Australia's Asia travel specialist Travel Indochina advises travel agents and travellers alike that while Burma's accommodation sector is expanding rapidly, a considerable level of discernment should be employed when choosing new properties. 

According to Jackie Firmstone, Product Manager China and Burma, while the increase in new properties to reach Burma's publicised target of 35,000 rooms for 2014 may be a boon for its budding tourism industry and addressing the issue of short supply, it is vitally important to continue to make sure that the new stock meets safety and service criteria, while simultaneously ensuring tourism as a whole remains sustainable.

“On the one hand, the pace of new development in Burma could be seen as quite exciting as it will permit more travellers to experience this beautiful and delightful destination,” said Firmstone.

“However it must be countered by a level of pragmatism to make sure that the properties meet requisite health and safety standards and service levels, and that the development supports the preservation of the country's cultural heritage.”

“We're aware of almost 45 new hotels, lodges, resorts and guesthouses in the destinations we travel to which meet the basic minimum levels that we would consider using. There are some beautiful new properties, such as the Viewpoint Lodge in Inle Lake, that have opened recently and the Hsipaw Resort in Northern Shan State that is just in the process of opening that are able to provide our clients quality experiences.

“Upon closer inspection, however, we have found that many of the other new properties don't meet the grade to be included within our portfolio. We have introduced only a handful of new properties in our most recent brochure – ones that we knew would meet the needs of our travellers – and we'll continue to remain equally selective in the future.” 

“It's important to point out that our approach to travel in Burma is to support and promote sustainability in all forms, including the preservation of cultural heritage. We operate at a grass-roots level, working directly with private local businesses wherever possible, and ensure our journeys go beyond sightseeing to give travellers an insight into the many aspects of life in Burma. We seek to provide opportunities for interaction with the local people they meet along the way.”  

About Travel Indochina

Travel Indochina has been operating Small Group Journeys and tailor-made holidays to Asia since 1993. Offering journeys to Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, China, India, Sri Lanka, Japan, Burma, Mongolia and Bhutan, Travel Indochina has seven offices across its Asia destinations, Western tour guides and English-speaking local guides.

Travel Indochina's idea is simple – to explore and share the essence of Asia's history, culture, natural beauty and, most importantly, people. The company has a commitment to responsible travel and a belief that travel is an exchange of knowledge and perspectives, cultures and wealth.

For more information and bookings, Travel Indochina's Asia experts can be contacted on 1300 365 355 or online at www.travelindochina.com.au.

For great travel adventures and stories, follow the Travel Indochina team at www.travelindochina.com.au/blog, on Twitter @travelindochina or check out our photos on Flickr http://www.flickr.com/photos/travelindochina/

Media Contacts

Andrea Plawutsky
Amplify Me                
0419 970 984                                                             
andrea@amplifyme.com.au