This is a well-known backpacker's guesthouse/hostel which is right next to a river delta that flows into the ocean, so you have the option of swimming in the river or the sea. I'm torn as to whether or not to recommend this guesthouse; we thoroughly enjoyed our stay there and received great hospitality from the owner Agus and his wife. But, a few days after we left we noticed that a large sum of money had gone missing from our bags, and it seemed logical that it was one of the guesthouse staff who stole it (only one other couple was staying there at the time, and they did not have access to our room). This was not the only time money was stolen from our hotel room in Indonesia (see the Warnings or Dangers tip on my Indonesia page).
If it wasn't Agus then I would hate to falsely accuse him, so I'll just let you make up your own mind and suggest that you keep an eye on your valuables. In any case, the bungalows are great value, the decor is very interesting (Agus is an artist), and the food is excellent.
Unique Qualities: The artwork of the owner Agus "Gecko" is on display all over the grounds, and he is more than happy to discuss art with anyone interested. He will also allow any aspiring artists to use the materials in his studio for a small fee.
His wife can cook up a huge feast of great seafood upon request, or she can also supply the usual Indonesian basics of fried rice and noodles.
The becaks in Pangandaran are apparently run by a sort of mafia and will demand commission from the owners of the guesthouse, even if it was your own choice to stay there. Our becak driver tried to convince us to go to a different place, perhaps just because it would have been a shorter distance for him to peddle. In any case, insist that they take you to the guesthouse of your choice and nowhere else.
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Theme: Pension/Guesthouse
Comparison: less expensive than average
Prices: less than US$20
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Phone: (0265) 630886
Address: 5km west of Pangandaran
Website: http://www.delta-gecko-village.com/index.html
Other Contact: coconut@delta-gecko-village.com