One of the most captivating facets of visiting Myanmar is the opportunity to travel to a part of Asia that is more or less the way it was during the British colonial period. Myanmar is relaxed in itself. There is no enthusiasm for reality television or western-style clothing. You won’t find an ATM or McDonalds on every corner either, in fact, you won’t find any!

However, you will receive the peace that comes from “simple living and high thinking.” Myanmar is a country of many incredible and sometimes strange sights. Imagine the thousands of sacred Buddhist shrines scattered across the plains of Bagan.

Gaze in awe at the Golden Rock teetering unbelievably on the edge of an abyss. Alternatively, take a horseback ride and see mansions from the earlier colonial period. Meet prominent monks who have trained their pets or energetic Chin elders with tattooed faces filled with elaborate designs.

Hassle-free enjoyment

If you can’t live a day without your mobile phone, iPad, laptop, or a local ATM, you’re in big trouble in Myanmar. However, you can also sit back and enjoy its simple life, where people still travel by horse and cart, and where holy men are more honored than celebrities.

Float along the Ayeyarwady on a tired river steamer, relax on a section of beach on the enchanting Bay of Bengal, or trek through pine forest to small villages dotted across the Shan hills.

Help yourself to the innumerable foods of the native gastronomy. From a nutritious bowl of mohinga noodles to start the day to a concoction of fizzy tea leaves, a popular drink enjoyed after a Burmese dinner. Have fun swapping cocktails and appetizers for treats and sweetened condensed milk tea at teahouses where it’s not uncommon to go unnoticed by the locals.

Accommodation and payment

House prices are up about 50%; however, you can still enjoy Myanmar for very little money. Supplies, drinks, and travel are pretty easy on the pocketbook. In fact, you can have a great time in Myanmar for less than $35 a day.

During the high season from January to February, it may be essential to book accommodation two days in advance. On the other hand, in March, there are fewer tourists and advance reservations may not be needed.

Your international SIM card will be useless in Myanmar; however, there are pay phones on the street or you may have access to a phone in the lobby inside your accommodation. A rumor that has circulated in relation to the acceptance of US dollars has been proven true, only impeccable US dollars are accepted; that means no rips, marks or creases. Apart from that little problem, it is unlikely that you will experience any problems with your stay in Myanmar.