Message | Thanks for your comments, Kate. Regarding Myanmar: there is some money that must go to the government, such as the visa to enter the country and entrance fees to national monuments (although you can with a clear conscience, try to dodge these!); however with a bit of care, you can ensure that the rest of your money goes to the people. By avoiding government-run guesthouses and travel agents, and travelling by pick-up or bus, most of your money will end up in the hands of the Myanmar people. The urgings of Aung San Suu Kyi to boycott the country are not universally held; many think that it will be harder for the country to develop in isolation, and that boycotting the country punishes the people, rather than the military junta. The decision to visit should not be made lightly, and should be made after researching the pros and cons of the matter. |