
smiling...a pleasant face to see in the morning I must say...all the staff were great...Ill recommend your place to my friends...=)
Take care! Nina...November 02, 2005
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Hi Janet! We just wanted to thank you for a wonderful stay at your place - will recommend it to any one that plans on going to Boracay - it is such a beautiful island. Thank you for all your help and say hi to your always friendly and helpful staff from us. I do miss your banana shakes - they were the best on the island!! Thanks, Christina & Mikkel November......2005
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Hi Janet, I wanted to thank you and all the staff for the amazing time I had at Dave's Straw Hat Inn. I have some friends who will be in Boracay next year and I have recommended they stay there. I also emailed the Lonely Planet with a glowing recommendation. Best of luck for the future Sophie November....2005
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Hi guys, I'm Naoko from Japan. I spent my birthday in Boracay 23 OCT. It was so wonderful! And thanks for your celebration about my birthday. I really enjoyed staying in your hotel. You were very kind and friendly. It was so comfortable. If my friends or family will travel to Boracay, I'll recommend your hotel to them. Ill be there again! See you! Naoko, November 2005
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Hi Janet just wanted to say what a great time we had in Boracay and that you have a bunch of super staff. Brgds Tim and Denise November, 2005
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I would heartily recommend Dave's Sraw Hat to any friends, relatives or strangers. You guys were great and made my stay in Boracay a delight I hope to repeat next year. Take care.Vercille, December 2005
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My mom and I had a blast in Boracay. Our stay at ur hotel was awesome. The staff were friendly, courteous and efficient. The food was great and cheap (big serving!!).I'll recommend it to my friends and relatives. Long live...DAVE'S STRAW HAT!

Nenet and Glenda, December 2005
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"A gem of a place" January, 2006 We're just back from a fabulous stay at Dave's and are so glad we found it on tripadvisor. Agree with all the positive reviews.We felt so welcome there, and our cottage was comfortable and clean, and the beach was just down the path. For a very reasonable rate, we had a quiet, comfortable and spotlessly clean room, with a telephone, a colour TV with 85 channels, a fridge, a new bathroom (small but adequate and again spotlessly clean).We also stayed at Fridays for four times the price, but we didn't have four times the quality of room or warmth of welcome there. Trip Advisor Comment.
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"Great Pancakes!!" Jan 3, 2006 I just got back from staying at Dave's. I was there for New Years. It was excellent. This was my second time staying with them. I stayed there during the summer for a week. The hospitality was excellent. They really do make you feel like family there, especially if you are traveling by yourself. They invited me to have New Year's dinner with them, which was great. As a female traveler, it is great to find a place that is concerned for your safety. They have a night man that is there when you stroll in at the wee hours of the morning to give you your key. I truly enjoy my time at Dave's. It is safe,
clean, and cozy. Also the banana pancakes are delicious!! Trip Advisor Comment.
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"A Straw Hat Home" Jan 6, 2006 I stayed at Dave's Straw Hat Inn for two weeks but could have easily been there for longer. It was so nice to have a place where I could just drop my stuff and stretch out - especially after all the traveling. The rooms are very clean and comfortable - and the inn is at a nice, quiet part of the island. Dave and his family really make you feel at home (and if there is anything you need or want - just ask them). Next time I am in the Philippines, I will definitely stop at Dave's (and you should too!). Trip Advisor Comment.
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We just come back to Sweden, lot`s of snow and cold weather. One month in PH goes so quick and we miss Boracay and your place already. We been in Boracay many times before but your place is the best we ever stayed in. Very personal, friendly and lovely staff. When we come back we want to stay in your place again. We wish you all the best! Fam Villas Jonsson, Fam Johansson, January, 2006
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"Wonderful memories of Boracay/Daves Straw Hat Inn" Jan 17, 2006:We just returned home from a wonderful trip to Boracay. Our 7 night stay at Daves Straw Hat Inn was very good and I would recommend it to anyone looking for a quiet place to stay that has a nice charm about it. I must compliment their staff for being very friendly and making us feel at home. They make a great mango shake, the best I had on the island. thank you for a great vacation. John M.
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Janet, Felma and I had a wonderful time in Boracay and enjoyed our stay at Daves Straw Hat Inn. I am convinced that your Inn is the best hotel value on the island, and you have the best mango shakes that I have ever had.Thanks to you and your great staff for a wonderful vacation. We hope to visit again in May '06. Regards, John M.
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Hello Dave, Janet, Javid and the whole staff of Daves Straw Hat Inn. We are all back in Switzerland and Im at work again. Id like to thank you for all you did for us during our holydays in boracay. We really enjoyed our time there and your resort and your staff is just great. (of course you never reach the standard of the orchids hehehe J) I dont know about bernardo and andrea; but Im sure I will come back next December. I will inform you earlier this time for the booking. Have a great 2006 and see you..keep in touch Claus
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"Thank you Dave, Janet and all the staff!!" Jan 22, 2006: klikitykev@yahoo.co.uk, japan My wife and I have recently returned to Japan after 2 weeks on Boracay which was great!! We were pretty much disorganized when it came to booking in advance, so we only had one night at Dave's but we have to say that we have never met a kinder couple who really go the extra distance for their guests. You saved our holiday Dave, Janet and Jenny!! Thank you so much.. Aside from the outstanding service, their modern cottages are very reasonable (one of the few places not to jack the prices up sky high for the peak), clean and coem with TV, fridge, safe and everything you need.. breakfasts are a very good price and fill you with energy for the day! We highly recommend staying at Dave's, for the quiet location, but within easy walking distance of the day and nightlife! Next time we are booking directly and it's Dave's all the way.. Thanks again, Kevin and Yukie
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"THE place to stay on Boracay" Jan 23, 2006: Rudolfstetten, Aargau, Switzerland I have been at Dave's Straw Hat Inn for approx. 3 weeks this january 2006. It was my 4th time on Boracay, but the 1st time at Dave's. It was just lovely. Dave, Janet, Javid, the whole staff and last but not least Fregles (the dog), all of them are very friendly and helpful. I really had a great time. Dave's Straw Hat Inn ist THE place to stay on Boracay. I'll go back. Claus from Switzerland
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"love the place" Jan 31, 2006 very nice place quiet but easily accessible to station 2.wonderful helpful staffs. very reasonable rates. TripAdvisor Member, Daly city, California
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Hello Janet, Jenny and all the others...every day we are dreaming of Boracay...we really enjoyed our stay with you - we never felt so much at home...many thanks for those great days. All the best for you, too, and in German we would say Liebe Grsse Nicole & Michael February, 2006
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We did have good memories of Boracay not only of the place but also your Inn. We loved the surroundings and the cleanliness as well as the peace and quiet. We also would like to commend you for your friendly staff. We will not hesitate to recommend you to our friends and acquaintances in the future. Thank you again and it was nice meeting you. Norma and Randall, February, 2006
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We would both like to say big thanks to you and all your staff for helping to make our stay Boracay amazing. I will recommend Dave's straw hat inn to anyone visiting Boracay. Thanks again Oli and Miffy, February, 2006
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Thanks so much for everything. I really think your place is heaven-sent. It's obvious you love what you're doing and i hope you will continue to offer your place to boracay guests for as long as possible. you are naturally caring, warm and accommodating hosts. I totally agree - dave's offers the best value peso-for-peso but the warmth and simple ways you make your guests feel special and welcome (not business) are priceless of course. When we do go back to boracay, we'll be back at dave's as well. In the meantime, I want others to experience boracay and your place too so I'll definitely recommend it to our family and friends. Warm regards, Buddy and Elna February, 2006
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"Best in Boracay!" Feb 7, 2006 This place was the perfect home away from home! David and Janet and their wonderful staff made our stay the best 5 nights we had on our vacation to the Philippines. We were given help with everything we needed from working out funds to organiazing trips to recommindations for restaurants....This place is just a very, very short walk off of the beach. Our room was a perfect size and very clean during our entire stay on the island. Their location off of Boat Station #3 is a perfect location for accessing everything. Every morning we woke up to the best breakfast for an outstanding price! The staff were always very friendly and helpful with anything we needed. We evene had help carrying our luggage to Boat Station #3 when we left at 5:00 in the morning.I would highly recommend this place for numerous reasons to anyone traveling to Boracay. If you aren't a yuppie who needs to stay in a 5 star resort, this is the perfect little, comforable location and rooms with service that I would consider above that of a 5 star resort!
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"Brillant Dave's Straw Hat Inn" Feb 8, 2006 The rooms are nice and clean, the staff are very freindly and helpfull and you can even get a decent brew in the morning. I wouldn't stay anywhere else on Boracay
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Your facility was first class all the way.
I will have many things to tell my friends when I get back to Saudi Arabia next week.
I have many Filipino friends I work with and will be mentioning what a class act you and Janet are running there.
all the best, Joe Macnab, February, 2006
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Janet, thanks for your wonderful kindness and help. We will recommend your place to anyone who talks of going to Boracay. Mike and Emma February, 2006
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Our stay in Boracay was fantastic because of you! You really made our visit wonderful due to your kindness and that of your lovely staff. You really have great staff. Thank you for all your courtesies and everything you did for us. I really appreciate your taking good care of Pamela when she was ill and having your staff bring her to the hospital and even recommending that she go in the first place. You are such a caring and wonderful person! You have my vote as "Hotelier of the Year" for all your extra care and concern for us. Thank you for making our stay so enjoyable. Roberta, February, 2006
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"Best Place on Boracay" Feb 21, 2006 I stayed at Dave's Straw Hat Inn for 4 nights in Feb. 2006. This inn is first class and the owner and his wife were helpful and classy. If you have ever stayed at a B&B in Europe you will know what I mean when I say this is the place best on Boracay for your money. The rooms were large and very clean and the food they served was excellent. This place is relatively new and the landscaping surrounding the cottages was immaculate and attractive. Only a minute walk from the beach the inn provided services you would only expect from one of the high-end resorts. I will definitely be returning! A TripAdvisor Member, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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"Soo loved this place" Feb 22, 2006 I only have good things to say about DAVES! This place is probably THE BEST budget accommodation in Boracay. It exceeded all of our expectation! Everything was spic and span! The rooms are perfect, we've got cable, fridge, locker, fan, ac..you could not ask for more, really...rooms also come with a little veranda...what's more, you could even rent a dvd player if you fancy watching some movies...and for those of you who need to be constantly surfing the net...they've got wireless, as well! The staff are ever so helpful and wonderful! Always smiling and ready to help you with anything. Best of all ready with loads of suggestions of what to do (and not to do) in the island. The place is highly recommended...we will definitely be coming back very soon...A TripAdvisor Member, Great Britain
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Traumhaft !!! In 15 Jahren Asienreisen und davon 6 mal in den Philippinen habe ich noch nichts vergleichbares gesehen.
Dieses Bungalowresort mu keinen Vergleich mit einem mehrere Sterne Hotel scheuen! Die Auenanlage sowie die einzelnen Bungalows sind ein Traum.
Aber vor allem der Service und die Sauberkeit sind hervorragend. Nicht zu guterletzt lassen einem die Besitzer Dave (Amerikaner)und Janet

(Filipina) sowie die ganze Crew besonders Jeny und Larry wirklich wie zu Hause fhlen. Ich und meine Frau werden auf jeden Fall wiederkommen!
Alfred & Cheryl, February, 2006
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"A Very Pleasant Experience" Feb 25, 2006 I stayed at Dave's for 3 days in Feb 2006.. They went (miles) out of their way to make my stay a really pleasant one, and when you stay there you really feel "taken care of"... They'll definitely be on my short list when I go back!! A TripAdvisor Member, Shanghai
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"The Highlight of Boracay!" Feb 28, 2006 My fiancee and I stayed at Dave's for 3 nights, including Valentine's Day and it was absolutely wonderful. The room was really nice, the ambience of the straw huts was fun, and it was surprisingly quiet and private. The food was sooo good that we ended up eating 5 of the 6 meals at Dave's. Janet were 100% customer service and friendly advice, and aided me greatly in setting up my room for a Valentine's Day surprise and having a seafood barbecue outside my hut for the two of us. Even the staff members who brought us food and escorted us to and from the resort were extra-friendly and accommodating. If you're reluctant to stay at Dave's because the more-expensive alternatives may offer more amenities, consider this....they will do whatever they can to provide you with whatever you need that may not necessarily be standard at one of the "non-premier" resorts. If you want a special candlelight dinner, they can do it. If you want to be set up on an Island Hopping tour, they can do it. If you want a masseuse or a DVD player with movies, they can do it. They even had a travel agent book me a hotel in Manila for my return! So basically, there's no reason not to stay at Dave's. Have fun, and thanks again Janet!! A TripAdvisor Member, Binghamton, NY
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"Couldn't have asked for anything more" Mar 2, 2006: Dave managed to squeeze us in after an agency messed up our booking (moral of the story: book direct with Dave) with a great rate. The rooms are clean, have quiet air conditioning, safe, TV, and a verandah. Service is out of this world - Dave's staff are great. This is a small complex, a few steps away from the beach at the southern end of the island, but is highly recommended. Try the mango ice tea! A TripAdvisor Member, Trowbridge, UK
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Thanks for all your Hospitality. Jenny, Janet, yourself and the rest of your staff were all very helpful and friendly. I hope that were able to visit again before we head back to Canada. Thanks again Brett and Jaime, March, 2006
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We had a great time staying with you. Your place is the best! Rooms are cosy, clean and have all the basics and a bit more. We know what we are talking about because in 9 days we stayed at 4 resorts, some of them more than double your price and they didnt even have hot water, a refrigerator or safe. Your staff is the best too; Always singing and smiling and eager to make our stay even more pleasant. We will definitely come back and book our room in advance because we know why you are quickly fully booked Best regards. The Juel family (Hong Kong) March, 2006
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We would like to thank you for the very warm welcome.. for taking care of us during our stay.. we really had a good time during our stay there.. all your staff are very friendly esp Jenny! =) We just regret that we didnt catch Ms Janet during our stay there, that is why we need to come back to meet her. =) regards to all you, looking forward to meet you guys again in the near future. Ariel and Louie Anne, March, 2006
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If you're looking for something really quiet and private with a killer staff then the only place I would go is Dave's Straw Hat Inn. I've done a lot of traveling and Dave and Janet are a couple of the nicest and most accomodating hotel owners I've met. Their place is really nice and just a 30 second walk from the action of the beach. Travis, March, 2006
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We really had a great time in Boracay. And thanks to you and your wonderful staff, our trip was more memorable and fun. Please send my warmest regards to ATE Jen and the rest of the gang. Too bad we were not able to meet Janet. Hopefully, we'll meet her the next time we go there. Again, thank you so much for making our Boracay trip an unforgettable and special one. I already miss your refreshing mango iced tea...Cheers, Ronnie March, 2006
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Thank so much for your friendly and professional manor. We loved staying with you, Dave's straw hat inn is brilliant tucked away in its own little world. You have everything needed, for your visitors. Having Ed meet us at Caticlan was brilliant, that took alot of pressure off us. Your staff are a credit to you. Jenny, Ed Dean and the girls not forgetting Freckles. We felt very special by the way they treated us. With their lovely smiley faces every day. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay and if we decide to visit again we will us your Inn again. We will recommend you to all our friends and family. Adele & Lindsay, March, 2006.
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"Daves, 100% recommended!" what we can say, we really had a great time during our entire stay here are dave's! though its too short that is why we promised to go back =) we really cant put into words how happy/satisfied are we with regard to their overall service. all the people there are very warm and accomodating, the rooms are very nice and well taken care of. you will not imagine that you will get this kind of service with a very cheap price they offer. two thumbs up! you get every peso you paid for, or even more.. great job for Janet and the rest of the people behind the resort.. =) Mar 24, 2006: A TripAdvisor Member, Philippines
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Thank you for the fabulous time in Boracay. Daves Straw Hat is luxuriously cheap and convenient to everything. Mark, Singapore, April, 2006.
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We had a lovely time in your cozy place. We will definitely come back when we visit the Philippines again. You and your staff are very warm and welcoming people. All the Best, Kristine April, 2006
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Fantastic and we will be back soon!!!!!!! John, Steve, Harold, April, 2006
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Being to Boracay is really an overwhelming experience and was made memorable with our stay in your place.. Thanks to Janet and the staff (along with Freckles) for giving me and my sister a very warm welcome.. It is as if we found a second home in Boracay. Our stay in Dave's Straw Hat Inn will definitely make me come back to Boracay, hopefully sooner (fingers crossed).As soon as we got home last night, we couldn't stop telling our parents about how your great your place is.. I hope to come back to Boracay with my parents and grandparents.. =) I miss Boracay **sigh**
Thank you very much and God Bles!! Regards, Sarita April, 2006
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What a wonderful bit of paradise half way around the world. It was so amazingly fun and your great accommodations and friendly personal relationships with all of us helped make our stay memorable. Tell all of your staff that we totally enjoyed their eager hellos, helpful manner and truly genuine concern for our happy stay. We also appreciated the extreme cleanliness and we always saw your staff doing one more thing to keep it that way. Thanks for making Jacob and Rose's wedding truly a great memory for us. It was fun for us to have almost all of our children present to experience this with us. Enjoying this touch of heaven on earth truly brings our family even closer together. Thanks again. Judy and Steve Conway, April, 2006
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"the best of boracay" Cost benefit analysis is used in every way in todays society by everyone. when it is used to select a place to stay on boracay there is only one answer....dave's strawhat. the cost is most reasonable and the service is the most anyone could possibly need. the staff are efficient, professional, friendly and you can tell they are genuinely happy that you are there. it is like being with family , warm and caring. the facilities are modern, yet cozy and protective. all in all, i could never stay anywhere else, ever. if you are going to boracay, call janet. you will be glad you did ! Apr 17, 2006: A TripAdvisor Member, casco, maine
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"Excellent Hospitality"It felt like a home away from home because of the friendly staff that made our trip to Boracay a memorable one. They kept good care of us! Apr 17, 2006: A TripAdvisor Member, San Diego, CA
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"We'll Be Back" We stayed at Dave's a few weeks ago, and had a wonderful time.
Personally, we liked the location at the quiet part of the beach away from the crowds. Dave's isn't marketing itself as a beachfront resort,and at that price we didn't mind the short walk down an alleyway. The rooms and general area are very clean, and any requests and needs we had were catered for. We felt quite safe and comfortable there, and will definately be returning in future. Thanks to all the staff for a great stay in Boracay. Apr 7, 2006: A TripAdvisor Member, Hong Kong
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"Recommend staying here..." Had read good reviews of this place and they're all true. Walked in and had to wake up the receptionist poor thing, but she organised 2 rooms for us on the spot. We had to wait a bit as the people occupying the room were checking out, but we relaxed and had breakfast there while we waited. The rooms were very clean and good value for money. They were very friendly and always chatted with us and gave us suggestions on where we should venture of to. The place was so cosy, at night they would light candles which really gave it a nice feel. I also found, because we were staying at Boat Station 3, we were able to get a good nights sleep as most of the bars and restaurants were located in Boat Station 2 (which was a stroll away) so we did not get the loud music. If I ever go back to Boracay I would definitely stay here again. Apr 18, 2006: A TripAdvisor Member, Sydney, Australia
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"Nice Resort" Just a positive note on Daves, great place to stay=very clean and nice gardens. If you like it nice and peaceful, this is the place to stay .IT may not b beachfront but its only a short stroll from the beach. Wouldnt hesitate to stay again. Pleasant surroundings, nice food and not over priced. Staff are friendly and very helpful. Rooms are clean. I will return without a doubt. Apr 21, 2006: BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA
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"Viva Boracay !!!.... Viva Dave's Straw Hat Inn!!!....We will be back!!!!......"We just came from Boracay and stayed Dave's Straw Hat Inn for 3 nights and 3 days, it was a nice place to stay , a very clean place and so neat....the price was very reasonable too, we had fun in boracay and our stay for the first time made us plan to come over , over and over again in the near future when time permits. Daves Straw Inn , Janet and staff was so accomodating and friendly...It was so kind of Janet and Staff to pick as up in station 3 at almost 1am , we never forget it, thanks guys......if you did not pick us up we will surely get lost coz we were tired that time......sorry po hehehehehe.....Daves Straw Hat Inn is GREAT!!! as i see, coz its Janet wife if David the owners put her time and personal touch in the place............Dave's Straw Hat Inn, have a simple menu for foods but the foods was great, i love the mango shake, it tickles me, yum yum yum hhhmmmm.............Thank You Dave's Straw Hat Inn, for making our Boracay experience memorable.... Apr 24, 2006: A TripAdvisor Member, Davao Philippines
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"Real Philippines Experience" Dave's Straw Hat Inn offers visitors a tranquil and relaxing place to stay on Boracay Island. As others have observed, the staff are very helpful and welcoming. For example, a staffer met us at the airport and brought us to the island. This was a big help and made things very easy for us. One evening, the staff cooked fresh prawns we had bought and set out a cozy table for us, complete with candlelight. The Inn is tastefully designed in traditional Philippine style and is thus a pleasant counterpoint to the island's commercial side. The beach is a short walk away and across from small restaurants which will bring drinks to people relaxing on deck chairs. Overall, we were very happy to stay at Dave's Straw Hat Inn and recommend it to people who are looking for authenticity, hospitality, quiet, and value during their Boracay vacation. Apr 29, 2006: A TripAdvisor Member, Makati City, Philippines
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"Best staff and resort on the Island" We just got back from Boracay for the 4th time and this had to be the best trip yet. We stayed at Dave's and were more than happy with the trip. The rooms are great. I have stayed at many of the top rated resorts in Boracay but they do not even compair to Dave's. The location is great very peaceful and quiet and only a couple of minutes from the beach.. Janet and the staff are some of the nicest people you will ever meet at a resort or anywhere for that matter.. They are very helpful and friendly.. We had a great time with the staff at the BBQ.. We are planning to go back in June and will stay at Dave's again it is the only choice for us.. Cant wait to see you guys again.. Take care and see you in June...Thank you for the great time and wonderful memories ..David and Annalie Apr 30, 2006: A TripAdvisor Member, cebu Philippines
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Dear Janet: I want to thank you for taking care of us and making us feel welcome when we stayed at your place over Easter. I miss the quiet times we had there, walks along the beach, and talking to all of you there. Could you also tell the young lady you were training I said thank you as well. Both of you were very sweet and kind and I appreciate how you treated me. I felt immediately like we were friends and it means a lot to me to have you treat us so nicely. Thanks again, Jeff May, 2006
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"Very helpful" We really recommend this place to all that want a relaxed and quiet place to spend their time in Boracay. Dave and Janet helped us out numeral times with our wedding papers and contacts when we were planning for our marriage in Boracay. The resort is very cozy and is surrounded by a beautiful garden. The staff are friendly and nice. The rooms and bathrooms are clean. 5 stars to Daves and Janets resort from us. Jonas Westin and Sofia Talvik May 2, 2006: jonas.westin@tv4.se, Sweden
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"Think you are just getting a great value room? At Dave's, you get a family too." I found out about Dave's from Trip Advisor and contacted them as well as others. Dave's was quick to respond, always gave thorough info and offered to help with a lot of things. They were much better than any of the other places I contacted including some of the much more expensive places. One of the important things was that it was easy to just use PayPal to put a deposit. It was so much easier than some other places that wanted wire transfers or other strange methods of payment. So all the booking and pre-arrival service was excellent. We had arranged for pickup from Caticlan and everything was smooth. We were very happily surprised with the facilities and the rooms. There was a nice ceiling fan in the room, A/C (which we never ended up using), and the bed was very comfortable... and actually I really like the sheets :-) they were really soft and comfy. We had no problems with hot water or anything like this. It had a nice veranda to relax on which had a fan and light. So overall the rooms were great value. I guess the only thing I would have changed would maybe be some bigger pillows but probably just a personal preference as my girlfriend was fine with them. For those of you who were like me and never been to Boracay before, Ill just mention that I thought the location was perfect. Well, I thought Dave's location was perfect. It is maybe 50-100 meters from the beach kind of walking on a path between some other accomodations/houses, its very quiet, in the trees, etc... and near boat station 3 was perfect for us. I didn't want to be in the thick of all the craziness of 1 and 2. The beach here was much quieter than 1 and 2, I thought it was perfect. We had breakfast at Dave's several times, even while we weren't staying at Dave's (we stayed a few nights at Mandala Spa too). I had the same thing every day because it was so delicious. Banana shake, toast and scrambled eggs with onions, tomatos and bell peppers. I'm a pretty picky eater actually but the quality/taste was great, especially the bread. I've lived in Asia for about 4 years now and good bread is hard to come by sometimes but Dave's sourced properly on this front! Now to the staff/service. Dave's really feels like a family, like you are staying at a Bed and Breakfast. Most (probably all) live at Dave's, they all seem to be good friends and since its not a real big place anyway, there aren't a lot of employees. So it makes it feel like a small family of good friends. One night (while we were at Mandala), we were invited to come over and have a big dinner with all the staff and a few other guests. I think there were probably 12 of us there and afterwards we did the obligatory, sang some Karaoke. We all had a great time and was fun to just be hanging out with everybody and having a good time... and of course the spread of local food was very delicious. One other note I want to point out is that yes Dave's is excellent value, but I didn't really have a tight budget when I went to Boracay. I stayed at Dave's because it seemed like a great place, not because the price was attractive. May 4, 2006: A TripAdvisor Member, American living in Shanghai
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Thank you, Janet and staff, for another wonderful stay. You are just the best and we had such a great time again. Just have to continue getting people your way as they do come away happy. You go above and beyond each time and that is very much appreciated. Take care, Janet, and I hope to see you next month!! Cindy, MDA Divers, May 05, 2006
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Hi Janet and Jenny, thanks for all your help in making our stay so enjoyable. We will for sure book up with you next time we are over and will recommend our friends to stay with you as well. I thought your place was very comfortable and welcoming, your customer service was first class. The room was clean and homely and although small we had no complaints. (I also liked the easy access to the internet on a speedy computer - nothing worse than a clapped out unit that leaves you wishing the service had not been put on in the first place). Dean and Pui, May 07, 2006
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"Great Breakfast" A great place to stay. Janet and the staff were wonderful, (Dave was off island while we were there). Clean, quiet, restful, pretty, and a great breakfast. May 7, 2006: A TripAdvisor Member, Zeng Cheng ChinaA TripAdvisor Member, Zeng Cheng China
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Hi Janet, Thanks for the speedy mail!! U never cease to amaze me with your efficiency!! My memories of Boracay and the Philippines are more than fresh!! Many thanks to you and your team for a wonderful stay and taking care of us. Love the whole warm and homely hospitality you guys extended to us. Will definitely want to come back again soon as I have a chance. Such a pity it's so far away but gives me more focus now to work hard, make money and look forward to another break in 5 months or so. Will see what happens. BIG SMILES and Warmest Regards!! Fiona , May 08, 2006
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g'day! we're back to our old busy ways again. we miss being in Boracay, hopefully next year, schedule permitting, we can come back with our baby to Boracay. (I think "we can come home to Boracay" sounds much better) how is freckels? I miss freckels. I miss being in the beach. again mam, thank you very much for such a warm, friendly Boracay summer. we'll be back! Dennis and Michelle, May 09, 2006
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"5* service at back packer prices" Well I have to say the rumours are true and that Dave's Straw Hat really is a gem of a place to stay. From the moment I arrived at Caticlan I was met and looked after. The rooms are spotlessly clean and comfortable, the staff friendly and helpful, and the service like a 5* hotel! Oh yeah and they make the best banana pancakes this side of the pond! May 10, 2006: A TripAdvisor Member, Hong Kong
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hello janet the time at your place was really beautiful, calm and comfortable. the rooms are perfect for me, especially the cleanliness, your wonderful garden opens my heart every morning. the friendlyness of you and your stuff lets me feel like in a great family. but I will stop now here with too good comments.....you might set the room rates
directly higher.........one thing is sure...next time I'll plan better, book earlier....your place is no.1 on my list. but at time we don't know when we will come again to the Philippines.
we will see. so thanks again for the nice time the excellent service and give my best regards to everybody...also to jennifer lopez Helmut May, 2006
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Dear straw hat gang, Thanks for the warm welcome and satisfying accommodation. We did enjoy the beauty, serenity and cleanliness of Boracay and it was an additional bonus for us to choose to stay in your hotel, it was like home away from home. We appreciate how you took care of us and showed your care especially to our mother. My sisters Grace and Lorna would like to extend their warm regards to all of you.
Many many thanks, Joyce.May, 2006
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Dear Ms. Janet, We very much enjoy our stay in Boracay and we appreciate very much the service you give to your guests such as us. Hope we can come back soon.
In any case, any of our friends or relatives will be going to Boracay definitely we will recommend Daves Straw.Regards to Jenny.You're satisfied guest, Shierly May, 2006
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Hi Janet, I just wanted to let you know that I had a very good time at your place again. I want to thank you all for everything. I plan on being back around there in July or Aug. around that time so I plan on stopping by there again. Take Care and tell all your staff I said Thanks, Ken Whiting May, 2006.
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"Great rooms, even better service" Dave, Janet, and the whole staff are excellent. We made our first trip to Boracay during Christmas 2005 and stayed at Daves Strawhat. It was our first time to Boracay and Larry (Daves staff member) actually met us at the airport to help us take the boat to the island. The rooms are clean and you are treated like family. We book all of our events through them to get the best rates and they ensure we are using a reputable company. We had such a great experience; I booked out his entire place for our wedding last April (2006).Great rates and only 50 meters to the beach Save the $150 US a night you would spend around Station 1 and use that money to stay at the Peninsula Makati when in Manila. The bottom line. Enjoy the simplicity the island has to offer. The more expensive places really are not any nicer than Daves as they all have similar amenities. When staying at the island, stay at Daves. May 20, 2006: A TripAdvisor Member, San Diego, CA
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"Clean, Peaceful with Personal Touch" Dave Straw Hut is great place if you have a budget to keep.
The Pros:
a.) The rooms are very clean. Ive been going in and out of Boracay for the past 5 years and have stayed in a variety of resorts (budget to high end). DSH keeps their rooms clean, cleaner than most of the higher end resorts ive been to. The bath room is nice and clean. The room smelled as it should.
b.) The bed is of the right firmness and the pillows are really soft. I spent alot of hours sleeping as a result. The sheets smell nice.
c.) The foods are priced right. The banana shake easily was my favorite. The food ive eaten are tasty and of the right serving size.
d.) The place is peaceful and quiet.
e.) The staff are attentive, unobtrusive and very warm. Dave and Janet are very hospitable. They will also help you out in getting good prices and bargains in the Island. Even the dog was polite.
f.) Reasonably priced. Bang for buck.
The Cons:
a.) The site of the resort may not appeal to those who want to wake up to the sight of the glorious blue waters of the beach. But again, you know that before your reserve so you cant complain. Its a bout a 3 minute walk from the beach. HOWEVER, I was told by Dave that their guests can use the beds in the front of the beach of a nearby Resort fronting the beach. You can use this area when swimming or sun bathing. Just ask Dave for details.
b.) The resto closes early at 8 pm. So you need to make sure to plan out your meals if you plan to eat in the resort.
My verdict: Great value of money for the budget-conscious traveler, especially for those who want to stay longer than a week. The place can grow on you. May 24, 2006: noworry51@hotmail.com, Manila
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Hi Janet, Its Gary, just to say Thanks for everything, even I had the small room, I felt very comfortable in your place. The decoration and the way you and your staff treat your customers make our stay in Boracay become unforgettable. I had a very nice vacation, Hope someday I can visit you again. thanks again!!! Gary Kayo, May 27, 2006
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Janet, Javid, Jen and your staff. Thank You from the bottom of our hearts for all of your kindness and hospitality. You are very gracious hosts and it is folks like yourselves that really put the icing on the cake, the crme de la crem, as it were. Jonalyn and I will have many warm, fond & humorous memories of Boracay. For Jonalyn, it was a trip of many firsts, her first airplane flight, horseback riding, snorkeling and scuba diving & for the both of us our first "Super typhoon. Yes, from the Birkenstock's to the raging storm, the 50 peso's please to the flying coconut's, and of course we cannot forget "Mother Hen" ;) we will have many wonderful and fond stories to tell. The kindness and attentiveness of Jen always at her post and always ready to greet you with a cheerful smile and a "Good Morning Sir..." to the girls who prepared and cleaned our rooms, fixed our meals, the young gentlemen who were there to assist us with our bags and to the young gentleman who was always there to greet you at the gate after hours or watched over us during the night, even through the Typhoon. It is our gratitude that you have. To Janet, it was your foresight that we were able to weather the storm in the relative comfort as we did compared to the rest of the island. Even though you suffered from storm damage yourselves, you & your staff always saw to the needs of your guests first and with great care. We really appreciated the kindness shown on our last night when you arranged for us to stay at the Blue Mango. Please pass our thanks on to them as well. As to my recommendation to friends and family all I can say is that your Straw Hat Inn is the hidden treasure on Boracay Island. You may have bigger and fancier establishments with a great deal more expense on the Island, but none will compare to the warmth, comfort or care & kindness that you all have shown to your guests. It is your hospitality that made our trip as wonderful as could be hoped for. Again you have our heartfelt thanks. We will definitely be back again. God Bless to you all. Gratefully Your Friends Ciaran & Jonalyn, May 30, 2006
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"Dave's Straw Hat Inn - May 2006": I stayed in Dave's Straw Hat Inn in May 2006. I travel a great deal through work and to support my diving obsession. I always look for a number of things before I book somewhere to stay:
1) A good, informative, factual web page,
2) A immediate and helpful response to my email enquiries and,
3) Good value for money
I found Dave's to satisfy my needs in every respect. The place was as depicted on the web site. I was met at the airport as requested at the time of my booking and from start to finish all my needs were dealt with in a courteous, professional and friendly manner.
I read all the reviews before I left especially the ones relating to security and location. For everyone's reference out there at no point during my stay did I feel unsafe or that any of my belongings was vulnerable. I wont mention security provisions on this site but rest assured they are there and available to guests. Dave's is located at one end of Boracays main beach, the quiet end which I liked. To walk from one end of Boracay to the other takes 30mins. If it's too hot or you feel too lazy there is a very efficient bicycle service which reduces the journey times to minutes.
I have no hesitation in recommending Dave's to anyone. May 29, 2006 dv_ant_1968@yahoo.com, Dubai
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"I love the rain!!" It was a terrible trip to Boracay that time. there was a typhoon and we were caught in all those travel mishaps like our flight was canceled and the boat trip from Caticlan to Boracay was hold by the coastguard because of the weather disturbance...anyways we survived and rewarded with this.....a very warm welcome in DAVE'S STRAW HAT INN!!!
The impression of a happy family greets you at the resort..there is an aura! I should say there is, not a past tense of it coz I am sure when you come you too will experience what we had while staying at Dave's... Feel at Home!! Everyone is just smiling and give you what you need, like the smile of jenny at the reception area..she is just so great handling her work..keep it up Jenny!!!
I have a wonderful vacation in Boracay!! Thanks to these people who will always make sure a worthwhile sleep, relaxing ambiance, great dine while at Dave's Straw Hat Inn..Merci beaucoup!!! Kuya Dave, Ate Janet, my brother Javin, our lovely dog (I forgot the name of the dog..hehehe)..and all the staff...me and my companions will surely consider going back to Boracay..to Dave's Hat Inn... Typhoon cant stop us!! Hopefully there will be no more storm time!.. Joel is very satisfied and happy with you!!! Edison Jun 2, 2006: A TripAdvisor Member, iligan city, Philippines
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Hi Janet and the rest of the gang . thanks for being part of a great honeymoon for myself and Ivy . Boracay was fantastic (wanna swap places ?) I would like to thank yourselves and your staff for having such a nice place and for excellent service . My friends all said the same !! thanks again all the best (hopefully see you soon) Steve and Ivy, June, 2006.
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"Magandang umaga to our friends Janet, Jennie, and the rest of the Dave's crew, Cesarlyn and I would like to thank you all for the most excellent service and accommodations that you provided to us. Our trip to Boracay was the highlight of our visit and will be forever remembered as a near perfect holiday. The only thing that went wrong was that Ces was ill for a day or two as you may remember. We felt very welcome by your entire staff who went out of their way to see that we had a great time. This was my first trip to the Philippines, and I must say that I was struck by the beauty of your land and more importantly the beauty of your people. Everywhere I went I was greeted with warmth and smiles. I did not want to leave the Philippines and hope to return again. If our plans again include Boracay, and we sure hope this to be true, we will certainly again stay in the house of Janet.. Scott, June 10, 2006
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daves straw should be daves top hat inn" Had a great time at daves straw hat ,not just because it was our honeymoon and the beds were strong ......he he ,but the whole place is like its own little paradise with staff that make you feel your not just a customer but part of their family . Rooms were clean and tidy with all the amenities you need ,food was great as well as the service ....oh and not forgetting the affordable price, it doesn`t put a huge dent in your pocket . When I come back its definitely Daves` place for us....top place Jun 8, 2006:
stishy81@hotmail.com, Portsmouth ,England
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We really had a nice stay in Boracay. Thanks to you too, your hotel is a very nice, quite and peaceful place to be, made our honeymoon very meaningful and romantic. Thanks too for the friendly staff. Yes, we definitely would go back to Daves if we return to Boracay. Yours, Helbert and Jasmin, June 16, 2006
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dear Janet ,and jenny ,I just wanted to thank you for your hospitality while I was there me and Luh Yap .....I am back in America , it was a highlight of my trip ..thanks again ...sincerely john todd , Spring creek , Nevada
June 19, 2006
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"Dave's is a nice place to be..."Very good service and friendly staff. definitely going there again for our next vacation. Jun 18, 2006: A TripAdvisor Member, Cebu
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We spent 4 nights at Daves Straw Hat Inn this June and have to say that everything there was fantastic. Our welcome banana shakes were delicious and the rooms were airy and spotless. The grounds lovely and the staff were great. We'll be back again as soon as we can. Suzie, Joe, Kath, Gi and Di from England June 21, 2006
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it's been two weeks since we've been in the island but the magic's still with us (sun-tan included). thanks for making our stay in boracay memorable. we appreciate the warm hospitality that your staff gave us.
they were all friendly and made us feel part of the family. More power to your establishment and say hi to freckles for us. many thanks,

kiko and aaiz June 27, 2006
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Miss Janet, jenny, jing and the other staff are a wonderful bunch of people. Thank you for making our stay at Daves a memorable one! All the reviews I read are true, the beautiful resort (fell in love with our room), the warm hospitality (treating us as family members) and the affordable accommodation. Looking forward to another Boracay vacation with you guys. Tricia, July, 5, 2006
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Janet We had a wonderful time. You, your staff, and your place are absolutely outstanding. Thanks so much!! Bruce July 06, 2006
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"Pearl of Boracay" Spent one week on this peacefull resort. Always smiling friendly staff makes this place feel like a home. Absolutely best small resort in Boracay. Jul 17, 2006: A TripAdvisor Member, Finland
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Hi Janet Just a short letter to say I've arrived safely back in Korea...got here in lots of rains and floods!! I just want to thank you once again for the wonderful time and fond memories I have of my stay in Boracay, but especially at your place. I will recommend it strongly to my friends over here. Thank you also for getting up so early yesterday morning to see me off...it was very kind of you. Take care and all the best to you and the wonderful staff. Friendly greetings. Maria, July 17, 2006
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Hi Janet! We had a wonderful time in Boracay and it was great to have met you, Jenny and the rest of the crew. I was telling Keith that we couldn't have asked for a better place especially after our loooooooooooooooooong, journey to get there. Everyone at Daves was very nice and helpful, so thank you again. If we find ourselves in the Philippines again anytime soon, count on us staying there once again. We are back in California - just got home yesterday, and Keith and I were reminiscing about our time in the Philippines. I'll have to look through our pictures to see if I have any good ones to share. Thanks for making our trip memorable & fun! Abby & Keith July, 23, 2006.
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Hi Janet, Thanks for making my stay at Daves a very comfortable and homely experience. Some relatives are planning a Boracay trip in 2 years. I will highly recommend your place for your excellent service and comfortable accommodations. Ill also add to the numerous praises you already have on Trip Advisor. Im also a member of VirtualTourist.com and will add your business as a place to visit.
My only regret is that I was not able to take home the Mango Iced Tea with me.
Take care, Eric July 24, 2006
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"Wonderful time at Dave's You can't possibly go wrong with Dave's. True, it's a bit far from the heart of clubbing and night life that Bora has to offer, but staying there has proven that a little peace (or plenty of it) can actually be fun! After all the activities that one can indulge in Bora, a good night's rest is a necessity, and Dave's provides that. The room was clean, like everything was brand new. And I like it that they have showers outside the room so you can get rid of the sand on your body there before going inside the room. It's got a safety deposit box, too. Pretty useful. The bathroom was spotless! The staff, like the many other reviews say, are accommodating and genuinely friendly. My husband and I stayed there last March. When we got there my husband requested if we could stay at the room towards the back. Unfortunately, the room was already booked for a couple arriving later that day. We were surprised that when we were about to check out, Dave's wife told us that since she wasn't able to give us the room, she just wrote off our bill the breakfast we had ordered the day before. Nice.
Oh, and you'd definitely find Dave's rates very affordable for everything it offers. Clean rooms, privacy, good service, plenty of smiles. Dave's stands out from all the other accommodations in Bora.Jul 26, 2006: A TripAdvisor Member, Manila, Philippines
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"Friendly and helpful staff, efficient service and warm atmosphere" We stayed at Dave's for 7 nights in July. The service was excellent even before we got there...e-mail enquiries were promptly responded to by Janet and she was very helpful in arranging payment and providing travel info. Once we got to Dave's, we were able to check-in straight away and received a refreshing banana shake upon arrival (with the hot weather there, it was a very nice touch!). The room was clean and very good value for the price you pay. The staff at Dave's are all very friendly, helpful and efficient. As a dog-lover, we were delighted with Freckles being there.
Another plus point was the food - although the menu was not extensive, the quality of the food was very good and reasonably priced - we would recommend the mango shake, banana pancakes and chicken adobo there.
Dave's is located very close to the beach - literally a few minutes walk. Overall we were very impressed and would recommend anyone going to Boracay to stay there. Jul 26, 2006: A TripAdvisor Member, Hong Kong
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"Our stay at Dave's.." After spending hours at the Manila domestic airport waiting for our delayed flight, then 2 hours to the boat from the airport only to get rained on while waiting for the storm to pass, hopping on a tricycle, we FINALLY made it to Boracay. We were both very tired and hungry and when we arrived at Daves, that's when we felt the trip was all worth it. Janet & Jenny and staff had expected us around 7, but bc of the rain, we arrived around 9:30pm. They took us in like family, showed us to our room and called one of the local pizzerias and had a pizza delivered to our room. That was just the beginning. Every morning we were greeted by warm smiles. Our room was perfect. It was not only very clean and roomy, but had a ceiling fan and AC in the room and a ceiling fan outside on our porch. It was also extremely quiet, so we weren't woken up by some of the live bands and DJ's along the beach. We also had our laundry done one day and had an excellent home cooked Filipino meal our 2nd day there. On top of all these already wonderful amenities, an added bonus is the price.
If you find yourself taking a trip to Boracay, I highly recommended staying at Daves. You will not be disappointed.Jul 28, 2006: A TripAdvisor Member, California
We stayed at Dave`s strawhat 27-31 july. And we had a very wonderfull stay. The staff were very friendly, helpfull and service minded. For those who are planning to go in Boracay, we highly recommended this place. You will not be dissapointed. Regards from us. Berntsen and Hartviksen family from Norway.
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We stayed at Dave`s strawhat 27-31 july. And we had a very wonderfull stay. The staff were very friendly, helpfull and service minded. For those who are planning to go in Boracay, we highly recommended this place. You will not be dissapointed. Regards from us. August 01, 2006 Berntsen and Hartviksen family from Norway.
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Reservation & communication was efficient: done via email & txt msgs. 50% deposit done thru paypal. Paid rest of balance and incidentals upon check-out. Location: Behind a beach front resort; one has to pass thru a 'right of way' alley to get to the resort but there were no issues encountered day or night. Location is very quiet and sheltered from the 'habagat' wind. One of the staff met us when we got off the tricycles to guide us to the resort. Since the place is fully booked and could only accommodate 22 of us, they were able to book another place for the 6 people nearby. Good food - prepared dinner for us the night we arrived and everyone ate breakfast there every morning; prices are reasonable as well. Cottages seems new with everything in good working condition, a/c, tv, fan, shower, etc. Place is clean and nicely decorated, both inside and outside. Resort offers free wi-fi for those with notebooks otherwise there is a pc available for internet access for a minimal fee. The room prices are excellent. The staff can arrange for boat trips, massage, etc. The resort also had a staff guide us back to Tambisaan beach for the trip back. They also handled the van transfer to Kalibo for much less than we paid for previously. All of the staff are helpful and friendly. Posted on: 3:12 pm, August 01, 2006pinoy99 Trip Advisor posting
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"Been there and will be back" Stayed for 3 nights. Excellent staff - very accomodating and friendly. Nicely decorated property inside/outside. Everything works, from hot shower to ac, tv, etc. Good food -breakfast/dinner. Free wi-fi for laptop users or pay minimal fee using property's pc. Can arrange for massage, boat trip, hotel transfer etc. Definitely an excellent value for the money. Would stay there again if ever back in Boracay. Aug 12, 2006: A TripAdvisor Member, jersey
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janet thanks once again for being the perfect hostess.this stay was just as good as our last stay.we,ll be back next year also. thanks so much,,,,bob,jellyn and wesley wayne August, 2006
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"A really wonderful holiday" thank you very much for making our stay there (18th-26th of August) so pleasant. We were surprised of that really amazing beautiful resort at that low prices, the cleanliness and comfort in our room and most of all of the friendliness of your staff. We enjoyed our stay in Boracay very much, and this also due to your resort. Be sure well come back soon and stay with you again - of course! Thank you a lot, Donna & Marcus Aug 30, 2006 A TripAdvisor Member, Frankfurt/Main
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"Our Honey moon in Boracay" Maybe it is not the biggest resort but for sure the warmest, excellent service, very accommodating rooms and very pretty girls...hehehe I can really suggest this place for your stay in Boracay Mr. & Mrs. Davide Messina (From Italy) Sep 10, 2006: A TripAdvisor Member, Italy
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"Warning: Dave's Straw Hat Inn Is Highly Addictive!" We have just returned from Boracay and it was certainly an excellent trip. The best we have ever had! The beautiful crystal clear waters and fine white sand, coupled with excellent budget accommodation at Dave's Straw Hat Inn (DSHI).We stayed at Dave's for 5 nights. It was a fantastic choice: clean, great value for money, fantastic food and most of all, gentle hospitality and great service: from room service to wake up calls! They cleaned our rooms everyday, and changed our sheets once every 2 nights! Food was perfect, we tried alm