Shwe Inn Tha Floating Resort

You can’t get around without arranging a boat in advance, so plan for that. The location is central on Inle lake, and staying in a house over the water is a unique experience. The walls seemed to move the next day, a bit like being on a ship. Passing boats are very loud. Local prayers begin at 04:00 a. m, and management warned us that we’d hear them. The rooms have beautifully carved wood, terraces and outdoor showers. Beds are comfortable and have mosquito nets, the air conditioning is good, and there are plenty of amenities. Breakfast is acceptable. Staff are very friendly. There’s also a pool over the water, which was a little cold. Towels, sunbeds and umbrellas are provided free.

We loved the rustic cabin, especially its sunrise views, outdoor shower and patio by the canal. It’s a little off the beaten track, but made for a perfect getaway on the lake. The staff were kind and the boatmen were great. Dinner and happy hour felt quiet, and a little music might give the shared areas more personality. On our last day, we got lost in the fog on the way back to Nyaungshwe 🤣. A lovely romantic break. Red Mountain Winery was easy to reach by tuk tuk, and the hot springs were a delight.

The resort looks fantastic, and the staff are polite, attentive and helpful. But getting there takes an hour by boat from the city, and the round trip costs USD 30. There are a few attractions closer by, though you’ll need a boat to go anywhere. Don’t expect a relaxing stay at a floating resort on Inle Lake. Passing motorboats have extremely loud engines, like a helipad on the roof, and they start around 6AM.

The constant noise from boats passing by was the worst part. If you’re looking for a quiet hotel, this isn’t the place, and I wouldn’t recommend staying here. It’s nearly an hour from the main town, and the only way in or out is by boat. The outdoor showers are nice, but breakfast was basic and dinner very average and overpriced. With no other place to eat nearby, we had to dine at the hotel, and they took advantage of that. Staff were somewhat helpful.