent any hold up in the processing of your visa upon arrival.
You can exit at any one of the International Airports as well as Land Border Checkpoints because 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 also out of Yangon is cheaper and also has more links than Mandalay.
Navigating Myanmar-- Cross Country
Credit: myanmartours.us
Myanmar's local transportation options may be aggravating but the cross country propositions are far more enticing.
Distances are far, road travel is slow and also flying is affordable so it might be your better choice.
You can still reserve flights the traditional means by wandering into a travel agent.
Flying within Myanmar is a bit like flying in the older days-- check-in includes ticking people off a list of printed names, luggage claim can mean leaving the airport terminal and also grabbing your bag off a trolley by the aircraft and 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 a great deal of fun if you don't let it get you stressed.Buses are cost effective with competing companies as well as a series of deluxe levels.
Credits: seawander.asia
Most buses travel over night which is great for not losing a day of sightseeing and tour, yet isn't so wonderful for sleep. Likewise, you'll have a tendency to arrive at strange times in the early morning and won't have the ability to check into your hostel or hotel till 2 p.m. That's a lot of hours waiting for a 'top-up' snooze. Take into consideration if it will be less costly to fly if you're going to book accommodation the exact same evening to sleep straight away.
Buses are extremely cold, the high-end buses will certainly offer you a covering yet, use your warm layers.
Even the VIP bus does not have a toilet onboard so expect to stop every couple of hrs for a food as well as toilet break-- a bit discouraging if you're trying to rest through the night.
Night buses are not sleeper buses, even though these are the buses which bring you to your location around 3 or 4am. What's more, some still play their funky local song CD's and also cheesy music videos till the early hours of the early morning. Pack your iPod, buy some sturdy extreme ear plugs or kindly request the sound to be switched off.
Never ask a vehicle driver regarding he time of arrival. Because of superstitious notions based on a belief system of nats (spirits) that existed before Buddhism came to the fore, asking when you will get to a destination summons bad spirits as well as is taken seriously. The outcome? You won't get an answer.
You will primarily book buses through your hotel, hostel or guesthouse-- they will generally bill a fee yet understand that the fee can differ dramatically.
Credits: seat61.com
Check whether pick-up is included in your ticket price - this truly does differ depending upon destination, mode of traveling and company. Search for a company that does include pickup as taxis are exorbitant.
Booking buses online is more difficult-- There isn't one convenient on-line reservation portal and also the ones that do exist have a limited number of tickets. If you're informed they're sold out, it does not always imply the bus is full. Attempt booking elsewhere.
If the company has a Facebook page, message to book without charges.
Buses are generally faster than the trains, but bus rides are rough-- you may take into consideration taking tablets for nausea. Boats are also an alternative for some paths; the Mandalay-- Bagan service is popular among visitors.
There are no international car-rental companies, however the majority of travel agencies in Yangon, Mandalay and also Bagan-- in addition to guesthouses and also hotels in other places-- can arrange cars and drivers.
Myanmar's Local Transport
Credits: asiancorrespondent.com
Myanmar is still developing as well as this is most frustratingly noticeable in the local transport.
With minimal public transportation, taxis will certainly be your major means of navigating especially for getting to and also from flight terminals as well as within cities like Yangon as well as Mandalay.
Taxi prices are beyond extortionate-- rates are established on the spot (after a fast 'how much can I get away with' estimation) and also you're going to have to negotiate hard. It's not uncommon to hear rates of $1-$2 per kilometre. Typically the taxi to as well as from the airport/bus will certainly be greater than you paid for your flight or intercity bus.
1,000 Kyat per kilometre is a good approximate amount for taxi fares.
Taxi cabs for the day might be your better bet-- it can be around $35 for a day of sightseeing and tour in Bagan and also $28 for a few hrs in Mandalay.
Distance is a much larger factor than time in dictating the cost of hiring a driver: a 12 hr trip about Yangon can cost USD 70 while travelling further afield to Golden Rock, a 2.5 hr drive each way, can be estimated at USD 200. Gas is costly in Myanmar and is a big contributing factor to the cost.
Everybody wishes to take you to a craft store, a silk manufacturing facility or a nut manufacturer during your sightseeing trips. Do not be afraid to say no when you're paying for your very own personal transport. After all, that's the reason you are paying a premium. On the other hand, a few of the side trips can be fascinating and also drivers may take you to some cool locations that aren’t on your travel plan and you may be happy you chose their suggestions!
Hiring bikes and e-Bikes (electrical motorbikes) outside the cities is much more inexpensive but beware of the dust-- Myanmar is without a doubt among the dustiest locations, and nearly all vacationers create a dust cough. Pack sunglasses as well as something to cover your mouth.
Do not take an e-Bike if you can't handle it-- or else you'll be one of the lots of travelers walking toting head to foot road rash as well as plasters.
The large cities are gridlocked so walking may be quicker-- Yangon has several of the worst traffic. 1.5 hours to cover 15 km should give you an idea. The time advised for reaching the bus terminal (22km far from the centre) is 2.5 hours.
Car quality is hit and miss so don't count on air-conditioning and leather seats-- that 1.5 hour trip in Yangon could all be done in 38 degree heat with absolutely nothing more than the heat of the engine fan to 'cool' you down.
Credits: globaltravelmate.com
Plan for the unexpected. When your night bus to Bagan arrives in the extremely early hours of the morning, your only choice to get to my hotel may be through horse and cart. There is still a haggling process to be had, but considering that this is the primary form of traveler transportation here it is just natural that they are waiting on new bus arrivals.
Money and also ATMs in Myanmar
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You can use 2 currencies in Myanmar-- dollars and the local money, kyat (pronounced ‘chat').
If you're going to use dollars, they have to be immaculate. What's pristine/brand new-- unfolded, uncreased and also newer than 2006. Each individual note is checked thoroughly for problems, discolouration as well as creases at the currency exchange stands. You might additionally have problems changing notes with the AB/CB identification numbers.
Some vendors demand payments in US bucks so you can bring some US dollars to spend.
Using kyat is most likely to be cheaper because the USD currency exchange rate is informal-- someplace between 1,300 to 1,400 kyat, the currency exchange rate is usually applied on the spot, possibly depending on just how rich you look.
There are ATMs and also they mainly function however make sure you have money before showing up at more remote spots like the coastline. Sometimes they might be out of service.
You'll pay an ATM fee of about $4 for every single withdrawal which is in addition to any type of costs your bank might charge. And also you probably will not be able to withdraw greater than $150 at a time.
ATMs give kyat only. There are a lot of exchange places around, yet mainly the transactions are to change immaculate dollars into local money.
Wait for the big cities orinternational airport terminal to change money back to dollars.
Some hotels do not have credit card machines and also call for cash payment. If you have actually reserved your hotels in advance online this might save you taking additional money for holiday accommodation.
Credit cards are accepted mostly only in top-end hotels. Some travel agents in Yangon as well as Mandalay also take them, usually charging a little charge, for purchasing flights.
Cost of travelling in Myanmar
Myanmar is a great deal more expensive than the rest of Southeast Asia-- facilities is still being constructed. That includes guesthouses and dining establishments. Companies are recouping their expenses.
Lodging expenses
A dorm bed will certainly set you back around $20-$30 a night. You can get a standard private room with en-suite from around $35 for a single bed. In vacationer hotspots like Bagan, you can pay US$35 to US$40 for a drab, no-frills room.
For hotels, deluxe hotels can be priced at over USD 200 a night (the Inle Princess Resort being a fine example where high-end comes at a price of $250 per night) with various other great options being available at $100 to $150 (eg Zfreeti hotel in Bagan which costs around $120 a night). A modern hotel can set you back USD 75-80 a night (the Smart Hotel in Mandalay).
Popular 'package vacationer' destinations like Ngapali beach can set you back as much as $100 a night for a 2-star hotel (though there are a number of hostels there also). On the plus side, you generally obtain a cost-free morning meal with your holiday accommodation.
Food expenses
Street food is most cost effective-- around $1-$2 for a plate of something basic. Local restaurants cost around $2-$4 a dish. Anything remotely western (air-conditioning or featuring something like pizza) will certainly cost $7-$12.
Drink costs
Mineral water is low-cost, under 50 cents a litre. Beer is also inexpensive at a number of dollars per bottle.
Sightseeing expenses
The tourist dollar is king. Anticipate to pay for the benefit of being a foreigner and using squat toilets, getting in pagodas, storing footwear and also taking pictures. 'Foreigner payments' are popular in the more touristy areas.
It's possible to bargain on prices of products like mementos yet if you negotiate too hard the locals lose interest and walk away.
Tipping is not common method in Myanmar, and also it's just foreigners who tip.
Sightseeing in Myanmar
Credits: lonelyplanet.com
We were up and out most days for sunrise and out cold by 10pm! The heat is frequently excruciating during the peak sunshine hours and the arrival of the vacationer buses make it more difficult to get impressive pictures and also move easily.
Not anywhere on a map of Myanmar is open for exploration. The far north, mountainous location of Myanmar, along with the western Chin State and also the far, criminal activity levels are incredibly low.
Still, you need to take the typical preventative measures of utilizing hotel storage lockers or safes for your valuables. Women tourists should not experience any type of harassment or different treatment.
Do take hand sanitiser-- the cash is filthy as well as there isn't always soap in restrooms so utilize your sanitiser before you touch anything that will go near your mouth.
Look out for the dust- Myanmar can be very dusty so do carry something to cover your mouth and also nose when biking around. Also take care with your air conditioning-- Myanmar can be as warm. Subsequently, many visitors use the a/c in their room yet sleeping in low temperature levels can make you sick.
Fruit is simple to find so top up your body immune system with nutrients in this way. Nevertheless, 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 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 and also the minority Muslim (Rohingya) communities has actually brought about the mass displacement of thousands of people. Some other parts of the nation continue to be shut to foreigners because of conflict between the government as well as various ethnic armies clustered in eastern and northern Myanmar. These locations are mainly in Kachin and Shan States, close to the frontiers with China and also Thailand, as well as far from the major traveler locations.
Accurate details on disputes as well as closed areas can be hard to find. Check your government's recommendations before travelling, and inquire about the situation when you are in Myanmar. Lonely Planet's Thorn Tree travel forum is an excellent resource of information from tourists on the ground.
What to wear in Myanmar
The majority of the locals dress conservatively| and cover their shoulders and also legs despite the heat, and you will certainly make everyone a lot more comfortable if you follow suit.
Knee length shorts, long skirts, elephant pants and tee shirts are the attire of choice. These are highly encouraged as well as frequently enforced for getting in the temples as well as 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 men and women. Several travelers pick one up as they're breezy in the warmth and tick the 'traditional wear' box. They are practical for taking in the sights so get an inexpensive one a the marketplace if you have the chance.
Flip flops are necessary! Getting in pagodas implies going barefoot and also flip flops are the most effective footwear choice. Dealing with laces in the blistering heat is an unwanted interruption. Bring some cleaning wipes for your feet after going to a pagoda.
Myanmar is a conservative country so you'll blend far better if you clothe 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 however in other places it's much less usual.
Culture
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The local people are extremely genteel as well as not used to confrontation so pack your best manners and your patience. Travel can be discouraging, hot and slow but remember: you chose to go to Myanmar and that it's not the same as being at home is no good reason to click here take it out on the locals. However, bargain hard with the cab drivers.
You may get stopped a great deal by residents who intend to talk. Visitors are no more a novelty in the majority of Southeast Asia but Myanmar is different. Generally individuals are charming as well as are happy to appear in pictures and also try and converse via limited usual words or sign language.
You mayadditionally get stared at a great deal which is typically best dealt with by providing a smile as well as 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, small parcels which contain tobacco, spices as well as areca nuts covered in a betel leaf. It's most likely popular| because it provides a hit that amounts to six mugs of coffee. But, as well as being dangerous when chewed long term, the byproduct is bright-red saliva which is spat out, many times onto the ground.
Great deals of residents have the tell tale red discolored teeth as well as cab drivers frequently roll down the window in slow-moving traffic to spit after chewing 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 write-up 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 functions as a sun block.
It's also common to hear a kissing sound in the coffee shops and also restaurants as locals utilize the kissing noise as an ask for service. Apparently it's easier for staff to determine the place of the kissing sound so do not be distressed!
Burmese Phrases
Both most important phrases you require in Myanmar are:
Hello: Ming-gu-la-bah
Thank you: Jay-zu-de-bar-dee
Not only is it polite, but it is well received. Be prepared for many locals to giggle in response-- they are not mocking you; they are just not expecting it.
Other practical concerns in Myanmar
Laundry is typically done by hand and is charged per item rather than kilo so try to show up with your garments washed as well as unless you wish to hand over $20 for a load of washing, select the items you really require washing as well as clean your smaller items yourself as you go.
Toiletries are very easy to find by however tampons are not so bring what you need 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 hrs ahead of GMT.
Most of the plug sockets of Myanmar have numerous adaptors for European and North American 2-pin plugs along with British three-pin.
Wi-fi is bad in Myanmar so you either have to get over it or, better still, get a local SIM. You can get one at most 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 find out more about your network selections here. Still, with 1 mbps taken into consideration to be a 'quick' link, don't anticipate to be downloading video clips whenever. On-line access has improved, with wi-fi coming to be the norm-- most hotels, guesthouses as well as cafes have it totally free-- and also the internet is now spreading tofarther locations. But tightly squeezed bandwidth as well as power outages can make using the web an irritating exercise.
Do your research in advance or pack a guidebook, as well as do not 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 backpack than a luggage. Travel suitcases aren't ideal on dusty, sandy, unevenroads. Getting in as well as out of myriad forms|types|kinds} of transport as well as hefting it up several high staircases isn't much better.