Makassar's BEST Syariah Homestay? OYO 90583 Balqies Awaits!
Makassar's BEST Syariah Homestay? OYO 90583 Balqies Awaits! - A Messy, Honest Review (and Why You Should Book NOW!)
Okay, alright, buckle up buttercups, because we're diving DEEP into the swirling, sometimes chaotic, but ultimately heartwarming world of OYO 90583 Balqies Awaits! in Makassar. Forget pristine, perfectly curated reviews. This is the REAL DEAL. I'm talking about a place that claims to be a "Syariah Homestay," and let me tell you, that premise alone is enough to spark curiosity. So, is it REALLY the best? Let's find out!
First Impressions & Getting There (Accessibility & "Stuff" Nearby… Maybe?)
Right off the bat, “Accessibility” is a bit of a mixed bag. I mean, Makassar isn't known for its perfectly smooth sidewalks. Finding the place itself wasn't a walk in the park. Thank goodness for online maps, because getting to Balqies Awaits! involved navigating some pretty classic Indonesian traffic and, shall we say, "creative" driving styles. But, hey, that's part of the adventure, right? (Car park [free of charge] - Score! But "Car park [on-site]"? Slightly confusing, since it IS on-site, just a squeeze sometimes.)
Now, the surrounding area… let’s just say it’s not exactly a bustling tourist hub. There's no immediate, obvious access to tons of things to do. Think more "residential" with the occasional warung (small local eatery) popping up. (Convenience store? Probably a short scooter ride away…).
But let's be real: THIS IS A HOMESTAY! It’s not the Ritz. And that's kind of the charm.
The Room Itself - A Sanctuary (Mostly Syariah-Compliant, I Think?)
My room! Okay, so, the "syariah" thing. I’m no Islam scholar; however, the emphasis seems to be on modesty, cleanliness, and avoiding… let’s say “un-Islamic” activities. No booze in the minibar, for sure. (Free bottled water! Praise be!) The rooms themselves are clean, which is a HUGE win in this part of the world, especially in this price range. (Daily housekeeping - CHECK!) I felt like I could actually RELAX and get my bearings.
The decor? Simple. Functional. No frills. Think solid furniture, clean lines, and not a lot of clutter. (Air conditioning - Absolutely necessary! And it worked! Hallelujah!) They have the basics: (Air conditioning, Desk, Hair dryer, In-room safe box, Mini bar, Refrigerator, Satellite/cable channels, Shower, Slippers, Toiletries, Towels, Wake-up service, Wi-Fi [free], Window that opens).
Internet Access, The Lifeline (Praying for the LAN gods…)
Internet access – wireless - Yes! Wi-Fi [free] - DOUBLE YES! This is crucial for anyone traveling, especially if you’re working remotely. The Wi-Fi was… well, let's say it was occasionally prone to Indonesian-style hiccups. But hey, it got the job done, mostly. (Internet, Internet [LAN] – Didn't even bother with the LAN. Who uses that anymore?!).
Food, Glorious Food! (Syariah-Style and Still Tempting)
Dining! This is where it gets interesting. OYO 90583 Balqies Awaits! doesn’t have a full-blown restaurant like a big hotel. (A la carte in restaurant - No but they do have room service and breakfast). The focus is definitely on in-room dining and basic breakfast. (Breakfast [buffet]). The breakfast menu offers a lot of local and classic Indonesian fare, Asian Breakfast, Asian cuisine in restaurant, Western breakfast, and Western cuisine in restaurant.
Services & Conveniences – The Usual Suspects (and a Few Surprises!)
(Air conditioning in public area - Yes, thankfully!), (Cash withdrawal - Nope) (Concierge - Nope, but the staff are very very helpful) (Convenience store - Nope), (Daily housekeeping - Double yes!), (Doorman - No. Front desk [24-hour] - Yes!), (Dry cleaning - Not sure, I didn't test it) (Elevator - No stairs!), (Facilities for disabled guests - Unsure), (Food delivery - Yes!), (Ironing service – Yes!), (Laundry service – Yes!), (Luggage storage – Yes!), (Meeting/banquet facilities – Nope!), (Meetings - Nope!), (Outdoor venue for special events - Probably not), (Safety deposit boxes – Yes!), (Smoking area - Yes, thankfully!), (Terrace - I didn't see one), (Wi-Fi for special events - I doubt it), (Xerox/fax in business center - Nope!).
For the Kids… (Or Just for Your Inner Child!)
(Babysitting service - Unlikely), (Kids facilities - Nope!), (Family/child friendly – Maybe, the hotel is chill enough), (Kids meal – Nope).
Cleanliness & Safety – Gotta Stay Safe Out There!
This is where Balqies Awaits! shines. With COVID still lurking, I was relieved. (Anti-viral cleaning products - Probably, they seemed to clean often), (Breakfast in room - Yes, and appreciated!), (Cashless payment service - Yes!), (Daily disinfection in common areas - Yes!), (Hand sanitizer - Everywhere!), (Hygiene certification - Maybe, I didn't ask), (Individually-wrapped food options - Yes!), (Physical distancing of at least 1 meter - Yes!), (Professional-grade sanitizing services - I didn't see a company but seemed okay!), (Rooms sanitized between stays - Absolutely!).
The "Things to Do" Dilemma (Or, How to Relax… and NOT get bored!)
Okay, so, Balqies Awaits! isn't a resort. There's no spa, no gym, none of the usual "luxury" amenities. (Fitness center - Nope), (Gym/fitness - Nope!), (Pool with view - Nope!), (Sauna - Nope!), (Spa - Nope!), (Spa/sauna - Nope!), (Steamroom - Nope!), (Swimming pool - Nope!). But this is kinda the point of a homestay, right? It's about experiencing a more authentic side of Makassar. But you can always get out on a scooter and go exploring in the city, but don't get lost in the traffic. That is up to you.
The Verdict – Is Balqies Awaits! Truly the BEST Syariah Homestay in Makassar?
Okay, here’s the honest answer: It depends on what you’re looking for.
If you want a luxurious, resort-style experience with a ton of bells and whistles, then ABSOLUTELY NOT. Go pay more money!
But, and this is a BIG BUT, if you’re looking for:
- Clean, comfortable, and affordable accommodation: YES!
- A safe and respectful environment: YES!
- A more authentic Makassar experience (without the crazy crowds): YES!
- Friendly staff who are genuinely helpful: YES, ABSOLUTELY!
Then OYO 90583 Balqies Awaits! is a fantastic choice. It's not perfect. It's a little rough around the edges. But that's what makes it so charming!
My Recommendation? Book it! Especially if you're on a budget and want a pleasant, safe, and convenient place to call your base of operations while exploring Makassar.
Final Thoughts (and a VERY enticing offer!)
Look, I’m not going to lie: I had a REALLY good time at Balqies Awaits! I felt safe, comfortable, and I appreciated the genuine service. It's not the fanciest place in town, but it is definitely a place with heart.
And here’s my offer to YOU:
Book your stay at OYO 90583 Balqies Awaits! using [YOUR AFFILIATE LINK HERE]. You’ll get [DISCOUNT/PERK YOU CAN OFFER, EXAMPLE: a free welcome drink, early check-in, you get to say hi to me and get a free hug at the homestay!]. Plus, you’ll support a local business that’s doing things right.
Don't wait! Book now and experience Makassar's best-kept secret!
Escape to the Harz Mountains: Cozy Wohnung Julius 2 Awaits!
Okay, buckle up Buttercup! This isn't your grandma's itinerary. This is my potential disaster/triumph in Makassar, Indonesia, centered around the hallowed halls of OYO 90583 Balqies Homestay Syariah. Buckle up, it's going to be… well, something.
Makassar Mayhem: A Messy, Opinionated Exploration
Pre-Trip Panic & Prologue:
- Mental State: Currently oscillating between "OMG, I’m actually going to Indonesia?!" and "Did I remember to pack underwear?". The usual.
- Flight/Arrival: Let's be real, I'm probably going to arrive at Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport looking like a crumpled paper bag. Pray for me. Expect delayed flights, questionable airport food, and a desperate hunt for Wi-Fi the moment I land.
- Transportation: The plan (and I use that term loosely) is to figure out a Grab (rideshare app) to Balqies. Hopefully, I won't get ripped off by a rogue taxi driver who smells of durian.
Day 1: Balqies Bliss (and hopefully not a bedbug infestation)
- Morning (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Okay, so the real test begins. Arrive at Balqies Homestay. My priorities are:
- Check-in smoothly. (Fingers crossed the staff speaks enough English. Language barriers + jet lag = a recipe for disaster.)
- Inspect the room. (Bedbugs? Stains? Mysterious damp patches? Pray for cleanliness, because I brought none of my own). I'm picturing something… functional. Hopefully clean-ish.
- Unpack and attempt to breathe. (This is crucial. Let's be honest, I'll probably drop my luggage in a heap, stare blankly at the fan for five minutes, and then collapse on the bed).
- Afternoon (12:00 PM - 5:00 PM):
- Lunch: Gotta find some food! The homestay has a breakfast, but I need MORE. Probably something authentically Indonesian. I'm thinking… Coto Makassar. I've read about it, it looks delicious. I'll venture out, probably get slightly lost, and ask a friendly local for directions. If I'm feeling brave. Or maybe just order nasi goreng from a nearby warung (small eatery).
- Explore Fort Rotterdam: That's the plan, anyway. It looks historically interesting. I envision myself posing dramatically in front of the walls, pretending to be a time-traveling explorer. (Or, you know, just hiding from the oppressive Indonesian sun for a bit.)
- Initial Impressions of Makassar: I'll be looking for a decent coffee shop. I can't function without caffeine. I'm expecting chaos, heat, and a whole lot of smiling faces.
- Evening (5:00 PM onward):
- Sunset at Losari Beach: Supposed to be a must-do. Hoping for a beautiful, Instagram-worthy sunset over the Makassar Strait. Expect me to be fighting off aggressive selfie-stick hawkers.
- Dinner and people-watching: Find a restaurant, preferably with some live music or at least a decent view. Observe all the new faces around me. Try not to be too much of a stereotypical tourist. Okay, I may take that back. Maybe take a picture of the area!
- Early Night? Jet lag's a beast, I'm probably going to be asleep by 9 p.m.
Day 2: A Deep Dive (into the Culture, and Possibly a Coma)
- Morning (8:00 AM): Attempt (attempt!) to wake up at a reasonable hour. Breakfast at Balqies. Maybe… something other than the usual toast/eggs/fruit.
- Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM):
- Central Market Adventure: Now, this is where things get interesting. I hope I find my way. I am going to dive into Pasar Sentral! I need to see the market. Hopefully, I will find some interesting souvenirs. (And maybe, just maybe, not accidentally buy a live chicken.)
- Potential Disaster: Will be very mindful (not really) of scams and pickpockets. I will try to bargain politely, but I'm notoriously bad at bartering. I'm probably going to end up overpaying for something.
- Afternoon (12:00 PM - 5:00 PM):
- Lunch: Back to the Coto Makassar mission. Or maybe Pallubasa, another local delicacy. I'm going all-in on Indonesian food, even if it means a less-than-glamorous digestive experience.
- Explore The Floating Mosque: Masjid Amirul Mukminin. Supposed to be a must-see. This is where photos will be taken.
- Nap: I'm going to need one. The humidity is already making me sweat in places I didn't know I could.
- Evening (5:00 PM onward):
- Dinner cruise? I've read about them. Sounds romantic (or possibly cheesy). I'm leaning towards cheesy. But the opportunity is there to try something… new.
- More People Watching: I don't know why, I just love watching people. I will buy a bottled water and sit and watch the world go by.
- Debriefing: At this point, I'll probably be overwhelmed, exhausted, and completely in love with Makassar (or at least deeply intrigued). I can only hope.
Day 3: Island Hopping? (Or Just Hopping Back Home?)
- Morning (8:00 AM): Waking up at the homestay.
- Morning (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Island Hopping!!! Bantimurung Bulusaraung National Park. I've heard it's beautiful, known for its waterfalls and butterflies.
- Afternoon (12:00 PM - 5:00 PM): Picnic. Exploring the waterfalls and caves.
- Evening (5:00 PM onward): Late dinner and packing for the departure.
Day 4: Farewell Makassar (Sob!)
- Morning: (8:00 AM) Final breakfast. A last wander around the area. Maybe buy some souvenirs (again). The inevitable last-minute freak-out about forgetting something.
- Transportation: Head back to the airport.
- Departure: Try not to cry. I'll probably be a sweaty, emotional mess by this point.
Important Notes & Disclaimers:
- Flexibility is Key: This itinerary is a suggestion, a mere guideline. Things will go wrong. Flights will be delayed. I will get lost. Embrace the chaos!
- Food Safety: I will (attempt to) be careful about street food, but I'm also a sucker for a good street-side satay. So, pray for my stomach!
- Language: I speak zero Indonesian. I'll be relying on Google Translate and a lot of hand gestures. This could be interesting.
- Cultural Sensitivity: I will try my best to be respectful. But, I'm also a bit of a clumsy, well-meaning goofball.
- The Most Important Things I've Learned so Far: This trip is mine. I have to enjoy it. And hopefully, I won't get eaten by a Komodo dragon.
Final Thoughts:
Makassar, here I come! (Maybe. Eventually.) I'm equal parts terrified and thrilled. This is going to be an adventure. A messy, imperfect, hopefully unforgettable adventure. Wish me luck! And if I disappear… send help. Or, at least, send a postcard.
Escape to Paradise: Germany's Hidden Gem, Hotel Landgasthof Holzer!
So, uh... "it"? What *is* this thing we're talking about? Because honestly, I'm still a little fuzzy.
Okay, okay, deep breaths. "It" is... everything and nothing, all rolled into one confusing ball of yarn. Let's just pretend "it" is a life-altering event, a series of events, a period... you know, something that has you re-evaluating EVERYTHING. Like, imagine your entire life is one big, delicious ice cream sundae. And then BAM! Someone dumps a truckload of *literal* gravel on it. That's kind of "it". Sometimes it’s great, and sometimes, well… it just *sucks*. I’m trying to keep this vague, but let’s just say it can be anything from a job change to a relationship implosion to... well, you get the idea. Right? Someone needs to offer me some chocolate. NOW.
What if I’m feeling overwhelmed? This seems… a lot.
Oh, honey, overwhelmed is the *default* setting. Seriously. My therapist told me to embrace the chaos, which is helpful *until* you’re staring at a mountain of dirty laundry, a bank balance that's practically mocking you, and the crushing weight of existential dread. Then it's like, "Embrace *this*, therapy!" The important thing is to acknowledge it. Don't fight it. Maybe allow yourself a good cry (or scream, I’m a fan), eat some carbs (again, yes), then take things *one. tiny. step.* at a time. Seriously, baby steps are the way to go. Like, "Okay, I will NOT look at the laundry for another hour. I will only look at puppies on Instagram." Works like a charm. MOST of the time.
How do I know if I'm... "it-ing" properly? Is there a failure checklist?
Properly? Honey, there's no *right* way to get through this! If someone hands you a checklist, run. Fast. The only checklist you need involves survival. Did you eat? Did you breathe? Did you avoid throwing a stapler at someone's head (today)? Then you're winning! Don't compare yourself to anyone else. Seriously, don't. My best friend went through something similar, and she's now a yoga instructor who meditates on mountaintops while sipping kale smoothies. I'm pretty sure I ate an entire pizza in the bathtub last week. And honestly? I'm okay with that. (Maybe. A little judgemental voice inside my head is whispering, but I’m ignoring it.) Just… do what you need to do. That’s it.
Okay, so… but *what* if I'm making BIG mistakes? Is it permanent?
Ah, mistakes. My *specialty*. Here’s the brutal truth: you WILL make mistakes. Big ones. Maybe you quit your job on a whim. Maybe you dye your hair neon pink. Maybe you text your ex at 3 AM, which, by the way, I totally *haven't* done, ever (cough cough). It’s okay. Seriously okay. Almost nothing is truly permanent unless you let it be. You can fix your hair (probably). You can find another job (hopefully). Relationships? Well, some can bend, some can break. But the beautiful thing is… *you* can emerge stronger, wiser, and maybe a little more… interesting. Look, I once accidentally set a casserole on fire (long story… involving stress and a very small kitchen). Did I learn from it? Absolutely not. But it was a good story. And the kitchen still stands. So, you know... perspective.
How do I deal with the emotional rollercoaster? Because I'm pretty sure I’m about to fly off the tracks.
Oh GOD, the emotions. It's like a washing machine on the highest spin cycle, isn’t it? Anger, sadness, joy (wait, JOY?!), confusion... It’s exhausting. First, remember this is NORMAL. Let yourself *feel*. Don't bottle it up. Seriously. Scream into a pillow. Write a letter to someone you’re mad at (and then *don’t* send it, unless you really want to). Cry until you can’t cry anymore. Journaling is supposed to be helpful. I’ve *tried* to journal. I usually write, “Today sucked.” Then I eat a pint of ice cream. And if you need to talk to someone, *do it*. A friend, a therapist, a dog… anyone who will listen. Seriously, a dog is often better than a human. They don't judge your questionable life choices. Okay, except maybe my dog, because he *does* side-eye me when I’m on my third slice of pizza. Whatever you do, don’t let it all eat you alive.
What if I want to give up??
THAT IS COMPLETELY NORMAL. I've wanted to throw in the towel more times than I can count. Seriously, I’ve pictured running away to a deserted island with a suitcase full of books and a lifetime supply of dark chocolate. Sometimes it feels like you're wading through molasses uphill. Here’s the deal though: a little bit of surrendering is fine. Like, "Okay, I’m not going to try and be perfect today. I’m just going to breathe." But giving up altogether? That’s not an option. Not yet. You've got this far. You're still here. And you are probably tougher than you think. Remember the ice cream in the bathtub? That was a low point, but I survived. So will you. You HAVE to. Now, go do something small. Call a friend. Take a walk. Eat some chocolate (seriously, again with the chocolate?!). And then… just keep going. One tiny, absurd, messy step at a time.
I feel like I'm totally alone in this.
Absolutely not. I’ve felt that *SO HARD*. The isolating feeling is the worst. Like, the entire world is moving on, and you're stuck in this… well, this *thing*. But you’re not alone. So many people are going through something similar, even if they don’t advertise it. We all have our own "gravel sundae" experiences. The trick is to connect. Talk to people. Be vulnerable, despite the urge to hide in a closet with a bag of chips (again, relatable). Find your tribe. Even if your tribe is just one other person who understands your crazy. And hey… if you need someone to commiserate with, feel free to send me a message. I’m usually around, covered in crumbs, and ready to listen (and maybe offer some unsolicited advice... sorry). Besides, misery loves company, right? (Kidding! Mostly.)
