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Last weekend, (October 7-8,2017) my squad and I had a 270km spontaneous trip to one of the nearest SURFING beach getaways from Manila. With TPLEX (THANK GOODNESS!), travel time has been cut down to about 4-5 hours, making it more accessible for vacationers for all season. Whether, you are an avid surfer or just someone who enjoys the tranquil atmosphere of a tropical paradise, you will find it all here. Cornered by the Cordillera Mountains to the West Philippine Sea, La Union is an arid strip of land that gained prominence over the past years as the "Surfing Capital of Northern Luzon". Of all the surfing hotspots, it is one of the most easily accessible, and one of the most tourism-ready, boasting a steadily growing number of resorts and restaurants. We all know for a fact that most people come to La Union to enjoy the beach and the waves (right?), but that’s not the only thing you can do there.
We got engulf in the beauty of La Union’s gorgeous waves and got mesmerize by the rhythm of the sea as it continuously makes love to the shore (Yaaas!). This is not our first time to step into the beautiful City of La Union, though. I was also with the same squad, when we first went to this place. And, I know for sure that we'll keep coming back to this serene and chill town. Moreover, the beach is something that you can never get tired of, and the community is nothing but warm and welcoming. It showcases the charm of simple living, and its laid-back nature is just too enchanting not to fall in love with. No wonder it has captured the hearts of many people (and so do we), some of which refuse to go back to their towns, and instead build a home beside the stunning shores of this City.
The best season to ride the waves is between October-April, with December-January as the peak months. Outside the surfing season however, you can still count on the town’s chill vibe and congenial locals who make you feel welcome. So whether you’re visiting during the off-peak surfing season or if you’re just not the surfing type, La Union, is still a great place to visit. So what can one do in La Union aside from surfing? Here are some awesome – and based on experience, that were beyond amazing – things that are worth checking out when you plan to take some time off in La Union.
Ofcourse, we needed a place where we could reside. A budget-friendly type of accommodation that'll cater to our one night stay. And where else can we find a budget-friendly, laid back atmosphere, that has an ideal place to laze around? We stayed at this unique hostel in Barangay Urbiztondo where you can still get a feel of that relaxed surf vibe, even though they are not exactly located in front of the beach. However, they are just 3-5minutes walk and very much accessible to the beach, famous bars & restaurants.
Staying in ELYU, there’s now a wide choice of accommodations to chose from. But, if you are looking for something of value and at the same time still imbibes the surf culture vibe, how about trying this Yang House? Even if we haven't stayed in a hostel before, we did know that hostels are a type of shared accommodation that helps your travel budget go further. But what we may not know is that the uniquely social nature of hostelling at Yang's has transformed our trip. And, it became an unforgettable one. We have embraced the unexpected. The Yang House, is literally our new adult playground.
According to Yang, the owner of this hostel, this was established just last year (August, 2016 to be exact).
For the reason because, they simply wanted a happy place to call it their own. An escape away from the hustle and bustle of City life in Manila. Moreover, they were actually a group of friends/business owners who called themselves "BonaFriends", when it started out.
The story behind the hostel is just as spontaneous as an impromptu barkada beach getaway (like we also had). Four friends that had already dabbled into organizing workshops for spiritual groups through meditation and yoga. However, realized the possible opportunity that will develop in La Union at the time. And, since that day they have open its doors to ALL TYPES OF PEOPLE. I'm talking about all TYPES of people here, you guys! Whether you're a girl, boy, lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender. This is just the right place for you. They are actually a "PRO-LGBT" kind of Hostel (whoaaa). In fact, upon entering you’ll notice the great quantity of wall art, with the most prominent one which was hand painted by Reese Ricaborda- stand by the words : "Love has no labels, no gender, no age, no religion".
I'm going to ask you a basic question... What do you think would change if we modify our approach to other people? If we are willing to smile, make conversation and truly connect, would we all have more meaningful, happy days? That is the hostel's concept is all about. It's about ONE LOVE. To accommodate everyone (whatever or whoever you are), without temporary judgments. They wanted to have a happy place where everyone can turn strangers to friends. Where no one will judge you and accept you for who you are. Basically, this is the idea of every hostel (right?): To meet other like minded people. A good hostel is a hostel, where you will easily find some company. However, Yang has this unique approach when it comes to her guest. She's pretty much very hands-on and well-rounded when it comes to whatever we asked and needed.
Now, allow me to walk you through their private and dorm rooms:
A clean, safe, friendly place to stay overnight. Must bear in mind though: That before you enter, footwear are required to be left at the entrance. But, don't you worry as they have their guest slippers that's readily available for use while inside the premises of the hostel.
The 2nd and 3rd floor is where the accommodations are located.
There are dorm rooms and private rooms, as well as common area and shared bathrooms. Beds are basic but rooms are clean. Air-conditioning was working well too (don't you worry, kids!).
We stayed at the third floor, at the Pawikan room that's good for 4 persons.
They have created also a space that allows guests to meet and mingle (common area) while also allowing them to take a step back and get lost in their own thoughts.
A sanctuary for the artsy as well as the adventurous and encourage their guests to express themselves amongst each other on their "freedom" walls.
I know that one of the prime draws to staying in a hostel is a cheap price and that you certainly should not expect the amenities of a three star hotel. But in this case, with Yang House. I do think I can draw some general conclusions that most of us backpackers (who already stayed here) could agree on. And here are the simple list of things that you should be expecting of what this hostel have:
Provided with secure lockers outside of the dorm/private rooms.
Free Coffee and Full Yang house breakfast.
Free WiFi
Local Map
Post up the “Hostel Rules”
Reasonable mattresses and pillows
Hot Showers/Good plumbing
Best Places to Eat in La Union
I like that the location of the hostel is close to where the action in Urbiztondo is. But, still far enough to keep the noise from the main highway at bay. Yes, it may be best known for its surf scene–but have you tried all their awesome food?
1.) Mad Monkeys
Yang House, is just a short walk from the corner of Mad Monkeys. It is a burger joint focused on giving diners a curated selection of crave-worthy, bold flavors.
2. ) Tagpuan
Satisfy your Pinoy combo cravings here. This Filipino eatery is popular for its comforting dishes at very reasonable prices. You can buy the most affordable food choices out of all La Union restaurants in this establishment. Also, have a good late-night drinking session with your friends here!
3.) El Union Coffee
A popular cafe making rounds on our Instagram feeds. Making use of premium beans, they’re dedicated to serving only the finest-quality beverages in the North. One look at the cafe will make you see their surfing influences too.
4.) Makai Bowls
Looking for a place to get a healthy snack? Visit Makai Bowls, one of the healthier choices of La Union restaurants, which is conveniently at Flotsam and Jetsam Hostel! Ask anyone where to eat in La Union and they’ll point you here. You’ll surely be delighted with its delish smoothie bowls. Their bowls are 100% sugar-free, dairy-free, and made with real fruits!
5.) Coast Call Kitchen and Bar
Greets food-loving surfers with international food that immediately gives them an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Their must-try dishes include the famous Pinakbet Iloko and Cheesy Beef Nachos.
Next time you visit LU, make sure you check out these restaurants (Ok?). And, do let me know your thoughts!
It’s not only about sleeping, eating and exploring for a cheap or expensive price. It’s more about meeting people, sharing stories, learning about other ways of life, learning about yourself, meeting new friends for life. At the end, you never know what you get until you find out, but I hope that our experiences does help. That this will simplify your decision making process and at least put you on the right track, when you head over to one of the best travel destinations in the country.
Yang House
01 Villa Sebastian Urbiz Tondo
San Juan, La Union
RATES
Peak Season Rate: 800Php/head for dorm room. 2000Php/night for private room (good for 2 pax)
Off Peak Season Rate: 700Php/head for dorm room. 1600Php/night for private room (good for 2 pax).
For inquiries and reservations,
Facebook: /yangguesthouse
Instagram: @yangguesthouse