A Guide to Yangon for Longer Stays with Kitchen Access and Everyday Services

Yangon is the largest city in Myanmar. This destination offers a wide range of residential areas, local markets, shopping malls and eateries for those considering an extended stay. Private kitchen or kitchenette accommodations allow visitors to prepare their own meals, store food and maintain some degree of normality away from home. From exploring residential areas to checking internet access and laundry facilities, being aware of everyday requirements ensures that visitors select the most appropriate accommodations for themselves. This guide explores Yangon’s residential areas, accommodation with cooking facilities, grocery shopping options and essential services for a more comfortable lengthy stay.

What the Experts Say

Convenient neighbourhoods for extended stays

“The hotel is conveniently located in the city center, just a 5-minute walk from the Central Train Station. Major tourist attractions in Yangon are no more than 10 minutes away by taxi. This makes it an ideal base if you want to explore the city’s cultural and historical sites without spending too much time in transit.” (Universal Traveller)

Source: https://universal-traveller.com/parkroyal-yangon-myanmar-hotel-review/

Downtown Yangon is a great place to be if you’re looking for an extended stay close to shops, markets, restaurants, and other essential services. Kyauktada and Pabedan both offer plenty of local services. Bahan is an ideal base if you’re looking to visit some major tourist attractions such as Shwedagon Pagoda, Bogyoke Aung San Museum and Kandawgyi Lake, as well as popular shopping districts and dining spots. Kamayut has some shopping centres, local eateries, and other convenient services. Since it is well connected, it is an ideal place to stay if you’re looking to visit other parts of Yangon.  Choose a venue that’s close to a supermarket or grocery store to get your weekly shopping done without having to go out on your way. If you’re planning on staying somewhere for a few weeks or more, you might want to look for a place that’s within easy distance of pharmacies and hospitals. Consider the commute options to get to work or to any meetings. A property like PARKROYAL Yangon offers a convenient base for exploring the commercial centre and enjoying the everyday amenities in the bustling capital.

Serviced apartments and accommodation with on-house facilities

“As part of the hotel’s staggered renovations, the Orchid Club rooms, Orchid Club Lounge and Premier rooms have all undergone a radical revamp to offer premium comfort to guests…The 35m2 room comes with a king-sized bed, an en-suite marble bathroom with a spacious standalone shower, a work area complete with desk and ergonomic work chair, a 40-inch LCD TV with local and cable channels, a large wardrobe and a well-stocked minibar with complimentary tea and coffee…Burmese people are renowned for their innate hospitality, and this is where Parkroyal Yangon excels. Always attentive, staff are on hand to cater for every single need, with all employees – including the door staff – remembering my name and greeting me with smiles and “mingalaba” and checking how my day is going.” (TTG Asia)

Source: https://www.ttgasia.com/2016/09/19/tried-tested-parkroyal-yangon/

Guests who wish to enjoy the comforts of a home, yet do not want to sacrifice the convenience of a hotel, might wonder about recommended spacious serviced suites with kitchens and hotel services in Yangon. Check whether the apartment includes a fully equipped kitchen so you can whip up a quick meal before heading out. Studio apartments may suit solo travellers, while one- or two-bedroom apartments can offer more privacy and space for couples and families. In-room washing machines or shared laundry facilities can make everyday life easier for guests. Regular cleaning can help them maintain a comfortable living space without spending too much time on household chores. A stable internet connection is important for remote workers, business travellers and those who need to attend online meetings. Enquire about monthly rates, utility bills, cleaning fees, deposits and other costs before making a reservation.

Grocery shopping, home cooking and everyday essentials

“Fans of fresh markets will find ingredients they never knew existed to test their culinary skills along with convenience stores in every neighbourhood…Famous among Yangon’s locals as Night Market (Nya Zay) and located in the Kyimyindine Township, many locals come to this market for kitchen needs, and other things like electronic ware, cosmetic products and local medicinal products.” (Myanmore Guide to Yangon)

Source: https://www.myanmore.com/2015/07/outdoor-marketszei/

Traditional markets such as Theingyi Zay are useful places to find fresh vegetables, fruit, meat, fish, spices and household products at affordable prices. They are a good place to discover the ingredients used in Myanmar cuisine. Supermarkets are easy places to find packaged foods, dairy goods, snacks, cleaning products and other household essentials. Places such as Junction City and St. John City Mall offer shopping facilities that can help residents combine grocery shopping with other errands. Confirm accepted payment methods and opening hours before beginning your shopping venture. Carrying some local currency may be helpful when visiting traditional markets and small neighbourhood shops as these might not accept credit cards.

Work, transport and everyday services for a long stay

“The Park Royal is about a 20minute ride from the airport and is nicely situated in downtown Yangon. The railway station is a 3 minute walk across the road and Bogyoke Market (formerly Scott’s Market) is also just a short walk away. The walk to Shwedagon Paya is about 20 minutes but could take much longer as there are some interesting stops along the way!…The free wifi is also a great bonus…Ultimately what makes this hotel great however are the frontline staff. The concierge and others helping out in front cannot do enough for you. Nothing is impossible and every request is met with a smile.” (The Travel Maniacs)

Source: https://thetravelmaniacs.wordpress.com/2012/10/17/review-park-royal-hotel-yangon-rangoon/

Consider internet connection facilities, workspace, means of transport, health care and other available services when booking your accommodation. Then the most appropriate accommodation can be selected depending on the allocated budget, length of stay and personal preferences. By comparing different neighbourhoods, facilities offered and everyday costs, visitors will be able to find the best place to live in while exploring Yangon. Take into account the accessibility to shops, markets, workplaces and transport while selecting an area for your stay. Inexpensive accommodation in a good location can be found for those willing to spend more time searching.

Conclusion

Consider the distance to shops, markets, places of work, and transport options available while finding a place to stay. A convenient location reduces hassle and helps to get things done quickly. Go for serviced apartments or other suitable accommodations with additional services such as kitchen access, comfortable furnishings, internet, and laundry. Find supermarkets and markets that offer a wide variety of goods and services, and being able to do everyday shopping with ease is critical to making the most of your experience in Yangon. Internet access, transportation, healthcare, and other essential services need to be prioritised. The best option will depend on one’s finances, length of stay, and other individual factors, so you will be able to find a convenient place to live, work, and explore Yangon.