20 Crucial Facts to Read Before Your Myanmar Trip

20 Crucial Facts to Read Before Your Myanmar Trip

Planning a trip to Myanmar? This unique country has much to offer visitors, from serene temples to vibrant culture. However, preparation is key to making the most of your vacation. I will cover 20 essential tips spanning travel logistics, health and safety, culture and etiquette, transportation, accommodations, food, weather, and more.

Reading through these facts before your journey will help you pack properly, budget wisely, set expectations, and avoid common mistakes. Along with outlining important advice, I will provide interesting context about Myanmar to enrich your experience. Whether you seek adventure or relaxation, these fundamental tips will equip you for an incredible trip to magnificent Myanmar. Let’s dive in and start getting you ready for the journey of a lifetime!

1. US Dollars are the Most Widely Accepted Currency

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The US dollar is one of the most widely accepted foreign currencies in Myanmar, along with the Thai baht and Euro. Many hotels, restaurants, shops, and travel agencies in major tourist areas like Yangon and Bagan quote prices and accept payment in US dollars.

When exchanging money, US dollars typically receive the best exchange rates. Though the local kyat is used for smaller purchases, carrying some US dollars cash and having a credit/debit card for withdrawals gives useful backup payment options during your trip.

2. Visas Must be Arranged Online in Advance

Visas to Myanmar must be obtained before arrival. Apply online for an e-visa on the Myanmar government’s website at least 3 days before travel. Have a printed copy to show on arrival. The visa-on-arrival service was discontinued.

Visas allow stays up to 28 days. Your passport must be valid for 6 months past travel. Fees are $50 for most nationalities. Processing takes up to 3 days so don’t wait until the last minute. Obtaining a visa is essential to enter Myanmar legally.

3. Drink Only Bottled Water

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Only drink bottled water during your Myanmar trip. Tap water is not safe to drink. Also, avoid ice cubes in drinks and brushing your teeth with tap water. Only drink beverages from sealed bottles or cans. Bottled water is widely available and inexpensive at stores, hotels, and restaurants.

Be sure bottled water seals are intact. Wash hands frequently with soap and bottled water to avoid illnesses. Stick to hot cooked foods and peel fruits. Following these simple precautions will help you stay healthy on your trip.

4. Street Food is Safe and Delicious

Street food is an integral part of Myanmar culture and offers delicious local flavors. Stalls look tempting but do take precautions. Choose cooked dishes served hot and eat immediately. Avoid raw salads and unpeeled fruits.

Soybean paste and fermented tea leaf salad are safer options. Look for popular stalls with high turnover. Avoid meats that look undercooked. Instead try mohinga fish soup for breakfast or Shan tofu noodles. Eating street food in moderation adds an authentic experience to your trip, just be selective and keep an eye on hygiene.

5. Domestic Flights are the Easiest Way to Cover Long Distances

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Taking domestic flights is the easiest and quickest way to cover long distances between main destinations in Myanmar. The journey between major cities like Yangon and Bagan would take over 10 arduous hours by bus or train versus just 90 minutes by air. There are several domestic airlines to choose from for reasonable fares.

Flights operate daily between hubs like Yangon, Mandalay, Bagan, and Inle Lake. Facilities are basic but flying domestically avoids spending too much time traveling. Check baggage allowances as they are stricter than international flights. Overall, flying within Myanmar is efficient.

6. Drink Green Tea or Coffee Instead of Water at Restaurants

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Avoid drinking tap water at restaurants in Myanmar. Request boiled or bottled water instead. For meals, consider drinking green tea or Burmese black coffee, which are safe options. Green tea is a popular drink choice.

It is served free at most meals or can be purchased inexpensive. Burmese coffee has chickpeas roasted with the coffee beans, giving a unique flavor. Tea shops are also common and a great place to sample different teas. Opting for hot tea or coffee over water at restaurants allows you to enjoy safer drinks with your meals during your trip.

7. Locals are Exceptionally Friendly and Welcoming to Tourists

The people of Myanmar are known for being exceptionally warm, friendly, and welcoming to foreign tourists. Locals you encounter will be eager to greet you with a smile and start a conversation. English is limited outside major hubs but they will try their best to help you.

The culture places a high value on politeness and hospitality. As a visitor, you are sure to receive many gracious welcomes, assistance, and invitations to tea from the Burmese people you meet during your trip. Enjoy getting to know the open and kind spirit of the locals in Myanmar.

8. Respect Dress Codes and Customs

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When visiting temples and religious sites in Myanmar, respectful dress is required. Shoulders and knees should be covered. Remove shoes before entering sacred spaces. Both men and women should wear long pants or skirts. Avoid tight or revealing clothing. Ask permission before photographing monks.

Also, avoid public displays of affection, anger, or disrespect. Be patient, calm, and polite in interactions. Learning a few Burmese greetings shows goodwill. Adhering to these customs will ensure you avoid offending locals and have the best experience immersing in Myanmar’s rich culture.

9. Ask Permission Before Photographing People, Especially Monks

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If you want to photograph local people, especially monks, in Myanmar, always ask their permission first out of respect. Do not assume it is okay. Some may not want their photo taken. Approach them, briefly explain you are a tourist wishing to photograph them and request their permission.

If granted, show your gratitude. Avoid posing people unless they offer. Never photograph child monks. Be courteous and accept refusals graciously. Following these guidelines shows you value the dignity and rights of the people you photograph during your trip to Myanmar.

10. Peak Months are November to February When Temperatures are Cooler

The best time to visit Myanmar is during the peak tourist season from November to February when temperatures are cooler. High temperatures average around 86-90°F rather than over 100°F in hot months. Humidity is lower as well. The winter dry season brings sunny, pleasant weather ideal for sightseeing.

Accommodations get booked up early so make reservations in advance. The cooler weather draws many visitors, so popular spots get crowded. However, this is the most comfortable time to explore temples and enjoy outdoor activities. Considering the weather and crowds, aim to visit Myanmar during the peak months.

11. English is Widely Spoken in Major Cities and Tourist Areas, but Learning a Few Burmese

English is commonly spoken and understood in major tourist destinations like Yangon, Mandalay, and Bagan, especially at hotels, restaurants, shops, and travel agencies. However, outside main hubs and cities, English proficiency drops off sharply. Learning a few key Burmese phrases like greetings and basic courtesies can help greatly when interacting with locals.

Consider hiring a local guide if venturing off the beaten path. Though you can get by with just English in main tourist areas, making an effort with the Burmese language will be appreciated and enhance your cultural experience.

12. The Temples in Bagan are Governed by an Evolving set of Regulations

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The incredible temples of Bagan are subject to evolving regulations to preserve the integrity of the archaeological zone. Climbing the upper terraces of temples is prohibited now. Dress codes require shoulders and knees covered. Drone use is restricted.

Some interior spaces may be off-limits or require extra fees. Stay mindful of on-site staff guidance. Rules vary across temples and change frequently. Study up-to-date policies online and respect them to avoid issues. With cooperation from visitors, the magic of Bagan can be preserved for future generations.

13. Myanmar is Considered the Most Religious Buddhist Country, with Buddhism Practiced by 90% of the Population

Myanmar is considered the most religiously devout Buddhist country in the world, with around 90% of the population practicing Theravada Buddhism. Buddhism shapes daily life and culture. You’ll witness rituals like monastics receiving alms and see people praying at glittering, gold-adorned pagodas everywhere.

 Local customs like removing shoes and sitting below monks are Buddhist-inspired. Though the country has diversity, Buddhism is central. To appreciate Myanmar’s character, engage mindfully with the Buddhist essence. Visiting temples and monasteries offers profound insight into this peaceful faith’s significance.

14. Transportation Infrastructure is There

Myanmar’s transportation infrastructure connects major cities and tourism hubs but is still developing. Roads are paved between most large towns with public buses running daily routes. Main airports have flights between cities like Yangon, Mandalay, and Bagan. Trains also connect major destinations, though slow.

Outside big cities, roads get bumpy and public transit is sparse. Have realistic expectations when traveling between outlying areas. Overall, it’s feasible to navigate between main sights by bus, train, boat, or plane. Just budget extra time and be prepared for more basic infrastructure in rural zones.

15. New Year is a Water Festival

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The Burmese New Year holiday called Thingyan in mid-April is celebrated with a national water festival. People throw, splash, and douse each other with water on the streets for days, symbolizing washing away the old year. Be prepared to get very wet if you visit during this time! Streets become party zones with music and dancing.

Businesses close. Plan transportation delays though it’s a fun cultural experience. Hotels fill up far in advance so book accommodations well before attending the world’s biggest water fight in Myanmar!

16. Myanmar has Beautiful and Peaceful Beaches

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Myanmar boasts pristine stretches of beautiful, peaceful beaches along its coastlines. The beaches remain unspoiled with white sand, clear water, palm trees, and relaxation. Popular beach destinations include Ngapali Beach on the Bay of Bengal with its fishing villages and resorts.

The Mergui Archipelago islands off southern Myanmar offer exclusive island getaways. Ngwe Saung Beach draws locals and expats. Avoid monsoon season rains. Most beaches lack big crowds and development. For swimming, snorkeling, or simply unwinding on the sand, Myanmar’s serene beaches balance a cultural trip.

17. Myanmar Hotel Cost is Much Higher than Any Other Countries in Southeast Asia

Hotel rates in Myanmar tend to be significantly higher than in other Southeast Asian countries. A comfortable hotel room in Myanmar often costs $100-150 or more per night, even at mid-range places. Comparable hotels in Thailand, Vietnam, or Indonesia can be found for half that price. Limited hotel stock and high tourism demand drive up accommodation costs in Myanmar.

Book well in advance and be flexible on locations to get the best deals. Guesthouses offer budget lodging options too. Overall, allocate more of your Myanmar trip budget to accommodations relative to the rest of Southeast Asia.

18. Myanmar is Quite Conservative and Revealing Clothing Should be Avoided

Myanmar follows traditional cultural norms and tends to be a relatively conservative place. Revealing or tight clothing on women or men draws the wrong kind of attention. When packing for your trip, leave short shorts, tank tops, low-cut shirts, and very short skirts at home. Light pants or longer skirts with T-shirts or simple tops are ideal.

Bring clothes that cover shoulders and knees for temple visits too. Dressing conservatively helps show sensitivity to local values, especially at religious sites. Focus on comfort through breathable fabrics in Myanmar’s tropical climate.

19. Hotels Book up Fast During Peak Season. Reserve Accommodation in Advance

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Hotels in Myanmar fill up rapidly during peak seasons, often leaving travelers scrambling for accommodations. It’s essential to book your stay well in advance to secure your desired lodging. Popular destinations like Yangon, Bagan, and Inle Lake experience particularly high demand.

By planning ahead and making reservations early, you can avoid the inconvenience of limited availability and ensure a comfortable stay throughout your trip. Don’t risk missing out on accommodations; plan for a smooth travel experience in Myanmar.

20. Tropical Strength Sunscreen, Hat, and Sunglasses are Musts. The Sun is Fierce

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Pack sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses – the tropical sun is extremely strong in Myanmar. With high-exposure sightseeing at temples, markets, and beaches, you’ll want robust sun protection. Bring higher waterproof sunscreen and apply liberally and often. Wear wide-brimmed hats and UV-blocking sunglasses outside.

Seek shade when possible. Keep hydrated. Getting sunburnt can ruin a vacation quickly. Don’t underestimate Myanmar’s fierce sunshine. Staying protected will allow you to enjoy the sights comfortably without any painful burns during your trip!