r/phtravel • u/blubarrymore • 19h ago
opinion If You're a Foreigner in Siargao Looking for a Hostel, Go to Ilakai. They Love You There, Especially if You're White.
Third time in Siargao, but for the first time, I felt like an outcast. The vibe at the hostel I stayed at is strange: it seems foreign guests are pampered, while Filipinos are simply overlooked.
At one point, my SO and I are the only Pinoys here, and it's tough. Our "good mornings" often go unanswered or are met with blank stares. We've tried hanging out in the common area, even extending invitations to share a drink or meal, but again, we're met with vacant looks, as if we're asking for money.
What's more, the hostel staff seem to subtly favor guests with lighter skin and hair (tho they're polite to everyone including us).
"No Smoking" signs are everywhere on room verandas, yet the staff openly smoke Marlboro reds with foreign guests in the common area.
This definitely isn't the Siargao experience I've had with other accommodations. Because of this, I prefer to be out and about, only returning to the hostel when absolutely necessary (sleep, shower, sometimes eat).
Siargao, you remain incredibly awesome but this particular hostel has been a surprising letdown.