Savings Tips
Myanmar is already inexpensive, but with these strategies, you can get even more out of your budget:
- Use overnight buses: JJ Express and VIP Bus offer comfortable overnight buses with reclining seats, air conditioning, blankets, and snacks. You save a hotel night and arrive at your destination in the morning. Yangon → Bagan: from 5 EUR.
- Eat in the teahouse: Breakfast and snacks in the teahouse cost a fraction of restaurant prices. Mohinga, Samosa Thoke, and sweet milk tea — the most authentic and affordable food in Myanmar.
- Street food instead of restaurants: At street stalls, you pay 0.30–1.50 EUR for a complete meal. The quality is often better than in restaurants because the cooks specialize in one or two dishes.
- Travel together: Boats on Inle Lake and taxis/drivers are paid per boat or car, not per person. Team up with other travelers — a boat for the whole day costs 8 EUR, divided by 4 people, that's 2 EUR.
- Book early in high season: Hotels in Bagan and on Inle Lake are often twice as expensive in December/January as in November or February. Booking 2–3 months in advance saves significantly.
- Buy water in the supermarket: 1.5-liter bottles in the store cost 0.10–0.20 EUR. In restaurants and tourist spots, often three times as much.
- E-bike instead of a driver: Rent an e-bike in Bagan for 5–8 EUR/day instead of hiring a driver (25–40 EUR). You are more flexible and find the quietest temples off the standard routes.
