Myanmar: Where the Flying Fishes Play

Ranked #2,087 in Travel & Places, #73,462 overall

Myanmar: The Once and Future Land

The Once and Future Land. Myanmar was the heart of the old Empire in the 19th century and will someday be a major tour magnet again. Though it has not been in the tourist trails in the past few years, there are many things to do in Myanmar that will attract more tourists.

The old Burma lingers in the memories of many. Kipling's poem Mandalay (where the flying fishes play), triggers memories of the Raj and forecasts the jungle wars of the 1940s that still haunt the memories of many who lost grandfathers there in that almost overlooked sideshow. In addition, Cyclone Nargis in 2008 devastated so much of the country, killing so many people and galvanizing world attention. Recently, Myanmar held its election and the world watched. Today, Myanmar is asking the world to abandon sanctions but the world still needs convincing.

Tourism, in the past few years has really been spotty. Myanmar has not been an easy place to visit in the past. Forget credit cards. You have to use cash, which is a hassle. This is not a convenient place but for the determined, what a magnificent adventure in the misty mountains, green lush river banks, pagodas, temples, stupas and monasteries full of worshippers still practicing many of their age-old traditional rituals and ceremonies. The recent changes, however, has already focused the tourist camera on this country and its secretive Government has shown interest in becoming a recognized member of the world community. So time to pack your bags and be on the road to Mandalay.

Attractions in Myanmar

Things to put in your itinerary for Myanmar

The reality is often better than the pictures. Remember that one of the most interesting things in Myanmar is to have a peek at the place that history has kept isolated for some time. Encounter something more of the past when you go there.
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Know more about Myanmar

Interesting books to choose from

Myanmar has not only a very interesting history but also a present worth watching. This is true nowadays when the government seems to signal a desire to be part of the world community.

Bring your guide book to Myanmar when you go as there are still not many book stores there and information is limited.

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Map of Myanmar

See how strategic Myanmar is

Things to do in Myanmar

Choices of places to see

Myanmar offers visitors so many unspoiled places. You can visit Mandalay with its purple hazed highland jungles, Yangon with its colonial houses and bustling markets, Bagan with its stunning temples, the pristine shores close to the Andaman Bay and, finally, the snowcapped mountains in the north. And for jewelry lovers, you can easily choose your favorite jewelry made from your birth stone probably mined in the country. The only drawback to all of this is the lack of the usual tourist conveniences.

The tourist infrastructure is still a bit...ahhhh...a bit....emergent. So make sure you take a tour from established and experienced tour operators so things are arranged for you and can go like clockwork. In this way, there is always someone to take care of whatever may come up. Wandering about alone is still not a great idea.

You can also make choices within those tours with regard to hotels or other travel amenities. As an example, you can tell them you want your own car and guide so you have the flexibility of visiting only the places you choose and at more convenient times, as you don't have to wait for anyone. If you don't want to book with tour operators, fly to Yangon or Mandalay, book a hotel in any of these places and make your arrangement once you are there and have better information. You can get a car and, often, your driver may be a good guide, too. Your hotel can also help in this arrangement.

What Myanmar Offers

Watch the videos

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Two Myanmar Kids

At Gyi Dawma Village

For your Myanmar trip

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How Does One Go to Myanmar?

Main Gateways

Y angon International Airport and Mandalay International Airport are the main gateways and there are regular daily flights to Yangon from Bangkok and Singapore.

The domestic airlines, Myanmar Airways, Yangon Airways and Air Mandalay regularly connect Yangon to Mandalay, Bagan, Heho, Kyaing Tong, Tachilek, Thandwe, Kawthaung and other tourist destinations.

Passengers on charter flights and cruise ships are granted Visa on Arrival status providing prior arrangements have been made.

“Visa on Arrival now available at Yangon and Mandalay International Airports”

Important!

Visa on Arrival Requirements

For Tourist Visa (valid for 28 days): US$30, 1 passport photo; For Business Visa (valid for 70 days): US$40, 1 passport photo; For Transit Visa (valid for 18 hours): US$18, 1 passport photo
Passport Validity: MUST be at least 6 months during stay in Myanmar
Fund: Single traveler must hold a minimum of USD300; Family must hold a minimum of USD600
Others: Child under age of 7 traveling with passport together with parent is exempted from Visa fee.

More on Visas to Myanmar

Alternative Gateways to Myanmar

V isa on arrival (VOA) has now been implemented effective May 1, 2010 in both Yangon and Mandalay international airports. Note that passport holders of countries blacklisted by the Myanmar Government cannot avail of this.

Even if you can but you don't want to line up upon arrival, you can get a visa from one of the Myanmar embassies close to where you live. If there is no Myanmar embassy where you live, you can get a visa in Thailand , Singapore or China, depending on where you fly first. A travel agent can easily arrange this for you in Bangkok or in Beijing/Shanghai. You can fly to Bangkok and catch a plane from there to Myanmar, either Yangon or Mandalay. You can also go to China and travel by road passing by the old Burma Road of the WWII. If you have seen "Bridge on the River Kwai"...well...this is the real story of those thousands of forgotten prisoners. Or another option is to take an Orient Express Cruise and enjoy the sunrise and the sunsets in the Irrawaddy and other Myanmar shores in the elegance of the Road to Mandalay decks.

For your trip to Myanmar

Document your experience

Myanmar is changing so fast that your experiences may no longer be part of future travel to the country. So bring a journal and start writing.

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Top Must Do in Myanmar

Our suggested things to do in Myanmar. We have done these when we visited and enjoyed them immensely.

1. Visit the Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon

Experience Theravada Buddhism

L ife in Myanmar is centered around Buddhism and the Shwedagon Pagoda is the most important holy site in the country. Don't just flit around the pagoda and leave. Dress with respect. Stay longer and watch the other visitors do their worship. Watch them in processions offering gifts to the temple. Watch them as they come in with their brooms and big smiles. These folks happen to be born on that day of the week, so they come to worship and clean the temple. Know the day of the week you were born so you can worship accordingly or join the clean up gang. Stop walking for 10 minutes and sit. Look and see, not just tourist-glance. Become an insider, part of a different culture, even if just for a short while.

Things to do in the Pagoda

Get engaged, don't just look on

Myanmar Video

Watch life in Myanmar

Life in Myanmar is centered around the pagodas or temples.
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Theravada Buddhism

Learn More

Theravada Buddhism is the type of Buddhism practiced in Myanmar so to appreciate your visits of the temples in Myanmar, learn a bit about Theravada Buddhism.

SIMPLE GT THERAVADA BUDDHISM-PB-OP (World Religion Series)

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The monks in Myanmar practice this type of Buddhism and you see them around as well as in the temples. You can accord them respect as well as the temples when you visit once you understand the practices of their religion.

2. Experience A Bit of Myanmar's Colonial Past

Stay at The Strand in Yangon

D o a bit of homework before you sign on to Myanmar. With a bit of the history in your head, the whole adventure will have so much more meaning. Stay or have dinner at The Strand in Yangon. Built in 1901, it is centrally located making it easy to go around from there. If this is too much for your budget, at least have a drink in the bar.

The hotel has been refurbished in the 1920's theme and strongly reminds you of the country's old colonial past. Squint your eyes and see Colonel Blimp at the far bar stool or a plantation manager dressed to the nines for a dirty weekend in town! The hotel is not the only reminder. All over Yangon, you will see buildings and houses that are vivid reminders of an amazing colonial history. The lakes in Yangon also give it mystery and stillness that you surely don't anymore feel in most big cities.

3. Shop in the Bogyoke Aung San Market

You have NEVER been in a place like this

M yanmar has a tradition of crafting beautiful things. Take a picture of the crafter making what you purchase. Now, that is a great story to tell. This is not airport art. In Yangon, visit the Bogyoke Aung San Market situated in the heart of the city . This market houses around 2,000 shops where you can buy folk dolls, coconut masks, gold leaf and gold embroidery, precious stones such as rubies, sapphires and jade, Kalaga embroidered tapestries, lacquerware, leather crafts, stone and wood carvings, silverware, tribal handicrafts such as the Shan style shoulder bags, traditional puppets, hand woven fabrics, and teak furniture.

For the jewelry enthusiasts, this place is heaven. Go to the ones authorized by the government, as they will issue you an official receipt required for export. Remember, upon arrival, declare any precious jewelry you have with customs. You can risk paying duties or confiscation if you don't. Better still, don't wear any when you visit Myanmar. Buy some when you get there. Bring loads of cash so you won't regret not being able to get some of those bargains. Study a bit about precious stones before you go so you can choose better or you might end up with stones that spent yesterday as a coke bottle! The design and workmanship may disappoint you a bit but if you have time, you can have some customized for you.

4. Visit the Temples and Shrines in Bagan

A Piece of Peace

G o to Bagan where the thousands of shrines, mostly constructed before the 13th century, crowd the skyline. The Buddhists believe that constructing these holy places will bring them faster towards Nirvana. One of the richest archaeological sites in Asia, it is located on the eastern bank of the Ayeyarwaddy River. This ancient capital of the Myanmar Empire has an area of 42 sq.km with over 2000 well-preserved pagodas and temples of the 11th-13th century. Some of these is contemporary with Angkor Wat and gives you a better idea of the richness of Asia while Europe was a mud puddle.

Daily flights between Yangon and Bagan take an hour and ten minutes. Other alternatives include express flights from Mandalay and Heho to Bagan, which only take 20 minutes. There are also "express" trains from Yangon and Mandalay with a stop at Thazi Junction, from where Bagan is accessible by road. Remember, the slower you travel, the greater your chance to meet and talk with people. This is the foundation of great memories. From Thazi Junction to Bagan, the drive is about three hours. You can also take a river cruise and view these magnificent sights from the Ayeyarwady river on board the "Road to Mandalay". This luxurious river cruiser features 28 superior cabins and 38 more spacious State cabins serving you in the style and comfort for which the Orient Express is known.

Bagan in Video

Watch one of the places to visit in Myanmar

BAGAN Myanmar
by TravelVideoStore | video info

0 ratings | 347 views
curated content from YouTube

The Pagodas and Monuments of Bagan

A Good Reference

The Pagodas And Monuments Of Bagan

Amazon Price: (as of 05/27/2012)Buy Now

Written by one from Myanmar, this is a good reference on the significance of the pagodas and monuments built in Bagan.

Take a peek at Bagan

Pictures of this city of temples in Myanmar

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Bagan in Myanmar

For a Contemplative Experience

See more of Bagan in videos

Such a contemplative place

Myanmar Bagan
by video123x | video info

38 ratings | 33,785 views
curated content from YouTube

5. Take the Road to Mandalay

Worth the Adventure

L et the Mandalay with its Mahamuni Pagoda and Sagaing Hills beckon you. This is the old royal capital and the second largest city in the country. It is cooler as well. It takes its name from the nearby 240-metre Mandalay Hill, which is dotted with monasteries and pagodas. You can fly from Yangon to Mandalay and, of course, vice versa. Or take the road trip (670km). You can see and visit other places on the way like the Htauk Kyant War Memorial Cemetery. Located in Mingaladon township, it has 27,000 stone-graves of Commonwealth and Allied Forces Fallen Soldiers in the Myanmar Campaign.

You can rent a car and ask for a guide. If you plan a 2 week visit over 3 weeks, you will have a fantastic memory bank to bring home with you. Mandalay, being the capital prior to the British rule, is home to traditional artisans and you can watch them in their workshops. While in Mandalay, visit the Shwe Nandaw Kyaung Temple Grounds, which houses the only remaining building of the once sumptuous moated palace.

Remember Kipling's book on Mandalay?

Read this Book

The Mandalay Edition of the Works of Rudyard Kipling (13 Volumes)

Amazon Price: $6.79 (as of 05/27/2012)Buy Now

Visit Mandalay

Not to be missed in your visit to Myanmar

Here are some videos on Mandalay.
Myanmar - Mandalay
by geoffhawryluk | video info

1 rating | 876 views
curated content from YouTube

Mandalay Pictures

Beautiful place to visit in Myanmar

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Latest news on Mandalay

What's new?

Dr Manmohan's Myanmar visit; Imphal-Mandalay bus link to be started
During Dr Manmohan's visit, the two neighbouring countries are slated to start a bus link between Imphal, capital of India's Manipur state, and Mandalay, Myanmar's second-largest city. Dr Manmohan said that he hoped to focus on stronger trade and ...
Myanmar power cut protest spreads to Yangon, opposition members detained
Police held several opposition party members during protests against extreme power shortages in Myanmar. This is the country's largest protest since the 2007 monk-led uprising. A man holds up a placard during a protest in Mandalay on May 21 against ...
Myanmar police break up power protest - Suu Kyi's party
Demonstrations have taken place in Pyi and other towns week, including the commercial capital, Yangon, and the city of Mandalay, as citizens test the limits of democratic changes in Myanmar, leaving authorities struggling to respond.
Myanmar reaches out
In any case, he said, as Myanmar develops it will need even more power plants because brownouts in Yangon and other areas are already a problem. "There is an urgent need to build at least two plants around Yangon, and maybe one around Mandalay," he ...

Videos on Myanmar

What's Happening in Myanmar Now?

Myanmar reforms see dramatic rise in tourism
by AlJazeeraEnglish | video info

28 ratings | 6,147 views
curated content from YouTube

Myanmar Collectibles

Add to your collection

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6. Try one of Myanmar's Local Custom

It Makes You Feel Less Like a Foreigner

T ry thanaka. All over Myanmar, you will find women and children with painted faces that to a foreigner look like they have smudged their faces with wet yellowish powder. Thanaka is a bark paste that the locals use for protection from the sun and for clear and smooth complexion. They sell these in cosmetic jars and you can paint yourself like a clown and still look normal. Thanaka may be effective as it is said that in the distant the past, Myanmar women were highly sought after as brides.

Wear a Lungi. Lungis are sarongs tucked at the waist. It somehow makes you less of a foreigner when you try a local custom and they are much cooler than trousers. You always have a choice of being a spectator or a participant. Somehow just watching seems a waste of a unique opportunity.

7. Trek to the Mountains

"Over the Hump" from WWII

T o do this, you have to go to Kachin State, the northermost part of Myanmar which shares borders with China. Myitkyina is the largest town in Kachin State. There are regular flights from Yangon and Mandalay to Myitkyina. Other than Mt. Kakaborazi, there are other mountains to trek. Putao, the northernmost town in Myanmar is surrounded by snow capped mountains and spectacular wilderness. So, if you are in for an adventure, go and visit. You might just find an old DC 3 or a Yeti looking for you.

You will need your dark glasses

Get one at auction

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8. Shop for Precious Stones

Myanmar Rare Minerals

D id you know that Myanmar is home to some of the rarest minerals? Painite, considered the rarest mineral on the planet, it can only be harvested in Mogok and Kachin States in Myanmar.

90% of the world's rubies, one of the most expensive gems, are harvested in Myanmar.

Also found in Myanmar is the world's largest jadeite boulder. Discovered in 1982, this boulder is 12 by 6.5 feet.

What else does Myanmar offer?

Let's look at auctions

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9. Head for the Beaches

Go to Ayeyarwaddy

A yeyarwaddy is situated at the southern end of the central plains of Myanmar with Pathein as its key city. It is essentially a delta region with an area of 13,566 square miles.


It is only a four hour drive from Yangon so its newly opened beaches are attractive: Chaung Tha and Ngwe Saung.

The Pindaya Cave in Myanmar

Buddha Statue Inside

Beach Holiday Fashion

Look Fabulous in the Beaches of Myanmar

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10. Attend Myanmar's Ceremonies and Festivals

Get Going and Be a Participant

C elebrate with the people on their ceremonies and festivals. Some of these festivals bring you Zats, a variety of dance, song, short and long plays and Anyeints in which jokers caricature current situations. (somewhat delicately in today's environment). Watch performances of Pwe, an excellent example of local folk theater. Nat Pwe pays homage to the spirit world and Yok-Thei Pwe uses puppets up to a metre high. You will not only enjoy watching the expertise of the local puppeteers but gain respect for their talent and support traditions that we will all be the poorer for if they are lost. If you have a good driver, he will know of local festivals or can find out before your assorted land trips.

Capture your Myanmar Experience

Some camera choices for your Myanmar exploration

Nikon COOLPIX L120 14.1 MP Digital Camera with 21x NIKKOR Wide-Angle Optical Zoom Lens and 3-Inch LCD (Black)

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Nikon COOLPIX L24 14 MP Digital Camera with 3.6x NIKKOR Optical Zoom Lens and 3-Inch LCD (Red)

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Life%92s best moments are captured beautifully wit more...1 point

Canon PowerShot SX130IS 12.1 MP Digital Camera with 12x Wide Angle Optical Image Stabilized Zoom with 3.0-Inch LCD

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Canon's 4345B001 PowerShot SX130 IS 12.1 MP Compac more...0 points

Canon PowerShot ELPH 300 HS 12.1 MP Digital Camera (Black)

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The Canon 5096B001 PowerShot ELPH 300 HS Black 12M more...0 points

Polaroid CIM-1237R 12 MP Digital Camera with 3x Optical Zoom, Red

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Get all the bells and whistles you'd expect in a p more...0 points

Nikon COOLPIX L120 14.1 MP Digital Camera with 21x NIKKOR Wide-Angle Optical Zoom Lens and 3-Inch LCD (Red)

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Nikon D3000 10.2MP Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G AF-S DX VR Nikkor Zoom Lens

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Breathtaking digital SLR image quality and easy op more...0 points

Canon PowerShot A3000IS 10 MP Digital Camera with 4x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom and 2.7-Inch LCD

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Nikon COOLPIX L24 14 MP Digital Camera with 3.6x NIKKOR Optical Zoom Lens and 3-Inch LCD (Silver)

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Life%92s best moments are captured beautifully wit more...0 points

Canon PowerShot ELPH 300 HS 12.1 MP CMOS Digital Camera with 5x Wide-Angle Optical Zoom and Full 1080p HD Video (Red)

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The Canon 5097B001 PowerShot ELPH 300 HS Red 12MP more...0 points

Canon EOS Rebel T3 12.2 MP CMOS Digital SLR with 18-55mm IS II Lens and EOS HD Movie Mode (Black)

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The Canon 5157B002 includes the EOS Rebel T3 Digit more...0 points

GE Power Pro X500-BK 16 MP with 15 x Optical Zoom Digital Camera, Black

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GE X500 Power Pro Series Bridge Camera with Electr more...0 points

Myanmar Reforming

Young Monks in Myanmar

Myanmar's New Capital City

Naypyidaw

Your Topmost Thing to do in Myanmar

Vote for your favourite

Head to the Beaches

2 points

Visit the Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon

1 point

Experience Myanmar's Colonial Past

1 point

Try a Local Custom

1 point

Trek to the Mountains

1 point

Shop in the Bogyoke Aung San Market

0 points

Visit the Temples and Shrines in Bagan

0 points

Take the Road to Mandalay

0 points

Shop for Precious Stones

0 points

Attend Ceremonies and Festivals

0 points

Myanmar Visit

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Aung San Su Kyi

Read about this Myanmar symbol

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Have you seen this DVD on Myanmar?

Watch this movie and know the sacrifice that Aung San Suu Kyi did and continues to do for Myanmar. Mind you, not only her but so many others, too. You can see in this movie how much people have given to achieve what Myanmar has accomplished now.

The Genocidal Generals. Their Corporate Cronies, The Lady and our Three Sons of Burma

Amazon Price: $999.99 (as of 05/28/2012)Buy Now

It is touching to see how one person's life takes a turn for a mission that even herself has ever before imagined. This also helps one understand the events in Myanmar and what the people in Myanmar have to go through.

Myanmar and the World Community

Lifting of Sanctions

T he Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has now given the chairmanship of the ASEAN to Myanmar in 2014.

Secretary of State Hillary Clinton just visited Myanmar and met with the recently elected leader as well as the famous opposition leader, Aung San Suu Kyi who has now endorsed the government reforms and has indicated its party's engagement in the next election. Secretary of State Clinton said that as these reforms in Myanmar progress, lifting sanctions will definitely be considered. Hopefully, Myanmar's isolation from the world community will soon see its end.

Recently, The UN Chief Ban Ki-Moon visited Myanmar and met with its leaders and expressed the interest of the UN to strengthen their involvement in the country. Several countries including the US, EU, Canada and Australia have eased sanctions and have again established their presence in Maynmar. The World Bank has also recently done this.

Try this quiz on Myanmar

Myanmar' old name

Myanmar's current President?

Read your current events

Myanmar's capital city?

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Myanmar and the Outside World

Reforms Seem Irreversible

Document your trip to Myanmar

Bring a camcorder

Make sure to get a high definition one so your videos are worth posting.

Panasonic HDC-TM41H HD Camcorder with 16GB Internal Flash Memory

Panasonic HDC-TM41H HD Camcorder with 16GB Internal Flash Memory

Panasonic HDC-TM41 Digital Camcorder - 2.7" L more...1 point

Toshiba Camileo X100 Full-HD Camcorder - Silver/Black

Toshiba Camileo X100 Full-HD Camcorder - Silver/Black

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Canon VIXIA HF R21 Full HD Camcorder with 32GB Internal Flash Memory

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Samsung HMX-Q10 HD Camcorder Ultra Compact with 10x Optical Zoom (Black)

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Ultra compact full HD cam with Extreme Easiness0 points

Toshiba Camileo H30 Full HD Camcorder - Silver/Black

Toshiba Camileo H30 Full HD Camcorder - Silver/Black

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Canon VIXIA HF R20 Full HD Camcorder with 8GB Internal Flash Memory (Black)

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ContourROAM Hands-free HD Camcorder

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Toshiba Camileo S20 Full-HD Camcorder Bundle - Silver/Black

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Samsung HMX-Q10 HD Camcorder Ultra Compact with 10x Optical Zoom (Dark Blue)

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Canon VIXIA HF M400 Full HD Camcorder with HD CMOS Pro and Dual SDXC Card Slots

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Canon VIXIA HF M41 Full HD Camcorder with HD CMOS Pro and 32GB Internal Flash Memory

Canon VIXIA HF M41 Full HD Camcorder with HD CMOS Pro and 32GB Internal Flash Memory

The Canon VIXIA HF M41 Flash Memory Camcorder feat more...0 points

Toshiba Camileo S30 Full HD Camcorder (Silver/Black)

Toshiba Camileo S30 Full HD Camcorder (Silver/Black)

The S30 fits in every pocket! At 3/4" thin an more...0 points

Sony HDR-CX160 High-Definition Handycam Camcorder (Black)

Sony HDR-CX160 High-Definition Handycam Camcorder (Black)

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Toshiba Camileo S20 Basic Full-HD Camcorder (Silver/Black)

Toshiba Camileo S20 Basic Full-HD Camcorder (Silver/Black)

The Toshiba Camileo S20-B HD Camcorder provides yo more...0 points

Samsung HMX-H300 Full HD Camcorder with 30x Zoom (Black)

Samsung HMX-H300 Full HD Camcorder with 30x Zoom (Black)

The 24mm wide angle lens offers extraordinarily la more...0 points

Panasonic HDC-TM80K HD Twin Memory Camcorder (Black)

Panasonic HDC-TM80K HD Twin Memory Camcorder (Black)

Panasonic HDC-TM80 Digital Camcorder - 2.7" L more...0 points

Panasonic HDC-SD80K HD SD Card Camcorder (Black)

Panasonic HDC-SD80K HD SD Card Camcorder (Black)

Panasonic HDC-SD80 Digital Camcorder - 2.7" L more...0 points

Let's join the debate on Myanmar sanctions

What do you think?

Some people contend that sanctions just continue to isolate Myanmar. Recently, ASEAN has given Myanmar the chair for 2013. The opposition is once again engaging with the government. Hillary Clinton is right now in Myanmar to assess the situation so a decision can be made around sanctions.

Should sanctions on Myanmar be lifted?

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Yes, to allow development to reach the people

karmicchristian says:

To be free and fair... yes!

VKumar says:

Yes. The people need to be sympathized with and helped in development.

No, until the government demonstrate its commitment to human rights and democracy

skiesgreen says:

No, not until the political and social issues are resolved. The same military government is still in control and the fact that they have opened the door slightly does not mean they won't quickly close it again.

LaraineRose says:

Not yet

Tipi says:

I want both....such a difficult issue and it really is all on the people in the end.

poddys says:

Tough call. I think that human rights are very important these days. To lift sanctions and ignore them might encourage other governments to protest that their sanctions ought to also be lifted.

 

News on Myanmar

Interesting things happen in Myanmar

India to aid in Myanmar's democratic process
By anash Ghosh Monday, May 28th 2012, 06:28 AM May 28--NAYPIDAW, Myanmar (The Statesman/ANN) -- Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, who arrived in this brand new Myanmarese capital this evening to a warm welcome on a three-day visit, ...
FEATURE: Myanmar's democracy champion hits the world stage
By Peter Janssen Monday, May 28th 2012, 06:52 AM May 28--BANGKOK -- Myanmar's democracy champion Aung San Suu Kyi has scheduled her debut on the international stage in Bangkok this week after 24 years at home, 15 of those under house arrest.
India, Myanmar ink a dozen agreements
Nay Pyi Taw, May 28 ? India and Myanmar Monday signed 12 agreements, including on a $500 million credit line, border area development and air services. The agreements were signed after Prime Minister Manmohan Singh held wide-ranging talks with ...
Myanmar, the land of 'interesting possibilities'
New Delhi/Yangon: India's Prime Minister Manmohan Singh began a visit to Myanmar yesterday even as delegations from both West and East are "landing there like an avalanche", as India's former ambassador Rajiv Bhatia sought to put it.

Myanmar Things you Can buy

Take one of these

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Fisherman in Ngapali, Myanmar

Throwing Out His Net

Read what others are writing about Myanmar

Learn for their own experience

Singh seeks to heal bad blood on Myanmar visit
The two countries formally agreed on the so-called Kaladan Multimodal Transit Transport Project in April 2008, just seven months after Myanmar's military junta crushed nationwide pro-democracy protests led by Buddhist monks. Work began on Sittwe port ...
Myanmar power protests put new reforms to the test
In 2007, the former military regime used force to put down the so-called Saffron Revolution led by Buddhist monks. That rebellion began as small, localized protests over fuel price hikes. "Protests like this in Myanmar always have the potential to ...
Myanmar power cut protest spreads to Yangon, opposition members detained
Police held several opposition party members during protests against extreme power shortages in Myanmar. This is the country's largest protest since the 2007 monk-led uprising. A man holds up a placard during a protest in Mandalay on May 21 against ...
Myanmar protesters detained for questioning: opposition
It is the first major demonstration since an uprising led by Buddhist monks was crushed in 2007. People in the country formerly known as Burma are testing the boundaries of their freedom under the quasi-civilian government which took power last year ...

Want to own a piece of Myanmar?

Auctions on Myanmar

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Know Myanmar Better

Some books to read

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Travel gadgets you will need

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More Items on Myanmar

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Angels blessed this lens on Myanmar

Made it very special

Pack your sunblock when you go to Myanmar

The sun is scorching

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunblock, SPF 100, 3 Ounce

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunblock, SPF 100, 3 Ounce

Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunblock SPF 100+ offers the more...1 point

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer SPF 45 Twin Pack 3.0 Fl Oz

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Neutrogena Baby Sunblock Stick Spf 60+, 0.47-Ounce Sticks

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Neutrogena Pure & Free Baby Sunblock Stick SPF more...1 point

Vanicream Sunscreen, Sensitive Skin, Spf 60, 4-ounce

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VanicreamTM Sunscreen SPF 60 is a broad spectrum s more...0 points

Neutrogena Spectrum and Sunblock, SPF 100, 3-Ounce

Neutrogena Spectrum and Sunblock, SPF 100, 3-Ounce

Scientists have recently discovered that the sun p more...0 points

Neutrogena Age Shield Sunblock Face, SPF 90, 3 Fluid Ounce (Pack of 2)

Neutrogena Age Shield Sunblock Face, SPF 90, 3 Fluid Ounce (Pack of 2)

Neutrogena Age Shield Face Sunblock with Helioplex more...0 points

La Roche-Posay Anthelios 60 Ultra Light Sunscreen Fluid for Face, 1.7-Ounce Bottle

La Roche-Posay Anthelios 60 Ultra Light Sunscreen Fluid for Face, 1.7-Ounce Bottle

This ultra light, fast absorbing sunscreen fluid p more...0 points

Neutrogena Age Shield Face Lotion, SPF 110, 3 Ounce

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More than just sunburn protection, Age Shield Face more...0 points

Aveeno Baby Sunblock Lotion, SPF-55, 4-Ounce Tube

Aveeno Baby Sunblock Lotion, SPF-55, 4-Ounce Tube

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Jason Natural Cosmetics - Earth's Best Sun Blck Chemical Free, 4 oz cream

Jason Natural Cosmetics - Earth's Best Sun Blck Chemical Free, 4 oz cream

Earth's Best Organic protects baby's delicate skin more...0 points

Badger All Natural Sunscreen, SPF 30, Unscented 2.9 oz (87 ml)

Badger All Natural Sunscreen, SPF 30, Unscented 2.9 oz (87 ml)

Uses: Helps prevent sunburnRetains SPF after 40 mi more...0 points

Fallene Cotz SPF 58 Water Resistant UVB/UVA Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin, 2.5-Ounce Tube

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Fallene Cotz SPF 58 Water Resistant UVB/UVA Sunscreen more...0 points

Neutrogena Age Shield Plus Repair Lotion Sunblock, SPF 55, 3 Ounce

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Age Shield Plus Repair SPF 55 Lotion helps provide more...0 points

Neutrogena Sensitive Skin Sunblock Lotion, SPF 60, 3 Ounces

Neutrogena Sensitive Skin Sunblock Lotion, SPF 60, 3 Ounces

Sensitive Skin Sunblock Lotion SPF 60+ provides su more...0 points

Have You Been to Myanmar?

Share with us your own experience

If you have not been, just leave your comments about the lens.

  • Ladymermaid Apr 3, 2012 @ 10:11 am | delete
    Myanmar looks like a city of gold to me. What a magnificent city to visit. I love traveling the world through squidoo's lenses. I am never disappointed at how remarkably displayed the many tourist destinations are. Beautiful Aesta.
  • aesta1 Apr 19, 2012 @ 2:34 am | delete
    It is worth visiting as it still holds for us something of the past as it has been isolated for some time.
  • karmicchristian Apr 1, 2012 @ 12:17 pm | delete
    Have never been to there... but am sure I won't be looking lost after this virtual tour! :)
  • aesta1 Apr 19, 2012 @ 2:35 am | delete
    I just read your lens about Akbar and Birbal and I felt I was sitting with them listening to their conversation. I suppose this is why we write about these...to share something to people.
  • sousababy Apr 1, 2012 @ 11:08 am | delete
    I don't know enough about the political situation in Myanmar to make a comment in your duel however we need to respect and maintain human rights globally . . glad Hillary Clinton is looking into these matters.
    Loved the virtual tour, I've never been there - but would love to go some day.
  • aesta1 Apr 19, 2012 @ 2:36 am | delete
    The situation has improved recently that there is now a call to stop the sanction.
  • skiesgreen Feb 12, 2012 @ 12:06 am | delete
    Not been there but from your lens one can see that it is a beautful country, however, it is totally spoiled by overpopulation, welfare abuse of its citizens and disregard for outside opinions. Blessed and featured on Blessed by Skiesgreen 2012. Hugs.
  • aesta1 Mar 31, 2012 @ 11:43 am | delete
    Thank you for the blessing. It is beginning to change so maybe there is hope.
  • indiavacationplans Jan 21, 2012 @ 4:39 am | delete
    Interesting topic with some good images! Would love to read about your thoughts on them, though! ;)
  • aesta1 Mar 31, 2012 @ 11:45 am | delete
    It is struggling as a country to keep up with the world as it has really been isolated for years but with its chairing the ASEAN, the change will come faster.
  • LaraineRose Jan 2, 2012 @ 6:33 am | delete
    I don't know how you do it but you keep my attention right to the end. Blessings!
  • aesta1 Jan 2, 2012 @ 9:08 am | delete
    Thank you so much for the blessing.
  • sukkran Jan 1, 2012 @ 1:56 pm | delete
    lovely pictures and great information about myanmar. you have done a great job.
  • aesta1 Jan 2, 2012 @ 9:09 am | delete
    Thanks for the compliment.
  • TheLastResort Dec 7, 2011 @ 2:30 pm | delete
    Superb, thorough information on Myanmar. I am not sure I have the courage to visit the country, but it is certainly appealing, since it is not yet touristic.
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The Future of Burma

What scenario do you foresee?

The world is watching Burma's steps. It is steering away from its past isolation and trying to be part of the world community. If you're interested in scenario planning, get this book.


Scenario Planning:
A Field Guide to the Future

by

aesta1

I have visited Myanmar and was surprised at the many things one can do there. My favourite is to explore its history as a former British colony and as... more »

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Travel Tips 

For the avid traveler

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Myanmar Travel Guide 

Get yourself one

Lonely Planet Myanmar (Burma) (Country Travel Guide)

Amazon Price: $47.38 (as of 05/28/2012)Buy Now

Better get a guide as it is hard to find books in Myanmar. There are second hand book stores but they are pricey. The book will be a big help as it is hard to find information.