THE SITUATION We were on a budget and planned to stay for an entire week. We chose The Strand because the online information said it: 1) Was in the right location (near malls) 2) Fit our budget of less than 1000 pesos a night 3) Pictures showed it was clean and looked fairly new 4) Didn't have that motel vibe PROS: 1) Affordable -- less than 1000 a night, man. 2) Friendly, accommodating staff -- we had to change our booking because we were going to stay in another hotel after our first night in Davao, and then go back to The Strand on the third night. Of course, we gave this confirmation before the no cancellation deadline, but what I liked was that we didn't have to do any rebooking online. The staff arranged the modification for us. 3) Morning coffee and bread -- The booking.com information said that breakfast wasn't included. They actually serve one cup of coffee (Nescafe 3-in-1) and one piece of bread (stuffed pandesal) from 6am-10am. It's not a substitute for a proper breakfast, but it can stave off hunger while you're on your way to finding a restaurant or cafe. 4) New building -- It was built only 2 years ago 5) Clean -- Some dirt between the bathroom tiles but not a big deal CONS: 1) Steep & limited parking -- We cracked the car's front fender, and there were only two parking slots. Another option is street parking, but then won't be as secure. 2) No 24-hour pharmacies within walking distance -- I got sick and the hotel doesn't sell paracetamols either. Bring your own med kit if you plan to stay here. 3) No elevator -- They only have 4 levels, so not a big deal unless you're a PWD. Just request for a lower floor upon booking, NOT upon check-in. 4) No jeepney or bus stops nearby -- it's an 8-10 minute walk from the hotel to the nearest street with public transport. We suggest downloading the Grab application so that you can book a taxi anytime. Davao taxi drivers are nice :) 5) Saggy mattress OVERALL: Great for those who are no-frills travelers. The room was very basic, but spacious and clean (we booked a studio). However, next time we might stay somewhere else with better parking and closer to a convenience store or pharmacy. There were other minuscule inconveniences but at such a cheap price per night I was happy to just let them go.
17 Reviews