Meaco Royal Hotel- Aparri

The staff seemed kind and pleasant, but they didn't fix the room mistake, and the way it was handled was disappointing. We've stayed with this hotel group elsewhere and had excellent experiences, so this was a shame. They said the VIP room wasn't available, though the picture we have shows it still listed as available. We'll be taking the complaint to hotel management. The room also had no privacy, since it was totally open. We were told a family room for four cost P2900, and we explained we were five, including our 11-year-old son. We understood his charge to be P300, but they added another P300 for a floor mattress, plus breakfast. In the end, because of a P50 difference, our child slept on the floor. We paid more and got less, which felt incompetent and unfair.

There are no elevators, so be ready to carry your bags upstairs. Our room was sparsely furnished and reasonably clean, though I did find stray hairs on one bed. The air conditioning kept it cool, but the curtains only covered the window, leaving the glass door visible from outside and making privacy a concern. It works as a simple budget stop for a night, especially if you're driving through. The staff were welcoming and helpful, and the location is convenient. Breakfast was basic but included, and useful given the few options nearby. The building has a strange layout, with lots of unused space and an untidy frontage. It's no-frills, and we wouldn't choose it for a longer stay. Anyone after more comfort or modern amenities may want to look elsewhere.

We drove an extra 45 minutes to stop here and ended up paying more than at a local hotel that could have included breakfast. Over the phone they quoted us a price for four people, then charged extra for one person in the four-person room. Staff wouldn't negotiate or offer a refund or compensation. As foreigners, we felt we were charged much more than stated, and the stop was very disappointing. The shower splashed water everywhere, and the towels were clearly used.

Clean and easy to get to, with plenty of parking. Just note that payment is cash only.