Climate
The climate of Myanmar is dominated by a
tropical climate with three general seasons. The
rainy season during the south-west monsoon from
mid-May to mid-October, the cool season (winter)
from mid-October to mid-February and the hot
season (summer) from mid-February to mid-May.
The best time to visit Myanmar is from October
to mid-May.
Religion
The majority are Buddhism; over 80 percent of
the people embracing it. There are also
Christians, Muslims, Hindus and some animists.
Culture
Myanmar lies on the cross-road of two of the
world's great civilization- China and India, but
its culture is neither that of India nor China.
However a blend of both inspirations can be seen
in Myanmar native characteristics and traits.
The people have preserved the traditions of
close family ties, respect for the elders, and
the reverence for Buddhism. Myanmar are
contented and cheerful even in the face of
adversities and known for their simple
hospitality and friendliness.
Entry Visa
Valid passport with Entry Visa is required
for all visitors to Myanmar. Visa can be
obtained at any Myanmar Embassy or Consulate
abroad. Two application forms and three passport
size photos will be needed. Fee is about US$ 15
in local currency. Golden Xylophone Travels will
provide the clients with a letter to be supplied
to the embassy which states that the tour has
been pre-arranged and therefore is considered an
"EVT Package Tour" which will then be
stamped into the passport.
International flights
Yangon has direct air-links with Bangkok,
Singapore, Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur, Osaka,
Calcutta, Dacca and Kumming. The Myanmar Airways
International, Thai Airways International, Silk
Air, Biman, Malaysia Airline System, Indian
Airlines, Druk Air, All Nippon Airways and Air
China operate schduled flights in and out of
Yangon.
Currency and exchange
The monetary unit is the Kyat, which is
divided into 100 pyas. The official exchange
rate is 6 Kyats to US$ 1. For the convenience of
the visitors, Foreign Exchange Certificate (FECs)
are issued by the Central Bank of Myanmar to use
during their stay. It is compulsory for a
Foreign Independent Travellers (FIT) to change
on arrival a minimum of US$ 300 with FECs 300.
This FECs are acceptable likeUS$ by any person
in Union of Myanmar. It is printed on the note
as 1 FEC = 1 USD.
Customs
All foreign currencies ( above US$ 20000 ),
jewelleries, electrical goods and cameras must
be declared to the Customs at the Airport.
Export of antiques is totally prohibited. Only
gems and jewelleries purchased at the licensed
dealers, or who can issue an export permit are
allowed to be taken out of the country. Visitors
may bring in duty free 200 cigarettes, one quart
of wine and one pint of perfume.
Health
Vaccinations are not required for a visitor
to Myanmar, but malaria prophylaxis is
recommended and for the travelling to remote
areas travellers should check with their doctor
regarding the inoculation against typhoid,
hepatitis, tetanus.
Airport tax
External airport tax is US $ or FEC 10.
Time
GMT + 6:30 ( hours )
Electricity
220 Volt 50 HZ
Domestic travel
Domestic air services have greatly improved
over recent years. However, railways, bus and
steamer services are still needed for the
convenience of the visitors. The clients of
Golden Xylophone Travels will travel by reliable
Air Bagan, Air Mandalay ( or ) Yangon Airways
and by air-conditioned vehicles. In remote
areas, air-conditioned car or bus may not always
be available and travellers should be advised
that the conditions of roads in Myanmar are not
the same. For this season, long distance travel
usually takes longer than that might be
expected. Baggage allowance on domestic flights
in limited to 20 kg. Excess luggage can be left
in Yangon hotels for collection on return from
upcountry.
Some useful advices on traveling in Myanmar
Light clothing is recommended all year-round,
but a sweater or jacket may be needed in hilly
areas, especially during winter months. If
visiting during rainy season (May-September) an
umbrella or raincoat will be required.
Adequate medicine and torch lights (flesh
lights) may be required. It is required to dress
decently within the precincts of religious
buildings. Shoes and socks must be removed at
pagodas and monasteries. Travellers are advised
to keep away from touts who may approach them to
exchange foreign currency or to sell gems of
dubious quality. Travellers are also advised not
to drink tap water, but purified bottled water
is available everywhere. |
Golden Xylophone Travels & Tours Co., Ltd.
