MYANMAR TRAVEL GUIDES

THE MOST BEAUTIFUL UNDERRATED COUNTRY IN ASIA

Embark on an enchanting journey through Myanmar, a land where time-honored traditions and natural beauty intertwine to create a tapestry of cultural richness and awe-inspiring landscapes.

Imagine yourself drifting along the tranquil waters of Inle Lake, where stilted houses and floating gardens paint a serene picture, and skilled fishermen glide by with their unique, one-legged rowing technique.

Venture into the ancient city of Bagan, where the horizon is dotted with over 2,000 temples and pagodas, offering a breathtaking spectacle at sunrise and sunset.

Delve into the bustling streets of Yangon, where the majestic Shwedagon Pagoda stands as a golden beacon of spiritual significance.

From the pristine beaches of Ngapali to the mystical caves of Hpa-An, Myanmar promises an array of unforgettable adventures, each waiting to tell its own story of history, spirituality, and natural wonder.

The Most Instagrammable Places in Myanmar

Where to stay in Bagan: Heritage Bagan Hotel

THE BEST TIME TO VISIT MYANMAR

The best time to visit Myanmar is during the dry season, which spans from October to May, offering favorable weather for exploring the country’s magnificent temples, lush landscapes, and beautiful beaches. The peak travel months are between November and February, when the weather is most comfortable and outdoor activities are most enjoyable.

The monsoon or ‘green season’ runs from May to October, bringing rain that transforms the landscape into a vibrant green. While it’s less crowded during these months, certain areas might be less accessible due to the rains, but the countryside is especially lush and beautiful, making it a unique time to visit for those who don’t mind occasional showers.

Current travel advice for Myanmar should be checked regularly due to the dynamic political and social landscape. It’s important to stay informed about the local situation, respect cultural norms and traditions, and follow guidelines set by travel advisories and local authorities to ensure a safe and respectful visit.

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN TRAVELING TO MYANMAR

Language – The official language, Burmese, is spoken by two-thirds of the population and serves as the lingua franca, uniting the diverse ethnic groups. Beyond Burmese, the country’s linguistic landscape is a mosaic of languages spoken by various ethnic minorities, representing six major language families. English is spoken in Myanmar, especially in major cities, tourist areas, and by those working in the tourism and hospitality industry.

Frequently used phrases
Mingalaba – Hello Chei-zu tin-ba-deh – Thank you Yeh-meh leh? – How much is this? Beh-lauq-le? – How are you?

Currency – The currency of Myanmar is the Kyat, denoted by the ISO code MMK. Banknotes and coins have evolved, with current frequently used banknotes ranging from Ks. 50 to Ks. 20,000.

Credit Cards & ATM’s – ATMs are now widespread across major towns and tourist destinations, marking a significant increase from just a handful in 2013 to over 1,000 by 2018. While the reliability of ATMs has improved, carrying some amount of cash is still advisable due to occasional outages or limits on withdrawals. Credit card usage is also on the rise, with Visa cards being accepted at over 1,800 retailers and more than 1,150 ATMs across Myanmar.

Safety – Travel to Myanmar is currently advised against due to civil unrest, armed conflict, and arbitrary enforcement of local laws. There are concerns about limited healthcare, land mines, and unexploded ordnance in some areas. Travelers are urged to reconsider travel plans and exercise increased caution if deciding to travel to Myanmar.

All I can say is that I hope that Myanmar becomes safe again for travel cause it’s ‘s one of the countries in Asia that I absolutely loved the most!

Plugs – In Myanmar, travelers will encounter a variety of power plugs and sockets, primarily types C, D, F, and G. The standard voltage is 230 V, with a frequency of 50 Hz.

TIPS FOR YOUR FIRST VISIT TO MYANMAR

Research Visa Requirements – Ensure you understand the visa requirements for Myanmar well before your trip. Most travelers need to apply for a visa in advance, which can often be done online through the eVisa system.

Respect Local Customs and Dress Code – Myanmar is a conservative country with deep-rooted Buddhist traditions. Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples and pagodas, covering shoulders and knees. Remember to remove shoes and socks before entering religious sites.

Stay Healthy – Stick to bottled water to avoid waterborne illnesses and be cautious with street food, opting for busy stalls where high turnover indicates freshness. Consider vaccinations recommended for travel in the region, such as hepatitis A and typhoid.

Use Local Currency – The local currency is the Kyat, and it’s essential to carry cash, especially in rural areas. While some places in Yangon and Mandalay may accept credit cards, cash is king in most parts of the country.

Learn Basic Burmese Phrases – English is not widely spoken outside major tourist areas, so learning a few basic phrases in Burmese can go a long way in enhancing your travel experience and connecting with locals.

Plan for Connectivity Issues – Internet and mobile connectivity can be unreliable and slow in many parts of Myanmar. Download offline maps and important information beforehand. Buying a local SIM card can also offer better connectivity at a reasonable price.