Travel to Myanmar to backpack, study, intern, volunteer, work, or live as a digital nomad, expat or emigrant?

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 Myanmar

Intro

Backpacking or traveling in Myanmar (Burma)?

  • A beautiful country still relatively untouched by mass tourism and rich in culture, history and beautiful nature. Discover the friendly people, deeply rooted Buddhism and one of the largest archaeological areas in the world. The country is suitable for the traveler as well as the backpacker, but traveling around also brings challenges. 
  • Getting around can be challenging because of the limited infrastructure and facilities and the political situation.
  • Activity spotting: bike around Bagan, one of the largest archaeological areas in the world; explore traditional villages around Inle Lake; experience street life in Yangon; visit Mandalay Palace in Mandalay; trek from Kalaw to Inle Lake; climb Mount Kyaiktiyo, take the train from Mandalay to Hsipaw. 
  • Animal spotting: Asian elephant, Bengal tiger, leopards, gibbons and langurs, dhole, white-bellied sea eagle, the green peacock, Burmese python, irawadi dolphin, manatee. 

Studying in Myanmar (Burma)?

  • Education in Myanmar is not internationally renowned. However, you do have a choice of many fields of study, both Bachelor and Master programs. Popular fields of study include engineering and science, traditional fields such as literature, history and law, and medical studies. 
  • Study cities: Yangon, Mandalay. 
  • Language: Burmese, with some options in English.  

Internship in Myanmar (Burma)?

  • If you want to do an internship in Myanmar, you quickly end up with non-profits and international aid organizations. 
  • Competencies: cultural adaptation, language skills, adaptability, flexibility, working with local communities, working in development projects. 

Doing volunteer work in Myanmar (Burma)?

  • The same applies to volunteering in Myanmar as internships, although it is difficult to find a place.
  • Offering volunteer work is also mostly organized by individuals. Examples include teaching English, supporting children and youth and helping in Buddhist centers. 

Working in Myanmar (Burma)?

  • To find a job in Myanmar you usually need a relevant education and experience, especially in the work fields of engineering, HR, accounting, NGOs and non-profits. Most expats work in international companies. There are also jobs for English teachers. 

Working as a digital nomad in Myanmar (Burma)?

  • Beautiful nature and incredibly kind people, but also a country with a very unsettled political situation. Electricity and internet not as reliable, even though that is improving in recent years, and it seems to be more expensive than surrounding popular places. There is not a large digital nomad community, but if you don't mind that, it is a beautiful country to explore. 
  • Favorite locations: Yangon, Mandalay, Bagan. 

Living in Myanmar (Burma)?

  • Myanmar is still quite an undeveloped country due to its recent turbulent history. It is one of the poorest countries in the region, although the country has been working on development in recent years. 
  • It is a beautiful country, with friendly people and plenty of natural beauty and cultural history. But the country is also plagued by an unstable political situation. You can experience a lot there, but also have to be careful in different parts of the country. In addition, the cost of housing is higher than you are likely to expect, as is the cost of international schools. 
  • The weather consists of three seasons; a cooler season, a hot season and the monsoon season. Floods often occur during the latter season. 
  • Health insurance: health care leaves much to be desired and for urgent care you may need medical evacuation. So make sure you have your own well-covered health insurance.
Myanmar Country Bundle: suggestions, stories and tips

Myanmar Country Bundle: suggestions, stories and tips

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Content about Myanmar on WorldSupporter

How does health care work in Myanmar, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?

How does health care work in Myanmar, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?

How does the health and healthcare system work in Myanmar?

  • In Myanmar, health care leaves much to be desired. The sector is underdeveloped and emigrants often rely on private clinics or travel to neighboring countries such as Thailand for better care. 
  • According to the World Health Organization, Myanmar ranks almost at the bottom of the list of health care achievements. 
  • There is also a lot of medical inequality in Myanmar. Most facilities can be found in cities like Yangon and Mangalay, despite most Burmese living in rural areas. 
  • Local health insurance is only available to government employees and locals. Expats can purchase their own private health insurance. 

How does the public health care work in Myanmar?

  • Government hospitals provide basic care, often at low cost. 
  • Quality is limited due to a lack of resources, personnel and modern equipment.
  • Care is particularly limited in rural areas. In urban areas such as Yangon and Mandalay, there are more options, but the standard remains low compared to Western standards. 
  • Long waiting times, scarcity of medicines and lack of English-speaking staff make public care less accessible to expats.
  • In public hospitals, you cannot rely on help in English. 

How does the private health care work in Myanmar?

  • Private clinics and hospitals, such as the Yangon International Medical Centre, offer better care. These institutions often cater to expatriates and the local elite. Unfortunately, though, there are only a handful of private clinics. 
  • Private care is significantly better equipped and has English-speaking doctors, but the standard is not always consistent.
  • Expect higher costs than public care, but often still lower than in Western countries.
  • In the end, many emigrants still choose medical treatment abroad, for example, India, Malaysia, Singapore or Thailand. 

How is the family doctor arranged in Myanmar?

  • General practitioners can be found in Myanmar, but it is not easy. Most likely you will find them at private clinics.

How is the dentist arranged in Myanmar?

  • Dental care is available through both public and private clinics. Expats almost always choose private dentists because of better hygiene and quality.
  • Private clinics in cities like Yangon have dentists who are well trained, sometimes even abroad.
  • Dental care is affordable compared to Western countries.

How is the pregnancy care arranged in Myanmar?

  • In Myanmar, women in rural areas have very little access to pregnancy care. 
  • Private hospitals and international clinics are the best choice for prenatal care because of better facilities and English-speaking staff.
  • Private clinics offer safer and more comfortable options, but travel to Thailand is often recommended for complex situations.

How safe or unsafe is a trip or stay in Myanmar?

What should you pay attention to in terms of safety in Myanmar?

  • There has been much social and political unrest in Myanmar since the military takeover in 2021. Therefore, it is mostly not recommended to travel to the country. 
  • Some areas you are not allowed to enter, other areas are (sometimes) under curfew, such as Yangon, for example. Be aware of the latest situation. 
  • Most crime is only of a small and non-violent scale. Think bag-robberies, theft and (sales) scams. 
  • There is a risk of landmines in rural areas. 
  • There is also a risk of incarceration, especially for journalists and human rights activists. 
  • Tropical cyclones sometimes occur between mid-April and mid-May, and in October and November. There is also a risk of earthquakes. 

What should you look out for in terms of diseases in Myanmar?

  • Health risks include mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever, malaria, the zika virus and chikungunya. 
  • You can also catch schistosomiasis, a parasitic infection, in water and there are several diseases you can contract through contaminated food and water. 

What should you pay attention to in terms of traffic in Myanmar?

  • Driving a car is especially risky during the May-October rainy season. Because of landslides, roads can be blocked and bridges can be damaged. 
  • Roads can also be blocked by the military and the opposition. 
  • Road accidents occur regularly, not only because of safety standards, but also because of the condition of vehicles.

What work and travel insurance policies are suitable for short and long stays in Myanmar?

  • Is the trip to Myanmar and your return sufficiently covered? Are you sufficiently covered before, during and after your activities? Which insurance best suits your trip and your activity? Read more about insurances for abroad on JoHoinsurances.org.

What emigration and expat insurance can you take out for Myanmar if you are going to live there for a while?

  • It is not mandatory to have insurance to move to Myanmar. Nevertheless, it is wise to take out one because of the state of medical care and the risk of needed medical evacuations. Read more about insurances for abroad on Expatinsurances.org.
  • Continue reading about emigrating to Myanmar or preparing a trip to Myanmar.
Myanmar: Updates & Travel

Myanmar: Updates & Travel

Travel in Myanmar?

  • There is a lot to do in Myanmar. Myanmar has impressive temples, beautiful nature and breathtaking beaches. Within Myanmar there is political unrest and interreligious tensions. As a tourist you will not notice much of this. The population is downright friendly and welcomes tourists with open arms.
  • Cycle to the temples in Bagan early in the morning, and climb to the top of one of the temples to watch the rising sun. A beautiful sight where hundreds of temples are slowly illuminated and hot air balloons decorate the sky. Use your bike to cruise through the park for the rest of the day so that you can admire the temples and markets.
  • Take a boat trip on Inle Lake. During this trip you will sail past temples, see how traditional fishermen use local techniques for the catch of the day, pass traditional weaving houses and sail past the houses of Long Necks. It is recommended to go early in the morning or late afternoon so that you can also enjoy a beautiful sunrise or sunset. Don't forget to rent a bike here to discover the most beautiful places around the lake and in the surrounding mountain area.
  • Walk from Inle Lake to Kalaw in two or three days. This beautiful tour, which you must take with a guide, takes you past the most beautiful forests, arable land and remote, traditional villages, where you will also spend the night(s).
  • Myanmar has the longest coastline in Asia, which is characterized by beautiful white beaches and blue sea. The beaches are still relatively rarely visited by tourists because it is often an undertaking to get there due to impassable roads. Nevertheless, it is certainly worth visiting, for example, Ngapali or Ngwe Saung, these locations are already more accessible in terms of transport and accommodation.
  • Visit the Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon and go to the Bogyoke Aung San market for beautiful handmade items. It is also the city where the Myanmarese politician Aung San Suu Kyi stayed during years of house arrest. From Mandalay, take an excursion to Amarpura, an old royal city with the longest wooden pedestrian bridge in the world (1,200 meters). The bridge made of teak is a relaxing place and walking route for the many monks from the nearby Mahagandhayon monastery, all of which gives the bridge a special appearance. From the bridge you have a beautiful view of the surroundings.
  • Bagan was the former capital of the Pagan empire and has the largest number of Buddhist temples, ruins and stupas in the world (more than a thousand). Bagan is also a place of pilgrimage for Theravada Buddhists.
  • Lake Inle is especially known for its villages built on stilts and the floating markets and gardens. Take a boat trip to Ywama or to one of the markets and visit the villages around the lake by bike.
  • Ngapali is characterized by quiet white sandy beaches and crystal clear water. Beach and sea at the Bengal Bay.
  • Be aware of the political situation. Even in a teahouse there can be informers who can overhear a discussion you are having with the locals. A few negative comments can land these people in jail. So make sure you listen carefully when people are alone, but don't tempt them to make statements in public places. Also don't try to extract stories from people. The Burmese prefer not to talk about their ideas about the regime for fear of their safety.
  • The rainy season, from June to October, in the south is not very pleasant; a lot of rain and humidity that can rise to 95%. Tip: Travel further north, where it is relatively dry.
  • The end of the Burma railway line in Thanbyuzayat is now a small commercial museum, where there is little scientific evidence regarding the information provided.

Updates Myanmar

  • More about Myanmar, updates and contributions, see the link below.

 

 

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Why get specific insurance when going abroad: per activity abroad
Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for a long trip abroad?

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for a long trip abroad?

What is round the world travel insurance or long-term travel insurance?

  • Round the world travel insurance means that you take out insurance that continues to provide coverage during all your activities abroad, and which is specifically intended for those who travel for long periods of time, such as world travelers, globetrotters, and nomads.

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for a long trip abroad?

  • Round the world travel insurance provides coverage for a much longer trip than regular travel insurance.
  • World travel insurance is specifically intended for longer trips, whereas regular travel insurance may offer coverage on paper, but in practice handles it differently.
  • World travel insurance is suitable for many types of activities, ranging from high-altitude trekking to more risky sports.
  • World travel insurance continues to provide coverage if you start working during your trip, whether planned or unplanned. If you did not take out insurance before departure that allows you to work, there is no guarantee that you will be able to take out insurance that provides coverage while abroad.
  • Long-term travel insurance continues to provide coverage when your home country's health insurance no longer does.
  • Worldwide travel insurance also covers your medical expenses up to the actual cost, and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • Worldwide travel insurance can also continue to provide coverage if negative travel advice is issued.

What is important to insure when you are going to travel around the world?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the countries where you are going to travel and posibly work.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your full period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you only insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • That you pay close attention to choosing the right coverage when performing work or voluntary work during your world trip.

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Why should you take out specific insurance when you go on a trip or vacation?

Why should you take out specific insurance when you go on a trip or vacation?

What is insurance for traveling abroad?

  • Travel insurance is insurance that provides coverage for risks during a trip or vacation abroad. This mainly concerns loss of or damage to your luggage, medical assistance, or repatriation costs if you need to be transported back home urgently. In some cases, travel insurance coverage also applies on domestic trips.
  • With annual travel insurance or multi-trip travel insurance, you are insured for all your trips throughout the year.
  • With temporary travel insurance or single-trip travel insurance, you take out insurance for each trip for the duration of the trip.
  • Cancellation insurance reimburses (all or part of) the travel sum, cancellation or accommodation costs if you have to cancel or interrupt your vacation.

Why should you take out travel insurance for a short trip, vacation, or long-distance trip?

  • Travel insurance can provide coverage in the event of an accident or emergency while you are abroad.
  • Travel insurance can provide coverage for damage and accidents during the adventurous or sporting activities you plan to do.
  • Travel insurance can continue to provide coverage if your health insurance no longer provides coverage, or if the damage is only reimbursed at cost price of your home country.
  • Travel insurance can provide coverage in the event of damage, loss, or theft of your luggage.
  • Travel insurance can provide coverage if you are held liable for damage you cause to other people or their property.
  • Travel insurance can provide coverage if you have to return home early because something has happened to you or your immediate family.

What is important to insure when you are going to travel abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the country or countries that you are going to visit.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your period abroad.
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you only insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • That you pay close attention to choosing the right coverage when performing work alongside your travels.

Check out more about international insurances

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for working abroad?

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for working abroad?

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for paid work, voluntary work or an internship abroad?

  • There may be several reasons why you need separate insurance when working abroad.
  • During work, internships, or volunteer work abroad where you receive financial compensation (or, for example, food or housing), your national health insurance coverage may expire. You will then need special insurance to remain insured for illness and accidents.
  • During specific work abroad, additional requirements may apply if your work involves additional risks. Only specific insurance policies offer coverage during this type of work.
  • During your work, the risk of accidents is sometimes greater, for example because you are doing work with which you have little experience or because of the nature of the work.
  • During your work, local employers generally offer no or limited insurance that provides insufficient coverage.

What is important to insure when you are going to work abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the country or countries where you are going to travel and work.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you only insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • That you pay close attention to choosing the right coverage when performing work.

Check out more about international insurances

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for volunteering abroad?

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for volunteering abroad?

What is insurance for volunteering abroad?

  • Insuring volunteer work abroad means taking out insurance that continues to provide coverage while you are working as a volunteer abroad

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for voluntary work abroad?

  • There may be several reasons why you need separate insurance when volunteering abroad.
  • During specific activities abroad, additional requirements may apply if your work involves extra risks. Only specific insurance policies offer coverage during these activities.
  • The risk of accidents is sometimes higher during your work, for example because you are doing work you have little experience with or because of the nature of the work.
  • Local projects or employers generally offer no or limited insurance that provides insufficient coverage during your work.
  • When volunteering abroad and receiving minor financial compensation (or, for example, food or housing), your home country's health insurance coverage will potentially lapse. You will then need special insurance to remain insured for illness and accidents.
  • Regular travel insurance policies generally provide coverage for trips of a limited number of days. If your trip or stay abroad exceeds the maximum number of days, this generally means that for the entire travel period, you will not be covered.
  • Regular travel insurance policies generally only provide coverage for recreational travel without voluntary work activities. If you engage in activities other than recreational activities (such as volunteer work), this generally means that for the entire travel period, you will not be covered.

What is important to insure when you are going to work as a volunteer abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the country or countries where you are going to travel and volunteer.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you only insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • That when performing work in healthcare, with wild animals, and with dangerous (agricultural) machinery, you take care to choose the right coverage.

Check out more about international insurances

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for an internship abroad?

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for an internship abroad?

What is insurance for an internship abroad?

  • Insuring an internship abroad means taking out insurance that continues to provide coverage during your internship abroad
  • Insurance for internships abroad are also referred to as internship insurance. This internship insurance is specifically for when you go abroad for a long period of time to work as an intern, take courses, or conduct research abroad.

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for an internship abroad?

  • There may be several reasons why you need separate insurance for an internship abroad.
  • During internship activities abroad, additional requirements may apply as soon as you start performing work that involves additional risks. Only specific insurance policies offer coverage during these activities.
  • During your internship, the risk of accidents is sometimes greater, for example because you are doing work with which you have little experience or because of the nature of the work.
  • During your internship, local employers generally do not offer insurance, or offer limited insurance that does not provide sufficient coverage.
  • During an internship abroad where you receive financial compensation (or, for example, food or accommodation), your home country's health insurance coverage will potentially lapse. You will then need special insurance to remain insured for illness and accidents.
  • Regular travel insurance policies generally provide coverage for trips of a limited number of days. If your trip or stay abroad exceeds the maximum number of days, this generally means that for the entire travel period, you will not be covered.
  • Regular travel insurance policies generally only provide coverage for recreational trips without work activities.

What is important to insure when you are going to be an intern abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the area where you will be traveling and doing your internship.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you will be participating in.
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return in case something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost (what it actually costs), and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability and, preferably, also for liability during your internship.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless the coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • Make sure you choose the right coverage for internship work in healthcare, with wild animals, or with dangerous machinery!

Check out more about international insurances

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for studying abroad?

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for studying abroad?

What is insurance for studying abroad?

  • Insurance for studying abroad means that you take out insurance that continues to provide coverage during your studies, your education, and your related activities abroad.
  • Insurance for studying abroad is also referred to as study insurance. This study insurance is specifically for when you go abroad for a long period of time to take courses, study, or conduct research abroad.

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for a study abroad?

  • Study insurance is specifically designed for studying abroad, whereas regular travel insurance policies may offer coverage on paper but handle this situation differently in practice.
  • Study insurance offers coverage for longer stays than regular (vacation) travel insurance.
  • Study insurance is also suitable for many types of activities, ranging from various sports to hiking at high altitudes.
  • Study insurance continues to provide coverage if you start working during your trip, whether planned or unplanned. If you have not taken out insurance before departure that allows you to work, there is no guarantee that you will be able to take out insurance abroad that provides coverage.
  • Study insurance continues to provide coverage if your own country's health insurance no longer provides coverage.
  • Student insurance also covers your healthcare costs above the rates in your own country; with regular insurance, you have to pay the extra costs yourself.
  • Student insurance can also continue to provide coverage if (study) visa issuers impose additional requirements on how you insure yourself, for example if you are going to the US and applying for a J-1 visa.
  • Student insurance continues to provide coverage if you are staying abroad for a longer period of time and want to visit your own country in between.

What is important to insure when you are going to study abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the country or countries where you are going to travel and work.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you only insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • That you pay close attention to choosing the right coverage when performing work alongside your studies.

Check out more about international insurances

Why should you take out specialized insurance for moving abroad as an emigrant or an expat?

Why should you take out specialized insurance for moving abroad as an emigrant or an expat?

What is an emigration insurance and what is an expat insurance?

  • Emigration insurance is an insurance that continues to provide coverage if you move abroad permanently or for an indefinite period of time.
  • Emigration insurance is not only intended for emigrants, but for anyone who leaves their home country for an extended period of time and does not intend to return in the foreseeable future.
  • Expat insurance is insurance that continues to provide coverage if you go to work abroad for a local or international employer for an extended period of time.
  • Expat insurance is not only intended for expats, but for anyone who has a more permanent job abroad.

Why should you take out specialized insurance for emigration or working as an expat abroad?

  • Emigration or expat insurance not only provides coverage for acute assistance in the event of illness or accident abroad, such as travel insurance, but can also provide coverage for existing conditions and ailments or non-urgent care.
  • Emigration or expat insurance does not require you to maintain valid health insurance in your home country.
  • Emigration or expat insurance provides coverage for preventive care or costs related to pregnancy and childbirth.
  • Emigration or expat insurance also provides coverage for long-term treatments and chronic conditions without you having to return to your home country.
  • Emigration or expat insurance often has no restrictions on the duration of the insurance, unlike travel insurance.
  • Emigration or expat insurance usually maintains coverage in cases such as negative travel advice or acts of war.
  • Emigration or expat insurance offers various solutions in the areas of disability, home and household insurance, goods transport, and liability.

What is important to insure when you are going to move abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the country or countries where you are going to live and/or work.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you pay close attention to choosing the right coverage when performing work with additional health risks

Check out more about international insurances

Why should you take out travel insurance and why through the JoHo Foundation?

Why should you take out travel insurance and why through the JoHo Foundation?

Why Insurances through JoHo

  • Specialized: in emigration, work, internships, study and travel abroad.

  • Service: JoHo offers multiple travel insurances by multiple companies. Thanks to JoHo's extensive experience, it can offer support in case of problems with insurers, as well as advice and fast and personal handling.

  • Safe: JoHo is recognized as a trustworthy intermediary for insurances.

  • Social: by purchasing an insurance through JoHo you provide a talented student in The Philippines with health insurance

Why Should You Take Out A Travel Insurance?

  • The chance of getting injured or ill is generally higher than when you would have stayed at home. The medical care you will need can be very expensive, even more so if you are treated in a private clinic.

  • If you have to fly back because of family circumstances, the flights might be more expensive than your original flight because you have to fly on short notice.

  • You might have to deal with the damage, loss or theft of your luggage.

  • In case of emergency it can be difficult to figure out what to do. A good travel insurance will have an assistance team on standby for you 24/7 and will be able to tell you what steps to take.

Why Should You Specifically Take Out A Travel Insurance For A Long Trip Abroad?

  • Often regular travel or health insurances only cover trips for a maximum number of days (for example 60, 90 or 180 days).

  • Depending on your home country, your health insurance might not offer any coverage for treatment abroad.

  • During a long trip you might consider specific activities, like paid work or volunteering. Regular travel insurances often don’t cover these kind of activities. The same goes for adventurous/ hazardous sports like skydiving, scuba-diving and bungee jumping.

More on why to use JoHo

  • JoHo is one of the few organizations where you can directly purchase a comprehensive range of foreign insurances from a variety of insurers. As with our other products and services, we believe that you should be able to choose between the best, the most cost effective and the most specialized insurance.

  • JoHo offers various possibilities from combining insurances to assisting in transferring from one insurer to another.

  • When you purchase an insurance policy through JoHo, you will not pay more than if you had purchased it directly from the insurer. Sometimes (through special collective agreements) you will even pay less.

  • JoHo offers support with problems that may arise with the insurer. Sometimes disagreement with claims, cancellation notice or insurance premiums can occur. In this situation it helps if you have the assistance of an organization who has an established relationship with the insurer.

 

Read more about JoHo and JoHo Insurances

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Safety and insurances in Myanmar

How does health care work in Myanmar, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?

How does health care work in Myanmar, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?

How does the health and healthcare system work in Myanmar?

  • In Myanmar, health care leaves much to be desired. The sector is underdeveloped and emigrants often rely on private clinics or travel to neighboring countries such as Thailand for better care. 
  • According to the World Health Organization, Myanmar ranks almost at the bottom of the list of health care achievements. 
  • There is also a lot of medical inequality in Myanmar. Most facilities can be found in cities like Yangon and Mangalay, despite most Burmese living in rural areas. 
  • Local health insurance is only available to government employees and locals. Expats can purchase their own private health insurance. 

How does the public health care work in Myanmar?

  • Government hospitals provide basic care, often at low cost. 
  • Quality is limited due to a lack of resources, personnel and modern equipment.
  • Care is particularly limited in rural areas. In urban areas such as Yangon and Mandalay, there are more options, but the standard remains low compared to Western standards. 
  • Long waiting times, scarcity of medicines and lack of English-speaking staff make public care less accessible to expats.
  • In public hospitals, you cannot rely on help in English. 

How does the private health care work in Myanmar?

  • Private clinics and hospitals, such as the Yangon International Medical Centre, offer better care. These institutions often cater to expatriates and the local elite. Unfortunately, though, there are only a handful of private clinics. 
  • Private care is significantly better equipped and has English-speaking doctors, but the standard is not always consistent.
  • Expect higher costs than public care, but often still lower than in Western countries.
  • In the end, many emigrants still choose medical treatment abroad, for example, India, Malaysia, Singapore or Thailand. 

How is the family doctor arranged in Myanmar?

  • General practitioners can be found in Myanmar, but it is not easy. Most likely you will find them at private clinics.

How is the dentist arranged in Myanmar?

  • Dental care is available through both public and private clinics. Expats almost always choose private dentists because of better hygiene and quality.
  • Private clinics in cities like Yangon have dentists who are well trained, sometimes even abroad.
  • Dental care is affordable compared to Western countries.

How is the pregnancy care arranged in Myanmar?

  • In Myanmar, women in rural areas have very little access to pregnancy care. 
  • Private hospitals and international clinics are the best choice for prenatal care because of better facilities and English-speaking staff.
  • Private clinics offer safer and more comfortable options, but travel to Thailand is often recommended for complex situations.

How safe or unsafe is a trip or stay in Myanmar?

What should you pay attention to in terms of safety in Myanmar?

  • There has been much social and political unrest in Myanmar since the military takeover in 2021. Therefore, it is mostly not recommended to travel to the country. 
  • Some areas you are not allowed to enter, other areas are (sometimes) under curfew, such as Yangon, for example. Be aware of the latest situation. 
  • Most crime is only of a small and non-violent scale. Think bag-robberies, theft and (sales) scams. 
  • There is a risk of landmines in rural areas. 
  • There is also a risk of incarceration, especially for journalists and human rights activists. 
  • Tropical cyclones sometimes occur between mid-April and mid-May, and in October and November. There is also a risk of earthquakes. 

What should you look out for in terms of diseases in Myanmar?

  • Health risks include mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever, malaria, the zika virus and chikungunya. 
  • You can also catch schistosomiasis, a parasitic infection, in water and there are several diseases you can contract through contaminated food and water. 

What should you pay attention to in terms of traffic in Myanmar?

  • Driving a car is especially risky during the May-October rainy season. Because of landslides, roads can be blocked and bridges can be damaged. 
  • Roads can also be blocked by the military and the opposition. 
  • Road accidents occur regularly, not only because of safety standards, but also because of the condition of vehicles.

What work and travel insurance policies are suitable for short and long stays in Myanmar?

  • Is the trip to Myanmar and your return sufficiently covered? Are you sufficiently covered before, during and after your activities? Which insurance best suits your trip and your activity? Read more about insurances for abroad on JoHoinsurances.org.

What emigration and expat insurance can you take out for Myanmar if you are going to live there for a while?

  • It is not mandatory to have insurance to move to Myanmar. Nevertheless, it is wise to take out one because of the state of medical care and the risk of needed medical evacuations. Read more about insurances for abroad on Expatinsurances.org.
  • Continue reading about emigrating to Myanmar or preparing a trip to Myanmar.

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From language courses to gap year abroad, from work experience to volunteering abroad, from paid work to internship abroad, from mountaineering to diving and from backpacking to travel around the world

    What social activities can you do abroad?

    • Opportunities are found in the areas of helping, learning or studying. You can get involved to volunteer in a social project at a school in Africa, Asia or Latin America. You can get involved in nature, in a project with animals or cleaning the sea or beaches. Those who want to learn more can choose for example a language course in Latin America, Spain or South Africa.

    What work related activities can you do abroad?

    • If you want to gain work experience, and/or also earn money, go and work abroad. You can combine backpacking in Australia with temporary work. You can work on campsites in Europe or bush camps in Africa. You can pretty much go all over the world to work in the hospitality industry, hotels and hostels, in the healthcare sector or for example at a diving school.

    What sports activities to do abroad?

    • Have you ever thought of mountain biking, rafting (going down a wild river on a raft or rubber dinghy, climbing or canoeing), survival (which involves building rafts, climbing or canoeing), abseiling (descending a rock face while secured to ropes), zip-lining (whizzing down a cable), canyoning (starting at the top of a river and then climbing, swimming, diving down the bed) or caving (scrambling, wriggling and crawling through caves and crevices)?
    • Maybe you feel more comfortable on a bodyboard (on a half-wave surfboard, you surf the high waves lying down-with flippers), on a hang glider or while paragliding (with a parachute you float down a mountain or dune), hydrospeeding (on a bodyboard with flippers and a wetsuit on you go down a wild river via rapids) or Tiefschneeskiing (racing down through powder snow)?

    Check the pages below for more activities and inspiration and where to go and how to arrange it

      Activities abroad: for gap year, sports, travel and outdoor abroad

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      Image Impact Terra
      Impact Terra is a fast-growing social enterprise in Myanmar that provides digital services to farmers and organizations so they can produce more efficiently.
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      Myanmar, het Gouden Land

      Een reisverslag van de reis naar Myanmar 22-7-2017 t/m 12-08-2017 Met alleen een ticket en eerste dagen een overnachting in Yangon begon onze reis naar het oude Birma. Van tevoren hadden we op een landkaart een route uitgestippeld die diende als basis voor de 3 weken in dit mooie land. Route: Yangon...

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      Myanmar, het Gouden Land

      Een reisverslag van de reis naar Myanmar 22-7-2017 t/m 12-08-2017 Met alleen een ticket en eerste dagen een overnachting in Yangon begon onze reis naar het oude Birma. Van tevoren hadden we op een landkaart een route uitgestippeld die diende als basis voor de 3 weken in dit mooie land. Route: Yangon...

      Impact Terra

      Impact Terra is a fast-growing social enterprise in Myanmar that provides digital services to farmers and organizations so they can produce more efficiently.

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