Boracay’s best bang for your buck

As Boracay continues to evolve, the myriad offerings for visitors to this jewel of an island keep growing. The newest such offering is Microtel Boracay, a 51-room resort on Diniwid beach on the northern end of the isle. Microtel is the first international hotel chain to locate in Boracay. While the big news is mostly about the deluxe resorts that are about to open such as Discovery Shores and Shangri-La, Microtel has taken a different approach. Given that only a small percentage of the local population will be able to afford these luxury accommodations, Microtel has set its sights on the larger local market that seeks quality budget hotels. It offers some of the best budget accommodations, backed up by standards set by an international chain of over 290 properties around the globe.

The Boracay resort features completely new construction, double and suite accommodations, chiropractic-approved beds, a swimming pool, and a restaurant. The design of the hotel harmonizes with the beach setting with its furniture and landscaping. There are now six Microtels in the Philippines, with properties in Baguio, Tarlac, Cavite, Batangas, Boracay, and Davao. The chain has been consistently ranked the highest in guest satisfaction among economy hotel chains in JD Power and Associates’ North America Hotel guest satisfaction study.

Microtel is the hospitality arm of the Phinma Group. Rates for a double room are $70 in the lean months (June 16 to October 15), $130 in the peak months (October 16 to June 15) and $150 in the super peak months (Christmas/New Year, Chinese New Year, Holy Week). For reservations, contact its Manila sales office at 810-9526 or log on to www.microtelphilippines.com