As I set foot in the charming city of Baguio, excitement buzzed in the air, promising a delightful and extended vacation. Little did I know that a formidable foe, Super Typhoon Egay, had other plans for my getaway. What was meant to be a leisurely 2 to 3-day stay was abruptly cut short by the tempest’s relentless wrath.

Seeking refuge from the storm’s fury, I found myself at Hotel 45, a name I was familiar with from previous bookings. Known for its affordable rates and short stays, it seemed like a practical choice amidst the howling winds and pounding rain.

My previous encounter with Hotel 45 was in December of the previous year, where a single room with a comfort room came at the price of P1200. However, this time around, I noticed a P200 increase in the rates. Undeterred, I opted for a more budget-friendly option – a room with double beds and a shared bathroom, all for P900. The P500 single bed offering was no longer available, but I reasoned that it was a small sacrifice for a more extended stay.

Amidst the darkness that engulfed the city due to the super typhoon, the value of having electricity for just P900 during my overnight stay was truly worth it. As I contemplated the situation, I couldn’t help but empathize with the over 90% of the population enduring the same darkness for nearly two days.

However, it was in my choice of this budget accommodation that I stumbled upon an intriguing array of quirks, offering me unexpected lessons for future adventures:

1. The Scent of Clorox: As I entered my P900 double-bed room, a distinct whiff of bleach filled the air. Known as ‘clorox’ to Filipinos, the potent odor was a reminder of the room’s recent cleaning efforts. To tackle this overpowering scent, I resolved to pack some spray alcohol or air freshener on future trips.
2. Unwanted Visitors on the Sheets: My discovery on the bed was less than desirable – stray strands of hair and even pubic hairs scattered on the sheets. This unpleasant surprise prompted me to equip myself with spray alcohol and other antimicrobial sprays for added comfort and hygiene.
3. The Mystery of the Wooden Floor: Observing the wooden floor, I couldn’t help but wonder about its cleanliness. It didn’t appear as though it had been thoroughly scrubbed, leaving me pondering the presence of other microorganisms. Grateful for the provided slippers, I deemed them a necessity to avoid going barefoot.
4. Sharing is Caring, but Be Prepared: As my room lacked a personal restroom, I learned to be prepared for a shared bathroom experience with other guests. Equipping myself with wet wipes, tissues, toilet seat covers (for the ‘maarte’ or sensitive souls), alcohol spray, and germicidal soap proved to be a wise move in this communal setting.
5. Thin Plywood Walls and Unruly Noises: The walls of the hotel, constructed from thin plywood, inadvertently allowed me to overhear the conversations of adjacent guests. From intriguing tales to peculiar sounds, it reminded me of the importance of discretion and mindfulness in such shared accommodations.
6. A Prisoner of Circumstance: While I yearned to explore Baguio during my stay, Super Typhoon Egay had other plans, keeping me confined to the room. The storm turned my temporary abode into a shelter amidst the tempest, leaving me with no choice but to brave the hours indoors.

As I packed my bags and bid farewell to Hotel 45, I carried with me valuable insights and unexpected tales from my overnight escapade. Despite the quirks, I couldn’t help but acknowledge the beauty in these unforeseen twists that make every journey memorable and exciting. As we venture forth into new adventures, may we embrace the quirks and the lessons they bring, weaving unforgettable stories of exploration and growth. Until the next escapade, may your travels be filled with both sunshine and unforeseen surprises!