Burma Travel Tips

If you're thinking of visiting Burma, you should know that many travel companies refuse to do business there. The country's democracy leader, Aung San Suu Kyi, has requested that tourists not visit the country until the military leadership changes. Her fear is that tourist dollars will help uphold the dictatorship.

Yet it is possible for independent backpackers to respectfully travel through Burma without putting much money into the hands of the military leaders. Staying in small guesthouses, eating at street stalls (if your stomach’s not too sensitive), and hiring guides that you meet on the street are a few ways to support and get to know locals. Taking the public train rather than a tour bus is also a great way to meet people and experience the realities of daily life in Burma.

Many Burmese locals, even those who speak little English, know the phrase "In Burma we have bureaucracy, not democracy." If you’re a sensitive and concerned traveler, visiting Burma will surely raise your awareness of the people’s struggle for democracy.

Upon arrival in the country, you will be required to immediately exchange 200 U.S. dollars into a government currency, called FEC's. That’s right, regardless of your nationality, you will need to enter Burma loaded with 200 U.S. dollars or risk being turned away. This will be your first test in learning to bite your tongue when dealing with Burmese government officials. Arguing won’t get you anywhere - and it could get you in trouble.

After receiving your FEC's, you can promptly change them into kyats, the more widely used local currency. You’ll lose a bit on the exchange, but it’s worth it. Everyone in Burma accepts kyats. Only government establishments accept FEC's. Most travelers take a taxi into Rangoon from the airport, and the drivers often take tourists to a licensed money changer before dropping them off at a hotel. Before going to Burma, ask someone who’s been there recently what the going exchange rate is so you don't get ripped off.

While Burma is by no means safe for local human rights activists, the government has a huge financial stake in keeping it safe for tourists. Billboards urging locals to "help the international travelers" line the streets of most tourist areas. The biggest safety threat to travelers is not getting robbed or ending up in a military jail, but ending up in a Burmese hospital. Burma's medical system is unstable to say the least. People with medical complications shouldn't visit Burma. Others should bring a well-stocked medical emergency kit.

Needless to say, Burma is not a good first travel destination. But if you’ve traveled in Asia before, and if you have the patience to cope in a country with a weak infrastructure, then you may love Burma. It’s a truly fascinating country and a refreshing travel experience for those who want to get off the beaten path.

See Lonely Planet's Myanmar website for further travel information.

Or visit the Myanmar government website.