Impressions of Myanmar - how to plan your visit

Burma/Myanmar is a slice of old Asia. The people wear traditional costume. Life is centred around the pagoda. It has just opened up to the tourist swarms. Lonely Planet has a new guide book out. Good because prices were way out of date in their 2009 guide. In mid-2012, there were still no cash machines so you only have what cash you bring with you. No one took credit cards. I guess that will change with international banks returning but don't take a chance if you go there in late 2012, early 2013. Bring US dollars or euros. Domestic flights work really well. We booked them as we went along. Real backpackers take buses, but you need time. Book ahead from town to town even for budget hotels. The hordes are pouring in and there are not enough hotels. For jaded travellers who have been all over SE Asia, Burma is a dream of gentle people, traditional dress, stunning Buddhist monuments and lots of variety. If I was to do my first visit over again, I would skip Inle Lake and try to get into the Golden Triangle, up north or the southern panhandle. See if they have eased travel restrictions yet. The centre is pretty badly deforested and food is nothing special, but now is the time to experience Burma.