Travel in Myanmar still has plenty of quirks
The first indication that things go a bit differently in Myanmar than elsewhere starts at the country's embassy.
An officer there receives the passports, but then seems surprised when, after charging 25 euros (Bt1,000) for a tourism visa, he is asked for a receipt. What for? Only after several further queries does he write out the receipt.
Travelling to Myanmar is a bit strenuous. There are no direct flights from Europe. The quickest connection is via Bangkok. But the market is changing, and now Condor has become the first European air carrier to fly nonstop to Yangon.
On arriving at the Yangon International Airport, the modern terminal building comes as a surprise. The lines at the entry gates quickly thin out.
And contrary to the expectation of dealing with some stern official of a military government, one finds uniformed women, giggling. They are greatly amused about the eye colours shown on the monitor of the modern facial recognition camera.
Most travellers take a lot of cash with them, for one can search in vain for an ATM in Myanmar. This, too, is supposed to change in the months ahead. And, in all likelihood, several credit cards will also be accepted. Until now this has not been possible due to the US sanctions, which prevent paying travel expenses with credit cards.
And so, cash is king. Visitors arrive with thick packets of banknotes strapped around their stomach. But caution is advised: do not make any folds in the notes. The employees in money changing bureaux at the airport carefully examine each and every note, turning it one way and then another and even consulting with a co-worker.
With euros, the employee is more lenient, but is all the more discerning with regard to US dollar notes. Only new, undamaged, virtually virginal bank notes are accepted - no more, no less.
Now it's on to the hotel. "Those who want a room with the usual standards, especially during the favoured travel period between October and March, should absolutely make reservations," says Thomas Henseler, the director of the Governor's Palace hotel.
He notes that hotel bookings have risen enormously in recent months, and accordingly, rates have also shot up. He mentions a rise of 200 to 300 per cent. Quality, however, has not kept pace everywhere.
Around the Sule Pagoda, not far from the river, begins the confusing conglomeration of streets and stores. There is also a modern internet cafe, in front of which an old woman sits, selling bars of soap.
And there is yet another rare experience to be had: a time without mobile phones. Foreign visitors may just as well leave their mobiles at home because they won't work in Myanmar. For those who absolutely must, then a mobile phone can be rented at the airport with a pre-paid card.
That's Myanmar today. Tomorrow, things will be different.
Latest stories in this category
- Artistry at the highest level
- Asian and French couturiers showcase their..
- Kiss her gently, then upload
- VISIONS OF BEAUTY
We Recommend
- Cathay Pacific fires flight attendant in Paetongtarn case
- The flight attendant who allegedly threatened to..
- Vegan diet's role in triumph over cancer
- Democrats to pursue 'rice scam'
Comments conditions
Users are solely responsible for their comments.We reserve the right to remove any comment and revoke posting rights for any reason withou prior notice.
Source: http://www.news.thethailandlinks.com/2012/12/05/the-country-where-cash-in-king/
0 comments:
Post a Comment