The Travel Archives

Budget travelers get horrified by the thought of paying for accommodations in first world countries like the United States. But with the myriad of options nowadays in Airbnb, and the rise of hostel-type accommodations all over the world, renting out a temporary space in first world cities wouldn't really cost you as much.

We visited Chicago, USA a few months back and found a gem of a hotel called Freehand Hotels. It's a hip hotel that offers private rooms and dormitories for travelers. It seems to target the younger crowd (travelers, backpackers, young professionals), but I assure you, even your cool aunties would love it there.

We discovered the place through Booking.com. We read that Freehand Hotels in Chicago offer:

• Affordable prices
• A very strategic location
• Clean accommodations
• Security
• Complimentary WiFi
• A restaurant, cafe and bar
• Loads of free stuff during breakfast (the early bird catches the worm!)

And most of all, they have very high ratings from their prior clients.

This led us to their website, found very convincing photos of the place, and ended up booking with them (via Booking.com).

I booked the dorm-type room, which Booking.com calls "Bed in 4-Bed Female Dormitory Room". It costs about P1,600 per night per pax. This is inclusive of:

• Air conditioning
• Private bathroom
• Complimentary WiFi
• Seating area
• Private restrooms with heating
• Towels
• Toilet paper
• Breakfast (toasts with butter and jam, cereals, fruits, juices, coffee, yogurt - help yourself!)

I was lucky as I had the room to myself during the first 2 days. On my third day, a student joined me. We talked a bit and went on minding our own business afterwards. My companion, who booked a space in the 4-bed male dormitory room, shared the space with 2 people. One was a graduate student visiting his girlfriend, while one was an Asian on a business trip. He had the opportunity to get to know them a bit.

The room was spacious enough, in my opinion. (Compare it to Japan's accommodations, and you won't be disappointed.) It was carpeted, the bed and sheets were very clean and comfortable, and I had a good view of the city. The restroom was sparkling clean as well. The space for the shower was a bit tight, but no big deal.



Their bar called the Broken Shaker also serves very good cocktails. It was fully packed by 9PM (if I remember the time right). It clearly is the perfect place to recap your day with good lively music and a drink on hand.



I had a good experience at Freehand Hotels. It allowed me to easily access Chicago's tourist spots. It's in the heart of Michigan Ave., walking distance to Shake Shack, Portillo's Hotdogs, Eataly, and a lot more restaurants and cafes. The train station is within 100 meters as well (a very short walk!).

Freehand also has hotels in New York, Los Angeles, and Miami.

Enjoy!!!