Back at our homestay, Ali’s Place, we found other travelers had just arrived, their own journeys unfolding. A simple “hello” exchanged, we then retreated to our room, eager to settle in.

The room itself was a charming blend of tradition and stability. Inside, it embraced a distinctly local aesthetic, while outside, strong, reassuring pillars gave it a grounded feel. A soft bed, draped with a practical mosquito net, promised a restful night. The bathroom was equally unique, featuring small, smooth river stones underfoot and a beautiful wooden washbasin. Overall, the ambience was perfectly suited for us, offering a peaceful and authentic retreat after our day of travel.

The next morning, stepping out into the fresh Medewi air, we saw Ali already seated on the front bench, deep in conversation with someone. As soon as he noticed us, he offered a warm wave and a welcoming cup of tea.

One of the best features of Ali’s Place, we soon discovered, was its communal kitchen. Ali personally showed us around, inviting us to use the amenities and simply asking us to refill anything we finished. He also clearly explained the fridge etiquette: “Please don’t take things from the fridge, as they belong to other guests,” he said, “but feel free to put your own items in.” It was a well-said and perfectly reasonable explanation, fostering a sense of shared responsibility.

The previous night at the cafe, we’d overheard whispers that Ali was one of the strongest surfing trainers in the area. This knowledge sparked an idea: why not learn from the best, right here in Medewi?

So, we approached Ali and asked if he could give us some lessons. He immediately launched into an enthusiastic talk about surfing, his passion for the waves evident. When we finally asked about the price, Ali offered us a fantastic deal, even including two surfboards. There was no reason to hesitate. We had our trainer, our boards, and we were in Medewi – ready to hit the waves!