VFB's policy on travel to Burma can be summed up in three simple points:

• It is better not to travel to Burma than to go and create a negative impact
• However, it is better still to travel to Burma and make a positive difference
• If a tourist is unable or unwilling to do this, they should not go to Burma

So what does this mean in practice?  Why should tourists spend so much time thinking about their impact?

Our policy means that we only support thoughtful, responsible tourism that will bring a positive impact to the ordinary people in Burma, and show respect to their culture and environment. We believe that the only tourists who should go to Burma are those willing to adhere to these basic principles. Generally this means independent travellers who are in control of their actions. We do not support any tourism that results in a negative impact, and in general this includes package tourism, sex tourism and cross-border casino tourism.   However, we recognize that uninformed independent travellers can also do a lot of damage.

All tourists, particularly those visiting developing countries, should be aware that their presence can lead to cultural erosion, environmental devastation and the exploitation of local workers.  Nowhere is this more true than in Burma and we urge visitors to do all that they can to minimise their potential negative impacts.  If they aren’t extremely careful, tourists to Burma run the risk of funding and supporting one of the world’s most repugnant and genocidal regimes, and providing yet another reason for the government to abuse, murder and torture its people.  

It is possible, however, for tourists in their own small way, to make a real and positive difference.  To achieve this, visitors must be aware of the current situation and mindful of their own actions.  Make sure your money goes to local people, not international chains or the regime.  Keep your eyes open, and report any abuses when you leave.  Listen, learn and enjoy.  Consider ways in which you can participate in the Burmese struggle for democracy when you get back home. 

“Tourists can open up the world to the people of Burma just as the people of Burma can open up the eyes of tourists to the situation in their own country if they're interested in looking.”
-Daw Aung San Suu Kyi

Tourism alone will not solve Burma’s problems.  But it can, if undertaken carefully, make a small but important difference to people’s lives.