Dos & Don’ts
The people of Myanmar are distinguished by their good nature and respectful attitude towards foreigners. However, foreign tourists should follow the rules of decency and generally accepted norms of behavior:
One should not show disrespect for the Buddha and revered relieved objects in verbal form, gestures or behavior
One should not turn one's back to the Buddha images or sit with one's legs stretched out in the direction of the Buddha images
Buddhist monks, disciples and nuns should be treated with special respect. It is forbidden to touch the monastic garb. Monks and nuns should not be offered food in the afternoon
When visiting pagodas, monasteries and other revered religious sites, as well as most living spaces, it is mandatory to take off your shoes and socks
When visiting pagodas, monasteries, as well as other cultural and historical attractions, you need to behave calmly and restrainedly
It is not recommended to walk in too revealing clothes. When visiting religious sites (pagodas, monasteries), shoulders, knees and décolleté should be covered
It is recommended that you ask for permission before taking photos and videos. Military and strategic facilities, as well as military and police personnel are not allowed to be photographed
Do not point at anyone or anything with your feet, as well as call a person with your index finger or step over people sitting or lying down – this is a sign of extreme disrespect!
It is recommended to pick up and give objects with the right hand or with both hands
It is not customary to touch a person's head
Open display of feelings in public (kisses, hugs) is not welcome. Familiarity should be avoided when communicating with women
Handshakes are not common. As a sign of greeting, it is enough to smile and slightly tilt your head
The use and distribution of any drugs is illegal. Drug-related crimes are severely punished by local authorities
Drinking alcohol and appearing in a state of intoxication in public areas is prohibited