Yangon skyline
Singaporeans on both business and leisure can now travel to Myanmar for up to 30 days, visa free. The move is expected to draw more Singaporeans to Myanmar, which has already seen an 18 per cent increase in Singaporean visitors from last year.
Mr U Ohn Maung of Myanmar Minister of Hotel & Tourism said, "I do expect a 35 percent increase of Singaporeans travelling to Myanmar if we successfully promote the variety of tourist attractions the country has to offer. Myanmar is safe, excellent to travel the whole year round, and Myanmar food is certainly something to come back for over and over again."
Myanmar Tourism Marketing (MTM), a delegation of Myanmar hospitality and travel companies, has helped promote travel to Myanmar in Singapore with a B2B roadshow which featured a high-level business matching meeting among around 50 Myanmar and Singapore hospitality & travel companies. In January the Myanmar Tourism Festival will also take place in Singapore, further fostering a better tourism relationship between the two countries.
Singapore is the second-largest investor in Myanmar according to figures from the Myanmar Directorate of Investment and Company Administration (DICA), with USD$13 billion in foreign direct investment, with most visits from Singapore to Myanmar being for business.
"Whether it is for business or pleasure, there is so much to see and do in Myanmar. Business visitors who come seeking opportunities in this new market typically set foot in cities like Yangon, Mandalay and Nay Pyi Taw. We encourage all visitors to venture out and see more of the country's treasured spots -- the amazing temples of Bagan, the majestic Inle Lake, pristine beaches and breathtaking highlands. Most of all, come to Myanmar to experience the warmth and generosity of the people and a culture unlike any other," said MTM Executive Committee member Edwin Briels.