Bahay Kawayan Backpackers Inn

The shared area is beautifully put together, with a lounge spot where guests hang out and the fun seems to happen. I also loved the "Honesty Corner": you take what you want and pay without anyone watching, so it’s up to you and your karma. It was the first place I found in the Philippines with a price list, which I really appreciated after worrying about getting scammed. It’s a little away from the main area, though you can walk or take a tricycle. The usual fare is 10PHP per person, so just get on and pay when you get off. Our three-bed lot was cool, all bamboo, but the mattresses could be better. Local wildlife can keep you awake, so bring earplugs. Cats mating under our lot were a real pain for three days. The food was edible, though overpriced for its quality. Staff were very friendly when I made the effort to learn their names and joke with them, but not otherwise.