MANDALUYONG – THE SUN-KISSED SHORES of the Philippines have long lured travelers with their powdery sands and turquoise waters. But in 2024, the archipelago has the opportunity to write a new chapter in its tourism story, one that goes beyond beach bliss and delves into the vibrant tapestry of landscapes, cultures, and experiences waiting to be discovered.

To captivate curious travelers and climb the ladder of global tourism popularity, the Philippines needs to shift its focus. While paradise beaches will forever be a draw, they must be complemented by diversifying tourism offerings, prioritizing sustainability, and crafting deeper connections with visitors.

The Call of Adventure Beyond the Shore:

Imagine trekking through emerald rice terraces in Banaue, their delicate steps a testament to generations of farmers. Picture yourself scaling the majestic peaks of Batanes, the wind whispering tales of ancient Ifugao spirits. Or feel the exhilaration of diving into the kaleidoscopic reefs of Palawan, home to vibrant coral gardens and playful marine life.

A new dawn in Philippine tourism: More than just beaches

The Philippines boasts a landscape far richer than just beaches. Lush rainforests, rugged mountains, and serene rice paddies beckon hikers, bikers, and nature enthusiasts. Hidden waterfalls tumble through verdant jungles, promising tranquility and adventure in equal measure. This diversity, if effectively promoted, can attract a new generation of travelers seeking unique experiences beyond the sun lounger.

Sustainable Steps for a Brighter Future:

Tourism, a double-edged sword, can both enrich and exploit. The Philippines must prioritize sustainable practices to ensure its natural wonders and cultural treasures remain pristine for generations to come. Responsible tourism initiatives like eco-friendly transportation, community-based projects, and conservation programs are not just environmental necessities, but also magnets for environmentally conscious travelers.

Imagine staying in an eco-lodge nestled in the Taal Volcano highlands, built with locally sourced materials and employing sustainable energy practices. Picture yourself learning weaving techniques from women in Ifugao villages, contributing directly to their livelihoods while preserving their traditional crafts. These immersive experiences, rooted in sustainability and community engagement, resonate with conscious travelers seeking responsible adventures.

The Tourism Department could partner with the Department of Trade and Industry and immerse visitors with the wonder of local craftsmanship from basket-weaving to wine-making. (photo not Crossroads Hostels)

From Visas to Vr: Enhancing Accessibility and Engagement:

Navigating travel logistics can be a frustrating hurdle. Streamlining visa applications, implementing online visa options, and improving airport infrastructure can ensure smoother travel experiences for visitors. Digital advancements also offer exciting possibilities. Augmented reality tours can bring historical sites to life, while virtual reality experiences can showcase hidden wonders to travelers before they even book their flights.

But true engagement goes beyond technology. It’s about sharing stories, traditions, and the warmth of Filipino hospitality. Offering cooking classes where visitors learn to whip up a steaming adobo, or organizing homestays in rural villages where tourists can truly immerse themselves in local life – these are the experiences that create lasting memories and foster genuine connections.

The government did a lot of good. It’s now more important to develope that and tap more stakeholders. (photo by bucketlistly.blog)

Building a Brighter Tourism Future:

The Philippines’ tourism journey demands collaboration. Working with local communities, private stakeholders, and government agencies is key to ensure a holistic and sustainable approach. By showcasing the country’s diverse landscapes, promoting responsible practices, and fostering meaningful connections with visitors, the Philippines can unlock its full tourism potential in 2024 and beyond.

This is not just about attracting more tourists; it’s about creating a tourism industry that benefits everyone – from local communities to the environment, and of course, the curious travelers seeking an unforgettable adventure. So, let’s venture beyond the beaches, embrace sustainable practices, and forge deeper connections. In 2024, the Philippines can rewrite its tourism story, inviting the world to discover a destination as diverse, vibrant, and unforgettable as its people.

/writtenwiththehelpofbard

The Philippines, Perfect Winter Destination?

Picking fruits in La Union

So winter is fast approaching (or here already!) and you want to go to the warmest climate you can find. What about adding the warmest smile and hospitality too to your experience?

We’ve listed down things you may want to do for us to help you get the most out of your WINTER VACATION so let’s get on with it. (Editor’s Note: None of the images and videos are claimed to be the property of Crossroads Hostel Manila)

First, where do you want to go? It’s the hardest question. There’s so many beach destinations all over the world and there’s only so much time to use so let’s make it simple: ASIA or LATIN AMERICA? You may not know it but Asia, where The Philippines is located is where you can experience some of the most beautiful beaches in the world but The Philippines boasts of the longest coastlines you can find anywhere in the tropical paradise! 32,289 kilometers of coast that includes beaches, bays, gulfs, and islets where one can just choose a place to stay where to spoil yourself of sun, sand, and seafood. Ahhh! 

Second, how long is your vacation? Spend it with us in The Philippines. Aside from beaches, we have mountain ranges, terraces, cliffs, ravines, waterfalls, lakes, beaches, cold springs, hot springs, mangroves, lush greens, exotic birds, colorful corals and fishes, animals, and even the sweetest fruits (and smelliest too! Hahaha!) you can find.

Third, where to start? START with us at Crossroads Hostel Manila! Where else? We will provide you with the utmost assistance we can to make your trip here in The Philippines, the most enjoyable one. How? We will not just help you get contact information of many of the tour operators, agencies, and resort owners – we will give you honest advice where to go and what to see with the budget you have made for yourself. Just give us a day or two to help you get the ground running. This way, you will make the most out of your Philippines tour destination the more memorable one!

Start your winter vacation with us! We’ll take care of you.

Do you want a sample of The Philippines to get a taste of what’s to come of your stay here? Check these beautiful video posts made by travel bloggers of some of the most beautiful beach and underwater destinations here in The Philippines:

  • Boracay

THE NEW BORACAY!

Boracay is a national treasure, it was shut down for 6 months to rehabilitate.We are one of the lucky few who got to experience Boracay in its almost pristine state. It is a beautiful place yet people still throwing their trash anywhere.To those who will visit its grand opening this coming October 26 please please please stop being a bad tourist, pick up your trash and be responsible.

Posted by Horse Guide on Thursday, 18 October 2018

  • Bohol

BOHOL IS AMAZING! – Chocolate Hills and Tarsier Sanctuary

BOHOL IS AMAZING! – Chocolate Hills and Tarsier Sanctuary. Today we visit Bohol Island. The Chocolate hills and Tarsier Sanctuary are what this island is super famous for. SO LETS DO IT! Check out Pierres awesome channel below.

Posted by The Traveling Clatt on Wednesday, 31 October 2018

  • Cebu

Cebu Travelogu: PH's #1 Tourist Destination

Nganong #1 Tourist Destination man gyod ang Cebu sa tibuok Pilipinas? Na hala, tan-awa ni ninyo! ©Philippine Airlines || FOLLOW US on Instagram: @Iamfromcebu

Posted by I AM A CEBUANO on Saturday, 29 July 2017

  • Anilao, Batangas

Diving Philippines | Anilao, BatangasIt has been months since my last dive. ? Editing and watching this video made me miss my 2nd home a whole lot more. ?Special mention to my uncle, Tito Jeff, this video is for you! Ikaw ang bida dito. ? Ang saya pala ng dive natin! The viz was really good and ang dami nating nakita! ?? Dive soon & Belated Happy Birthday! ?Enjoy watching! ?#9monthsinthemaking ??‍♀️#worththewait ?#MayenTV#ComeDiveWithUs——————————-INSTAGRAMhttp://instagram.com/mayentv——————————–YOUTUBEhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QDMW2gVbR-Y——————————–#DiveAnilao #AnilaoBatangas #GoPro #GoProVideo #ScubaDiving #Philippines #GirlsThatScuba #PADITV #DariLaut #UnderwaterVideo #DivePhilippines #CasaEscondidaAnilao #WreckDiveSong: Ikson – Reverie (Vlog No Copyright Music)Music promoted by Vlog No Copyright Music.Video Link: https://youtu.be/YKIT47g_CBo

Posted by Mayen Angeles on Wednesday, 15 August 2018

  • Coron, Palawan

Coron, Palawan. Watch in HD ?

Posted by MArk Aparecio on Sunday, 6 May 2018

  • El Nido, Palawan

Travel Vlog: Enchanting El Nido, Palawan

I returned to one of the most beautiful islands in the Philippines – EL NIDO, PALAWAN – to explore more and rediscover its natural wonders. White sand beaches, idyllic islands, crystal clear waters, towering cliffs and beautiful sunset, El Nido is truly a paradise on earth. ❤️Kudos to my video director/editor Eric Gamorot Travel Journal for this awesome video. Follow him on Instagram: instagram.com/eric_traveljournal/Special thanks to Skipper Charters and Northern Hope Tours El Nido, Palawan for the amazing island hopping adventures.Cameras used include Sony a6300, DJI Phantom 3 Standard and Phantom 4, and GoPro Hero 6. Gimbal used is Zhiyun-tech Crane 2. You can get all these at Henry's Professional.For more travel photos and videos, follow me on:YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/c/PinoyTravelFreakVlogInstagram – https://www.instagram.com/pinoytravelfreak/Music: The Chainsmokers – Closer (Shaun Frank Remix Audio) ft. Halsey

Posted by Pinoy Travel Freak on Friday, 23 March 2018

  • Siargao

This is part of our assistance to you when you avail our two or three night stay in our hostel at no additional cost.

Make The Philippines a part of your WINTER DISCOVERY and know why this country is the fastest growing tourist destination in the next decade and why CROSSROADS HOSTEL MANILAwill be the perfect starting place for your memorable tours of the country.

So is The Philippines your perfect winter vacation destination?Why don’t you try it and experience for yourself!

Booking now? Why not?! Try these friends of ours to book your stay with us at limited discounted rates today: HOSTELWORLD, AGODA, BOOKING, EXPEDIA, and TRAVELOKA

You can also read more reviews here at TRIPADVISOR!

See you soon and Mabuhay to you!

67 Boracay Accredited Establishments

Here’s a list of the 67 Boracay establishments accredited by the Department of Tourism. Click on the name of the hotel you wish to check and be led to the appropriate site we think can be useful for your research. Enjoy Boracay!:

  1. 357 Boracay Resort Station 3, Brgy. Manoc-Manoc, 10 beds 
  2. 7 Stones Boracay Suites Sitio Bulabog, Brgy Balabag 31 beds
  3. Alice in Wonderland Beach Hotel Station 2, Brgy Balabag 21 beds
  4. Astoria Current Resort Station 3, Brgy. Manoc-Manoc 205 beds
  5. Azalea Hotels & Residences Station 2, Brgy Balabag 284 beds
  6. screenshot_20181016-222805_google7100421871024583220.jpg

    This map will help you determine the location of the resort you want to go to. Station 1 is where the more pricey hotels and resorts are located. Not all high-rated properties are on Station 1 so make sure you read reviews of many guests who have stayed in those places.

    Best Western Boracay Tropics Station 2, Brgy Balabag 64 beds

  7. Blue Coral Resort Station 3, Brgy. Manoc-Manoc 5 beds
  8. Boracay Haven Suites , Station 2, Brgy Balabag, 63 beds
  9. Boracay Haven Resort , Station 1, Main Road, Brgy Balabag 82 beds
  10. Boracay Holiday Resort , Station 2, Brgy Balabag 69 beds
  11. Boracay Mandarin Island Hotel Station 2, Brgy Balabag 52 beds 
  12. Boracay Travelodge Beach Resort Station 2, Manggayad, Brgy Balabag 40 beds
  13. Boracay White Coral Station 1, Brgy Balabag 5 beds
  14. Calypso Resort Hotel Station 3, Brgy. Manoc-Manoc 22 beds
  15. Canyon de Boracay  Station 3, Brgy. Manoc-Manoc 31 beds
  16. screenshot_20181018-000658_google7375348278046212235.jpg

    Red Coconut Beach Hotel is one of the original resorts in Boracay island.

    Casa Pilar Beach Resort Station 3, Brgy. Manoc-Manoc 84 beds

  17. Dave’s Straw Hat Inn Station 3, Sitio Ambulong Brgy. Manoc-Manoc 11 beds
  18. Discovery Shores Boracay Station 1, Brgy Balabag 99 beds
  19. El Centro Beach Resort Station 2, Brgy Balabag 39 beds
  20. Ernest’s Place Resort Sitio Bulabog, Brgy Balabag 21 beds
  21. Fairways & Bluewater Resort Station1 , Brgy Yapak 700 beds
  22. Frendz Boracay Hostel Station 1, Brgy Balabag 8 beds
  23. Frendz Resort Station 1, Brgy Balabag 19 beds
  24. Greenyard Inn Station 3, Brgy. Manoc-Manoc 5 beds
  25. Hampstead Boutique Hotel Station 1, Brgy Balabag 8 beds
  26. Hannah Hotel Station 1, Brgy Balabag 15 beds
  27. Hey Jude Resort Hotel Station 2, D’Mall, brgy Balabag 24 beds
  28. Hey Jude South Beach Station 3, Brgy. Manoc-Manoc 19 beds
  29. Hue Hotel (Luana Hotel) Main Road, Brgy. Manoc-Manoc 127 beds
  30. Hotel Soffia Brgy. Yapak 58
  31. Isla Azul Boracay Hotel Sitio Bulabog, Brgy Balabag 14 
  32. Isla Gecko Resort Station 2, Brgy Balabag 16
  33. Island Inn Station 2, Brgy Balabag 26
  34. Jeffrey S. Hotel Sitio Bulabog, Brgy Balabag 15
  35. Jony’s Beach Resort Station 1, Brgy Balabag 21
  36. Jony’s Boutique Hotel Station 1, Main Road, Brgy Balabag 22
  37. Lady Jean Resort Station 2, Brgy Balabag 7
  38. Lanterna Hotel Sitio Bulabog, Brgy Balabag 6
  39. Lugar Bonito Station 1, Brgy Balabag 6
  40. screenshot_20181018-000453_google1286383464248249136.jpg

    Lugar Bonito is 3 stars only but the place is ‘instagrammable’

    Luxx Boutique Hotel Boracay Station 2, Sitio Manggayad, Brgy Balabag 11

  41. Milflores de Boracay (Jinjiang Inn) Station 1, Main Road, Brgy Balabag 10
  42. Moreno’s Cottages Station 3, Sitio Ambulong, Brgy. Manoc-Manoc 6
  43. Nigi-Nigi Nu Noos Nunu Noos Station 2, Brgy Balabag 37
  44. Nirvana Beach Resort Station 2, Main Road, Brgy Balabag 32
  45. Ocean Breeze Inn Station 3, Sitio Ambulong, Brgy. Manoc-Manoc 7
  46. Paradise Garden Resort Hotel & Convention Center Station 3, Brgy. Manoc-Manoc 463
  47. Pinjalo Resort (Jade hill Project Property) Station 2, Brgy Balabag 24
  48. Red Coconut Beach Hotel Station 1, Brgy Balabag 50
  49. Reef Retreat Beach Resort Sitio Bulabog, Brgy Balabag 12
  50. Roy’s Rendevous Resort & Bungalow Station 3, Sitio Ambulong, Brgy. Manoc-Manoc 10
  51. Shangri-La Hotel Brgy. Yapak 219
  52. Shore Time Hotel – Annex Station 1, Brgy Balabag 12
  53. Sol Y Sombra Station 1, Brgy Balabag 5
  54. St. Vincent Cottages (Vicente Aguirre Rooms) Station 3, Brgy. Manoc-Manoc 27
  55. Sulu Plaza Lodge Station 3, Brgy. Manoc-Manoc 12
  56. Sunshine Place Station 1, Brgy Balabag 9
  57. Tan’s Guesthouse Main Station 2, Brgy Balabag 14
  58. Tan’s Guesthouse Annex Station 2, Brgy Balabag 14
  59. Taj Resort and Spa Main Station 2, Brgy Balabag 11
  60. Taj Resort and Spa Annex Station 2, Brgy Balabag 18
  61. The Club Ten Beach Resort Station 1, Brgy Balabag 20
  62. The Ferra Premier by JG Hotel Sitio Bulabog, Brgy Balabag 36
  63. The Lazy Dog Cottages Sitio Bulabog, Brgy Balabag 26
  64. The Strand Boutique Hotel Sitio Sinagpa, Brgy Balabag 13
  65. Villa Simprosa Station 2, Brgy Balabag 24
  66. Villa Sunset Boracay Station 1, Brgy Balabag 8
  67. White Beach de Boracay Station 1, Brgy Balabag 5
  68. White House Beach Resort Station 1, Brgy Balabag 30

screenshot_20181017-235926_google4435476871337085321.jpg

Hue Hotel is one of the places I want to see because of its lavish design of the resort.

Note: The accredited number of properties are really smaller than the 68 the Tourism Department mentioned. Places like Frendz Resort and Frendz Boracay Hostel are actually just one website, one management. So be wary of that and make sure you talk to the resort management the difference.

We hope this list helps you decide and book which resort is right for you.

 

It’s been a while since we last served breakfast.
More of the reason we took it out was because — frankly — we’re not good at it and we are not about to be judged by something we’re not good in doing.
All that changed when we realize that we’ll be giving more people what they deserve when we start offering breakfast, Continental breakfast that is.

20180930_1600403636311670114949011.jpg

Our breakfast is complimentary and it will only be served between 7 and 9 am daily.

Starting Monday, 1st October: In line with our theme as a self-styled country-themed business hostel, we’ll be serving the same breakfast theme with a Filipino twist to it. We’re not promising it to have a 100% style ala-Filipino homestyle cooking like adobo with rice or tapsilog with rice but free breakfast just the same.
By definition Continental Breakfast consist of the following:

  • Bread (White bread or Pandesal)
  • Butter or Jam (Fruit spread, Margarine, or butter)
  • Coffee or Tea (3-1 coffee, 2-1 coffee, Lipton Black Tea)
  • Fruits (Banana or Pineapple or Apple)
  • More (Hardboiled eggs)

Expect these to help you start your day with such healthy choices.
Servings will start at 7am and run to 9am or for two hours only. No free breakfast will be served after 9am but we can arrange a 6am breakfast if needed but it depends on several factors.
We will not serve breakfast after 9am or be asked to serve breakfast as early as 3am just to help you with your early morning flight. No grace period. If you are there before 9am then you can still enjoy all the servings remaining. Yes, the early bird catches the worm and if you get there late, you might not have the breakfast item you want. Coffee and tea is available whole day.
Those who will try to ask for breakfast after 9am can order rice meals but this won’t happen yet until we’re ready to serve such menu items. We will make an announcement so you can prepare for it. We promise it to be a delicious experience.
By the way, the following arrangements are not included in the free breakfast:

  • OJT students
  • Guests who asked for hefty discounts like guests staying for 30 days or more
  • Guests who will check out before and after serving times
  • Guests who will check in before and after serving times
  • Friends of guests not checked in
  • Unregistered guests
  • Guests who have extended their stay but have not paid their current dues

In other words, we will serve breakfast to those who will fall under the right categories as we manage it in good faith. In addition to this, we do ask you to eat in moderation by thinking of other guests before thinking of devouring all food items you see there on the table.
KITCHEN CLOSED
To properly dispense our work in offering new products, expect the kitchen to be closed — either immediately or TBA — for we will soon offer menu items that may need the use of kitchen utensils and more that will disallow for guests to use the refrigerator and other items inside the kitchen.
CANNOT SERVE ALL NEEDS
While we will try to serve all our guests’ needs, please understand that we may not follow every need you require. Such examples are (a) food items than can give you allergies or (b) food items that may not be to your liking such as Non-Gluten-Free bread or wheat items or (c) request for us to serve breakfast to you whenever you need it. For allergies, please inform us ahead of time of what food allergy you may have or in need so we can advice you the dangers or not of food items we will serve you. We will not be faulted for not informing you what food item you will take that may pose a danger to your health.
INFORMATION
For more information about this or to book your stay with us, log on to our FACEBOOK PAGE or message us at +63 937 378 0399 or call us at +63 2 632 7737.

Check In, Check out times changed

We’re changing the check-in and check-out times and we explain why but first, the new times!

New Check In time is: 1PM
New Check Out time is: 11AM

What used to be
We followed what the hotel standard times where guests in those properties would check in at 2PM and check out 12noon. We did it out of, well, necessity. We don’t know any better.

The ‘Pattern’
We noticed a pattern from our guests who either check in early or would check in earlier than usual too. It seems like nobody in this hostel reservations are following the standard so we studied it.

We realize that guests would like to check out earlier so they could proceed to their next destinations earlier or even to catch the right lunch hour. Only a small percentage would follow the 12nn check out. On the other hand, we saw big percentage of travelers who would take lunch as well and come back afterwards only to check out late — which will not serve the best interest of our staff and the next people planning to check in on the same spaces.

Those checking in too would be arrive much earlier and wait out for the 2PM mark and seeing their tired bodies out in the common area is an agony. Bottom line: no one follows it too.

Practical
So the only practical solution is, is to allow each guest to enjoy the meanings of those times and so checking out earlier would solve the question of each guest wanting to check out so they can have their lunch at the most appropriate time — before 12NN. At the same token, those who plan to check in can do so at a much earlier time.

We hope our guests will enjoy the benefits and practicality of these new time slots because these are not blindly thought out, in fact it was made with our guests in mind because they’re always in Crossroads Hostel Manila’s thoughts!

THESE ARE TOP REASONS for 2017 why more and more travelers chose Crossroads Hostel Manila as their accommodation when they travel here to this area.

  1. LOCATION — Crossroads Hostel Manila is Top choice when it comes to appointments in this area.
  2. BUSINESS CONFERENCE and MEETINGS — 52% of those surveyed visited us due to business meetings and seminars. A strategic place who want to attend their appointments without much traffic and could just walk without spending much on public transportation. 23% checked in because of personal reasons. This could also be business in nature but they decline to state what it is.
  3. STAY ONE NIGHT Of course we want you to stay longer but 43% of guests stayed with us for one night and why? They want to try out our services, however, 37% says they want to stay up to three nights with us and perhaps they’re the ones who have returned to us for a second trip or our community of Crossroaders are growing.
  4. THE PRICE — Aside from the right location, 18% said they decided to stay with us because of the right price. That may seem low but it counts a lot because another 18% things that their money is will be well spent because of the value and the service they already received before.
  5. VERY FAST INTERNET — We employed the power of 50mbps broadband cable Internet and our guests were not left disappointed. In fact, it is one of the consistent reasons why guests continue to tell their friends and family about one of the services we offer.
  6. CLEANLINESS — We rate tops when it comes to cleanliness according to our booking.com reviews and you can see the reasons why when you check in and we would like you to comment.
  7. USE OF TECHNOLOGY — We give guests additional tips to help them navigate around Metro Manila. Whether local or foreign guests, we make sure we give the right advice when they want it and as they need it.
  8. PERSONALIZED SERVICE — Each guest have its own needs and we make sure to be available to our guests whenever possible. Do they need us to arrange a cab, we got it! Do they need us to provide them maps of tourist places and where to go, we provide it! Do they need tips and recommendations where to eat, we research it! We all make time for our guests and we do it as much as we can.
  9. COMPLETE KITCHEN — Well, almost — we do not have an oven! No cooking charge and you can cook your favorite meal using our kitchen at no additional cost.

These are just some of the reasons why more and more people come to us because we’re not just about our beds. We’re not just about price but we’re about making sure you have the right experience that comes with the right price.
So come on over and check us out because Crossroads Hostel Manila can speak your language of love.
Inquire now on our Facebook Page: fb.com/crossroadshostelmanila or book yourself using these links: agoda, booking.com, bit.ly/manilactrip, via traveloka, hostelworld, and AsiaTravel.

Come right in!

Come right in!

Please come in. We offer thirty beds and your budget accommodations include, a pillow, a warm blanket, a personal reading light, and a towel on each bed. All beds are placed in air-conditioned rooms and all rooms are situated close to the main entrance. We have a spacious dining and lounge area with six bedrooms and the smallest room has four beds in it.
Perks include free continental breakfast, free use of Wifi Internet connectivity, Cable television, laundry facilities, Kitchen room, Baggage room facilities, heated showers. The train, bus, and taxi hub facilities are about one hundred steps away and by arrangement we can provide you with Airport Shuttle services. We also have an in-house Convenience Store for your simple grocery finds.
Our staff will always be there to help you with all your needs. They can assist you with our in-house laundry facility and even cook fresh meals for you as you buy them in a nearby grocery or fresh produce market.
So relax and enjoy the savings, safety, and convenience you will get when you check in and enjoy the adventures as you wander the fun stuff in The Philippines.
Want more privacy? Check out our California Garden Property and our Governor’s Place Property and make your stay in the Philippines as pleasant and relaxing as possible.
Crossroads Hostel is the newest guest house in downtown Metropolitan Manila. We offer not just accommodations but we also provide shuttle services to and from any location in the capital to help your travel to our country comfortable and memorable.