Perfect balance between East and West

“We loved our two nights at the Inle Princess and wish we’d had longer. Approaching the hotel in a canoe with a local oarsman foot-rowing was the start to a wonderfully relaxing and romantic stay. It is always tricky getting the balance between traditional style and atmosphere on one hand and modern needs on the other. I think they get it just right. The hotel is a series of traditional Burmese wooden houses with verandas, tiny gardens and an additional outdoor shower cabin. We had a lakeside view with wonderful sunsets. It is all beautifully landscaped with paths (lit by small lights at night) winding through trees. There’s a pool and a spa where you can get a treatment and enjoy another stunning view.
To our surprise there were no insects,apparently they come with the better weather. None even around lights in the garden. August turned out to be not a bad month to go – very few tourists, no bugs and (apart from an occasional downpour) good weather. All the staff were smiley and helpful and the whole place had a peaceful atmosphere. Our room and bathroom were large. The wash area was tucked away separately so the bathroom was basically a large room with a tub in the middle. The lighting was quite dim,so anyone putting on make-up would have a challenge not looking like a painted clown. Contrarily the curtains were quite thin so light streamed in once the sun was up. Large bed was very comfortable.
We only ate Asian food and it was pretty good. Stick to cocktails, forget wine. Breakfast on the terrace overlooking the lake will leave an enduring picture in my mind. I could have done without canned music which clashed with the atmosphere but I think it was only breakfast and in the bar.
A day on the lake visiting floating islands and local craft-making was a delight. We had a tropical downpour and ponchos and umbrellas were immediately produced. We were on a tight schedule mixing work and holiday so couldn’t have the 3 or 4 days we would have liked. For charm and a distinctive atmosphere this hotel deserves a good rating.”