Roxas Midtown Hotel

I booked directly through the hotel's Facebook page to get the promo rates. For a budget traveller, the price is right: the room had a queen-sized bed with clean sheets, a working toilet and shower, and strong airconditioner. The location in the city center also made it easy to find tricycles, the main way to get around. My flight landed at 6 o'clock in the morning, and I really appreciated being allowed to check in early at no extra cost, as long as a room was ready. The hotel has the basic things I needed for the trip. Expect some stairs, and soundproofing may be limited, as in many budget places. During Holy Week, though, it was peaceful and quiet.

The room I was assigned could use a little work, especially some repair to the floor. Aside from that, I had a wonderful stay. The staff were cheerful and kind, and the customer service was 5⭐. There’s a convenience store nearby for food when restaurants are closed.

The price is competitive for a hotel in such a central spot, especially since you can check in as early as 6am if a room is available. It’s a basic place, with no business center, fitness facilities, or bar. Ask the front desk for a room as far as possible from the karaoke bar across the street. Otherwise, you may hear it late into the night. The walls and ceilings are thin, so sounds from other guests carry too.

We packed up early in the morning and found another hotel for the couple more nights we wanted to spend with the family we were visiting. The experience was terrible. Cockroaches were crawling around. The hotel didn't look dirty, but it was nasty and disgusting to see them. I told a staff member, and she sent another person with a broom and dustpan to sweep them up. They acted like cockroaches were just part of everyday life and didn't say anything. At check-in, the staff searched for some paper in a way that made it seem as if we hadn't paid or couldn't pay for the reservation. It was awkward and condescending.