Myanmar Backpacking formerly BURMA Travel

Myanmar is the new name for an old country given by the ruling military junta. This is why it is not always recognised by this name for example the BBC and Wikipedia recognise Myanmar as BURMA. You may also have your prefferences.

You might not have heard about the country of Myanmar; a relatively new name for the very old country of Burma. Despite being politically unstable, you'll find it to be a place rich in culture and beautiful landscape.

A few simple considerations for travel to Burma, or Myanmar, will go a long way in making this one of the most unique vacations ever. Bring cash, as there aren't any ATMs, and credit cards are rarely accepted anywhere--even in the capital city of Yangon (often called Rangoon).

Caution is required both before and during your stay. Make sure your vaccinations are updated, and prevention of mosquito bites is a must since Dengue Fever is a possibility.

Drink only bottled or boiled water, and all meat and vegetables should be well-cooked. Peel your fruit before eating, too.

Paying attention to the weather is important, as typhoons are known to hit between April and October. Of Burma's three seasons, the coolest & driest is between October to February; while its really hot & humid between February and May.

Once you've gotten all that squared away, you're able to enjoy the 261,000 square miles of Myanmar. In Bagan, you'll find some 5000 temples and stupas in this former capital city. The most notable is the Shwezigon Pagoda in all its golden glory.

Rangoon is great for shopping for luxury items and other handicrafts at the Bogyoke Aung San Market; and don't forget to look at its amazing colonial architecure and the Botataung Pagoda that's got a mirrored maze.

All the shopping and sightseeing can make you hungry--so try some Lethok son, a spicy vegetable rice salad, or the fish noodle soup called Mohinga.

Myanmar is a country that's very into eco-tourism, and its National Parks will make you speechless with their rugged natural beauty.

Beach-lovers will want to be at Chaung-tha or Ngapali Beach for a few days of watersports; while adventure seekers might rather hit up the Lost Cities of Mingun or Amarapura, and the caves at Pindaya.

Getting around Myanmar is simple enough with all sorts of bicycle rentals, ferries, and trains. Public transportation or bike is your best bet, as Burmese law says that if you're driving--you're responsible for any accidents involving pedestrians. With a population of some 47 million people, they're not very good odds.

What is a sure bet, is your trip to Myanmar won't disappoint. You'll fall in love with its people and places--right down to its coastal resorts and forests.