I think Emerald Land Inn is probably the best midrange hotel available in Mandalay where such accommodation is sorely lacking, but it definitely has room to improve. The hotel feels old, particularly the bathroom, though water pressure and temperature were fine. There were a lot of mosquitoes in general, even in the room, probably because of the pool and the bushes and plants everywhere. Room was quite dark as well. Staff were friendly and helpful, but failed to inform us that there would be a charge to use the computer in the reception area and we were surprised to find a bill handed to us at the end of our stay. Breakfast was a good buffet. There's also wifi but really only works in the reception area (that's free).

The Emerald Land Inn is in a quiet area north-west of central Mandalay. It's just about walkable from downtown, but it's quite a way and easy to get lost because street signs are not always there.

My flight was delayed, so it was dark by the time I arrived here. I wanted to go into town to catch a show - reception told me it was too late to arrange a taxi, but they did arrange a local tri-shaw driver for me. I haven't had good experiences with tri-shaws in the past, but this guy was honest and I kept him on for the next day and a half for some eco-conscious touring.

My room was spacious and clean, with polished timber floor. Furnishings were old-fashioned but perfectly OK. Bathroom was dimly lit - I think one of the globes had failed - but the hot water was good.

Breakfast is not buffet but is brought to you individually - as a vegetarian my options were limited to a bit of fruit and a lot of bread, but I've had worse.

I booked online and for what I paid this hotel was good value - particularly as it has a nice outdoor swimming pool, very welcome after a day in the Mandalay heat.

Had a garden cottage for 6 nights in this quiet area. Very friendly staff, good breakfast ( the bread basket is massive, the juice fresh) in the restaurant.
You will need transport to get downtown - they can call a "blue taxi"but the rates WILL vary depending on the driver; the hotel cannot control this. First driver was 2000 kyat, next 4000 kyat - so one idea is to find a driver you are happy with and keep them for your whole time in Mandalay ( booking them for the whole day to take you to all the sights).

Try to negotiate for the superdeluxe room for a normal tariff and you have excellent value