Indah Homestay is my go to place when I need to need to be closer to Ubud for events or meetings. Or when I’m completely undone by my village WiFi signal and need to get some work done without being continually disconnected.
Located in Payangan, half way between my village and Ubud, it’s become my home away from home.
It’s perfect if you’re looking for more of a local stay and don’t need a pool. It’s particularly ideal as a base if you have your own transport and are planning a longer stay. Its so affordable, friendly and calm.
If you need cafes, bars, shops and nightlife at walking distance it’s not for you.
If you love going to traditional markets, getting to know local people on morning strolls, being amongst a family and are happy in a quiet place, this is for you. You absolutely have your own personal space, but at the same time its really easy to get to know the family and have a taste of Bali life. 
Ibu Trisna and Pak Darya make you feel very welcome. The kids are super lovely, heading off to school in their pristine uniforms early in the morning, and are quick to fix the WiFi if needed. If you’re interested you can join the family for village ceremonies or help make the daily offerings.
Built in traditional Balinese style with western style beds and bathrooms, the rooms are very comfortable and clean. They vary in size and facilities. The superior rooms have the biggest space with a generous balcony. Some have fans, others AC. You don’t need to be confined to your room, you soon get into the flow of the space, perching on steps to chat, hanging out in the dining room, or taking a nap in the bed in the bale next to the temple.
Dogs are well loved here. Cantik makes himself right at home. If you’re missing your dog, Pina the family dog will be happy to hang out with you.
I love the home made marmalade and toast for breakfast. (Don’t expect smoothie bowls or eggs benny). You can choose to cook for yourself in the small kitchen or Ibu Trisna will cook an evening meal. I usually stock up on fruit at the market and eat at local warungs in the evening. $2 goes a long way in this part of Bali.
There’s room in the garden to roll out your yoga mat or to do a workout. There’s a couple of hand weights by the kitchen if you need them.
Ibu Trisna runs a busy little salon from the homestay. There’s a steady stream of stunning Balinese women with elaborate hair and makeup leaving the salon when there’s big traditional ceremonies going on. You can book yourself in for a hair treatment, facial, a mandi lulur or a massage. Its no luxurious spa salon, but the treatments are lovely and at such local prices you really should treat yourself every day.
THE FACTS:
Indah Homestay
Jl. Payangan, Br. Sema, Melinggih (25 mins from Ubud) Map
Room Rates: vary from rp175,000 – rp250,000 per night including breakfast & WiFi. ($AUD18-25)
Email: daryasuparta@yahoo.com
Mobile: +62 (0)819 3606 7258
Online: Booking.com
There’s enough English spoken at the HomeStay, but learning a few words of Indonesian will lead to some fun conversations at the markets or amongst the neighbours.
Tours and drivers can be organised at the HomeStay. Or feel free to contact Komang my friend, driver, tour guide, all round nice guy. He’s been driving for Sharing Bali for years. Safe and reliable.
Need a hotel on your travels? I use Agoda.com.
