In a cash-based economy and where international mobile roaming services may not work, frequent travelers may need to adjust some of their usual travel habits. If you're planning a visit to Myanmar, here are some practical travel tips to help with your preparations and when you're getting around on the around.
Getting Ready
Check Travel Requirements - Contact the embassy of the country you plan to visit for details about the visa requirement. Visa on arrival is available with a proper invitation letter for a local firm and is limited to a selected group of countries.
Register Travel Details With Your Embassy - Letting your government know you are planning to visit any foreign country is good practice.
Get Travel Insurance - Make sure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers treatment in the country you intend to visit so that you don't have to deal with any expensive health costs. Also, before you leave to speak to your doctor about any vaccinations that you might need, particularly if you are planning to visit in rural areas.
Bring Copies Of Your Travel Documents - Make sure to have a spare photocopy of your passport particulars, travel insurance policy, emergency contact numbers, travel visas and other necessary details on hand in case you need them. Keep these in your hotel safe and don't forget to leave a copy with a friend or relative back home.
Tips For Money Management
Bring New Crisp And Clean Notes - Most purchases you will make in the country of your visit will be in cash or maybe some foreign currency, USD is mostly the preferred exchange. Most shops and money changers, accept US currency but bills are frequently rejected if they are creased, blemished or damaged.
Bring Your Visa Cards - Instead of carrying large amounts of cash with you throughout your journey, ATMs offer convenient access to local currency if you need it. Visa and other international cards can be used in different ATMs.
Inform Your Bank - It's a good practice to tell your bank before you go overseas. If you are going to some other country, then let them know about your travel plans, as banks may block any transaction that may seem unusual. The last thing you want is to be without access to money and having to call your bank from your holiday.
Handy Tips
Get A Local SIM Card - Most likely you won't be able to make or receive phone calls on your international roaming plan. SIM cards for international or some local calls are available for rent or sale at the airport. Enquire about it at tourist information centre once you have cleared from the customs. It will be a good idea if you check with your mobile service provider before leaving to make sure your phone can accept foreign SIM cards.
Pre-Book A Car - Taxis at the airport are available, although the condition of the cars in a newly open market can vary. However, several airport transfer services are available and are reasonably priced. A quick internet search for car service companies will turn up several results, for which pre-booking is recommended.
