Bacolod Pension Plaza

I’m still here exploring. It’s within walking distance of a very nice mall and the port, and close to the city center. The budget-friendly price was my main reason for choosing it. I’m flexible when I travel and keep my expectations low when poverty is obvious, but the people here are so friendly and sweet.

As a visitor, I didn’t find much reason to return to Barcolod Pension Plaza, though I can see it may still be useful to nearby locals or people searching for particular items. Bacolod has livelier, better-kept commercial areas. Unless you have a specific reason to visit, I’d skip it. The place felt worn out and lifeless, with little foot traffic or activity. Many shops were closed, vacant, or barely operating. The open ones felt cramped and dim, and the narrow walkways made browsing uncomfortable. There wasn’t much variety, and most of the offerings seemed outdated. It could use renovation or a new approach. Even basic things like signs, seating, and restrooms were missing or hard to locate. I’d hoped for a lively, convenient shopping spot, but the experience was disappointing.

The location deserves five stars, but I’d give service two and the room one. We arrived at room 401 to a foul smell, and the bathroom smelled too. The toilet wouldn’t flush, so we had to use a pale to clear it. No room attendant came to help. Since we’d booked and paid online, I expected the room to be ready and cool when we arrived. The room service staff need more hospitality training. Service was otherwise good in one respect, but when I asked for another coffee cup, a staff member said each room gets only one and another would cost extra. I pointed out that the room sleeps two, so it should have two cups. The front desk said that was management policy. For a budget hotel, I’d rate it four stars.

A good place to stay, with malls nearby, including SM and Ayala Metro.