Where to Stay: Batanes Resort and Hotels

Batanes is the perfect destination for the budget conscious. Do remember, however, that when a black-out strikes, you are paying for the five-star views and not the swanky service.

Batanes Resort

This local government-owned and newly-renovated Batanes resort has 10 stonehouses with two rooms, each able to accommodate three people. Located on the mountain slopes, every room gives a spectacular view of the sea. Modern comfort includes air-conditioning, hot and cold showers, and a standby generator. This Batanes hotel is only 10 minutes away from Basco.

Expect to see basic Ivatan fare on the menu, consisting of turmeric rice, dibang, arayu and venes. Rates start from P1,000+ per person, per night for double occupancy. No phones here, but your mobile phone should work.

Batanes Resort is located at Kaychanarianan, Basco, Batanes. To book, contact their booking office at Tel.: 078/ 533 3444, 533 3456 and in Manila at Tel.: 927 2393.

Seaside Resort

This Batanes Resort offers basic, clean rooms with air-conditioning, TV, a fridge and water heater. There are rooms able to accommodate up to 30 guests. Located in a natural cove, Seaside has a black-sand beach that is safe for swimming. Batanes has a strong undertow so be sure to check out the beaches before you swim. There is no generator in this Batanes hotel. Food is also basic Ivatan fare. For reservations or inquiries, contact Lydia Roberto at Tel.: 0921/ 229 0102, or Mobile: 0917/ 882 5609.

Shanedel ’s Inn and Café

Popular with anglers, this bed and breakfast has 14 rooms and is staffed by members of the owner’s family and their help. Rooms are basic and clean, with private toilets and showers, and air-conditioning. It’s located in the town proper, walking distance from the plaza and restaurants, and less than five minutes from the airport. The inn overlooks Basco’s commercial port. Food served is basic Ivatan fare. Rates are from P450-P1,000
per person, per night. Call: 0920/ 447 0737, or e-mail: shanedels@yahoo.com.

Home stays

Or you can opt to stay at an old Traditional house. Limestone walls and hardwood floors of an Ivatan house ensure that the house is cool even during the hottest time of the day. No air-conditioning, just fans. The home usually consists of the main house with its living room and bedroom/s and the outhouse and kitchen, which is also a storage room of sorts. During your stay, you’ll be assigned a cook, a housekeeper and a local tour guide by the town council. The toilet and bath are a basic but clean affair; and although there’s no hot and cold shower installed yet, you can always request the assigned staff to boil water for you. Food served are local Ivatan dishes by a cook assigned by town. Far different from staying in a Batanes hotel but this might make for a more exciting experience. Rate is P1,000 per night for the whole house. Contact BCTA to book.

Fly Seair and have your Batanes adventure. Book online today.