5 Local Customs To Know When You Travel To Burma

Those who travel to Burma on their holidays are in for a wonderful experience in a country of breathtaking landscapes and enchanting cities, full of fascinating history and richly diverse culture. The Burmese people are friendly and welcoming, and it is well worth repaying their hospitality by showing respect for local traditions and etiquette which will, in turn, help you to gain a broader appreciation of Burmese society. Here are five useful customs to know about.

Titles

When you travel to Burma, you may notice the way that people address each other varies according to their relationship or the position of the addressee. This is because there are a number of titles used to show respect in social situations. It is worth taking the time to learn the most important ones, as it can help you understand the social interactions that take place around you and so that you know which to use if the need arises. An adult is addressed as U (similar to Mr) or Daw (similar to Ms), while a younger boy is addressed as Ko, and a younger girl as Ma. A boss or teacher is addressed as Saya (male) or Sayama (female), a monk as Kodaw, and a senior monk as Sayadaw.

Visiting Temples

The highest respect is accorded to Buddhism here, so a high degree of courtesy is expected of those who visit temples and pagodas. Dress conservatively, never point your feet at a Buddha image, and be sure to remove shoes and socks when entering any temple buildings.

Eating

While Western eating customs are often followed in restaurants, particularly in the cities, those who travel to Burmas more remote areas may find themselves eating in a more traditional context; it is useful in such cases to know what the local etiquette is. With the country's great cultural diversity this will vary from region to region, but in general food is traditionally eaten with fingers. Meals are served on low tables, and people sit on mats on the floor. It is considered rude to cough or sneeze at the table.

Feet

One of the most important pieces of etiquette to remember when you travel to Burma is that the feet, which are the lowest part of the body, should never be pointed at anyone, or allowed to touch anyone. It is considered disrespectful to place them on tables or chairs, or to step on or over any part of another person. Many Burmese people will also try to avoid stepping in a monks shadow.

Hands

It is polite to either use your right hand, or both hands together, when giving or receiving anything. The other important piece of hand-related etiquette to remember is that it is rude to touch anyone on the head or face.

About the Author:
Jude Limburn Turner is the Marketing Manager for Mountain Kingdoms, an adventure tour company who run tours enabling people to enjoy travel to Burma. Operating in Asia for over 20 years, they now offer treks and tours worldwide, including destinations in North and South America, Europe, Africa, and Central and South East Asia.

Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/5-Local-Customs-To-Know-When-You-Travel-To-Burma/4467547

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