The Lombok Guide Issue 169

The

Issue 169 | 9 – 23 June 2014

FREE COPY

LOMBOK GUIDE ( 0812 3734 4894 | www.thelombokguide.com

PUBLISHED BI-WEEKLY IN LOMBOK, FOR LOMBOK

LOMBOK – GET READY TO DANCE!

SENGGIGI’S UNDERWATER ART MUSEUM

THE BEACH CLUB... the end of an era

DIVA LUNCH IN LOMBOK

Page 10

Page 34 & 35

Page 42

Page 44 & 45

IN THIS ISSUE Page 2

Getting to Lombok Attractions & Actitvities

Page 4/8

Lombok Map

Page 6

Special Feature Page 10 Senggigi

Page 12

Senggigi Map

Page 14

What’s Hot / Local News

Page 18

The Beach Club

Beach Bungalows

Page 96

MAKING REEFS IN LOMBOK! Tens of thousands of people come to Lombok every year for the superb diving, which many compare to the best dive sites in Thailand.

Protecting our island’s reefs and encouraging coral growth is a priority… thanks largely to the efforts of the Gili Eco Trust. Now Senggigi has a new Artificial Reef Park where visitors can snorkel and dive amongst fantastic sculptures while watching the coral grow.

See our special feature on pages 34 and 35.

Special Feature Page 34 & 35 Discount Vouchers

Page 36

Classifieds

Page 37-38

Special Feature Page 42 & 43 Local Scene

Page 44 & 45

Local Scene

Page 49

Land & Property

Page 50-58

Useful Contacts Page 59 The Cities

Page 60-63

Cities Map

Page 62

The Southwest

Page 64-67

Distribution

Page 68

Kuta & The South Coast

Page 69-77

South Lombok Map

Page 77

The Gilis

Page 78-100

Getting to Gilis

Page 83

Gilis Fast Facts Page 91 Gilis Map

Page 99

To find out more, pick up a copy of The Lombok Guide from the locations listed on page 68 or visit www.thelombokguide.com and discover the magic of Lombok for yourself…

Like thousands of others, you’ll be enchanted!

...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 are usually timed to connect with European flights. and fares start from around Rp 350,000 (approx. US $35) one way.

Buy tickets direct from the airline counters at the domestic airports, Lombok is easily accessible from Jakarta, Bali, Jogjakarta, Surabaya and Makassar and is an important connection for travel or contact local travel agents, in both Bali and Lombok. to the eastern islands, in particular the islands of Sumbawa, Lombok International Airport (or Bandara Internasional Lombok, Komodo and Flores. commonly abbrev iated to BIL, and using the IATA code “LOP”) is Garuda Indonesia has direct flights between Lombok, Bali, the only airport on Lombok.

Surabaya, Makassar and Jakarta every day, Call Centre: 0804 1 The airport is close to Praya (Central Lombok); approximately 807 807, Sales Office: +62 370 642303 / 649999. Airport: 0370 40km south of the city of Mataram, and around 1 ½ hours’ drive 649100. www.garuda-indonesia.com from Senggigi, and 25 minutes from Kuta.

Lion Air has daily flights between Lombok, Bali, Jakarta and Airport departure tax is Rp 30,000 for domestic departures (Rp Surabaya. Ph: +62 370 6627444 / 642180. www.lionair.co.id 40,000 from Bali) and Rp 100,000 for international departures.

Trans Nusa Air flies between Lombok, Sumbawa and Bima daily.

BALI TO LOMBOK BY AIR Lombok, ph: +62 370 624555. www.transnusa.co.id In Lombok, all flights depart and arrive at Lombok International Airport. In Bali, flights arrive and depart at Ngurah Rai (Denpasar) Domestic Airport.

Batavia Air has flights from Lombok to Surabaya and Jakarta (via Surabaya) every day. Lombok, Ph: +62 370 648998. www.batavia-air.co.id

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

Wings Air (Lion Air) has daily flights from Lombok to Bali and Surabaya, Ph: +62 370 6627444 / 642180. Bookings via Lion Air. www.lionair.co.id

Lion Air flies between Bali and Lombok with three flights daily.

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 Centre: +62 80 4177 8899. Bali, ph: +62 361 765132. www.lionair.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 INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS

HELICOPTER FLIGHTS Air Bali operates regular helicopter transfers between Bali and Gili Trawangan, with the possibility of on-services to mainland Lombok, as well as private charters. Ph: + 62 361 767466 or 766 582. www.airbali.com BALI TO LOMBOK BY SEA Padang Bai Harbour (Bali) provides the sea link between mainland Bali and Lombok. Lembar Harbour (Lombok) is on the southwest coast, approx. 1 hour south of Senggigi, Lombok.

Lombok International Airport (IATA: LOP) has full Visa on Arrival (VOA) facilities, with fast and efficient visa processing. Ph: +62 370 Arrange your own transport and buy tickets direct from the harbours, or use a reputable tour company to provide a transfer 622987. service.

Jetstar Airways (a subsidiary of Qantas) operate direct flights Public Ferries depart every hour for the sea voyage between between Perth (West Australia) and Lombok four times per week Padang Bai Harbour (Bali) and Lembar Harbour (Lombok). The (Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Sunday). www.jetstar.com crossing between the islands costs Rp 40,000 per person and Silk Air (a subsidiary of Singapore Airlines) flies direct between takes approx. 4 to 5 hours. Lembar Harbour ph: +62 370 681 Lombok and Singapore, five times per week (Monday, Tuesday, 209. Padang Bai Harbour ph: (+62 363) 41849 / 41840 Thursday, Saturday and Sunday). Lombok, ph: +62 370 628254 / FAST BOATS 628255. www.silkair.com Air Asia operates direct flights every day between Lombok and Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia. www.airasia.com

There are now numerous “fast boat” services operating between Bali and Lombok.

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

Marina Srikandi operates direct fast boat services every day between Padang Bai Harbour (Bali) and Senggigi (Lombok), arriving and departing from the jetty on Senggigi Beach.

DOMESTIC FLIGHTS

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

European connections are easy via Jakarta (the capital city of Java), Bali and other capital cities such as Jogjakarta, Surabaya and Makassar.

Most fast boats serve Gili Trawangan, but several including Blue Water Express also serve mainland Lombok, making fast boats from Lombok to Bali (and vice versa) an option to flying.

Direct flights from Jakarta to Lombok are available every day and

See the “Getting to the Gilis” section on page 83 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 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.

Surfing at Senggigi Bay by SId Blade Malimbu Beach by Iwan Haryanto

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.

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.

Benang Setokel Waterfall by Iwan Haryanto

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k o - k o - mo G I L I T R AWA N G A N R E S O R T

Get there fast, then take it slow...

Private Luxury Villas and Fine Dining Restaurant Email: kokomogilit@ozemail.com.au Tel: +62 (0)370 614 4169 | Fax: +62 (0)370 614 9365 | Mob: +62 (0)813 3974 7459

www.kokomogilit.com

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Lombok Map

Senggigi

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Tourism Information

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ATTRACTIONS & ACTIVITIES designs. You can also purchase handwoven 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.

Pelawangan Sembalun at Mt Rinjani

by Iwan Haryanto

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.

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.

a ritualised war with rice cakes, which also serve as an offering to the Gods.

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.

There are a number of interesting temples around the west coast, many of which are Hindu or ancient animist sites of worship.

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!

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 animist statues remain today. Perang Topat, is an annual festival held at Lingsar and features

Lombok is famous for its traditional earthenware pottery made from local clay with distinctive “Lombok primitive”

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

HANDICRAFT VILLAGES

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.

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Special Feature

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LOMBOK – GET READY TO DANCE! category from 10am until 5pm.

Anyone who has attended the Lombok Dance Festival in previous years knows that this event is a once-a-year opportunity to immerse oneself in a world of graceful movement, swirling costumes and breathtaking performances by world-class dancers.

Gala Event: Sunday, 22 June On Sunday evening, the Gala Event provides a spectacular night of entertainment with the best of the best competing for the championship titles.

This month, Puri Mas Boutique Resorts & Spa will host the 9th Annual Lombok International Dance Festival over the weekend of 21 and 22 June 2014.

The festival will be held in the Bima Ballroom at Santosa Villas and Resort in Senggigi; also sponsors of the event.

Last year’s festival hosted more than two hundred competitors from all around the world.

There will also be show dance displays by world champions.

Dance performances of this calibre are what you would normally expect to see in the top ballrooms of Europe.

The Dance Festival is organised by Marcel De Rijk – who lives in Lombok and is himself a past dance champion and currently President of International Dance Asia (IDA).

The Gala Event starts at 6pm in the ballroom and includes tickets to the show with either reserved seating at tables or in the rows, plus dinner.

Last year’s performances wowed the crowds as some very talented dancers put on displays of unique and creative dance styles. The programme includes modern and artistic street dance, hip-hop and show-dance.

Visitors to Lombok will also appreciate this opportunity to see fascinating traditional dance performances from around Indonesia.

Saturday, 21 June: World Championships in Artistic and Freestyle Dance.

On Saturday, the World Dance Organisation will present their World Championships in Artistic and Freestyle Dance. For the first time ever, this will include different disciplines including exciting performances of Freestyle Dangdut and Solo Artistic Dance in Latin and Ballroom.

Sunday, 22 June: IDA Open Latin & Ballroom Championships On Sunday, guests can enjoy a full day of Latin and Ballroom performances at the IDA Open Latin & Ballroom Championships, where top dancers will compete for the finals in each

Spectators will enjoy a full evening of worldclass entertainment, so get a group together now for this glamorous event!

Table seating is limited; make sure you reserve your place soon.

See the advert on page 15 or contact Puri Mas Boutique Resort & Spa for more information and for reservations, ph: (0370) 693 831 or email: info@purimas-lombok.com

Senggigi

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Tourism Information

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SENGGIGI

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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LOMBOK INTERNATIONAL DANCE FESTIVAL 2014 A spectacular weekend of world-class dance and performances by dance champions from 16 different countries!

Now in its 9th successful year!

21 AND 22 JUNE 2014

BIMA BALLROOM – SANTOSA VILLAS & RESORT, SENGGIGI SATURDAY, 21 JUNE WDO - World Championships 2014 Artistic & Freestyle Dance

SUNDAY, 22 JUNE IDA - International Open Championships Ballroom & Latin Dance

International and national champions compete in Ballroom and Latin dance 10am - 4pm: Championships An exciting full day programme of artistic, hip-hop, street dance, show dance, traditional and freestyle performances.

6pm - 11pm: Gala Event & Dinner, Finals and Showdances

Day: 10am - 5pm Evening: 6pm - 11pm

Front Row Seat Rp 150,000

VIP Table Seat Rp 350,000 – Show & Dinner Standard Ticket Rp 200,000 – Show & Diinner

REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN! For information and tickets contact: Puri Mas Boutique Resort & Spa, Jl Raya, Mangsit Beach Ph: 0370 693 831 | E: info@purimas-lombok.com

Senggigi

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CAFE ALBERTO

ITALIAN & INDONESIAN 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@cafealberto.com

www.cafealberto.com

Live Music! Great Food! Good Times!

Live Music Every Friday ‘Ary Juliyant and Friends’ from 7.30 pm in the garden

Jl Raya (Main Street) Senggigi Ph: 0370 693619 E: restaurant@asmara-group.com

www.asmara-group.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 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

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to the Van Landa range of potato chips. These are made in Java and are deliciously crunchy kettle-cooked chips, with no added MSG, no artificial flavours or colourings, no preservatives and are gluten free.

As the world of apps keeps growing, more people are relying on their tablets and smart phones to search on the go. Now Gili Trawangan has its own “Gili Travel App”.

Designed by Australian developers, in cooperation with Gili T businesses, the new app will allow travellers to download key information about Gili T all in one place, including activities, ATM locations, rental prices for equipment, cidomo, bikes, etc., as well as booking hotels, fast boat transfers and more through the app.

Travellers will make great savings on accommodation, as the app bypasses common booking sites, such as Agoda, which charge hefty booking fees to businesses.

Businesses listing on the app also win as they don’t have to pay high commissions

to booking sites. For more information, see the advert on page 79.

On a quick trip to Kuta last week we stopped in at the newly opened Ocean Breeze Gourmet Foods and were extremely surprised at the range of products in this beautifully-presented little gourmet shop!

Inside we found a range of products from Dijon (the well-known gourmet shop in Bali), as well as delicious home-made jams and chutneys, stacks of pastas, rows of herbs and spices, and fridges packed with seafood, chicken and meats, including Black Angus steaks, and imported cheeses galore!

Currently we’re addicted

We’re trying to convince ourselves that these are actually healthy potato chips and hoping that a shop in Senggigi starts stocking them soon!

Ocean Breeze also sells home-baked bakery goods such as specialty breads, donuts and croissants, and freshly prepared snacks and meals which you can eat at the pretty café tables in front or take home to enjoy later.

The shop is located on the main road into Kuta, just after the roundabout, on the left opposite Kuta Medical Centre.

What a great addition to the growing South Lombok scene! See advert on page 70.

SANGEANG VOLCANO ERUPTION CAUSES TRAVEL CHAOS A volcanic eruption on Sangeang Island, near Sumbawa, caused chaos for interisland travel in the region, as well as causing some Australian flights to be cancelled.

Sangeang Island is located to the northeast of Sumbawa Island and around 310km east of Lombok.

Gunung Api Sangeang, the active volcano that dominates the island, erupted on Friday, 30 May, sending out a distinctive spaceship-shaped ring of smoke 15-20 metres high into the air.

The ash cloud then spread, drifting hundreds of kilometres to the east and south-east and scattering ash on the islands below.

Drifting ash moved across northern Australia, causing the cancellation of some flights between Australia and south-east Asia.

All domestic flights operating out of Darwin airport were cancelled on Saturday as three separate ash plumes billowed from the volcano.

Thirty-one flights were cancelled, creating a backlog of thousands of people. Jetstar says about 2,000 of their customers were affected.

Airlines out of Australia cancelled flights to and from Bali on Friday and Saturday, leaving passengers stranded in Bali and the airlines footing the bill for hotel accommodation.

Volcanic ash can be extremely dangerous to aircraft and cause engine failure or engine damage.

Airlines each apply their own risk assessment criteria in deciding whether to fly.

With the ash cloud dispersing, most flights were expected to resume services by Monday, 2 June.

Aviation authorities continue to monitor the volcano’s activity as a series of lowlevel eruptions continue.

Locally, Labuhan Bajo (the capital of West Manggarai Regency on the island of Flores), was blanketed in ash, also affecting nearby Komodo Island.

Residents reported the ash was sticking to houses and cars and had severely reduced visibility.

Several boats carrying tourists to Komodo Island have postponed their journeys.

Sangeang Island has a long history of volcanic activity and is uninhabited, although farmers in the nearby sub-district of Wera in Bima have plantations on the island.

Thousands of residents located in mainland villages closest to the volcano were reportedly in urgent need of masks and clean drinking water.

Government emergency teams were sent to Bima (Sumbawa) to distribute masks, emergency tents and ready-to-eat food to these locations, which are prepared for evacuation.

Mount Sangeang has erupted several times in 1911 and 1953 as well as more recent eruptions in the periods between 19641967, 1985-1987 and 1997-1999.

The eruption was not visible from Lombok or Bali and no ash fall has been reported on either island.

Senggigi

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Qamboja Day Spa

Slip into our “Volcanic Mud Wrap”

[ Luxurious treatment to draw out toxins and break down cellulite ]

Herbal bath, deluxe massage, facial, manicure & pedicure using all natural and traditional products *Yoga available upon request

Try our healthy vegetarian lunch using only raw ingredients to boost, invigorate and rejuvenate

[ “Gorgeous Spa” - Lonely Planet 2013 ]

[ 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 693800 | Website: www.quncivillas.com/spa

Senggigi

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www.pearlautore.com.au

Individual and Group Pearl Farm Tours Pearl and Jewellery Showroom Private viewings welcome

Showroom and CafĂŠ Open Daily

PT Autore Pearl Culture, Teluk Nara, Malaka, Lombok Phone: +62 370 6844 895 / 0813 3992 0020 | Email: pearlfarm@pearlautore.com.au

Senggigi

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BLUE MARLIN DIVE Senggigi Lombok’s premier PADI 5 Star Dive Centre

...DIve the difference PADI Dive Courses

Daily Dive & Snorkel Trips - Gili Trawangan Transfers - Hotel Dive and Stay Packages Blue Marlin based from Senggigi has taken the unique dive centre position; We do not combine our Senggigi based guests with our Gili dive centres – providing a more personalised service for you We are able to offer you the most time efficient daily return trips All of our dive guides are experienced PADI DiveMasters and Instructors Blue Marlin has a dedicated Snorkel guide to accompany you during your tours We ensure small groups for your comfort safety and enjoyment Daily transfers direct from your hotel in the Senggigi area Excellent facilities and restaurant to enjoy your break on Gili T We feel these factors and more make a huge difference to your day tour.

Join us and ... dive the difference!!!

Please email and quote “Lionfish” for special discount offers

Main Office: Holiday Resort – Mangsit – Senggigi – Lombok T: +62 (0) 370 693 719 E: senggigi@bluemarlindive.com W: www.bluemarlindive.com

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SUPERB COFFEES – TWO LOCATIONS – CITY & SENGGIGI Wild Kopi Luwak

CAFE LOMBI COFFEE SHOP Roasted Coffee Beans Kopi Luwak Coffee Machines (Sell, Rent & Repair) Coffee Business Solutions Sandwiches Pastries & Cakes SENGGIGI SQUARE BLOK A/04 TELP. 0370-692085, 0818 365 790 www.CafeLombi.com

Anna’s

ONE STOP COFFEE SHOP Coffee Shop & Lounge In House Roasting Coffee and Barista Equipment Coffee Machines Coffee Events Roasted Beans or Ground to order Single Origin Specialty Grade Arabicas Snack and Menu, Meeting Bookings Possible Mataram Mall 2, 3rd Floor, near parking deck 4a (back entrance south, new building) Ph: 0818 365 790 | www.coffeelombok.com

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

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[ Fine Wining and Dining on the Beachfront ]

NooQ

Cocktail & Tapas Lounge

Celebrating Cultural Performances Every Tuesday Night, Beach BBQ Thursday, Pasar Malam Friday, Elegant Candlelight Beach Dinner Saturday

[ 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

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Senggigi

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NOW OPEN IN SENGGIGI FRESH AND PREPARED CHICKEN PRODUCTS GOURMET FRESH SAUSAGES ALL 100% CHICKEN, BEEF OR LAMB Freshly prepared and easy to cook!

Chicken Kiev, Chicken Cordon Bleu, Tandoori Chicken, Chicken Shaslicks, Chicken Mignon, Marinated Legs and Wings, and more!

NEW VARIETIES NOW IN STOCK! Roasted Garlic and Feta - Sundried Tomato - Spicy Thai - Mango and Jalapeno - Apple and Sage

CATERING FOR BBQ'S AND PARTIES | WHOLESALE,HOTEL AND RESTAURANT SUPPLIER, RETAIL - ALL WELCOME! Senggigi Plaza Blok II No 4 | Phone: 0370 619 4154 / HP: 0813 6453 1668

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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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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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FOOD • COCKTAILS • SUNSETS • SHISHA

Serving fresh seafood, imported meats, gourmet pizzas, exotic juices, icy beers & colourful cocktails Open 6 days a week from 11am - 12am Behind Transit Hotel, Jl Raya Senggigi, Batu Bolong, Senggigi For booking please call +62 370 693 925 www.lachillbar.com

booking@lachillbar.com

La-Chill-Bar

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Puri Mas Boutique Resorts & Spa The Essence of Tradition, Luxury & Style

The Ballroom Restaurant Enjoy first class cuisine with some of the best seafood platters in town Uninterrupted views across the ocean to Bali.

Intimate candle light dinners Romantic sunset cocktails, enticing authentic Indonesian cuisine prepared by our internationally experienced Chef.

The Way Exceptional Dining should be, Simply Relax and Enjoy…….Cheers!

Open 7am to 11pm Child policy - Minimum guest age 12yrs

Puri Mas Luxury Spa Ultimate Spa Treatments with Babor: Babor Facials for all Skin Types Delicious Babor Body Treatments Full and Half Day Spa Pretty Feet and Hand Pampering

by Alessandro

We use only the famous international Babor Brand of Body and Facial Products

The only dedicated Spa in Lombok recommended by Conde Nast Johansens Luxury Spa 2014

JUST 5 MINS FROM SENGGIGI - FREE TRANSFER SERVICE RESERVATIONS CALL: 0370 693 831 / Email: info@purimas-lombok.com

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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

CV. ANANTA GUNA LESTARI OUR SERVICES: Pest Control | Rodent Control Termite Control | Fumigation Employee Recruitment (Out Sourcing) Cleaning Service (On Call) Gardener | Pool Maintenance

Ciokolata New Boutique Collections Jl. Raya Senggigi (next to Senggigi Jaya Supermarket) ciokolataclothing@ymail.com

www.ciokolata.com

Tours and Travel Service Available!

Jl. Alpa Raya Blok IV No. 4 BTN Sandik - Lombok Mobile: 0812 3693 5382 / 0818 0363 6609 Phone (0370) 6657069 / Fax: (0370) 621627 Email: anantagl@yahoo.co.id w w w. a n a n t a g l . c o m

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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)

Special Feature

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SENGGIGI’S UNDERWATER ART MUSEUM ©2014. Underwater photography by Foued Kaddachi

As of 24 May 2014, Senggigi Beach has its first underwater art museum or “ARTificial Reef Park”, designed to regenerate the reef system and provide a unique attraction for snorkellers and divers in Senggigi.

The idea was a dream of Teguh Ostenrik – an acclaimed Indonesian artist and avid diver.

Corals attached to the frame In his younger years, Teguh often visited Lombok and loved to dive and snorkel off Senggigi Attaching coral to the frame Beach, catching abundant squid and Working on his unique sculptures, Teguh lobster on the reef. formed the idea of sinking them off Years later, after living and exhibiting in the beach in Senggigi and creating an Europe, he was shocked to return to the underwater art museum, which would beach and find the reef almost destroyed. eventually be the foundation for a new reef system to replace the loss of the one he remembered so fondly.

He called this his “ARTificial Reef”.

At the time, Teguh was exhibiting his works as artist-in-residence at Qunci Villas as part of their “Month of Love” programme in February this year.

Divers submerging the structure

With sponsorship from Qunci Villas the idea took flight, helped along by the expertise of Delphine Robbe from the Gili Eco Trust and support from the members from the Lombok Hotel Association and Ind onesian Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP).

Tightening the connections

Teguh then created a special sculpture that he named “Domus Sepiae”, Latin for “house of squid”, as a remembrance of the squid for which Senggigi was once famous.

Volunteer divers positioning the sculpture

On 23 May, the huge metal artwork was moved to the Art Markets in Senggigi and volunteers began the arduous task of dismantling the sections, carrying them to the sea and re-assembling them off shore in front of De Quake Restaurant.

Special Feature

Teguh working on his sculpture

The sections were assembled on the ocean bed where the previous reef once existed, alongside some of the still living corals. Once assembled, the sculpture was connected to a low voltage electrical current, which will encourage fast coral growth but is not dangerous to swimmers and divers.

Blessing for the sculpture

This system is based on Biorock technology, which uses low voltage current to encourage the formation of mineral growth on the metal frames.

These coated surfaces then become the framework, or artificial reef, on which corals can anchor and grow.

A mooring sits on the surface above

35 the sculpture and houses a solar-panel which supplies the electrical current.

In a massive effort of dedication, the divers and volunteers completed the project by attaching corals to the frame to start the regeneration process. These were corals that had been broken or found dying on the sea bed.

The next day, on 24 May, everyone assembled at De Quake Restaurant in the Art Markets for the official Inauguration Ceremony, attended by government and village representatives, as well as those involved in the project and a crowd of interested spectators.

A remaining piece of the sculpture was used to symbolically represent the ARTificial Reef Park and received a traditional blessing of coconut water and flowers before being carried to the beach and placed alongside the rest of the artwork.

Teguh was dragged away from the water to make a touching speech, thanking those who had made his artistic dream a reality.

Stephane Servin, Cochairman of the Lombok Hotel Association joined others in praising the initiative and efforts of all those involved in creating a ecologically sustainable tourist attraction

Qunci Villas staff and volunteers

for Senggigi Beach, which will benefit not only the region but preserve nature for future generations.

Congratulations to everyone who came together to make Pak Teguh’s vision a reality‌ your efforts were amazing!

Volunteers moving the sculpture

The sculpture alongside existing corals

Discount Vouchers

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DISCOUNT VOUCHERS GOT A SPECIAL OFFER FOR OUR READERS? PROMOTE YOUR INCENTIVES AND DISCOUNTS WITH A BOX AD (9,5cm X 4,9cm) ONLY Rp 50,000 / ISSUE Email us at kitadesign@hotmail.com

“3 Day Package Deal” Standard Double Room + 2 breakfast, + free use of double Kayak, Rp 500,000 On presentation of this coupon

Present this coupon or quote “Lionfish” for either: 10% Discount on Fun Dives Valid 9 – 23 June 2014

Valid 9 – 23 June 2014

SECRET ISLAND RESORT Gili Gede, Southwest Lombok

Phone: 0818 0376 2001 secretislandresort@gmail.com | www.secretislandresort.com

10% Discount on Snorkel Tours 5% Discount on PADI Dive Courses.

Please book in advance by phone: (0370) 693 719 or visit our offices at the Holiday Resort * Discount applies to a min 2 people Not in addition to any other promotions or discount offers

JOB VACANCIES - KUTA We are looking for hands to help us expand our business. Ocean Breeze is a new gourmet foods outlet in Kuta, Lombok. Ocean Breeze has more than 400 products and keeps growing.

PERSONAL ASSISTANT • Male or Female • Maximum 30 years old • Education minimum “diploma level” • 2 years’ minimum experience in the same or similar field • Fluent in English (spoken), other languages an advantage • Can work with the team • Has leadership qualities, honest, creative, diligent and tenacious

SHOP ASSISTANT • Female • Age between 20 – 25 years old • Education minimum “diploma level” • No experience required • Can operate a cash register • Has finance knowledge • Fluent in English (spoken), other languages an advantage • Honest, diligent, accurate

CHEF/ BAKER

• Male or Female • Age between 20 – 35 years old • 2 years’ mimimum experience in the same or similar field • Reliable • Honest and hardworking

Please send your CV by email to oceanbreezelombok@yahoo.com

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PASAR CLASSIFIEDS

GOLF PLAYERS WANTED 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!

HOTEL, BAR & RESTAURANT CLOSING DOWN SALE

BEDS, FURNITURE, BEDROOM AND BATHROOM FITTINGS AND FIXTURES KITCHEN EQUIPMENT, CUTLERY AND CROCKERY TABLES AND CHAIRS - SUIT RESTAURANT FRIDGES, FREEZERS AND MUCH MORE! ALL ITEMS MUST GO!

Ph: 0813 398 11140 (Jim) | www.golf-lombok.com

PH GLENN: 0818 0524 3380

Daihatsu Luxio 1,5 X Automatic For Sale

Lombok Personal Assistant

Spacious family car. One owner. Year 2010. Original upholstery, never been used (we covered it with leather).

Routine check up at Daihatsu service center. AC, audio, new battery (55 ampere). Fully insured until Sep 2014.

KM 58,000. Price: Rp 125 million/nego Contact 0853 3970 9170

Visa arrangements and business permits Translator and interpreter (Dutch-English-Indonesian-German) House Management- Website design Tel. 0812 2161 7850 or 0877 6511 8041

www.lombok-personal-assistant.com

Pool for Sale Investment Opportunity: Detached House with Two Storey house in Jl Palm Tree, Senggigi Residence For Sale / Over Contract IN THE HEART OF SENGGIGI Profitably running restaurant in Mataram Mall.

Take over all equipment, furniture, regular customers and staff. Take over and start with profit from day one!

No.1 Restaurant on Tripadvisor for Mataram!

A Bargain @ IDR 300 Million

Contact: 081 836 5790

HOUSE FOR RENT

Open plan living area, furnished to high standard with European kitchen.

Air-conditioned throughout, 2 bedrooms plus office, en suite with bath and shower. H/water.

For sale from owner, Well maintained pool and 0370 6194 194 / 081 757 94877 garden.

Fun and friendly homestay in Kuta!

Weekly, Monthly & Yearly Location at Meninting Regency No.18 For more information Call Ibu Setya: 0819 1660 400 / 0812 3776 4000

HOUSE FOR SALE Spacious 2 storey house on 625m2 of land.

Strategic location and safe area.

200m from Mataram Mall, 50m from Pejanggik main road. Jalan Bangau No.13

0817 5789 207

Rooms start from Rp 150,000 for fan / cold water.

Aircon & Hot water Rp 250,000 Located in Desa Mong (2km north of Kuta) We can arrange transfers, tours, fishing trips, motorbike rental, etc

Jl. Raya Mong, Desa Mong, Kuta. Ph: +62 818 369 950 Email: info@mimpimanis.com / www.mimpimanis.com

Pasar Classifieds

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PASAR CLASSIFIEDS

LOOKING FOR QUALIFIED AND EXPERIENCED OPRASIONAL MANAGER & SPV FO, HK, F&B, MEP AND ACCT (MYOB) For opening team in new resort on Gili Meno, Lombok.

Minimum 3 years experience in field. Must have good appearance, excellent English and other languages, and experience in hotel industry. Good computer skills, Microsoft Office, team player, honest.

Desa Dunia Beda Beach Resort Gili Trawangan, Lombok

Looking for following candidates: 1. FO Manager 4. Room Attendant 2. FO Staff 5. Cook 3. Engineering Supervisor Qualification: 1. Hotel education background 2. At least 1 year experience in the same position 3. English knowledge is recommended Please send CV, cover letter and recent photo to: gm@desaduniabeda.com

LIVE IN STAFF WANTED

Also need cooks, bartenders, waiters, house keeping and accounting staff.

TO LOOK AFTER MY BUNGALOW RENTAL ON GILI TRAWANGAN, INCLUDES CLEANING AND PREPARE BREAKFAST

Candidates email CV and recent photograph to jane@seriresortgilimeno.com

CALL: 0878 6170 5222 or email sahara_bali@yahoo.com

INTEREST TO INVEST IN LOMBOK?

Hotel/Office Accounting Vacancy

Direct Landlord/Owner Meeting Arrangement.

(Lombok Mainland or Gili Island)

We are looking for experienced professional with English, accounting and administration skills Some MYOB experience an advantage but not essential.

HENRY LIM: 081907398818, 081907398828 / 082359199898 dutymanager_tugulombok@yahoo.co.id

Please send your CV by email to sempiakvillas@gmail.com

HOUSE FOR RENT

LOMBOK GAME

0817 578 9207 / 0370 627 766

0818 0363 8577 / 0811 3945 977

Special for foreigner. 1000sqm with yard. 4 bedroom. Fully furnished, hot water system, AC. Garage for 3 cars.

Located in Jl. Candrakirana, Cakra.

Nyoman Transport

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!

Ph: 0819 1701 3714 / 0821 4458 7910 Email: nyoman.translombok@yahoo.com

Buy and Sell: PS2, PS3, XBOX, WII | Install hard drive and USB for PS2 | Accessories: PS3 move, XBOX kinect, Guncon, Steerwheel and many more | Update the latest PES 2014 (50 ribu) and firmware upgrade | GAMES: PC (10 ribu), PS3 (20 ribu), PS2 (4 ribu), PSP (5 ribu) | FREE games for one year if you buy the console | Install games at your home (on call service) | Home delivery service and open 7 days a week | ALL ITEMS HAVE GUARANTEE!

www.lombokgame.com

IMMIGRATION SERVICE Visas and Residency Permits Work and Business Visas Retirement Visas Police Permits Land Certificates | Land and Building Permits Foreign Investment (PMA) | Company Documents

VOA Extensions up to 30 days

0370 692 253 / 0818 360 415 / 0858 5822 3619 perwiralombok@yahoo.com / damsiah@yahoo.com

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Senggigi

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HOME CINEMA LOMBOK We invite you to EXPERIENCE the EXCITEMENT of a real professional quality CINEMA in your HOME, VILLA OR HOTEL! Specialising in genuine BOSE equipment

THE ONLY ONE IN LOMBOK! Personalised multimedia solutions for existing homes and businesses, and customised planning for your cinema during building. Over 18 years of European experience in home theatre installation – speakers, projectors, screens, televisions and more – supply and installation.

Phone: 0877 6522 2697 for a free consultation E: homecinemalombok@yahoo.com | W: www.homecinemalombok.com

The

LOMBOK GUIDE

LOMBOK’S #1 TOURISM NEWSPAPER AND INFORMATION RSOURCE More than 8000 copies distributed throughout Lombok, the Gilis and Bali every month!

More than 7400 international & national visits to our website every month!

An average of 7000 people reading our online digital paper every month!

WITH MORE THAN 22 THOUSAND READERS EVERY MONTH, HOW CAN YOU AFFORD NOT TO ADVERTISE???

Contact us now for economical advertising that gets results!

Phone: 0812 3734 4894

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MARSHANDER SPA & SALON PROFESSIONAL BEAUTY & HEALTH CARE

Hair and Beauty – Trained Hair Stylist Facials and Skin Care – Body Shop and Biokos Products Waxing and Nails Massage Reflexology and Body Treatments Spa Packages

OPEN DAILY 10am to 9pm

Great Prices and Trained Therapists...

Come in and try our full range of services for beauty, health and relaxation!

Senggigi Square Blok A/05 (next to Cafe Lombi), Jl Raya Senggigi. Ph: 0878 6228 0693

• 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

Special Feature

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THE BEACH CLUB SENGGIGI… The End of an Era

A mixed group of people gathered to bid a fond farewell on Saturday, 31 May 2014 as The Beach Club Senggigi served its last beer.

The popular bar and café, operated by Australian expats Glenn and Dee, has been a mainstay for tourists, expats and locals alike for the past 8 years – a friendly place to gather for a few drinks, to hunch over the bar watching Aussie rules football and epic Grand Prix races, or to enjoy the company of the happy staff while enjoying a good steak dinner on the beach.

As their lease came to an end this year, many hoped that the land owners would relent and renew for another term, but sadly the lease has expired and The Beach Club Senggigi is no more.

The Beach Club Senggigi has hosted many events – from wine nights to introduce a new Consul General to Lombok’s expat population, to charity dinners and quiz nights to raise funds for community projects, to some of the best Melbourne Cup days and touching Anzac Day Memorials at sunrise.

The bungalows too had their share of fans, some of whom flew in to Senggigi to celebrate the last night of trading. Guests from around the world have come back year after year to stay in the cozy thatched cottages on the beach.

And really it is the end of an era, as this sort of accommodation is rapidly disappearing from Senggigi as development takes hold.

The perennial favourite Santai Beach Inn, which offered budget accommodation in thatched bungalows on the beach in Mangsit, closed earlier this year and is under renovation. Similarly, Windy Beach Cottages, with its simple cottages on the beautiful beach at the other end of Mangsit, has been purchased by developers.

The seven pretty bungalows at The Beach Club Senggigi were one of the last of this style of accommodation – and yet it is something that many tourists come seeking: cosy bungalows with air conditioning, hot water and all the mod cons, located right on the beach.

The Beach Club offered all that and more – beautiful gardens, comfortable accommodation, friendly staff, great food, cold beers, and a superb beachfront location... all at very reasonable prices.

Glenn and Deidre purchased the lease for The Beach Club in 2006 and transformed the run-down bar into a bright and friendly place to hang out.

A proper kitchen was set up and they began serving fresh and delicious food, with an emphasis on Australian favourites such as fish and chips, steak and mashed potatoes, real Australian pies, roast chicken, and big Aussie breakfasts, complete with sausages, bacon and baked beans.

Indeed, many expats regularly drop in for

breakfast or to pick up some pies or a roast chicken to take home!

Over the years Glenn and Dee added the bungalows – which proved such a hit with travellers – and then a swimming pool to complete the idyllic setting.

At any time of the day, you would find people sitting at the bar talking and watching TV, lounging on the big pavilion overlooking the beach, playing pool next to the fish pond and sitting at the tables, just taking in the view and the atmosphere.

It’s the kind of place where you would drop in for a drink on the way home and end up staying for dinner. Strangers would meet over a beer and end up friends by the end of a football match.

Fortunately, this isn’t the end of the Lombok attachment for Glenn and Dee… the friendly and welcoming atmosphere lives on at their second venue – The Beach Club Gili Air. I guess all us fans of The Beach Club are just going to have to travel out to Gili Air more often!

Special Feature

THE BEACH CLUB... END OF AN ERA PARTY Past patrons and guests from around the world gathered to say farewell to The Beach Club Senggigi on 31 May 2014

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DIVA LUNCH LOMBOK @ QUNCI VILLAS

Local Scene

40 business women from Bali and Lombok joined forces recently to raise funds for local children at the first-ever Diva Lunch held in Lombok.

The event was organised by Christina Iskandar from the Bali Diva Community and The Lombok Guide.

Qunci Villas hosted the stylish gathering with the theme “Qaftans at Qunci� and guests enjoyed a 3-course gourmet lunch with complimentary cocktails and wines.

Raffles and auctions were held with fabulous prizes donated by generous Bali and Lombok businesses. The funds raised will benefit local school, Sekolah Ibu Jumilah, and the children of Duduk Bawah, a village near Senggigi.

Local Scene

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Senggigi

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Great selection of Western, Asian, Seafood and Lombok specialties Dine in our clean and comfortable street-side cafe Take away & home delivery (in Senggigi area) Phone for free transport Open for lunch & dinner 12pm - 12am

HAPPY HOURS 5 - 7PM

Jl Senggigi Beach (opposite Pool Villa Club) Ph: 0819 1793 5059 or (0370) 693 964 | Laroz Cafe & Lounge

Bean Bags!

Many styles and colours!

PURI Leisure Furniture Jalan Saleh Sungkar No 70 E, Ampenan Phone / Fax: +62 (0) 370 6194 123 / 0813 3955 5456 | www.gandari.com

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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

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De Quake is One of the Most Enjoyable Places to Eat in Senggigi – The Lonely Planet

Italian Night with Eros!

Delicious Homemade Lasagna, Ravioli and Italian Specialties Special Guest Chef Eros from Bolzano Cooks for De Quake

Every Wednesday Night Book your table now!

Art Market Senggigi, Lombok +62 370 693694

www.dequake.com

Local Scene

49

350 BIRTHDAY PARTY @ SEMPIAK VILLAS

Friends from New Zealand, Australia and around Indonesia gathered at Sempiak Villas on stunning Selong Belanak Beach to celebrate the 50th birthday parties of three friends – Rox, Cate and Jacquie.

Guests partied in true island style with a seafood barbecue, beach bonfire and fireworks, and danced the night away on the beachfront to music by top Senggigi group, “Not Bad Band”.

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Land & Property

Land & Property

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Land & Property

Land & Property

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Land & Property

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HOUSE FOR SALE - KUTA LOMBOK ONLY US $124,000 This new home is just a few minutes’ drive to Kuta Beach and 20 minutes drive to International Airport!

3 Bedrooms, plus store room or office.

Beautiful high ceilings, open plan kitchen and living, one bathroom and separate laundry.

Outdoors deck and swimming pool.

Landscaped and fully fenced.

3 ARE (300sqm) Hak Milik Title (freehold, certificated land)

Please Ph 0821 4587 5594

MAIN OFFICE: Jl. Bung Karno / Opposite Lombok Garden Hotel Ph: 0370 648863 | Mobile: 082 147 768 880 | Fax: 0370 648865

www.ira-property.com

1: Beachfront Hotel, size 2 hectare, price IDR 12 billion 2: Land for sale in Malimbu, 9000m2, price IDR 2 billion, 5 km from Senggigi, 500m from the beach 3: Beachfront land for sale in Selong Belanak, size 14.000m2, price IDR 15.4 Billion, beach length 100m, 50 minutes from airpor 4: Land for sale near Senggigi, size 1.800m2, price IDR 525 million, view Mataram city, main road acces.

5: Land on hill in Sekotong: size 6400m2, price IDR 450 million, ocean view, road access, ready for water and electricity, view 3 Gilis.

6: Beachfront Land in Sekotong, size 1.1 hectare, price 1.7 billion, near Lembar, 1 hour from airport, 1 hour from Senggigi, white sandy beach, certificate.

7: Beachfront land in Selong Belanak, size 4300m2, price IDR 6.4 billion, beach length 50m, 50 minutes from airport.

8: Land for sale in Kuta, size 9.600m2, Price IDR 4 billion, Full view Tanjung Aan, behind Mandalika Resort, main road access.

9: Land for sale on hill in Malimbu, size 13.000 m2, price IDR 2.6 Billion, view Bali and ocean

Land & Property

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Land & Property

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ISLAND PROPERTIES LOMBOK Real Estate Specialists

THE SQUARE Close walking distance to Central Senggigi.

Just completed executive class residence featuring 3 large bedrooms, two bathrooms, large European kitchen.

The bedrooms overlook the pool, as per the photo. The fixtures and fittings are the best you can buy in Bali.

Exquisite Turkish rugs included. Asking price Rp 3.25 billion

BTN Griya Asri Jl Otomotif Raya II No 23, Senteluk-Montong

Asking Price Rp 349,000,000

HIN T I D W K! SOL E WEE ON

Brand new to the market! Lovely 2 storey home with large upstairs verandah, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, dining area plus garage.

Hak Milik (freehold) title Land size 90 m2 Build Size 180 m2

GREEN VALLEY

Asking Rp 725 million

Bestunity ort y in p p O bu lley to n Va e Gre

Asking Rp 850,000,000

5 minutes to beach!

Spacious 3 bedroom, 2 Bathroom home with room for a pool at the rear.

THE ESTATE DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITY 6,845 ARE

Once in a life time opportunity with 50m direct beachfront!

House is 400m with 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 4 a/c (in each bedroom).

Formal lounge, dining room, American style kitchen with 3 car enclosed garage. Upstairs features large entertainment area with ocean views and views to Mountain Agung. 3 large bedrooms with magic views and ensuite.

Set in exquisite landscaped gardens. This property could easily support 6 exclusive villas. 4 hak milik (freehold) titles.

Asking Price: USD 1.2 Million nego

EXCLUSIVE VILLA JL BARUNA SANTI 16, BATU LAYAR within 10 minutes to Senggigi As new, exclusive two bedroom villa with remote surround sound entertainment to all rooms.

Features include 2 bedrooms, 2 ensuite bathrooms to the bedrooms, study, open plan design with spacious lounge/ dining and kitchen. Large outdoor entertainment area, large 13 x 6m pool, landscaped gardens. Integrated CCTV security system.

Asking Price USD 249,000

JL LUMBA LUMBA 4 GREEN VALLEY WESTERN STANDARD RENOVATION

PARADISE WITHIN YOUR REACH ON GILI MENO!

Fully furnished. 2 spacious bedrooms with ensuites, marble European kitchen.

2 weeks from completion.

2 hot water systems.

Open plan design. A must to view. Fantastic rental opportunity!

5 minutes walk to the beach. Spacious two bedroom villa with large ensuites and walk-in robes to each bedroom.

Asking Price USD 150,000 nego Open plan design with room to expand. Lovely green stone pool with low maintenance gardens.

Phone Angela: 0819 1742 0804 / Ita 0878 6366 2777 islandpropertieslombok@gmail.com | www.islandpropertieslombok.com

We can make your dreams come true

Land & Property

57

Land & Property

58

BREATHTAKING SEA AND BALI VIEW PLOT On “The New Hill”! 1,000m2 with water and electricity included to plot. New access road to this exclusive development now under construction. 2 Plots already sold. No really! Sold! USD 133,000

1,600m2 - UNOBSTRUCTED BALI AND SEA VIEWS On “The Hill”. Prestigious villa development area. Road access. Electricity available. A water connection may also be available by separate arrangement – USD 200,000

CHEAP VALLEY PLOT IN DUSUN DUDUK WHITE SANDY BEACH FRONT - SIRA 1.78H (17,800m2) Exceptional quality and location with 55m of frontage, next to Near Senggigi. Good concrete road access. Government water Kosaido Golf Course. Excellent road access. GiIi islands and Bali and electricity available. Gentle slope with wide valley views. sunset views. IDR 150 million per are (100m2) - USD 2,352,000 ONLY USD 28,750 for a 500m2 plot – Ridiculous!

BOUTIQUE HOTEL ON GILI TRAWANGAN Rare chance to aquire an established, profitable business with room for improvement & expansion. 5 A/C bungalows and 6 other rooms. 1,000m2 of land. HGB with 14 years left - USD 485,000

BEACHFRONT - GONDANG 4H (400 ARE - 40,000M2) Idyllic building land with swaying palm trees and private road access from the main road. Existing spring water. Electricity available. Perfect for subdivision or land bank - USD 490,000

Jl Raya Senggigi (50m from Happy Café) | Ph: 0812 3734 0117

www.lombokpropertyandvillas.com

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

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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

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.

The Cities

61

SUPERMARKET SPEND LESS – GET MORE!

PURE & HEALTHY AIR NTB

Convenient Location and Comfortable Shopping Groceries, canned and packaged goods, homewares, and the biggest range of toiletries anywhere!

Healthy and Pure Lombok Water Very Low TDS Main distributor in Lombok Jl Adi Sucipto 1, Rembiga (opposite old Selaparang Airport)

PT TAMARIN JAYA: Jl. TGH Lopan 8, Dasan Cermen Ph: 0370 648 555 / 0370 648 999

SINTA PEST C NTR L Melayani Pengendalian: Nyamuk DB / Malaria / Cikungunya Lalat, Kecoa, Semut Hama Tikus | Rayap Hama Gudang Controlling: Dengue, Malaria & Cikungunya Mosquito Fly, Cockroach, Ants Rats | Termites Spiders and Other Pests & Bugs PT SINTA AGRO MANDIRI (Ijin Dikes No: 03/52.71/PC/VII/11) Jl. TGH Hambali No 8, Mataram, Lombok | Phone: 0370 631176 / 627991

62

Mayura Park

Cities Map

The Cities

63

64

The Southwest

The Southwest Secret Islands, Pristine Beaches!

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.

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 The ocean is sparkling turquoise and the construction. 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 Just out in the calm bay are the three development of previously unknown dive lovely islands of Gili Nanggu, Gili sites in this area.

Tangkong and Gili Sudat – all easily accessible by local outrigger boats. A small Dive Zone offer dive trips around Sekotong and the islands, as well as sign in the nearby village will direct you in three locations in South Lombok – to the local boat hire area, where you can including challenging world-class diving arrange boat trips out to Gili Nanggu and off southeast Lombok. the other islands.

Another few kilometres past Dive Zone Of the three, only Gili Nanggu has is Cocotinos Boutique Beach Resort, set accommodation for visitors, with Gili on the secluded beach at Tanjung Empat.

Nanggu Cottages providing simple With 28 rooms, including beachfront villas cottages on the beach and a restaurant, as well as deluxe rooms further back from the with private swimming pools, Cocotinos is the only luxury accommodation in the beach. The island is small and the beach area. has soft white sand and a good reef just offshore for snorkelling.

Cocotinos in Sekotong is the second Travelling a little further south, before the venture for the Odyssea Asia group, with their first dive resort already well marine culture complex (Balai Budaya Laut), there is a small dirt road leading out established in Manado, Sulawesi. Scuba diving courses and dives, operated by onto a white peninsular of sand that juts Odyssea Divers, are available from the into beautiful clear waters. Drive to the resort, together with snorkelling, boating end for superb views and a close up look and other sea sports. at Gili Genting.

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 the islands in the area 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 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 where you can get away from it all.

Continued from Page 66

The Southwest

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66 Continued from Page 64

The Southwest and weirdly shaped squid drift by in the deeper areas.

Tourists who take trips with Dive Zone commonly describe the diving around the southwest as some of the best they’ve ever experienced. Many are astounded by the pristine conditions and huge schools of turtles seen near Gili Layar!

Secret Island can also organise fishing trips and island hopping excursions to the other beautiful islands in the area, most of which are deserted, about their comfortable 9m custom-built boat “Scorpio”.

the island’s coast.

To the south of Gili Gede, the islands of Gili Ringgit, Layar and Asahan are lined up like secret treasures in the calm sea.

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.

Bounty Cruises, a Bali based company, 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

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 hundreds of small iridescent fish swim past

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. 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

The Southwest

67 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

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

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 harbour 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.

Distribution

68

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AIRPORT: Hotel counters outside International Lombok Airport. BALI: Air Bali, Arena Sport Bar & Rest, Asia Collection Tour, Asian Trails Tour, Balcony Rest, Barb’s Sport Warung, BIMC, Blue Water Express, Bounty Cruises, Caesar Rest & Bar, Café Canggu, Café Marzano, Café Smorgas, Canggu Club, De Banjar Rest, Eco Beach Rest, Exotissimo Travel Indonesia, Gardenia Cafe & Bar, Gili Shop Poppies 1 & 2, Gloria Jeans Coffee 1 & 2, Go Vacation Tour, Golden Kris Tour, Grocer & Grind, Jimmy Sport Bar & Rest, Indo-Ned, Junction Bar & Rest, Khaima Rest & Bar, Made’s Warung Kuta & Seminyak, Maya Coffee & Smothie Bar, Meno Mojo, Ocha Warung, Pacific World, Pacto Tour, Piduh Rest, Poppies Bar & Rest, Red Carpet, Rutica Cucina Italiana, Sate Bali Rest Echo Beach, SOS, Sticky Fingers Italiana, The Cameng Bar & Rest, The Plumbers Arms, The Porch Cafe, Trattoria Cucina Italiana, Ultimo Bar & Rest, Vila Lumbung, Warung Bale Bali, Warung Bonita, Warung Eropa, Warung Italia, Warung Made Bar & Rest, Warung Pregina, Warung Sulawesi, White Sands Rest & Bar. MATARAM: Bean Bags, CV Ananta Guna Lestari, Depo Jaya Bangunan, Falcon Developments, Ira Property, Losmen Tjabe Merah, Mario’s Supermarket, Mataram Mall (Delicio Café, Joli Sourire Dental Care, KFC, Lombok Coffee House, McDonalds, Oceanic Café), NTB Museum, Sinta Pest Control, Toko Susana. GILI GEDE: Secret Island Resort. KUTA: Bombora Bungalows, Bumbangku Cottages, Discovery Coffee House, Kuta Bay Homestay, Kuta Heights, Kuta Indah Hotel, Mimpi Manis Homestay, Novotel, Ocean Breeze, Puri Rinjani, Sekar Kunning/ Yellow Flower, The Chili Cafe, Warung Bule. SENGGIGI: Alfa Mart, Anna’s Giftshop, Asmara Restaurant, Blue Marlin Senggigi, Café Alberto, Cafe Lombi, Chicken Stop, Ciokolata, De Quake, Dream Divers, Dream Estate, Graha Beach Senggigi Hotel, Holiday Resort, Home Cinema Lombok, Jeeva Klui, La Chill Bar, Laroz Cafe & Lounge, Living Asia, Lombok Property & Villas, Lotus Bayview Restaurant, Marshander Spa & Salon, Meat Mart, Orchid Spa, Puri Bunga Cottages, Puri Mas Boutique Hotel, Qunci Villas, Santosa Villas & Resort, Senggigi Jaya Abadi Supermarket, Square Restaurant, Temptations, The Chandi, The Office, Ye Jeon Restaurant. GILI T: Blue Marlin Dive, Desa Dunia Beda, Exqisit Spa, Gili T Resort, Gili Getaway, Kayu Cafe, ko-ko-mo Resort, Oceano Resort, Hotel Vila Ombak, Kayu Cafe, Manta Dive, Ombak Sunset, Scallywags, The Beach House, The Trawangan. GILI MENO: Blue Marlin Dive, Tropical Hideaways Resort. GILI AIR: 7Seas Bungalows, Scallywags, The Beach Club.

Special thanks to our contributors: Barbara Kathleen, Dian Cahyadi, Didik Hariadi, FOKUS Unram, Iwan Haryanto, www.balidiscovery.com.

Printed by PT. Temprina Media Grafika, Denpasar, Bali Copyright © 2014. All rights reserved. Nothing in The Lombok Guide can be reproduced in whole or part without written permission from the publisher.

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 to 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Kuta itself is a small town with hotels, Perched on top of the hill with spectacular home-stays and backpacker’s hostels that views over Kuta and the surrounding cater mainly to the thousands of surfers beaches, Ashtari serves exquisite teas and from around the world who are drawn to juices, and delicious vegetarian meals the area every year to surf the left- and and organic gourmet snacks that are truly right-hand breaks out in the bay. out of the ordinary. Open every day from There is a good variety of accommodation, 6.30am until 8pm for breakfast, lunch, restaurants and facilities for travellers and dinner and all day dining. Get there in time – with investment taking off –more options for sunset drinks! are opening all the time.

Kuta attracts thousands of visitors At present, Kuta boasts just one luxury every year for the great surf locations at resort: the Novotel Gerupuk, Tanjung A’an, Ekas, and the Lombok. The beaches to the west. It’s easy to hire a Novotel has a range board and a surf guide from here to learn of accommodation, surfing or, for experienced surfers, to from comfortable access the more challenging surf breaks in hotel rooms to the area. Hire a car or motorbike and you spacious suites and can spend days visiting beautiful, mainly luxurious villas, deserted beaches, both to the east and west some with private of Kuta. swimming pools.

Around 4 km east of Kuta is Tanjung A’an, Designed to with perfect white sand beaches and good blend in with the waves for surfers. Slightly further east is environment, and Gerupuk, well known as a top surf location with a stunning and situated on a peninsula of land that juts beachfront location, out into the ocean, with stunning views of the Novotel is a the sea, and the surrounding islands and wonderful example bays. There is a good surf school here and of traditional Sasak no fewer than five surf breaks. architecture.

Continued on Page 72

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Kuta and The South Coast

Ocean Breeze Gourmet Foods-Meats, Cheeses, Breads, Snacks

Ocean Breeze is Proud to Provide Lombok’s Finest Foods Sourced from Over 12 Countries Take-Away Menu - Deli Sandwiches, Salads, Homemade Breads, Homemade Pastas, etc – Stop in and Check Out Our Daily Special!

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Bocconicini, Brie, Caciotta, Cheddar, Feta, Grana Padano, Mozzarella, Parmesan, etc.

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Black Angus Steaks, Australian Steaks, Chorizo & Italian Sausages, American Burgers, Premium Minced Beef, Boneless Chicken Breasts, etc.

Dried Meats Chorizo, Jambon Fume, Coppa, Sopresatta, Culatello, Salami, Pastrami, etc.

Seafood

Cured Salmon, Smoked Turbot, Yellow Fin Tuna, Mahi-Mahi, Octopus Carpaccio, Fresh Seafood Salads, etc.

Prepared Food

New York Style Sandwiches, Homemade Ravioli, Homemade Lasagna, Organic Salads, Caprese, Aussie Meat Pies, Apple Pies, Fresh Pates, etc.

Breads

Homemade Baguettes & Loaves, Farmer Rolls, Turkish Pide, Panadas, Donuts,etc.

Snacks

Homemade Oven Roasted Cashews & Peanuts, Yoghurt Bars, Kettle Cooked Chips, Fine Chocolates, etc.

Other

Italian Pastas & Sauces, Cornichons, Olives, Muesli, Infused Olive Oils, All Natural Jelly, Jams, Marmalades & Spreads, etc.

Jl Pariwisata (in front of Kuta Medical Service) oceanbreezelombok@yahoo.com

Kuta and The South Coast

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Kuta and The South Coast

72 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!

Continued from Page 69

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.

These two exclusive properties 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

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.

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 Belanak 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 with breath-taking panoramic views.

Bumbangku

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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The safe way to buy land and build in Kuta

74

Kuta and The South Coast

Kuta and The South Coast

75

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South Lombok Map

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www.thelombokguide.com

Kuta and The South Coast

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Tourism Information

The Gili Islands

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.

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.

The word Gili actually means “small island”, and so these islands have come to 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.

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.

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.

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.

Continued on Page 80

Gili Trawangan

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Tourism Information

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Unique tropical escapes!

Continued from Page 78 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.

Each Gili has developed independently and at different paces, giving each a different “personality” or style, and catering to different types of holidaymakers and travellers.

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.

This means that travellers have a good choice, depending on their individual tastes and what type of island escape they prefer.

Visibility is very good and commonly in the 15-30 m range; and water temperatures average 23°C (73°F) to 29°C (84°F).

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, with professional standards of safety and environmental awareness, exist on all three islands.

Gili Trawangan is the most developed and popular of the three, with the greatest range of facilities and activities; while Gili Air has a relaxed, laid-back style and is popular with couples and families.

Gili Meno is the quietest of

the three, perfect for really getting away from it all.

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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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

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The Gili Islands

Tourism Information

GETTING TO THE GILIS

83

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 provides transfers between Bali and Gili Trawangan, and Lombok mainland. BWE operates two boats, with 30 and 50 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

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 Marina Srikandi operates direct fast boat services several times a day between Padang Bai Harbour (Bali) and the Gilis, as well as a direct service to Senggigi. Hotel transfers to main tourism areas in Bali are available. Ph: +62 370 693 383, Bali Ph: +62 361 729 818. www.marinasrikandi.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.

By Helicopter: Air Bali offers a regular helicopter transfer service between Bali and Gili Trawangan. Private charters are also possible (subject to availability). Ph: + 62 361 767466 or 766 582. www.airbali. com 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.

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.

Blue Water Express, Marina Srikandi and Gili Getaway also operate fast boat services between Lombok and Bali from this harbour.

It is possible to negotiate private boat trips (including speed boat transfers) 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, kokomo and Scallywags have bases for transferring their guests by speedboat to the Gilis.

FROM BANGSAL HARBOUR: Catch a taxi or bemo to Bangsal Harbour, the small harbour on the north-west coast, about 30 minutes from Senggigi.

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.

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.

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!

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.

Arranging snorkelling and dive trips inclusive of island transfers is a good way to save time, money and hassles.

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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 families from all over the world.

alternatives to the central area.

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 your bike through sandy sections on the west side).

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.

Previously tagged “the party island” by the Lonely Planet, Gili T (as it is affectionately This is the only Gili to rise significantly known) has moved on and up. above sea level and the hill in the south is a great lookout from which to enjoy Gone are the days when backpackers the spectacular sunsets across the ocean flocked to the island for Rp 20,000 a to Bali; or in the mornings, the brilliant night huts on the beach and Rp 5,000 sunrise over Gunung Rinjani on mainland Bintang beers. Today, Gili T has a sleek Lombok. sophisticated side that becomes more evident every year.

On the far south end of the hill are the remnants of old WWII Japanese gun That’s not to say that the original charms emplacements and crumbling bunkers, but that attracted tourists in the beginning are the hand-dug tunnels have been blocked gone. The perfect white sand beaches, clear turquoise waters and laid-back island up. style are still there in buckets.

The main development on the island is on the east coast, particularly southeast But the island has cast off its grungy in the area called “Sentral”, where origins and now combines the best of a the boats dock. The tracks inland are tropical island paradise with a touch of through coconut groves and pockets of chic and all the mod cons of a top holiday development. destination.

Gili T still hosts backpackers and budget travellers, but these days they are joined by expatriates and trendsetters from Java and Bali, together with singles, couples

Development runs all along the east coast with swish places rubbing shoulders with the older bars and accommodations. The north coast is quieter and offers peaceful

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.

Continued on Page 87

Gili Trawangan

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Gili Trawangan

Tourism Information

87 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 84 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 Gili T Resort (near Sentral), 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 basic 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.

Gili Trawangan

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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.

Dine at The Terminal Beachfront bar and restaurant with fantastic views, serving delicious snacks and meals all day Pamper yourself at Marshander Spa & Salon at Gili T Resort Body Therapies and Massages, Hair and Beauty Treatments, Foot Massages Overlooking the Beach

The Jetty, ‘Sentral’, Gili Trawangan | Phone: 0370 6138513

gilitresort@hotmail.com | www.gilitresort.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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Gili Trawangan

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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

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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 Didik 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

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Gili Meno

Gili Meno

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GILI MENO

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 or 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 south-eastern 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 years.

Mahamaya Boutique Resort, on the northwest coast, has the most luxurious accommodation on the island, with exclusive Beachfront Villas and spacious Pool Suites set around a small 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.

Continued on Page 94

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Karma Resorts, under their Cakra brand, recently opened The Reef Resort, with comfortable air conditioned lumbung style bungalows in a prime beachfront location on the east coast. Their beach club restaurant serves cocktails and up-market cuisine in a chilled setting.

Nearby, Meno Mojo Beach resort is currently under construction, with two villas already operating, and a total of 16 stylish villas surrounding the resort swimming pool planned for the near future.

The restaurant and beach club is already open and provides sun lounges, shady bales and comfortable tables overlooking the beach, with a good selection of meals and drinks; grilled and barbecued fresh seafood is the specialty.

Also on the east coast, Tropical Hideaways, located a short stroll inland from the best beaches on the east coast (down the lane next to Blue Marlin Dive), is a good mid-range accommodation option and 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.

For diving enthusiasts, 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 daily dive trips 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.

Gili Meno

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.

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.

Dotted around the island,

Unlike the public boats from Bangsal to Gili Trawangan and Gili Air, public boats to Gili Meno do not run as frequently, but transfers are available daily at 10am, 2pm, and 5pm.

Return boats from Gili Meno to Bangsal operate at 8am and 3pm (with the exception of Friday, when there is no afternoon boat from Meno to Bangsal).

Apart from public boat transfers, you can charter a boat for around Rp 250,000 (one way). Share the cost with other travellers if possible.

Gili Air

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Gili Air

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The Beach Club Beach Bungalows, Bar & Café

PERFECT BEACH LOCATION IN GILI AIR!

Comfortable Bungalows with AC, Fresh Hot Water Showers, Balcony and Day Bed and one of Gili Air’s best white sandy beaches – perfect for snorkelling – just steps from your room!

Gili Air, Lombok | M: +62 (0) 818 0520 8807 E: thebeachclubgiliair@hotmail.com

www.thebeachclublombok.com

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97 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.

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Gili Trawangan

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Gili Trawangan