Welcome to Myanmar 😊

Quick Facts About Myanmar

Money and Finances

The official currency of Myanmar is the Burmese Kyat (MMK). Notes come in denominations of 50, 100, 200, 500, 1000, 5000, and 10,000 MMK. Coins are not commonly used in Myanmar.

ATM Network

ATMs are available in major cities and tourist areas, but may be limited in smaller towns and rural areas.

Credit Cards

Credit cards are not widely accepted in Myanmar. Visa and Mastercard are accepted in some high-end hotels and restaurants, but it is recommended to carry cash for most transactions. AMEX is not accepted in Myanmar.

Internet and Phones

Internet speeds in Myanmar are relatively slow, with average download speeds of around 17Mbps and upload speeds of 11Mbps. However, there is no major government interference in internet use.

Phone Plans and SIM Cards

The main telco companies in Myanmar are MPT, Telenor, and Ooredoo. The average cost of a mobile phone plan is around 10,000 Kyat per month. There may be some sim compatibility issues with certain types of phones.

Dialling to Myanmar

To call Myanmar from another country, you dial +95 followed by the area code and phone number. The area codes used within the country are 1 for Yangon, 2 for Mandalay, and 67 for Naypyidaw.

Transport Around Myanmar

Air Travel

Myanmar has several international airports, including Yangon International Airport and Mandalay International Airport.

Train Travel

Myanmar has a train network that covers most of the country but is often slow and not very reliable. A train journey from Yangon to Mandalay takes around 15 hours and costs around $20-$30.

Metro / Local Trains

Myanmar does not have any local trains or metro systems in major cities.

Buses

Myanmar has a fairly extensive bus network, with buses serving most towns and cities. A bus journey from Yangon to Mandalay takes around 9-10 hours and costs around $15-$20.

Rideshare

Ridesharing companies such as Uber and Grab are not available in Myanmar. However, local taxi services are available at reasonable prices.

Driving by Car

Driving in Myanmar is not recommended for tourists as roads are often poorly maintained and traffic can be chaotic. The speed limit in urban areas is usually around 40-60 km/h and Myanmar is a right-hand drive country.

Local Customs

In Myanmar, tipping is not expected but is appreciated for exceptional service. When greeting locals, it is customary to put your hands together in front of your chest and bow slightly. Locals commonly address each other by their first name and use honorifics such as 'U' for men and 'Daw' for women. When speaking with strangers, it is important to remain polite and respectful. It is also important to note that physical contact between men and women in public is generally frowned upon.

Health and Diseases

Medical System

Myanmar's health system is notably underfunded and understaffed, with limited access to quality medical care in rural areas. Private hospitals and clinics exist but can be expensive. Foreigners are advised to have comprehensive health insurance, as medical treatment can be costly. A visit to a doctor can cost around $30-$50.

COVID Situation

Myanmar has experienced a surge in COVID-19 cases since August 2020. The government has imposed restrictions on international and domestic travel, and face masks are mandatory in public places. The vaccination program is underway but limited, and tourists should be aware of the ongoing risks of the virus in the country.

Common Health Risks

Malaria is prevalent in some areas, and visitors should take prophylaxis medication and use mosquito nets and repellents to reduce the risk of infection. Waterborne diseases are common, so it's important to drink bottled or boiled water and avoid ice and uncooked food. Dengue fever and Japanese encephalitis are also prevalent in some areas, and visitors should take appropriate precautions against mosquito bites. HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases are also a concern in Myanmar.

Laws and Regulations

Alcohol Consumption

In Myanmar, the legal drinking age is 18 years old. Alcohol is easily accessible throughout the country and is consumed frequently. However, it is illegal to purchase alcohol between 9pm and 11am in certain areas. The sale and consumption of alcohol is also restricted near religious sites.

Recreational Drugs

Myanmar has very strict drug laws. Possession, use, and trafficking of illegal drugs can result in severe prison sentences, and the death penalty is sometimes given for drug-related offenses.

Pre-Marital Relationships

In Myanmar, pre-marital sex is not illegal, but it is generally frowned upon and considered taboo in traditional culture.

LGBTQ and Same-Sex

Homosexuality is illegal in Myanmar and can be punished with up to ten years in prison. Myanmar society is generally conservative when it comes to LGBTQ issues, and discrimination and harassment are common.

Firearms / Guns

The use and ownership of firearms is heavily regulated in Myanmar. Only certain individuals such as military personnel and government officials are allowed to possess guns, and even then, they must have proper licenses and documentation.

Regions in Myanmar

There are many wonderful regions to visit in Myanmar, browse through each to see what to visit.

4 Popular Travel Destinations in Myanmar