What's the current opinion of the new Hotel by the Red Canal in Mandalay (rooms $45-75)? It is under the same management as the Mandalay View Inn.
There was a long thread back in January about whether it was owned by Chinese or Indian interests and then I keep seeing that its General Manager, Ashwin Kumar (ThornTree user name: Ashwin714) keeps piping in and mentioning it, but not his connection, which I find suspicious and annoying. The pictures of its garden look inviting so I find it tempting me. Comments?
Diane


Ashwin Kumar does seem to enjoy a bit of self promotion:-).. both here and on Trip advisor.. no doubt on other fora as well? I annoys me too... and frankly.. I don't understand that he can't see that its giving him an unwarranted reputation... being helpful is one thing... anyway.... Guess if I was running a newly opened hotel like it.. I too would want people to at least know about it?...The hotel is great.. the people there (including Ashwin) are terrific.. the rooms are of a standard well and truly 5*... very comfortable... breakfast, the pool ( a little on the small side).. the gardens.. all just terrific.. free internet... service with a smile.. again and again.. but as anywhere in Myanmar.. it's the people.. the staff there are just wonderful.. I can not praise their helpfulness enough.. even the cheapest room would be more than USD 100 per night anywhere else.. . We spent 3 or 4 nights in the hotel last January... And if you are looking for something better than the USD30.00 to USD 50.00 range.. Go for it... They are also happy to make other arrangements... Airport pick up.. Arrange tours, boat tickets.. booking hotels ahead for you.. Even your visa on arrival (I think).... I'd go back there any day. (wonder if I’ll get a discount for recommending the joint?.. Seriously... Its a little away from the main part of town... Bur other restaurants close by (the restaurant was not open at the hotel when we were there.. Only the breakfast was served.. In fact I think we were there the first day.. and in spite of the waiters being a little nervous.. everything was super.... No skimping on anything.