It is a developing, agrarian country ruled by a military regime. The country began to open to tourism in recent years after a long period of isolation. Tourist facilities in Rangoon and Mandalay are adequate but are very limited in most of the rest of the country.
Ethnic insurgencies persist in some remote border areas.
The country's political situation is volatile and extensive student unrest occurred in 1996. Travel to and within Burma is strictly controlled by that country's government. A passport and visa are required. Burma experienced major student demonstrations in late 1996. The political situation remains volatile and there is the potential for further popular unrest and possible violence.