Porto Novo Hotel, San Jose City, Philippines

The Porto Novo Hotel is without a doubt the best value hotel I have ever stayed in - all the factors considered. Here is what you get for P1000 per standard room - continental breakfast and tax included. The 4-floor hotel is just 6mths old, so its very clean and modern. The standard rooms are generously sized, and come with aircon, cable TV, ensuite toilet/bathroom and a work table. It was very comfortable working there. There was even wifi, though the signal was a little weak in the room, and the manager turned off the internet later in the evening...to our dismay. Breakfast was simple but pleasing....something you might order from McDonalds. There was undercover parking, off-street parking, which makes alot of sense in the Philippines because of the security concerns and frequent rainstorms. The service was also friendly and attentive, though I must say they could offer little help for us as tourists. No travel maps, no tips for where to go. I guess the area doesn't have much to offer, but might they dig something up?? My guess is that they are targeting a business market, but given the possibility to attract holidayers, why not fill those vacant rooms.

I give the place 5-stars for value.

The Porto Novo Hotel is located on the Mahalika Highway as you leave San Jose City towards the north. Its in barangay Malasin, and their tel: 63-44-947 6688. As indicated, you can get a standard room (good for 1-2) for P1000/night or a family suite for P3,500. They even have separate quarters for your driver (P350/night with breakfast), and function rooms for P3,500. They have a very generous check-out of 12 noon.

Check the terms when you travel - my suspicion is that there terms are a 'special price' to boost market awareness. Perhaps it might be best to take up the offer before prices rise!