Nomadic Thoughts Lifts Self-Imposed Tourism Boycott of Burma
- We are delighted to advise that Nomadic Thoughts is once again offering tours to Burma.
We have steadfastly supported Aung San Suu Kyi and The National League for Democracy (NLD) in their 15 year request for an outright 'tourism boycott' of Burma. The country has always been one of our favourite Asian destinations and whilst we will, in our own small way, continue to lobby for the support of the NLD and Burmese people, we are very excited at the prospect of arranging travel there again.
Since the military's brutal crack down in 1988, and the early days of Nomadic Thoughts, Burma has always been at the forefront of our concerns with our focus on supporting the democracy movement.
The Military junta's extensive escalation in brutality caused the democratic leaders (NLD) to eventually call for a blanket tourism boycott 15 years ago - as the generals identified tourism as a source of revenue and foreign currency for their regime. Reported human rights abuses have been particularly associated with the building of some tourist facilities through forced labour.
- Respecting the tourism ban Nomadic Thoughts stopped arranging travel to Burma.
At this moment in time things appear to be changing - as the NLD leaders are now aiming to "better target" the tourism boycott and we will endeavour to embrace tourism to Burma as a force for good.
In an interview published in The Times newspaper (22.11.11), where the more relaxed approach was announced, NLD leader U Win Tin said "We want people to come to Burma, not to help the junta, but to help the people by understanding the situation: political, economic, moral - everything."
The NLD is now calling for a boycott solely targeting package tours which bring significant revenue to the dictatorship. Visits by individuals and small groups who want to learn more about the situation in Burma will now be welcomed.
On a personal level I am delighted to announce our re-involvement in Burma as it has always been a destination close to my heart having travelled extensively throughout the country in the early 1980s and continually tried to remain as politically supportive as possible ever since.
For those who have not visited, you are in for a lovely surprise - the warm welcome of the local people, strength of their culture and beauty of their land has been worth the wait.
Jono Vernon-Powell
Managing Director - Nomadic Thoughts
For further information please see : The Burma Campaign UK