Question 1

Which are the best hotels to stay in Balikpapan as a budget traveller?

Accepted Answer

The best hotels to stay in Balikpapan as a budget traveller include Midtown Xpress Balikpapan, Hotel Neo+ Balikpapan by Aston, and ibis Balikpapan.

Midtown Xpress Balikpapan, with a superb 9.2 rating, offers excellent value with free WiFi, complimentary toiletries, and free self-parking. For added convenience, a 24-hour airport shuttle is available.

Hotel Neo+ Balikpapan by Aston is a 3-star option with an 8.8 rating. Guests benefit from free WiFi, free toiletries, and air conditioning. It also features an onsite spa and massage services, providing a touch of relaxation without breaking the bank.

Question 2

How much does a budget hotel in Balikpapan cost?

Accepted Answer

Budget hotel prices in Balikpapan vary, but you can find a great deal from CA $5 on Expedia. To find the cheapest budget hotels, be flexible with your dates—typically, off-peak and mid-week stays are cheaper. Stretch your budget further by looking for hotels with free breakfast, free parking or free airport shuttles. Sort your search results by "Price: low to high" to see our lowest rates.

Question 3

Which area of Balikpapan is best to stay in for cheap hotels?

Accepted Answer

For budget-conscious travellers seeking affordable accommodation in Balikpapan, the central areas around Jalan Jenderal Sudirman and the vicinity of Balikpapan Plaza are typically your best bet. These locations offer a good selection of budget hotels and guesthouses, often within walking distance or a short public transport ride to key amenities.

Solo travellers will appreciate the convenience of staying near Jalan Jenderal Sudirman, as it positions you close to local eateries, small shops, and public transport routes. Many of the more economical hotels in this area provide basic, clean rooms, superb for a single person looking to maximise their travel budget. It's also a vibrant area, making it easy to find an affordable meal or a local coffee shop.

Couples looking for value might consider hotels around Balikpapan Plaza. While it's a commercial hub, you can often find great prices at hotels just off the main thoroughfares. This area provides easy access to supermarkets, a variety of dining options from street food to casual restaurants, and local buses to explore other parts of the city.

Question 4

What are the top-rated cheap hotels for families in Balikpapan?

Accepted Answer

For families seeking top-rated, affordable accommodation in Balikpapan, excellent choices include Midtown Xpress Balikpapan, ibis Balikpapan, and Hotel Mega Lestari.

Midtown Xpress Balikpapan, with an impressive 9.2 rating, is a great option for families. It offers convenient amenities such as free WiFi, free self-parking, and complimentary toiletries. The 24-hour airport shuttle service is particularly helpful for families travelling with children, ensuring a smooth arrival and departure.

The 3-star ibis Balikpapan, rated 7.8, provides reliable comfort and value. Families will appreciate the free WiFi and free self-parking, making it easy to stay connected and explore the area. Complimentary toiletries are also a thoughtful touch for a straightforward stay.

Another good choice for families is the 3-star Hotel Mega Lestari, which has a 7.2 rating. This hotel features a refreshing outdoor pool, which is a fantastic amenity for keeping children entertained.

Question 5

When is the most affordable time to visit Balikpapan?

Accepted Answer

The most affordable time to visit Balikpapan is typically during the low season, which runs from October to April, excluding major holidays like Christmas and New Year. During these months, you'll find lower prices on flights and accommodation due to reduced tourist demand.

Solo travellers will particularly appreciate the quieter atmosphere and better deals on guesthouses and smaller hotels. While Balikpapan experiences a rainy season during some of these months, showers are often brief, leaving plenty of time to explore attractions like the Mangrove Centre or Kemala Beach.

For couples, travelling during this period also means fewer crowds at popular spots such as the Balikpapan Botanical Garden or Melawai Beach, allowing for more intimate experiences.

Question 6

What are the best cheap hotels in Balikpapan with a pool?

Accepted Answer

For affordable hotels in Balikpapan that feature a pool, excellent choices include ibis Balikpapan, Hotel Mega Lestari, and MaxOneHotels.com at Balikpapan.

The 3-star ibis Balikpapan, with a respectable 7.8 rating, offers an outdoor pool and a children's pool, making it ideal for families. Guests can also enjoy complimentary WiFi and free self-parking, adding to its value.

Another good option is the 3-star Hotel Mega Lestari, rated 7.2. This hotel provides an outdoor pool, a children's pool, and a convenient 24-hour airport shuttle service, along with free WiFi and complimentary toiletries.

MaxOneHotels.com at Balikpapan, also a 3-star property, is another great choice.

Question 7

Are there any cheap Balikpapan hotels near Aquaboom Waterpark?

Accepted Answer

For affordable hotels in Balikpapan near Aquaboom Waterpark, consider ibis Balikpapan, Hotel Neo+ Balikpapan by Aston, Midtown Xpress Balikpapan, and MaxOneHotels.com at Balikpapan.

The 3-star ibis Balikpapan, with a 7.8 rating, offers convenient amenities like free WiFi, free self-parking, and complimentary toiletries, providing good value for budget-conscious travellers.

Hotel Neo+ Balikpapan by Aston is a 3-star option with an impressive 8.8 rating. Guests can enjoy free WiFi, complimentary toiletries, and the added benefit of an onsite spa and massage services for a touch of relaxation.

Midtown Xpress Balikpapan, rated 9.2, provides excellent value with free self-parking, a 24-hour airport shuttle, free toiletries, and free WiFi, making travel straightforward.

Another great choice is the 3-star MaxOneHotels.com at Balikpapan.

Question 8

Is Balikpapan a budget-friendly destination?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Balikpapan is a budget-friendly destination, especially for those looking to explore a less-travelled part of Indonesia. Its appeal lies in its natural beauty and authentic local experiences, which can be enjoyed without a hefty price tag.

For solo travellers, accommodation options range from well-priced guesthouses to comfortable hotels, often significantly cheaper than in more popular Indonesian destinations. Neighbourhoods like Balikpapan Kota offer a good selection of affordable stays and are conveniently located for exploring.

Couples can enjoy many free or low-cost activities. Take a leisurely stroll along the beaches, such as Lamaru Beach, or visit the Balikpapan City Forest for a refreshing escape into nature. Exploring the local markets, like Pasar Klandasan, provides an authentic glimpse into daily life and offers delicious, inexpensive street food. Getting around is also budget-friendly, with local transport options like angkots (minibuses) and ride-hailing apps offering affordable fares.

Question 9

Are there any cheap hotels in Balikpapan that allow for late check-out or early check-in?

Accepted Answer

Yes, for budget-friendly accommodation in Balikpapan that offers flexibility with check-in and check-out times, ibis Balikpapan is a great option.

The 3-star ibis Balikpapan, with a review rating of 7.8, offers flexible check-in and check-out options, which can be very helpful for travellers with unusual flight schedules. Guests also benefit from complimentary WiFi and free self-parking, adding to the overall value.

Question 10

How can I save on a budget hotel in Balikpapan with Expedia?

Accepted Answer

There are plenty of ways to save on a budget hotel in Balikpapan. Unlock our lowest prices by joining One Key™, Expedia's travel rewards program. It's free and easy to sign up, and you can access member perks too. Typically, booking in advance will help you save on your hotel booking. If you're feeling spontaneous, be sure to check for last-minute deals.

Question 11

What free activities should we do in Balikpapan?

Accepted Answer

Balikpapan offers several excellent free activities, superb for budget-conscious solo travellers looking to experience the city's natural beauty and local culture without spending a penny.

A top recommendation is exploring the beaches. Kemala Beach, with its clean sands and coastal views, is ideal for a relaxing stroll or watching the sunset. Nearby, Lamaru Beach offers a more rustic charm, great for enjoying the sea breeze and observing local life. These beaches provide a serene escape from the city bustle.

For nature lovers, the Mangrove Centre Graha Indah offers a wonderful opportunity to wander along boardwalks through lush mangrove forests, spotting various bird species and other wildlife. It's an educational and tranquil experience that highlights the region's biodiversity. Another option is the Beruang Madu (Sun Bear) Conservation Centre, where you can observe these fascinating animals in a natural setting. While there's typically an entrance fee, sometimes special events or viewing areas are accessible for free, so it's worth checking local listings upon arrival.

Finally, simply strolling through the city's markets, such as Pasar Klandasan, provides an authentic glimpse into daily Balikpapan life.

Question 12

Is it cheaper to book flights and a hotel in Balikpapan as a package?

Accepted Answer

Booking a hotel and flight package on Expedia can be cheaper than booking flights and hotels separately. Bundling can lead to significant savings, especially for international travel or when booking well in advance. However, savings vary depending on factors like destination, travel dates, and availability, so it’s wise to compare options. With access to over 300,000 hotels worldwide, Expedia makes it easy to build the perfect travel package.

Question 13

Can I cancel my budget hotel reservation on Expedia?

Accepted Answer

Many Expedia hotel reservations are refundable, provided that you cancel before the hotel's cancellation deadline. This is often within 24-48 hours of your scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. For maximum flexibility, use Expedia's "Fully refundable property" filter during your search to find the right budget hotel in Balikpapan for you.

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