Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Crime
All over Myanmar, police stations have English signs up that ask: 'May I help you?' It's
easy to smirk at, but some of the restrictions to travel around Myanmar are based on the
government's desire to keep foreigners out of harm's way.
Locals know that the penalties for stealing, particularly from foreigners, can be severe.
Most travellers' memories of locals grabbing their money are of someone chasing them
down to return a K500 note they dropped. If someone grabs your bag at a bus station, it's
almost certainly just a trishaw driver hoping for a fare.
SAFETY GUIDELINES FOR HIKING
We've heard about some travellers finding new paths and staying in the hills for a
week or more. Most, however, stick with day trips. Here are a few points to consider
before lacing up the boots:
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Hike with at least one companion; in most cases it's best to hire a guide.
»
Do not venture by foot into areas restricted to foreigners; ask around before tak-
ing off.
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Camping in the hills is not technically legal, as foreigners must be registered
nightly with local authorities by owners of 'licensed accommodation'.
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Trail conditions can get slippery and dangerous, especially in the rainy season.
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Walk only in regions within your capabilities - you're not going to find a trishaw
out there to bring you back.
Insurgents & Bombs
In recent years, including in 2013, there have been a handful of bombings, usually linked
with insurgent groups, in Yangon and elsewhere.
Ceasefire agreements between the government and many insurgent groups are making
it easier to travel to previously off-limits parts of the country. However, the situation can
and does change rapidly so check current travel advisories. Land mines on the Myanmar
side of the Thai border are another threat.
The presence of Shan and Wa armies along the Thai-Myanmar border in northern Mae
Hong Son makes this area dangerous. The Wa have reportedly sworn off drug production,
but there's still plenty of amphetamines and opium crossing some border areas.
