Travelling to any new place comes with it a whole host of admin, but here at Rickshaw we want you concentrate on the fun bits!
Our Myanmar Specialists have put together the answers to our most frequently asked questions below using their first-hand knowledge and experience. We’ve tried to include as much as we can but if you are still left with questions get in touch with our travel specialists to get them answered!
Before departure
Your passport needs to be valid for six months after your planned departure from Malaysia. You can find out more information on entry requirements our Visa, Passport and Money Advice page.
You’ll need a visa before you arrive. Single-entry tourist e-visas last 28 days and cost US$50, you can apply at Myanmar’s Ministry of Immigration and Population and they are available to citizens of over 100 countries. This information could change so it’s always worth checking with the Myanmar Embassy in London for the most up to date information.
Yes, we would always recommend taking out comprehensive travel insurance when travelling, especially overseas, that is suitable for your requirements and needs.
Myanmar is a very conservative country and local traditions should be upheld, covering your knees, shoulders and stomach is a sign of respect and will stop any unwanted attention – avoid plunging necklines too. Loose trousers, long shorts or skirts made from linen or cotton are best especially to keep cool – there are plenty to buy locally for a fraction of the cost in the UK.
It is always best to get the advice of a GP or travel nurse before travelling overseas to check which vaccinations you might need or if any boosters are required. The Travel Health Pro website provides a comprehensive guide on all the vaccinations you should consider.
Departure
We know heading off on holiday is always a little bit stressful, especially on the day you leave, so we would advise doing these things before you depart:
- Check you have all your necessary documentation, including your passport!
- Take a photo of your documents and email it to yourself and travelling partners. Having a copy on your phone always comes in handy too.
- Ensure you have all your chargers and converters for any phones, cameras, tablets you are taking. A portable battery pack is a handy item to have in your hand luggage.
- Take snacks and a big bottle of water for your flight.
- Get to the airport with plenty of time to spare, we advise arriving 3 hours prior to your flight departure.
- Pack a change of clothes in your hand luggage and take a photo of your checked bag in case it goes missing en route.
- Sit back and relax knowing we have your holiday sorted!
Arrival
The main language in Myanmar is Burmese, here are a few keys phrases to help you along the way:
- Hello – Min-ga-la-ba
- Thank you – Jeh-za-beh
- Please – Kyeizu-pyu-yue
- Yes – Ho de
- No – Ma ho bu
- How are you – Nei kaon la
- Excuse me – Ka mya?
- Good bye – Thwa dau mal
- Good morning – Mingalabar
- Good night – Eigh douh meh
- I don’t understand – Na-ma-le ba bu
Food is fresh, flavoursome and tasty in Myanmar. You can expect noodle soups, curries, pork, fresh fish and more noddles! There are Indian and Chinese influences in their dishes too so you will be spoilt for choice. Tea is also very popular here, Burmese milk tea will be sure to give you a taste of home!
Myanmar is a conservative country so it is good to be mindful as you explore this diverse country. It is best to avoid asking directly about history and politics as it is a sensitive subject which many are relunctant to talk about – if they want to open up, listen to their viewpoints.
Kissing or public affection is to be avoided and pointing with either your fingers or feet is considered very rude. As the head is seen as sacred don’t pat anyone on the head (no matter their age or gender).
Safety
Myanmar is considered a relatively safe place to travel to, but it always pays to be cautious with your belongings and use the safe in your room if one is provided. There are certain areas that are considered unsafe to travel to, we don’t operate any trips to these areas. You can find more information on the UK government website.
We are contactable in the UK during office hours and our local partners in destination are available 24/7 for any support or help you might need. They are in the best position as they will be on the same timezone, they should be your first contact in a case of emergency.
Tips and practical information
The national currency of Myanmar is the Burmese Kyat (pronounced chat). You will often see it abbreviated to ‘K’ or ‘MMK’ and is only found in note form. We recommend using Kyat wherever possible. However, US dollars are also generally accepted across the country and often used for entrance fees and travel tickets. Be sure to take clean, unfolded notes with you as due to local bank regulations, many shop owners and cashiers will refuse to accept them if they are even slightly worn! The notes really do need to be in perfect condition. You can exchange your money to local currency at a number of banks and specialist shops across the country, as well as at International Airports.
It isn’t customary to leave tips in Myanmar but a small contribution to hotel and hospitality staff, guides, and drivers can go a long way as well as helping to boost local economies to grow outside of Government controls. As with everywhere in Asia, haggling is customary and expected. Always challenge the price quoted and be savvy when it comes to buying goods. It is always worth taking a look around at a number of shops before settling on that must-have purchase! When taking any local transport, always agree on the fare in advance and ask for the use of a meter if you’re unsure.