If you are backpacking The City of Love, there are a number of cheap yet decent accommodations in Iloilo city. For short time stay, check-in at Dragon Lodge for only 280 Pesos for a 3-hour stay. If you are staying overnight, at 560 Pesos, 88 Plaza Hotel Iloilo City probably has the cheapest and most affordable rates.
Located in 88 Delgado street, the hotel is near to various landmarks in Iloilo City. It is few minute taxi ride away from the old Iloilo City hall, Iloilo Esplanade, Smallville and SM City Iloilo. Note that Iloilo airport is quite far from the city center. If you are visiting the city, do not expect hotels near the airport.
Due to the hotel’s cheap and affordable rates, their rooms easily get fully booked. I arrived in the hotel at around 10 AM there were no available single occupancy rooms. I had no choice but to book a double occupancy room at 690 Php. By the way, that was way cheaper that my last visit in Iloilo where I stayed in Injap Tower Hotel.
Facade of 88 Plaza Hotel
The hotel’s facade is simple. From outside, the building looks old to me. There is an ample parking space right in front of the hotel. As for the security, there is a guard manning at the entrance. Once you get inside, the reception is situated on the right side. On the left is a mini cafeteria which is open 24 hours.
Double Room at 88 Plaza Hotel
88 Plaza Hotel Double Room
For 690 Php, the room was good. Not something you get when you check-in in a more pricey Iloilo hotel like Injap Tower. Nonetheless, the room and the toilet with hold and cold shower are very clean. The air conditioning unit works perfectly. The hotel lacks WiFi facility but there is a space for work area. There is a mini cable television and a service phone. If you are a smoker, there are designated smoking areas in each level of the hotel.
As expected to a budget hotel, there is nothing special about 88 Plaza except for its affordable room rates. Nonetheless, the guard on the entrance was very welcoming. As for the receptionists, I just felt that they need to be more welcoming and accommodating. With their cheap room rates, I had no issues with their service. It was just getting the value of what you paid for. Overall, if you are a backpacker or a budget traveler visiting Iloilo city, I would highly recommend 88 Plaza Hotel!
If you are travelling to Dumaguete, Negros Oriental, there are a number of hotels and accommodations in the province. For budget travelers, comfort and affordability are important in choosing a hotel or accommodation. In Dumaguete, there is no other hotel aside from Go Hotels Dumaguete that offers comfort and good service at an affordable price.
Go Hotels Dumaguete Location
Go Hotels Dumaguete is located in Calindagan corner South Road in Dumaguete Central Business District Dumaguete City. The hotel is across various BPO offices and is also few meters away from Robinson’s Dumaguete mall. If you are coming from Dumaguete airport, Go Hotels Dumaguete can be reached via tricycle or habal-habal. Travel time from the airport to the hotel is 20 minutes and fare is approximately 120 Php. If you are coming from Ceres Bus Terminal in Dumaguete City, tricycle fare costs 40 Php.
I stayed in Go Hotels Dumaguete after my short day trip in Bacolod. I traveled from Bacolod to Dumaguete via ordinary bus which took roughly 7 long hours. Since I was not able to anticipate the long travel, I arrived in Dumaguete city at 11 PM and immediately took a tricycle to Go Hotels Dumaguete.
Check-in was a breeze
It was my first time to check-in in a Go Hotels chain. I was very excited as I’ve been reading good reviews about their hotels. When I arrived, I was surprised by its spacious open air lobby and reception area. It was simple and clean.
Go Hotels Dumaguete Reception area
Go Hotels Dumaguete Lobby
The check-in process was a breeze. Since I booked online prior to my trip, I just presented my Travelbook booking confirmation to the receptionist. She quickly verified my booking and immediately handed me the key card for my room.
Go Hotels Dumaguete room rates
Unfortunately, Go Hotels do not have published room rates. Their rates are more expensive if you will book closer to your check-in date. The below rates were generated via Go Hotels site as of this writing.
Room rates if you book via Go Hotels site 3 days prior to check-in date:
twin bedroom – 1220 Php
queen size bedroom – 1220 Php
Tip: Alternatively, hotel online booking sites such as Agoda and Travelbook offer cheaper Go Hotels Dumaguete rates.
Travelbook had this last-minute booking promo for twin room for only 710.12 Php instead of 900 Php. It was even cheaper than a queen size room. Being a budget traveler, I immediately booked the 710.12 Php promo rate.
Go Hotels Dumaguete twin room
I was assigned to a twin bedroom on the second level, just right beside the stairs. I should say that I did not really expect anything as I only paid 710.12 Php. Surprisingly, the room is spacious for a budget hotel. It was very clean and well maintained. The bed and pillows did not disappoint. It was good for the rates Go Hotels Dumaguete offers.
Room amenities include air-conditioning unit, cable TV, WiFi, soap and shampoo, in-room safe and hot and cold shower. Being a hotel for travelers and backpackers, the room does not have any work area. Nonetheless, if you are bringing work in Go Hotels, the fast internet connection will compensate the lack of work area. As for the toilet and bath, it was very clean. Aside from the soap and shampoo, bath towels and mats are provided.
Twin room
The interior is simple and has this hip and cool vibe.
If you are a food lover or a smoker, eating inside your Go Hotels room is not allowed. There is this note in the room that eating areas are available at the hotel’s common areas. For smokers, there are designated smoking areas outside the ground lobby. If you dare to eat or smoke inside your room, prepare for a 1,000 Php cleaning charge. I do not have issues about these rules as these are for Go Hotels to maintain the quality of their rooms.
My Take on Go Hotels Dumaguete
Overall, I enjoyed my stay in Go Hotels Dumaguete. The receptionists were very accommodating and welcoming. I should say their approach and service are at par with receptionists of high-end hotels in Manila. For Go Hotels Dumaguete room rates, the room exceeded my expectations. It was spacious and clean. Dumaguete’s Go Hotels is indeed a budget friendly hotel in city!
Go Hotels Website: http://www.gohotels.ph
Cheap Go Hotels Dumaguete online booking: Agoda / Travelbook
Contact Numbers.: +63 (35) 5221100 | 5221102
F1 Hotel Manila is the very first premier hotel in Bonifacio Global City or popularly known as BGC – a Philippine leisure, lifestyle and business hub situated in Taguig City. F1 Hotel Manila is located along the 32nd Street of Bonifacio Global City and is just a walking distance from various corporate offices, shopping malls, banks and a world-class hospital.
F1 Hotel Manila Facade
Since I will not be able to travel on Christmas, Jen and I decided to book a hotel for a holiday staycation instead. Since we did not want to go farther for our staycation, we considered hotels in BGC which is just a 10 minute drive from home. After comparing prices, we decided to book a room at F1 Hotel Manila.
Lobby
We arrived at F1 Hotel Manila at around 3:00 PM. The hotel’s parking was full, perhaps due to the holiday season where many guests visit F1 Hotel for their sumptuous lunch and dinner buffets. We had to temporarily park at Parkade 3 and soon transferred to the hotel’s parking later that day.
I should say that F1 Hotel Manila’s entrance is not like any other expensive hotels in Bonifacio Global City. It was simple yet modern. We approached the concierge at the hotel’s ground floor and we were courteously informed that the hotel lobby is on the 5th level.
Lobby at the 5th level
Concierge at the ground level
Elevator area at the ground level
The lobby in the 5th level was simple and modern. The check-in process was a breeze. Special thanks to F1 Hotel Manila’s front desk officer Joanne! Unlike in other hotels, I was surprised that we were given 2 key cards for our room. Joanne also provided a personalized WiFi password for our internet needs throughout out stay. Just make sure to prepare your credit card or 3,000 Php cash for the hotel’s security deposit. Don’t worry as this is refundable after check-out.
F1 Hotel Manila Deluxe Room
We stayed at room 702 which is at the end of the hallway and appears to be corner unit. As we entered the room, there was an element of surprise as there is a mini hallway leading to the main room area. I should say that I was really surprised with the interiors! The room is stylish and has this executive and businessman vibe. The grays, reds and browns perfectly complement each other resulting to a modern and classy appeal of the room.
mini living room area
F1 Hotel Manila
The king size bed and pillows were very comfortable. Pillow cases, linens and comforter were of high quality and at par with that of 5-star hotels in the metro. I personally love the soft gray headboard.
There is a life-size gray wooden dresser that come with safety box, bathrobe, iron and even fire extinguisher. Beside the dresser are the complimentary tea, coffee and creamer sachets along with complimentary water bottles. Beneath is a personal refrigerator. Across the dresser is a mini living area with a high-end sofa and table.
work area
toilet & bath
The Deluxe room also comes with a 32 inch flat screen cable TV placed in a long desk paired with a comfortable stylish chair. The desk also serves as a work area in the room. On the other end of the desk is a stylish lamp, a welcome letter from F1 Hotel Manila, F1 Hotel Manila notepad and a booklet containing hotel’s menu and offerings.
The toilet and bath were also a surprise! The sink and the toilet are adjacent to one another. F1 Hotel Manila branded toiletries such as soaps, shampoo, conditioner, cotton buds, toothbrush, toothpaste and even a comb are provided. Just above the sink is a long mirror that covers the entire length of the bathroom. The shower area is separated by a glass door. The rainfall shower is my favorite!
Aside from the cozy and upscale ambiance, the floor to ceiling glass window sets this F1 Hotel Room apart from other upscale hotels I have been to. Despite of this, the room does not get hot during daytime due to the floor to ceiling curtains and not to mention the strategic location of its air-conditioning unit.
F1 Hotel Manila Published Room Rates
Deluxe Room – 10,000 Php a night
1 King-Size Bed
36-38.89 Sqm
City Suite – 11, 200 Php a night
2 Double-Size Bed
39-40 Sqm
Fort Suite – 13,600 Php a night
1 King-Size Bed
42.15-43.82 sqm
Tip: We booked a Deluxe Room and only paid 4,200 Php instead of the 10,000 Php published rate. Get huge discounts if you book your F1 Hotel Manila room HERE.
F1 Hotel Manila Facilities, Amenities and Services
F All Day Dining Restaurant – Located on the hotel’s 3rd level, F All Day Dining Restaurant serves contemporary Filipino and international lunch and dinner buffet.
F All Day Restaurant
Breakfast buffet
Yummy breads at F All Day restaurant
Since our booking includes breakfast, we had our breakfast buffet at F1 All Day Dining Restaurant. Breakfast buffet is only served from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Swimming pools – Located in the 3rd level, F1 Hotel Manila has three pools – a kiddie pool, family pool and a lap pool. These pools are open daily from 7:00 AM until 8:00 PM.
One of the 3 pools in F1 Hotel
Jen enjoying the cabana
Fitness Center – If you are a regular gym goer, do need to worry about missing your daily gym regimen. F1 Hotel Manila has a fitness center fully equipped with treadmills, weights and many other gym equipment. The gym is located in 3rd level mezzanine and is open 24/7.
Spa and Wellness – To those who want to simply relax, F1 Hotel Manila offers a selection of signature and traditional massage services. The Spa and Wellness is located in 3rd level mezzanine and open from 1 PM to 5 AM during weekdays and 10 PM to 5 PM on weekends.
Other Facilities and Services
Complimentary Shuttle Service – Shuttle service going around Bonifacio Global City is available for in-house guests. Prior reservation is needed and maximum of 10 passengers per trip.
Airport transfers – Available upon request. Minimum rate of 1,500 for a sedan car and 2,200 Php for a van per way.
Make-Up Room – F1 Hotel Manila offers 1 complimentary make-up room service per day. To avail the service, simply tap to activate the make-up room icon near your room’s door. High-tech!
Concierge Services
Meetings and Events Facilities
4 level car park
Wi-Fi in all rooms and public areas
24-hour Guest Services
24 hour security
In-Room Dining
Laundry & Valet Service
Babysitting Services
Overall, we enjoyed our F1 Hotel Manila staycation. The hotel did not disappoint. The hotel staff, from the security guards to front desks are very welcoming and accommodating. The room was very stylish, classy and cozy. The breakfast buffet was good. I would highly recommend this hotel not just for a staycation but also for business and corporate travelers who are visiting Bonifacio Global City.
Pegged as the Philippines’ City of Love, Iloilo City is the capital city of Iloilo province in Panay Island situated in Western Visayas. Iloilo City is one of Visayas’ major tourist destination due to its rich heritage and not to mention being the home of the warm and romantic Ilonggos. The city is also highly urbanized and serves as a center of trade and commerce in Western Visayas region. Thus, apart from its delicious cuisines, old churches and historical buildings, Iloilo City has a wide array of hotels and accommodations for business travelers and backpackers alike. If you’re planning to visit the city, check out booking sites like Traveloka that allow you to choose the best deals and check out reviews.
View of Iloilo city from Injap Tower Hotel
During my first visit in Western Visayas, I took a 2GO ferry trip from Batangas to Caticlan. My initial plan was to visit Aklan first before Roxas City and Iloilo City. When the ferry docked in Caticlan port, there was a passenger van route to Iloilo City. I hopped in the van and took that 4 hour trip from Caticlan Jetty port to Iloilo City. Having no concrete plans, I did not have any itinerary or even hotel or accommodation to stay once I arrive in Iloilo City.
I arrived at 2:00 AM. The van driver was kind enough to drop me in front of the hotel across SM Iloilo. Since it was already past 2:00 AM, after realizing that the check-out time was at 12:00 noon, I opted to look for cheaper accommodations in the area. Well, I love spontaneous travelling but I do not fully advise it. It’s fun but it’s still better to plan your travel ahead of time.
Church Hopping
After a long land-sea-land travel from Manila to Iloilo, I woke up late that day. Come noon time, I was excited to visit Miag-Ao church. I have only seen photos of the church on a gallery in National museum and Vigan Museum. I was amazed by its intricate and beautiful architecture.
Molo Church
Molo Mansion
I immediately left the hotel see Miag-Ao. I then realized that it was an hour away from the city center. I proceeded anyway and took a jeepney from the hotel to the municipality of Molo where jeepneys bound to Miag-Ao. I walked in the Molo park and checked-out the Spanish-colonial and heritage site – Molo church. This national landmark features Gothic architecture is also known as the Feminist Church due to the all women statues of saints situated on the aisle pillars. Across the street is the popular Molo Mansion. Built in 1920, this mansion was believed to have hosted Presidents Quezon and Osmeña during their visit in Iloilo city. This once abandoned mansion has now turned into a Philippine souvenir shop.
I then proceeded with my journey to Miag-Ao church. After taking 2 jeepneys from Molo district. I arrived in Miag-Ao church. The church’s Baroque Romanesque architecture and its intricately designed facade make it one of the most beautiful church in the Philippines. Declared as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1993, Miag-Ao church has become one of Iloilo’s tourist destination.
Tigbauan Church
Guimbal Church
On my way back to Molo district, I couldn’t help myself but to alight the passenger jeepney every time I see a church in the area.
Molo Soup in Molo District
It was already afternoon when I arrived back in Molo district. I asked several locals where I could eat the authentic Pancit Molo. One local informed me to eat at Tita Paz House of Pancit Molo.
Iloilo City Night Tour
I was lucky enough that I have relatives living in Iloilo. Come evening, they invited me for a dinner at Ayala’s Atria Park District, Iloilo’s relatively new lifestyle hub. Atria looks like a typical Ayala lifestyle center in Manila.
Iloilo Convention Center
Dinner at Atria
The old Iloilo Provincial Capitol
After our dinner, they toured me around the city. We visited the modern and state of the art Iloilo Convention center. Located in Mandurriao, this modern architecture was built-in September 2015. Just in time for the Philippine’s APEC 2015 hosting. Next stop was the old Iloilo Provincial Capitol. This Spanish colonial architecture was declared as a National Historical Site by the National Historical Commission in 2010.
Esplanade
Calle Real
We then visited Calle Real which means “Royal Street” in Spanish. Located In the old downtown district, this street is home to the art-deco and luxury American neoclassical era architectures. It is said that the street used to be the area of high-end shopping outlets during the early period of American occupancy in the Philippines. We also visited what locals call as Esplanade. This Iloilo river esplanade is a popular destination among Ilonggos and tourists alike.
Since we planned to take the Roxas City route to Islas de Gigantes, one of our concerns was to find the cheapest hotel there is in Roxas City where we will stay overnight before heading to Gigantes Islands in Iloilo. During my first visit in Roxas City, I stayed in relatively cheap accommodations. I stayed at Roxas President’s Inn Hotel at 2,217.00 Php for two nights and Premierre Inn motel at 700 Php a night. Since it was already my second time to visit Roxas, I wanted to try other cheap hotels or accommodations. We made a quick research while we were on the Roxas City airport. We found the rates of Wallabies Hotel and Novotel in Roxas City a good deal for budget travelers and backpackers.
Cheap hotels in Roxas City Capiz
Wallabies Hotel Roxas City
Wallabies Hotel is one among the budget friendly and cheap hotels in the seafood Capital of the Philippines. Located along Washington St. Corner Zamora St., Wallabies hotel is just few minute tricycle ride from Roxas City airport and is roughly 5 minute walk from the Roxas City center where restaurants and plaza are located.
Facade
Reception
Lobby/Dining Area
Wallabies Hotel Rates
Regular Room (Queen Sized Bed) – 699.00 Php
Premier Room – (2 single bed) – 799.00 Php
Deluxe Room (3 single bed) – 899.00 Php
Extra Bed/Person – 150.00 Php
Our room was a Regular Room at only 699.00 Pesos. Surprisingly, the room was very clean and looks relatively new. The room comes with a very small LCD TV, small dresser, 2 chairs and a mini table mounted beneath the TV. I felt like the 2 pillows were too small for the queen sized bed. Nonetheless, the bed was very comfortable considering the affordable price of this hotel. This budget friendly hotel also offers 24-hour room service, Wi-Fi, 24-hour security, daily housekeeping and is also PWD friendly as the hotel is wheelchair accessible.
Wallabies Hotel
Washington St. Corner Zamora St., Roxas City, Capiz
Contact number: (036) 6211489 / 09107512772
Novotel Hotel Roxas City
After our 3 day Gigantes Islands visit, we headed back to Roxas City where we will be staying overnight before our flight back to Manila. We decided to check-in at Novotel hotel Roxas City.
Novotel hotel Roxas City is located along Arnaldo Boulevard and is few minutes tricycle ride from Roxas City Airport, Roxas City center and the famous food destination Baybay. Being along the main road, Novotel is just few steps away from Gaisano mall, Roxas Provincial Hospital and various restaurants and bars. The hotel’s facade is barely noticeable as it shares the same building with its sister company NOVO department store.
Since we were no longer new to Novotel hotel, as expected, the room was decent. The queen-sized bed and the pillows were very comfortable. There is an LCD cable TV. The room was very clean and well maintained. I just noticed that the doors used to be powered by keycard locks but for some reasons were converted to the traditional door knobs. Nonetheless, security will not be an issue in the hotel.
Novotel Roxas City is under the hotel chains of Asia Novotel which is also has hotel chains in Caloocan City, Kalibo, Dumaguete, Sorsogon and General Santos City.
Unfortunately, Novotel hotel does not have an online booking facility. You may book other Roxas City hotels HERE.
Asia Novotel Roxas City Tanque, Inzo Arnaldo Village, Roxas City, Capiz
Contact Number: (036) 6320869
Meaco Hotel in Valenzuela City is one of the newest hotel chain of Asia Novotel Incorporated. Located along McArthur highway in Baranggay Karuhatan, Meaco Hotel Valenzuela is strategically located as it is few meters away from SM Center Valenzuela and a few minute drive to Our Lady of Fatima University and Fatima Medical Center. If you love to try local restaurants, Meaco hotel is literally few steps away from Little Beijing and a few minute ride to Golden Crown food center.
Meaco Hotel Valenzuela facade
The facade is simple and barely noticeable from McArthur highway. Parking area is right in front of the hotel building.
Meaco Hotel Lobby and Hallway
I should say that I was not expecting much from Meaco Hotel. As we arrived in the area, it was raining and we were greeted and assisted by the hotel’s security guard to the parking area of the hotel. As we entered the lobby, it was clean and well-maintained. There is nothing much to see except for the reception, small LCD TV, a couple of chairs and tables, dining area, a mini store where guests can buy snacks.
Mini store and dining area
Meaco Hotel Valenzuela reception
We informed the receptionist of our online booking. Unfortunately, it appears that they overlooked our booking for that day and reserved a deluxe room for us the next day. It was late night and we were advised to wait for an hour. Given that the hotel is quite new, we tried to understand the situation as the receptionists might not be used to online bookings and reservations. Surprisingly, unlike other hotels in Metro Manila where check-out time is 12 noon, Meaco Hotel allows literally 24 hour stay from your check-in time. So the delayed check-in was not issue to us. While waiting, we ordered their yummy longsilog (for only 80 Php each) and had our dinner in the hotel.
Come check-in, we took the stairs to the second floor as there is no elevator in this 3-storey hotel. Hallways are consistent with the lobby, very clean and well-maintained. The rooms are surprisingly powered by key-card locks.
Meaco Hotel Valenzuela Deluxe Room
The room is spacious. The queen size bed with a golden headboard is comfortable but surely not at par with that of upscale hotels in Metro Manila. Nonetheless, it was good enough for a good and sound sleep. There are also bedside tables with a hotel room phone on one table. There is a cable LCD TV screen with limited channels facing the bed. On the right of the LCD TV is stylish mirror in a golden frame. If you are bringing work to Meaco hotel, right below the TV is a long table that can serve as a work space. All rooms also come with free WiFi access.
Meaco hotel deluxe room
Meaco Hotel Room
LCD TV and work space area
Meaco hotel room’s toilet and bath is very clean and spacious. Fixtures look modern and new. The hot and cold shower is working perfectly. Toiletries such as bath towels, bath gel, shampoo and toothbrush are also provided. My only rants were the slightly clogged water drain in the shower and the very small slippers in the room. Nonetheless, issues like these can be reported to the reception.
Toilet and bath
Toiletries
Meaco Hotel Valenzuela Room Rates
Apart for the affordable room rates, Meaco Hotel also offer 12 hour rates for those who are visiting Valenzuela on short trips.
Deluxe 12 hours – 700 Php / 24 hours – 900 Php
Twin Deluxe 12 hours 800 Php / 24 hours 1,000 Php
Family 12 hours 1,100 Php / 24 1,400 Php
VIP Family 12 hours 1,500 / 24 hours – 1,800 Php
Tip:It is cheaper if you book online using a voucher. My girlfriend booked via asiatravel.com and used a voucher for our two night stay at Meaco Hotel Valenzuela. We paid 1,400 Php instead of 1,800 Php!
Affordable Hotel in Valenzuela City
Overall, we enjoyed our 2 night stay in Meaco Hotel Valenzuela. For the price, the hotel exceeded our expectations. The security guards and most of the staff were very friendly and helpful. The rooms are very decent and clean. The hotel is very accessible and strategically located. If you are visiting, travelling or backpacking Valenzuela, you would never go wrong if you stay in this budget hotel.
Meaco Hotel Contact Number – +63 2 4439021 / +63 916 3491030 Address – 349 McArthur highway, Karuhatan, Valenzuela City
Aside from Valenzuela City, Meaco Hotel chains are also available on the following Philippine provinces:
Rosal Hotel is one among the long list of Pasig motels located in Hillcrest drive. Just like its neighboring hotels, this budget accommodation offers short-time stay rates.
Rosal Hotel Garage Room
I have been to the nearby Orchids hotel and I should say that Rosal hotel’s garage is more spacious, clean and well maintained. Just like any other motel, at the back of the garage is the stairs leading to the vestibule. There is nothing much in the vestibule except for the 2 complimentary water bottles.
The room itself is very spacious. Unlike other affordable motels, you can say that the room is well maintained. There are no to minimal signs of frayed furnishings and ageing ceilings and walls. The bed, linens and pillows were just okay and not something that you will rave about.
There is a small cable LCD TV with limited channels. My only complain is the remote is not working (we checked-in at room #56). The air conditioning works perfectly. There is a designated dining area that also serves as a work space if you are brining work in your Rosal hotel room. Surprisingly Wifi signal is strong with a fast internet connection.
The toilet and bath is spacious and very clean. It comes with 2 bath towels and 2 pairs of slippers. There is hot and cold shower. Same with the neighboring Orchids Hotel, toiletries are for sale except for the small soap. Since Rosal hotel offers short time rates, condoms are also available for 30 Php.
toothbrush – 15 Php
toothpaste – 10 Php
Shampoo – 10 Php
conditioner – 10 Php
Mouthwash – 55 Php
Rosal Hotel Pasig Room Rates
Wash-Up rate or popularly known as short-time rate (3 hours) – 540 Php (In excess of 3 hours, an extra charge of 180 Php per hour)
24 hour rate – 2,325 Php (comes with free breakfast for 2)
Evening Special (8 PM to 8 AM) -740 Php
Midnight Promo (adjustable 12 hours and check-in should be between 12 AM to 5 AM except Saturdays) – 840 Php
Morning Special (5 solid hours and check-in should be between 4 AM to 4 PM except Saturdays) – 540 Php
Tip: Room rate for 24 hour stay is cheaper if you book HERE.
Rosal hotel also accepts major credits cards and Bancnet debit cards. Service car is also offered from Rosal hotel to various landmarks around Pasig.
Tip: If you are visiting without a car, Uber is cheaper than Rosal hotel’s service car. I am giving you 100 Pesos off each of your first 2 Uber rides. Just use the promo code ‘edp1000ue‘ and sign-up here.
Overall, Rosal hotel Pasig is just like any other cheap motels in the metro. What sets it apart is the clean and spacious rooms and toilet. It is a good place for a short time stay if you are visiting Pasig City.
Rosal Hotel Pasig contact number: +63 2 6352729 Adress: Jardin De Rosal Hotel, Hillcrest Drive, Bagong Ilog, Pasig City, Philippines
Since Jen (my Tagaytay travel buddy) and I were on a tight budget, we have set our target to book the cheapest yet decent accommodation for our overnight stay in Tagaytay. We started strolling around the city and came across a couple of hotels, inns and motels, ranging from 800 Php (non-airconditioned rooms) to 1,400 Php (airconditioned rooms). We tried to check as many inns as we could and soon decided that the most decent and cheapest place to stay was Crisanta’s Bed and Breakfast.
Location
Crisanta’s Bed and Breakfast is located along Nasugbu-Tagaytay road and is right across one of the tourist destination in Tagaytay, The Residence Inn Zoo or Zoori.
Due to its affordability, Crisanta’s Bed and Breakfast easily gets fully-booked during weekends. We arrived at Crisanta’s at noon and was advised by Che, the hotel’s receptionist, that rooms will be available at 5:00 PM. Since it was only our choice of accommodation, Jen and I decided to visit Twin Lakes while waiting for the check-in time.
Facade of Crisanta’s Bed and Breakfast (left- day shot, right-night shot)
Crisanta’s Bed and Breakfast Room Rates
Family Room (4 pax, airconditioned, breakfast for 2) – 2,000 Php
Family Room B (6 pax, non-airconditioned, breakfast for 2) – 1,500 Php
Standard Room A (2 pax, airconditioned, breakfast for 2) – 1,300 Php
Standard Room B (2 pax, airconditioned, breakfast for 2) – 1,100 Php
Standard Room C (2 pax, non-airconditioned, breakfast for 2) – 800 Php
Extra Person is charged 150 Php
Extra bed is charged 150 Php
Maximum of 2 children per room, age 7 and below are free of charge
The Room
Standard Room B
We took the Standard Room B for only 1,100 Php. It was very clean and fairly decent. It was a typical budget traveler/solo backpacker accommodation. There is a small LCD TV serving local channels. Also, there is no wifi in the hotel but mobile data in the area if fairly good. The toilet and bath is quite spacious and clean but will give you a rustic feel. It will not be an issue for budget travelers and backpackers. We always get what we pay for, right?
The Grand Surprise
When we checked-in at around 5:00 PM, the hotel’s common area looked ordinary to me. Well, except for the grand staircase situated on the right side of the ground floor.
Crisanta’s Bed and Breakfast was the cheapest yet decent accommodation we’ve found in Tagaytay and I was not really expecting something grand from it. And then the evening came. When Jen and I went out of our room, we were literally surprised by the elegance of the hotel’s common area.
Who would have thought that a cheap hotel accommodation would have this elegant common area for their guests?
The hotel’s simple and ordinary ambiance during daytime surprisingly turns into an elegant and romantic area during the evening.
Complimentary Breakfast
All rooms come with 2 complimentary breakfast served from 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM. As expected, just like any other hotels, the serving was not generous. Good thing we had a super early breakfast outside the hotel that morning before visiting Tagaytay’s People’s Park in the Sky. Nonetheless, the food was okay and I loved the kapeng barako they served along the meal.
Jen and I ordered corned beef for breakfast.
The hotel maybe understaffed but they try to do their best to serve the guests. I would commend Che, Crisanta’s Bed and Breakfast receptionist, for being friendly and accommodating to us.
If you are travelling Tagaytay on a budget, I should say that Crisanta’s Bed and Breakfast is the most decent among the few cheap accommodations in the city.
Crisanta’s Bed and Breakfast Tagaytay Contact Number: +63 932 8657165
Unfortunately, Crisanta’s Bed and Breakfast do not offer online booking. Alternatively, you can book and reserve other Tagaytay hotels here or here.
Star Garden Tower Hotel is situated right in the heart of Lucena City, Quezon Province. Located along Quezon Avenue, this nine-storey mid range hotel just few meters to convenience stores, fast foods, schools and a local shopping mall. Star Garden Tower Hotel is also a few minute jeepney ride away to various Lucena City landmarks such as the Lucena Perez Park, Quezon Convention Center and Quezon Provincial Government office.
It was during the Pahiyas Festival when we arrived in Lucena City. Me and Jen (my Pahiyas Festival travel buddy) who I met for the fist time didn’t reserve any hotel/lodge prior to our Lucban trip. I was too confident that everything will go well, just like my any other DIY trips where I did not bother to reserve accommodations. When we arrived in Lucena, I started calling hotels in Lucban inquiring for room availability. From one call to another, I was not getting not so good response from the attendants as all hotels were fully booked! Well, I did not anticipate that we are attending one of the biggest festivals in the Philippines and hotels in Lucban easily get fully booked during the season. Since we were already in Lucena, a gateway to Lucban, I decided to check Agoda and other hotel booking sites for hotels in Lucena. Unfortunately, all listed Lucena hotels were also also fully booked! Too my desperation, I continuously searched for hotels in the internet and found Mercado motel along Lucena’s Quezon Avenue.
Facade of the Star Garden Hotel, Lucena City, Quezon Province
Since I was concerned of my company and I wouldn’t want her to experience sleeping in a cheap motel (especially that it was our first time to travel together), I was still hoping to see a decent accommodation where we could spend the night in Lucena. Luckily, on our way to Mercado motel, we passed by Star Garden Tower Hotel. We immediately alighted the jeepney and headed to the hotel.
As we entered the modern architecture of the hotel, we were greeted by Gladys, a very welcoming and pleasant attendant of Star Garden Tower Hotel. We immediately inquired and were informed that there will be one available twin bed room by noon time. Me and Jen did not hesitate to pay for the room to make sure that we’ll have a decent place to rest and sleep after visiting Lucban.
Since we were too early for check-in and we wanted to be in Lucban as early as possible, we left our backpacks to Glady’s and we immediately left for Lucban.
Star Garden Tower Hotel Lucena City Room Rates
Starndard (Single Bed) – 1,738 Php
Extra Standard (Queen sized bed) – 2,068 Php
Double (Queen size bed, mini bar) – 2,068 Php
Twin (2 single beds) – 2,508 Php
Junior Suite (Queen size bed, additional, Jacuzzi) – 3,828 Php (additional 1,000 for Jacuzzi use)
Sky Executive Suite (master’s bedroom, one twin room, living room and dining room) – 8,140 Php
After enjoying the Pahiyas Festival in Lucban, we headed back to Star Garden Tower Hotel in Lucena.
Twin Room at Star Garden Tower Hotel Lucena City
Twin bedroom at Start Garden Tower Hotel (2,508 Php)
I was expecting that the room would be decent and it did not disappoint. The room was clean and spacious. The air conditioning unit was working perfectly. There was only a medium-sized pillow and a throw-pillow for each bed, nonetheless the bed was really comfortable. The room has an LCD cable TV and beneath it is a mini refrigerator that comes with a 2 complimentary bottled water. There was a fairly sized closet with a mirror right in the corner of the room. A frosted glass door separates the clean and spacious toilet and bath to the bedroom. The hotel wifi signal was strong and the internet speed was decent.
Since the hotel is in a province, Star Garden Tower hotel did not give me that rustic feel that I felt in some other hotels situated in provinces. A 2,500+ Php room is quite pricey for a budget traveler like me but I then realized that it is a twin bedroom and I have someone with me to share the room expense. A 1,250+ Php comfortable and decent room situated in the city center is not bad at all.
The customer service was excellent! the hotel staff were welcoming, friendly and accommodating. Gladys, the front desk was very pleasant. We asked her instructions and asked for her recommendations on how to get around and where to go around the city. She knows what customer service is!
Star Garden Tower Hotel’s Sky Lounge
Sky Bar/Star Lounge
The hotel also has a Sky Bar/Sky Lounge that offers fine drinks and sounds at night. In the morning, the lounge serves as the area for guests’ complimentary breakfast. Speaking of which, the complimentary breakfast was okay but may not be enough for those who eat heavy breakfast.
Being in a location where most of the business establishments in Lucena are situated, this is an ideal hotel for businessmen and travelling professionals who has transactions and business to do in Lucena city. If you are a budget traveler and is willing to pay for a minimum of 1,800 Php for a night, I would definitely recommend Star Garden Tower Hotel.
Star Garden Tower Hotel Location: 2948-B Quezon Avenue Lucena City Star Garden Tower Hotel contact numbers: +63 42 7104437 / +63 932 4060362 Unfortunately, Star Garden Tower Hotel currently do not offer online booking. You may book other Lucena city hotels here.
Iron Inn Lodge is one among the many backpacker budget accommodation in Davao city.
After enjoying Glan in Sarangani Province, I immediately headed to Davao City. I arrived at Ecoland bus terminal around 8:00 PM and asked some locals where is the cheapest accommodation in the area. A street vendor pointed me to Iron Inn Lodge.
Iron Inn Lodge Location
If you are travelling by bus to General Santos, Tacurong, Bukidnon, Koronadal, Cotabato, Butuan, Cagayan de Oro or Matim, this budget accommodation is a perfect place to have a quick rest as it is just few meters away from the Ecoland Bus Terminal.
From outside, Iron Inn’s facade looks like a boutique hostel accommodation. The colorful stained glasses makes this affordable Davao accommodation more appealing.
When I arrived in the lodge, I was welcomed by an old lady along with their 2 grandchildren. The old lady is the owner of Iron Inn and her grandchildren help her accommodate guests.
With their affordable rates, Iron Inn is undoubtedly a motel in Davao city. After my motel experiences in the past, (staying overnight in Iloilo’s Dragon Lodge and Roxas City’s Premiere Inn) the experience was not bad at all. Besides, safety was not an issue as I was in Davao City – the 8th safest city in the world!
For only 700 Php for 24 hours, I did not hesitate to check-in. I was a bit confused as the owner did not hand me the room key. Instead, she instructed her grandchild to open the room for me.
Iron Inn’s common area
The room itself is quite spacious for a solo backpacker. The bed is queen size and the room comes with an air-conditioning unit and a TV. It’s quite odd the room walls are tiles. I felt like I was inside a toilet. Nonetheless, the entire room and the toilet and bath is very clean.
The next morning, the owner offered me to simply add 300 Php for another night in Ironn Inn. Too bad it was my last day in Davao City.
Well, this is the cheapest accommodation I’ve been to during my Lake Sebu-Sarangani-Davao City DIY tour. With only less than 1,000 Pesos a night, the place is generally clean and truly a budget Davao city accommodation! Visiting Davao City? Check hotels HERE
