Famous Hotel Kalaw

WE arrived there quite late, 4pm. It was about to be sunset and get cold. Receptionist was very friendly and helpful in giving tips to eateries and sights.

The location of the hotel, on top of a hill, gives to great view of the sunset and sunrise as well as being a good marker for navigating back when you explore the small town by foot.

The staff were very eager to help during our stay and could not do more to ensure guests were comfortable. The girl at reception always came running out with an umbrella to meet us in the heavy monsoon rain. Even though we did not mind the weather, we appreciated how the staff went the extra mile.
The hotel has stunning views of kalaw and is built in a beautiful hillside location. Our room and balcony had impressive, panoramic views of the area.
The only downsides were that breakfast took almost an hour to arrive even though we were the only guests in the restaurant. Because of this we were late for our trek.

Breakfast first morning was poor in buffet style
second morning much better with breakfast made on request
Tip - do not ring up the guest at 0700 asking if they want a taxi at 12 noon checkout time ??

Staff very loud before 6am- I must have been near staff quarters and they woke me shouting and laughing. Staff poor with English and customer service. Restaurant was expensive and did not have most items on menu. Buffet breakfast was cold. Staff follow you trying to serve you even though a buffet- very irritating. View was great. Rooms were very comfortable (except for the noise from staff!)

Our experience at this hotel was truly amazing! We arrived here after taking the bus from Bagan and instantly spotted the hotel located at the top of the hill. When we arrive we discovered that the hotel had only opened 3 days ago and we were their second guests!
We were greeted with cold towels and shown to our clean, beautiful, and large room.
Although we could only spend one night here every second of our stay was perfect thanks to the amazing staff. Louis, the manager, speaks incredible English and did everything he could to make our stay memorable. He treated us to a special drink with dinner and in the morning even presented me with the most beautiful traditional outfit. He truly went above and beyond - thank you Louis! The whole service team was so lovely, including bar man Scott, Ko Paing, Ko Phyo, Ko Kyai, and Ko Phowe.
Do keep in mind that this is a new hotel and they are still figuring a few things out. A few of the items of the menu that we tried to order were unavailable but the staff were too nice to even care! The food was delicious and the setting overlooking the town is incredible.

100% recommend!!