Myanmar has a history of political upheaval dating back to 1988. Recent incidents include large bombings in 2005 and a series of smaller bombings in 2007 and 2008. In September 2007, the government cracked down on demonstrators, killing 30. Myanmar law forbids groups of more than five people. Several American citizens were arrested or detained in recent years for promoting democracy and for visiting leaders of Myanmar's democratic movement, who are under house arrest. During 2009, the government deported American teachers who were part of a U.S. State Department sponsored program.
Crime rates are generally low in Myanmar. The country is poor, so there is a risk of theft. Violent crime against tourists is rare. Travelers should be aware that a lot of the merchandise sold in Myanmar is pirated. It is illegal to bring pirated media into the United States. The government of Myanmar keeps a list of items that may not be taken into or out of the country. The government of Myanmar will not provide a comprehensive list to the U.S. State Department, so travelers should be very careful purchasing items in Myanmar. American travelers have also reported confiscation of personal electronic devices upon arrival in Myanmar.
In 2008, a cyclone destroyed large parts of the Irrawaddy Delta area. Due to poor relief efforts by the government, the area remains a breeding ground for diseases. The country has poor medical care in general. Diseases such as malaria, tuberculosis and hepatitis are found throughout the country. Due to prostitution and drug use, the rate of HIV and AIDS infection is also high. Myanmar has experienced outbreaks of avian influenza in the past.
Myanmar experiences ethnic conflicts along its border. Additionally, the area of Shan state is dangerous because it is the leading center of opium production. Ninety-four percent of the country's poppy fields are in Shan. Myanmar ranks number two in world opium production. Many parts of Myanmar are officially off limits to travelers. The government will not guarantee the safety of any traveler who ventures into forbidden areas.
A military regime rules Myanmar. The government does not offer many rights to anyone arrested in their country, regardless of country of origin. Foreigners arrested in Myanmar have been denied a trial, denied access to legal representation and denied visits by their family and consulate. Internet access is restricted and email communication is carefully monitored. Citizens of Myanmar are required to report interactions with foreigners if asked. Most hotels and public spaces are carefully watched by the security service.
The roads in Myanmar are generally poor. The capital city of Rangoon has lots of pedestrian traffic and animals frequently walk in the roads. Many drivers in Myanmar do not use headlights and most streets are poorly lit. The U.S. Embassy warns its staff not to fly the government-owned airline Myanmar Airways and Air Bagan. The fleet of planes is not properly maintained.
