Thetraveljunkie.org – In Episode 4 of our Indo Trip series, we took a break from the usual liveaboard experience and settled into something more grounded—yet equally stunning—on the shores of Gam Island in Southwest Papua. Raja Ampat is known for its jaw-dropping marine biodiversity and untouched beauty, and this leg of the journey truly captured its heart. Instead of hopping from island to island, we chose to slow down and soak in the rhythm of island life at Avinsea Homestay, tucked into the citrus-scented hills of Citrus Ridge. The moment we arrived, Avinsea felt like a home away from home. Built traditionally by locals and nestled between lush greenery and the turquoise sea, the homestay gave us a genuine slice of Papuan hospitality. No flashy resorts, no crowds—just the calming hum of waves and the occasional chatter of tropical birds. Every wooden bungalow came with a view, a breeze, and a reminder to appreciate the little things.
Many travellers opt for liveaboards when visiting Raja Ampat, but we intentionally chose to stay put. We wanted to connect more deeply with the local way of life and have the freedom to explore at our own pace. Staying on land also meant more interaction with the community, more chances to support small businesses, and more peaceful moments watching the sunrise right from our porch.
Each day brought new moments of wonder—from snorkelling with vibrant reef fish just steps away from shore to hiking the nearby ridge for panoramic views. The meals served at Avinsea were all freshly prepared, mostly using local ingredients. We dined on grilled fish, sago, tropical fruits, and Papuan dishes made with love. In the evenings, the stars above Gam Island were unreal—bright, bold, and completely undisturbed by city lights.
What really set Avinsea apart wasn’t just the natural beauty, but the people. The homestay owners shared stories about the island, helped us plan day trips, and even taught us a bit of the local language. Their kindness made a lasting impression and added a personal touch to every part of our stay. It’s places like these that remind us that travel isn’t just about the sights, but the human connections we make along the way.
Raja Ampat will always be a dream destination for many, but it doesn’t always have to be explored via liveaboard. Staying at Avinsea Homestay gave us a more grounded and personal look at life in the islands. If you’re planning your own trip, we highly recommend considering a stay like this. In our next episode, we continue the Indo Trip journey—so stay tuned as we dive deeper into Papua’s wonders!
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