Hotel Mercante was such a great part of my fun, peaceful, safe, educational, and rejuvenating stay in Vigan (Jan. 29-31, 2024). I had been skeptical at first about the 4.5 (out of 5) average rating that the hotel has received so far from Trip Advisor reviewers. After all, there are many other more popular (higher-rated and understandably higher-priced) options for accommodations in the city. But having enjoyed the Hotel Mercante experience myself, I do recommend the place for no-fuss travelers like me, who simply want a safe, clean, quiet, and efficiently run hotel. More than the basic amenities, however, there is something truly commendable about the hotel’s staff and management, with their warmth, care, and professionalism. Of course, hotel employees are trained to smile and to be polite, helpful, and efficient. But in my interactions with the Hotel Mercante team, I sensed a sincerity and an unobtrusive desire to be of assistance that is beyond the call of duty. Early on (before I had even set foot in Vigan or met anyone there in person), I had been relieved and grateful for the prompt and kind email responses I got from Hotel Mercante while I was searching online for accommodation options. I had emailed other hotels, but the responses from HM (particularly, Solenn and Sofie, Front House Associates) were not only prompt but also written in the friendliest and most professional tone. They courteously and clearly answered all my email inquiries. They were also considerate enough to offer the best room-rate options available, which meant a lot to a 60-year-old solo traveler like me. I also had fun getting some quick lessons on basic Ilocano phrases from Stan (the night guard, who welcomed me when I arrived early in the morning) and Sean (front desk officer, though perhaps his position may be higher—I met him the day I was leaving). “Agyamanak, ading!” (Thank you, young man/woman) and “ag pagna pagna” (just strolling or walking around to relax and enjoy the sights) will, from now on, be part of the limited Ilocano vocabulary close to my heart. I am also grateful to Sarah (front desk), Steve (housekeeping), Paige (Cantina Mercante), Shea, Suzy, and others whose names I wasn’t able to get. For solo travelers and for families or groups, Hotel Mercante is value for your money. But most of all, it is value for your (even more precious) time and trust. It may not be the most popular or most expensive/trendy/classy hotel in Vigan, but all I really needed was a place for homey, clean, safe, quiet, reasonably priced and very conveniently located accommodations—with excellent service and heartwarming staff. And I definitely, thankfully, got all that at Hotel Mercante.
