Prices are for shared bathroom. On the western side of town, a short walk from the train-station, this friendly guest house has plenty of options. It’s a new build that offers upgrades from the shared bathroom options listed to $15 double/ en-suite/ fan and $20 double/ en-suite/ AC.

If I had to write a formula for the pricing policy at Mr Charles’ hotel, you’d need a degree to understand it. It previously stood out from the other guest houses, though some of the newer builds are giving it some stiff competition. A little further out of the centre of town (and a taxi ride from the train station) the best policy is to call, tell them what you would like and reserve a room. Once you’re there you can then look at all of the options first hand.

Prices are for shred bathroom, but upgrade your double room to en-suite for just 2,000Ks more. This place is close to the train station and does have character. It’s not the most modern of builds, but the staff are exceedingly helpful and friendly. If you’re into trekking then this could be the place to head to; for guests they’ll show you 1 day (directions to a village and they can organise lunch for 2,000Ks per person), 2 day and 4 day treks that you can take yourself of on; no guide needed. Guides can be organised if needed. As well as the maps, they’ll also book you a place for each of the nights if you follow their maps (6,000Ks per person, per night). They only accept payment in Kyats and they do allow locals to stay, meaning that you could be woken earlier than you would expect if you were staying at a dedicated tourist hotel.

Prices are for shared bathroom. The older of Dr Aung’s two guest houses, and hence a little cheaper. A standard double with en-suite is $25 and superior room $30.

To quote a young couple from Hong Kong “Its good clean Chinese food”. And a look at the prices as well, what more can you say? With big round tables it’s also a great place to just sit and chat with other travellers as well.