With its innovative program of cultural immersion, Red Carabao Manila treads the line between hostel and tour. If you want in, you must commit to a multi-day 'Urban Plunge', as they call it. You'll spend a day on a cultural tour of Intramuros and old downtown Manila sights, another on an excursion out of town, and one day doing charitable work.
Nights are all about communal dinners at the lovely hostel in a non-touristy downtown neighbourhood. It's set over four levels with a homey lounge and kitchen, and a rooftop for house parties. Dorms and private rooms are spacious, comfortable and spotless.
From the Abad Santos station, it's a 15-minute LRT journey into the heart of Manila; visit its website for directions. They've even spawned their own community of 'red carabaoers'.
