REVIEW; Z Hostel Manila, The Philippines

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I was flying to Manila from Coron. I was only starting to recover from my horrendous illness. Just days before this my friends had recounted terrifying tales painting Manila as some sort of hideous industrial city with a dark side. A sort of Gotham, without the Batman.

I was sceptical. I had a feeling these people were the type of people that just didn’t appreciate cities in general. Nonetheless it made me think that if I had to spend two nights in Manila I’d might as well do it in style. That’s when I found Z hostel Manila and saw how wonderful the city really could be.

Located in the trendy Makati district of Manila metropolis, Z Hostel is the kind of place travellers like me dream of. The PERFECT mix of the social/fun atmosphere of a hostel and all the luxuries of a hotel. From the moment I arrived I knew I was embarking on a love affair with this beautiful boutique hostel.

Looks are Important

The building has been expertly designed and decorated using an industrial theme. The tables and chairs in the café area have been made from left over building materials, as are many of the one of a kind art installations on the walls. Everything is modern, light, bright and fresh.

Dorms of Dreams

The dorm rooms are outstanding. You can tell that the people behind Z Hostel Manila are travellers. The bunk beds are bolted into place so there’s no creaking or squeaking if any one gets busy in the middle of the night. Even the beds themselves are just so much bigger than any bunk I’ve ever slept in. They all have their own towel racks and there is a blackboard divider where you can write messages to your fellow dorm mates, or play pictionary! There is also a small kitchenette in the dorm rooms. How convenient is that?

Something Different

Not only that but they also provide an all female dorm complete with a Hollywood style vanity mirror and hair dyers. Another important aspect of the rooms in Z hostel Manila is that every room has a large window. If it’s a double room you’re after this is also available, with ensuite and PLENTY of storage space. All rooms have aircon.

On top of the World

The piece de resistance is the stunning rooftop bar boasting city views that will take your breath away. They serve light bites and a selection of alcoholic beverages. When I was staying I was lucky enough to catch an amazing live gig. There’s always something exciting happening up at the rooftop bar of Z Hostel Manila.

Scared of heights? Not sure about the rooftop bar? No problem! There’s a chill out area in the café complete with light up beer pong table. Yes, you read that correctly, BEER PONG. Yet another spot to socialise, party or just soak up the good vibes.

Let’s Eat

With regards to food, a light breakfast is included in the room rate and served downstairs in the café. Z hostel also has it’s own signature coffee blend so be sure to check that out, if you’re into that kind of thing (I’m not really, but I did enjoy a mocha). You can cook in the hostel buy if you want to head out for a meal there are plenty of places in the surrounding area. I loved Senõr Pollo which is a two minute walk away and serves amazing tapas and other dishes.

Other stuff

The staff at Z hostel Manila are incredibly friendly and will help you with anything you need. If you need a taxi the doormen will call one for you. Yes, that’s right, there are door men. FLASHPACKING! You see why I love the place. Oh, and there’s FREE WIFI! Woohooo.

With regards to getting there i recommend a metered taxi from the airport. It should cost between 250pesos and 400pesos depending on traffic. That’s around about £5.

What I Thought

To sum it up, this place is a dream hostel. It’s a little more expensive than your average hostel but it is so worth it. If you have a night or two in Manila when visiting the Philippines I HIGHLY recommend that you stay with Z. It’s ideal for flashpackers, families, business travellers and backpackers that want a little break from the cramped, basic dorms that we’re all used to. Trust me, no matter who you are, you will catch some of the best zzzZs of your life in Z Hostel Manila!

Want to read more about the Philippines? Then check out my guide to Legazpi and my article all about the wonderful Filipino food!