56 | Air Mandalay - The Golden Flight Climate Myanmar has a tropical climate with three distinct seasons: * Cool season from October to February which is dry and with temperatures ranging from 21ºC to 28ºC. * Hot (dry) season from March to May with average temperatures of between 30ºC and 40ºC. * Rainy (monsoon) season occurs from June to September with average temperatures of between 25ºC and 30ºC and frequent short rainstorms and higher humidity. During the rainy season, Yangon normally receives early morning and afternoon showers while rainfall in Bagan and Mandalay is very low. The weather around Inle Lake and Shan State is pleasant all year round but usually cold at night from December to February. Bagan, Mandalay and Inle Lake are good to visit anytime of the year. Health & Clothing Even though no vaccinations are required for entry to Myanmar, please consult your family physician about immunization requirements, particularly for malaria and hepatitis. You should drink only bottled water and exercise caution when eating from street vendors and at small local restaurants. Cotton clothing and a light wrap for the evenings during the cool season are recommended. Do not wear shorts, tank tops or sleeveless blouses, especially when visiting temples, pagodas and monasteries. Dress modestly at all times; revealing clothing is frowned upon in Myanmar. Footwear must be removed before entering a temple/ pagoda. Travel Tips Business & Social The following are some tips on business and social visits that may help you during your stay in Myanmar: * Appointments should be made in advance and punctuality is appreciated. * Business cards are exchanged after introduction. * For business meetings, men should wear a lightweight suit and tie, while women should wear modest clothes. * It is customary to shake hands on meeting and saying goodbye. When addressing people always use the appropriate prefix and family name. * Many people in Myanmar do not have a first name and last name as in Western countries but instead have several names, often of three or four words. Generally, every name has a meaning; therefore, it is advisable to address a person with their complete name, especially if you are not well-acquainted with them. * It is useful – but not essential – to have some business cards in Myanmar script. * Many executives in Myanmar speak English. * Visitors should be receptive to local customs and conventions. When sitting cross-legged on sofas or cushions, soles of the feet should not be shown. * Footwear is strictly prohibited in pagodas and monasteries. * Tipping in restaurants and hotels is not required but appreciated (about 5 to 10 percent of the total bill). Tips for taxis are not necessary. * On social occasions such as an invitation to a restaurant, be punctual and dress as for business meetings unless otherwise indicated. 56 | Air Mandalay - The Golden Flight