When I stayed in Mandalay I did several things. The Mandalay cycling tour and did the grasshopper cycling tour and my own cycling tour trough Mandalay city to the U-bain bridge.
Airport to Mandalay city centre
At the airport there are several services you can take. Share a minivan for $5 or take a private taxi for $15. The ride from Mandalay airport to Mandalay will take about 30 minutes and the driver will drop you off at your hotel in Mandalay city. After a little bargaining we had a good deal and paid $8 for three of us.
Food in Mandalay
In Mandalay you can eat everything you want. Western food Indian and local food. I love the markets and try the local food.
Sightseeing in Mandalay
On my first day I arrived late and had a beer in a local baron the roof terras. Second day I went to Grashopper adventures to do the Mandalay cycling tour. It is a nice tour with guide who explains about food culture and buildings. Third day I make my own cycling tour. Just went out early and cycled to the hill with the pagoda. Had a little siesta and went for sunset to the Ubain bridge (very touristy at sunset) But the bike ride is so awesome! Waving kids everywhere!
Cheap hotel in Mandalay
At my first night I booked a night trough booking.com. The hotel was $20 and OK. I spoke a Spanish girl and she stayed at the Yadanarbon hotel in Mandalay that seems to be better for $20. And yes it was! A cold towel and strawberry juice when I checked in. Nice rooms with perfect shower. When I go back to Mandalay I will go there again š