Myanmar is one of the poorest but
at the same time one of the most fascinating countries
of Southeast Asia and these two seemingly opposed
attributes are more over connected. The country
is poor because for decades its government fiercely
protected it from almost each foreign influence,
which is also the reason for its fascinating character.
A former British colony, Myanmar attained independence
in 1948.
The capital of Myanmar is Yangon (Rangoon), and
the climate is hot and wet during the summer. Unemployment
is approximately 5% and 25% of the population is
below the poverty line.
POPULATION
Population of the country is estimated at 52.4 million
(July, 2003) and the population growth rate is 1.84%.
ETHNIC GROUPS
Myanmar is a union of 135 ethnic groups with their
own languages and dialects. The major races are
the Kachin, the Kayah, the Kayin, the Chin , the
Mon, the Bamar, the Rakhine, and the Shan. The name
Myanmar embraces all the ethnic groups.
LANGUAGE
The majority of the people speak Myanmar (Burmese),
minority ethnic groups have their own languages
but English is widely used.
RELIGIONS
The main religions of the country are Buddhism (89.2%),
Christianity (5.0%), Islam (3.8%), Hinduism (0.5%),
Spiritualism (1.2%) and others (0.2%). Religious
intolerance or discrimination on grounds of religion
is nonexistent in the Union of Myanmar throughout
its long history.
CURRENCY
The local currency used is called Kyat (pronounced
“chat”, abbreviated as Ks), which comprises
100 pyas.
The currency exchange rate is 5.7459
(2004) kyats per US dollar.
note: these are official exchange rates; unofficial
exchange rates ranged in 2004 from 815 kyat/US dollar
to nearly 970 kyat/US dollar
*note: it is recommended not
to use the money changer at the airport as the exchange
rates are about 50% lower than else where.
Travelers’ checks are normally not accepted
and are difficult to transact. Travelers are advised
to bring US Dollars in cash (big denomination notes
fetch better exchange rates). British Pounds, Euros
and other currencies are difficult to change.
Credit cards are not accepted in Myanmar. Ensure
that you bring enough US Dollars for your expenses.
VISA AND TRAVEL DOCUMENTS
Myanmar requires a visa for all foreigners visiting
the country. It is valid for two months from the
date of issue for stays of 28 days starting from
the day you enter the country. This can be extended
for an additional 14 days. You can obtain your visa
at any embassy in a country near to your location
by mail.
Application requirements: (a) One application form.
(b) Two passport-size photos. (c) Valid passport.
(d) Fee (cash accepted if applying in person; cheque
or postal order only if applying by post). (e) Self-addressed,
stamped enveloped for postal applications with sufficient
postage (registered post is recommended).
Upon arrival, show your passport
with valid entry visa and disembarkation card to
the Immigration officer at the International Airport
(Yangon or Mandalay).
For more information on visa applications
and procedures, inquire directly with the Myanmar
Embassies and Consulate Offices located in or near
your country http://www.myanmar-tourism.com/embassies.htm.
AIRPORT TAX
Any passengers departing Myanmar on international
flights will need to pay a departure tax of US$
10 per person.
ELECTRICITY
The voltage in Myanmar is 220-230 Volts AC. Most
of the international hotels have their own generators.
Other places may experience power cuts and voltage
fluctuations.
TAP WATER
Drink only purified bottle water. Bottled water
is readily available.
VACCINATIONS
No inoculations or vaccinations are required unless
coming from or passing through an infected area.
It is advisable to check for updated health recommendations
before your departure to Myanmar regarding hepatitis,
malaria, typhoid, etc.
CLIMATE
A monsoon climate with three main seasons. The hottest
period is between February and May, with little
or no rain. Rainy season exists from May to October
and dry, cooler weather from October to February.
TIME
GMT +6.5
CLOTHING
Myanmar is a conservative Buddhist nation therefore
improper dressing can be offensive. Please dress
with respect for the local culture. Shorts, short
skirts or revealing clothings are not appropriate.
Sources:
The
world fact book
Tourism
authority of Myanmar
Golden
Myanmar Travel
Myanmars.net
Ministry
of Foreign Affairs
Myanmar
Travel Information 2005
Travel-burma.net
Myanmar
Travel and Tourism information
