Bata Merah Homestay

The staff and owners are described as very friendly, helpful, and hospitable. Guests highlight the team's responsiveness: they promptly address requests and are eager to assist, even lending a scooter for a trip to an ATM or delivering forgotten jewelry to the train station. The owner (Bu Ella) is very polite; one guest noted her kindness when she did not charge compensation for a damaged wall. However, some travelers experienced a language barrier, as junior staff speak very little English, requiring communication via a translation app.

Guests praise the breakfast as delicious. The menu has featured options such as toast with scrambled eggs, as well as a vegan alternative (steamed vegetables, cucumber salad, toast with nut butter, and tea). The owners offer flexible service and can serve breakfast even outside regular hours. The breakfast is considered affordable and of good quality.

The rooms in the homestay are spacious and bright. The beds are described as soft and comfortable, with some rooms providing four pillows. Rooms feature well-functioning air conditioning, TVs, kettles, and water heaters in the bathrooms. The interior is described as aesthetic and iconic, reminiscent of a grandmother's home. The photos online accurately reflect reality.

Guest opinions regarding cleanliness are mixed. Many note that the rooms are very clean, cozy, and well-maintained. However, there are complaints about ants in the bathrooms and on ceiling beams. One guest reported poor bedding conditions with hair and stains, as well as significant limescale buildup on bathroom fixtures and an unpleasant odor in the bathroom. Overall, the property grounds are described as lush and pleasant.

The main guest complaint is the proximity to a mosque. The call to prayer broadcast via loudspeakers is clearly audible multiple times a day, including during the night (from 2:30 AM to 4:00 AM), which disrupts sleep for many visitors. Some guests describe this noise as "invasive" and recommend using earplugs. Otherwise, the atmosphere is characterized as peaceful and quiet due to the absence of heavy vehicular traffic.

At Bata Merah Homestay, guests can rent a motorbike at a reasonable price. Organized tours to Mount Ijen are also offered (costing around IDR 150,000). The property features a small on-site café where guests can have lunch, as well as a common lounge suitable for socializing with friends after day trips.

According to reviews, the Wi-Fi at the property works poorly, which may be an inconvenience for guests who require a stable internet connection.