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The Burma's political situation is generally unstable and tension may flare up without warning. Special care is needed at present as the country is preparing for 2010 elections. In April 2010 - during Thingyan festivities - 10 people were killed and 170 injured at the central Rangoon Park. Governments warn visitor and residents to avoid demonstrations and large gathering as trouble may develop.
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The political situation is a continuous threat to stability in Burma. The worldwide coverage Myanmar received in September 2007 highlighted the Buddhist monks leading protests against the Junta. This resulted in violent clashes between protesters and security forces, which used strong measures to control crowds; this included tear gas and live bullets, which resulted in fatalities - one being a foreign journalist. Since 2007, the government has suppressed protests, but the situation is potentially unstable and there is the strong possibility tensions will boil over in the future.
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During public holidays in Burma there have been acts of politically motivated violence, especially 27th March (Armed Forces day) and 19th July (Martyrs day); the potential for demonstration during this period is heightened.
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Other dates to be aware of are the anniversaries of the uprising against the government on 8th August 1988 and the September 2007 protest; The Burmese government is likely to strengthen the security presence in Rangoon and other regions in Burma at these times.
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The threat of terrorist acts in Burma is regarded as a high risk. Attacks can be indiscriminate, with focus on popular tourist destination. In the past commercial, public transport and places of interest for tourist have been targeted. It is recommended you monitor international and local media for information; if here is a threat of terrorist attacks your plans should be re-considered or modified to match prevailing advice.
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There has been a long running conflict between the Burmese military and armed ethnic groups in Northern Shan State. In September 2009, the fighting was fierce resulting in the local residents fleeing into nearby China. The residents have since returned, however the potential for future clashes still remain.
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Daw Aung Sung Suu Kyi is a political prisoner who has spent the 14 years out of the past 20 years under house arrest. You are advised to avoid staying in vicinity of her home if large gatherings or demonstrations develop; this can be the foundation for potential violent outbreaks.
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The Burmese junta have rigorous controls on freedom of speech, movement, political activity and religion. In the past foreign nationals have been arrested, imprisoned and deported for breaking the stringent laws put in place by the government. You are strongly advised against distributing pro-democracy literature or criticizing the regime.
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Visiting the home of Daw Aung Sung Suu Kyi, the detained pro-democracy leader is not recommended, as it may lead to the unwelcome attention from the local authorities.
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Tensions are high in Southern Shan State near the borders with Thailand, Laos and China, with potential fighting between other ethnic groups and Burmese military.
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Border crossings have experienced attacks in recent years with explosions being reported near Muse on the China-Burma border and Kawkareik a town near the Thai-Burma border.
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Blasts in 2009 were reported on the outskirts of Rangoon, but with no reported casualties.
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Myanmar is a country rules by a military junta, who control the movement of many of its residents within the country, this also includes embassy workers and consulates. These personnel are required to get permission from the Burmese government if they wish to leave the city of Rangoon. Consequently, the limits imposed on foreign government workers can impede their powers to help you should you require assistance outside of Rangoon. You are warned that consular assistance in an emergency may be delayed or restricted.
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Burma is prone to cyclonic weather between April and October, which can create floods and landslides. Listen to international and local weather reports when you are in the country.
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The Burmese economy has been deteriorating in recent times, which has had a knock on affect on crime levels. There are no published crime statistics, however from individual reports evidence suggests that crimes of the following nature are increasing: muggings, burglaries and petty thefts occur in the city of Rangoon. Expatriates' homes have been targeted; also hotels have reported thefts from their premises. You are advised to be extra careful with your personal belongings.
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Precaution is advised when in Burma as violent crimes against foreigners have been reported. The reports are rare, but you are still advised to be sensible and exercise safety and security measures at all times.
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Travel movements in Burma are closely monitored and you are advised to travel with caution within Burma. The Burmese have strict policies in place, allowing them to control the movement of residents and foreigners in the country. There are only four legal crossing points into Burma these are; Tachilek (Burma Shan State), Mae Sai (northern Thailand), Kaw Thong (Burma Tanintharyi), Rangong-Kawthoung (southern Thailand border), Tamu (Birma Chin State), Morei (India border), Muse (Burma Shan State), and Ruili (China border) - be aware that this border crossing has been known to close without warning.
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If you are entering Burma via a border crossing, you must exit via the same border crossing. Burmese immigration officers may seek to hold your passport until you have completed your visit. Do not attempt to enter Burma via an illegal crossing or restricted area without permission from the Burmese authorities.
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The border areas are known military conflict zones, especially on the borders with Thailand, Laos and China. The potential for Burmese military and ethnic armed groups clashing is high. Landmines have been placed within the conflict areas and diligence is required if you are these locations.
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Only the Myanmar Driving License is recognized in Burma - if you wish to drive while in the country you must contact the Department for Road Transport and Administration in Rangoon.
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Numerous buses in Burma run on Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), which has been known to explode. In Rangoon a bus running on CNG exploded in September 2008, injuring the passengers who were traveling at the time.
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The roads are extremely hazardous in Burma, with cars poorly maintained and the prevalence of careless driving. The majority of cars in Burma are right hand drive, and the Burmese drive on the right side of the road which makes driving conditions difficult and is a leading factor behind accidents.
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Foreigners should be aware that Burmese law dictates that in the event of a road traffic accident involving a car and a pedestrian, the pedestrians is always at fault.
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The rainy season from May to October can make land travel dangerous. Be aware that roads can become impassable and bridges damaged.
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It is recommend you do not take photos or record the police or military when in Burma.
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The airline carrier “Myanmar Airways” was involved in an incident when it skidded off the runway at Sittwe Airport in 2009. This has called for some governments to advise their staff not to use the airline. Do not confuse “Myanmar Airways” with “Myanmar Airway International”, who operate across South East Asia. The domestic airline “Myanmar Airways” has been known to change local flight schedules without warning; you are advised to give yourself sufficient time if you are flying with them.
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The railway in Burma is dilapidated and fatal rail crashes have occurred in the past.
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Swimming and diving in Burma is unlikely to have safety standards which reach those normally associated with international bodies. Be vigilant before participating in water activities for leisure purposes.
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River transportation is not recognized by international standards, be cautious if you travel by this form of transport.
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Drug trafficking has harsh penalties. If convicted, you may face a minimum sentence of 15 years in prison or possibly the death penalty.
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Beware under Burmese law Homosexuality is illegal; 2007 a European National was convicted of homosexual acts and a consequential sentence to seven years in prison.
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If you are visiting a Buddhist place of worship (pagoda or monastery), it is custom to remove socks and shoes and avoid wearing shorts and sleeveless tops as non compliance, will cause offense.
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Visa requirements may change at short notice by the Burmese immigration department; you are advised to check immediately prior to your visit to the country.
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Rangoon and Mandalay have modest medical care treatment facilities; however outside these cities, the medical care and advice may be well below standards in more developed countries.
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On seeking medical treatment it is often a requirement for the patient to pay up- front, in cash, before a professional medical practitioner will treat you.
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Medical treatment in Burma is likely to involve intrusive examinations - this includes dental work. If possible it is advisable to avoid medical treatment in Burma, as there is a risk of catching dangerous infections, particularly hepatitis B and C, and HIV/AIDS due to the standards of hygiene being inadequate.
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Diarrhea is common in Burma, due to poor sanitation and eating contaminated food. Avoid ice in drinks, drink bottled or boiled water. If you do suffer from diarrhea you should seek medical attention.
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Mosquitoes’ transmit Dengue fever and malaria. Prior to your visit to Burma you are advised to consult a doctor for preventative measures.
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A case of Avian Influenza (Bird flu) was reported early in 2010. It was not transmitted to humans but to domestic poultry which caused the outbreak. However in 2007 a human was infected with Avian Influenza. There is still a potential risk of avian influenza in Burma; you are advised to take measures to prevent infection.
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When visiting Burma you are required to have a plentiful supply of unused pages and ensure your passport is valid for 6 months or more. When you arrival in Burma, it is likely your baggage will be x-rayed and items such as phones and computers will be confiscated by customs; these will be returned to you on your departure. If you have equivalent of US $2000 or more in foreign currency you are required to declare it; failure to declare can led to imprisonment. When leaving Burma a departure tax of $10 is payable; you will need to pay when you check in for your departure flight.
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International roaming is not available in Burma.
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Dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas in Burma, however ensure they are in good condition, for example no pen marks as they may not be accepted. Only a hand full of major hotels in Rangoon will accept credit cards and travelers cheques, therefore ensure you have enough US $ to fund your stay in Burma. ATMs are not present in Burma; if you need to change currency, business centers which cater to tourists will provide this service.
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International governments strongly recommend you take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance, which includes emergency air evacuation; the policy should cover all activities you may wish to undertake when in Burma.
