Myanmar Connectivity: WiFi and SIM cards readily available for tourists.

Myanmar’s Internet and Connectivity: A Comprehensive Guide

Myanmar, formerly known as Burma, is a country in Southeast Asia that has been rapidly developing in recent years. With a population of over 54 million people, Myanmar is a diverse and culturally rich country that has a lot to offer visitors. However, one of the biggest concerns for travelers is the internet and connectivity situation in Myanmar. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the internet situation in Myanmar, including the availability of WiFi and the benefits of getting a local SIM card.

Connectivity: What’s the internet situation like?

Myanmar’s internet situation has improved significantly in recent years, but it still lags behind many other countries in the region. According to a report by We Are Social and Hootsuite, only 22% of the population in Myanmar has access to the internet. This is significantly lower than neighboring countries like Thailand and Vietnam, where internet penetration rates are over 50%.

The internet in Myanmar is also heavily censored and monitored by the government. The country has been criticized for its restrictions on freedom of speech and the press, and this extends to the internet as well. Websites and social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter are often blocked or restricted, and users have reported experiencing slow speeds and frequent outages.

Despite these challenges, there are still ways to access the internet in Myanmar. Many hotels, cafes, and restaurants offer WiFi, although the quality and speed of the connection can vary widely. In larger cities like Yangon and Mandalay, there are also internet cafes where you can pay by the hour to use a computer and access the internet.

Is it easy to find WiFi?

Finding WiFi in Myanmar is relatively easy, especially in larger cities and tourist areas. Many hotels, cafes, and restaurants offer free WiFi to their customers, although the quality and speed of the connection can vary widely. In some cases, the WiFi may be slow or unreliable, so it’s always a good idea to have a backup plan in case you need to access the internet quickly.

If you’re traveling to more remote areas of Myanmar, it may be more difficult to find WiFi. In these cases, it’s a good idea to plan ahead and download any necessary maps or information before you leave. You can also consider getting a local SIM card, which will allow you to access the internet on your phone even if there is no WiFi available.

Is it worth getting a local SIM card?

Getting a local SIM card in Myanmar can be a good idea if you need to access the internet frequently or if you’re traveling to more remote areas of the country. Local SIM cards are relatively inexpensive and can be purchased at most mobile phone shops or at the airport when you arrive.

There are several mobile phone providers in Myanmar, including MPT, Telenor, and Ooredoo. Each provider offers different packages and rates, so it’s a good idea to do some research before you choose one. You can also ask for recommendations from locals or other travelers who have used local SIM cards in Myanmar.

Once you have a local SIM card, you can use your phone to access the internet and make calls and texts within Myanmar. This can be especially useful if you need to stay in touch with friends or family back home or if you need to make local calls while you’re in Myanmar.

In conclusion, the internet and connectivity situation in Myanmar is improving, but it still lags behind many other countries in the region. WiFi is relatively easy to find in larger cities and tourist areas, but it may be more difficult to access in more remote areas. Getting a local SIM card can be a good idea if you need to access the internet frequently or if you’re traveling to more remote areas of the country. Overall, it’s important to plan ahead and be prepared for any challenges you may encounter when accessing the internet in Myanmar.