I was swept up once more into the vintage atmosphere of Casa Simeon, as if my return were a physical embodiment of my manifestation to return here and spend the night rather than merely dining in—which was all I did during my first time here. Wasting no time after a bit of downtime from exploring numerous spots in Albay, I walked barefoot across the polished wooden floor of Casa Simeon, marveling at the various architectural marvels and delicate details that set it apart from more contemporary lodgings.
Where to Stay in Albay: Casa Simeon Specialty Accommodations & Dining
There's always something special about old houses that have been transformed into havens for travelers seeking solace. Casa Simeon, in particular, has a long history, beginning as a modest home for Simeon and Beatrice Alparce in the 1920s, to miraculously being spared in the aftermath of World War II after it was abandoned by the couple following a blitz by Japanese forces in the town of Bacacay in Albay.
As I have already written in my earlier blog post about Casa Simeon, the property features nine rooms across Family Room, Deluxe Queen, and Deluxe Twin classifications, a second-floor dining room, and a library and coffee shop on the ground floor near the outdoor garden.
Today, Casa Simeon is being run and managed by Enrico Alparce Calleja, the grandson of Simeon and Beatrice, and his wife Jessica Noelle Wong. The couple restored the old house and turned it into its current bed-and-breakfast form in 2018.
“You not only sense the warmth of the wood beneath your feet, you also get a feel for the culture and history of the Philippines,” Jessica points out.
The cultural aspect was on full display during my first visit to Casa Simeon. A troupe of performers entertained us with their elegant rendition of the traditional “Sinakiki” dance, a wooing dance with roots in the Albay town of Rapu-Rapu.
Flavorsome Heirloom Recipe and Heritage Vibe
Not only did we get to enjoy the enchantment of staying at a place like Casa Simeon, but the delectable cuisine they served us left us wanting more. According to Jessica, the recipes from Casa Simeon are passed down through the generations, with each dish comprising a backstory.
They are then enhanced to cater to modern diners' palates while retaining the traditional flavors of the cuisine. Just like the feast that Simeon and Beatrice threw for their friends and family in their day, every meal eaten at Casa Simeon is an intimate gathering of family and friends.
With a medley of savory plates chosen by our group from their menu, I went back to my room to cap a wonderful evening with a massage from an on-call therapist. Needless to say, I awoke the next day feeling rejuvenated, ready to spend another day traveling around the province. But first, a nice breakfast is in order.
Till next time, Casa Simeon.
Hotel Fact Box
Room Categories
Standard Room 20 sq. m. | Cozy heritage layout featuring a semi-double bed setup, beautiful garden views, individual air conditioning, flat-screen cable TV, safe box, and writing desk. Comfortably fits up to 2 guests.Deluxe Queen Room 25 sq. m. | Outfitted with a premium queen bed arrangement, authentic vintage furniture elements, a wardrobe closet, individual writing desk, private marbled bathroom with walk-in rain shower, and views overlooking the estate gardens.
Deluxe Twin Room 25 sq. m. | Features two comfortable double beds designed perfectly for small groups or families traveling together. Equipped with flat-screen cable TV, safety deposit box, individual air conditioning, and full bathroom provisions.
Family Room Spacious grand family configuration offering premium double bedding combinations, expanded closet storage, private bath amenities, and generous floor space ensuring a comfortable group stay.
Dining & Event Outlets
Cucina Beatriz (Second-Floor Dining Hall) The property's signature dining venue set within the main original 1920s wooden hall. Showcases traditional heirloom Bicolano recipes passed down through generations, elevated alongside contemporary Asian comfort favorites. Hosts intimate banquets up to 40 persons.Ground Floor Library & Coffee Shop A peaceful, Pinterest-Peg aesthetic salon stocked with literary volumes, serving local Albayano merienda selections, artisanal coffee, and traditional hot tablea brews near the outdoor courtyard.
Air-Conditioned Function Hall & Garden Event Spaces Tailored multi-use spaces hosting curated destination photoshoots, milestone events, and catered packages from 50 to 100 guests.
