Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
»
Online booking and e-ticketing is currently offered by Air Bagan and
Oway
( 01-230
4201;
www.oway.com.mm
;
2nd floor, Bldg 6 Junction Square, Pyay Rd, Kamayut) for all
airlines.
»
One-way fares are half a return fare, and can be bought between six months and a day
in advance. It's sometimes difficult to buy a ticket that departs from a town other than the
one you are in.
»
There is no domestic departure tax.
TOURS
Many foreign-run companies book package tours to Myanmar. In most instances,
more money will reach the local people if you travel on your own or arrange a driver
and guide from a locally based agent; for some recommendations
Click here
and
the destination chapters.
Bicycle
Outside the major cities bicycles are a popular means for locals to get around and can
easily be hired around the country by visitors.
Around Town
At popular tourist spots in Mandalay, Bagan and Inle Lake you'll see 'bike rental' signs;
rates start at K1000 per day; top-end hotels and occasionally more far-flung places
charge up to K4000. Most guesthouses in such places keep a few bikes on hand; if not,
staff can track one down.
Note the condition of the bike before hiring; check the brakes and pedals in particular.
Many rental bikes have baskets or bells, but don't expect a crash helmet!
Sturdier Indian, Chinese or Thai imports are available (from $100) if you'd rather buy
one. Some tours provide bikes, so you may be able to rent better-quality ones from
agents (eg Exotissimo in New Bagan).
Apart from in Yangon and Mandalay, vehicular traffic is quite light.
Long Distance
A few visitors bring their own touring bikes into Myanmar. There shouldn't be any problem
with customs as long as you make the proper declarations upon entering the country.
Gradients are moderate in most parts of Myanmar that are open to tourism. Frontier re-
gions, on the other hand, tend to be mountainous, particularly Shan, Kayin, Kayah and
