©
Aurélie Chartier
Myanmar Travel Guide
©
Aurélie Chartier
Burma is a country that has only recently opened up to tourism. A land of contrasts, modernity is catching up with its people, who still wear the traditional longyi yet at the same time have mobile phones. The traveler will quickly experience a sense of being somewhere truly exotic when first seeing Burma, and be rapidly overwhelmed by the shear generosity of the Burmese. Enjoy observing these genuine, natural and easy smiling people, and don't forget to respect their customs.
Although Burma is one of the poorest countries in the world, the Burmese are a welcoming and ever-smiling people. They always enjoy seeing foreigners from distant lands who have come to meet them and discover their culture. Beneath this hospitality lies a great modesty. It is important to avoid public demonstrations of affection as this can make the locals feel uncomfortable. This holds true even if in Yangon you do see many young people walking hand in hand and furtively kssing.
The Burmese people are very modest and reserved and can quickly become disturbed at the sight of a woman wearing a tight dress. You should therefore dress properly and not wear revealing clothes when visiting Burma. Nobody will say anything to you. However, women will be asked to wear a cloth over their shoulders and pants or a longyi before entering religious sites.
Burma is a country strongly marked by traditionand ancient beliefs. Some kinds of behavior can shock or seem disrespectful to the Burmese. Religious sites are sacred and it is important to observe a few rules of etiquette. Therefore you must never enter a pagoda or monastery with shoes or socks on your feet. As a sign of good manners, you should also remove your footwear when entering a private house, and bow slightly to your host when greeting them.
Do not use your feet to point to something: this would be considered disrespectful. Additionally, do not touch the head of a child in the way we naturally tend to in our own countries. Avoid pointing at anyone with your finger: this may be interpreted as a threat or a rebuke. Do not step over anyone (or part of their body): if you need to get past someone, ask them politely to move their legs. If you give or receive a gift, always do so using both hands and with a slight bow.
Don't be afraid to ask your guide or the Burmese people questions about their customs.
