Among all the hotels I have been to all over the Philippines, Balay da Blas is one of my absolute favourites.
The junior suite has a bedroom, a mini ref, spacious sink and counter tops, as well as tv area with a long wooden bench, all for the price of PhP 1,750. It embodies the Ilocos feel of things traditional, vintage and classy.
The area just outside the lobby has tables and chairs surrounded by plants, with soft music playing in the background, where you can have a drink while browsing the interesting books they have which you can borrow. There was a book on old churches in the Philippines, and we ended up listing the churches we would like to visit eventually.
Staff are attentive and very helpful.
We checked out in the morning, and returned early evening to get our bags. Even if you have checked out already, there is a bathroom they will let you use to freshen up.
The Saramsam Restaurant is also housed at the Balay, giving you easy access to good food in a warm ambience.