A gap year in Burma/Myanmar

Gap years in Burma

Only the most determined get to Burma, where travellers are strictly monitored and sometimes – especially if they look like journalists – denied access. Despite a democratic election in the 1990s, Burma is ruled by an authoritarian military regime, which has been declared guilty of many human rights abuses. Its elected leader Aung San Suu Kyi has made a global request to stop tourism in this country, because it supplies the government with so much money. However, tourist income also benefits local communities, who are openly pleased to greet visitors. An international presence keeps the country from becoming isolated, which in turn will probably help stop violations of the Human Rights Act. If you’re considering a trip here as part of your Gap Year, don’t make the decision lightly.

Gap Year Opportunities

If you want to experience Burma, voluntary work is the best way to do it. Not only does this country desperately need support in rural and city areas, but you’ll be in the company of an international aid agency which will be able to advise you on travel.

International aid programmes in Burma include opportunities such as working in women’s refuges, helping to promote awareness of HIV, helping to prepare communities for disaster management and teaching English.

About Burma

Situated between Thailand, India, Bangladesh and China, Burma is a fascinating simmering-pot of cultures and people. There’s a Buddhist influence everywhere you look, with lots of temples and ancient cities to admire – if you can afford the entrance prices, which (for foreigners) are put up by the government.

Anything that is not subject to a steep government tax is very cheap: you can eat and stay for £5 a day. Watch out, though – there are no ATMs in the country and you can’t use travellers’ cheques either. Communication, too, is strictly regulated. Telephone calls are likely to be bugged and cut off; post is intercepted; and internet use is virtually banned. Burmese radio and television stations are all owned and operated by the government.

What has this done to the people? Even though Burma is subject to an authoritarian rule, the people maintain their friendly attitude, and you’ll feel very safe in most areas. Elected leader Aung San Suu Kyi, an emblem of freedom for the 80% who voted her in, is kept under house arrest by the military. But she remains the people’s best source of hope.

Where to go?

You’ll fly into capital Yangon, where your visa will be checked before you’re allowed to travel into the country. Yangon is a multi-cultural Asian city where festivals of all sorts are celebrated with style. Try to visit in April, where you can join in the Burmese New Year celebrations… by throwing buckets of water; in October, the Buddhist Festival of Lights is just as fun, with fire balloons and lanterns festooning every home and building.

Wherever you travel, avoid the public transport system, which ploughs profits back to the government. Mandalay is a favourite spot, with plenty of opportunities to buy local handicrafts, and easy access to some breathtaking sights. Travel to one of the deserted ancient cities on its outskirts, or trek up Mandalay Hill for spectacular views.

For beach babies, Ngapali is the biggest attraction: 2 miles of white sand lapped by the turquoise Bengal ocean, scattered with traditional fishing villages and boutique hotels. You can book a luxury beachfront room for as little as £30 a night. There’s nothing better after a long, hard stint of volunteer work – and you’ve earned it.