Paradiso Hostel

I’ve been returning to Paraidso for six years, and it still has its magic. The people are why I come back, especially Lorrie, who treats everyone like family, and the close community that’s become our chosen family. So many of us come “home” for the holidays now that we can barely fit in the bunks. If you want a place with a heart and soul, this is it.

The room itself matched the photos and was nicely furnished, and we could always get fresh towels when we asked. Still, we felt uncomfortable from the start. Staff barely acknowledged us, even when we came into the kitchen, and ordinary questions got odd reactions. It never felt welcoming, more like we were being watched. The bathroom stayed damp with no window, the shower was cold, and the Wi-Fi barely worked. The air conditioner was loud, as were the seven dogs barking early each morning. They also peed and pooped outside the rooms and begged whenever we cooked. There were lots of small irritations too, including bathroom doors that squeaked loudly and could easily be fixed. We didn't enjoy our stay, and for the price I wouldn't recommend this hostel.

The crew made the stay for me. They were really helpful and accommodating, and gave us good ideas for exploring Siargao. For PHP 650 a night, Paradiso Hostel was great value. It was my first visit to Siargao and my first time in a bunk bed. I stayed three days, and the shared bathrooms and dining area with cooking facilities worked fine. Snoring didn't bother me; after a day out and a night enjoying the nightlife, I was usually exhausted anyway.

You can reach bars, restaurants, the beach, and the market from this central spot in General Luna, but Paradiso is set back from the highway, so it stays quiet. It's a small hostel, with a kitchen where guests can cook and keep food in the fridge. The dogs are a lovely part of the place. Nicole, the golden retriever, is the biggest and the most clingy. The staff were welcoming and quick to help with requests. Ate Shy, Ate Rose, and especially Ate Jen all deserve a mention. Ate Jen is deaf mute and very good at her job. I also appreciate that the hostel gives a local with special needs a livelihood. Mama Lorrie, the owner, was a wonderful host. I call her my island mom. Along with kuya Jomar, she made us feel at home, and they know so much about island food, surfing spots, and hidden places. I've met good people here and kept in touch with some of the friends I made. I return to Paradiso nearly every time I'm in Siargao, and I'll be back again.