While researching things to do and places to stay in Myanmar, I consulted several friend who had already visited the country. All of them urged me to visit Nyaung Shwe, the closest town to Inle Lake (a must do when visiting Myanmar!) and mentioned Song of Travel Hostel as a great and affordable place to stay. After reading lots of positive reviews, I booked a few nights and I am so happy that I did!
The Room
Song of Travel has several dorm rooms, each named after different states within Myanmar. The rooms are fitted with capsule style beds. Each bed has a privacy curtain, reading light, and a locker. Guests are each provided a towel for the duration of their stay. While it was not a plush downy bed you might find at a five-star hotel, my bed was still very comfortable. On the walls inside each bed are inspirational quotes from different musical artists.
Free breakfast is included in the room fee. It is served on their open air rooftop that provides great views of the mountains in the distance. The menu changes daily so you won't get bored. Oh, and it's delicious! If you get hungry later in the day, they also have a menu of quick snacks and light meals. Complimentary tea, coffee, cookies, and hand-rolled cigars are also available for guests near reception.
Location
Song of Travel is located on a relatively quiet residential street. It is a bit of a ways from Inle Lake itself. This isn't really problem, however, as they provide FREE bicycles for hostel guests to use. They require a deposit that is returned when you check out. The bikes are a great way to explore the lake and town more. They are also the perfect way to get to a nearby winery for drinks and amazing sunset views!
Fun Activities
One of the best parts of staying in a hostel is the ability to easily meet fellow travelers and participate in trips and activities organized by the hostel. Song of Travel has a large weekly calendar posted on one wall of the downstairs common area with great things planned each and every day! One of my favorite trips was the full day Inle Lake trip that they have daily. The trip is limited to 10 people, so signing up early is recommended. You do have to get up early in the morning but, if you do, you are in for a day of discovery that was possibly my favorite part of my entire trip! It is so worth staying here just for their tour!! It is also incredibly affordable!
Extra Bonus
Song of Travel Hostel is so amazing, that they provide a FREE guide to Myanmar on their website. It is full of great tidbits and tips that can help you plan a great trip to this awesome country! Check it out here!
Hostel Info
Aung Chan That Street 5
Nandawun Block 6
Nyaung Shwe, Inle Lake, Myanmar 11221
Phone: +95 9 780 772336
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Have you stayed at Song of Travel Hostel? Share your experience in the comments below!
1 Comment on Song of Travel Hostel, Inle Lake, Myanmar: A Review
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Great article, thanks for the tips! With the spectacular temples of Bagan, stunning Mandalay with lakes, pagodas, and palaces, lively markets and a delicious street food scene, Myanmar is a joy to visit. However, with the rise of tourism, cases of tourist targeted scams have risen as well.
Do be wary of the shoe guardians, friendship tour scam, restaurants without set prices, coin collectors, fake entrance tickets, pickpocketing, snatch thefts and many more!