The Apricus Hotel is a newly built, budget-friendly retreat located in Batangas City. Designed with simplicity and comfort in mind, it serves as a strategic jump-off point for exploring the province’s famous dive spots, heritage towns, and mountain trails.
Nearby Attractions
- Parish and National Shrine of St. Padre Pio: A massive religious center just about 14 minutes away, famous for its unique tent-like architecture and peaceful atmosphere.
- Taal Heritage Town: Roughly a 45-minute drive. You can walk through cobbled streets and visit Spanish-era ancestral houses like Villa Tortuga or the massive Taal Basilica.
- Mount Gulugod Baboy: An easy, beginner-friendly hike in Mabini (about an hour away) that offers a stunning 360-degree view of the coastline.
- SM City Batangas: For those needing a quick shopping fix or a variety of commercial dining options, the mall is a short drive from the hotel area.
Transportation Tips
- Getting There: From Manila, head to the PITX Terminal in Parañaque. Board a bus bound for Batangas Grand Terminal (fares are usually around ₱200–₱250).
- Local Commute: From the Batangas Grand Terminal, you can take a jeepney (₱12–₱20) or a tricycle (₱50–₱100 depending on distance) to reach the hotel.
- Navigation: If you are planning to visit multiple towns like Nasugbu or San Juan, renting a private car is highly recommended as public transport between distant municipalities can be time-consuming.
Best For
- Budget Travelers: Those who want a clean, modern place to sleep without the high price tag of a luxury resort.
- Solo Adventurers: The 24-hour front desk and security make it a safe choice for solo explorers.
- Short-Stay Couples: The quiet, no-frills environment is ideal for a quick weekend getaway.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Newly Built: Modern fixtures and clean interiors.
- 24-Hour Service: Room service and front desk are available around the clock.
- Value for Money: One of the most affordable modern options in the city.
Cons
- Limited Amenities: Don’t expect a pool or a full-scale gym; it’s a focused “stay and go” hotel.
- Room Size: Some rooms can feel a bit compact if you are traveling with a lot of luggage.
Pricing Observations
Expect to pay between ₱1,800 and ₱2,500 per night. Prices tend to stay stable, but it is always wise to book at least two weeks in advance during peak Philippine travel seasons (March–May) or during long weekends.
Local Food & Tourism Tips
- Must-Try Lomi: You cannot leave Batangas without trying Lomi. Look for local “Lomi Houses” nearby; the Batangas version is thick, gooey, and topped with chicharon and liver.
- Bulalo: Head toward the stalls near the public market or specialized restaurants for authentic Bulalo (beef marrow stew).
- Souvenirs: Pick up some Panutsa (peanut brittle) or a bottle of Kapeng Barako (strong local coffee) to take home.
First-Person Review
Klook.com“I stayed here recently and was pleasantly surprised by how fresh everything felt. Since it’s a newer building, the air conditioning was ice-cold—a lifesaver in the Batangas heat. The staff was incredibly polite and even helped me coordinate a tricycle for an early morning trip to the shrine. It’s not a luxury resort, but if you just need a clean, quiet home base while you spend your days exploring the beaches or mountains, this is a solid choice.”
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.