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Travel tips for while you’re backpacking Southeast Asia and Australia, or some travel inspiration if you’re sat at a desk wishing you were here. Written by backpackers living or traveling around this side of the world. We’ve got travel advice for Australia, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam.
Manila, the vibrant capital of the Philippines, is a backpacker’s paradise. From exploring Intramuros, the historic walled city, to diving into the local food scene at lively night markets, there’s something for everyone in this bustling metropolis. It’s also an excellent destination for budget travelers, with a variety of affordable hostels and homestays to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a social atmosphere or a more relaxed place to stay, there’s sure to be a perfect spot for you. This list compiles some of the best hostels and homestays in Manila that won’t break the bank: Top 8 Manila Hostels and Homestays with Unbeatable Rates Ready to experience the electric energy of Manila without blowing your travel budget? This city is a backpacker’s paradise, with affordable hostels and homestays that deliver fun and good vibes. From party hostels to chill hangouts, we’ve rounded up the top 8 spots with unbeatable rates. Grab your crew and get ready for an epic Manila adventure! 1. Mad Monkey Hostel Manila: Party Like a Rockstar, Rest Easy We are calling all adventure seekers and party people! Mad Monkey Manila is your launchpad into the vibrant chaos of the Philippines’ capital city. Our social hostel is all about epic adventures and unforgettable experiences. Crash in our comfy shared dorms or chill in a private teepee. Fuel up with delicious eats at our restaurant (seriously, fantastic hangover food!), then dive into the party with nightly events. We’re talking legendary pub crawls, pool parties that go off, and bonfire nights under the stars. Are you feeling more low-key? Recharge by the infinity pool, spike the volleyball on the beach court, or explore the city with our daily tours. Free WiFi keeps you connected, while air conditioning and secure lockers keep you comfy and worry-free. Manila awaits! Book your stay at Mad Monkey Manila and get ready to go wild. Location: MAP Contact: +63 915 842 9571 | Facebook 2. Nomads Manila Hostel: Your Chill Spot in the City Buzz Are you looking for a comfy and social place to crash after exploring Manila? Nomads Manila Hostel is your perfect base camp! We’re close to the airport (score: easy come, easy go!), with the city’s vibrant energy just a short commute away. Catch up with fellow travelers in our shared kitchen, or chill in the garden area with a good book. Our rooms are air-conditioned with comfy beds so you can recharge for your next adventure. Need to get laundry done? We’ve got you covered. Plus, with free WiFi, you can stay connected and share your Manila moments with the world. Nomads Manila is all about budget-friendly comfort and a relaxed vibe. It’s your launchpad to explore the city and your haven to unwind. Book your stay and get ready to experience Manila at your own pace! Location: MAP Contact: +63 960 854 9658 | Facebook 3. Matty’s Homestay: Your Home Away From Home Yo backpackers! Craving an epic Manila adventure without hostel dorm drama? Matty’s Homestay is your perfect chill spot. This sweet aparthotel lets you explore the city at your own pace, with comfy private rooms, a killer pool, and a fully equipped kitchen to whip up some late-night eats. Score free WiFi to stay connected and brag about your adventures. Need a break from sightseeing? Catch rays by the pool, or grab your crew and hang out on the terrace. The 24-hour front desk means you can come and go as you please, stress-free. Matty’s is close to the action but far enough from the noise to relax and recharge. The airport is a breeze, and with…
1. Dalaguete Beach Park This beach is known to be one of the places locals would recommend to tourists. Dalaguete Beach Park can be found in South Cebu. Since it is owned and managed by the local government, its cool blue waters are open for the public to enjoy at a very minimal fee. The entrance fee to the beach only costs around $0.50 for adults and $0.25 for children. For a little over $5, bigger groups can rent a beach hut or cottage—plus free use of the karaoke machine! Picnic tables, on the other hand, can be rented for just $3. To sum it all up, the estimated day trip budget you need to set aside for Dalaguete Beach Park is $20, including transportation. Cebu is well-endowed with breathtaking beaches, which is why it does not come as a surprise to find a beautiful beach such as this very accessible from the city. 2.Basdaku White Beach and Panagsama Beach, Moalboal These two beaches sit right next to each other at Moalboal. With its name directly translating to “big sand,” Basdaku White Beach is known for its wide expanse of fine sand. Here, tourists swim in crystal clear waters, taking in all the peace and quiet they can get. The entrance fee costs less than US$1, and campers are free to pitch their tents without having to pay. Apart from swimming and camping, other recreational activities can be enjoyed. Kayaks, diving and snorkeling gear, and even kite-surfing equipment are available for rent in the area. When the sun comes down, head over to Panagsama Beach side where the nightlife is kicking. Mingle with fellow travelers and locals at a bar, or go food-tripping with your friends. Moalboal is definitely a place with loads of fun to cover your day—and you hardly even need to spend! 3. Lambug Beach, Badian Lambug Beach, a must-see for visiting tourists, can be found in the southern part of Cebu in a town called Badian. The beach is known to be a great spot away from the crowds. Part of its charm comes from its natural and untouched condition. If its clear waters and fine sand aren’t enough to draw you in, then maybe it being entrance fee free will. That’s right! You can lay on the sand or take a dip, free-of-charge. Best of all, getting there won’t cost you more than $10 from the airport. Cottage rentals are at $10 while camping fees range from $1-$3. If you’ve had enough swimming, there’s much more to do near the beach. Other famed attractions can be found in the area. Wash off that seawater at Kawasan Falls, or go crab hunting for your next meal at the mangroves. If you’ve had enough of the water, trek up Osmeña Peak for a complete view of Cebu’s south-western coastline. At the end of every adventure is a tourist waiting to be fed. So why not drag your appetite to Badian’s local market and restaurants to try some local delicacies. Badian has so much to offer, and Lambug Beach is just the beginning. See what else you can find in town through this link. 4. Hermit’s Cove, Aloguinsan Townsfolk claim that the cove used to be the territory of an old wandering hermit. Thick greenery enshrouds the area just before the beach, gracing it with such mysterious beauty. Hermit’s Cove can be found in the town of Aloguinsan—a place also known as the “Ecotourism Capital of Cebu”. The beach is a one kilometer-long stretch of white sand with sparkling…
A Heartfelt Giving Tuesday on Gili Trawangan Our journey began on the idyllic shores of Gili Trawangan with a Giving Tuesday campaign that warmed hearts and sparked smiles. Banding together with the Chili Community House, we rallied our vibrant community and generous donors to raise a whopping $487.74. These funds are set to empower local initiatives, reinforcing our commitment to the places we call home and showcasing the power of collective action. It’s all about lending a hand where it’s needed most, and thanks to your support, we’re making real waves in Gili Trawangan. Spreading Festive Cheer in Siquijor The spirit of the season took a tropical twist at Mad Monkey Siquijor with a Christmas Community Lunch that was nothing short of magical. Imagine the laughter of children from the surrounding barangay as they joined us for a feast of festive delights, fun games, and generous giveaways. It was a day that reminded us all about the true spirit of the holidays – giving back, engaging with our communities, and creating unforgettable moments of joy. Cebu City’s Christmas Connection Over in the heart of Cebu City, our Christmas Community Lunch turned into a vibrant celebration of community spirit. Children from the nearby barangay of Lorea-San Miguel were treated to a day filled with delicious food, exciting games, and heartwarming giveaways. The laughter and joy that filled the air were a testament to the joy of giving and the deep connections we’re forging in our local communities. Supporting Young Minds in Siargao Mad Monkey Siargao’s visit to the Nature Kids of Siargao’s Kids Club was a highlight that touched our hearts deeply. Donating school supplies, art materials, and snacks, we saw the bright smiles of the amazing kids light up, a reminder of the impact we can make. It’s these moments that reinforce our commitment to supporting education and fostering creativity, ensuring a brighter tomorrow for these incredible young minds. Join the Journey As we reflect on these stories, we’re reminded of the strength of our community and the positive impact we can create together. Every laugh shared, every child’s smile, and every helping hand extended to write the chapters of our ongoing story at Mad Monkey Hostels. We’re more than just a place to stay; we’re a movement towards a better, more connected world. And you’re a vital part of that journey. So, here’s to more adventures, more impactful initiatives, and more unforgettable memories. Together, let’s make a difference, one heartwarming story at a time. Pin now, read later
