This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Mandalay.
Mandalay, Myanmar (Burma), is a city in central Myanmar and it is a travel gateway and connection points for tourists. Most tourists will pass through Mandalay at least once, and with the slow transportation in Myanmar, it is also likely you will have to stay here at least one night.
Mandalay is the second-largest city in the country, and there are a few hostels in Mandalay, Myanmar (Burma). As Myanmar is constantly developing, the amount of hostels in Mandalay, Myanmar (Burma) will probably increase in the coming years, which will give more choices to backpackers. The current hostels in Mandalay, Myanmar (Burma), are of very good quality. There are a few backpacker hostels in Mandalay, Myanmar (Burma), but in addition, some hotels or homestays also offer dorm rooms. The hostels in Mandalay, Myanmar (Burma) usually include free breakfast and Wi-Fi.
When looking for a hostel in Mandalay, Myanmar (Burma), location can be important. It is nice to be within walking distance of the Royal Palace, because that is where the city centre is. Other things you might find important is whether or not there is air conditioning (usually there is) and if they can organize onward transport for you. The hotels/homestays that offer dorms don’t always have a common area, so if you are looking to meet people, it might be better to choose a backpacker hostel in Mandalay, Myanmar (Burma). The bus station is located seven kilometers outside of the city, but it is not common for Mandalay, Myanmar (Burma) hostels to offer a pick-up service, so you have to organize a taxi when you arrive.
Mandalay itself is not the most exciting city in Myanmar, but it makes a nice day trip to rent a motorbike and explore the surrounding villages. Some Mandalay, Myanmar (Burma) hostels can organize the motorbike rental for you. Other things worth doing in Mandalay are visiting the Royal Palace, visiting the handicrafts factories around town, and climbing the hill -- from where you will have a nice view over the city.
Written by local enthusiast for Mandalay hostels
Paulien