Myanmar expected to see tourism boost

Myanmar expected to see tourism boost
A view of ancient pagodas during the sunrise in Bagan, the ancient temple city of Myanmar, Mandalay region, Myanmar. Photo: Nyein Chan Naing/EPA
A view of ancient pagodas during the sunrise in Bagan, the ancient temple city of Myanmar, Mandalay region, Myanmar. Photo: Nyein Chan Naing/EPA

Myanmar expects to receive more visitors this year after eased visa restrictions for Western tourists take effect in October, Thailand’s The Nation reported quoting a senior official.

Aung Aye Han, deputy director general of the Ministry of Hotels and Tourism, told The Nation on Wednesday that the authorities see a bright outlook for Myanmar's tourism industry thanks to the efforts of key stakeholders.

As of May, Myanmar received 1.84 million visitors, up 24 per cent from the same period of last year. More than 3.55 million visited the nation last year.

"Our recent visa relaxation will take effect soon. Starting from October 1, visitors from Australia, Germany, Italy, Russia, Spain and Switzerland no longer need to apply for a visa in advance," he said.

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