My lombok issue 22 by mylombok

mylombok VOLUME 022

DECEMBER 2015

A NOTE FROM THE EDITOR

Welcome to the festive issue of MyLombok magazine! Christmas is almost upon us and everyone is gearing up for a busy party season. To get in the festive mood, we showcase all the special holiday events and attractions taking place across the island in the best bars, restaurants and hotels during the Christmas and New Year period. The heavy rains in Lombok are just around the corner so now is the time to get on the golf course. We take a close look at the course and facilities at Rinjani Country Club, which earlier this month cohosted a major amateur golf tournament. We also profile Lombok’s modern boat building industry as seen through the eyes of catamaran maker Indocats Lombok. A pampering spa session is a must to stay fit and fabulous this busy party season – check out our review of the Sheraton Spa.

ON COVER Carly by Lukas Vrtilek

Always eager to showcase new artistic talent in Lombok, we highlight up and coming street fashion brand SASAKU – known for their innovative Lombok T-shirt designs and we also discuss all things food with the chef of Bambu Lounge. Finally, we also took a trip to North Lombok this month to see the unique villa accommodation at Mentigi Domes. Be it a traditional Christmas lunch with the family or a wild year-end party night, this bumper December issue of My Lombok has got it covered. We wish all readers a happy Christmas and a fantastic New Year!

mylombok ENQUIRIES Telephone: +62 (0)8191 600 1539 E-mail: info@mylombok.co.id Website: www.mylombok.co.id Facebook: /mylombokmag Twitter: @My_Lombok

THE BAD GUY NOTICE No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior permission of PT Tujuan Indah. The views and opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the authors and My Lombok disclaims any responsibility for any errors, ommissions or complaints arising there from. The publisher will not be held responsible for copyright infringement on images supplied by advertisers and or by contributors.

contents

PLAY

Destination Christmas & New Year Lombok Style

Activities RInjani Country Club

Activities Laguna Beach Spa

Local Profile Sasaku

Culture Tobacco Farming in Lombok

Fashion Ride EAT

Chef Interview Rinaldi Kamal

Recipe Fillet ala Bambu Lounge & Sticky Toffee Pudding

Superfood Nutmeg STAY

Luxury Living Mentigi Dome Village

Social Rinjani Tambora Amateur Open Golf Tournament

Senggigi Art Market - Lombok | Ph : (0370) 693758 Lotus Bayview Restaurant Guazzetto

Spaghetti Marinara

Spaghetti Luciano

Sinfonia

Prawns Carpaccio

PL AY

CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR LOMBOK STYLE

LAGUNA BEACH SPA

RINJANI COUNTRY CLUB

SASAKU

RIDE.

DESTINATION

Christmas and New Year Lombok Style

here may be no chance of a White Christmas in tropical Lombok but the festive season is just as magical and there a few better places for a Christmas Day BBQ on the beach or counting down to the New Year under a starry sky. As the island’s popularity grows each year, so does the number of inventive ways to celebrate. This is the time when hotels and restaurants across the island lure guests with special packages, traditional Christmas buffets, kid-friendly events and of course, wild party nights! The influx of foreign visitors at this time of year and large expat community ensures a typically festive atmosphere with a lively vibe but is also has a distinctly Lombok flavour. The festive period is peak

season for travel to Lombok and hotels and villas are usually full. Bars fill up fast each night and most major restaurants exude a fun festive atmosphere, often with customized Christmas menus, treats and familyfriendly entertainment. Lombok’s very own version of Santa Claus normally makes an appearance too. New Year is most definitely a time for everyone to let their hair down. Lots of young locals head from their villages to the tourist resorts to mingle and party with the crowds. Hotspots such as Senggigi and the Gili Islands lay on a variety of showpiece events, ranging from live music, all night beach parties, and vivid pyrotechnics in the sky. Check out all the great food and party events planned in Lombok this festive season.

Christmas

Christmas Eve 6 course Set Menu Dinner at Novotel Novotel Lombok is laying on a French Style 6 Course Special Set Menu this Christmas Eve, complete with a festive live band and an appearance by Santa in a specially designed ‘Cidomo’ sleigh with gifts for all kids. There is a dedicated Kids Buffet priced at just at IDR 95,000++ on the night and for Christmas Day brunch. Reservations: (0370) 6153333 E-mail: reservation@novotellombok.com

The 12 Days of Karma Beach, Gili Meno Kicking off with a Christmas Lighting Ceremony on December 23, Karma has lined up an epic programme of events throughout the festive season. Not to be missed is the once Upon a Magical Christmas Eve feast by the beach with great food, festive tunes and classic cocktails. Choose from a traditional lunch with all the trimmings on Christmas Day to a fun filled Boxing Day beach BBQ throughout the day. Reservations: (0370) 630981

Puri Mas As always, Puri Mas lays on a big dose of Christmas cheer with traditional oven roast turkey and all the trimmings on Christmas Day, followed by the manager's homemade Christmas pudding. The eclectic, modern a la carte menu is also available. To accompany the tantalizing food, there is live music and traditional entertainment throughout the night. Reservations: (0370) 693 831, e-mail: info@ purimas-lombok.com

Cabalito de Mar, Gili Air Tuck into a special set menu this Christmas at Cabalito, featuring such delights as roasted lobster and traditional chestnut stuffed turkey along with festive cocktails and canapés. The perfect spot to celebrate in fine style. Priced at IDR400,000 Reservations: info@cdemar.com

Chandi Look no further than Chandi for a divine Christmas culinary journey. Five sumptuous courses are served for Christmas Eve Dinner with a special festive gift for every diner and live music throughout the night. Priced at IDR590,000 Reservations: (0370) 692198

Square Senggigi On December 24 and 25 diners can indulge in a 5 course gourmet Christmas dinner with all the festive frills. Feast on poached prawn, veal tenderloin and slow cooked turkey rounded off with a traditional Christmas pudding. There is a free glass of wine for all advance bookings. Priced at IDR525,000 Reservations: (0370) 6644888

Sheraton Senggigi This festive season Sheraton Beach Senggigi brings a ‘Touch of Colors’ theme with sights, sounds and tastes on a global scale. Enjoy a delectable Christmas Eve set dinner in the elegant confines of the Alamanda Ballroom or a casual Christmas buffer dinner on December 25. Reservations: (0370) 693333

Jeeva Klui Jeeva Klui is always a favoured spot for some festive indulgence and again this year presents another special Christmas Eve buffet menu. From imaginative appetizers to decadent desserts, there is an array of fine dining to savour, including a live carving station. Priced at IDR550,000 Reservations: (0370) 693035

Temptations For a truly traditional Christmas Day lunch and dinner it has to be Temptations. Old time favourites come with all the trimmings including traditional roast stuffed turkey, mince pies, fruitcake and more. A truel festive temptation. Priced at IDR250,000 Reservations: (0370) 693463

Sudamala There is a familiar traditional feel to Christmas at Sudamala, setting the stage early for a magical night with sunset cocktails and children’s Christmas carols. Chef Juandi’s elegant Christmas Eve set dinner promises to delight all ages and is accompanied with traditional dancers. Priced at IDR765,000 Reservations: (0370) 693111

Lotus Bayview Lotus Bayview serves up a festive choice of Indonesian or western Christmas menus accompanied by a vocalist belting out seasonal tunes and rounded off with dazzling fireworks. Priced at IDR150,000++ pp for Indonesian menu / IDR250,000++pp for Western menu including a glass of wine. Reservations: (0370) 693758

Hotel Vila Ombak, Gili Trawangan Hotel Vila Omabk’s traditional Christmas Eve gala dinner is back and promises to be bigger and better than ever. Aside from the enticing food, there is a full live band through the night, beginning from 7.00pm. Priced at IDR 750,000 Reservations: (0370) 6142336

DESTINATION

New Year

Square Senggigi Celebrate the start of 2016 in fine style with Square’s 5 Course Gourmet New Year Dinner which includes a free glass of wine for dining reservations made in advance. It’s an inventive menu filled with creative delights fit for the biggest night of the year with baked rock lobster, wagyu beef tenderloin and more. Bon appetite. Priced at IDR590,000 Reservations: (0370) 6644888

Ashtari Ocean View Restaurant & Lounge Bar Ashtari offers two palate pleasing fine dining menus for New Year – one serving up prime cuts of meat or succulent ocean fresh seafood. From lamb leg marinated with mustard to lobster flambe with Cognac, it promises to be an epicurean affair. There is live music and cocktails, and a lively set of funky disco, Latino house and rock n roll to get the party started in time for the fireworks at midnight. Priced at IDR1,200,000 Reservations: 0877 65497625

Puri Mas Year-end at Puri Mas is always an epic event and the excitement is already ramping up for this New Year's Eve dinner and party. It kicks off with welcome cocktails, an enticing buffet feast of fine dining, and lively entertainment as the clock counts down to 2016. Early booking essential for this ever popular festive celebration. Priced at IDR850,000++ Reservations: (0370) 693 831 E-mail: info@purimas-lombok.com

Mahamaya, Gili Meno New Year's Eve dinner runs to an epic 7 courses including premium fillet steak or seared salmon at Mahamaya, where the gourmet food experience is perfectly complemented by a vibrant New Year fireworks show, fire dancing and live music. Priced from IDR750,000 Reservations: 0888 7155828

Lotus Bayview Lotus Bayview presents an Italian themed party night this New Year with fab food and entertainment, including a guest singer and vibrant fireworks to see in 2016. There is a choice of two delicious menus to choose from including traditional Indonesian or a selection of tempting western flavours. Priced at IDR150,000++ pp for Indonesian menu / IDR250,000++pp for Western menu including a glass of wine. Reservations: (0370) 693758

Hotel Vila Ombak, Gili Trawangan As always Gii T’s Vila Ombak pulls out all the stops for the biggest night of the year. Starting early, there is a full programme of entertainment beginning with a carnival and welcome dance. There are door prizes and live music and ushering in the final hour of 2015, the ‘Gili Glow’ party kicks in with guest international DJ. Priced at IDR1,500,000 Reservations: (0370) 6142336

Sheraton Senggigi Year-end festivities are always epic at Sheraton and this year promises to be just as spectacular. A comprehensive ‘Around the World’ buffet dinner is accompanied by a live band, DJ parade and fire dance and a dazzling fireworks display to see in 2016. There are also door prizes up for grabs for a lucky few. Reservations: (0370) 693333

Temptations Be tempted with a fine New Year’s Eve Celebration menu that is sure to get the taste buds tingling. There is a traditional western flavour to the menu, featuring lamb medallions or creamy seafood Alfredo pasta, along with an irresistible choice of desserts to finish. Priced at IDR300,000 Reservations: (0370) 693463

Sudamala Fisherman’s BBQ Party New Year at Sudamala is set to be a glittering affair with a sumptuous BBQ dinner kicking things off, followed by the Sudamala Talent Show, fire dances and DJ. It promises to be a night to remember. Priced at IDR750,000++ / children under 12 years IDR375,000++ Reservations: (0370) 693111

White Night at Novotel A sumptuous Gala Dinner on the beach to see in the New Year with a 20% discount offered for all guests wearing white. There is a full programme of vibrant entertainment lined up including live band and DJ, traditional and hip hop dancers, a fire dance and fireworks display to welcome in 2016. Reservations: (0370) 6153333 E-mail: reservation@novotellombok.com

Jeeva Klui Jeeva Klui’s gala dinner buffet is indeed a tempting spread of fine cuisine and the perfect way to celebrate the end of the year. Diners will embark on an indulgent culinary journey with diverse pan-Asian flavours and hearty western favourites. If you only splurge once a year, make in Jeeva Klui this NYE. Priced at IDR1,100,000 Reservations: (0370) 693035

Chandi To the sounds of live music and traditional dance, a Chandi New Year extravaganza means pure culinary pleasure. There is a highly imaginative menu featuring Atlantic salmon and king prawn and roasted Australian lamb rack, finished off with decadent delights like velvety white chocolate mousse. Priced at IDR950.000++ Reservations: (0370) 692198

Seri Resort, Gili Meno Seri is proudly hosting a New Year Party promising a memorable night of fun and great food. It begins with a comprehensive New Year dinner followed by a party celebration with access to the VIP Lounge. Priced at IDR600,000 per person for dinner and party. Reservations: 0819 07467235

Masquerade New Year at Karma Beach, Gili Meno Gili Meno’s big night out begins early from 4pm with sheesha and sundowners to the sounds of a DJ set. A sumptuous New Year’s Eve dinner follows with a menu of premium delights. Priced at IDR650,000++ Reservations: (0370) 630981

New Year at Cabalito de Mar, Gili Air A vibrant New Year celebration is planned at Cabalito with a sumptuous dinner and special party with live entertainment to end 2015 on a high. Priced at IDR550,000 Reservations: info@cdemar.com

ACTIVITIES

Rinjani Country Club Lombok’s Rinjani Country Club is a fairway to heaven for golfers

ava and Bali boast the lion’s share of championship golf courses in Indonesia but Lombok too has gradually been making a name for itself in the golfing world. Locally, there is a vibrant golfing community of Sunday hackers and seasoned scratch players while golf tour companies are increasingly adding Lombok to Indonesian itineraries. Championship standard golf in Lombok can trace is roots back to the Rinjani Country Club which is still going strong after more than 20 years. Its founder, Japanese expat and keen golfer Mamoru Ushida, expanded and designed the current layout from an original 9 hole course with support from the local government. It is currently owned by Green Enterprise Corporation, which is run by Ibu Kaori, Mr Ushida’s daughter. It is also the most conveniently located of the island’s two established golf courses, just a 30 minute drive out of the city. Located at Desa Golong, near Narmada, the Rinjani Country Club offers cool respite from the midday heat, nestling 500 metres above sea level. The course provides a sufficient challenge to seasoned golfers but is also very forgiving for less experienced players. The lush greenery, with abundant water hazards surrounded by coconut trees and inspiring Rinjani volcano views adds to the experience. It is a very long course overall, measuring 78 hectares, but fairways are generally wide and well manicured, in a lush shade of green, contrasting with the numerous water features and white sandy bunkers. As you tee off at each hole, there is a sense of being right in the heart of an

expansive, tropical landscape featuring coconut trees, rice fields and the enduring backdrop of Mount Rinjani in the distance. Signature hole 17 is a particular highlight, looking out directly to Rinjani from the tee. During early morning or late afternoon rounds of golf, the course benefits from fabulous sunrises and sunsets while a cool breeze blows across the course throughout the day. There are golf buggies to whisk you around between shots and a team of knowledgeable English and Japanese speaking caddies available on demand. Pak Sukran is the Master Caddy who was trained at a golf course in Japan. The course is rarely overcrowded so it is the perfect place for a leisurely four-ball or a larger group golf day. Tee time reservation should be made two days in advance. Golf may not be at the top of the list for reasons to visit Lombok but even without your own set of clubs, there is nothing to stop you enjoying a round at Rinjani Country Club. There is a well stocked pro shop with golf club rental. Off course facilities also include a clubhouse, with a restaurant serving up local and international dishes, a swimming pool, locker rooms, driving range and comfortable accommodation. In fact it is a true country club experience, with everything you need for a relaxing weekend of golf and leisure.

ACTIVITIES

Salt, scent, sea, spa… so soothe me!

am prepared to admit this right now …. I am not one of those people who drool over the idea of having a massage, so although a little reluctant, I decided I would be brave and give it a go. The Laguna Beach Spa is housed in traditional buildings, in a tranquil garden setting, with water features, at the garden-side of the Sheraton Senggigi Beach Resort Hotel.

A deep tissue massage should be robust –hard enough to feel the effects, but not to the point of being painful. The therapist will make sure that clients are comfortable with the level of pressure. There is a choice of massage oils, with a variety of oil and spice combinations: the Spices of Lombok blend, which has Black Pepper, Orange, Cinnamon, and Coconut Oil, helps to stimulate blood circulation and therefore oxygen flow to the body tissues.

Guests are welcomed at reception, with lemon tea to drink and a registration form to fill in, and introduced to the therapist who will provide the treatment they have chosen. They are shown to the treatment room, which can be either a berugaq or an enclosed room, but both offering a wonderful view of the sands and the sea.

After the back treatment, it’s time to turn over, and, with cooling cucumber slices applied to the eyes, the massage continues. It’s recommended that after the massage it’s best to wait at least two hours, but preferably a day, before taking a shower. This is so that the oils can soak into the skin and continue to do their work.

The first stage is a foot treatment -a soak in warm water, scented with essential oils, and then a salt scrub. Then, with happy feet encased in slippers, it’s off to the ensuite changing room, where clothing is exchanged for a robe (and disposable underwear, for modesty).

The Sasak Massage is designed to have a rejuvenating effect on the body and the mind, and to relieve tiredness and nervous stress, leaving one energised, refreshed and relaxed.

The spa offers a range of health and beauty treatments, with various massages and body scrubs, as well as manicures and pedicures. It caters for all ages; there is even a ‘teen’ package. On my visit, I agreed to try the Sasak Massage, which had been recommended to me. The therapist explains what is involved. It is an ancient form of massage therapy, which evolved on the island of Lombok. It is classed as a strong-pressure, full body massage, where the therapist uses a variety of techniques, including skin rolling, acupressure, and gentle stretching, and a combination of scented oils. In the treatment room, guests are invited to lie, face down, on the comfortable massage table. My therapist, Eli, suggested we leave the doors open, which proved to be a good idea. The lovely sea breeze and the sound of the waves add to the experience. With traditional Balinese music playing in the background, the effect is calming and pleasant.

The spa offers a clean and attractive environment with all amenities for safety, privacy and comfort. The open-plan treatment areas are pleasant and relaxing – the only slight disadvantage being that the sounds of voices and the phone ringing are occasional disturbances. The therapist, on this occasion, was professional in her manner, knowledgeable and well groomed. She was happy to explain what she was going to do, and what oils or salts she was using, and to answer any questions confidently, without unnecessary conversation. One tip for those considering a visit: a sunset treatment would be magnificent, as the manicure and pedicure chairs and treatment rooms, face the waves and the setting sun. After dressing, I sat outside for some time, looking out over the ocean and drinking the warm tea I was offered.... And the verdict? Yes. It felt great and I would do it again!

Laguna Beach Spa, Sheraton Senggigi Beach Resort Jalan Raya Km. 8 Senggigi, Senggigi, Lombok, West Lombok Regency, West Nusa Tenggara 83355 Phone: (0370) 693 333

ACTIVITIES

Dreaming of blue water cruising?

hat would be better than to luxuriate in wellappointed comfort, as you cruise between islands, refreshed and carefree? Or to stand at the rail, enjoying a delicious breeze, as your catamaran flies over sparkling waters and you wonder why life can’t always be like this? Anticipating lunch ashore, afternoon cocktails and then gliding into port against a spectacular sunset…. It doesn’t have to be a dream. Dylan Furler has a passion for sailing and he has been indulging it since he was five years old. ‘It comes from my dad and uncle’, he says. His father is Wayne Furler, an experienced yachtsman and boat builder. About 30 years ago he established IndoCats, and has built 13 luxury yachts from his base in Lembar. Now the family connection has been strengthened further. Dylan has recently established IndoCats Charters, based in Teluk Nare. He earned his captain’s licence in Jakarta, and has expanded into luxury cruising, using vessels built in his father’s factory. He offers guests a spectacular day-trip experience. ‘At the moment we use two yachts, Senggigi Sensation and Senggigi Sunset, which are available for charters around the three Gili Islands and the Tanjung area’, says Dylan. The 11.5 m catamarans are both fitted out with an eye to maximum comfort and style. Each can take 15 to 20 passengers on one-day trips around the islands, where they can enjoy exploring, water sports or sheer relaxation. ‘We work with a number of diving companies on the Gilis,’ says Dylan, “So, if they wish, our guests can experience diving and spear fishing, in designated areas’. Extended overnight charters are also available. The vessels can accommodate seven, in two double and three single cabins. There are also plans to offer sailing trips to Komodo. At IndoCats, Wayne’s clients are mainly from Australia. Most are looking for luxury leisure craft, but some commissions are for racing yachts; Cidomo and Margarita have each won the Whitsunday Races. Mark Pescott, an Australian now living in Phuket, works in partnership with IndoCats as the yacht designer. He also inspects the vessels at critical stages in

the construction process to ensure the work is done strictly to design and safety specifications. All yachts are custom-built and each one is unique. Clients usually purchase an empty gully, which is then fitted out according to individual taste and, in a process that takes about 18 months, transformed into the yacht they have dreamed of owning. But for those who want a briefer encounter, there is the IndoCats Charters day trip. A typical experience begins when guests meet the yacht at Teluk Nare. The schedule is completely flexible but most guests choose to sail to Gili Trawangan where they are free to explore the island, swim or snorkel or even relax on board. The next stop is at Gili Meno before heading to Gili Air for lunch. Cruising back to Teluk Nare, passengers can enjoy drinks, which are included, and even arrange to have a chef on board if they like. As a professional, licenced operator, Dylan stresses that IndoCats Charters places the highest priority on passenger comfort and safety. Vessel’s are equipped with refreshment and toilet facilities, and crewed with a captain and an anchor man, with the option of more staff, according to guests’ requirements. ‘We comply fully with all Australian Safety Standards and we have emergency radio, life rafts, jackets – all the necessary safety gear’ says Dylan. ‘And besides’, he adds, ‘Our boats are built out of Kevlar foam which is basically unsinkable’. IndoCats and IndoCats Charters are an ideal partnership – a combination of family, work and personal passion. And sharing the dream. Length: 12-hour day trip (schedule is flexible, but usually from 7am to 7pm) Cost: $600 per trip Includes: 2 staff (full kitchen service and onboard chef can be arranged); fuel costs; limited drinks Also available: Parties, pre-wedding photo shoots

Phone: +628113904828 Facebook: www.facebook.com/indocatscharters Website: www.indocatslombok.com E-mail: dylanfurler@indocats.com

LOCAL PROFILE

SAS

A stylish street fashion brand with a distinctly Lombok flavour

ombok’s reputation as a hotbed of traditional arts and crafts is well deserved, known the world over for quality fabrics, ceramics, pearl jewelry and much more. However regular readers of My Lombok will be aware we also like to highlight the here and now. Lombok’s modern artisans are also making a name for themselves, particularly in the fashion world. Another name to add to the growing list is SASAKU. SASAKU was established to fill a gap in the local market for quality designer apparel – T shirts sporting original motifs that depict a modern day Lombok. Original opened as an oleh-oleh (souvenir) store, SASAKU has grown into a successful design studio with two outlets in Lombok. Chief designer is Pak Mantra, a well known figure in the Lombok art scene and a graduate of the prestigious Indonesian Institute of Arts in Yogyakarta. A multi-talented artist in many different disciplines, he has exhibited throughout Indonesia, Asia and Europe. Each SASAKU design represents Lombok, but these are nothing like the typical mass produced tourist T shirts that sit alongside cheap ‘Bintang’ singlets. Each shows an artist’s eye for detail in a variety of fashionable styles from ethnic motifs to pop art, surfer style and more. Some are simple and stylish while many boast very intricate, artful patterns. There are about 300 unique designs in circulation with a limited number made in each size. The company likes to bring out a new design every month.

From humble beginnings in 2013, SASAKU now has two stores – at Dasan Cermen and in central Senggigi. Due to growing demand, there are plans to move the Senggigi outlet to larger premises. Both stores are memorable not only for the merchandise that awaits inside but also whimsical statues which offer a teaser of what to expect. At Dasan Cermen is the fanciful artwork of two cows riding a bicycle, while outside the Senggigi store is a monkey wearing board shorts. Both are certainly attention grabbers and like nothing else in Lombok. In the early days all garments were made and printed in Bali, but now everything is made in-house to better manage the production process and ensure there is always sufficient stock to meet the growing demand, using 11 printing machines. Apart from T-shirts SASAKU also produces a line of souvenirs, sarongs, accessories, sandals, bags and even food.

Jl. TGH Lopan, Kompleks Pertokoan Dasan Cermen No. 31-32, Lombok Outlet Senggigi: Jl. Raya Senggigi, Lombok Phone: +62 370 7100009 Facebook: www.facebook.com/lomboksasaku

CULTURE

From Seed to Sale

Tobacco Farming in Lombok

eing a good tobacco farmer is a lot like being an artist. Both enterprises need skill and creativity, good judgement and persistence – and a lot of hard work.

Indonesia is one of about 75 countries that produce Virginia flue cured tobacco, and two major growing regions are in South and East Lombok. Tobacco can be a profitable crop for a farmer who has ‘the right touch’. Lombok farmers are both skilled and hardworking; they know the traditional farming methods, and are open to innovative technologies that will improve and expand their production. Tobacco is a crop that makes sense in many ways. It uses one quarter of the water that rice plantations and many other dry crops require, and that’s good news in the dry season, especially in South East Lombok where there is simply not enough irrigation to support continuous rice cultivation. Growing Tobacco The growing season stretches from March until September or October.The first step is the raising of seedlings. The farmers plant out their seedbeds during March and April, using locally produced, USA hybrid seeds. They are planted on ridges, to make sure there is adequate drainage; tobacco plants won’t thrive in wet soils. The seedlings stay in the nurseries for 50 days, until the plants are well hardened, with good leaf growth and strong root systems. From May to July the focus is on planting and field management. The strongly growing seedlings are planted out in the main fields, with fertiliser, and are not irrigated for a month. This places the tobacco transplants under deliberate ‘stress’ to strengthen them and promote root growth. Strong root foundations increase the farmer’s overall yield and quality, and the development of upper stalk, highly flavoured leaf for which Lombok is famous. Harvesting happens from July through to September and October. Well-grown plants will reach a height of 39 to 51 inches (100

to 130 cm), each with between 18 and 22 harvestable leaves. The bottom leaves, which ripen earliest, are picked first; these are called ‘filler’. The mid-stalk leaves tend to be the largest. The topmost leaves are the most flavourful due to their higher levels of nicotine. An average yield per hectare is about 2200 kgs with some reaching close to 3000 kgs per hectare. Before the tobacco is ready for use, it must be dried – this is called curing – to produce its rich colour and distinctive flavour. The Curing Process Tobacco producers around the world employ different curing methods: air, sun, or fire – depending on what the tobacco will be used for. In Lombok, tobacco is flue-cured – a method used in 40% of world tobacco production. The leaves are tied to poles, which are then hung on racks in the curing barns, or ‘ovens’. Fireboxes (furnaces) outside the barns have flues running into the barns; they transfer the heat needed to dry the tobacco, but do not expose the leaves to smoke. Flue-curing produces tobacco that is high in sugar and has medium to high levels of nicotine. It is also called ‘Bright’ or ‘Virginia’ and, although often blended with other tobaccos, is used almost entirely to manufacture cigarettes. Some English blend cigarettes contain 100% flue-cured tobacco. The flue-curing process promotes certain chemical changes in the leaf, resulting in tobacco that has a high ratio of sugar to nicotine, especially where the leaf is picked at the peak of ripeness. Cured leaves are strongly coloured – varying from lemon and orange to deep mahogany. The curing process is crucial to the farmers’ bottom line. All tobacco is graded and baled at the farm and the farmer puts his unique barcode on all the tobacco he produces. There are over 80 grades of tobacco, so how well he grows, cures and grades the leaf determines whether he gets less than $1.50 or more than $3 per kilogram.

CULTURE

A Risky Business Tobacco production requires extensive capital expenditure, and intensive labour. It is vulnerable to climate, and to threats from natural pests, and subject to market volatility. These factors highlight the risks that farmers face every day. One of the biggest issues for tobacco growers in Lombok is land subdivision. There are no laws in place to regulate the farmers’ practice of dividing and sharing their land with family members. This eventually results in small, non-viable plot sizes, and farmers are forced into the expense of renting land rather than owning it – a common scenario being that a farmer works 2.5 to 3 acres (1 to 1.2 hectares) but owns only 1 acre (0.4 hectares). The process itself presents problems. Cured tobacco obviously requires fuel for the curing process. Until recently, this was kerosene, which was subsidized by the government. Now that the subsidies have been phased out, the challenge has been to find alternatives that are not only effective and affordable, but also environmentally sound. The widespread use of forest fuelwood increases the risks of deforestation. Sustainable biofuels, such as palm oil and candlenut shells, are acceptable alternatives, but they come from Sumatra and Kalimantan, and leave larger ‘carbon footprints’ than would be desired. Local reforestation and the development of sustainable forestry in Lombok would be the best concept. Add to this the decline of tobacco sales, the fluctuations in the selling price and the growing production expenses – including the price of fertilizer and the cost of labour – and it’s clear that tobacco farming can be a very risky business.

And So, To Market Farmers usually enter into sales contracts with tobacco companies, who then send the cured and graded leaf to Java for blending and processing. Tobacco farming has a significant impact on the economy. In Nusa Tenggara Barat, tobacco is the second biggest income earner after gold and copper mining, and tobacco companies are the biggest taxpayers in Indonesia. While some of the tobacco grown in Indonesia is exported, most of it is used domestically. Indonesia has one of the largest smoking populations in the world. It is therefore highly beneficial that quality tobacco can be produced locally, avoiding the need to waste valuable foreign currency on expensive imported tobacco. In terms of the quality of its flue-cured tobacco, Indonesia stands up well in comparison with the world’s top producers – China, US, Brazil, India and Zimbabwe, most of which are also major exporters. Since the late 1990s, there have been major improvements in tobacco farming, partly as a result of partnerships with companies such as HM Sampoerna and British American Tobacco (BAT). Company field officers were made available to advise farmers on better production methods, and the timely use of fertilisers and pesticides. At the small farm level, clearly weighing benefits against risks, thousands of families are involved in this labour-intensive enterprise. And for the ‘artist’ of tobacco production, the rewards are there.

PHONE: +62 (0)8191 600 1539

EMAIL: INFO@MYLOMBOK.CO.ID

FASHION

EAT

CHEF RINALDI KAMAL

FILLET ALA BAMBU LOUNGE

STICKY TOFFEE PUDDING

NUTMEG

CHEF INTERVIEW

RINALDI KAMAL, EXECUTIVE CHEF OF BAMBU LOUNGE

Bringing It All Back Home

inaldi Kamal is from Ampenan, and he learned to love food and traditional cooking at an early age. Then another love took him to the far side of the world, where he refined and expanded his culinary skills. Now he has completed the circle and is back in Lombok, as owner and executive chef at the popular Bambu Lounge in Senggigi. He brings the best of European and Asian cuisine to the table, in his own ‘fusion’ style. What is the one dish you love and remember from your mother’s kitchen? My mother has been making chicken curry ever since I was young. It’s a dish I just love! When did you first become interested in food? Probably when I was about 14 years old. My mother had a warung in the Kebon Roek Market and every day, when I came home from school, I would go there and do the shopping, and help her to cook. Sometimes I even slept at the warung. What made you decide to become a chef? I wanted to follow in my mother’s footsteps, I suppose – and to continue with the same love for food and passion for cooking that she has. How did your family react when you told them you wanted to become a chef? They were very happy. Out of the five children in our family, I am the only one who has followed my mother and become a chef. They have all supported me. Tell us more about your training, and your career so far. After I finished school,I married and moved to the UK, which is my wife’s home country. I worked as a cook for a well-known Italian Restaurant in Manchester, in the north west of England. My boss sent me to college to study cooking. It was a three-year course, and when I wasn’t studying I would be cooking in the restaurant. Then I moved to Mere Court Hotel, which is a leading wedding venue in Cheshire. I was the Chef de Partie in the banqueting section for two years. Afterwards I worked for eight years as the Sous Chef at the Mercure Hotel.

In 2014, I moved back home to Lombok, and that’s when my wife and I opened our own restaurant, the Bambu Lounge in Senggigi. How would you define your style of cooking? I would describe it as a mix of European and Asian food Tell us about your concept for your menu at Bambu Lounge. The concept reflects my style - European and Asian dishes. I always try to create a relaxed, and informal dining menu, with the type of food people enjoy. I use local produce for the dishes, whenever I can. What inspires you? How do you come up with ideas for the dishes in the restaurant? I always go to the market, to see what is available and then I plan and create the dishes. I love to come up with new ideas, so I experiment with different methods of cooking, and new ways of combining ingredients. What’s your favourite dish on the menu? The Fusion Curry. It’s a good example of one of the dishes I created myself, by mixing different flavours together. My customers love it too! What is the favorite dish among your customers? The Beef Rendang – they love it! It is another of my fusion dishes … different tastes, different aromas. The meat is very tender and the flavours are unique. It’s also one of my own creations. Do you have favourite ingredients that you love to cook with? Oh yes. Ginger and garlic. They are both very versatile to cook with, and they have health benefits. When you have eaten dishes with these ingredients, you somehow have a warm, contented feeling! What are your favourite kitchen gadgets? The wok is my favourite. It’s easy to use, and very versatile for cooking a great variety of dishes. What would be a typical day at work for you? I wake up and go straight to the market to buy all the fresh produce I need for the day. Then, when I arrive at the restaurant, I monitor the staff and help with the preparations for lunch. I also help to cook the meals for the lunchtime orders, and afterwards I take a break. At 4pm it’s back to the restaurant to start preparing for dinner. During the evening, I like to talk with the customers to see how their meals are and to get their feedback. When the restaurant closes, I do the stock take for the next day, and finally go home around 10 or 11pm.

What is the biggest challenge in your job? The biggest challenge is to manage the staff, and teach them to listen and learn and to remember what they have been taught. I like to take on staff who have only a little experience, so I can train them from the beginning to be good chefs in the kitchen. When you’re at home, what do you like to eat? Do you ever cook at home? Yes, I always cook at home. I like to cook a Sunday roast for my family. My wife is English and so that’s one of her favourite dishes. Are you an adventurous eater? Are there any foods you won’t eat or even try? Yes, I am definitely adventurous. I’ll try everything and anything – except pork, which I don’t eat, for religious reasons. If you hadn’t become a chef, what would you be doing right now? I think I would still be working in the hospitality and tourism business, in some way, because I really enjoy working and interacting with people. What do you like most about living in Lombok? Lombok is my ‘home’ and I am happy to be living near to my family and friends. I also like the beautiful warm weather, the natural environment, the beaches and the relaxed lifestyle you can have in Lombok. What do you like to do in your spare time? I enjoy spending time with my family. And I am always looking for new dishes to create. I also like to ride my motorbike around Lombok. Who is your favourite celebrity chef? Marco Pierre White. He has a great attitude to food and a really good style of cooking. Other than creating great food, what would you say are the most important qualities that make a successful chef? You have to take responsibility. You need to be prepared to work long hours. You should be creative, and you must be really dedicated to what you are doing, because being a chef is not an easy career. Any tips for budding chefs? Be prepared to work hard, and work long, unsociable hours. Always be willing to listen and learn. And there are lots of new things you need to learn, so you must have a good memory.

Fillet ala Bambu Lounge Ingredients

Method

• 100gr fillet steak • 2 large potatoes • 3 baby corn • 1 carrot • 3 green beans • ½ tsp black peppercorn • 1 cup stock • ½ tsp sugar • ¼ cup fresh cream

1. Heat the oven to 180°C. 2. Heat the pan. Cover fillet in salt and pepper on each side. Cook for 1 minute on both sides using the pan. 3. Place fillet in the oven for 8 minutes. Remove and leave to rest for 2 minutes. 4. Cook vegetables in a pan. 5. Cut potato into good size wedges and deep fry until a golden colour. 6. Cook the sauce – place black peppercorns into a pan and add home-made stock and sugar. Leave to boil. Add the cream and a pinch of salt.

To Serve Place the fillet steak on a plate. Cover with black pepper sauce. Serve with vegetables and potato wedges.

Sticky Toffee Pudding Ingredients

Method

Pudding • 370 gr pitted dates • 90 gr unsalted butter • 1½ tsp bicarbonate of soda • 1½ cup self raising flour • 1 cup brown sugar • 3 eggs

Pudding 1. Preheat the oven to 180°C. 2. Cream together the butter, sugar and 1 egg. Beat in the remaining eggs one at a time. 3. Fold in the sifted flour and add the dates and bicarbonate of soda. Mix and stir until well combined. 4. Pour into the baking tin. Bake for 55 to 60min or until skewer is removed clean.

Caramel Sauce • 370 gr pitted dates • 90 gr unsalted butter • 1½ tsp bicarbonate of soda • 1½ cup self raising flour • 1 cup brown sugar • 3 eggs

Caramel Sauce 1. Mix the butter and brown sugar in a pan over low heat, until sugar has dissolved. 2. Add the cream and cook for a further 3 min. 3. Remove from the heat.

To Serve Place the pudding on a plate and cover with caramel sauce. Serve with 1 scoop of vanilla ice-cream.

NUTMEG

A Secret, Spicy Little Treasure Trove

t’s almost hard to believe that a very ordinary seed could have been so important to wealthy traders. But it’s true. What was its secret?

The nutmeg tree is one of the most versatile spice-yielding plants. It grows in Indonesia, Malaysia, and parts of India and the Caribbean, but is native to the Banda Islands (once known as the Spice Islands) in eastern Indonesia, and once grew there exclusively. And that was the first secret. After discovering nutmeg during their voyages in the Middle Ages, Arab traders refused to reveal its location to European merchants and sold it at high prices, especially when it was rumoured that nutmeg could help prevent becoming infected with the plague. The Europeans eventually discovered the source. Portuguese and Dutch traders first arrived in Banda in the early sixteenth century and they bought the nutmeg directly. Possibly the second secret: nutmeg essence is traditionally used as an ingredient in ‘money drawing oils’ – claimed to attract wealth. That might or might not be true – and more about nutmeg’s magical powers later – but nutmeg certainly proved a money-spinner to the European opportunists. The Dutch, in particular, in a rather shady move, managed to seize a trade monopoly, and then took advantage of the law of supply and demand. They kept the price of nutmeg high in Europe, where it was very much in demand, and used extraordinary, and violent, measures to maintain and protect their monopoly, which lasted until the mid twentieth century.

So just what is so special about the nutmeg plant? It produces a fruit, which looks a little like a pale green fig. But that’s just the starting point. It’s a little gift that keeps on giving. Every part of the fruit has a use, and each has the characteristic nutmeg flavour, of varying intensity. Working from the outside in…. First, the nutmeg rind can be grated and sweetened and used as a flavouring – for example, as a garnish for ais kacang, the traditional Malaysian iced dessert, or in jam and jelly. The fruit itself is used to make a nutmeg syrup jam, called morne delice (Caribbean), or selai buah pala (Indonesia), and is a popular dried and glazed sweet nutmeg treat, manisan pala. Embedded in the fruit, similar to an avocado stone, is the nutmeg seed. What you see first is a waxy red lacework coating that covers the seed. This is mace, which can easily be peeled off, and its arils, or ‘blades’, are dried and used as a spice, either shredded or finely ground, in sauces, and meat and fish dishes. It is also used in much the same way as saffron – in fruit drinks and in custards – to add colour and a very subtle flavour. Despite what you have might have read, mace should not be confused with the irritant spray made from hot-chili or capsicum extract. This ‘pepper spray’ is named after a mediaeval weapon called a ‘mace’, and is totally unrelated to the mace from the nutmeg fruit.

Under its mace covering, the nutmeg seed is revealed. It has a hard shell, which resembles a hazel nut, and usually it is dried, whole, until the nutmeg kernel inside shrivels and separates from the shell, which can then be cracked open. Even the shells are useful. Added to barbecue fuel or placed in smokers, they add flavor to meat and fish. Finally, the last discovery… the nutmeg kernel that most of us recognize. The kernel can be pressed to produce fatty materials, used to make essential oils or nutmeg butter, which is sometimes used as an alternative to cocoa butter. Most often, though, the kernel is dried and stored whole, and grated or powdered, as required. Nutmeg is used in cuisines all over the world – from pumpkin pie to potato mash; from roast meat to rice pudding; from eggnog to eggs benedict; from curries to croquettes. A favourite in any language. Who knew it was a traditional ingredient in haggis? According to those who swear by its effectiveness, nutmeg can have some benefits for health and well-being. Warm milk with a sprinkle of nutmeg is said to promote a sound sleep. Nutmeg oils massaged into joints are claimed to be effective in reducing muscular and rheumatic pain. A mixture of nutmeg and honey can be applied to the skin to clear up blemishes, or added to water and gargled as a sore throat remedy. One essential oil found in nutmeg, eugenol, has been used for toothache relief, and other oils are found in treatments for nausea, gastritis, and indigestion.

Both nutmeg and mace contain vitamins (A, B-complex and C), anti-oxidants (beta-carotene and cryptoxanthin), and also traces of calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, potassium, and zinc. Always use nutmeg with caution, though, and only in small quantities. Most people would find large amounts unpalatable anyway, but high-level consumption of nutmeg has been known to have negative effects. It contains substances that have been found to be psychoactive – causing headaches, hallucinations or other mental disturbances in some people. And as a last word, don’t forget those mystical, magical qualities. Related to its ‘money drawing’ reputation, a nutmeg carried in your pocket can bring good luck – at gambling, going for a job, or in a court case. It also protects you while travelling. Apparently it can help your love life too. Dab on the nutmeg oil and the opposite sex will irresistibly flock to you. In the Spanish West Indies, to sprinkle some nutmeg in a woman’s shoe, at midnight, was to make sure she fell in love with you. Be careful with that one! If you have already found the love of your life, dividing and sharing a nutmeg will make sure you are together forever. It’s that easy. Believe it or not! Maybe those early traders were on to some of nutmeg’s other secrets!

STAY

MENTIGI DOME VILLAGE

RINJANI TAMBORA AMATEUR GOLF TOURNAMENT

LUXURY LIVING

Mentigi Dome Village Unique luxury dome living in a Mediterranean style hilltop resort

he Lombok villa scene, as regular readers of My Lombok are surely aware, is a vibrant one that is always evolving. In the past we have showcased some amazing, unique villa design concepts, but this month we have unearthed a true one-of-a-kind. Set on hillside overlooking tranquil Mentigi Bay lies Mentigi Dome Village, which as the name suggests, is not your average villa resort. A collection of quirky domes – dubbed ‘golden eggs’ by the owners – nestle among palm trees, frangipani and bougainvillea with captivating ocean views. If you ever dreamed of spending the night in an igloo without the subzero temperatures, this is the place to go. The perfectly spherical domes are a real eye-opener, seamlessly rising out of the ground and dotted throughout the expansive resort grounds. There is a choice of one and two bed villas, the latter with private pools. Each is fully furnished in warm colours, and like the main construction of the domes themselves, made with natural materials. High ceilings and full size windows ensure cool, well ventilated interiors. There is something quite special about villa living ‘in the round’ and exudes a warm and cosy feel perfect for a honeymoon hideaway.

In keeping with the general layout of the domes, there are some quirky modern design features inside. It is definitely the work of an artist with an eye for detail; the lead architect on the project was veteran designer and artist Wolfgang Widmoser. He studied at the Vienna Academy with professor Ernst Fuchs, a renowned exponent of surrealism, and also learnt his craft under the tutelage of none other than Salvador DalĂ. This is evident not only inside the villas but throughout the resort grounds. The paved walkways, dry stone style walls and even the landscaping itself has a very distinctive visual quality and is very reminiscent of a Mediterranean village, elevated by the awe-inspiring ocean vistas. Public facilities within the resort include an appealing infinity pool, dive centre, restaurant and in-villa massage and spa services. A short amble down the hillside leads to a quiet stretch of sand overlooking the Gili islands where hot lazy days can be spent in virtual isolation. The company also runs liveaboard dive trips to Flores and Komodo, or hop on a speedboat for the short trip to the nearby Gili Islands.

Mentigi Bay Phone: +62 353 292 447 E-mail: mentigibay@hotmail.com Web: www.mentigi-bay.com

SOCIAL

Rinjani Tambora Amateur Open Golf Tournament Earlier this month, the Rinjani Country Club Golf Course cohosted Lombok’s first big golf event – the Rinjani Tambora Amateur Open Golf Tournament in collaboration with Kosaido Country Club located at Sire in North Lombok. The tournament was designed to boost golf participation throughout Lombok and encourage golf tourism on the island, it was a great success with a large turn-out. More than 120 golfers entered the tournament from Lombok as well as Jakarta, Surabaya, Bandung, Yogyakarta. There was also an international contingent with several golfers travelling from Malaysia. The two-day event was the perfect opportunity to showcase not only the Rinjani Country Club’s course and facilities, but also the captivating surrounding landscape, and of course the commanding views of Mount Rinjani, which can be seen from both courses. Finally the winners were announced; Mr Tonico Anggara Hermanto took the prize for overall best gross score with 146 off a handicap of 1. Overall best nett score was achieved by Mr Nathasia Liman with 121 (handicap 28), while Mr L Muhibin Ansori had best gross flight A with 149 (handicap 3).

ASTROLOGY — DECEMBER 2015

horoscopeofthemonth Aries (March 21–April 19) What do you have going for you besides the persistent desire to chuck it all and find a way to have the wind rush your face? It is your insatiable need to live every experience to the fullest and beat back opposition. Hold on to these qualities when the world besieges you with its demands. You are born to conquer your enemies, meant to rule and no one will get in the way when you cheer your favorite football team. Taurus (April 20–May 20) Backstabbing people rub a raw nerve in your psyche. For you the secret to life is simple. Be a friend and you’ll get one back. For others it is not so black and white. This is a test of your ability to move on. Though your inner judge doesn’t agree, it is better to forgive and forget, to love rather than not to have loved at all. Experience is the best and only teacher in doing this. Gemini (May 21–June 20) This is the month when other people put plans on hold until the New Year. Problem is the boss still expects you to produce. You can finesse any situation with the best of them but not even you gets blood out of a stone. Your best bet is to go for the short sale, the quick piece of business, or introductory offers and rack up lot of them. Work? Yes. And maybe more for the times ahead too. Build your customer base. Cancer (June 21–July 22) You are stuck in a rapidly shifting situation, not the best of atmospheres for security conscious crabs. What can you hang onto when nothing seem stable? Paradoxically, you can grab your hopes and dreams for the future. These provide a balm for the caustic circumstances that surround you. If you cannot find support among family and friends, perhaps this a lesson on how to learn how to rely on yourself.

Leo (July 23–August 22) Unlike last month you are in the top dog now. You can move ninja swift through the corridors of power whether they be at work or in your home. the regal way of Lions everywhere you command, direct and inform all people in your orbit. Others offer unusual remedies to increase efficiency and productivity. Employees and coworkers find those solutions a welcome change of pace. Virgo (August 23–September 22) As usual you run around trying to make everything “perfect” for end of year festivities. Only here’s the thing, Virg, you are driving everyone crazy. Not that you don’t do that other times, but only important holidays truly amps up your mania for making things right. Breath. Relax. Ease up on everyone. Eat your own cooking. Salad days are for the hottest part of the year, not your relentless pursuit of health. Libra (September 23–October 22) The month races past you are breakneck speed. You work so hard at getting everything organized that your laser focus prevents you from stopping to smell the roses. It is never good for a Libra to allow so much stress in your life and you can end up paying for it with a nasty virus or flu. Eat well with lots of fruits and vegetables and get enough sleep to keep yourself in tip top shape. Scorpio (October 23–November 21) The planet of money and love enters your sign providing an opportunity to pursue these two objectives with zeal. You may be receive a bonus or a raise if you appeal to the people in charge. In love your romantic side comes out. Not everything has to be whips and chains with the intense Scorpion. Curb a tendency to shift moods rapidly and you’ll come out on top this month.

Sagittarius (November 22–December 21) This is a start of a new cycle for you, Archer, though it feels like that the same old stuff, different day. Part of what keeps you under the weather is that relations with others are, um, a tab uneasy. You do best in an atmosphere of shared goals and ideals. That isn’t happening with everyone else expecting you to pick up the lion’s share of the work. Use your diplomatic skills to smooth the ruffled feathers of difficult co-workers. Capricorn (December 22–January 19) You are likely to hear conflicting stories. Friends and associates talk about being supportive but at crunch time find a way to bolt. You don’t understand what their problem is because when you give your word you do exactly as you say. You can clear up any misunderstanding by being totally honest with the people you depend on. Hand out some sugar with your requests and you’ll get farther than if you didn’t. Aquarius (January 20–February 18) You are presented with a deal that has more strings than a puppet. It seems like your hard work is almost being recognized. Almost because the proffered rewards are less than expected. Should you look a gift horse in the mouth? Take the money and run. If anyone has the talent to build on marginal success it you. There is more of this to come and right now you are laying the groundwork for that. Pisces (February 19–March 20) Opposition is fading but not fast enough for you. You prefer an atmosphere free of conflict to get your creative juices flowing. Unfortunately, someï»¿ fill the boss’ or other authority figure’s ear about perceived slights and deficiencies. There is only so much those in charge will take. Keep your mind on your job and not office gossip and you’ll fare much better than the people who rock the boat.

This is Lombok! Lombok’s time is here and now, having finally stepped out of Bali’s shadow, showcasing to the world its unique mix of adventure, pristine natural scenery and captivating art and culture. A new airport, international yacht marina and improved roads have made travel to and within Lombok much easier, but it is its untamed natural beauty and traditional charm that captivates. It is an adventure-seeker’s paradise, home to world-class scuba diving, surfing and mountain climbing yet travellers looking for a cosmopolitan beach lifestyle and luxury creature comforts will not be short of options. Experience the best of Lombok with these recommended highlights and hidden gems:

Senggigi and The West Coast Senggigi, just a short drive from the island capital Mataram is Lombok’s premier beach resort, extending along a series of sweeping bays. The main beach strip is fringed by a wide expanse of sand framed nightly by spectacular ocean sunsets. It is a fairly spread out beach town that rarely feels overcrowded yet there is a broad variety of places to stay, eat and socialise. There is a vibrant expat community here with lots of opportunity for sports and leisure, business networking and searching out those hard to find imported goods. Senggigi is the best place to arrange days out and guided trips to other parts of Lombok. The beach road then winds its way north to upmarket Mangsit, dotted with hip boutique hotels and villas among some of west Lombok’s most captivating scenery. In all, the Senggigi area stretches for almost 10 km along the west coast, and away from the main tourist centre, comprises numerous palm fringed beaches dotted with colourful fishing boats.

Gili Islands

The Southwest

A trio of tiny tropical islands off the northwest coast, known simply as ‘the Gilis’ are the goto place for laid-back island life and the simple pleasures of sun, sea and superb scuba diving. Each of these three islands has its own distinctive atmosphere; the smallest is Gili Meno, a peaceful tropical island haven with few distractions other than deserted white sand beaches and a couple of chilled out beach bars. Legendary ‘party island’ Gili Trawangan is largest and most cosmopolitan of the Gili Islands with no shortage of swanky boutique villas, diverse dining and plenty of action after dark. Gili Air, located closest to the Lombok mainland, sits somewhere in the middle of these two extremes and has the most authentic local atmosphere. The enduring appeal of the Gili Islands is the refreshing absence of any motorised transport making for a pleasant alternative to Bali’s congested beach resorts. Scuba diving is still the main draw and it is one of Asia’s top spots to learn the basics and get qualified. For landlubbers, there are few better places to get horizontal on a tropical beach and soak up the unique island vibe.

Lombok’s ruggedly beautiful southwest peninsular is largely unexplored by visitors but is now getting serious recognition with the discovery of superb offshore scuba diving and miles of deserted beaches. The main gateway is Sekotong Bay, located just south of Lombok’s main ferry port Lembar and is the jumping off point for Lombok’s ‘Secret Gilis.’ These small offshore islands feature pristine coral reefs and idyllic tropical beaches for a real castaway experience. Heading south, the coastal road winds its way past tiny fishing communities and secluded bays all the way to the tip of the peninsular where the legendary surf breaks of Bangko Bangko (Desert Point) are found — rated among the best in the world.

Kuta and South Lombok Like its namesake in Bali, Kuta Lombok is synonymous with world-class waves but thankfully without the hassle of 24/7 traffic and infuriating beach hawkers. In fact, Lombok’s south coast surf breaks are more than a match for the best in Bali, and savvy surfers are heading here to enjoy miles of uncrowded, adrenaline-fuelled waves. Kuta, invitingly close to Lombok’s new international airport, is the main tourist hub yet remains a fairly tranquil tropical haven favoured by both surfers and adventurous families. It makes for a great base for exploring the rugged southern coastline dotted with numerous breathtaking beaches. Scenic highlights include up-andcoming Tanjung A’an, Gerupak and isolated Ekas Bay.

Mount Rinjani For an alternative to surf, scuba and sandy beaches, a trek up the immense Rinjani volcano is hard to beat. At over 3,700 meters, this is Indonesia’s second highest volcano and makes for challenging 3–4 day trek but the views are definitely worth all the effort. The mountain dominates much of north Lombok and the caldera alone covers a mind-boggling 50 square kilometres. Most climbers only go as far as the crater rim which offers vertigo-inducing views down into the volcanic lake but the extra effort to get to the summit will be rewarded with views as far as Java and eastwards across to the island of Sumbawa. If this all sounds too arduous for comfort, the mountain’s foothills offer a wealth of leisurely hiking opportunities. Head to Senaru village for easy-going walks through remote weaving villages and dense jungle to uncover a succession of scenic waterfalls.

THE DIRECTORY EAT Senggigi and the West Coast The Ballroom Restaurant +62 370 693 831 www.purimas-lombok.com Bambu Lounge +62 370 693 351

The Corner Boutique Café +62 877 6560 7373 The Drop In Café, Kuta Lombok +62 819 0723 4673 www.dropinlombok.com El Bazar Cafe & Restaurant +62 819 9911 3026

Banana Tree Cafe +62 812 3997 4011

Gulas Garden +62 878 6492 0120 www.gulasgardenkutalombok.com

Bumbu Cafe +62 370 692 236

Warung Bule +62 819 1799 6256

Bawang Putih Grill +62 370 693 333 www.starwoodhotels.com

Gili T Ecco Cafe +62 878 6027 0200

Cafe Alberto +62 370 693 039 / 693 313 www.cafealberto.com

Kayu Cafe +62 878 6547 2260

Café Lombi, Senggigi +62 370 692 085 www.cafelombi.com

Pearl Beach Lounge +62 852 5380 7111 www.pearlbeachlounge.com

Kebun Anggrek +62 370 693 333 www.starwoodhotels.com

Pizzeria Regina +62 877 6506 6255

La Chill +62 819 0710 4040 www.lachillbar.com Lotus Bayview +62 370 693 758 www.lotus-restaurants.com/lotus-bayview Square Restaurant & Lounge +62 370 664 4888 www.squarelombok.com

The Terminal +62 370 638 513 www.gilitresort.com The Thai Garden +62 878 6453 1253 Wilson's Bar & Cuisine +62 370 612 0060 www.wilsons-retreat.com

Le Cirque +62 370 623432 www.lecirque-giliair.com The Mexican Kitchen Gili Air +62 877 6550 3931 Mowie's +62 878 6423 1384 www.mowiesgiliair.com The Waterfront www.waterfront-hotel-gili-air.com

Gili Meno Mahamaya Restaurant & Bar +62 888 715 5828 www.mahamaya.co Meno Mojo Beach Club +62 877 6048 8539 www.gilimenomojo.com

Nectar Island Spa www.nectarislandspa.com

Gili Meno Ocean Spa at Mahamaya +62 888 715 5828 www.mahamaya.co

Retail Senggigi and West Coast Asmara Collection, Lombok +62 370 693 619 Pink Coconut +62 878 6476 4608

Kuta and South Coast

Spas and Wellness Senggigi

The Corner Boutique +62 877 6560 7373

The Laguna Beach Spa +62 370 693 333 www.starwoodhotels.com

Gili T

Marshander Spa & Salon Senggigi +62 878 628 0693 www.marshanderspa.com Puri Mas Spa +62 370 693 831 www.purimas-lombok.com Qambodja Spa +62 370 693 800 www.quncivillas.com

The Taman +62 370 693 842

Gili Air

Gili T

Kuta and South Lombok

Classico Italiano +62 819 1604 3357

Gili Yoga +62 858 5718 7170 www.giliyoga.com

H20 Yoga and Meditation +62 877 6103 8836 www.h2oyogaandmeditation.com

PLAY

Wok This Way +62 817 543 168

Ashtari +62 877 6549 7625 www.ashtarilombok.com

Gili Air

Casa Vintage +62 819 1724 3808

Health & Leisure / Recreation Senggigi and West Coast Pirates’ Bay Cruising +62 821 4500 3903 www.piratesbaycruising.com Scuba Froggy +62 370 693 901 www.scubafroggy.com

Sire & Tanjun

Chill Out Bar & Bungalows +62 370 620 370 www.chilloutbargiliair.com

Marshander Spa & Salon Gili T +62 878 6231 8473 www.marshanderspa.com

Lombok Golf Kosaido Country Club +62 370 640 137

Kuta and South Coast Kuta Horses +62 819 1599 9436 www.horseridinglombok.com Sublime surf retreats +61 423 355 63 www.sublimeresorts.com

Sekotong DiveZone +62 819 0785 2073 www.divezone-lombok.com

Lombok Sailing www.lombokkomodosailing.com

Sudamala Suites, Lombok +62 370 693 111 www.sudamalaresorts.com

Indonesian Yacht Charters +62 812 4607 6042 www.indonesianyachtcharter.com

Kuta and South Lombok

Weddings

Hammerhead Hotel and Spa +62 878 6270 5985 www.hammerheadhotel.com

White Sand Weddings www.whitesandweddingslombok.com

STAY

Kies Villas +62 878 6553 4450 www.kiesvillaslombok.com Novotel +62 370 615 3333 www.novotel.com

Kuta Heights Development +62 821 4587 5594 +62 817 6673 983 www.kutaheightslombok.com Lombok Eco Developments +62 817 713 708 www.lombokecodevelopments.com Lombok Property & Investment +62 819 0797 4075 www.lp-i.co NAGAINDO +62 813 5332 9501 www.naga-indo.com

Gili T

Hotels Senggigi and West Coast

Aquaddiction +62 813 3979 8555 www.aquaddiction.com

The Chandi Boutique Resort & Spa +62 370 692198 www.the-chandi.com

Freedive Gili +62 858 5718 7170 www.freedivegili.com

Jeeva Klui +62 370 693 035 www.jeevaklui.com

Gili Cooking Classes +62 877 6324 8215 www.gilicookingclasses.com

Kebun Villas & Resort +62 370 692 999 www.kebunresort.com

Gili T Resort +62 370 638 513 www.gilitresort.com

Manta Dive +62 370 614 3649 www.manta-dive.com

Kila Senggigi +62 370 693210 www.aerowisatahotels.com/hotel/ kila-senggigi-beach-lombok

Gili Eco Villas +62 361 8476419 www.giliecovillas.com

Face This www.facethis.org

Gili Khumba Villas +62 821 474 888 25 www.gilikhumbavillas.com

Gili Eco Trust +62 813 3960 0553 www.giliecotrust.com

Gili Meno

Hairdresser Without Borders +62 821 4745 7186 www.hwb-nonprofit.org

Gili Kite Surf www.gilikitesurf.com

Living Asia Resort & Spa +62 370 693 519 www.livingasiaresort.com

Oceans5 , Gili Air +62 813 3877 7144 www.oceans5dive.com

The Oberoi Lombok +62 370 613 8444 www.oberoihotels.com/hotels-in-lombok

Gili Meno

Puri Mas Boutique Resort & Spa +62 370 693 831 www.purimas-lombok.com

Other Rinjani Country Club Golf Course +62 828 9703 0270 www.lombok-golf.com

Cocotinos +62 819 0797 2401 www.cocotinos-sekotong.com

Pipe Dream Villas Resort +62 812 3923 9666 www.pipedreamvillas.com Private Sanctuary +62 821 4741 9919 www.private-sanctuary.com

Gili T Tate Developments +62 818 0376 0677 www.tatedevelopments.com

Charity

Gili Air

Divine Divers +62 852 4057 0777 www.divinedivers.com

Sekotong

The Santosa +62 370 693 090 www.santosalombok.com The Sheraton Senggigi Beach Resort +62 370 693 333 www.sheraton.com/senggigi

Mahamaya, Gili Meno +62 370 637 616 www.mahamaya.com

John Fawcett Foundation www.balieye.org

Property Aquamarine +62 812 4678 7880 www.aquamarine-lombok.com KUTACon +62 821 4587 2920 www.kutacon.asia

Lombok Kids Foundation +62 819 1799 9054 lkflombokkidfoundation.wordpress.com Paradigm Water +62 813 3897 6786 www.paradigmwater.org

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION

EMERGENCY NUMBERS Ambulance Phone: 0370 623 489 Emergency call: 118 Fire Brigade Phone: 0370 672 013 Emergency call: 113 Lombok Police Jl. Gajah Mada No7, Ampenan Phone: 0370 693 110 Emergency call: 110 Tourist Police Senggigi Jl. Raya Senggigi km 1 Phone: 0370 632 733 HOSPITALS Harapan Keluarga Jl. Ahmad Yani, Selagalas Phone: 0370 617 7000/617 7009 Risa Sentra Medika Jl. Pejanggik No.115, Cakranegara Phone: 0370 625 560 New Mataram Public Hospital Jl. Bung Karno No.1, Mataram Phone: 0370 645 045 Mataram Public Hospital Jl. Pejanggik No.6, Mataram Phone: 0370 623 498 Siti Fajar Moslem Hospital Jl. Panca Warga, Mataram Phone: 0370 623 498 Anthonius Catholic Hospital Jl. Koperasi, Ampenan Phone: 0370 621 397 Police Hospital Jl. Langko No.54, Ampenan Phone: 0370 633 701 Army Hospital Jl. HOS Cokroaminoto No.11, Mataram Phone: 0370 621 420 Central Lombok Public Hospital Jl. Jen Basuki Rachmat, Praya Phone: 0370 654 007 East Lombok Public Hospital Jl. Prof M. Yamin No.55, Selong Phone: 0376 216 80 HEALTH CLINICS Biomedika Clinic Jl. Bung Karno No.143, Mataram Phone: 0370 645 137 Medika Husada Clinic Jl. Raya Senggigi Phone: 0370 664 480 Sengiggi Beach Hotel Clinic Phone: 0370 693 210 Klinik Prodia Jalan Pejanggik No.107, Mataram Phone: 0370 635 010

Hotel Villa Ombak Clinic Gili Trawangan Phone: 0370 642 336 Jolie Sourire Dental Care Mataram Mall Jl. Pejanggik, Mataram Phone: 0370 668 1797 PHARMACIES Guardian Pharmacy Mataram Mall Jl. Pejanggik, Mataram Phone: 0370 629 921 Kimia Farma Jl. Sriwijaya No.295, Mataram Phone: 0370 633 211 Jl. Pejanggik No.48, Mataram Phone: 0370 638 502 Jl. Catur Warga, Mataram Phone: 0370 634 774 Jl. M. Yamin No.155 Selong, East Lombok Phone: 0376 220 51 TAXI Bluebird Taxis Phone: 0370 627 000 Express Taxis Phone: 0370 635 968 Narmada Trans Taxi Phone: 0370 702 5333 IMMIGRATION OFFICE Department of Immigration Jl. Udayana, Mataram Phone: 0370 632 520 POST OFFICES Central Post Office Jl. Sriwijaya, Mataram Phone: 0370 632 645 Jl. Langko, Ampenan Phone: 0370 631 642 Jl. Raya Senggigi Phone: 0370 693 711 INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS Nusa Alam Jl. Pantai Meninting Phone: 0370 647 514 AIRLINE SALES OFFICES Silk Air Lombok Raya Hotel Jl. Panca Usaha No.11, Mataram Phone: 0370 628 254 Garuda Indonesia Jl. Majapahit No. 2, Ampenan phone: 0370 642303/649100

Lion Air Jl. Sriwijaya No.81, Mataram Phone: 0370 629 111 Merpati Nusantara Airlines Jl. Pejanggik No.69, Mataram Phone: 0370 636 745 TransNusa Jl. Panca Usaha No.28, Mataram Phone: 0370 624 555 CAR RENTAL COMPANIES Lombok Rent Car Jl. Raya Senggigi Km 12, Senggigi Phone: 0370 667 7887 FREIGHT/COURIER COMPANIES Tiki Jl. Anyelir No. 1, Mataram Phone: 0370 633 014 DHL Jl. Hos Cokroaminoto No.53G, Mataram Phone: 0370 639 400 PUBLIC UTILITIES Electricity (PLN) Jl. Langko No. 25, Ampenan Phone: 0370 632 182 Jl. Raya Sengiggi Phone: 0370 693 535 Water (PDAM) Jl. Pendidikan No.29, Mataram Phone: 0370 632 510 Jl. Raya Sengiggi Phone: 0370 693 886 CHURCH SERVICES Bethany Mataram Church Jl. I Gusti Ketut Jelantik Gosa No.23, Mataram Phone: 0370 625 956 HKBP Mataram Church Jl. Gili Air No.4, Mataram Phone: 0370 632 924 Kristen Tuhan Church Jl. Ekas No.47, Mataram Phone: 0370 621 811 Masehi Advent H7 Church Jl. Kom L Yos Sudarso No.16, Mataram Phone: 0370 638 500 Pantekosta Church Jl. Pariwisata No.4, Mataram Phone: 0370 631 219 Katholik Church Jl. Majapahit No.10, Mataram Phone: 0370 634 397 CONSULATES IN BALI Australia (Also consular service for Canada and New Zealand nationals) Jalan Tantular No. 32, Renon, Denpasar Phone: 0361 241 118

Brazil Jl. Raya Legian No.186, Kuta Phone: 0361 757 775 Czech Republic Jalan Pengembak No.17, Sanur Phone: 0361 286 465 Denmark Jl. By Pass Ngurah Raiâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Pemogan No. 852, Denpasar Phone: 0361 821 6979 France Jl.Mertasari Gg. II No.8, Sanur Phone: 0361 285 485 Germany Jl. Pantai Karang No.17, Sanur Phone: 0361 288 535 Italy Lotus Enterprise Building Jl. By Pass Ngurah Rai, Jimbaran Phone: 0361 701 005 India Jl. Raya Puputan No.42, Renon, Denpasar Phone: 0361 241 987 Japan Jl. Raya Puputan No.170, Renon, Denpasar Phone: 0361 227 628 Mexico Jl.Prof. Moh. Yamin No.1, Renon, Denpasar Phone: 0361 223 266 Netherlands Jl.Raya Kuta No.127, Kuta Phone: 0361 761 502 Norway Segara Village Hotel Jl. Segara Ayu, Sanur Phone: 0361 282 223 Russia Bali Kencana Resort II Block Cendrawasih No.18, Ungasan Phone: 0361 279 1560 Spain Kompleks Istana Kuta Galeria Blok Valet 2, No. 1 Jl.Patih Jelantik, Kuta Phone: 0361 769 286 Sweden & Finland Jl. Segara Ayu No.2, Sanur Phone: 0361 282 223 Switzerland Kompleks Istana Kuta Galeria Blok Valet 2 No.12 Jl. Patih Jelantik, Kuta Phone: 0361 751 735 United Kingdom Jl. Tirta Nadi No.20, Sanur Phone: 0361 270 601 United States of America Jl. Hayam Wuruk No.188, Denpasar Phone: 0361 233 605