For more than 40 years, a repressive military Government has ruled Burma with almost no political freedom. San Suu Kyi, the country’s best-known dissident, is under her third spell of house arrest. Americans have imposed tough sanctions and activists around the world have pushed for a boycott of tourism.
Shwedagon Pagoda, Yangon, Image credit
Many like Mark Farmaner believe that if you go to this country you will only be funding the military. Moreover, why should you visit a country with so poor a human rights record? By your visit, you are likely to be legitimizing the dictatorial situation of the country.
Shwedagon Pagoda Rangoon, Image credit
The counter argument: Isolating Burma has achieved nothing, not even Daw Aung San Suu Kyi has been allowed her freedom; and the people continue to suffer greater tragedy. Isolation is the tactic best preferred by the regime. Isolation is the regime’s default condition. It is what fuels the present system.
Pagan Pagodas, Image credit: James L. Stanfield
Responsible tourism can help to lift many ordinary people from poverty and an influx of outsiders will hasten the possibility of political change. Tourism is the one sector in which a good degree of private enterprise is possible, free from government control. Moreover tourism is likely to provide greater interaction with the outside world.
Buddha Statues, Burma (Myanmar), Image credit
Sights worth seeing: Shwedagon pagoda complex, Rangoon, royal capital of Mandalay, with its massive teak ramparts, medieval ruins at Pagan, one of the most striking and least visited archaeological wonders of the world, trekking in the remote Himalayan villages of Burma, sunny southern beaches.
Bagan, Image credit
Well, one thing is for sure that this beautiful country is worth visiting. However, it will be tough to make sure that your money you spend will actually reach the poor and not the regime. To see the real Burma is a tough call.
Houses on stilts, Inle lake, Image credit
Most of the trips are likely to be engineered with intelligence officers interrogating or arresting people after they’ve spoken to tourists, demanding to know what was said. May be if you visit here it should be as a true explorer, without itenaries, learning as you travel.
Source: Times
