First of all before I review this hotel we must say a thank you to the hotel staff when we were taken ill on our last night thanks to a case of probable food poisoning (not because of the hotel) and we had to call for medical assistance at about 3am. The hotel manageress with a member of staff came with the doctor and his staff to check if we were ok and if any assistance would be required, However, because of our illness we didn’t hand in the Comments Sheet, so some of the below may be news to the hotel. In addition we only stayed there for two very hectic days.

The hotel is in a lovely location next to the Irrawaddy River. The gardens were a delight and reminded us of the gardens at the Grand Centara at Hua Hin albeit at a smaller scale. The greeting was fine and we were informed of the facilities. We were then accompanied to our room.

We were in a very nice room over looking the river but it was a fair walk from the reception area. There was a chemical smell when we arrived and we weren’t sure if this was from a timber stain or for repelling insects. Either way it had gone the next day. The room was clean and a nice size. The washroom was a good size with a large roll top bath. As an osteoarthritis sufferer who tries to avoid taking anti inflammitories I thought a hot bath might be an option with all the walking we would do. So turned the hot tap on and very brown water came out. It did improve but didn’t go totally clear so I left it. The shower wasn’t a problem. The toilet was separate from the main bathroom. The door was lock broken. The bed was comfortable and nice size. The internet worked though we were told that generally in the afternoon it can slow down.

As for food there seemed to be an issue with breakfast especially on one day. If you wanted a cooked meal that was fine but one morning there was a shortage if you wanted cereal or any bread products. We struggled and noticed that other guests had the same issues. One guest spent time trying to find something that wasn’t cooked. Anyway after they returned to the table a pile of croissants were brought out but were cold and to my mind slightly greasy. Otherwise the food was fine.

We found as elsewhere the staff to be friendly and helpful.

If you want to venture out you will probably need a taxi. The one time we did go out our guide dropped us at the restaurant and then asked them to sort out a tuk tuk for us to go back to the hotel. We would add the roads are poor. We understand that this is down to the Dept of Archeology who put barrriers in the way of road repairs and new roads.

As for the title to this review our room was next to a working river and the fishermen start their extremely noisy Merlin engines before 6am. For me it wasn’t too much of an issue but you may think otherwise. We don’t blame the hotel but you might want a word with your agent if this is a concern and ask for a room away from the river. there was also a boardwalk just outside our room, with workman along up and down regularly.

Loved staying at the Aye Yar resort. After a long day spent on the Irrawady river getting Bagan on a cruise .. the resort allows you to stay close to the river for as long as you stay in Bagan. The location is brilliant with a vantage view of the rhythms of life on the river (atleast the room we chose). On the New Year’s Eve we came back to the room to find the bed decorated with a Happy New Year wish.. and similarly on other nights one came back to the room to find floral decorations on the bed.. The food was adequate .. the service very attentive. Overall and excellent stay.