Camina Balay nga Bato, Visayas, Philippines
4.5 (161 reviews) Spent Ranking #3 in Panay Island Speciality Museums
A firsthand experience of the past
Loved the native chocolate! Entrance is good for a no-time-limit tour after the guide has introduced you to every nooks and crannies of the historical mansion. You can stay as long as you want to enjoy the native chocolate and biscuits. There were also brochures that were handed out for free that you can read while examining closely every antique housewares that are no longer used nowadays. There were displays of various merchandise at the entrance from food to accessories to scarves. I bought two nice beaded necklaces. My friends and I took time chatting while enjoying the picture taking inside the house. A must-visit for lovers of history.
Address
20 Osmena Street Arevalo, Iloilo City, Iloilo Province 5000 Philippines
Mobile
Website
http://www.facebook.com
Current local date and time now
Friday, May 10, 2024, 14:13
User Ratings
4.5 based on (161 reviews)
Reviews
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4Denise Nicole T 5:00 PM Mar 14, 2022
A good idea, experience could be improved.
For P150, you get to tour this historical house and have a taste of their famous traditional hot chocolate paired with a few biscuits. Unfortunately, availing of the set meal requires a minimum of 18 people. I don’t know who travels with 17 friends. Definitely not me and that was a bit of a disappointment. I hope they consider smaller groups in the future. There is a 5 min video at the beginning of the tour that explains the history and parts of the house. The artifacts are interesting but could also use a bit of dusting. Also, the plain computer-printed signs “Don't Touch” posted all over the place could maybe be made more aesthetic or themed because they kind of ruin the nice photos that one takes of the place. This is still a worthy visit for any Iloilo City itinerary. The staff are also very friendly and accommodating. A few improvements could make a big difference for one’s tour experience.
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4Thea V 5:00 PM Nov 16, 2014
Try the hot chocolate and pancit molo
This place may not be as spectacular as some of the more well-known old Filipino houses but it still has its charm. I learned that Camina Balay nga Bato was only considered as an "upper middle class" Filipino home during its time. Despite this, I was still amazed with the place. I think the entrance fee of P120 was worth it. Upon entering, you will see ladies weaving cloth. The first floor is a shop with some interesting antique items, patadyong cloth (woven by the ladies), and some paraphernalia that can be used for preparing traditional hot chocolate. They serve hot chocolate (which is already covered by the entrance fee) with some local Ilonggo pastries like mamon tostado. It was the richest, most flavorful hot chocolate I've ever had but the sweetness is just right. You can also opt to have the pancit molo (a must try!) for an additional fee but they require a minimum number of guests for this (I think there should be at least 10). This is one of the best attractions in Iloilo City.
