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Myanmar (Burma)/Burma currency conversion
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Question
When traveling in Burma (if brave enough to go) is it better; easier; safe; to convert US dollars into Kyat on the black market or via banks/airport?
Black market is generally fine . . . but mostly only in Yangon (Rangoon). But you still must convert $200 US to FEC (foreign exchange coupons) when arriving by plane in Myanmar (if you are traveling independently and not part of a group). . . and FEC are usually worth 20-30 kyat less than dollars. Banks are a lot of nonsense and paperwork . . . and hotels (especially those with official "money-changing licenses") don't give you a good rate. If you're wary of the black market, the backpacker hotels in Chinatown area can generally help you out (try Beautyland etc.)
Have fun! Nancy B
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| Rating(1-10) | Knowledgeability = 10 | Clarity of Response = 10 | Politeness = 10 |
| Comment | Thank you, Nancy, for your very thoughtful response to my question about Burma. You made points that have made me reconsider my reluctance to go there. It's obvious that you have a deep respect for the Burmese people and an understanding of what they are experiencing with this oppressive government. Thank you so much! | ||
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Nancy B
Expertise
One of my all-time favorites. I`ve been there more than 10 times (for at least a month each time), done the tourist loop five times and travelled to several permit-only areas. Aside from the Yangon, Bago, Inle, Kalaw, Mandalay, Pagan, Pyay route, I`ve travelled twice to Sittwe, Mrauk-U and the Chin areas and then down to Ramree Island, Ngapali and Pathein. Been on the wonderful boat from Bhamo to Mandalay and sojourned in the south a bit past Moulmein. Most recently I trekked in the northern Kachin state, camped and stayed with the Rawang tribe, for 2 weeks on the way to Phonekan Razi to see the Himalayas from the east. I`ve taken nearly every mode of transport--trains, planes, buses, boats, bikes, oxcarts, trekking on foot. I can answer logistical questions about airfare, hotels, restaurants, trekking, trains, restricted/open areas and, especially, cultural/religious sites and their significance.
Experience
The world is a fascinating place and nothing reveals this more thoroughly than exploring faraway lands. I've got a penchant for the exotic, a friendly face and a true curiousity about the people, art and life.
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