Baguio City is a favorite destination for backpackers. One, because it is easily reached by bus with lots of transport choices. And two, because the city is a good jump-off point to other adventure destinations such as Mt. Pulag and Mt. Ulap, among others. The city also appeals to solo travelers or those who just want to get away from it all.
Different types of budget accommodations can be found in the city. But most of them do not go beyond the usual accommodations and simple amenities. A newly opened hostel called 3BU Hostel may change the way backpackers and solo travelers look at hostel living. It is the first-ever capsule hostel in the city which offers not only cozy accommodations but also not your usual amenities. Here is Pilipinas Popcorn’s review of their new digs.
3BU Hostel Is More Than Just A Place To Stay
The first thing one notices upon entering the reception area is the use of wood in the hostel’s interior design. It combines indigenous and modern design elements which are pleasing to the eyes and adds to the “tribal” vibe that it wants to exude.
The first floor, where the reception area is located, has several pods available for guests. Each pod has a triangular-shaped entryway, which looks very much like an Indian teepee.
A thick curtain can be drawn for more privacy. Inside each pod is an ultra comfortable single mattress laid on the floor. Pods have their own light and electric sockets.
The second floor has more pods and can accommodate more people. It also has a common area for chatting or watching TV or better, Netflix.
Shared bathrooms go beyond the ordinary here at 3BU. Both the women and men’s bathrooms have 5 changing areas, 5 toilets, and 5 showers. The men’s bathroom is located on the first floor, while the women’s bathroom is on the 2nd floor.
Now, we go to the capsule beds which make up the most number of beds in the hostel. Capsule beds are found in one big room on the 3rd floor.
Each capsule has an elevated single mattress and its own Roman blinds for privacy. Like the pods, it also has a light and electric sockets. This area has its own toilets and showers which are also shared.
All About Community
Owner Jerrison Tiong converted what used to be a dormitory into what is now 3BU. The hostel’s location is very accessible – it is located along Upper Bonifacio Street, near Data Center and the parking lot of Notre Dame.
3BU Hostel Rates
An overnight stay in any of the pods is only 950 pesos while a capsule bed is 750 pesos. This promotional price includes breakfast and a basic amenities kit which includes a towel and toiletries. Each guest is given an RFID card for access.
Jerrison showed us how 3BU Hostel wants to build community among its guests. On the second floor, they have a row of billboards where guests can find out what’s happening in and around Baguio, can find other guests who may want to do activities together, and can meet new friends. They also encourage guests to share the use of another common area which is the Game Room on the first floor.
Guests can also build camaraderie while enjoying food at the hostel’s cafe. J’s Liquid Black on the rooftop offers sumptuous pasta dishes such as Pesto, Carbonara and Seafood Marinara, mouthwatering pizzas, and sandwiches. This is also where guests take their breakfast.
Whether you are here for hiking, mountaineering or solo traveling, check out 3BU Hostel for a different kind of hostel experience.