Puerto Princesa · Philippines
La Vida Hostel
Rooftop hammocks, cooked food and tour help suit explorers seeking a quieter base; it sits outside the centre, making scooters or tricycles useful.
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Vibe Analysis
La Vida Hostel is built around its rooftop hangout: hammocks, a small bar, cooked food, cold drinks, and a leafy treehouse feel above a quieter part of Puerto Princesa. It can be social when there is a crowd, but it also works as a softer landing pad before or after flights, with plenty of space to chill rather than party hard. The standout here is the local adventure setup. Reed and the team can arrange tours, scooters, onward transport, and a self-guided La Vida Loop by bike through beaches, waterfalls, and quieter local spots around Puerto Princesa. Scooter help may be available too, which makes the place better for backpackers who want to explore instead of just killing one night near the airport. Food is a real part of the stay, not an afterthought. The kitchen turns out burgers, the waffle burger, pasta, breakfast, fresh coconut water, and eggs from the hostel chickens as part of the La Vida rhythm. The house dog, cat, garden, chickens, and rooftop make it feel more like a loose home base than a polished chain hostel.
Signals to check
- The dorm setup can be rough: limited lockers or room locks, limited sockets, cramped beds, and one bathroom for a 10-bed dorm have all been issues.
- Cooling is inconsistent in dorms, and some rooms can run hot. A private room may be the better move if sleep matters.
- The hostel sits outside the main center. Tricycles and scooters make it workable, but walking to food or nightlife can feel annoying, especially at night.
- The vibe depends on who is there. It can be friendly and social, or very quiet in low season.
- Outside food and drink rules can feel strict, and service style may not land well for everyone.