Two more weeks and it’s Dinagyang in Iloilo City! Have you decided to come and enjoy the festivities? If you do, you might be wondering where to stay in Iloilo during the Dinagyang Festival.
One of my high school friends asked me where to stay in Iloilo and just like other querries, I often answer with a blog post.
There are many hotels in Iloilo for you to choose, with more coming up like Courtyard by Marriot, one of Megaworld’s projects. For now, here are my recommended places to stay.
Budget-friendly hotels in Iloilo
Technically, all hotels in Iloilo are budget-friendly. These hotels are for backpackers or those who just want to spend less on their accommodation.
We all love affordable hotels right? Then, this is your best place when in Iloilo. Urban Inn Hotel is perfect for those traveling as a group because they have many rooms catering to different group sizes. Even for its affordable rate, Urban Inn is a chic hotel.
Another good point about Urban Inn Hotel is location. There is a 24-hour convenience store in the building, adjacent are dining venues and a church. Most of all, walking distance from La Paz market for that steaming bowl of batchoy. The Dinagyang route passes by the hotel’s vicinity, therefore, you can watch the street dancing from this balcony. Perfect right?
Ong Bun Pension House
Never been to Ong Bun but I have heard good reviews about it. Travelers swear by it. It is cheap and very convenient. I had a chance to check its lobby while waiting for another blogger friend who was staying at the pension house.
I’m a keen observant and Ong Bun is a nice place. The guests are varied from families with little kids to backpackers- usually those cheap ones are like motels for lovers, but not this pension house. The rooms are small but they have wi-fi – exactly what we all need. Lastly, I have to commend on their website, I hope all hotels should invest in a good website.
Mid-range hotels in Iloilo
For mid-range hotels in the city, they are concentrated in Smallville complex in Mandurriao. For Manila or international standard, they are VERY affordable and can be classified as budget hotels. What I like about their hotels is that they are new, that means, better facilities. I have stayed in three hotels in Smallville – Iloilo Business Hotel, Westown Hotel and Smallville21.
I can’t say much about Iloilo Business Hotel because I literally slept and left. For Westown, it is great that they have a pool but it can be noisy. Surrounded by bars, the noise can last until wee hours, of course. Maybe asking for a room away from the bars would be better?
Smallville21 Hotel
If nightlife is on top of your list for Dinagyang, you may want to check out Smallville21. Keep in mind that due to its location, some rooms tend to be noisy. Ask for rooms located on upper floors or away from the noise.
Our last visit was during the Yolanda supertyphoon. I panicked that Iloilo will be flooded again, still traumatized from the flash flood that hit the city during Bagyong Frank that we checked in at 9pm. Sorry for this photo, but this is as real as you can get!
The suite room has a tub and ample space. They have Wi-fi and hair dryer. The staff, very efficient amidst the supertyphoon. I hope none of them are typhoon survivors because they really did their job. Kudos to them!
Luxurious Hotels in Iloilo
If you want some exclusivity and willing to pay a little more, there are two hotels I can suggest – Skinetics Boutique Hotel and Sheridan Boutique Resort.
Skinetics Boutique Hotel is located far from the “noisy” part of Smallville complex. Skinetics is more famous for their spa and their boutique hotel only has few rooms. If you want some privacy and pampering, book a room at Skinetics.
I had a chance to check out their rooms for a travel writing assignment. I wrote a post about Skinetics Boutique Hotel, click here to read. VIP guests in Iloilo often stay here and one of them is Lucio Tan.
Book Skinetics Boutique Hotel here!
From a trusted name in the world of hotels, Days Hotel Iloilo is best for families and tourists who want to have the best while in the city. Its location cannot be argued and situated inside a mall, you won’t come short when it comes to food choices. The supermarket at the ground floor of the building is a breeze for those who need some supplies.
To know more about Days Hotel Iloilo, read about our Staycation at Days Hotel Iloilo.
So there you have it, my personal picks to where to stay when in Iloilo for Dinagyang Festival or anytime you and visit the City of Love. Have you been to other hotels in the city? Feel free to recommend!
Read more posts on Iloilo!
There was Nothing But Desserts
Ayanna Garden Restaurant in Sheridan Boutique Resort
Visita Iglesia: Iloilo Edition
