Pondok Natswari

Pondok Natswari is a cozy one-bedroom place that feels like home, with its own private pool right outside your door. There are only two units, so it stays quiet and personal. The pool sits in a small garden of stone walls and garden, with a little bamboo waterfall trickling into the water. The wooden deck beside the pool is perfect for morning coffee, a cold drink in the afternoon, or just sitting with your feet in the water. The bedroom doors open straight onto it, so the pool feels like part of your living space.

Inside, the room is bright, warm and easy to settle into. The king-size bed has soft white linen and leaf-patterned cushions, set against a textured stone-look wall that gives the room its character. Wooden details run throughout, from the ceiling to the shelves, and large glass doors with sheer and blackout curtains let in plenty of daylight and frame the garden. There is a writing desk and chair if you need a quiet spot to work or write, and open shelves for your things. A fresh frangipani and a towel swan on the bed welcome you on arrival.

You also have your own small kitchenette, so you can make yourself at home. It has a breakfast bar with a wooden stool, a two-burner gas hob with an extractor hood, an electric kettle, glasses and cups, and a refrigerator for drinks and snacks. The private en-suite bathroom is bright and clean, with marble-look walls, a skylight, a rain-style shower and a handheld shower. It has a vanity with a mirrored cabinet and a little niche for toiletries.

The homestay sits in a calm local neighbourhood off Bongkasa, surrounded by village temples, small warungs and shops. It suits couples and solo travellers who want a comfortable stay with a private pool and a homey feel.