Myanmar recently released their tourism statistics for 2012 (Read CNNTravel), and with the lifting of sanctions and steps taken toward forming a democracy, the country has begun to see a surge in tourism with over 1 million visitors this past year. Compared to Thailand’s 22 million visitors in the same year, 1 million people flocking to Myanmar doesn’t really seem like a big deal, right? Wrong! In a country that is nowhere near prepared for the influx of tourists, foreigners are finding it incredibly difficult to find hotel rooms, and those that are lucky enough are paying 2-3x more than just a year prior.
When we were there in 2011, tourism numbers topped out at around 800 000, which while we were there, seemed like a quarter of that. Traveling around the country, we were often the only foreigners on buses and in towns. We frequently had the temples of Bagan to ourselves, and got used to seeing the same 5 foreigners around the major sites and attractions. It felt as though there were only a handful of tourists in the entire country, and we felt so incredibly privileged to be able to experience it before tourism really got out of hand.
Since then, sanctions have been lifted, and doors to Myanmar are virtually wide open. So, the questions is, should you visit Myanmar? ABSOLUTELY! While it may be getting busier, and you may end up with a challenge or two finding a bed, a trip to Myanmar should be on everyone’s list before things really get out of hand.
So, here are 5 photos to drag your butt out of its comfort zone. What are you waiting for??
GATE20.com 
great pics
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Thank-you so much!
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Lucky you, taking the path less trodden thus far!
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Yes Menaka, we felt very fortunate to have visited before things really change. Either way though, we can’t wait to go back. The people there are really what make Myanmar so fantastic!
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Did you guys go independently or go with a tour group? Looking forward to visiting Myanmar some time this year!
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Hi Antoinette! We went on our own, which really wasn’t very difficult at all. The locals there are super helpful, and there are travel agencies to help you get flights and such as needed. You’ll have an awesome time over there! Enjoy!
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