Whenever I travel solo, I heed my own wallet’s calling, so I always end up staying in hostels. Even though traveling around the Philippines may present a challenge—since most cities still do not have hip hostels that are easy on the pocket—in recent years, I’ve seen a steady increase in this type of accommodation, fitting the budget of backpackers in many locations.
Where to Stay in Dumaguete: The Flying Fish Hostel
One such place is the city of Dumaguete. The name Harold's Mansion Hostel has been sort of an institution among backpackers passing through this beautiful city en route to the islands of Apo and Siquijor. I stayed there once during one of my earlier trips to Dumaguete.
I planned to book it again on my last visit to Dumaguete, but when I opened my Traveloka app and started browsing, I came across a new property called The Flying Fish Hostel. Appearing in pictures as spacious with a lovely industrial vibe, I immediately considered it.
The Flying "A" for Architecture
As far as hostels go, I give this property a flying A++ compared to other hostels I’ve stayed at before. The front yard, teeming with grass, plants, and trees, gives an additional layer of charm to the Flying Fish Hostel. I prefer it when outside the room and the living area, as a guest, I can still find another quiet spot to rest. In this place, it was on a hammock tied under a tree.
Using my voucher from Traveloka, I was able to book a private room for three nights. Otherwise, without a freebie, I would have loved to stay in one of the dorm rooms—all of which looked big, impressive, and airy.
My room lived up to the industrial look of the hostel. Bare walls with bricked parts and dangling steel lamps were furnished with wooden-colored furniture and flooring. It had a small veranda leading to a view of the front garden. I instantly found it very laid-back.
Destination, Okay!
Situated at 32 Hibbard Avenue in Bantayan, Dumaguete City, the Flying Fish Hostel is just a ten- to fourteen-minute walk away from Silliman University and the Rizal Boulevard, where much of the happenings are. Along the way, you will pass by some of the city’s popular food places such as Sola Restaurant and Grill, Kape Lucio, Salt and Pepper PH, and the Korean cuisine haven, Blue Pearl Meat Restaurant.
Where to Stay in Dumaguete?
Of course, other than Harold's Mansion Hostel and Go Hotels—both of which I’ve stayed at before—I highly recommend the Flying Fish Hostel. During the night, the common area downstairs becomes a lively spot where fellow travelers always hang out, and on some nights, a musical artist performs a live acoustic set.
The staff members were incredibly friendly during the time I was there. Even on the mornings I left early to go to Apo Island, the guard helped me hail a tricycle to take me to the bus terminal.
The Flying Fish definitely soars when it comes to pulling off cozy accommodation that suits the budget of most travelers. Conveniently located and tastefully designed to dish out a lovely ambiance, it is a place one would absolutely call a home away from home.
