Smiley's Homestay

The room was basic but did the job, with a big bed and a warm shower. The food was a highlight: Cecilia’s breakfast and dinner were delicious, so don’t miss them. Smiley also kept us entertained with his funny stories while taking us to Sibayak volcano and the hot springs. We had such a great stay thanks to Smiley and his wife Cecilia. They were fun, helpful, and knew so much about everything.

We were drawn to Smileyhomestay by all the positive comments about its service and rooms, but our Mount Sibayak sunrise trip was a terrible experience. The owner had explained the pickup time, price, and what the tour included, so I was excited. My husband and I got up at 3:30am and were ready by 4:15am, but no one came. At 4:30am we called, and he neither answered nor let us know the trip was off. There wasn’t even a note left on our door. We only got a message after 8am saying the trip was canceled. He had also put us in a different guesthouse. This was the worst experience I’ve ever had. Travelers, stay away if you don’t want your trip ruined!

The mattress was a bit hard, though it didn’t bother me, and my friend slept well in a proper bed. Renovations were going on around the sleeping area, but it was still comfortable, and it’ll probably be even better once they’re finished. Cecilia and Smiley are so kind and do everything to make you feel at home. Breakfast is amazing, almost an event by itself. Smiley knows the area well and took us to a great hot spring on a really fun tour. I also loved Cecilia’s cooking class. We got to make Indonesian dishes, take the recipes home, and eat the delicious food afterward. A great stay, and I’d come back!

A very welcoming family, and I’d absolutely recommend staying here. The place was clean, and Cecilia was a great host whose cooking was amazing. It’s also easy to meet other travelers, which is nice if you’re on your own. Their dog Dodo tags along to the supermarket like a guard, without even being asked. Cecilia took us up Sibayak Volcano for a sunrise hike. We had coffee on the volcano and the views were fantastic. All the best to you and your family, Cecilia! ☺️