Travel Tip: Currency Exchange in Burma

© Ryan Goebel

The currency in Burma is known as the Kyat, which when pronounced sounds more like "chat".

Pretty much every guidebook, travel blog, or message board post will tell you not to exchange money at any official currency exchange location (airports, banks, hotels, etc.).  Rather, they'll tell you to exchange your money on the black market, which involves approaching some shady characters on street corners, in public parks, or in traditional markets.

Let me tell you, Burma is a country that is changing at a very rapid pace, and this "common" travel advice is now outdated and irrelevant.

Travel Tip: How to get a Burmese visa in Bangkok

Back in October, I traveled to Burma (also known as Myanmar).  I am often asked about the process required for getting a visa to this beautiful and rapidly changing Southeast Asian nation.  Although I plan on writing more posts about Burma, I'd like to share with you my experience getting my Burmese visa in Bangkok (often considered the easiest place to get the Burmese visa and a common gateway to Burma).

The Embassy of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar in Bangkok is located at 132, Sathorn Nua Rd in Silom. It’s a relatively short walk from the Surasak BTS Skytrain station.  Use Exit 3 from the Surasak station and walk down to street level.  Turn right at the bottom of the stairs so that you are walking along the sidewalk underneath the Skytrain station and past the Skytrain’s escalator entrance.  Continue walking along Sathorn Road past Bangkok Christian School.  The Myanmar Embassy is at the corner of Sathorn Road and Thanon Pan (see map).

© Ryan Goebel

The following items are required to obtain a visa: