If you are a foreigner, especially outside of South East Asia region, here are a few guidelines for you to pay attention to when visiting a Burmese friend at his home. It is not necessary to call your host in advance before visiting him. However, it is a polite manner to let him know of your visit in advance. It is a custom to remove your shoes before entering a Burmese home. Most of the Burmese houses have wooden floor which is meticulously cleaned, swept and polished. Even if the floor is a concrete one, it is always polite to take off your shoes. It is not necessary to bring a present to your host. It is not a custom for the visitor to bring any present for the host in Myanmar. Be careful of the manner if there is a Buddha’s shrine in the living room. Avoid pointing your feet to the Lord Buddha as it is considered an insult in Myanmar.
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