Bewitching Balay da Blas

After our adventure-packed afternoon Sandboarding and riding a 4×4 all over the La Paz Sand Dunes during the Lakbay Norte Media 2 tour, we were treated to a night of socials at Balay da Blas. Aside from being a cozy and affordable place to stay the night, the charming pensionne house in the heart of Laoag, Ilocos Norte is also perfect for intimate gatherings.

The top floor serves as a function room, where one of the first things you’ll notice is the interesting patterns on the ceiling covering the recessed lighting and vintage ceiling fans, which give the place a whimsical vibe.

Some people in the group made the most of the free wifi and immediately crashed on the couches in one of the cozy nooks with their laptops to check mail.

Though we just came from dinner (another buffet smorgasbord at Ilocos Rosewell Hotel & Restaurant), there were appetizers laid out for us in the balcony. Since the owners also operate the famed Saramsam Ylocano Restaurant & Bar, how could we refuse the tasty treats?

I don’t remember all of the food served that night, but the kilawing blue marlin (?) was excellent with beer.

While we sat around and chatted about the trip over a few drinks, the tour organizers surprised us with a games and prizes from sponsors like North Face, Flying V, Sanuk, etc. The rest of the night was spent over videoke, with some amazing performances by people in the group.

Though we were all having a blast with the videoke and booze, before we knew it, it was time to pack up, as we still had to drive to Currimao. Before leaving, we were given a chance to check out the various rooms in Balay da Blas, which convinced me to check in there the next time I go to Laoag.

Balay da Blas Pensionne House was originally built as a residence for the Blas family before they opened their doors to tourists and guests, which explains the very homey decor.

The villas are lavishly decorated with old and new furnishings, antique wooden chests, carpets, and other interesting details. In fact the place feels more like a heritage house rather than a hotel.

Even with the rustic feel, Balay da Blas also conveniently offers amenities you would find in other hotels such as hot and cold showers, cable TV and WiFi Internet Access. If you find yourself in Laoag, this is definitely a place worth checking out! Prices are not bad either (see rates below).

Balay da Blas
#10 Giron Street, Brgy. 7-B
Laoag City, Ilocos Norte
Contact Person: Sammy Blas
Contact Details: (077) 770-4389; 0917-5702110; balaydablas@yahoo.com

Rates inclusive of VAT and Filipino Breakfast; extra pax 500 all inclusive:

• Standard Double/Double – Php 1,200-2,000
• Junior Suite – Php 1,500-2,300
• Deluxe Suite – Php 1,750-2,550
• Executive Suite – Php 3,500-5,000