The Story of Wabi Sabi Homestay Palawan

Wabi Sabi Homestay Palawan was born from a simple dream shared by sisters, they are proud natives of Puerto Princesa City. Having grown up surrounded by the natural beauty of Palawan, they witnessed firsthand how the island transformed into one of the world's most sought-after destinations. Yet as tourism continued to grow, they noticed a gap that many travelers quietly experienced, a need for accommodations that were not only affordable, but also genuinely clean, comfortable, and thoughtfully designed.

The idea began taking shape in 2023, during a period when the world was gradually finding its footing again after years of uncertainty. Travel was returning, families were eager to reconnect through new adventures, and people were seeking meaningful experiences rather than just places to stay. Inspired by this shift, the sisters envisioned creating a homestay that would feel like a sanctuary, a place where travelers could rest, recharge, and feel truly welcomed.

Their inspiration came from their own experiences. The sisters have always loved traveling with their families. Together with their kids, partners and parents, they explored different destinations across the Philippines and beyond. Along the way, they stayed in all kinds of accommodations, from charming local guesthouses to bustling city hotels. These journeys taught them an important lesson: while solo travel offers freedom and spontaneity, family travel requires a different level of care, planning, and attention to detail.

Traveling as a family meant considering everyone's comfort, safety, budget, and needs. It meant finding places that were clean after a long day of exploring, spaces where children and adults could relax, and accommodations that felt welcoming rather than transactional. Through countless trips, they developed a deep understanding of what travelers truly value.

For Jastoni- our Wabi Sabi General Manager, who hails from Cebu; travel also became a way of connecting cultures and communities. His perspective added another layer to the vision, blending the warm hospitality of Cebuano culture with the laid-back charm of Palawan. Together, the founders shared a common belief: accommodations should not merely provide a bed for the night, they should become part of a traveler's cherished memories.

The name "Wabi Sabi" reflects this philosophy. Inspired by the Japanese concept of finding beauty in simplicity, authenticity, and imperfection, the founders wanted every guest to experience a sense of calm and belonging. Rather than focusing on extravagance, they chose to focus on what truly matters: cleanliness, comfort, thoughtful design, and heartfelt hospitality.

From one (1) property; what began as a modest idea, soon grew into a mission. The founders personally oversaw every detail, from the layout of the rooms to the guest experience. They envisioned a place where backpackers, couples, solo adventurers, and families could all feel at home. A place where guests could begin their island adventures refreshed and return each evening to a peaceful retreat. Currently, they have five (5) properties being managed.

• Navalta: 2 bedrooms | up to 6 persons

• Sta. Monica: 4 bedrooms | up to 20 persons

• Baltan: 8 bedrooms | up to 12 persons

• Valledor: 7 bedrooms, and a Function Space | up to 35 persons

• San Manuel: 10 bedrooms, and a Function Space | up to 40 persons

Today, Wabi Sabi Homestay Palawan stands as a reflection of the founders' shared passion for travel and hospitality. Every room, every space, and every interaction is shaped by their own experiences as travelers and family vacation planners. Their journey taught them that the best accommodations are not always the most luxurious, they are the ones that make people feel cared for.

As Wabi Sabi Homestay continues to welcome guests from around the world, it remains guided by the same vision that inspired its creation: to provide a clean, comfortable, and authentic home away from home, where every traveler can experience the warmth of Palawan and create lasting memories with the people who matter most.