A real sense of adventure, a virtual time capsule and ancient archaeological sites are some of the elements that make Myanmar a place like no other. But with its popularity skyrocketing, the feeling of being in a country untouched by tourism will not last long.
Until fairly recently, Myanmar (also known as Burma) was under military rule that kept the country isolated and off bounds to travellers. But with political reform and pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi freed in 2010, the country started opening up to the west, welcoming visitors two years later.
Since then, despite unrest and instability still existing in some areas, this has not stopped intrepid travellers, and there has been an unprecedented surge in tourism. Myanmar has become a tourist’s hot spot.
Last year, Lonely Planet included Myanmar in their Top Ten Countries to visit in 2017, and with visitor numbers continuously soaring, this means that it will not remain unspoiled for much longer. So here are just a few of the many reasons why you need to put Myanmar at the top of your bucket list.
Off the beaten track adventure
With hardly any sign of western culture, wherever you go, it really feels like you have gone off the beaten track. And you have, really. From multi-day treks around the floating villages of Inle Lake, to hot air balloon rides over the imperial temple ruins of Bagan – with few other travellers around, it often feels like you are part of the discovery of the wonders of this little explored country.
One of the world’s greatest archaeological sites
The star attraction of Myanmar’s tourist industry, Bagan, easily rivals sites like Angkor Wat or the Pyramids of Giza – but without the crowds. There are, however, concerns that the ruins (that can currently be roamed around freely) may be damaged by the increasing influx of visitors. There was talk of restricting visitor numbers at the end of last year.
Smiling faces everywhere
Wherever you go in the country, you are always greeted with a genuine smile. Locals are some of the friendliest people you will ever encounter. Not only are they keen to please, but they are also eager to show you their country and their culture.
No McDonalds or Starbucks in sight (yet)
Unfortunately, the time will come when you will see them. The first western fast food restaurant to open in Yangon was KFC in June 2015, to much excitement from the locals. It will not take very long before other multinational chains join in too.
It won't break the bank
Unlike in other South East Asian countries, the idea of a ‘tourist price’ is relatively rare in Myanmar. Refreshingly, the vast majority of the time the price of travel tickets, food, etc is the same for a local as it is for a foreigner. Hotel accommodation, however, has become dearer due to demand. There are a lot more visitors than hotels can accommodate. But high quality budget-friendly hostels are popping up everywhere around the country and can cost as little as £8 per night.
To read more from Teresa, visit her blog at www.broganabroad.com
What to wear
To channel breezy boho vibes for the warmer climes (whilst in-keeping with Myanmar's cover-up culture), we've selected some luscious looks to accompany your travels below.
