• VISAS

A passport with a valid entry visa is required for all visitors entering Myanmar. Visas can be obtained at any Burmese Embassy or Consulate abroad. HGH Travel can arrange a Visa Approval Letter if given at least 20 working days notice prior to the expected arrival date.

  • WEATHER

The best time to visit most of Myanmar is between November and February, because it rains the least and it is not too hot. If you plan to focus on the northern provinces, the hot season (March to May) and early rainy season (June to July) are not bad either, as temperatures are moderate at higher elevations.

Northeastern and central Thailand, on the other hand,  temperatures may climb over 40°C. Because temperatures are more even year-round in the south (because it’s closer to the equator), the beaches and islands of southern Thailand are a good choice for respite when the rest of Thailand is miserably hot.

In the rainy season (roughly July to October) temperatures tend to be cooler. October, however, tends to be the wettest month.

  • TIME ZONE

Time zone: GMT/UTC + 6.5

  • CURRENCY

The local currency in Myanmar is the Kyat (MMK). US Dollars are accepted in most hotels and restaurants, although it is recommend to carry Kyat for other purchases and tipping. Money changers can be found in most popular tourist destinations but take care as they will probably charge high prices for the convenience.

As of 29 October, 2012: 1 USD = 850 Kyat (MMK).

  • WHAT TO PACK

Myanmar is a casual country by western standards therefore casual clothing is appropriate for almost any occasion.

Some lightweight quick dry clothing is advisable. Long sleeved shirts for the evenings and a light sweater if you are going in the winter months. If you go in the wet season, a waterproof jacket might be a good idea. If you are going to visit religious sites which you no doubt will, ladies make sure you take something to cover yourself to respect the locals.

If you are not participating in any trekking tours, sandals and lightweight shoes are sufficient. If trekking is included in your itinerary, you will need trekking boots.

  • ELECTRICITY

The national electricity system is 220 volts. Connections are either a round two-pin plug or a flat two-pin plug. Beware if you are using electrical appliances and laptop computers, as there are power surges and frequent power cuts.

  • FOOD/CUISINE

Myanmar is bounded by India, Bangladesh, China, Laos and Thailand, and all five countries have influenced the cuisine over the past few centuries. Chinese influence can be seen in the extensive use of soy sauce and tofu, as well as in some spice preparations. Indian influence has led to the borrowing of many dishes, including curries, naan, biryani and samosas. Insects are often a part of Myanmar cuisine.  The various religions that have converged in Myanmar – Buddhism, Islam and nat-worshipping – have also affected the cuisine, and vegetarian food is widely available.

  • DRINKING

Drinking tap water or ice is not recommended. Bottled water is readily available but check the seal for possible tampering. You should be drinking a minimum of 1.5 liters of water per day. This should increase as the temperature increases or you are engaging in physical activities.

  • HEALTH

Pack medications in their original, clearly labeled, containers. A signed and dated letter from your physician describing your medical conditions and medications, including generic names, is also a good idea. If carrying syringes or needles, be sure to have a physician’s letter documenting their medical necessity. If you have a heart condition, bring a copy of your ECG taken just prior to travelling.

If you happen to take any regular medication, bring double your needs in case of loss or theft. In most Southeast Asian countries, you can buy many medications over the counter without a doctor’s prescription, but it can be difficult to find some of the newer drugs, particularly the latest antidepressant drugs, blood pressure medications and contraceptive pills.

There are some health concerns you should be aware of in Myanmar including dengue fever, malaria and Japanese encephalitis, typhoid and hepatitis. Take necessary precautions against sexually transmitted diseases (particularly HIV and AIDS).

Mosquito bites are annoying enough in themselves, but on top of that, some tropical diseases (see above) are insect borne, so applying mosquito repellent after sunset is a must especially when in a more rural setting. Gastro enteric problems are among the most common ailments visitors complain about. These are generally the result of consuming contaminated food or water, so be careful about where and what you eat and drink.

No vaccinations are officially required by the Thai authorities, however immunization against cholera, hepatitis, typhoid, tetanus, polio and Japanese encephalitis is advised. Please consult your doctors for further medical advice.

You should carry a basic medical kit that includes anti diarrhea tablets and re-hydration salts. Medical standards outside of the main cities are lower than those found in western countries.

Myamnar is a generally a very safe country especially when in a tour group but as in any country and especially a developing country, general common sense precautions are necessary as a tourist. In the larger cities in the busy areas, take precautions against pickpockets.