Accommodation,  Travel Stories & Inspiration

Despite being Average, Chief Mau Hostel in Cebu is by far the most memorable

“Hi, I’m checking in,” I said to the simple cute lady at the reception. Her name is Princess.

 

Oh, sure, but would you mind waiting until 2 pm, as that is the standard check in time?” she replied.

 

I glanced at my watch and realized that it was only half past 12 noon.

THE RECEPTION 

Despite Being Average, Chief Mau Hostel, Cebu Is One Of My Most Memorable Hostels By Far

 

“Oh, I see. Sure. Can I stay at the lounge?”

“Of course.”

Despite Being Average, Chief Mau Hostel Is One Of My Most Memorable Hostels By Far 10

 

Suddenly, I noticed a blue-green eyed traveler staring at me. Since I was exhausted, I didn’t give him much thought. I simply relaxed at the common area and waited for the check-in time.

 

 

THE LOUNGE / COMMON AREA 

Just like other hostels, Chief Mau is furnished with a common area where travelers and backpackers can take a load off from a day or chill.

 

Despite Being Average, Chief Mau Hostel, Cebu Is One Of My Most Memorable Hostels By Far

When I came out of my room a few minutes after checking in, I saw the guy again. He was lying on a hammock. I didn’t want to initiate a conversation, but I found myself throwing onto him a few random questions about his travels and how his day went. His name is Christoph, from Germany.

“Are you from America?” I asked with an awkward grin.

“Nope. I’m from Russia, he kidded around, winking. I almost believed him.

We started chatting about travel and got to know each other. He sounded gentle, contrary to the impression his facial features portrayed. He exuded a strong character. What stood out, though, were his eyes and smile.

 

Despite Being Average, Chief Mau Hostel, Cebu Is One Of My Most Memorable Hostels By Far

 

Hammocks are hung on every corner to swing you to sleep.

Despite Being Average, Chief Mau Hostel, Cebu Is One Of My Most Memorable Hostels By Far

He shared with me some activities he had already done through the day like canyoneering that was offered by the hostel. He also showed me some stunning photos to prove it, which made me more envious.

 

Despite Being Average, Chief Mau Hostel, Cebu Is One Of My Most Memorable Hostels By Far

Despite Being Average, Chief Mau Hostel, Cebu Is One Of My Most Memorable Hostels By Far
© Christoph Kaiser

Canyoneering fee is ranges P1200-P1,500—that includes lunch and protective gears.

 

Chief Mau offers free water for its guests. I hope you have your own water container!

 

Despite Being Average, Chief Mau Hostel, Cebu Is One Of My Most Memorable Hostels By Far

To know more about the activity, you may ask the receptionist.

 

THE ROOM

After lounging for a few hours, I went back to my room to unpack.

There are 12 beds in the air-conditioned dormitory-type room. Don’t expect much from it, as it is basic. The photo below is the only one I took. Rate is P500 per night. Other rooms, which you can get for P400 a night, are equipped with electric fans only.

Despite Being Average, Chief Mau Hostel, Cebu Is One Of My Most Memorable Hostels By Far

It is in good condition, like an average and basic dormitory. It is clean, but you have to bring your own blanket. The AC is on 24 hours, so you’ll freeze like meat if you have nothing to keep you warm at night.

As for the bathroom, water supply is sufficient, so there’s nothing to worry about. Bring your own toiletries though.

 

EXTERIOR OF THE ROOM

 

Despite Being Average, Chief Mau Hostel, Cebu Is One Of My Most Memorable Hostels By Far

Yay! You can hang your wet clothes here! 

Despite Being Average, Chief Mau Hostel, Cebu Is One Of My Most Memorable Hostels By Far

 

Chief Mau also offers private air-conditioned rooms for P1,550 per night. A complete rates card is available at the front desk.

Despite Being Average, Chief Mau Hostel, Cebu Is One Of My Most Memorable Hostels By Far

 

HOW TO GET HERE 

Despite Being Average, Chief Mau Hostel, Cebu Is One Of My Most Memorable Hostels By Far

 

Chief Mau Panagsama Beach Moal Boal is easy to access via public transportation. Once you get off the bus in the city proper of Cebu, tuktuk and motorcycle drivers are waiting for passengers. If you decide to take a tuktuk, it will cost you PHP 30-50 one way. Travel time is 20-30 minutes. The main bus terminal is nearby where you get off at Chief Mau.

Despite Being Average, Chief Mau Hostel, Cebu Is One Of My Most Memorable Hostels By Far

You’ll spot this main entrance and actually, tutkuk drivers are familiar with the hostel, as it is very famous for travelers and backpackers. Easy as 1-2-3!

ON A PERSONAL NOTE, 

 

Later, as the day progressed, Chris and I went out to watch the sunset, a bottle of beer on hand and a splendid kind of dainty conversation.

 

“You know, some random moments are just so sudden that it can actually steer you to an unannounced beginning that’s so beautiful in its own way.”

He’s funky and easy to be with. He also shared amazing travel stories that made me get closer to him. Bonus is we both love traveling that’s why being with him meant no dead air. He’s also a good listener and has a beautiful smile, so our time together was filled with entertainment until we sewn up to the beach.

He invited me for dinner at The pleasure principle resto-bar where we ordered our favourite foods. I ordered sinigang na baboy that costs around Php150 and rice and he got his pizza.

Despite Being Average, Chief Mau Hostel, Cebu Is One Of My Most Memorable Hostels By Far16

 

and headed for drinks at Chili Bar to meet his new found friends from California whom he during his travels.

Despite Being Average, Chief Mau Hostel, Cebu Is One Of My Most Memorable Hostels By Far16

 

 

https://www.instagram.com/p/BTt1w2Nl3-P/?taken-by=escapesanddiaries&hl=en

P.S.

Even though the beach near Chief Mau hostel doesn’t look great for swimming and snorkeling, you shouldn’t miss to catch the stunning sunset. This was the first sunset that Chris and I shared together.

Despite being average, Chief Mau is one of the most memorable hostels I’ve stayed at so far—and that’s because of him. I treasure the moments we spent together.

 

The story of meeting Chris at the hostel didn’t end there. Guess what? We’re now together! Sadly, we’re in a long distance relationship. Even so, the relationship is going strong and we’re meeting halfway again soon! How awesome is that? ♡ 

 

Sometimes, it’s not about the place, it’s about the people you meet unexpectedly that change your life, forever “

 

 

 

How about you? Did you have any unforgettable moments at a hostel? Met a special person? Would love to hear yours!

 

Similar delightful story that you might also want to read : Love at the time of disbelief and distance

 

                                                     Thanks for reading!  ♡ 

Born, raised, and forever loyal to the Philippines. Catherine is a teacher and a BA in Mass Communication graduate who loves anything child-friendly. She loves writing in her diary every day and is in love with beaches, books, Safari, and Tokyo. Her ultimate dream destinations are Madagascar, Mongolia, and Hawaii. Check out her van camping adventures in Europe at vancampingguide.com.

16 Comments

  • Ambuj

    Chief Mau hostel looks like an ideal place to socialize and enjoy the ambience! The place looks a bit laid back and fit for party people! Would love to stay here when i am in the city next. I would love to do Canoyneering here!

  • Indrani

    Wow! I liked this. Destiny brought you both together!
    Best wishes for a the journey ahead in each other’s company! 🙂
    The hostel proved lucky for you.

  • Jerny

    What happened the night you were in the hostel? Were you cold because there was no blanket? And that’s true. The place becomes more special if there are moments shared in it. Ikaw na Cathy! Ayiiiie! Let’s go to Germany!

  • Karie

    Omg such a lovely story. It could make a great romantic movie..hehe..I have never lived in a hostel while travelling but reading your reviews it seems like a good place to meet fellow travelers. All the best for the future! 🙂

  • Mihaela

    Aww that’s so sweet how you met in there. I’ve been through the long distance relationship and it was hard, but so incredible when we were meeting. Now we live together and too happy. I wish the same for you two and many more happy travels.

  • Aldrick Zabala Agpaoa

    Chief Mau is the place to be for backpackers! Ilang hours ang biyahe from Cebu / Lapu-Lapu to Moalboal ate loves? I am planning to visit Moalboal real soon. At least I have this recommended hostel to stay when I will be visiting Moalboal. The ambiance is very laid back. I want a vacation real soon!

  • Catherine Mendoza

    Yes loves! This is really cool and fun place to meet fellow travelers too! This is where I met my boyfriend! HAHA Ikaw na ang susunod! Wooot! 3 hours by bus from Cebu city! And 20-30 minutes to the hostel where you got off! Have fun! X

  • Jec

    Indeed, you were destined to meet. Cheers loves and looking forward for all your adventures with him! Safe travels soon for the both of you! ?

  • Gel

    I like you’re review of the Chief Mau and I think I will check it out once we get to Cebu. And also, so happy for your relationship with Chris! Good things come in most unexpected ways indeed.

  • LaiAriel R. Samangka ( Thelittlelai: Beyond limits)

    Wow, I haven’t heard about this Hostel yet, though I’ve been staying in Cebu for quite sometimes. I like how the hammocks are hanging in almost every corner. I also enjoy reading your conversation with the guy from Germany. I can truly feel how happy he was while sharing all what he have experienced during his tour in the southern part of Cebu.

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