Tans Guesthouse

Housed in two separate three-story buildings at the end of a narrow alley right on White Beach, Tans Guesthouse is a no-frills property drawing couples, groups of friends, and large families. The property can be hard to find, but guests can identify the guesthouse by a stone altar featuring a statue of the Virgin adjacent to the entrance. From the outside, the guesthouse looks just like any other budget hotel in the area, with a white facade, narrow balconies, and an open restaurant with a food counter and a few tables. The main lobby is a small and simple space, with white tile floors and a simple dark wood front desk. Floor-to-ceiling windows have views of the street and the tropical plants lining the building, and a couple of chairs offer seating for those waiting to check in or out. A pedestal fan keeps the air moving. There is an additional front desk in the annex structure, but it is housed in an open nook directly on the street . The rest of the guesthouse is equally basic, but everything is kept clean and in good shape overall. 

Tans Guesthouse is located on a narrow alley directly on White Beach, Boracay’s most famous stretch of sand. The property is right in the heart of lively Station 2, within easy walking distance of dozens of restaurants and bars, and a three-minute walk to famous D’ Mall. D’ Talipapa Market can also be reached on foot in about 15 minutes. Station 3, known for its varied dining options and quieter vibe, is just a short walk away. Station 1 attractions -- including Willy’s Rock, the Holy Rosary Parish, and Club Paraw -- are all a five-minute drive away, or less than 15 minutes on foot down the beach.

The hotel has 26 clean rooms ranging from small Doubles to spacious 10-person Family Rooms with balconies and fully equipped kitchens. Decor is basic, with simple black or dark wood furniture, gray tile floors, and bare white walls. Each unit is furnished with a small table and a couple of chairs, and there is a small closet or shelves for storage. Main building rooms are a bit worn, but units in the annex building feel fresh and are in better shape. All rooms, however, are surprisingly well-equipped for a budget hotel, with flat-screen TVs, air-conditioning, safes, electric kettles, and mini-fridges. Wi-Fi is free throughout, but some guests have complained that it can be spotty depending on room location. Bathrooms are also basic, with small wet room-style showers and a couple bars of soap.

For a hotel this size and in this price range, Tans Guesthouse offers a good array of on-site amenities. The fitness center is appealing and light, with large windows and a decent selection of cardio and strength-training machines. However, its location directly inside the manager’s office may make some guests feel uncomfortable. The salon offers beauty treatments and massages, but the spa area is basic and a tad run-down, with worn furniture and a few maintenance issues. Couples’ massages are available here. The restaurant overlooks the street and serves average Filipino cuisine, snacks, fruit juices, and coffee. Wi-Fi is available free of charge throughout, but breakfast is not included in the standard rate.