Unlike my experience exploring the insurmountable temples of Angkor Wat in Cambodia--while competing with an insurgence of fellow tourists for photo ops and trying my hardest to avoid the many local peddlers lingering around temple entrances trying to sell me souvenirs of all kinds-- Myanmar was just the opposite. Myanmar was by far my favorite country to backpack through in Southeast Asia. This dazzling country has a rich history, hospitable people, unique food, and over 3,000 temples to discover that will send you back in time. I knew very little about the country when I first started my exploration, so I would like to leave you with five basic things you should know before backpacking Myanmar.

1. Basic facts about Myanmar culture and shocking history

The far majority of Myanmar practice Buddhism. When visiting the ancient temples of Bagan, you will see local people actively using the temples for their religious practices. The Burmese people also dress modestly so respectful dress is required when visiting the temples.

You may be more familiar with Myanmar's predecessor name, Burma. Burma was changed to Myanmar by the now ruling military regime in 1989 after the massacre of thousands of people during a political uprising. Don't let this little-known fact deter you from planning a trip to Myanmar-- the country is safe for tourists and welcomes us with open arms.

2. The people are more than willing to help confused and lost tourists.

Myanmar is host to the most hospitable people I have encountered in Asia. The majority of the population barely speak enough English to communicate, but that doesn't stop them from dropping what they were doing and going out of their way to help a couple of distraught, misplaced backpackers.

3. Have I mentioned the authentic, tasty cuisine?

With its distinct geographic features and seasonal climate, Myanmar is home to many different regional and ethnic variations of meals. You can't miss the opportunity to have Myanmar style banana pancakes with raw honey, a Burmese favorite, for breakfast and dessert! Or if you are me, a favorite for breakfast, lunch, and dinner...

4. When in doubt, barter!

I learned this towards the end of my trip when I found out I had paid 80000 kyat for a 15000 kyat taxi ride... Myanmar doesn't have the same hectic market atmosphere that Cambodia, Thailand, and Vietnam do. People won't be pestering you right and left for a tuktuk ride, handcrafted souvenirs, or openly looking to strike a deal. That doesn't mean you still can't barter. Another note, don't be afraid to barter with your taxi drivers. You're a tourist, you stick out like a sore thumb, and unfortunately, some people will try to exploit that.

5. Good luck finding WiFi and bearing the power outages...

WiFi is scarce in Myanmar, so are internet cafes--oh, and air conditioning. If you do end up fortunate enough to find a hostel or restaurant with WiFi, I hope you have loads of patience because it is bound to have shoddy internet connectivity. And power outages seem to occur more often than the chance of coming across working WiFi. Try sleeping in a two-bed room with one fan in 90-degree temperatures during a midnight power outage...not fun.

I hope this last tidbit hasn't deterred you from planning the trip of a lifetime to my favorite country, Myanmar.