Casa Familya

We paid 1700 pesos through Airbnb for a clean room with fresh-smelling sheets, a well-kept air conditioner, and hot water for bathing. Parking was available, and the house had a nicely landscaped garden out front. It’s also a cultural heritage site, with a marker describing the house’s history. I’m glad the owners are looking after historically important homes like this, since many similar houses in Manila have been demolished. We were on a northern trip, switching accommodations each day to stay near attractions in Ilocos Sur and Ilocos Norte. This was our first stop after a day trip farther north to Pagudpod. We booked for three people a week ahead, then one of the children in our family decided to join us. The owner was surprised, but easy to talk to about making room for the extra child. The house was near Paoay Sand Dunes and Malacañang of the North. Thanks!

The old house has a rusty, historic feel, and the location is within walking distance of the town center. It was accessible, and I rated safety and security 3 out of 5. The room also got 3 out of 5: the bathroom is shared with another room, and they don't clean the room every day. Service was 3.5, though staff could use training in hospitality. Amenities scored 3 because construction and renovations were underway. Breakfast isn't included, and you have to order it the night before, so food and dining got 3.5.

There’s no parking, so this wasn’t a good place for us.

We arrived in Ilocos Norte unprepared, and the hotel didn't provide towels, soap, or shampoo. There also wasn't anyone at all in the lobby to help with what we needed.