The death penalty does exist for narcotics trafficking pursuant to a 1974 law. FEC are required for the payment of plane and most train tickets and most hotels. Kyat is accepted for most other transactions. It is possible to purchase FEC with some credit cards at the Myanmar Foreign Trade Bank in Rangoon. Although money changers may approach travelers, it is illegal to exchange foreign currency except at authorized locations such as the airport, banks and government stores.
Roads are poor in Burma.
Trains are uncomfortable and not always punctual. Photographing persons in uniform or any military installation is discouraged by Burmese authorities. Customs regulations are restrictive and strictly enforced. Americans who register at the U.S. Embassy may obtain updated information on travel and security within the country. The U.S. Embassy is located at 581 Merchant Street, Rangoon.