Asia Novo Boutique Hotel-Catbalogan

We felt safe thanks to the security guard, which was the one good part of the stay. During Catbalogan City's Fiesta days, all the hotels were booked, so we had no choice but to take a family room for four. It looked spacious and clean at first, but the sheets had stains that I strongly suspect were blood. The sink leaked and didn't work properly, and with the shower right beside the toilet, the bathroom flooded whenever we used it. At checkout they said a towel was missing, though we had only been given three in the first place. We paid and left to avoid more trouble.

For a budget, no-frills stop, this place is a good fit, especially for a backpacker or a quick break on a road trip. It's bare bones, so don't count on hot water or a hair dryer. You get what you pay for, and budget motel is the keyword here.

Check-in and check-out times are taken very strictly. I'm not sure the beds are meant for two, though my cousin and I managed. A few amenities were a bit broken, and I hope management will consider fixing them. Wifi speed was good, and overall you get what you pay for.

Novo Hotel has some of the lowest rates in town, so I don't get all the hypercritical reviews. At an economical price, don't expect elevators or five-star service. The staff are friendly, the wifi is pretty good, and the rooms are big. I had a comfortable stay for a good price.