FCO Travel Advice for - Burma

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  • In response to serious inter-communal violence in Meiktila since 20 March, the Burmese government has imposed a state of emergency in four townships: Meiktila, Mahlaing, Tharzi and Wundwin. The FCO advise against all but essential travel to these four townships and advise British nationals in the area to be alert to any further announcements by the Burmese government.

  • The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) advise against all but essential travel to central and northern Rakhine State, including the state capital Sittwe and nearby Mrauk U due to continued tension following recent serious civil unrest. See Local travel

  • The FCO advise against all but essential travel to Kachin State (except the towns of Myitkyina, Bhamo and Putao) due to continued risk of armed conflict. See Local travel

  • Take care in the border areas with Thailand, Laos or China. The situation in ethnic states where armed groups operate is volatile. There is ongoing conflict in the far north of Shan State. See Local travel

  • There is a high threat from terrorism. See Terrorism

  • Avoid all demonstrations and large gatherings and don’t take photographs or videos of the military, the police or demonstrations. See Political situation

  • There are restrictions on freedom of movement and speech. British Embassy officials are not allowed to travel freely outside Rangoon without permission from the Burmese government, except to a limited number of destinations. Consular assistance in an emergency may be restricted or delayed.

  • Around 7,300 British tourists visited Burma in 2011. Most visits are trouble-free. See Consular assistance statistics

  • Take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance before you travel.

  • Credit and Debit cards are not widely accepted. See Money
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