Everyday life on the islands

Some homestays have generator hours rather than continuous power; internet provision varies by property. Ask for the current arrangement instead of relying on an old review. RAI’s checklist: charging hours, available sockets, network or Wi-Fi access, payment methods and the amount to settle on arrival. Save bookings and contacts offline and bring a charged power bank.

At some local homestays, meals are simple Indonesian or Papuan home cooking, and the menu may repeat. Depending on supplies and the kitchen, you might be served rice, fried sea fish and vegetables such as kangkung (water spinach), or fried instant noodles. These are examples, not the menu of every homestay. Do not expect a restaurant menu or a wide choice at each meal. Resorts may offer more variety and dietary flexibility, but this also needs confirmation.

• Ask for a recent sample menu for several days, not only one photograph of a special meal.
• Describe what you can eat and what you cannot, including spice tolerance, fish preferences and children’s familiar foods.
• Bring suitable shelf-stable snacks or familiar foods if needed. Ask about cooking, refrigeration and sealed storage before depending on them.
• For vegetarian, vegan, halal or gluten-free needs, ask about ingredients and preparation. A stated preference is not a guarantee of suitable facilities.
• Serious allergies require a separate discussion about cross-contact and access to care. Do not assume a small island kitchen can manage them safely.

• Confirm meals, safe drinking-water provision, dietary requirements and whether snacks can be purchased locally.
• Ask whether laundry is available, its price and drying arrangements.
• For work calls, ask about recent reliability and charging availability; have a plan if either fails.
• Discuss rubbish disposal and refill options; avoid leaving unnecessary packaging on the island.

Ask before photographing people or entering community spaces. Confirm activities around local rest and worship days. RAI recommends agreeing on plans politely with your hosts rather than assuming guides and boats are available at every hour.