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diving in the Mergui Archipelago. Lifestyle The people of Myanmar people strive to preserve lifestyles and activities that have existed over many generations. They retain close ties with their heritage by communicating in their own language, wearing their own style of clothing including the longyi, relishing their own style of food, praying in their own way, celebrating their own festivals and performing their own rituals. Many of the lifestyles and activities are unique to Myanmar people including the Shin Pyu. This is a novitiation ceremony that allows a young boy to experience a temporary monastic life and is a religious practice virtually nonexistent in other parts of the world. Although some of Myanmar's beliefs, superstitions, customs and lifestyles have gradually disappeared, many still remain and are cherished and highly valued by the majority of the people. Climate Myanmar has three seasons. The cool 122 www.paradisesonline.com season is October through February with average temperatures 20-24C, while the hot season is March through May with average temperatures 30-35C. The wet season is June through September with average temperatures 25-30C. The ideal time to visit Myanmar is during the cool season. However, even during the wet season, Yangon normally receives morning and afternoon showers while rainfall in Bagan and Mandalay is very low. The weather around Inle Lake and in Shan State is quite pleasant all year round but cold at night from December to February. Currency The FEC (Foreign Exchange Currency) is used in Myanmar as currency next to the local currency kyat (pronounced "chat") can be used for purchases throughout the country. The USD is probably the most convenient currency for visitors to use, as other currencies can be difficult and time consuming to change. Credit Cards are only accepted at a very few major hotels, airlines and some international shops and restaurants. Shopping Yangon is the perfect destination for shopping enthusiasts. Here you will find a variety of unique, reasonably priced items including precious stones and jewellery, lacquerware, tapestry, antiques, Bargain fabrics shoppers and should woodcrafts. head for Bogyoke Aung San Market, where haggling is the order of the day, to pick up souvenirs.