Travel Betty

Daw Aung San Suu Kyi is the democratically elected leader of Burma and Nobel Peace Prize recipient who has spent most of the past 17 years under house arrest. Even under these conditions, she works diligently to ensure that democratic rule is once again restored to her country.

One of the ways she suggests helping the movement succeed is by refusing to visit Burma as a tourist. Many agree. Others say travel helps spread the word of the struggle and gives money to the people of the country who are suffering under the military junta.

I prefer not to go, but obviously it’s a complex debate and I don’t pretend to understand it all or ultimately know the right answer. If you’re considering travel to Burma, the following sites may help you make your own decision.

Thanks to the Ethical Traveler for the following two links:

Aung San Suu Kyi’s website

The U.S. Campaign for Burma (USCB)

Thanks to the Perrin Post for the following two links:

The Times of London point/counterpoint Burma travel article

Voices For Burma encourages debate on ethical travel in Burma