Myanmar, also known as Burma and fondly referred to as 'the
Golden Land' because of the excessive use of gold leaf on its
temples and buildings, is a country with a rich diversity of
culture and people. Its impressive heritage spans over 2,000 years
and boasts some of Southeast Asia's most opulently adorned temples
and wats. It is situated along the eastern coast of the Bay of
Bengal and the Andaman Sea and its northern borders stretch all the
way up to the Eastern Himalayan mountain range. One third of
Myanmar's perimeter is uninterrupted and undeveloped coastline.
This beautifully scenic country has a rocky political past. It
was a British Colony from 1885 until 1948, and for the past 30
years its people have been ruled by a repressive military
government, the Tatmadaw. Because of the human rights situation in
the country, international tourism can be seen as approval of the
Myanmar government, and the National League for Democracy in
Myanmar has appealed to tourists not to travel to the country.
However many argue that tourism can only open the country up to the
international community and therefore bring democratic reform the
Myanmar. Those that choose to travel to Myanmar are encouraged to
stay at privately owned guesthouses and to avoid
government-affiliated enterprises.
Myanmar has one of the lowest tourist crime rates in the world,
so travellers can relax in the knowledge that their trip will be
untroubled. It is only recently making an appearance on the
international travel scene due to its internal politics, but
Burma's unspoiled beaches, snow-capped mountains and jungle
wilderness are all fast becoming an irresistible draw for the avid
traveller.
