Known for its deep-rooted Buddhist practices, Myanmar’s culture is steeped in spiritual rituals, stunning pagodas, and ancient temples that dot its landscape. Traditional arts and crafts, such as intricate weaving, lacquerware, and the famous marionette puppetry, highlight the nation’s artistic prowess. Myanmar’s warm hospitality is reflected in its festivals, like Thingyan, the Water Festival, where locals and visitors alike participate in communal celebrations marked by music, dance, and joyous water fights.
Meets and Greets
In Myanmar, the traditional greeting involves a bow with both hands placed on the stomach. Younger individuals bow, while older people typically respond with a nod. Today, a slight bow accompanied by a warm smile is the most common form of greeting among the Burmese. Physical contact, such as handshakes or friendly hugs, remains uncommon.
Meal Etiquette
In local homes in Myanmar, family members typically sit together on the floor around low, round tables, often eating with one hand, preferably the right. While forks and spoons have become popular, many locals still prefer to eat with their fingers. It’s customary for elderly diners and guests to serve themselves first.
Social Drinking
Many Burmese refrain from drinking alcohol due to its prohibition under Buddhist teachings. While some men may still consume alcohol, it is culturally inappropriate for women to do so, regardless of their religious beliefs. Tea holds a significant place in Myanmar culture, being a popular beverage everywhere. Visitors to someone’s home are typically offered tea immediately upon arrival, and you can usually find tea served in luxury hotels in Yangon, such as the well known Chatrium Hotel Royal Lake Yangon.
Clothing Styles
As in other Southeast Asian countries, clothing in Myanmar is typically modest. Men and women commonly wear longyi, a garment made from a long piece of cloth folded and secured at the waist, resembling a sarong. In big cities, it’s common to see people wearing longyi. Traditional attire for men includes a white collarless shirt, an overcoat, and a longyi, while women usually wear dresses made of silk or cotton, or blouses paired with a longyi.
