The planned New Year's holiday to Myanmar, aka Burma, has generated some controversey.

Several UK friends expressed their moral outrage that I support a country that oppresses its people. Lonely Planet has bannered across its own guidebook: "Should You Go? See Inside For Details."

My answer is an unwavering yes.

If one wants to wave the moral finger of justice, and becry tourism that supports, through tourist hard currency, oppression, Naturally the following places also should be avoided:

Laos: oppression of Hmong
United States: See above (actually set them up to rebel, then left them to fend for themselves)
Iraq: See above
Cambodia: Pol Pot's followers have never been put on trial for war crimes

And you see, this issue developes into a painful, a downward spiral aflame in Don'ts...

rather than live my life according to what Ned calls the "Can't People," we are nonetheless headed to what appears to be a diverse, beautiful nation seeped in southeast asian and buddhist history.

If the situation is so dire, then aren't I a better man for having seen it with my own eyes.

Maybe our UK friends have a guilt complex surrounding this former colony turned military junta.

I'll be careful to buy local, avoid handing the government too many clams directly.

Should I go? most certainly.

interestinly enough, Lonely Planet did not suggest avoiding a visit to:

Tibet, home of cultural and identity rape by the Chinese central government.

Pakistan, home to honor killings, honor-rooted gang rape and well, most of the Taliban brass.

Cuba, where US pride amongst geriatric senators disallows a nation to modernize and provide better economic options for its people. (blame Castro a bit, here too).

North Korea, where the radio dial is welded to Radio Pyongyang, voice of the "people."

My curiosity to visit the Burmese highlands was cemented by the wonderfully written The Piano Tuner.

Two weeks in the heart of Burma...stay tuned.