Overview of Hospitality and Tourism in Myanmar

Hospitality and tourism in Myanmar is a burgeoning industry to say the least. There is a high demand for hospitality and tourism professionals across not only all areas of the industry (such as food and beverage), but across the country, especially in popular tourist destinations such as Bagan. This covers all spectrums of the industry, whether it be a tour guide, a driver, a server, or an employee in an international hotel. Myanmar is considered such a popular place for tourists that it is becoming hard to keep the supply with the demand, are more hotels and restaurants opening up all the time. In urban centres such as Yangon there are an abundance of different restaurants appearing offering up various cuisines giving a an executive chef the opportunity to experiment and develop their skills. There is also increased competition, especially amongst higher end establishments and many are developing marketing strategies to attract the right clientele. However, coming with the clientele is an expected level of service, and to attract and retain the right employees (especially those with an excellent commend on the English language) as well as training these new employees, a good human resources department is key, especially in the big hotels.

Career Advancement in Hospitality and Tourism in Myanmar

To acquire a job in tourism and hospitality, one does not necessarily need experience, but needs to be friendly, helpful and personable. From there anything is possible. You may be working in Yangon as a waitress, and after gathering some experience may take on a role with more responsibility such as an assistant manager which develops a transferrable skill set. Hospitality and tourism is a great career option to begin with as not only is there no shortage of jobs, but it is a highly flexible occupation, from both a working hours perspective (which allows one to work whilst they study or pursue other interests) and also locational flexibility. Travel is always possible, both nationally and internationally. One could move to an international hotel, where you gather cross exposure to other areas of tourism and hospitality. Moving occupations within a hotel is highly achievable, and always a good plan as it contributes to giving a hospitality and tourism professional a more rounded skill set. For example, taking on some shifts as a receptionist will give you an administration skill set which is transferrable to other industries, such as accounting and finance. Especially if it is aligned to one’s studies.