Happy's Homestay

What we liked most was the quiet setting by the beach. Happy Homestay is just steps from a peaceful stretch of shore, away from the crowded areas. The sand may not be as powdery white as at Station 1 to 3, but the calm and charm more than made up for it. It was lovely to have coffee by the ocean or take a sunset walk, and the uncrowded surroundings worked for both couples and a big family group. Our room was spacious and set up thoughtfully for families or couples. It had two queen beds, plenty of cabinet space, a working TV, and a kitchen with a stove and utensils. The bathroom was clean and well maintained. Each morning, pandesal left at our door was a small, personal touch. Nearby wet markets made it easy to cook fresh meals with local ingredients, which suited our budget and meant we didn't have to eat out all the time. The hosts were accommodating and even helped arrange transport when we checked out. We felt the peaceful atmosphere as soon as we arrived, and their hospitality made the stay more personal. We had a relaxing, enjoyable time, and would definitely return. It's a comfortable, affordable home base in a beautiful location.

I only remembered to leave a review when I saw the booking history in my app, even though we stayed back in 2022. The room was surprisingly large for such a cheap price, and we had the best time. You'll need to take a tricycle to reach Boracay's main areas, but we didn't mind since the place is right on the beach.

The location was the one good part: peaceful and serene, apart from the stormy wind. Beyond that, I don't think this place was worth the price. Communication with the host, Marcus, was good before we paid in full, then stopped afterward. I raised a concern about the Boodle Fight, which we had to pay for in advance, and it was brushed off without even an apology. We requested it for 12 pm and got stone-cold food at 2 pm. Marcus also didn't greet or welcome us when we arrived on Christmas Eve, despite the reviews calling him a very good host. The fixtures and fittings were in very poor shape. Faucets, leaking pipes, the bidet, and other things seemed so fragile it felt scary to touch them. Every morning we had no water, and my brother-in-law had to help the caretaker fix it. The linen smelled bad and wasn't changed until we asked. We were ten guests staying six nights and had rented almost the whole villa, yet received little from the supposedly good host. During a night without electricity because of heavy rain, the property didn't even have basics like candles or umbrellas.

This homestay is very spacious and feels homey, with a nice beach directly in front. It's quiet and right by the ocean, though the stairs to the upper floor are pretty steep. Nothing but good things to say, and definitely worth booking. It's about 14-18 minutes away from Station 1 and 2. In return, you get a quiet place that isn't crowded.