Myanmar Travel Guide

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Myanmar, also known as Burma and fondly referred to as 'the Golden Land' because of the abundant use of gold leaf on its temples and buildings, is a country with a rich diversity of culture and people. Its impressive heritage spans over 2,000 years, reflected in some of Southeast Asia's most opulently adorned temples and wats. Myanmar is situated along the eastern coast of the Bay of Bengal and the Andaman Sea and its northern borders stretch all the way up to the Eastern Himalayan mountain range. One third of Burma's perimeter is uninterrupted and undeveloped coastline.

This beautifully scenic country has a rocky political past. It was a British Colony from 1885 until 1948, and for the past 30 years a repressive military dictatorship, the Tatmadaw, has ruled its people. Because of the human rights situation in the country, international tourism can be seen as approval of the Burmese government, and the National League for Democracy in Burma has appealed to tourists not to travel to the country. However many argue that tourism can open the country up to the international community and therefore bring democratic reform to Burma. Those that choose to travel to Burma are encouraged to stay at privately owned guesthouses and to avoid government-affiliated enterprises.

Burma has one of the lowest tourist crime rates in the world, so travelers can relax in the knowledge that their trip will be untroubled. It is only recently making an appearance on the international travel scene due to its internal politics, but Burma's unspoiled beaches, snow-capped mountains and jungle wilderness are all fast becoming an irresistible draw for the avid traveler.