Features
- Seagrass
- Reef dropoff
- Near village
- Mangroves
- Good house reef
- Coral
- IDR 400,000 to 500,000
- Child discount
- Western style toilet
- Has raised beds
- Has family bungalows
- Good phone signal
- English speaking
- Can pay by credit card
- Wayag trips
- Hiking available
- Birds of Paradise
Details
Mandarin Homestay offers three private bungalows and one large family bungalow. All are over water at high tide and have covered verandahs with a table, chairs and a hammock.
The bungalow bedrooms have real beds and can sleep 2 people. Pillows, bolsters, sheets and mosquito nets are supplied.
Meals are served in Mandarin Homestay’s over-water dining room. Free drinking water, tea and coffee are provided there for guests.
Mandarin Homestay bathroom facilities are housed in a single building. Showers and western style toilets are provided.
Electricity is provided by generator and is available from sunset to about midnight. There’s a decent phone signal at Mandarin and data connections are possible. Signal strength can be dramatically improved by walking to neighbouring Mambefor Homestay at the end of the Sawinggrai jetty.
Sawinggrai is a short walk away along a concrete path and basic supplies are available there, but please do take all your inorganic trash away with you when you leave. Especially plastic and dead batteries.
English is spoken at Mandarin Homestay.
Please note: Coconut crabs are a protected species. Please don’t buy them. Mandarin Homestay will refuse to cook any you might bring and will instead ask that you release them.
Mandarin Homestay offers guests the ability to pay by Visa and Mastercard. Credit card payments attract a surcharge to cover bank fees. Note: There’s no guarantee that your particular bank’s credit card will be accepted by the processing bank. The facility is provided by Indonesia’s Mandiri Bank, so if you want to rely on your card for payment it would be wise to check that it will work in a Mandiri ATM before arriving in Sorong. See our Money, Banks and ATMs page for more information about access to cash in the islands.
Transport / Getting there
Transfers between Mandarin Homestay and Waisai take about 50 minutes.
One way transfer cost (shared by passengers) is IDR 800,000 for 1 or 2 people, and IDR 1,000,000 for three passengers.
For 4 or more passengers, a Waisai transfer will cost IDR 300,000 per person
See Mandarin's July 2025 transfer prices for other destinations here. (PDF 119KB)
Read more about Raja Ampat boat transport prices here.
Activities
There's a lot you can do at Mandarin Homestay apart from snorkeling and soaking up the tropical bliss.
Explore the villages of Sawinggrai and Kapisawar, which are connected to Mandarin Homestay by a concrete path. Long walks are possible and cultural performances are often staged in a performance venue on the Sawinggrai jetty.
Red Birds of Paradise display at dawn and dusk in the jungle behind Sawinggrai, and kuskus are regular visitors to Mandarin.
Raja Ampat snorkelling at its best
Mandarin Homestay and has a fantastic house reef with a wealth of colourful marine life. Mandarin fish and the many nudibranches to be found in the mangroves by the homestay are just a couple of examples.
The homestay provides easy access to other great spots like Arborek, Gam Bay and the mantas. Trips to Wayag, Piaynemo and the Batanta waterfalls are also available.
See Mandarin's July 2025 transfer and trip price list here. (PDF 119KB)
Here's a sweet video overview by Mandarin Homestay guest Dylan de Haas. Thanks Dylan :) [arve url="https://youtu.be/rHatuWhEbNc"]
Pulau Gam
See our Gam Island page for an overview of Gam and its attractions.
Mandarin Homestay Location Map
Mandarin Homestay Reviews
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424 Reviews
We had a pleasant stay overall for 3 nights. The team is very friendly and dedicated. The tours they offer or help organize are a great highlight.
Some aspects could be improved: The breakfast is quite simple, the mattress in our bungalow was a pretty worn out, the roof was not fully waterproof, and the sanitary facilities could use some upgrading.
Average homestay in any measurement. Average food and average bungalow. No hammock or bolster in the family bungalow dispute the description. The mattress need to renew because it’s so old and flattened. Contact Chris, the owner, for any requests , his brother Danny who is around the homestay is not accountable. I arranged a manta trip with Danny. He didn’t show up. So we rearranged it on the following day. He forgot again. House reef is decent and enjoyable.
owner speaks english well, nice and helpful
meals were basic but plenty
toilet and showerroom was clean, but smelling from chemicals (not good for the eviroinment)
fishes get feeden, thats why you can see the walking shark there. but also get touched by fishes when you enter the water for going snorkeling
Las 3 noches que pasamos allí fueron maravillosas. Me gusta especialmente que tiene un pequeño pueblito para ir a visitar y gozar de la cultura local. La comida está muy rica , es sencilla pero rica. El
Bungalow tenía una cama muy amplia , mesa , sillas para estar fuera. Es todo un paraíso. El señor que lo lleva tambien está disponible siempre para ayudar y organizar actividades. Justo acaban de abrir un centro de buceo en el pueblo. Con todo el material nuevo y buena actitud de los instructores. Muy recomendado todo !
Las 3 noches que pasamos allí fueron maravillosas. Me gusta especialmente que tiene un pequeño pueblito para ir a visitar y gozar de la cultura local. La comida está muy rica , es sencilla pero rica. El
Bungalow tenía una cama muy amplia , mesa , sillas para estar fuera. Es todo un paraíso. El señor que lo lleva tambien está disponible siempre para ayudar y organizar actividades. Justo acaban de abrir un centro de buceo en el pueblo. Con todo el material nuevo y buena actitud de los instructores. Muy recomendado todo !
Mandarin Homestay is a nice little homestay with four bungalows. The bungalows are simple but clean. There are two shower rooms, which always had enough water. The toilet was fine, and there was always toilet paper. The food was good and there was plenty of it. The family has several years of experience. In front of the homestay, you can go straight into the water and, depending on the current, float for more than 45 minutes to Methos Homestay and then walk back, or vice versa. You can go on great excursions with Dany. He knows his way around well. The homestay is also connected to a village in just a few minutes.
Mandarin Homestay is a nice little homestay with four bungalows. The bungalows are simple but clean. There are two shower rooms, which always had enough water. The toilet was fine, and there was always toilet paper. The food was good and there was plenty of it. The family has several years of experience. In front of the homestay, you can go straight into the water and, depending on the current, float for more than 45 minutes to Methos Homestay and then walk back, or vice versa. You can go on great excursions with Dany. He knows his way around well. The homestay is also connected to a village in just a few minutes.
We stayed at Mandarin for 6 days. We had one older single bungalow and the newer family bungalow. The family bungalow was quite nice. The single bungalow needs to have the roof replaced since it leaks and drops a lot of dust. It was nice to have proper beds not a mattress on the floor, the bedding was clean and pleasant. The location is good because you can go for walks in the hills and also to the village. Our hosts made every effort to take us on interesting trips. The homestay had a good social scene at the restaurant. Bathrooms bearable but not good.
We stayed at Mandarin for 6 days. We had one older single bungalow and the newer family bungalow. The family bungalow was quite nice. The single bungalow needs to have the roof replaced since it leaks and drops a lot of dust. It was nice to have proper beds not a mattress on the floor, the bedding was clean and pleasant. The location is good because you can go for walks in the hills and also to the village. Our hosts made every effort to take us on interesting trips. The homestay had a good social scene at the restaurant. Bathrooms bearable but not good.
Accomodation – clean, nice, calm, relaxing
Snorkelling around – very nice down the hut – turtle, many fish and nice corals
Food – good, enough (usualy the problem is non-respectable other travelers who dont care about others)
Locals – nice, friendly, supportive
Trips around – many options and also Bird Watching (many hornbils and Red Birds Paradise)
area close to place in GAM – nice, calm, daily trips or half day trips possible (close to Arborek and Manta point and others), village 3 minute walk, bird watching 15 min. walk easy trekking, nice experience from Sunday church mass, in the village small shops for basic snacks
Accomodation – clean, nice, calm, relaxing
Snorkelling around – very nice down the hut – turtle, many fish and nice corals
Food – good, enough (usualy the problem is non-respectable other travelers who dont care about others)
Locals – nice, friendly, supportive
Trips around – many options and also Bird Watching (many hornbils and Red Birds Paradise)
area close to place in GAM – nice, calm, daily trips or half day trips possible (close to Arborek and Manta point and others), village 3 minute walk, bird watching 15 min. walk easy trekking, nice experience from Sunday church mass, in the village small shops for basic snacks
I totally recommend !
No word can describe how amazing this family is. Kristian is not located at the Homestay but is very active through WhatsApp. His family is so kind, always happy to help and share a moment talking.
Special mention to the grandma who cooks amazing food and kids who are very kind and happy to see us.
Location is good, direct access to the village + you can rent kayak at the end of the village which is a real added value.
We had a wonderful time there.
Terima kasih ! 🙂
I totally recommend !
No word can describe how amazing this family is. Kristian is not located at the Homestay but is very active through WhatsApp. His family is so kind, always happy to help and share a moment talking.
Special mention to the grandma who cooks amazing food and kids who are very kind and happy to see us.
Location is good, direct access to the village + you can rent kayak at the end of the village which is a real added value.
We had a wonderful time there.
Terima kasih ! 🙂
I would not recommend this homestay if you care for the treatment of animals.
The location was amazing, and the rooms themselves were basic but nice and clean. Kristian is not located at the homestay, and his family spoke very limited English however, my friend spoke Bahasa which made it easier to communicate to them when they were not trying to purposely avoid us. We did not expect them to stay around and have a chat with us, but it would’ve been nice to have at least been greeted upon arrival.
The real dampener on our experience was the treatment of a small puppy that hung around the homestay. We went to fill our water bottles up after dinner one night and they did not realise that we were around, picked up the puppy by its tail and threw it off the balcony and into the water. We tried to communicate that we did not feel comfortable with the mistreatment towards the dog however, they laughed and continued to kick it.
I would not recommend this homestay if you care for the treatment of animals.
The location was amazing, and the rooms themselves were basic but nice and clean. Kristian is not located at the homestay, and his family spoke very limited English however, my friend spoke Bahasa which made it easier to communicate to them when they were not trying to purposely avoid us. We did not expect them to stay around and have a chat with us, but it would’ve been nice to have at least been greeted upon arrival.
The real dampener on our experience was the treatment of a small puppy that hung around the homestay. We went to fill our water bottles up after dinner one night and they did not realise that we were around, picked up the puppy by its tail and threw it off the balcony and into the water. We tried to communicate that we did not feel comfortable with the mistreatment towards the dog however, they laughed and continued to kick it.
Homestay sympa, nous avons fait le tour de Gam sur 1 journée avec eux et l’accessibilité au village à pied ajoute du charme. Le confort est très sommaire malgré un vrai lit sinon nous avons dû demander à plusieurs reprise quelques accessoires (scotch pour reboucher les trous dans la moustiquaire, ventilateurs….). Daniel est très sympa mais a comme des « absences » ou une façon de s’exprimer qui laisse pas mal de blancs. Mais c’est ok. On y mange normalement. Les petits déjeuné mériteraient un peu plus de choix car bananes et donnut tout les jours…
Homestay sympa, nous avons fait le tour de Gam sur 1 journée avec eux et l’accessibilité au village à pied ajoute du charme. Le confort est très sommaire malgré un vrai lit sinon nous avons dû demander à plusieurs reprise quelques accessoires (scotch pour reboucher les trous dans la moustiquaire, ventilateurs….). Daniel est très sympa mais a comme des « absences » ou une façon de s’exprimer qui laisse pas mal de blancs. Mais c’est ok. On y mange normalement. Les petits déjeuné mériteraient un peu plus de choix car bananes et donnut tout les jours…
Avis mitigé concernant ce homestay ( 2 nuits) , clairement la météo n’a pas aidé.
Concernant les points positifs, famille sympa et discrète , c’est très calme, village accessible par un chemin côtier où l’ambiance est authentique et souriante , très bon snorkeling juste devant ( mais parfois impossible du fait du courant en fonction de la marée). Nourriture simple, mais bonne.
Toutefois, les bungalows sont basiques et assez fatigués , toiture qui fuit lors des pluies fortes et sanitaires rustiques voire franchement hostiles. Communication limitée, seul Daniel sur place parle anglais, pas de wifi…. ( mais un bon signal 4G à cet endroit ).
Bref … du potentiel , mais un besoin réel de rénovation et d’amélioration de la partie sanitaire
Avis mitigé concernant ce homestay ( 2 nuits) , clairement la météo n’a pas aidé.
Concernant les points positifs, famille sympa et discrète , c’est très calme, village accessible par un chemin côtier où l’ambiance est authentique et souriante , très bon snorkeling juste devant ( mais parfois impossible du fait du courant en fonction de la marée). Nourriture simple, mais bonne.
Toutefois, les bungalows sont basiques et assez fatigués , toiture qui fuit lors des pluies fortes et sanitaires rustiques voire franchement hostiles. Communication limitée, seul Daniel sur place parle anglais, pas de wifi…. ( mais un bon signal 4G à cet endroit ).
Bref … du potentiel , mais un besoin réel de rénovation et d’amélioration de la partie sanitaire
I was disappointed with this homestay. My bungalow had only one chair, which was broken. When i asked for another i was informed I would have to carry it to and from the dining room for every meal. There was no table on the deck either. Every other bungalow had sun lounges, tables and some had hammocks as well. The toilet and bathrooms were disgusting and need a complete overhaul. I left a day earlier than I had paid for.
I was disappointed with this homestay. My bungalow had only one chair, which was broken. When i asked for another i was informed I would have to carry it to and from the dining room for every meal. There was no table on the deck either. Every other bungalow had sun lounges, tables and some had hammocks as well. The toilet and bathrooms were disgusting and need a complete overhaul. I left a day earlier than I had paid for.
Nous avons vécu un séjour des plus agréables à Mandarin Homestay.
Les bungalows sont propres, la nourriture est bonne, la famille est d’une très grande gentillesse et très serviable.
Ils ont la volonté de vous faire partager de bons moments, proposent beaucoup d’excursions à prix justes.
Le cadre est magnifique, le coin est tranquille, et un gros + pour le village à proximité où les locaux sont accueillants et souriants.
Je recommande sans hésiter 🙂
Nous avons vécu un séjour des plus agréables à Mandarin Homestay.
Les bungalows sont propres, la nourriture est bonne, la famille est d’une très grande gentillesse et très serviable.
Ils ont la volonté de vous faire partager de bons moments, proposent beaucoup d’excursions à prix justes.
Le cadre est magnifique, le coin est tranquille, et un gros + pour le village à proximité où les locaux sont accueillants et souriants.
Je recommande sans hésiter 🙂
Mandarin homestay a été notre homestay préféré sur Raja Ampat. Dani a été super avec nous tout le long de notre séjour. On avait un grand bungalow juste pour nous 2, avec une super vue (et des familles de poissons clows visibles depuis le transat).
Le matériel de snorkelling était prêté gratuitement.
La seule remarque serait sur la nourriture qui manque un peu de variété mais sinon tout était parfait.
Si vous devez venir sur Gam, on vous recommande chaudement de loger ici (nous avons rencontré d’autres personnes qui logeaient sur Gam et qui étaient moins satisfaisant de leurs homestays).
On te souhaite le meilleur pour la suite Dani, et à ta famille aussi
Mandarin homestay a été notre homestay préféré sur Raja Ampat. Dani a été super avec nous tout le long de notre séjour. On avait un grand bungalow juste pour nous 2, avec une super vue (et des familles de poissons clows visibles depuis le transat).
Le matériel de snorkelling était prêté gratuitement.
La seule remarque serait sur la nourriture qui manque un peu de variété mais sinon tout était parfait.
Si vous devez venir sur Gam, on vous recommande chaudement de loger ici (nous avons rencontré d’autres personnes qui logeaient sur Gam et qui étaient moins satisfaisant de leurs homestays).
On te souhaite le meilleur pour la suite Dani, et à ta famille aussi
We spent 4 nights with Daniel and his Family and the attention was over the moon and more, the Rooms were clean and spacious, the food was always different and we had delicious fresh fish, all the tours were amazing Daniel and his brother took us around Gam, we saw Mantas, Mandarin fish, dragonet fish, many sharks, he even took us to the diving shop, during the night one night he even took one of us For snorkeling since we wanted to see the walking shark, for us this was a place we will always remember and we will highly recommend, the last night Daniel brought a speaker and we sang and danced together.
thank you Daniel and Family so looking forward to coming back soon
Hi Vittora and Diana, Thank yiu for your nice review,, Hoppe you back again.
Thank You
Chris
We spent 4 nights with Daniel and his Family and the attention was over the moon and more, the Rooms were clean and spacious, the food was always different and we had delicious fresh fish, all the tours were amazing Daniel and his brother took us around Gam, we saw Mantas, Mandarin fish, dragonet fish, many sharks, he even took us to the diving shop, during the night one night he even took one of us For snorkeling since we wanted to see the walking shark, for us this was a place we will always remember and we will highly recommend, the last night Daniel brought a speaker and we sang and danced together.
thank you Daniel and Family so looking forward to coming back soon
Hi Vittora and Diana, Thank yiu for your nice review,, Hoppe you back again.
Thank You
Chris
We stayed for 8 nights and had a very nice stay! We took many trips with Lisias and his sons who got in the water and showed us around the reefs. It’s very easy to organize trips with Lisias. The food was very good and we had lovely fresh fish every day. There are some rats but a bin is provided for snacks just make sure you put away your clothes because they will chew some of them. During low tide you can take nice walks down the island and to a nice view point. I would recommend staying as a nice central point in raja ampat!
We stayed there for 3 days and the familly was super kind and the food was various and in good quantities. The bungalows are cute and the comfort is Ok. There is rats in all the island so don’t be afraid of the comments because you will find them in every accomodation.
We stayed in Byuk Beya in the 2nd week of March. This was our first trip to Raja Ampat, and first stay in this type of accommodation. I must say that we enjoyed this very much. The bungalows are very simple yet clean and cosy and they clean it whenever you go for a trip. The bathroom is standard RA bathroom, so you have to accept the way it is, but it is really convenient to have a private one. The food was plenty and very tasty, yet you get Indonesian style breakfast, diner and supper all the time. I liked this type of food but you have to consider this when planning to visit RA home stays. The Lady is very good cook and we enjoyed different tastes every day. There were fruits every day, and really nice cakes.
To access the reef drop-off you need to swim a little bit, but just in front of B-B is quite nicely preserved reef with plenty of fish and corals. Of course there are some dead corals as well, but this terrible problem effects whole world and it is also visible in RA unfortunately. But I think generally the reefs I’ve seen in RA are in reasonable good condition when compared to other places I’ve seen in the world. The first time we went for snorkeling in front of out bungalow we saw a napoleon. We did not encounter very strong currents, actually maybe 2 times we had small current, but I guess it is best if you check the tides and plan snorkeling accordingly.
We had 2 boat trips with Pak Lisias, one snorkeling at Friven wall and one to the mangroves and to explore places in area of Terowongan hayden bay. We liked this very much.
Finally I have to say that we had no problem with transfer from Waisai, there was a guy arranged to pick us up, and all went smoothly I was in contact with Pak Lisias on whatsApp all the time.
I also had few dives with Awom Brothers – the dive centre nearby. I dove with Oto – he is very nice guy and he knows what he is doing, and I liked the dives very much.
So generally the place is really good choice for Kri. Last thing, they do not speak English, Pak Lisias speaks a little, but it would be handy to learn few Indonesian words (I did) and of course you can use google translate which I did when saying goodbye to the family.
I stayed for a week in this really lovely Homestay. The house reef is full of life and it’s possible to swim through the mangroves out the other side to the reef which is cool. The rooms are basic but clean and I had a hammock and table and chair, some others had sun loungers. Akes really looked after me and checked on the guests every day. I was leant snorkelling equipment too and it’s possible to do laundry. Breakfast is a bit lacking but lunch and dinner were delicious and really fresh. There’s a nice concrete path into the next village over which is nice for a walk and you can get cold(ish) beer – the locals are all so friendly. Would highly recommend for a super peaceful, relaxing Homestay.
Thank you Helen for your good review. hoppe you back agaian
thank you
chris
I stayed for a week in this really lovely Homestay. The house reef is full of life and it’s possible to swim through the mangroves out the other side to the reef which is cool. The rooms are basic but clean and I had a hammock and table and chair, some others had sun loungers. Akes really looked after me and checked on the guests every day. I was leant snorkelling equipment too and it’s possible to do laundry. Breakfast is a bit lacking but lunch and dinner were delicious and really fresh. There’s a nice concrete path into the next village over which is nice for a walk and you can get cold(ish) beer – the locals are all so friendly. Would highly recommend for a super peaceful, relaxing Homestay.
Thank you Helen for your good review. hoppe you back agaian
thank you
chris
We stayed 4 nights here and loved the dynamic drift snorkel dives, diversity of habitat (coral, mangroves, drop-off reef). Endless snorkeling opportunities. One day we asked Daniels (owner) brother to do a snorkel trip to Mansuar and Kri. They packed a lunch and we had one of the most stunning days ever. Food was great. The only thing is that the owner Daniel is not present and there is no proactive offering of excursions etc. You have to ask. That’s OK and we are getting used to that but Mandarin homestay could offer more (if they wanted to). Anyway, a wonderful time. Thank you to the whole Mandarin team.
Thank you Heidi, for your nice riview,, hoppe you back again.
Thank you
Chris
We stayed 4 nights here and loved the dynamic drift snorkel dives, diversity of habitat (coral, mangroves, drop-off reef). Endless snorkeling opportunities. One day we asked Daniels (owner) brother to do a snorkel trip to Mansuar and Kri. They packed a lunch and we had one of the most stunning days ever. Food was great. The only thing is that the owner Daniel is not present and there is no proactive offering of excursions etc. You have to ask. That’s OK and we are getting used to that but Mandarin homestay could offer more (if they wanted to). Anyway, a wonderful time. Thank you to the whole Mandarin team.
Thank you Heidi, for your nice riview,, hoppe you back again.
Thank you
Chris
A friendly family. Good food. My bungalow was OK.
But too noisy for me. Music in the village and many dogs…
Corals are not very nice.
A friendly family. Good food. My bungalow was OK.
But too noisy for me. Music in the village and many dogs…
Corals are not very nice.
Stayed here for 3 nights and had a very comfortable stay. We stayed in the family bungalow, it even had a portable fan! I slept outside on a mattress as I had brought a mosquito net with me, this was super comfortable especially if you’re a hot sleeper.
Food was delicious, on the last night I requested the fried banana / banana fritters as they’re my favourite and I wanted them one last time before leaving Raja, and Daniel’s mum cooked them for me, which was very very kind! They’re also building a brand new dining room.
On one of the days we couldn’t do a boat trip as there was no fuel and the village also didn’t have any – this is just part of Raja Ampat. We ended up asking a nearby homestay if they had fuel so they ended up taking us. We would also walk to the nearby village where you can get COLD drinks! My Dad got a beer.
Clarity was fabulous for snorkelling here. Good service for eSim.
Stayed here for 3 nights and had a very comfortable stay. We stayed in the family bungalow, it even had a portable fan! I slept outside on a mattress as I had brought a mosquito net with me, this was super comfortable especially if you’re a hot sleeper.
Food was delicious, on the last night I requested the fried banana / banana fritters as they’re my favourite and I wanted them one last time before leaving Raja, and Daniel’s mum cooked them for me, which was very very kind! They’re also building a brand new dining room.
On one of the days we couldn’t do a boat trip as there was no fuel and the village also didn’t have any – this is just part of Raja Ampat. We ended up asking a nearby homestay if they had fuel so they ended up taking us. We would also walk to the nearby village where you can get COLD drinks! My Dad got a beer.
Clarity was fabulous for snorkelling here. Good service for eSim.
We stayed at Mandarin Homestay with Daniel and his family from 18.-22.1.25. In total we were 6 weeks on 6 different islands and 9 different accommodations. The large overwater bungalows and also the dining area as well as the toilet and showers are very clean. The food was varied and really good. The house reef is great. Daniel took us by boat to Kapisawar from where we let ourselves be drifted with the current snorkeling to Sawinggrai. The entire reef is very nice with lots of colorful corals, fish, turtles and much more. At night, the water glows green through the plankton before the bungalow. We recommend a tour in Gam Bay. Seahorse, Mandarin fish and those who are lucky can also see manatees. The Homestay is connected to the two villages via a concrete path. We would stay here again at any time. Many thanks to Daniel and his family.
We stayed at Mandarin Homestay with Daniel and his family from 18.-22.1.25. In total we were 6 weeks on 6 different islands and 9 different accommodations. The large overwater bungalows and also the dining area as well as the toilet and showers are very clean. The food was varied and really good. The house reef is great. Daniel took us by boat to Kapisawar from where we let ourselves be drifted with the current snorkeling to Sawinggrai. The entire reef is very nice with lots of colorful corals, fish, turtles and much more. At night, the water glows green through the plankton before the bungalow. We recommend a tour in Gam Bay. Seahorse, Mandarin fish and those who are lucky can also see manatees. The Homestay is connected to the two villages via a concrete path. We would stay here again at any time. Many thanks to Daniel and his family.
We enjoyed our stay at this homestay! The main feature here is definitely the super friendly and accommodating people that manage and work in it!
Kris, his brothers and the other people who work here are very nice and friendly. They try to be happy and smile as much as they can and they try to help with every guest’s need. Very nice and very different compared to other homestays managed by locals from Raja Ampat.
The location is very good because is close to a little village that has some small shops where you can buy basic goods. Also the local people of the village are very friendly. There is a school and child care facility that has been built by a NGO that is worth visiting.
The reef is quite nice in front of the homestay going towards the left (towards the mangroves away from the village) but not one of the best we’ve seen in Raja Ampat.
The food was good and variable! The only issue was the quantity. At dinners it was usually finishing and it was impossible to get something twice because it was already gone. Also, the timings were pretty flexible when we were there, meaning that meals had usually delays (usually on the islands they are served at 7am, 12pm, 7pm).
The huts are cute and simple. The view is nice, especially from the two bungalows that are away from the beach. They would need some renovation for sure because they look a little rough nowadays. They might also use some more “amenities” like chairs, tables, cupboards, hanging nails on the walls, etc.
The shared toilet was pretty nasty to be honest. As a suggestion I would recommend Kris to think about putting it down and building a new nicer, cleaner and better one. It was for sure the roughest toilet we’ve seen in Raja Ampat.
Also the wooden boards of the walkable bridges that go from huts to restaurant to toilet should be totally renewed. They broke under my feet twice during our stay. A little dangerous…
In general, as said before, the most important thing for us was to experience the welcoming atmosphere of the place. With a little a bit of renovation and improvement this place can really become a gem.
We enjoyed our stay at this homestay! The main feature here is definitely the super friendly and accommodating people that manage and work in it!
Kris, his brothers and the other people who work here are very nice and friendly. They try to be happy and smile as much as they can and they try to help with every guest’s need. Very nice and very different compared to other homestays managed by locals from Raja Ampat.
The location is very good because is close to a little village that has some small shops where you can buy basic goods. Also the local people of the village are very friendly. There is a school and child care facility that has been built by a NGO that is worth visiting.
The reef is quite nice in front of the homestay going towards the left (towards the mangroves away from the village) but not one of the best we’ve seen in Raja Ampat.
The food was good and variable! The only issue was the quantity. At dinners it was usually finishing and it was impossible to get something twice because it was already gone. Also, the timings were pretty flexible when we were there, meaning that meals had usually delays (usually on the islands they are served at 7am, 12pm, 7pm).
The huts are cute and simple. The view is nice, especially from the two bungalows that are away from the beach. They would need some renovation for sure because they look a little rough nowadays. They might also use some more “amenities” like chairs, tables, cupboards, hanging nails on the walls, etc.
The shared toilet was pretty nasty to be honest. As a suggestion I would recommend Kris to think about putting it down and building a new nicer, cleaner and better one. It was for sure the roughest toilet we’ve seen in Raja Ampat.
Also the wooden boards of the walkable bridges that go from huts to restaurant to toilet should be totally renewed. They broke under my feet twice during our stay. A little dangerous…
In general, as said before, the most important thing for us was to experience the welcoming atmosphere of the place. With a little a bit of renovation and improvement this place can really become a gem.
I had a wonderful stay at Betul Beya- just heaven!! Loved the snorkeling access straight in front of the bungalows- swim straight out and the coral, fish, turtles and sharks there are all magnificent! Much better than many other snorkeling spots I visited in RA. Pak Lisias and his family were so welcoming and the food here was the best I had in all the Homestays. This spot is perfect if you want a quiet little hideaway away from some of the busier RA spots- lots of peace and quiet, and great as a solo traveller.
Terima kasih Pak Lisias dan keluarga!
Beautiful bungalow with terrace over the shallow seagrass next to the mangroves, we saw cuddlefish and walking sharks in the evening. Cute village close by, to go for a stroll and buy basic snacks or cold drinks. Snorkelling to the next homestay or the village is possible, at rising or sinking tides just float with the current (which can get quite strong!). Daniel took us on a beautiful boat ride through the mangroves and around the islands of Gam bay for some nudibranch snorkelling and to see the famous but very shy Mandarin fish – it successfully hid from us, but hey that’s nature 😉 Chris and his family were super accommodating and tried to fulfill our wishes regarding fruits and vegetarian food – thank you so much!
Beautiful bungalow with terrace over the shallow seagrass next to the mangroves, we saw cuddlefish and walking sharks in the evening. Cute village close by, to go for a stroll and buy basic snacks or cold drinks. Snorkelling to the next homestay or the village is possible, at rising or sinking tides just float with the current (which can get quite strong!). Daniel took us on a beautiful boat ride through the mangroves and around the islands of Gam bay for some nudibranch snorkelling and to see the famous but very shy Mandarin fish – it successfully hid from us, but hey that’s nature 😉 Chris and his family were super accommodating and tried to fulfill our wishes regarding fruits and vegetarian food – thank you so much!
We had a good time because the place is a really a paradise.
The Stayrajampat platform has a bit of a problem with bookings because it doesn’t put a block on bookings when it’s sold out, in fact both us and others had booked a type of bungalow that once arrived there was no longer available.
They should put different rates depending on the type of bungalow you choose and then ensure that it is available when you get there.
It must be said that Stayrajaampat refunded us for the nights spent in the wrong bungalow so they were really serious and professional.
In BuyaBeya we had a good time, the meals were excellent perhaps the only meal that was a bit lacking was the breakfast.
The homestay owners could welcome guests by explaining a little more about how the facility works and propose various excursions. They don’t do this.
Moreover for the transfer to/from Waisai they should ask 800.000 IDR per boat but As we were leaving, they asked 800.000idr to for me and my wife but we shared the boat with another couple that also then paid 800.000idr. Also they told us that we would have the fast boat and then they used it for an excursion and left us with a very slow boat which took longer and made us catch the an heavy rain.
To make matters worse, when we arrived in Wiasai the gentleman who bring us asked us for more money.
From 31 December to 2 January they made us have dinner at 17:45 instead of 18:30/19:00 because then they had to go ‘pray’ … (drink) and they would be back the next morning.
The bungalows we stayed in were nice and with real beds (others had a mattress on the floor).
I confirm the presence of a few small animals that visit at night, including rats…but I saw them they were cute mouse and not rats. They did no damage and did not bother us.
In conclusion we will live Raja Ampat it is a really paradise.
Maybe the Locals should have more respect for the environment and the nature because
otherwise it will still be a paradise for a short time and people will no longer want to go
Thanks for taking the time to leave a review Matteo. 🙏
Just a note about that booking problem: Stay Raja Ampat is just one of the booking channels that homestays use. Homestays do not keep online booking calendars, so we have no way of knowing when a homestay is fully booked.
As explained in the information linked at the top of every booking form (and in our booking emails), when you make a booking on Stay Raja Ampat, you are making it directly with the homestay owner or manager.
We, a family of five with three children (10, 8 and 5) enjoyed our stay at Mandarin a lot!
We felt very welcome and at home. So much so that we decided not to stay on Kri for the last night (where we booked) but asked Daniel to come pick us up again. He had the space so he did, our last day in Raja Ampat we spend at this lovely place once more.
Daniel and Ganos took us snorkeling at different spots, we did a hike up the mountain to see the birds of paradise, and went to see if we could find dugons.
Our daughters played with the girls from the village (family of Daniel?) and the snorkeling in front of the huts is very nice. We saw sharks, turtles an eagle ray and from the deck even some dolphins.
You can walk to the village, or just stay at the homestay.
The food was simple but very tasty. And everything was in good working order.
Would absolutely recommend staying here!
Thank you annalynn,,
We, a family of five with three children (10, 8 and 5) enjoyed our stay at Mandarin a lot!
We felt very welcome and at home. So much so that we decided not to stay on Kri for the last night (where we booked) but asked Daniel to come pick us up again. He had the space so he did, our last day in Raja Ampat we spend at this lovely place once more.
Daniel and Ganos took us snorkeling at different spots, we did a hike up the mountain to see the birds of paradise, and went to see if we could find dugons.
Our daughters played with the girls from the village (family of Daniel?) and the snorkeling in front of the huts is very nice. We saw sharks, turtles an eagle ray and from the deck even some dolphins.
You can walk to the village, or just stay at the homestay.
The food was simple but very tasty. And everything was in good working order.
Would absolutely recommend staying here!
Thank you annalynn,,
The food is delicious and the inn is in a good location, but it may be a bit unpleasant during the season when there are many foreigners.
When there are many guests, I think it is better to separate the dining table and serving table.Also, we regret that we were scammed out of the shuttle boat fee on the last day.
We returned to Waisai on the same boat as other guests.
I was told that I needed money to buy petrol the night before, so I paid Rp 800,000 for the boat.
However, he was not only collecting the same fee from us, but also from the guests in the neighboring cottage.
We found out just before we left that we would be sharing a boat with them, but the boatman was from home stay next door, and there was no staff at byuk beya home stay, so we couldn’t get our money back.
We paid for the boat the night before we left, but the next day a different staff member came to ask us to pay for the boat.
This means that the staff member who collected the fee the previous day pocketed the money without telling the other staff members.
I think that Raja Ampat is one of the most expensive places in Indonesia. Unlike other regions, there is one more digit. I don’t feel well because I was defrauded of my money, which is not cheap even for us foreigners.
When we left the island, only my wife was at the inn.
The other staff member had gone elsewhere with a guest from a neighboring home stay and we could not offer a refund.
I had a bad experience at the end, which ruined my memories.
Did you think it was only 400,000 rupiah? I hope you don’t joke around.
We love traveling to Indonesia, but we don’t want to come back to Raja Ampat, especially Kri Island.
This is the first time I’ve felt something like this.
Nice homestay. Jerry and Willy are nice guys. The lunches and dinner were good. Breakfast was fairly basic, which didn’t bother me because I prefer a light breakfast, or none, when going snorkeling or diving in the morning.
The house reef was very nice and Willy took us out to Cape Kri which was a great snorkeling spot.
Good value.
Spent 3 days at the Mandarin Homestay and enjoyed them all.
Snorkelling in front of the bungalow is good at the drop off plenty of coral and fish life to see, strong currents but can be mitigated by going out at low or high tides.
Food was good, tasty and abundant.
Did early morning guided trip to see red bird of paradise, great experience and also got to see a cuscus in the jungle.
A big shout out to Ganos who was our right hand man and helped organise trips to gam bay and manta Sandy. Also arranged nice cold beers when needed.
Bungalow was basic but clean and tidy with easy access to local village by path.
Would recommend
Thank you Lance Jarvis
Spent 3 days at the Mandarin Homestay and enjoyed them all.
Snorkelling in front of the bungalow is good at the drop off plenty of coral and fish life to see, strong currents but can be mitigated by going out at low or high tides.
Food was good, tasty and abundant.
Did early morning guided trip to see red bird of paradise, great experience and also got to see a cuscus in the jungle.
A big shout out to Ganos who was our right hand man and helped organise trips to gam bay and manta Sandy. Also arranged nice cold beers when needed.
Bungalow was basic but clean and tidy with easy access to local village by path.
Would recommend
Thank you Lance Jarvis
The owner ( I think his name is Willy) is very nice and helpful.
Accommodation is simple but okay.
Food was good. A lot of dishes.
My husband and I spent 4 days at Mandarin in a bungalow over the water. Room is simple but cosy: nice bed with a mosquito net, a terrace over the water and a lounge chair. There’s no hammock, so BYO if you’d like one. Bathrooms are shared and clean, with a proper shower head and a western style toilet. The generator runs from sunset until sunrise. We didn’t see any rats during our stay, but we were awaken by some drumming sessions from the village around midnight on Mondays.
As other people mentionned previously, the currents can be quite strong, but we waited for the high tide to do some snorkeling and had no issue. We also took a walk to the village, the school and through the jungle. There are several “shops” in he village from which you can buy beers and snacks.
The food for lunch and dinner is very good and abundant, with rice, fish, veggies, and fruits for dessert. Breakfast is basic but tasty, too. The staff is really nice and polite, and very professional. We met Cris at Waisai before taking the ferry back to Sorong and he took us out for lunch as we hadn’t have the time to eat before leaving the homestay, which was very kind of him.
Thanks for your good comments,, we are very grateful for your visit to our homestay, for us you are no longer a guest if you are in our homestay but you are our family.
Once again thank you
Don’t forget mandarin homestay if you ever come back to raja ampat
Kind regard
Christian
My husband and I spent 4 days at Mandarin in a bungalow over the water. Room is simple but cosy: nice bed with a mosquito net, a terrace over the water and a lounge chair. There’s no hammock, so BYO if you’d like one. Bathrooms are shared and clean, with a proper shower head and a western style toilet. The generator runs from sunset until sunrise. We didn’t see any rats during our stay, but we were awaken by some drumming sessions from the village around midnight on Mondays.
As other people mentionned previously, the currents can be quite strong, but we waited for the high tide to do some snorkeling and had no issue. We also took a walk to the village, the school and through the jungle. There are several “shops” in he village from which you can buy beers and snacks.
The food for lunch and dinner is very good and abundant, with rice, fish, veggies, and fruits for dessert. Breakfast is basic but tasty, too. The staff is really nice and polite, and very professional. We met Cris at Waisai before taking the ferry back to Sorong and he took us out for lunch as we hadn’t have the time to eat before leaving the homestay, which was very kind of him.
Thanks for your good comments,, we are very grateful for your visit to our homestay, for us you are no longer a guest if you are in our homestay but you are our family.
Once again thank you
Don’t forget mandarin homestay if you ever come back to raja ampat
Kind regard
Christian
I had a wonderful stay at Mandarin Homestay. The over-water bungalows are spacious and very clean; with an amazing view of the sea. Chris is really friendly and welcoming and speaks great English! When I arrived he took me to the nearby village and after he invited me to help cook in his house, which was a very special experience. It is nice that the Homestay is located near two villages, which gives you the opportunity to get in touch with the local culture and people of Raja Ampat, something that is not possible on all islands.
Setting up tours such as the bird of paradise spotting was super easy and smooth. Further more the food was delicious and fresh. All in all I had a great stay and would highly recommend this place!
Thank you Dorine for your nice review,,
I had a wonderful stay at Mandarin Homestay. The over-water bungalows are spacious and very clean; with an amazing view of the sea. Chris is really friendly and welcoming and speaks great English! When I arrived he took me to the nearby village and after he invited me to help cook in his house, which was a very special experience. It is nice that the Homestay is located near two villages, which gives you the opportunity to get in touch with the local culture and people of Raja Ampat, something that is not possible on all islands.
Setting up tours such as the bird of paradise spotting was super easy and smooth. Further more the food was delicious and fresh. All in all I had a great stay and would highly recommend this place!
Thank you Dorine for your nice review,,
Wir waren nach März 2020 wieder dort, weil es einfach so unglaublich schön war. Leider mußten wir damals unseren Urlaub dort frühzeitig abbrechen wg Covid, deshalb kamen wir im Winter 2023 zurück, weil wir unseren ersten Urlaub nicht „abschließen“ konnten. Diese Ruhe und Entspannung! Wir lieben das Einfache und brauchen/wollen kein Unterhaltungsprogramm oder Musik. Das Meer vor der Haustüre und die Natur unterhalten uns. Einen Großteil des Tages verbrachten wir im und am Meer. Jedes Mal konnten wir was Neues entdecken. Fische, die aussahen wie Blätter, Walking Sharks, Muränen im nicht mal knietiefen Wasser, Schildkröten, Haie, Büffelkopf Papageifische, Marline, und Babyhaie direkt am Strand usw. Ein schier unerschöpfliches Aufkommen von Formen und Farben. Lisias brachte uns zu den schönsten Schnorchelplätzen (wir sind keine Taucher und haben unser Schnorchelequipment dabei) wie z. B. Cape Cri mit der höchsten Dichte an unterschiedlichsten Meeresbewohnern und Schwärmen von Fischen, Yen Buba Jetty, Sauwandarek, Friwen Wall, Pianemo, Wayag, Manta Sandy. Atemberaubend schön. Die Ausflüge sprachen wir zuvor mit Lisias ab. Gelegentlich muß er auch mal mit seinem Boot zum Einkaufen fahren oder Fische zum Essen fangen. Wir begleiteten ihn und konnten dabei einiges erleben und sehen. Wobei es für uns egal war, an welchen Tag wir wo zum Schnorcheln hinfuhren. Wie gesagt hatten wir keinen Streß, alles war tiefenentspannt. Byuk Beya hat kein Tauchequipment, jedoch kann man vor Ort in den Tauchbasen Touren organisieren. Die Boote holen einen teileweise direkt vor Byuk Beya ab, wie wir gesehen haben. Auch kann man auf einem Pfad an die Westspitze der Insel gelangen oder auf einen Hügel gehen und die traumhafte Aussicht auf Yenbuba und Mansuar, mit den vorgelagerten Riffen, genießen. Jeden Abend konnten wir ein Cuscuss beobachten und einmal lockte Lisias einen Palmendieb mit einer geöffneten Kokosnuss an. Natürlich nur zum Anschauen.
Unglaublich gut war das Essen von Luci, Lisias` Frau, die auf einem offenen Feuer unser leckeres Essen zubereitete. Es war sehr abwechslungsreich und reichhaltig. Im Vergleich zu einem anderen Homestay, wo wir auch gut eine Woche blieben, gar kein Vergleich. Es ist immer frisch zubereitet, mal mit Fisch, mal mit Huhn, viel Gemüse, Reis, schmackhaften Saucen und Obst. Dazu kann man sich Wasser, Tee oder Kaffee herrichten. Einfach genial. Das ist mit ein Grund, weshalb wir, im Herbst 2025, wieder hinfahren wollen. Ja, Luci und Lisias mit ihren KIindern haben wir in unser Herz geschlossen. So eine angenehme, freundliche, familiäre Atmosphäre findet man nur selten. Die Anlage ist sehr sauber, täglich fegen sie die Wege und es ist immer Wasser zum Duschen und für die Toilette vorhanden. Alle Betten sind mit Moskitonetzen ausgestattet und wir lagen gut auf unseren Matratzen. Beim ersten Besuch hat es mal sehr stark geregnet mit Sturm und Gewitter, aber Wasser kam nie in unser Bungalow. Übringens: Wie wir feststellen konnten, regnet es auf Kri nicht so häufig wie auf Gam. Vielen lieben Dank, für den wunderbaren Urlaub bei euch. Bis bald.
Michi und Sandra
Wir waren zum zweiten Mal im Byuk Beya bei Lisias und seiner Familie. Die drei an Land Bungalows haben inzwischen ein eigenes Bad erhalten. Wir übernachteten jedoch im Überwasser-Bungalow.
Es war sauber und alles da, was man braucht. Die Familie ist sehr bemüht und hält alles sehr sauber. Das Essen ist sehr gut und mehr als genug. Willi, der Bruder von Lisias hat auch Schnorchelausflüge organisiert.
Da wir zum Tauchen in Raja Ampat waren, sind wir mit Dany vom Delvin Homestay getaucht, welcher uns jeden Morgen im Byuk Beya abgeholt hat.
Einzig die Matratze war ein wenig gewögnungsbedürftig. Ansonsten können wir nur sehr positiv berichten und das Byuk Beya von Herzen weiterempfehlen.
Nice over water bungalows – basic but have everything you need. Food provided was lovely. Kris was very friendly and his English extremely good – made for easy organisation. Provided lots of tours and transfers at a good cheap price. Did a couple of boat snorkelling tours where we saw some amazing scenery plus some great coral reefs and marine life including a dugong! Out all day on the boat with a packed lunch provided. Nice area that unlike a lot of places in Raja Ampat actually has some village’s you can walk along to with shops to get some basic bits like drinks/snacks. HIGHLY REDOMMEND!
Nice over water bungalows – basic but have everything you need. Food provided was lovely. Kris was very friendly and his English extremely good – made for easy organisation. Provided lots of tours and transfers at a good cheap price. Did a couple of boat snorkelling tours where we saw some amazing scenery plus some great coral reefs and marine life including a dugong! Out all day on the boat with a packed lunch provided. Nice area that unlike a lot of places in Raja Ampat actually has some village’s you can walk along to with shops to get some basic bits like drinks/snacks. HIGHLY REDOMMEND!
We had a wonderful stay at Mandarin Homestay ! A lot of activities are available , Christian and his family are always here to help and show you beautiful places ! During our stay we saw plenty of fishes, walking shark, bird of paradise and also a Dugong !!
You can take a walk to the nearest village when you can see the local life !
The food is amazing and we had a lot of quantities !!
Thanks again Christian and your family !!
You’re welcome Morgane and Damien.
Regard
Chris
We had a wonderful stay at Mandarin Homestay ! A lot of activities are available , Christian and his family are always here to help and show you beautiful places ! During our stay we saw plenty of fishes, walking shark, bird of paradise and also a Dugong !!
You can take a walk to the nearest village when you can see the local life !
The food is amazing and we had a lot of quantities !!
Thanks again Christian and your family !!
You’re welcome Morgane and Damien.
Regard
Chris
Le paradis sur terre… d’un calme… c’est tellement agréable et reposant.
Les points positifs sont: la localisation, la nourriture, le cadre de vie et la vie sous marine…
Les points négatifs: nous étions 2 à attendre qu’il vienne nous chercher au port de wasai comme convenu mais il nous a oublié… heureusement on a trouvé des personnes pour partager les frais de bateau donc moins cher que ce qui nous avait été annoncé par le Homestay et le fait de vouloir arnaquer sur le prix des déplacements, par exemple pour le retour en bateau on avait convenu 600000 pour 3 mais quand il a compris que j’avais trouvé 2 autres personnes, il a augmenté le prix. J’ai trouvé ça très malhonnête et donc réservé avec le Homestay des autres personnes.
Les nombreux trous dans la moustiquaire et la non présence de lumière dans la partie salle de bain
Mais vraiment j’ai visité plusieurs Homestay sur l’ile et je trouvais que c’était le mieux entre peu de personnes, la vue, le calme et la vie sous marine.
Excellent homestay, Christian is very friendly and helpful. The scenery from the on-water bungalows was so beautiful. The food is very good, although not as varied as in other homestays we visited. We loved to visit the village and their amazing school nested in the mangrove.
At night, walking sharks were frequently seen from the boardwalks. Mandarin fishes are not found on the house reef though, but Christian took us on a boat ride around the beautiful bay of Gam where there is a spot for this beautiful, yet very shy fish. The landscape alone is worth the trip. Snorkelling was great along the wall between the village and the homestay. Snorkelling at night in the mangrove could be rewarding but I didnt have an underwater lamp.
Birdwatching is not the best in the area because the forest has been mostly cleared for agriculture behind the village. Hornbills, in particular, are not seen regularly around the village. But we did go for red birds of paradise at their display site and we had amazing sightings.
4G signal was very good when we visited.
Excellent homestay, Christian is very friendly and helpful. The scenery from the on-water bungalows was so beautiful. The food is very good, although not as varied as in other homestays we visited. We loved to visit the village and their amazing school nested in the mangrove.
At night, walking sharks were frequently seen from the boardwalks. Mandarin fishes are not found on the house reef though, but Christian took us on a boat ride around the beautiful bay of Gam where there is a spot for this beautiful, yet very shy fish. The landscape alone is worth the trip. Snorkelling was great along the wall between the village and the homestay. Snorkelling at night in the mangrove could be rewarding but I didnt have an underwater lamp.
Birdwatching is not the best in the area because the forest has been mostly cleared for agriculture behind the village. Hornbills, in particular, are not seen regularly around the village. But we did go for red birds of paradise at their display site and we had amazing sightings.
4G signal was very good when we visited.
One of the best places I have ever been. Really simple accomodation with private toilet. Vere very good food every day. Nice owners you can go snorkling or trips with them. About the rats or mouses – everywhere in Raja Ampat you can find them. Most important thing is not to have food in your backpack than you will have no problems. I can recommend it, you can go in the water and beautiful reef next to your house.
We really enjoyed our stay here! It’s a bit more remote than the other homestays, but i liked that even more. The bungalows are very clean, have there own bathroom and a hammock! A gorgeous view, the food was absolutely delicous, a lot to see while snorkeling in the house reef and the people were very sweet. Willy and his girlfriend helped us out while going to the hospital and since i was the only snorkler, for a good price he brought me to aborek and showed me the manta’s!! Super kind🙏
Very beutiful and peacefull homestay!
We felt like living with the local people and not with the tourists.
The people are very friendly and there are nice smiling children.
The food is delicious and there is a lot.
The village closeby is also very quiet and interesting.
And of course the snorkling in front of the huts is amazing!
Cris is very helpfull and the services he provides are perfect, thank you!
Very beutiful and peacefull homestay!
We felt like living with the local people and not with the tourists.
The people are very friendly and there are nice smiling children.
The food is delicious and there is a lot.
The village closeby is also very quiet and interesting.
And of course the snorkling in front of the huts is amazing!
Cris is very helpfull and the services he provides are perfect, thank you!
we had a great stay in this beautiful homestay. the food was delicious – the best we ate on the islands. there were indeed sometimes rats in the evening but this is a general problem on the island which is not specific to the homestay. right in front of the accommodation, the snorkeling is magnificent! Lisias also took us to see the manta rays and on an excursion to arborek, it was perfect. we arrived one night later than planned at the homestay, and Lisias therefore offered us our transfer from Waisai, which was good compensation. In summary, we were really happy with our stay at Byuk Beya.
We spend 6 nights in Mandarin Homestay and it was totally amazing! Chris is a really kind host, and also his family is really friendly. It is quite a relaxed Homestay, and therefore the family is giving you a lot of attention. The food that you get is delicious and plenty, also it varries quite a lot day by day. We would say that the food at Mandarin was the best from all of our homestays.
From your bungalow you have an amazing view on the water and there is jungle right behind you. All the time you can hear and see amazing birds flying around you. This gives a lot of peace and amazing scenery. In nights you can watch the sun go down from the bungalow terrace.
Trips were really easy to set up with Chris and his brother always joined us underwater and showed us nudibranches and fish.
Only drawback is that there is no nice beach. Thats why we spend most of the time at the nearby yetty
We spend 6 nights in Mandarin Homestay and it was totally amazing! Chris is a really kind host, and also his family is really friendly. It is quite a relaxed Homestay, and therefore the family is giving you a lot of attention. The food that you get is delicious and plenty, also it varries quite a lot day by day. We would say that the food at Mandarin was the best from all of our homestays.
From your bungalow you have an amazing view on the water and there is jungle right behind you. All the time you can hear and see amazing birds flying around you. This gives a lot of peace and amazing scenery. In nights you can watch the sun go down from the bungalow terrace.
Trips were really easy to set up with Chris and his brother always joined us underwater and showed us nudibranches and fish.
Only drawback is that there is no nice beach. Thats why we spend most of the time at the nearby yetty
spent 3 nights – the only positives are the working pickup from the port in Waisai and the hostess’s great kitchen
Everything else is already negative – what was our surprise when we arrived and Lisias didn’t know that we had paid for 2 houses and unfortunately he only had one for us and had no solution for it because he just accommodated a big bunch of divers in our paid house!! ! He told us that the divers are leaving tomorrow, so we have to spend one night together in one house and move the next day. Unfortunately, we had to do it. He was clearly under the influence of pinang – he did not communicate and disappeared. He didn’t offer us any trips, he didn’t tell us when breakfast, lunch, dinner was – he just informed us that he would be gone the next day and couldn’t do any trips with us. As for the VIP bungalows – terrible old mattresses, we had rats and mice running there – yes, we knew about it in advance, but it is not pleasant. The advantage was the private bathroom.
You can’t even see the sunrise or sunset from the VIP bungalows. We have been living in Indonesia for several years, so we know the level of service and hospitality here – we will definitely not return here.
Sorry to hear of this disappointment.
If you had contacted us immediately on finding out that your booked rooms were unavailable, we would have arranged a cost-free transfer elsewhere, or fully refunded you.
a lot of food. Interesting position close to villages. Possibility of seeing Birds of paradies.
a lot of food. Interesting position close to villages. Possibility of seeing Birds of paradies.
We stayed at Mandarin for only 2 nights at the end of our trip to Raja Ampat and overall we had a good experience.
We were the only guests, so not much interaction with other travellers and also arriving for new years eve and new years day when everyone was busy with celebrations and not much of the family was at the homestay. There are plenty of kids around happy to say hi to you though!
We did snorkel in the strong current on the house reef, between lionfishes and sea snakes…that was fun! And we also did a trip to Teluk Gam to see the mandarin fish, our guide was really good at spotting them.
It was a nice experience to walk to the villages and meet a lot of people there participating in NY celebrations, different from what we did before in Raja Ampat, having stayed in very secluded, isolated, fantastic places.
We also had a good chat with Kristian and found that we met before: he took us to Batanta on his boat on our very first day in Raja Ampat. It was raining heavily, warm rain for the whole trip, we were wet to our pants despite the raincoats. Overcast grey sky, couldn’t see any land around, flying fishes above the turquoise of the sandbanks. But they knew exactly where they were going. For us just the first of many epic boat journeys!
it was a pleasant surprise to meet again!
Thank you Vanessa and Boby, happy to hear your review. Once again, thank you for visiting Mandarin Homestay, your experiences and stories are a valuable lesson for us. If you get the opportunity to return to Raja Ampat, don’t forget to return to Mandarin Homestay.
regards
Chris
We stayed at Mandarin for only 2 nights at the end of our trip to Raja Ampat and overall we had a good experience.
We were the only guests, so not much interaction with other travellers and also arriving for new years eve and new years day when everyone was busy with celebrations and not much of the family was at the homestay. There are plenty of kids around happy to say hi to you though!
We did snorkel in the strong current on the house reef, between lionfishes and sea snakes…that was fun! And we also did a trip to Teluk Gam to see the mandarin fish, our guide was really good at spotting them.
It was a nice experience to walk to the villages and meet a lot of people there participating in NY celebrations, different from what we did before in Raja Ampat, having stayed in very secluded, isolated, fantastic places.
We also had a good chat with Kristian and found that we met before: he took us to Batanta on his boat on our very first day in Raja Ampat. It was raining heavily, warm rain for the whole trip, we were wet to our pants despite the raincoats. Overcast grey sky, couldn’t see any land around, flying fishes above the turquoise of the sandbanks. But they knew exactly where they were going. For us just the first of many epic boat journeys!
it was a pleasant surprise to meet again!
Thank you Vanessa and Boby, happy to hear your review. Once again, thank you for visiting Mandarin Homestay, your experiences and stories are a valuable lesson for us. If you get the opportunity to return to Raja Ampat, don’t forget to return to Mandarin Homestay.
regards
Chris
I spent 7 nights here in November 2023…lovely homestay! Yes, it is basic but you should expect that from all of the accommodation on Kri. Nobody should be coming here thinking it’s a 5 star resort. Understand the context of how remote the island is and know that things are a little different. I really liked my little room and the hammock on the veranda with the sea view – it was so relaxing! I was happy swinging there listening to the tide roll in underneath me, reading a book.
The location of Byuk Beya is at the North Eastern tip of Kri so it’s a little more remote than other options, but I enjoyed the serenity and Lisias (the owner) is great. Wherever you need to go and whatever time, he’ll ensure you’ve got a boat there. For example, I was diving at Soul Scuba Divers at the other end of the island and he dropped me off and picked me up each and every day.
I can highly recommend this place. The food is especially delicious – I saw a few lunches from other people I was diving with and Byuk Beya was definitely a cut above the rest!
Situated at the edge of a little village this homestay offers three newer small bungalows and an old one which we stayed in. It is completely above the water, really spacy with 2 terraces and own stairs to the water. Christian and his family are really friendly and always offer good and plenty of food.
Thank you Hanz for your time and your choices for stay with us
Situated at the edge of a little village this homestay offers three newer small bungalows and an old one which we stayed in. It is completely above the water, really spacy with 2 terraces and own stairs to the water. Christian and his family are really friendly and always offer good and plenty of food.
Thank you Hanz for your time and your choices for stay with us
This was our first and only home stay in Raja Ampat. They did meet us on time from the ferry. Accommodations were sparse and the chairs could use some cushioning. Food was repetitive, but mostly good. Not much for breakfast. Instant coffee & teabags. Plenty of fresh water. Communication was off. We thought we planned snorkeling trips, but start times changed without notice. Sunday trip got moved up to Monday and only a late afternoon trip on Sunday. Not much to do at the home stay if not snorkeling. Start times were tide dependent and the boat motor was having issues. We did see a cuscus right from our boardwalk. Our snorkeling guide did find us several Mandarin fish. Was a 50/50 chance if the guide got in the water or not. When he didn’t, we were not given much direction but to just get in the water. We didn’t feel like they cared we were even there. This place has excellent potential, but really needs some focus and attention.
This was our first and only home stay in Raja Ampat. They did meet us on time from the ferry. Accommodations were sparse and the chairs could use some cushioning. Food was repetitive, but mostly good. Not much for breakfast. Instant coffee & teabags. Plenty of fresh water. Communication was off. We thought we planned snorkeling trips, but start times changed without notice. Sunday trip got moved up to Monday and only a late afternoon trip on Sunday. Not much to do at the home stay if not snorkeling. Start times were tide dependent and the boat motor was having issues. We did see a cuscus right from our boardwalk. Our snorkeling guide did find us several Mandarin fish. Was a 50/50 chance if the guide got in the water or not. When he didn’t, we were not given much direction but to just get in the water. We didn’t feel like they cared we were even there. This place has excellent potential, but really needs some focus and attention.
A very nice homestay, very quiet, Lisias’s family is very friendly, the food is super. We have seen couscous, coconut crab ! The snorkeling is great (But it’s better if you can bring your own equipment) in front of the homestay until soul scuba jetty, Lisias can bring you at others spots. But it’s better if you can bring your own equipment.
Our stay was perfect ! Lisias and Lucie were really Nice. It was defenitively the best food we had in raja ampat, Lucie is a really good cook 🙂 everything was clean. Can’t wait to come back 🙂
We only stayed here for 2 nights in October but enjoyed our time here. We were lucky to arrive at low tide and had to walk through the village where our boat driver found Kristian quickly who walked us over. He was generally around in the evening so could organise things for the next day. The house reef is quite good and there are heaps of lionfish in the area but have to pick your time to snorkel carefully as the currents get very strong along the dropoff (seemingly as the tide drops). The house reef is quite shallow so can only really go at a higher tide but we saw a lot of different species here and being able to snorkel between mangroves is a really awesome experience. We also walked to the Birds of Paradise which is not too far a walk compared to the walks at other homestays. The beds here were more comfortable than at the other homestays we went to, with proper frames and nice mosquito nets. Food was relatively standard but tasty.
We only stayed here for 2 nights in October but enjoyed our time here. We were lucky to arrive at low tide and had to walk through the village where our boat driver found Kristian quickly who walked us over. He was generally around in the evening so could organise things for the next day. The house reef is quite good and there are heaps of lionfish in the area but have to pick your time to snorkel carefully as the currents get very strong along the dropoff (seemingly as the tide drops). The house reef is quite shallow so can only really go at a higher tide but we saw a lot of different species here and being able to snorkel between mangroves is a really awesome experience. We also walked to the Birds of Paradise which is not too far a walk compared to the walks at other homestays. The beds here were more comfortable than at the other homestays we went to, with proper frames and nice mosquito nets. Food was relatively standard but tasty.
First off: food at this place is great and the hut is in a calm spot, it‘s clean and facilities are basic but that‘s all you need.
But sadly there is more things we want to make other travellers aware of when considering booking this place.
This was by far means the weirdest stay we both ever experienced. upon arrival no one was there. it was a bit weird since we did not know the facilities and had not eaten for more than 12 hours. the sister of the owner showed up after a while and they fed us well during the whole stay (just breakfast ist a bit funky). both the sister and the mother did not speak english. we waited for someone to show up. and waited. and nothing. we seriously had to contact the owner ourselves via whatsapp for someone to talk to us about our stay. make sure you buy a sim card and top it up with mobile data as otherwise things could get pretty lonely and uneventful here.
during our whole stay, the owner was not around and no one spoke to us or had an answer to our questions about the island and the culture of raja ampat. we were the only guests in the homestay. the most interesting exchange we had was with a school girl while walking through town.
the lack of communication from the hosts side was extraordinarily. if we had not bought a sim card and texted the owner, we are certain no one would have approached us for the whole time of our stay. we asked the owner to talk to us and had to organise everything without the tips of a local – good thing there is Lonely Planet! Even when telling the owner exactly what we wanted to do, the communication between the owner and his staff also seemed not to work. we asked to be taken to a snorkeling trip we selected from a list we found on stayrajamapat.com (no, the owner did not send us this list, we had to search for it ourselves). the day of the trip, the seemed to drive somewhat in the wrong direction. all of a sudden, clearly not at a snorkeling spot, they said: time for snorkeling. we opened the map and the list and had to tell them again exactly where we wanted to go although the owner reassured us he would sort everything out. we hope things work better here with the owner around…
we booked a tour to Pyaniemo via the owner which was done with their boat. if you do that, be aware: they only have a long boat and on the two hours ride to Pyaniemo you will get completely wet at the waves get pretty high. also, there is no sun shade in the boat. if you don‘t mind that, its quite a funny ride. during this one day trip, the nephew that came together with the ridicoulsy grumpy captain, did not know one answer to even some basic questions and they would not tell us anything about the landscape or culture or anything. basically they just bring you there and back.
all in all, we paid 150 Euros for 3 nights by card and the rest was all in cash: 3mio IDR for the trip to Pyaniemo and 1mio IDR for the snorkeling trip. Be sure to take enough cash with you as there are no ATM‘s around.
would we book Mandarin homestay again? No. We expected a homestay to be a place where you have at least some interactions with the people living there. service was basic (except for the food, which was tasty) and communication form the owners side was very unprofessional.
Thank you for all your comments, at least they have told us that there are many things we need to improve in managing our homestay. I would like to convey that I as the owner apologize for your inconvenience, when you came I was taking part in an activity which forced me to not be at the homestay when you came to this homestay so there were two of my relatives who I trusted to help take care of you while you are at our homestay, but if this service does not satisfy you, we apologize, I have just returned and am at this homestay. In the future, I promise that all this will not happen again here. Thank You
Regards
Chris
First off: food at this place is great and the hut is in a calm spot, it‘s clean and facilities are basic but that‘s all you need.
But sadly there is more things we want to make other travellers aware of when considering booking this place.
This was by far means the weirdest stay we both ever experienced. upon arrival no one was there. it was a bit weird since we did not know the facilities and had not eaten for more than 12 hours. the sister of the owner showed up after a while and they fed us well during the whole stay (just breakfast ist a bit funky). both the sister and the mother did not speak english. we waited for someone to show up. and waited. and nothing. we seriously had to contact the owner ourselves via whatsapp for someone to talk to us about our stay. make sure you buy a sim card and top it up with mobile data as otherwise things could get pretty lonely and uneventful here.
during our whole stay, the owner was not around and no one spoke to us or had an answer to our questions about the island and the culture of raja ampat. we were the only guests in the homestay. the most interesting exchange we had was with a school girl while walking through town.
the lack of communication from the hosts side was extraordinarily. if we had not bought a sim card and texted the owner, we are certain no one would have approached us for the whole time of our stay. we asked the owner to talk to us and had to organise everything without the tips of a local – good thing there is Lonely Planet! Even when telling the owner exactly what we wanted to do, the communication between the owner and his staff also seemed not to work. we asked to be taken to a snorkeling trip we selected from a list we found on stayrajamapat.com (no, the owner did not send us this list, we had to search for it ourselves). the day of the trip, the seemed to drive somewhat in the wrong direction. all of a sudden, clearly not at a snorkeling spot, they said: time for snorkeling. we opened the map and the list and had to tell them again exactly where we wanted to go although the owner reassured us he would sort everything out. we hope things work better here with the owner around…
we booked a tour to Pyaniemo via the owner which was done with their boat. if you do that, be aware: they only have a long boat and on the two hours ride to Pyaniemo you will get completely wet at the waves get pretty high. also, there is no sun shade in the boat. if you don‘t mind that, its quite a funny ride. during this one day trip, the nephew that came together with the ridicoulsy grumpy captain, did not know one answer to even some basic questions and they would not tell us anything about the landscape or culture or anything. basically they just bring you there and back.
all in all, we paid 150 Euros for 3 nights by card and the rest was all in cash: 3mio IDR for the trip to Pyaniemo and 1mio IDR for the snorkeling trip. Be sure to take enough cash with you as there are no ATM‘s around.
would we book Mandarin homestay again? No. We expected a homestay to be a place where you have at least some interactions with the people living there. service was basic (except for the food, which was tasty) and communication form the owners side was very unprofessional.
Thank you for all your comments, at least they have told us that there are many things we need to improve in managing our homestay. I would like to convey that I as the owner apologize for your inconvenience, when you came I was taking part in an activity which forced me to not be at the homestay when you came to this homestay so there were two of my relatives who I trusted to help take care of you while you are at our homestay, but if this service does not satisfy you, we apologize, I have just returned and am at this homestay. In the future, I promise that all this will not happen again here. Thank You
Regards
Chris
After doing quite a bit of island hopping, I was a little disappointed with our Southern Gam experience. The bungalows here are super comfortable and truly overwater which we loved. There was also a hammock and a raised bed on a frame which isn’t that common with the homestays. We had a great experience hiking to see the bird’s of paradise with a local guide on the island and generally just relaxing in our bungalow.
However, aside from that, we were a little let down. The current in this section of Gam is super strong (at least this time of year) and we weren’t actually able to snorkel near the homestay since it’s mostly mangroves. There were also no snorkel rentals on the island. The only snorkel we managed to get was filled with mold. I felt like the village and the homestays here did not fare well with COVID and were a little in disrepair. The food was rice and eggs for nearly every meal and some kind of green veggie. It was very bland and repetitive over the three days. Also, the owner with the boat was never around for long to discuss snorkeling areas and since internet service doesn’t usually reach this area it was difficult to know what was worth exploring.
If you want to dive or snorkel I don’t think this is the place for you. It was great for relaxing and seeing the birds of paradise over a short stay.
Terimah kasih untuk komentar anda,, ini akan membantu mengoreksi kami dalam menjalankan usaha ini,, satu yang tidak bisa kami rubah adalah cuaca karena itu merupakan faktor alam yang tidak bisa diatur, kami juga sudah berdiskusi dengan anda untuk perjalanan snorkeling tapi anda mengatakan bahwa nanti anda beritahu kami kemudian dan ternyata tidak sehingga kami merasa anda tidak memerlukan perjalanan snorkeling karena mungkin anda merasa ini sangat mahal. Tapi untuk semua komentar anda adalah motivasi kami.
Terima kasih
Salam
After doing quite a bit of island hopping, I was a little disappointed with our Southern Gam experience. The bungalows here are super comfortable and truly overwater which we loved. There was also a hammock and a raised bed on a frame which isn’t that common with the homestays. We had a great experience hiking to see the bird’s of paradise with a local guide on the island and generally just relaxing in our bungalow.
However, aside from that, we were a little let down. The current in this section of Gam is super strong (at least this time of year) and we weren’t actually able to snorkel near the homestay since it’s mostly mangroves. There were also no snorkel rentals on the island. The only snorkel we managed to get was filled with mold. I felt like the village and the homestays here did not fare well with COVID and were a little in disrepair. The food was rice and eggs for nearly every meal and some kind of green veggie. It was very bland and repetitive over the three days. Also, the owner with the boat was never around for long to discuss snorkeling areas and since internet service doesn’t usually reach this area it was difficult to know what was worth exploring.
If you want to dive or snorkel I don’t think this is the place for you. It was great for relaxing and seeing the birds of paradise over a short stay.
Terimah kasih untuk komentar anda,, ini akan membantu mengoreksi kami dalam menjalankan usaha ini,, satu yang tidak bisa kami rubah adalah cuaca karena itu merupakan faktor alam yang tidak bisa diatur, kami juga sudah berdiskusi dengan anda untuk perjalanan snorkeling tapi anda mengatakan bahwa nanti anda beritahu kami kemudian dan ternyata tidak sehingga kami merasa anda tidak memerlukan perjalanan snorkeling karena mungkin anda merasa ini sangat mahal. Tapi untuk semua komentar anda adalah motivasi kami.
Terima kasih
Salam
We stayed 4 nights at Mandarin and loved it. It was very quiet and relaxing. The food was delicious – rice, fish, veggies (thank you Ibu Ata). Akes (Christian’s brother) took us on a couple of trips snorkelling and to Piaynemo (with a super cool cruise on the way home through the mangrove canals, stunning). The snorkelling was excellent, especially Sauwandarek jetty. We also snorkelled out front a few times and around the mangroves (at high tide), which was also good. Our kids had a great time playing with the kids there. I would highly recommend a walk through the village to check out the amazing school there. There is a boy with a sign up there you can order fresh juices from (we found out on our last day). Communication was great, super easy to deal with and enthusiastic to take us places. We also did the morning walk to see the Bird of Paradise, which was successful but hard to see the top of the tree well.
We stayed 4 nights at Mandarin and loved it. It was very quiet and relaxing. The food was delicious – rice, fish, veggies (thank you Ibu Ata). Akes (Christian’s brother) took us on a couple of trips snorkelling and to Piaynemo (with a super cool cruise on the way home through the mangrove canals, stunning). The snorkelling was excellent, especially Sauwandarek jetty. We also snorkelled out front a few times and around the mangroves (at high tide), which was also good. Our kids had a great time playing with the kids there. I would highly recommend a walk through the village to check out the amazing school there. There is a boy with a sign up there you can order fresh juices from (we found out on our last day). Communication was great, super easy to deal with and enthusiastic to take us places. We also did the morning walk to see the Bird of Paradise, which was successful but hard to see the top of the tree well.
Beautiful, clean, and quiet homestay. Lisias and his wife are fantastic hosts! The food was absolutely incredible, and Lisias was always available to offer advice on day trips and to take us to the best snorkeling areas. Would highly recommend and would love to come back again! Thank you for an incredible stay!!
A couple things to be aware of:
1) reef off the homestay is excellent — but does require a short swim out to the channel. For the best snorkeling on Kri, head down to the jetty where Soul Scuba operates (and go diving with them as well!). Be wary of snorkeling at low tide — coral scrapes hurt!
2) this is a tropical island with lots of critters — keep an eye out when walking the jungle paths.
3) currents can be very strong when snorkeling and diving and there is potential for rough seas (in a small boat) on the transit from Waisai and to the other islands — be prepared to get wet.
4) cell service is available, but can be sporadic at this end of the island (better southward)
5) bring plenty of IDR cash for transit between islands (hard to obtain even in Sorong as ATMs limit withdrawals)
We stayed at Mandarin Homestay from 23rd to 27th of March. Daniel and Christian were perfectly on time to pick us up from Waisai. This was our third time to visit Mandarin Homestay and were happily welcomed by our friend Akes when we arrived.
We were lucky to sleep in the two spacious bungalows (next to protected mangrove area) with a nice veranda and direct entrance to the water. The toilet and two bucket showers were clean. Food was average with fruits after.
With low tide we used the jetty from the neighbouring homestay (Nudibranch) to get in and out of the water.
The housereef is pretty good with very nice patches of diverse coral and fish species. We saw turtles, no sharks this time. The reef is good mainly along the mangroves. Nice swim from the jetty of the village towards the jetty of the neighbouring homestay Nudibranch (in mangrove area). Be aware of the currents, they are pretty strong with changing tides!
We went on a trip to Gam Bay, Friwen wall and Red bird of paradise. All of these were excellent and they enthusiastically helped us searching for birds and stopped for breaching mantas and dugong on the way.
We stayed at Mandarin Homestay from 23rd to 27th of March. Daniel and Christian were perfectly on time to pick us up from Waisai. This was our third time to visit Mandarin Homestay and were happily welcomed by our friend Akes when we arrived.
We were lucky to sleep in the two spacious bungalows (next to protected mangrove area) with a nice veranda and direct entrance to the water. The toilet and two bucket showers were clean. Food was average with fruits after.
With low tide we used the jetty from the neighbouring homestay (Nudibranch) to get in and out of the water.
The housereef is pretty good with very nice patches of diverse coral and fish species. We saw turtles, no sharks this time. The reef is good mainly along the mangroves. Nice swim from the jetty of the village towards the jetty of the neighbouring homestay Nudibranch (in mangrove area). Be aware of the currents, they are pretty strong with changing tides!
We went on a trip to Gam Bay, Friwen wall and Red bird of paradise. All of these were excellent and they enthusiastically helped us searching for birds and stopped for breaching mantas and dugong on the way.
Very nice and quiet place. The food is delicious. We stayed here for 10 days. Maybe a little long for 1 place but at the end we were very glad we stayed here! 2 times we saw dolphins in front of the bungalow. And the last time we asked Lucius to go there with the boat and we were surrounding by pilot whales. Very nice! The reef is stunning and we think Cape Cri is the best snorkling place on Kri. Its so close so we liked it very much.
Did also a lot of dives at Yekoranu, just ask if Lucius will bring you there and you can fix everything by yourself. Thanks a lot Lucius and Lucy!
Mandarin was splendid. We were the only guests at this time and they cared a lot. The food was decent and the sleeping was good as well. We were diving and needed to be transported to aborek early in the morning, all no problem. There was a little english barrier between us and dani but that was no problem at all. Also you hear and see a lot of animals and birds over there. Nice snorkeling aswell!
Mandarin was splendid. We were the only guests at this time and they cared a lot. The food was decent and the sleeping was good as well. We were diving and needed to be transported to aborek early in the morning, all no problem. There was a little english barrier between us and dani but that was no problem at all. Also you hear and see a lot of animals and birds over there. Nice snorkeling aswell!
We stayed here for 2 nights until December 6th, 2022. Our bungalow was the furthest from the shore with steps straight into the water. On the large porch in front of the cabin we had 2 chairs and a hammock. Nice snorkling is possible, but we also saw cuttle fishes (and others) right below the porch.
Inside the hut: 2 side tables, raised bed with mosquito net. The food was varied, once even a breakfast with rice etc.
From here we did 2 tours with Daniel – a very good guide. At Manta Point he looked for the animals. Result: after jumping in the Water we could watch the mantas “dancing”, 6 or 7 animals sometimes very close. Amazing!! (above all, we had already tried it twice before with other tours).
It was just as great with the mandarin fishes. We really enjoyed our time at Mandarin Homestay.
We stayed here for 2 nights until December 6th, 2022. Our bungalow was the furthest from the shore with steps straight into the water. On the large porch in front of the cabin we had 2 chairs and a hammock. Nice snorkling is possible, but we also saw cuttle fishes (and others) right below the porch.
Inside the hut: 2 side tables, raised bed with mosquito net. The food was varied, once even a breakfast with rice etc.
From here we did 2 tours with Daniel – a very good guide. At Manta Point he looked for the animals. Result: after jumping in the Water we could watch the mantas “dancing”, 6 or 7 animals sometimes very close. Amazing!! (above all, we had already tried it twice before with other tours).
It was just as great with the mandarin fishes. We really enjoyed our time at Mandarin Homestay.
We stayed here for four nights in November 2022.
It is the best time pace we ever visited!
Such a beautiful spot and well maintained and clean bungalows.
If you like good food, don’t look any further! Go to this Homestay and enjoy delicious fish and vegetarian dishes. The best food we had during our six weeks in Indonesia.
We also went on some amazing snorkeling trips from this Homestay.
We also went on a wayag trip, 4 hours in a longboat but so worth it!
L’endroit est fabuleux, même si ça dépend du bungalow car tous ne bénéficient pas de la même vue. Le mien avait une vue à 180 degrés sur la mer, les îles, la mangrove et les habitations sur pilotis de la famille. Parfait pour les couchers de soleil ! La nourriture y est bonne même si le petit déjeuner est souvent simple et pas spécialement goutu (mais copieux).
Par contre, l’organisation générale de mon séjour a été chaotique (oubli de mon arrivée ce jour-là, pas d’activité le dimanche car c’est le jour du seigneur, bateau HS le jour de la sortie snorkeling, communication laborieuse bien que le gérant parle Anglais, gérant peu amical, pour le birdwatching à 9€ le guide était un enfant de 12 ans qui ne parle pas Anglais, tuba qui prenait l’eau pour le snorkeling, pas de gilet de sauvetage sur le bateau, pas de palmes taille 42, …)
Côté positif : possibilité de se balader et de voir des perroquets, cacatoès, … (ne pas oublier l’anti-moustiques !), spots snorkeling excellents et beaucoup de temps sur place à chaque fois (Yenbuba, Cape Kri et Gam bay).
De manière générale, les gens étaient gentils mais ça manque de rigueur et d’hospitalité…
The place is fabulous, even if it depends on the bungalow because not everyone has the same view. Mine had a 180 degree view of the sea, islands, mangroves, and the family’s stilt houses. Perfect for sunsets! The food is good even if the breakfast is often simple and not particularly tasty (but plentiful).
On the other hand, the general organization of my stay was chaotic (forgetting my arrival that day, no activity on Sunday because it is the Lord’s day, boat out of order on the day of the snorkeling trip, laborious communication. that the manager speaks English, unfriendly manager, for birdwatching at 9 € the guide was a 12 year old child who does not speak English, snorkel that took the water for snorkeling, no life jacket on the boat, no fins size 42, …)
On the positive side: possibility to walk and see parrots, cockatoos, … (don’t forget the mosquito repellent!), Excellent snorkeling spots and a lot of time on site each time (Yenbuba, Cape Kri and Gam bay ).
In general, the people were nice but it lacks rigor and hospitality ..
L’endroit est fabuleux, même si ça dépend du bungalow car tous ne bénéficient pas de la même vue. Le mien avait une vue à 180 degrés sur la mer, les îles, la mangrove et les habitations sur pilotis de la famille. Parfait pour les couchers de soleil ! La nourriture y est bonne même si le petit déjeuner est souvent simple et pas spécialement goutu (mais copieux).
Par contre, l’organisation générale de mon séjour a été chaotique (oubli de mon arrivée ce jour-là, pas d’activité le dimanche car c’est le jour du seigneur, bateau HS le jour de la sortie snorkeling, communication laborieuse bien que le gérant parle Anglais, gérant peu amical, pour le birdwatching à 9€ le guide était un enfant de 12 ans qui ne parle pas Anglais, tuba qui prenait l’eau pour le snorkeling, pas de gilet de sauvetage sur le bateau, pas de palmes taille 42, …)
Côté positif : possibilité de se balader et de voir des perroquets, cacatoès, … (ne pas oublier l’anti-moustiques !), spots snorkeling excellents et beaucoup de temps sur place à chaque fois (Yenbuba, Cape Kri et Gam bay).
De manière générale, les gens étaient gentils mais ça manque de rigueur et d’hospitalité…
The place is fabulous, even if it depends on the bungalow because not everyone has the same view. Mine had a 180 degree view of the sea, islands, mangroves, and the family’s stilt houses. Perfect for sunsets! The food is good even if the breakfast is often simple and not particularly tasty (but plentiful).
On the other hand, the general organization of my stay was chaotic (forgetting my arrival that day, no activity on Sunday because it is the Lord’s day, boat out of order on the day of the snorkeling trip, laborious communication. that the manager speaks English, unfriendly manager, for birdwatching at 9 € the guide was a 12 year old child who does not speak English, snorkel that took the water for snorkeling, no life jacket on the boat, no fins size 42, …)
On the positive side: possibility to walk and see parrots, cockatoos, … (don’t forget the mosquito repellent!), Excellent snorkeling spots and a lot of time on site each time (Yenbuba, Cape Kri and Gam bay ).
In general, the people were nice but it lacks rigor and hospitality ..
We stayed seven nights at Byuk Beya in January (sorry for not writing earlier). The pickup from the previous homestay worked well. We had a nice on beach bungalow with a comfortable hammock on the balcony. The homestay is at the quite end of Kri what we liked. The reef in front of the homestay is disappointing, but it’s possible to walk on a nice jungle trail for twenty minutes to reach the most beautiful part of the reef.
We had delicious food at many places in Raja Ampat, but the food cooked by Ibu Lusi was the very best. Food was various and Lusi even cooked what we asked her (e.g. bread which is not that sweet for breakfast). For excursions you must be very patient and flexible as Babak Lisias had often worked in the village and had no time for us. As in most other places, we were happy to have our own mosquito net. But nevertheless, we liked this place a lot.
Wir hatten im März 2020 einen unvergesslichen, fantastischen, einzigartigen, 10-tägigen Aufenthalt im ruhigen Byuk Beya. Die Familie ist sehr herzlich und zuvorkommend. Lucy ist eine hervorragende Köchin. Sie zauberte uns abwechslungsreiche Gerichte. Es gab reichlich Fisch, Gemüse, Nudeln, Reis, Pfannenkuchen, Rührei, Obst und Kuchen. Mehr als genug!
Byuk Beya ist bezaubernd und sehr gepflegt mit Palmen und angelegten Sandwegen, die mit Hölzern eingefasst sind. Wir genossen das Abendessen und den Blick auf wunderschöne Sonnenuntergänge. Wir sahen auf Kri kein schöneres Homestay! Unser Bungalow blieb auch nach starken Regen trocken und auch das Moskitonetz war in einem einwandfreien Zustand.
Lucy zeigte uns die nachtaktiven Kuskus, die jeden Abend ihre Laute von sich gaben. Tagsüber sah man Monitorechsen, Kakadu, Papageien und Seeadler.
Das Hausriff ist intakt und wunderschön mit allen möglichen bunten Rifffischen, Schwarzspitzenriffhaie die auch direkt am Strand vorbeizogen, die riesige Hausschildkröte sahen wir täglich, Büffelkopf-Papageienfische, Muränen, Seeschlangen, Seesterne, Snapper, Barracudas, Fledermausfische, GT`s, riesige Mördermuscheln freistehend und viele bunte Korallen, Schwämme, Haarsterne. Dieses Homestay ist ein hervorragender Ort, um von dort aus Unternehmungen und Ausflüge durchzuführen.
Lisias ist ein netter, lustiger und hilfsbereiter Gastgeber. Er lud unsere SIM Karten in Yenbuba auf und brachte uns auch Cola mit. Wir unternahmen mit ihm viele eindrucksvolle Ausflüge nach Pianemo, Arborek, Pasir Timbul mit Cape Kri, Jenbuba Jetty, Sauwendarek Jetty und eine Delfin-Tour. Unsere zweite Manta Sandy Tour erweiterte er noch mit 2 zusätzlichen Schnorchelstops und zeigte uns außerdem den Hidden Lake mit Umgebung. Lisias führte uns durch den Urwald auf den Aussichtspunkt von Kri. Den Weg hätten wir ohne ihm nie gefunden. Von dort oben hat man einen atemberaubenden Ausblick auf die darunterliegende Bucht (Lumba Lumba) bis nach Mansuar und Gam. Diese Ausflüge werden wir nie vergessen! Während dieser Zeit ist uns die Gastfamilie sehr ans Herz gewachsen und der Abschied viel uns sehr schwer. Vielen lieben Dank für alles Lucy und Lisias. Wir kommen auf jeden Fall wieder.
LG Michael und Sandra
What a lovely place. Our Bungalow was spacious and comfy with 2 hammocks and table and chairs. The food was plentiful and tasty. Akes was always helpful and informative. It was an honor to live among his family as they went about their lives, and took care of us.
Akes took some great photos of the mandarin fish, he knew just where to find them. the sky was overcast and it was so hard to see them that i was amazed when i looked at the photos he took.
What a lovely place. Our Bungalow was spacious and comfy with 2 hammocks and table and chairs. The food was plentiful and tasty. Akes was always helpful and informative. It was an honor to live among his family as they went about their lives, and took care of us.
Akes took some great photos of the mandarin fish, he knew just where to find them. the sky was overcast and it was so hard to see them that i was amazed when i looked at the photos he took.
Nice homestay and tasty dishes. Perfect place for birds of paradise and many other birds. Helpful and professional owner does everything to make you know the beauties of this paradise. Super raccomended for daily trips and trips to pianemo and wayag.
Nice homestay and tasty dishes. Perfect place for birds of paradise and many other birds. Helpful and professional owner does everything to make you know the beauties of this paradise. Super raccomended for daily trips and trips to pianemo and wayag.
Bel posto, cibo molto buono, proprietari gentilissimi e ottima compagnia, in poche parole una bella vacanza in uno dei più bei posti che abbia visitato.
Grazie Lusi e Lisias.
We was staying in Byuk Beta for 5 days. It was great place to stay, especially Ibu Lusi and Bapak Lisias the owner. The wife Ibu Lusi cooked very very well, and sometimes she cooked what I requested to cook.
The room that we stayed clean and the most I like is they put shells and hanging shells on the balcony. Really peace and quite place, especially in the morning we can hear the birds. And everyday we was snorkeling, just few meters from the homestay, It was amazing.
Stayed here in August and I have to say it was one of the nicest homestays I stayed at on the entire trip. Clean, good food and a lovely family.
I was diving at Yenkoranu and at first I thought the walk to the dive shop two/three times a day would be a hassle (sometimes have to wade waist deep water at high tide) but I came to enjoy the walk and found the peace and quiet at Byuk Beya (compared to staying at the dive shop) well worth it! Highly recommend.
Our group of five was booked to stay at Tapor Aikos from 26 to 30 October 2019, but at the last minute were taken to Mandarin Homestay instead, as Tapor Aikos was double booked. Given that we arrived on a weekend and the owners had no notice of our arrival, they did very well to accommodate and feed us.
The rooms are over the water – at most tides, we could walk down the steps from our balcony and start snorkelling. The rooms were lovely and spacious with comfortable beds and mosquito netting (there aren’t a lot of mosquitos). The roof in our room leaked a bit – fortunately not over the bed. The ablution block was basic, but clean.
Food was quite good, considering they didn’t know we were coming, but we had to ask for fruit.
The dogs at the homestay were a nuisance. They were often fighting and barking at each other. One dog was constantly getting into our room even though the gate and door were closed (it had worked out the weak points in the gate and door).
The reef outside the homestay was great – wonderful corals and fish life. One day we saw two cuttlefish which put on an impressive display. Take care as the currents can be strong.
It was great to be able to walk to Sawinggrai and Kapisawar villages. One evening we saw a Waigeo cuscus near the church in Sawinggrai.
Akes, Chris and Alex spoke good English and were helpful during our stay.
We strongly recommend this homestay.
Our group of five was booked to stay at Tapor Aikos from 26 to 30 October 2019, but at the last minute were taken to Mandarin Homestay instead, as Tapor Aikos was double booked. Given that we arrived on a weekend and the owners had no notice of our arrival, they did very well to accommodate and feed us.
The rooms are over the water – at most tides, we could walk down the steps from our balcony and start snorkelling. The rooms were lovely and spacious with comfortable beds and mosquito netting (there aren’t a lot of mosquitos). The roof in our room leaked a bit – fortunately not over the bed. The ablution block was basic, but clean.
Food was quite good, considering they didn’t know we were coming, but we had to ask for fruit.
The dogs at the homestay were a nuisance. They were often fighting and barking at each other. One dog was constantly getting into our room even though the gate and door were closed (it had worked out the weak points in the gate and door).
The reef outside the homestay was great – wonderful corals and fish life. One day we saw two cuttlefish which put on an impressive display. Take care as the currents can be strong.
It was great to be able to walk to Sawinggrai and Kapisawar villages. One evening we saw a Waigeo cuscus near the church in Sawinggrai.
Akes, Chris and Alex spoke good English and were helpful during our stay.
We strongly recommend this homestay.
A luxury resort without luxury. If you like traditional bamboo huts with a hammock on the terasse with seaview. You will love the place.
I stayed 4 nights at this calm lovely homestay. I felt save at any time, being a female solo traveler.
The phone connection is very good. Although it might cut off for an hour or two somwhen during the day. So don’t freak out when there is no connection when you arrive, as I did 😉 it will come back and it’s strong enough to do skype calls.
I asked for veterian food and loved what I got.
The snorkeling is fantastic and you can go directly from your bungalow. Be aware of the tights. It‘s best around high tight (1h before and after) google the sorong tight charts. The currents can ger pretty strong when it changes from high to low tight, always wear your fins. I saw turtles, stringrays and a blacktip.
Everything is in walking distance and the village has a small store with beers. Cheers 🙂
A luxury resort without luxury. If you like traditional bamboo huts with a hammock on the terasse with seaview. You will love the place.
I stayed 4 nights at this calm lovely homestay. I felt save at any time, being a female solo traveler.
The phone connection is very good. Although it might cut off for an hour or two somwhen during the day. So don’t freak out when there is no connection when you arrive, as I did 😉 it will come back and it’s strong enough to do skype calls.
I asked for veterian food and loved what I got.
The snorkeling is fantastic and you can go directly from your bungalow. Be aware of the tights. It‘s best around high tight (1h before and after) google the sorong tight charts. The currents can ger pretty strong when it changes from high to low tight, always wear your fins. I saw turtles, stringrays and a blacktip.
Everything is in walking distance and the village has a small store with beers. Cheers 🙂
Byuk Beya is situated North-East of Kri island, 15min walk from Yenkoranu diving club (which I highly recommend: great staff and cheap prices!).
The cabans are very clean and there is some storage space, which is appreciated. There is also a hammock to relax on the veranda in front of the sea.
Regarding snorkeling I think it’s better to go to the jetty of Yenkoranu, or at the West-South side of Kri (we spotted dugongs there!) but anyway nothing is very far away on this island.
Lisias and his wife Lucy are really nice people (Lisias laughs all the time) even if their English is not the best, and what we loved is that they invited us to Lisias’s brother’s wedding on Mansuar island so they organized the boat for us to join them to the party which was quite interesting!
The little negative point is that we read a lot about Lucy’s food – which is why we actually decided to go to Byuk Beya – but I think they were quite busy with the wedding so the food was not as good as it should have been (no fruits, dry bread for breakfast, sometimes no chicken neither fish..) but we will give the benefice of the doubt because of the wedding (they were not very present). This is the reason why we give 3* and not more.
Anyway, I hope they will keep up the good work and improve the service because for what we got (food) I would say it’s too expensive – even if it’s the cheapest you can get on Kri.
Thank you again Lisias and Lucy we hope everything will be fine for you and your children 🙂
We spent some days in Mandarin homestay in Gam island and it was wonderful.
The family was very friendly all the time, and the kids are super cute ❤️.
About Akes we only have good words for him, he is a very good person, polite and he attended anything we needed, we had great conversations with him in the evening after dinner, he speaks good english.
The bungalow is big, has a separate bedroom with a proper double bed with mosquito net, there’s also a chilling room with tables, chairs and two hammoks, and the terrace is just perfect, with stairs down to the crystal water.
The people of the small Sawinggrai village are very kind and we had very good moments just walking around, you can buy cookies, cigarretes and cold beers there.
We went to the jungle one morning with a local guide to spot the red bird of paradise, we saw a male dancing for a while, very beautiful experience and the hiking is super short and easy.
One afternoon we did a snorkel trip to see the mandarin fish with Akes and it was absolutely amazing, we went to one tiny island in Gam Bay by boat and we saw a lot of rare species we’ve never seen before, and of course some beautiful mandarin fishes, thanks to the knowledge of Akes because we would never find them by our own.
But you don’t have to go far away to enjoy the beautiful wild life of the island, we saw cuscus in the trees, huge flying foxes, eagles, parrots… just behind the bungalow. And after sunsets we saw a lot of walking sharks, sting rays and octopus in the water next to our bungalow terrace. Simply incredible.
We are very happy to have choosen Mandarin homestay and we absolutely recomend the place.
5 deserved stars.
Thank you Sergi….
We spent some days in Mandarin homestay in Gam island and it was wonderful.
The family was very friendly all the time, and the kids are super cute ❤️.
About Akes we only have good words for him, he is a very good person, polite and he attended anything we needed, we had great conversations with him in the evening after dinner, he speaks good english.
The bungalow is big, has a separate bedroom with a proper double bed with mosquito net, there’s also a chilling room with tables, chairs and two hammoks, and the terrace is just perfect, with stairs down to the crystal water.
The people of the small Sawinggrai village are very kind and we had very good moments just walking around, you can buy cookies, cigarretes and cold beers there.
We went to the jungle one morning with a local guide to spot the red bird of paradise, we saw a male dancing for a while, very beautiful experience and the hiking is super short and easy.
One afternoon we did a snorkel trip to see the mandarin fish with Akes and it was absolutely amazing, we went to one tiny island in Gam Bay by boat and we saw a lot of rare species we’ve never seen before, and of course some beautiful mandarin fishes, thanks to the knowledge of Akes because we would never find them by our own.
But you don’t have to go far away to enjoy the beautiful wild life of the island, we saw cuscus in the trees, huge flying foxes, eagles, parrots… just behind the bungalow. And after sunsets we saw a lot of walking sharks, sting rays and octopus in the water next to our bungalow terrace. Simply incredible.
We are very happy to have choosen Mandarin homestay and we absolutely recomend the place.
5 deserved stars.
Thank you Sergi….
In this gem place of biodiversity we were so lucky to stay in Mandarin and spend our days with Akes.
The room, the reefs, the birds and Akes with his family keep on giving light to our days and nights.
Our only wish is to come back and find the place as it is.
Thank you Akes! We miss you greatly!
Thank you Efi and Jose….
Akes
In this gem place of biodiversity we were so lucky to stay in Mandarin and spend our days with Akes.
The room, the reefs, the birds and Akes with his family keep on giving light to our days and nights.
Our only wish is to come back and find the place as it is.
Thank you Akes! We miss you greatly!
Thank you Efi and Jose….
Akes
My stay at Mandarin was really lovely. Kristian and Akes speak English and are very welcoming. On my first night I got to attend a Christian gathering which the family hosted, where beautiful joyful songs were sung as Akes plays guitar and his friend a eukalele.
The food was delicious and plentiful, well catered for a vegan. My bungalow had a hammock which was very useful and relaxing.
The reef is awesome if you can walk it out at low tide and learn how to read the currents. On my first snorkel I saw a turtle, reef sharks and so much fish I could of get out of the water.
Akes has lots of friends who come and visit and children and dogs play at the premises. So if you don’t mind the sounds of dogs barkimg and people socialising, this is a place for you.
But if you really want a quiet getaway, you might want to think about a more secluded place to stay.
I really wanted peace and quiet to be able to really rest up, so I moved to Nudibrach next door. It was really emotionally difficult to leave as not to offend this beutiful generous family, but Akes did not seem to mind at all.
I really recommend this home stay if you want to meet the locals, and prefer being close to a village life, as well as see incredible wildlife in the water.
Thank you so much for having and looking after me guys.
I wish you all the very best!
Sandra
Thank you Sandra for your Coment….
I am sorry about the noises of the dogs and my friends….
Sometimes is verry quite,, but I am sorry for this time…
I will do the quite atmosfer in the future…
Thank you
Akes
My stay at Mandarin was really lovely. Kristian and Akes speak English and are very welcoming. On my first night I got to attend a Christian gathering which the family hosted, where beautiful joyful songs were sung as Akes plays guitar and his friend a eukalele.
The food was delicious and plentiful, well catered for a vegan. My bungalow had a hammock which was very useful and relaxing.
The reef is awesome if you can walk it out at low tide and learn how to read the currents. On my first snorkel I saw a turtle, reef sharks and so much fish I could of get out of the water.
Akes has lots of friends who come and visit and children and dogs play at the premises. So if you don’t mind the sounds of dogs barkimg and people socialising, this is a place for you.
But if you really want a quiet getaway, you might want to think about a more secluded place to stay.
I really wanted peace and quiet to be able to really rest up, so I moved to Nudibrach next door. It was really emotionally difficult to leave as not to offend this beutiful generous family, but Akes did not seem to mind at all.
I really recommend this home stay if you want to meet the locals, and prefer being close to a village life, as well as see incredible wildlife in the water.
Thank you so much for having and looking after me guys.
I wish you all the very best!
Sandra
Thank you Sandra for your Coment….
I am sorry about the noises of the dogs and my friends….
Sometimes is verry quite,, but I am sorry for this time…
I will do the quite atmosfer in the future…
Thank you
Akes
I and my sister stayed there for 7 nights in the beach bungalows. We were the only guest and we had so much fun. The bungalows are clean, neat, and cozy. We took Piaynemo trip and all snorkeling tour with good price, it felt like we get more then the money we paid.
Pak Lisias and family are nice and friendly and they took us to Sunday service too. But bu Lucy’s was busy while we are there, so we can’t taste her delicious food (oh I remember, she cooked once and it was so GOOD!!). But Marthen, Lisias’s brother was cook for us and it was good and we are never starving ? (Thank you Martin ).
We did snorkeling every day and it was wonderful and watching beautiful sunset every day
Thank you and we’ll be back, of course 100% recommended!!!
We want to thank the guys running the website. You’re doing an amazing job and it is so helpful
We stayed with Lisias and Lucy 10 days in March and we had really great time! The food was very tasty, every day we tried something new 🙂 The Family is very nice. Its perfect quiet place, good for relaxing, snorkling, beautiful sunsets… You can also make some boat trips with Lisias. Thank you and hope to see you again in the future 🙂 Tina and Juri
We stayed at Mandarin Homestay for 6 nights in April 2019. We had quite a big over-water bungalow with a real bed. In the evenings there always was a Refreshing breeze on our veranda. In the mornings you could hear different kinds of birds so it felt like living in the jungle.
And it is a great place for snorkeling! At high tide you can start right at your bungalow and then snorkle along the reef for hours. You will see lots of different kinds of fish, nudibranches, turtles, sea snakes, Moray eels, wobbegongs and walking Sharks. If the Tide is low you’d better walk to the jetty of Sawinggrai Village, which is just 5 minutes away. There it is easy to get in and out.
Together with Akes we went on several snorkeling trips and did a very interesting tour around Gam Bay. There – with the help of Akes – we were able to see beautiful mandarin fish and different kinds of lion fish. Another trip took us to a sandbank between Arborek and Gam with gorgeous undestroyed corals nearby.
The food that was cooked by Mama was great and really tasty. We had lots of fish and very nice vegetables. The whole family was friendly and helpful and in the evenings Akes would come round to discuss any plans for the following day. I am sure that on our next trip to Raja Ampat we will again spend a few days at this lovely place with this lovely family.
Special thanks to Akes for taking the mask we forgot to Friwen Island!
Hi Ully…
Thank you verry much….
I will waiting for you next time….
Don’t forget my Jerman T-Shert.. Hhhh
Akes
We stayed in Mandarin Homestay for 6 nights in mid of April and it was interesting experience. I traveled with my autistic son and my request for safety and supervising in boat transfer and snorkeling tours were satisfied. Mandarin Homestay is not located in the remote area and you will be communicating with many people included local and tourists. We had snorkeling trips everyday to fantastic places and there were always people willing to share boat trips with very reasonable cost. The Mandarin family was so nice and friendly …the last night of our stay we had some party atmosphere when Akes was playing and singing on his guitar some Papua songs and it was very nice. Great food, great accommodation, great nature setting- everything was just simply great !
We are sending big HELLO from New York to Akes and his family.
Hello Natalia….
Thank you soo much….
Akes
We stayed in Mandarin Homestay for 6 nights in mid of April and it was interesting experience. I traveled with my autistic son and my request for safety and supervising in boat transfer and snorkeling tours were satisfied. Mandarin Homestay is not located in the remote area and you will be communicating with many people included local and tourists. We had snorkeling trips everyday to fantastic places and there were always people willing to share boat trips with very reasonable cost. The Mandarin family was so nice and friendly …the last night of our stay we had some party atmosphere when Akes was playing and singing on his guitar some Papua songs and it was very nice. Great food, great accommodation, great nature setting- everything was just simply great !
We are sending big HELLO from New York to Akes and his family.
Hello Natalia….
Thank you soo much….
Akes
We spent 3 amazing days at Byuk homestay in April as the only guests, everything was just perfect! The family is very nice and friendly, they try to do everything possible for your comfort stay. The room is clean and the bed is comfortable, the view is nice. The house reef and the neighbourhood is great for snorkeling.
The separate thanks for the food. We came from Korbekwan homestay at Gam where we were starving all the time, and Lucy’s meals felt like a Michelin restaurant! Plenty of food and very delicious! Huge fish, rice, noodles, vegie pancakes and fresh fruits for lunch, tasty chicken for dinner.
Excursions were great as well, Lucius brother Willy took us for all day trips twice and really tried to show us as much as possible, it felt like he spends more time with us then the money we paid. And it was great to talk to some who actually speaks English 🙂
The only small minus is mosquitos in the evening (take something to protect your skin) and a few rats living under the roof (they didn’t touch us but we could hear them), but i think rats is the problem for all homestays in Kri.
Walking alone the shore and looking at other homestays, we realized we actually staying at the best one (if not counting expensive ones like Kri Eco resort).
If you’re in doubts which homestay to choose in Kri, come Byuk, you won’t regret it!
Jolis bungalows papu, cuisine délicieuse et généreuse. La famille est adorable et très arrangeante, même si elle ne parle pas toujours bien anglais. Plusieurs beaux spots de snorkeling à proximité. Parfait !
We stayed here for 5 days in March.
It was the most spacious bungalow we had in our 5 weeks in RA. Over water deck with beautiful (sunset) view. Clean mandi hut.
Akes and his family are really friendly hosts who offer good and enough food and fresh fruit. Akes offers boat trip at fair prices which are listed in the restaurant.
The homestay is on the edge of nice Sawingrai village which invites for little walks.
There is really good snorkeling in front between the Mangrove HS jetty and the village.
But snorkeling is really excellent if you walk for about 20 minutes to the end of Kapisawar village and then turn right in the water.
In the early evening two cute kuskus are regular guests at Nudibranch HS, 100 m to the right.
Hi Herard…
Thank you verry much to your coment…
Akes
We stayed here for 5 days in March.
It was the most spacious bungalow we had in our 5 weeks in RA. Over water deck with beautiful (sunset) view. Clean mandi hut.
Akes and his family are really friendly hosts who offer good and enough food and fresh fruit. Akes offers boat trip at fair prices which are listed in the restaurant.
The homestay is on the edge of nice Sawingrai village which invites for little walks.
There is really good snorkeling in front between the Mangrove HS jetty and the village.
But snorkeling is really excellent if you walk for about 20 minutes to the end of Kapisawar village and then turn right in the water.
In the early evening two cute kuskus are regular guests at Nudibranch HS, 100 m to the right.
Hi Herard…
Thank you verry much to your coment…
Akes
We stayed with Aiks and family at Mandarin Feb 23-27 (4 nights). Great house reef – I mean so much fun and goes on forever and has places to get in and out at low tide, but the current can get rather fast at times, so good swimmers only.
Food was excellent and we enjoyed fruits on most days.
The low point was there is only one toilet and one bathing area in a rather dirty little spot with garbage behind it. The little cottages are nice, but best to put the mattresses on the floor as the beds have too much space between planks. Still all in all a lovely setting and great homestay,.
Great birding although the guide really only escorts you to the place to see red bird of paradise. No need to hire guide if just birding the trail, although the local guide’s son was great at pointing out birds, whereas his father doesn’t really seem all that interested in birding per se.
Aik’s family were very giving and made a birthday cake and provided a sing along concert of Papua songs. Aik’s had boat charges posted on a whiteboard, so no surprises and was willing to haggle a bit over prices. He and his family helpers were lots of fun to go out with and we enjoyed seeing mantas, visiting Arborek Island, and birding each morning on the evacuation trails.
Aiks was also helpful with communications to the next homestay when my phone died.
We stayed with Aiks and family at Mandarin Feb 23-27 (4 nights). Great house reef – I mean so much fun and goes on forever and has places to get in and out at low tide, but the current can get rather fast at times, so good swimmers only.
Food was excellent and we enjoyed fruits on most days.
The low point was there is only one toilet and one bathing area in a rather dirty little spot with garbage behind it. The little cottages are nice, but best to put the mattresses on the floor as the beds have too much space between planks. Still all in all a lovely setting and great homestay,.
Great birding although the guide really only escorts you to the place to see red bird of paradise. No need to hire guide if just birding the trail, although the local guide’s son was great at pointing out birds, whereas his father doesn’t really seem all that interested in birding per se.
Aik’s family were very giving and made a birthday cake and provided a sing along concert of Papua songs. Aik’s had boat charges posted on a whiteboard, so no surprises and was willing to haggle a bit over prices. He and his family helpers were lots of fun to go out with and we enjoyed seeing mantas, visiting Arborek Island, and birding each morning on the evacuation trails.
Aiks was also helpful with communications to the next homestay when my phone died.
Staying with lisias, lusy and all their kids was a gift. I spend 10 days with them and was the best I could ask. The food there.. Ohhhhh the food!! Lusy is the indonesia master chef ? fish eeeeevery day! everyone was very very kind and leave me my space al swell. About the homestay: is simple and beautiful for my point of view. You are going to have a real experience in the nature. There is a mosquitoes net in every room. The toilet is shared.
I did snorkeling every day and just in front of the homestay was wonderful ? I met beautiful people in there. Raja ampat is a real paradise and if you think the price is expensive, you will think this place, this food and this people is priceless once here.
Terima kasih lisias and lusy..I’m really thinking to come back next year ?
I enjoyed my 10 day stay at the Mandarin homestay, I recommend it for the food, bungalow, snorkeling and the way Akas always made himself available if you need anything, nice person to. I liked the food, especially the pepper fish fillet and the vegetables. Some times they would climb the coconut tree and we would all have fresh coconut. My bungalow had a mattress with a good mosquito net with a balcony over water , the snorkeling is first rate, I saw Lionfish, cuttlefish, turtles, Moray eels, incredible Coral and giant mantas, what a great experience ?
Hi Christo…
Thank you
Akes
I enjoyed my 10 day stay at the Mandarin homestay, I recommend it for the food, bungalow, snorkeling and the way Akas always made himself available if you need anything, nice person to. I liked the food, especially the pepper fish fillet and the vegetables. Some times they would climb the coconut tree and we would all have fresh coconut. My bungalow had a mattress with a good mosquito net with a balcony over water , the snorkeling is first rate, I saw Lionfish, cuttlefish, turtles, Moray eels, incredible Coral and giant mantas, what a great experience ?
Hi Christo…
Thank you
Akes
I stayed at Mandarin for two nights in February and had a great time. The reef and mangrove in front of the homestay is awesome and the trek to see the birds of paradise was well organised. Akes and his family were very welcoming and friendly and the food was delicious! Good Wifi is also available if you have a local sim card. A very special thank you to Akes for taking me all the way to Rufas in a very rough and windy sea – you are a real hero and I hope you didn’t freeze too much on the way back! The people at the charming Sawinggrai village were all very friendly and helpful.
Hi Claudia…
Thank you….
Akes
I stayed at Mandarin for two nights in February and had a great time. The reef and mangrove in front of the homestay is awesome and the trek to see the birds of paradise was well organised. Akes and his family were very welcoming and friendly and the food was delicious! Good Wifi is also available if you have a local sim card. A very special thank you to Akes for taking me all the way to Rufas in a very rough and windy sea – you are a real hero and I hope you didn’t freeze too much on the way back! The people at the charming Sawinggrai village were all very friendly and helpful.
Hi Claudia…
Thank you….
Akes
we spent 3 night at Byuk Beya and it was absolutely amazing! we had one of the beach bungalow with real bed, mosquito net and hammock . The host family is very friendly , the food was various, delicious and more than enough! beautiful beach and snorkeling as well.
we really recommend this homestay!
thank you fraent..
I stayed at Mandarin towards the end of January 2019 and what a fantastic time I had! My highlight was the beautiful people that I met 🙂 Akes and his family were so kind, welcoming and generous with their time. We had an incredible trip to see the mantas, which was SO SPECIAL!!! There’s great reef about a 20m snorkel from the cute over-water bungalows. Saw walking sharks in the evening swimming in the shallows underneath the huts! There’s a great little village just next to the homestay with lots of friendly people. The food that Mama cooked was delicious- generally fish in a sauce with rice and yummy vegetable sides, pancakes for breakfast or if you’re really lucky donuts! There’s tea, coffee and a big water dispenser so you can refill your own bottle. I’m already trying to plot a return visit to this special place. Thank you so much Mandarin family, you’re the best!
Hi Amy…
Thank you, wish we will meet again..
Akes
I stayed at Mandarin towards the end of January 2019 and what a fantastic time I had! My highlight was the beautiful people that I met 🙂 Akes and his family were so kind, welcoming and generous with their time. We had an incredible trip to see the mantas, which was SO SPECIAL!!! There’s great reef about a 20m snorkel from the cute over-water bungalows. Saw walking sharks in the evening swimming in the shallows underneath the huts! There’s a great little village just next to the homestay with lots of friendly people. The food that Mama cooked was delicious- generally fish in a sauce with rice and yummy vegetable sides, pancakes for breakfast or if you’re really lucky donuts! There’s tea, coffee and a big water dispenser so you can refill your own bottle. I’m already trying to plot a return visit to this special place. Thank you so much Mandarin family, you’re the best!
Hi Amy…
Thank you, wish we will meet again..
Akes
Ini perjalanan ke tiga ke raja ampat dari 3 homestay yang saya tempati Byuk Beya yang paling recommended deh. Lokasi homestay strategis dipulau kri dari homestay bisa nyemplung untuk snorkling. Pelayanan bagus, selalu siap sedia mengantar kita ke tempat-tempat menarik dan paling tidak terlupakan masakan yang disediakan mantap, beda dari homestay yang lain yang pernah saya tempati…
Cozy Bungalow pleasant and friendly host, good and a lot of food.
Suitable for the best of relaxation and snorkling
27-31 january 2019
My girlfriend and I stayed 3 nights at the Mandarin Homestay in January. We liked it very much there and definitely recommend it for every traveler in Gam.
Snorkeling there was amazing, we saw walking sharks in the mangrove just outside the bungalow ! The rich marine life at the jetty in front of the homestay is breathtaking !! Best snorkeling ever !
Comfort wise, It was the only time where we had a bed in RA, usually just a mattress with a mosquito net. That was very much appreciated !
Akes was available all the time, we went looking for Mandarin Fish in Gam Bay and saw lots of them, he has the eyes for it !
The only thing that could be improved is the food. Not much variety and especially eggs all the time. More fish would have been appreciated !
Definitely a very good experience, would love to come back there !!
Thank you for everything,
Youness & Lucie
Thank you younes….
Akes
My girlfriend and I stayed 3 nights at the Mandarin Homestay in January. We liked it very much there and definitely recommend it for every traveler in Gam.
Snorkeling there was amazing, we saw walking sharks in the mangrove just outside the bungalow ! The rich marine life at the jetty in front of the homestay is breathtaking !! Best snorkeling ever !
Comfort wise, It was the only time where we had a bed in RA, usually just a mattress with a mosquito net. That was very much appreciated !
Akes was available all the time, we went looking for Mandarin Fish in Gam Bay and saw lots of them, he has the eyes for it !
The only thing that could be improved is the food. Not much variety and especially eggs all the time. More fish would have been appreciated !
Definitely a very good experience, would love to come back there !!
Thank you for everything,
Youness & Lucie
Thank you younes….
Akes
My Mandarin family!! Oooo how we love you so much! My 4th time staying with the family. This trip we stayed January 12-16 and again on 28th 2019 (just to say bye before leaving). Akes is an absolute amazing host! We just can’t get enough of you AK! Such an amazing person!
Beautiful, kind, lovely, genuine, and honest are just a few adjectives to describe the family of Mandarin homestay. They are super attentive and willing to help with anything they can!
The bungalows are spacious with amazing views to Mansuar. The food is lovely and all facilities are very very clean!
We would recommend this bungalow to anyone and everyone. An absolute gem in Gam!! I wish there were more stars for the rating!!!
We will see you next year! We can not wait to be back with our Mandarin family! Much love, luck and good health to you all!!! Injooooooooo
David and Preachie
Hi Davit and Precillia…
Injoo…
We will wait you next year….
Miss you
Akes
My Mandarin family!! Oooo how we love you so much! My 4th time staying with the family. This trip we stayed January 12-16 and again on 28th 2019 (just to say bye before leaving). Akes is an absolute amazing host! We just can’t get enough of you AK! Such an amazing person!
Beautiful, kind, lovely, genuine, and honest are just a few adjectives to describe the family of Mandarin homestay. They are super attentive and willing to help with anything they can!
The bungalows are spacious with amazing views to Mansuar. The food is lovely and all facilities are very very clean!
We would recommend this bungalow to anyone and everyone. An absolute gem in Gam!! I wish there were more stars for the rating!!!
We will see you next year! We can not wait to be back with our Mandarin family! Much love, luck and good health to you all!!! Injooooooooo
David and Preachie
Hi Davit and Precillia…
Injoo…
We will wait you next year….
Miss you
Akes
Akes, Akes, how to start?
By a thank you it seems obvious!
You have given us memories that will stay a long time in our heads. Your brothers’ shock team made a lot of fun during our snorkelling tour, and our transfer to Pam. We could not dream of better company. What kindness, what a welcome, what simplicity. In a wonderful setting!
In addition, we had the chance to share moments with other nice travelers!
Extremely spacious bungalows, on stilts, at the gates of 2 wonderful villages with touching inhabitants and beautiful children! The whole family is nice, the place is very friendly. The discoveries in the area are extraordinary, the sites of Manta Point, Arborek, Gam Bay (and the famous Mandarin fish that only Akes can find!) are all close possibilities, if you like to put your head under water you will not be disappointed! Possibility also to go to see the birds of paradise. Akes loves his work (at least we believe), and blooms in the happiness of his guests. A real joy. He must come to visit us in France (you promised we will not forget :)!). We would like to put 10 stars, but there are only 5 possible!
Thank you again for all, it’s so much fun to have shared these moments with you. Do not change anything, especially!
Hugs friends!
Hei..
My Friend…
Thank you thank you and thank you……
I am just wanna say thank you soo much…
I am so happy
I will come to franch one day…
Akes
Akes, Akes, how to start?
By a thank you it seems obvious!
You have given us memories that will stay a long time in our heads. Your brothers’ shock team made a lot of fun during our snorkelling tour, and our transfer to Pam. We could not dream of better company. What kindness, what a welcome, what simplicity. In a wonderful setting!
In addition, we had the chance to share moments with other nice travelers!
Extremely spacious bungalows, on stilts, at the gates of 2 wonderful villages with touching inhabitants and beautiful children! The whole family is nice, the place is very friendly. The discoveries in the area are extraordinary, the sites of Manta Point, Arborek, Gam Bay (and the famous Mandarin fish that only Akes can find!) are all close possibilities, if you like to put your head under water you will not be disappointed! Possibility also to go to see the birds of paradise. Akes loves his work (at least we believe), and blooms in the happiness of his guests. A real joy. He must come to visit us in France (you promised we will not forget :)!). We would like to put 10 stars, but there are only 5 possible!
Thank you again for all, it’s so much fun to have shared these moments with you. Do not change anything, especially!
Hugs friends!
Hei..
My Friend…
Thank you thank you and thank you……
I am just wanna say thank you soo much…
I am so happy
I will come to franch one day…
Akes
We had the best time at Byuk Beya on Kri.
The food was delicious and more than enough, the bungalow was specious with proper mosquito net and bed. The shower and toilet was always clean.
It is close to Pasir Timbul, so you can easily ask them to bring you there.
The family and kids are really friendly and helpful. The sunrises and sunsets were beautiful and the house reef was beautiful.
We rent two on-beach bungalows for the whole family (us and two kids age 10 and 11) and we had so much fun for our 4D3N stay. This place is a perfect venue for relaxing, and kids love it so much as they can play on the white-sand beach the whole day! LoL.
We did the snorkeling just in front of the bungalows, after swimming crossing the small seaweed garden. We also went to Piaynemo, visit Sawingrai Village to enter the gate of trekking for bird watching (Cendrawasih), snorkel at Mansuar island (at jetty of Sawandarek and Yenbuba), and visit Pasir Timbul (an emerge white sand during the low tide)… and Pak Lisias always happily took us to all the above destinations.
In order to reach this homestay, from Waisai Jetty (and vice versa), you need to have a 10 minutes walk to FIN area (small jetty for smaller boat). There, you will pay for the entrance ticket for marine park, and you will meet Pak Lisias there. Make sure that you checklist the boat-transfer request when you book this homestay, and re-inform Pak Lisias several days before your arrival date. The journey took about 40-60 minutes from FIN to Kri island.
The bungalows are clean, neat, equipped with basic stuff (desk, chair, hammock, mosquito’s net and bed, towels for two). Aside of the bungalows, there is an open dining area by the sea where you can take your 3-time meals, coffee and tea. Meal times are always fun because the foods are delicious (All are Indonesian dishes and Ibu Lucy cooked very well) and it is the only time when you can meet and talk with all the guests around.
For the shared bathroom and toilet (separated, but side by side), they are clean, and you need to walk about 10-15 meters from the bungalows.
Electricity and water will only available during 05.00 pm up to about midnight.
We stayed during 3 days in Mandarin Homestay. It was the best part of our trip around Indonesia. Akes and all the people that lives in the island are lovely. We highly recommend you to stay here.
Hi Raqueñ
Thank you….
Hope we will see you again…
Akes
We stayed during 3 days in Mandarin Homestay. It was the best part of our trip around Indonesia. Akes and all the people that lives in the island are lovely. We highly recommend you to stay here.
Hi Raqueñ
Thank you….
Hope we will see you again…
Akes
We stayed 8 nights in buyk beya homestay and had a lovely time. The food was good et Lisias was often asking us if we needed a boat drive. The room was great with an amazing view. A fan would be great because it get really warm in there during the night. The only thing disturbing was the shower because it was salty, so we never fell totally clean. At the end we were taking shower in our dive center.
Anyway we really enjoyed our stay there.
We arrived at Mandarin homestay having spent several glorious days on Kri.
Our host, Akis, collected us by boat and was friendly and very helpful.
We were so thrilled with our place. A beautiful beach hut on stilts, with additional front room, that we weren’t expecting, and an outdoor veranda facing Kri. The bed was lovely, a real bed with white cotton sheets and white muslin mosquito net. The shared shower and toilet hut was close by and really clean. Akis’ mother prepared really beautiful food and we ate so well, lots of super- fresh fish, delicious vegetables and fruit everyday.
The snorkelling was exceptional here and we found rare creatures like Orbicular Platax, within a meter from our hut! And later a Dugong! Life doesn’t get much better!
Gam Bay, where we were able to see the famed tiny and stunningly patterned Mandarin fish,was a very short boat ride away. Manta Point was also pretty near where we were lucky enough to see many Mantas whilst snorkelling.
The neighbouring village of Sawinggrai is lively and super-friendly.
We had such a wonderful time with Akis and his family. We can’t recommend Mandarin homestay enough. Thank you so much.
Orrin and Amanda
Hi…
Orrin and Amanda….
Thank you soo munch, hope we can meet again….
We arrived at Mandarin homestay having spent several glorious days on Kri.
Our host, Akis, collected us by boat and was friendly and very helpful.
We were so thrilled with our place. A beautiful beach hut on stilts, with additional front room, that we weren’t expecting, and an outdoor veranda facing Kri. The bed was lovely, a real bed with white cotton sheets and white muslin mosquito net. The shared shower and toilet hut was close by and really clean. Akis’ mother prepared really beautiful food and we ate so well, lots of super- fresh fish, delicious vegetables and fruit everyday.
The snorkelling was exceptional here and we found rare creatures like Orbicular Platax, within a meter from our hut! And later a Dugong! Life doesn’t get much better!
Gam Bay, where we were able to see the famed tiny and stunningly patterned Mandarin fish,was a very short boat ride away. Manta Point was also pretty near where we were lucky enough to see many Mantas whilst snorkelling.
The neighbouring village of Sawinggrai is lively and super-friendly.
We had such a wonderful time with Akis and his family. We can’t recommend Mandarin homestay enough. Thank you so much.
Orrin and Amanda
Hi…
Orrin and Amanda….
Thank you soo munch, hope we can meet again….
We stayed for 4 nights at the homestay and we really enjoyed the place. The location is lovely, the food is good and the family is very nice if you get to know them a little.
The trips we booked with Yenkoranu and Delvin Homestay. We really recommend to book your trips at these places, the staff is lovely and very helpfull.
Thank you for the pleasant stay!
Greetings,
Sanne and Jeroen
Akes (and family),
Finally my boyfriend and I give you the comment. We really enjoyed staying at your place! The food was nice, the houses are big, the bed is great and the trips you did with us were awesome. Thank you so much for everything! We recommend other guests to go to Gam Bay and Friwen, lovely places to visit.
We wish you luck!
Grtz,
Sanne and Jeroen
Thank you so much Zanne
Akes
Akes (and family),
Finally my boyfriend and I give you the comment. We really enjoyed staying at your place! The food was nice, the houses are big, the bed is great and the trips you did with us were awesome. Thank you so much for everything! We recommend other guests to go to Gam Bay and Friwen, lovely places to visit.
We wish you luck!
Grtz,
Sanne and Jeroen
Thank you so much Zanne
Akes
Dear Akes,
We promised to leave you a recommendation, so sorry it took me so long. But oh.. im craving to come back..
The idyllic houses, with stunning view over the water. The lovely kids who really really are eager to learn english.
The fantastic boat trip with you and your Brothers to Paynemo.. the lovely picknick on a deserted with beach, with palmtreas and clear blue water. Things I only had dreamed about.. came true.
Akes is a fantastic host, his mother a very good cook and his Brothers are good company!
10 out of 10!
Hope you and your family are okay,
Thanks for everything!
I will come back!!
Hi Laura…
Thank you soo much.
We always waiting for your second time…
Akes
Dear Akes,
We promised to leave you a recommendation, so sorry it took me so long. But oh.. im craving to come back..
The idyllic houses, with stunning view over the water. The lovely kids who really really are eager to learn english.
The fantastic boat trip with you and your Brothers to Paynemo.. the lovely picknick on a deserted with beach, with palmtreas and clear blue water. Things I only had dreamed about.. came true.
Akes is a fantastic host, his mother a very good cook and his Brothers are good company!
10 out of 10!
Hope you and your family are okay,
Thanks for everything!
I will come back!!
Hi Laura…
Thank you soo much.
We always waiting for your second time…
Akes
This is Dan and Jennifer who stayed at lovely Mandarin Homestay for 9 days at Nov 2018. Akes and his family made our first Raja Ampat trip fantastic and we are already planning the next trip back
The other guests have already praised Akes for his hospitality and genuine efforts to make guests’ stay comfortable. I totally agree with them. and if you are willing to chat Akes is more than happy to share his and his family’s stories with you
Thank you Akes for climbing up the coconut tree so we and the local kids can enjoy the refreshing juice and tasty young coconut meat
Thank you Akes to taking great efforts finding for us the nudibranch and blue lobsters at Gam bay. It is such a nice surprise when you mentioned we were the first guests you took to the particular spot where you used to hunt fishes as a kid
Also Thanks Akes’uncle for taking us to another side of Friwen wall where we saw massive amount of table corals.On the way back he was so kind to drive us around the mangrove maze and we enjoyed the journey among the enchanting water channels a lot
Thank you for everything
Hi Dan.
Thank you so much,, I hope we, will meet again….
Akes
This is Dan and Jennifer who stayed at lovely Mandarin Homestay for 9 days at Nov 2018. Akes and his family made our first Raja Ampat trip fantastic and we are already planning the next trip back
The other guests have already praised Akes for his hospitality and genuine efforts to make guests’ stay comfortable. I totally agree with them. and if you are willing to chat Akes is more than happy to share his and his family’s stories with you
Thank you Akes for climbing up the coconut tree so we and the local kids can enjoy the refreshing juice and tasty young coconut meat
Thank you Akes to taking great efforts finding for us the nudibranch and blue lobsters at Gam bay. It is such a nice surprise when you mentioned we were the first guests you took to the particular spot where you used to hunt fishes as a kid
Also Thanks Akes’uncle for taking us to another side of Friwen wall where we saw massive amount of table corals.On the way back he was so kind to drive us around the mangrove maze and we enjoyed the journey among the enchanting water channels a lot
Thank you for everything
Hi Dan.
Thank you so much,, I hope we, will meet again….
Akes
We had a fantastic 6-day stay at Byuk Beya.
The place is as wonderful as shown in the pictures. We had one of the beach bungalows, which had a hammock (not shown in the pictures), a proper bed and many power outlets. Electricity runs approximately from 6pm to 11pm, which was more than enough to charge everything. Lucy’s food was great, with plenty of fish and fruits, served in the dining area, a perfect place for socialising with the other guests. And the toilet and the shower were basic, just like everywhere else on the island.
But what it made a difference, apart from the place itself, was the family and the kids. It was so nice to spend time with them and play footvolley with the boys in the evenings.
We organised the pick-up with Jitro via WhatsApp one day before arrival and everything went perfect. If you plan to buy an indonesian SIM card, just keep in mind that the only provider serving Raja Ampat is Telkomsel. I bought one from XY and it did not have any coverage at all.
Nice homestay with their own Little Dock to watch the sunset. Fantastic house reef and always enough food! My girlfriend and i stayed 3 nights. And twice we got nice fish for food. They also offer creamer for your coffee which very rare 🙂
When we were there Jitros nephew Willi ran the homestay and picked us up from Waisai. Unfortunately he wasn’t always available and then the communication wasn’t easy. Once the generator died and I couldn’t charge the battery’s of my drone. Also the generator runs just from 6pm till 9pm
Wir hatten einen tollen Aufenthalt. Das Essen war super und sehr abwechslungsreich. Es hat uns an nichts gefehlt. Schnorcheln kann man direkt vom Strand aus. Getaucht sind wir mit dem benachbarten Dive Center (Yenkouba). Auch der Transport von Waisai aus hat perfekt geklappt.
I will honestly never recommend staying in this place for a girl.
The guy Jitro was harassing me calling me every now and then at night and texting me weird stuff and saying things like I like you I ignored all the above ones, but the biggest choc was when he said he’ll take me for free to piyanemo ( As we were planning a trip there with other guest) « I say/do something nice to him » what the hell, this was extremely inappropriate and During all my stay I didn’t feel comfortable I felt so scared I was worried that he will do something bad to me… Hopefully, I stayed with other guests so I had some company.
Ya baik atas semua yg menjelekkan tapi pada waktu itu saya bersedia untuk jemput bagaimana dengan tamu saya yg punya trip ke pyainemo sedangkan saya mau bicara ulang homstai yang mereka tinggal tidak ada jaringan untuk komonikasi dan pada saat itu saya pulang trip saya ingin mau jemput tapi tempat sangat jauh dengan waktu 4 jam perjalanan dengan spit bood..dan saya takut kalau bawa mereka malam saya ada masalah yang fatal.tapi saya minta maaf atas semua yang terjadi.
maaf hajar saya pikir hal yang disampaikan hanya dengan bermain dan pada waktu itu rencana snorkling saya siap tapi kamu di ajak sama luki untuk di bawah untuk snorkling dan malam saya esemes lewat watsapp dan saya bilang saya sangat suka sekali bawah kamu snorkling..dan kamu katakan lagi saya minta kamu gratis ke pyainemo jadi saya bermain saya bilang sama kamu saya kasih gratis tapi kamu kasih bonus..saya bermai sama kamu begitu tapi saya juga tidak seperti itu..maaf hajar kalau ada yang salah saya minta maaf.
sorry brother,as far as I know when you want to snorkel.you have arranged it and l told you will say that at 4 o,clock so there are a lot of fis..bud after picking up guest below to my homestay you have arranged it and you go after night and like bottom you snorkel.why with Luki and you say again I say are bored for free with other things to pyainemo you ar giving me a litlle many and l playing with you l said oke l give free bud there is a discount from you l just play and the things you do,l don’t have a thought like that,why do l also protect the good name of my homestay from guest who want to take a vacation to my homestay..but l’m sorry if something goes wrong for my sistar..sorry
Very bad experience with the owners of this Homestay. We were in West Waigeo (quite far, with no telephone) and wanted to come back south. A couple of days before I went to the village of Selpele to get telephone line (by boat, not so simple thing) and asked the contact center of stay Raja Ampat some numbers for Kri Homestays. After trying with a few but having no answer, I managed to speak with Nyuk Beya. I arranged pick-up to our Homestay after 2 days at 1 pm and we agreed a price. On the given day we waited (with no telephone line) until 3 pm but no one showed up. We then went to the village and called again. The owner candidly told us that he had changed his mind because the price we had agreed was too low to come and pick us up, although he knew that we had no phone and could not communicate further after we agreed. It was too late by then (4 pm) to come even for a higher price. We really wanted to leave West Waigeo after two days of hard rain and the sea full of jellyfish so we were really disappointed by this behavior. Totally unreliable and irresponsible. We lost two precious days in Raja Ampat (out of 10 in total) because of this very bad experience.
That’s a sad result indeed Gaetano. 🙁
As advised in section 5 of our “How to Get to..” page, it’s always easier and usually much more reliable to arrange with your current hosts to transfer you than to try to get your next hosts to come and pick you up.
To help others avoid this problem, are you willing to disclose the price you agreed with Byuk Beya?
A great stay at Mandarin Homestay.
What we loved:
– Mandarin and dragonet fishes <3,
– the snorkeling was great: beautiful corals, lots of fish, we saw mobulas, reef sharks, moray eels, turtles, clown fish… We could snorkel for hours by heading to the right and then return to swim or walk by the path.
A little advice: if you hesitate between snorkeling on Kri or Gam: we did both and we preferred Gam without hesitation.
– meals : varied, hearty and delicious (at breakfast: pancakes, banana fritters, brioche … other meals: fish or chicken or eggs with vegetables and rice and fruit),
– our own bungalow with stunning view of the lagoon,
– we visited the small village just next to the homestay.
The least: nothing, everything was great.
For info: in Raja Ampat, no network, it is necessary to buy an Indonesian card to have access to internet or calls. We did not know it but it allowed us to cut ourselves off from the world and it was great …
A very big thanks to Akes, you are a perfect host !
Thank you so much Mario and Kevin
Akes
A great stay at Mandarin Homestay.
What we loved:
– Mandarin and dragonet fishes <3,
– the snorkeling was great: beautiful corals, lots of fish, we saw mobulas, reef sharks, moray eels, turtles, clown fish… We could snorkel for hours by heading to the right and then return to swim or walk by the path.
A little advice: if you hesitate between snorkeling on Kri or Gam: we did both and we preferred Gam without hesitation.
– meals : varied, hearty and delicious (at breakfast: pancakes, banana fritters, brioche … other meals: fish or chicken or eggs with vegetables and rice and fruit),
– our own bungalow with stunning view of the lagoon,
– we visited the small village just next to the homestay.
The least: nothing, everything was great.
For info: in Raja Ampat, no network, it is necessary to buy an Indonesian card to have access to internet or calls. We did not know it but it allowed us to cut ourselves off from the world and it was great …
A very big thanks to Akes, you are a perfect host !
Thank you so much Mario and Kevin
Akes
We stayed at the Mandarin for 3 nights the first week of September. It was an amazing stay. Akes is such a good host and excellent boat driver. He helped us with our activities: he took us to the Manta Point, Gam Bay, and helped us with other activities like bird watch and kayaking. The jetty port of the village (just five minutes walking from the homestay) has one of the greatest coral ever. The food at Mandarin was really amazing, wide variety and super tasty. The cottage was super comfy and spacious. It is well located to visit other tourist attractions. We definitively recommend this place.
Thank you so much Angela and Oriol….
Akes
We stayed at the Mandarin for 3 nights the first week of September. It was an amazing stay. Akes is such a good host and excellent boat driver. He helped us with our activities: he took us to the Manta Point, Gam Bay, and helped us with other activities like bird watch and kayaking. The jetty port of the village (just five minutes walking from the homestay) has one of the greatest coral ever. The food at Mandarin was really amazing, wide variety and super tasty. The cottage was super comfy and spacious. It is well located to visit other tourist attractions. We definitively recommend this place.
Thank you so much Angela and Oriol….
Akes
Had a wonderful stay in Byuk homestay, the family is amazing, extremaly nice people, good food, always ready to help, they made the stay even better. Stayed 3 nights in the beach bungalows, the high beds are great, the beach is beautiful and with a 15 minutes walk you get to amazing reefs for snorkeling. 100% reccomended.
I seriously had the best time at Byuk Beya Homestay. I stayed there for 5 nights. The owners were helpful and nice. When I was there, I was the only guest but the lady cooked the best meals just for me. I had plenty and various dishes. I think I got fat staying at Byuk Beya ? everything was super delicious. The location is superbe as you can just go snorkeling around the corner. I did the Pianemo trip as well, which is something one has to put in his bucket list. The huts are located near Pasir Timbul.
I think I experienced the best sunsets in my life so far. Everything was perfect. I know Raja Ampat is like “once in a lifetime experience” but who knows; whenever I’ll be able again to go there again, for sure Byuk Beya is the place to go. Kri Island is awesome as well, there are plenty of dive centers where you can book your dives/snorkeling trips.
Also I want to thank the guys running the website. You’re doing an amazing job, keep working on it. Cheers and makasih ❤️??☀️?
Mandarin Homestay is a very special place, at first the back to basics accommodation and raw nature at your doorstep is like a bucket of cold water being thrown over you on a hot day; startling, but ultimately welcome and refreshing.
The abundance of marine life on the house reef and daily sightings of Cuscus, big fruit bats and the occasional – harmless – snake on the edge of the dense jungle, which lies at the rear of the homestay, is spellbinding.
Akes, who runs the homestay, makes the place feel like home and though, like many in Papua, he is a little quiet seeming at first, after a couple of days when everyone is comfortable he really makes the place.
If your lucky he will sing for you on his guitar. He sings like an angel. Truly. He sings about Raja Ampat and the songs are heart wrenchingly beautiful.
The family are really sweet and though they don’t speak English we can tell of their faces their good hearted natures. The little 2yr old girl is real treat too.
The food is fantastic and apart from the first day or two, we had different dishes everyday for breakfast, lunch AND dinner. It usually carries a little spice, which for us was perfect, but maybe some who don’t like spice will want to take note.
As in the description on here you can also visit the two villages which run west from Mandarin, stay long enough and the locals, especially the kids open up and warm to you.
These are really hardy people who work together and care about their land. Tourism is a relatively new thing to them and it shows, predominantly with the elders, as I think at first they are unsure about how to respond to new visitors, which to some may seem as if their a little cold, indifferent or some such. But as this erodes the longer you stay I feel it is down them not knowing how the tourist will be in their land.
Respect and right intentions from our (the tourist) part soon breaks through the clouds of uncertainty. To highlight, the people are friendly and honest from the get go, I am merely talking about interacting and trying to understand them through something other than being a voyeur.
Our only disappointment was not to do with Mandarin or the people in the villages, but at our own inability to speak Bahasa. If you can speak the language then positive interaction is made soo much easier.
To summarise, The bungalows on the water are basic, no fan, a/c, wifi or en-suite. No Wifi, thank God, get off the phones. The view is spectacular.
The shower and toilet are two shacks which butt up to the jungle. The toilet is western style with a dip mandi flush system.
Shower next door is the same with a bucket and a pan. Takes a little getting used too but its fine after a few days. Helps if you have a partner to act as a shower nozzle.
The thing we did struggle with was not having a fan at night. We relished the night storms for the cool air it brought. It would be nice to see a fan in the room, but they only have electricity for about 4hrs at night so in the end it didn’t matter. Its something you get used too.
All in all it has been one of the highlights of our 1yr trip and we dream of being back there everyday.
We miss you Akes!!
Hi Martin…
Thanks alot for your comments about everythings….
I wish we never stop to meet again….
I miss you too…
Akes
Mandarin Homestay is a very special place, at first the back to basics accommodation and raw nature at your doorstep is like a bucket of cold water being thrown over you on a hot day; startling, but ultimately welcome and refreshing.
The abundance of marine life on the house reef and daily sightings of Cuscus, big fruit bats and the occasional – harmless – snake on the edge of the dense jungle, which lies at the rear of the homestay, is spellbinding.
Akes, who runs the homestay, makes the place feel like home and though, like many in Papua, he is a little quiet seeming at first, after a couple of days when everyone is comfortable he really makes the place.
If your lucky he will sing for you on his guitar. He sings like an angel. Truly. He sings about Raja Ampat and the songs are heart wrenchingly beautiful.
The family are really sweet and though they don’t speak English we can tell of their faces their good hearted natures. The little 2yr old girl is real treat too.
The food is fantastic and apart from the first day or two, we had different dishes everyday for breakfast, lunch AND dinner. It usually carries a little spice, which for us was perfect, but maybe some who don’t like spice will want to take note.
As in the description on here you can also visit the two villages which run west from Mandarin, stay long enough and the locals, especially the kids open up and warm to you.
These are really hardy people who work together and care about their land. Tourism is a relatively new thing to them and it shows, predominantly with the elders, as I think at first they are unsure about how to respond to new visitors, which to some may seem as if their a little cold, indifferent or some such. But as this erodes the longer you stay I feel it is down them not knowing how the tourist will be in their land.
Respect and right intentions from our (the tourist) part soon breaks through the clouds of uncertainty. To highlight, the people are friendly and honest from the get go, I am merely talking about interacting and trying to understand them through something other than being a voyeur.
Our only disappointment was not to do with Mandarin or the people in the villages, but at our own inability to speak Bahasa. If you can speak the language then positive interaction is made soo much easier.
To summarise, The bungalows on the water are basic, no fan, a/c, wifi or en-suite. No Wifi, thank God, get off the phones. The view is spectacular.
The shower and toilet are two shacks which butt up to the jungle. The toilet is western style with a dip mandi flush system.
Shower next door is the same with a bucket and a pan. Takes a little getting used too but its fine after a few days. Helps if you have a partner to act as a shower nozzle.
The thing we did struggle with was not having a fan at night. We relished the night storms for the cool air it brought. It would be nice to see a fan in the room, but they only have electricity for about 4hrs at night so in the end it didn’t matter. Its something you get used too.
All in all it has been one of the highlights of our 1yr trip and we dream of being back there everyday.
We miss you Akes!!
Hi Martin…
Thanks alot for your comments about everythings….
I wish we never stop to meet again….
I miss you too…
Akes
Homestay perfetta!
Siamo stati ospiti per 13 giorni ad agosto e Jitro e la sua splendida famiglia sono stati assolutamente perfetti.
Il cibo era vario e quando raramente non c’era pesce la signora gentilmente si scusava ma i piatti in sostituzione erano comunque buonissimi. Gli ospiti mangiano insieme ad un grande tavolo vista mare che favorisce la socializzazione.
I bungalow sono essenziali ma puliti e comodi e la posizione è da sogno ad occhi aperti. Il bagno e la doccia con mestolo in comune sono sempre puliti.
Grazie della splendida vacanza.
Perfect homestay!
We have been guests for 13 days in August, Jitro and his wonderful family were absolutely perfect.
The food was varied and when there was rarely no fish, the lady kindly apologized but the dishes in place were still very good.
Guests eat together in a lrge table overlooking the sea that encourages socialization.
The bungalows are basic but clean and comfortable and the location is dreamlike.
The bathroom and the shower with a ladle are always clean.
Thanks for the wonderful holiday.
I had an amazing stay at Byuk Beya Homestay! Jitro and his wife are great hosts. They made everything for me to have a great stay. The food was amazing and different meals were served every day.
The location is really good: wonderful beach and a reef not far for great snorkeling.
Akes couldn’t have been more awesome – super friendly, easy going, attentive. He spoke good English and organised lots of great snorkelling trips for us, some with an extra twist, like going to snorkelling spots not many other home stays went to and taking us on a night snorkel. He even climbed a coconut tree to cut down some fresh coconuts for us. The whole family were lovely and it was a joy to listen to them sing in the evenings. True Papuan hospitality! Highly recommended. Injonabor Akes!
Injo Nabor Juan and Becky….
Akes
Akes couldn’t have been more awesome – super friendly, easy going, attentive. He spoke good English and organised lots of great snorkelling trips for us, some with an extra twist, like going to snorkelling spots not many other home stays went to and taking us on a night snorkel. He even climbed a coconut tree to cut down some fresh coconuts for us. The whole family were lovely and it was a joy to listen to them sing in the evenings. True Papuan hospitality! Highly recommended. Injonabor Akes!
Injo Nabor Juan and Becky….
Akes
Joshua who was running the show here whilst we stayed, was so helpful! He speaks perfect english, and was super willing to acommodate our every need, from transport to snorkelling and food! Absolutely recommend. Spent almost a week in total, spread out over two stays. Kri is a good place to find other travellers to share boats with for further remoter areas.
We spend four days here early June 2018. The immediate environment is great, there is a lot to see under your veranda in the water passing by. The reef is close where you can see a lot more. Accommodation is basic, so is the food, but we are used to these circumstances for we have lived in Papua before. At worst you will drop a pound or two if you donot like the food, but for the most of us that is a good thing 🙂
We liked the trip to Gam Bay which is very special and a joy to see and be. We also liked snorkeling at Arborek harbour.
You can watch the famous walking shark right below your dinner table at Mandarin!
We spend four days here early June 2018. The immediate environment is great, there is a lot to see under your veranda in the water passing by. The reef is close where you can see a lot more. Accommodation is basic, so is the food, but we are used to these circumstances for we have lived in Papua before. At worst you will drop a pound or two if you donot like the food, but for the most of us that is a good thing 🙂
We liked the trip to Gam Bay which is very special and a joy to see and be. We also liked snorkeling at Arborek harbour.
You can watch the famous walking shark right below your dinner table at Mandarin!
• we stayed at the Mandarin homestay from April 14th till April 23rd. It was a bit difficult to find the Waisai info center when we arrived in Waisai, but eventually we found it 200-300 meters from the harbor. Kristian and his boat team were waiting for us there and our transfer to the homestay was quick. Their boat has no roof and, if raining, it would be good to have a poncho for such transfer and other boat trips
• our private bungalow was basic, but very spacious (with big verandah and a long table) and had beds equipped with good mosquito nets. The view from the bungalow windows to the sea, mangroves and the neighboring Kri and Mansuar islands was really gorgeous
• rats visited our bungalow regularly during night time and even tried our soap. Otherwise, they were harmless. Fortunately, earlier bought sweets we kept in tight plastic containers
• daily meals were okay, but often too spicy. Fish and fruits were not available every day, but drinking water, coffee and tea were available anytime
• shared bathroom and toilet were kept clean and had enough water and toilet paper. Mosquitoes were present there, but not in big quantities
• during evenings and jungle trips we used permethrin treated clothes and DEET based repellents and additionally we used doxycycline as a prophylaxis against malaria
• Telkomsel simPATI SIM card allowed access to internet
• Akes and his brother Daniel were friendly and helpful, especially during boat trips. Thanks to Akes (he speaks English well enough) we were lucky to snorkel with a huge manta ray at the Manta Sandy and to spot tiny yet beautiful mandarin fishes at the Gam Bay
• the house reef is good and during high tide easily reachable for snorkeling and you can find lots of different corals and fishes there including big schools of jack and parrot fishes under the nearby Mamberton jetty and sometimes turtles and even sea snakes near mangroves. Current along this reef drop off, especially after low tide, was pretty strong and often excluded comfortable snorkeling for a few hours
• bird watching trips were available and a neighbor could be involved by our hosts as a guide to show respective places in the nearby jungle. Guests who used this service were lucky to spot and hear local paradise birds, but the latter could be hardly seen through tree branches on top of tall tree. With some luck it was possible to find bird watching platforms on the nearby hills without a guide, but probability to get lost in the jungles was high
• Kristian was very helpful during our R4 visit preparations and made our stay there very pleasant. Doug from the stayrajaampat website team was no less helpful and quick with his responses
• many thanks all! We will do our best to visit R4 again
• we stayed at the Mandarin homestay from April 14th till April 23rd. It was a bit difficult to find the Waisai info center when we arrived in Waisai, but eventually we found it 200-300 meters from the harbor. Kristian and his boat team were waiting for us there and our transfer to the homestay was quick. Their boat has no roof and, if raining, it would be good to have a poncho for such transfer and other boat trips
• our private bungalow was basic, but very spacious (with big verandah and a long table) and had beds equipped with good mosquito nets. The view from the bungalow windows to the sea, mangroves and the neighboring Kri and Mansuar islands was really gorgeous
• rats visited our bungalow regularly during night time and even tried our soap. Otherwise, they were harmless. Fortunately, earlier bought sweets we kept in tight plastic containers
• daily meals were okay, but often too spicy. Fish and fruits were not available every day, but drinking water, coffee and tea were available anytime
• shared bathroom and toilet were kept clean and had enough water and toilet paper. Mosquitoes were present there, but not in big quantities
• during evenings and jungle trips we used permethrin treated clothes and DEET based repellents and additionally we used doxycycline as a prophylaxis against malaria
• Telkomsel simPATI SIM card allowed access to internet
• Akes and his brother Daniel were friendly and helpful, especially during boat trips. Thanks to Akes (he speaks English well enough) we were lucky to snorkel with a huge manta ray at the Manta Sandy and to spot tiny yet beautiful mandarin fishes at the Gam Bay
• the house reef is good and during high tide easily reachable for snorkeling and you can find lots of different corals and fishes there including big schools of jack and parrot fishes under the nearby Mamberton jetty and sometimes turtles and even sea snakes near mangroves. Current along this reef drop off, especially after low tide, was pretty strong and often excluded comfortable snorkeling for a few hours
• bird watching trips were available and a neighbor could be involved by our hosts as a guide to show respective places in the nearby jungle. Guests who used this service were lucky to spot and hear local paradise birds, but the latter could be hardly seen through tree branches on top of tall tree. With some luck it was possible to find bird watching platforms on the nearby hills without a guide, but probability to get lost in the jungles was high
• Kristian was very helpful during our R4 visit preparations and made our stay there very pleasant. Doug from the stayrajaampat website team was no less helpful and quick with his responses
• many thanks all! We will do our best to visit R4 again
We spent nine wonderful days there. The first thing I must say: It met our expectations in all aspects (and expectations are always high when you plan a trip).
We did not come to RA looking for comfort according to Western standards.
Our motivation to come here was to live the authenticity of the place and its people. In particular, we wanted to collaborate as much as possible with the English effort program. Especially, teaching English while playing with the children of the community.
Accommodation: It was as we expected. The information and photographs of this website are so clear that it is easy to know what you will find there. We fully agree with the positive comments of other guests who also describe it perfectly.
We were in the 2 rooms bungalow nearby to the learning center.
Snorkel: The best we’ve ever done. The housereef is very well preserved despite the proximity of the village. We are not experts in marine life species, but it does not need to be. Immediately you realize the great variety of corals and fish that you can see here, just in front of the bungalow, or even underneath (beware of the “killer clam”, she is be able to shoots you a water jet directly in the eyes !! ;-))
In a few places in the world there is such variety in one place.
Learning center: Well equipped and maintained. A very cozy place!
Sawinggrai & Kapisawar villages: We meet very nice and smiling people during our walks. Very good memory of all of them.
Children deserve a chapter apart: Decki, Pasca, ‘Monkey’ Hein ;-), Rica, Sisca, Delvia, Stefen, Rio, Osea, Marfel, Alfaro, …. (sorry if I have written it wrong) …
and so many others that I can not remember their names. We will miss you so much !! Keep smiling and full of energy as you are! We leaved with the feeling that we have learned more from them, than they from us. Maybe a reason to return will be to see how they have grown and continue to learn!
And there go the well-deserved awards to Sauyai family:
Akes for your very kind and personal attention, for your not always easy work here, for yor service, for yor guiding, etc … (I hope that at this point you are better of your earache)
Daniel for the best boat driver, and best snorkel guide, for the hammocks you gave us, …
Mama Tabitha, Terima kasih for cooking us with love (I do not know how to say in Papuan Betew language). God bless you !!
Kristian … although we have not been able to meet personally, thank you so much for the easy way you have done the communication, answering by mail all the questions. You have a very nice family!!
…and to the rest of the family members an special award for collaboration with them to keep this wonderful place.
Great experience that we will never forget!!
Terima kasih untuk anda,, gerard, anabel dan melania.. Maaf sekali saya tidak sempat bertemu dengan anda semua ketika anda datang.. Sy sedang melakukan pekerjaan besar untuk asosiasi sehingga saya tidak selalu ke homestay… Terima kasih anda telah membantu kami dalam program belajar bahasa inggris.. Terima kasih untuk komentar anda tentang homestay kami.. Ceritakanlah kepada keluarga anda teman teman anda tentang pengalaman anda bersama kami.. Anda senang..kamipun senang.. Salam untuk anda.. Janagan lupa jika nanti andakembali lagi nanti.
Salam
Kristian
We spent nine wonderful days there. The first thing I must say: It met our expectations in all aspects (and expectations are always high when you plan a trip).
We did not come to RA looking for comfort according to Western standards.
Our motivation to come here was to live the authenticity of the place and its people. In particular, we wanted to collaborate as much as possible with the English effort program. Especially, teaching English while playing with the children of the community.
Accommodation: It was as we expected. The information and photographs of this website are so clear that it is easy to know what you will find there. We fully agree with the positive comments of other guests who also describe it perfectly.
We were in the 2 rooms bungalow nearby to the learning center.
Snorkel: The best we’ve ever done. The housereef is very well preserved despite the proximity of the village. We are not experts in marine life species, but it does not need to be. Immediately you realize the great variety of corals and fish that you can see here, just in front of the bungalow, or even underneath (beware of the “killer clam”, she is be able to shoots you a water jet directly in the eyes !! ;-))
In a few places in the world there is such variety in one place.
Learning center: Well equipped and maintained. A very cozy place!
Sawinggrai & Kapisawar villages: We meet very nice and smiling people during our walks. Very good memory of all of them.
Children deserve a chapter apart: Decki, Pasca, ‘Monkey’ Hein ;-), Rica, Sisca, Delvia, Stefen, Rio, Osea, Marfel, Alfaro, …. (sorry if I have written it wrong) …
and so many others that I can not remember their names. We will miss you so much !! Keep smiling and full of energy as you are! We leaved with the feeling that we have learned more from them, than they from us. Maybe a reason to return will be to see how they have grown and continue to learn!
And there go the well-deserved awards to Sauyai family:
Akes for your very kind and personal attention, for your not always easy work here, for yor service, for yor guiding, etc … (I hope that at this point you are better of your earache)
Daniel for the best boat driver, and best snorkel guide, for the hammocks you gave us, …
Mama Tabitha, Terima kasih for cooking us with love (I do not know how to say in Papuan Betew language). God bless you !!
Kristian … although we have not been able to meet personally, thank you so much for the easy way you have done the communication, answering by mail all the questions. You have a very nice family!!
…and to the rest of the family members an special award for collaboration with them to keep this wonderful place.
Great experience that we will never forget!!
Terima kasih untuk anda,, gerard, anabel dan melania.. Maaf sekali saya tidak sempat bertemu dengan anda semua ketika anda datang.. Sy sedang melakukan pekerjaan besar untuk asosiasi sehingga saya tidak selalu ke homestay… Terima kasih anda telah membantu kami dalam program belajar bahasa inggris.. Terima kasih untuk komentar anda tentang homestay kami.. Ceritakanlah kepada keluarga anda teman teman anda tentang pengalaman anda bersama kami.. Anda senang..kamipun senang.. Salam untuk anda.. Janagan lupa jika nanti andakembali lagi nanti.
Salam
Kristian
We had a wonderful 3 days in Mandarin Homestay:
– sitting on the veranda at dusk and being totally happy without any modern amenity you can think of;
– enjoying the good and tasty meals (however breakfast could have been a bit more varied than just fried bananas);
– snorkeling at Arborek, the Sawinggrai jetty and a little bit around the bungalows.
Everything (bungalows, bathroom, beach) is clean and well kept.
Akes and his brother are very helpful. One of us had a broken arm, she was always helped carefully in & out of the boat.
No snorkeling for her, but sitting in the boat she could see all those fish and corals through the crystal clear water!
I can’t compare this homestay to others because this is the only one I stayed in, but I totally agree with the praise in the other reviews!
We had a wonderful 3 days in Mandarin Homestay:
– sitting on the veranda at dusk and being totally happy without any modern amenity you can think of;
– enjoying the good and tasty meals (however breakfast could have been a bit more varied than just fried bananas);
– snorkeling at Arborek, the Sawinggrai jetty and a little bit around the bungalows.
Everything (bungalows, bathroom, beach) is clean and well kept.
Akes and his brother are very helpful. One of us had a broken arm, she was always helped carefully in & out of the boat.
No snorkeling for her, but sitting in the boat she could see all those fish and corals through the crystal clear water!
I can’t compare this homestay to others because this is the only one I stayed in, but I totally agree with the praise in the other reviews!
We liked the room compared with some other homestays we stayed in large and nice to ‘live’ in. However a fan would be nice as it’s quite hot in the evening (no wind when we were there in the evening, only in the morning).
The doors were mostly broken and one morning a dog came in our room, some more attention to maintenance would be good (the electricity also went off for about 30 minutes in our room as they don’t use pliers, insulating type, clips, or anything else to connect wires, so it’s quite rough and ready).
The food was tasty however there was not very much fish, we had egg in five meals, and fish in only two. We come from far away and live far from the sea, when we are staying on the edge of the sea, I would hope to eat fish every day, not battery farmed eggs shipped in by boat! We would be happy to pay more for better food.
The homestay is nearly 5* but due to the basic food we can only rate 4*.
We liked the room compared with some other homestays we stayed in large and nice to ‘live’ in. However a fan would be nice as it’s quite hot in the evening (no wind when we were there in the evening, only in the morning).
The doors were mostly broken and one morning a dog came in our room, some more attention to maintenance would be good (the electricity also went off for about 30 minutes in our room as they don’t use pliers, insulating type, clips, or anything else to connect wires, so it’s quite rough and ready).
The food was tasty however there was not very much fish, we had egg in five meals, and fish in only two. We come from far away and live far from the sea, when we are staying on the edge of the sea, I would hope to eat fish every day, not battery farmed eggs shipped in by boat! We would be happy to pay more for better food.
The homestay is nearly 5* but due to the basic food we can only rate 4*.
Talking to travellers in Raja Ampat last year and this year about places to go, many of them suggested Mandarin Homestay. Now we know why! We have spent a few days there in March and it is a special place. It is surely a “family stay” and you feel very welcome as soon as you arrive. Compared to some of the other Homestays we have seen, Mandarin has pretty spacious bungalows with bedroom and a sheltered verandah. Hot and cold drinking water, coffee and tea is provided in the rooms. As they don’t have a dining area, meals a either served in the bungalows or at a table under a nice big tree. We especially liked the village that starts right next to Mandarin. Sawinggrai is a beautiful small village with nice people, two little shops and a jetty, perfect for watching the sunset. We also had the chance to meet Jonas who started an education project for local kids. Akes is a very friendly and welcoming host, helping with everything you ask for. Thank for you for having us, dear Akes and family!
Talking to travellers in Raja Ampat last year and this year about places to go, many of them suggested Mandarin Homestay. Now we know why! We have spent a few days there in March and it is a special place. It is surely a “family stay” and you feel very welcome as soon as you arrive. Compared to some of the other Homestays we have seen, Mandarin has pretty spacious bungalows with bedroom and a sheltered verandah. Hot and cold drinking water, coffee and tea is provided in the rooms. As they don’t have a dining area, meals a either served in the bungalows or at a table under a nice big tree. We especially liked the village that starts right next to Mandarin. Sawinggrai is a beautiful small village with nice people, two little shops and a jetty, perfect for watching the sunset. We also had the chance to meet Jonas who started an education project for local kids. Akes is a very friendly and welcoming host, helping with everything you ask for. Thank for you for having us, dear Akes and family!
when the simplicity of the place and the people overcome the dream of living in paradise
For Mr. Jitro, family and friends of kri island:
thanks for everything.
the best place in town.
great people, great food, amazing place
one of the best vacations of my life.
Excellent homestay, basic like the of the other in Raja Ampat, but very good. Friendly people, big bungalow, good location, good food, good bed, good house reef (sea grass, reef, mangrove, wall, the jetty of Manbreton) and the nearby village of Sawinggray (with the jetty) and the sound of jungle for the night. Nice experience and the snorkel trip to Mandarin fish and near Besar bay were very nice with Akes who show us litlle stuf and found the mandarin fish. Big thanks to the family.
Excellent homestay, basic like the of the other in Raja Ampat, but very good. Friendly people, big bungalow, good location, good food, good bed, good house reef (sea grass, reef, mangrove, wall, the jetty of Manbreton) and the nearby village of Sawinggray (with the jetty) and the sound of jungle for the night. Nice experience and the snorkel trip to Mandarin fish and near Besar bay were very nice with Akes who show us litlle stuf and found the mandarin fish. Big thanks to the family.
Mandarin Homestay was our second homestay on Raja Ampat. There were three over-water bungalows, with real beds on legs, and besides the bedroom, also a kind of indoor and an outdoor veranda. We stayed here for 4 nights, March 2018.
Akes and his mother are very helpful and friendly hosts. Akes speaks good English and his mother is a good cook: for dinner and lunch there always was either fish or eggs, and vegetables and rice, and bananas. Breakfast was mostly something small and sweet. Cold and hot water (for coffee/tea) was available during the day. When we were there a new kitchen was in the making.
The snorkeling to (or from) the jetty in the nearby village of Sawingraij was very interesting, beautiful corals and lots of fish, but quite a strong current, going either from the homestay to the jetty or v.v. Akes will explain! Is’s very nice to go with the flow :-). We also went looking for manta’s and with help from Akes and his friend we found them. We were really snorkeling between the mantas, this was an amazing experience! On the next excursion the mandarin fishes were a bit more difficult to spot. But again great enthousiasm of Akes and his friend. They never gave up searching and after an hour we had our mandarin fishes on our camera, made by Akes! In the early morning we went looking for the red bird of paradise. We got a good view of the dancing of the bird, which was really very special. We also said hello to Melissa, the “house” cuscus of next-door Nudibranch Homestay and we spotted a male and female eclectus parrot, two wild cuscus (both with help of Akes mother and uncle), a sulphur crested cockatoo, ospreys and a beach-kingfisher all near the bungalows. The proximity of the village further added up to a very pleasant stay.
Thanks Akes and Ibu, and other family- and crew-members (big and small) for a great stay and safe sailing. We really enjoyed our visit to Mandarin Homestay!
Mandarin Homestay was our second homestay on Raja Ampat. There were three over-water bungalows, with real beds on legs, and besides the bedroom, also a kind of indoor and an outdoor veranda. We stayed here for 4 nights, March 2018.
Akes and his mother are very helpful and friendly hosts. Akes speaks good English and his mother is a good cook: for dinner and lunch there always was either fish or eggs, and vegetables and rice, and bananas. Breakfast was mostly something small and sweet. Cold and hot water (for coffee/tea) was available during the day. When we were there a new kitchen was in the making.
The snorkeling to (or from) the jetty in the nearby village of Sawingraij was very interesting, beautiful corals and lots of fish, but quite a strong current, going either from the homestay to the jetty or v.v. Akes will explain! Is’s very nice to go with the flow :-). We also went looking for manta’s and with help from Akes and his friend we found them. We were really snorkeling between the mantas, this was an amazing experience! On the next excursion the mandarin fishes were a bit more difficult to spot. But again great enthousiasm of Akes and his friend. They never gave up searching and after an hour we had our mandarin fishes on our camera, made by Akes! In the early morning we went looking for the red bird of paradise. We got a good view of the dancing of the bird, which was really very special. We also said hello to Melissa, the “house” cuscus of next-door Nudibranch Homestay and we spotted a male and female eclectus parrot, two wild cuscus (both with help of Akes mother and uncle), a sulphur crested cockatoo, ospreys and a beach-kingfisher all near the bungalows. The proximity of the village further added up to a very pleasant stay.
Thanks Akes and Ibu, and other family- and crew-members (big and small) for a great stay and safe sailing. We really enjoyed our visit to Mandarin Homestay!
In March 2018, we (three adults) have stayed a week with Akes and his family.
The bungalows (five in total, well located) are spacious, with sleeping room, living room with hammock and small veranda. Beds and mosquito nets are good. The bungalows are located above the water. The night is rich of stars and amazing insect and bird sounds. The toilet and “shower” cabin is well maintained, with always enough water and toilet paper.
The food cooked by Akes’ mother is delicious, divers and the portions are good. There are enough veggie dishes available for vegetarians/vegans. It is nice to have lunch or dinner at the picnic table under the trees and Akes might join for a nice little talk (and lots of humor 🙂 ). They make sure there is enough drinking water and hot water for coffee/tea available. When we were there, they were building a new kitchen with running water.
Next to the bungalows there is a small beach (with sun and shade by trees) at low tide. The house reef, seagrass beds and mangrove forest are pristine and beautiful. There is a nice reef drop with plenty of coral, big fish (snappers, groupers, sweetlips, triggerfish, unicornfish, and so many more), moray eels, blacktip reef sharks and turtles. It is nice to use the currents to drift along the reef.
Akes is happy to organize anything you want, and will make sure you will have an amazing trip. We went on three tours: Manta Point/Arborek, bird watching and Penemu (day trip). Akes, his cousin and little brother guided us during the boat trips. The long boat they use is big and well maintained. Both boat trips were wonderful. During the first trip, we saw 12 reef mantas and two oceanic mantas, and the snorkeling at Manta Point reef and Arborek was truly amazing. Penemu, including snorkeling at Fam islands, is definitely worth to visit, also because of the amazing lunch spot! During our bird watching trip (early wake up) we spotted the Red bird of paradise, very cool!
All family members are super friendly, helpful and welcoming. And if you tell Akes that you are keen on spotting walking sharks or kuskus he will enthusiastically show them to you! (and all other creatures he finds)
Overall, this homestay provides an unforgettable experience, where you become part of a Papuan family, and where nature lovers will be amazed!!
Do’s and don’ts:
– do expect basic living: non flushing toilet, no shower (but buckets), limited power, open bungalow
– do bring enough sun protection (scarf, etc), especially on the water the sun is burning!
– do snorkel near the jetty of the village: groups of big fish (travellies); and along the mangroves (left): high chance of seeing blacktip reef sharks and turtles.
– don’t buy the black bracelets at Penemu entrance, these are made of endangered black coral.
Hi…
DIRKJE….
Thank you soo much to your Comment and the 5 stars to Mandarin Homestay, we are Happy to hear what you said about ours homestay…..
We are expected you’ll back one time… (See you whenever)
#AKES
In March 2018, we (three adults) have stayed a week with Akes and his family.
The bungalows (five in total, well located) are spacious, with sleeping room, living room with hammock and small veranda. Beds and mosquito nets are good. The bungalows are located above the water. The night is rich of stars and amazing insect and bird sounds. The toilet and “shower” cabin is well maintained, with always enough water and toilet paper.
The food cooked by Akes’ mother is delicious, divers and the portions are good. There are enough veggie dishes available for vegetarians/vegans. It is nice to have lunch or dinner at the picnic table under the trees and Akes might join for a nice little talk (and lots of humor 🙂 ). They make sure there is enough drinking water and hot water for coffee/tea available. When we were there, they were building a new kitchen with running water.
Next to the bungalows there is a small beach (with sun and shade by trees) at low tide. The house reef, seagrass beds and mangrove forest are pristine and beautiful. There is a nice reef drop with plenty of coral, big fish (snappers, groupers, sweetlips, triggerfish, unicornfish, and so many more), moray eels, blacktip reef sharks and turtles. It is nice to use the currents to drift along the reef.
Akes is happy to organize anything you want, and will make sure you will have an amazing trip. We went on three tours: Manta Point/Arborek, bird watching and Penemu (day trip). Akes, his cousin and little brother guided us during the boat trips. The long boat they use is big and well maintained. Both boat trips were wonderful. During the first trip, we saw 12 reef mantas and two oceanic mantas, and the snorkeling at Manta Point reef and Arborek was truly amazing. Penemu, including snorkeling at Fam islands, is definitely worth to visit, also because of the amazing lunch spot! During our bird watching trip (early wake up) we spotted the Red bird of paradise, very cool!
All family members are super friendly, helpful and welcoming. And if you tell Akes that you are keen on spotting walking sharks or kuskus he will enthusiastically show them to you! (and all other creatures he finds)
Overall, this homestay provides an unforgettable experience, where you become part of a Papuan family, and where nature lovers will be amazed!!
Do’s and don’ts:
– do expect basic living: non flushing toilet, no shower (but buckets), limited power, open bungalow
– do bring enough sun protection (scarf, etc), especially on the water the sun is burning!
– do snorkel near the jetty of the village: groups of big fish (travellies); and along the mangroves (left): high chance of seeing blacktip reef sharks and turtles.
– don’t buy the black bracelets at Penemu entrance, these are made of endangered black coral.
Hi…
DIRKJE….
Thank you soo much to your Comment and the 5 stars to Mandarin Homestay, we are Happy to hear what you said about ours homestay…..
We are expected you’ll back one time… (See you whenever)
#AKES
We stayed at Mandarin homestay over water for 7 nights early Feb, the house reef is a few meter swim & is stunning, so many fish & beautiful hard and soft coral. Kris met us promptly at the jetty. Food was varied and very tasty – thank you to Mama for this. I would definitely recommend taking some boat trips – a whole day around Gam through the passage with various snorkelling stops all amazing, manta point where our host (Kris brother) Akes found mantas for us & the mandarin snorkel where we saw the beautiful mandarin fish, razor fish, scorpion and lion fish and a crocodile fish some of many. I can also recommend the bird of paradise early morning trip. The local village shops has basic supplies and beer. Thank you to all for a very memorable stay – a highly deserved 5*’s and we hope to come back again 🙂
Hi Ruth and Barry on your good coment.. thanks on your visit to mandarin.. hope you comeback again.
Kristian
We stayed at Mandarin homestay over water for 7 nights early Feb, the house reef is a few meter swim & is stunning, so many fish & beautiful hard and soft coral. Kris met us promptly at the jetty. Food was varied and very tasty – thank you to Mama for this. I would definitely recommend taking some boat trips – a whole day around Gam through the passage with various snorkelling stops all amazing, manta point where our host (Kris brother) Akes found mantas for us & the mandarin snorkel where we saw the beautiful mandarin fish, razor fish, scorpion and lion fish and a crocodile fish some of many. I can also recommend the bird of paradise early morning trip. The local village shops has basic supplies and beer. Thank you to all for a very memorable stay – a highly deserved 5*’s and we hope to come back again 🙂
Hi Ruth and Barry on your good coment.. thanks on your visit to mandarin.. hope you comeback again.
Kristian
We really enjoyed our days there.
We tried two other homestays in Kri before and Mandarin Homestay was the best : delicious food, big bungalow, and amazing hospitality. Akes was really helpful, always caring of our needs, bringing us another hammock, finding us good snorkeling gear, bringing us at 5am in the jungle to see the birds of paradise,.. offered us to bring us to waisai on a sunday morning otherwise we would have miss our flight (Supposed to be no trip on Sunday, he missed church for us.. sorry again Akes! and thank you! Don’t do like us guys)
Thank you Mathieu on your good coments.. and your five stars..
We really enjoyed our days there.
We tried two other homestays in Kri before and Mandarin Homestay was the best : delicious food, big bungalow, and amazing hospitality. Akes was really helpful, always caring of our needs, bringing us another hammock, finding us good snorkeling gear, bringing us at 5am in the jungle to see the birds of paradise,.. offered us to bring us to waisai on a sunday morning otherwise we would have miss our flight (Supposed to be no trip on Sunday, he missed church for us.. sorry again Akes! and thank you! Don’t do like us guys)
Thank you Mathieu on your good coments.. and your five stars..
The family and te homestay it’s great, we spent a great time. food was delicious ? and everything was very clean. Family also help us to have a boat for the day trips. Hope we can go back again! Thank you Joshua, Will, Ivy and Standley ??
Hello,
It is possible to enjoy diving activities in Mandarin homestay even if I am not entitled with PADI/ SSI diving licenses?
I never dived before but want to enjoy diving activities. It is possible to dive with a guide or it is necessary to pass the PADI/SSI course in advance?
Thank you very much!
Hi Alba
No reputable dive operator would take you diving if you are not certified. You would be risking your life. Especially in Raja Ampat, which can often be a challenging dive environment. If you want to dive, you first need an Open Water certification. You can do the training and get certified at Wobbegong Dive Center.
Thank you very much for your quick answer, most appreciated!
However, Wobbegong Dive Center is located at Kri Island. In case we decide to stay at Mandarin Homestay, is there any possibility for being certified somewhere nearby?
Thanks for your help!
You’re welcome Alba 🙂
Wobbegong is currently the only homestay with a dive center capable of providing lessons and certification. Note too, that Mandarin doesn’t have a dive center at all, so can’t take you diving, even if you were qualified.
Hello,
It is possible to enjoy diving activities in Mandarin homestay even if I am not entitled with PADI/ SSI diving licenses?
I never dived before but want to enjoy diving activities. It is possible to dive with a guide or it is necessary to pass the PADI/SSI course in advance?
Thank you very much!
Hi Alba
No reputable dive operator would take you diving if you are not certified. You would be risking your life. Especially in Raja Ampat, which can often be a challenging dive environment. If you want to dive, you first need an Open Water certification. You can do the training and get certified at Wobbegong Dive Center.
Thank you very much for your quick answer, most appreciated!
However, Wobbegong Dive Center is located at Kri Island. In case we decide to stay at Mandarin Homestay, is there any possibility for being certified somewhere nearby?
Thanks for your help!
You’re welcome Alba 🙂
Wobbegong is currently the only homestay with a dive center capable of providing lessons and certification. Note too, that Mandarin doesn’t have a dive center at all, so can’t take you diving, even if you were qualified.
This is a very nice family run homestay, Christian is very kind and runs a beautiful english teaching project for the local kids. If you can I recommend you to volunteer there. It is a nice location and worth to stay a couple of day to experiment the mangroves before heading to Kri that as a better coral reef (and easier to practice) or Arborek. Thanks to Daniel who brought me to a very nice bay nearby that few people hear of (called Mandarin location), I warmly recomment you to go there at least once. Compared to homestays in Kri ( I stayed with the brother homestay Lucknow), efforts could be made on the food to have more vegetables and home cooked breakfast as well as fruits. Like for every homestay in Papua, do not keep food in your bungalow as it attracts rats. Christian and his family will make their outmost efforts to help you with your trips and to book to the other homestays. The bungalow are clean and the common bathroom are ok but some tourists tend not to flush at night, so do think of others when you use common bathroom. One thing to improve is the electrical system, the wiring outside and connectors are unprotected so please have a look at Lucknow and Kri homestays to see how they did it. Diving can be tricky because you depend on the next door center that can get full and is pricier than the ones on Kri. Nevertheless, many people don’t go to Gam at all and it is really enjoyable to experiment it for a few days.
This is a very nice family run homestay, Christian is very kind and runs a beautiful english teaching project for the local kids. If you can I recommend you to volunteer there. It is a nice location and worth to stay a couple of day to experiment the mangroves before heading to Kri that as a better coral reef (and easier to practice) or Arborek. Thanks to Daniel who brought me to a very nice bay nearby that few people hear of (called Mandarin location), I warmly recomment you to go there at least once. Compared to homestays in Kri ( I stayed with the brother homestay Lucknow), efforts could be made on the food to have more vegetables and home cooked breakfast as well as fruits. Like for every homestay in Papua, do not keep food in your bungalow as it attracts rats. Christian and his family will make their outmost efforts to help you with your trips and to book to the other homestays. The bungalow are clean and the common bathroom are ok but some tourists tend not to flush at night, so do think of others when you use common bathroom. One thing to improve is the electrical system, the wiring outside and connectors are unprotected so please have a look at Lucknow and Kri homestays to see how they did it. Diving can be tricky because you depend on the next door center that can get full and is pricier than the ones on Kri. Nevertheless, many people don’t go to Gam at all and it is really enjoyable to experiment it for a few days.
My Indonesian gf and me stayed a few days at this homestay and we basically had a good time. Especially the over waterbungalow was a sweet choice for us. The guys from the homestay were helpful.
Anyhow our expectations of a 5-sea-star homestay were not fulfilled: One thing that we couldnt understand was that we could NOT get any fish or fruits during our stay (That was the only homestay where was this situation). I mean you could just get fish with your own fork during snorkling cause there are so many fish! Even if we actively asking for that..no fish.
Second thing that was weird and little serious, since we wanted to go back Wasai (then Sorong), so we asked 2 days ahead for a boat, but the homestay couldnt provide their boat neither manage to find a boat!
We asked the day before in the homestays around, but almost no guests there so no boat leaving from there/available. Anyhow we found by ourself a totally overpriced boat and had to bite the bullet.
The funny thing is that late in the night before leaving, the guy of our homestay said, that he will go the next morning to Wasai to pick up customer..?!?!?..Anyhow we didnt want to change to another deal…regarding that topic this homestay was not reliable at all.
Please improve!
Very nice owner, onest, good price quality. Clean room and good fresh food home made. Nice village to expierence the local way off living and a lot off things to do. Beautiful places for Snorkling, birds off paradise, Manta’s, boat trips, mangrove, fishing, etc.
You can even gif english lesson’ s to the village people and children iff you like?
Very nice owner, onest, good price quality. Clean room and good fresh food home made. Nice village to expierence the local way off living and a lot off things to do. Beautiful places for Snorkling, birds off paradise, Manta’s, boat trips, mangrove, fishing, etc.
You can even gif english lesson’ s to the village people and children iff you like?
Super .askes et sa famille sont très gentils et toujours prêts à aider et à rendre’ votre séjour le plus agréable possible. Nourriture bonne un peu trop épicée pour moi mais suffisante. Plusieurs activités à proximité. Petit bémol les toilettes et l douche sont un peu vieillot ….
Chambre spacieuse et le bungalow à un accès direct à La mer.
A recommander.
Chère Marianne,
Comment avez-vous effectué afin de réserver? Ici sur le site?
Concernant l’électricité, vous en aviez à quelle moment de la journée?
Merci de votre retour.
Cem
Super .askes et sa famille sont très gentils et toujours prêts à aider et à rendre’ votre séjour le plus agréable possible. Nourriture bonne un peu trop épicée pour moi mais suffisante. Plusieurs activités à proximité. Petit bémol les toilettes et l douche sont un peu vieillot ….
Chambre spacieuse et le bungalow à un accès direct à La mer.
A recommander.
Chère Marianne,
Comment avez-vous effectué afin de réserver? Ici sur le site?
Concernant l’électricité, vous en aviez à quelle moment de la journée?
Merci de votre retour.
Cem
We stayed at Byuk Beya from 12 till 17th of january. The location is pretty awesome and the family where you stay is trying I hope. but communication is terrible. I send them several messages to arrange pick-up which where all replied with OK of anything like that. But the day we arrived at the Wasai airport there was nobody there. So we got ripped of by some taxi driver because they now you have no choice.
We we arrived and asked why they were not picking us up there was some lame excuse but we got the feeling they had no idea that we were coming. We arrived on friday and arranged for a snorkeling trip on sunday, asked them several times if it was ok to go on Sunday, but this was no problem.
Sunday morning when we got ready to go they told us sorry but today is Sunday we don’t do trips on Sunday. So again a day lost.
Food was always plenty but the first three days we diddn’t get any fish of fruit. We asked several times for fish but there was always the answer “sorry today we diddn’t catch fish” but you could see the family eat fish anyway. For 700.000 rupia with two persons they should provide some fish with dinners.
Always ask for steep discounts because they seem to have no idea of the value of money and for the smallest things they will just ask 100.000 rupia.
Next time we will definately go somewhere else.
Hi Redginald
Thanks for taking the time to leave a review. Your feedback will be passed on to Byuk Beya, and hopefully they will address the issues you’ve raised.
Just 2 points for others who may read this:
As explained on our “How to get to” page, homestays pick up from the harbour, not from the airport, so guests flying in to Waisai do need to get a taxi to the harbour to meet their homestay boat.
Also mentioned at the foot of the “How to get to” page (and explained in detail on other site pages) is the fact that no homestays offer any kind of activities on Sundays. Waisai pickups and dropoffs will be arranged if necessary, but no other boat activities are available on Sundays.
It’s a shame Byuk Beya didn’t have the confidence to explain that to you when you first asked them about it.
Best home stay in Raja Ampat! Very clean and host is super nice!! Had a really great time, thank you!!
Many thanks to you alice,, on your best reviews to mandarin homestay.. don’t remember us when you back a gain to raja ampat.
Best regards
Kristian
Best home stay in Raja Ampat! Very clean and host is super nice!! Had a really great time, thank you!!
Many thanks to you alice,, on your best reviews to mandarin homestay.. don’t remember us when you back a gain to raja ampat.
Best regards
Kristian
I stayed more than a week at Byuk Beya Homestay and I had a very good time there. The whole family is very friendly and they really try their best to make their guests comfortable. The place is very clean all the time, food is plenty and very good. One has to remind that this is an island far out and away of supermarkets and grocery stores.
The snorkeling on the house reef is not so great, but snorkeling trips to wonderful spots can be arranged.
Quite and peaceful, cockatoos in the trees behind a little jetty to relax and watch the sunset.
Great homestay on Kri close to dive centres. Joshua and family were very friendly and helpful. Bungalows are quite close together and are also surrounded by other homestays so there isn’t much outdoor space to relax. We thought this would be a problem but it wasn’t as you can walk along the beach to explore the rest of the island. Beach is nice but there isn’t one at high tide and the water is very shallow at low tide – it is easier to walk up to a dive centre further up and snorkel from their jetty.
We did the Pianeymo trip with the homestay – this was well organised and I would recommend.
Food was good but portions were too small when the homestay was full. We did ask for more food and the amount improved for one meal but then dropped back down again. Some other guests arrived unexpectedly so I wonder whether it is just difficult for the homestay to get food last minute…
Bungalows were very nice inside and clean. Bathrooms are good.
First of all, I wanted to book the homestay close to Waisai but after reading all the comments on Byuk Beya homestay I changed my mind and booked a room on Kri island. Everything went really smooth – Jitro communicates with me from the beginning, picked us up in Waisai harbour as we arranged and he was really helpful. The room was fine and food is very delicious. They can also organise snorkeling trips for you or go to the diving centre (10 min) to share the trip with more people. We really enjoyed our stay with Jitro´s family!
I spent 12 nights at the homestay. The family is very nice and always smiling. Akes is a very brilliant guy. He speaks good English and is always ready to satisfy every request. The place is close to a lot of beautiful spots. So this accommodation is perfect if you want to see a lot of different places always remaining in the same homestay. The position also allows to take part to the village activities, meet local people, see the birds of paradise and the cuscus within a walking distance. The standards of the homestay are high.
Many thank to you manuela labardi on you good review.. we are happy with you.. can you tell any one, your familly, your friends when you meet with them, were want to traveling to raja ampat. don’t remmember us at mandarin when you want to back to raja ampat.
Kind Regards
Kristian
I spent 12 nights at the homestay. The family is very nice and always smiling. Akes is a very brilliant guy. He speaks good English and is always ready to satisfy every request. The place is close to a lot of beautiful spots. So this accommodation is perfect if you want to see a lot of different places always remaining in the same homestay. The position also allows to take part to the village activities, meet local people, see the birds of paradise and the cuscus within a walking distance. The standards of the homestay are high.
Many thank to you manuela labardi on you good review.. we are happy with you.. can you tell any one, your familly, your friends when you meet with them, were want to traveling to raja ampat. don’t remmember us at mandarin when you want to back to raja ampat.
Kind Regards
Kristian
Stayed at Byuk Beya for one week. Great food, nice people, awesome beach.
I spent a wonderfull 6 days at this homestay. The school nearby made it extra special for me! So here are the 5 starfish….?
Hi jan… thanks for your 5 starfish..
Also for your visit to us.. we are happy be with you.
Regards
Kristian
I spent a wonderfull 6 days at this homestay. The school nearby made it extra special for me! So here are the 5 starfish….?
Hi jan… thanks for your 5 starfish..
Also for your visit to us.. we are happy be with you.
Regards
Kristian
Beautiful and quiet beach, probably the best on Kri Island. You can swim in front of the bungalow, surrounded by palm trees. Hosts and especially Jitro were very nice. Food was okay, bungalows are the best we know on Kri (we stayed at 5 different places on Kri over the last years), spacious and clean. There was also a real bed in the bungalow – instead of just a mattress on the floor like in most other homestays. We enjoyed our stay a lot an can highly recommend it.
we spent 4 nights at Mandarin
the team was friendly, the bungalows are large and on stilts with direct access to the sea.
Nevertheless the bungalows are aging as well as the toilets and Mandi.
the food is just ok.the portions are limited
However the excursions are good value for money (Pianemo and Gam Bay)
the homestay is located near two villages on foot
we spent 4 nights at Mandarin
the team was friendly, the bungalows are large and on stilts with direct access to the sea.
Nevertheless the bungalows are aging as well as the toilets and Mandi.
the food is just ok.the portions are limited
However the excursions are good value for money (Pianemo and Gam Bay)
the homestay is located near two villages on foot
I had a nice time at Byuk Beya Homestay.
The people are verry kindness it felt like family.
The food, the vieuw everything was great.
I enjoyed a lot.
A beautiful place to stay, i am gonna miss it.
Sampai bertemu
Trimakasi ashiana,
Can you please let me know how did you communicate with this homestay?
They are answering to my open questions only “yes..” and “ok..”. I’m not sure if they will pick us up at Waisai and if they have our reservation at all..
I also wrote in Indonesian, but got the same answer..
Hi Laura
Most guests find that the easiest and most reliable method of arranging their stay is to use the booking form provided above. You can request a Waisai pickup using the form and homestays usually respond quickly. Here is how it works.
It has been fantastic!!! we have been one week in Jitro’s home stay, and we felt at home, the food of his wife was sooo delicious, each day with something different, cakes, fish, chicken, vegetables, fruit.
All was really clean and safe, they clean up our bedroom everyday.
Jitro came to Waisai to look for us and he also manage to help us with doing dive, snorkel with the other homestays so we can share costs.
Yo can go walking to the divings homestay were is more. peolple and beer or cokes of you want or stay peacefully in the homestay.
The snorkel in front of the homestay is very good.
Thanks you very much for everything and to your family!!
Damian&Beatriz
Had one week there. The bungalows are just beautiful! Felt like home, they are very big, clean and cozy! A clean towel was provided for me, also fresh hot and normal water, tea, coffee, sugar. The view to the sea is priceless! You hear birds all day long! The veranda is lovely!
I tried seeing the birds of paradise 3 (!) times, but never saw them ? One day there was a kuskus though, which was beautiful! They were very little d and didn’t expect me to pay for the trips, because I didn’t see the birds.
I was brought four meals a day, all huge! The grandma was very kind! The food was ok, the fish is good, but there’s almost no fruits/veggies, and the flavors weren’t very good. Still, a small price to pay for being able to stay in paradise :p
The kids are sweet, the snorkeling is wonderful!! Great housereef! A lot of walking sharks! There is quite some current though. The trip to the mandarin fish is awesome, the islands and corals are so wonderful!
The communication wasn’t always easy, but it all worked out! They’re a kind-hearted family and I would love to come back!
Cheers, Jasmin 🙂
Had one week there. The bungalows are just beautiful! Felt like home, they are very big, clean and cozy! A clean towel was provided for me, also fresh hot and normal water, tea, coffee, sugar. The view to the sea is priceless! You hear birds all day long! The veranda is lovely!
I tried seeing the birds of paradise 3 (!) times, but never saw them ? One day there was a kuskus though, which was beautiful! They were very little d and didn’t expect me to pay for the trips, because I didn’t see the birds.
I was brought four meals a day, all huge! The grandma was very kind! The food was ok, the fish is good, but there’s almost no fruits/veggies, and the flavors weren’t very good. Still, a small price to pay for being able to stay in paradise :p
The kids are sweet, the snorkeling is wonderful!! Great housereef! A lot of walking sharks! There is quite some current though. The trip to the mandarin fish is awesome, the islands and corals are so wonderful!
The communication wasn’t always easy, but it all worked out! They’re a kind-hearted family and I would love to come back!
Cheers, Jasmin 🙂
After leaving Jitro Maila, SMS and phone Calles, he still picked me up 3 hours late in Waisai. Got to the Homestay late and very wet.
The place is as awesome as the picture. Food is good and always on time. His 6 kids are really nice. He was making a new bed when I was there, maybe there wore the old one down.
No good snorkeling from his beach. You have to walk left for 800m, take the second of the long Piers, here you find good refs and lots of fish.
The huts are cleaned everyday, toilets are fine etc.
If you wanna do trips and wanna svare costs, it is better you walk to the secound pier at the left, Yenikanu.. I think its called. Yenikanu is quite full and offers fantastic and cheap diving.
Enjoy.
I stayed at Mandarin for 1 week in the end of June. Kristian and Akes were both away so their younger brother Siel was running everything, and he did a great job. He was quick to respond, transport was easy, and prices were fair and consistent. He took me to some great snorkeling spots and included stops at some interesting and beautiful places along the way.
The over-water bungalow was simple and just what I was hoping for – great views from the front in the day and night and a nice hammock for relaxing. The food was also simple but good and served in large portions. Breakfast was either pancakes or donuts, while lunch and dinner were usually egg or fish with a vegetable. Everything was tasty, but just a suggestion for improvement- I know you can’t change the food that is available, but it would be good to offer a little more variety of flavors (not use the same sauce so much).
The whole family was very nice and even made some traditional medicine for me one day when I was sick.
It’s also really nice that they have a volunteer English program there. You can walk through the village and just talk to people, or actually arrange a time to meet with kids at the learning center.
Overall, it was a great trip and I would recommend staying at Mandarin Homestay.
Thank you laura on your good feedback.. about your experiace in mandarin homestay,, also thank you on your sugestion for us.. Can you remember us, when you back a gain to raja ampat.
Kind rgards
Kristian
I stayed at Mandarin for 1 week in the end of June. Kristian and Akes were both away so their younger brother Siel was running everything, and he did a great job. He was quick to respond, transport was easy, and prices were fair and consistent. He took me to some great snorkeling spots and included stops at some interesting and beautiful places along the way.
The over-water bungalow was simple and just what I was hoping for – great views from the front in the day and night and a nice hammock for relaxing. The food was also simple but good and served in large portions. Breakfast was either pancakes or donuts, while lunch and dinner were usually egg or fish with a vegetable. Everything was tasty, but just a suggestion for improvement- I know you can’t change the food that is available, but it would be good to offer a little more variety of flavors (not use the same sauce so much).
The whole family was very nice and even made some traditional medicine for me one day when I was sick.
It’s also really nice that they have a volunteer English program there. You can walk through the village and just talk to people, or actually arrange a time to meet with kids at the learning center.
Overall, it was a great trip and I would recommend staying at Mandarin Homestay.
Thank you laura on your good feedback.. about your experiace in mandarin homestay,, also thank you on your sugestion for us.. Can you remember us, when you back a gain to raja ampat.
Kind rgards
Kristian
Very very nice Family. We stayed four nights at Byuk Beya. We really had a great time chilling out and snorkeling in different places Jitro brought us to. We definelty reccomend this place!!
Thanks to the whole family!!
Alex & Mel
Such a lovely family and welcoming place to stay. The food was delicious and the kids cut down coconuts for us to drink. From here we walked to a village at low tide and snorkelled round the corner where we saw reef sharks and plenty of fish. A beautiful place to stay!
I stayed at the Mandarin homestay for a week. It was great stay.
There is a beautiful reef drop off in front of this homestay.
You can go to a jetty . It takes about a few minutes on foot.
There is a great sunset view point and good internet signal point.
Their bungalows (on the sea) have a large terrace.
In the night I saw the Milky Way some shooting stars aaaaaaaaand noctilucas at there. The sky and the sea were shining ✨
In the morning I spent sacred time . I did yoga in many birds singing .
Breakfast was very simple. It was some breads and fruit.
Lunch and dinner were cooked by grandmother.
It was soooooooo delicious ?
Their tour fee is reasonable for solo travelers.
It was very helpful for me.
I recommend this homestay;)
I stayed at the Mandarin homestay for a week. It was great stay.
There is a beautiful reef drop off in front of this homestay.
You can go to a jetty . It takes about a few minutes on foot.
There is a great sunset view point and good internet signal point.
Their bungalows (on the sea) have a large terrace.
In the night I saw the Milky Way some shooting stars aaaaaaaaand noctilucas at there. The sky and the sea were shining ✨
In the morning I spent sacred time . I did yoga in many birds singing .
Breakfast was very simple. It was some breads and fruit.
Lunch and dinner were cooked by grandmother.
It was soooooooo delicious ?
Their tour fee is reasonable for solo travelers.
It was very helpful for me.
I recommend this homestay;)
Hello, please can you say me if there is power outlets in the bungalow (to charge camera), or no ? And how can we do if we are a group of 6 persons who want to go snorkeling at Manyaifun or Batanta (for exemple) ?
Best regards.
Hi Catherina….
Thanks to your questions….
Available Electricity in the bungalow so you can charge camera in the night and in the day.
for you trip, we can arrange it, and if you want to go to another place for snorkeling, we will bring you to there. Thank you
Best regards. Akes
Yes of course,, in my homestay.. Can you charge your camera and what do you want to do?? We can help you.
Regards
Kristian
Thank You,
I have also information from Christian which is very kind and helpful, and quick answer.
I come back to Raja Ampat for the 3rd time and this is because of you and your great website.
Hello, please can you say me if there is power outlets in the bungalow (to charge camera), or no ? And how can we do if we are a group of 6 persons who want to go snorkeling at Manyaifun or Batanta (for exemple) ?
Best regards.
Hi Catherina….
Thanks to your questions….
Available Electricity in the bungalow so you can charge camera in the night and in the day.
for you trip, we can arrange it, and if you want to go to another place for snorkeling, we will bring you to there. Thank you
Best regards. Akes
Yes of course,, in my homestay.. Can you charge your camera and what do you want to do?? We can help you.
Regards
Kristian
Thank You,
I have also information from Christian which is very kind and helpful, and quick answer.
I come back to Raja Ampat for the 3rd time and this is because of you and your great website.
I miss this place. We had a great time in this homestay. The food was excellent!! Thank you Jitro and family for making our stay memorable. Rooms are clean, bathroom and toilets as well. Thanks much! Highly recommended!
We ended up getting stuck in a big storm in our boat close to Mandarin Homestay. Instead of trying to risk going further we decided to spend the night there. The owner Christian and his family are delightful and the setting and atmosphere were beautiful. We actually wished we had more time to spend there before continuing our journey the following day. We will be back!!
Thank you michael and shana… I wait you always if want to back a gain.
Regards
Kristian
We ended up getting stuck in a big storm in our boat close to Mandarin Homestay. Instead of trying to risk going further we decided to spend the night there. The owner Christian and his family are delightful and the setting and atmosphere were beautiful. We actually wished we had more time to spend there before continuing our journey the following day. We will be back!!
Thank you michael and shana… I wait you always if want to back a gain.
Regards
Kristian
We were in transit coming from another home stay, heading to seafans home stay and got caught up due to bad weather. Kristian was more than accommodating by putting us up and feeding us for the night/morning. It ended up being quite and nice layover on our way to seafans. I also left my headlamp there on accident and after a week we stopped by on the way back to sorong and kristian had it waiting for me, really a beautiful soul! Thank you!
We were in transit coming from another home stay, heading to seafans home stay and got caught up due to bad weather. Kristian was more than accommodating by putting us up and feeding us for the night/morning. It ended up being quite and nice layover on our way to seafans. I also left my headlamp there on accident and after a week we stopped by on the way back to sorong and kristian had it waiting for me, really a beautiful soul! Thank you!
Homestay is very good service, they know everything about where to go. Each house is private for each group. But for the food, I think there is too much egg instead of fish.
Thank you for your kindness and good service.
Sorry, I forget to mark 5 star. 🙂
Thank you sethaphong… On your coment.. On your five star..
Homestay is very good service, they know everything about where to go. Each house is private for each group. But for the food, I think there is too much egg instead of fish.
Thank you for your kindness and good service.
Sorry, I forget to mark 5 star. 🙂
Thank you sethaphong… On your coment.. On your five star..
WE LOVED THIS PLACE…
We spent 9 days in Kri and without a doubt this was our favourite homestay and stretch of beach. To the right of the beach and around the corner there are some stunning turquoise waters to float around in, a little before (near the pole with white marker) is a great snorkelling spot with a variety of fish and coral. You can swim to the picturesque sand banks at low tide.
To the left you can head to the jetties where you will find black tips sharks, turtles etc..
Jitro and his wife Lucy were just perfect hosts and are constantly laughing and smiling. The food was great tasty local cuisine. Lucy even makes cakes for afternoon tea 😉
Jitro can arrange all sort of boat trips. Manta point is amazing. We actually did a two day trip to Wayag with overnight stay and also stooped off at Pianemo, Manta point and Arborek. Ideally you would need a group of 6 to make it cost effective (around 2,500,000€ each).
There are only 3 bungalows and all beachfront.
It’s recommended to book ahead.
The rooms and bathroom are cleaned daily.
Dear Mark,
My husband and I would like to stay there up to 12 nights and we would appreciate if you contact us to clarify some info regarding this homestay and their snorkeling trips.
Thank you in advance,
Ilona
I had an extremely roomy, over the water bungalow. The family is fairly attentive to details and is quick to help if asked. The food is good but there were lots of eggs instead of fish. The children in the village are great! It is fun to watch the sunset from the jetty while the highly active children swirl around you. It is definitely worth having a look around the mangroves. Beware of the current which at times can be quite strong.
I had an extremely roomy, over the water bungalow. The family is fairly attentive to details and is quick to help if asked. The food is good but there were lots of eggs instead of fish. The children in the village are great! It is fun to watch the sunset from the jetty while the highly active children swirl around you. It is definitely worth having a look around the mangroves. Beware of the current which at times can be quite strong.
I am not satisfied to stay in byuk beya too beautiful byuk beya,virtually almost I do not want to go home,the release is very good thaks jitro and yosias
Ivanatty
I was in Mandarin homestay last July and I spent there a few days teaching and learning..
The main goal of my trip to Raja Ampat was to stay in Sawinggrai, in mandarine homestay, helping with the English project effort. Since the moment I arrived and they picked me up, kris and akres were really helpful, looking after me and making sure everything was fine for me every moment.
The place is amazing, beautiful, well built and next to the village. I was in a very nice bungalow over the sea and there were three meals a day, which were tasty and abundant. Toilet and shower just in front of the bungalow, privacy and clean.
You can do lot of activities there. Walk through the village or jungle, go snorkelling, swimming, birdwatching, they will show you the village and the gardens and give you any recomendation you need. Furthermore you can visit different places or Islands from mandarin homestay because Kris has got his own boat. A very important thing you can do is to teach English, I was teaching to children in the afternoon and to some adults as well. They will apreciate it and for you can be a great experience. All this, in a paradise of nature and clear water
I realized that kris and Akres were the only people able to speak in English, because the owners of the different homestays don´t. I find this an advantage to some people because I met other tourists that couldn´t communicate at all with the owners of the place they were and many questions they had weren´t answered.
Not a less important fact is that Kris and his family are the nicest, kindest and most helpul people in Raja Ampat.
I really enjoyed my experience here and highly recommend Mandarin homestay as the place to be if you come to Sawwingrai.
Hallo David….
Thanks so much….
We in Mandarin hope you will be back any more.
Akes
I was in Mandarin homestay last July and I spent there a few days teaching and learning..
The main goal of my trip to Raja Ampat was to stay in Sawinggrai, in mandarine homestay, helping with the English project effort. Since the moment I arrived and they picked me up, kris and akres were really helpful, looking after me and making sure everything was fine for me every moment.
The place is amazing, beautiful, well built and next to the village. I was in a very nice bungalow over the sea and there were three meals a day, which were tasty and abundant. Toilet and shower just in front of the bungalow, privacy and clean.
You can do lot of activities there. Walk through the village or jungle, go snorkelling, swimming, birdwatching, they will show you the village and the gardens and give you any recomendation you need. Furthermore you can visit different places or Islands from mandarin homestay because Kris has got his own boat. A very important thing you can do is to teach English, I was teaching to children in the afternoon and to some adults as well. They will apreciate it and for you can be a great experience. All this, in a paradise of nature and clear water
I realized that kris and Akres were the only people able to speak in English, because the owners of the different homestays don´t. I find this an advantage to some people because I met other tourists that couldn´t communicate at all with the owners of the place they were and many questions they had weren´t answered.
Not a less important fact is that Kris and his family are the nicest, kindest and most helpul people in Raja Ampat.
I really enjoyed my experience here and highly recommend Mandarin homestay as the place to be if you come to Sawwingrai.
Hallo David….
Thanks so much….
We in Mandarin hope you will be back any more.
Akes
This was definitively one of our best stays on Raja Ampat. The bungalows are very spacious and divided into a bed room, common/eating room and a over water veranda facing the south.
Food gets served in your own bungalow (pro: no need to share, con: less contact to other guests). You also get your own hot/cold water supply in the bungalow. Toilet and bucket shower are shared but very well-tended.
The food was very good. Atop of the three meals we often got fresh fruits or fried snacks.
Altho there may be strong currents which can drag you along the coast (not away from it) it is a very nice snorkling spot as well (Seen walking sharks, wobbegong, cuttlefish, lionfish, water snakes and much more – explore the mangroves as well!)
Thank you timo on your good riviews… Sorry when you stay at mandarin..I’m nothing but I believe Two man are pakis and Birex help you full for setting everything. Thank you.
Regards
Kristian
This was definitively one of our best stays on Raja Ampat. The bungalows are very spacious and divided into a bed room, common/eating room and a over water veranda facing the south.
Food gets served in your own bungalow (pro: no need to share, con: less contact to other guests). You also get your own hot/cold water supply in the bungalow. Toilet and bucket shower are shared but very well-tended.
The food was very good. Atop of the three meals we often got fresh fruits or fried snacks.
Altho there may be strong currents which can drag you along the coast (not away from it) it is a very nice snorkling spot as well (Seen walking sharks, wobbegong, cuttlefish, lionfish, water snakes and much more – explore the mangroves as well!)
Thank you timo on your good riviews… Sorry when you stay at mandarin..I’m nothing but I believe Two man are pakis and Birex help you full for setting everything. Thank you.
Regards
Kristian
We were 3 friends travelling Raja. We loved staying at Byuk Beya. The family is so nice, we felt really welcomed. Everything was as it should be: Jitro came to pick us up at Wasai, the bungalows are clean and new, food very tasty and a lot of it. We were never hungry or thirsty. Bathroom is clean, but do not expect luxury, this is a homestay.
If you look for peace and qiuet to rest, this is the place for you. If you look for people and party – not for you.
The trips with Jitro were nice and he even drove us in the morning to Yenkoranu to make some scubadiving.
One thing – the diving with nextdoor ECOresort is not possible, they do not take outsiders.
And please beware of the homestay neighbour mister Luki Yenbuba that organizes daytrips to WAYAG – the trip in reality takes 10 hours (he says 6) and you drive back at night and is DANGEROUS.
Dear Tanja,
My husband and I would like to stay there up to 12 nights and we would appreciate if you contact us to clarify some info regarding this homestay and their snorkeling trips.
Thank you in advance,
Ilona
Mandarin was the first stop in raja Ampat for my missus and I. What an incredible place to start our journey! We stayed 6 nights and absolutely loved it! Kris, Jonas,Mama Mandarin and all the children (Rica, Delvia, Dekey, Pasca) made it unforgetable! Nice spacious bungalow, delicious food, great snorkeling from your bungalow and genuine/kind people. If you have time, volunteering and helping the kids with English is a must. We were lucky enough to bond with many of them and make many little friends while we were there. One of the days we had 20-25 kids in our bungalow reading basic books and teaching them whatever we could. It is such a beautiful thing to see those kids smiling with the little that they have. They just want to learn! Take any old books, clothes, reading glasses…etc…one mans trash is another mans treasure. And that goes for all of raja Ampat….not just gam. We took what we could and they were grateful and appreciative of everything. One thing I was worried about in Papua was the food quality and portions. No reason to worry!! The food was absolutely lovely! I love food(one of the most important reasons I travel) and Mandarin was tied with Sea Fans(Manyaifun) for best of the best of the four homestays we visited(Mavar in arborek and yengakwe in waigeo were the other 2) Mama Mandarins cooking was out of this world! Enak!!! Bagus!!!!!She is such a strong woman and puts love into everything she does. Give her a hand if you have time ! I’m writing this message from koh kood Thailand and im wishing I was back in Raja Ampat. Nothing can compare. I will definitely be returning to mandarin and raja Ampat as soon as possible. Get there soon because resorts are spreading! Help the locals and get a true raja Ampat experience….stay in the homestays!!!!! Having traveled throughout all of Southeast Asia, raja Ampat is by far the most beautiful/natural/ virgin place I have seen. It was an absolute pleasure and honor to stay with the Mandarin family. One million thanks and much love to all! Kris remember to change the real madrid sheets on the bed!!! Barça Mandarin! We will see you soon….good luck and best wishes!! David and Lizette(Spain)
Thank you David for everything you say to mandarin… One millions thanks too to you and your wife.. (Liz).. I has contact to you and Liz Every Time by facebook.. So I promised I will changed madrid seed.. You are our guest every day make is lovely for us.. Remember…if you back to Raja ampat.. Visit mandarin a gain please ..
Best regards
Kristian mandarin
Mandarin was the first stop in raja Ampat for my missus and I. What an incredible place to start our journey! We stayed 6 nights and absolutely loved it! Kris, Jonas,Mama Mandarin and all the children (Rica, Delvia, Dekey, Pasca) made it unforgetable! Nice spacious bungalow, delicious food, great snorkeling from your bungalow and genuine/kind people. If you have time, volunteering and helping the kids with English is a must. We were lucky enough to bond with many of them and make many little friends while we were there. One of the days we had 20-25 kids in our bungalow reading basic books and teaching them whatever we could. It is such a beautiful thing to see those kids smiling with the little that they have. They just want to learn! Take any old books, clothes, reading glasses…etc…one mans trash is another mans treasure. And that goes for all of raja Ampat….not just gam. We took what we could and they were grateful and appreciative of everything. One thing I was worried about in Papua was the food quality and portions. No reason to worry!! The food was absolutely lovely! I love food(one of the most important reasons I travel) and Mandarin was tied with Sea Fans(Manyaifun) for best of the best of the four homestays we visited(Mavar in arborek and yengakwe in waigeo were the other 2) Mama Mandarins cooking was out of this world! Enak!!! Bagus!!!!!She is such a strong woman and puts love into everything she does. Give her a hand if you have time ! I’m writing this message from koh kood Thailand and im wishing I was back in Raja Ampat. Nothing can compare. I will definitely be returning to mandarin and raja Ampat as soon as possible. Get there soon because resorts are spreading! Help the locals and get a true raja Ampat experience….stay in the homestays!!!!! Having traveled throughout all of Southeast Asia, raja Ampat is by far the most beautiful/natural/ virgin place I have seen. It was an absolute pleasure and honor to stay with the Mandarin family. One million thanks and much love to all! Kris remember to change the real madrid sheets on the bed!!! Barça Mandarin! We will see you soon….good luck and best wishes!! David and Lizette(Spain)
Thank you David for everything you say to mandarin… One millions thanks too to you and your wife.. (Liz).. I has contact to you and Liz Every Time by facebook.. So I promised I will changed madrid seed.. You are our guest every day make is lovely for us.. Remember…if you back to Raja ampat.. Visit mandarin a gain please ..
Best regards
Kristian mandarin
I stayed in Mandarin homestay in December 2016. That place is very good! My bungalow was very spacious! Food was very basic, they had some problems with the fish, but for me it was very OK! And they cooked delicious muffins! Food is served right in the bungalow. Family is very lovely, tries to do the best they can; it realy seems like you are surrounded by friends. Pak Kristian are one of the most reasonable and adequate people that I met in such overpriced tourist places as Papua! I had pick up with him to harbour and some trips – his prices are the best, while others begin to assign unrealistically high prices. Pak Kristian can arrange every trip and transfer. Thank to him very much for providing boat for distant trips!
I really enjoyed staying here!
I wish good luck to Pak Patrik and his family! It was really sad to leave.
Corals (in very good condition, despite of the closeness of the village) nudibranch and flatworms, walking sharks – it’s just very small part of the underwater life that you can see directly from your bungalow!!!
I made video about snorkeling in Raja Ampat. You can watch it here – https://youtu.be/TGicnrS0fsk
Sergei from Russia.
Thank you sergie…
I stayed in Mandarin homestay in December 2016. That place is very good! My bungalow was very spacious! Food was very basic, they had some problems with the fish, but for me it was very OK! And they cooked delicious muffins! Food is served right in the bungalow. Family is very lovely, tries to do the best they can; it realy seems like you are surrounded by friends. Pak Kristian are one of the most reasonable and adequate people that I met in such overpriced tourist places as Papua! I had pick up with him to harbour and some trips – his prices are the best, while others begin to assign unrealistically high prices. Pak Kristian can arrange every trip and transfer. Thank to him very much for providing boat for distant trips!
I really enjoyed staying here!
I wish good luck to Pak Patrik and his family! It was really sad to leave.
Corals (in very good condition, despite of the closeness of the village) nudibranch and flatworms, walking sharks – it’s just very small part of the underwater life that you can see directly from your bungalow!!!
I made video about snorkeling in Raja Ampat. You can watch it here – https://youtu.be/TGicnrS0fsk
Sergei from Russia.
Thank you sergie…
We (husband & wife with 11 yo daughter) stayed in Mandarin from 30/12/2016 to 02/01/2017. Since the time of searching and booking, Kristian -the owner- was the best communicator! Always answered my text and email I sent from Australia. And when we get there: The accommodation is amazing. The toilette and dip shower (kamar mandi) are bright, big, and most importantly clean. That’s a very important thing for us. The room is fantastic with separate bedroom and living room and plus veranda with a rustic table where you can sit and watch the world goes by… Kristian provided us with 2 hammocks (without our request) in our accommodation, that’s very thoughtful of him. The food cooked by Ibu Tabitha and her daughter were fabulous. They provided us with afternoon tea too!! The people especially children of Sawingrai speak English the best compare with any other island we stayed (we stayed in 4 islands on our 10 days trip). That’s for sure because of the Sawingrai English Effort project which is lead by Kristian. We did a bit of voluntary work with SEE. Due to many occasion for New Year celebration, what we did were only speak in English with them. Have great conversations with the children. They companied us walking to Kapisawar village. Snorkelling in front of the accommodation is available during high tide, we saw Walking Shark and nudibranch there. You can walk for 60meters and you can snorkelling under Sawingrai Jetty. It was amazing!! Kristian took us to snorkelling spots around Gam, and also took us to Manta point and Arborek. Kristian and Yunus (the skipper that time) are such great great guides!! The big boat is very convenient, again the best for all 4 islands we stayed. Whenever Kristian saw us snorkelling around accommodation, he’ll jump in and guide us to interesting marine life such as walking shark and nudibranch. He also jumped in with us at snorkelling point, took pictures for us, etc. He is such a great homestay operator. He is polite and attentive. Little thing like providing us with tissue box in our living room; well done! And celebrating New Year in Sawingrai is an experience we will never forget! Community are doing a great way of celebration. I won’t say what was that so that you can experience it yourself. It was amazing (if you like to mingle with and enjoy the community). We wish Mandarin Homestay and SEE the best. God’s willing, we’ll be back. We suggest people to travel Raja Ampat before the whole world found it!!
Thank you so much Nana for your comments, your recommendation to France family for visit us.. And for everything from you.
We (husband & wife with 11 yo daughter) stayed in Mandarin from 30/12/2016 to 02/01/2017. Since the time of searching and booking, Kristian -the owner- was the best communicator! Always answered my text and email I sent from Australia. And when we get there: The accommodation is amazing. The toilette and dip shower (kamar mandi) are bright, big, and most importantly clean. That’s a very important thing for us. The room is fantastic with separate bedroom and living room and plus veranda with a rustic table where you can sit and watch the world goes by… Kristian provided us with 2 hammocks (without our request) in our accommodation, that’s very thoughtful of him. The food cooked by Ibu Tabitha and her daughter were fabulous. They provided us with afternoon tea too!! The people especially children of Sawingrai speak English the best compare with any other island we stayed (we stayed in 4 islands on our 10 days trip). That’s for sure because of the Sawingrai English Effort project which is lead by Kristian. We did a bit of voluntary work with SEE. Due to many occasion for New Year celebration, what we did were only speak in English with them. Have great conversations with the children. They companied us walking to Kapisawar village. Snorkelling in front of the accommodation is available during high tide, we saw Walking Shark and nudibranch there. You can walk for 60meters and you can snorkelling under Sawingrai Jetty. It was amazing!! Kristian took us to snorkelling spots around Gam, and also took us to Manta point and Arborek. Kristian and Yunus (the skipper that time) are such great great guides!! The big boat is very convenient, again the best for all 4 islands we stayed. Whenever Kristian saw us snorkelling around accommodation, he’ll jump in and guide us to interesting marine life such as walking shark and nudibranch. He also jumped in with us at snorkelling point, took pictures for us, etc. He is such a great homestay operator. He is polite and attentive. Little thing like providing us with tissue box in our living room; well done! And celebrating New Year in Sawingrai is an experience we will never forget! Community are doing a great way of celebration. I won’t say what was that so that you can experience it yourself. It was amazing (if you like to mingle with and enjoy the community). We wish Mandarin Homestay and SEE the best. God’s willing, we’ll be back. We suggest people to travel Raja Ampat before the whole world found it!!
Thank you so much Nana for your comments, your recommendation to France family for visit us.. And for everything from you.
Lesatnya makanan di byuk beya homestay dan juga kamar tidur dan toilet sangat bersih,awalnya kami mau ke byuk beya kami sangat kawatir dengan byuk beya setelah sampai di byuk beya keluarga di byuk beya sangat prihatin sama kita,kita sangat senang di byuk beya.
Timakasih jitro lusias dan lusy.
Very tasty food in byuk beya and toilet and the bedroom was olso very clean, I love the family in byuk beya,very good family”
Very very nice Family. We stayed one week at Byuk beya. We really enjoy our stay, they all are very very helful , we definelty reccomend this place.
Thank you to the family.
Willy,Jitro,Lisias,n Roberto. Great boat Ride all around.
Wayan & Miriam
Makasih,wayan and Miriam.
We stayed at kris’ place for 5 nights beginning of january 17. Kris is a great Host. He knows a lot about marine life. Take the chance and go snorkeling with him. Andi and Toilette were pretty clean and in good shape. There is a String current, that makes it a bit difficult to snorkel in the house reef. But it is also nice in the mangroves. Best to bring own snorkel gear. Meals are including. We even had a snack in the afternoon.
You can walk from there to see the birds of paradise. Kris knows a man, that comes with you and knows the places.
Unfortunately there was karaoke at another Homestay nearby, which made Kris really unhappy. But I heard from friends, that they already stopped. Maybe this was just temporary.
Thank you Alexa.. On your say a bout me… And then for the another homestay nearby.. I think they are not so good… Because Karaoke …. But now it’s OK.. Only for them…. Don’t like before…
We stayed at kris’ place for 5 nights beginning of january 17. Kris is a great Host. He knows a lot about marine life. Take the chance and go snorkeling with him. Andi and Toilette were pretty clean and in good shape. There is a String current, that makes it a bit difficult to snorkel in the house reef. But it is also nice in the mangroves. Best to bring own snorkel gear. Meals are including. We even had a snack in the afternoon.
You can walk from there to see the birds of paradise. Kris knows a man, that comes with you and knows the places.
Unfortunately there was karaoke at another Homestay nearby, which made Kris really unhappy. But I heard from friends, that they already stopped. Maybe this was just temporary.
Thank you Alexa.. On your say a bout me… And then for the another homestay nearby.. I think they are not so good… Because Karaoke …. But now it’s OK.. Only for them…. Don’t like before…
Sangat indah byuk beya homestay.
Trimakasih byuk beya homestay atas pelayanan nya mulai dari hari pertama hingga tiga hari berahir nya berjalan dengan lancar.
Skali lagi trimakasih.
Nous avons séjourné à Mandarin homestay deux fois dix jours entre novembre et décembre 2016. Famille très sympathique, proche de deux villages, bungalow sur l’eau très spacieux et très bien conçu, ouvert sur la mer, levé et couché de soleil.
Très bon snorkeling en face et dans la mangrove toute proche, walking shark, nudibranches…..Possibilité de voir des Mandarin fish avec l’aide généreuse de Christian, de loin la plus belle personne que nous ayons rencontré. Prix des transports très correctes, excellents repas et bien sûr beaucoup d’oiseaux….Et beaucoup d’enfants à qui apprendre l’Anglais.
Merci pour tout, Christian, Ibu, Lin, Yun and Akes…
A bientôt…
Thank you very much toto and kty for everything you say a bout mandarin homestay..
Best regards
Kristian
Nous avons séjourné à Mandarin homestay deux fois dix jours entre novembre et décembre 2016. Famille très sympathique, proche de deux villages, bungalow sur l’eau très spacieux et très bien conçu, ouvert sur la mer, levé et couché de soleil.
Très bon snorkeling en face et dans la mangrove toute proche, walking shark, nudibranches…..Possibilité de voir des Mandarin fish avec l’aide généreuse de Christian, de loin la plus belle personne que nous ayons rencontré. Prix des transports très correctes, excellents repas et bien sûr beaucoup d’oiseaux….Et beaucoup d’enfants à qui apprendre l’Anglais.
Merci pour tout, Christian, Ibu, Lin, Yun and Akes…
A bientôt…
Thank you very much toto and kty for everything you say a bout mandarin homestay..
Best regards
Kristian
We stayed at Mandarin Homestay for 6 nights and loved every minute of it. We had a nice hut with a beautiful view over the ocean and at the island Mansuar. Do not expect luxury, but everything you really need is there and Kristian is very willing to help you if you need anything. Three times a day you will get a nice meal and also a small snack. We enjoyed the food very much! During the day you can drink as much water, coffee and tea as you want. Other drinks you need to buy yourself in one of the 3 little shops (no cooled drinks available as there is only electricity in the evening/night!). Make sure you take a flashlight with you when going to any of the islands in Raja Ampat.
Activities: Walk around the village, snorkel in front of the homestay (gorgeous corals with lots of fish), make some nice boattrips (snorkel with mantas!), ask Kristian for the guide in the village who can show you the special tree uphill in which the red bird of paradise tries to attract females, do some other birdspotting (king cockatoo, lots of parrots and many more species), visit the little school and chat with children and adults… or just read a book in the shades and relax….
Tip: the school can use english books (for beginners, with lots of pictures, for example Sesamestreet…) ), so take a few with you when you have some space left in your suitcase or backpack!
Kristian: thank you very much for everything!!!
Thank you very much Charlotte on your rivew.. I hope you don’t remember us new family in Raja ampat.. Tell your friends or family if have time for goes to Raja ampat .. Visited to mandarin.
Best regards
Kristian
We stayed at Mandarin Homestay for 6 nights and loved every minute of it. We had a nice hut with a beautiful view over the ocean and at the island Mansuar. Do not expect luxury, but everything you really need is there and Kristian is very willing to help you if you need anything. Three times a day you will get a nice meal and also a small snack. We enjoyed the food very much! During the day you can drink as much water, coffee and tea as you want. Other drinks you need to buy yourself in one of the 3 little shops (no cooled drinks available as there is only electricity in the evening/night!). Make sure you take a flashlight with you when going to any of the islands in Raja Ampat.
Activities: Walk around the village, snorkel in front of the homestay (gorgeous corals with lots of fish), make some nice boattrips (snorkel with mantas!), ask Kristian for the guide in the village who can show you the special tree uphill in which the red bird of paradise tries to attract females, do some other birdspotting (king cockatoo, lots of parrots and many more species), visit the little school and chat with children and adults… or just read a book in the shades and relax….
Tip: the school can use english books (for beginners, with lots of pictures, for example Sesamestreet…) ), so take a few with you when you have some space left in your suitcase or backpack!
Kristian: thank you very much for everything!!!
Thank you very much Charlotte on your rivew.. I hope you don’t remember us new family in Raja ampat.. Tell your friends or family if have time for goes to Raja ampat .. Visited to mandarin.
Best regards
Kristian
I was lucky to stay in Mandarin homestay for 6 days in Nov, 2016.
Kristian and all of the locals were exremely hospitable and warm welcoming from the first minute I arrived.
The bungalows are more than perfect for relax, with great food, clean toilet and fresh water to take shower, not to mention the stunning coral reef located only 50-60 meters from Mandarin.
I also participated in the English teaching project during my stay, which was a great decision and amazing experience at the same time.
I strongly recommend you to connect your stay with teaching the local children, you will see how smart, enthusiastic and grateful are them. And you don’t even need to be an English teacher, so what are you waiting for? 🙂
I was lucky to stay in Mandarin homestay for 6 days in Nov, 2016.
Kristian and all of the locals were exremely hospitable and warm welcoming from the first minute I arrived.
The bungalows are more than perfect for relax, with great food, clean toilet and fresh water to take shower, not to mention the stunning coral reef located only 50-60 meters from Mandarin.
I also participated in the English teaching project during my stay, which was a great decision and amazing experience at the same time.
I strongly recommend you to connect your stay with teaching the local children, you will see how smart, enthusiastic and grateful are them. And you don’t even need to be an English teacher, so what are you waiting for? 🙂
Spent 7 nights at the homestay, while diving with wobbegong diving on the other side of the Papua Dive resort. Walked there or they came and picked me up. It was an economical way to dive Raja Ampat.
The homestay is basic, hosts friendly, and they try their best, but would benefit from some hospitality training. I tried to give them some pointers, as while I was there two other couples (French and Singaporean) were not happy and left early. The main problem was that they were charged excessively for two excursions. I also was also asked initially to pay excessively for the boat ride to / from Waisai. I tried to explain that tourists do not like that, and it is better to have reasonable fixed prices like the advertised daily rate. Generally the food was pretty good, although they ran out of fruit and veges while I was there! Also breakfast was a bit plain: bread, with nothing to go on it, good job I brought vegemite with me. I hope this does not sound too negative, as I hope they go well.
My husband, our child 10 years old and me, were at Mandarin in Christmas 2015.
We really enjoy each minute we were there and had a great time with Kristian and his family.
Kristian and his brothers were very helpfull and tried to make our stay the best experience.
The bungalows are simple but fantastic, had everything we needed, I will never ever will change that bungalows for the best villa!!
The trips we made with Kristian and his brothers were fantastic, we went to Arborek, Gam Lagoon, Mansuar for a walking from one village to the other and loved everything we did.
The nights are magic, full of thousands of stairs, the colors of the sea are amazing and the sunsets and the sunrise, going to walk around the two villages it was really nice as well.
We enjoyed a lot as well the walking on the jungle with all the children and seeing the daily life of people there.
I feel so grateful to have had the opportunity to go to this part of the world, a magic and unique place.
Send a big hug for Kristian and his family and all the people and friends we made there.
I hope to come back soon
My husband, our child 10 years old and me, were at Mandarin in Christmas 2015.
We really enjoy each minute we were there and had a great time with Kristian and his family.
Kristian and his brothers were very helpfull and tried to make our stay the best experience.
The bungalows are simple but fantastic, had everything we needed, I will never ever will change that bungalows for the best villa!!
The trips we made with Kristian and his brothers were fantastic, we went to Arborek, Gam Lagoon, Mansuar for a walking from one village to the other and loved everything we did.
The nights are magic, full of thousands of stairs, the colors of the sea are amazing and the sunsets and the sunrise, going to walk around the two villages it was really nice as well.
We enjoyed a lot as well the walking on the jungle with all the children and seeing the daily life of people there.
I feel so grateful to have had the opportunity to go to this part of the world, a magic and unique place.
Send a big hug for Kristian and his family and all the people and friends we made there.
I hope to come back soon
Wir waren 7 Tage im Byuk Beya. Das Abholen von Waisai verlief reibungslos und wir wurden freundlich empfangen. Die Bungalows und das Bad sind einfach aber sauber. Jeden Tag gab es sehr gutes Und frisches Essen, mehr als genug. Hungern muss man wirklich nicht. Kaffee, Wasser und Tee konnte man jederzeit nehmen.
Unser Aufenthalt war super. Die Familie ist sehr nett und hilfsbereit. Es gibt viele Ausflugsmöglichkeit, Raja Ampat ist also nicht nur für Taucher. Man kann innert Kürze nach Gam um die Paradiesvögel zu beobachten und vieles mehr. Das Hausriff auf Kri ist eines der Besten der Umgebung, man kann sich also teures Geld für das Benzin sparen und muss nicht weit suchen gehn. Wir hatten eine sehr gute Zeit. Danke
Brand new homestay, very nice bungalows with a great view and nice beach. Bungalow, toilets and bathroom were very clean. We stayed for 4 nights in september but we decided to come back here for the last couple of days of our trip because we liked it so much! Such a nice and helpful family and Lucy is a great cook, the food varies every day and she even made us bread for breakfast! Would definitely come back here next time! We had a very nice stay at Byuk Beya Homestay, thanks again Lucy and Lisias!
We thoroughly enjoyed our stay. The food was excellent and plenty. There is a house reef right out front for snorkelling. We saw turtles, black tip reef sharks and many species of fish. The owner Lisias speaks some English and is a good communicator through Whatsapp. It was easy to organise excursions and Lisias and his family were very accomodating and made our stay comfortable. Lisias went out of his way to find manta rays for us when other dive boats had given up. If you’re looking for a relaxing, cultural experience we highly recommend this homestay.
I saw this homestay which was built with a strong sense of community. Together with his family and relatives, Krisitan built the kitchen and the bathroom. One of Kristian’s uncles told me that none of the builders got paid, but they hope that the homestay business would help their children’s education fund. (Don’t worry their homestay is already finished).
Staying in this bungalow is like having your own private beach. I slept above the sound of waves. My favorite place is the homestay’s balcony where you can sit and watch the sunset. During high tides, you can snorkel from the bungalow.
The homestay managers Kristian and Akes are among the most sincere people that I have known in Sawinggrai. They were always there when I needed them. They also volunteer as SEE coordinators whose job is to help visitor volunteers set up their English classes.
My food was cooked by Kristian’s sisters who are still in high school. They are still young but good cooks. Every day, I saw them prepare food and learned how to make new dishes. It was simple food, but it was cooked with love and care. The good thing is that they asked me what type of food I wanted and did their best to accommodate.
Overall, I enjoyed my stay in Mandarin Homestay, and I am coming back for sure.
I saw this homestay which was built with a strong sense of community. Together with his family and relatives, Krisitan built the kitchen and the bathroom. One of Kristian’s uncles told me that none of the builders got paid, but they hope that the homestay business would help their children’s education fund. (Don’t worry their homestay is already finished).
Staying in this bungalow is like having your own private beach. I slept above the sound of waves. My favorite place is the homestay’s balcony where you can sit and watch the sunset. During high tides, you can snorkel from the bungalow.
The homestay managers Kristian and Akes are among the most sincere people that I have known in Sawinggrai. They were always there when I needed them. They also volunteer as SEE coordinators whose job is to help visitor volunteers set up their English classes.
My food was cooked by Kristian’s sisters who are still in high school. They are still young but good cooks. Every day, I saw them prepare food and learned how to make new dishes. It was simple food, but it was cooked with love and care. The good thing is that they asked me what type of food I wanted and did their best to accommodate.
Overall, I enjoyed my stay in Mandarin Homestay, and I am coming back for sure.
Staying at Mandarin Homestay was a wonderful and extraordinary experience.
One can read on the internet that many western facilities are not available at Raja Ampat. But, for sure, it was the lack of these facilities that gave me an amazing time at Mandarin Homestay.
The purpose of my trip was to help building the SEE, an organisation for sustainable English in Raja Ampat and Mandarin homestay was our livingroom and ‘office’.
Kristian and Akes are the Volunteer Coördinators of SEE. They are enthusiast, and eager to learn all about learning English to the people of Sawinggrai.
I never had a better office: this traditional homestay, with windows overlooking the beautiful ocean, sawn timber framed, floored with sawn planks and palm thatched walls, gave us the perfect environment to land our creative ideas.
The hosts of the Mandarin homestay, Kristian & Akes, were always willing to help us out with our questions. Do we need an extra table? It was instantly made. Do we need extra water? I a few minutes a fresh gallon entered the homestay. It even happened that we needed to print some papers and miraculously a printer appeared in our office.
I will not forget to tell you about the amazing environment, the ocean, the swimming, the snorkelling, the friendly people, and how I got rid of my internet en telephone addiction cause there’s only a few hours power a day.
I felt save and privileged to stay at Mandarin Homestay.
Warm regards to all the children of Sawinggra,
Ibu Yolanda
Thanks Yolanda…..Semoga Bisa dtang lagi ke Mandarin….
Staying at Mandarin Homestay was a wonderful and extraordinary experience.
One can read on the internet that many western facilities are not available at Raja Ampat. But, for sure, it was the lack of these facilities that gave me an amazing time at Mandarin Homestay.
The purpose of my trip was to help building the SEE, an organisation for sustainable English in Raja Ampat and Mandarin homestay was our livingroom and ‘office’.
Kristian and Akes are the Volunteer Coördinators of SEE. They are enthusiast, and eager to learn all about learning English to the people of Sawinggrai.
I never had a better office: this traditional homestay, with windows overlooking the beautiful ocean, sawn timber framed, floored with sawn planks and palm thatched walls, gave us the perfect environment to land our creative ideas.
The hosts of the Mandarin homestay, Kristian & Akes, were always willing to help us out with our questions. Do we need an extra table? It was instantly made. Do we need extra water? I a few minutes a fresh gallon entered the homestay. It even happened that we needed to print some papers and miraculously a printer appeared in our office.
I will not forget to tell you about the amazing environment, the ocean, the swimming, the snorkelling, the friendly people, and how I got rid of my internet en telephone addiction cause there’s only a few hours power a day.
I felt save and privileged to stay at Mandarin Homestay.
Warm regards to all the children of Sawinggra,
Ibu Yolanda
Thanks Yolanda…..Semoga Bisa dtang lagi ke Mandarin….
Nice little homestay…brandnew with a giant view close to Pasir Timbul..a warmhearted welcoming Family and clean rooms and toilets…daytrips via boat or speedboat and also diving trips can be booked with the family and the food is also delicious…its also not too far to walk to get an icecold beer in one of the luxury dive resorts beside