One of the challenges in traveling solo is how to cut your expenses while still being able to enjoy. A large portion of expenses usually come from accommodations. When I was planning my Iloilo trip, a friend of mine suggested Ong Bun Pension House, a budget hostel for travelers. When I saw the Php300-per-day rate, I didn't hesitate to consider. That's how cheap I am.
As a somehow-responsible human being and given my crippling anxiety, I did my research before booking a room. There were mixed negative and positive responses. I know myself for not being too picky when it comes too rooms, as long as it's not too cold which would not be a problem for me staying in Ong Bun (more on that later) so I booked a room for two nights.
The name, Ong Bun, came from its owners' Chinese roots actually I'm just inventing theories, I have no idea and didn't care. Let's jump into the actual review!
CONS
Let's start with the cons so we'll have positivity afterwards.- HOT ROOM - since I wanted to cut my budget, I opt for the non-airconditioned room because I thought it won't get too hot since it's rainy season. I was wrong. My room had one dirty wall fan circulating the hot air inside. I remembered requesting a room with the biggest window but the window of the room they gave was small, too high, and enclosed. so no air will escape or enter. I slept almost naked!
- DIRTY RESTROOMS - Their restrooms reminded me of my dorm CRs in college only filthier.
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| One Filthy Wall Fan |
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| The Bed |
PROS
- BUDGET-FRIENDLY - Considering the rate, Php 370 a night, all the cons are understandable.
- NEAR MALL - Ong Bun is near Robinsons Iloilo where I stayed a lot whenever I felt homesick during my trip (oddly, malls reminded me of my home, Manila)
- FREE WATER - Another cut on cost was free refill of water in the hotel.
- TV IN THE ROOM - Honestly I only turned the TV on so I won't be scared during the night.
- DOUBLE LOCK - Safety is my priority every time.
- POPULAR - By popular, I mean the drivers knew about this place so transportation was easier. It's located along the road so it's easier to locate.
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| Ong Bun |
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| Ong Bun |
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| Free soap and use of towel |
All in all, my stay in Ong Bun was okay. I didn't expect much because of the price. I just hoped it would be safe and it was. For travelers who crave something fancy, avoid this place. It doesn't offer much. For travelers in a budget, I would recommend this especially if all you are looking for is a place to sleep after a tiring adventure.
Hope this helps you decide. I am in no way connected with the business and this is not a paid blog (Although it will not hurt if they will pay me. Just kidding. no I'm not. Help me Mr. Ong I'm poor!)
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