Travelling responsibly in Burma

The country’s previously tense political situation prevented many from visiting. If you do decide to go to this South Asian country, here are a few tips for travelling responsibly.

The political situation in Burma makes the question of tourism a difficult one.

Few people had high expectations when the old military regime handed power to a nominally civilian–led – but still military–backed – government in March of 2011. Yet recent developments have persuaded many that the new leadership, under the presidency of a former general, Thein Sein, is serious about reform. If you do decide to go to Burma, here are a few trips for travelling responsibly.

Why have travellers stayed away?

In the past, the Burmese opposition (the National League for Democracy, or NLD)
has argued that a visit to Burma amounts to an endorsement of the regime and
puts money in the government’s pockets. There’s evidence that some tourism
developments have been built with forced labour, and that villages have been
cleared to make way for high-end hotels. A drive to increase tourist numbers by
the Burmese government in the 1990s was met with a boycott from many
travellers, although some argued that this added to the isolation of ordinary
Burmese people.

What are the reasons to go now?

The NLD’s Aung San Su Kyi now suggests that responsible travellers can help to
change Burma. Other pro-boycott activists, including Burma Campaign UK, have also reversed
their position on the issue in recent times. Burmese people invariably welcome
visitors and, with a little thought, it’s possible to ensure much of the money
you spend goes to the private sector rather than the government.

Should I travel with an organised tour?

As a rule, organised tour visitors experience less interaction with Burmese
people than individual travellers. There’s been evidence in the past to suggest
that some organised tours are steered towards businesses with strong links to
the government. That said, a few international tour operators such as Transindus and Wild Frontiers actively work with Burmese
communities. There are a small number of Yangon-based agents who can arrange
private guides, transport and accommodation in country – try Good News Travels and Columbus Travels.