Fodor's Expert Review Ayarwaddy River View Hotel

Set right along the river, this hotel offers a nice alternative to the luxury behemoths and boxy city hotels. Separating the hotel from a river is a large, busy road, so the views are best appreciated from the hotel's rooftop, where you can take in the sunset with a complimentary cocktail in hand (free drinks for happy hour is the best deal in Mandalay). Rooms are simple but tastefully decorated in local style, well-proportioned, and have comfortable beds. City facing rooms can be noisy and earplugs are recommended. From the hotel, it's a straight shot along 22nd Street to Mandalay Palace.