Planning your trip entails some form of dedication -- from hustling-through-the-midnight budget plane fare bookings, deciding where to go, researching what to do and, most especially, where to stay. Not to mention the challenge of organizing 15 people for the trip (I promise to dedicate a different blog entry for this and will discuss on "how to keep your big group organized in times of big out-of-town vacations by not implementing Martial Law"). This time, we decided to visit the Queen City of the South and experience the much-talked-about Sinulog Festival. Much to our excitement, we already planned our activities and started daydreaming of things to do. Since we wanted to maximize the whole festival, logistics is very crucial. We were advised that most of the roads are closed and finding a public transport that can bring us to different places might be close to impossible (take note, we are 15). I started searching for a place with the following factors to consider: (1) budget, (2) accessible to places around the heart of Cebu, (3) can house 15 pax, (4) good basic amenities.
Luckily, I landed on Balay Bakasyunan's page.
It was a no-hassle at Balay Bakasyunan. I booked this boutique hostel 6 months before the trip, and it was one of the wisest decisions I have made. Balay Bakasyunan in Visayan dialect means "vacation house". Situated at one of the busiest areas in the metropolitan, inside a gated subdivision of Gemsville at Lahug, Cebu City. It is a 10-15 minute walk to the main road and Ayala Terminal Mall. It is also near Mandarin Oriental Hotel and Ayala Business Park.
The lobby will welcome you with a very homey interiors -- artsy gallery of framed pictures with vintage details, lamps, junky-punky wall designs, uberly comfy low-lying sofas and couch, recycled cushioned seats made from upholstered old tires, a flat screen TV and various books to read at your disposal. The big reception area and other accessible amenities will allow you to meet other guests, as if forming a small community promoting interaction among other vacationers. There is a secret patio at the back of the pantry adorned with colored glass lamps, decorated tables and chairs that is perfect for some quiet time. The pantry allows you to maximize their utilities -plates, cutleries, cups, glasses and their unlimited breakfast treat (bread, jams, coffee, cereals, fresh milk) WHENEVER YOU WANT. They also cook short order meals (i.e. silog meals) as per request, together with choices of drinks (soda, water and beers) for your pleasure.
Balay's rooms range from private family rooms to dormitory-type rooms that is open to big and small group guests. They have five fully air-conditioned rooms that cater to all types of travelers yet not compromising safety and comfort. They have two rooms for 2-4 pax and three dorm type rooms for 6-8 guests. Extra beds can be added upon request. Cabinets, lockers, toilets, hot and cold shower, pillows, bed linens and blankets, toiletries and individual fresh towels are also available.
The staff is very friendly and helpful. They are more than willing to assist you in getting a cab and are very helpful in giving advice and suggestions for your itinerary for the day as you go around the city. They are very approachable if you need any assistance around the house. They have free Wi-Fi, too!
All in all, the place fulfilled our expectations - and more! So if you are on a budget and plan to spend a couple of nights down south, Balay Bakasyunan is open to all sorts of backpackers and travelers alike. It is an extension of comfort of home away from your home. Their check-in time is 2pm and check-out at 12nn.
(Watch out for my next entry regarding our amazing Sinulog experience!)
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