Bamboo Travel

Should you visit Myanmar?

In recent years the political controversy surrounding Myanmar’s government has led some people to argue that tour operators should not offer holidays or travel to Myanmar.

We have never subscribed to this view as we feel that boycotting the country only further harms Myanmar’s wonderful people. However recent events and statements from oppositon leaders in Myanmar seem to have given the green light to tourism as both Aung San Suu Kyi and her party have given an official welcome to tourists. The jury is still out as to whether the current changes in Myanmar will be long lasting, and ultimately beneficial to the people, but the signs are very encouraging indeed.

Despite the recent changes we will maintain our commitment that in offering holidays to Myanmar and tours to Myanmar, wherever possible, we will only deal with non-government hotels, airlines and companies when making your travel arrangements. However we do accept that it is not always possible to prevent the government earning some money from tourism and so we have also chosen to work with partners in Myanmar who support a number of projects that help local communities.

Given that you may still wish to research this emotive issue, and make your own mind up as to whether you feel it is appropriate to visit Myanmar, if you would like help on where to find balanced arguments, for and against travel, please let us know and we will be happy to point you in the right direction.

If you do decide to go, one thing is certain - an extraordinary, spiritual and exciting country awaits you.