KnowIt - Survival Guide - 2nd Edition

KnowIT

SECOND EDITION April - July 2015

yangon yangon SURVIVAL GUIDE

SHOPPING SPORT ART & STAGE HEALTH & BEAUTY HOUSING & EMPLOYMENT DOING BUSINESS AND SO MUCH MORE . . .

SURVIVAL GUIDE

SHOPPING SPORT ART & STAGE HEALTH & BEAUTY HOUSING & EMPLOYMENT DOING BUSINESS AND SO MUCH MORE...

EDITOR'S NOTE

Dear visitors and residents, I believe this book is about to become your new best friend. I am proud to present KnowIt 2nd edition, your reviewed and augmented Yangon survival guide.

You may already (or not!) know how unique Yangon is. It has great charms and wonders, light-hearted crowds, beautiful sights. But like any place, it bears its load of challenges and pitfalls.

Going about with life in the city requires patience, calm and humour.

Embracing this local way of life is the key to be happy here. But I’m not going to try and fool anyone: attitude is one thing; knowing the right people, places and information is another… and this is where we kick in.

Our team at MYANMORE works day in, day out to make everyday life more comfortable and interesting, not only for those living and working in Yangon but also for those who are just passing through. We search like gold diggers for that information you need and do our best to make it available.

You name it: You need a plumber? Thinking of getting that dress tailored? Really want a refreshing swim before going out to the movies?

Wondering how to get your company registered? Or you might just be trying to figure out what price you should actually be paying for that pineapple on the street market… before going ahead with some more sightseeing. No worries, just flick through the pages: you’re in control.

See you around and stay in touch! We’re all over town and social media: there’s already over 17,000 of us chatting through Viber. Join us #myanmore!

Myanmore-ly yours, Nikita Black Project Manager

Basic conversation

Hello How are you?

I am fine Nice to meet you How much is it?

Turn Right / Turn left Please stop here Please wait Goodbye Thank you

- - - - - - - - - -

Min ga lar bar Nay kaung lar?

Nay kaung par dae Twae ya dar wan thar par dae Bal lout lae Nyar kwae / Bel kwae De hmar yat bar Kha nah lay bar Nhot sat par dae Dje zoo tin par dae

team MANAGING DIRECTOR Andreas Sigurdsson

table of cont

PROJECT MANAGER Nikita Black CONTRIBUTORS Borbala Kalman, Dave Junker, Eaiddhi, Kabyar Oo, Linda Gadd Mimi Wu, Nance Cunningham & Kirt Mausert, Nyi Zan Hla, Shine Zaw Aung, Sovann Dowall, Quentin van Meerbeeck As well as OfficeCubed, Colliers International, Myanmar Relo Solutions.

SALES sales@myanmore.com +95 (0) 1 375 680

FIND YOUR BEARINGS 8 Need to know 11 Getting started 12 The story of Yangon 15 Mapping out the main areas of town 16 National holidays

PHOTOGRAPHY Christopher Ian Smith, Daniel Roca, Gerhard Joren, Julian Ray, Katrin Ostermayer, Laura Biaggini, Sai Thant Sin, The Pictureman and the Flickr community: Grand Velas, Kam Weng, Marius Arnesen, Suzanne Schroeter, Thomas Wanhoff,

38 Shopping 39 Shopping Handicrafts & Gems 43 Shopping - Fashion 47 Shopping - Book stores 49 Shopping Food & Grocery 54 Finding a taste of home in foreign grocery aisles 56 Sport 63 Sport stores 64 Going for a run in Yangon City 65 Classes 69 Yoga & Meditation

ART & PRODUCTION Kyaw Kyaw Tun, Ye Shin Maung PUBLISHER U Myo Aung Pyi Zone Publishing House Permit No: 04285 PRINTER Room.2, Building 2, Pazundaung Oo Yin Housing, Yangon. Ph: +95 (0) 1 396074 SECOND EDITION April 2015 ABOUT MYANMORE MYANMORE is a registered brand under Lychee Ventures (Myanmar) Limited providing digital and print publishing as well as creative services.

MYANMORE is managing the leading online city guide www.myanmore.com and the printed publications Weekly Guide, InDepth, EnjoyIt and KnowIt. The mission is to provide great content and experiences for residents of Yangon to enjoy and explore.

Disclamer No part of this guide can be reproduced or transmitted in any form without prior written permission from MYANMORE. All details are deemed correct at the time of print, the editor, employees and contributors can not be held responsible for any errors, inaccuracies or omissions that might occur.

eat & drink

activities 22 Top 10 Activities 24 Sightseeing 31 Downtown walking tour 36 Discover Myanmar Specialities

KnowIT

SECOND EDITION April - July 2015

YANGON YANGON SURVIVAL GUIDE

SHOPPING SPORT ART & STAGE HEALTH & BEAUTY HOUSING & EMPLOYMENT DOING BUSINESS AND SO MUCH MORE . . .

74 Top 10 Myanmar foods 77 Unique dining experiences 81 Bars 83 Pub crawl night that covers everything

Cover Take by Gerhard Joren, a Swedish photographer and filmmaker focused on humaninterest documentation and corporate work.

SURVIVAL GUIDE

SHOPPING SPORT ART & STAGE HEALTH & BEAUTY HOUSING & EMPLOYMENT DOING BUSINESS AND SO MUCH MORE...

www.gerhardjoren.com / www.jorenfilms.com

ents art & stage 86 Quality not Quantity 87 Art galleries 90 Live music 92 Yangon's underground music scene 94 Theatre 95 Cinema 96 Poetry

BEAUTY THERAPY 100 Salons & Spas 103 Hair Dressers 104 Tattoos Parlours 106 Beautiful hair in Yangon City 107 Cosmetic Shops

HEALTHCARE 112 Pharmacies 113 Hospitals 115 Clinics 116 Dentists 116 Vets

ICONS ?? Address Contact Number PP Operating Hours

00000001

Exclusive MYANMORE CARD deals !

HOUSING AND EMPLOYMENT 120 Finding accommodation 121 House hunting tips 122 Where to live 131 Settling in 133 Work and reside . . .

Legally 134 Finding a job 135 Contribute to change 138 Embassies & Consulates 141 Postal services

146 Finding an office 147 Serviced offices 150 Business support 156 As an employer 157 Investing in Myanmar 158 Opening a bank account 159 Banks 161 Be visible 162 Networking and getting to know people 163 Chambers of commerce

TRAVEL new!

168 Top 10 Myanmar 170 Weekend outings

further resources

business

174 websites 175 books 176 Maps

144 Setting up your own business

Index

emergency numbers

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Police (Emergency)

Ambulance

Police (Yangon Division) 01 545455

Yangon General Hospital 01 256112

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Fire

192

6 KnowIt / April 2015

Mahabandoola Road with Sule Pagoda in the backdrop - Š MYANMORE

7 To get started in Yangon you’ll need to understand a few of the basics. Finding your bearings and knowing how to get around is a good place to start. Currency issues, telecommunications and internet access are equally important in this modern age. Add to that a basic awareness of the city’s history, festivals and national holidays and you’re on the way to knowing Yangon.

KnowIt / April 2015

Find your bearings

need to know Map of Myanmar

KnowIt / April 2015

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Climate The high season for tourists is between November and February, when Myanmar experiences its ‘Winter’ season. Some locals might be wrapped up in ski jackets and woolly hats in this time, but the temperature rarely drops below 20° Celsius – although things tend to get reasonably cool at night, particularly in the northern areas.

mandalay

Around mid-March the hot season begins, which ends mid-May, when temperatures often go above 40°C in Yangon, and even higher around Mandalay and Bagan: Then comes the rainy season, which runs from midMay until the end of October, with the heaviest rainfall often falling in June and July.

nay pyi taw

yangon

Yangon Rainfall inches/mm

ºC/ºF Temp 40/104 -

- 12/300

30/86 -

- 8/200

20/68 - 4/100

10/50 0/32 -

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a

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Orientation

Population

Myanmar (formerly Burma) sits on the cusp of Southeast Asia. It is neighboured by the Andaman Sea to the South; the Bay of Bengal, Bangladesh and India to the West; China to the north; and China, Laos and Thailand to the East. It is the most westerly country in the 10-nation Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) bloc.

A recent census revealed the population to be 51 million, considerably lower than the previous estimate of 60 million. There are, however, questions over the current count as not everyone was included in the census.

It is made up of seven states (Kachin, Rakhine, Chin, Karen, Kayah, Shan, Mon) and seven regions (Yangon, Bago, Mandalay, Sagaing, Tanintharyi, Irrawaddy and Magwe).

Yangon - 5 million Mandalay - 1.5 million Nay Pyi Taw - 1 million

Time Zone GMT +6.30

NEED TO KNOW capital city - nay pyi taw Myanmar has long had many incarnations of capital cities and the latest came in 2005, when the previous military regime moved their capital from Yangon.

While Yangon lost its capital city status in 2005, it remains the country’s social and economical capital with the vast majority of activity taking place there. If Yangon is the economical capital, then Mandalay - which was the last royal capital of the country until 1885 - is certainly the cultural capital with the largest amount of pagodas, monasteries and monks in the country.

Currency The official currency is kyat (pronounced ‘chat’) which currently exchanges at about K1030 to US$1, but can fluctuate.

BANKS AND ATMS All banks are open from 9:30am to 3:00pm and the most useful banks are KBZ and CB banks, both of which accept Visa cards and Mastrcards and have ATMs with which you can use overseas cards. There is a K5000 charge per transaction. You’ll find these ATMs all across Yangon.

BRING NEW DOLLAR BILLS It is imperative that your dollar notes are in pristine condition, that means 2006 or later dollar bills that have no creases, marks or fading colours. That means anything less may be rejected when it comes to paying. While $100 bills get the best exchange rates it is also a good idea to have one, five and ten dollar notes to round off hotel and other bills directly.

The Kyats - © MYANMORE

Do not exchange money with people on the streets. There are frequent reports of travellers being scammed by black market traders in Yangon.

CASH, CREDIT CARDS AND TRAVELLERS CHEQUES The kyat is divided into the following banknotes: K1, K5, K10, K20, K50, K100, K200, K500, K1000, K5000, and K10,000, the smaller denominations are less common and usually in bad condition.

Many places will accept the $US or the kyat but a few government-run services such as the trains, archaeological site and IWT ferries continue to insist on payment in dollars.

Credit cards are becoming increasingly accepted by top end hotels, restaurants and shops but are little used elsewhere.

MONEY CHANGERS There are several official banks and private licence exchange booths in Yangon with the airport offering quite good rates. Count your kyats before handing over your money and never accept notes that are torn or taped over as no one will accept these. You won’t need to carry huge wads of cash as the presence of ATM machines has become more commonplace.

KnowIt / April 2015

Yangon and Mandalay

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Currently, the city mainly attracts businessmen who have to visit Nay Pyi Taw to meet with ministers and conduct general government business. However, the government has announced in the past that it plans to one day turn it into a vibrant city that is attractive to tourists. The most attractive sites are a pagoda, a zoo, a gems museum and a uniquely empty 20-lane highway that runs up to Myanmar’s government building, the Hlutttaw.

NEED TO KNOW

Communication Telephone

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Myanmar Telephone Code: + 95 A few years ago, SIM cards could cost upwards of US$1,000 making them inaccessible to the general public. However, as of 2014 cards sold by the Ooredoo and Telenor networks have become generally available for as cheap as 1500Ks, which led to a market revolution. now all three providers sell their SIM cards more or less at the same price. Cards work on a top-up basis, with K1000, K3000, K5000 and K10,000 cards available.

Ooreedoo and Telenor SIM cards are 3G mobile data enabled and standard SIM and micro SIM cards are available. The government MPT network also now offers SIM cards on general sale for K1500; top up works in the same way as other cards.

The three providers now have the same tarification method based on data usage.

This is a new feature for MPT who historically charged per minute of use, and you have to make sure you activate the new system when you purchase your SIM. The only difference between those providers is the cost for calls, data and the coverage. Depending on what you use your phone for as well as where you live and where you are trying to call, you might favour one operator to another. Best option is to ask a friend who has been around for some time and can help you out at the phone store.

If you don’t have a sim card and need to give someone a call (local), just look out for phones on the streets. For international calls, you’re much better off skyping from an internet café.

Internet The reliability of internet still falls behind

Getting connected - © MYANMORE

international standards and remains a problem for many people and businesses in Myanmar. In Yangon, it is possible to gain good access at some of the larger hotels such as Sule Shangri-La, Park Royal and Chatrium, but those wanting to install internet at home are often subjected to high set-up and monthly costs. The major internet improvement lays within the possibility of using 3G on smartphones.

Social Media As a consequence of the telephone revolution, Myanmar is experiencing a boom in social media. Myanmar youths have never been so connected, and this year has witnessed the entry of a major player : Viber.

MYANMORE is proud to have been one of the first companies to partner up with Viber in Myanmar.

Join us on our Viber chat group: don't miss out, this is where all updates about what's going on in Yangon are posted! Not to mention all the exclusive MYANMORE deals and promotions on food, drinks, spas, arts, sports & lifestyle in general!

Downtown Yangon is much smaller but was built in a grid system by the British, making it a relatively easy city to navigate within the downtown area. Going from west to east, the streets are numerical from the 1st. At the centre of the grid is the impressive Sule Pagoda, which is a lively hub of activity for both locals and foreign businesses; hosting popular tea shops, parks and international hotels including Sule Shangri-La, which is often used as an unofficial centrepoint for business people arriving in the city.

The Strand Road, lying alongside the Yangon River, is a lively street and hosts (unsurprisingly) The Strand Hotel as well as a number of other hotels and restaurants.

Heading out of the city, the two main roads are Pyay Road (to the west) and Kabar Aye Pagoda Road (to the east); two parallel roads that act as Yangon’s main veins from its suburbs.

The whole country is divided into townships (as of 2007, there were 325 nationwide) and there are 44 in Yangon. Useful ones to know for visitors include Dagon (home to Shwedagon Pagoda, a lively expat scene and just north of downtown); Bahan (popular for expats living in the city); Botahtaung for Botahtaung Pagoda; Kamayut for the lively Hledan area; Latha for Chinatown; and Kyauktada the main centre-point of downtown Yangon.

Sule pagoda road - Š CISmith

KnowIt / April 2015

Yangon is surrounded on three sides by water. To the west and south lies the Yangon River, while to the west is Pazundaung Creek, which flows into the Yangon River. Stretching north, the limits of Yangon City stop - generally speaking - somewhere around the airport in Mingalardon.

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getting started

GET STARTED

the story of yangon

KnowIt / April 2015

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As the city in its current form, Yangon is a relatively young one. However, much like many others around the country, there is a more ancient version which sat relatively idle before its re-emergence.

In 1755, King Alaungpaya, founder of the Konbaung Dynasty which ruled the country from 1752 to 1885, built a new city called Dagon Shwedagon pagoda - © CISmith on the site of present day Yangon. The history of Dagon is tied very closely to the beautiful pagoda which dominates today’s Yangon skyline.

According to legend, the Shwedagon Pagoda has existed for more than 2,600 years. It is said that two brothers were travelling in the region in the 6th century BC when they met the Gautama Buddha, who gave them eight relics of his hair. The brothers returned to their homeland where they met local ruler King Okkalapa and granted him the hairs, which he enshrined at the site.

In one version of what happened next: “There was a tumult among men and spirits… rays emitted by the hairs penetrated up to the heavens above and down to hell… the blind beheld objects… the deaf heard sounds… the dumb spoke distinctly… the earth quaked… the winds of the ocean blew… Mount Meru shook… lightning flashed… gems rained down until they were knee deep… all trees of the Himalayas, though not in seasons, bore blossoms and fruit.”

One other explanation was that the Shwedagon Pagoda was built by Mon kings sometime around the 8th century. When the British took over what was then Burma, they recognised the benefits of Yangon being located close to the sea. Renaming the town Rangoon (presumably because they couldn’t quite work out how to say Yangon), they turned it into their capital, using Sule Pagoda as the official centrepoint and building the city in a grid-like structure around that.

Although the government moved the capital up-country to Nay Pyi Taw in 2005, Yangon has continued to prosper as the country changes. The mighty river still acts as a useful trading point and the downtown area remains one of the most vibrant and diverse cities in Southeast Asia, with historic buildings ranging from pagodas, to mosques, to Hindu temples, to churches and even a synagogue.

In the last few years, many construction-sites have appeared over the city. Yangon is in the midst of a construction craze by investors who want to deliver luxury hotels, malls, condos and office space. More general works in the city include the narrowing of footpaths to give more space to cars...which will no doubt impact the local tea-shop culture and street life as a whole.

Walking Walking around is one of the best options to really get to know a city and also save money.

But pathways are uneven, so mind your step.

Remember to check which side traffic is coming from... we don’t want you to get run over.

Taxi Taking a taxi is the most convenient way to travel around Yangon. You should ask and confirm the fare before boarding. Fares start at around 1,500Ks for a short trip, but expect to pay more after dark or to switch on the airconditioning. As understanding of English is limited amongst many taxi drivers, it is useful to know what the major landmarks close to your destination are.

Let's go for a ride - © Laura Biaggini

A FAIR FARE Getting around Yangon by taxi can be a hassle if you don’t like to bargain. Taxi drivers are out to make a buck (can you blame them?) and they will capitalise on customers that don’t know exactly where and how far away their destinations might be. Here are a few tips for striking a fair deal with a driver: Negotiate in increments of 500. Almost all fares are going to be 1,500, 2000, 2,500 or 3,000Ks unless you’re going unusually far (like to the airport or bus station).

Ask for air-con. Some more ‘enterprising’ drivers will try to charge an extra 500-1000Ks to turn on the airconditioner; you could decline on principle, but in the heat of Yangon traffic it just might be worth splurging on some chill time.

Don’t be afraid to get some help. Even if you don’t like bargaining, it’s undeniably entertaining to watch an expert haggler at work. Many locals would love to help you get where you’re going, or at least tell you what the fair price is.

Trishaw or Side-car

City Buses

These are the easiest and most convenient mode of transportation outside downtown, where they are restricted. They’re great for getting around small streets and fares start from 500Ks.

Uncomfortable and usually very crowded, buses are the best way to drop your budget for transportation. Starts from 200Ks, but everything is written in Burmese.

Car Rental with Driver If budget is no issue for you, you will find that renting a car with a driver is a convenient way of traveling around. Note that visitors without an international license are not allowed to drive in Myanmar.

Bike Hopping on a bicycle is an alternative way to experience Yangon and its surrounding countryside. Several tours are available if you are seeking an unforgettable adventure in a green environment.

Hop on - © Laura Biaggini

KnowIt / April 2015

Getting around

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GET STARTED

GET STARTED

KnowIt / April 2015

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Be aware

Yangon dog - © MYANMORE

It’s more a case of ‘Be Aware’ in Yangon rather than ‘Beware!’ Relatively speaking, Yangon is one of the safest cities in all of Southeast Asia, crime levels are still very low and the people are generally very respectful; that doesn’t mean that incidents

of crime don’t occur.

With Myanmar being an incredibly conservative country, visitors – particularly women – are encouraged to dress in a conservative manner. There is also very much a culture against (losing face) in Myanmar.

Myanmar people do not enjoy confrontation and there have been instances of anger and bad blood when a foreigner argues with a local. If you feel that you are being ripped off, do not become aggressive.

Smile and deal with any issues in a polite and respectful way.

Another thing to look out for, particularly at night, is packs of dogs. Again, instances have occurred where packs of dogs attack people walking alone at night, so it is advisable to always travel at least in groups of two at night.

Circular Train Line One of the cheaper options for those visiting Yangon on a budget, the Circle Railway – a three to four hour loop around Yangon and the northern suburbs – offers genuine insight into the lives of the city’s residents.

One recent addition is some air-conditioned and first class carriages, but the majority of carriages continue to be the claptrap, swaying trains and it’s a wonderful way to spend an afternoon or morning and to observe the day to day life of the people.

With hand-written train schedules and passenger lists, as well as the hardwood seats, train travel in Myanmar often feels like you are stepping back in time.

The scenery itself isn’t particularly unique, but it’s the local way of life you witness as the train trundles along that is the real draw of this trip. Chicken carcasses line the floor, monks sit idly staring out the window and

Circular train - © MYANMORE

locals will always offer a pleasant smile.

The Yangon Central Railway Station is also an impressive piece of architecture Tickets: 200Ks. Yangon Central Railway Station, next to Bogyoke Aung San Stadium, a few hundred yards north of Sule Shangri-la Hotel.

If you feel like one hour is long enough for you, just hop out and grab a taxi back to town.

The lively eastern downtown area offers great street food, unique architecture and lively street-life. The wide, boulevard-like Pansodan Street is the highlight of this part of town with its Colonial-era buildings, as are the book sellers that line the street (look closely and you may pick up some great bargains). Architectural highlights include the High Court and the Secretariat Building.

WEST DOWNTOWN Stretching west from Sule Pagoda, visitors will first pass through Little India, with its excellent restaurants and vibrant streetlife. Further west there are some intricately-designed Hindu temples and the Chinatown area. 19th Street is the go-to area after-dark no matter what night of the week it is.

AHLONE Yangon’s lively riverside area is a good place to visit during the day. Here you’ll see industrialYangon at its liveliest. Nestled down some of the quieter streets here remain many of the British-built colonial homes, although many are off-limits to visitors.

BAHAN Popular amongst the city’s expat community, Bahan offers a number of good restaurants.

Dhamazeddi Road is lined with excellent restaurants.

HLEDAN Hledan is one of Yangon’s most exciting areas, particularly by night. There’s a lively market where the streets are filled with the aromas of chicken carcasses, spices and flowers all mixed in. There are also a few bar/restaurants emerging in the area.

gon’s young lovers. The west side of the lake sees couples walking up and down, arm-in-arm all day long, while the east side is usually a bit quieter and even has a Golf Driving Range.

Sanchaung Sanchaung is always on the go: shopping, eating, relaxing...whatever you feel like doing is possible.

The Dagon Shopping Centers provides a good variety of shops but it’s also fun to get lost in the maze-like streets around Sanchaung street!

YAW MIN GYI QUARTER Quickly emerging as one of Yangon’s trendier areas, the Yaw Min Gyi district has probably the most number of restaurants-per-square-mile in the city. Head here for Japanese food, Westernstyle burgers and excellent street food.

LOCAL TIP: The street vendor on the corner of Yaw Min Gyi and Bo Yar Nyunt Road sells what is often labelled the best Shan Noodles (Shan Kow Sway) in town.

On the other side of the river.

Quiet places for big luxury communities have emerged on both sides of Yangon.

To the west, across the Hlaing river, lays the Pun Hlaing Golf Estate : a haven of peace set on beautiful grounds, which provides many highend services.

Across the smaller river to the east of Yangon, a brand new luxury community compound, Star City, has been built and also showcases a beautiful golf course and sports grounds, and a good number of bars and restaurants.

These two places are very popular amongst expats desirous of living in calm and leafy topend apartments and houses.

INYA LAKE Built as a reservoir during the days of British rule, Inya Lake is now a popular spot for Yan-

For maps, see end of guide

KnowIt / April 2015

EAST DOWNTOWN

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mapping out the main areas of town

KnowIt / April 2015

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National Holidays While a range of religions are celebrated in Myanmar, it is Buddhism that takes the lead role when it comes to celebrating National Holidays. Most National Holidays in Myanmar take in a visit to the local pagoda by the local people, and there are also a fair amount of holidays celebrating the country’s most historical monuments.

Independence Day 4th January On January 4 1948, Myanmar (then Burma) became entirely independent of its British rulers. Shan National Sao Shwe Taik became the new country’s first President and U Nu its first Prime Minister.

While there is no lingering resentment towards the British, the Burmese are fiercely proud of gaining independence and fairs and activities are held across the country. In Mahabandoola Square, in downtown Yangon (southeast of Sule Pagoda), lies the Independence Monument, which is on the exact spot of what was once a statue of Queen Victoria during the days of British rule.

Union Day 12TH February Union Day celebrates the anniversary of the signing of the Panglong Agreement, which was signed between the Burmese government under General Aung San and the people of Shan, Kachin and Chin on February 12, 1947.

The agreement pronounced full independence in internal governance and was seen as key to the country gaining full independence from the British a year later.

Full Moon of Tabaung 4th March The Full Moon of Tabaung is a traditional merit-making day for Buddhists in Myanmar.

It is celebrated during the last month before the Burmese New Year. Shwedagon Pagoda

hosts a lively festival to celebrate this holiday.

The festival begins with a ceremony making offerings to the 28 Buddhas, followed by a 10day nonstop recital of the Buddhist scriptures.

Peasants’ Day 2nd March PEASANTS’ DAY celebrates Myanmar’s large population of “peasants” or farmers, which make up about 70 percent of the country’s population. The date commemorates the military coup of 1962.

During the holiday, leaders organise talks about opportunities for farmers in the country and reforms that would benefit the industry.

During the holiday, some families visit parks or local pagodas, while there are usually cultural shows hosted in various towns around the country.

Armed Forces’ Day 27th March Originally celebrated as Resistance Day, the celebration of Armed Forces’ Day coincides with the anniversary of the army’s resistance against Japanese occupation in 1945.

Ceremonies are hosted on this day, celebrating the nation’s army (the Tatmadaw), usually in the capital city Nay Pyi Taw.

Thingyan Water Festival (Burmese New Year) 13th APRIL - 21st April It’s that one time of the year where the usually

HOLIDAYS

Today, it has turned into a raucous, but incredibly fun celebration where people of all ages take to the streets to party and pour water all over each other. Floats are set up on the side of main roads and vehicles pass through ready to be utterly doused in water.

If you happen to be visiting during the holiday, make sure your valuables are securely wrapped in waterproof containers as the local people show absolutely no mercy in their dousing.

Despite the relatively raucous celebrations today, many Burmese take the opportunity to head to the monastery for a few days to find

Thingyan water festival - © CISmith

1

Thingyan Water Festival | 12th April

2

Full Moon Day of Thadingyut | 28th Oct

3

Independent Day | 4th January

4

Tazaungdaing | 26th November

5

Peasants Day | 2nd March

some much needed tranquillity and to give merit.

Labour Day 1st May The almost worldwide holiday celebrating workers’ rights, specifically the eight-hour day movement, which advocates eight-hours for

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Celebrated similarly in neighbouring Buddhist countries, Thingyan (‘Songkran’ in Thailand and ‘Chaul Chnam Thmey’ in Cambodia) was traditionally, and still is in certain quarters, celebrated to cleanse ones spirit before the coming of the New Year.

popular celebrations

KnowIt / April 2015

conservative Burmese allow themselves to go a little wild.

KnowIt / April 2015

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HOLIDAYS work, eight-hours for recreation and eighthours for rest.

Mahn Ba Khaing, Ba Win, Thakin Mya, Abdul Razak, Sao San Tun, Ohn Maung and Ko Htwe.

Full Moon of Kasone 2nd May FULL MOON

Full Moon Day of Thadingyut 28th October FULL MOON

Sometimes informally referred to as Buddha’s Birthday, Kasone (known commonly as Wesak), commemorates the birth, enlightenment and death of Gautama Buddha. It is a holy day for Burmese Buddhists and is usually marked by marches through the streets.

Held on the full moon day of the Lunar month of Thadingyut, this festival (also known as the Lighting Festival of Myanmar) says goodbye to the Buddhist lent, and hopefully rainy season.

The festival is celebrated to welcome Buddha’s descent from heaven and lasts for three days: the day before full moon, full moon and the day following full moon.

Waso Full Moon Day 31st July FULL MOON Celebrating the Buddha’s first sermon of the Four Noble Truths, the Waso Full Moon Day marks the beginning of Buddhist lent (Vasso), which generally coincides with the height of Myanmar’s rainy season.

During Thadingyut, musical plays and free movies are shown around the country, and there are a number of food stalls, as well as tra-

It is normally a time of heightened religious activity around the country, and many of the most abiding monks do not leave the monastery grounds during this time. Commitments from more lay Buddhists usually involve abstaining from meat, alcohol or smoking and it is also a time when Burmese people are not allowed to move house.

Martyrs’ Day 19th July Apart from Thingyan, Martyrs’ Day is probably Myanmar’s most important public holiday.

It is observed to commemorate the assassination of the country’s father of independence General Aung San (whose daughter is Aung San Suu Kyi) and nine others by a jealous political rival shortly before the country attained independence from the British.

On Martyrs’ Day, at approximately 10.37am, car horns on the streets of Myanmar go into a frenzy to commemorate the moment that gunmen barged into a cabinet meeting at the Secretariat in downtown Yangon and shot the group.

Months later, politician U Saw was found guilty and hung outside Yangon’s Insein Prison.

Besides Aung San, those shot were Ba Cho,

Buddhist ceremony © Gerhard Joren

KnowIt / April 2015

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HOLIDAYS

Temple carvings - © CISmith

ditional shops opened to celebrate.

It is one of the most important days of the year for the Buddhist people and is a popular time for local people to visit Pagodas.

Full Moon of Tazaungmone 26th November FULL MOON Held on the full moon day of Tazaungmone (usually in November), the holiday celebrates the end of Kahtein season, during which monks are offered new robes and alms.

Despite today being celebrated as a Buddhist festival, the festival is thought to have strong links to Hindu celebrations. It is yet another

festival that fills the country’s pagodas, and much merit-making takes place.

National Day 6th december National Day is celebrated to commemorate the beginning of student protests against British rulers, which included a strike in the country’s universities.

Christmas Day 25th December Despite being a predominately Buddhist country, Christmas is celebrated as an official National Holiday.

20 KnowIt / April 2015

Pun Hlaing golf club - Š Pun Hlaing

21 New arrivals, whether they are staying long or short-term, might be surprised at the range of activities on offer in Yangon.

Very few clubs or groups existed until a few years ago, but it is possible to start almost any activity you want. Normally it’s a case of having a conversation with some friends, or posting something on a forum, and within hours you have a group of like-minded people wanting to join you for some fun.

For updates on what is going on in town check our website of grab a weekly guide.

KnowIt / April 2015

ACTIVITIES

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top 10 activities © Katrin Ostermayer

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Be Enlightened at the Shwedagon

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Myanmar’s most pious site, the Shwedagon Pagoda, sits at the top of most people’s must-do lists with good reason - not only is it a still-functioning religious and pilgrimage site, it is also an aesthetic beauty that dominates Yangon’s skyline.

© Gerhard Joren

Experience Yangon’s Downtown

1

Walk the gridded, and gridlocked streets of downtown Yangon to experience one of the loudest, most vibrant cities in the region. The streets are lined with hawkers selling everything from maps, to books, to antiques and it is also here that you will see the majority of the impressive colonial-era buildings that were built by the British. It’s worth stopping in many of Yangon’s lively teashops for a quick break.

Ride a man-powered ferris wheel

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The ferris wheel by Inya Lake is powered by young men climbing up the wooden beams and using their body weight and acrobatic skills to pull it around... ready for the thrill?

© Gerhard Joren

© MYANMORE

Sample the local food

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While the unofficial national dish is mohinga (a sort of fish broth), some of Myanmar’s best food comes from the ocean to the country’s west. Rakhine sea food offers all your treats from lobster, to crabs, to prawns and many more.

The best place to sample them in Yangon is at any of Minn Lan’s seafood restaurants.

ACTIVITIES

Get your local crafts

Visit the national races village

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© Daniel Roca

Stroll around the Royal Lake

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Yangon’s Kandawgyi Lake is home to lush vegetation, relaxing restaurants, cafes and love-sick youths. It’s a wonderful spot to spend an afternoon relaxing in the park’s vast space, while the area close to the Karaweik (on the lake’s south eastern edge) is a lively area by both day and night.

Spending a few hours visiting the typical houses and villages of the park is an enjoyable way to gain interesting insights about traditions and lifestyles of Myanmar’s eight main ethnic groups.

Learn about Myanmar’s past

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The National Museum of Myanmar offers an eclectic mix of interesting, striking and slightly odd artifacts of the country’s past. There's a range of areas covering different aspects of Myanmar’s history, such as language, the Taungoo dynasty and celebrations of the country’s many ethnic groups.

© Laura Biaggini

Witness some puppetry

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© The Pictureman

With the official title of ‘Yoke the’, this traditional Burmese puppetry is thought to have regal origins, having been performed before the country’s kings and queens. It is a practice that continues today; the best place to see it is at Htwe Oo Puppetry.

Try some Burmese boxing

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Burmese boxing (‘Lethwei’) is similar to its better known cousin in Thailand, but with a few differences. It’s a brutal sport to watch, and even more brutal to practice, the latter of which can be done at the Thut Ti Lethwei Boxing School.

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Bogyoke Market, in downtown Yangon, is your spot if you want to take home some typical Myanmar arts and crafts from your trip.

The extensive market sells products ranging from gems, to longyis, to the unique Pathein umbrella.

sightseeing 24

Architectural Structures

KnowIt / April 2015

City Hall An impressive structure next to Sule, it is now the offices for the Yangon City Development Committee. The building was designed by architect U Tin who also designed the nearby railway station.

the week and offers some of the best views in town of the Shwedagon, which sits proudly on the other side of the lake.

PP 6pm to 9pm. ?? Karaweik Palace, Kandawgyi Park, Mingalar Taung Nyunt Township. +95 1 290 546, +95 1 290 547 Email: karaweikpalace@gmail.com

?? Sule Pagoda Road, Downtown.

Pansodan Street

City Hall - © MYANMORE

High Court Located next to the attractive Mahabandoola Garden, the High Court is another of Yangon’s impressive, redbrick structures built during British rule.

The wide, boulevard-like Pansodan Street was made into one of the main roads when the British made Yangon their capital. Evidence of that continues today with large, colonial-era offices lining the street. Some have been left to fall into varying states of disrepair while others have been renovated to (almost) their former glories. The grand buildings contrast well with some run-down local additions and the vibrant streetlife that takes place on the streets.

Architectural highlights include the Ministry of Inland Water Transportation and the Myanmar Port Authority Office. A derelict mintgreen building at the bottom of the street is a personal favourite.

?? Mahabandoola Garden Street, Downtown.

Pegu Club Karaweik Palace An elaborate barge on the eastern shore of the Kandawgyi Lake, today the Karaweik is home to a restaurant which hosts Burmese cultural shows in the evening. Designed by Burmese architect U Ngwe Hlaing, the Karaweik was based on the Pyigyimon royal barge, which remains today in the moat of Mandalay Palace.

The buffet/cultural show runs from 6pm to 9pm and those who arrive early will be rewarded with a range of cultural shows and dances, as well as a great selection of food.

For those not interested in seeing the show itself, the area surrounding the Karaweik is a lively area frequented by locals each night of

Yangon’s version of Raffles has fallen into disrepair since it was taken over by the Socialist government in the 1960s. Today it is used as housing for government staff but despite its barren, rundown feel, it’s a fascinating place to gain some insight into how the British officers lived during their “hardship” placements in Burma. An errant dog turd sits where officers would have sat sipping on their Pegu Club cocktail; Now close to the general public. A sign of how badly the place has fallen since the colonial days.

Strand Road It’s still easy to imagine merchants arriving at

SIGHTSEEING

Downtown Yangon’s most impressive colonialera building sits hidden by heavily-fortified fencing. It’s an impressive structure and hold particular importance for the Burmese as it is the site where independence hero, Bogyoke Aung San, was gunned down during a cabinet meeting in 1947. ?? Bo Aung Kyaw Road, Downtown

Yangon General Hospital This attractive Victorian-style, red-brick hospital was established in 1899 during the British days. It continues as a functioning hospital today but is worth visiting for it’s unique form of architecture alone. ?? Bogyoke Aung San Road, Latha Township

Shwedagon pagoda © Katrin Ostermayer

The secretariat building - © MYANMORE

PAGODAS Sule Pagoda The British made Sule Pagoda the centrepoint of Yangon after the city became their capital.

Some debate remains about its true age but many believe it to be older than Shwedagon; Burmese legends states that the site for the Shwedagon Pagoda was asked to be revealed by an old nat who resided at the site of Sule.

It remains a lively hub of activity today, with some teashops and restaurants nearby.

Entry : US 2$ ?? Sule Pagoda Road, at the crossroads with Mahabandoola Road, Downtown.

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The Secretariat Building

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Yangon port a hundred or so years ago, mainly due to the impressive colonial-era buildings that line the northern side of Strand Road. The southern side is a complete contrast, with market stalls selling everything from fruit to fish to toothpaste.

Architectural highlights include Customs House, the Post Office and the Yangon Region Court.

SIGHTSEEING

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Botahtaung Pagoda An attractive pagoda that sits on the northern edge of the Yangon River, Botahtaung is believed to be as old as Shwedagon – again, probably built during the Mon’s rule.

The original pagoda was destroyed during World War II, when the British air force bombed the Yangon harbour, and has been completely rebuilt. Work began on the very day that Myanmar (then Burma) gained independence from the British – 4 January 1948.

The walls of the entrance are filled with an intricate tapestry of the life of Buddha.

A visit to the pagoda is a good opportunity to tie-in a walk around Yangon’s lively riverside area. Botahtaung jetty also has a number of pleasant local restaurants and ‘beer stations’ (local versions of pubs).

Entrance: US$3 ?? Corner of Botahtaung Pagoda Road and Strand Road, Botahtaung.

Chauk Htat Gyi (Reclining Buddha) Home to the reclining Buddha, Chauk Htat Gyi is located just outside of Yangon’s downtown area. The original image was completed in 1907, and renovations were made in 1966, when five metres in height was added to the image.

The 65-metre long, 16-metre high Buddha wears a golden robe and is a dominating and impressive site.

Entry : US 5$ ?? Shwegonedine Road, Tamwe Township

Kaba Aye was built by independent-Burma’s first Prime Minister, U Nu, to commemorate the Sixth Buddhist Synod from 1954-1956 (although the pagoda itself was completed in 1952).

The main pagoda is 117 feet, 6 inches high, with smaller pagodas at eight feet high dotted around it. The Maha Pasana Cave (‘The Great Cave of Stone’) is located to the north of pagoda, and is a replica of the cave by the same name in India, where the first Buddhist Synod was hosted. Very nearby is the Myanmar Gems’ Museum.

Entry : US 5$ ?? Kaba Aye Pagoda Road, Township

Koe Htat Kyi One of Yangon’s lesser known pagodas, Koe Htat Kyi (‘The Nine-Storey Pagoda) is an enormous Buddha image that sits just to the west of the city. In the hallways sits a statue of a frog and a snake, to commemorate the Burmese story of the frog eating the snake on the site.

It’s a calm, tranquil place and home to a number of monasteries and small shops.

Entry : US 2$ ?? Bargayar Road, Sanchaung Township

Maha Wizaya It’s easy to spot Maha Wizaya; it’s the little brother of Shwedagon that sits just to the south of its more famous sibling. Maha Wizaya was built in 1980, with relics contributed by the then-King of Nepal. Sometimes referred to as “Ne Win’s Pagoda”, the former leader who ran the country (some say disastrously) from 1962 to 1988, consecrated the pagoda. Many believed it to be an attempt at merit-making by the highly superstitious Ne Win. Entry : free ?? U Htaung Bo Road (very close to Shwedagon Pagoda), Dagon Township

Other Religious Sites Reclining Buddha - © CISmith

Kaba Aye Pagoda One of the country’s more modern pagodas,

Armenian Apostolic Church of St John the Baptist Armenians have had a strong influence in Yangon’s development, with the first settlers – traders - arriving in the 17th century and

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SIGHTSEEING

Chinese temple - © Daniel Roca

residing in Thanlywin (named Syriam by the British), which sat just outside the city’s limits.

In the 17th century, Persia kicked out many Armenians from their homeland, with many arriving in modern-day Iran. Ambitious traders then often continued their journey, making their way through India and into Southeast Asia; many settling in what is today called Myanmar.

Many thrived in their new country with some Armenians acting as advisors to the last of Burma’s kings, whilst the Sarkie brothers established the famous Strand Hotel, as well as a number of other hotels-of-note across the region.

Not far from the Strand Hotel sits this attractive church. Only a couple of Armenians families are thought to be left in the city. ?? 66 Bo Aung Kyaw Street, Botahtaung Township

Emmanuel Baptist Church Located at the corner of Mahabandoola Road and Mahabandoola Garden Street (a few dozen yards east of Sule Pagoda), this church, built by an American missionary in 1885, is thought to be one of the oldest churches in Yangon.

Entry : free ?? Corner of Mahabandoola Road and Mahabandoola Garden Street, Kyauktada Township

Kheng Hock Keong, Chinatown Kheng Hock Keong temple is an intricate Chinese Buddhist and Taoist temple on Strand Road. Originally built as a wooden temple in the late 19th century, a new brick building was completed in 1903, and it remains ever-popular among Yangon’s abundant Chinese population.

PP 24/24 ?? 426/432 Strand Road (near the corner with 18th Street), Latha Township

Mosques There are a great number of mosques dotted around Yangon. Many Muslims arrived from the Indian continent as traders prior to British occupation, while many were brought across specifically by the British. The long-standing Muslim community has had a strong influence on Yangon’s architectural heritage.

The Bengali Sunni Jamae Mosque, located close to Sule, is a part of one of the most religiously-diverse few-hundred-yards you’ll find anywhere; mosques, churches, pagodas and a synagogue all within very close proximity of one another.

Other mosques of note in Yangon include Narsapuri Moja Sunni Jamae Mosque on Anawratha Road and Mughal Shia Mosque on 30th Street. ?? Downtown

SIGHTSEEING

Musmeah Yeshua Synagogue bike rental

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BIKE WORLD EXPLORES MYANMAR The friendly folks at Bike World organise two weekly bike trips. The Friday Night Ride begins at 9.30pm at the Bike World guesthouse, arriving back at the same location about midnight.

The Sunday morning ride leaves from the same place at 6.30am and returns around midday. Bikes are available for hire. Be ready for a tough ride.

Myanmar’s last remaining synagogue is nestled down a narrow street in the heart of Yangon’s downtown. Built at the very end of the 19th century, the synagogue was built for the many Jews arriving in the country during its colonial days – the majority migrating were Baghdadi Jews, Bene Israel and Cochini Jews arriving from India.

Around the mid-20th century, the number of Jews living in Yangon would have been around 3,000. A second synagogue was opened in 1932, but during the Japanese Occupation, and more notably, after the military coup in 1962 , many fled. A few dozen Jews are estimated to be living in Yangon today.

?? 10F Khabaung Road, 6 ½ mile, Hlaing township (near the Israeli Embassy).

Contact Jeff at +95 (0) 9 513 4190 Price range Bike hire 15,000Ks to 20,000Ks.

Shri Kali Temple

BICYCLE RENTAL KEINNAYI SOUveniR SHOP

This intricately-designed Hindu temple sits in Yangon’s bustling Little India area. Built by Tamil migrants during British-era-Burma, the temple is notable for its impressive array of Hindu gods carved into the walls.

If you’re brave enough to explore Yangon on wheels then this upstairs shop, next to Myanmar Travels and Tours, can rent you a bicycle. ?? 118 Mahabandoola Garden St, Kyauktada Township Per day: 5,000Ks

Yangon Cycling Tours The tours go through the Dalah District and allow the cyclers to discover Old Yangon while getting a bit of exercise.

Price: $30 USD/ tour (including bike, a bottle of water, guide and ferry fair to Dalah District) ?? 29, Sanchaung Street, Sanchaung Township, Yangon +95 (0) 9 420 060 528 Email: info@biking-myanmar.com

?? 85, 26th Street, Latha township., Downtown

?? Between 26th and 27th Streets on Anawratha Road, Downtown.

St Mary’s Cathedral This attractive red-brick building is the largest church in the country. Designed by Dutch architect Jos Cuypers, son of Pierre, who designed Amsterdam Central Station amongst other buildings. It continues to function as a popular place of worship and holds mass every day. ?? Bo Aung Kyaw Street (at the corner with Bogyoke Aung San Street), Downtown

Tomb of the Last Mughal Emperor Bahadhur Shah Zafar was the last King of the Mughal Empire, and was exiled by the British after they took over India. He died in Yangon in 1862; for years his tomb was kept a secret by the British, although many pilgrims knew the rough vicinity of the site, if not the exact one.

It was only in 1991 that the site was finally discovered and today the Emperor’s tomb, which also held the body of his wife and granddaughter, is an important pilgrimage site for Muslims the world over.

SIGHTSEEING The tomb may not remain for long; in 2013 a campaign has begun for his remains to be returned to India. ?? 6 Ziwaca Street (between U Wisara and Shwedagon Pagoda road)

Museums

Entry: 200Ks. ?? 15, Bogyoke Aung San Museum Street, Bahan Township PP 9.30 am to 4.30 pm. Closed on Mondays and Public Holidays.

Drugs Elimination Museum One of the more obscure museums you’re ever likely to visit, Yangon’s Drugs Eradication Museum is a worthy visit for those looking for something a little bit different. The museum, located in a grand state-like home in grounds far beyond its needs, was opened by the previous government to show how seriously they were with the drug problem in the country – something that is particularly prevalent in the north.

Highlights include run-down mannequins stressing the effects drug abuse and a mechanical arm that protrudes from the ground.

“What is this?” I asked our guide during a visit.

“What happens to you if you take drugs.”

Entry : US 3$ PP 9am to 4pm Open Wednesday to Sunday ?? Hanthawaddy Street, Corner of Kyuntaw Street, Kamayut Township +95 (0) 1 505 260, +95 (0) 1 505 261

Martyrs’ Mausoleum Where Aung San and the eight other martyrs murdered alongside him were entombed, the Martyrs’ Mausoleum was, until very recently,

Drugs elimination museum - © Daniel Roca

only opened on 19 July and saw thousands of locals pour in on that to pay their respects.

The government made it open to the public last year and today it acts as a peaceful spot to pay respects and relax when the respite of the city becomes a bit too much.

Entry :3,000Ks PP Closed on Mondays ?? Ar Zar Ni Street (close to North Gate of Shwedagon Pagoda), Bahan Township

Tour Bus Asia International Link (Travels & Tours Co., Ltd.) This is the only tour bus in town, and it’s brand new! The tour lasts 5 hours and takes you to all the major sights in Yangon: Shwedagon Pagoda, Karaweik, Botataung Pagoda and other places around downtown. For US25$ the ride includes an English-speaking guide, bottles of water and a colognetowel to freshen up. However it excludes the entrance fees to the monuments, so make sure you take some cash along with you.

Twice a day every day (except Mondays) ?? No. 23/25/27, Phone Gyee Street, Room No.6/A Crystal Condo, Lanmadaw Township Hotline for booking: +95 (0) 9 25 425 825, +95 (0) 9 250 167 543 PP 9:30am ~ 5pm Website: www.ailinktravelandtour.com

KnowIt / April 2015

You would’ve seen his name dotted around the city; roads, sports stadium and even a market named after the country’s independence hero – who also happens to be the father of the leader of the opposition, Aung San Suu Kyi. Previously only opened to the public on Martyrs’ Day (July 19), it is now open all yearround, except on Mondays and is located close to the Motion Picture Museum.

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Bogyoke Aung San Museum

SIGHTSEEING

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Myanmar Gems Museum Many visitors to Myanmar are attracted by the large amount of gems on offer in the north of the country, with sapphire, rubies and jade available in certain parts. While some of the country’s more elaborate gems have been moved to the gems museum in the capital Nay Pyi Taw, this museum in the north of the city does offer some gems (pun intended).

Entry: US 5$ ?? 66 Kaba Aye Pagoda Road (close to Kaba Aye Pagoda), Mayangone Township +95 (0) 1 660 365, +95 (0) 1 650 487+95 (0) 1 665365

National Museum of Myanmar Housed in a frankly dank-looking building on Pyay Road, the National Museum moved to its current site in 1996, after stints on Shwedagon Pagoda Road and Pansodan Street.

Don’t be put off by the exterior though, as the interior houses some great exhibitions and artefacts. The lower floors are more interesting, with some background into how the Burmese

language became what it is today, relics from the homes of Burma’s last kings and - the highlight - the Lion’s Throne. Sounding, and looking, very much like something from the Game of Thrones, this intricately designed seat was sat upon by the final king of Burma, Thibaw. The upper floors are a little less interesting, although one exhibition shows the variety of traditional dress of Myanmar’s many ethnic groups.

Entry: US 5$ ?? 66/74 Pyay Road, Dagon Township +95 (0) 1 371540 PP Tue - Sun 9:30am ~ 4:30pm

National Races Village The National Races Village is aimed at educating visitors about the hundreds of traditions and ethnic groups in the country. According to official statistics, there are 135 ethnic groups in Myanmar and the village aims to educate people with some of the customs of those groups. Chin, Mon, Rakhine, Shan, Bamar, Kayin, Kachin and Kayah villages are dotted around the park as well as scaled-down mountains and lakes to offer some insight into life around the country.

The village falls under Yangon’s plethora of ‘Quirky’ (rather than ‘Good’) sites but it’s still a unique opportunity to learn a little more about the country.

Entry: US 5$ ?? Located close to Thanlyin Bridge, Thaketa Township (as you cross the bridge, it’s on the right hand side, directly next to the river) PP 10am ~ 5pm

Yangon Planetarium

171, upper pansodan road, yangon, myanmar. t : 95 - 1 - 371992 f : 95 - 1 - 371993 e : info@theroseyangon.com

www.theroseyangon.com

Not quite up there with LA’s Griffith Observatory, Yangon’s Planetarium is one of those Myanmar sites that are worth visiting more for the bizarre factor than much else. The planetarium’s staff seem a little shocked to see visitors and the announcer might be saying some interesting things – it’s just slightly difficult to understand anything through the muffled microphone.

Entry: US 3$ ?? People's Park Compound, Ahlone Road (opposite Summit Parkview Hotel, look for the grounded Myanma Airlines plane), Dagon Township +95 (0) 9 420 155 087

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Chatrium Hotel

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House of Singapura

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Goethe Institute

Peperoni Pizzeria

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then walk down Bosunpet St. Visit the grounds d stroll past 1920s colonial style residential Rd, savour some nan bread and samosas RR the Indian ateries in Yangon; be tempted Aby ZA NI to the Sri Kali Temple (2), by 2 surrounded S fed. Cross the main road to the bustlingT 26th splendid Jewish Synagogue (3).

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the pavements.

Local Restaurants by the Water

KANDAWGYI PARK

White Rice

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View the Burma Railways Offices (1), then walk down Bosunpet St. Visit the grounds of St John’s Catholic Church and stroll past 1920s colonial style residential buildings. Turn right into AnawGarden Bistro, KANDAWGYI NATURE rahta Rd, savour some nan bread and samosas atThe one of the best South Indian eateries in Yangon; Signature Restaurant PARK KANDAWGYI FISH AND be tempted by the Indian TURTLE sweet desert shops. Continue up to the Sri Kali Temple (2), surrounded LAKE Off the LAKE KARAWEIK PALACE Beaten Track by thousands of pigeons waiting be fed. Cross the main roadKandawgyi to thePalace bustling 26th St RESTAURANT food market, Hotel Goldento Duck Nervin Cafe & er Leaf then down to the splendid Jewish Synagogue (3). Go back up Mahabandoola Rd to the 17th St marBistro Summit Parkview Hotel KA ctsdada@mac.com | 09 250 116 543 N ket in Chinatown. At the end of the market turn right into Bogyoke Aung along countless Map Locator: C1 SanYERd, IK T neer Club HAR RD hardware shops, then right into Bo Ywe St where you will see Chinese clan houses and temples. Hotel Esperado Shangri-La l C to Sule Pagoda. Visit an astrologer D Residence Walk back through the Indian Quarter for only 5000 kyat!

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Union Bar & Grill Junior Duck Manhattan Fish Restaurant Market

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This walking tour & map have been C taken from our MYANMORE Yangon Visitor Map. LikeDit? Get your map at our partner venues! Yangon Walking Tours Get your local crafts can be reached on 09 250116543, or Be Enlightened at the Bogyoke Market, in downtown projectsdada@mac.com Shwedagon

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Myanmar’s most pious site, the Shwedagon Pagoda, sits at the top of most people’s must-do lists with good reason

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Yangon, is your spot if you want to take home some typical Myanmar arts and crafts from your trip. The extensive market sells products ranging from gems, to longyis, to the unique Pathein

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Strand Hotel

Green Gallery BO TA HTAUNG PAGODA RD

River Gallery 1&2

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Orchid Hotel Thar Thar Transportation

44th st

Yhet’s

39th st 40th st

SEIK KAN ST

37th st 38th st

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Gekko

The 7th Joint

Olive Garden

BO GALAY ZAY ST

Lokanat Art Gallery

36th st

DEN RD

Rangoon Tea House

PANSODAN ST

31st st 32nd st

29th st 30th st

BO SON PAT ST

Centrepoint Towers Hintha Business Centres

MAHABANDOOLA GAR

Golden Duck

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City Mart

Harley’s

Nepali Food House

YANGON RIVER

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Eastern Hotel

BO MYAT TUN ST

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Musmeah Yeshua Synagogue

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999 Shan Noodle Orchid Hotel

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Bar Absolute Panorama Sakura BOGYOKE AUNG SAN RD Hotel Tower Asia Plaza Hotel St. Mary's Cathedral East Hotel 7 (Catholic) Japan Pansodan Art Gallery Japan Queen’s and Sikh Park Hotel Frozee LinkAge Restaurant Pansodan Scene Art Gallery Temple

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Theingyi Market

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BBQ Chicken

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FMI 1 Central Hotel Titu's Indian Banana Leaf Restaurant Sule Shangri-La Hotel Suzuki Ingyin 2 May Bengali Sunni Jameh Shan Hotel (Mosque)

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Sri Kali (Hindu Temple) B20 Bar & Bistro

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Maru Wine Bar

Parkson's Dpt Store

Ya Kun Family Cafe

Yangon General Hospital

Maru Grill

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YMCA Cathedral of Holy Trinity (Anglican)

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Yangon Central Railway Station

Bar Boon

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Daren Bread Gallery 65

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Walk up Bogyoke Aung San Rd, and go inside the magnificent Waziya Cinema (4), the last grand DAW THElN TlN ST movie house left in Yangon.

Walk down narrow 33rd St, look and take in the unique downtown MYA YAR GON Trish ST E RD NATIONAL NG Gallery U Frosting Cat A atmosphere. Go back down Sule Pagoda Rd and INhave a Burmese coffee or tea at the famous Lat K MUSEUM M City Ywae Sin (5). Continue down past City Hall with its distinctive Burmesestyle architecture referMart u Club New Zero Centre area with old Rowe & Co department store, ZAGAWAR ST encing Bagan. You are now in the heritage Civic Art Space MYANMA GON YE ST Pa Pa Park Royal Baptist Church and High Court buildings. the recently rejuvenated Mahabandoola Park, full Frozee Pizza VisitHotel City British Club Mart Blind Tiger Juicy Jade with locals relaxing and romancing. Continue on down Yuzana to Pansodan St to see the Telegraph Office, Sein Gay Har Toba Garden Hotel AUNG SAN Myanmar Port Authority numerous colonial banks, and theSteak impressive Inland Waterways and Fatman Myanmar Ink STADIUM Art Gallery Aung Mingalar Shan buildings. Turn up at Strand Rd past Strand Hotel and the British Embassy. Travel north alongUBo T 365 Cafe ST Noodle Y NG S A NATIONAL D BO M IN YA WA easy Hotel THEATER TChurch (6).

Aung Kaw St, past the GPO and Armenian Keep heading north to the magnificent SecNA I Sprouts GYI S Nawaday Thamada IN Hotel M Thalar retariat and finish with theAlfapeace and YAWsolitude of St Marys Cathedral (7), the third largest in Asia.

Art Gallery

YANGON VISITOR

SIGHTSEEING Parks & Gardens

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Inya Lake Yangon’s largest lake was built by the British between 1882 and 1883 to act as a reservoir.

The most accessible areas for the public are the western (Pyay Road) and eastern (Kaba Aye Pagoda Road) sides of the lake, which both draw young couples looking to spend some time together in Myanmar’s relatively conservative society.

Apart from romance, the lake is also used for sailing and rowing, both clubs can be found on the lake’s southern edge, along Inya Road.

Entry: Free ?? Pyay Road, Kamayut Township PP 4am ~ 9pm

Kandawgyi Park Set inside the grounds of Kandawgyi Lake (‘Great Royal Lake’), the park by the same name is a pleasant place to relax. The lake itself is approximately 8 kilometres in circumference (it is artificial and channels water from Inya Lake) but the park’s main draw is the life that goes on around the lake. There are loved-up couples hiding under rose bushes, restaurants, pet shops and even a tattoo parlour thrown in.

Entry: 300Ks, PP 4am ~ 11pm Address there are entrances all the around the lake.

Ferris wheel, Inya lake - © Daniel Roca

Kandawgyi park - © Daniel Roca

Mahabandoola Garden Park Yangon’s most centralised park was once a swamp known as Tank Square. It was originally designed as a public recreation ground by the British in 1867 and named Fytche Square, after the British Chief Commissioner at the time, and a bust of Queen Victoria was displayed.

After independence, the bust was replaced by the Independence Monument, a white and gold obelisk.

Local authorities have ploughed money into improving some aspects of the park and it remains a popular place for a visit, particularly when the sun begins its descent.

Entry: Free ?? Pagoda Road, directly south of Sule Pagoda, Downtown PP 4am ~ 6pm

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SIGHTSEEING

Mahabandoola Garden Park - © The Pictureman

People’s Park

Seinn Lan So Pyay Garden

Until recently, People’s Park was not open to, well, the People, but today it is and for US5$ visitors can idly relax in a beautiful setting that sits in the shadow of the Shwedagon Pagoda.

This park-cum-restaurant is a nice place to sit and relax beside Inya Lake. The restaurant has an extensive local menu and there are few nice spots for a beer in the evening.

Entry: US 5$ ?? U Wisara Road (opposite western gate of Shwedagon Pagoda) Township PP 7am ~ 7pm

Entry: 200Ks. ?? Inya Road (close to the junction with Pyay Road) Township PP 4am ~ 10pm

Yangon Zoological Gardens

Shwedagon Pagoda Park

While many of Yangon’s previous animalresidents have been moved to the new zoo at Nay Pyi Taw, there is still a relatively extensive range of animals on exhibit. The conditions of the animals are relatively alright, compared to other zoos in the region.

The gardens also host the Museum of Natural History.

A pleasant, well-looked after park just in the shadow of the famous Pagoda. The entrance to the park is filled with shops selling carvings and trinkets.

Entry: 2,000Ks. ?? Kan Yeik Tha Rd, Mingalar Taung Nyunt Township PP 8am ~ 6pm

Entry: Free ?? Ar Zar Ni Street (next to North Gate of Shwedagon Pagoda). Dagon Township PP 4am ~ 10pm

SIGHTSEEING

cruises in yangon

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Admiring Yangon from the river is a refreshing way to enjoy the city. Here are a few itineraries and cruise ships available to do so.

Dora Cruise Dora is a tailor-made luxury yacht which cruises along the Yangon River and offers picturesque scenery, colourful cultures and the enriching experience of the local way of living. You may choose to charter the whole yacht with your family and friends, or join a small group of like-minded travellers on an individual basis. Guests are provided a set of complimentary drinks, snacks and a warm welcome from the crew.

Leaves from Botahtaung Jetty 4:30pm ~ 6pm daily.

PP Mon-Sat 9am~5pm ?? No. 22, Second Floor, Shwe Pone Nyet Yeik Mon, Ba Yint Naung Road, Kamayut Township +95 (0) 1531313 Email: doracruise@fastmail.fm www.cruiseinmyanmar.com

View from the river - Š Katrin Ostermayer

RV King Whales Yangon River Cruise King Whale Cruise takes you on a 15 miles/24 km cruise along the Twante canal, from Yangon to the ancient city of Twante. The itinerary offers fascinating sceneries, rich historical and spectacular landscape. Cruise into Myanmar’s history and discover the story of ancient Shwesandaw pagoda, the cotton weaving industry, handmade pots and pottery, and also colonial times. In Twante the local market and horse carts await you! ?? No.G-2,G-5, Mon Myat Myitta Housing, Pin Shwe Nyaung Street, Tamwe Township +95 (0) 1546668 Email: kingwhalemm@gmail.com www.yangonrivercruise.com

CRUISES IN MYANMAR The most popular cruises are those along the Ayeyarwady. You can find quite a few cruising ships which sail between Bagan and Mandalay, including some real luxury treats. The trip usually lasts 2 days but you can also take the longer option and cruise along for up to 9 days.

Yangon Office 5/9 1st flr. Bogalay Zay Street (lower block) T +95 (0)1 375 577 | +95 (0)1 392 214 Email contact.myanmar@khiri.com

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SIGHTSEEING

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Discover Myanmar specialities Myanmar’s unique heritage has led to a number of crafts and products being developed that are specific to Myanmar. Some ornamental, others practical, they can all make for very useful gifts for your friends back home, or to decorate your own home.

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Lacquerware Lacquerware are objects decoratively covered with a material called (would you believe it) lacquer – a wood finish that dries by a unique curing process. Burmese lacquer is sap taken from a Thitsee tree - trees that are grown in Myanmar. The sap is straw-coloured but turns black once it has been exposed to air and, once brushed, forms a hard, glossy, smooth surface.

The most popular lacquer items in Myanmar are trays, ashtrays and boxes, in a large variety of shapes and sizes. They are usually intricately designed and to witness them being manufactured is an impressive sight; it makes you realise how much work goes into the process of making them.

Again, for Yangon, Bogyoke Aung San Market is the best place to pick up lacquerware.

Gems & Jewels One of the reasons Myanmar is attracting so much attention from the international business community is the vast natural resources on offer in the country, particularly in the north. Of those natural resources, some of the most famous are the range of jewels and gems around the country.

Myanmar has both raw and finished gems available including rubies, sapphires, pearls, jade and many more.

A range of gems are available at Bogyoke Aung San Market, there are also a number of gem shops dotted around the city.

Tea Tea has an important place in everyday Myanmar life. You will soon notice that local drink a lot of tea...but did you know that you can eat it too? Order Lahpet Thoke and enjoy the typical pickled tea leaf salad. Order Lahpet Thamin and have your pickled tea-leaves mixed in with rice. Pickled tea-leaves are sour (and addictive for some) and have the property to keep you awake for hours... possibly even more so than coffee!

SPECIALITIES Myanmar tea is grown predominantly in the hilly Shan State and is a huge source of income for farmers in the north part of the country.

You’ll see them worn practically everywhere around Yangon; and longyis are great presents to take home – they’re also very useful in the country’s hot season. Try the local way of wearing it by going “commando”.

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Longyis

Myanmar’s unique style of puppetry, 'Yoke the', goes back a few hundred years and is thought to have had some royal origin – probably performed to one of the kings of the Konbaung dynasty. The traditional art form fell away when the country was under British rule but has slowly begun a re-emergence over the last few decades. Some of the most notable characters in the art form are the nat spirit, the alchemist, the hermit and the buffoon.

thanaka

Weaving - © MYANMORE Thanaka has been traditionally applied by women and men in Myanmar for various treatment purposes for over 2,000 years. Although you can now buy ready made thanaka creams, originally it is home-made every morning. Thanaka cream is made by grinding the bark, wood, or roots of a thanaka tree with a small amount water on a circular stone slab called kyauk pyin which has a channel round the rim for the water to drain into.

Thanaka is renown for its powerful qualities : it naturally heals, protects and renews your skin.

Proven benefits include SPF protection, pore-tightening, skin-cooling, antioxidant and oil-control effects. Thanaka is also a seen as a make-up product. You might have seen it applied in creative shapes on many women’s cheeks. Give it a try!

Pathein Umbrellas One of Myanmar’s more famous and unique products, the Pathein umbrella is an intricatelydesigned parasol that is more popular as a decoration than as its function of holding-off rain – although they are useful for that too.

The first umbrellas made in Pathein – which is located about five-hours due west of Yangon – were from paper, then the makers became more innovative and made them with cottons, silk and satin. The umbrellas are available in a range of colours and sizes, and are popular for tourists to buy during their Myanmar trip. A good place to buy them Pathein umbrella - © CISmith is Bogyoke Aung San market.

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Puppetry

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shopping While there are mega stores showcasing high end brand names there are also several fascinating markets and corner shops selling rare antiques, original artworks, English language book stores and tailor shops. Fans of fresh markets will find ingredients they never knew existed to test their culinary skills along with convenience stores in every neighbourhood.

outdoor Markets/'zei' Bogyoke Aung San Market Located on the northern edge of downtown, this is the place to visit for all your tourist trinkets and gifts. It’s an extensive bazaar selling everything you’ll need to take home from your trip; from jewellery, to crafts, to art work. There are many tailors here; one hidden gem is a shop upstairs on the eastern wing of the main building, which sells many beautiful clothes of Myanmar’s hundreds of ethnic groups. ?? Bogyoke Aung San Road, Downtown.

PP 8am ~ 4.30pm. Closed on Mondays

early for the real experience. ?? Corner of Kyee Myin Daing Kannar Road and Nat Sin Street, on the eastern bank of the Yangon River PP 2am ~ 8am

Theingyi Market A sprawling, lively market that is popular among the locals. It is a good market for clothes, but also sells all the commodities needed for the locals, with merchants coming from across the Ayeyarwady Delta to shop there. Items for sale here include rice, dried fish, cosmetics and just about every consumer product you can think of. ?? Corner of Shwedagon Pagoda Road and

Night Market (Nya Zay) @ Kyimyindine Famous among Yangon’s locals as Night Market (Nya Zay) and located in the Kyimyindine Township, many locals come to this market for kitchen needs, and other things like electronic ware, cosmetic products and local medicinal products. ?? Kyi Myin Daing Kannar Road PP Even Though called as Night Market, Market starts early morning and closes around 8pm.

San Pya Fish Market Dirty, stinky, sprawling - excellent. People travel from far afield to visit this lively fish market. A must-visit for those looking for something a little bit different. Get there

Mahabandoola Road, Downtown.

PP Early morning and closes around 5pm

Thiri Mingalar Market Although it’s a 24-hour market, the Thiri Mingalar Market, located in Hlaing township in the north, comes into its own at night. The expansive market stretches for miles and miles and is divided into separate sections of the varying products that are sold here. Like many sites worthy of a visit in Myanmar, the real draw here is the showcasing of local people going about their daily lives. ?? Thiri Mingalar Market, off Bayint Naung Road, Hlaing township (NOT Old Thiri Mingalar Market) PP 24 hours

SHOPPING handicraftS & GEMS ART & DECO 39

Made by the ladies from the Women’s Home.

They now have a shop inside the complex grounds.

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?? 18 – D, Sein Le May Avenue, Kaba Aye Pagoda Road, Yankin, Township +95 (0) 1 662 916

AUGUSTINE’S SOUVENIR SHOP More like a museum than a shop this has to be one of Yangon’s most captivating shopping destinations packed full of intriguing antiques with an emphasis on wooden carvings. ?? 25, Thiri Mingalar St, Kamayut Township +95 (0) 1 524052 PP 11:30am – 7 PM Mon- Fri, 2-7:30pm

Bagan Gift Centre This shops sells Bagan lacquer ware since 1987 and has won awards for the quality of its goods, says the owner. ?? 101 University Avenue Road, Kamayut Township 01-534041 PP 8am~8pm Website: www.bagangiftcenter.com

Bogyoke Market - © Daniel Roca

?? 11 Thiri Zeyar Street, Bauk Htaw, Pyi Tharyar +95 (0) 1 542 505

LUE SKY HANDMADE EXOTIC WOOD & GLASSWARE For handmade exotic wood and glassware: To make sure you meet the right people make an appointment 30 minutes beforehand.

Bonton Handicrafts

?? 107 Thanlwin Road, Kamaryut Township +95 (0) 9 5104086 / +95 (0) 9 73226844 (Mobile) Email: sonnyturbo08@gmail.com

You can find just about all the types of handicrafts Myanmar has to : puppets, wood, lacquer ware… you name it!

Myanmar Elephant House

?? 149/150 Central Arcade, Bogyoke Aung San Market, Pabedan Township +95 (0) 1 384 573 PP 9:30am~5pm

DAW MYA MYA SEIN Beautifully crafted antique lacquerware. Set in an old Burmese house where you are welcome to visit the shrine room. Former Shan Princess, Madam Sein, was originally from the Royal Family of Shan State.

Export quality lacquerware and rattan items along with an array of decorating ideas. ?? No. 4, Building 4 near Yankin Centre, Yankin Township +95 (0) 1 400 262, +95 (0) 9 49 328 203

MINGALAR MYANMAR SOUVENIR More souvenirs for tourists at fair prices ?? Corner of 31 street and Mahar Bandula Str, Latha Township

HANDICRAFT

Myanmar Lacquer ware shop Export quality of lacquerware items. Good for gifts at very reasonable prices. ?? No. 7, 13th Street, Lanmadaw Township +95 (0) 1 226 261

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MOE KYAW THU GREETING CARDS Producers of handmade Myanmar greeting cards using unique golden and 3D traditional designs. ?? 192, East Wind, Bogyoke Aung San Market, Pabedan Township +95 (0) 9 430 87634 Email: yeyint.ag666@gmail.com

01295358 PP 10am~9pm Website: www.pomeloyangon.com

SHINON MYANMAR Your place for a great selection of Myanmarthemed souvenirs either to keep here or take home. ?? Bogyoke Aung San Market, Pabedan Township +95 (0) 9 4202 6313 PP 9am to 5pm. Closed on Monday Email: info@shinon-myanmar.com Website: www.shinon-myanmar.com

VESTIGE MERCANTILE & RELICS NANDAWUN

Avenue 64 Hotel Lobby

Gems, tapestries, silk, silverware, lacquerware, minority costumes, wood carvings, paintings, marionettes, and rare editions of books on Myanmar.

?? No.64G, Kyitewine Pagoda Road, Mayangone Township +95 (0) 9 8631392, +95 (0) 1656912 ~ 9 Website: info@avenue64hotel.com

?? 55, corner of Baho Roadand Ahlone Road, Ahlone Township +95 (0) 1 221 271; 212 409 PP 9am – 6pm

Nan Myint Myanmar Traditional Handicrafts A nice selection of ivory carvings, wood carvings, silverware, bronzeware, lacquerware, authentic antiques, folk arts and curios as well as ethnic objects and beads. ?? No. (9), 1st Floor,Myanmar Arts & Handicrafts Centre, Sayar San Plaza, Sayar San Road, Bahan Township 01542874,09421047707 PP 9am~5pm Email: nanmyintmhs@gmail.com Website: www.nanmyint.com/index.htm

Pomelo Yangon A not for profit social enterprise working with Myanmar artisans, disadvantaged groups and small businesses to design, develop and sell quality handmade products with a contemporary twist. A very popular souvenir and gift shop amongst tourists. ?? 89 Thein Pyu Road. Yangon, Myanmar (just next door to Monsoon Resturant)

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Yangon Flagship Store ?? No 12, Room 9/10, Parami Street 10 quarter Mayangone township +95 (0) 9 250971413, +95 (0) 9 420099964

YOYAMAY ETHNOGRAPHIC TEXTILES GALLERY Yoyamay produce contemporary Chin textiles drawing material and design inspiration from ethnic Chin, Naga, Kachin, Karen, Akha, Burman and other ethnic groups. ?? Room 20, Main Front Building (first floor) Bogyoke Market (Scott Market) Bogyoke Aung San Road +95 (0) 1 256411 (Ext: 792), +95 (0) 9 450029481, +95 (0) 9 5097654 (Fax) Website: www.yoyamay.com Email: yoyamay.ygn@gmail.com

JEWELLERY SHOPS AT DIAMOND High quality jewellery and textiles ?? The Strand Hotel, 92 Strand Road +95 (0) 1 243 377 PP 9:30am ~ 6pm

HANDICRAFT

AUNG KYAW OO SILVER SHOP

GOLDEN LAND

Regarded as the best silverware in Yangon.

The Strand Hotel Jewellery Gallery

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Own cutting factory and gold smith with traditional craftsmanship and using modernised casting machinery. Factory tours arranged. ?? 48 New University Avenue Road, Bahan Township PP +95 (0) 1 556 009; +95 (0) 1 546 764

GEM MUSEUM Opened by Ministry of Mines: The first two floors offer around 80 jewellery shops open to the public while the third floor is a museum.

Near Kaba Aye Pagoda and VES. Dr, Khin Khin’s shop at No. 24 ground floor is recommended. ?? 66 Kaba Aye Pagoda Road +95 (0) 1 665 169 PP 9am ~ 4pm, closed on Mondays

GOLDEN MYANMAR JEWELLERY Modern contemporary designs and quality loose stones available at competitive prices. Ms Kin Thida is an international gem dealer.

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ELEGANT GEMS

?? Strand Hotel, 92 Strand Road +95 (0) 1 243 377

?? No. 49, Main Hall, Scott Market +95 (0) 1 253 114 PP 10am – 4:30 pm

LOUPE COLOURED STONE AND JEWELLERY Mixed beautiful Burmese gems with unique and modern designs at affordable prices. ?? No. 75 Nawarut Building ground floor, Scott Market PP +95 (0) 9 503 8505

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?? 450 Thein Byu Road +95 (0) 1 394 890

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HANDICRAFT

Myanmar's gems are highly valued - © MYANMORE

MAY & MARK Gems

SHE SHINES Gems & Jewelry

Employing foreign gemological experts and modern equipment to ensure quality of Myanmar rubies, sapphires, jades and pearls transforming them into new designs and patterns. A more modern take on traditional pieces.

Here you can get your jewelry designed and tailored to your taste.

?? No.12, Inya Road, Kamayut Township +95 (0) 1 501 691, Fax : +95 (0) 1 537 308

MK Gems The largest jewelry retailer in Myanmar with a wide variety of quality. They pay special attention to sourcing the finest gemstones for their shops. ?? No. 333, Pyay Road, Sanchaung Township 01524926, 01502887, 01504457 PP 9am~5pm Fax: 01 504870 Email: mkgems@yangon.net.mm Website: www.mkgroup.com.mm

?? No(005 + 006), Building (B), New University Avenue Road, Bahan Township 01548832 ext.101 Website: www.sheshinesgems.com/index.htm

The Rich Gems Unique, intricate designs and hand-crafted pieces, set with high quality silver and stones.

The jewelry here is perfect for a Myanmar wedding day, social events or as a gift for someone special, the one-of-a-kind jewelry will suit your occasion and your budget. ?? No.303.U Wisara Rd.. Sanchaung Township 01 500060 PP Mon-Sat 8:00am ~ 9pm

the THIRIPYITSAYA MYANMAR VES A big exporter of jewellery to the west. Factory tours arranged ?? 66 Kaba Aye Pagoda Road +95 (0) 1 661 902; +95 (0) 1 666 770 PP 9am – 4pm

Real Light Gems & Jewelry Local gems and jewelry at competitive and affordable pricing. ?? No.D6,7,8, Diamond Empire, Bogyoke Market +95 (0) 9 2001603

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Thiripyitsaya offers a wide variety of selected pieces representative of Myanmar culture.

Items include gold and silver jewelry set with precious gems, ethnic textiles, and natural dyed fabric including lotus produced only in Inlay, as well as other high quality local products such as organic honey and coconut bowls. ?? Sakura Residence, No.9 Inya Road, Kamaryut Township +95 (0) 1 525001 PP 10:00 ~ 18:00 Email: thiripyitsayaboutique@gmail.com

SHOPPING - fashion Myanmar’s skilled tailors can make everything from western-style suits, to shirts, to longyis.

The starting price for western-style suits is generally around US120$, with prices varying depending on the size of the suit and the quality of the material.

Globe Tailoring CO.,Ltd. Well regarded by local expats for women’s and men’s tailoring, this tailors is run by U Aung Soe, who also has a Japanese language school. A shirt without/with fabric costs K8000/10,000, trousers K20,000 with fabric. ?? 367 Bogyoke Aung San Road, Pabedan Township +95 (0) 1 253 924 PP 9:30am ~ 5:30pm

Liberal Located in the inner east wing of Bogyoke Aung San Market, many locals come here to have their clothing made. ?? No.67, Bogyoke Aung San Market (Inner East Wing), Pabedan Township 01 246470, 01 256411 ext:313, 01 388633 PP Tue-Sun 10am ~ 5pm

Man Top Located upstairs in Bogyoke Marketม Man Top comes highly recommended from a number of Yangon’s expats. ?? Bogyoke Aung San Market, Downtown +95 (0) 1 703 369 PP 9am ~ 5pm

SMILE TAILORS Professional tailors specializing in suits, shirts, trousers, slacks and company uniforms. ?? D 30, P 2, 2nd Floor, Yuzana Plaza (Banyar Dala Street, Tamwe), Mingalar Taung Nyunt Township

Your dream dress is on its way! - © Laura Biaggini

+95 (0) 9 42029 5993 PP 9am ~ 5pm

Tip Top Tailors Three generations of the same family have run this tailor shop and the quality can be seen in the results of their suits, longyis and shirts. ?? Corner of Mahabandoola and 43rd Streets. +95 (0) 1 245 428 PP 9am ~ 5pm

UNIVERSAL Tailoring They provide tailoring services for men and women specialising in western coats, pants, office uniforms and shirts. ?? No.212, Anawrahta Road, between 31st & 32nd Street, Pabedan Township 01385485 PP 9:30am ~ 8:30pm

URI They specialise in safari suits, but also provide high class tailoring service for both men and women. For coat pant & all kinds of uniforms. ?? No.68 Anawrahta Road, Corner of Bo Aung Kyaw Street, Kyauktada Township 01 377698, 09 5108071 PP 10am ~ 7pm

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Tailors

FASHION Shopping Malls

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Dagon Centre I & II A relatively modern shopping centre halfway between downtown and Inya Lake containing mostly fashion houses, a few restaurants and a cinema that plays both local and international movies. Recent additions include a pizza restaurant and an ice cream parlour. ?? Corner of Pyay and Bargayar Roads, Sanchaung Township +95 (0) 1 262 264 PP 9am ~ 9pm

Daiso, the 2$ shop!

This Japanese version of the 2-dollar store definitely is the place to go for your bits and pieces : hairbands, umbrellas, plastic hangers...they have everything and items cost 2000Ks each! The usual issue here is that you end up buying waaaaay more than what you had initially planned!

Daiso @ Capital Hypermarket ?? Room No- 213, 431 14/E Min Nandar Road, Dawpon Township +95 (0) 1 551530, +95 (0) 1 551534 Ext.213 PP 9am ~ 9pm

Daiso @ Junction Square ?? Room No (C101 C10 F135) 1st floor Junction Square Between Pyay & Kyan Taw Road, Kamayut Township +95 (0) 1 527242 ext.2035 PP 9am ~ 9pm

Daiso @ Culture Valley Yangon ?? (G-20/21) Myanmar Culture Valley People's Park, People's square, Dagon Township PP 9am ~ 9pm

FMI Centre The newest addition to Yangon’s retail sector is a high-end shopping mall built next to the popular Bogyoke Aung San Market. There are a few restaurants in the mall’s lower floor as well as a CityMart supermarket and ATMs. ?? 380 Bogyoke Aung San Road, Downtown. +95 (0) 1 240 400 PP 8am ~ 9pm

GANDAMAR WHOLESALE A very large local wholesale market great for buying any local products in bulk such as household items, garments, electronic ware, and food items. ?? Corner Of Gandamar & Waizayantar Road, Mayangone Township +95 (0) 1 657 311, Fax 01657274 PP 9am ~ 9pm

Junction Square Opened in 2012, Yangon’s [current] largest shopping mall is a sparkly, modern place that is popular amongst the young locals dressed in trendy clothes and frequenting fast food joints.

It’s a useful place to pick up some modern items such as clothing brands and (not always functional) electrical products. There’s a cinema here that occasionally features Hollywood blockbusters.

ATMs which accept international bank cards are also available here. ?? Pyay Road, before Hledan Junction, Kamayut Township +95 (0) 1 532 489 PP 9am ~ 9pm

Junction 8 ?? Myaing Hay Won Condominium, Kyeik Wine Pagoada Road, 4th Quarter, Ma Yan Gone Township +95 (0) 1 652 909, +95 (0) 1 651 092 PP 9am ~ 9pm

Junction Maw Tin ?? Maw Tin Tower, Corner of Lann Thit Street and Anawrahta Road. Lanmadaw Township

FASHION

?? Zawana Tower, Corner of Thu Mingalar Street and Lay Dount Kan Road, Thingan Gyun Township +95 (0) 1 573932 PP 9am ~ 9pm

La Pyay Wun Plaza Located Near THAMADA Cinema & PARKROYAL Hotel they have several cosmetics shops, barber shops, retail shops, music stores and cafes. ?? Ah Lan Pya Pagoda Road, Dagon Township +95 (0) 1 370 836 ~ 8 Ext. 100, 200, 01371386 PP 9am ~ 9pm

Ocean Super Centre (Shwe Gone Daing Branch) ?? Corner of Shwe Gone Daing Road and Ba Nyar Dala Road, Bahan Township +95 (0) 1 8603874 ~ 76

Taw Win Centre Another western-style shopping mall with

Shop till you drop - Š The Avenue

?? Pyay Road (shortly after the railway bridge), Dagon Township +95 (0) 1 860 111 PP 9am ~ 9pm

United Living Mall With retail shops, a pharmacy, stationary shops, phone and camera shops, bakery, restaurants in the basement, a music counter and a play land for kids. ?? 48, Kyikkasan Road, Tamwe Township +95 (0) 1 551177 ext. 807, +95 (0) 1 551 151 PP 9am ~ 9pm

Yuzana Plaza A popular shopping venue for locals, Yuzana Plaza is a blend between a shopping mall and a traditional market. Clothing, household items and other home produced products are available; the top-floor is a dedicated one-stop area for furniture. There is also a food court area that uses a ticketing system. ?? Banyardala Road, Mingalar Taung Nyunt Township PP 8.30am - 5pm. Closed on Mondays.

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Junction Zawana

clothes, furniture and book shops, as well as a few restaurants: Opposite the centre there are ATMs which accept bank cards from abroad.

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+95 (0) 1 218161, +95 (0) 1 218152 PP 9am ~ 9pm

FASHION international brands

This international clothes and fashion brand has now been available in Myanmar since 2012!

HBT

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Retail and wholesale shop full of international branded clothing and shoes for men and women. ?? (Rm F/130), Junction Square, Kamayut Township 01527242 ext.2031 PP 9am~9pm

Lee Cooper Denim KnowIt / April 2015

Mango @ Taw Win Center

High quality international denim shop with a varied selection of styles and cuts. ?? (Rm 001/G), G Flr, Junction Square, Kamayut Township 01527242 Ext.1028 PP 9am ~ 9pm Email: leecooper.myanmar@gmail.com Website: www.leecooper.com

?? No.45, Pyay Road, Dagon Township +95 (0) 1 8 600 111 Ext: 3333

Springfield @ maw tin One of the few international clothing retail shops around Yangon, great for casual and work clothing. ?? First Floor, Junction Mawtin, Lanmadaw Township +95 (0) 1 218 152 ext.1211 PP 9am ~ 9pm Website: www.spf.com

Springfield @ fmi centre ?? 1st Foor, FMI Centre, No. 380, Bogyoke Aung San road, Pabedan Township +95 (0) 9 73245125 PP 9am~9pm Website: www.spf.com

Apple stores Here, you can get your apple device serviced.

SWISS TIME SQUARE

AiKON

This luxury watch shop has been providing Swiss watches and top-end services to their demanding clientele, since 1976. Another store should soon open in Mandalay.

An authorised distributor for Apple products and they are also able to provide updates for iOS and repairs and servicing for iPhone, iPad, and Mac books.

?? No. 99, Kabar Aye Pagoda Road, Bahan Township +95 (0) 9 73 032 971, +95 (0) 1 540 189 PP 10am ~ 8pm Email: info@swisstimesquare.com

Website: www.swisstimesquare.com

?? 262/C Pansodan Street, (Upper Block), Kyauktadar Township, Yangon.

01 249992, 01 385553 PP 9:30am ~ 7:30pm

mDrive This authorised reseller sells Apple products and will take care of your Apple device if it packs up. ?? Junction Centre Maw Tin Shopping Mall. Lanmadaw Township, Yangon +95 (0) 973203295 PP 9am~9pm Email: mDrive.sales@gmail.com

SEVEN FRIDAY SWISS WATCHES

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Union Business Centre (UBC) ?? Nat Mauk Road, Bo Cho Quarter, Bahan Township +95 (0) 9 33 611 110 Website: myanmar@sevenfriday.com

THE AVENUE If you are looking for high-end fashion brands, this is the stylish place to shop for them in Yangon! ?? 18 (A) Kohmin Kohchin Road, Bahan Township +95 (0) 1 8 603 337, +95 (0) 9 43 329 999 PP 10am ~ 9pm Email: info@theavenuefashion.com

Ar Yone Thit Bookshops

Innwa Book Store

There are a number of book stores lining the southern edge of Bogyoke Aung San Road, but this one that sits close to Central Hotel is the best-equipped for English-language books. The owner, Khin Maung Tin, is knowledgeable and keen to chat.

You’ll find a reasonably good selection of English-language titles at this store.

?? 365 Bogyoke Aung San Road, Downtown. +95 (0) 1 250 199 PP 9am - 5pm

Bagan Bookshop A well-equipped bookstore with just about every book you could ever read about Myanmar. There is also a relatively good general literature section. The owner is very knowledgeable about local literature. ?? 37th Street, just south of Mahabandoola Road, Downtown. +95 (0) 1 377 227

Bookworm Books One of the larger book shops stocked with fiction for all ages, as well as non-fiction on every topic imaginable. For students, they have study aids as well as teaching materials for schools. They also have a decently sized discount section with books at half price and a large collection of second hand books. ?? No.S-5, 2nd floor, Waizayantar Shopping Centre, Waizayantar Road, Thingangyun Township +95 (0) 9 421 109 960

PP 9am ~ 7pm Email: bookwormbooksmyanmar@gmail.com

?? 301 Pansodan Road, Downtown +95 (0) 1 389 838 PP 8.30 am - 6pm

New Vision Books Well stocked with English-language books about Myanmar and many second hand English-language novels. ?? 146A, 37th Street (between Anawhrahta and Maha Bandoola Streets), Kyauktada Township +95 (0) 1 249 068 PP 8:30am ~ 5pm

Monument Books

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Probably Yangon’s best-stocked shop for English-language books. There’s also an upstairs cafe. ?? 150 Dhamazedi Road, Bahan Township. +95 (0) 1 537 805 PP 8.30am - 8.30pm

Myanmar Book Centre Another relatively well-stocked book store: The one in downtown has perhaps slightly more choice than the store on Baho Road. The Baho Road branch also sells a range of Myanmar arts and crafts. ?? Downtown branch: Near the corner of Merchant and 35th Streets. ?? Baho Road branch: Corner of Baho and Ahlone Roads. +95 (0) 1 214 708 PP 9am ~ 6pm

KnowIt / April 2015

The streets surrounding Pansodan Road are filled with book sellers, selling everything from modern day classics to those that are at least a few decades old. Look very closely and you may discover a few hidden gems, or failing that, just pick up anything you can get your hands on. An absolute must for book lovers.

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SHOPPING book stores

BOOK STORES

Popular Book Store

TAB Book Centre

Owned by the people behind the CityMart supermarkets, Popular Book Stores have a reasonable selection of English-language books, usually the sort you would find in airport book shops.

Stocked with a variety of local and international books mostly covering school subjects with a wide range of levels. Subjects include electronics, medicine, business & management, art & decoration, IGCSE, IELTS, TOFEL, SAT, primary, secondary, and International children’s books.

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?? Every CityMart PP 9am ~ 9pm

floral shops Each township has its flower street market.

Here are a few for you to get started and if you find more while plant hunting, share your discovery with the rest of us via #myanmore!

• Mindamma Road, Insein Tsp, near the Convention Center • Yamonar Road, just after the Mahabandoola bridge We have listed here the trusted floral companies which will happily create floral compositions for you as an individual or a company, for gifts or full on events like weddings and opening ceremonies.

Eternal Flowers ?? 449, New University Avenue, Bahan Township +95 (0) 1541247, +95 (0) 1559011 PP 8am ~ 8pm Website: www.eternal.florist.com

Juno Floral ?? 290A, Pyay Road, Myaynigone, Sanchaung Township +95 (0) 95022935, +95 (0) 1524596 PP Mon-Sat 8am~8pm

?? No.4015,4016,4017, 3rd Floor, Taw Win Centre, Dagon Township 018600042, 018600043, 018600044 PP 9am ~ 9pm Email: tabbook4u@gmail.com Website: www.tabbookcentre.com

Rosana Floral Service and Gift wholesale ?? 161, Shwe Gon Daing Rd., Shwe Gon Daing (West) Ward, Bahan Township +95 (0) 973180030, +95 (0) 943143234 PP 9am ~ 7:30pm

Sandy Floral Myanmar ?? Main Store & Gift Centre: No.102(A) Dhammazaydi Rd, Bahan Township +95 (0) 1 500142 PP 8am ~ 8pm

sandy floral myanmar @ Summit Parkview Hotel ?? No.350 Ahlone Rd, Dagon Township +95 (0) 1211888,+95 (0) 1211966 Ext.1216 PP 8am ~ 6pm Website: www.sandysfloralmyanmar.com

Vintage Flowers ?? No. 140, Pyi Htaung Su Yeikthar Road, Dagon Township +95 (0) 95068601, +95 (0) 973199435, +95 (0) 9421148462 PP 8:30am ~ 6:30pm Email: floral@vintageflowers-mm.com Email: iflorist@vintageflowers-mm.com Website: www.vintageflowers-mm.com

Practically every busy street in Yangon has a convenience store these days. The chain may differ depending on the street, but most stores tend to stock the same items, such as local snacks, imported snacks (think Oreos, Ritz biscuits), soft drinks, beer and the occasional beauty product.

grocery

Grand Twin Brothers This store supplies both to the individual grocery shopper and also in bulks to hotels, restaurants, bakeries, cruise ships, offshore rigs etc.

They also bring in products that are not easily available in our supermarkets. ?? No 2, Aung San Stadium (Eastern), Upper Pansodan Street, Mingalar Taung Nyunt Township +95 (0) 1 394 874 PP 9 am ~ 6 pm

Sharky’s Sharky’s restaurant and deli specialises in artisan food made from locally sourced ingredients. ?? 117 Dhamazedi Road, Bahan Township +95 (0) 1 524 677, +95 (0) 1 373 009 PP 8am ~ 10pm

Jyanko Mart

bal lout lel?

You must have noticed that foreigners never get the same price as locals on the street market. Here is an idea of what you should actually be paying so you can bargain next time!

Price in Kyats, obviously!

Japanese grocery store. ?? No.12, Inya Road, Kamayut Township, Yangon, Myanmar. +95 (0)1502382,+95 (0)1526783 PP 9am ~ 8:30pm Email: jyankomyanmar97@gmail.com

Korea Store

120 - 200 - 250 - 500 - 800 - 800 - 2000 - 3000 -

1 egg 1 strand of jasmine flowers 1 cucumber 1 apple 1 pineapple 1 watermelon 1 kg tomato A bunch of flowers

Korean grocery store. ?? across the road from The Yangon Hotel,8 Mile Junction, Mayangone Township,. +95 (0) 9 73 224 751

ProMart Korean/Japanese supermarket. ?? No.79, Kabar Aye Pagoda Road, Bahan Township +95(0)973224596 PP 7:30am ~ 10pm Email: promartyangon@gmail.com

Flower market - © CISmith

KnowIt / April 2015

Convenience Stores

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SHOPPING food & GROCERY

GROCERIES Supermarkets CAPITAL hypermarket

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They have a big car park which makes it very practical for grocery shopping. There is a beauty salon inside as well as a few food joints.

They also have a area to buy furniture. ?? No.14-E, Min Nandar Road, Dabon Township 01551533 ext 116, fax: 553 134 PP 9am ~ 9pm

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Capital Supermarket ?? No.(1+2), Corner of Pinlon and Thiwin St, 33th Qtr, North Dagon Township 01 581797 PP 9am ~ 9pm

CityMart The CityMart stores, with many outlets dotted around Yangon, are Myanmar’s best supplied supermarkets. Stocking everything from fresh meats, to cosmetics, to alcohol - both local and imported - and much more in between, it is the place to go for those looking for a few home comforts.

PP All branches are open 9am to 9pm, except the Myanygone Branch, which is open 9am to 10pm.

Myaynigone Branch ?? 231, Corner of Pyay Road and Shin Saw Pu Pagoda Street, Sanchaung Township. +95 (0) 1 510697

Aung San Branch ?? Aung San Stadium (North Wing), Mingalar Taung Nyunt Township. +95 (0) 1 394 765

MarketPlace by CityMart ?? 403A Dhamazeddi Road, Bahan Township. +95 (0) 1 523 840

MarketPlace by CityMart (FMI Centre) ?? 380 Bogyoke Aung San Road, FMI Centre, Downtown ( Next to Bogyoke Aung San Market) +95 (0) 1 246 859

Ga Mon Pwint These modern shopping malls sell everything from clothing brands to electrical gizmos.

Kaba Aye ?? 300 Kaba Aye Pagoda Road (after Parami Road), Mayangone Township +95 (0) 1 653 653, +95 1 653 644

Thein Gyi Zai

online grocery shopping DAILY MART www.dailymart.com.mm 00000001

www.dailymart.com.mm is the Myanmar's first online supermarket with home/office delivery service. Same-day delivery is available in 24 townships and you can get anything from food, drinks, health and beauty products, household goods and baby foods. ?? No.39 Parami Road, Hlaing Township, Yangon +95 (0) 9799246163 PP 24 hours Email: info@dailymart.com.mm Website: http://www.dailymart.com.mm

?? Thein Gyi Zai (D), Block A, Corner of Shwedagon Pagoda Road and Mahabandoola Road, Downtown. +95 (0) 1 379 541, +95 (0) 1 376 357

Bo Ga Lay Zai ?? 460 Merchant Street. Downtown +95 (0) 1 392 031, +95 1 256 903

Myaynigone ?? 245 Bargayar Road, Mayangone Ward.

Sanchaung Township +95 (0) 1 526 928, +95 (0) 1 516 533

Ocean Supercentre Shop here for goods ranging from fresh produce, dry foods and snacks to large furnishing and electronics. ?? North Point Shopping Centre, Pyay Road, 9 Mile, Mayangone Township +95 (0) 1 660 100 PP 9am – 9pm

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GROCERIES

Citymart has it all - Š Citymart

Ocean Super Centre (Pazundaung Branch) ?? No. 62, Corner of Maharbandoola Road and Tarwatainthar Street, Pazundaung Township +95 (0) 1 397146, +95 (0) 1 397149

Orange Supermarket A supermarket providing mostly local products to satisfy everyday needs.

PP 9am ~ 9pm

TOP 4 BRANCHES

Orange Supermarket (Tarmwe Branch) ?? 15/16/17/18, Myittar Yeik Mon Housing, Thamain Bayan Road, Tamwe Township 0973022839

Ruby Mart A busy and well-stocked supermarket located alongside Pansodan Bridge in downtown Yangon. ?? 294/304 Pansodan Road (on the corner with Bogyoke Aung San Road, Downtown) +95 (0) 1 398 426 PP 9am to 9pm

Orange Supermarket (Latha Branch) ?? 686-689, Maha Bandoola Road, Corner of 19th St., Latha Township 01 252780, 01 385403

Orange Supermarket @ Taw Win Centre ?? (Rm 1/B), Underground, Taw Win Centre, Dagon Township 018600062~63

Orange Supermarket @ Waizayantar Shopping Centre ?? G Floor, Waizayantar Shopping Centre, Thingangyun Township 01573607, 01564274

Sein Gay Har This chain of supermarkets usually includes a general store selling items such as clothes, mobile phones and furniture. Most of their supermarkets stock both domestic produce and produce from across Asia.

PP 9am ~ 9pm

TOP 4 BRANCHES Super Centre ?? 44, Pyay Road, Dagon Township +95 (0) 1 395 140

GROCERIES Hledan Centre ?? 39/41 Hledan Road, Kamayut Township. +95 (0) 1 514 673

Parami Center ?? Between Insein and Baho Road, Parami Road, Hlaing Township +95 (0) 1 521 118

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Central Mart

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?? Between Bo Yaw and 23 Street, 620 Mahabandoola Road. Downtown +95 (0) 1 371 993

Star Mart @ Dagon Centre 1

Citymart has it all - Š Citymart

You will find all types of commodities at Star Mart : located in the Dagon Centres, it is a handy place to go while leisure shopping if you suddenly realise you missed out on some groceries.

PP 9am ~ 9pm ?? G Floor, Dagon Centre1, Sanchaung Township +95 (0) 1 502 675, +95 (0) 1 534 010

Kitchenware IKON IKON mainly caters to professionals and creates total kitchenware solutions for Hotels, Restaurants and Catering services. ?? No.328, Pyay Road, Sanchaung Township

+95 (0) 1534216,+95 (0) 1527705 PP Mon-Sat 9:30am~5:30pm Website: www.ikonmart.com

Lock & Lock @ Junction Square This Korean brand supplies tableware, cookware & storage household items.

They have another showroom @Aung San Stadium (North Wing). ?? House (16), Between Kyun Taw Street and Pyay Road, In front of TTC School, Kamayut Township +95 (0) 9421181540 PP 9am ~ 9pm

Star Mart @ Dagon Centre 2 ?? G Floor, Dagon Centre 2, Sanchaung Township +95 (0) 1 516 610 ext.101,104

SuperOne Centre As a hybrid of Supermarket and Department Store Superone has more variety of local products than at City Mart, but the choice of imported products is very much limited. However, if you are looking for quality Myanmar products, this is a good place to start. ?? Lay Daunk Kan Road (corner of Kyaikkasan Road), Thingangyun Township +95 (0) 1 545 872 PP 9am to 9pm

Victoria Hyper Mart Well stocked with basic needs for customers. ?? Underground, Excel Shopping Mall, Bahan Township 01 559648, 09 43201962 PP 9am ~ 9pm

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GROCERIES

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Finding a Taste of Home in Foreign Grocery Aisles

© Mimi Wu Moving to a new country is daunting. And when confronted with foreign foods, ingredients, and flavors, eating is far from routine. While Myanmar food is good, readily available, and generally cheap, the longing for home fare never ceases. Don’t panic! We’ve scoped out a few stores for your staples and find that with a basic kitchen, adjusting local items to expat palates isn’t as difficult as it seems.

Marketplace CityMart on Dhamazedi Road has instantly put many expats at ease. The substantial range of ingredients and produce available is impressive, fairly complete, and affordable. From whole nutmeg to taco kits, lemons to muesli, to cheese that actually tastes like cheese, the store has got you covered. Even when my favorite ready-to-eat hummus isn’t stocked, CityMart has canned chickpeas and tahini to make it at home.

Over my two years in Yangon, CityMart’s variety has grown, albeit slowly, to cater to expat palates. It’s recently introduced pre-packaged salad, alfalfa sprouts, apple cider vinegar, and more McCormick spices.

Another institution is Sharky’s, which specializes in everything tasty. This is the one place with a consistent supply of pesto (long absent from CityMart), salad mixes, and bagels. Sharky’s has

GROCERIES recently added chia seeds and dried fruit (5000 Ks each) to its line-up.

Finally, Korea Store is another recent addition on the corner of Pyay Road and Kyaik Wine Pagoda Road, and there you can also find soymilk (3,500 Ks), frozen anchovies from Korea, and almonds and walnuts (9,500 Ks/1.386kg). It’s a tiny mini mart run by Koreans and only worth visiting if you’re nearby or desperately need spam (starting at 4,500 Ks/200g).

Despite a small expansion of common expat products, we always maintain a love-hate relationship, particularly when stores stop stocking a favorite find or dramatically increase prices. What to do?

As a lazy cook but ardent food lover, I’ve successfully cooked global cuisines using locally found ingredients. The key has been cooking from scratch – a simple and generally fast process – and finding substitutions and alternatives. For example, the expensive store-bought pesto can be easily made at home. Try substituting basil/pine nuts with arugula/pistachios, cilantro/pumpkin seeds, tomato/almonds, or ricotta/walnuts. Strain yogurt for Greek-style yogurt, substitute mascarpone for sour cream on tacos, try your hand at chicken liver pate, and roast pork shoulder to make pulled pork sandwiches. You can even make your own almond milk from raw nuts.

Being far from home doesn’t mean you have to eat Myanmar cuisine exclusively. Play scientist and experiment with Yangon’s diverse and evolving ingredients to keep your homesickness at bay.

This article by Mimi Wu was first published in MYANMORE's EnjoyIt, January 2015 edition.

Indian food supplies Looking for spices, dal, ghee?

Head to the Shri Kali Hindu temple and its surrounding streets. You are bound to find everything you need on the market and in the small shops. There are also some restaurants nearby for food and refreshments, if you need to settle down a little after your shopping spree!

AK KHAN This shop is popular amongst owners of Indian restaurants...it must be a sign! ?? 162, 27th St., Upper Blk., Pabedan Township +95 (0) 1245275, +95(0) 95104061 PP 7am ~ 7pm

KnowIt / April 2015

New to the scene is ProMart. Located across from Pearl Condo, it carries Japanese and Korean items © Mimi Wu and surprise! Corndogs?! Go for their good quality meat that stayed fresh for several days and the only grocer with Japanese rice (3,500 Ks/1kg). ProMart also sells grape seed oil (6,600 Ks/500mL); pomegranate, lemon, and apple vinegars (starting at 1,450 Ks/500mL); canned salmon (starting at 5,370 Ks/135g); frozen anchovies; and dumplings galore (starting at 2,640 Ks/180g). Kimchi lovers will rejoice over freshly pickled cabbage.

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Looking for octopus? Quietly hidden off Inya Road, Jyanko Mart sells it frozen (30 Ks/g), along with almond oil (2,800 Ks/175mL), frozen edamame, and soybean and rice milks (1,950 Ks/bottle).

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sport Martial arts and kickboxing are the two most popular sports in Myanmar. References to kickboxing are found in the chronicles of warfare between Burma and Thailand during the 15th and 16th century while the British introduced football (soccer) in the 19th century. While football remains the most popular spectator sport in Yangon there are numerous sporting activities open to travellers and expats alike.

MARTIAL ARTS AIKIDO The Y.I.H. dojo is the largest Aikido dojo in Myanmar, with a total matted training area of 180 square metres. All local instructors are certified by the Aikido World Headquarters (Hombu Dojo) in Japan. ?? Yangon International Hotel, 330 Ahlone Road.

Website: www.aikidoinmyanmar.tripod.com/id1.html

Mixed Martial Arts Class @ Pearl Condo The trainer has 24 years of experience in Krav Maga, Brazilian Jujitsu, Wushu, Wing Chun, and kickboxing to teach those looking for more practice with self-defence.

Price: US10$ or 9,500Ks for 90 min class, US15$ (14,500Ks) for two 90 min classes in a week. ?? 2nd floor Dance Studio, Pearl Condo, Kabar Aye Pagoda Road, Yankin Township +95 (0) 9 250 195 873 PP Tues & Fri 4pm~5:30pm, Sat & Sun 1pm~2:30pm

LETHWEI (BURMESE BOXING) The local version of the bruising kickbox-style sport Lethwei (pronounced ‘Laway’) can be tried at Thut Ti Lethwei Boxing School. Run by a former national champion Lone Chaw, the school is a friendly place and, if you’re feeling brave, an ideal place to practice this unique sport. ?? 893 Wuntharetkhitta, Kaba Aye Pagoda Road.

It is often tricky to find, so the best option is to phone the school and get them to give your taxi driver directions. +95 (0) 9 73187441 www.myanmar-boxing-school.com

MMA Elite Yangon They provide MMA training - a unique combination of boxing, BJJ, Judo, Muay Thai, Sanda, Sambo, Taekwondo and wrestling. Only available to members of Real Fitness Myanmar. ?? 20, Pearl Street , Golden Valley Ward, Bahan Township (Right across Mya Yeik Nyo) PP 7:30am ~ 9pm Email: felixheinhtetmyat@gmail.com

Myanmar Wushu Federation The federation trained the Myanmar Wushu competitors who participated in and brought home 15 medals from the 27th SEA Games.

Summer Course 3 months (March to May) ?? 2nd Floor, Padonmar Stadium, Bargayar Road, Sanchaung Township.

0943079307 PP 7am ~ 9am (Sat-Sun), 2am ~ 4pm (Sat-Sun)

Burmese Boxing - © The Pictureman

SPORT

?? Aung San Memorial Stadium +95 (0) 1 255 935 Website: worldtaekwondofederation.net Email: taekwondo.mya@gmail.com

?? Opposite the entrance to Yangon University on University Avenue.

PP Saturday at 3pm

MARATHON Yangon BJJ house The only Brazilian Jiu Jitsu club in Myanmar.

Price: Free ?? Apartment A2, 138B1 New University Avenue Road, Bahan Township +95 (0) 9 254 278 217 PP Tues & Thurs 8pm~10pm, Sat & Sun 3pm-5pm, Other days and times by appointment Email: YangonBJJHouse@gmail.com

Yangon hosted its first International Marathon in 2013, attracting more than 1,000 participants. 2014’s event was even bigger and attracted professional athletes from as far-afield as Kenya. The third incarnation of the event, which also includes a 10 kilometre challenge and a 3 kilometre “Fun Run”, returned in January 2015, with more than 1700 participants.

For more information visit: yangonmarathon.com

SPORTS CLUBS

RACQUET SPORTS Myanmar Badminton Federation Foreigners and locals alike are welcome to play badminton here on weekends. ?? No 320/332, Anawrahta Street, West Gymnasium, Lanmadaw Township +95 (0) 1 221 496, +95 (0) 1 227 163 PP Sat-Sun 7am ~ 6pm

FOOTBALL While many of the locals are football – and more specifically, Premier League – fans, getting an organised game of football together is surprisingly difficult to do. Despite some efforts to get a regular meet-up organised, little has stuck and the best bet for those wanting a game is to organise their own or join in with some of the locals who are having a casual kick about in some of the random green spaces in the city.

Myanmar Tennis Federation No need to book to rent a tennis court.

Admission Fees: International court US6$ for 1 Hour, Beginner court US2$ for 1 Hour ?? Thien Byu Tennis Plaza, Mingalar Taung Nyunt +95 (0) 1 372 360, +95 (0) 1 381 991~2, +95 (0) 1513009 PP 6am ~ 8pm Email: myatenfed@mptmail.net.mm

RUNNING HASH HOUSE HARRIERS A self-styled ‘drinking club with a running problem’; Yangon’s incarnation of this global group are a friendly bunch who meet every Saturday afternoon. Their runs (which are often tough but always enjoyable) take in parts of the city visitors are never likely to see otherwise. Their leader,

AUSTRALIAN FOOTBALL LEAGUE If you’re for a game of Aussie Rules The Myanmar Fighting Cocks train every Saturday at 3pm at the sports ground of Star City.

For more information contact: thefightingcocks@bigroosterfooty.com

Rugby Yangon Dragons RUFC is the first and so far only rugby club in Myanmar, catering for both touch and contact rugby players. The club puts on three sessions a week - a Tuesday fitness session, a contact and touch session at 3pm at Star City on Saturdays and a touch-only session at 11am ISY on Sundays.

For more information contact yangondragonsrugby@gmail.com

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Myanmar Taekwondo Federation The place to for taekwondo enthusiasts, from beginners right up to professional level.

Bobo, will always make light fun of any newcomers – in true Hash tradition. They meet every Saturday at 3pm opposite the entrance to Yangon University on University Avenue.

KnowIt / April 2015

TAEKWONDO

SPORT

Myanmar Football Federation

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The Myanmar Football Federation is the largest of the 43 sports federations in the country. This goes to show what many claim to be true: Football is Myanmar’s number 1, 2 and number 3 favourite sport! I must admit, it is quite striking to witness how taxi drivers know the name of just about every player's name in many countries. I’ve tried several: France, Germany, UK, Spain... trust me, they know.

Now, did you know that Myanmar has over 140 years of documented history playing football? The MFF was started back in 1947 as a non-profit organisation. In 2009, the Myanmar Football League (MNL) was created and it now chaperones two leagues: MNL 1 for professionals (12 clubs) and MNL 2 (8 clubs) for semi-professionals.

There are 10 national teams, and to develop the football industry further, the MFF is youth. A football academy will open shortly in Yangon to consolidate the already existing football academies opened in Mandalay (2010) and Pathein (2011). Youths also have their own leagues (MNL 1 for up to 20 years old, and MNL 2 for up to 18 years old).

Playing golf in Yangon investing in its

As a result of these efforts, Myanmar hosted the AFC U19 Championship 2014 and ranked 4th out of 16. More impressive still and for the first time ever, the Myanmar team qualified for the FIFA U20 World Cup, which will take place in New Zealand in 2015.

The MFF is thankful to its patrons who make it possible for the people of Myanmar to enjoy and share their love of football: U Tayza, U Zaw Zaw and Aung Ko Win.

Football crazy - © Daniel Roca

CRICKET

YANGON EQUESTRIAN CLUB

Myanmar Cricket Federation trains at Pun Hlaing. The match is at Aung San Stadium.

Foreigners and Locals can enjoy indoor and outdoor horse riding at this historic club. They also provide horse riding lessons for adults and children.

GAELIC FOOTBALL The Myanmar Celts train at the same time and place as the Fighting Celts, every Saturday at 3pm at Star City.

For more information contact: thefightingcocks@bigroosterfooty.com

?? Pyidaungsu road, Sport Complux, North Dagon Township +95 (0) 1 584969 PP 8:am - 11:am, 4:pm - 6:pm Website: www.mef.org.mm

water sports

HOCKEY

SAILING

Relatively new to the Yangon sporting scene Yangon Hockey Club has a small but committed membership that trains every Saturday from 3pm to 5pm.

There is some confusion regarding membership at the Yangon Sailing Club (Inya Road, close to junction with Pyay Road), so it’s best to pay them a visit and have a chat. The club opens its doors to non-members on Friday nights.

?? Thein Pyu Sports Ground, Thein Pyu Road For more information visit the Yangon Hockey Club Facebook page.

Softball The international amateur softball league plays games every Sunday from November to March from 9am to 6pm. There are both male and female teams. ?? American Club, Melikha Street, Yankin Township Website: www.yangonsoftball.com/

?? 132 Inya Road, Kamayut Township +95 (0) 9 51513899 Email: info@yangonsailing.com

ROWING Next to the sailing club is the Rowing Club, where boats can be hired. The club’s officials are sometimes a little wary of foreigners but after some careful negotiation it should be possible to hire a boat. +95 (0) 1 526052

Volleyball Myanmar Volleyball Federation The grounds are available for external players from 12 to 4pm. You have to book a week in advance, playing there is free.

Sport Training Clubs & Association ?? Aung San Stadium, Gyo Phyu St., Mingalar Taung Nyunt Township +95 (0) 1 240 450, +95 (0) 9 5 006 016

Netball The netball crowd plays mixed, social netball every Sunday afternoon at L’Alchimiste French Restaurant. ?? No 5. U Tun Nyein Street, Mayangone Township +95 (0) 9 420 096 298 Email: elizabeth_watt@hotmail.com

Bahosi swimming pool They host 2 swimming summer courses between March & May: They last 1 month & cost 45,000Ks ?? Bogyoke Aung San Rd, Bahosi Housing, Lanmadaw Township +95 (0) 9 5114629 PP 10 ~ 12, 3:30 ~ 5:30 Admission: 15,000Ks

KOKINE SWIMMING CLUB For members only. The pool is currently undergoing renovations so make sure you call them before going. ?? 23 Sayar San Road, Bahan Township +95 (0) 1 542749 Admission: 2,000Ks

KnowIt / April 2015

Email: mcf@myanmar.com.mm

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SPORT

SPORT

YANGON UNIVERSITY SWIMMING POOL

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It’s not the nicest, and women should wear a t-shirt and shorts over their bikini, but it does the job. On Saturday and Sunday afternoons there is usually a fun crowd of students who are willing to join in a game of water-polo. Not a sunbathing pool. ?? Inya Rd, Sein Lan So Pyay Garden, Kamayut Township +95 (0) 9 73105276 Admission – 1,000Ks

National Swimming Pool Fairly clean 50m lap pool with an attached diving section.

Price US30$ for 3 months, US50$ for 5 months, US100$/ 1 year. ?? 68, U Wisara Road, Dagon Township +95 (0) 1 378 550, +95 (0) 1 385 928 PP 9am ~ 12pm, 1pm ~ 4pm, 6pm ~ 8pm

leisurely swims Apart from the swimming pools listed below non guests can use the swimming pools at many of the high end hotels including: Chatrium, Savoy and Park Royal (US20$) and Governor’s Residence – free as long as you eat at the restaurant.

Chatrium Swimming Pool A large and relaxing swimming pool surrounded by palm trees with several lounge chairs and a nice poolside bar and locker room.

Price: US20$/ day ?? 40, Natmauk Road, Tamwe Township +95 (0) 1 544 500 Email: info.chry@chatrium.com

Inya Lake Swimming Pool GYMS Most major hotels have good gyms that can be used for a daily rate such as Sule Shangri-la, Park Royal and Summit Parkview. There are also a small number of independent gyms that are worth a go.

BALANCE FITNESS

The weekday fee is US15$ Saturday & Sunday expect to pay US25$. Payment

by Visa card available. ?? Inya Lake, 37 Kaba Aye Pagoda Road, Mayangone Township +95 (0) 1 9662 866, +95 (0) 1 9 665 537

KANDAWGYI SWIMMING POOL 00000001

Group fitness classes are led by well-informed trainers. The equipment is relatively new with a large gym area and mirrors to remind yourself how well – or otherwise – you’re doing. ?? 64(G) Kyitewine Pagoda Road, 8mile - within Hotel Avenue 64 PP 6am ~ 11pm

Balance Fitness 2 They have experienced instructors and international quality equipment and facilities including an indoor track.

Price: US20$ for one-time visit, US150$ per month, packages range from US980$ - US1800$ USD/year ?? No.103, Corner of University Avenue Road and Thanlwin Street (Near United States Rangoon Embassy)

This pool is often busy but not as nice as Kokine; there’s also a paddling pool for toddlers. ?? Bogyoke Aung San Rd, Bahosi Housing, Lanmadaw Township +95 (0) 9 5114629 Admission: K4000

Micasa Swimming Pool Price: US12$, They also have summer swimming lesson for groups of 10 people only: US120$ per month ?? 17, Kaba Aye Pagoda Road, Yankin Township +95 (0) 9 51650933

SPORT +95 (0) 1 539 609, +95 (0) 9 8 631 392 PP Daily 6am ~ 10pm

Sakura Residence

?? 40 Natmauk Road, Tamwe Township +95 (0) 1 544 500 PP Mon – Sun: 7:00 am – 10:00 pm Email: chatriumyangon123@gmail.com Website: www.chatrium.com/chatrium_hotel_y…

Espace Avenir (Executive Serviced Apartment) This small but clean gym is equipped with a variety of machines and an indoor swimming pool. The gym is located on the top floor of the hotel and offers a nice view.

Price: US120$ per month, US300$ for three month, US525$ for six months, US970$ for 1 year ?? No. 523, Pyay Road, Kamaryut Township +95 (0) 1 505 213, +95 (0) 1 505 222 PP Daily 6am~9pm.

PARKROYAL Fitness & Spa This gym is complete with sauna and steam bath facilities, aerobics & yoga classes and table tennis.

Price: US20$ for one-time visit, US250$/ month, US1250$ for 6 months, US2250$/ year, US3,950$ including Family members/ year. ?? 33 Alan Pya Phaya Road, Dagon Township. +95 (0) 1 250 388 Ext: 8226 PP 6am ~ 11pm

REAL FITNESS Located downtown and well equipped this gym offers aerobics classes and TRX training classes daily, can become very crowded during peak hours. ?? 20, Pearl Street, Golden Valley Ward, Bahan Township (Right across Mya Yeik Nyo) PP 7.30am ~ 9pm

Real Fitness 2 @ Mindhama Price: US200$ per month, US500$ for 3 months, US950$ for 6 months, US1,850$/ year. ?? No.68, Taw Win Road, 9 mile, Mayangone Township 09253065583, 09254877534, 011220881

A fully equipped fitness gym offers some of the most up-to-date sports equipment.

Price: US10$/ day, US150$/ month, US350$ for 3 months ?? 9. Inya Road, ward (10),Kamayut Township +95 (0) 1 525 001 PP 6am ~ 10pm

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sule SHANGRI-LA FITNESS CENTRE Sule Shangri-La offer a compact, boutiquesized gym space with a decent sized swimming pool to cool off after working out. ?? 223 Sule Pagoda Road (within Traders Hotel) PP 6am – 11pm

Sweat Club Complete gym facilities including a swimming pool, workout room and aerobic classes.

Price: US12$ for one-time visit, US110$/ month, US295$ for 3 months, US560$/ half year, US1,050$/ year. ?? Micasa Hotel, Kabar Aye Pagoda Road, Yankin Township. +95 (0) 1 650 933 Ext 183 PP 6am ~ 10pm

GOLF Golf is hugely popular in Myanmar and golf courses can found throughout the country.

There are also a few driving ranges around Yangon. Prices vary but expect to pay between US$50 and US$100 for green fees and above US$30 for club rental.

Aqua Inya Golf Driving Range Decked out with neon flashing lights and floating-island targets scattered 400 meters offshore, the driving range allows players to hit the golf balls into the lake. ?? Mya Kyun Thar Amusement Park, Kaba Aye Pagoda Road., Mayangon Township +95 (0) 1 657 758, +95 (0) 1 657 759 PP 6am ~ 8am

KnowIt / April 2015

CHATRIUM HEALTH CLUB

PP Mon-Fri : 6am ~ 10pm, Sat-Sun : 7:30am ~ 9pm

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SPORT

Practising that swing - © Pun Hlaing

HANTHAWADDY DRIVING RANGE A popular driving range for golfers keen to improve their swing ?? Nar Nat Taw Street (corner of Kyun Taw Street), Kamayut Township +95 (0) 1 502 894

INYA LAKE DRIVING RANGE Decked out with neon flashing lights and floating-island targets scattered 400 metres offshore, Inya Lake Driving Range is a curious site. Here, people actually hit golf balls into the water. ?? Inya Lake is about 10 kilometres from downtown.

Streets bordering the lake are Parami Road to the north, Kabar Aye Pagoda Road to the east, University Avenue on the south and Pyay Road to the west.

PP 6:00 am – 8:00 pm

MYANMAR GOLF CLUB Established in 1948 Myanmar Golf Club is located about two miles from Yangon International airport and offers plenty of challenging ups and downs, rolling hills and ponds. ?? 9 mile, Pyay Road, Mayangone Township +95 (0) 1 661702

PUN HLAING GOLF CLUB The 18-hole Gary Player designed course opened in 2000. Pun Hlaing Golf Club is a favorite for both residents and visitors and is situated 12 km West of Yangon.

?? Pun Hlaing Golf Estate Avenue, Hlaing Tharya Township +95 (0) 1 684 020

ROYAL MINGALARDON GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB This 18-hole, 286 acre international standard golf course is located six kilometres from Yangon International Airport and 20 kilometres from the city centre. ?? Nar Nat Taw Street (corner of Kyun Taw Street) Kamayut Township. +95 (0) 1 502 894

YANGON CITY GOLF RESORT Sprawled over 130 hectares and just 25-minute drive to the north of the capital city, YCDC (Read: Yangon City Development Committee) Golf Club boasts two, 18-hole courses with completely different characters. ?? Thirimingalar Sreet, 10 Miles, Insein Township +95 (0) 1 641763-7 Email: goalhill@myanmar.com.mm Website: www.citygolfresort.com

YANGON GOLF CLUB Located 25 minutes north of downtown Yangon by car Myanmar’s second oldest golf club is a challenging and fun course to play with a few long tee-offs over wide water and plenty of bunkers and well placed hazards. ?? Kha Yae Pin St, Da Nyin Gone Ward, Insein Township +95 (0) 1 635563 Website: www.yangongolfclub.com

Sports World

Located in downtown Yangon, they offer a good selection of basic sports equipment and apparel.

A large selection of sports equipment and sport clothing, including gym equipment and basic equipment for golf, tennis and football.

?? 139, 47th St., Upper Block., Botahtaung Township 01 294188, 09 5124150 PP 9am ~ 5pm

?? 315 Bogyoke Aung San St, Kyauktada Township 01 376927 PP 8:30am ~ 7:30pm

Premier

Winner Sporting

Insein Road features many sports shops, and Premier has a great selection for sports equipment and apparel in this area.

They boast one of the widest selections featuring fitness and exercise machines on the bottom floor whilst upstairs has more outdoor related gear such as footballs and apparel.

?? 48/B, Yangon-Insein Rd., Hledan, Kamayut Township 01 527089, 09 5118494 PP 9am ~ 8:30pm

AFL - Š The Pictureman

?? 368/371 Mahabandoola Garden St, Kyauktada Township PP 8:30am ~ 7pm

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Barclays

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SPORT

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Going for a run in Yangon City The best time to go running in Yangon is early morning. At sunrise, the weather is particularly nice, and gets a bit fresher in the winter months. Most importantly there is only very little traffic in the morning time.

KnowIt / April 2015

On the contrary, it is almost impossible to go running at night. In addition to that, the sidewalks are not well lit and are quite a hazard.

Running in the rain during the monsoon season can be rather enjoyable here in Yangon as the temperatures are quite good for running.

Nice areas to run are: - Inya Road : very little traffic and quiet on weekends.

- Around Shwedagon Pagoda : avoid Sundays after 10am as it gets really busy.

- Theingottara Park next to Shwedagon Pagoda (can be accessed from U Wisara Road) : nice green gardens, small hills and is quiet in the mornings. A full round in the park here is about 2km.

- People's park : less greenery than the above but it has some fitness equipment inside the park for those wanting a bit of cross training.

- Kandawgyi Lake : one round is about 4km. Nice in the mornings although badly maintained sidewalks make running quite a challenge.

- Inya lake : unfortunately there is no easy way to run around the lake and there is a lot of running on the streets to get around.

In short, the best place to run is within the parks around downtown.

Always take a bit of money with you when running outside in the hot season- dehydration is dangerous and can happen to anyone at any time, so it is safer to have a bit of cash in case of emergency to either take a taxi home or buy some drinks. Stop a few times on the way to buy water, a sports drink or even fruit for those really long runs.

Tips by Dave Junker, Resident Manager, Sule Shangri-La, Yangon

Yangon Marathon 2015 - Š The Pictureman

myanmar language schools Learning a language is a great way to immerse oneself in a country and culture. Learning can be fun and enjoyable, but requires motivation and commitment.

You can join a language exchange club to practice your language skills regularly. Local friends, colleagues or even your local date may be willing to practice the language with you!

Finally, taxi drivers are a valuable source of knowledge for everything from football scores to local news. They are a great group of people to practice with, making traffic jams more bearable!

Contact: Sayama Ma War War Oo E-mail: rose.91264@gmail.com

LINKING HANDS Linking Hands run classes for limited numbers. ?? No. (4), 3F, Myaing Hay Wun Rd, Ward 4, 8th Mile, Mayangone Township Contact Jo Griffiths 01 552 531 or 09 7318 0428 language@linking-hands.net

Global Enchanting Education Center ?? 709, 7th Floor, Bayintnaung Tower (2B), Kamaryut Township +95 (0) 9 5181316, +95 (0) 9 73127074

MOE MYANMAR LANGUAGE CENTRE Effective and fun classes run by experienced and adaptive teachers. Ten day and other regular courses are available for students of all levels. ?? No. 436, Top Floor, Thein Phyu Road,(opposite Thein Phyu bus stop) Mingalar Taung Nyut Township +95 (0) 9 4316 8422, +95 (0) 9 9754 98877 Email: register.mmlc@moemyanmar.com Website: www.moemyanmar.com www.facebook.coom/MyanmarLanguageCenter

YANGON UNIVERSITY OF FOREIGN LANGUAGES Large and enthusiastic teaching staff offer classes at many levels and times, including evening classes three days a week. ?? 119, 131, University Avenue Rd. (Corner of Inya Rd.) Ward (10), Kamayut Township +95 (0) 1 535985, 513193, hostel +95 1 530443

Bilingual Language Centre ?? No. 7 (Ground Floor), Thu Kha Mein Street, Queen Shin Saw Pu Quarter, San Chaung Township +95 (0) 9 500 6431 Email: nyalinphyu@gmail.com

Institut Franรงais de Birmanie The French Institute offers basic to Intermediate levels courses (reading, writing and speaking skills) with experienced teachers and resources inspired by the John Okell approach.

The lessons can be given in English or French depending on the student's background. ?? No. 340, Pyay Road, Sanchaung Township +95 (0) 1 536 900, +95 (0) 1 537 122 Website: www.institutfrancais-birmanie.com

KnowIt / April 2015

For those looking to stretch their brains a bit, there are plenty of opportunities to learn something new in Yangon. New arrivals are keen to learn the local language and there is no shortage of teachers offering these services. English and French classes are also available. A few more dancing classes as well as art classes have popped up in recent months, while lovers of the local cuisine can also learn with specialised courses offered by some restaurants in town.

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CLASSES

Learning a language should be fun - Š IFB

THE BRITISH COUNCIL Regularly offers classes in Myanmar language. ?? 78 Kanna Road +95 (0) 1 254 658; +95 1 245 345 Email: enquiries@mm.britishcouncil.org Website: www.britishcouncil.org/burma.htm

PRIVATE MYANMAR LANGUAGE TEACHERS Some private schools in Yangon offer Burmese for foreigners. Schools come and go and the availability of Burmese classes changes frequently. The following is a list of private teachers you can try.

THE AMERICAN CENTER Regularly offers classes in Myanmar language ?? 14 Tawwin Road, Dagon Township (off Pyay Road, after Taw Win Centre). +95 (0) 1 223 106. +95 (0) 1 223 140, +95 (0) 1 221 585 Website: www.burma.usembassy.gov/americancenter.html

PANSODAN SCENE The friendly folk at Pansodan Scene host a weekly Burmese Language Club for people to practice. ?? 144 Pansodan Road, Downtown.

PP Every Saturday 4pm - 6pm

Prof. Dr. Daw Cho Cho Aung Taught Burmese to foreigners at the International Theravada Buddhist Missionary University for many years.

Contact: profdr.cho@gmail.com

Ko Htoo Htoo Khant Tutors at the US Embassy and takes private students.

Contact: htoohtoo.khant3@googlemail.com

Mya Hla: U Mya Hla Formerly with Linking Hands, now freelance.

CLASSES

Former interpreter, and co-author of the Paiboon dictionary and other language teaching aids. Nance is an experienced and proficient teacher of Burmese to foreigners.

Email: inkish@gmail.com Pa Pa Khine <ppkhine1@gmail.com> +95 (0) 9 5179895 or 0973202808.

?? 14 Tawwin Road, Dagon Township (off Pyay Road, after Taw Win Centre). +95 (0) 1 223 106. +95 (0) 1 223 140, +95 (0) 1 221 585

BRITISH COUNCIL The educational arm of the British Embassy offers English classes as well as cultural shows. It has a well-stocked library. ?? 78 Kanna Road +95 (0) 1 254 658; +95 1 245 345 Email: enquiries@mm.britishcouncil.org

Sally San Yu Wai Maing Teaches at the Institute Franรงais. +95 (0) 1 535328 Email: sanyuwaimaung@gmail.com

Waddi Thwin: Daw Waddi Thwin: Formerly taught in UFL.

EDULINK AUSTRALIA A privately-run English school that also offers opportunities for students to study in Australia. +95 (0) 1 500 464; +95 (0) 9 7316 2586; +95 (0) 9 42111 9895 Email: info@edulinkaustralia.com

+95 (0) 1 513196, 635021.

Daw Yi Yi Win +95 (0) 1 663691 Email: mamaqueen@gmail.com

Yu Yu Khaing Experienced and resourceful. +95 (0) 1 217261 Email: khaing.yuyu@gmail.com

Zar Chi Aung Formerly with Linking Hands in Mandalay. +95 (0) 9 730 92791

Email: zcaungmimi@gmail

Daw Than Nu Runs private classes in English, but also has language teacher training and experience and has taught many foreigners.

NELSON ENGLISH LANGUAGE CENTRE A private school that offers individual and group classes. The school has three centres in Yangon.

Centre 1: ?? 75 Dhamayone Street, Sanchaung township. +95 (0) 1 516 681; +95 (0) 1 526 311; +95 (0) 1 523 680 Email: nelc@myanmar.com.mm

Centre 2: ?? 202/213 MGW Tower, Bo Aung Kyaw Street, Downtown. +95 (0) 1 256 517, +95 (0) 1 256 516, +95 (0) 9 504 5234, +95 (0) 9 861 2639 Email: Nelccenter2@gmail.com

Centre 3: ?? 3 Aung Thapyay Road, Sanchaung township. +95 (0) 1 501 947

+95 (0) 9 200 1402

NEXUS MYANMAR

ENGLISH LANGUAGE CLASSES THE AMERICAN CENTRE Offers cultural, educational and information

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Nance Cunningham

programmes. It also has an extensive library.

A privately-run English language school. ?? 8 Panchan Tower, Dhamazedi Road (near corner of Bargayar Road), Sanchaung township. +95 (0) 1 708 904 Email: nexusmyanmar@gmail.com

KnowIt / April 2015

+95 (0) 9 45000 5693 Email: umyahla2004@gmail.com

CLASSES bookings are essential.

STRATEGY FIRST INSTITUTE A private school that focuses mainly on Business English. ?? 1002-1005 10th Floor, Panchan Tower (corner of Bargayar Road), Sanchaung township. +95 (0) 1 539 135, +95 (0) 1 539 132

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FRENCH LANGUAGE CLASS FRENCH INSTITUTE MYANMAR (INSTITUTE FRANCAIS DE BIRMANIE) KnowIt / April 2015

Offering individual and groups classes

GOVERNORâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S RESIDENCE Governorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Residence offers two choices of cooking classes. The first is a market tour, cooking demonstration and a glass of Burmese wine where participants can learn how to prepare a traditional Myanmar salad (US70$ per person).

The second is the same as mentioned and includes a buffet lunch (US120$ per person).

Advanced booking required.

?? 340 Pyay Road, Sanchaung Township. +95 (0) 1 535 428, +95 (0) 1 536 900, +95 (0) 1 537 122

DANCING CLASSES HOLA DANCE CLUB - LATIN NIGHTS

Wednesday and Friday, 8:30am-12:30pm (or by appointment).

Tours commence at Hledan Centre (Pyay Rd) and conclude at GraceWorks Myanmar training centre.

Email: myanmarcookingclasses@gmail.com ?? No 33 Airport Lan Thwe, 1 Saw Bwa Gyi Gone ward, Insein Township +95 (0) 9 3185 7151 Website: www.graceworksmyanmar.org.au

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Social dance classes every evening for public.

Private classes also available. ?? 94 Bogar Lay Zay Street (between 42 and 43rd Streets and just north of Merchant Street), Downtown +95 (0) 392 625, +95 (0) 9 73 200 107 PP 6pm onwards

ZUMBA DANCE CLASSES Zumba dance cardio for all levels. ?? Grace Studio in Pearl Condominium, Kaba Aye Pagoda Road, Bahan Township +95 (0) 9 73118339 PP Tuesday and Thursday. 6.30pm Email: zumbamyanmar@gmail.com

COOKING CLASSES Grace Works Myanmar The mission of Grace Works Myanmar is to empower Myanmar people and bring about sustainable development. This cooking class is one of their many programs and aims at providing motivated young hospitality trainees with valuable workplace experience. After a traditional food market tour, head off to their training center to gain more insights about the fantastic flavours of Myanmar cuisine: cook new dishes and enjoy them for lunch! Note that

?? 35 Taw Win Road, Dagon Township +95 (0) 1 229 860; +95 (0) 1 228 260.

Email: township.reservations@governorsresidence. com

MONSOON RESTAURANT

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A local chef from the restaurant takes participants to a local market to get the correct ingredients before returning to the restaurant to learn how to cook some unique Myanmar dishes. US50$ per person. ?? 85-87 Thein Phyu Road, Downtown. +95 (0) 1 295 224, +95 (0) 9 501 5653

theatre class the shakespeare schools The Shakespeare Schools run drama classes in Yangon for all ages throughout the week.

These classes provide a fun social environment where participants get the chance to experiment with their creativity. Each ten-week term culminates with a performance. The classes are held in different locations depending on the day and age group, refer to their website for more details. ?? They change venue quite regularly! + 95 (0) 9 421 163 794 Email: info@shakespeareschools.com

MEDITATION RETREATS CHANMIYAY YEIKTHA MEDITATION CENTRE Meaning ‘peaceful retreat’, this meditation centre was founded by another Mahasi disciple, Sawadaw U Janaka. ?? 55A kaba Ay Pagoda Road, Mayangone Township +95 (0) 1 661 479 www.facebook.com/mayanmarmeditation.centreyangon

mental and physical sensation and, ultimately, every thought. The centre only accepts foreigners who commit to at least one week. ?? 16 Thatana Yeiktha Road, Bahan Township +95 (0) 1 541 971 Website: www.mahasi.org.mm

PANDITARAMA MEDITATION CENTRE Established in 1990 this respected meditation centre offer courses in English for visitors prepared to commit to stays of one week or more.

DHAMMA JOTI VIPASSAMA CENTRE This simple, peaceful retreat is a short walk from Shwedagon Paya and Kandawgyi Lake.

Meditators must sign up for the introductory ten day course and share accommodation. ?? Ngahtatgyi Paya Road, Bahan Township +95 (0) 1 549 290 Website: www.vridhamma.org

Dhammapala Hill, Mayangone, Yangon The International Theravada Buddhist University in Yangon was established in 1998. It offers programs in insight meditation and the study of canonical texts and relevant languages. The courses are taught in English. +95 (0) 1 665673 / +95 (0) 1 660171

MAHASI MEDITATION CENTRE The Mahasi Centre was founded in 1947 by the late Mahasi Sayadaw, arguably Myanmar’s greatest meditation teacher. The Mahasi technique strives for intensive, moment to moment awareness of every physical movement, every

No place like Ommm - © Grand Velas

KnowIt / April 2015

Yangon has a number of yoga and meditation retreats that are open to foreign meditators (known locally as yogis). Most centres practice Insight (Vipassana) Meditation and those wishing to stay longer than one-month should organise a special meditation visa with the meditation centre beforehand.

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YOGA ?? 80A Thwan Lin Road, Bahan +95 (0) 1 535 448 Website: www.panditarama.net

SHWE OO MIN DHAMA SUKHA YEIKTHA

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Classes taken at the International Centre by the Venerable Sayadaw U Tejaniya ?? Aung Myay Thar Yar Road, Gone Tala Poung village, Mingalardon Township +95 (0) 1 636 402 Email: headway@mptmail.net.mm.

YOGA

Jenny Yoga Jenny has travelled and taught yoga in China, Sri lanka, Singapore and Myanmar. She conducts yoga classes for beginners and more experienced students.

SCHEDULE: Tue-Thurs-Sat: 10am ~ 11am Mon-Fri: 6pm ~ 7pm 80USD per month, 3 weeks in a month, 3 days in a week ?? No.237.3-A,China Town Condo.10th street,Anawrahta Road, lanmadaw Township +95(0)9421025389 Email: jnyyoga@gmail.com Website: www.myanmaryoga.com

INSTItUT FRANCAIS

Nan Mo Yoga

Classes must be booked in advance and you must bring your ID or Passport to enter IFB compound as well as your own mattress.

Tuesday: 7.30am-8.45am, Wednesday / Friday: 7pm-8.15pm in the Lecture room 5000 kyats for 1 session

They provide several classes a day, morning and afternoon. Sessions last 1 hour and 30 minutes and are conducted by well experienced instructors.

SCHEDULE: 7am, 9.30am, 3.30pm, 6pm

?? 340, Pyay Road, Sanchaung Township +95 (0) 1536900, +95 (0) 1537122, +95 (0) 1535428

?? 281, 6floor, AB, Middle Shwegondine Main Road, Bahan Township +95 (0) 949296470, +95 (0) 9 5134787

contact Julia: juliaturcato@hotmail.com

Meditate to the sounds of the singing bowl - Š Suzanne Schroeter

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The authentic curry stall - Š Sai Thant Sin

73 You've done all there is to do and seen all there is to see ... you are STARVING!

Here's a (very) short guide to food & drink in Yangon.

For the real thing, grab our Dining & Nightlife Guide, EnjoyIt.

KnowIt / April 2015

eat & drink

Myanmar food often doesn’t get the same well-received reputation that dishes from other countries in the region receive - namely India, China and Thailand. But with influences from across South Asia and the Southeast Asia region, as well as its unique ingredients, those who leave the country without having sampled the country’s food will be missing out.

Burmese Curry

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Top 10 Myanmar Foods

Normally much oilier than its Indian equivalent, a Burmese Curry is usually a relativelyrich sauce. Chicken is the go-to main ingredient, but other options include pork, shrimp, beef and mutton. The best part of a Burmese curry though is the selection of side dishes that come with it.

Shan Noodles (Shan Kouw Swe) Despite having originated in far-away Shan State, this noodle dish has very much made its home in the Burmese-strongholds of the country. Served in a noodle soup, ingredients usually added are vegetables, chilli and marinated chicken or pork. A personal highlight of the local food.

© Julian Ray Photography

Mohinga The national dish Mohinga is, in its simplest form, a fish broth packed with rice noodles, eggs, fritter and the occasional fish head. But don’t let that put you off. It may not sound, or even look, like the most appetising of meals, but the people of Myanmar have perfected the art, adding all the right ingredients to give you a taste explosion. There are a variety of ways to make it, but most dishes include hard-boiled eggs, dried chilli and an abundance of vegetables.

© Julian Ray Photography

EAT & DRINK Nangyi Thoke One of the few dry noodle dishes available in Myanmar, Nangyi Thoke is a thick, round noodle that is usually served with slices of chicken.

Additions include egg, chilli and lemons.

Grilled Fish

© Julian Ray Photography

Tea Leaf Salad (Lehpet Thouk)

Best known in Yangon for being cooked in Chinatown, the Grilled Fish is available at dozens of barbecue stalls across the city, and is just as tasty in just about all of them. Marinated in lots of different flavours, it is the lemon on the meat that really stands out, and is a terrific, cheap option wherever you are in the country.

Many new arrivals to Yangon could be forgiven for thinking that tea shouldn’t be edible, but those who sit down to a delicious dish of ‘lehpet thouk’ will realise they were very wrong indeed. Like most Myanmar dishes, it is an concoction of different flavours that give it a unique taste. It is also considered as a stimulant.

Shan Rice (Shan Htamin) Again, densely-packed with flavours and ingredients, Shan Rice (Shan Htamin) includes rice that has usually been cooked with flakes of fish and oil. Other additions to it are vegetables, garlic and minced pork or chicken.

Coconut Noodles (Ohn No Kouw Swe) A brilliantly subtle and lightly-curried meal where the coconut used to cook the noodles contrasts brilliantly with the protein option (usually chicken). As usual, variations are made, and additions can include lime, chilli and fish sauce.

© Julian Ray Photography

Animal’s Innards Certainly not one for the faint-stomached, these tiny stalls are seen across the country and are incredibly popular among the local people. Various types of innards of animals (usually pigs) are boiled in a hot pot and then eaten on a stick. Definitely one for the type of visitor who wants to try everything.

KnowIt / April 2015

While predominantly places to sit and sip tea, Myanmar’s tea shops also offer a variety of snacks. Usu© Julian Ray Photography ally puffy and always sweet, they are particularly enjoyable when dunked into your sweet tea. Other tea shops serve naan breads or potato curries.

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Tea Shop Snacks

EAT & DRINK

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MYANMORE’s favourite . . .

Street Eats!

Trying out the local street food is certainly part of the Myanmar experience, bearing in mind that choosing the correct stall is essential. We do not want you getting ill, so here are some things to consider: - Eat where the locals do: a crowded food stall is usually a good sign - Look for obvious signs of questionable hygiene (dirty water used to wash dishes, cook not washing hands, etc) - If you have a weak stomach, it’s highly recommended to stay clear of street stalls altogether - Food stalls are on nearly every street corner, so if in doubt, don’t take the risk.

Food stalls are often very temporary, so check out our website and forum for updated recommendations. However, here are a few of our favourites: Corner of Bo Ga Lay Zay and Merchant Street, under a blue tent Watch them skilfully mix many varieties of different spices and sauces to make the perfect tasty meal just for you. Their Shan noodles (‘shan kouw swe’) are a highlight.

Corner of Bo Yar Nyunt Road and Yaw Min Gyi Road (Southwest corner) A discreet place that only opens at night, a great mix of flavours to go with your Shan Noodles. Highly recommended.

Latha Road, ‘‘Cherry Mann’’ stall This ever-crowded street stall is famed for its barbecued Indian food, in particular the Dahl and Potato soup.

© Julian Ray Photography

In no particular order, here are some unique dining experiences in Yangon:

HISTORICAL BUILDING Belmond Governor’s Residence 00000001

?? 35 Taw Win Road, Dagon Township 01229860, 01228260 PP Daily

© L'Opera

GARDEN LAKE L’ Opera Italian Restaurant & Bar 00000001

What was once a dilapidated building in early 1900 and home to the ruler of Myanmar’s southern states, Belmond Governor’s Residence, through the years, has blossomed into a first class luxurious resort hotel, surrounded by extensive gardens and ancient trees. A combination of Burmese tradition and modern luxury, it’s like stepping into an oasis of a bygone era. Their nightly Burmese Curry is popular as it is authentic and flavourful. Enjoy it with local tea and cheroot, a local experience.

?? 62D, U Htun Nyein St, Mayangone Township 01665516, 01660976, 09730307 PP 11am to 2pm, 6am to 10:30 pm Daily

Set beautifully on the edge of Inya Lake and classically designed, dining at L ’Opera’s extensive open garden makes it one of the most romantic dinner spots. Chef Massimiliano has revamped their Italian menu to a cleaner, simpler and livelier feel with more adventurous options. Another plus point – surprise your dining companion with a boat trip out on the lake afterwards.

© Belmond Governor's Residence

KnowIt / April 2015

These are special times to be in Yangon. The city is going through a transformation.

When it comes to dining, no longer is Yangon a poor cousin to other cities. It is, arguably, becoming the fastest growing city in Asia. With many dining venues that have opened up in the last year, diners can now enjoy more dining options where the atmosphere, the service, the authenticity and the X-factor is just as important as the food.

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unique dining experiences

EAT & DRINK ROOFTOP DINING THIRIPYITSAYa SKY BISTRO

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?? 20th Floor, Sakura Tower, 339 Bogyoke Aung San Road, Kyauktada Township 01255277 PP Daily 10am to 11pm

Mechouia Salad with Tuna and Middle Eastern fare such as Houmous and Baba Ghannouch that comes in portions that are meant for sharing. They’ve recently added fine cheeses and cold cuts into their menu. Add Middle Eastern and African beats plus decent wine, and you have a complete Mediterranean experience in Yangon.

Although not many, there are few rooftop venues that are also known in Yangon offering a view of - wait for it - the Shwedagon Pagoda.

Perched atop the 20th floor of the Sakura Tower downtown, the Thiripyitsaya Sky Bistro offers one of the best views in the city-northwards beyond the Shwedagon Pagoda and south over the other side of the Yangon River. While the food is good, and the service on par, the views are the real attraction. Arrive a little before 6pm to catch the skyline colour show and have some drinks while it all fades around you.

© The Lab

FLOATING HOTEL © Thiripyitsaya Sky Bistro

MEDIterranean TAPAS BAR

Vintage Luxury Yacht Hotel ?? No. 6 Botahtaung Jetty, Botahtaung Township 01 9010555, 01 9010536 PP Daily

The Lab Wine & Tapas Bar ?? 70A Shwe Gon Daing road, Bahan Township 09250018200, 09250537979 PP Everyday 5.30pm until late

Bringing a new dining experience to Myanmar, Yangon’s first dedicated tapas and wine bar The Lab, serves not just Spanish tapas alone, but also features Northern African such as

Anchored in the Yangon River, the Vintage Luxury Yacht Hotel is a five-deck Finnish ship renovated into a hotel, styled with art nouveau, art deco and Victorian furnishings; one almost expects to see folks in ladies in ball gowns coming down the steps. Relatively new, it offers a different kind of dining experience with views of the water. Live like a king and stay the night in one of their luxurious rooms.

EAT & DRINK UPSCALE TEA HOUSE Rangoon Tea House ?? 77 Pansodan Rd, (Lower Block), First Floor, Kyauktada Township 095178329 PP 11am to 10pm

L’ Alchimiste tops as one of the finest dining experience that Yangon can offer. With their unique old colonial setting overlooking the Inya Lake to their exquisite French cuisine, with music serenading from the air, you will want to come back here over and over again.

Recommended especially for couples, families and even high-end business meetings..

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Want to experience the local experience but want to do it in comfort? Then head to Rangoon Tea House. In essence, RTH is a modern take on the local tea shop, but with expat prices.

Set on the spacious second floor of Pansodan’s hustle and bustle, it serves 12 blends of tea to suit anyone’s palate. Popular favourites such as mohinga and samosas have been the talk of the town.

© L'Alchimiste French Restaurant

SECRET HIDEOUT The Blind Tiger © The Rangoon Tea House

THE FRENCH CONNECTION L’Alchimiste French Restaurant

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?? No.5, U Tun Nyein Street, Mayangone Township 01660612, 01657928, 01122101 PP Daily 11am to 10:30pm

?? 111 United Condominium, Corner Nawaday St & Alain Pyar Pagoda Road, Dagon Township 01388488 PP Saturday 5pm till late PP Open for lunch soon BB

A speakeasy, also known as a Blind Tiger, refers to an establishment that sells alcoholic beverages illegally during the Prohibition era in the US. The term is now used to describe retro-style

EAT & DRINK there, you’ll realise there’s no door knob; you have to be let in by the staff. Once inside, enjoy an extensive menu of tapas and grills with an art-deco setting. Try the Chili Martini if you’re adventurous. It’s all hush-hush of course!

LOCAL STREET EATS 80

19th STREET

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?? 19th Street (Upper Block), Latha Township PP 9am to 12 midnight generally

© The Blind Tiger

bars. A latest addition to Yangon’s dining and nightlife scene, The Blind Tiger is located in an obscure condo that leads to a secret door. Once

© Julian Ray Photography

Many would agree that 19th street is the goto place for a real authentic feeling of street food that includes the activity of mobile foodhawkers selling giant fried grasshoppers or tea leaves salads, the lottery sellers or the same beggars making their rounds every hour milling about. Diners are surrounded by all kinds of BBQ seafood and various local fare. Tourists come because they’re curious, locals for the whisky and the expats are there for the cheap food and to network. The sight, the smell and the atmosphere brings to mind the term, “keeping it real”.

street bars Beer Stations With their plastic chairs, rickety tables and rustic fans, it’s hard to differentiate between the local versions of pubs. Some personal favourites include the one located at Shwegondine junction, which offers a Shwedagon view; and Zaw’s Bar, located shortly after the Hledan Bridge on Baho Road. Just look for the distinctive green and red logo of Myanmar Beer and groups of local men sitting around sipping their beers and whiskeys - sometimes mixed together. ?? Any Beer Station, Anywhere PP 11am to 11pm

19th Street There may be a day when this bustling street in Chinatown becomes Yangon’s answer to Bangkok’s Khao San Road, but for now it remains a lively place for food and drinks, as well as a place to experience genuine Asian street-life. A popular spot is the Kosan Bar, which is famed for its cheap cocktails. ?? 19th Street (between Mahabandoola and Anawratha Roads), Downtown.

PP 11am to late

Kandawgyi Park Outdoor seating, lake views and many different restaurants and beer stations. It’s popular every night of the week, particularly for inlove couples. Foreigners are charged 300Ks to enter the park area. ?? Karaweik Park, Kan Yeik Thar Road, Mingalar Taung Nyunt township PP 7am to 9pm

Kosan Bar, Hledan The little brother of the venue on 19th Street, this is a bigger venue which offers sports on TV, the perfect people-watching hangout, as well as the same great, cheap cocktails that are offered downtown. There’s good food too. ?? 18 U Tin Lin Chan Street (off Insein Road just after Hledan junction), Hledan, Kamayut Township 01503232 PP 9:00am to 10pm

New Kosan If you go a bit further on 19th Street, you will come upon New Kosan, where you can buy drinks for very cheap, as low as 800Ks for a mojito. ?? Follow 19th Street down to the end of the street PP till late

Off the beaten track

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OTBT started as a casual, "travel-style" cafe and bar - a place where folks can come in and chill, have food and drinks and exchange info about ways to travel to the off-the-beaten roads around Myanmar. Seatings are gazebo-style and outdoors. On occasions, OTBT hosts outdoor concerts. ?? Kandawgyi Park, Kandawgyi Lake, Mingalar Taung Nyunt Township 095416437 PP 11am to 11pm

KnowIt / April 2015

Ask anyone who's been here in the past year, they will most likely say the same thing— Yangon's nightlife scene has changed, and ​for the better. ​No longer do we ask "when are you going?" but "where are you going?" ​We are nowhere near the scene in New York​where the city doesn't sleep of course​, but we are slowly and surely, on our way​.

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bars

BARS

Sports Bar

Roof Alchemy

From the name, you would think this place only shows sports but it actually also doubles as a restaurant and bar. All outdoor. Very popular in evenings amongst the local crowd.

Roof Alchemy offers a variety of themed cocktails and known for its molecular cocktails, using molecular mixology technique to bring about new flavours and textures.

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?? 20 Pearl St, Mya Yeik Nyo Royal Hotel, Shwe Taung Gyar Ward PP 6pm to late

Email: roofalchemy@gmail.com

ROOFTOP BARS Bonanza Gastro Bar

KnowIt / April 2015

?? Yangon International Hotel Compound, Ahlone Road, Dagon Township +95 (0) 9 254 272 460

Formerly called Bonanza 573, this is a two-story bar with a rooftop. Recently relocated to a new location at Saya San Road, they just added Magners irish soda to their menu! ?? No. 66/A, Sayar San Road, Bahan Township +95 (0) 9 254004679 PP 3pm ~ 3 am Email: bonanza573@gmail.com

Cocoon Cafe and Bar Located on the 9th floor (yes, they have a lift!) this bar is decorated with traditional puppets on the walls. A unique configuration for space mean you get some just-you-and-me corner.

Hint Hint!

The Space Bar One of the earliest rooftop bars. Usually filled with a local crowd. ?? 22/24 Shinsawpu Road (corner of Shan Lan Road), 9th floor, Ahlone Township +95 (0) 1 500 863 PP 10 am to 11 pm

Vista Bar Known to be very popular amongst the expat crowd, Vista Bar fills up pretty quickly most night. Good cocktails and an even better view. But oh those stairs! ?? 22/24 Shinsawpu Road (corner of Shan Lan Road), 9th floor, Ahlone Township +95 (0) 1 500 863 PP 10am ~ 11pm

?? 22/24 Shinsawpu Road (corner of Shan Lan Road), 9th floor, Ahlone Township +95 (0) 1 500 863 PP 10 am to 11 pm

Hotel Mila noa Rooftop Mini Restaurant Opened very recently, this rooftop bar boasts great service with a personal touch that is wallet-friendly. ?? 24, Mahar Bawga Street, Myaynigone, Sanchaung Township +95 (0) 1 512 522

Hotel Parami Relax in the only rooftop pool in Yangon with a drink while enjoying the stunning view. ?? No. 2, Parami Road, Mayangone Township +95 (0) 1 658 118

Party Supplies Need accessories for a fancy dress party? Don't panic; we've got it under control!

Party Studio Here you should be able to find what you need for your next fancy dress party or your kidâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s birthday party. ?? G 25 Ground Floor Building B Pearl Condominium Bahan Township +95 (0) 9250274110 Email: partystudiog25@gmail.com

BARS

Then on to China town to 19th Street for a local nightlife with a pick of skewers and vegetables that you want barbecued and beer stations long side of the street. Walk a bit further down the busy beer stations and to the left, you will find the New Ko San, good for chilling in peaceful atmosphere with cheap drinks.

After that, for nice tapas and cocktail, you cannot miss The Lab on Shwe Gon Dine Road. A change on Kanyeiktha Road may of scenery at the “unseen” hi-class locals at the Escape Gastro Bar amuse you.

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Further into the night, GTR, Brave Bar and Café Liberal are perfect for late night clubbing, local style. For an international atmosphere, it has to be Mojo .

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Hungry after hours? Several restaurants such as 365, Toba open 24 hours.

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, Harleys, and New Burger are

To know all about restaurants, tea shop, bars and the nightlife in Yangon, simply grab a copy of EnjoyIt, our Dining and Nightlife guide!

For events, check out our Weekly Guide.

Our Yangon Map makes it easy for you to get around and enjoy the city : find your next dining, relaxing or partying spot in just a glance.

Our website does all of that …and so much more!

Premium Premium food service is one of the leading food service providers in Myanmar, serving the vast majority of F&B operators across the country. ?? Unit No. 1-3, Aung San Stadium (North Wing), Gyo Phyu Road, Mingalar Taung Nyunt Tsp +95 (0) 1 249 122 | Email: premiumdistributiongroup@gmail.com

KnowIt / April 2015

For those living in Yangon, if you have only two nights to show your friend what a night out is like in Yangon, we recommend you start with the breathtaking view of Schwedagon Pagoda from the Vista Bar on Shwe Gon Dine Road.

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pub crawl night that covers everything

84 KnowIt / April 2015

Purple haze - Š The Pictureman

85 For a city of Yangon's size, there are fewer options for exploring the arts than in other comparably sized cities, but what the scene lacks in quantity it easily makes up for in quality.

KnowIt / April 2015

art & stage

ART & STAGE

Quality not Quantity

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Nance Cunningham and Kirt Mausert share their knowledge about the Yangon art & culture scene.

Most of the art scene is concentrated around the growing number of galleries across the city, with options for theatre and performance art relatively limited. Many of the friendliest galleries, both established and new, are concentrated around the downtown area, though several longestablished galleries can be found near posher neighbourhoods uptown.

Extending roughly from the bustling Yaw Min Gyi (York Street) neighbourhood to Thein Byu and Strand, anywhere you go there are galleries within a few minutes walk from each other. (There are plenty of excellent teashops and other refreshment possibilities interspersed.) Some of these galleries are open for only exhibitions, lasting three to seven days. Others host special exhibitions but otherwise display a rotating collection of art. There is no special day of the week for openings, but many open on weekends. When there is a show, the artist or artists usually hang out at the show with friends, and will welcome you at their table.

In Bogyoke Market, just south of Yaw Min Gyi a few galleries display original work, but many more carry copies of famous painters, or generic work featuring stereotypical motifs produced in the style of established painters. If you search carefully, you might find a hidden gem or an addition to your kitsch collection.

Visual art in particular has a strong tradition of creativity (along with a heavy legacy of paintings things colonial-era visitors were interested in, such as very wrinkly old men drinking tea, old women smoking cheroots, and ethnic minority women in full festival costume, either in isolation, or doing farming or household tasks). Many painters especially are creating very interesting paintings, outside of the fad of the decade in the rest of the world. There are plenty working all along a spectrum from hyper-realism to abstraction, with sketches and small works starting around the equivalent of US20$, to large works by famous painters in six figures. Most paintings sell for some hundreds of dollars.

While most of the visual art in Yangon is painting, there are also artists who create installations, a few sculptors, and occasional performance art, some art photography, and a little art video art as well. The venues for these are highly diverse, anywhere from an open field, an underused warehouse, a monastery, a cinema, an established gallery, a condemned building, a building under construction, a park, an embassy-linked cultural centre. The best way to find out about them is through announcement posted at art galleries. There is an annual Beyond Pressure performance art festival, usually in December. The artsy Wathann documentary festival is usually in early September. There are occasional modern, traditional, or European classical concerts or other performances, and traditional performances combining music, dance, theatre, and comedy. For these also there is no established method of publicity, nor a limited number of venues.

Some galleries also host documentary evenings, book launches, public lectures, poetry readings, various clubs for drawing, chess, etc. These may be in English, Burmese, both, and only occasionally in other languages. Most of these also are sporadically publicised, mainly on facebook and through word-of-mouth. So to enjoy the arts scene, wander in a gallery often and hang to to chat a bit, read the bulletin boards, look for posters and invitation cards. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all here, some is excellent, plenty is good, or at least interesting, you just have to find it.

KnowIt / April 2015

In recent years there has been a sharp increase in the openings of new art galleries with contemporary artists exhibiting a wide range of works. No doubt, the relaxing of censorship has done much to encourage the flow of new and bold works amongst local artists.

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Art galleries

Take a seat and contemplate, at Pan Suriya - © Borbala Kalman

collection.

Beik Thano Beautiful and fascinating exhibits from a range of artists. U Tin Win and Daw Sandar will be happy to share their passion of Myanmar art with you. Both are very knowledgeable and have excellent English. ?? 113/3B Kaba Aye Pagoda Road +95 (0) 1 542 560

Bogyoke Aung San Market Art Galleries Located in Yangon’s most popular tourist spot, here is your place if you’re looking for some relatively cheap art work that’s not to say there isn’t some very good art work here. It’s worth devoting some time to peruse through the vast

?? Bogyoke Aung San Market, Bogyoke Aung San Road, Downtown.

PP 8am - 4.30pm

Gallery Sakura Welcome to the world of Myanmar Fine Art. Sakura Group is supporting Myanmar’s talented fine artists who are very little known by people from all around the world: Paintings, photographs and wooden carvings available. ?? Sakura Tower (Ground Floor) 339 Bogyoke Aung San Road, Kyaukutada Township +95 (0) 1 255 255 PP 8:30 - 17:30 (everyday) Website: www.sakura-tower-yangon.com/gallery. php

GALLERIES held here.

Gallery Sixty Five Established in 2010, Gallery 65 is a vibrant and unique art gallery. Its mandate is to exhibit contemporary Myanmar art that is “always fresh, new and original.”

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?? 65 Yaw Min Gyi Road, Dagon Township +95 (0) 9 511 7650 PP 9am – 5pm Mon – Fri

GOLDEN VALLEY ART CENTRE

?? No. 49, 44th Street, Botahtaung Township +95 (0) 9 31 736154 Email: contact@deitta.org

Myanmar Ink Art Gallery This two-year-old gallery offers a range of work from different artists. ?? 43/2 Ah Lan Pyay Pagoda Road, Dagon Township +95 (0) 1 374 630 PP 10am - 10pm.

KnowIt / April 2015

A large collection representing a variety of artists in a charming setting. ?? 54 D, Golden Valley +95 (0) 1 513 621

Inya Art Gallery Aung Myint set up the Inya Gallery in his garage in 1989 to feature both his work and other artists of a similar abstract theme. Mostly bold and colourful, the works seem to reflect much of his positive attitude for the future of the nation. ?? No. 50 (B), Inya Road, Kamayut Township +95 (0) 1524818, +95 (0) 1524327 PP 9am ~ 5pm

Lokanat Gallery Having opened as far back as 1971, Lokanat has long had a tradition of working hard to support local artists. The gallery hold exhibitions on a weekly basis inside a crumbling but evocative early 20th century building. ?? No.62, First Floor, Pansodan Street, Kyauktada Township +95 (0) 1382269 PP 9am~5pm Email: lokanat.art.gallery@gmail.com Website: www.lokanatgalleries.com

Myanmar Deitta The primary purpose of this modern art space is to act as a focal point for the Documentary Arts community in Yangon and a platform for international and local artists. Run by English photographer Matt Grace, it’s a friendly place to hang out and learn a bit more about the arts community in the city. Interesting and thought-provoking exhibitions are regularly

Nawaday Tharlar Another Yangon art gallery with a friendly and knowledgeable owner exhibiting a great selection of local art: Ko Pyay is the owner and one of the friendliest folks in town. ?? Yaw Min Gyi Road (north side, close to Park Royal Hotel), Dagon Township.

New Treasure Art Gallery Owned by artist Min Wae Aung, whose most recognised work is that of Buddhist monks, the New Treasure Gallery was formed by a collective of about a dozen artists. It aims to help develop young artists and encourage people to become more interested in art work. ?? 84 (A) Than Lwin Road, Golden Hill Avenue, Golden Valley, Bahan Township +95 (0) 1 526 776 PP 10am to 5pm

New Zero Art Space Regularly hosts exhibitions and events of international and local artists in the medium of sculpture, performance, video art and photography. ?? 202, 2nd Floor, United Condo, Ah Lan Pyay Pagoda Road (near Park Royal Hotel), Dagon Township +95 (0) 9 7312 9520; +95 (0) 9 4500 43099 Email: newzero.ygn@gmail.com

Pansodan Gallery One of Yangon’s better-known art galleries, the friendly owner of Pansodan, Ko Aung, is about as knowledgeable as it gets with regards to Myanmar’s art scene. The gallery hosts weekly

GALLERIES lected to visit. A twin River Gallery has recently opened on 38th Street next to The Strand Hotel. ?? Strand Hotel Annex, 92 Strand Road +95 (0) 1 243 377 PP 10am – 6pm

Pansuriya Gallery

Trish Gallery

This art gallery specialises in photography and showcases vintage, historical pictures as well as contemporary artworks. They also provide framing services.

This small but well-designed gallery offers an eclectic and unique collection of the works of a range of local artists. Get speaking to the friendly owner, Trish, and she may introduce you to her rather-impressive private collection of art works and sculptures.

?? No 100, Bo Galay Zay Street (Middle Block), Botahtaung Township +95 (0) 9 5130846 PP Open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

PATRICK ROBERT THE GALLERY

?? 46A G/F, Flat C, Excellent Condominium, Min Kyaung Street, Dagon Township +95 (0) 9 3137 1974

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?? 24 Inya Myaing - Golden Valley, Mangosteen Mansion, Inya Myaing +95 (0) 1 513709, +95 (0) 1 526476 PP 10 am to 6 pm Daily (Sunday on appointment only) Email: patrickrobert09@gmail.com

River Gallery This classy gallery in the annex of the impressive Strand Hotel, portrays the work of about 30 local artists, who offer a varying range of styles. Exhibitions are regularly held both here and internationally, where local artists are se-

Art gallery events It’s almost impossible these days to be longing for an art-related event in Yangon and not finding one to join immediately.

Tuesdays have been for years now the perfect day of the week to immerse in the world of contemporary painting and meet artists, travelers or `simple` Yangonites from all over the country (or even the world) at Pansodan Gallery.

Yangon Art Gallery The Yangon Gallery is a contemporary art center, focused on featuring various genres of art and is dedicated to presenting art exhibitions, workshops and events, which reflect the dynamic culture of art. ?? People's Park Compound, Near the Planetarium Museum, Alone Road, Dagon Township +95 (0) 973827777 PP 10am ~ 6pm Email: Info@theyangongallery.com Website: www.theyangongallery.com

Every two months an Open Mic night is held at Nawaday TharlarGallery – poets, musicians don’t hold your breath!

Thirsty for documentary film screenings?

Check out Myanmar Deitta’s program for some rare films.

As for openings, Lokanat Gallery and Think Gallery are perhaps the most busy in regular, weekly openings allowing almost the whole art scene to display fresh works.

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?? First Floor, 286 Pansodan Road, Upper Block (close to the junction with Bogyoke Aung San Road), Downtown.

PP 9am - 6pm

KnowIt / April 2015

drinks at the gallery every Tuesday from 8pm.

KnowIt / April 2015

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live music Live music can refer to many different things: it could well be some jazz in a lounge café, a pop band in a bar or a punk­rock stage concert.

Whatever you are looking for, the best way to stay informed is to sign up to our weekly newsletters or grab a copy of our Weekly Guide. Indeed, concerts and live gigs are usually relayed on billboards, social media and word of mouth so staying up to beat can be a lot of work. The JAM IT! concerts are THE live stage events you should not miss if you are seeking high­energy and authentic music experiences!

Here is the list of regular live­music events available in Yangon:

Daytime Sunday Brunch @ Inya Lake Hotel On Sundays, a band entertain with classics and contemporary Jazz while guests enjoy their brunch. From 11.30am to 2.30pm. ?? 37 Kaba Aye Pagoda Road, Bahan Township +95 (0) 1 9662 866, +95 (0) 9 662 857

Getting ready to jam - © Sedona Ice Bar

Sunday Brunch @ Sedona Hotel 00000001

The Lobby Band performs every Sunday from 12 noon til 2pm. ?? No.1 Kaba Aye Pagoda Road, Yankin Township +95 (0) 1 8 605 377

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LIVE MUSIC

Enjoy the biggest hits - © Parkroyal

Evening time Road, Bahan Township +95 (0) 9 541 1253, +95 (0) 9 4210 60505

Club 5 @ ParkRoyal Hotel Every evening, share some drinks to the sound of Club 5’s party band. They perform nightly from 8pm onwards, except on Sundays. ?? 33 Alan Pya Phaya Road, Dagon Township +95 (0) 1 250 388

Gekko

Lobby @ Sedona Hotel

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A new band performs a Sedona Hotel. Starts at 7pm nightly except Mondays while you take advantage of Happy Hour at their Lobby Bar. ?? No.1 Kaba Aye Pagoda Road, Yankin Township +95 (0) 1 860 5377

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Aaron Gallegos Trio performs Jazz every Friday from 8pm. ?? 535 Merchant Street,4th Quarter, Kyautada Township +95 (0) 138 6986

Ice Bar @ Sedona Hotel

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Every evening, listen to the live top 40’s music by their resident band at Paddy’s Ice Bar from 8.30pm onwards. ?? No.1 Kaba Aye Pagoda Road, Yankin Township +95 (0) 1 860 5377

Kokine Bar & Restaurant

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Go for a swim and have a casual meal with a garden view while the band plays popular tunes. Every Friday from 6.30pm onwards ?? 32, Kokkine Swimming Club Lane, off Saya San

Mojo

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Blues Night, happening every Monday, won the Best Social Event at the MYANMORE Awards 2015. Every Monday from 9.30pm onwards. ?? 135 Inya Road, Bahan Township +95 (0) 9 250 268 732

The Rendez­Vous @ Institut Français On Wednesdays from 7.30pm onwards, Jazz tunes are performed live to make that French dinner night even more romantic. ?? Institut Français de Birmanie, 340, Pyay Road, Sanchaung Township + 95 (1) 536 900 / 537 122 / 535 428

LIVE MUSIC

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Yangon’s underground music scene Nikita Black, an alternative music novice meets an accomplished and internationally-toured musician, solo artist, music producer and an icon of Yangon’s underground music scene to understand what it’s all about. Eaiddhi, co-founder of Jam It!, sheds more light on these events which has been a music gathering of such magnitude, and a melting pot of punk, hard-rock, hip-hop and metal and adrenaline.

KnowIt / April 2015

How did it all begin A few years back, Yangon was a city with no venues and little support for alternative music. You could only listen to cover-bands or imported pop music. Opportunities for underground musicians to perform were virtually non-existent.Ye Ngwe Soe (a life-long friend and co-founder of Jam It!) and I realized that if we wanted anything to change in our city, we were going to have do it ourselves.

Initially we were just four local alternative bands who would meet up in Kandawgyi Park for an impromptu acoustic gig, with just a few guitars and a couple of friends. The show was in fact quite a success and we managed to convince a local restaurant to let us play an acoustic gig there. Since then, the event has grown exponentially into the most talked-about underground creative movement in the country.

What is the mission of Jam It! Jam It! is a platform which promotes new underground music in Myanmar. The aim is to develop a dynamic, community-based scene for underground music, performance and street art

Album release show - © The Pictureman

LIVE MUSIC in Myanmar – a platform for alternative music and art which empowers young performers and encourages creativity, diversity and engagement. We are not trying to become a big, mainstream concert kind of thing.

KnowIt / April 2015

These days, several hundreds come to listen to the authentic and powerful music of our performing artists. Over 20 Jam It! gigs have been successfully organised and I think there are about 40 bands, on and off. Every Jam It! has a different lineup and features different genres (punk, hip hop, rock and metal).

Recently we even had graffiti artists performing live during the shows.

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We are a small, dynamic, independent and non-for-profit initiative that strives to give young Burmese musicians and artists a voice and allow them the opportunity to be part of a creative and empowered new generation in Myanmar.

Jam It's first album ever! - © The Pictureman

Why is punk music so popular in Myanmar Actually authentic punk music is not really that popular in Myanmar and remains a very small scene. Interestingly, since the ‘Yangon Calling” documentary has been released, western media seems to be stuck with a distorted image of the punk scene in Myanmar. On the other hand, what is actually becoming more popular is “cheesy punk rock” which copies the western mainstream bands such as Green Day and Blink 182. That kind of punk-rock is usually about love and heartbroken teenagers.

For me, the purpose of songs is to share a message with people about what they don’t realise or maybe cannot see about what’s really happening in our society. Creating an authentic music style is a way to get these important messages through in a different and personal way.

How can people support Jam It To keep updated with our events and all the activities going on the underground music scene, you can follow our Viber group, our Facebook and our Youtube page. MYANMORE is also up to date with our Jam It gigs. We released a Jam It! compilation album which you can find in music stores and at City Mart. We’re also trying to start a record label and help the bands record and release their albums. We are always looking for venues to host our small and big events, so don’t hesitate to contact us!

Links: Twitter.com/jamitmyanmar Youtube.com/user/jamitmyanmar soundcloud.com/jamitmyanmar

Contacts: jamitmyanmar@gmail.com eaiddhi.86@gmail.com yengwesoe120@gmail.com

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theatre Dance and puppetry continue to thrive in Yangon with venues featuring indigenous dance forms, stringed puppetry and cultural exchange programs with foreign countries.

KnowIt / April 2015

National Theatre of Yangon Constructed with aid money from China, the National Theatre holds semi-regular events including cultural exchange programmes with foreign countries, workshops, religious ceremonies, prize giving ceremonies and stage shows. The Myanmar National Symphony Orchestra also performs here. It is a fantastic site; it’s just a bit of an issue trying to find information about when their shows take place. ?? Myoma Kyaung Street (between U Wisara and Pyay Roads), Lanmadaw Township +95 (0) 1 382489

Karaweik Cultural Show The Karaweik is an attractive golden barge that sits in the middle of Kandawgyi Lake. The area around the Karaweik (entrance 200Ks) is a lively spot practically every evening of the week. It offers one of the best views of the Shwedagon Pagoda, which sits just on the other side of the lake.

Puppets - © The Pictureman

The Karaweik hosts weekly cultural shows that includes an international buffet. The performance gets mixed reviews. ?? Karaweik, Kandawgyi Lake Park PP Buffet from 6pm to 9pm Price: 30,000Ks each Website: www.karaweikpalace.com

Htwe Oo Puppet Show A unique showing of Myanmar’s traditional heritage where stringed puppetry tells a story.

Mr. Htwe is the leader of this show. He can put on shows at customers’ requests (minimum stage size two, maximum 12). Mr. Htwe explains the history of the art as well as how the puppets have been made, a truly wonderful experience and one of the more unique ones in Yangon. +95 (0) 9 512 7271 Website: www.htweoomyanmar.com Email: director@htweoomyanmar.com

Nay Pyi Taw Cinema

Mingalar San Pya Cineplex

Yangon’s most popular cinema screens a lot of foreign movies and sometimes hosts international film festivals

Screens both foreign and Burmese films ?? 202/206, Anawrahta Rd, Lanmadaw Township +95 (0) 9 73176000

?? Sule Pagoda Road (opposite Sule Shangri-LaHotel) +95 (0) 1 251277, +95 (0) 1 251288

Junction Square Cineplex Screens both foreign and Burmese films

Thamada Cinema Screens mostly Burmese films

?? Pyay Rd, Junction Square shopping mall +95 (0) 1 527055

?? 5 Alanpaya Road, Dagon Township +95 (0) 1 246962, +95 (0) 1 246963, +95 (0) 1 252 118

Mingalar Cinema Screens mostly Burmese films ?? 5th Floor, Theingyizay Blk D, Latha Township +95 (0) 1 241057, +95 (0) 1 243058

Thwin Cinema Screens mostly Burmese films ?? 309 Bogyote Aung San Road, Kyautata Township +95 (0) 1 372594, +95 (0) 1 722582

Shae Saung Cinema Exhibits domestic Myanmar films, Hollywood films, Bollywood films and Chinese films ?? 198/200 Sule Pagoda Road, Kyautata Township +95 (0) 1 252 113, +95 (0) 1 388 034

Mingalar Cinema @ Dagon Center II, Dagon Center II, 6th Floor Screens both foreign and Burmese films ?? 268 Pyay Road, Myay Ni Gone Ward, San Chaung Township +95 (0) 9 73254091, +95 (0) 9 73254092

Buying DVDs IN SHOPS AND on the street There are numerous shops legally selling mostly Hollywood and Bollywood DVDs, most of these shops are centred on Maharbandoola Pan Chan (Upper Block) Street, Kyauktada Tsp. They can also be found at: • Latha Street, Latha Tsp. • Padonma Street, Sanchaung Tsp. • Supermarkets in downtown area Street-side venders selling both western and Burmese DVDs usually set up shop after 4pm and can be found on most busy streets in Downtown Yangon. This is, however, an illegal practice and you could well end up with your movie dubbed in Russian!

KnowIt / April 2015

Yangon’s big cinemas will show some of the international blockbusters. Failing that, Burmese movies are worth a go just to soak up the ambience and see how much the locals enjoy going to the cinema. Expect to pay between 1,000Ks and 6,000Ks per ticket.

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cinema

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poetry If you have not yet delved into Myanmar poetry, now is the time to get started. The country has so many talented poets to be proud of and their hidden treasures await to be discovered.

KnowIt / April 2015

Verse lovers like to celebrate poetry all through the year in Yangon, so keep an eye out for these small events. Also, every year for the World Poetry Day on 21st of March a big event is organised in honor of poetry: many gather for readings, workshops and live art performances.

Myanmar poets have their own official â&#x20AC;&#x153;Myanmar Union of Poetsâ&#x20AC;? and you can usually find them discussing and creating in their signature teashop: Shwe Khayar Gyi tea stall, on 38th street.

Rain From Some Time Ago Her folks were not on my side but I will sing the song my folks sang.

The rainy season was on my side.

The sketch of the poet

by Kabyar Oo.

In the wind forced into a gust without our consent the rain & I were each other's accomplice. & we both got wet even under an umbrella big enough to shelter us.

The rain divided crowds into twos.

The two of us. The rain. The movie ticket on the wet ground.

The rain warmed stone benches.

The Yangon River, always a winner, beamed.

In each other's very presence we disappeared from each other.

Right there.

Concealed.

Supposedly invisible.

That day under the sky which hid her red polished nails a lady computer instructor lost her typing moves. & not necessarily from cold but in the sight of that little face under a jacket the entirety of my life trembled.

By Nyi Zan Hla 28-06-12 05:40 Translated by Maung Day

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98 KnowIt / April 2015

Take time off the daily routine - Š Thomas Wanhoff

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therapy

You feel you need to get away from the noise and chaos of Yangon now and again? What better way than to treat yourself to a bit of pampering? Fortunately, the city has plenty of beauty and spa centres dotted around - offering everything from massage, to pedicures, to skin treatments and more.

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beauty

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beauty & wellbeing Nowadays, finding beauty parlours are quite easy: they have sprouted all over town and offer wide and creative ranges of beauty services. Most places do it all: spa treatment, massages, facials, hair removal, manicures and hair dressing! All high-end hotels have in house spas (The Strand, Chatrium, Belmond Governor’s Residence…) Shopping malls also usually have a couple of beauty parlours alongside the boutiques and the cafes. Cosmetic shops are now a regular sight in Yangon. beauty salon & spa

Eros Health & Beauty Spa

beauty concept Body Massage available for 28,000Ks, Haircut for 18,000Ks and Manicure for 10,000Ks. ?? Market Place CityMart, Dhamazedi Road,

Bahan Township +95 (0) 1 523 840 ~ 1

CALIFORNIA BEAUTY SKIN SPA

?? No. SR(22), Behind Pearl shopping Centre, Kaba Aye Pagoda Road, Bahan Township +95 (0) 1700 777, +95 (0) 1549 527 PP 10am ~ 7pm Email: nwe7eros@gmail.com

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Offering a wide variety of different treatments including a selection of massages and scrubs, mani’s, pedi’s and waxes as well as having a hair salon. ?? Skin Spa can be found at No.32B, Inya Myaing Road, Bahan Township +95 (0) 1 535 097, +95 (0) 1 501 295 PP 10am ~ 8pm

D Spa

They provides skin care, body treatment, salon services and hydrotherapy. The traditional fullbody Thai massage (1 hour) is 18,000Ks and a standard manicure 8,500Ks.

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For both men and women, this authentic spa offers Thai traditional massage, Oil massage, Aromatherapy massage, facial and body treatments (scrubs, mask and cleansing), foot massage, manicure/pedicure, personal sauna and waxing: pampering ranges from 10000Ks to 70000Ks and advance booking is required. ?? 682 Thitsar Road, South Okkalapa Township +95 (0) 9 259256686 ~ 7 PP 11:00am ~ 11:00pm Website: www.thedplace.com/dspa

Fancy house One of the spas is located in the Golden Valley Marketplace, for that well-needed break after grocery shopping! Body massages start from 35,000Ks and a manicure will cost you 8,000Ks. ?? No. 56/B, Kaba Aye Pagoda Road, Yankin Township +95 (0) 1 662636

Market Place branch ?? City Mart Golden Valley, Corner of Dhammazedi Road and Golden valley Road, Bahan Township +95 (0) 1 523840 Ext 110

Genky Blind Massage More of a therapeutic massage than a relaxing one, this place gets very good reviews. Your money also goes towards helping blind communities in Myanmar. One hour massage available for 8,000Ks. ?? 285 Bo Aung Kyaw Street (Middle Block), Downtown. +95 (0) 9 861 5036 PP 9am - 9pm

BEAUTY

This pleasant spa facility located on the leafy Inya Road offers a vast range of great services including Foot Massage, Classic Thai Massage, Aromatherapy and 2 or 4-hand Hot Stone Massage. There are a great deal of other services too as well as an on-site smoothie bar, offering some of the best flavours in town. If you get an opportunity, say hello to the friendly owner Damian, who is very knowledgeable about the spa and beauty industry. Full body massage available from 18,000Ks. ?? 16/2 Inya Road, Kamayut Township +95 (0) 1 537 907, +95 (0) 9 30 173 497 PP 10am to 9pm Email: inyaspa@gmail.com Website: www.inyaspa.com

Beauty possesses good nail art section as well as several kinds of skin care, waxing, and hair related stuff. ?? No-16 (right), Arriyamagin Street, Sanhitlonetan Yankin Township PP 9am ~ 7pm

PHOENIX ESTHETIC CENTRE

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All you need to feel gorgeous: Facials, waxing (Eye-brow threading) body scrubs and massages and mani-pedis! Got a wedding coming up? They have special packages for soon-tobe brides! For a facial count around 35000 to 45000 Kyats. ?? No.(4/B),Kyauk Kone Road, Yankin Township +95 (0) 1 566 698, +95 (0) 9 2015736 PP 10:00 AM to 6:30 PM

LA SOURCE

Sense Spa

Inside this charming Dutch colonial style villa, you will find complete spa and beauty salon and hairdressing services. Full body massages for 50,000Ks, manicures for 15,000Ks. They also have a salon in Sedona Hotel.

This spa specialises in Local and Thai beauty treatments and they have several types of body massages available, with different oils, techniques and aromatherapy starting at 10,000Ks for local and at 16,000Ks for Thai techniques.

Foot Massages cost 7,000Ks for the local version and 11,000Ks for the Thai one.

La Source Beauty Spa ?? 80A, Inya Road, Kamayut Township +95 (0) 1512380, +95 (0) 1511252 PP 9am - 7pm Email: lasourceco@gmail.com

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?? No . 296 Room 3 (Groundfloor ) Yan Aung Lane 1 , Yankin Main Road . Yankin Township +959 4200 93549 PP 9am ~ 12pm

Le Salon (Sedona Hotel) ?? 1 Kabar Aye Pagoda Road, Yankin Township +95(0) 1 666900 PP 10am ~ 10pm Website: www.lasourcebeautyspa.com

Lemon Day Spa Lemon Day Spa offers a range of spa, health and beauty treatments. Full body massage available for 16,000Ks and aroma massage costs 25,000Ks. ?? 96F Inya Road, Kamayut Township. +95 (0) 1 514 848, +95 (0) 9 73208476 PP 9am ~ 8pm Email: lemondayspa.2011@gmail.com

Magic House Spa & Beauty Saloon Established in June, 2013, Magic House Spa @

Seri Beauty & Health Fully Body Massage available for 12,000Ks, Manicure for 6,000Ks and haircuts start at 2,000Ks. ?? No. 118, Dhamazedi Road, Bahan Township +95 (0) 1 534 205, +95 (0) 1 524 396, +95 (0) 1 535397, +95 (0) 1 375 724 PP 9am ~ 10pm

SPA Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;LAX â&#x20AC;&#x201C; For Men

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?? 35, Thu Ka Street (Street next to Seik Taing Kya Tea House), San Chaung Township +95 (0) 9 421144848, +95 (0) 9 250535322 PP 11 Am ~ 11 Pm Price Range: $$ (10-30) Email: dlax@thedplace.com

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Inya Day Spa

BEAUTY

SPA ELEMENTS

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Spa Elements provide high-end spa treatments with exclusive Javanese expertise. They use organic products and offer a range of services that are available nowhere else in town for pregnant women and new mothers. Full body massages for 40,000Ks upwards and Pedi-manis start at 12,000 Ks. ?? 17-19, Tha-mar-di street, Kyauk Myaung, Tamwe Township

+95 (0) 9 795 955 300, +95 (0) 9 252 074 062 PP 10am ~ 9pm Website: www.trulyspaelements.com

Thaya Day Spa

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Owned by the same people behind Inya, Thaya Day Spa is a slightly more contemporary spa centre located next to the very modern Junction Square. Full body massage available for upwards of 18,000Ks. ?? Building 17, Third Floor, Junction Square, Pyay Road, Kamayut Township +95 (0) 9 73 173 979 PP 10am ~ 9pm, 7 days a week Email: thayadayspa@gmail.com Website: www.thayaspa.com

Traditional Burmese Massage Traditional Burmese Massage is not designed with relaxation in mind, but focuses on the body’s many pressure points. It’s not out-andout painful, but there’s certainly a bit of pain.

The masseur at this parlour, Ko Min Min Soe, was taught the technique by his grandfather, who in turn was taught by a Buddhist monk.

A massage is 16,000Ks for the hour and is only available on Sundays. ?? Located at 9 Mile, close to the airport +95 (0) 9 420 280 430 PP Only open on Saturdays and Sundays.

Email: aldrich@fitnesswarf.com. Or visit facebook. com/burmesemassage.

Esthetic Centres Clinique de SKIN dermotology & laser clinic This esthetics clinic provides top-end lazer treatments and solutions for skin and hair

problems. Services include acne and scar removal, facial lifting, Botox injections, eczema treatments and permanent hair removal . ?? 17/18, Kan Street, Hlaing Township PP +95 (0) 9 31 131 145 PP 10am ~ 8pm Email: cliniquedeskin@outlook.com

Nitipon Nitipon Clinic is an aesthetics center which provides professional dermatological services and skin technology that meet international standards. ?? 22/A Kabar Aye Pagoda Road, Bahan Township, Yangon (Beside Hnin Si Kone Hospital) +95 (0) 18603320 PP 10am ~ 8pm Website: www.facebook.com/NitiponBeautyCenterMyanmar

Wuttisak Although they also provide regular spa services, the Wuttisak clinic specialises in facial treatments, skin brightening, Botox, filler and Laser technologies. ?? Branch 1 - Corner of 5th street & Anawrahta Road, Lanmadaw Township ?? Branch 2 - Corner of 31st street & Merchant Road, Pabedan Township, Yangon +95 (0) 1214228, +95 (0) 9420030172 PP 10am ~ 8pm Website: www.wuttisakclinic.com

Freshen up!

If you have not yet experienced the pleasure of a simple hair wash, now is the time to go ahead (pun intended)! All you need is 30 min and around 6,000 Ks. Getting a hair wash isn’t just about washing and drying your hair. You get a full on head massage, as well as on your shoulders and arms. You come out feeling clean but better still: you are relaxed and empowered for a brand new start.

BEAUTY hair dressers GOLDEN BRIGHT STAR (GBS) Well trained hairdressers with a number of outlets that include the following.

PP 9am - 10pm

GBS 5: ?? No.47, Yae Kyaw Rd., Pazundaung Township +95 (0) 1 294979

GBS 6: ?? No.54 (A1), Laydaungkan Road, Thingangyun Township +95 (0) 9 25444 8354

GBS 2: ?? No.314, Banyadarla Rd., Tamwe Township +95 (0) 1 541 908, +95 (0) 1 542 362

GBS 3: ?? No.19(A), Yawmingyi St., Dagon Township +95 (0) 9 73087 264, +95 (0) 1 376 421

GBS 4: ?? No.21, Kyar Kwet Thit St., Kyaukmyaung, Tamwe Township +95 (0) 9 32066 599, +95 (0) 1 551984

Hair Clinic Enjoy all the latest treatments and styles in this small but cosy hair clinic. ?? 2B Parami Road, Mayangone Township +95 (0) 9 33393253, +95 (0) 9 43164128

Spice Girls Predominately a hairdresser that offers some other beauty treatments. Haircuts start at 5,000Ks. ?? 39 Moe Kaung Road, Yankin Township +95 (0) 1 572 701 PP 9am ~ 9pm

KnowIt / April 2015

?? No. 276 (B-1), East Horse Race Course Road, Thamwe Township +95 (0) 9 73 120066

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GBS 1:

BEAUTY

T8 HAIR DESIGN

TONY TUN TUN

Comfortable, air conditioned surrounds with well trained staff

Perhaps Yangon’s best known hairdresser, Tony Tun Tun has a number of branches located across Yangon. It is said that Mr Tun Tun himself works at the shop on 6th Street.

Treatments start at about 5,000Ks. To have your hair cut by Mr Tun Tun himself is more expensive; you’ll need to make your reservations early too.

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?? No.147,1 Middle of 47~48 Street, Anawyahtar road +95 (0) 1 299357 PP 09:00 - 08:00

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?? 279 – 281 Anawratha Road (at the top of 6th Street, close to Junction Maw Tin Shopping Mall). +95 (0) 1 222 537 PP 10am -10pm

Branches: Botahtaung ?? Gamone Pwint Shopping Center, Merchant St& corner of Bogalay Zay St, Botahtaung Township +95 (0) 1 256 983, +95 (0) 376 359 ext: 225 PP 9 am to 8:30 pm

Yankin ?? Room G/01, Yankin Centre, Corner of Sayar San and Number 1 Industrial Road, Yankin Township +95 (0) 1 544 751, +95 (0) 1 544 639

Tattoos Golden Dragon Tattoo Studio Gets the best recommendations from Yangon’s most heavily-inked citizens. ?? 180, 2nd Floor, Corner of Anawratha and 33th Roads, Upper Block, Kyauktada Township. +95 (0) 9 516 1379 PP 11am - 6pm Don't move - © Daniel Roca

Myanmar INK Tattoo Studio Specialists in creative and edgy designs

STREET SIDE BARBERS There are open air barber shops to be found all over town. For most it’s a trade passed down from father to son so the standards are generally high.

Keep your eyes wide and you'll find one to suit your style.

?? 32 Alan Pyay Pagoda Road (opposite Park Royal Hotel), Dagon Township. +95 (0) 9 4210 55312, +95 (0) 1 374 630, +95 (0) 9 408 174 PP 10am - 9pm Website: www.myanmarinkartgallery.com

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BEAUTY

Beautiful hair in Yangon city

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106

You’ve been in Yangon for a while and you’re starting to feel despair; the mirror shows you with fuzzy, oily yet thirsty, and damaged hair! Nikita Black, all too familiar with this dilemma, turns to Sovann Dowall and her 16 years of international expertise in hair management.

Generally, all you need to do is care for the basics:

Adapted products Using one-type-fits-all shampoo will damage the tip of your hair and possibly create dandruff. Of course, proper salon products may be more expensive but they are truly worth buying. You need not to use big quantities. However, you might not find them here, so make sure you stock up during your visa runs, or when you fly home to your family. Almond oil is suitable but the best you can get is Moroccan oil which is light and dry. Coconut oil will do if used very scarcely and only on thick, straight hair.

Hair care routines The normal routine unfolds like this: Shampoo, conditioner, mask (once a week) and hair oil.

If your hair is damaged, you will need to follow a power-routine every two weeks. Here’s how : First wash and towel-dry your hair. Apply a cream treatment and wrap up your hair in a steamy towel for 15 minutes (change the towel a few times). Rinse and apply conditioner.

Finally, once out of the shower, apply hair oil.

Washing

You shouldn’t wash your hair everyday. Using the right products will take away the oiliness or itchiness. If however, you’ve been walking around in hot, dusty downtown, it is understandable to feel like freshening up! In that case, just rinse your hair and scalp but skip the shampoo and directly apply conditioner. It is believed that exposing your scalp to too much hot water will cause hair fall, just as flowers will fade if you keep watering them with boiling water.

Hairdressing, blow-drying, straightening First of all, hair needs to be trimmed every 6 to 8 weeks to stay healthy. Then, when blowdrying your hair, it is best to keep the heat reasonable and not to hold the spout too close.

Before straightening hair, a protective spray should be applied. Only small strands of hair should be straightened at a time. Imagine piling up and ironing 3 shirts at the same time: How damaged will the top shirt be by the time you finally manage to get the creases out of the bottom one?

Freshness tips

If you are having a serious hairstyle issue or just wish to freshen up while in town, simply walk into a beauty parlour. They will make sure you come out with beautifully-scented, shiny hair. Another handy invention (which is presently not available in Myanmar) is dryshampoo : Carry it in your bag along with a hair brush and freshen up in just a few minutes.

Sovann Dowall +95 (0) 9 425 297 204 Email: sovann@shadz.co.nz Website: www.shadz.co.nz

Sovan Dowall is one of New Zealand’s top hair experts. She decided to close down her very exclusive hair salon in Wellington, to finally be reunited with her husband who moved to Myanmar for work. She now regularly flies back and forth between both countries to put her magic touch on the likes of her highly-demanding, loyal customers.

BEAUTY

These two cosmetic shops lay next to each other and both sell cosmetic brands from Thailand. They each have their own atmosphere and surely will conquer your heart if you like cute and sophisticated displays. ?? Bo Son Patt Tower, 31Street Corner Merchant Road, Pabedan Township +95 (0) 9253988529, +95 (0) 1383798 PP 9:30am ~ 8pm

Clover Cosmetics and Skincare This cosmetic concept store is all about premium beauty experiences and empowering women: a free skin and hair consultation is conducted by their beauticians before tailored recommendations are made based on their extensive range of imported international brands for skin, hair, make up and fragrances. ?? Room D1-B 1st Floor AKK Shopping Mall , Thingangyun Lay Htoung Gan Road (near Junction Zawanna) +95 (0) 9 250 893 304, +95 (0) 1 684 401, +95 (0) 1 684 402 Email: soesan.clovercs.mm@hotmail.com

ETUDE HOUSE Lovely natural cosmetics and beauty care from South Korea.

ETUDE HOUSE @ Market Place (city mart) ?? Room(F/4), 1st Floor, Market Place,Dhama Zedi Road, Bahan Township +95 (0) 1 523840 ~ 6 Ext 204 PP 9am ~ 9pm

ETUDE HOUSE @ Junction Maw Tin ?? Room(112), Ground Floor, Junction Maw Tin

ETUDE HOUSE @ Junction Square ?? Room (030), Ground Floor, Junction Square, Kamayut Township +95(0)1527242 Ext. 1052 PP 9am ~ 9pm

ETUDE HOUSE [Lasource Trading Co.Ltd] ?? Room(006/B), Underground, Taw Win Centre, Dagon Township +95(0)18600111 Ext. 1106, +95(0)1500311 PP 9am ~ 9pm

parkson The first level of modern Parkson FMI department store has cosmetics counters from international brands. Beauty advisors will help you find your way through all the luxury brands available if you have not find your favourite one yet. ?? 380, Bogyoke Aung San Road, Pabedan Township +95 (0) 1 240394, +95 (0) 1 240384 PP 8am ~ 9pm Email: info@fmicentre.com Website: www.fmicentre.com

Yves Rocher This famous French cosmetic brand specialises in natural products and seeks to reveal the beauty of women in all their diversity. They have a beauty parlour and spa, and their products make great gifts. ?? No. 168 A, Shwe Gone Taing Road, Yay Tar Shay Quater, Bahan Township +95 (0) 1 8 603 303 Email: maythu.zaw@annam-group.com

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Beauty Buffet & Beauty Cottage

Centre, Lanmadaw Township +95 (0) 1 218152 ~ 8 Ext. 1112 PP 9am ~ 9pm

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Cosmetic shops

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Pharmacies also stock many kinds of natural medicine - Š Marius Arnesen

109 Located in the heart of the tropics, visitors to Myanmar should be wary of the potential of tropical diseases, particularly in rural areas.

In Yangon healthcare institutions are gradually improving and you will find all the information you need to stay healthy in the next pages.

For really bad situation, you still might have to fly out to Bangkok or Singapore.

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healthcare

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HEALTHCARE During the country’s five decades of isolation, healthcare infrastructure fell a long way behind neighbouring countries despite a brilliant medical society. Recent years have seen improvements in this area and while the public sector is gradually catching up, the private sector has already boomed. Many clinic projects are underway and health education programs are being implemented to build up local skills in emergency medicine, telemedicine and medical technologies in general.

If you think you may have a serious disease (esp. malaria) do not rely on self-treatment. We have listed the medical institutions in Yangon, but feel free to contact your embassy for advice as they usually have relationships with some international doctors.

Bear in mind that prices are inevitably higher in private and international clinics than in public hospitals and a consultation with an international doctor will definitively cost upwards of US50$.

Buying medication over the counter is not recommended in Myanmar as fake medications and poorly stored drugs are common.

DRINKING WATER • Never drink tap water • Avoid ice • Check bottled water seals are intact at purchase.

• Avoid fresh juices – they may have been watered down.

• Boiling water is the most efficient method of purifying it.

• Iodine, the best chemical purifier, should not be used by pregnant women or those who suffer with thyroid problems.

• Ensure your water filter has a chemical barrier, such as iodine, and a pore size of less than four microns.

STOMACH BUGS AND DIARRHEA By far the most common problem affecting travellers in Myanmar is caused by bacteria.

Treatment consists of staying well hydrated: use rehydration salts mixed with lots of bottled water. Antibiotics such as Ciprofloxacin or Azithromycin will kill the bacteria quickly.

Giardiasis is relatively common. Symptoms include; nausea, bloating, excess gas, fatigue

Make sure you drink purified water - © MYANMORE

HEALTHCARE

Police (Emergency)

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Police (Yangon Division) 01 545455 Fire

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Throughout MyanAmbulance mar traditional medical systems are widely pracYangon General Hospital: 01 256112 ticed. Traditional healing systems such as Chinese medicine are well respected, and aspects of them are being increasingly used by western medical practitioners.

All traditional Asian medical systems identify an essential life force, and see blockage or imbalance as blocking the disease. Techniques such as herbal medicines, massage and acupuncture are used to bring this vital force back into balance or to maintain balance. These therapies are best for treating chronic fatigue, arthritis, irritable bowel syndrome, skin conditions and other chronic ailments. Don’t use traditional medicines to treat serious acute infections, such as malaria.

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Chinese Medicine - © MYANMORE

and intermittent diarrhoea. The treatment of choice is Tinidazole, with Metronidazole being a second option.

FOOD Rather than be overly concerned at street stalls, where food is freshly cooked to order, note that eating in restaurants is the biggest risk factor for contracting traveller’s diarrhoea.

Avoid shellfish, and food that has been sitting around on buffets. Peel all fruit, cook vegetables and soak salads in iodine water for at least 20 minutes. Eat in busy restaurants with a high turnover of customers.

Be aware that ‘natural’ doesn’t always mean ‘safe’, and there can be drug interactions between herbal medicines and Western medicines. If you are using both systems ensure that you inform both practitioners what the other has prescribed.

Vaccination HEAT Avoid muscle cramps and naussea by drinking lots of water and avoiding excessive exercise.

Heatstroke is a serious medical emergency and must be acted upon immediately. Symptoms come on suddenly and include weakness, nausea, a hot dry blood of temperatures of over 41 degrees, dizziness, loss of coordination, fits and eventual collapse and loss of consciousness.

Seek medical help and commence cooling by

Hepatitis A & B, Tetanos and Typhoid Fever: Recommended for all travellers.

Polio: One time booster recommended for any adult who completed the childhood series but has never had a polio vaccine as an adult.

Yellow Fever: Required for travellers who have been or will be in a yellow fever-infected area in Africa or the Americas.

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TRADITIONAL MEDICINE

emergency numbers

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getting the person out of the heat, removing their clothes, and applying wet cloth or ice to their body, especially to the groin and armpits.

HEALTHCARE Japanese encephalitis: Recommended for anyone spending a month or more in rural areas, or anyone spending a substantial amount of time outdoors.

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Rabies: Rabies is carried by animals all over Myanmar – and the street dogs in Yangon can get aggressive, so … recommended!

Malaria: Malaria is reasonably rife in Myanmar, less so in Yangon. Some medication is recommended, particularly for those in rural areas.

Dengue Fever: There have been cases in the past, so travellers should take precautions, including bite cream, mosquito nets and cover their bodies, particularly at night even in Yangon.

Pharmacies

MarketPlace By CityMart @ FMI Centre,Parkson ?? 380, Bogyoke Aung San Road, FMI Centre (Parkson), Pabedan Township +95 (0) 1 246 899, +95 (0) 1 243 031 PP 9am ~ 9pm

CityMart Branch @ Junction Zawana ?? Lay Daunt Kan Road,(Sa-Lone/Thu Mingalar) Ward,Corner of Thu Mingalar Road, Thingangyun Township +95 (0) 1 564 532 PP 9am ~ 9pm

Golden Bell Pharmacy This pharmacy is recognised by the medical sphere for the traceability of its medicine. ?? Room 006, Yuzana Tower, Shwegondine Road (West), Bahan Township +95 (0) 1 558213, +95 (0) 1 552840, +95 (0) 9 732067411 PP 8:30am - 9pm

Pharmacists in Myanmar have a good choice of medications, with major international laboratory represented. Some fake medicine could be found in non reliable pharmacies and or the market, so it’s best stick to the following:

Gold Pot Pharmacy

CityCare - Citymart pharmacies

Most medicines and medical equipments are available in this one-stop pharmacy. There are several branches in town.

Every CityMart has a CityCare pharmacy which stocks all the most common medicines: handy! Here are the main ones and for a complete list of locations, please refer to CityMart stores in the Shopping section .

Junction Square ?? Between Pyay Road and KyunTaw Street, Kamayut Township +95 (0) 1 527 053 PP 9am ~ 10pm

Myanigone Branch ?? 231, Corner of Pyay Road and Shin Saw Pu Pagoda Street, Sanchaung Township +95 (0) 1 510 697 PP 9am ~ 10pm

MarketPlace By CityMart @ Golden Valley ?? 403A Dhamazeddi Road, Bahan Township +95 (0) 1 523 840 ~ 43 PP 9am ~ 10pm

PP daily 8am~9pm (except Kan Daw lay Branch: 8:30am 9:30pm)

Gold Pot Pharmacy - SANCHAUNG Branch ?? 51, Kyun Taw Road, Sanchaung Township PP +95 (0) 1 503 691

Gold Pot Pharmacy - KAMARYUT Branch ?? 169, Yangon-Insein Road (Near Sin Ye Twin Bus Stop), Kamaryut Township +95 (0) 9 400 300 600

Gold Pot Pharmacy - Kyauk Myaung Branch (1) ?? 13, Kyar Kwat Thit Road, Tamwe Township PP +95 (0) 9 250 274 776

Gold Pot Pharmacy Kyauk Myaung Branch (2) ?? 20, Thida Street, Tamwe Township +95 (0) 9 799 668 593

HEALTHCARE

Select Pharmacy This is one of the most reliable pharmacies in town, and has excellent pharmacist to help you out.

International and Myanmar Traditional Drug Store ?? 45 Pyay Road, 7 ½ Mile, Mayangone Township +95 (0) 1 665 568 PP 9am ~ 9pm

A Plus ?? 352 Shed 4, New Bogyoke Market, Bogyoke Aung

San Road, Pabedan Township +95 (0) 9 73169704 PP 10am ~ 5pm

East Yangon General Hospital Located in Botataung township, East Yangon General Hospital consists of a medical ward, a surgical ward, a paediatric ward, and an obstetrics and gynaecology ward. The hospital also runs an ER for general medicine, general surgery and traumatology. ?? 262, Merchant Road (near 54th Street), Botahtaung Township +95 (0) 1 292835, +95 (0) 1 292836

West Yangon General Hospital Consisting a medical ward, a surgical ward, a paediatric of ward, and an obstetrics and gynaecology ward, West Yangon also runs an ER for general medicine, general surgery and traumatology. ?? Lower Kyeemyindaing Road, Ahlone Township +95 (0) 1 222861

Yangon Children’s Hospital AA Pharmacy ?? 146 Sule Pagoda Road, Kyauktada Township +95 (0) 1 253231, +95 (0) 1 242481, +95 (0) 1 251451, +95 (0) 1 242651 PP 8am ~ 9pm

Mingalar Pharmacy ?? 91-93 Bogyoke Aung San Road, Downtown +95 (0) 1 298678 PP 8am ~ 9pm

Public Hospitals Yangon General Hospital Yangon’s largest General hospital has a capacity of 1,500 beds consisting of three medical wards, three surgical wards, one trauma and orthopaedic ward, and 24 specialist departments for in-patient care. The hospital also runs an ER for general medicine, general surgery and traumatology ?? Corner of Bogyoke Aung San Street & Pyay road, Lanmadaw Township +95 (0) 1 256112 ~ 15, +95 (0) 1 384493

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?? 93, Myanmar Gon Ye Street, Mingalar Taung Nyunt Township +95 (0) 9 799 668 594

Yangon’s children’s hospital includes an emergency department and a capacity of 1,300 beds. ?? 2 Pyidaungzu Yeiktha Road, Dagon Township +95 (0) 222807 ~ 09

Private HospitalS KEMBANGAN -UHC HOSPITAL Medical and aesthetic services are provided at an international level. Aesthetic services include cosmetic dermatology and plastic surgery. They also have a centre specialising in liver ailments. ?? No.439-441.New University Avenue Road, Bahan Township PP For aesthetics: 8am - 8pm, For medical: 24/7 +95 (0) 1 540661, +95 (0) 1 549167, +95 (0) 9 44802 6197 Website: www.kembangangp.com Email: radiant.aesthetics@gmail.com

PINLON Hospital (North Dagon) The 300 bedded private tertiary care hospital is one of the largest in Myanmar. It provides a wide range of medical and surgical services by top local health care professionals. ?? No.9/1, Saya San Road, 27th Quarter, North

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Gold Pot Pharmacy Kan Daw Lay Branch

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HEALTHCARE

Yangon General Hospital - Š The Pictureman

Dagon Township +95 (0) 1 581 616, +95 (0) 1 581 329 PP 24Hours Website: www.pinlongroupofhospitals.com

Malikha They conduct comprehensive health screenings & medical imaging and also have in-house laboratory and pharmacy services. ?? No. 10, Thiri Mingalar Street, Aung Chan Tha Ward, Sanchaung Township +95 (0) 12304758, +95 (0) 12304759, +95 (0) 12304760, +95 (0) 9252280079 (HOTLINE) PP 8am ~ 8pm Email: malikha.healthcare@gmail.com Website: www.malikha.net

Parami General Hospital This private hospital is open 24 hours for all types of emergencies. To consult international specialists, ask for the SAMITIVEJ Internation-

al clinic which is inside the General Hospital. ?? No-60, G-1, New Parami Road, Mayangone Township +95(0)1657227~8, +95(0)1660083,+95(0)1657230, +95(0)1657231 PP 24hrs Email: info@paramihospital.com Website: www.paramihospitalygn.com

SAKURA HOSPITAL Opened 1998 Sakura is a modern hospital with reasonable rooms and facilities. ?? No.23, Corner of Shin Saw Pu Street & Baho Road, Sanchaung Township +95 (0) 1 512668 PP 24/7 Email: sakuraunique@gmail.com

Victoria Hospital With a self-proclaimed mission to provide international standard healthcare with reason-

HEALTHCARE

Shwegondaing Specialist Centre (S.S.C) A general private hospital, opened in 2001, with 200 beds providing medical and surgical services with care and compassion. ?? 7, East Shwe Gon Dine Road, Bahan Township +95 (0) 1 544 128, +95 (0) 1 544 116 PP 24/7 Email: sscspecialclinic@gmail.com, shwegondainghospital@gmail.com

Asia Royal Hospital Clean, reasonable-standard private hospital close to downtown Yangon ?? Asia Royal Cardiac and Medical Care Centre, 14, Baho Road, Sanchaung Township +95 (0) 1 538055, +95 (0) 1 2304994 Fax: +95 (0) 1 537296 PP 24/7 Website: www.asiaroyalmedical.com

Pun Hlaing Hospital International-standard hospital located in the far west of the city ?? Pun Hlaing Hospital, Pun Hlaing Golf Estate Avenue, Hlaing Tharyar Township +95 (0) 1 684320 ~ 28, +95 (0) 9 421042679, +95 (0) 9 254950897 PP 24/7 Email: enquiry.phih@spa.com.mm Website: www.punhlainghospital.com

Bahosi Hospital Providing 24 hour emergency care service, in patient care, intensive care, observation services and pharmacy services ?? Corner of Wardan Street & Bogyoke Aung San Rd, Bahosi Housing, Lanmadaw Township +95 (0) 1 2300631 PP 24/7

international clinic International Clinic @ Parami General Hospital (SAMITIVEJ) Their full-time family medicine doctors (with international accreditation) take patients in for general diseases and general health check-ups.

They have special facilities for gynecology and neonatal-pediatric care, as well as a laboratory, imaging equipment and a vaccination department.

24 Hours emergency service ?? No-60, G-1, New Parami Road, Mayangone Township +95(0)93191154, +95(0)933333259, +95(0)9448006093 PP Mon-Fri 8am~6pm, Sat 8am~6pm

Australian Embassy Medical Clinic The Australian registered GPs provide a range of GP services for families.

There is a small pharmacy at the clinic. X-ray and Pathology services are also available.

Head Doctor: Dr. Mark Hampson ?? Unit 206, Golden Hill Tower, 24-26 Kaba Aye Pagoda Road, Bahan Township +95(0)1558353 PP Mon-Fri 8am~4pm Email: Mark.Hampson@dfat.gov.au, aussieclinicyangon@gmail.com

Academy Hospital ?? 335, Lower Kyee Myin Daing Rd, Ahlone Township +95 (0) 1 212890, +95 (0) 1 212886, 87, 89, +95 (0) 1 229746 PP 24/7

International SOS Clinic International quality healthcare centre in the north of Yangon ?? International SOS Clinic, Inya Lake Hotel Resort, 37 Kaba Aye Pagoda Road, Mayangone Township +95 (0) 1 657 922 Website: www.internationalsos.com

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?? No. 68, Tawwin Road, 9 Mile, Mayangone Township +95 (0) 1 9666141 PP 24/7

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able pricing Victoria Hospital is well-equipped with modern technology.

HEALTHCARE private clinic Apex Asia Medical Centre

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This private clinic focuses on patient satisfaction. Their staff is particularly attentive and has all the necessary equipment to provide quality healthcare. ?? No 33/2, Pyay Road ,Yadanar Lane , 7 Miles, Mayangone Township (close to TA TA Car Showroom) +95 (0) 1 662 467, +95 (0) 1 662 801, +95 (0) 9 73 227 555 ,+95 (0) 9 73 227 666 PP Mon-Sat 8:30am ~ 6pm Email: adminaamc@apexasiamedical.com

Laboratories Path Lab This Singaporean laboratory provides medical testing services to patients, medical practitioners and specialists all over Asia. ?? No. 168, Damazedi Road, North Shwe Gone Dine Ward, Bahan Township +95 (0) 9 420 010 788 ~ 789, +95 (0) 9 420 100 178 PP 7am~7pm Website: www.pathlab.com.my

Dr. Tun Tun Thwe ?? Dental Clinic, 2nd Floor, Sakura Tower, 339 Bogyoke Aung San Road, Kyauktada Township +95 (0) 1 255118 PP Monday - Saturday: 9am - 6pm (Make an appointment first)

Dr. Myint Htain ?? 70 Dhama Yone Street, Myaynigone, Sanchaung Township +95 (0) 1 539795, +95 (0) 9 73157997 PP Daily: 10am - 12:30pm, 3pm - 7:30pm

Dr. Aye Aye ?? Delta Plaza, Room 003, Building C, Ground Floor 247/269 Shwegonedine Road, Bahan Township +95 (0) 1 552914, +95 (0) 9 5157399 PP 10am - 5pm (Make an appointment frist)

VETS May Vet Clinic, Dr. Soe Min Lin ?? Room 2, Building 17, Hlaing Myint Mo Housing Estate, Kan Street, Kamayut Township PP Daily: 9am - 11am, 5pm - 8pm +95 (0) 9 73133112

SML lab This medical laboratory and diagnostic centre provides medical examination and outpatient care. ?? 003/004 Dagon Tower, Kaba Aye Pagoda Road, Bahan Township +95 (0) 1 544 463, +95 (0) 1 544 464, +95 (0) 1 544 465 PP 7am ~ 9pm Email: sml-lab@yangon.net.mm, sml.laboratory@ gmail.com Website: www.smlhealthcare.com

Dentists D-INYA ROAD DENTAL CARE CENTRE A panel of dentists available for consultation throughout the week. ?? No 6/A, Inya Road, Kamayut Township +95 (0) 1 524430, +95 (0) 9 31066117 PP Daily: 9am

Paing Phyo Vet Clinic, Dr Myint Wyn ?? 006, Building 4, Myaing Hay Win Housing, Mayangone Township +95 (0) 1 6535575

Domestic Animal Care Centre ?? Room 106, Building 1, Myaing Hay Wun Housing, Kyaik Waing Pagoda Road (near Junction 8 Super Market), Yankin Township +95 (0) 9 5186391; +95 (0) 1 665508 PP 5pm - 9pm

We are committed to creating great content and experiences.

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We bring brands to life and our online channels, publications and events carry it into the hands and minds of locals and expats alike.

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We are

16 JANUARY 2015

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For more information, comments and updates visit myanmore.com or contact us at info@myanmore.com | +95 (0) 1 375 680

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Yangon's former Supreme Court - Š MYANMORE

employment Finding employment and long term housing in Yangon can be a complicated process. Where do you begin? Who do you need to talk to? What are the legal requirements?

In this section we aim to provide pointers and advice to help you settle down.

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housing &

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Finding Accommodation Amidst the excitement of moving to Yangon, finding accommodation can often be the most difficult thing for new arrivals to have to deal with. Overpriced apartments, outdated infrastructure and paying for six months - or sometimes a year - in advance all contribute to the difficulty of finding a new home in your new city.

While those issues certainly do exist, things are not always as bad as they seem. Yangon does have a huge number of hardworking, honest agents who do the best they can to find good deals for their customers (unfortunately, inevitably there are those at the other end of the spectrum too), and those looking for a good deal for their apartment should ensure they give themselves as much time as possible to look for an apartment within their budget.

For those on a budget, apartments are occasionally available for the US300$/month mark but these are very few and far in between and will usually be very basic apartments with almost no furnishings, and often not in the best location. Those looking for a comfortable, Western-style apartment (furnished, western-style toilet, air-conditioning and a hot shower) should expect to pay no less than US500$ per month whatever the location is, and family homes tend to start at around the US1,000$ a month mark, with the most expensive houses being rented for upwards of US5,000$ a month.

Pick a colour - Š Katrin Ostermayer

HOUSING

House hunting tips

Know your landlord Having forked out a years rent in advance; you would be justified to expect a good standard of service from your landlord. This is often not the case, especially when the landlord might live in Mandalay or abroad. Make sure they can help you out over the course of year, or at the least that you can contact them if problems arise or be able to make your own arrangements. This can be very important if the air conditioning packs in over the summer!

Pick the right broker There are a lot of real estate companies out there, who for the most part are honest enough. However as to be expected in a newly emerging market, they may not act to the same degree of professionalism you may be used to and some offer properties where they demand a fee from the tenant.

You are better off using a reputable broker who has a wealth of local and international experience of working to expat requirements and speaks both Myanmar and English.

Location, Location, Construction Although you may have your heart set on living in downtown, if your office is several miles away this is generally a bad idea. With seemingly endless rush hours being a frequent occurrence, Yangon is a city not best suited to even modest commutes, it is far more practical to live within walking distance of your office or a short drive. Likewise, if you work late most days it would be wise to live somewhere close to convenience stores or restaurants that stay open late. Additionally, as with anywhere, know your neighbours. Do you want to live next to a massive building site for the next few years? Do your research and be certain the property is right for you.

Be prepared for challenges It is easy to be drawn in by the appeal of having a nice top floor apartment with great views. This may no longer seem so good when your apartment building is plagued by power cuts and your lift is out of order. Remember Myanmar is a country with stuttering infrastructure and electrical blackouts are not uncommon. Although many condos boast of having back up generators in reality these are often scarcely used if they even work at all, so be sure to check before you commit.

Colliers International provides real estate services to people all around the world.

KnowIt / April 2015

Have loads of cash!

People are often surprised by just how expensive property prices are in Yangon. High demand and a limited supply of good quality housing mean that what exists commands a premium. This may prove prohibitive to the discerning expat, as it is also routine to pay a year's rent in advance in cash, although this seems to be changing. There is some good news however; as more buildings are completed rents are forecast to level off.

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Five handy tips to help out those planning on renting accommodation in Yangon, By Colliers International:

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WHERE TO LIVE In the whole of Yangon Division, which stretches dozens of miles north of the downtown area, there are 33 townships (read: districts). In truth, for those moving to Yangon, only the most adventurous dwellers are likely to explore the majority of these.

We have collated some key information for some of the more popular areas of the city when looking for accommodation in the city. It’s important to bear in mind, like practically everything in Yangon, there is no exact science involved with finding accommodation; prices vary depending on which agent you use and who you know. Prices range from about US$200 per months for a room in a relatively basic shared apartment to US$5,000 a month and up for family homes in Yangon’s more exclusive areas.

Located on the western side of town and close to the lively Yangon River area, the majority of Ahlone township is industrial with a number of dilapidated buildings. That said, hidden away here and there are some well-maintained and relatively well-priced apartments, particularly around the area of Kyee Myin Daing Lower Road. It’s a good location for those wanting to get into the downtown area as it bypasses the busy thoroughfares into town, Pyay and Kaba Aye Pagoda Roads.

leafy ambassador’s residence area on the west of Pyay Road. Dagon’s most popular residential spot is the Yaw Min Gyi Quarter, which sits behind Park Royal and stretches as far west as Shwegadon Pagoda Road, occupying Bo Yar Nyunt, Nawaday and Yaw Min Gyi roads. This is a great place to live for new arrivals and is filled with many of Yangon’s younger expat crowd. Prices are increasing some-what here but there are still some good options available.

There are also a number of good restaurants in this area and it's within a 10-minute walk to downtown.

Bahan

Downtown

One of Yangon’s more secluded, up-market areas, Bahan’s most noted area is the elite Golden Valley. The calm, leafy area is filled almost to the brim with large houses surrounded by large gates with prices generally reaching the US$4,000 - US$5,000 a month mark. However, if you’re not earning that sort of cash, don’t write off Bahan completely as some of the sideroads off Dhamazedi Road offer houses at more reasonable prices. It’s one of the best areas in town for restaurants, with the junction near to Dhamazedi and Inya offering at least half a dozen great eating options.

Stretching around 50 streets from west to east, the downtown area is vast and the options of areas to live here are equally so. The western part of the downtown area is a popular locals area on the edge of Chinatown and is the place to be if you are looking for a bustling streetlife.

Heading further east, the closer to central Sule Pagoda you get, the more prices are likely to jump and then further east still you have the lively local area around 45th to 50th Street, which is home to a great selection of street food and eclectic mix of ethnicities and religions.

Ahlone

Dagon Dagon Township stretches relatively far from near to the Park Royal Hotel westwards to the

Hlaing On the main road coming in from the airport, Hlaing is a useful spot to live on the western side of Inya Lake. Again, there is plenty of vi-

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In the neighbourhood - © Katrin Ostermayer

brant streetlife nearby. Insein Road, has some wonderful eateries and is home to Yangon United Football Club, Myanmar’s most successful domestic team.

Hlaing Tharyar Sitting on the western bank of Yangon River, Hlaing Tharyar is mostly an industrial area with a whole host of factories. There’s not much in terms of activity and streetlife but for those who can afford a little more, Hlaing Tharyar is home to the attractive Pun Hlaing Golf Estate; a beautiful, lush estate set in acres of grounds. It is home to an international-quality golf course, a great bar and restaurant area, spa and hospital facilities along with a school on-site. It’s pricey though.

Mayangone On the north eastern edge of Inya Lake sits Mayangone. There are a few leafy areas tucked into the western-most side of Kaba Aye Pagoda Road while the eastern side offers a few very pleasant beer stations located on Parami Road.

Prices are generally a bit lower here as Mayangone is a good 30-minute drive to town.

Mingalar Taung Nyunt One of the more bustling parts of town, Mingalar Taung Nyunt is a popular place of residence for many of Myanmar’s Muslim population. All through the night, street vendors are lit up in neon and there’s a hive of activity every night of the week. Prices are often cheaper here and it is within easy walking distance to the downtown area.

Kamayut A great blend of local life consisting the Junction Square Shopping Mall and Hledan Market, both of which are located in Kamayut township; just to the south of Inya Lake. With its fast food joints, shining concerts on most weekends and the young and hip Yan- gonians walking through its doors, Junction Square seems to be at the extreme contrast to the chicken carcasses, seafood and general chaos of Hledan market.

Mingalardon Located close to the airport, the majority of Mingalardon’s residents live in large homes often hidden behind large walls. It’s quite a long drive to the downtown area, but great for those looking to live in a more secluded part of town.

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Sanchaung Another lively area located halfway between downtown and Inya Lake. The Myanyigone area (not to be confused with Mayangone) is vibrant with all sorts of activity including restaurants and tea shops. It’s not a bad shopping area too, with the Dagon Shopping Centres located in the heart of Sanchaung. There are also a few pleasant green spaces dotted around Sanchaung.

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Tamwe Slightly east and north of downtown, Tamwe is another location that can be relatively wellpriced if you’re lucky enough to find the right apartment. Traffic is getting a touch worse in this part of town, which makes the journey into the centre a fair bit longer, but it’s a good, lively local area. It’s also home to the Thuwanna National Stadium, where the Myanmar National football team play many of their matches.

Yankin Growing in popularity, Yankin, in the far north of Yangon on the way to the airport, is attractive due to its relatively good prices and respite from some of the chaos in central Yangon.

There are a few good shopping areas nearby, most notably the Yankin Center, which has all of your most basic needs. The area around New University Avenue and Saya San Road has a range of good restaurants too.

Pun hlaing Pun Hlaing is different from the city side of the river. It owes it attractiveness to the magnificent Pun Hlaing Golf Estate. Acres of lush greenery make it a nice place to disconnect from bustling downtown. The estate has all the living luxuries that one needs : bars, restaurants, gym, spas, even a school and a hospital - no wonder a growing community of expats prefer to live there.

Star city Thanlyin Township is now home to a luxury community compound, essentially for expats. The complex has many brand new facilities including bars and restaurants (even their own 50th Street bar), supermarkets, sports grounds and waterfront. For those seeking a serene and tranquil lifestyle, Star City is a pampered green city within Yangon city.

Home sweet Home - Star City

Take your time Very little is guaranteed at any property in Yangon so assuming nothing will save you lots of stressful experiences. Even basic details such as the availability of reliable electric power, hot water, suitable water pressure and filters, preventative measures against insects, internet connectivity and mobile phone reception, general security, availability of parking, and even noise pollution (important to observe noise levels morning, noon, and night) must be double checked before any agreement is signed. It is key to give yourself enough time, and initial stay at a hotel or in a serviced apartment will enable you to meet other expats and do a bit of “hands on” investigating prior to settling down.

MyanmarRelo helps new comers to settle down by organising orientations, school viewings, home visits and connecting them with the right people.

for relocation services in Yangon

www.MyanmarRelo.com | ContactUs@MyanmarRelo.com

Providing a wide range of relocation support services including: • Home Finding • School Search • Settling-in and Orientations

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Setting the gOLD StAnDARD

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MRS Myanmar Relo Solutions

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Yangon skyline - Š MYANMORE

relocation

mobility

Crown Relocations

Asian Tigers Mobility Ltd.

They provide relocation services for individuals and companies and assist clients in planning, moving to, living and working in a new place.

Each year Asian Tigers Mobility companies move thousands of families to their new homes from every corner of the globe, including Yangon.

?? 790 Room 702, Bogyoke Aung San St, Lanmadaw Township +95 (0) 1 223 288 (Ext. 702) Email: yangon@crownrelo.com

?? Room 504, M.M.G Tower, #44/56, Kannar Rd, 41st~42nd St, Botahtaung Township +95 (0) 1 250290, Fax: 252213 Email: info@asian tigers-myanmar.com Website: www.asiantigers-mobility.com

MRS - MYANMAR RELO SOLUTIONS High standard relocation specialists providing a wide range of services including home finding, school search, settling in and orientations. ?? 11A Yadanarmon Road, (Hlaing Station Road), Quarter 5, Hlaing Township Website: www.MyanmarRelo.com

Santa Fe mobility myanmar, Ltd. Santa Fe offers moving, relocation, real estate and visa & immigration services for individuals and companies moving to Myanmar. ?? Unit F42, Block B, Pearl Centre, Kabar Aye Pagoda Road, Bahan Township +(95) 9 3008 8196 Email: myanmar@santaferelo.com

Bandoola Transportation Co., Ltd. - Myanmar Transportation services for home and commercial relocation ?? Parami Compound, Parami Rd., South Oakkalapa Township +95 (0) 1 579655, 573259

Boe Yadanar Transport Co., Ltd. Transportation services for home and commercial relocation ?? 45, Tae Nu Yin Ave., Pyay Rd., 7 ½ Mile, Mayangone Township +95 (0) 1 660251, +95 (0) 9 5342819

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DNS mobility ltd myanmar

Estate Yangon

DNS Mobility Ltd Myanmar is one of the leading removals companies in Myanmar, specialising in packing of used household goods & personal effects, customs clearance of import and export consignments, logistics, transport and door to door delivery services.

Estate Yangon specialises in residential development, industrial development, office space and accommodation.

?? No. 125, Ground Floor, 52nd Street, Pazundaung Township +95 (0) 1 291 663, +95 (0) 1 202 466

Happy Homes Real Estate Companies

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?? 18/H, Yadanar Myaint Street, Kamayut Township +95 (0) 9 420045179 Email: estateyangon@gmail.com, kthu@estateyangon.com

ASIA LAND Asia Land has been established in Yangon for more than 15 years. They have their own legal department to insure the process of buying, selling or renting property goes smoothly.

There team speaks English, Burmese and Chinese. ?? No. (18), Aung San Stadium , (Eastern Wing).

Upper Pansodan Street, Mingalar Taung Nyunt Township +95 (0) 1394415, Fax:+95 (0) 1 394 160 PP 9am ~ 5pm Email: asialandrealestate2004@gmail.com, Website: www.asialandrealestate.com

Colliers International Myanmar They provide real estate services for both residential and commercial clients including property search and selection, project management and valuation and appraisal. ?? Unit 7/C (6th Floor) White Cloud Building, No. (138/142) Thein Phyu Road, Botahtaung Township +95 (0) 9 31 491 678 Website: www.colliers.com

Will assist in finding a new home as well as providing services in assisting housekeeping and bill payment. ?? No. 20, 4/A Thadipatan Road, Tamwe Township +95 (0) 9 7349 4483, +95 (0) 9 420 056 994 Email: aahappyhomes@gmail.com

Myanmar Housing Myanmar Housing is the biggest real estate portal website in Myanmar. You can find a lot of information about land houses, condominiums, industrial properties, offices, shops and land. ?? No. 237-239, China Town Condo 8F, Corner of 10th Street and Anaw Rahta Road, Lanmadaw Township +95 (0) 1 2303085 ~ 6 Contact: www.myanmar-housing.com

MYANMAR REAL ESTATE This service company is run by an experienced couple and assists client in locating housing, offices, commercial space or land in Myanmar. ?? 185-B Thudathana Road, Thingangyun Township +95 (0) 9 5 082 237 PP 8am ~ 8pm Email: stuart@realestate-myanmar.com Website: www.realestate-myanmar.com

Power 7 Emperor Real Estate & Services Agency Will assist in buying, selling and renting apartments, offices, shops and flats as well as modern single housing, factories and garages ?? No (274/B), 2nd Fl, 3rd Quarter, Annawyahtar Road, Lanmadaw Township +95 (0) 1 227473 / +95 (0) 1 2300 302, +95 (0) 9 5129563 (Mobile)

Since 2006, English and Chinese speaking agents cater the needs of local residents and foreigners. They specialise in finding properties for rent and for sale in Yangon and Mandalay ?? No (16/18), 1st floor, U Aung Myat Street, Mingalar Taung Nyunt Township +95 - 09 252703331, +95 - 09 421177105 PP Mon-Sat 9am~5pm Email: info@power7realestate.com Website: www.power7realestate.com

Sai Khung Noung

Employing a mix of local and international staff, PRONTO Services aims to take the stress out of finding and moving into a property in Yangon. International clients can pay rent by bank transfer.

Sai Khung Noung will assist in finding penthouses, landed houses and apartments, condominiums, car show rooms and offices which are well connected to the city center, ware houses in the industrial zones as well as land for commercial development.

?? 117 Shwe War Lane East Racecourse Road (next to Suzuki Showroom), Tamwe Township Main Office: +95 (0) 1 400452 General Mobile/Cell numbers: +95 (0) 9 250 765 544 or +95 (0) 9 250 765 533 Sales Team: 09 731 40698, 09 250054131, 09 250199032, 09 448026156 PP Monday - Friday 9am ~ 5pm Website: www.prontorealtor.com

property plus Company Limited Will assist in finding a new home ?? 16/, 3, 3rd Floor, Kyun Daw Street, San Chaung Township +95 (0) 9 730 35 336, +95 (0) 1 504455 Email: thynnkhine@gmail.com

?? 01, Pin Shwe Nyaung Street, Tamwelay, Tamwe Township +95 (0) 1 541501, +95 (0) 1 551197, +95 (0) 1 400781 Email: saikhungnoung1995@gmail.com

SAVILLS Savills is a UK-owned company, listed on the London Stock Exchange with 120 offices in the Asia Pacific region and have a track record experience of providing property services in emerging markets. Savills has been helping clients in Myanmar since 2010. ?? 192, (Middle Block), Bo Myat Htun Street +95 (0) 9 250 808383, +95 (0) 9 250 505135 Email: remerson@savills.com.mm

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Sky Bridge Co., Ltd.

Shangri-La Residences

You can sell, buy, rent and lend houses through their website. They provide services in english, burmese, chinese and japanese.

Their elegantly appointed apartments are situated in Yangon’s prime residential area in 15 acres of greenery overlooking the serene Kandawgyi Lake and sacred Shwedagon Pagoda.

?? No.237-239, China Town Condo 8F, Corner of 10th street and Anawrahta Road, Lanmadaw Township 01-2303085, 01-2303086 PP 9am~5pm Email: realestate@myanmarsb.com Website: www.myanmar-housing.com

?? 150/150A Kan Yeik Thar Road, Mingalar Taung Nyunt Township +95 (0) 1 394 469 Email: sales.slry@shangrila.com

KnowIt / April 2015

HOTEL PARAMI YANGON serviced apartments Sakura Residence From studios or 1-bedroom type units to 3-bedroom family type apartments, several choices are available at Sakura Residence. ?? 9 Inya Road, Kamayut Township +95 (0) 1 525 001, +95 (0) 1 525480 Website: www.sakura-residence-yangon.com Email: sales@sakuraresidence.com.mm

Hotel Parami is a new international business style hotel that is ideal for long term residents.

The hotel offers a wide range of facilities, well designed rooms and services to meet the needs of corporate travellers and the leisure market. ?? No. 2, Parami Road, Mayangone Township +95 (0) 1 658 116 ~ 8 Email: inquiry@hotelparamiygn.com Website: www.hotelparamyangon.com

Marina Residence Overlooking Inya Lake these serviced apartments are located 15 minutes from the International Airport and 15 minutes from the central business zone. ?? 8 Kaba Aye Pagoda Road, Mayangone Township +95 (0) 1 650 651 ~ 9 Website: www.marinaresidenceyangon Email: marina@mptmail.net.mm

MiCasa Hotel Apartments Conveniently located 15 minutes from Yangon International Airport and a mere 15 minutes’ drive to the famed Shwedagon Golden Pagoda MiCasa provides fully serviced apartments for expatriates on long stay and leisure travellers alike. ?? 17 Kaba Aye Pagoda Road, Mayangone Township +95 (0) 1 650 933 Website: www.myanmar.micasahotel.com Email: bc.micasa@mptmail.net.mm

Pearl Condominium This fully serviced apartment promotes itself as a ‘home away from home’ for expatriates and leisure travellers alike. ?? Kaba Aye Pagoda Road, Bahan Township +95 (0) 1 557 496

The 4th floor of Yuzana Plaza is recognised by locals as the place to go to buy furniture, and one trip there is enough to convince you, rightly so! You will find some furniture in most shopping malls too, and never forget to bargain the price!

If you wish to get your furnishings custommade, wonder about the numerous carpenter shops nearby Yuzana Plaza. Count about 10 days to have a table made. Teak is of course the best wood you can find, but make sure you are extremely clear on what you are asking for.

Bring pictures, doodle a sketch and if possible come with a Myanmar-speaking friend.

Courts Myanmar This shop sells furniture pieces imported from China, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore.

Their retail selection includes: bedroom sets, dining sets, leather furniture, office furniture and a synthetic marble selection. ?? 72 Yaw Min Gyi Road,Dagon Township 0973049720, 09254006660, 09254006665 PP 9:30am ~ 6:00pm Website: www.courtsmyanmar.com

Galleon Manufacturing Co., Ltd. They produce a wide range of solid wood products such as flooring, boat decking, S4S scantling, decorative accessories, doors and door frames, garden furniture, and indoor furniture.

They mainly use Myanmar Teak wood, with other hardwood and softwood options available. ?? No. 970~973, Than Thu Mar Street, South Okkalapa Township 01570112, 095156767, 09450002501, 0943116013 PP Mon-Sat 9am~5pm Email: galleonmyanmare@gmail.com Website: www.myanmartimber-galleon.com

INHOUSE With materials imported from Taiwan they provide office, kitchen, and housing furniture. ?? Block 8, Room No (001) Shwe Gabar Residence, Mindama Rd., Mayangone Township 0931755566, 0931755599 PP Mon-Sat 9:00am ~ 6:00pm Website: www.inhousemm.com

Perfect Pwint Oo Co., Ltd They specialise in mattress manufacture, bedding accessories, office furniture, plastic and wholesales in Myanmar. ?? Yuzana Plaza, 4th Floor, Banyardala Street, Mingalar Taung Nyunt Township 01 8619055, 01295414, 095085122 PP 9:30am~5:30pm www.pwintoo.com

REPUBLIC OF Fritz Hansen Products offered are created by prominent designers, both Danish builders as well as international designers known for their work around the world. ?? No.99, Ground Floor, Room(A), Dhamazedi Road, Kamayut Township 09250428700 PP Mon 10am~6pm, Tue-Sun 10am~10pm Email: info@decorum-mm.com Website: www.fritzhansen.com

SINMA Providing home and workplace furniture with locations in Yangon, Nay Pyi Taw and Mandalay.

?? No. 103/A, Dhamazedi Road, Kamayut Township 01539413, 09450035694 PP 8:30am ~ 6:30pm Email: smoffice@myanmar.com Website: www.sinmafurniture.com

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SETTLING IN both the corporate and residential markets.

Sweety Home

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The company produces spring mattress, foam mattress, polyurethane foam, bedding accessories and modern furniture under the main brand name “Sweety Home”, and ‘‘City Furniture”. ?? No. 473 Pyay Road, Near M.R.T.V, Kamaryut Township 01501611, 01501622, 01535694 PP 9am ~ 6pm Email: sweetyhome@yangon.net.mm Website: www.sweetyhomemyanmar.com

Interior Design

Aviva Interiors Pte Ltd This interior design company provides a wide range of design services for homes, offices and hotels. They look after the design and the installation from floor to ceiling. ?? Block C, Room 003A, Highway Complex, Hanthawaddy Rd, Kamayut Township 09975574869, 09421016596 PP Mon-Sat 9am~6:30pm Website: www.avivainteriors.com

MMC Construction & Decoration Myanmar Modern Creations Co., Ltd specializes in restoration, remodeling and new construction and also provides general services for

Pest Control Pests are a common problem in Yangon.

Here is a list of companies that can help you to get rid of undesired mosquitoes, snakes, termites, rats, cockroaches, flies, ants and other little (or big!) creatures.

Active Pest Control ?? 52 (A) Myaing Hay Wun Housing Estate, Kyaikwine Pagoda Rd. Mayangon Tsp Yangon +95 (0) 1664747, +95 (0) 95020371 PP 9am ~ 4pm

?? No.49,Moe Sander Street, Hledan, Kamayut Township +95(0)1 504884, +95 (0)1 532002 PP Mon-Fri 9:30am~5:30pm Email: mmc.construction355@gmail.com Website: www.mmc-myanmar.com

Silver Lotus Silver Lotus specializes in providing extensive collection of interior design and decoration services ranging from coveted residential projects to landmark properties in Yangon. They also sell synthetic grass (FIFA Certified). ?? 204, Bo Myat Htun Street, Pazundaung Township 01 294007, 01 290847, 01 291841 PP Mon - Sat 10am ~ 6pm Website: www.silverlotusmyanmar.com

hardware store PRO 1 MART PRO 1 provide a wide range of building supplies, similar to US Home Depot. ?? No. 76, Lann Thit Street, Insein Township +95 (0) 1 9640100 PP 8am ~ 7pm

Leo Pest Control ?? 9A Zaburit Road, Kyaukkone, Yankin Township, Yangon +95 (0) 1571397,+95 (0) 1564311, +95 (0) 9730199750, +95 (0) 98620450 PP 8:30am ~ 5pm Email: leo.pest.control@gmail.com

Myanmar Pest Control Service (MPCS) ?? 46, 1st Flr., Bogalay Zay St. Botahtaung Tsp +95(0)1722102, +95(0)1299670 PP Mon-Sat 9am ~ 5pm

SETTLING IN

The benefits of having a long term stay permit and FRC are: 1. Not having to travel on visa runs every 70 days, 2. Lower personal income tax burden and 3. A legal employment status, fully compliant with the Myanmar immigration law.

Step 1: Business Visa The first entry must be on a Business Visa, either obtained at the embassy in the country of residence prior departure or, for 48 lucky countries, through visa on arrival at the airport. Tourist visas or applicants who enter under the visa waiver program (mostly South East Asian nationals) cannot be considered for conversion to stay permits.

Step 2: Long Term Stay Permit and Foreign Registration Certificate (FRC) Once arrived in Myanmar, the applicant must apply for the Foreignerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Registration Certificate (FRC) and Long Term Stay Permit. At this point in time, it is recommended to seek the assistance of a specialized Visa & Immigration services provider, as the application process can be daunting task for a layman. The process involves obtaining a recommendation letter from the relevant government authority / ministry, which is dependent on the employerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s company registration. This process can take anywhere between 5 days to 1 month depending on the issuing authority, and many documents are required from both the employer and applicant.

Once the recommendation letter has been issued, the applicant can then proceed to the Immigration Department to get the long term stay permit stamped in the passport and to obtain the FRC from the FRC Department. These processes run concurrently and can take up to 1 week in total.

Once both have been obtained, the applicant is considered to be working legally in Myanmar. The stay permit is granted for 3 months for the first application, then 6 months for the first renewal, and 12 months for every renewal thereafter (DICA) or 6 months (MIC companies). During renewal process, the applicant is not required to leave the country. In fact, we encourage applicants to stay in Myanmar during that time to avoid unnecessary delays in application.

Step 3: Guest Resident Report After collection of the FRC and Long Term Stay permit, a Guest Resident Report must be filed at the Township Immigration Department where the applicant will reside. It takes about 4 days to get the Residence Permit Notice. Once you have obtained this, you are considered to be residing legally in Myanmar!

Step 4: Weekly Update of Residence Report Guest List Theoretically, a weekly update must be done at the district ward of residence of the applicant. In reality the Residence Report Guest list only is updated once a foreigner changes address within Myanmar.

For any questions relating to visa or relocation to / from Myanmar, contact Quentin van Meerbeeck, Quentin.vanmeerbeeck@santaferelo.com or call Santa Feâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Yangon office: +95 (0) 9 30 088 196

KnowIt / April 2015

Many foreigners working and residing in Myanmar do so under a Business Visa, whether single entry valid 70 days or multiple entry valid 6 or 12 months. However, this is not the correct process to obtain legal employment in Myanmar. According to the Myanmar Immigration law, business visas are for conducting meetings and business, NOT for seeking gainful employment. This is how you should proceed to make sure you are working and residing legally in Myanmar.

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finding a job You may have noticed it; Myanmar has opened up. More and more international corporations are moving in, while smaller companies are gradually upping their operations to try and take advantage of the influx of money that many expect to come into the country in the near future.

Yangon, the former capital but still the economic hub, is the city seeing the majority of the companies move in; which means those looking to find work are in a great position in Yangon.

Hang in there! - © MYANMORE

Like any job hunt around the world, it’s worth starting with the question: “What interests me, what am I good at and what unique skills do I already have?” Once you’ve answered that question, it becomes much easier to narrow down what industry you want to be looking at.

There is of course the question if Myanmar is the place for you. There are challenges to living here and Myanmar is certainly not for everyone. Accommodation is expensive, power-cuts are regular and it’s damn hot – and if it’s not hot - it’s usually raining. There are other frustrations but there are a great deal of good sides too. I won’t go into them here but once you find them, they make leaving this place a difficult thing to do. Speak to many of the expats living in Yangon and you are likely to encounter people who will tell you all about the magnificence of living in such a unique country.

If you’re still reading, then it’s clear that you are still serious about working in Yangon. So, what do you do? There are websites to help you out and some of the more popular newspapers run classified sections; but the main thing is to be active. Regardless of whether you are looking for a journalism job, an English teaching job or an art director’s role, the task becomes much easier once you make yourself visible and accessible. To help you on your way, below are some online resources that might be useful in the job hunt. Although LinkedIn is not known by all yet, most big companies post job openings on their profiles, so keep an eye out! Although Linked In is not known by all yet, most big companies post job openings on their profile, so keep an eye out!

Recommended websites for job search Job Websites Myanmar • www.myjobs.com.mm • www.work.com.mm • www.myanmarjobsdb.com • www.myanmarbestjob.com • www.jobsinyangon.com

NGOs work independently of the government to help people at grass-roots level and many of them are to be found in Myanmar. They often advertise for medical personnel including doctors, midwives and lab techs as well as translators, social workers, database specialists, field assistants, administration assistants and communications / media personnel. Here are some websites to get you started:

American / AP Curriculum: International School of Myanmar www.ismyanmar.com/ International School Yangon www.internationalschoolyangon.org Yangon Academy http://www.yangon-academy.org/ Yangon International School http://www.yismyanmar.com/

Adventist Development and Relief Agency Myanmar www.adramyanmar.org/get-involved/carierat-adra

British / IGCSE Curriculum

Medecins Sans Frontieres / Doctors Without Borders

Horizon â&#x20AC;&#x201C; IGSE and IB www.horizonmyanmar.com

Recruits medical and non-medical field staff.

When possible provides healthcare in Yangon Divisions and Shan, Rakhine and Kachin States. www.doctorswithoutborders.org/work/field/

KT Care Foundation Myanmar

Alba Language and Business Academy http://alba-edu.com/

Network International School www.networkinternationalschool.com/ Myanmar International School Yangon (MISY) www.misyedu.com/

http://www.ktcare.net/

Myanmar International School www.mis-edu.com/

www.ngoinmyanmar.org

Singapore Curriculum

This website advertises jobs from a range of NGOs:

Nelson International Education Centre www.myanmareducationservice.com/

TEACHING ENGLISH

Pride International School Myanmar www.myanmareducationservice.com/

Privately run international schools are often on the lookout for competent teaching staff. Preschool teachers, teachers of Chinese or English as a Second Language and guidance counselors are also sought after. There are 18 international schools in Yangon. Here is a selection:

VOLUNTEERING Volunteering can be hard work but the rewards will usually make it worthwhile. There is always a need for trained or untrained teachers and for builders, tradespeople, medical person-

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nel, administrative and field assistants. Some organizations accept day-helpers while others will need a commitment of weeks before taking you on. Many of the larger NGOs only employ professionals, but smaller community projects and monasteries readily accept volunteers.

Some Volunteer Placements in Myanmar Most volunteers find placements in Yangon but it’s also possible to find community projects in rural areas. The following is a list of volunteer options to get you started.

Aung Myay Thukha Monastery Teaching School http://aungmyaythukha.org/ Eden Centre for Disabled Children www.edencentre.org/ Growing Together School Jyotish Nordstrom 190/A Thiengi Street5, 5th Ward, Haketa Township, Yangon Email: gt.camp@gmail.com or contact.gtf@ gmail.com International Buddhist (IBEC), Sagaing www.ibec-sg.com/

Education

Oxford Burma Alliance Burma Volunteer Program (BVP) www.oxfordburmaalliance.org/bvp.html

Volunteers in Asia (VIA) / USA exchange programs www.viaprograms.org UN Volunteers www.unv.org/how-to-volunteer.html

The best way to find opportunities to contribute to change is to stay updated through Facebook groups. Don’t hesitate to post and create some events and even proper ventures yourself!

The Yangon Project Hub is probably the most active incubator in town and the official host of the yearly Social Entrepreneurship Week, in collaboration with CityMart.

Currently The Yangon Project Hub is running a project focused on women's empowerment.

We have listed a few of socially active associations and businesses that are currently supported by the CityMart foundation “City Love & Hope “. Once a month they host a “Weekend Bazaar” event at MarketPlace Golden Valley, so you can meet up face to face with the people behind the social initiatives, and purchase their products.

There are many more and in diverse industries, so you will surely find one to suit your aspirations. Feel free to contact them to know how you can support their self-sustainability projects!

Center

KT Care Foundation Myanmar http://www.ktcare.net/

Teach for Myanmar TFM http://teachmyanmar.org/

social entrepreneurship

social entrepreneurship catalysts Yangon Project Hub ?? #203 United Condominium, 39 Alan Pya Pagoda Road, Dagon Township +95 (0) 1122 1265 PP 9am to 6pm Monday to Friday Email: projecthubyangon@gmail.com

City Mart Foundation ?? No. 1-11, Padonmar Stadium (East Wing), Bargayar Street, Sanchaung Township +95 (0) 1 508460 , +95 (0) 1 508 461, +95 (0) 1 508 462 Email: city.hohr@city.com.mm

We choose to be victorious - Š Soyai

AAR Japan Provides vocational training for people with disabilities.

Actionaid Concentrates on connecting people to resources in the central region of Magwe, by building networks aroung health, education, infrastructures.

Action For Public

Their eco-friendly and sustainable products are sold under their own local and independent brand.

Pomelo Designs and sells fair-trade handicrafts made by marginalised populations, including youths, HIV sufferers, disabled individuals and small family businesses.

Phoenix

Provides training, microfinance loans and jobs opportunities in sewing for underprivileged youths and HIV sufferers.

Supports the HIV infected community through health, business, training and development and networking programs. They provide employment the photocopy, book-binding and a garment industries.

Amazing Grace

SoyAi by Children of Tomorrow

Produces creative handicrafts from local raw and recycles material, through training of disables people.

Consitsts inproducing and distributing fresh and nutritional soybean milk. Childen of Tomorrow counts 3 homes in Yangon, which represents more than 200 children. They aim to break dependence on donations and build up the children with Art, English and Music classes as well as small business initiatives.

FXB International Provides educational and vocational training for marginalised people. For women : textile weaving and sewing ; for men : carpentry and metal / ironwork.

KyutKyut Recycles plastic bags and enables local people by building their creative manufacturing skills.

Sunflowers Manages an art gallery as well as and organic dye textile manufacturing business which support sustainable and eco-friendly, fair trade.

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embassies & consulates Most foreign embassies and consulates are based in Yangon. Check the governments Ministry of Foreign Affairs (www.mofa.gov.mm) for more information.

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American Embassy ?? 110, University Ave, Kamayut Township +95 (0) 1 535756, +95 (0) 1 538038 PP Monday - Friday: 8am - 4:30pm except for Embassy Holidays Website: burma.usembassy.gov/ Email: 1776Rgn@gmail.com, ConsularRangoo@state.gov

Australian Embassy ?? 88 Strand Road, Kyauktada Township PP +95 (0) 1 251810, +95 (0) 1 246462, +95 (0) 1 246463, The Embassy is open from 8am to 4pm Monday to Friday except for public holidays. The Visa office is open for counter enquiries from 9:30am to 12 noon and telephone enquiries from 1pm to 4pm Monday to Friday except for public holidays.

Website: www.burma.embassy.gov.au Email: austembassy.rangoon@dfat.gov.au

+95 (0) 1 526985, +95 (0) 1 524285 Email: myangon.myanmar@mfa.gov.bn bruneiemb@bruneiemb.com.mm

Cambodian Embassy The Royal Embassy of Cambodia ?? 25(3B/4B), New University Avenue Road, Bahan Township +95 (0) 1 549609, +95 (0) 1 540964 PP Monday to Friday: 8am - 12pm, 2pm - 4pm PP Consular: Monday - Thursday: 9am - 11pm, 2pm - 3:30pm Email : camemb.mmr@mfa.gov.ah

canadian embassy ?? 9th floor, Centrepoint Tower, 65 Sule Pagoda Road PP Monday - Thursday: 8am - 4:30pm PP Friday: 8am - 1:30pm PP Consular: Tue - Thurs: 1:30pm - 3pm +95 (0) 1 384 805 Email: YNGON@international.gc.ca

Bangladesh Embassy ?? 11-B, Than Lwin Road +95 (0) 1 515275, +95 (0) 1 526144 PP Monday - Thursday: 9:30am - 1pm, 2pm - 5pm PP Friday: 9am - 12:30pm, 2pm - 5pm Email: mission.yangon@mofa.gov.bd

Brazilian Embassy ?? 56 Pyay Road, 6.5 Mile, Hlaing Township PP Monday - Friday: 9am - 5pm +95 (0) 1 507225, +95 (0) 1 507251, +95 (0) 1 507482

Bruneian Embassy ?? No 17, Kanbawza Yeikthar Street, Golden Valley (1), Bahan Township PP Monday - Friday: 8:30am - 12:30pm, 1:30pm 4:30pm

Chinese Embassy ?? No.1 Pyidaungsu Yeiktha Road, Dagon Township +95 (0) 1 221280 ~ 81, +95 (0) 1 221926 Website: mm.china-embassy.org Email: chinaemb_mm@mfa.gov.cn

Egyptian Embassy ?? 81, Pyidaungsu Yeiktha Road, Dagon Township PP Monday - Friday: 9am ~ 3pm +95 (0) 1 222886 ~ 87 Website: www.mfa.gov.eg/Yangon-Emb Email: embassy.yangon@mofagove.eg

Japanese Embassy

?? 102 Pyidaungsu Yeiktha Road, Dagon Township PP Monday - Friday: 8:45am - 12:45pm, 1:45pm - 5:30pm +95 (0) 1 212 520, 523, 528, 530, 532 or +95 (0) 1 212 178 Website: www.ambafrance-mm.org Email: ambafrance.rangoun@diplomatie.gouv.fr

?? No.100, Natmauk Road, Bahan Township +95 (0) 1 545988, +95 (0) 1 540399, +95 (0) 1 540400, +95 (0) 1 540411, +95 (0) 1 549644 ~ 8 Website: www.mm.emb-japan.go.jp Email: info.cul@yn.mofa.go.jp/ eco@yn.mofa.go.jp

Laotian Embassy Embassy of the Lao Peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Democratic Republic.

German Embassy ?? 9 Bogyoke Aung San Museum Road, Bahan Township PP 8am - 3pm +95 (0) 1 548951, +95 (0) 1 548952 Email: info@rangoon.diplo.de

?? A-1 Diplomatic Quarters, Taw Win Road, Dagon Township PP Monday - Friday: 8:30am - 12pm, 2pm - 4:30pm +95 (0) 1 222482 Consular: Monday-Friday: 8:30am - 12pm, 2pm - 4pm Email : Laomyanmar@yahoo.com

Indian Embassy

Malaysian Embassy

?? No. 545-547, Merchant Street, Kyauktada Township +95 (0) 9 5491219, +95 (0) 1 243972, +95 (0) 1 388412, +95 (0) 1 243972 Website: www.indiaembassy.net.mm Email: indiaembassy@mptmail.net.mm

?? 82, Pyidaungsu Yeikhta Road, Dagon Township PP Monday - Friday: 8am - 4pm +95 (0) 1 220230, +95 (0) 1 220249, +95 (0) 1 220251, +95 (0) 1 220248 Website: www.kln.gov.my/perwakilan/yangon Email: mwyangon@kln.gov.my

Indonesian Embassy

Nepalese Embassy

?? 100 Pyidaungsu Yeiktha Road, Dagon Township +95 (0) 1 254465, +95 (0) 1 254469, +95 (0) 1 229750 Email: bidpen@indonesia.com.mm, info@kbriyangon. org, kbriygn@indonesia.com.mm

?? 16 Natmauk Yeiktha, Tamway Township +95 (0) 1 545880, +95 (0) 1 557168 Email: nepemb@mptmail.net.mm

Israeli Embassy ?? No. 15, Khabaung Street, Hlaing Township PP Monday - Thursday: 9am - 4pm, Friday: 9am - 2:30pm +95 (0) 1 515115 Website: www.embassies.gov.il/yangon Email: info@yangon.mfa.gov.il

Italian Embassy ?? 3, Inya Myaing Road, Golden Valley +95 (0) 1 527 100 ~ 1 Mon - Friday: 8:30am - 2:30pm Email: ambyang.mail@esteri.it Certified Email: amb.yangon@cert.esteri.it

Pakistani Embassy ?? A-4, Diplomatic Quarters, Pyay Road +95 (0) 1 222881 Email: pakeembyangon@gmail.com

Philippine Embassy ?? No. 7, Gandamar Road, Yankin Township +95 (0) 1 558149 ~ 53 PP Monday - Friday: 8am - 5pm Website: www.philembassy-yangon.com Email: p.e.yangon@gmail.com

Russian Embassy ?? 38 Sagawa Road, Dagon Township +95 (0) 1 241955, +95 (0) 1 254161 Website: www.rusembmyanmar.org Email: rusinmyan@yandex.ru

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DIRECTORY

DIRECTORY

Serbian Embassy ?? 114-A Inya Road, Kamayut Township PP 9am - 5pm +95 (0) 1 515282, +95 (0) 1 515283 Email: serbemb@yangon.net.mm

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Singaporean Embassy ?? 238 Dhamazedi Road, Bahan Township +95 (0) 1 559001 PP Monday - Friday: 8:30am - 1:00pm, 2pm - 5pm Visa Hours : Monday - Friday: 9:30am - 11:30am (Visa application) 2:30pm - 4pm (Visa collection) The Embassy is closed on Saturdays, Sundays and Public Holidays.

Website: www.mfa.gov.sg/yangon Email: singemb_ygn@sgmfa.gov.sg

Korean Embassy ?? 97, University Avenue, Bahan Township +95 (0) 1 527142 ~ 4, +95 (0) 1 515190, +95 (0) 1 524148 PP Monday - Friday: 8:30am - 12pm, 1:30pm - 5:30pm Email : myanmar@mofa.go.kr

Democratic Peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Republic of Korea ?? 77C, Shin Saw Pu Rd, Sanchaung Township +95 (0) 1 512642, +95 (0) 1 510205 PP Monday - Friday: 9am - 12pm, 2pm - 6pm

Sri Lankan Embassy ?? 34 Tawwin Road, Dagon Township +95 (0) 1 222812, +95 (0) 1 214315 Email: srilankaemb@mptmail.net.mm, embsrilanka@mptmail.net.mm

Swedish Consulate ?? No.130(B), Than Lwin Street, Bahan Towhship +95 (0) 1 539901, +95 (0) 1 511256, +95 (0) 9 5006972 PP Monday - Friday: 9:30am - 12:30pm Email: smtmhr@myanmar.com.mm

Thai Embassy ?? No.94, Pyay Road, Manawhari Street,

Dagon Township +95 (0) 1 226721, +95 (0) 1 226728, +95 (0) 1 226824, +95 (0) 1 222784 Visa and Consular section: Application for Visa/ Legalization 9am - 11:30am Collection of Visa / Legalization 2pm - 5pm Email: thaiygn@mfa.go.th

United Kingdom of Great Britain ?? 80, Strand (Kan-na) Road, Kyauntada Township +95 (0) 1 370867, +95 (0) 1 380322, +95 (0) 1 371852, +95 (0) 1 371853, +95 (0) 1 256438, +95 (0) 1 370863 ~ 5 PP Monday -Thursday: 8am - 12:30pm, 1:30pm - 4:30pm, Friday: 8am - 1pm Visa Hours: Monday - Thursday: 8:15am - 9:45am

Vietnamese Embassy ?? Building No.70-72, Thanlwin Rd, Bahan Township +95 (0) 1 511305, +95 (0) 1 501992 PP Monday - Friday: 8am - 11am, 2pm - 4pm Website: www.vietnamembassy-myanmar.org/ Email: vnembmyr@cybertech.net.mm

sending a parcel To send a parcel within Myanmar you can either use the Post Office or your personal network.

Indeed, you will find that passing your package through personal connections will get it delivered just the same!

For international delivery both DHL and EMS will make sure your parcel reaches its destination.

Services include tracking, insurances and fast delivery (1 or 2 days for Asia, 4 to 5 days for the rest of the world).

Prices are of course different from those at the Post Office but at least you the items are guaranteed to reach their destination.

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postal services

Waiting for the post office to open - Š Kam Weng

and parcels delivered just as well.

DHL Express ?? c/o HB Logistics, Ground Floor, 58 Wardan Street, Lanmadaw township +95 (0) 1 215 516 ~ 18 PP 8:30am ~ 5:30pm, Sat - 8:30am ~ 12:30pm

Express Mail Service International ?? 361 Pyay Road (near Hanthawaddy roundabout), Sanchaung township +95 (0) 1 515 151, +95 (0) 1 503 576 ~ 79, 81, 82 PP 9:30am ~ 2pm, Monday to Friday

MGL MGL (Magnate Group Logistics) is the local competitor of DHL. They will get your letter

PP 9am~5:30pm Mon-Fri, 9am~1pm Sat

8th Mile branch ?? No. 46/47, Myaing Hay Wun Housing, 8th Mile, Mayangone Township +95 (0) 1 9669588, +95 (0) 1 651627

Downtown Branch ?? No. 288, Ground Floor, 40th Street, Upper Block, Kyauktada Township +95 (0) 1 246681, 246667 E-mail: info@mglexpress.com

Post Office ?? Corner of Bo Aung Kyaw St & Strand Road, Botahtaung Township PP 9:30am ~ 2pm, Monday to Friday

142 KnowIt / April 2015

Let's get down to business - Š Hintha Business Centre

143 Reforms have set the ball rolling and for those with an idea and an appetite for new challenges. The steps towards setting up your own business and employing locals have become more straightforward.

As with most things in Myanmar making things work depends a lot on getting to know the right people and using initiative, so start networking!

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business

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setting up your own business

Creating the right environment - © MYANMORE

The new Foreign Investment Law enacted in November 2012 allows foreign investors full equity ownership in several sectors of business in Myanmar. They may also enter into partnerships with both local and foreign partners, establish branch offices of foreign companies within the country and enter into joint ventures in private or public limited companies, As a result of the rapid economic reforms, the process of investing and setting up a business in Myanmar has been simplified. Speed is of the essence; bureaucratic red tape no longer delays company registration and application for a permit to do business. Two one-stop service centers in Naypyidaw and Yangon are now able to issue registration and permit cards almost instantly – provided, of course, that the right documents are submitted and instructions are followed.

The process is relatively straightforward, be it for setting up a foreign branch or representative office, entering a joint-venture with a local company, or establishing a 100% foreign owned company.

Most people will employ a lawyer to lead them through the paperwork but if you wish to go it alone the following eight step process applies to setting up your own business.

• If you are forming a new company, verification will be made to ensure that there is no other company of the same name.

• Submit the required set of documents. The requirements vary with each category of registration.

BUSINESS • When the required documents have been submitted, you will be required to pay a fee of 1,000,000Ks, after which you will be issued a temporary registration card and a permit – both valid for six months. Though obtaining a permanent (five-year) registration card and permit will take relatively longer, it is expected to take no longer than 1-2 months, a period well within the 6-month validity of the temporary card and permit.

• After the Cabinet’s approval, the company must submit its Memorandum and Articles of Association, along with 200,000Ks in official stamp fees.

• A company doing business in services is required to wire transfer an initial US25,000$ fee – 50% of the full US50,000$ – for the final stage of registration and permit application. Similarly, for a company involved in industry, hotels, and construction, a transfer of US75,000$ –50% of the full US150,000$ – is required. The fees can be deposited at the Myanmar Foreign Trade Bank (MFTB), Myanmar Investment and Commercial Bank (MICB), or any of the 18 private banks authorized to deal in foreign currency. Note that for companies in industry, hotels, and construction, an additional permit from the MIC is required for final approval.

• The permanent registration card and permit will now be issued. The card and permit are valid for 5 years, renewable for consecutive 5-year periods with a renewal fee of 500,000Ks each time.

business cards

number of print shops where business cards can be printed.

Dewi This is the place to go for top-quality business cards. It may take 2 weeks to get them made, but when you see them you know why. ©

MYANMORE

The giving and taking of business cards is popular in Myanmar and is often one of the first interactions to take place after the obligatory handshake. Remember the wellknown tip: It is always worth spending a few seconds scanning their cards just to remember their names.

Printing in Yangon is relatively straightforward and the downtown area has a

?? No.25 Corner of Zezawa & Yey Kyaw Main Road, Pazundaung Township +95 (0) 9 73115254, +95 (0) 9 254 133 544 Email: dewimedia@gmail.com

Thazin Color Printing Services Particularly recommended if you are in a hurry : They will print out your cards in 1520 minutes. ?? No.207, Pansodan Street, Kyauktada Township +95 (0) 1 375 999

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• Following the Home Affairs security clearance and ministry approval, the Executive Committee of the Myanmar Investment Commission (MIC) will, at its weekly meeting, examine the documents concerned before passing them on to the Cabinet of the Union Government.

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• Information on the company’s Board of Directors will be forwarded to the Ministry of Home Affairs for security clearance. Concurrently, details of your company’s intended operations will be sent to the relevant ministry for an “approval”.

BUSINESS

Finding an office

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Entering a new market like Yangon, and trying to fire up your company can be extremely long and frustrating along with lots of unfamiliar options to be put into consideration. When looking to rent an office space, you will have to choose among locations, long-term leases, short-term leases, size of office space and other facilities according to your business nature and requirement.

In the end, it all comes down to your business nature and operations requirement. If you need an impressive view to show off to your customers and want to take them out frequently during the day, there is no better space then city centre, as in Sule and Dagon districts. If you have to get in and out of factories and industrial zones, you would prefer somewhere not too far from these areas such as South Okkalarpa and Thingangyun districts. Nonetheless, there are also certain attractive areas for certain industry types. MICT Park, for instance, is a desired place for tech companies while Hlaing district is becoming popular among shipping and logistic agencies.

For Yangon, 6-month contract is minimum and you are less likely to find such short contracts in downtown districts or any large business centres. If your business needs to be relocated quite frequently or you prefer to check market situation first, it is recommended to look for cheaper alternatives in out-of-downtown areas. In these areas, your chances of getting more affordable, shorter contract terms and even better office space doubles up.

Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s talk about what would you need for your office.

- Basics: Your desks, chairs, all office utilities and a working Internet - Meeting room and proper parking space (if you drive to office) - Receptionist services and a postal address - IT and corporate assist - Lounge and kitchen for your staff (at least a microwave) More generally, you might want to keep in mind 3 things: - Consider enlisting the help of a local agent. Their knowledge and skills will help you more than you could imagine, in getting a really great value office space.

- Do not be afraid to deviate from mainstream. Out-oftown, less fashionable locations are always better and flexible then flooding into expensive, tight city centre.

- Bargain and negotiate!

Officecubed provides professional and friendly help to ensure you find that flexible and functional office space you are dreaming of.

Officecubed Address: No.7, Lay Daunt Kan Road, Thingangyun Township, Contact: (+95) 1 855 0747 / 9 50 93 922 / 9 51 03 084 / 9 51 06 442 Email: officecubed.yangon@gmail.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/officecubed

My meeting room is too small!

It is handy to know that business centers and hotels rent rooms of various sizes for private meetings.

Another good option is to partially/ totally privatise a restaurant, and if desired you can combine this with lunch or dinner. Some good yet very different venues include Peperoni Pizzeria, Summer Palace in Sule Shangri-La hotel, The Windermere Hill, Vintage Luxury Hotel, Agora Cafe & Restaurant, Dolphin Restaurant, Golden Duck Chinese restaurant. It all depends on the size, ambience and food you need.

AVA Executive Offices

Swiss Business Office Center

The AVA Executive Offices have brand new office space available for rent. They are situated in Pearl Condo and services include meetingrooms, a hotdesk and extensive business support options.

Swiss Business Office Center offers A-grade offices in a prime location in a quiet area of central Yangon, located between two of the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s main roads, Pyay Road and U Wizara Road.

?? Suite 213-217, 2nd Floor, Pearl Condo, Kabar Aye Pagoda Road, Bahan Township +95 (0) 1 86046605, Fax: +95 (0) 18604670 Email: sales@ava-offices.com

Office @ 36th Managed by Officehub Services (Myanmar) Co., Ltd., with a parent company in Singapore, Office@36th offers fully-equipped serviced offices, with multinational corporations, emerging companies as well as start ups in mind, who want to setup office in Yangon. ?? No.129, 36th Street, Kyauktada Township +95 (0) 1 387947, +95 (0) 1 387940-50 PP 08:00 - 18:00 Email: info@officehubservices.com

Hintha Business Centres

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Located in the heart of downtown Yangon, Hintha Business Centre has a large, flexible and well-designed office space. It offers fulltime, fully serviced offices, as well as access to conference rooms, business lounges and virtual office facilities. ?? Floor 3, 608 Merchant Street (corner of Merchant and 31st), Downtown. +95 (0) 1 441 3410, +95 (0) 1 441 3433 PP 9.30am to 6pm Monday-Friday and 9am to 1pm on Saturdays, closed on Sundays.

Email: 608merchant@hinthabusinesscentres.com.

?? 36-8 No. A Myay Nu Street +95 (0) 9 2306067-70 Email: sales@sboc-yangon.com

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Much like property prices, quality office space is at a premium in Yangon, even more so with facilities in a good location and with a fast, reliable internet connection. This has led to an upsurge in popularity of serviced apartments, many of which offer desks on a short, mid or long-term basis.

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SERVICED OFFICES

OFFICES

international BUSINESS CENTRE A lot of high quality office space available facing Inya Lake.

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?? 88 Pyay Road, Hlaing Township +95 (0) 1 667 133; +95 (0) 1 513 482, +95 (0) 1 524881, +95 (0) 1 667132

Keier Group

clients working in Myanmar. Their flagship office at MAC Tower is located right in the heart of Yangon, Myanmar’s economic capital. ?? No. 561, 563, 565, 567, Merchant Street, # 801-804 Kyauktada Township, Yangon (10-15 minutes up from Embassy of India) +95 (0) 1 378 410, +95 9 4921 4888 PP 9am - 6pm Mon. - Sat Fax: +95 1 378 409 Email: info@keiergroup.com

The Keier Group is dedicated to providing fully furnished, well-equipped serviced offices to our

KnowIt / April 2015

My Yangon Office

Co-Working This is for those of you who want something a bit more professional than a coffee shop or a hotel lobby, but don’t need the exorbitant rents of serviced offices or the headache of taking on a lease.

My Yangon Office is a fully serviced office that offers a range of services at the heart of Yangon. Located in a very central location, you will be offered all the services and comfort you would expect in order to run your operations in the most effective way. ?? 42 A Pantra Street, Dagon Township +95 (0) 9 4224 60619 Website: www.myyangonoffice.com

Sakura Myanmar Business Center Project Hub An open co-working space and new business incubator with a range of facilities. It has a friendly, informal setting and offers regular workshops as well as encourages local start-ups and entrepreneurs to meet. ?? #203 United Condominium, 39 Alan Pya Pagoda Road, Dagon Township +95 (0) 1 122 1265 PP 9am to 6pm Monday to Friday Email: projecthubyangon@gmail.com

phandeeyar The co-working space for techies who build apps, tools & content to accelerate change & development in Myanmar, by the Myanmar Innovation Lab.

Modern office space in Yangon’s tallest tower with easy access to major hotels, Yangon Central Station, banks and shopping malls ?? Sakura Tower, 339 Bogyoke Aung San Rd, Kyauktada Township +95 (0) 1 255 255 Email: stowersales@myanmar.com.mm

ZEN GARDEN OFFICE A first for Yangon these mobile offices are eco friendly, spacious, airy and affordable with a life span of 40 years. What makes them unique is the fact that you can literally pick them up and relocate them to a new site if and when the need occurs. +95 (0) 9 420 762 789, +95 (0) 9 50 08354 Email: vorana@zen-garden.asia

?? 11th Floor of MAC Tower, 561, Merchant Road, Merchant Road +95 (0) 9 260072463, +95 (0) 9 70732067 PP 24/7 for members Email: info@phandeeyar.org Meet me at the office - © Keier Group

business support

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Accounting

Consultants

CHO Group

Beca

Accounting, Auditing & Consultancy Service CHO Group provides consulting services for: computerized accounting and taxation, company formation, documentation and liquidation, financial consultancy and company secretarial work, and registration of tradesmen and patents.

Beca consultancy focus their offer on technical expertise and innovation. Their engineerings provide design and performance management services tailored to businesses ranging from construction, transportation to any geotechnical field.

?? No. 181/183, Room 303, 4th floor, 34 St., (upper block), Kyauktada Township 01255950, 01255951, 01391626, 095007973, 098633626 PP Mon-Fri 9:30am ~ 5:30pm, Sat 9:30 ~ 3pm Email: chogroupservices@gmail.com

FAA GROUP They offer consulting services for: accounting and auditing, accounting system development, company incorporation, tax advisory, and investment advisory and MIC appraisal work. ?? No 26 (C), Nawaday St., Yawmingyi Ward., Dagon Township 01393196, 01381376, 095119828 PP Mon-Fri 9:30am~4:30pm Email: Daw Mu Mu Lwin @ mmlwin.faa@gmail.com

?? No.5, 1 Floor (Right), Ayeyeikmon 2nd Street, Yadanarmon Avenue, Hlaing Township 01512970, 01512971, 01514573, Fax: 01512970 PP Mon-Fri 8am ~ 5:30pm Email: myanmar@beca.com Website: www.beca.com

FOCUS CONSULTING GROUP LTD Accounting, Auditing & Consultancy Service Services This consulting group specialises in financial and tax consulting and Joint Venture structuring. Many other financial and accounting services are available, as well as project management support. ?? No 180 (first floor), Taw Win Myanmar Condo, Botahtaung Pagoda Road, Pazundaung Township, 01297249, 01297242, 9010203, 9010204 PP Mon-Sat 9:30am ~ 5:30pm Email: focusgroup.financial@gmail.com

FAMAT Accounting, Auditing & Consultancy Service Services This firm specializes in company formation, accounting designs and auditing, financial and tax consulting, cost structuring, secretarial services, and management information systems. ?? No 365 (A-1), Room No., B-3, Yoma Yeiktha,Pyay Rd., Kamayut Township 01 2304349, 01 523327, 09 49313006 Fax: 012304349 PP Mon-Fri 9:30am ~ 5:30pm Email: famatco@gmail.com

FUKKEN (Engineering Consultant) This Civil Engineering and Geotechnical Consulting Firm conducts geotechnical investigation, surveying, field and laboratory testing for soil, construction supervision (building and road), water supply and Computer Aided Drawing & Designs for development projects.

They have been participating in development projects in both private and public sectors since 1997 in Myanmar. ?? No.(131), Pin Lon (3rd) Street, (27/4) Ward, Shwe Pin Lon Real Estate, North Dagon Township

SUPPORT

Signium International is a global Executive Search Consulting firm.There expertise lays with recruiting, growing and retaining the very best leadership talents for their clients.

They have offices in more than 25 countries. ?? Swiss Business Office Center, No. 36-39 (A), Myay Nu Street, Sanchaung Township +95 (0) 1 2306068 PP Mon-Fri 9am ~ 5pm

Baker & McKenzie This international law firm advises clients on doing business in Myanmar. They also advise multinationals and Asian conglomerates on inbound investment in Myanmar in sectors like energy, mining and infrastructure, information technology and telecommunications, consumer goods, corporate transactions and IP. ?? 1203 12th Floor Sakura Tower, 339 Bogyoke Aung San Road, Kyauktada Township 01 255056 PP Mon-Fri 9am ~ 6pm

DFDL Thura Swiss Thura Swiss is a Myanmar based research, consulting and capital markets specialist uniting the expertise of local and foreign professionals. ?? Shwe Hinthar B 307, 6 ½ Miles Pyay Road 01 654730, Fax: 01 654733 PP Mon-Fri 8:30am~5:30pm Email: info@thuraswiss.com Website: www.thuraswiss.com

DFDL provides a full range of legal and tax services to foreign and local investors operating in Myanmar since 1995. There are locations in both Yangon and Naypyitaw and they work on projects in energy, mining & infrastructure, real estate & construction, taxation, corporate & commercial law, mergers & acquisitions, and English governed transactions. ?? 134/A, Than Lwin Road, Golden Valley Ward (1) Bahan Township (GPO Box 729) +95 1 526 180 Email: myanmar@dfdl.com

Vriens & Partners This Singapore-based corporate advisory firm focuses on political risk analysis, government relations, and public affairs in Southeast Asia. ?? 103, First Floor, Sule Pagoda Road, Kyauktada Township 01 372068

Win Htut Aung & Associates Consultants Limited This consulting company provides business services including company incorporation, corporate secretarial work, tax advisory services and accounting system development. ?? No. 158/168, room 19 (First Floor). Mahabandoola Garden Street, Kyauktada Township 01243341, 01388804 PP Mon-Fri 9:30am ~ 6pm

Khin Maung Cho & Associates Intellectual Law Firm This intellectual property law firm providing trademark registration services, trademark search, and patent and design law. ?? 183A, First Floor, 38 Street, Kyauktada Township 09 5128853 PP Mon-Fri 9am ~ 5pm Email: ip@kmciplawfirm.com

LUCY WAYNE & ASSOCIATES LWA provides an extensive range of legal services ranging from inward investment, finance, tax structuring, to infrastructure, petroleum and power generation, and also real and intellectual property and dispute resolution. ?? 100/A Kabar Aye Pagoda Road, Bahan Township 01 554468, 01 8604540 PP Mon-Fri 9am ~ 5:30pm Email: info@lwalegal.com

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Signium International (Yangon)

Law

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018010896 PP Mon-Fri 9am~5pm, Sat 9am~12:30pm Email: fukkenyb@myanmar.com.mm Website: www.myanmargeoconsultant.com www.fukkenmyanmar.com

SUPPORT

MN Associates Intellectual Property Law Firm

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MN Associates offers legal services across the entire field of intellectual property and rights protection: patents, trademarks, copyrights, industrial designs and domestic and cross-border IP crime investigation and confidential information. ?? No 45 B, Third Floor, Pathain Street, Sanchaung Township 09250596046 l, Fax 012543121 PP Mon-Fri 9am~5pm Email: info@myanmariprs.com Website: www.myanmariprs.com

Moe & Tun Associates This independently owned general consultation and legal services firm provides guidance to clients through the evolving and complex landscape of doing business in Myanmar.

Market Research Myanmar Marketing Research & Development (MMRD) Co., Ltd Myanmar's first marketing research company and producer of Yangon Directory (Yellow Pages). Business insight and social insight are currently active under MMRD research services while the former consumer insight, market insight and media insight have become a new organization as Nielsen MMRD. ?? 9th Floor. Building.(C), New Mingalar Market, Corner of Set Yone Rd (Mill Road) & Banyardala Road., Mingalar Taung Nyunt Township 01 202126, 01 201350 PP Mon-Fri 9am ~ 6pm Email: rd@mmrdrs.com Website: www.mmrdrs.com

Translation Firms

RĂśdl & Partner

There are two types of translations: the one for everyday activities and one for major documents. To get official documents translated with a garantee that the terms and conditions are clear and identical, you will have to turn to law firms. Their notary services stamp and endorse entire responsibility in the case of inaccurate rendering f information. Law firms are listed on page â&#x20AC;Ś.. For non sensitive translations, you can choose from the following:

This international firm provides audit, legal, management and tax consulting in more than 43 countries.

MiTA

?? 63c Pyay Road, 6.5 Mile, Hlaing Township 01507236, Fax: 01538675 Email: yangon@roedl.pro Website: www.roedl.com

For translations from and to Myanmar, English, French, Thai, Chinese, Hindi, Bengali and Japanese.They can take on large volumes of documents with short deadlines.

?? No.18,Zawtika Street, Myaynegone (North), Sanchaung Township 09421022418 PP 10am ~ 4pm Email: moe@mt-associates.org, moelwin999@gmail. com Website: www.mt-associates.org

VDB Loi Myanmar Their lawyers and legal advisers are specialised in foreign investment, M&A, telecommunications, energy, taxation, and real estate/infrastructure. They have offices in Yangon and in Nay Pyi Taw. ?? Level 8, Centrepoint Towers, No. 65 Sule Pagoda Road & Merchant Street, Kyauktada Township 01371902, 01371635, Fax 01241238 PP Mon-Fri 8am~5pm Email: Edwin@vdb-loi.com, Jean@vdb-loi.com Website: www.vdb-loi.com/offices/myanmar/

?? #604, Building B, Delta Plaza Shwe Gon Daing Road,Bahan Township +95 (0) 9420110451, +95 (0) 9 420110666 PP Mon-Fri 9:30am ~ 5pm Email: isbc@mitaservices.com.sg Website: www.mitaservices.com

Aung Translation This translation company offers professional translation from Myanmar to English & English to Myanmar in various fields from Legal Translation and Contract, Advertising to Movie scripts, Literature.

SUPPORT

They specialise in English-Burmese translation. Their team is composed of language professionals, industry experts, historians and retired academicians which can cater complex and industry specific translation needs. ?? No 55, Baho Road, Corner of Baho and Ahlone Road, Ahlone Township +95 (0) 1221271, +95(0) 1212409, +95(0) 1214708 +95(0) 9731 477 32,+95 (0) 9730 159 93 PP Mon-Sat 9am-6pm Email: thant@myanmartranslationco.com Website: www.myanmartranslationco.com

Gorgeous Translation Translation services from and into English, Korean and Myanmar languages. ?? No. 277, Sakawar Street, Hta Ward, North Okkalapa Township +95 (0) 9253298145 PP 9am ~ 6pm Email: gorgeoustranslation@gmail.com Website: www.gorgeoustranslation.com

Blossom This group of freelance professional translators can help you out on small translation, transcription, editing, localization,proofreading & interpretation projects. ?? No. (74), Seik Pyoyae Padathar St, (11) Ward, Yankin Township +95(0) 9250017802, +95(0) 973082069 PP 8am ~ 6pm Email: blossom.translation@gmail.com

Printing Companies Dewi This is the place to go for top-quality business cards. It may take 2 weeks to get them made, but when you see them you know why. ?? No.25 Corner of Zezawa & Yey Kyaw Main Road, Pazundaung Township +95 (0) 9 73115254, +95 (0) 9 254 133 544 Email: dewimedia@gmail.com

They have lots of different paper qualities in stock and they also make plastic cards (loyalty, club cards). ?? Building No. 27/28 (Near Lan Thit Street Gate), 1st Floor Bahosi Housing, Lanmadaw Township +95 (0) 9254052814~7, +95 (0) 95173948 PP Mon-Sat 9am ~ 5pm Email: customerservice@digitalcottage.net

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Myanmar Translation Co.

Digital Cottage Paper & PVC Card

Graphic Solution by MK Group This Thai press house focuses on delivering high resolution, vivid and exact colors according to the original art works. They invest in training and the latest printing technologies to deliver high standard quality even with tight schedules. ?? Old Thirimingalar Market, 1st Floor, Kyi Myine Daing Kannar Road, Ahlone Township +95 (0) 9421172728, +95 (0) 11220886 PP Mon-Sat 9am~ 6pm

Kyauk Sein Offset Printing & Services They provide graphic design, lamination, diecutting, folding and creasing and other post printing services. ?? No.171, 33rd Street, Upper Block, Kyauktada Township +95 (0) 1378340, +95 (0) 9252512510, +95 (0) 9798417527, +95 (0) 95164220, +95 (0) 973048529 PP Mon-Sat 8am ~ 6pm Email: kyauksein.printingpress@gmail.com

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?? #139 2nd floor, Bagayar Road, Sanchaung Township 95-9-73211907 Email: aung.translation@gmail.com

SUPPORT

Thazin Color Printing Services Particularly recommended if you are in a hurry: They will print out your cards in 15-20 minutes.

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?? No.207, Pansodan Street, Kyauktada Township +95 (0) 1 375 999

Y Collection Myanmar The printing services provided here cover just about anything paper-crafted invitation product you may need (greeting cards, postcards, invitations & favours). ?? 106, 49th Street, Pazundaung Township +95 (0) 1202662, +95 (0) 1201264 PP Mon-Sat 9:30am~5:30pm Email: info@ycollectionmyanmar.com Website: www.ycollectionmyanmar.com

Transportation Centurion Auto Centurion Auto offers both private and corpo-

rate fleet car rentals. They have a high focus on safety and hospitality. They provide transportation solutions, while making sure you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to deal with the hassle that comes along with driving in the city. ?? 157/41 Yeik Thar 2nd Street, Thingangyun Township +95 (0) 1 571 586, +95 (0) 1 122 3423, +95 (0) 9 250 188 232, +95 (0) 9 254 204 653 PP Mon-Fri 9am~6pm, Sat 9am ~ 12pm Email: info@centurionauto.com Website: www.centurionauto.com

KMO Classic Transportation Services KMO has been providing car rental service since 2009. They cater to local and international customers and have several types of vehicles. ?? Room No.701, Building No.35 Condo, Sanchaung Township +959-5380409, +959-5192878, +959-49317215, +932-121577, +959-425326588 PP Mon-Sat 9am~5pm Email: kmotransportationservices@gmail.com Website: www.kmo-myanmar.com

TT Transportation TT Transportation provides a large choice of vehicles and quality service to get you anywhere with a smile. ?? Room 008, Building C-1, Highway Complex, Kamayut Township 09 972539722, 09 421159580 PP 8am ~ 6pm Email: info.tharthartransportation@gmail.com Website: www.tharthartransportation.com

SM Tours & Transport SM Tours & Transport has been offering international standard accommodation, meals and transportation facilities since 1994. Their 95 staff members and 38 private motor deluxe coaches, mini-buses, and cars are available to suit all kinds of needs. ?? No.32, Ground Floor, 10th street, Middle Block, Lanmadaw Township +95 (0) 1 225774, +95 (0) 1 225775, +95 (0) 1 225776 PP 9am~5pm Email: smtours@gmail.com, smtoursjpn@gmail.com Website: www.smmyanmar.com

SUPPORT

This private school was established in 2003, and provides education from Kindergarten to IGCSE level. They have weekend and evening education programs aimed towards children and adults. ?? SIA Language and Business Academy No.66, Shwedagon Pagoda Road Near Nawaday Street, Dagon Township +95 (0) 973154742, +95(0)1 376314, +95(0)1 376236, +95(0)1 384055 PP 9am ~ 4pm Email: admin@albaedu.com Website: www.alba-edu.com

Knowledge Management and Dedication KMD provides professional and vocational training in IT and Management (Computing, Business Information Systems). ?? No 174-182, Pansodan Road (Middle Block), Kyauktada Township +95 (0) 1 381129, 381776, 381035 PP 9am ~ 8:30pm

The courses delivered at Lithan University College are tailored for the business world.

Trainings include Project Management, SAP (ERP Systems) Business Information Systems and also a brand new Technopreneur course which aims at building up the capabilities and networks of entrepreneurs.

Union Business Centre , #02-07 Nat Maunt Street, Bahan Township +95 (0) 1 8 603 446, +95 (0) 1 8 603 446 Email: info@lithanuniversitycollege.com

MCC Group MCC opened in 1986 and was the first computer training school in Myanmar. Today they provide IT trainings on software, systems, data and much more. ?? Theingyi Bazaar, Block(C), 3rd Floor, Ward (3&4), Shwedagon Pagoda Street, Pabedan Township +95(0)1 245762, +95(0)1 249152, +95(0)1246634, +95(0)1395512, +95(0)1246907 PP 7am ~ 7pm Email: info@mccsolution.com Website: www.mccsolution.com

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ALBA

Lithan University College

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Corporate Training Centres

BUSINESS

as an employer

KnowIt / April 2015

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Linda Gadd offers advice on how to bring out the best in your new team of employees Decades of isolation and economic stagnation has resulted in a shortfall of skilled local people in Myanmar, and if you’re planning on employing your own staff this is something you’re going to have to deal with. First of all, it’s important to understand that lack of training and exTake a hands on role in coaching your staff - © MYANMORE perience doesn’t mean lack of potential, your new colleagues may well be very talented individuals.

So how do you bring out the best in your new work colleagues and employees?

First of all, take on the role of a coach as opposed to teacher. In Myanmar a ‘teacher’ is someone who tells you what to do while a ‘coach’ is someone who shows you how to do it.

To bring out the best you will need to take a ‘hands on’ role in coaching staff in the area of customer care, accounting, marketing, quality assurance, leadership, technical skills etc.

Young people here tend to be hard working and fast learners, but they have not been exposed to the world enough to understand many basic concepts. They are used to following a strict hierarchy and reluctant to admit they don’t understand something.

As a manager you must be patient and willing to give, to train and to share your own experiences, knowledge and contacts with others. The people here are eager to learn and develop. If they feel that you are genuine and keen to help them progress the chances are they will be loyal and stay.

How you behave around your staff is extremely important in gaining respect. Be polite in conversation, dress properly and interact with your staff in a kind manner, showing respect for the culture and the local environment.

Another tip is to be humble. Myanmar people do not like managers who show off too much, the result counts and they want to be with someone who is successful and can deliver. Few of your staff, if any, will criticize you, even if they know you took the wrong decision. To create an atmosphere where the staff is able to say no to their manager will take time, but it will be worth the effort in building a confident, assertive team who know how to achieve results.

Linda Gadd is the Founding Partner of Signium International Myanmar - http://www.signium.com/Offices

BUSINESS

Investing in Myanmar

For further favourable terms, foreign companies can register under the Myanmar Foreign Investment Law (MFIL). To qualify, the investor will need to submit an investment proposal together with the justifications on how its investment will bring benefits to the country to the Myanmar Investment Commission (MIC).

The MIC also sets out in which sectors foreigners can or cannot invest. Recently, the number of economic activities which are not allowed to be carried out by foreign investors has reduced from 21 to 10 and the number of economic activities to be allowed only by joint venture with Myanmar citizens from 42 to 30.

Simply put, low tech, less capital intensive sectors (e.g., small-scale trading, restaurant, or retail) are reserved for Myanmar people.

In sectors which require foreign technology and capital (e.g., onshore and shallow-water oil & gas exploration, stock exchange licenses), a foreign entity can operate via a Joint Venture with a local partner. The joint venture ratio between local and foreign entity varies from sector to sector.

Generally, local company must hold at least 20% of the shares in the entity. In some industries, the minimum amount is higher (40% in warehousing; 50% in securities business; 51% for publishing of journals and magazines).

In high tech or capital intensive sectors (e.g., telcos, deep-sea exploration, wholesale banking), foreigners can own 100% of the investment.

By Shine Zaw-Aung, New Crossroads Asia.

New Crossroads Asia is a financial advisory which supports local and foreign companies in taking advantage of the business opportunities in Myanmar. They provide market intelligence, market entry strategy and financial advisory. ?? 20b Thitsar OO Yin, Kanbe Road +95 (0)9 250 1515 75 Email: information@newcrossroadsasia. com Website: www.newcrossroadsasia.com/

Partnering up for future business - Š

KnowIt / April 2015

A foreign company can do business in Myanmar as a representative office of the parent company.

However, such a representative office will be subjected to higher taxes. Otherwise, foreign companies can form a local limited liability company, registering under the Myanmar Companies Act (MCA) as either a manufacturing or service company.

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If you are thinking of investing in Myanmar, there are some things you should know.

Myanmar is no country for old men. In 2015, it stands at 189 in the ranking of 189 economies on the ease of starting a business, according to the World Bank!

BANKS

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OPENING A BANK ACCOUNT Opening a bank account in Myanmar is pretty straitforward and can be done in 30minutes! Although each bank has its own procedure, expect to get your MPU (Myanmar Payment Union) Card withing a few days. When signing up,you will need to go to different departments for the different products you need, such as local currency account, foreign currency account, debit card and so on. Here is a general overview of what products are available, for individuals and companies at time of print.

KnowIt / April 2015

Individual banking • Foreign individuals can open both Kyat and foreign currency accounts (USD, SGD, EUR) • The Kyat account comes with a debit card and foreign currency account with a check book • There are no local credit cards yet but you can apply for pre-paid travel visa cards…although it can only be used outside of Myanmar or online (and some online payment platforms still don´t accept it) • There is no internet banking for individuals • Receiving payments is fast and easy from abroad. USD payments are subject to more documentation, but in general it goes well when doing banking in Singapore, since most Myanmar banks have correspondent banks in Singapore. Other currencies like EUR and SGD does not have the same restrictions as USD.

Corporate banking • • • •

Foreign companies can open USD capital accounts, USD/Kyat current account The kyat account comes with a debit card and foreign currency account with a check book Only a few banks offer internet banking, currently only AYA Bank and CB Bank Bank transfers are quick and usually appear on the account one value day after being sent, especially from Singapore • Banks also offer additional products such as loans and trade finance Anyone can be authorised to withdraw money with a signed check which means that the authorised signatory only needs to sign but not go to the bank.

The following amounts may vary slightly from a bank to another but it is worth being aware that: • Most banks charge a 0.3% commission on total deposits.

• Expect a 1,000 Kyat withdrawal charge regardless of the amount.

• You are able to transfer money from abroad but not from all banks. The following are the banks accepted: May Bank, CIMB Islamic Bank Berhad, SMBC, Bangkok Bank, SCB, K-Bank, Krung Thai Bank, OCBC, UOB, Natixis and ICBC. The commission is 10,000 Kyats whatever the amount is. In general it works best to transfer money via a bank in Singapore.

• There is a deposit limit of USD 10,000 every month, any more than that and you will need proof of income.

• You’ll also be charged 50 Kyats for the checkbook and every time you issue a check you’ll be charged 1 000 Kyats. However, this may not be a regular occurrence as checks are rarely accepted.

• For bank statements, expect to be charged around 500 Kyats each time.

• Obtaining an MPU card and opening a bank account are two independent processes. You can open a bank account without applying for a MPU Card.

ATMs now accept a wide range of cards including VISA, Mastercard, JCB and Union Pay. However, ATMs as well as POS terminals might not always work due to poor Internet connection.

banks

?? 26/A, Set Hmu 1st St, Yankin Tsp +95 (0) 1 543769

Government Employees Bank ?? 23/25, 1st Flr, Sule Pagoda Rd, Kyauktada Tsp +95 (0) 1 371620, +95 (0) 1 377465

Myanmar Agriculture Development Bank ?? 26/42, 2nd Flr, Pansodan Rd, Kyauktada Tsp ??

Myanmar Economic Bank ?? 43/45, Pansodan Rd, Kyauktada Tsp +95 (0) 1 379349, +95 (0) 1 379351, +95 (0) 1 371840

Myanmar Foreign Trade Bank ?? 80/86, Mahabandoola Garden Rd, Kyauktada Tsp +95 (0) 1 370994, +95 (0) 1 380616

Myanma Investment & Commercial Bank ?? 170/176, Bo Aung Kyaw Rd, Botahtaung Tsp +95 (0) 1 253196, +95 (0) 1 256901

PRIVATE BANKS Asia Green Development Bank ?? 519, Pyay Rd, Kamaryut Tsp +95 (0) 1 523 903

Ayeyarwady Bank ?? 149, Bo Aung Kyaw Rd, Kyauktada Tsp +95 (0) 1 372942, +95 (0) 1 372941

C B Bank ?? 334/336, Strand Rd, Lathar Tsp +95 (0) 1 372646, +95 (0) 1 371848

Innwa Bank ?? 550/552, Merchant Rd, Kyauktada Tsp +95 (0) 1 391132, +95 (0) 1 391131, +95 (0) 1 391131

?? 615/1, Pyay Rd, Kamayut Tsp +95 (0) 1 538075, +95 (0) 1 538078

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Central Bank of Myanmar

Kanbawza Bank (KBZ)

Myanma Apex Bank ?? No.207, Thein Phyu Road (Middle Block), Botahtaung Township, Yangon. Myanmar. +95 (0) 1 398811~19 Website: www.mabbank.com

United Amara Bank (UAB) ?? 520, 2nd Flr, Kabaraye Pagoda Rd, Bahan Tsp +95 (0) 1 8603009 - 18

World Bank ?? No.57, Pyay Road, 6.5 Mile, Hlaing Tsp +95 (0) 1 654824~29

Yoma Bank ?? 380, 606/6 6th Flr, Bo Gyok Aung San Rd, FMI Center, Pabedan Tsp +95 (0) 1 246799, +95 (0) 1 246800

Foreign Banks These Foreign banks have obtained a license to operate in Myanmar but they are limited to one branch each and arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t permitted to operate a retail-banking business (business with consumers).

They are allowed to lend only in foreign currency, and not in kyat unless they partner up with a local bank. Companies are however be able to open both kyat and foreign currency accounts with the foreign banks.

One advantage for foreign companies is that they can now build on their existing relationships from abroad also when they do banking in Myanmar. Having a credit status and established business with the head office of a branch in Myanmar will make is easier to get a loan.

KnowIt / April 2015

GOVERNMENT BANKS

BANKS

ANZ Bank ?? 1807, 18 Floor, Sakura Tower, 339 Bogyoke Aung San Road, Kyauktada Township +95 (0) 1 255205, Fax: +95(0) 1255202 PP Mon-Fri 9am~6pm

Oversea-Chinese Banking Corporation Limited (OCBC Bank) ?? Union Financial Center (UFC), Unit 02-10. Corner of Mahabandoola Road & Thein Phyu Road 45th Street, Botataung Township +95 (0) 1 861 0388, Fax: +951 860 394 Email: myanmar@ocbc.com

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Bangkok Bank Mr. Tossatis Rodprasert, AVP & Chief Representative Chatrium Hotel Royal Lake Yangon ?? Lobby Floor, 40 Natmauk Road, Tamwe Township +95 (0) 1 549922, +95(0) 549933 PP Mon – Fri 9am~5pm Email: tossatis.bangkokbankyangon@gmail.com

Bank of Tokyo - Mitsubishi UFJ ?? 1602, 16th Floor Sakura Tower 339 Bogyoke Aung San Road Kyauktada Township +95 (0) 1255220,+95 (0) 1255224,+95 (0) 1255225 PP Mon-Fri 9am~5pm Website: www.bk.mufg.jp

Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC) ?? 1217, 12A Floor Sakura Tower, No.339 Bogyoke Aung San Road, Kyauktada Township +95 (0) 1 255397 PP 9am ~ 6pm

United Overseas bank (UOB Bank) ?? Unit #01-L1, Park Royal Hotel, Yaw Min Gyi Street, Dagon Township +95 (0) 1250388 Website: www.uobgroup.com/

Industrial and Commercial Bank of China Limited (ICBC) ?? No. 601A, 6th Floor, Sakura Tower, No. 339, Bogyoke Aung San Street, Kyauktada Township +95-1255045, +95-1255078 PP Mon-Fri 9am~5pm

malaysia's malayan banking berhad (maybank)

Representative offices Those still awaiting a license cannot operate and just have representative offices for now.

?? 7th Floor, Centrepoint Towers, No 65 Corner of Sule Pagoda & Merchannt Street, Kyauktada Township +95 (0) 1 377 526, +95(0)1 377 527 PP Mon – Friday 8:30am~5:30pm Email: malekk@maybank.com.mm

DBS Bank Singapore

Mizuho Bank

Siam Commercial Bank

?? Room03-12, Level 3, Sedona Business Suites, No.1 Ka Ba Aye Pagoda Road, Yankin Township +95(0)1 544071 PP Mon – Friday 9am~5pm

1002, 10th Floor,Sakura Tower, 339 Bogyoke Aung San Street, Kyauktada Township +95 (0) 1 255299 PP Mon-Fri 9am ~ 5pm Website: www.dbs.com.sg/

17/A Kabar Aye Pagoda Road, Golden Valley Ward II, Bahan Township +95 (0) 1540229, FAX:+95 (0) 1543667 Email: vitita.theeraporn@scb.co.th, Nway_nway.htway@scb.co.th

shows, graduation events as well as commercial photography.

?? 37A Upper Boyazar Road, Yankin Township Email: info@ievents.biz Website: www.ievents.biz

?? No.(SA-8), Aung Zayya Housing, Kannar (Strand) Road, Corner of Ahlone Road 012300392, 0973777708, 097377008, 09773077708 PP 9am~7:30pm Email: 7picturestudio@gmail.com Website: www.7picturestudio.com

YANGON BOAT PARTY

Cosmic Rays [Moe Min]

The guys at Yangon Boat Party hold semi regular (usually monthly) themed boat parties on Yangon River. For more details e-mail: yangonboatparty@gmail.com

They specialize in shooting pictures for magazine covers, calendars, commercial advertising and corporate portraits.

INSPIRED EVENTS An events company with offices in Malaysia as ell as Myanmar

MYANMAR EVENT MANAGEMENT COMPANY Established in 2010 this group organise events ranging from teambuilding activities to meetings. ?? 42 YwarMa Kyaung Street, Hlaing Township +95 (0) 9 730 16397: 09 42111 9070 Website: Myanmaremc.com

STORK AGENCY With experience in Shanghai, Mumbai, the team behind Stork Events organise larges scale events for business and individuals. ?? 135 Inya Road, (corner with Dhamazedi Road) Bahan Township +95 (0) 1 511 418 Email: thandar@storkagency.com

?? Kan Taw Mingalar Park, U Wisara Road, Dagon Township 01370891, 09450025206 PP 9am ~ 5pm Email: moemin@mptmail.net.mm, mpg@myanmarphoto.com, moemin25@gmail.com Website: www.moeminphoto.com

Sai Phone Htoo There speciality is portraits. They also provide model shooting photo services and wedding photography. ?? 46 Street, Middle Block, Ward 9, Botahtaung Township 01292953, 01294606 PP 9am ~ 6pm Email: saiphonehtoovideo@gmail.com

Wunna Khwar Nee

For all types of photography and video shoots.

photo studios 7 Picture Wedding Dress and Photo Studio This photo studio provides photo & video services for documentaries, weddings, fashion

?? No. 669, Pyay Road, Mya Kan Thar Lane (2), Kamaryut Township 01526715, +95(0) 9 500 3981 PP 9:30am ~ 630pm

Email: wknfocusdaily@gmail.com Website: www.photowunnakhwarnee.com/

KnowIt / April 2015

event companies

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Be visible

NETWORKING

NETWORKING AND GETTING TO KNOW PEOPLE

KnowIt / April 2015

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An ideal way to connect with new people and find new business leads in Yangon is through the various Chambers of Commerce and Internations.

Internations are one of the world’s largest and most efficient Expat platforms with a large number of activities including forming your own groups. Since its inception in 2013 Internations community has gone from strength to strength with monthly networking events attracting between 60 and 120 attendees: (www.internations.org/yangon-expats) Among the chambers, the French Chamber of Commerce is the most active one arraning both breakfast, dinner and young professional meetings.

If you are in the Tech Industry, don't miss the Mobile Monday events on the last monday of every month held at various venues (www.mobilemondaymm.com) Other venues ideal for making contacts amongst Yangon’s business community are the historic Strand Bar at The Strand Hotel downtown on Strand Road. Its Friday night is legendary and the bar springs to life from 6pm when you'll can find a wide variety of people eager to make connections.

Gallery Bar at Sule Shangri La on Sule Pagoda Road and the lively 50th Street Bar (a bar located on 50th St.) are other places where you’ll regularly find locals and foreigners mixing business with pleasure.

00000001

To find out more about the latest business events, check www.myanmore.com/yangon/business-events/

InDepth launch event - © The Pictureman

BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE The role of the Chamber is to promote, foster, support, and represent UK business interests in Myanmar â&#x20AC;&#x201C; directly helping British firms identify market opportunities and providing them with a first port of call when looking to trade in that particular market. ?? Hintha Business Centre , Floor 3, 608 Merchant Street (corner of Merchant & 31st), Pabedan Township For further information please contact: stephanie@ britishchambermyanmar.com Website: www.britishchambers.org.uk/

EU Myanmar Centre The EU Myanmar Centre (EUMC) is half-way between a consulting company and a chamber of commerce. This not-for-profit NGO aims to facilitate trade, commerce and investment for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). Using extensive experience and existing relationships in the public and private sector, the EUMC facilitates cooperative relationships with Buyers, Sellers, Myanmar Government, EU Offices and Directorates, Chambers of Commerce and Economic Development Agencies. ?? 17-A-2, Thalarwaddy Street, Mayangone Township +95 (0) 99 70 50 73 55 PP 9am ~ 5pm (appointment required) Email: membership@eu-myanmar.org Website: eu-myanmar.org

FRENCH MYANMAR CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY (FMCCI) Gathering French, Myanmar and International companies willing to promote trade, investment, industrial and commercial activities in Myanmar, FMCCI has been officially launched

in 2014 on the basis of the French Myanmar Business Association established on March 14, 1996. The objective of FMCCI is to expand and develop business and economic relationships between France and Myanmar by offering various activities to its members and supporting the companies prospecting in Myanmar. ?? No. 17(B), 4th Lane, West Shwegondine, Bahan Township +95 (0) 1 510933, +95 (0) 1 525737 Ext. 112, 124 Email: afma.manager(at)gmail.com, afma. businesscoordinator(at)gmail.com, infos.afma(at) gmail.com

German Asia-Pacific Business Association (OAV) â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Myanmar A privately held non-profit organization financed by its corporate members with a contact address in Yangon. They include the most renowned companies from major industries and the banking sector, trading companies and a great number of small and medium-sized enterprises from all industries located all over Germany. ?? 37, Room 7, Inya Lake Hotel, Kaba Aye Pagoda Road, Mayangone Township +95 (0) 1 667225, +95 (0) 1 662857 ext:1707 Contact oav@oav.de

Indo Myanmar Chambers of Commerce and Industries (IMCC) IMCC opens gateways for investors in various sectors of Indian/Myanmar industries. ?? 100 Kyakkasan Road, 1st Floor, Sentinel Condo, Tamwe Township +95 (0) 9 5231574, +95 (0) 1 556954 Contact: ashokmurarka@gmail.com

KnowIt / April 2015

In Yangon the number of chambers of commerce continues to rise, enabling business owners from different nationalities to connect and work together.

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Chambers of Commerce

CHAMBERS

International Best Business Group (IBBG)

Township +95 (0) 9 5016 806 Email: mmbc2u@gmail.com

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IBBG operates primarily in the food & drink industry. ?? 3/B Parmaukkha Lane, Ward 3, Aung Theiddi Kyaung Street, Mayangone Township PP 9am - 5:30pm +95 (0) 1 4413326 Contact: ibsibbg@gmail.com

KnowIt / April 2015

Japan External Trade Organisation (JETRO) In September 2012, JETRO launched operations of its Business Support Center (BSC) in Yangon further connecting Japanese business interests with Myanmar. ?? 102-103, Prime Hill Business Square, No.60, Shwe Dagon Pagoda Road, Dagon Township PP Monday - Friday: 9am - 12pm, 1pm - 6pm +95 (0) 1 371787 Fax: +95 (0) 1 382710 ext:10202

Korea Trade Association (KOTRA) KOTRA (Korea Trade Promotion Corporation initially, Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency since 1995) is a state-funded trade and investment promotion organization operated by the Government of South Korea. KOTRA was established in 1962 as a national trade promotion organization. Since then, it has facilitated Koreaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rapid export-led economic development through various trade promotion activities such as overseas market surveys and business matchmaking. ?? Sakura Tower, Bogyoke Aung San Road, Downtown +95 (0) 1 255 453, +95 (0) 1 255 454, +95 (0) 1 255455 ~ 6, +95 (0) 1 255 087 PP Monday - Friday: 8:30am ~ 6pm Fax: +95 (0( 1 255457 Email: masu@kotraygn.com.mm

Malaysia Myanmar Business Council (MMBC) MMBC is a non-governmental, non-political and non-profit association formed with the objective of enhancing and facilitating Malaysian businesses in Myanmar ?? 27B Saw Bwa Street, 9 Mile, Mayangone

Myanmar Business Executives (MBE) MBE is a network of more than 25 owners and executives of private businesses in the fields of manufacturing, trade, marketing services, IT, agriculture, logistics, transportation, social marketing, and professionals such as trainers, teachers and journalists and local NGOs. ?? Room 604, 401/5 Panchan Tower, 8 Corner of Bargayar and Dhamazedi Roads PP Monday - Friday: 9am - 5pm, Saturday: 9am - 1pm +95 (0) 1 516639 Email: mbemyanmar@gmail.com

Myanmar Chinese Chamber of Commerce (MCCC) Further connecting Chinese business ventures with Myanmar ?? 1-5, Shwedagon Pagoda Rd., Cor. of Kannar Rd., Latha Township PP Monday - Friday: 9am - 5pm +95 (0) 1 610924, +95 (0) 1 246076, +95 (0) 1 371549 Email: wmi@mptmail.net.mm

Myanmar US Chamber of Commerce The Myanmar/US Chamber of Commerce aims to bridge, develop and share the historical business and commerce opportunities Myanmar offers now and in the coming years. ?? 106, Sinn Oe Dan Street, Latha Township +95 (0) 1 251580 Contact Eric Rose of Herzfeld Rubin Meyer & Rose Law Firm Limited :Eric.rose@hrmr.us

Singapore Association of Myanmar Started in 1993, SAM is an association for Singaporeans living in Myanmar with around 300 members. ?? 72, Chindwin Road (next to Blazon) +95 (0) 9 252483600, +95 (0) 9 8612246 Email: sam.secretariatyangon@gmail.com

CHAMBERS

?? 1st Floor, Annex Building, Strand Hotel, 92 Strand Road, Kyauktada Township +95 (0) 1 375 680 For more information go please go to: http://www. sweden-myanmar.com/contact.html

UMFCCI is Burmaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest not-for-profit business federation, representing 10,854 Burmese Companies, 1,656 Enterprises, 770 Foreign Companies, 185 Co-operatives and 2,898 Individuals ?? 29, UMFCCI Office Tower, Min Ye Kyaw Swar Street, Lanmadaw Township +95 (0) 1 214 344, +95 (0) 1 214 345 PP Monday - Friday: 9:30am - 5pm Email: umfcci@mptmail.net.mm Website: www.umfcci.com.mm, www.umfcci.net

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The Swedish Chamber of Commerce in Myanmar was started spring 2013 with the sole purpose to support business between Sweden and Myanmar.

The Union of Myanmar Chambers of Commerce and Industry (UMFCCI)

KnowIt / April 2015

SWEDISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE IN MYANMAR

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Getting lost is the best way to truely explore - Š MYANMORE

167 You've settled down so well in Yangon city that you haven't even had time to explore any further!

Time to hit the road and enjoy a taste of Myanmar's country side & smaller towns.

KnowIt / April 2015

travel

3

Like Yangon, Mawlamyine (renamed Moulmein by the British) was a colonial town and the once-capital of Lower Burma.

Today, colonial-era buildings are dotted around the town and there is a pleasant, if slightly rundown, promenade running along the riverfront, which is a great spot to sit and watch the sunset

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top 10 myanmar

Mawlamyine

KnowIt / April 2015

Bagan

1

Built during the 9th and 13th centuries, the thousands of temples that dot the Bagan plains make for a breathtaking sight and an interesting glimpse of a city that was once the capital of the mighty Pagan Empire. For those on a slightly higher budget, the best experience is from a hot air balloon, a service which is currently offered by two companies, Balloons over Bagan and Oriental Ballooning - services run between October and March. © MYANMORE

Inle Lake

2

Inle Lake, in Myanmar’s Shan State, attracts huge numbers of visitors each year due to the unique lifestyle of the local people and the beautiful scenery surrounding the lake.

The best place to start is the lakeside town of Nyaung Shwe, from where it’s very easy to hire boats to take you on tours on the lake. The Red Mountain vineyard is located just outside the town.

© CISmith

Hpa An

4

The capital of Karen State is home to caves, mountains and a relaxing atmosphere. The most notable sites are Saddar Cave and Mount Zwegabin, both of which are within an easy distance from the main town. From Hpa An, a good option is to take a relaxing boat trip along the river to Mawlamyine.

© CISmith

Mandalay

5

169

The country’s last royal capital attracts visitors due to its history and culture rather than any aesthetic beauty. It’s hot and dusty downtown, but the city’s outskirts are home to some ancient towns and ruins as well as the iconic U Bein Bridge. At sunset, the best views are seen from atop Mandalay Hill.

Pyin Oo Lwin

7

The British established Pyin Oo Lwin (which they named Maymyo) as a hillside resort town where officers could go to escape the heat down at sea level. It’s easy to see why; the town has a calm, cool feel and is lush with trees and vegetation. A highlight of any Pyin Oo Lwin visit is the beautiful Botanical Gardens.

© MYANMORE

Ngwe Saung

6

Just five hours’ drive west of Yangon, Ngwe Saung beach is your place for a spot of relaxation. The huge beach, which stretches from horizon to horizon, sees very few visitors so you often feel that you have the entire beach to yourself. Options here include a sea fishing trip and hiring a motorbike to explore the surrounding areas. The oncebustling town of Pathein is just an hour away.

Pyay

9

Located on the Irrawaddy River, Pyay was established in its current form by the British Irrawaddy Flotilla Company; yet the original town has more ancient origins. Sri Ksetra is located about 8 kilometres from today’s Pyay and was the capital of the Pyu dynasty. Many of the remains from Sri Ksetra remain today.

© CISmith

Kyaukme

8

Myanmar has not yet established a trekking mecca, but Kyaukme in Northern Shan State may well emerge as one. Its stunning scenery surrounds the town, with many villages and tea plantations nestled among the hills. The town itself is underdeveloped, but the real draw for any visitor is the lush scenery outside the town.

Ngapali Beach

10

Currently Myanmar’s only “resort-style” beach getaway, Ngapali is renowned for its high-quality resorts and pristine beaches. In terms of activities, it is remarkably underdeveloped although there are many beautiful spots to relax and while away a few days.

KnowIt / April 2015

© CISmith

WEEKEND

weekend outings

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The weekend is near and you just want to get out of town for a break? If you don’t mind the blasting AC and Karaoke videos of overnight buses, then there are plenty of places you can head off to. Ready to hit the road? Note that to reach Ngapali, you’re much better off taking a plane… if it fits your budget.

Outside the City

Getting There Boat from Pansodan Jetty on Strand Road. The journey is 4,000Ks return for foreigners and takes about 10 minutes.

KnowIt / April 2015

Bago Once described as a “Buddhist Disneyland”, Bago is densely-packed with pagodas, monasteries and Buddha figures. An easy day-trip from Yangon, it has a relatively calm, pleasant, small-town feel.

Getting There Buses leave from Aung Mingalar Bus station in the north of Yangon. Prices start at 3,000Ks and the journey takes up to 2 hours.

Dalah Peaceful Dalah may be just a 10-minute ferry ride from Yangon’s downtown, but the calm, tranquil place feels a million miles away. See article on previous page.

Dalah - © MYANMORE

Golden Rock More a two-day trip than a one-day journey, the Golden Rock sits atop Mount Kyaiktiyo, which offers impressive views across Mon State. The Golden Rock Pagoda, which dangles precariously off the edge of the mountain, is one of Myanmar’s most important sites for Buddhist pilgrims.

Visitors can either make the four-hour hike up (it’s best to start early due to the heat), which is strenuous but definitely possible for those even with a basic level of fitness. Another option is to take a truck most of the way, then walk the final few kilometres.

WEEKEND The cemetery is located 25 kilometres north of Yangon.

Getting There It’s about a 30-minute drive from downtown and taxis should cost between 15,000Ks and 20,000Ks for the return journey.

Getting There Buses leave from Aung Mingalar Bus station. Prices vary but cost around 12,000Ks and the journey to Kinpun, the town at the bottom of the mountain, takes 4 hours.

Thaketa Industrial Estate, Thaketa township (it’s not easy to find, but once at the industrial estate, make crocodile actions and most locals will normally point you in the right direction).

A taxi takes about 30 minutes from downtown and costs about 6,000Ks each way. Entrance is 1,000Ks.

Hlawga National Park

Thanlyin

About an hour’s drive from Yangon, the Hlawga National Park offers a vast range of wildlife just outside Yangon’s limits. Deer, birds and even a few jungle cats roam the park. There is also a mini-zoo which houses bears and elephants among others. It does get the occasional bad review, but generally speaking, the animals are kept in relatively good conditions.

Thanlyin (named Syriam by the British) is located just a short hop across the Bago River from Yangon. The first recordings of any activity in Thanlyin come from the 16th century when it was part of the Taungoo Empire. It’s most famous link however, is to a Portuguese named Filipe de Brito e Nicote who developed the city after taking over as governor. Eventually Nicote lost the city to an invading Burmese king and was executed by impalement.

Golden Rock - © The Pictureman

Getting There Taxis can be hired for the day for around 20,000Ks and the journey takes 45 minutes to 1 hour each way . Entry is 8,000Ks per person plus 1,000Ks for a car.

Taukkyan War Cemetery Opened in 1951 to commemorate the allied soldiers who lost their lives in various battles around Myanmar during World War II, the Taukkyan War Cemetery contains the graves of more than 6,000 soldiers – including some who died in World War I.

Taukkyan war cemetery - © CISmith

KnowIt / April 2015

Hidden away in Thaketa Industrial Estate, this sprawling crocodile farm is home to dozens of the eerie, wonderful species. The walk along the slightly dilapidated walkways is a little unnerving, particularly as the park’s residents linger below, mouths agape. Keep an eye out for the local crocodile trainer who displays his speed - and downright crazineness by sticking his head into the mouths of waiting crocs. He’s easy to spot; just look for the man with bite marks all over his arms.

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Thaketa Crocodile Farm

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Much of the town was bombed during World War II but it remains a pleasant place to visit.

The highlight of any visit is the attractive Kyauktan Ye La Pagoda, which sits on an island in the middle of the river and is only accessible by boat.

Getting There Taxis take between 30 minutes and an hour and can be hired for around 7,000Ks each way.

KnowIt / April 2015

Twante Just a few miles from Yangon, Twante is famed for its pottery-making. Visitors can visit factories to see the workers plying their trade.

George Orwell also spent a brief time living here during his Burmese Days; the police officer’s home in the town area is believed to be where he resided.

Hpa An This picturesque town sits on the eastern bank of the Thanlywin River and is home to bustling tea shops, restaurants and beer stations.

Its main drawing point for most visitors is the beautiful scenery in the town’s outskirts, most notably the number of impressive caves just outside the city’s limits. The most popular ones are Yathaypan, Kawfun, Ka Tawng and Saddar.

Also popular is Mount Zwekabin, which is located 16 kilometres from the town and offers striking views across Karen State, one of the country’s most beautiful areas. The walk takes about four hours and the best views are saved for the early risers.

Getting There Buses leave from Aung Mingalar Bus Station and take eight hours. Most buses to Hpa An are overnight and cost upwards of US10$.

Getting There Twante can be reached by truck from Dalah. The journey takes about 40 minutes and costs 500Ks.

Royal White Elephants The White Elephant is an important animal in Burmese culture and the site is worthy of a visit for those interested in gaining bit more insight into local culture. Admittedly, this place doesn’t get the best review from animal lovers.

Getting there A taxi from downtown costs about 7,000Ks each way and the journey takes between 45 minutes and an hour.

futher destinations Chaung Thar Of the three most popular beach destinations on the west coast, Chaung Thar is by far the most relaxing. Particularly popular amongst locals, the beach is not quite as pristine and white as the others but there are some islands that can be explored by boat. Like most towns on the west coast, this is an excellent spot for seafood.

Getting There Usually leaving from the bus terminal in Hlaing Tharyar, buses take about 5 to 6 hours and cost upwards of US8$. Most buses leave early morning.

Hpa An - © CISmith

Mawlamyine The charming town was once the administrative centre of British Burma, but has fallen away somewhat since the country gained its independence. Some impressive sites remain, including the world’s largest reclining Buddha, and the caves at Kawgoon and Payon. The town is also famed for the opening line of one of Kipling’s famous poems. The “ol’ Moulmein” pagoda is a nice place to sit and try to get a grasp of where he got his inspirations from.

The town also has family routes to another British writer closely associated with Myanmar, George Orwell.

Getting There An overnight bus leaves from Aung Mingalar bus terminal and usually takes five to six hours and costs between US12$ and US15$.

Ngwe Saung - © MYANMORE

Ngapali Beach Myanmar’s most exclusive beach destination, Ngapali Beach is your place to go if you want a nice easy place to relax and while away the days. Most of the resorts here are high-end with all your usual trimmings but what’s most impressive is that they do not spoil the shoreline; the beach maintains its traditional, easygoing feel.

Getting There It’s only possible to get there by flight. Flights usually take around 2 hours and cost upwards of US100$.

Getting Around You’re unlikely to do much moving around at Ngapali, but just in case you do bicycles can be hired for around US2000$ per hour, or motorbikes for around 5,000Ks.

Ngwe Saung Beach SItuated on Myanmar’s west coast, Ngwe Saung is your quintessential coconut-lined beach with cool villas set just back from the shoreline.

It’s easy, calm and there’s not a great deal to do apart from relax and watch the easy-paced life go by. The once-thriving (and still interesting) town of Pathein is about an hour away for those who can’t stand to lie on a beach for days on end. Read our travel piece about Pathein to find out more.

Getting There Buses from Yangon’s Hlaing Tharyar bus terminal usually leave early morning and take about six hours, costing around US10$.

Private taxis can be hired for around US150$ each way.

Getting Around Visitors can ride along the attractive coastline to some fishing villages near to Ngwe Saung. Hiring a motorbikes costs around K10,000 per day, or K20,000 a day, with driver.

Pyay Pyay is located just halfway between Bahan and Yangon. The town beautifully overlooks the Ayeyarwady River and is home to many pagodas, the most famous being the Shwesandaw Pagoda and its huge Buddha figure. A 15 minutes boat trip up the river will take you to Akauktaung Mountain where hundreds of Buddha images are carved into the cliffs. A large pagoda festival is held in Shwedaung (14km south of Pyay) each year on the full moon of Tabaung (February/March). If you go there, don’t miss the Shwe Myetman Buddha Image -meaning ‘Buddha Image with the Golden Spectacles’- especially if you suffer from bad eyesight : it is said that the figure heals eye illnesses!

Getting There There are morning and evening buses to Pyay from Yangon. The journey takes 6 hours and costs US6$.

KnowIt / April 2015

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further resources

KnowIt / April 2015

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News Websites

Travel Websites

Democratic Voice of Burma (DVB)

MYANMORE

DVB begun life in 1992 as an activist organisation abroad, aiming to provide information to people within the country who could not gain access to it. The organisation now has an office in the country and reports mainly about the ongoing political situation – dvb.no

The most up-to-date guide for all the latest goings on in Yangon, whether that’s entertainment, nightlife, art or life in the city – myanmore.com

Go-Myanmar.com The Irrawaddy The Irrawaddy is another formerly-exiled group that has officially returned to the country. Today, Irrawaddy publishes journals in both English and Burmese language and its English-language monthly often publishes interesting stories about Myanmar and the Southeast Asia region. – irrawady.org

Mizzima News The final in the trio of exiled media groups making their return, Mizzima appears to have taken more of a business approach with its content these days. It produces a daily newspapers in Burmese, a weekly business magazine and weekly television business and sports programmes – mizzima.com

Myanmar Business Today (MBT) Founded in 2013, MBT is quickly emerging as a strong resource for business developments in the country. It is Myanmar’s first bilingual business journal – mmbiztoday.com

Myanmar Times The daily general newspaper has both an English and Burmese language version – mmtimes. com

An extensive website on travel destinations in Myanmar – go-myanmar.com

Lonely Planet Lonelyplanet.com

CNN Sometimes runs informative articles about travel within Myanmar – cnngo.com TripAdvisor – For up-to-date reviews of hotels, restaurants and sights in Myanmar – tripadvisor.com

Myanmar Blogs Becky in Burma beckyinburma.blogspot.com – Becky is no longer living in Myanmar but her website still offers useful advice, particularly for families considering relocating to the country.

Cliff Lonsdale – clifflonsdale.com “I’m a fairly average bloke who happens to live a fairly amazing life filled with unbelievable experiences,” Cliff says by way of introduction.

Cliff blogs about general life, occasionally ranting (in a fun way) about the world around him.

RESOURCES

Errant Clickings (Julian Ray Photography) – errantclickings.com

Freedom from Fear (1991)

by Aung San Suu Kyi

Photographer Julian Ray documents life in Myanmar and across the world and his blog has some very powerful images.

A collection of essays written by former democracy icon and now leader of the opposition, Aung San Suu Kyi, Freedom from Fear documents her thoughts during her many years of house arrest.

Life in the Tropics by Marek Lenarcik – lifeinthetropics.org – Marek works in Myanmar’s ever-changing Tourism industry and regularly writes about issues and changes in the industry.

Wilsonblades Couple Wilson (him) and Blades (her) blog about the ups and downs of family life for expat.

Books Glass Palace (2000)

by Amitav Ghosh This epic historical novel takes you through some of the most important events in Southeast Asia in the last two centuries, taking in Myanmar, India and Malaysia. The story begins in Mandalay in the 19th century when British troops invade the then-capital and leads us to almost current day events. Despite being fiction, it offers some great background into the country’s past.

Burma Chronicles (2007)

by Guy Delisle A great graphic novel/memoir about the writer’s time in Myanmar, living with his young son, Louise, and wife, Nadege, who works for Medeceins Sans Frontieres (MSF) in Yangon long before the country began opening up. It gives great insight into how life might have been for expats in the city before it became much more accessible.

Burmese Days (1934)

by George Orwell Formulated during his stay in Burma in the 1920s but written about ten years later, Burmese Days is an excellently satirical take on British rule in what was then the British Raj.

Where China Meets India Burma and the New Crossroads of Asia (2012)

by Thant Myint U – Historian, and grandson of former UN Secretary-General U Thant, Thant Myint-U travels across the region connecting Myanmar with India and China to look at how Myanmar’s opening up can affect the region and the world.

From the Land of Green Ghosts A Burmese Odyssey (2003) by Pascal Khoo Thwe – A terrific tale of a young man in Burma meeting an English professor in Mandalay during anti-government protests in 1988.

The River of Lost Footsteps Histories of Burma (2006) by Thant Myint-U – A more personal tale than Thant Myint-U’s other book, River of Lost Footsteps, tells the history of modern day Myanmar, interweaving it with his own family’s story.

Finding George Orwell in Burma (2006) by Emma Larkin Journalist Emma Larkin goes in search of Orwell’s little-known life in the country, where he lived before becoming a writer. Renowned for his books about repressive regimes, the book, written during military rule, cleverly links Orwell’s books with things that were happening in the country at the time.

KnowIt / April 2015

jessicamudditt.com – Journalist Jessica Mudditt regularly shares stories about life in Myanmar.

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sagaing division hsipaw chin mandalay state mandalay division rakhine state

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2nd Edition, Jan 2015

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Tourist Attractions and Landmarks Hotels

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AHLONE

It is the available all over town, so grab your copy and start enjoying the city!

So, how did you like Yangon? Share your experience with us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram with #myanmore!

GYAR

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If you have any questions or need any further information, please email us at info@myanmore.com. We would be glad to help!

Super One

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City Mart

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Australian Chauk Htat Gyi Pagoda Sabai Sabai Club (Reclining Buddha) THAMAI N BAYAN RD Cafe' NAPOLI Ocean Supercenter RD Ginza Golden Hill TAING Shabushi Pwint Tower E GON Market Bar Boon W Thit San Place SH Excel Treasure AGODA S T Hotel MOJO G YI P TAT Friendship Bar RH TORI DHA MMAZEDI R D Gusto Monument The Lab Bahan Women W Spa Elements Book Store Hospital GODA Aung ST PA GO Thukha SHWE N DAIN G RD BOGYOKE Coffee Business AUNG SAN Circles Alliance Vista Bar T KS MUSEUM AU Hotel M AT Yuzana Hotel Peperoni Pizzeria Teke Teke Yakitori WI Rangoon Bar Shwe Ohsama Samurai Sushi RD Kaung Japanese ARR N Salud House of Hot Pot ZA Hotpot T S Goethe NI O Green Hill Singapura PH ST Institute Hotel Kitchen Union Business Vietnam Cafe Liberal Center Chatrium NAT MAUK RD Hotel ST TAWYA SHWE

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Cask81Haru

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Our DINING AND NIGHTLIFE GUIDE takes you out to the best food, drink and party venues around town.

Our website myanmore.com does all of that...and much more!

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LOOKING FOR SOMEWHERE TO EAT, DRINK, SHOP, SLEEP OR SIMPLY RELAX AND UNWIND AFTER YOUR LONG DAY VISITING YANGON?

Our WEEKLY GUIDE keeps you informed of all the events in town.

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Pickled Dagon Center Tea Hostel Gamone Pwint

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Our ESSENTIAL GUIDE gives you insider tips to truly experience Yangon, shares insights about the culture and the country, as well as provides you with a useful directory of anything practical from hospitals to tailors, art galleries to Business centers.

Katana Cafe Bin 64 Bellagio Wine Bonanza Shop UNIO N LA The N Space Cafe SS The Tony KOKKINE Bar Cave Romas SWIMMING The House CLUB Acacia NE Gravity Gastro Bar B LA G CLU Pyongyang Tea Salon MMIN G SWI KANBAWZA ST Gossip Bar KOKK AIN Koryo Ginky Kids

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YAW MIN GYI QUARTER

Seikkan

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44th st

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Agora Café & Restaurant

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Kosan Hledan Market

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Agora Café & Restaurant

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MiCasa Hotel & Residences

PYAY

HLA RLA MA

PUN HLAING HOSPITAL

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16

KANDAWGYI PARK (KARAWEIK)

Marina Residence Local Restaurants by the water

The easiest way to get around is with our MYANMORE MAPS.

T SAR

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La Maison 20

INYA LAKE

KAN ST

Min Lan Mote Tee

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YAR ZA DlRlT ST

INSEIN RD

MAS

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International Business Center

YANGON

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SANDA KOO ST

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SHWE WAR KHAING BAHO RD

Aux Saisons Brave Bar ST

KAN YEIK THAR

DJ Bar

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HLEDAN QUARTER

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Indian Tadka

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HLAING THAR YAR HIGHWAY BUS STATION

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L'Opera

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L'Alchimiste Inya Lake Hotel

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American Club

International SOS Clinic

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Crustacean

The Seoul

GEMS MUSEUM

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Thiri Mingalar Market

YANGON TOWNSHIPS

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Gamone Pwint

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Her's Korean Food

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HLAING CAMPUS

MICT PARK

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THA

Min Lan Mote Tee

MYANMORE is the leading entertainment and lifestyle guide to Yangon. We are available all over town to give you tips and advice! The VISITOR MAP you are holding right now is intended for you to easily get around and enjoy our wonderful city.

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D RD

P YI T H U S T

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Turbo de Bar TAR

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Toscana Bistro

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PINLO

Bar Boon @ Mercedes Benz

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Nordic Diplomatic Office

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BUTARYON

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Relax

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Junction 8

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TAPIN SHWE HNIN

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YANGON TECHNO LOGICAL UNIVERSITY

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BAYIN

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10 Mile Market

PYAY RD

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KY EE

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SAW BWAR GYI GONE BUS STATION

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east downtown

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YANGON AIR

PYA Y RD

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7

11 daw pone

1. Seikkan 2. Lanmadaw 3. Latha 4. Pabedan 5. Kyauktada 6. Botahtaung 7. Pazundaung 8. Ahlone 9. Dagon 10. Mingala Taung Nyunt 11. Daw Pone 12. Kyi Myin Daing 13. San Chaung 14. Kamayut 15. Bahan 16. Tarmwe 17. Thuwunna 18. Hlaing 19. Mayangone 20. Yankin 21. South Okkala

We also have maps for Bagan, Mandalay, Inle & Nyaung Shwe.

KnowIt / April 2015

20 yankin

177

YANGON TOWNSHIP MAP

inya lake

KnowIt / April 2015

178

index 7 Picture Photo Studio 161 19th Street 81 AA Pharmacy 113 Academy Hospital 115 Active Pest Control 132 Adventist Development and Relief Agency 135 Aikido 56 Aikon 46 ALBA 155 American Embassy 138 ANZ Bank 160 Apex Asia Medical Centre 116 A Plus 113 Aqua Inya Golf Driving Range 61 Armenian Apostolic Church of St John the Baptist 26 Art & Deco 39 Art galleries 87 Ar Yone Thit Bookshops 47 Asia Green Development Bank

159 Asia Land 128 Asian Tigers Mobility 127 Asia Royal Hospital 115 At Diamond 40 Augustine's Souvenir Shop 39 Aung Kyaw Oo Silver Shop 41 Aung Translation 152 Australian Embassy 138 Australian Embassy Medical Clinic 115 Australian Football League 57 AVA Executive Offices 147 Aviva Interiors Pte Ltd 132 Ayeyarwady Bank 159 Badminton Federation 57 Bagan Bookshop 47 Bagan Gift Centre 39 Bahosi Hospital 115 Bahosi swimming pool 59 Baker & McKenzie 151 Balance Fitness 1 & 2 60 Bandoola Transportation 127 Bangkok Bank 160 Bangladesh Embassy 138 Barclays 63 Beauty Buffet & Beauty Cottage

107 Beauty Concept 100 Beca 150

Beer Stations 81 Beik Thano 87 Bilingual Language Centre 65 Blossom 153 Boat Party 161 Boe Yadanar Transport 127 Bogyoke Aung San Market 38 Bogyoke Aung San Market Art Galleries 87 Bogyoke Aung San Museum 29 Bonanza Gastro Bar 82 Bonton Handicrafts 39 Bookworm Books 47 Botahtaung Pagoda 26 Brazilian Embassy 138 British Chamber of Commerce 163 British Council 67 Bruneian Embassy 138 California Beauty Skin Spa 100 Cambodian Embassy 138 Canadian Embassy 138 Capital Hypermarket 50 C B Bank 159 Central Bank of Myanmar 159 Centurion Auto 154 Chanmyay Yeiktha Meditation 69 Chatrium Health Club 61 Chauk Htat Gyi 26 Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hospital 113 Chinese Chamber of Commerce (MCCC) 164 Chinese Embassy 138 CHO Group 150 CityCare 112 City Hall 24 CityMart 50 Clinique de SKIN 102 Clover Cosmetics and Skincare

107 Club 5 @ ParkRoyal Hotel 91 Cocoon Cafe & Bar 82 Colliers International 128 Cricket 59 Crown Relocations 127 Dagon Centre I & II 44 DBS Bank Singapore 160 DFDL 151 Dhamma Joti Vipassama Centre 69 Dhammapala Hill 69 DHL Express 141 Digital Cottage Paper & PVC Card

153 D-Inya Road Dental Care Centre 116 DNS mobility 128 Domestic Animal Care Centre

116 Drugs Elimination Museum 29

D Spa 100 East Yangon General Hospital

113 Edulink Australia 67 Egyptian Embassy 138 Elegant Gems 41 Emmanuel Baptist Church 27 Emperor Real Estate 128 Equestrian Club 59 Eros Health & Beauty Spa 100 Espace Avenir 61 Estate Yangon 128 ETUDE House 107 EU Myanmar Centre 163 Express Mail Service 141 FAA Group 150 FAMAT 150 Fancy house 100 FMI Centre 44 Focus Consulting Group 150 Football 57 Foreign Languages 65 French Embassy 138 French Institute 68 French Myanmar Chamber of Commerce And Industry 163 FUKKEN 150 Gaelic Football 59 Galleon Manufacturing 131 Gallery Sakura 87 Gallery Sixty Five 88 Ga Mon Pwint 50 Gandamar Wholesale 44 Gekko 91 Gem Museum 30, 41 Genky Blind Massage 100 German Asia-Pacific Business Association (OAV) 163 German Embassy 139 Global Enchanting Education Center 65 Globe Tailoring 43 Golden Bell Pharmacy 112 Golden Bright Star 103 Golden Dragon Tattoo Studio 104 Golden Land 41 Golden Myanmar Jewellery 41 Golden Valley Art Centre 88 Gold Pot Pharmacy 112 Golf Club 62 Gorgeous Translation 153 Governor's Residence 68 Grace Works Myanmar 68 Grand Twin Brothers 49 Graphic Solution 153 Hair Clinic 103 Hair dressers 103 Hanthawaddy Driving Range 62 Happy Homes 128

Moe & Tun Associates 152 Mojo 91 Monsoon Restaurant 68 Monument Books 47 Mosques 27 Myanmar Relo Solutions 127 MUFG Bank of Tokyo - Mitsubishi UFJ 160 Musmeah Yeshua Synagogue 28 Myanma Apex Bank 159 Myanma Freedom Daily 174 Myanma Investment & Commercial Bank 159 Myanmar Agriculture Development Bank 159 Myanmar Book Centre 47 Myanmar Business Executives (MBE) 164 Myanmar Deitta 88 Myanmar Economic Bank 159 Myanmar Elephant House 39 Myanmar Event Management Company 161 Myanmar Foreign Trade Bank

159 Myanmar Housing 128 Myanmar Ink Art Gallery 88 Myanmar Marketing Research & Development (MMRD) 152 Myanmar Pest Control Service (MPCS) 132 Myanmar Translation Co. 153 Myanmar Ves 42 MYANMORE 174 My Yangon Office 148 Nandawun 40 Nan Mo Yoga 70 Nan Myint Traditional Handicrafts 40 National Museum 30 National Races Village 30 National Swimming Pool 60 National Theatre of Yangon 94 Nawaday Tharlar 88 Nay Pyi Taw Cinema 95 Nelson English Language Centre 67 Nepalese Embassy 139 Netball 59 New Kosan 81 New Treasure Art Gallery 88 New Vision Books 47 New Zero Art Space 88 Nexus Myanmar 67 Night Market (Nya Zay) 38 Nitipon 102 OCBC Bank 160 Ocean Supercentre 50 Office@36th 147

179

Kosan Bar 81 KT Care Foundation 135 Kyauk Sein Printing 153 Lacquerware shop 40 Laotian Embassy 139 La Pyay Wun Plaza 45 La Source 101 Lee Cooper Denim 46 Lemon Day Spa 101 Leo Pest Control 132 Lethwei (Burmese Boxing) 56 Liberal 43 Linking Hands 65 Lobby @ Sedona Hotel 91 Lokanat Gallery 88 Loupe Coloured Stone and Jewellery 41 Lucy Wayne & Associates 151 Lue Sky Handmade Exotic Wood & Glassware 39 Magic House Spa & Beauty Salon

101 Mahabandoola Garden Park 32 Mahasi Meditation Centre 69 Maha Wizaya 26 Malaysia Myanmar Business Council (MMBC) 164 Malaysian Embassy 139 Malaysia's Malayan Banking Berhad (Maybank) 160 Malikha 114 Mango @ Taw Win Center 46 Man Top 43 Marathon 57 Marina Residence 130 Martyrsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Mausoleum 29 May & Mark Gems 42 May Vet Clinic 116 MCC Group 155 mDrive 46 Medecins Sans Frontieres / Doctors Without Borders 135 MiCasa Hotel Apartments 130 Mingalar Cinema 95 Mingalar Myanmar Souvenir 39 Mingalar Pharmacy 113 Mingalar San Pya Cineplex 95 MiTA 152 Martial Arts 56 Mizuho Bank 160 MK Gems 42 MMA Elite Yangon 56 MMC Construction & Decoration

132 MN Associates Intellectual Property Law Firm 152 Moe Kyaw Thu Greeting Cards 40 Moe Myanmar Language Centre 65

KnowIt / April 2015

Hash House Harriers 57 HBT 46 High Court 24 Hintha Business Centre 147 Hockey 59 Hola Dance club 68 Hotel Milanoa 82 Hotel Parami 82, 130 Htwe Oo Puppet Show 94 Ice Bar @ Sedona Hotel 91 Indian Embassy 139 Indo Myanmar Chambers of Commerce and Industries 163 Indonesian Embassy 139 Industrial and Commercial Bank of China Limited (ICBC) 160 Inhouse 131 Innwa Bank 159 Innwa Book Store 47 Institut Français de Birmanie 65, 70 International Best Business Group (IBBG) 164 International Business Centre

148 International Clinic @ Parami General Hospital (SAMITIVEJ)

115 International SOS Clinic 115 Inya Art Gallery 88 Inya Day Spa 101 Inya Lake 32 Inya Lake Driving Range 62 Israeli Embassy 139 Italian Embassy 139 Japanese Embassy 139 Japan External Trade Organisation (JETRO) 164 Jenny Yoga 70 Junction Square 44 Junction Square Cineplex 95 Jyanko Mart 49 Kanbawza Bank (KBZ) 159 Kandawgyi Park 32, 81 Karaweik Cultural Show 94 Karaweik Palace 24 Keier Group 148 Kembangan - UHC Hospital 113 Kheng Hock Keong Temple 27 Khin Maung Cho & Associates Intellectual Law Firm 151 KMO Classic Transportation 154 Knowledge Management and Dedication 155 Kokine Bar & Restaurant 91 Kokine Swimming Club 59 Korean Embassy 140 Korea Store 49 Korea Trade Association 164

180 KnowIt / April 2015

Off The Beaten Track 81 Orange Supermarket 51 Paing Phyo Vet Clinic 116 Pakistani Embassy 139 Panditarama Meditation Centre 69 Pansodan Gallery 88 Pansodan Scene 66 Pansodan Street 24 Pansuriya Gallery 89 Parami General Hospital 114 Parkroyal Fitness & Spa 61 Path Lab 116 Partick Robert the Gallery 89 Pearl Condominium 130 Pegu Club 24 People’s Park 33 Philippine Embassy 139 Phoenix Esthetic Centre 101 Pinlon Hospital 113 Planetarium 30 Pomelo Yangon 40 Popular Book Store 48 Post Office 141 Power 7 128 Premier 63 PRO 1 Mart 132 ProMart 49 Pronto Services 129 Property Plus 129 Pun Hlaing Golf Club 62 Real Estate 128 Real Fitness 61 Real Fitness 2 @Mindhama 61 Real Light Gems & Jewelry 42 Republic of Fritz Hansen 131 River Gallery 89 Rödl & Partner 152 Roof Alchemy 82 Rowing 59 Royal Mingalardon Golf Club 62 Ruby Mart 51 Russian Embassy 139 Sailing 59 Sakura Business Center 148 Sakura Residence 61, 130 San Pya Fish Market 38 Santa Fe mobility 127 Savills 129 Sein Gay Har 51 Sein Lan So Pyay Garden 33 Select Pharmacy 113 Sense Spa 101 Serbian Embassy 139 Seven Friday Swiss Watches 46 Shae Saung Cinema 95 Shangri-La Residences 130 Sharky’s 49 SHE SHINES Gems & Jewelry 42 Shinon Myanmar 40

Shri Kali Temple 28 Shwedagon Pagoda Park 33 Shwe Oo Min Dhama Sukha Yeiktha 70 Siam Commercial Bank 160 Silver Lotus 132 Singaporean Embassy 140 Singapore Association of Myanmar 164 Sinma 131 Sky Bridge 130 Smile Tailors 43 SML lab 116 SM Tours & Transport 154 Softball 59 Spa D'Lax - For Men 101 Spa Elements 102 Spice Girls 103 Sports Bar 82 Sports World 63 Springfield 46 Sri Lankan Embassy 140 Star Mart @ Dagon Centre 1 52 St Mary’s Cathedral 28 Stork Agency 161 Strategy First Institute 68 Sule Pagoda 25 Sule Shangri-La Fitness Centre 61 Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC) 160 Sunday Brunch @ Inya Lake 90 Sunday Brunch @ Sedona 90 SuperOne Centre 52 Sweat Club 61 Swedish Chamber 165 Swedish Consulate 140 Sweety Home 132 Swimming Pool 60 Swiss Business Office Center 147 Swiss Time Square 46 T8 Hair Design 104 TAB Book Centre 48 Taekwondo 57 Tattoos 104 Taw Win Centre 45 Tennis Federation 57 Thai Embassy 140 Thamada Cinema 95 Thaya Day Spa 102 The American Centre 66 The Avenue 46 The British Council 66 Theingyi Market 38 The RendezVous @ Institut Français 91 The Rich Gems 42 The River of Lost Footsteps 175 The Shakespeare schools 68 The Space Bar 82

The Thiripyitsaya 42 The Union of Myanmar Chambers of Commerce and Industry (UMFCCI) 165 Thiri Mingalar Market 38 Thura Swiss 151 Thwin Cinema 95 Tip Top Tailors 43 Tomb of the Last Mughal Emperor 28 Tony Tun Tun 104 Traditional Burmese Massage

102 Traditional Medicine 111 Trish Gallery 89 TT Transportation 154 United Amara Bank (UAB) 159 UK Embassy 140 United Living Mall 45 Universal Tailoring 43 United Overseas Bank 160 URI 43 US Chamber of Commerce 164 VDB Loi Myanmar 152 Vestige Mercantile & Relics 40 Victoria Hyper Mart 52 Vietnamese Embassy 140 Vista Bar 82 Volleyball 59 Volunteering 135 Vriens & Partners 151 Water sports 59 West Yangon General Hospital

113 Wilsonblades 175 Win Htut Aung & Associates ConSultants Limited 151 Winner Sporting 63 World Bank 159 Wushu Federation 56 Wuttisak 102 Yangon Art Gallery 89 Yangon BJJ house 57 Yangon City Dagon City Golf Resort 62 Yangon General Hospital 25, 113 Yangon Golf Club 62 Y Collection Myanmar 154 Yoma Bank 159 Yoyamyay Ethnographic Textiles Gallery 40 Yuzana Plaza 45 Yves Rocher 107 Zen Garden Office 148 Zoological Gardens 33 Zumba Dance Classes 68

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KnowIt / April 2015

182

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