Because of the current events in Myanmar (Burma) it makes sense to me to post a little about a trip I made there in early 2002 and something about the regime that people live under.
First, the people there are as kind and hospitable as any I've encountered anywhere. It is sad, as it is around the globe, to see a brutal government repress it's own people. I was there during a small window of time that things started to open up and some tourism was encouraged. Ang San Su Kyi, the elected leader still under house arrest, discouraged tourism. Many others at that time though were encouraging visitors for the help it would bring the people and local economy. It was a tough decision, but I am glad I decided to go.
I was in Bagan, one of the most amazing places I've seen in my life, when (after a bout of the worst food poisoning I could imagine) my cash ran out and I needed to cash a travelers check. My driver, and savior at this point, reluctantly drove me to the local bank to cash a travelers check. The experience that followed shaped my opinion on the country and it's ruling class.
Upon approaching a teller's window and showing the traveler's check, I was ushered to a back waiting room to see the bank manager. After surrendering my passport and travelers check I waited an hour or more in an austere post soviet style office. 
The "manager" finally arrived from central casting and wanted to have a conversation about me and my travelers check. Where was I from? Reason for visit? Would I like some tea? Who are you traveling with? What do you do in the US? Have some more tea. Are you impressed with the wonderful country of Myanmar? Do you have a camera with you? What pictures have you taken? I went on and on with this big sweaty man for an hour before he deemed me worthy of cashing a travelers check.

After this, I started paying a little closer attention to the people breaking rocks and building mountain roads by hand.