Thinking about stopping in Old Bagan, Myanmar to see the temples in the early morning with the hot air balloons. Jan. 2018. What airport do I fly into? And, any rec's on a hotel nearby for just a full day here before heading to Thailand? 3-4 star. Thank you!

You will fly into Nyaung U Airport. Which is maybe 15 mins from Old Bagan. I would recommend Kaday Aung and Thurizza Hotels in New Bagan. Both great values for money. Nice pool and good breakfast at Kaday Aung.

Also, if you have not already, book a hot air balloon asap. Most of them will already be issuing waiting lists as they fill up fast.

Enjoy!

If you only have a day, I would want to stay as close to the temples as possible, meaning Old Bagan rather than new Bagan. For me, a day wouldn't be nearly enough, especially since you plan to take the Balloon ride, which will take up the whole morning.