Country Risk Code: Low
If you are looking for an almost crime-free destination, you should consider traveling to Myanmar. Whether you plan to visit or work there, Myanmar is generally a safe destination for travelers with visitor-friendly inhabitants. However, there are a few risks you should still know about.
Potential Risk
Myanmar is characterised as a militarised country with several issues and clashes in the North and West of the country. Although terrorism used to be high and the country but rate of terrorism has reduced, this may probably be due to a democratic government coming into power. The majority of the violence that occurred in the country was due to the movement to end military rule in the country. However, there are also ethnic and sectarian differences in the ruling party, which may cause conflict occasionally. Although there have been cases of foreigners being accidentally attacked, there's no indication that foreigners were being targeted. Most of these accidents occur because of the location the foreigner is then. The major place where these terrorist attacks could occur is the city of Yangon.In April 2010, there was a massive occurrence of three bomb explosions in Yangon during the Buddhist New Year celebrations, which injured up to 170 people. There have also been smaller explosions in Taungoo, Sagaing, Yangon, which injured only one foreign national. There were also smaller expressions in November 2016 that occurred at the supermarket and another explosion outside the immigration office; however, no foreign national was reported to be injured. Terrorist attacks occasionally occur at public places and events such as shopping malls, hotels, marketplaces, large gatherings, and festivals.There is also the risk of landmines as they are around the border side in Myanmar. Although Myanmar has its own risk, it is generally a safe country for travelers; hence this should not dissuade travellers from taking this trip.
Border Risks in Myanmar
Burmese borders are quite dangerous as a result of the activities between terrorists and the armies. The Laos and China brothers are also dangerous due to the activities of the rebel group and drug traffickers.
Health risk
Foodborne and waterborne diseases are common in Myanmar, which could cause sicknesses to travelers. Mosquitoes exist in Myanmar, and they can transmit infectious diseases such as malaria and dengue fever. The former capital city, Yangon, emits air pollution. Visitors with respiratory problems can move to an air-conditioned room to breathe quality hair. HIV and hepatitis B are also prevalent in Myanmar. Furthermore, healthcare in Myanmar is in average condition; visitors may need to use local facilities as a Last Resort. Snakes are common, especially in rural parts of the country. Some of the snakes may be poisonous, while The Others May not be. Visitors are advised to wear boots and long pants to protect themselves from snake bites. Ticks and leeches are also prevalent.
Travel Tips
LGBT Advice for Travelers
It is illegal to be gay in Myanmar. People found indulging in LGBT activities are punished and also given up to 10 years imprisonment. However, the country is a lot more accepting of gays than other Asia countries. Some places such as Bagan, Mandalay, and Inle Lake are more gay-friendly than other places.
Choosing the Right Cover for Your Trip to Myanmar
Although Myanmar is generally a safe destination for travellers, you should still get travel insurance to protect yourself. Myanmar is full of Adventures, and you need insurance to cover your adventure activities.