Before travelling to Myanmar, or indeed any destination,
it is good practise to check the travel advice pages of your own government’s
website for up to the minute advice on travel and especially for specific
threats to your safety based on your nationality, gender, race, religion or
sexual persuasion.
Terrorism in Myanmar takes the form of local opposition
to the government, which has led to a number of bombings in the recent past.
Political reforms and ceasefire agreements have enabled greater stability
internally in the country, but vigilance is always recommended.
Whilst these attacks are domestically motivated and are
not specifically targeted at foreigners, they have been situated in public
spaces. In recent years, there has also been a high incidence of anti-Islamic
violence by militant Buddhist groups.
Earthquakes are fairly frequent in Myanmar, with tremors
occurring several times a year, largely of low magnitude. However, as the
country’s history shows, the potential for a major event does exist. Flooding
has also been a periodic problem along the Ayeyarwady River and delta
area.
Cyclones are a potential threat along the coastal
areas.
Snakebites are very common in the country and care should
be exercised when wandering off established tracks and trails.
Tourist crime is relatively low in Myanmar and consists
primarily of petty theft, but care should be exercised when carrying portable
technology, handbags and luggage, purses, wallets and passports especially at
busy tourist sites and markets.
Be careful where you point your camera. Never photograph
the police, military personnel and installations, or demonstrations, which you should
in any case avoid and particularly never participate in.
Never use illegal drugs. Penalties can be severe and
include the use of the death penalty, which the authorities will not hesitate
to use even on foreigners.
Insulting religion is a prosecutable offence in Myanmar,
which can also include depictions on T-shirts or tattoos.
Homosexuality remains illegal in Myanmar, though
prosecutions are rare. Nevertheless it is recommended to be very discreet and
respectful of local traditional views for your own security.