I
look forward to sharing larger images as soon as I have put together
some more comprehensiveinformation on Burma and her struggle for democracy.
Without this balanceI fear that I may encourage people to visit the
country
without acquaining themselves with the harsh reality of situation
that prevails there.
Want to Learn More About Burma or Thinking about Travelling There
?
This
site is not politically motivated but If Burma appeals to you as a
tourist
destination, PLEASE acquaint yourself with the current situation -
read about
the country, her people, problems, and struggles for democracy.
It is quite likely that when you have done this you will decide
not to visit Burma.
Regardless of where one is travelling, a basic grounding in the customs,
history and even politics of a place is a surefire way
to improve one's enjoyment whilst being there.
Travelling to any country without this is a blind excercise.
If you want an exotic holiday, please do not travel to Burma -
go to Thailand instead. If, after acquainting yourself with the situation,
you still decide to visit Burma, please do not visit on a package
trip.
Too much of the money goes to the government and it's agencies.
Package holidaymakers invariably stay ingovernment sponsored / owned
hotels,
travel on the (decrepit) government's airlines, railways and use state
owned tour buses.Very little money goes directly to the local populations
-
the minibus owners, rickshaw drivers, small restaurant
owners and hoteliers all lose out.
There are ways of ensuring that as little of your hard currency as
possible
goes directly to the state. Travelling independently is a good start.
Independent travellers are in a better position to interact freely
with local people and ensure they spend their money locally.
It is important to have a choice in a land where ordinary people do
not.
Please think very carefully before you visit.
Learn more ... Some Links & Contacts:-
BURMA ACTION GROUP:
Collins Studios, Collins Yard, Islington Green, London, N1 2XU.
Tel: 020-7359 7679.
BURMA CAMPAIGN:
3rd Floor, Bickerton House 25/27 Bickerton Rd London N19 5JT
Tel: 020-7272 3559
HUMAN RIGHTS WATCH/ASIA:
33 Islington High St,London N1 9LH.
Tel:020-7713 1995.
TOURISM CONCERN:
Stapleton House, 277-281 Holloway Road
London, N7 8HN
Tel: 020 7133 3330
AMNESTY
INTERNATIONAL:
British Section, 99-119 Roseberry Ave, London EC4 4RE.
Tel: 020-8814 6120.
INSIDE BURMA:
LAND OF FEAR
(John Pilger, Documentary Film-maker)
