The
Issue 148 | 19 August – 2 September 2013
FREE COPY
LOMBOK GUIDE ( 0370 6594005 | www.thelombokguide.com
PUBLISHED BI-WEEKLY IN LOMBOK, FOR LOMBOK
WHAT ARE THEY GILICOPTER DOING TO OUR BALI TO VIEWS? GILI T
LOTUS... EVERYTHING IS DELICIOUS
LUXURY SPA IN PARADISE
Page 20 & 30
Page 32
Page 87
Page 26
IN THIS ISSUE Getting to Lombok Attractions & Actitvities Lombok Map Special Feature Senggigi Senggigi Map What’s Hot / Local News Local News Special Feature Mr Fixer Special Feature Local Scene Classifieds In Good Taste Local News Discount Vouchers Land & Property The Cities Cities Map Useful Contacts Distribution The Southwest Kuta & The South Coast South Coast Map The Gilis Gilis Fast Facts Getting to the Gilis Special Feature Gilis Map
Page 2 Page 4/8 Page 6 Page 10 Page 12 Page 14 Page 18 Page 20 & 30 Page 26 Page 28 Page 32 Page 36 Page 38-39 Page 44 Page 46 Page 49 Page 54-59 Page 60-65 Page 62 Page 66 Page 67 Page 68-71
The Beach Club
Beach Bungalows Page 15
GETTING BIGGER, LOMBOK! Our regular readers may have noticed we are growing! Last issue The Lombok Guide grew to a whopping 100 pages and to celebrate, we increased our circulation to an amazing 4,000 copies every two weeks!
Now more copies of our popular tourism paper are available throughout Lombok, the Gilis, Bali and other Indonesian capitals. We’ve also arranged exclusive co-operation with Express Taxis to have copies of The Lombok Guide available in every Express Taxi in Lombok, as well as selected taxis in Bali and Jakarta. And, of course, we are in every Blue Bird Taxi on our beautiful island. We’d like to thank all our readers and advertisers for their support and help in making us Lombok’s most well-read English language paper! To find out more, pick up a copy of The Lombok Guide from the locations listed on page 66 or visit www.thelombokguide.com and discover the magic of Lombok for yourself…
like thousands of others, you’ll be enchanted!
Page 72-77 Page 77 Page 78-100 Page 82 Page 84 Page 87 Page 99
...Life is Good!
+62 (0) 370 614 2352 | reservation@beachhousegilit.com | www.beachhousegilit.com
Tourism Information
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GETTING TO LOMBOK
It’s easy to get to Lombok from Bali – flight time is only 25 minutes Direct flights from Jakarta to Lombok are available every day and and fares start from around Rp 350,000 (approx. US $35) one way. are usually timed to connect with European flights. Buy tickets direct from the airline counters at the domestic airports, Lombok is easily accessible from Jakarta, Bali, Jogjakarta, or contact local travel agents, in both Bali and Lombok. Surabaya and Makassar and is an important connection for travel to the eastern islands, in particular the islands of Sumbawa, Lombok International Airport (or Bandara Internasional Lombok, Komodo and Flores. commonly abbreviated to BIL, and using the IATA code “LOP”) is the only airport on Lombok. Garuda Indonesia has direct flights between Lombok, Bali, The airport is close to Praya (Central Lombok); approximately 40km south of the city of Mataram, and around 1 ½ hours’ drive from Senggigi, and 25 minutes from Kuta.
Surabaya, Makassar and Jakarta every day, Call Centre: 0804 1 807 807, Sales Office : +62 370 642303 / 649999. Airport: 0370 649100. www.garuda-indonesia.com
Airport departure tax is Rp 30,000 for domestic departures (Rp 40,000 from Bali) and Rp 100,000 for international departures.
Lion Air has daily flights between Lombok, Bali, Jakarta and Surabaya. Ph: +62 370 6627444 / 642180. www.lionair.co.id
BALI TO LOMBOK BY AIR In Lombok, all flights depart and arrive at Lombok International Airport. In Bali, flights arrive and depart at Ngurah Rai (Denpasar) Domestic Airport. Garuda Airlines has direct flights between Lombok, Bali and Jakarta every day. Call Centre: 0 804 1 807 807, Sales Office: +62 370-642303, 649999. www.garuda-indonesia.com
Merpati Airlines has flights available between Lombok, Bali, Bima, Dili, Bandung, Flores and Kupang. Lombok, ph: +62 370 621111. www.merpati.co.id Trans Nusa Air flies between Lombok, Sumbawa and Bima daily. Lombok, ph: +62 370 624555. www.transnusa.co.id Batavia Air has flights from Lombok to Surabaya and Jakarta (via Surabaya) every day. Lombok, Ph: +62 370 648998. www.batavia-air.co.id
Merpati Airlines flies direct between Bali and Lombok four times a Wings Air (Lion Air) has daily flights from Lombok to Bali and day. Lombok, ph: +62 370 621111, Airport: +62 370 633637 / +62 Surabaya, Ph: +62 370 6627444 / 642180. Bookings via Lion Air. 87864253577. Bali, ph: +62 361 420999. www.merpati.co.id www.lionair.co.id Lion Air flies between Bali and Lombok with three flights daily. BALI TO LOMBOK BY SEA The company share-codes with Wings Air, so you may purchase a Lion Air ticket and find yourself on a Wings Air flight! Lombok, Call Padang Bai Harbour (Bali) provides the sea link between mainland Centre: +62 80 4177 8899. Bali, ph: +62 361 765132. www.lionair. Bali and Lombok. Lembar Harbour (Lombok) is on the southwest coast, approx. 1 hour south of Senggigi, Lombok. co.id Trans Nusa Air operates flights between Bali and Lombok daily. Lombok, ph: +62 370 624555. Bali, ph: +62 361 8477395. www.transnusa.co.id
Arrange your own transport and buy tickets direct from the harbours, or use a reputable tour company to provide a transfer service.
Public Ferries depart every hour for the sea voyage between Padang Bai Harbour (Bali) and Lembar Harbour (Lombok). The Lombok International Airport (IATA: LOP) has full Visa on Arrival crossing between the islands costs Rp 40,000 per person and (VOA) facilities, with fast and efficient visa processing. Ph: +62 370 takes approx. 4 to 5 hours. Lembar Harbour ph: +62 370 681 209. 622987. Padang Bai Harbour ph: (+62 363) 41849 / 41840 INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS
Silk Air (a subsidiary of Singapore Airlines) flies direct between Lombok and Singapore, three times per week. Lombok, ph: +62 370 628254 / 628255. www.silkair.com Air Asia operates direct flights between Lombok and Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia every day of the week. www.airasia.com Garuda Airlines flies between Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia and Lombok every day, with a short stop-over in Jakarta. All other international connections are available via Jakarta. Call Centre: 080 418 07807. Airport: +62 370 649100. www.garuda-indonesia.com DOMESTIC FLIGHTS European connections are easy via Jakarta (the capital city of Java), Bali and other capital cities such as Jogjakarta, Surabaya and Makassar.
FAST BOATS There are now numerous “fast boat” services operating between Bali and Lombok. Marina Srikandi operates a direct fast boat service every day between Padang Bai Harbour (Bali) and Senggigi (Lombok), arriving and departing from the jetty on Senggigi Beach. This is the only direct service between Bali and Lombok (mainland). Lombok Ph: +62 370 693 383, Bali Ph: +62 361 729 818. www.marinasrikandi.com Most other fast boats serve Gili Trawangan, but several also call at Teluk Kodek on mainland Lombok, making fast boats from Lombok to Bali (and vice versa) an option to flying. See the “Getting to the Gilis” section for details.
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Hot Taste, Cool Venue
The Perfect Place to Wine & Dine in Lombok Senggigi Square Blok B-10, Jl. Raya Senggigi, Lombok, Indonesia Ph: +62 370 6644 888, 693 688 | Fax: +62 370 623 975 square_marina@yahoo.com | www.squarelombok.com
Tourism Information
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ATTRACTIONS & ACTIVITIES
Segara Anak Lake from the ridge of Mt Rinjani
Mawun Beach by Barbara
BEACHES The whole island is surrounded by fantastic beaches, most of which are covered in clean white sand and fringed by coconut palms. Drive just north of Senggigi to Malimbu or Nipah and enjoy deserted beaches with fine snorkelling and swimming. The southwest coast also has fine beaches, especially around Sekotong and Taun. Visit the small island of Gili Nanggu for rustic accommodation and great snorkelling just off shore or stay at Secret Island Resort on Gili Gede to explore the twelve other undeveloped islands in the southwest. The beaches around Kuta are breathtakingly beautiful. Visit Gerupuk for fantastic scenery, Kuta for long stretches of white sand and turquoise waters, or swim in the peaceful lagoon at Mawun.
DIVING
With so many beaches and small islands, Lombok offers a myriad of diving and snorkelling opportunities. The best known locations are around the Gili islands - Gili Air, Gili Meno and Gili Trawangan.
Getting around Lombok is easy by car or motorbike and you can hire these in all the main tourism areas, with an International Drivers License. The roads are generally in good condition and traffic is light. Alternatively, hire a car and driver for exploring or take part in the tours and day trips offered by the many tour agencies on the island.
Snorkelling is easy from the shore and all three islands are well served by professional dive operators who offer full PADI certification courses, day and night dives to the many sites around the Gilis, as well as specialised courses and live-aboard adventures to exotic locations. For the more adventurous, there is superb diving around the islands off the southwest coast, as well as near Kuta on the south coast and the small uninhabited islands off the east coast.
SURFING
Lombok is becoming a world-renown surfing destination amongst surf enthusiasts world-wide. Huge waves and challenging surf lure die-hards to BangkoBangko (also known as Desert Point) on the south-western tip of Lombok.
There are a number of spectacular waterfalls on the island which provide lovely trekking opportunities, whether travelling independently or as part of a tour. Sendang Gile on the slope of Mt Rinjani in the north is an easily accessible waterfall in a stunning jungle setting and popular with visitors. Air Jeruk Manis, near Tetebatu is reached by walking through pretty rice fields and forests. The awesome Benang Stokel and Benang Kelambu waterfalls, in central Lombok, are located within a short trek of each other and make a perfect day trip for those who appreciate truly magical natural surroundings.
Kuta, on the south coast, is surf-central and has a range of accommodations and services catering specially to surfers. Here you can hire a board, get board repairs and take surf lessons from the professionals. The waves at Gerupuk and Kuta offer a variety of challenges from beginners to sheer madness! Ekas Bay has two surf breaks: Inside Ekas and Outside Ekas, which are suitable for beginners to experts, depending on different peaks and tides.
TREKKING
Much of the island is still covered by natural rain forest and jungles, making Lombok ideal for ecotourism and adventure tours.
Photo by Iwan Haryanto
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Lombok Map
Senggigi
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Tourism Information
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ATTRACTIONS & ACTIVITIES Aik Kalaq (Hot Spring Water) near Segara Anak Lake at Mt Rinjani by Joe Mahier FOKUS
animist statues remain today. Perang Topat, is an annual festival held at Lingsar and features a ritualised war with rice cakes, which also serve as an offering to the Gods.
MOUNTAIN CLIMBING Mt Rinjani, Lombok’s famous volcano, soars 3726 m above sea level and is the second highest volcano in Indonesia, attracting thousands of trekkers and climbers annually. The huge crater near the top contains a beautiful lake, Danau Segara Anak (Child of the Sea Lake) and a smaller volcanic cone, Gunung Baru Jari, which was formed a couple of hundred years ago. There are a number of caves, small waterfalls and hot springs located around the volcano. In 2004 Rinjani won the World Legacy Award and the volcano is recognised internationally as an important eco-tourism destination. Two, three and four day treks on the volcano are offered by tour companies and trek organisers in all the main resort areas of Lombok.
HISTORIC SITES & TEMPLES There are a number of interesting temples around the west coast, many of which are Hindu or ancient animist sites of worship. Pura Lingsar is possibly the only place in the world where Hindus and Moslems come together to pray and celebrate. Built around 1714, Pura Lingsar was originally based on the prevailing animist beliefs of the time, and some of the original
Pura Narmada (or Narmada Temple), around 10 km east of Cakranegara in Narmada, was created circa 1805 as a replica of Gunung Rinjani and Segara Anak, the lake within Rinjani’s crater. The gardens at Narmada are beautifully maintained and surround the pools and lake. Pura Suranadi, a complex of three temples located a few kilometres north of Narmada in Suranadi, is the oldest and holiest of the Balinese temples in Lombok, founded by the 16th-century Javanese priest, Danghyang Nirartha. Underground streams bubble up into restored baths, used for ritual bathing. Huge sacred eels live in the pools and streams here, and can sometimes be lured out with an offering of boiled eggs (purchased at a nearby stall). To see a sacred eel is considered very lucky!
HANDICRAFT VILLAGES Lombok is famous for its traditional earthenware pottery made from local clay with distinctive “Lombok primitive” designs. You can also purchase hand-woven sarongs and fabrics (ikat). Pringgasela in central Lombok is a small village which is steeped in tradition and is a
major centre for weaving ikat. Visit the small houses and shops here to purchase traditionally woven, colourful fabrics. Masbagik, close to Pringgasela, is a small pottery village. Wander the streets and see the pottery being made in the small yards behind the simple homes here and purchase the wares for amazingly cheap prices. Sukarara is 5 km to the west of Praya, heading south towards Kuta. This is a weaving village where quality ikat and traditional cloth is displayed and sold. Weavers work outside many of the shops, using antiquated “back strap looms” to painstakingly produce works of art. Some of the larger pieces can take several months to weave, and collectors from around the world visit this village to purchase the blankets, sarongs and cloth produced here. Banyumulek, easily reached on the road south to Lembar Harbour, is an important centre for pottery on Lombok. The small village is packed with shops selling pottery produced in the area, as well as from the other main pottery-making villages such as Penujak and Masbagik. Lombok pottery, with its distinctive terracotta styles, has become famous internationally and is exported throughout the world. Pura Suranadi (Suranadi Temple) by Barbara
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Special Feature
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INDEPENDENCE DAY‌ Continuing the Celebrations It’s been a month of celebrations in Lombok, culminating with the national holiday for Indonesian Independence Day (Hari Merdeka) on Saturday, 17 August.
Independence Day is still important for most Indonesians, perhaps because the country has only been an independent nation for 68 years and there are still those alive today who remember what life was like under Dutch colonial rule. Dutch presence in Indonesia can be traced back to the time of the Dutch East India Company (VOC) in 1602. In 1800, after the bankruptcy of VOC, the Netherlands established the Dutch East Indies – the colony that became present-day Indonesia after World War II.
So for Indonesians, Independence Day marks the occasion when the country declared its freedom from foreign rule and came under the control of the Indonesian people.
Interestingly, it was not until 2005 that the Dutch accepted the date of 17 August, 1945 as the official date of Indonesian Independence. This national pride is demonstrated throughout the archipelago in the days leading up to Independence Day, when government offices, many shops and businesses, and even private homes and cars are decorated with the Indonesian flag. The red and white flag (known as Merah-Putih) is an important symbol of the struggle of a nation for independence, with the red strip at the top representing blood (courage) and the white strip at the bottom representing bone (purity).
A tourist joins in a pillow fight
Indonesia remained under Dutch control until World War II, when the Japanese invaded it and overran the Dutch forces. The Japanese then ruled the archipelago from March 1942 until the end of war in 1945. When the Japanese were forced to surrender, Indonesian nationalist leader, Soekarno, declared independence on August 17, 1945 and became the first President of Indonesia. The Dutch, however, did not accept this declaration of independence and for the next 4 years, continued to fight to retain the colony. The Indonesian National Revolution was an armed and diplomatic struggle between Indonesia and the Dutch Empire, which finally came to an end in 1949, when the Netherlands recognised Indonesian independence.
On the streets, you will often see school children dressed in red and white uniforms practicing synchronised marching in preparation for the marching parades held on 17 August every year. As Independence Day is a public holiday, there is an air of excitement in the towns and villages. Special food will be prepared and games and contests are organised by the community. Often there is free entertainment, with dancing and music in the public squares or at a local park in the evening. One of the most popular games played on this day is Panjat Pinang. In this contest, participants try to climb up the greased trunk of a palm tree
to reach gifts placed at the top, which often include new clothes and money. It is hilarious to watch the young men and boys showing off to each other before they attempt the climb, and then their brave struggles to climb the slippery trunk and snatch the gifts from the top! Many hotels in Lombok arrange celebrations for their staff on Independence Day and may include Panjat Pinang contests, sack races, three-legged races, and beach volleyball competitions, as well as a celebration party with special foods. Of course, visitors are welcome to watch the fun and join in the games!
Sack races on the beach
Senggigi
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SENGGIGI
Tourism Information
West Coast Resort
Just over one hour from Lombok International Airport, Senggigi is the main tourism centre on Lombok and, apart from the Gili islands, the most developed tourism area on Lombok. The town of Senggigi is about 10 km north of Ampenan, and about 30 minutes drive from Teluk Nara and Bangsal – the harbours to the Gili Islands. Nowhere near as large or as busy as its Bali counterparts, Senggigi is a great base for exploring the rest of the island. The pace is laid-back, with activities centred on the beaches and day trips to places of interest, which are all within a few hours drive from the town. At night, Jalan Raya Senggigi (the main street) comes alive. Dine in the many restaurants catering to all tastes and budgets, listen to live music at the bars, or dance the night away at the nightclubs. Senggigi Beach is the large bay that forms the centre of Senggigi, with the main road running parallel to the beach, and large resorts occupying the space between. The Senggigi Beach Hotel, Santosa Villas and Resort, and the Sheraton Senggigi Resort all line the curved bay of Senggigi Beach and offer a full range of resort facilities, equally attractive for singles, couples and families. The beachfront is currently undergoing “revitalisation” by the West Lombok Tourism Department, which threatens to ruin the natural beauty of the beach. It can become very crowded and is best avoided on Sundays and public holidays. However, many more beautiful beaches exist just minutes away to the north. One of the most spectacular sights on the island is the sunset viewed from Senggigi Beach, with the bright orange sun sinking into the sea to the west and Bali’s Gunung Agung volcano silhouetted on the horizon like a giant pyramid floating in the ocean. Senggigi Reef, off the southern point, has good coral for snorkelling and, in the right conditions, some decent surf breaks. Canoes can be hired from the beach on the weekends
and during peak tourism times. Local outrigger boats (prahu) can be chartered from the beachfront for trips along the coast or out to the Gili Islands. The main road in Senggigi is lined with small attractive hotels catering to all budgets, shops, tour agencies, restaurants, bars and nightclubs; many of which have live music in the evenings. There are a couple of supermarkets, numerous ATM’s and moneychangers, a post office and all the normal tourist facilities. Senggigi is a relaxing and attractive place to stay, with a good range of luxury hotels and resorts, as well as mid-range and budget accommodations. Tourism development runs north along the coastal road for about 10 km, with many hotels and restaurants positioned along the beautiful beaches that line the entire west coast. About 2 km north of central Senggigi Kerandangan Valley has a popular beach nearby and some small boutique hotels, such as Puri Mas Spa Resort and Villa Campi Sorga, situated in a pretty valley. Dream Estate Park comprises private villa accommodation for owners and investors, and has villas available for short and long term rental in a secure, well-managed estate. At the end of the road through Kerandangan Valley is the Taman Wisata Alam – Kerandangan Nature Reserve – with clearly marked hiking paths leading through the rain forest along the river. There is a small Ranger’s hut and visitors centre near the entrance, and picnic areas with basic concrete tables along the paths. The park boasts a small waterfall, pretty
river scenery, families of local monkeys, and a variety of tropical plants and birdlife. Further north, Mangsit has developed as an accommodation alternative to Senggigi, with boutique style hotels positioned along the breathtaking beaches of this section of coast. The popular Qunci Villas, Puri Mas Beach Resort, Windy Beach Resort and Holiday Resort Lombok are located in Mangsit. Furthest north are Klui and Lendang Luar, with two hotels – Jeeva Klui and Hotel Bulan Baru – and long stretches of pristine beaches. Mainly deserted white sand beaches, flanked by coconut groves and untouched by hotel development, continue all the way north along the main coastal road. Malimbu and Nipah are two picturesque bays less than half an hour from Senggigi, which are good for snorkelling, swimming and getting away from it all. Teluk Nara and Teluk Kodek are on a large bay that forms a natural harbour, about 25 kms north of Senggigi. All the main dive operators have boats here, which transfer guests to the Gili islands, as an alternative to nearby Bangsal Harbour. Bangsal Harbour, less than 5km further north, is reached by turning left at the crossroads in Pemenang and from there it is easy to catch the public ferries (actually large outrigger boats) out to the Gilis, or to charter boats for island hopping. Whether you are seeking luxury accommodation at a top resort with fine dining and spa facilities, or a budget holiday with days spent exploring – or all the choices in between – Senggigi caters for all tastes and budgets. From Senggigi, it’s easy to explore the attractions of the stunning south coast or to hop on a boat to the famous Gili islands lying just offshore. Swim, snorkel, dive, hike, lie in the sun, have a massage, eat and drink at some of the great restaurants and bars in town; or just take a break and be enchanted by the peace and beauty of Lombok.
Senggigi
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Senggigi Map
Senggigi
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The Beach Club Beach Bungalows, Bar & Café
TWO PERFECT BEACH LOCATIONS IN LOMBOK!
er, dvd, front bungalows with AC, hot wat Senggigi - Comfortable beach Senggigi! mming pool. 5 minutes walk from satellite TV, private balcony and swi
Gili Air - Comfortable Bungalows with AC, Fres h Hot Water Showers, Balcony and Day Bed with views of Gili’s fantastic white sandy beaches – perfect for snorkelling – just steps from your room!
Jl. Raya Senggigi, Batu Bolong | Ph/Fax: +62 (0) 370 693637 M: +62 (0) 818 0520 8807 | E: thebeachclublombok@hotmail.com
www.thebeachclublombok.com
Senggigi
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Windy Beach Resort “Next to Nature”
Mangsit, Senggigi, Lombok | Phone: 0370 693191 | Fax: 0370 693193 Email: bookings@windybeach.com | Web: www.windybeach.com
Senggigi
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Puri Bunga Beach Cottages
Luxury and Tranquility Privately positioned on terraced slopes of beautiful flowers, overlooking Senggigi Bay and the Lombok Strait to Bali Standard, Deluxe and Suite Cottages with air conditioning, hot water, television, mini bar, telephone and internet access
Sea view cottages
From US$40* / room! (Incl breakfast)
* tax and service charge and high season surcharges may apply
Enquire about our special offers!
Jalan Raya Senggigi, Senggigi, Lombok, Indonesia, Ph: +62 (0) 370 693013 Fax: +62 (0) 370 693286 | info@puribungalombok.com | www.puribungalombok.com
What’s Hot / Local News
18 Plane, taxi, speed boat, local boat, fast boat – and now the fastest of all – helicopter! There are so many ways to get to Gili Trawangan these days.
Keris Exhibition) will be held at Taman Mayura, the historic Mayura Park on Jl Selaparang in Cakranegara, from 25 -28 August 2013.
Air Bali has just commenced direct helicopter transfers between Bali and the incredibly popular island of Gili T, with a flight time of just 45 minutes. Travel in style and, while others are just boarding a plane or boat, be chilling out on a gorgeous beach in next to no time! See page 26 for full details.
Also featured at the exhibition will be displays of Indonesian jewellery and pearls from around the archipelago.
AirAsia Indonesia has just commenced a thrice-weekly service between Bali and Kota Kinabalu, in Malaysia. The 2.5 hour flight operates on Tuesdays, Thursday and Saturdays. The inaugural flight departed Bali on Saturday, 28 July 2013. Part of the rapid expansion of AirAsia Indonesia’s route network, Kota Kinabalu is the 11th new route introduced by the low-cost carrier since January 2013.
The new service flies the distance of 1,600 kilometres with 180-seat Airbus 320 aircraft. Air Asia also operates a direct (nonstop) service between Lombok and the Malaysian capital of Kuala Lumpur every day. www.airasia.com A reminder to people who are interested in traditional Indonesian artifacts: an exhibition of keris (the iconic Indonesian daggers) from around the archipelago will be held in Lombok this month. The Pameran Keris National (National
The Bali Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has posted a warning for seasonal strong winds and high waves in the region. The agency says that strong winds of up to 40 kilometers per hour and high waves of 3.5 to 4 metres in height might be generated, due to temperature variances between the northern and southern parts of Indonesia and tropical storm disturbances in the South China Sea. The BMKG warns the pattern of strong winds and high seas could remain a part of weather conditions for Bali and Lombok for most of August and September.
TAXI TARIFFS INCREASE
More than one month after the increase in the price of premium fuel, Lombok authorities have finally increased taxi fares for licensed taxi operators across the island.
The increase took effect from 29 July 2013 and was agreed to after a meeting between government transportation authorities and taxi operators. The new tariffs for all Lombok Taxis (in the Blue Bird Group) are:
The new standard rates for Bali are:
Flag Fall has increased from Rp 4,000 (USD 0.40) to Rp 5,500 (USD 0.55).
Flag Fall increased from Rp 5,000 to Rp 6,000.
The cost per kilometre travelled has increased from Rp 2,750 (USD 0.275) to Rp 3,500 (USD 0.35) per kilometer.
The cost per kilometre travelled has increased from Rp 4,500 to Rp 5,700 per kilometre.
Waiting time has increased from Rp 18,000 (USD 1.80) to Rp 35,000 (USD 3.50) per hour.
Waiting time has increased from Rp 30,000 to Rp 40,000 per hour.
While these rate increases have been announced by Lombok Taxis, it is expected that other companies such as Express Taxi will follow suit. Taxi fares in Bali also increased on the same day. Interestingly, taxi fares in Lombok are still much less than those in Bali.
The new taxi rates can be introduced any time starting from 29 July, although some delays will be experienced while Bali’s hundreds of taxis undergo the process of meter recalibration. The increase in taxi fares follows a 44% increase in the cost of premium fuel that took place on 21 June 2013.
Any increase in the price of petrol will have a knock-on effect throughout the economy, resulting in price increases for any transported goods, or products that use transported goods in their manufacture. Printing prices increase, because of the increased cost of transporting printing paper from Java, and the increased costs of delivering and distributing the finished product. Food and any products transported to Lombok from other islands, such as Java or Bali, increase in price. We should expect increases in the prices charged by shuttle bus companies, tour buses and cars, transport and courier services, and possibly fast boat fares over the coming months.
Senggigi
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BLUE MARLIN DIVE SENGGIGI ...DIVE THE DIFFERENCE!
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PADI Dive Courses Daily Dive & Snorkel Trips - Gili Trawangan Transfers - Hotel Dive and Stay Packages
Please email and quote “Lionfish” for special discount offers
Main Office: HOLIDAY RESORT LOMBOK +62 370 693 719 www.bluemarlindive.com | senggigi@bluemarlindive.com
Local News
20
MENGAPA DINAS PARIWISATA LOBAR MERUSAK PEMANDANGAN WISATA? WHAT ARE THEY DOING TO OUR VIEWS?
It’s unlikely that the local Hindu community understood that a huge twostorey structure housing local kiosks was going to be built alongside a holy temple that is an important cultural and historical monument, and attracts thousands of domestic and international tourists every year. Not only that, but the shops will be located directly on the edge of a hair-pin bend, which is already a dangerous area for motorists coming around a blind corner.
The view from Batu Bolong
The West Lombok Department of Tourism (Dinas Pariwisata Lombok Barat) could never be accused of knowing what they are doing when it comes to developing tourism in the region, but the latest building projects near Senggigi have businesses, investors and local residents up in arms. Two of the finest views on the drive from the cities to Senggigi are from the headlands at Batu Layar and Batu Bolong. Both look out over stunning panoramas of west coast beaches and are popular places for viewing the gorgeous sunsets across the Lombok Strait to Bali. Over the past few months, however, those beautiful views have been marred by the latest building projects instigated by the West Lombok Tourism Department. At Batu Layar, two sets of unsightly foundations have been erected, together with a triplex building store, effectively blocking the views on each side of the corner – to the south coast on the left and to Senggigi on the right.
Blocked view from Batu Bolong
historical temple of Batu Bolong. When completed, this building will block all the views of the beaches to the north and the magnificent sunset view of Mt Agung on Bali, which attracts so many people in the late afternoon. The scheme is the brain-child of West Lombok Regent (Bupati) Zaini Arony,
People on motorbikes parked at the stalls, blocking the roadside and creating traffic dangers when they suddenly stopped or pulled out in front of traffic coming around the blind corners. Lombok has a government-mandated law that no permanent structures can be built within 15 metres from the centre of the road, for safety reasons. Neither the buildings at Batu Layar or Batu Bolong respect this 15m rule, so are we to assume they do not have building permits (IMB)?
“
Worse, a month or so later, the same ugly structures began to appear alongside the lovely who made a promise to the Hindu community provide “tourist facilities” when he was attending the Pujawali Ceremony at Batu Bolong Temple in July 2012.
Traffic hazard at Batu Layar
In the past, the site was already used by illegal street traders who set up makeshift stalls selling coffee, cool drinks and grilled corn; with cheap construction materials and old chairs on the pavement making the area look dirty and unkempt.
Zaini Arony will stand for re-election in the West Lombok government elections next month.
PERATURAN IMB – BANGUNAN DIATAS TANAH TERLETAK DI JALAN Jalan arteri sekunder (Propinsi): 15m dari as jalan
”
The plans for permanent shops will create more of an eyesore in this scenic area, and more traffic dangers for people using the main road to Senggigi. Speaking to the press at the Pujawali ceremony last year, Gede Renjana the Head of the West Lombok Department of Tourism said that the project was part of a three stage plan for “revitalization of Senggigi”. Continued on Page 30
Senggigi
21
Thai N ight s
@NooQ Our chefs have returned from Chiang Mai’s top cooking school and present authentic Thai dining for your enjoyment
Different Menu Choices Daily [ 7-10pm; Bookings Essential ]
[ Yo u r K e y t o a n I d y l l i c L o m b o k ]
Jl. Raya Mangsit, Senggigi, Lombok | Phone: +62 370 693 800 Email: stay@quncivillas.com | Website: www.quncivillas.com
Senggigi
22
P uri Mas Gallery The Essence of Tradition, Luxury & Style AT PURI MAS BOUTIQUE RESORT
Just 5 minutes north of Senggigi Free pick up and drop off service in Senggigi area Fine Arts and Collectibles From Around the Archipelago
Chakra Healing Crystals Now in Store
Jl. Raya Mangsit Beach, Senggigi, Lombok NTB Indonesia | Tel: 0370 693831 | Fax: 0370 693023 info@purimas-lombok.com | www.purimas-lombok.com | Skype: purimasreservations
COFFEE & BREAD Roasted Coffee Beans Kopi Luwak Coffee Machines Coffee Business Solutions Oven Fresh Baguettes Sandwiches Pastries & Cakes
Swiss Bakery & Cafeteria www.CafeLombi.com
SENGGIGI SQUARE BLOK A/04 TELP. 0370-692085, 0818 365 790
Senggigi
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24
Cover Yourself in
LOSMEN
TJABE MERAH
Jl. Saleh Sungkar, Gg. Sawah, Ampenan, Lombok Ph: +62 370 636150 - Fax: +62 370 637635
THE RED PEPPER INN Clean and comfortable. Located in the middle of the”kampung”near the local Kebon Roek traditional market you immediately have a sense of the real Indonesian life. Ampenan is near Mataram and Cakra and only 7 kilometers away from Senggigi.
Room rates (smoking & non smoking) Standard room with fan – Rp 100 000 Standard room with TV & AC – Rp 130 000
OOK NEDERLANDS SPREKEND AMPENAN BEACH JALAN SALEH SUNGKAR KEBON ROEK MARKET
Gang Sawah
TO MATARAM
TO SENGGIGI
LOSMEN TJABE MERAH
www.hotel-lombok.nl
OUR SERVICES : Bed Bugs Control (Kutu Busuk / Temajong) Pest Control (Nyamuk, Lalat, Kecoa, Semut, dll) Rodent Control (Tikus, Tokek, Ular, Kelelawar) Termite Control (Anti Rayap) Fumigation (Fumigasi) Noursing Garden (Perawatan Kebun & Tanaman Hias) Toilet / Bathroom Cleaner
Ciokolata New Boutique Collections Jl. Raya Senggigi (next to Senggigi Jaya Supermarket) ciokolataclothing@ymail.com
www.ciokolata.com
Jl. WR Supratman Gang III No.07 Link. Kr. Medain Mataram
Ph: 0370 682 3403, 0878 6403 4265, 0813 39850674 Email: lathanjali11@gmail.com
Senggigi
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Special Feature
26
GILICOPTER – HELICOPTER FLIGHTS FROM BALI TO GILI T! Air Bali Helicopter Charters have announced their new Bali to Gili Trawangan service, making it faster and easier than ever to travel between Bali and Lombok! The Bali-based helicopter charter service commenced their first flight to the popular paradise island of Gili T on Friday, 2 August. Air Bali plans to operate regular services between Bali and Gili T every Friday and Sunday. Additional flights will be available on Wednesday, subject to passenger numbers. Of course, charters are available on any day for guests wanting to charter the helicopter privately. Greg Pitman, President Director of Air Bali, said he is enthusiastic about the new service, when we caught up with him last week.
With 20 years of flying experience in Bali and a 100% safety record, Air Bali offers tours and charters using a Bell 206 Long Ranger Helicopter operated by Western pilots and engineers, with seating for up to five passengers.
As the only Western managed helicopter charter company in the region, Air Bali set the standards in helicopter Lombok transfers, possibly direct between charter services with a dedication Senggigi and Bali, are also planned for the to safety and professionalism that goes beyond the norm, and with future, he said. a clientele that ranks in the who’s “We realise that people’s vacation time is who of the corporate, sport and valuable,” Greg told us. “So why spend the entertainment worlds. whole day getting to Gili T, when we can Air Bali also offer specialised get you there in 45 minutes?” tours of majestic volcanos and “There are no airport hassles or delays, scenic beaches, as well as private as you fly direct from our state-of-the-art picnics, helicopter weddings, Heliport in Benoa Harbour,” he continued. hotel transfers, and other flights, “And we land directly on Gili T, at the whether it be getting to the golf course on existing helipad there on Paradise Sunset time or life-saving air lifts and medical Beach.” retrieval flights. On board the comfortable helicopter, guests flying on the Bali - Gili T route will enjoy a bird’s eye view of Bali’s stunning scenery as the helicopter flies along the north-east coast of Bali, with views of Mount Agung on the left and Lembongan Island to the right.
On the approach to Gili T, passengers have their first glimpse of Mount Rinjani, Indonesia’s second highest volcano, dominating the landscape of Lombok. The three, brilliantly white Gilis lay below, fringed by reefs and surrounded by a clear sea that graduates from turquoise to deep azure.
Touching down at Paradise Sunset Beach, friendly local faces are waiting to greet guests and whisk them off to their hotel or villa by horse and cart (there is no motorized transport on the island). The juxtaposition of modern and traditional transport is a fitting reminder that, in just 45 minutes, you have exchanged the busy crowds and traffic of Bali for the laid back pace and relaxing paradise of Gili T. For more information, see their advertisement on the next page or visit the Air Bali website at: www.airbali.com
Senggigi
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Mr Fixer
28
Tongue-in-cheek answers to your personal and building problems own version. For example, cars/trucks with the loudest muffler go first, and then trucks with the biggest tyres go second. People talking on cell phones, texting or surfing the net go next. Bikes with half a precariously-balanced shop on the back QUESTION: I have just arrived in Lombok as wide as a car, and riders with a 4-metre to get away from the mad traffic jams length of drainpipe or – my personal in Bali. Driving a motorbike there is like favourite – a full pane of glass held playing Russian Roulette on wheels! upright, ALWAYS have right of way! I intend to hire a bike here and do a QUESTION: The latest tourist guide leisurely tour of the sights along the information says there are two golf coastal road north of the holiday town of courses in Lombok, so I thought I’d spend Senggigi. The views of the ocean and a few weeks catching up on my swing the Gili Islands are truly breathtaking, I’m technique and play a few holes. told. Is there anything I should know about I hired some clubs and decided to caddy driving in Lombok, so I can be safe? my own sticks. I was all out and breathless MR FIXER: I know what you mean by the 4th hole, and just about made about driving in Bali. Road construction it back to the clubhouse before I had (especially near the new airport a stroke. I hadn’t realised how out of underpass) seems permanent and condition I was! continuous. Things are moved around for Is there any exercise programme you can your entertainment pleasure in the middle recommend for someone like me – an of the night to make the next day’s driving overweight ex-investment banker who a bit more exciting! hasn’t been any further than the executive The morning rush hour in Bali is from 5:00 washroom for the last 40 years? am to noon. The evening rush hour is from MR FIXER: Yes, try this: begin by standing noon to 7:00 pm. Friday’s rush hour starts on a comfortable surface, where you have on Thursday morning! plenty of room at each side. With a 2.5kg In Lombok, however, forget the traffic rules potato sack in each hand, extend your you learned elsewhere; Lombok has its arms straight out from your sides and
hold them there as long as you can. Try to reach a full minute, and then relax. Each day you’ll find that you can hold this position for just a bit longer. After a couple of weeks, move up to 5kg potato sacks. Then try 10kg potato sacks, and then 20kg sacks, and eventually try to get to where you can lift a 45kg potato sack in each hand and hold your arms straight for more than a full minute, (I’m at this level). After you feel confident at that level, put a potato in each of the sacks. QUESTION: My wife and I have been married for over 60 years. We were childhood sweethearts, and have seen and done it all! For a final fling, we thought we would come to the charming island of Lombok for a few weeks’ holiday. I don’t know if it was the sun- drenched beaches and powder blue skies, or the romantic walks along the shores after a few drinks, but my wife shocked me by offering me super sex when we get back to the hotel. What do you think I should do? MR FIXER: At your age, I’d have the soup!
To see previous Mr Fixers click on www.lombollocks.com
Contemporary Furniture Outdoor and Indoor Furniture Highest Quality Synthetic Ratan Jl. Raya Senggigi Duduk Garden No.6 Batu Bolong 83355 Lombok Phone/Fax: 0370 6194 123, HP: 0813 3955 5456| www.gandari.com
Senggigi
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w w w. l o t u s - r e s t a u r a n t s . c o m Specialising in delicious and authentic meals... real Italian food from our real Italian chef!
FREE Transport and delivery service in Senggigi area
On the beachfront, Senggigi Art Market Ph: +62 (0) 370 693 758 | Fax: +62 (0) 370 693 375
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WHAT ARE THEY DOING TO OUR VIEWS? Gede Renjana is also Chairman of the Indonesian Hindu Association (PHDI) NTB and, prior to his appointment at the Tourism Department, was Secretary of the Mining and Energy Department, West Lombok. Gede Renjana told the press that he recognised that the “Senggigi area makes a lot of money from year to year for West Lombok”.
2012 and referred to taxes collected from tourism businesses in Senggigi during 2011, the figure would be higher for 2012 (and begs the question of why those funds weren’t dispersed in the 2012 budget). We’re sure that the hotels, restaurants and tourism business investors would appreciate some consultation about how their tax money is spent and just what constitutes “restructuring Senggigi”.
One of the first items on the agenda would be that the money would be better spent in restructuring the drainage system in Senggigi, so we wouldn’t have floods every year during the rainy season.
“Last year, the West Lombok tourism sector managed to contribute about Rp 35 billion to the local treasury, and it is from the main Senggigi area,” he said. “From the revenues of that, this year the West Lombok [government will] allocate more than Rp 10 billion to restructure Senggigi.” Considering that statement was made in
Another would be the installation of good street lighting along the road, from Batu Layar to Senggigi.
Local News Continued from Page 21
Another ignored request is the installation of safe footpaths over those drains so that tourists can easily walk along the streets at night without risk to life and limb! In the meantime, please leave our beautiful views – and tourist attractions – alone!
“
Kalau kita tidak melakukan perubahan sekarang, Senggigi (atau Lombok) mungkin tidak akan menjadi objek pariwisata lagi di dalam 20 tahun ke depan. Pura Batu Bolong adalah tempat suci, aset kuno dan situs penting untuk budaya dan sejarah Lombok.
”
Ugly construction on the beach alongside historic Batu Bolong Temple
These important infrastructure improvements have been ignored by the West Lombok government for at least the past 7 years, despite repeated requests by Senggigi businesses.
Anna’s
Giftshop
Looking for nice presents or home decorations?
We sell: Salt and Freshwater Pearls, San Marco Jewellery, Lombok Pottery, Hand Painted Modern Wooden Statues and Masks, Unique Lamps, Paintings, Handwoven Ikats, Sarongs and much more!
Jl Raya Senggigi (next to Rambo Petshop) | P: 0817 5730 012 | E: lombok_annasgiftshop@hotmail.com
Senggigi
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DREAM DIVERS DREAM IT…
DO IT!
DREAM DIVERS have been Lombok diving specialists since 1996. Our SSI Instructor Training Center and PADI Dive Center on Gili Trawangan (also home to the DREAM DIVERS Bungalows, Bar & Restaurant), Gili Air and in Senggigi, on mainland Lombok, offer fun diving for everyone, SSI & PADI diving courses for all age groups and skill levels - from ‘Discover Scuba Diver’ to ‘Dive Instructor’. MORE THAN JUST A DIVE CENTER! Our staff is ready to ensure that you experience a really great holiday. We can arrange snorkel trips, accommodation, domestic flights, transport, sightseeing tours, diving in South Lombok, Komodo or Bali, and much, much more. Let us help you make your stay unforgettable. Nothing is impossible - DREAM IT… DO IT! For our Senggigi based guests we offer daily transport & dive trips over to the Gili Islands, including a pick up from your hotel.
Explore the Reef!
Not much time?
Snorkeling Trips on Gili Air & Gili Trawangan
Discover Scuba Diving in 1 day Become a Scuba Diver in 2 days
HEAD OFFICE SENGGIGI: Ph 0370 692 047 | Fax 0370 693 738 | Gili Trawangan: 0370 6134 496 | Gili Air: 0370 634 547 www.dreamdivers.com | info@dreamdivers.com
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Special Feature
LOTUS BAYVIEW RESTAURANT... Everything is Delicious!
You know a restaurant is good when you turn up to do a restaurant review and you can’t get a table!
oven, are renowned in Senggigi and feature real Italian toppings, such as Margherita, Funghi, Napoletana, and my favourite, the Seafood Lovers Pizza, which is topped with tomato, mozzarella, tuna, prawns, squid, black olives and parsley.
That’s what happened to us last Friday night when we arrived for dinner at Lotus Bayview Restaurant in the Art Markets (Pasar Seni) in Senggigi. Admittedly, it was the Idul Fitri weekend and town was packed with local holiday-makers, as well as the high season crowds of tourists, but Lotus is a popular place at any time of the year and it’s always a good idea to make a booking first. We returned earlier the next evening and managed to get a seat, although all the tables on the beachfront were already taken with diners settled in to watch the lively beach scene and the gorgeous sunsets that can be seen from Senggigi Beach every evening. We chose a bottle of wine from the small and reasonably priced selection of wines available by the bottle, (house wines are available by the glass) and tried to decide what to try from the menu… everything looked so tasty! There’s a good offering of appetisers and salads, including Seafood Lumpia (local spring rolls filled with seafood and served with a sweet and sour sauce), Calamari Fritti (the popular Italian style squid rings, served with Tartare sauce), and a very tempting Tuna Carpaccio – thin slices of fresh tuna seasoned with lemon, extra virgin olive oil, celery, fresh Basil leaves and a hint of chilli. But we couldn’t go past the Capesante Gratinate, which arrived at the table piping hot. Seven fresh local scallops served on the shell, topped with tangy
cheese, garlic, bread crumbs, parsley and olive oil… absolutely delicious and perfect for sharing as an appetiser. Also on the menu are soups – including the popular Thai style Tom Yum Goong – and Zupetta di Pesca, an Italian mixed seafood soup in a spicy tomato base, served with garlic bread. The restaurant also bakes its own breads on the premises and offers country style bread as well as traditional Bruschetta, Focaccia and Garlic bread. Main courses aren’t restricted to Italian fare, with Indonesian dishes including the popular fried rice and fried noodles, as well as Nasi Campur, which is a mixed plate of rice topped with chicken curry, beef stew, fried tempe and tofu, spicy vegetables, egg with sambal sauce, chicken satay and prawn crackers. Variations on this traditional meal are available throughout Lombok and the version offered at Lotus is like a tasting plate of local foods... very tasty and filling. Other highly recommended local dishes are the Indonesian Chicken Curry with coconut milk and Pepes Ikan (marinated fish fillet grilled in banana leaves). But Lotus is best known for its specialty home-made pastas and pizzas, and all the favourite pasta dishes are wellrepresented here: Tagliatelle, Fettuccine, Spaghetti, Penne, Gnocchi and Ravioli each shine with their individual flavours and authentic tastes. The pizzas, cooked in a wood-fired
Tonight we deviate from the pastas and choose the Black Pepper Steak, which turned out to be a generous serve of beef tenderloin, cooked medium well as requested, served on a bed of smashed potatoes (crushed, rather than mashed), and covered in a tasty black peppercorn sauce. I love Calzone and Lotus is the only restaurant I know in Lombok that serves this unique Italian “folded pizza”. Generous amounts of mozzarella, salami, chilli and mushrooms are encased in a pizza crust, folded over like a giant pasty, and then topped with home-made tomato sauce. This is a really delicious dish and great for sharing with friends. Despite the restaurant being packed, the staff does an exceptionally good job of keeping up with the guests, moving among the tables with friendly efficiency. Maurizio Cammarota, a trained chef and native Italian living in Lombok, is the manager of Lotus Bayview and does a wonderful job as host, greeting guests warmly, and frequently coming out to the tables to check on food quality and guest satisfaction. It’s not unusual to see him don his chef jacket and move into the kitchen on busy nights and I’m sure the cooks welcome his help, sweating alongside them as they work to get all the meals out perfectly. The kitchen itself is a rarity in Lombok and I like that it is open to viewing – everything is sparkling clean and it’s obvious that hygiene and cleanliness are priorities, together with fresh ingredients and well-prepared food. If you are a lover of good food, and especially good Italian food, you must try Lotus… tutto è delizioso!
Senggigi
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NOW OPEN IN SENGGIGI! MAMAS, NIKMAT, CATER PRODUCTS Sirloin, Tenderloin, Fillet Steaks Cold Cuts and Deli Meats Salami, Ham, Chicken and Turkey Sausages - Breakfast, Pork, Chicken, Beef, Herb and Mixed Dry Pasta and Sauces Gandari Purified Ice Cubes
Open 9am to 10pm every day
Jl Raya Senggigi, next to Sendok Bar & Restaurant | Ph: 0370 693 531
UD. GANDARI ICE SOLUTION
Pure refreshing ice cubes made from UV sterilised and purified spring water. Hygienically packaged for your convenience Supplying hotels, restaurants, bars, cafes & private villas
FREE DELIVERY EVERY DAY Jl Raya Senggigi, Duduk Garden No.6 Batu Bolong
www.gandari.com
Hotline: Hp: 081 836 8731 | Ph: 0370 619 4273 | Flexi: 0370 668 1958
Senggigi
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Italian Beachfront Restaurant Delicious Fresh Seafood, Authentic Italian Dishes Oriental Food, Barbecue on the Beach Wood Oven Pizza, Homemade Pasta and Italian Bread
Jl. Raya Batu Bolong, Senggigi | Phone: 0370 693039 / 693313 info@cafealbertolombok.com | www.cafealbertolombok.com • Imported Meats, incl Harvey Beef • Home-baked Breads, Cakes & Pastries • Dairy – Yoghurt, Cheeses, Butter, Cream • Wide Range of Imported Products • Open Every Day for your Convenience!
Ask us about our Catering Services, Wedding & Birthday Cakes! Jl Palm Raja No 5, BTN Green Valley, Senggigi. Phone: 0370 693251
Senggigi
35 OPEN 9am to 10pm 7 Days a Week
Try our home-cooked foods without MSG: fresh garden salad, chicken sandwiches and chicken burgers, spaghetti bolognese, spring rolls, fresh salsa, Indonesian soto and nasi goreng, or our delicious burgers with the meat patty made from fillet steak and based on a Slavic “cevapcici” recipe
While you’re eating delicious food in the Warung, drop into the Deli which sells a range of handy products such as Imported goods, pastas, herbs, cooking oils, lentils, nuts, butter, cheeses, jams and sauces, Lindt chocolates, juices, and fresh vegetables
All from Rp 15,000 to Rp 30,000!
s
Burger
hes
Sandwic
Spring
Rolls
Fresh Salads d r Ga en
Jl Raya Senggigi (Between Rambo Petshop & Papa Besar Cafe) | Phone: 0370 693177
Complete pet supplies in Senggigi! We carry a large selection of quality Dog and Cat Foods Pet Accessories (Collars, leads, cages, bowls, toys, etc) Pet Care Products (Vitamins, shampoos, flea and tick powders, coat conditioners and pet medicines) Hamster and fish foods and more!
Open 7 days a week
Jl Raya Senggigi (next to Deli Senggigi)
Phone: 0370 693177
Local Scene
36
THIS IS LOMBOK Sekotong by Barbara Cahyadi
With high season upon us, we bring our readers these fabulous images of Lombok collected from around our stunningly beautiful island. Tanjung Ringgit by Iwan Haryanto
Batu Payung, Tanjung Aan by Didik Hariadi
Pink Beach by Joe Mahier
Gili Nanggu by Barbara Cahyadi
Senggigi by Simon Mammino Senaru by Simon Mammino
Mawun Beach by Didik Hariadi
Sira Beach by Iwan Haryanto
Kayangan Port by Iwan Haryanto
Batu Bolong by Iwan Haryanto
Ampenan Beach by Iwan Haryanto
Meninting River by Iwan Haryanto
Kuranji Beach by Iwan Haryanto
Beloam, East Lombok by DIdik Hariadi
Setangi Beach by Joe Mahier
Senggigi
37
1 HOUR MASSAGE ONLY Rp 60,000 NET
ORCHID PACKAGE 1
Massage, Body Scrub, Body Mask Rp 150,000 net / 2 hours
ORCHID PACKAGE 2
Massage, Body Scrub, Body Mask, Manicure, Pedicure, Nail Polish Rp 200,000 net / 3 hours
Complete Spa Services at Local Prices! Open every day from 10am to 10pm Phone: 0819 1593 2899
Two convenient locations in Senggigi Senggigi Plaza Blok 3 No.9 (Senggigi Beach Road)
Galeria Shops (Near Rambo Petshop)
Pasar Classifieds
38
PASAR CLASSIFIEDS
GOLF PLAYERS WANTED
Enjoy our wonderful atmosphere and delicious hot and cold drinks, snacks and desserts! Free Wifi! AC inside and a smoking area outside. New menu items now available: Chicken Quesadilla Jaffle and Chicken Nuggets for the kids.
SENGGIGI HACKERS AMATEUR GOLF SOCIETY (SHAGS) Friendly, non-profit golf Games every week – Monthly Cup New members, tourists and casual games Discount rates! ALL WELCOME!
Ph: 0813 398 11140 (Jim) | www.golf-lombok.com
Located between the old airport and Kebon Roek Market on Jl Adi Sucipto, in the Griya Ellen complex. Open Daily 10am - 9pm and Sundays 12 - 9pm
Order a cake for your special event! Phone 0370 616 2667 K U TA L O M B O K - F O R S A L E Beachfront Land 9 are 91 are - full ocean view 2 are and 15 are (on first roundabout) SEKOTONG - FOR SALE 5 hectares - view of three Gilis and full ocean views
Contact owner 0819 9991 5775 / 0878 6460 0950
www.land-on-lombok-bali.com
HOUSE FOR SALE
Lombok Personal Assistant Visa arrangements and business permits Translator and interpreter (Dutch-English-Indonesian-German) House Management- Website design Tel. 081221617850 or 08121006776
www.lombok-personal-assistant.com
Strategic location, asfe area, 200m from Mataram Mall, 50m from Selaparang main road. Spacious 625m2 (2 storey house). 250 square foot print.
0817 5789 207
HOUSE FOR RENT Nyoman Transport Special for foreigner. 700sqm with yard. Fully furnished, garage for 3 cars, 4 bedroom, hot water system, AC. Located in Cakra
Safe and professional English-speaking driver with comfortable air conditioned car (seats 5 - 6). Private airport transfers or airport to Kuta, Mataram, Senggigi, Gilis, etc Available for private charter and Lombok tours. Competitive rates and friendly service!
0817 578 9207 / 0370 627 766
Phone: 0819 1701 3714 Email: nyoman.mance@yahoo.co.id
Pasar Classifieds
39
PASAR CLASSIFIEDS
THE INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF LOMBOK sekolah Nusa alaM
and the Lombok International Language Institute Cambridge A-Level Certificate Courses in English, Biology, Business, Art and Maths IGCSE Courses in Grade 9 and 10. Integrated International and Indonesian Curricula in Grades 7 and 8 lead to SMP and IGCSE Courses Integrated Curricula in Play Group (TK) to Grade 6 Primary (SD) English: Cambridge and IELTS Exam Preparation Courses Bahasa Indonesia Courses for Adults
For information: (0370) 647514 info@nusaalam.com | www.nusaalam.com Semester 1 starts 17th July 2013
IMMIGRATION SERVICE
LOWONGAN KERJA
Visas and Residency Permits Work and Business V isas Retirement Visas Police Permits Land Certificates Land and Building Permits Foreign Investment (PMA) Company Documents
KIRIMKAN LAMARAN ANDA KE PT. DEMARIN JLN SURABAYA NO.6 BTN TAMAN BARU, MATARAM CP: 087 866 944 484 / 087 864 398 800
VOA Extensions up to 30 days 0370 692 253 / 0818 360 415 / 0858 5822 3619 perwiralombok@yahoo.com damsiah@yahoo.com
PASAR CLASSIFIEDS BOX (9,5cm X 4,9cm) ONLY Rp 50,000 / ISSUE email: kitadesign@hotmail.com
DIBUTUHKAN SEGERA KRU UNTUK BEKERJA DI KAPAL PESIAR EROPA DAN AMERIKA UNTUK SEMUA POSISI. USIA MINIMAL 21 TAHUN.
HOUSE FOR RENT Located in Batu Layar near Senggigi. Fully Furnished. 2 Bedrooms, AC, Hot Water, Bar/ Kitchen. Quiet area, lush surroundings. Weekly, monthly or long term rental. Suitable for foreigner or expat who loves gardens and animals: • Single/Couple | • No children | • No drugs
Please call owner 0878 6458 2231
Senggigi
40
NEW MENU NEW LOW PRICES!
De Quake is One of the Most Enjoyable Places to Eat in Senggigi – The Lonely Planet
Cocktail of the Week A Different Cocktail Every Week
Rp 35,000++
We ONLY use imported spirits
Every Sunday: Roasted Chicken Rp 35,000++ Art Market Senggigi, Lombok +62 370 693694
www.dequake.com
Senggigi
41 Contemporary and Classic Original Art Resident Local Artist - Karyana Daily Exhibitions, Commission Work and Sales
Art Markets Senggigi (near The Office), Jalan Raya Senggigi 0818 540 569 | villamanis@yahoo.com
LOMBOK PHOTOGRAPHER Lombok Photographer is more than just a collection of fantastic images. It’s a celebration of creating and sharing great photography. It’s about a lot of people getting involved and contributing a little bit each to create something. We invite you to share some of your best photos! There is no cost to get involved and where ever you are ‘at’ with your photography, you’re sure to get a lot out of it
Photography Consultant Description - Stock Images - Training - Travelling Photography (aerial photography, landscape, human interest, caving and underwater) - Taking Pictures - Photography Contests - Exhibitions - Publicity - Photo Curator - Photo Marketing - Design 3D View & 3D Animation
www.lombokphotographer.com
Senggigi
42
Live Music! Great Food! Good Times! Every Friday ‘Ary Juliyant and Friends’ from 7.30 pm in the garden
Jl. Raya (Main Street) Senggigi, Lombok 0370 693619 restaurant@asmara-group.com
www.asmara-group.com
Bean Bags!
Many styles and colours! PURI Leisure Furniture Jl. Raya Senggigi Duduk Garden No.6 Batu Bolong (Kampung Duduk) Phone / Fax: +62 (0) 370 6194 123 / 0813 3955 5456 | www.gandari.com
Senggigi
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Villa Cantik Exclusive Villa for Rent
Special Rate for Long Lease The Hill Batu Layar, Lombok | 081 380 665 894 / 081 907 113 599 stay@villacantiklombok.com | VillaCantik@Outlook.com
www.villacantiklombok.com
44
In Good Taste...
In Good Taste
Welcome to Lombok! As an expat working here in Lombok, I want to share with all our valuable visitors a few of the recipes that you will try around our lovely island, so hopefully you can take more than just a great memory home and show your friends that – apart from beautiful scenery, sexy beaches, amazing weather and friendly people – we have some exquisite food available in our restaurants here and Lombok people do take their food seriously!
8 tsp grated dark brown sugar (Gula Merah)
Good day, everyone, and welcome to paradise! Finally we’ve reached the end of Ramadan and the fasting month is finished. I must say, when Idul Fitri coincides with the busy season on our island, things become very hectic!
1 cup freshly grated coconut, mixed with ½ tsp of salt Directions: 1) Mix the rice flour with the lukewarm water and green food coloring until it forms a firm but flexible dough.
It must be very difficult for people to fast and not drink with this hot weather, and my hat goes off to all my Muslim colleagues and friends who stuck with it! Unfortunately, my translator told me it was a month of feasting, so guess what I’ve been doing!!! Stupid extra “e”! Anyhow, this week I bring you a simple yet delicious traditional Indonesian dessert. This was the first Indonesian dessert I had ever tasted and it is still one of my favourites. History: Klepon (pronounced Klê-pon) is a traditional rice cake, popular throughout Indonesia and Malaysia. It is a boiled rice cake, stuffed with liquid Gula Jawa (palm sugar), and rolled in grated coconut. Klepon is green because it is usually flavoured with Pandan leaves, which are used widely in South East Asian cooking. Although popular across Southeast Asia, Klepon probably originated from Java. Klepon are usually eaten as morning or afternoon snacks. You need to eat Klepon
2) Pull off one full teaspoon of the dough and shape it into a ball approximately 1-inch in diameter. carefully, especially if they are still hot, as the liquid palm sugar can squirt out when you bite into it. Klepon are usually sold at small stalls along the roadside and at local markets, together with other popular sweet snacks, known collectively as jajan. In the 1950’s Klepon was introduced by Indonesian migrants to the Netherlands and today it is readily available in Dutch or Chinese Indonesian restaurants and supermarkets throughout the country. If it is made properly, these delicious little coconut balls explode in your mouth with a nice melted palm sugar delight! Selamat Makan! SWEET COCONUT RICE BALLS (KLEPON) by Bryce Adamson, Chef at Gili T Resort Ingredients: 1½ cups glutinous rice flour (Tepung Ketan, available at supermarkets)
3) Push a finger into the centre of the ball to make a hole, and put in approximately ½ tsp of the grated palm sugar. 4) Seal the hole and roll it back into the ball shape with the palms of your hands. 5) Prepare all the balls and set them aside. 6) Prepare a pot half filled with water and bring it to a boil. 7) Drop the balls a few at a time into the boiling water. Once they float to the surface, remove them with a slotted spoon and roll them in the grated coconut until well coated. Serve at room temperature or a little warm, as I prefer. This recipe makes around 30 rice balls. As always, if you dont want to make this at home, pop over to the Terminal Restaurant at Gili T Resort and our team will be more than happy to make it for you!
Lombok chefs who would like to contribute a local
¾ cup lukewarm water (or you can use coconut milk, if preferred)
recipe and be featured in
2-3 drops green food colouring
kitadesign@hotmail.com
“In Good Taste”, please email us at:
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Local News
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TAKBIRAN IN TANJUNG LUAR
© Photos by Joe Mahier
Pawai Takbiran, or the Takbiran Parade, is held on the last night of Ramadan and is celebrated in the towns and villages of Lombok in recognition of the successful completion of the fasting month.
includes drumming accompanied by amplified prayer, chanting and lively Islamic music.
Tanjung Luar is one of the villages in the district of Keruak, East Lombok, which holds a big Takbir parade on the eve of Idul Fitri (Eid ul-Fitr) every year.
The parade is an exciting event for this village, especially with the judging to decide who has made the best float and will win this year’s prize in the contest. They receive no support from the government for the parade – funding is entirely from the public, with a little help from the Jami‘ Baitussalam Mosque in Tanjung Luar and the district police (Kapolsek Keruak).
In the weeks before the event, local youth groups and members of the community get together to create “floats” that will be paraded around the village. These can be any symbols of Islam, but often include carefully painted replicas of miniature mosques complete with minarets. Takbiran itself is traditionally a “festival of light”, and lights feature highly in the parades. Mosques are lit from within, floats glow with fairy lights, and smiling people dressed in traditional Islamic clothing carry lanterns or glowing stars and hearts. Starting in the evening after dinner, and continuing throughout the night, the people of Tanjung Luar assemble for the loud and boisterous parade, which
But while winning the contest is exciting, the majority of the people agree that it is the chance to celebrate the successful end of the fasting month with a big party and to carry on the traditions of their community that is the most important.
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[ Yo u r K e y to an I d yllic Lombok ]
Lombok’s Boutique Hotel [ The Lonely Planet 2013: “Best Place to Stay in Lombok” ] [ Cosmopolitan: “Lombok’s Hidden Beauty” ] [ Guide du Routard: “Le Reve!” ] Jl. Raya Mangsit, Senggigi, Lombok | Phone: +62 370 693 800 Email: stay@quncivillas.com | Website: www.quncivillas.com
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HOUSE FOR SALE Lovely two-storey home in Ampenan, close to Mataram and only 15 minutes from Senggigi Modern western design with 3 bedrooms and 2 toilets. Main bedroom has AC, ensuite and private balcony Downstairs has modern western kitchen, large dining area and large comfortable lounge room with full length verandah opening out to private tranquil garden Huge entertainment area/Carport. Large berugaq (garden pavilion) and separate storage or Maid Quarters. Set on 3.5 are (3,500 sqm) in secure family neighborhood
OWNER RELOCATING - PRICE RP 450 MILLION (ONO) FOR QUICK SALE Ph: 0878 6458 0959
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UMA VILLAS DEVELOPMENT IN SETANGI 10 minutes north of Senggigi. 2 bed villa with pool. Fully managed secure complex with 6.5% rental returns. Just 4 minutes walk to the beach. FREEHOLD OWNERSHIP. ONLY USD 179,500
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BARGAIN SEA VIEW PLOT IN TAMPA NEAR KUTA COMPLETELY RENOVATED To a very high standard! 3 bedrooms (1 en-suite) 2 A/C’s. Guest 2Ha (2,000m2) Immediate hot tar road access. Just 30 mins H/W shower and W/C. Spacious upstairs media room with from new airport. ONLY IDR 7 million per are (100m2). wooden floor and sunset terrace. FREEHOLD USD 73,000 FREEHOLD ONLY USD 138,000
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1. Land for sale in Lembar: Size 5000m2, price IDR 500 million. Harbour view, 1.5 hours from airport. 2. LAND FOR SALE IN MALIMBU: 5km from senggigi, 500m from the beach, 9000m2. IDR 25 million / 100m2. 3. LAND FOR SALE IN SENGGIGI: near Holiday Resort, 1800m2, IDR 40 million/are. 4. LAND IN KUTA: 4100m2, view Aan, certificate, IDR 35 million/are. 5. LAND ON HILL IN BATU LAYAR: 18 are, ocean view, IDR 60 million/are. 6. LAND IN SEKOTONG: near Lembar, 1.1 Hectare, white sandy beach, 1 hour from airport, IDR 18 million/are. 7. LAND IN SETANGI: 1000m2, certificate, 100m from the beach, suitable for villa. 8. LAND IN BATU LAYAR: 15 are, beach view, IDR 45 million/ are. MAIN OFFICE: Jl. Bung Karno / Opposite Lombok Garden Hotel Ph: 0370 648863 | Mobile: 082 147 768 880 | Fax: 0370 648865
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PT. LAMBANG SEJATI DEVELOPER
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ISLAND PROPERTIES LOMBOK Real Estate Specialists
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WALK TO BEACH TOP LOCATION! Jl Kaliandra 24, Green Valley. Two level with 3 Bedrooms, 2 baths, foyer, kitchen and dining. Large upper living with superb timber floors, study and sunset terrace. Two a/c units. Landscaped gardens and ponds. Asking Rp 700 juta (nego)
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BTN Montong Kedaton Block A No 4 DON’T MISS VIEWING THIS PROPERTY A MUST TO BUY! Spacious 3 large bedroom with aircon plus ensuites. Large lounge and dining room with European kitchen, laundry, Gym. 10×12 Large entertaining area with fan (Berugak). Double Carport.
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Jl Baronang 12, Green Valley Well located large home, 5 minutes walk to the beach and Café Alberto. Spacious lounge with TV room. 2 big bedrooms with air conditioner in each room.2 ensuites, one with bath. Great kitchen, dining area and third bathroom. Outdoor living area with verandah. Double carport. Room for a pool.
Asking Price Rp 750 Million
We have sold many of our property listings. We are therefore looking for further listings between Montong and Medana Bay. For a confidential discussion, please contact Angela on 0819 1742 0804 (Bh. Indonesia 0819 0747 1639) DEVELOPMENT POTENTIAL Villas and / or Commercial Senggigi Land Magnificent views! Across the road from the Sheraton Resort. Quiet location only a few minutes walk to restaurants, shopping and central Art Market. Land size 9062 sq meters. Hak Milik (Freehold)
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Tourism Information
THE CITIES Many of Lombok’s weaving and basket making industries are located near Cakra; turn left at the central traffic lights and look for the market on the right near the bridge. The baskets in particular are sold in Bali at many times the local price.
Mataram Mall The three main cities in Lombok – Ampenan, Mataram and Cakranegara – have expanded over the years and now merge together to create what is, for Lombok, an urban sprawl of shops, administrative centres and residential areas. A visit to the cities makes an interesting day trip, exploring the numerous small shops selling everything imaginable at low prices. There are numerous pearl shops in Ampenan selling unset pearls and pearl jewellery at cheap prices. These are genuine pearls from the pearl farms on Lombok and Sumbawa and, if you bargain the price, are a good deal. Gold shops are also popular in both Ampenan and Cakra, with 24 kt gold being sold by the gram, regardless of the design. For cheap and interesting food choices, explore the many restaurants, warungs and food stalls in the cities. Or just wander around the streets to soak up the atmosphere and discover fascinating insights into Lombok city life! Ampenan was the original old port in Lombok during Dutch colonial times and some of the old architecture is still visible around the town, particularly toward the beach to the west. This area becomes a market at night, filled with warungs and kaki lima (food carts) for cheap, tasty food and local flavour. With its numerous shops, cheap hotels, dusty roads and plentiful cidomo (horse carts), gold and pearl shops, and its Arab quarter, Ampenan is a colourful town to explore. Kebun Roek, just near the traffic lights in Ampenan on the road from the old Selaparang airport, is the site of the local markets. Every day traders set up stalls
Mayura Park
selling fresh produce from around the island, local snacks and products, live chickens and fresh fish in the afternoon when the fishing boats come in. A stroll through the markets is a pungent and enlightening experience! Mataram, about 3 km to the east of Ampenan, is the administrative centre for Lombok and Sumbawa (NTB Province), with government offices, banks, mosques, schools and colleges, bookstores, the main post office, and Mataram University downtown. In Mataram, the Nusa Tenggara Barat Museum houses historical and cultural artefacts from Lombok and Sumbawa. It’s an interesting place to visit and occasionally hosts special exhibits. Displays include exhibits on geology, history and culture. Address: Jl Panji Tilar. Ph: 632159 for opening times. There is a small admission fee. Also worth visiting is the cultural centre, Taman Budaya on Jl Majapahit. Music and dance performances are presented here regularly. Phone: 622428 for details.
The next large town east of Cakra, Sweta, has a huge market every day near the Bertais bus terminal, with all kinds of goods on sale, from foodstuffs to clothing, exotic birds, handicrafts and more. Nearby Temples and Places of Interest Pura Meru on Jl Selaparang, Cakranegara, was built in 1720 by Balinese Prince Anak Agung Made Karang and is the largest temple on Lombok. Its three meru are for the Hindu trinity – Shiva, Vishnu and Brahma. This is an important temple for the Balinese here and its annual Pujawali festival, held over five days during the full moon in September or October, is the biggest Balinese Hindu event on Lombok. The outer courtyard hall has large drums used to announce ceremonies and festivals. In the central courtyard are two buildings with raised offering platforms. The interior enclosure has 33 shrines as well as the three multi-tiered meru.
Mataram Mall, on the main street in Mataram, has an upstairs food court for cheap local meals. Lombok’s only real mall, there are four floors of shops and stalls selling a vast selection of goods. Particularly good buys are shoes, jeans, and copy brand bags and belts. There is a department store, several electronics stores, and shops selling clothing, CD’s and DVD’s. Hero Supermarket, on the ground floor, is useful for some western goods, food and toiletries. The Chemist next door has imported toiletries, supplements and medicines. McDonalds and KFC have outlets on the ground floor. Cakranegara (usually abbreviated to “Cakra”) is Lombok’s main shopping area. It is also home to many Chinese and Balinese, who make up over 50 percent of the city’s population. The streets of the city make an interesting tour with gold shops, sporting goods, clothing stores and very good fabric stores selling imported silks, laces and cottons, to name a few.
Pura Mayura, just across the street from Pura Meru, was built in 1744 as the court temple of the last Balinese kings in Lombok. An open hall or bale kambang (floating pavilion) stands in a large artificial lake here and is used as a place for meetings and to relax. Today the palace gardens are a playground for children. The temple sits behind the sedate water gardens and is open daily; admission is by donation.
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The Cities
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The Cities
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Wild Kopi Luwak
ONE STOP COFFEE SHOP
Mataram Mall 2 Lt.3 (3rd Floor) Ph: 0818 365 790 www.coffeelombok.com
Coffee Shop & Lounge In House Roasting Coffee and Barista Equipment Sell, Rent & Repair Machines Coffee Business Solutions Coffee Catering & Events Roasted Beans or Ground to order All about Coffee + Cakes, Desserts and Waffles
Domestic Fares | International Tickets & Packages Visa Services | Tours | Direct Agent to Airlines (no middleman!) Express Check-in Services I M M I G RAT I O N S E RV I CE S Fast, Modern & Professional | We speak English!
LOMBOK: Jl. Pejanggik No 198 Cakra (Past the Mall, Opposite “fruit street”) P: 0370 633469, 633888 F: 0370 633453 E: citramulia@indo.net.id
Open Monday - Saturday: 8am – 8pm Sunday: 8am – 7pm
WEST SUMBAWA: Jl. Teluk Balas RT 5 RW 6, Ds Pasir Putih, Maluk, Jereweh P: 0372 635535 HP: 08113943789 E: citramulia_swq@yahoo.com
Local News
65
NEW HYPERMART OPENS IN CAKRA supplements, and cosmetic and beauty products. Solaria Resto & Lounge is a popular café style eatery with comfortable seating and lounges, serving mostly Indonesian dishes, snacks, coffees and cold drinks.
Lombok has a brand new, modern supermarket with the opening of Hypermart on 27 July, 2013.
Mokko Factory has a nice selection of specialty donuts, as well as brewed coffees and soft serve yoghurts. Eat in or takeaway.
The newly opened store is part of the Central Plaza shopping complex on Jl AA Gde Ngurah in Cakra (turn right at the main traffic lights after Mataram Mall and follow this road past the Jl Sriwijaya traffic lights, until you see the huge Hypermart sign on the right side of the road). Central Plaza is still under construction and more stores will open in the coming months (with rumours that a Matahari Department Store may open here in
2014… however, this is unconfirmed as yet). Hypermart is already open for business, as are several other stores in the main building including Boston Drugs, Solaria Resto, Optik Melawai, Mokko Factory, and a few specialty stores. Boston Drugs is a modern chemist (or apotik) and has a good selection of body care products, over the counter medications, imported vitamins and
supermarket, with aisles of everything from cleaning products to baby needs to canned and packet goods and groceries. Of particular interest are the dairy, fresh produce and fresh meat departments. Here you will find everything from milk, cheeses, yoghurt, sausages and deli meats to large selections of fresh fruit and vegetables, to bulk storage bins of nuts, pulses and snacks.
Optik Melawai is a professional business selling prescription eye glasses, frames, lenses, contact lenses and accessories, as well as brand name sunglasses.
The large meat department has pre-packed chickens and cuts, fresh meats, and whole fresh fish on ice, as well as packs of filleted fish.
But Hypermart is the star attraction at the moment! The huge store is well laid out with spacious aisles and a vast array of stock. The electrical department carries everything from laptops, printers and computer accessories, to the latest TV’s, air conditioners, fridges, washing machines, microwaves, toasters, blenders, and more. The left side of the store has stocks of home wares, kitchen ware, toys, stationery, a small selection of gardening and pet supplies, tools, and small furniture and storage items.
Large freezers stock frozen meals, vegetables, meats and fish, as well as specialty products such as Häagen-Dazs and Baskin Robbins ice creams.
In the centre aisles is a huge range of body and hair care products, cosmetics, bedding and towels, shoes, and ladies and mens apparel (including swimwear).
Although Lombok is already served by Hero Supermarket (and, to a lesser extent, Ruby’s Supermarket), Hypermart is more than just a supermarket and definitely has a range to rival the others.
The rest of the store is dedicated to the
Welcome to Lombok Hypermart!
Useful Contacts
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General Information (Directory Assistance): (0370) 108 BANK / ATM Bank Central Asia (BCA) Jl. Pejanggik No.67, Mataram, Lombok Phone: 0370 632588, Fax: 0370 622347 ATMs - Jl. Raya Senggigi, Senggigi, W. Lombok - Mataram Mall, Mataram, W. Lombok - MGM Plaza, Jl. AA Gede Ngurah, Mataram - Jl. Airlangga, Mataram, W. Lombok - Jl. Jendral Sudirman, Praya, C. Lombok - Jl. Langko, Mataram, W. Lombok - Jl Raya Senggigi (Senggigi Square) Bank Danamon Indonesia Jl. Pejanggik No.117, Mataram, W. Lombok Phone: 0370 631322, Fax: 0370 633068 ATMs - Jl. Koperasi 1, Mataram, W. Lombok - Jl. Raya Senggigi, Senggigi, W. Lombok - Komplek Ruko B1, Sweta, W. Lombok Bank International Indonesia (BII) Jl. AA Gede Ngurah No.48, Mataram, W. Lombok. Phone: 0370 635027, 633347 ATMs - Jl. Airlangga No.25, Mataram, Lombok - Mataram Mall, Mataram, W. Lombok - Jl. Raya Senggigi, Senggigi, W. Lombok Bank Mandiri Jl. Pejanggik No.20-22, Mataram, W. Lombok. Phone: 0370 631311 ATMs - Jl. Pejanggik No.20, Cakranegara, Lombok - Jl. Taruna Jaya, Mataram, W. Lombok - Mataram Mall, Mataram, W. Lombok - Selaparang Airport, Mataram, W. Lombok - Jl Raya Senggigi (In Front of Santosa) Bank Negara Indonesia (BNI) Jl. Langko No.64, Mataram, W. Lombok Jl. Raya Senggigi, W. Lombok Phone: 0370 631046, Fax: 0370 631005 ATMs - Jl. Langko No.64, Mataram, W. Lombok - Jl. Pejanggik No.68, Mataram, W.Lombok - University of Mataram (UNRAM) - Jl. Sandubaya, Sweta, W. Lombok - Jl. Selaparang No.37, Mataram, W. Lombok - Jl. Raya Senggigi, W. Lombok - Mataram Mall, Mataram, W. Lombok - Jl. Jendral Sudirman 51, Praya, C. Lombok Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) Jl. Pendidikan No.16, Mataram, Lombok Phone: 0370 632246, Fax: 0370 633084 ATMs - Jl. Airlangga, Mataram, W. Lombok - Mataram Mall, Mataram, W. Lombok - Jl. Pahlawan No.92, Selong, E. Lombok MEDICAL / HEALTH CARE Medika Husada Clinic Jl Raya Senggigi. Phone: 0370 6644820 HOSPITALS Rumah Sakit Harapan Keluarga Jl Ahmad Yani 9 Selagalas. Ph: 6177000, 670000. Emergency (24hrs): 6177009. Mataram Public Hospital (Rumah Sakit Umum Mataram) Jl. Pejanggik No.6, Mataram, W. Lombok Phone: 0370 623498 / 6604605 New Mataram Public Hospital (Rumah Sakit Umum Mataram) Jl. Bung Karno 1 Mataram. Phone: 0370 645045 Central Lombok Public Hospital Jl. Jendral Basuki Rachmad, Praya, Central Lombok. Phone: 0370 654007 East Lombok Public Hospital Jl. Professor M. Yamin No. 55, Selong, East Lombok. Phone: 0376 21680
Biomedika Clinic Jl. Bung Karno 143 Mataram. Phone: 0370 645137 Risa Clinic Jl. Pejanggik 115 Cakranegara. Phone: 0370 625560 / 632117 DENTAL drg. Farida Istiarini, Sp.Ort (Joli Sourire Dental Care) Mataram Mall. Jl. Pejanggik, Cakranegara. Ph: 0370 668 1797 drg. Lina Kulsum Jl. Gunung Dieng No.7, Mataram, Lombok Phone: 0818536236 / 0370 632131 MONEY CHANGERS Multigraha Kelolavalas - Jl. Rasa Senggigi km.10, Senggigi, W. Lombok, Ph; 0370 693693 - Jl. Pejanggik No.1, Mataram, W. Lombok, Ph: 0370 631567 Multigraha Valas Jl. Saleh Sungkar No.1 Ampenan, W. Lombok, Ph: +62 370 624045 PT. Bali Mispintjira Jl. Raya Senggigi km.13, Senggigi, West Lombok, Ph: 0370 692247, 0370 692247 SHOPPING Senggigi Abadi Supermarket Jl. Raya Senggigi, Km.8.5, Senggigi, West Lombok. Phone: 0370 693311 Senggigi Jaya Supermarket Jl. Raya Senggigi, Km.8, Senggigi, West Lombok. Phone: 0370 693530 Alfa Mart Jl Raya Senggigi Indomaret Jl Raya Senggigi Art Market (Pasar Seni) - Jl. Raya Senggigi, Senggigi West Lombok - Gili Trawangan, West Lombok Barata Department Store Jl. Niaga II, Ampenan, West Lombok Phone: 0370 646123 Grand Store Mataram Mall, 3rd floor, Jl. Pejanggik, Cakranegara, W. Lombok. Ph: 0370 629931 Hero Supermarket Mataram Mall, 1st floor, Jl. Pejanggik, Cakranegara, W. Lombok. Ph: 0370 629918 Tiara Department Store Mataram Mall, 1st & 2nd floor, Jl. Pejanggik, Cakranegara, West Lombok Phone: 0370 629902 Kharisma Book Shop Mataram Mall, 2nd floor, Jl. Pejanggik, Cakranegara, West Lombok Phone: 0370 629875 Ruby Supermarket Jl. Pejanggik No.111, Cakranegara, West Lombok. Phone: 0370 631092 Jembatan Baru Supermarket Jl. Pejanggik No.41, Cakranegara, West Lombok. Phone: 0370 636106 MGM Plaza Jl. AA Gede Ngurah No.98, Cakranegara, West Lombok. Phone: 0370 646007 EMERGENCY Senggigi Tourism Police: Jl. Raya Senggigi, Phone. 00370 693267 Lombok Regional Police: Jl. Gajah Mada No. 7 Ampenan. Call this emergency number: 110 Fire Brigade: Phone. 0370 672013. In emergency call 113
Hospital UGD (Emergency Unit Service): Phone: 0370 622254 Ambulance: Phone. 0370 623498. In emergency call 118 TAXIS Blue Bird Taxi, Phone: 0370 627000 Express Group Taxi, Ph: 0370 647555 IMMIGRATION Jl. Udayana, Mataram, Ph: 0370 632520 PUBLIC SERVICES ELECTRICITY PLN Mataram. Ph: 0370 632182 PLN Senggigi. Ph: 0370 693535 WATER PDAM Mataram. Ph: 0370 632510 PDAM Senggigi. Ph: 0370 693886 Telkom (Phone/Internet). Ph: (0370) 147 POST OFFICES Mataram: Jl. Sriwijaya, Phone. 0370 632645 Senggigi: Jl. Raya, Phone. 0370 693711 CONSULATES AUSTRALIA (incl. New Zealand, Canada) Phone: 0361 241118, Fax: 0361 221195, Email: bali.congen@dfat.gov.au BRAZIL Phone: 0361 757775, Fax: 0361 751005. Email: brazilconsul@bytheseatropical.com BRITAIN Phone: 0361 270601, Fax: 0361 287804, Email: bcbali@dps.centrin.net.id CHILE Phone: 0361 756781, Fax: 0361 756783. Email: chilehonconsulate@bali-villa.com CZECH REPUBLIC Phone: 0361 286465, Fax: 0361 286408. Email: bali@honorary.mzv.cz DENMARK & NORWAY Phone: 0361 701070, Fax: 0361 701073/4, Email: mimpi@mimpi.com FINLAND & SWEDEN Phone: 0361 288407, Fax: 0361 287242. Email: segara1@denpasar.wasantara.net.id FRANCE Phone: 0361 285485, Fax: 0361 286406, Email: consul@dps.centrin.net.id GERMANY Phone: 0361 288535, Fax: 0361 288826, Email: germanconsul@bali-ntb.com HUNGARY Phone: 0361 287701, Fax: 0361 287456. Email: cristofoli@denpasar.wasantara.net.id INDIA Ph. 0361 259502/259503, Fax. 0361259505 E: cons.bali@mea.gov.in / hoc.bali@mea.gov.in ITALY Phone: 0361 701005. Email: italconsbali@italconsbali.com JAPAN Phone: 0361 227628, Fax: 0361 265066. Email: konjpdps@indo.net.id SPAIN Phone: 0361 975736, Fax: 0361 975726, Email: rabik@indo.net.id SWITZERLAND & AUSTRIA Phone: 0361 751735, Fax: 0361 754457. Email: bali@honrep.ch THAILAND Phone: 0361 263310, Fax: 0361 238044 THE NETHERLANDS Phone: 0361 761502, Fax: 0361 752777, Email: purwa@denpasar.wasantara.net.id USA Ph: 0361 233605, Fax: 0361 222426. Email: amcobali@indosat.net.id
Distribution
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3500 COPIES DISTRIBUTED
EVERY TWO WEEKS AT THESE LOCATIONS:
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DEADLINE NEXT EDITION 12 NOON 23 AUGUST
AIRPORT: Hotel counters outside the airport. BALI: Amo Spa, Arena Sport Bar & Rest, Asia Collection Tour, Asia Prospects, Asian Trails Tour, Balcony Rest, Barb’s Sport Warung, BIMC, Blue Water Express, Bounty Cruises, Caesar Rest & Bar, Cafe Bali, Café Canggu, Café Marzano, Café Smorgas, Canggu Club, D Corner Bar & Rest, Double Dutch, Eco Beach Rest, Exotissimo Travel Indonesia, Gili Shop Poppies 1 & 2, Gili Cat Bali, Gloria Jeans Coffee 1 & 2, Go Vacation Tour, Golden Kris Tour, Grocer & Grind, Havana Club Bar & Rest, Jimmy Sport Bar & Rest, Indo-Ned, Junction Bar & Rest, Khaima Rest & Bar, Made’s Warung Kuta & Seminyak, Maya Coffee & Smothie Bar, Ocha Warung, Pacific World, Pacto Tour, Piduh Rest, Poppies bar & Rest, Prime Resort Services, Red Carpet, Rutica Cucina Italiana, Sate Bali Rest Echo Beach, Sendok Bar & Rest Legian, Sol Beach Rest, SOS, Sticky Fingers Italiana, The Cameng Bar & Rest, The Plumbers Arms, The Porch Cafe, The Wicked Parrot, Trattoria Cucina Italiana, Ultimo Bar & Rest, Vila Lumbung, Warung Bale Bali, Warung Bonita, Warung Eropa, Warung Italia, Warung Kolega, Warung Made Bar & Rest, Warung Max, Warung Sulawesi, White Sands Rest & Bar, Yut’s Place Rest. MATARAM: Citramulia Travel, CV Ananta Guna Lestari, Depo Jaya Bangunan, Ira Property, Losmen Tjabe Merah, Mataram Mall (Delicio Café, Joli Sourire Dental Care, KFC, Lombok Coffee House, McDonalds, Oceanic Café), NTB Museum, PT Lambang Sejati, Selekta Jaya Marine, Sinta Pest Control, Toko Susana. SOUTH LOMBOK: Bumbangku Cottages, Secret Island Resort. SENGGIGI: Alfa Mart, Anna’s Giftshop, Asmara Restaurant, Blue Marlin Senggigi, Café Alberto, Cafe Lombi, Ciokolata, De Quake, Deli Senggigi, Dream Divers, Dream Estate, Graha Beach Senggigi Hotel, Holiday Resort, Living Asia, Karyana Gallery, Lombok Property & Villas, Lotus Bayview, Marina Srikandi, Marshander Spa & Salon, Meat Mart, Orchid Spa, Papa Besar Cafe, Puri Furniture, Puri Bunga Cottages, Puri Mas Boutique Resort, Qunci Villas, Rambo Petshop, Senggigi Jaya Abadi Supermarket, Sheraton, Square Restaurant, Stars Cafe, Svarga Resort, Temptations, The Beach Club, The Chandi, The Office, Warung Botol, Windy Beach Resort, Ye Jeon Restaurant. GILI T: Blue Marlin Dive, Blue Water Cruises, Desa Dunia Beda, Gili T Resort, Gili Getaway, ko-ko-mo Resort, Oceano Resort, Pesona Resort, Hotel Vila Ombak, Manta Dive, Ombak Sunset, Scallywags, The Beach House, The Trawangan, Villa Cantik. GILI MENO: Blue Marlin Dive, Mahamaya, Meno Dream Resort, Tropical Hideaways Resort. GILI AIR: 7SEAS Cottages, Scallywags, The Beach Club. SUMBAWA: Mini Mart, Newmont Mining Site. Special thanks to our contributors: Barbara Cahyadi, Dian Cahyadi, Didik Hariadi, FOKUS Unram, Iain Kent, Iwan Haryanto, Nanang Wirawan, www.balidiscovery.com. Printed by PT. Temprina Media Grafika, Denpasar, Bali Copyright © 2013. All rights reserved. Nothing in The Lombok Guide can be reproduced in whole or part without written permission from the publisher.
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The Southwest
The Southwest
Floating in the sparkling turquoise waters just off the southwest coast are thirteen small islands called the Southwest Gilis. Unlike the famous Gili islands in the northwest of Lombok, the Southwest Gilis are largely uninhabited and have yet to be discovered by most travellers... thus we call them “The Secret Islands”. The Sekotong region starts just south of Lembar Harbour and features stunning beaches and bays set against a backdrop of rolling hills. The drive itself is a worthwhile trip, meandering through villages where life is largely untouched by tourism and where the people are involved in their day-today activities of farming, fish cultivation, boating and fishing, brick-making and other traditional pastimes. Along the roadsides you will see people building and repairing boats, laying out hand-made bricks to dry in the sun, working in the fields, and sometimes guiding primitive wooden ploughs harnessed to huge water buffalo, as they prepare the fields for planting.
Secret Islands, Pristine Beaches! Nanggu Cottages providing simple cottages on the beach and a restaurant, as well as deluxe rooms further back from the beach. The island is small and the beach here has soft white sand and a good reef just off the beach for snorkelling. Travelling a little further south, before the marine culture complex (Balai Budaya Laut), there is a small dirt road leading out onto a white peninsular of sand that juts into beautiful clear waters. Drive to the end for superb views and a close up look at Gili Genting. Gili Genting sits just off the tip of the peninsular and at low tide you can walk across the sandbar and explore this uninhabited island. Old volcanic rocks and stone carved from centuries of tidal flow create small caves and alcoves, providing shelter for picnics and interesting nooks and crannies to explore.
Back on the main road and slightly further south is Sundancer Resort, with its distinctive blue roofs dotted on the The peaceful village of Taun (or Tawun), is hillside overlooking another white sand situated on a wide, placid bay in Sekotong. beach. The hotel development is still under construction. The ocean is sparkling turquoise and the dazzling white sand stretches in a wide Across the road from Sundancer, on the sweep around the bay, while the hills beachfront, is Dive Zone – a well-run behind form a perfect backdrop to this diving facility and experts on diving idyllic setting. the southwest islands, having pioneered development of previously unknown dive Just out in the calm bay are the three sites in this area. lovely islands of Gili Nanggu, Gili Tangkong and Gili Sudat – all easily Dive Zone offer dive trips around accessible by local outrigger boats. A small Sekotong and the islands, as well as in three locations in South Lombok – sign in the nearby village will direct you including challenging world-class diving to the local boat hire area, where you can off southeast Lombok. arrange boat trips out to Gili Nanggu and the other small islands offshore. Another few kilometres past Dive Zone is Cocotinos Boutique Beach Resort, set Of the three, only Gili Nanggu has on the secluded beach at Tanjung Empat. accommodation for visitors, with Gili
With 28 rooms, including beachfront villas with private swimming pools, Cocotinos is the only luxury accommodation in the area. Cocotinos in Sekotong is the second venture for the Odyssea Asia group, with their first dive resort already well established in Manado, Sulawesi. Scuba diving courses and dives, operated by Odyssea Divers, are available from the resort, together with snorkelling, boating and other sea sports. Fronting the resort is a glorious white sand beach which spans over 300m, part of which is a private cove. Facilities include a 17m beach front swimming pool, a restaurant overlooking the bay, the Laleina Spa on the waterfront, a boat jetty, and diving and boating facilities. At the next intersection there is a signpost to the right for Labuhan Poh and Pelangan, the site of Bola Bola Paradis. This is a small hotel, situated right on the beachfront with comfortable and clean rooms at reasonable prices. The hotel also organises snorkelling tours and is a popular choice for those surfing at Bangko-Bangko. The largest of these islands is Gili Gede, appropriately meaning “Big Island”. The island lays just offshore and is so large visitors often mistake it for part of the mainland. Gili Gede is easily reached by boat from the village of Tembowong and is only minutes across the water. Gili Gede is one of the few islands in the area that has accommodation, at Secret Island Resort on the south, Via Vaccare on the northwest and Madak Belo on the east. Gili Gede is large enough to provide a range of activities such as hiking to the
The Southwest
69 own a large parcel of land on Gili Ringgit and have constructed a boat mooring and pier on the island. There is good snorkelling on the west side of Gili Ringgit, accessed by boat. Large gardens of hard and soft corals lay just beneath the surface and the reef extends along most of the island’s coast. On the other side of the island is where the pier is located, with a fantastic white sand beach. It is a favourite for guests from Secret Island Resort, and Dive Zone often brings divers to the island to relax in between dives, as the scenery and beach here are so lovely.
hills in the centre for fantastic views across the other islands, exploring deserted beaches and hidden coves and meeting the people living on the island, who are very friendly and, as yet, unspoilt by tourism. Secret Island has comfortable budget accommodation, including a unique bungalow perched on a pier over the reef – the only one in either Lombok or Bali. The Resort offers a host of activities that all the family will enjoy, while also being a place
It’s easy to snorkel offshore, just north of the pier and, although the reef isn’t as large as on the other side of the island, there is still plenty to see. Bright blue starfish drape themselves across patches of coral, and bright yellow and black Moorish Idols dart through the water. Schools of where you can get away from it all. hundreds of small iridescent fish swim past Secret Island can also organise fishing trips and weirdly shaped squid drift by in the and island hopping excursions to the other deeper areas. beautiful islands in the area, most of which We met a boat load of happy tourists on are deserted, about their comfortable 9m Gili Ringgit, out for the day with Dive custom-built boat “Scorpio”. Zone, who described the diving as some of the best they’ve ever experienced. Most To the south of Gili Gede, the islands of couldn’t stop gushing about the huge Gili Ringgit, Layar and Asahan are lined school of turtles they had just seen near up like secret treasures in the calm sea. Gili Layar! Bounty Cruises, a Bali based company, Continued on Page 70
The Southwest
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All around these Southwest Gilis, abundant coral reefs lay just below the surface waiting to be explored, filled with thousands of brightly coloured tropical fish, huge sprawling blue starfish and magical turtles gently gliding through the water. Slightly south of Gili Gede, beautiful Gili Asahan attracts visitors with deserted white sand beaches, clear calm waters and swaying palm trees. Pearl Beach Resort, the only accommodation on the island, is a lovely boutique hotel with charming and welldesigned bungalows looking out over a breath-taking beach. Of a higher standard than most of the southwest accommodation, each bungalow has a private terrace and western style bathrooms with hot water. There is also a beachfront restaurant serving western and Indonesian meals. The resort is popular with divers and can arrange diving and snorkelling trips, as well as island-hopping tours. Pearl Beach
is perfect for romantic escapes and for those seeking the tranquillity of a private island resort. Leaving Gili Asahan and back on the mainland there are small home-stays and private accommodations spaced out along the road to Bangko-Bangko – known as Desert Point and the surfing Mecca for those in the know – located on the far southwest tip of Lombok. The wide white sand bay is lined with fisherman’s huts and draws hundreds of surfers every year from as far away as Hawaii and Brazil to challenge the huge waves of Desert Point, just offshore. Although the road deteriorates after Labuhan Poh, it is still passable for most vehicles in the dry season. During the surfing season, from mid-May to September and again in December, the beach is buzzing with surfers, but otherwise it is a remote and peaceful area. Bali is clearly visible, with the island of Nusa Penida only about an hour’s sail away.
The drive to the point is dotted with bucolic scenery and tiny villages, making it a worthwhile trip even for non-surfers. There is basic surfer accommodation in the area and plans for development in the near future. Those who wish to explore the underwater world further can join dive adventures with either Dive Zone in Sekotong or Odyssea Divers at Cocotinos The dive sites reflect a good cross-section of what Indonesian diving has to offer. Dive in and be fascinated by turtles, white tip reef sharks, cuttlefish, moray eels and many other varieties of marine life. The reefs are full of bright soft corals and colourful corals, which harbor an amazing variety of rare marine life, including ghost pipe fish, leaf fish, pygmy seahorses and much more. The southwest is slated for tourism development and it’s easy to imagine hotels and resorts on all these beaches and islands in the future, as well as yachts, fishing boats, windsurfers, dive boats and the like. But for now, the Southwest is unspoilt and the Gilis remain the secret islands… stunningly beautiful, pristine and unique; and known only to the lucky few.
The Southwest
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Kuta and The South Coast
Tourism Information
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Kuta by Barbara Cahyadi
KUTA AND THE SUBLIME SOUTH COAST
Indonesia boasts some of the most magnificent scenery in the world and the south coast of Lombok rates as being among the best.
South Lombok has views that inspire artists and photographers and leaves visitors from around the world speechless at the sublime panoramic beauty that unfolds beach after beach, bay after bay, all along the coast.
Nearby, on the hilltop, is one of the oldest mosques in Lombok, Mesjid Kuno. The small building with a thatched roof is considered holy and many believers make pilgrimages to pray here.
The beaches of the south draw crowds to bake on the blindingly white sands, swim in the crystal clear oceans and challenge some of the best surf breaks in Indonesia.
Slightly further south is Sade, an hilltop village with more Lumbungs and traditional homes. Both villages have been renovated and cater to the tourist market, but are still interesting examples of traditional Sasak architecture and communal living within the compounds, where life continues as it has for centuries.
Kuta (sometimes spelt Kute) is the main town and tourism centre on the south coast of Lombok, and is the hub for exploring the fantastic southern beaches and the many points of interest in the region. Located around 60 km south of Mataram and about one and a half hour’s drive from Senggigi, Kuta makes for a wonderful day trip from other points in Lombok, or an alternative holiday destination for travellers exploring Lombok. Since the Lombok International Airport opened in late 2011, many of the major roads have been upgraded and the main road to Kuta is very good. The new airport is located only 25 minutes’ drive north of Kuta and has made access to the south very easy. The proximity to the airport has already sparked an investment boom in the area and major developments are expected over the coming year. For now, the south is uncrowded, pristine and spectacular. The drive down to the south coast is an interesting rural tour of small villages and farming communities. Fields of tobacco, corn and peanuts line the roadsides and farmers till the fields using antiquated ploughs pulled by large water buffalo. Just before arriving in Kuta, the road passes two traditional Sasak villages – Sade and Rambitan. On the east side of the road is Rambitan, a village that caters to tourists and has authentic clusters of thatched Lumbung, or rice barns, and traditional homes made of thatch and bamboo, with hardened cow and buffalo dung floors.
Residents, who act as guides for a small fee, encourage walks through either of these villages and are happy to share a glimpse of their lifestyles with visitors. Kuta itself is a small town with hotels, home-stays and backpacker’s hostels that cater mainly to the thousands of surfers from around the world who are drawn to the area every year to surf the left- and right-hand breaks out in the bay.
Nearby Mandalika Beach is named after the legendary Princess Mandalika, a beloved character in Sasak folklore. It is near here that thousands of people gather every year to celebrate the colourful ritual of Bau Nyale, when masses of sea worms spawn in the waters offshore.
Ashtari, around 2km west of Kuta, stands out from the usual Kuta cafés and is a “must stop” for those touring in the area. Perched on top of the hill with spectacular views over Kuta and the surrounding There is a good variety of accommodation, beaches, Ashtari serves exquisite teas and restaurants and facilities for travellers and juices, and delicious vegetarian meals and – with investment taking off –more options organic gourmet snacks that are truly out of the ordinary. Open Tuesday to Sunday, are opening all the time. There are plans for breakfast and lunch only. for a luxury beachfront resort in central Kuta this year and smaller developments Kuta attracts thousands of visitors are already under construction. every year for the great surf locations At present, Kuta boasts just one luxury at Gerupuk, Tanjung Aan, Ekas, and the resort: the Novotel beaches to the west. It’s easy to hire a Lombok. The board and a surf guide from here to learn Novotel has a range surfing or, for experienced surfers, to of accommodation, access the more challenging surf breaks in from comfortable the area. Hire a car or motorbike and you hotel rooms to can spend days visiting beautiful, mainly spacious suites and deserted beaches, both to the east and west luxurious villas, of Kuta. some with private swimming pools. Around 4 km east of Kuta is Tanjung A’an, with perfect white sand beaches and good Designed to waves for surfers. Slightly further east is blend in with the Gerupuk, well known as a top surf location environment, and and situated on a peninsula of land that juts with a stunning out into the ocean, with stunning views of beachfront location, the sea, and the surrounding islands and the Novotel is a bays. There is a good surf school here and wonderful example no fewer than five surf breaks. of traditional Sasak Continued on Page 75 architecture.
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Kuta and The South Coast
Kuta and The South Coast The beaches and scenery continue all the way to the east coast, with fantastic places such as Bumbang, Awang Bay, Ekas and Pantai Sorga (Heaven Beach)… the name says it all!
75 Continued from Page 73
At Bumbang, Bumbangku Beach Cottages has simple thatched cottages and comfortable brick deluxe rooms right on a beautiful deserted beach. There is a good restaurant, serving fresh fish and seafood caught by local fishermen, and easy access to the best surfing spots nearby. Even for non-surfers, Bumbangku is a delightful place to spend a few days, swimming, strolling along the wide calm bay and relaxing in the peaceful natural surroundings. Further east, Heaven on the Planet and Ocean Heaven (collectively known as HOTPlanet) currently has the monopoly on accommodation in the southeast, although there are plans to develop the Tanjung Ringgit area. For now, however, these two exclusive properties provide the chance to really escape from the outside world in sublime surroundings. The resorts feature comfortable accommodation, good restaurants, swimming pool, a Spa and Wellness Centre and a host of water activities, such as surfing, snorkelling, kayaking, wind-surfing and more. Heading west from Kuta are another series of beautiful beaches and bays
hidden behind headlands and rolling hills, providing peaceful and secluded spots for picnics and swimming. All are within easy day trips of Kuta. Mawun Beach is around 30 minutes’ drive to the west and is a picturesque, almost circular bay with small green headlands rolling into the ocean from either side. It is a spectacular beach with calm blue waters, perfect for swimming and spending a day lazing on the white sand. Mawi, around another 7km to the west, has good right- and left-hand barrels for surfing when the swell is large enough. At other times, it is a lovely beach with impressive views of Gili Lawang just offshore; look for the three startling pinnacles of rock jutting out of the ocean. Selong Blanak is a long sweeping bay framed on each end by headlands and surrounded by rolling hills. Sempiak Villas has plush villas perched on the hillside
Bumbangku
with breath-taking panoramic views. Laut Biru Café at Sempiak Villas is a popular place for a stop – or justifies a day trip in itself – and serves fresh and delicious snacks and meals throughout the day in a pretty restaurant overlooking the beach. Spend a day exploring the area, with lunch and a swim here as the highlights of your trip. Further west are picturesque Sepi and Blongas bays, and many more scenic beaches along the way; all are mostly deserted. The road deteriorates rapidly and the going can be rough at times. For exploring this remote area it’s best to use an experienced local guide with a good vehicle. Steeped in history and legend, surrounded by beaches of almost surreal beauty, the south coast is a fascinating area to visit, whether your interests are historical, cultural or just the opportunity to see and explore some of the most beautiful and pristine coastal scenery in Indonesia.
Mawun Beach
Experience the beauty of this pristine, undiscovered beach on the south coast
Beach Cottages & Restaurant
Only 9km east of Kuta, close to Gerupuk, surfing paradise Stay in our natural beach cottages and dine on freshly caught seafood at our beachfront bales
Phone: 0370 620 833 / 0819 0787 1311 / 0852 3717 6168 / 0828 9701 5676 info@bumbangkulombok.com | www.bumbangkulombok.com
Kuta and The South Coast
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A View from Kuta Heights Development
LAND FOR SALE • Private road • 3 minutes to Kuta beach and restaurants • 20 minutes drive to international airport • Breathtaking views over ocean, green valleys, and Mt Rinjani • On-site management office and security NEW: People ask if we have Apt/units to sell. YES, we will build! • 6 units for sale (2 bedroom, plus media room, or 3 bedroom) • Own certificate • All bedrooms have ensuite, plus an extra powder room • Complete: land / house / fully furnished to high spec • Own private generous pool, fully landscaped outdoor living • Stunning ocean and valley views
“KHD... the safe way to buy land and build in Kuta” Phone: 0821 4587 5594 / 0817 6673 983 Visit us at www.kutaheightslombok.com
www.thelombokguide.com
South Lombok Map 77
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Gili Trawangan
On the beach at the Jetty... your Gili T holiday begins and ends here! Clean and comfortable twin and double rooms with air conditioning, satellite television, in-room safes, fully stocked mini bar and private bathrooms with fresh hot water. Fresh water swimming pool and separate kiddies pool. Beachfront bar and restaurant with fantastic views serving delicious snacks and meals all day
Come and try our fabulous new menu!
The Jetty, ‘Sentral’, Gili Trawangan | Phone: 0370 6138513
gilitresort@hotmail.com | www.gilitresort.com
Tourism Information
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The Gili Islands Unique tropical escapes!
GIli Trawangan by Didik Hariadi
Three perfect coral islands – Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno and Gili Air – fringed with white sands and swaying palm trees, lay in the sparkling ocean just off the north-west coast of Lombok.
be known as “The Gilis” by travellers. The Gilis are Lombok’s most popular islands and are consistently rated as top SEA island destinations by travellers and travel publications.
Every year the Gilis attract tens of thousands of visitors from around the world for their pristine waters, great diving and snorkelling opportunities, and laidback charm.
Although previously popular mainly with backpackers, the Gilis now attract a diverse range of visitors – serious diving enthusiasts, sun-seekers looking for the perfect beach getaway, singles, families, and couples of all ages find something to attract them to the Gilis.
The word Gili actually means “small island”, and so these islands have come to
There is a good selection of accommodations, restaurants and bars on all three islands, with the biggest range on Gili Trawangan. While nobody comes to the Gilis for shopping, each island has many small shops selling essentials such as sunscreen, mosquito repellent, toiletries, cold drinks, snacks and more. In addition, there are cheap clothing and t-shirts, sarongs and local handicrafts stalls. Continued on Page 80
Gili Trawangan’s only Indian Restaurant Sheesha Lounge & Beach Resort
Luxury Suites, Villa Rooms, Deluxe Bungalows & Rooms with AC or Fan, situated in private gardens. Private terraces with Hammocks, hot water, western bathrooms, TV & DVD, AC, Safety box, 24hr security and shady tropical gardens. Bali, Lombok & Gilis Transfers Available
Phone / Fax: +62 370 6123 521 | Mobile: +62 818 0549 4876 | Email: pesonaresort@hotmail.com
www.pesonaresort.com
Tourism Information
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Activities include walking, riding bikes, horse riding and kayaking on Gili T, yoga, massage and beauty treatments, glass bottom boat trips and island hopping, live-aboard dive trips and cruises to nearby islands, fishing, sailing, surfing and all kinds of water-based activities. The islands provide ample opportunities for visitors to swim, relax, sunbathe, explore, snorkel or scuba dive with the many internationally accredited dive operators based in Lombok. Snorkelling is easy in the calm waters directly off the beaches, with plenty of colourful fish to see. At greater depths and at specific dive locations around the three islands, the pristine waters are home to an abundant variety of corals, aquatic life and thousands of species of tropical fish. Currents around the islands can be quite strong and drift diving is the norm. Many of the popular dive companies are owned and operated by westerners and PADI and SSI licensed dive operators,
An impressive array of sea life can be seen, including green and hawksbill turtles, morays, barracuda, reef sharks, occasionally leopard sharks and manta rays, and much more. Visibility is very good and commonly in the 15-30 m range; and water temperatures average 23째C (73째F) to 29째C (84째F).
with professional standards of safety and environmental awareness, exist on all three islands. Each Gili has developed independently and at different paces, giving each a
Tourism Information
different “personality” or style, and catering to different types of holidaymakers and travellers.
facilities and activities; while Gili Air has a relaxed, laidback style and is popular with couples and families.
This means that travellers have a good choice, depending on their individual tastes and what type of island escape they prefer.
Gili Meno is the quietest of the three, perfect for really getting away from it all.
Gili Trawangan is the most developed and popular of the three, with the greatest range of
Choose the island that suits you most, or it’s easy to combine an island-hopping holiday to sample the best of all three!
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GIli Meno by Barbara Cahyadi
Tourism Information
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GILI ISLANDS FAST FACTS
There are numerous fast boat services operating between Bali and the Gilis. In good weather, fast boats can make the crossing in around 80 minutes but in heavy seas the trip can take two hours or more. Make sure you choose a reputable company who care about passenger comfort and safety, rather than “pack them in and profit”. Check weather conditions before going – the Lombok Strait is one of the deepest bodies of water in the world and seas can get very rough, with waves up to 5 metres in bad weather. Refuse to board overloaded boats. It is also possible to fly to Lombok and transfer to the Gilis from the mainland. See “Getting to Lombok” and “Getting to the Gilis” sections for details. Alcohol and the risk of methanol poisoning have been in the spotlight since 2009 and there have been a significant number of deaths from contaminated alcohol in Bali, Lombok and the Gilis. Avoid bars and places that serve arak or other “local spirits”, including cocktails such as “Jungle Juice” and “Arak Attack”. With imported alcohol heavily taxed in Indonesia, “Welcome drinks”, “Two for one” cocktails and cheap shots should all be viewed with suspicion. If it seems too cheap to be the real deal, it probably is. Large hotels and restaurants generally serve imported alcohol; otherwise, stick
Gili Trawangan by Didiek Hariadi
to beer and steer clear of places that put profits before your safety. Electricity on all three Gilis is supplied by generators and blackouts are sometimes a problem. Many places have their own emergency generators but the smaller businesses may rely on candles and lanterns when the power goes out. Water is a scarce resource on the islands and fresh water is shipped from the mainland daily. A business on Gili T now supplies desalinated water and fresh water showers are becoming common. However, smaller hotels and home-stays may only provide salt water showers. Use bottled water to rinse off. The tap water on all the islands is not suitable for drinking but bottled water is cheap and readily available. Internet is available on the Gilis at internet cafés and most larger hotels and restaurants. Connections can be intermittent and speeds are generally slow. ATM machines are available on Gili Trawangan and Gili Air. Credit cards are accepted at most dive shops and larger hotels and restaurants. Money changers are available on all the islands, although the rate is lower than on Lombok. Health services on the islands are limited. There is a 24-hour Clinic at Hotel Vila Ombak on Gili T, and small local clinics on Gili Meno and Air. Dive shop staff have emergency first aid training and basic medical supplies but for anything serious, get to the mainland as fast as possible. Weather is generally hotter on the islands than mainland Lombok. Make sure you drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and use sun protection, even on cloudy days.
There is no motorised transport on any of the islands. Walk, ride a bicycle or catch a cidomo (local horse cart). None of the islands is very large, so walking is an easy option. Bicycles can be hired for between Rp 25,000 and Rp 50,000 per day, depending on the type and condition of the bike. Some hotels provide bikes free of charge for guests. Cidomo fares are fixed and rates are displayed in the front of the cart. Generally, short distances will cost around Rp 40,000; a round-the-island tour costs Rp 125,000 on Gili T. Walking or riding a bike is a nicer option. Dress is casual on the islands and it is normal to see tourists walking around in swimsuits, sarongs and shorts. Remember that the islands’ residents are Muslim and nude or topless sunbathing is frowned upon. Please respect island sensibilities and keep your clothes on! Mosquitoes can sometimes be a problem, especially during rainy season. DEET repellents are the best protection and local products such as “Autan” and “OFF!” are relatively cheap and readily available in the shops. The Gili Eco Trust (GET) is a non-profit organisation based on Gili T that works to protect and conserve the environment. GET activities include reef conservation, resource management, waste management and education programmes, to name a few. The Eco Trust raises funds for its programmes through an Eco-tax of Rp 50,000 collected from divers on the islands. Clean-up days, to collect rubbish from the beach and sea, take place on the first Friday of every month on Gili T. Register at Gili T dive shops and join in the fun! To find out more about Eco-projects and to support GET programmes, visit: www.giliecotrust.com
Gili Trawangan
LUXURIOUS VILLAS AND SINGLE SUITES Gili Trawangan, Lombok-NTB Indonesia P: 0370 6647066, M: 087864297487, F: 0370 6147741 E: booking@thetrawangan.com W: www.thetrawangan.com
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Tourism Information
GETTING TO THE GILIS
The Gilis are easily reached from Bali via the numerous fast boat services now operating between Bali and Gili Trawangan. Alternatively, you can fly to Lombok and travel across to the Gilis.
Fast Boats: With Lombok’s airport now based further away in central Lombok, the fast boat services are a popular option, providing fast and easy transfers between Bali to Gili Trawangan. The crossing between the islands can be treacherous in bad weather, so choose a reliable operator and avoid companies that practice “over loading” in busy times. Blue Water Express, operated by Blue Water Safaris, provides transfers between Bali and Gili Trawangan. BWS operates two boats, with 28 and 30 passenger capacities, departing from Serangan (near Benoa Harbour) at 8am and 10am, and from Padang Bai Harbour at 11.15am every day. Return transfer from Gili Trawangan is at 11am. Fares include air conditioned hotel transfers in Bali. Ph: +62 361 895 1111 / 0813 3841 8988. www.bluewater-express.com
FROM TELUK NARA AND TELUK KODEK: Teluk Nara is a large peaceful bay on the west coast, about 25 minutes’ drive north of Senggigi. Most of the dive companies and many businesses on the Gilis have their boats moored in the bay and transfer guests to the islands every day from Teluk Nara. Gili Cat, Blue Water Express and Island Getaway also operate fast boat services between Lombok and Bali from this harbour. It is possible to negotiate private boat trips (including fast speed boats) out to the islands with local boat owners here, thereby avoiding the hassles of Bangsal. At the northern end of the bay is Teluk Kodek, where Vila Ombak, The Beach House, ko ko mo and Scallywags have bases for transferring their guests by speedboat to the Gilis.
Gili Getaway is a comfortable fast boat departing from Benoa Harbour, Bali (only 20 mins from Kuta) daily at 8am. The crossing takes around 2 hours to Gili Trawangan and Teluk Kodek on Lombok. Ph Bali: (0361) 751570 / 726 523; or Bali: 0819 1673 3051; Gili T: 0878 6432 2515. www.island-getaway.com GiliBookings.com is an online booking service offering easy reservations with the leading fast boat operators between Bali and Lombok. Availability checks, schedules and e-ticketing, as well as accommodation options and more, are all available online from their website: www.gilibookings.com By Plane: Fly to Lombok and either stay on the mainland before making a trip out to the Gilis or travel to Senggigi (1 hour 15 minutes) to arrange transport to the Gilis. There are many different options, as described below. Tour companies and dive operators in Senggigi also provide transfers daily. HOTEL TRANSFERS: Many of the larger hotels on the islands now provide speedboat transfers for guests, as well as pick up services from the airport – enquire when you make your booking.
MENTIGI BAY: Also on the west coast, a few kilometres before Teluk Nara, Mentigi Bay is a base for Blue Water Cruises. The company offers relaxing day cruises around the Gilis onboard a beautiful traditional phinisi boat, with plenty of opportunities for swimming and snorkelling. Boats depart daily at 9am. There is a small café at the bay and a variety of fun water sport options available. Blue Water Cruises also operate regular cruises to Komodo Island and other islands to the east, as well as dive and cruise packages. Visit their website for details: www.bluewatercruises.com.
Be aware that public boats leave when there are enough passengers to warrant the trip, so you may have to wait for a while. Best times are between 8am and 4pm. If you don’t want to wait, it doesn’t cost very much to charter a boat, especially if you have a few people in your group. Don’t let anyone carry your bags or, if they offer to carry baggage, negotiate a price first. Ignore people who tell you that there are no return public transfers… there are; or that there is no water, mosquito repellent, etc., on the islands. All the essentials are readily available at shops on all three islands. Bangsal is a pretty area; it’s a shame some of the touts try to ruin it for everyone. If you get stuck at the harbour in the evening, there are some basic home-stays on the road from the beach. Arnel is a nice option with pretty rooms at reasonable prices. The attached Salero Minang restaurant serves delicious Minang meals and the friendly owners can help with everything from vehicle hire to travel information and laundry services. FROM SENGGIGI: You can charter local outrigger boats from the beachfront in Senggigi (in front of the Art Markets). The trip out to the islands takes around one and a half hours. The journey up the coast in the morning is very scenic, but you may get wet on the way back. Make sure you negotiate a price with the boatman first!
FROM BANGSAL HARBOUR: Catch a taxi or bemo to Bangsal Harbour, the small harbour on the north-west coast, about 30 minutes from Senggigi.
A good alternative is to check out the many dive centres on the main street in Senggigi who offer reasonable rates for transfers, usually including pick up from your hotel.
Public ferries (really just large outrigger boats) depart regularly to all three islands and charters are available, with prices depending on the number of passengers and your bargaining skills.
Arranging snorkelling and dive trips inclusive of island transfers is a good way to save time, money and hassles.
Unfortunately, the area is plagued by touts and scams, so ignore them and head directly to the ticket office on the beachfront. Public ferry and charter boat prices are posted clearly on the wall of the ticket office.
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Special Feature
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eXQisit... Luxury Health Spa in Paradise
Imagine lying back in a tropical island paradise and indulging your mind, body and soul with a luxury health spa treatment!
With the Grand Opening of the eXQisit Health Spa on Gili Trawangan this month, this is now a reality. Set in tropical gardens near the beach, you can enjoy luxury rituals, packages and treatments that include a hot and cold therapy pool, a detoxifying steam hut, a meditation labyrinth, Ayurvedic treatments and other exciting treatments from around the world. Designed to Western standards, the spa embodies the true meaning of “Spa” as a place of relaxation, healing and wellness where mind, body and spirit can slow down, rejuvenate, rebalance and heal. eXQisit Health Spa has been designed and developed by Dr John McIntosh and Elizabeth McIntosh, and combines the best spa treatments from East and West, modern and traditional, scientific and spiritual. Dr John McIntosh is a specialist qualified doctor with over 20 years in the health, wellness and beauty industries. He is also a teacher of medical students and doctors, an author, radio presenter and regular health column writer. Elizabeth McIntosh is a qualified professional in the beauty, hair and spa industries for over 20 years, a fitness trainer, yoga and meditation teacher, Reiki Master, hypnotherapist, life coach, counsellor, author, wellness coach and radio presenter. Together they run health and wellbeing retreats, corporate training, stress and productivity programmes, happiness seminars, several medical centres, cosmetic clinics and skin cancer clinics, and have produced a series of health and relaxation CD’s.
well as Reflexology and Shiatzu.
Unique to eXQisit Health Spa are the combination of several exciting options, such as the Yin and Yang hot and cold therapy pool that stimulates the blood flow, muscles and joints and releases the feel-good hormones (encephalins and endorphins). The steam hut can be used to increase blood flow to the muscles prior to massage, for detoxification, or as a prelude to beauty treatments, as it opens pores and magnifies the benefits of the wraps and treatments on offer. In the Meditation Labyrinth, you can enjoy relaxing audio tracks and guided meditations that allow you to drift into deeper levels of relaxation and bliss. Garra fish therapy is also on offer for the amazing sensation of fish exfoliating your feet and calves! It is worth the experience, as some people are in hysterics of laughter (which is also good for you!) Sterilisation is performed on all equipment at eXQisit Health Spa to western standards, giving confidence to guests in this regard. eXQisit Health Spa provides services from half hour to full day programs designed to suit all needs; from Balinese to traditional Thai massage, Bamboo, Aromatherapy and Tibetan Hot Stone Massages, as
There is a full range of therapeutic or pampering rituals from the deep muscle treatments in the Rinjani Trekkers Recovery Package, to the Ultimate Bliss Out, Thai Health and Vitality, and the Heavenly Chocolate Package for the chocoholics amongst us! There is also the Romantic Lovers Sensual Package for two, to ignite your passion and indulge your loved one! The Ayurvedic treatment includes authentic Shirodhara oil dripping on the forehead to stimulate the third eye and marma points that release emotion or insights and often results in emotional purging, inspiration, spiritual experiences or transcendence. Day trips, including transfers from Lombok, are available for day spa guests and Villa and Spa packages are available for guests needing overnight accommodation. Walk-in services are available for those already on Gili Trawangan but bookings are recommended to avoid disappointment. Feedback from guests have reinforced that eXQisit Health Spa hits the right spots, with comments like “Fantastic”, “Unforgettable”, “However long I stay, it is never enough!” and it even been stated that our rituals were “The best experience of my life!” So book in, lay back, relax and enjoy the eXQisit and unforgettable experience with healing for your mind, body and soul! Be spoilt for an hour… or lost for a day!
Rinjani View massage
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Gili Trawangan
Luxury Villas on Gili Trawangan
Elegantly furnished villas with private pool Generous living space, dining and kitchen Centrally located to beach, restaurants and bars Last minute discounts available
www.gilivillasindonesia.com +62 (0) 81 237 55 721
Tourism Information
GILI TRAWANGAN
The most well-known and popular of the three Gilis, Gili Trawangan is the largest island and the furthest from the mainland, but easily reached in less than an hour by local boat and only 10 minutes by speedboat from Lombok.
and Bali, together with singles, couples and families from all over the world.
The island itself is around 3km long and 2km wide, so walking is easy and you can cycle around the island in around 1 1/2 hours (but will need to get off and push Previously tagged “the party island” by the your bike through sandy sections on the Lonely Planet, Gili T (as it is affectionately west side). known) has moved on and up. This is the only Gili to rise significantly above sea level and the hill in the south Gone are the days when backpackers is a great lookout from which to enjoy flocked to the island for Rp 20,000 a the spectacular sunsets across the ocean night huts on the beach and Rp 5,000 to Bali; or in the mornings, the brilliant Bintang beers. Today, Gili T has a sleek sunrise over Gunung Rinjani on mainland sophisticated side that becomes more Lombok. evident every year. That’s not to say that the original charms that attracted tourists in the beginning are gone. The perfect white sand beaches, clear turquoise waters and laid-back island style are still there in buckets.
On the far south end of the hill are the remnants of old WWII Japanese gun emplacements and crumbling bunkers, but the hand-dug tunnels have been blocked up.
But the island has cast off its grungy origins and now combines the best of a tropical island paradise with a touch of chic and all the mod cons of a top holiday destination.
The main development on the island is on the east coast, particularly southeast in the area called “Sentral”, where the boats dock. The tracks inland are through coconut groves and pockets of development.
Gili T still hosts backpackers and budget travellers, but these days they are joined by expatriates and trendsetters from Java
Development runs all along the east coast with swish places rubbing shoulders with
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the older bars and accommodations. The north coast is quieter and offers peaceful alternatives to the central area. Such is the appeal of the island, the south and west coasts are now dotted with small hotels, home-stays, private villas and a couple of larger resorts. This part of the island is the quietest and, although the beaches aren’t as nice as those on the east, the sunsets looking across to Bali are magical. Accommodation on Gili T ranges from basic home stays to luxury hotels and villas. The old style bungalows with woven bamboo walls and thatched roofs are slowly disappearing, to be replaced by simple cottages with western style bathrooms to suit the budget crowd. At the other end of the scale, boutique hotels and luxurious villas boast all the comforts of 5 star resorts, including designer furnishings, private swimming pools or Jacuzzis, WiFi internet, iPod docks, satellite TV and DVD. Restaurants rival Bali in quality, if not numbers. There are lounges and sophisticated bars, Internet cafés, movie “theatres” and beachside cafés galore. Most restaurants and bars are located along the east coast, although the north coast has some lovely low-key options. Dining choices range from the typical Indonesian nasi goreng to sushi; barbecued seafood on the beach to international fine dining; and everything between. There is a lively bar scene at night and the island has a rotating party roster, where some of the top places have licences to host a party on one night of the week (hence the “party island” reputation). These, and the full moon parties that take place on the beach during high season, are a big draw-card for the crowds of younger people who come to the island.
Photo by Blue Marlin Dive
Continued on Page 91
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The Beach House on Gili Trawangan is an innovative and contemporary resort set amidst tropical gardens, facing the sparkling turquoise waters of the Lombok Straits. Accommodation choices include a range of private villas, each with their own freshwater pools. Pool suites sharing a freshwater plunge pool, and 12 bungalows set in tropical gardens. The Beach House provides a range of facilities, including a beachfront freshwater resort pool and bar, and a beachside bar and restaurant serving international cuisine.
Phone: +62 370 6142 352 Fax: +62 370 6148 365 Email: reservation@beachhousegilit.com
www.beachhousegilit.com
Tourism Information
91 There is a good surf break on the south coast with a fast right-hander that really pumps in the right conditions. Local surfers will happily lead the way and rent you a board.
Continued from Page 89 For those who prefer quieter entertainment, there are sophisticated dining opportunities, particularly at places such as ko ko mo, Scallywags Resort, and on the beachfront at Hotel Vila Ombak.
The best snorkelling on the island starts on the northern end of the east coast, where you can wade to the reef just offshore. The water is calm and there is a drift from north to south, making it easy to lie on the surface and float down the coral outcrops. Although much of the coral is damaged, there is still an abundant variety of tropical fish species to enjoy and patches of colourful coral.
These days, Gili T is a serious tourist destination with a good infrastructure and range of tourist facilities. Many of the larger restaurants, hotels and dive shops accept credit cards; there are ATM’s in front of Vila Ombak on the east coast and further north, near Blue Beach, as well as on the west side at Ombak Sunset. Internet cafés with Wifi are readily available, as are money-changers, tour operators and a large number of fast boat services. There is a tennis club and fitness centre at Kelapa Villas and a medical centre at Vila Ombak with emergency facilities and a doctor on call.
Horses can be hired from The Stud on the southeast coast; sea kayaking is available at Karma Kayak on the north coast; yoga, meditation, massages and other health and beauty treatments are available at numerous places around the island. There is even shopping at the Pasar Seni (Art Markets) in Sentral and at any number of shops and kiosks all around the island, selling everything from pearls to sarongs to hammocks. Innuendo has some upmarket resort wear and Silver Dragon sells beautiful silver jewellery.
Cidomo (Horse Cart)
But it is the beaches and the diving that remain the main draw card for Gili T. People flock here to sunbathe on white sand beaches and swim in clean blue waters, to dive the fabulous reefs and to bask in the hedonistic pleasures of a tropical paradise.
Further off shore, the island is famed for its vast gardens of coral and is one of the best dive spots in Lombok, which is why thousands of divers visit Gili T every year. It is also one of the safest and easiest places to learn to scuba dive, with warm water temperatures, calm seas and excellent visibility almost all year round. There is a very good selection of professional western-operated dive shops and a range of dive locations suitable for beginners through to thrill seekers. It’s been a slow evolution over the past 20 years for Gili Trawangan, but the island’s time has come. While the backpackers will no doubt lament, there’s a whole new scene unfolding on Gili T. A world-class tourism destination is emerging – without the traffic and pollution – set down on an idyllic tropical island.
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Gili Meno
Gili Meno
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GILI MENO
The resort has been built using cuttingedge environmentally-friendly technology, including a bio sewage system for waste water, waste management and recycling policies, fresh rain water collection tanks, solar power and low wattage devices, and NASA oxygen treatment technology for the swimming pool. The restaurant earns accolades for top quality cuisine served in the shady dining area or at pretty tables on the beachfront; especially romantic at night with fabulous sunsets and views across the ocean to Gili T and beyond. Stylish and contemporary rooms, attention to detail and personalised service make Mahamaya the top choice for honeymooners and those seeking luxe island escapes. Good mid-range options include Tropical Hideaways and Adeng-Adeng.
Gili Meno is the middle and the smallest of the three Gili Islands, with the lowest population and the least number of visitors. The island has not developed as quickly as Gili T or Gili Air and suffered unpopularity when, in the mid-90’s, The Lonely Planet wrote that the salt lake on the island created mosquito problems. This was untrue – mosquitoes are no more prevalent on Gili Meno than anywhere else – but the damage was done. Many would say that the bad publicity was a blessing in disguise. Today, Meno is probably the prettiest of the three Gilis, with the laid-back and uncomplicated charm of a true castaway tropical island. The water surrounding the island is clear turquoise and the beaches are covered in brilliant white sand, fringed with groves of coconut palms. Although investors are steadily buying up land, especially on the west coast facing Gili T, there is no major development on the island as yet. There are a few upmarket villas, but no large resorts. Fortunately, much of the investment taking place here is low-key and – perhaps recognising the pristine nature of the island – development tends to be along environmentally and ecologically sound concepts. For now, small hotels and basic beachside
bungalows provide accommodation for those seeking a peaceful place in the sun with un-crowded beaches, clean waters and peaceful nights under the star-filled skies. There is no rowdy bar scene and no noisy full moon parties here. Like all the Gilis, the best swimming beaches and most tourist facilities (including boat docking and departure) are along the east coast. Although there are small places dotted all around the island, many of the hotels and restaurants are located along the southeastern coast, with beautiful views over Gili Air and to Mt Rinjani in the east. It is possible to walk around the whole island on a small beachside track in around 90 minutes. Those seeking total tranquillity head to the north and west coasts, where more development has been quietly taking place over the past year. Mahamaya Boutique Resort, on the northwest coast, has the most luxurious accommodation on the island, with two exclusive beachfront villas and seven spacious Pool Suites set around a small swimming pool.
Tropical Hideaways, located a short stroll inland from the best beaches on the east coast, has comfortable and modern air conditioned rooms with western bathrooms. Set in shady gardens, Tropical Hideaways has one of the few swimming pools on the island and a good restaurant and bar, serving delicious and well-priced meals. The food here has gained a very good reputation on the island and the restaurant welcomes outside guests. Adeng-Adeng is another resort being developed along ecological lines on the north coast. Rooms and dining pavilions are set on unique islands surrounded by small canals in a pretty garden shaded by conifers. Accommodation includes air conditioning and lovely open-air bathrooms, while the garden café serves good cocktails and delicious freshly-prepared meals. Continued on Page 95
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Gili Meno
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Blue Marlin Dive, on the east coast, and Divine Divers on the northwest coast are the diving specialists for Gili Meno and offer diving courses and dives around all three of the Gilis. There is good snorkelling along the northwest coast, near Mahamaya and Divine Divers, and it is often possible to see Green, Leatherback and Hawksbill turtles. To swim with the turtles – these huge creatures that are so awkward and ungainly on land but move through their natural element with a breath-taking dignity and grace – is perhaps the most special underwater experience of all and a
major reason for visiting Gili Meno. There is also good snorkelling off the west coast near the now-defunct Bounty Resort. Swim out to where the old pontoon has sunk and become a home for many fish. Inland from the beaches, the island is quite dry with small homes scattered through the coconut groves. In the middle, toward the west coast, is a salt lake from which the local people still harvest salt on a small scale. It can be quite full in rainy season but dries up in the summer. Also inland, on the main track from the east coast, Gili Meno Bird Park has
some tropical birds and a few interesting animals. There is accommodation here and a great display of Beatles memorabilia collected by the owner. Casual beachfront cafés and bars serve Indonesian and popular western meals, with fresh fish and wood-fired pizzas being Gili Meno specialties. Some provide low-key entertainment in the evenings, more so in the high seasons, but visitors to Gili Meno largely come for romantic escapes and a chance to rejuvenate in the natural beauty of the island’s deserted beaches... which some argue are the best of all three Gilis.
Get away from it all…
Double Bungalows and Family Rooms A/C or Fan cooled, Hot Water, Comfortable Facilities Garden Restaurant with Tasty and Fresh Local & Western Cuisine Massage | Diving & Snorkelling | Cooking Courses | Sports Activities info@gilimenobungalows.com | Tel +62 819 1596 1251 | +62 878 6482 1875 | www.gilimenobungalows.com
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relaxing massages and body treatments, are available at H2O Yoga and Meditation.
GILI AIR
For exploring, there is a path running parallel to the beach and it takes around 90 minutes to circle the whole island. The interior is criss-crossed with a maze of tracks that can get confusing, but all lead back to the beach. There is a good surf break with a barrelling right hander known as “Play Gili” off the south coast that attracts crowds when it is pumping. It breaks over sharp coral, so check with local surfers about conditions and board hire. Diving opportunities abound and there is a good selection of reliable dive operators on the island, including Blue Marlin, Dream Divers, 7Seas Dive Resort, Oceans 5 and Manta Dive.
Gili Air is the island closest to the mainland and can be reached in around 20 minutes by local boat or five minutes by speedboat. Gili Air has the largest local population of the three islands, combining the charm of a tropical island with access to the people and culture that make Lombok unique. At present, Gili Air is a laid back island with a beachfront lined with simple cafés and bars made from bamboo and thatch. Its main appeal is its unspoilt nature, with few of the swanky restaurants and villas that have sprouted up on Gili T… and that’s why so many people love it. However, with some believing that Gili T is becoming over-developed, Gili Air is taking off as an alternative destination. Over the past couple of years, investors have been snapping up land on Gili Air and a number of up-market accommodations and restaurants have sprung up, with more to open in the next year. Most development is on the east coast and towards the south. Scallywags, who have another popular resort on Gili Trawangan, own Scallywags Organic Beach Club on the southern end of the east coast. The restaurant has an excellent menu and guest facilities, as well as a friendly atmosphere and excellent swimming directly in front of the restaurant. Just to the south of Scallywags, The Beach Club Gili Air is operated by the Australian owners of the successful Senggigi business, The Beach Club, and offers eight charming bungalows, similar to their Senggigi accommodations, with large air conditioned bedrooms, private terraces and semi-open air bathrooms. The bar and restaurant serves aboveaverage meals and the beachfront here is a great place for lounging during the day, or upmarket dining in the evening. There are also free movies for restaurant guests on the beach every night (weather permitting).
Existing accommodation on the island is generally simple and until now, has mainly been the domain of the backpacker crowd; although the Gili Air Hotel on the north of the island has a variety of rooms and a swimming pool. Oceans 5, on the south coast, is a well-managed resort with above-average rooms, a good restaurant and swimming pool. Manta Dive has nice air-conditioned bungalows and a swimming pool. Further south, near the harbour, 7Seas International is a professional dive operation, and also offers comfortable and modern air conditioned cottages right on the white sand beach. It is one of the few places on the island that offers family accommodation, in Duplex Family Cottages, only a step away from the pool. Each has two spacious rooms, a big bathroom, a large terrace and small garden, and sea views from the 2nd floor. The existing bedding is suitable for 5 people and up to 3 extra beds can be added on request. There is a good variety of small restaurants and beachside cafés on the island, with many offering traditional Indonesian dishes and basic western fare. The beach barbecues with freshly caught fish are particularly good. The bar scene can get pretty lively in the evenings and, during high season, the island kicks into high gear with Full Moon parties on the beach. Popular places include Chillout Bar and Zipp Bar. Activities include walking and cycling around the island, sun bathing, and swimming, snorkelling and diving in the crystal clear waters. Yoga and meditation, together with
The calm waters and good visibility make Gili Air an ideal place to learn to dive or to upgrade diving skills. There are a number of popular dive sites that attract divers from the other Gilis, including Air Wall off the west coast, Hans Reef and Frogfish Point off the north coast. The water surrounding the island is of a colour hard to describe – a clear, translucent turquoise, made even more pure by the sparkling white sand beneath. Gili Air still boasts living reefs off much of its coast and there is wonderful snorkelling directly from the shore, particularly from the east and northeast beaches. The coral starts within metres of the beach, making it easily accessible to anyone – even novices who have never snorkelled before. Because the island is protected by reefs, there are few waves and the ocean is amazingly gentle, allowing snorkellers to drift in a dreamy daze above this panorama of aquatic shapes and colours. As is the case on all the Gilis, there are no cars or motorbikes allowed on the island, thus there is no pollution to spoil the clean air and the peaceful atmosphere. The views from all points of the island are stunning but the east coast, facing Lombok, is probably the most fantastic – looking back at the big island with its white beaches and green mountains dominated by the volcano, Mt Rinjani.
Gili Air
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Gili Trawangan
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“Exotic Charm, Modern Comfort�
Barefoot Luxury in the Gilis
Gili Trawangan, Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia P. +62 370 6141 575 | F. +62 370 6141 585 | M. +62 811 39 06 76 E. ddb@desaduniabeda.com | www.desaduniabeda.com
Tourism Information
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Gili Trawangan