Rupar Mandalar

The Rupar Mandalar is located about a 10-15 minute drive from the main sights of Mandalay, and is set within a leafy 5-acre landscaped garden containing the city’s largest swimming pool.

There are a range of rooms and suites to choose from. All rooms are wonderfully furnished, with flatscreen TVs, mini bars and modern bathrooms. The older ten Deluxe Rooms (or Cherry) rooms are located in the front garden and are in a row, and all have a welcoming sit-out to the front. Inside, you will find the whole room teakwood-panelled with either a twin, or four-poster bed draped in Burmese silk. If you are a light sleeper, maybe opt for an upgraded room as the Deluxe Rooms are slightly closer to the nearby road. The larger Junior Suite is tucked away in the gardens and has two rooms which is ideal for families. There are then a further two larger family suites (two and three bedrooms) and the ginormous Presidential Suite, again using the same style of wood-panelling coating the whole room, which can at times make it feel a little dark. Close to the swimming pool you find the Premier Suites, which are the most modern in design and seem lighter, blending neutrally white-washed walls with a dash of wood yet retaining traditional Burmese fixtures and fittings. Opt for either a ground floor room with a terrace, or a first-floor room with a balcony. At the corner you have larger Corner Suites which look directly over the swimming pool.

The facilities are impressive, with a spa, sauna, fitness centre and tennis courts. The restaurants serve both local, Asian and international dishes. There are bikes to rent, and you can spend a few hours exploring the local area.