Types of Philippine Hotels that Cater to Different Guest Needs and Expectations

Hotels in the Philippines are diverse, each offering various amenities, facilities, and services. Each type of hotel – from tourist inns to luxury hotels –  embodies unique characteristics that attract different groups of guests. Putting up a hotel always begins with envisioning what kind of place and service you want to provide. From there, you can identify exactly what your hotel needs and generate innovative ideas to stand out from the rest.

Philippine hotels operate in varied locations under particular conditions. To know which one is the most ideal and profitable for you, here is a quick guide to the different kinds of hotel classification, types, and things they have to offer.

Hotel Classification in the Philippines

The star rating for Philippine hotels is regulated by the Department of Tourism (DOT) according to their National Accommodation Standards or NAS. Evaluators judge a hotel’s star rating by assigning points based on availability, quality, and condition of the hotel’s facilities and services. The criteria rates the following business areas:

• Arrival & Departure 10%
• Public Areas 10%
• Bedrooms 30%
• Bathrooms 15%
• Food & Beverage 15%
• Kitchen Area (apartment hotels only) N/A
• Lounge Area (apartment hotels only) N/A
• Amenities 10%
• Business Practices 10%

The star rating is awarded based on the total score acquired by the hotel, and is valid for two years as per DOT regulations. This hotel classification determines the overall quality Philippine hotels have to offer. Guests use the hotel rating to set their expectations.

• 1 STAR (20-40%) – Limited range of facilities and services
• 2 STAR (40-55%) – Increased facilities and higher comfort
• 3 STAR (55-70%) – Very satisfactory accommodation, public areas, facilities, and wider range of services
• 4 STAR (70-85%) – Premium, very broad range of facilities, responsive service
• 5 STAR (85-100%) – Luxurious and world-class, extremely detailed service, exceeds expectations

13 Hotel Types in the Philippines that You Should Know

1. Economy Hotel / Budget Hotel

This kind of mid-range hotel is perfect for cost-effective traveling. Despite its simplicity, it offers functionality, comfortable lodging, convenient services, and basic amenities at a sensible price.

2. Business Hotel

Individuals and groups who are traveling for work benefit the most from modern business hotels. These hotel types are usually located in areas with many offices, near airports and corporate or convention centers. They are equipped with amenities such as office lounge areas, workstations, printing and fax services, and fast WiFi connection.

3. Boutique Hotel

Small, charming Philippine hotels offer an intimate experience, often featuring a cultural theme that immerses guests in the local scene. This type of hotel is located in ecotourism areas, the suburbs, or historical districts. 

4. Luxury Hotel

Top-tier Philippine hotels are defined by their sophisticated facilities, and services. Luxury hotels provide high-end accommodation, recreational and wellness activities, and exceptional quality food selections. Each room is furnished with elegant amenities such as comfortable linens, fluffy towels, fragrant bath toiletries, and the like. It is ideal for guests seeking a personalized and glamorous stay.

5. Resort

A resort is one of the hotel types that offer more than just lodging and basic inclusions. It is defined by its pleasant, family-friendly environment that makes guests comfortable and relaxed. Resorts typically provide food, spa or massage services,  recreational areas like pools, and a wide range of hotel amenities.

6. Tourist Inn

Many Philippine hotels located along major highways and in the province cater to travelers who require lodging for a short stay. Tourist inns are also known as transient houses, which do not provide a large selection of amenities, but rather the basic necessities.

7. Apartel (Apartment-Hotel)

These hotel types are ideal for travelers looking for long-term stays. It functions as a residential hotel, offering basic services found in hotels like housekeeping, food and beverage, and maintenance. Apartels can also  feature communal areas and other facilities meant for long-term guest convenience.

8. Pension House

Boarding houses or pension houses typically host guests for a more affordable rate. These Philippine hotels operate like a dormitory, with communal facilities like bathrooms, dining areas, kitchens, and lounge areas. These are usually family-run or independently owned, taking in a mix of long and short-term guests. Non-professional domestic workers provide services and maintain the property.

9. Motorist Hotel (Motel)

Motels are built to accommodate motorists and serve as an overnight rest stop along the highway. It is one of the hotel types that feature dedicated parking spaces for its guests. Travelers may avail of lodging, shower, toilet, and sometimes, meals.

10. Hostel

Backpackers and adventurers tend to choose hostels, Philippine hotels that have communal facilities meant to foster meaningful socialization among guests. These are usually inexpensive and meant for short-term stays. Hostels can be themed, especially in beach or mountain destinations. 

11. Vacation Rental

Vacation homes are privately owned accommodations that are rented out to families or large groups of travelers for holidays or long vacations. Unlike typical hotel types, these homes are fully equipped with more than one bedroom, a kitchen, dining room, living room, and other amenities found in a regular home. Vacation rentals can range from a whole house to a condominium or apartment unit.

12. Airport Hotel

Travelers with long layovers can make use of airport hotels, which are conveniently located close to or within the airport. These hotel types usually offer pick-up and drop-off services free of charge. Airline staff, attendants, and pilots also check in at airport hotels, where they can stay until their next flight.

13. Bed and Breakfast

These hotel types are private residential homes or rooms that are rented out for short-term stays. It is a type of vacation rental that offers unique experiences courtesy of the host. Bed and breakfasts incorporate local cuisine, cultural immersion activities, and high-quality Airbnb amenities for their guests.

In spite of their diversity, Philippine hotels remain homelike, and innovative in its solutions for guests. Whether a traveler wants to save on costs, splurge on themselves, or have fun bonding with loved ones, they are sure to find the ideal hotel that suits their needs and expectations.

ALSO READ: How to Attract 7 Different Types of Hotel Guests

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