Although Urbiztondo in San Juan has been shoved into the limelight in recent years, the nearby spots around what is undeniably the busiest part of La Union have plenty to offer as well. If you seek luxury, privacy, and serenity during your Elyu escape, the stunning Y Casa Villas just might be the perfect hideaway for you.
Situated in Taboc, about 7 minutes away from the main attractions, this fabulous Airbnb find boasts of 3 exclusive villas masterfully designed to whisk you away from the bustle of San Juan. Whether you’re a couple eager for some quality time or a small group looking for an intimate getaway, there’s a villa at Y Casa Villas that’s perfect for you.
Y Casa has always been described by its guests as Bali-inspired—and truth be told, once you step inside, it really feels as though you’re in Seminyak or Canggu. There’s something about places that truly transport you somewhere else that I truly love. Every detail in the interiors has been carefully thought of, but the best part is that the materials were locally sourced and the customized furniture were all crafted in the Philippines.
Villa #1 is a one-bedroom suite which is ideal for couples. It boasts of a private outdoor plunge pool, a plush Queen-size bed, and a bathroom fitted a freestanding tub, a separate shower, and a toilet with bidet. With its terrific air-conditioning, fast WiFi, and smart TV with Netflix, guests will be torn as to whether they want to stay outside by the pool or just snuggle in and enjoy these modern conveniences.
I love how there are plants everywhere, almost blurring the lines between outdoor and indoor spaces, especially in the gorgeous bathroom which almost feels like a spa. I love how you can simply open the sliding door and jump into the pool. I love how you can lounge around the deck all day, perhaps with a glass of wine or a cup of coffee in hand. My stay at Y Casa Villas is probably the most relaxing one I’ve had in a while.
You don’t have to worry about toiletries either as they provide the basic ones like a hotel would. There’s a small refrigerator if you’re taking some food with you, but you can likewise choose to leave all your worries behind and simply order from their partner restaurants, The Coffee Library and Kayu—which happen to be my top two dining destinations in San Juan.
Breakfast is complimentary (from The Coffee Library) and the receptionist (yes, they have a front desk and a caretaker who’s available at the property 24/7) will ask for your breakfast choices upon check-in. Coffee is not included however, so I suggest that you order from The Coffee Library because they make amazing ones, especially the Vietnamese line-up (photographed below is the Ca Phe Sua Chua, or Vietnamese coffee with yogurt).
The beach is a short walk away, but I highly doubt that you would want to leave the villa once you’re settled inside. On my first night, I didn’t even get out to eat. I just ordered from restaurants offering delivery service and enjoyed this beautiful villa.
Villa #3 is more ideal for groups of 4, which is also the maximum allowed number of guests. This one features a Queen-size bed facing the sliding doors opening to the pool, and another one in the cozy loft. There’s a dining area and an en suite bathroom, and this one is generally more spacious that the couple’s villa.
I wasn’t able to stay at Villa #2, but I asked the caretaker to let me take a peek when it was unoccupied. The design is just as gorgeous as the other two but it’s brighter and more cheery because of the huge windows. It has the same amenities as Villa #3 except that this one has a tub.
Overall, whichever villa you pick to suit your needs, I’m pretty sure that you will have an incredible stay (and will take tons of snaps like I did). Here are the highlights of Y Casa Villas and the reasons why you should book with them on your next Elyu trip:
- Gorgeous, clean, and well-maintained villas with all the important amenities
- Fast WiFi, an important feature for me who works sometimes during trips (and also considering how bad the WiFi is in most parts of Elyu)
- Relaxing vibes, thanks for the private pool surrounded by plants and the cozy rooms
- A quiet escape from all the activity in San Juan, especially during weekends—but also just 7 minutes away if one wishes to dine or drink
- Free parking
- Minimal delivery fee when you order from their partner restaurants
- Delicious complimentary breakfast
- Friendly and helpful receptionists and caretaker (they also showed me where I could buy snacks and pasalubong)
As with any Airbnb, you’ve got to respect the house rules so make sure to take note of the below. I’ll be frank with you—if you’re looking for a place to have rowdy parties in, please don’t book here.
- Smoking is not allowed.
- Pets are not allowed.
- Quiet time at 10:00PM is implemented. The villas are located inside a private subdivision so you must respect the neighbors as well.
San Juan can get really crowded and crazy during the weekends, so it’s great that there are places like Y Casa Villas to offer tourists a respite from all the madness. I’ve always thought that Elyu has become a place that caters just to the party crowd—I’m glad to see I was wrong. I still love a good party and a truckload of tipple every now and then, but I’ve also learned to alternate that with some quiet time—I like experiencing and I treasure both in all my trips. If you feel the same way, you need to check out Y Casa Villas and experience an Elyu stay like no other.
Rates start at PhP8,000/night.
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Y Casa Villas
Taboc, San Juan, La Union
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Do you love staying at Airbnbs? What do you think of Y Casa Villas?
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