lonely-planet-myanmar-burma-11-edition

24PLAN YOUR TRIP RESPONSIBLE TRAVELInteract, But Don’tEndangerOne way you can positively help people isto talk and talk and talk, and make newfriends. Many locals cherish outside contactbecause they have so little. This means thetwo-way exchange that comes from it is reassurancefor them that Myanmar isn’t forgotten.If you’re spending all your time with oneguide, or on your own, you’re not really seeingMyanmar right. The temples and mountainsand markets are lovely, but ultimatelya trip to Myanmar is mostly about its people.This said, bear in mind that Myanmar isa country that imprisons its people for disagreeingwith the government’s line. Ensureyou don’t behave in a way that will get localsinto trouble. John Yettaw’s impromptu visitto Aung San Suu Kyi (see p 356 ) provides asalient lesson on the dangers of compromisinglocals.Some things to keep in mind:» Don’t raise political questions and issues ininappropriate situations; let a local direct theconversation. For example, don’t come out withsomething like: ‘Did you march with the monksin 2007?’ or anything about Aung San Suu Kyior the NLD where there are others who may belistening in.» Show equal caution regarding what you askor say on the phone or via email. Internet shopoperators may get into trouble if you log ontobanned sites, for example.» Exercise care when handing over to a localanything that could carry political overtones (suchas a copy of the Economist or Myanmar-relatedbooks).» Be wary of places that treat minority groups as‘attractions’. The ‘long-necked’ Padaung womenin Shan State (p 192 ) have led to a zoo-like touristevent.» Think very carefully before accusing anyoneof cheating you or of theft. Innocent people cansuffer greatly by implication. For example, a busdriver can end up in very hot water if you reportyour camera stolen during a bus ride – indeed,several bus companies no longer carry foreignersfor fear of such problems.» Don’t try to make contact with politicalprisoners who are on conditional release.WHERE THE MONEY GOESThis table estimates how much on average the government may get from differenttypes of traveller. We have based our calculations on our own on-the-ground experiencesand conversations with locals. The figures include government taxes such asa visa, fees and a 10% tax on all purchases.In some places, there are ways around the imposed fees, such as in Mandalay(p 208 ). Also see p 20 for an itinerary that bypasses all sites and destinations that requiregovernment fees.TRAVELBUDGETTHE GOVERNMENTRECEIVES TYPE OF TRIP$0 $0 People who stay at home and read about Myanmar$420 $72 A two-week trip skipping all government fees (eg Bagan,Inle Lake) and services, and sticking with family guesthousesand public buses$420 $97 Another shoestring trip, but one that includes governmentfees at Shwedagon Paya, Bagan and Inle Lake$1000 $150 A two-week trip that includes three flights, a boat ride toBagan and accommodation at midrange hotels$1500 $200 A two-week trip with a private car for a week and accommodationat midrange hotels$2000+ $250+ A one-week trip staying at higher-priced hotels, takingseveral guided day trips, eating at hotels and taking fourdomestic flights$5000 $500 A deluxe cabin on a seven-night luxury cruise