am flying up to Mandalay in july and will be spending 2 weeks between Mandalay an Bagan

plus day trips.

where would be the best to spend the longest based out of?

Suggestions on accommodations $20-30/night range ( need internet to work)

Thanks

Of the 2 have only been to Bagan and that was for a 3 night stay and couldn't wait to get out of there.

Yes there a million or whatever the number (2,000 or so) of ancient temples and pagodas but unless you have a specific interest a couple of days is sufficient to take in the major sites and capture a few photos especially at dawn and dusk. My only regret was that I was there out of season for the hot air balloons (October-March) and would consider returning for that alone.

In 2 weeks consider adding Inle if your workload allows.

Cannot help with accommodation.