Planning to take a vacation to Raja Ampat regency, West Papua? Have you thought about where you will stay during the time? If you haven’t, this article will give you the information on what options that are available, along with an example of each. Right, let’s get into it!
What are Your Options?
Going on a trip to West Papua, specifically Raja Ampat needs a proper planning. From your budget to your activities. Another thing to consider is where you would take a break at night from your adventures. Here are your options:
-
Resorts/Hotels
The developments of tourism made hotels and resorts widely available. However, there are strict rules in building one, especially those near the beach. There are regulations to keep the rich biodiversity unscathed. Therefore, you will find these hotels/resorts to be eco-friendly.
-
Homestay
This is by far the cheapest option; you will be the guest of the locals. Some homestays do not have electricity 24/7 and a bathroom. Have a search online and you will find many homestays available. Just be mindful that even though you are a guest, you need to be respectful to your surroundings.
-
Liveaboard
If you don’t have any problems with seasickness then this maybe the option for you. Yes, there are boats available for you to book. They normally charge per day, just like homestays and hotels. This liveaboard option lets you explore the archipelago freely and some even have diving equipment on board. Keep in mind to check for availability online and book your stay before going to West Papua as you may find them fully booked.
After looking at the options, have you decided yet? Nevertheless, here is 1 each of recommendations for your reference:
Beser Bay Homestay
Beser Bay is owned by a Papuan family. The team are very welcoming and warm towards guests. The homestay is located in the southern part of Gam Island, West Papua. The homestay is on a tiny island surrounded by karst islets and mangroves. It makes a pleasing atmosphere, where its as if the place is far from civilization, but actually there are two villages just 10 minutes away by boat.
The accommodation itself has a high standard. It has small necessities to make you comfortable, such as electric sockets, tables, mirror, etc. You can still receive 4G signals too. The bathroom is shared with the neighboring homestay, equipped with fresh water and a generator to supply electricity. The food is amazing, the family’s service is top notch. The only downside is there are no diving facilities, however, there is neighboring dive center that you can try to contact. You can still do snorkeling near the homestay.
Misool Eco Resort
As the name suggests, this eco resort is located in Misool Island, near a horseshoe shaped lagoon. It is surrounded by beautiful shorelines that you can enjoy from your private villa’s balcony. Services provided by this resort includes, a diving hub, traditional spa, and other fun activities involving nature.
Calico Jack Liveaboard
Calico Jack is a traditional Indonesian handmade sailing boat from Indonesia with a length of 30 meters. It is built with high quality standard hardwood that are equipped with safety features and navigations. This ship is known to sail in Raja Ampat Regency, West Papua and Komodo Island, East Nusa Tenggara. The boat can take you to extraordinary well-known diving spots.
The Calico Jack has flexible booking options. It offers 5 cabins with air conditioners, showers and fans. Aside from that, the deck is also available for you to enjoy. There are western and Asian foods as well.
Well, what do you think? Rest assured that whatever options that you choose, it does not matter as long as you’re comfortable in visiting Raja Ampat regency, West Papua. Hope this article helps you in organizing your vacation plans!
