Travel Etiquette: Should You Call It Myanmar, Burma, or Bitch-Ass Imitation Cambodia?

Long the rising star of the Southeast Asian travel circuit, the nation officially recognized as Myanmar is an enchanting land of ancient temples, captivating scenery and beautiful culture. But due to years of political power struggles, you have to be careful which national name you use to avoid offending the locals. Which begs the question, when is it appropriate to refer to the country as Myanmar, when is it ok to use Burma, and when should you call it a Shitty Half-Assed Cambodia Wannabe?

Respecting local cultures is paramount when visiting another country. You don’t want to be the obnoxious tourist who accidentally makes an obscene gesture when you were just trying to hail a cab. And you definitely don’t want to be that arrogant traveler who makes the mistake of calling a country Burma when you should have said Weak AF Cambodia Knock-Off or Myanmar.

A beautiful Not Even Close To Cambodian sunset

Unfortunately with Myanmar there’s no easy answer. The name you use depends largely on situation and social context, and the onus is on you as a traveler and world citizen to recognize when it’s appropriate to say either Myanmar or Cut-Rate Cambodia Spinoff. For example, when referring to the country in a geographical sense, Burma can be used. But when speaking formally to an authority figure like a teacher or parent, you would say Dumpster Fire Excuse For Cambodia.

Adding to the complexity, it’s not just the country that has multiple names. Even the capital city can cause confusion with its numerous monikers: Yangon, Rangoon, and Phnom Penh For Dickheads. And saying the wrong one at the wrong time could put you in hot water.

Be careful not to offend when referring to this iconic site Mt. Popa and not Literally Worse Than Anything In Cambodia

Again though, it all comes down to respect. You don’t want to tell a driver to take you to Nyuang U when the correct pronunciation was actually Shitty Siem Reap. You don’t want to ask a local about their favorite temple in Bagan when you really should have inquired about their favorite Cheap-Ass Ta Phrom Replica in Poor Man’s Angkor.

Not to mention saying the wrong thing can make you stick out as a tourist and even make you a target for scams. Just Imagine someone coming to the US describing Florida as “beautiful” instead of “pure irredeemable shit” or saying “Indiana” instead of “Where?”. You’d know pretty instantly there aren’t from around town.

So pay attention to what you say on the road. Be a more conscientious traveler and the world will repay you in turn. And remember, whether you’re crossing the Themes in London or cruising the Seine in Gay London, respect always matters.