Burma (Myanmar) FAQ

Resuming trips in Burma (Myanmar) isn't a decision Intrepid has made lightly. In 2003, we responded to the call for a boycott on travel to Burma by the then democratically elected leader Aung San Suu Kyi, whose National League for Democracy (NLD) party was denied the right to govern the country by the military dictatorship.

After recent positive events within the country including the elections in November 2010, the release of Aung San Suu Kyi from house arrest and the subsequent call to end the travel boycott by the NLD, Intrepid has been prompted to consider returning to Burma.

By reintroducing our grassroots style of travel, we can contribute to improving the circumstances of the Burmese people by way of initiating a two-way exchange. Firstly, resuming trips will give them a chance to interact with visitors from other countries, thus giving a rare glimpse into life and governance in other parts of the world.

Secondly, taking passengers to Burma will help to build awareness of the complex issues this country continues to face, as well as positively contributing to the economy.

While tipping isn’t customary in Burma, setting aside a small amount for restaurant staff, porters and other service workers is considered polite. With most Burmese people earning a low wage, a modest tip will be accepted graciously by most.

Internet availability and service is generally not reliable in Burma. While internet access can be found in some cities and large towns, the speed may be slow and popular websites like Gmail, Facebook, Skype and Yahoo are usually blocked. When travelling in Burma, be prepared to have a break from technology for a while.

Mobile phone coverage is unreliable in Burma. Depending on the service provider and handset, your mobile phone may or may not work. Many travellers choose to leave their mobile phones at home and surrender to a simpler way of living while in Burma.

You'll have to adjust to different standards of hygiene and sanitation whilst in Burma. The standard toilet is of the squat variety and this may take some getting used to, although western-style toilets can be found in large hotels and some tourist areas. Carry your own supply of toilet paper and hand sanitiser as these are rarely provided.

Street food snack = 300-400 MMK
Bottle of beer in a bar or restaurant = 1500-2000 MMK
Banquet in a small, locally-run restaurant = 2000-3000 MMK
Dinner in a high-end hotel restaurant = 10,000+ MMK

Drinking tap water isn't recommended in Burma. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Instead, fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water. Ask your leader where filtered water can be found; some hotels we stay in may have drinking water available. It's also advisable to avoid ice in drinks and peel fruit and vegetables before eating.

Credit cards aren't accepted in Burma. As a cash economy, credit cards and travellers cheques aren't acceptable forms of currency. See below for more information on accessing local currency.

Burma is largely a cash economy and ATMs are virtually non existent. Bring cash (fresh, unmarked US dollars) before arriving as accessing cash is difficult (if not impossible) upon arrival in Burma.

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance