Day-to-day life in Myanmar

[Stocky]

On 2/15/2025 at 5:34 PM, simon43 said:

Small update: I'm flying back to Myanmar next week I think. 

Did you go, are you OK?

[simon43]

Yes I did, but I returned a couple of weeks ago to sign a contract to rent a small condo at Jomtien Beach as a long-term 'base', since I've now retired from in-class teaching.  So I wasn't in Mandalay when the earthquake occurred.

 

However, I have seen the damage etc from friends in Mandalay and at Inle Lake, and so I'm trying to work out a way to return legally to Myanmar to run my charity efforts.  Basically, the issue is to get a viable visa, not a short-term tourist visa, and I'm speaking with lawyers in Yangon about that.

[Burma Bill]

2 hours ago, simon43 said:

Yes I did, but I returned a couple of weeks ago to sign a contract to rent a small condo at Jomtien Beach as a long-term 'base', since I've now retired from in-class teaching.  So I wasn't in Mandalay when the earthquake occurred.

 

However, I have seen the damage etc from friends in Mandalay and at Inle Lake, and so I'm trying to work out a way to return legally to Myanmar to run my charity efforts.  Basically, the issue is to get a viable visa, not a short-term tourist visa, and I'm speaking with lawyers in Yangon about that.

 

Great to hear from you and happy to know you were not in Mandalay when the tragedy struck. So much devastation including buildings I knew from my visits during the democracy era. There must be so many people suffering, including many children.  If you are successful with a visa and a place to live, please keep us informed. I personally would be prepared to make a donation to your charity and NOT the Burmese military/junta.

[simon43]

3 hours ago, Burma Bill said:

 

Great to hear from you and happy to know you were not in Mandalay when the tragedy struck. So much devastation including buildings I knew from my visits during the democracy era. There must be so many people suffering, including many children.  If you are successful with a visa and a place to live, please keep us informed. I personally would be prepared to make a donation to your charity and NOT the Burmese military/junta.

Thanks VERY much for your kind comments.  To legally live in Myanmar (unless I marry a Burmese woman!), is to register my own company and get a business visa. I can do that and Yangon lawyers quote me $2,000 USD to do all the paperwork etc.  I've asked my Burmese friends if they know a lawyer who can do it cheaper 🙂  (I will pay $2k if needed, but if I can save money on these documents, then that means more money for donations etc)

 

Alternatively, please propose a young Burmese lady who is willing to marry me so I can get a Social visa... 🙂