Publisher Description

Myanmar, as Burma is now known, is strategically situated between the world s two most populous nations China and India and its distinctive ancient culture shares some traditions with both countries. Hidden away from the eyes of the world for half a century by its military rulers policy of self-isolation, the Burmese Way to Socialism, with a new democratic parliament and civilian government Myanmar is undergoing important changes as it approaches its next elections in 2015. Its most famous political detainee, Aung San Suu Kyi, the Nobel peace laureate, has been released after nearly twenty years of house arrest. The present administration faces teething problems in politics, governance, education, its dealings with over a hundred ethnic groups, and its society. At the same time, progress has been made with the emergence of a free press, the release of political prisoners, and the reemergence of the long-lost voice of the man and woman on the street. The country is opening up to tourism and business. a The Burmese people are by nature friendly and polite, and are traditionally easy-going and peaceable. Most are devout Buddhists, and there are pagodas and meditation centers all

Author Biography

KYI KYI MAY was born and brought up Myanmar, where she attended Rangoon Arts and Science University and gained a M.Sc. in Zoology. She became a print journalist before joining the BBC Burmese Service in London as a producer and gained a BA (Hons) degree in Politics, Philosophy and History at Birkbeck College, University of London. As a BBC producer, a field reporter, and later as head of the Burmese Service, she has written and broadcast many current affairs and feature programs for Burmese listeners of all ages.

Table of Contents

Brief History Politics - Economic Life Traditions - Friendships & Family Relationships Bureaucracy Religion Humour - Local Holidays Taboos Invitations Gifts Dress - Business etiquette - Punctuality & Appointments - Team working Communication Negotiating - Women in Society Tips - Eating Out - Traditional Food - Dos and Don t - Making Friends

Review

Culture Smart! has come to the rescue of hapless travellers...' Sunday Times Travel,
' the perfect introduction to the weird, wonderful and downright odd quirks and customs of various countries.' Global Travel,
' full of fascinating, as well as common sense, tips to help you avoid embarrassing faux pas.' Observer,
' as useful as they are entertaining.' Easy Jet Magazine,
' offer glimpses into the psyche of a faraway world.' New York Times

Long Description

Myanmar, as Burma is now known, is strategically situated between the world s two most populous nations China and India and its distinctive ancient culture shares some traditions with both countries. Hidden away from the eyes of the world for half a century by its military rulers policy of self-isolation, the Burmese Way to Socialism, with a new democratic parliament and civilian government Myanmar is undergoing important changes as it approaches its next elections in 2015. Its most famous political detainee, Aung San Suu Kyi, the Nobel peace laureate, has been released after nearly twenty years of house arrest. The present administration faces teething problems in politics, governance, education, its dealings with over a hundred ethnic groups, and its society. At the same time, progress has been made with the emergence of a free press, the release of political prisoners, and the reemergence of the long-lost voice of the man and woman on the street. The country is opening up to tourism and business. a The Burmese people are by nature friendly and polite, and are traditionally easy-going and peaceable. Most are devout Buddhists, and there are pagodas and meditation centers all

Review Text

Culture Smart! has come to the rescue of hapless travellers, Sunday Times Travel - ...the perfect introduction to the weird, wonderful and downright odd quirks and customs of various countries, Global Travel - ...full of fascinating, as well as common sense

Details