Bagan - an ancient city located in the Mandalay Region of Burma Myanmar’s tourism minister is discouraging locals from hosting tourists in their homes Airbnb-style, suggesting that foreigners would balk at their customs and exert a negative influence.
Describing foreign mannerisms as “inappropriate” for local residents, U Htay Aung said that locals should only open their homes to tourists in remote areas like the Magway Region which don’t have hotels, reported the Myanmar Times this week.
It’s a statement that will disappoint foreigners who seek authenticity in their travels and the chance to live with the locals. While technically banned, homestays are common modes of lodging for tourists, particularly during multi-day treks, points out the Myanmar Times.
But according to Aung, preventing foreigners from co-habiting with the locals will help preserve customs such as sleeping facing the east, and family members using one spoon to eat from a single bowl of soup - traditions foreigners may balk at, he said.
Over on TripAdvisor, the No. 1 rated homestay is the Yoe Yoe Lay Guesthouse in Mandalay, which got a 5-star ranking from all 21 reviews, most of which praised the lodging’s hostess known simply as “Mama” for her warmth, hospitality and home cooking.
A traveller from Sydney used the forum to thank Mama, for instance, for going the extra mile and taking the homesick globetrotter to a charitable massage parlor staffed by blind masseurs for a mood lift.
“I can\'t say enough good things about this homestay. You really feel like you are an adopted child into Mama\'s loving arms! She is so wonderful and nurturing, goes out of her way to make sure you have what you need and are comfortable,” wrote Ryina from Boulder.
source: Relaxnews