Setting Up Shop in Myanmar: A Digital Nomad’s Workspace Guide

Myanmar, formerly known as Burma, is a Southeast Asian country that has recently opened up to the world after decades of isolation. With its rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and a growing economy, Myanmar has become an attractive destination for digital nomads seeking new experiences and opportunities. In this guide, we will explore the key aspects of setting up a workspace in Myanmar, including accommodation options, coworking spaces, internet connectivity, and more.

Accommodation

Finding suitable accommodation is the first step in setting up your workspace in Myanmar. The country offers a range of options, from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels and serviced apartments. Some popular choices include:

• Sunrise Inn: Located in the heart of Yangon, Sunrise Inn offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities. The hotel provides high-speed internet, a business center, and a quiet environment for digital nomads.
• Golden Valley Guesthouse: Situated in Mandalay, Golden Valley Guesthouse offers affordable rooms with a cozy atmosphere. The guesthouse provides a communal workspace, free Wi-Fi, and a friendly environment.
• Inya Lake Hotel: Set by the picturesque Inya Lake in Yangon, Inya Lake Hotel is a popular choice for digital nomads. The hotel offers spacious rooms, a business center, high-speed internet, and stunning lake views.

Coworking Spaces

For digital nomads who prefer a dedicated workspace outside of their accommodation, Myanmar offers several coworking spaces that cater to their needs. These spaces provide a productive environment, networking opportunities, and access to essential amenities. Some notable coworking spaces in Myanmar include:

• Punspace: Located in Yangon, Punspace is a well-equipped coworking space with high-speed internet, comfortable workstations, meeting rooms, and a vibrant community of entrepreneurs and freelancers.
• Impact Hub Yangon: Situated in downtown Yangon, Impact Hub is a collaborative workspace that fosters creativity and innovation. The space offers flexible membership options, events, and mentorship programs.
• The Hive: With multiple locations in Myanmar, including Yangon and Mandalay, The Hive provides a modern and inspiring environment for digital nomads. The space features ergonomic furniture, meeting rooms, and a café for networking.

Internet Connectivity

Reliable internet connectivity is crucial for digital nomads to work efficiently. In Myanmar, access to the internet has improved significantly in recent years, although it may still vary in different regions. Some options for internet connectivity in Myanmar include:

• Telenor Myanmar: Telenor is one of the leading telecommunications companies in Myanmar, offering 4G and fiber-optic internet services across the country.
• Ooredoo Myanmar: Ooredoo is another major provider of mobile and internet services in Myanmar. They offer 4G coverage in many areas, ensuring fast and reliable internet access.
• MPT Myanmar: MPT (Myanmar Posts and Telecommunications) is a state-owned telecom operator that provides mobile and internet services nationwide. They have an extensive network and offer various data plans.

Transportation

Getting around Myanmar is essential for digital nomads who want to explore different areas or work from different locations. The country offers various transportation options, including taxis, rideshares, and public transportation. Some popular transportation services in Myanmar include:

• Grab Myanmar: Grab is a popular ridesharing platform available in major cities like Yangon and Mandalay. It offers convenient and reliable transportation services at affordable prices.
• Yangon Bus Service: Yangon has an extensive bus network that connects different parts of the city. Buses are an affordable mode of transportation, although they can be crowded during peak hours.
• Myanmar Railways: The railway system in Myanmar provides an adventurous way to travel between cities. It offers scenic routes, comfortable seating, and a chance to experience the local culture.

Exploring Myanmar

While setting up your workspace in Myanmar, take the opportunity to explore the country’s rich culture and natural beauty. Here are some must-visit attractions:

• Shwedagon Pagoda: Located in Yangon, the Shwedagon Pagoda is one of Myanmar’s most sacred Buddhist sites. It features a stunning golden stupa and beautiful surrounding gardens.
• Bagan: Bagan is an ancient city known for its thousands of well-preserved temples and pagodas. Rent a bicycle or take a hot air balloon ride to explore this archaeological wonder.
• Inle Lake: Inle Lake offers a tranquil setting with floating gardens, stilt houses, and traditional fishing methods. Take a boat tour to experience the unique lifestyle of the local Intha people.

Myanmar Image 1:

Local Cuisine

Myanmar is known for its diverse and flavorful cuisine. Don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in local delicacies such as:

• Mohinga: Considered Myanmar’s national dish, Mohinga is a flavorful fish soup served with rice noodles, lemongrass, and various condiments.
• Tea Leaf Salad: This unique salad combines pickled tea leaves, fried garlic, roasted peanuts, and other ingredients for a burst of flavors and textures.
• Shan Noodles: Shan Noodles are a popular street food in Myanmar. They consist of rice noodles topped with a savory sauce, sliced pork, and various herbs.

Myanmar Image 2:

Health and Safety

Prioritize your health and safety while in Myanmar by following these guidelines:

• Vaccinations: Ensure you are up to date with routine vaccinations and consider additional vaccines such as hepatitis A, typhoid, and Japanese encephalitis.
• Travel Insurance: Obtain comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, emergency evacuation, and personal belongings.
• Respect Local Customs: Familiarize yourself with local customs and traditions to ensure you show respect to the local culture and avoid any misunderstandings.

Conclusion

Setting up shop in Myanmar as a digital nomad offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in a vibrant culture while enjoying a favorable work environment. From finding suitable accommodation to exploring the country’s attractions, Myanmar has everything to offer. With its expanding infrastructure and growing digital ecosystem, it’s an exciting time to experience the wonders of this Southeast Asian gem.

Myanmar Image 3:

References

– sunriseinn.com
– goldenvalleyguesthouse.com
– inyalakehotel.com
– punspace.com
– impacthubyangon.net
– thehiveworkspaces.com
– telenor.com.mm
– ooredoo.com.mm
– mpt.com.mm
– grab.com
– yangonbus.com.mm
– myanmarrailways.com
– shwedagonpagoda.com
– bagan.com
– inlelake.com