johnny a asked: I’ve been in the Phils for 3 weeks now and I’m shocked with value of hotels and guesthouses.
I’ve enjoyed my time here. The natural scenery is world class. The food is good and the people are among the best I’ve ever met.
But I’ve travelled extensively in Thailand, Indo, Cambo, Malaysia, Laos, and Vietnam and none of those countries left me with a bad taste in my mouth (consistently) after shelling over big money for poor accommodation.
Look- I don’t mind staying in crap hole’s, I just don’t like paying $15 US for the privilage. I also don’t mind paying $15 US (600 P) but I would like the room to come with a functioning shower, a mozzie screen in the bathroom, etc.
Extra annoying is that most hotels are empty!!
So…after that little rant…. can anyone explain why the accommodation market in the Phils seems so out of whack compared to it’s ASEAN neighbours?
And do you think it might be contributing to the lack of tourism? (that I keep reading the government wants encourage)
I’m down with supply and demand but everywhere I’ve been has been at LEAST 50% vacant!
As I said, I’m comparing to other countries in the region. I live in Thailand, travel a lot and I know what $15 US gets you in these countries. Conversely, I can take the quality of the places I’ve stayed and know it’s comparative price in any other ASEAN nation.
Just curious why its so different, (in terms of value for money), in the Phils.
Stewie – The example I gave (and the worst value so far) was the Hotel Flores in Bolinao.
oneiloilo- The countries I mentioned were all travelled in high (dry) seasons. 700P for a decent room with hot shower, ac, and tv is what I would call good value and in about the same in Bangkok (year-round). So I guess its out there and I just have to keep looking.
Thanks for everyone’s responses.
