30 Jul 2014

Jump on board in Bali with local surfer Imants

Bali host Imants, originally from Australia, recently moved to the beautiful Indonesian island to pursue his two main loves - surfing and music. His homestay is a villa located in the popular area of Kuta on the south end of the island, one of the best locations for anyone seeking a beach break. A surf instructor, he's happy to take either beginners or pros out with him on the waves.

Imants is also a musician who loves jazz, soul and Latin music. He can recommend the best local bars for live music and dance, either in Kuta or nearby Seminyak, or if you’re lucky, he may even treat you to a concert of his own on his saxophone.

Imants, tell us about you: what are your interests and hobbies?

I'm an Aussie and have been living here in Bali for a few months now. Bali seems to be a place that matches my interests really well: I fell in love with surfing when I was 20 years old- a late starter for an Aussie living by the beach, but once I took it up there was no turning back. I also love music so I find here I have the opportunity to surf and hang out and jam with great musicians just for fun on a regular basis.

How did you become interested in surfing?

I first got into surfing through my university. I was hanging out with a friend and we walked past a notice that said "Come try surfing!" with the university club, Boardriders. My friend said randomly "So are you going to join?" and I thought to myself "Yeah, why not?" Well I thank my lucky stars everyday for that simple little decision as it changed my life, led me to many amazing places, and gave me some amazing friends along the way.

Why did you sign up as host on Homestay.com?

I moved here to Bali and needed to find someone to help share my villa. I saw an advertisement on Facebook and thought, "Why not?" Saying that now, I guess I think like that that more often than I realise! It seemed really easy and is another way to help find people to come stay with me.

What has been your most memorable experience as a host?

I have only been here a few months so haven't had many guests yet, but I liked it when my friend from Japan came down to Seminyak for the night and he stayed in my spare room. We all went out for dinner at an awesome Japanese restaurant with great live music.

What can people expect when they stay with you?

I will respect their privacy, help them with any questions about Bali, give them a surf lesson if they are ready, and tell them where to go to hear some nice live music if they ask me where to go out!

What would you say to anyone thinking of signing up to Homestay.com?

I just told my friend to do it! He seemed really keen because it’s pretty straightforward, you don't need to worry about PayPal or credit cards, and it seems like a good place to advertise. I like the idea similar to other websites where people can build up a reputation with reviews and feedback. I think that helps me as a host to trust people, and also for guests to know that I am not some crazy weirdo! Because ultimately I am inviting people into my house, it’s not a hotel and it’s going to be a unique and personal experience which I think all my guests have.

Keen to meet Imants and stay in his homestay in Bali? Check out his profile page here.

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