The Aureum Resort at Governor’s Residence

The Aureum Resort at Governors Residence is located just out of the main town of the Pyin Oo Lwin, the old British colonial hill station located above the plains of Mandalay. Maymyo was developed in the late 19th century and a walk through the suburbs will allow you to see the slightly faded, yet interesting former British bungalows and churches. A real highlight is a walk through the Botanical Gardens, which contain more than 480 species of flowers, trees and shrubs. Unless you are really interested in British colonial history and architecture then Pyin Oo Lwin might not be for you (and Kalaw is possibly slightly more interesting as an alternative), but if you are travelling onto Hsipaw or Lashio then it makes for a worthy one-night stop before boarding the train the following day.

The hotel itself is split into two distinct parts. By the entrance you find the normal lodge, featuring a cluster of Deluxe Bungalows surrounding the main dining/bar area. The rooms near the road are admittedly a little noisy so we always request for our guests to be in the rows at the back of the cluster ensuring a quiet nights sleep. The bungalows are comfortably furnished, although they are a little simple. Rooms all have a sit-out at the front, and a small living area with a raised sleeping area. There come with en-suite bathrooms which feature a separate bath tub and shower. At the centre of the cluster you find the bar and dining room. WiFi generally only works in this area and you can choose from a limited selection of mostly Burmese dishes. It might be worth heading out for dinner as there are some superb restaurants in town. The Club Terrace is worth trying, partly as it is set within a former British colonial bungalow, but remember to stick to Asian and local dishes as their European dishes aren’t so delicious, or for excellent Indian fare try the Taj Pyin Oo Lwin, set on the banks of the lake.

At the top of the hill you will find the Governors Residence, which is a fully restored replica of the British residence which was bombed by the Japanese in 1941. There are just five rooms here, ideal if you are travelling as a large party. It has its down colonial dining room, bar and indoor swimming pool. Even if you aren’t staying there, it is worth taking a buggy up to have a look around.

In short however, Maymyo is worth a night, and the don’t expect a great deal from the hotel and just treat it like a comfortable place to rest your head before heading onto Hsipaw the following day (which is well worth the journey!).