How to get to Ann

Ann is a distinctive town located in the western part of Myanmar. Surrounded by picturesque landscapes, the town offers travellers the opportunity to experience the non-touristy, authentic atmosphere of the region. Time flows slowly here, allowing guests to take a break from the hustle and bustle of large metropolises and observe the traditional lifestyle of the local people.

When planning how to get to Ann, tourists often consider this town as an interesting point on their route to explore the province. A journey here is a chance to see the country from a new perspective and immerse yourself in unique local colour, hidden from the eyes of mass tourism.

The town is served by its own small airport, Ann (IATA code: VBA). It primarily handles domestic flights, providing air connections with other regions of the country.

Since there are usually no direct international flights to Ann, travellers will need to plan a route with a transfer at one of Myanmar's major aviation hubs. It is recommended to check the current schedule and ticket availability in advance, as flight frequency may vary depending on the season and demand.

For those who enjoy train travel, it is worth noting that trains do not go directly to Ann, as there is no railway station in the town. The railway network in this part of Myanmar is not ubiquitous, so this mode of transport is more often chosen for moving between the country's largest metropolises rather than for trips to small, remote towns.

If you are still planning a complex route through the region, you can orient yourself towards neighbouring settlements. The closest is Kyaukpyu, located approximately 64 kilometres away. Travellers also sometimes consider Sittwe and Thandwe as transit points, but the final leg of the journey to the destination will invariably have to be covered by car or bus.

Bus services connect the town with key settlements in the state, offering a budget-friendly way to travel. A scenic trip from Kyaukpyu will take about 3–4 hours, covering a distance of approximately 140 kilometres along local roads. Travellers departing from the administrative centre of Sittwe will spend about 7–9 hours on the road, covering around 300 kilometres and enjoying views of the countryside.

Another popular route runs from the town of Thandwe, located approximately 200 kilometres to the south. The journey usually takes 5–6 hours, and it is an excellent way to see real life in Myanmar from the vehicle window. It is recommended to choose morning trips and check the bus class when purchasing a ticket, as comfort levels can vary from simple minibuses to air-conditioned expresses.

Travelling by car in Myanmar allows you to see the picturesque landscapes of Rakhine State at your own pace. The route from the town of Kyaukpyu is considered one of the fastest: the distance of about 140 kilometres can be covered in approximately 3–3.5 hours. If you are driving from the administrative centre of Sittwe, the road will take more time — about 6–7 hours, during which you will have to drive around 300 kilometres.

The trip from Thandwe is also popular among tourists wishing to enjoy views of the coast and countryside. The journey of about 200 kilometres usually requires about 5 hours behind the wheel. For such transfers, travellers often hire a taxi or rent a car with a local driver, as road quality can vary and navigation can be difficult. It is better to negotiate the cost of a private transfer in advance, as fixed rates are rare.

A trip to Ann will allow you to see the authentic side of Myanmar, but visiting this small town requires some preparation. To ensure your visit is as comfortable as possible and leaves only pleasant impressions, we recommend familiarizing yourself with the following practical tips.

1. Clothing and Essentials. The climate here is hot and humid, so prefer loose clothing made from natural fabrics such as cotton or linen. However, please be mindful of the conservative traditions of the region: shoulders and knees should be covered, especially when visiting temples. Do not forget comfortable shoes that are easy to remove, as you will need to take them off frequently.
2. Transport. Ann is a small settlement, and public transport is not well-developed here. To move around the town and its surroundings, it is most convenient to use motorcycle taxis or arrange trips with private drivers. Be sure to agree on the cost of the trip in advance, before boarding the vehicle.
3. Finances. Bank cards are practically not accepted in local shops and cafes, and ATMs may work unstably or be absent. The main rule is to carry a sufficient supply of cash in the local currency (Kyats). It is better to exchange currency in advance in major cities (Yangon or Mandalay), as the exchange rate in the province may be unfavourable.
4. Health and Safety. Be sure to use insect repellent, as mosquitoes can carry infections in the tropical climate. Drink only bottled water and avoid drinks with ice in street cafes. Assemble a small first aid kit with essential medicines, as the selection of medications in local pharmacies may be limited.
5. Communication. Few people in the town speak English, mostly hotel staff or guides. It is recommended to download an offline translator on your smartphone or learn a few basic phrases in Burmese, for example, the greeting "Mingalabar". Locals greatly appreciate guests' attempts to speak their language.
6. Local Etiquette. Myanmar is a country with deep Buddhist traditions. Always remove your shoes and socks before entering pagodas, monasteries, and private homes. Never point your feet at people or Buddha statues — this is considered a grave insult. Also, it is not customary to touch a local resident's head, even a child's.
7. What to Avoid. Do not photograph people without their permission, especially monks and elderly residents. Also, refrain from photographing administrative buildings and people in uniform to avoid attracting unnecessary attention and creating misunderstandings.
8. Additional Tip. In small towns, power outages are possible. Bring a powerful power bank (external battery) and, if possible, a small flashlight — they may come in handy in the evening.

Following these simple rules will help you show respect for the local culture and avoid everyday inconveniences. Ann will give you a unique experience of discovering the life of provincial Myanmar if you are open to new things and attentive to details.