Cross-cultural communication is easy in Myanmar - a smile will do the trick. But just a few words of Burmese will reward you with an enthusiastic reception. Test your bargaining skills at the many colourful markets or try your hand at karaoke Burmese-style. Get where you're going as you tour on a trishaw or chat with the locals as you party at a pwe. Whatever you choose, you won't be stuck for words!

* get script savvy to make sense of signs and menus
* read up on etiquette - don't sit with you back to a Buddha - get in sync with the seasons of the Buddhist lunar calendar
* know your noodles - from mohinga to moun-ti
* find the right word with the comprehensive dictionary