MNA is by far the largest airline in Myanmar. Simply walk in and ask for the medicine that you want. 5) Mr Myanmar Travel [8] If you are bitten, chances are that you will require a costly evacuation to Thailand to be screened and treated for illnesses that may arise as a result of the bite. You'll find locals all around open to discussing politics, and initiate political discussions with you, openly critiquing the government, and talking about bribes, corruption and other issues. As in any other developing country: "if you can't fry, roast, peel or boil it - then forget it". Except at the top-end, some type of breakfast is always included in the price of the room. However, you may find that there are no return flights on the same day and finding a place to stay without your passport can be a bit of an issue, but rest assured, in that case the officials will accommodate you in their somewhat modest office premises. 4G networks are available in the big cites and 3G networks in other areas. In general, most foreign nationals require an advance visa to enter Myanmar. Always have hand sanitizer ready, since most germs are spread through hand contact. Numbers often are also written in Burmese script. Life has been unfair to many. Note that the Myanmar Embassy is closed for all Thai and Myanmar official holidays. You can also pre-book tickets with travel agencies - order any time and they send you a ticket reservation somewhere between 2 week and a week before your journey. Should you be the victim of a crime, there are police stations all over the country which fly Myanmar's flag and have signs, oftentimes in both English and Burmese, that read: "Can I help you?" The music of Myanmar (or Burma) (Burmese: မြန်မာ့ဂီတ) shares many similarities with other musical styles in the region. Most managed tourist sites will charge you for carrying cameras of any sort into the area. Attending these festivals will only add more colors to your Asian holiday, so make sure you tick off as many of these as possible! The next step is payment. Still as a foreigner it is better to remain discreet and let the locals to initiate the discussion about the politics with you. As a result, most doctors and medical staff are poorly trained, and quality medical equipment is scarce. Most of the government officials and rich locals head to Thailand or Singapore for more serious medical treatment and hospitalization. Though pickpockets have been known to happen and are increasing in frequency, there is virtually no chance of you being targeted, even in the lesser-visited areas. Successful applicants will also be issued an "Arrival Form", which will be stapled into your passport and must be presented on arrival in Myanmar, along with your passport containing the visa sticker. Onward travel into the country is possible from each of them, see the Thailand section below. In the highlands such as Inle Lake and Pyin U Lwin, winter temperatures can fall below 10°C at night, while daytime temperatures tend to be very pleasant. Note that even with a guide you're not really under his control, he can (and will) offer an advice, but it is up to you to disregard it. Experiencing Myanmar’s festivals is a great way to understand its culture, and an even better way to make it a memorable destination. The hours to fill out the application are between 10 am - 12 pm and the hours to pick your passport up are 2 - 4 pm. An interesting book on the author's travel through Burma that uses Orwell's experience as a template. Teaching English is feasible in private schools but many foreigners have reported unreasonable contracts, such as withholding pay and refusing to pay those who resign early. As such, there is a road from Myitkyina to the pass, though it is in very poor condition and is not often used. As a foreigner, your bowels may not be used to the hygiene conditions of the food, so always keep diarrhea remedies such as Lomotil on hand. Beautiful Longhi with delicate lace blouses adorn the women. In the wake of the coup and ensuing protests and violence, Randy Rosenthal reflects on his time spent in Myanmar and shares why Western Buddhists should feel … Surprisingly, Burma has a mixture of both right-hand and left-hand drive vehicles, with the majority being right-hand drive but driving is generally done on the right side of the roads. Buying your ticket at Bago might be slightly cheaper (of course depending upon your bargaining skills) and gives you more freedom for the rest of your journey. This usually only affects your arrival time. Prices vary significantly depending on the design, size, and quality of the tapestry. In addition, there is a growing trend to always charge foreigners much more than what locals pay, even for things such as plane tickets and hotel rooms. As of Sep 2015, liberty has increased drastically with the gradual democratization of the country and the election coming next month. Generally speaking, Myanmar culture (Burmese culture) means Buddhist culture, and is not identical with the modern geographical unity. This is potentially in response to foreigners not heeding the transport requirements at the border (a bus is often required from the border to Mandalay). Be sure to order it with Laphet thote (Customary/Good combination). Since the sanctions were lifted, a number of highways (mostly toll) and bridges were built, and many roads are now quite modern, making more destinations accessible. Please note that many airlines engage in the unfortunate practice of dual pricing, with foreigners paying significantly more than Myanmar nationals. The embassy has outsourced it to Ever Fine Travel & Tours, upstair of Happy Holiday Hotel (level M) at Masjid Jamek LRT Station area (between 7-Eleven & Burger King). It is important to dress moderately, especially in temples and pagodas. Traditionally, Myanmar tourism is based on culture. You can also purchase little squares of gold leaf to apply to consecrated statues. Today, the vast majority of the Internet is accessible from within the country. Thailand: Bus drivers are among the worst dangers, although this is somewhat less of an issue since 2010 due to new, very harsh penalties imposed on bus drivers involved in accidents. Myanmar is renowned for the Burmese people’s festive spirit, and each year, there are festivals that happen all across the country. The Mon people are considered the forefathers of Myanmar civilization. You can obtain it in the Embassy of Myanmar in Bangkok, or apply for the e-Visa (except Phu Nam Ron / Htee Khee), see the Visa information above. Temples, pagodas and historical sites abound with some areas such as Bagan boasting so many attractions that it would be impossible to take them in during a single visit. A few low-end hotels, particularly in Yangon and other large cities, specialize in cubicle rooms - small single rooms with no windows - which, while cheap and clean, are not for the claustrophobic. It is formed of needlework to create a variety of pictures and patterns so delicate and detailed that it requires skill, artistry, and patience. The United States on Tuesday declared the military roundup of civilian leaders in Myanmar a coup, and said it would look for ways to impose more sanctions or other penalties on the country's military and officers. Food is inexpensive at most restaurants (costing from MYK500-3000 per item at most local restaurants, but can go as high as MYK8000 at posh restaurants), but there are upscale restaurants in Yangon and Mandalay for upmarket food. It might be worth observing how the locals cross busy roads. Thus, if you planned to fly in and exit by land, your air company might deny you boarding if you can't/don't book a flight out of the country (happened with China Eastern on a flight from Kunming to Mandalay). Companies that can help with internal visas. However, under any circumstances avoid doing things that might make the military or police feel uncomfortable, such as taking pictures of police and police buildings or vehicles. The staff are able to converse in English. Never drink tap water. One very important note to all this is for women, who should not dress in revealing clothing in this fairly conservative culture. In theory, any tourist can apply for a permit to visit any restricted area or to travel on any restricted land route. Core Concepts. Various insurgent groups operate in parts of Shan, Mon, Chin (Zomi), and Karen States along the Thai and Chinese borders. There have been very few instances of a tourist being mugged and only the rare pilferage. It is also possible to buy full strength Beer Chang imported from Thailand; exports to most countries are not nearly as strong. It is questionable whether the seemingly common practise for the immigration officials not to be very diligent about getting your passport stamped at some of the crossing points but certainly noticing its absence at a passport control point when you have made your way onward to the country is constituting an actual scam, maybe a sort of 'game' in which someone will always eventually fall for it would describe it better. It is the abraded part of the bark of the Tannaka tree, which is applied to the cheeks. Most police officers and some military, however, are ok with that as long as you ask (even with a camera gesture), and some would be happy to have a picture taken with you. Various stupas and temples throughout the country bear a distinct resemblance to those in northern India. Actually, this is not the case and tracking back to Yangon for a bus ticket up north is not necessary at all. The Thailand-Burma railroad (the so-called "Death Railway") from Kanchanaburi in Thailand over the River Kwai to Burma was built by the Japanese using forced labor — a great number of people (estimated at 80,000) died during construction of the railway. myanmar culture & tradition Thingyan Water Festival Thinngyan, the Water Festival is the most unique and colourful with the merriest occasion in Myanmar. However, don't expect to navigate successfully without your phrasebook. Myanmar is now going through a lot of growth in which they might not meet their 10 business day processing time. You might be asked to show it on your way out of the country (you definitely need it at Htee Kee checkpoint). Myanmar's milk tea is rich and creamy and very similar to that, you find in India or southeast Asia. Note that, according to the Myanmar government website there is no VOA for tourists, but Myanmar Airways claims that VOA is now available for tourists of all nationalities for USD30 (as of February 2013), but only on flights with their airline from Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Guangzhou. UPDATE: It seems that the Embassies are no longer issuing "Arrival Forms" (as of June 2016 in Bangkok). With landscapes, tropical climate, beaches, cheap transportation and truly awesome sights, Myanmar is a fascinating destination. You are free to walk around, go to shops and interact with the locals. While many travelers make a stopover in Bago, they are told at their guest-house or at the bus station it's not possible to buy tickets up there in the direction to Mandalay. You have three months to enter Myanmar and it is valid for one month. In the Myanmar tradition the boys are compulsory to enter the Buddhist order for a week or more. Family. 3) Travel Myanmar [6] For the next millennium, the Burmese empire grew through conquests of Thailand (Ayutthaya) and India (Manipur), … Alternatively, consider looking into satellite phone SIM card services and get connected in advance before coming to Myanmar. Skip entirely the education ministry, which only hires citizens with teaching certification. This airline however has a number of convenient flights, such as late evening flight from Bagan to Mandalay, and is known to fly to nearly all destinations. Nowadays the tapestry is widely used as ornaments such as wall hangings, marionette dolls, traditional and royal dresses worn on special occasions. Also, do share this amazing list of Myanmar festivals 2020 with your folks! Myanmar has some of the most stunning temples in Asia and you will be tempted to visit more than you think. Independence from the British under the name Union of Burma was finally attained in 1948, and till this day, Aung San is regarded by most Burmese people to be the father of independence. As an example, there is no such thing as a “cousin” in Burmese culture. Voluntarily give alms to monks and nuns is also the traditional culture of Myanmar people. Though locals will shout "white man in lyongi!" Alcohol. So far there is no dive centers offering day trips to Mergui Archipelago], the 800 islands on the west coast of Burma. It is a good precaution to carry cash. With the construction of the bridge across the Salween, it is now possible to go by train from Yangon to Mawlymaing (8 hours for the 200km journey) and on to Ye (Ye is closed to foreign travellers). There is usually an ATM fee of MMK 6500 (USD 5) associated with the transaction with maximum withdrawal amount being MMK 300,000. There is a free ebook downloadable, called Do's and Don'ts for Tourists[[14]], which can educate readers quite well in a short time. Accessing internet on the smartphone is more popular locally. A normal SIM card usually comes with little to no credit, and needs to be "topped off". It is recommended that you ask your doctor whether you are fit for travel to a developing country. There is also a wide variety of beautiful silverware and jewelery as well as textiles, including gorgeous silks and handicrafts such as wooden carvings, silk paintings and stonework. It is written using the Burmese script, based on the Pallava Grantha script[[12]]. China - a land border exists between Ruili (in Yunnan) and Lashio, although a permit (as well as a visa) and a guide are needed. Firstly, you may meet very sloppy border control which will let you enter to the country without making any markings to your passport unless you are diligent finding the right place and making sure you get stamped correctly (see esp. They are quite faster and reliable these days. Sectors which potentially have significant land and cultural impacts on indigenous peoples in Myanmar include: the extractives industry (oil and gas, mining); agriculture (plantations, contract farming); infrastructure projects (industrial zones, telecommunications); transportation (roads, rail and airports); energy (hydropower, power plants); and tourism. If applying for tourist visa, fill-in your application form which the security guard supplies upon arrival along with a numbered token. Money changers have been known to reject notes just for being creased and/or lightly worn. Pya are coins, and are rarely seen since their value has become increasingly insignificant with even the largest 50 pya coin worth less than six US or euro cents in Feb 2014. Aside from that, the country boasts a number of unique traditional products and customs which are excellent options to explore for a tourist. It takes two days to obtain the visa. Myanmar Culture and Traditional - National Race Villages in If you should fall sick in Myanmar, you can visit a clinic in major cities for minor ailments such as coughs and colds. YANGON, Myanmar (AP) — Police used tear gas and rubber bullets again Wednesday to violently disperse protesters against last month’s military takeover. Toddy juice (ta-YEI) is popular in central Myanmar, and is made from fermented palm sugar. Many Indian, Chinese, and Shan dishes are served throughout the country. The new central government of the nation quickly worked to consolidate its power, marginalizing and angering tribal leaders and setting off more than a decade of armed conflict. 89% of population is Buddhists. Tourists of Caucasian descent are commonly referred to as bo, which translates "leader", as a sign of respect. One can try to bargain, but success is unlikely. "Finding George Orwell in Burma" by Emma Larkin. With the opening of Myanmar's economy and easing of sanctions, bills in non-perfect condition are acceptable as long as they are in reasonably good shape (eg. Myanmar is a preserver of the traditions and the Buddhist culture is an intricate part of the country. Other options are the Chinese yuan (CNY), Thai baht (THB) and Singapore dollars (SGD). Almost every hotel licensed for foreigners has running hot water (though, in remote areas, availability may be restricted to certain hours of the day). are fresh, crisp and as close to brand new as possible. However, visitors of Caucasian descent are rarely targeted, while those of Asian descent (including South Asians and East Asians) may be forced to give bribes, but the brunt of the problem hits normal Burmese. Work in Myanmar for foreigners is hard to come by. The Myanmar Embassy in Kuala Lumpur issues 28-day tourist visas. However, statues are arranged so that won't happen unless you get acrobatic about it. Though the British tracks aren't wide enough to comfortably support the train cars, which have exceptionally high centers of gravity, the bouncing, swaying, and other sudden and drastic movements that the cars make as they rumble along the tracks are not indicative of an unsafe train. Should they refuse to offer this option, walk out and make contact to the local police. Other Asian languages, such as Japanese, Mandarin, Thai, and Hindi, are also spoken, though mainly by specialized tour guides. Myanmar (English pronunciation below; Burmese: မြန်မာ) or Burma, officially the Republic of the Union of Myanmar, is a country in Southeast Asia. Here are 15 fun facts about Myanmar any tourist should know before their trip. In particular, there are 135 ethnicities officially with their own cultures. Armenian Lavash. The best way to enjoy fresh, chilled beer is to sit at a restaurant/beer station that displays the Myanmar Beer sign and ask for a glass of freshly poured draught beer. Make sure to exchange your kyat back to US dollars before you leave the country. The best way to visit the area is to board a Liveaboard living from Ranong in Thailand. Secondary education consists of a four-year cycle followed by a two-year cycle. Economy seats in Scania coaches are adequately comfortable, but ask for upper class for even better seats. Due to the low dollar, an increasing preference for paying in kyat is noticeable, especially when paying for food, private transport (car/taxi), and tours and activities. If you want an inside look at how the poorest citizens travel long-distance, pickup trucks are the way to go. Burmese culture is deeply influenced by Buddhist culture and Indian culture. Buddhism is the national religion of Myanmar. At government hospitals, bribes may be required for expedient services. BANGKOK Several years ago, there were isolated bombings: 26 April 2005 in Mandalay; 7 May, 21 October and 5 December 2005 in Yangon; 2 January 2006 in Bago. Make sure you keep the E-visa printout until the end of your trip. Double rooms with a private bathroom are nearly always more than USD 20, in Yangon you get a double room without bathroom for USD 20. Text is available under [http://wikitravel.org/shared/Copyleft Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0] images are available under [http://wikitravel.org/shared/How_to_re-use_Wikitravel_guides various licenses], see each image for details. Don't expect to sleep well in a train, the railroad is in a rather bad shape, and mostly resembles driving on a gravel road. It is certainly permissible, and, in fact, recommended, for foreigners to buy and wear longyi, as they are comfortable and acceptable in any social situation whatsoever. have no marks, stamps, anti-counterfeit pen, ink or any other mark on them at all. Like neighbouring Thailand, Theravada Buddhism is the single largest religion, and even some of the most remote villages will have a village temple for people to pray. FECs are still legal tender but are rarely seen and are worth very little. In practice, this law is rarely if ever enforced, and it is unheard of for a foreigner to get into trouble with the authorities for neglecting this rule. Myanmar - Myanmar - The unification of Myanmar: Nanzhao acted as a buffer against Chinese power to the north and allowed the infant Burman kingdom to grow. The official language of Myanmar is Burmese (known by the government as Myanmar). Don't expect anything close even to India, not to mention developed countries. Burmese cuisine itself is very unhealthy with a lot of deep fried items swimming in oil, so Thai and Chinese restaurants will be a good option to look for a break. Elsewhere, the country offers mediocre hotel accommodation at prices above its neighbouring countries at the same quality, and prices have increased dramatically in the past 12 months (compare prices listed in the latest Lonely Planet to those charged now, for example. Major tourist hotels in Yangon and Mandalay can have near-uninterrupted electricity supply, but can cost anywhere from USD80 to USD300 per night. WASHINGTON DC Myanmar has an extensive but ancient rail network. The following table summarizes travel time and prices between most visitable places in Myanmar (note: prices are approximate, check with more up to date and reliable sources! It sounds extreme, but ending up in a country where you cannot access whatever savings you have, and having a good portion of your budget rendered useless (until you get to more relaxed changers in Bangkok) can really put a dampener on your plans. It is the most religious Buddhist country in terms of the proportion of monks in the population and proportion of income spent on religion. Public display of affection, however, is frowned upon, regardless of gender or sexual orientation. Myanmar tapestry becomes an attraction for tourists from abroad. Family is extremely important to life in Myanmar. Monks shy away from physically touching any women. Myanmar etiquette is based on mutual respect for others. In more recent times, British colonial rule and easternisation have influenced aspects of Burmese culture, including language and education The UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office advises against all but essential travel to parts of Rakhine, Shan and Kachin states. It is useful to specify the 2+1 configuration when inquiring about these buses. That being said, driving habits are not quite as aggressive as say, Vietnam. HIV is a major problem in Myanmar. Pickups are ubiquitous in Myanmar and every town has a central point somewhere from where they depart to places both near and far. Be patient, polite and show respect. However, vary puppets are made according to the traditional style. MPT launched the first tourist SIM card with 1.5 GB of data and 5,000 Kyats of pre-loaded credit. A draught Myanmar beer (5%) is around MYK600, a bottle of Myanmar beer (650mL) is around MYK1700, a bottle of Mandalay beer (6.5%, 650mL) around MYK1200. Yenwejan is similar to Chinese Tea and usually is provided free at restaurant tables. It is emphatically recommended (and is becoming increasingly necessary) that you purchase visas appropriate for the duration and purpose of your trip. Even if people you encounter are happy to speak in another language, it is universally smiled upon when an attempt to speak Burmese, no matter how ill-fated, is made. The riots caused overseas development assistance to cease and the government subsequently nullified the results of the 1990 legislative elections. Myanmar is considered to have three seasons. But above all they combine to make a nation that is as warm and welcoming as any in the world: locals are almost always keen to help out and make friends. Hotels, with a few exceptions, are usually clean though, at the budget end, sheets and blankets may be threadbare and the rooms may be poorly ventilated. Accordingly there are many Buddha images and they can be seen at every pagoda and at the houses of all Buddhist, who worship at their family altars.