Plan B? Chiang Mai

I read the item “Myanmar eVisas” about applying for the visas online at http://evisa.moip.gov.mm (Jan. ’15, pg. 4). 

Using a different website, I applied for an online visa in early October 2014, with plans to visit Myanmar Nov. 11-14. I followed the instructions given on the website, included a photo and gave my credit card info to pay the $50 fee.

I was informed that I would receive an approval letter within five business days. When I didn’t receive the letter, I sent an email. It wasn’t answered.

I figured I would just go to Yangon, Myanmar, and the problem would be solved. I flew to the Bangkok International Airport in Thailand, then took a one-hour shuttle bus ride (FREE) to the Don Mueang Airport, an airport used by budget airlines.

When I went to the AirAsia check-in counter, I was told I would not be able to board a plane to Myanmar without the approval letter.

What to do? Find a new travel destination! I thought of Chiang Mai, Thailand. I knew nothing about that city except the name. I found an affordable flight that left two hours later. I figured, ‘How bad could it be for three days?’

Chiang Mai was fantastic! The locals were the friendliest people I had ever encountered.

By the way, no $50 charge was ever made to my credit card (and, for the record, though I live in Argentina, I am a US citizen).

JERRY MENDEL

Buenos Aires, Argentina