The Lombok Guide Issue 184

The

FREE COPY

Issue 184 | 12 – 26 January 2015

LOMBOK GUIDE ( 0812 3734 4894 | www.thelombokguide.com The Beach Club Beach Bungalows

Page 94

PUBLISHED BI-WEEKLY IN LOMBOK, FOR LOMBOK

LOMBOK WELCOMES 2015!

IN THIS ISSUE Getting to Lombok Attractions & Actitvities Special Feature Lombok Map Special Feature Senggigi Senggigi Map What’s Hot / Local News Special Feature Local Scene Local News Classifieds Special Feature Local Scene Land & Property The Cities Cities Map The Southwest Distribution Kuta & The South Coast South Lombok Map North Lombok The Gilis Gilis Fast Facts Getting to Gilis Gili Feature Gilis Map

Page 2 Page 4/8 Page 5 Page 6 Page 10 Page 12 Page 14 Page 18 Page 26 Page 30 Page 34 Page 38 Page 40 & 41 Page 42 Page 49-61 Page 62-63 Page 63 Page 64-67 Page 68 Page 69-77 Page 76 Page 78 & 79 Page 80-100 Page 83 Page 84 Page 86 Page 99

What a wonderful start to the New Year it was in Lombok! As we said goodbye to 2014 and welcomed 2015, thousands of people flocked to our island to celebrate the holidays.

There’s every reason to expect 2015 will be an exceptional year for Lombok tourism and investment… unfortunately, we can’t keep paradise a secret forever!

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!

Photo by Asriel Haryadi (www.instagram.com/asrielharyadi)

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Tourism Information

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GETTING TO LOMBOK

It’s easy to get to Lombok from Bali – flight time is only DOMESTIC FLIGHTS around 30 minutes and fares start from around Rp 350,000 European connections are easy via Jakarta (the capital city (approx. US $35) one way. Buy tickets direct from the airline of Java), Bali and other capital cities such as Jogjakarta, counters at the domestic airports, or contact local travel Surabaya and Makassar. agents in both Bali and Lombok.

Direct flights from Jakarta to Lombok are available every Lombok International Airport (or Bandara Internasional day and are usually timed to connect with European flights.

Lombok, commonly abbreviated to BIL, and using the IATA Lombok is easily accessible from Jakarta, Bali, Jogjakarta, code “LOP”) is the only airport on Lombok.

Surabaya and Makassar and is an important connection The airport is close to Praya (Central Lombok); for travel to the eastern islands, in particular the islands of approximately 40km south of the city of Mataram, and Sumbawa, Komodo and Flores. around 1 ½ hours’ drive from Senggigi, and 25 minutes from Garuda Indonesia / Citilink have direct flights daily Kuta. between Lombok and Bali, Surabaya, Makassar and Airport departure tax is Rp 45,000 for domestic departures Jakarta. Call Centre: 08041 807 807. Sales Office: +62 370 (Rp 75,000 from Bali) and Rp 150,000 for international 642303 / 649999. Airport: 0370 649100. departures (Rp 200,000 from Bali). www.garuda-indonesia.com BALI TO LOMBOK BY AIR In Lombok, all flights depart and arrive at Lombok International Airport. In Bali, flights arrive and depart at Ngurah Rai (Denpasar) Domestic Airport.

Garuda Airlines has direct flights between Lombok and Bali every day. Call Centre: 0 8041 807 807, Sales Office: +62 370 642303 / 649999. www.garuda-indonesia.com Wings Air / Lion Air flies between Bali and Lombok daily.

The companies code-share, 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 INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS Lombok International Airport (IATA: LOP) has full Visa on Arrival (VOA) facilities, with fast and efficient visa processing. A 30-day Tourist VOA costs US $35. Ph: +62 370 622987.

Silk Air (a subsidiary of Singapore Airlines) flies direct between Lombok and Singapore, five times per week (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday).

Lombok, ph: +62 370 628254 / 628255. www.silkair.com

Lion Air / Wings Air has daily flights between Lombok, Bali, Jakarta and Surabaya. Ph: +62 370 6627444 / 642180. www.lionair.co.id 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.

Arrange your own transport and buy tickets direct from the harbours, or use a reputable tour company to provide a transfer service.

Public Ferries depart every hour for the sea voyage between Padang Bai Harbour (Bali) and Lembar Harbour (Lombok). The crossing between the islands costs Rp 40,000 per person and takes approx. 4 to 5 hours. Lembar Harbour ph: +62 370 681 209. Padang Bai Harbour ph: (+62 363) 41849 / 41840 FAST BOATS There are now numerous “fast boat” services operating between Bali and Lombok.

Blue Water Express has services between Bali and mainland Lombok, with convenient departures from two different locations on Bali – Serangan (near Benoa Air Asia operates direct flights between Lombok and Harbour) and Padang Bai Harbour – every day. Fares two destinations in Malaysia, with many international include air conditioned hotel transfers in Bali. Ph: +62 361 connections available. Flights between Lombok and Kuala Lumpur operate every day, and between Lombok and Johor 895 1111 / 0813 3841 8988. www.bluewater-express.com Bahru 3 times per week. www.airasia.com Gili Getaway also connects Bali and mainland Lombok with daily transfers from Serangan Harbour on Bali. Fares Garuda Airlines flies between Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia include air conditioned hotel transfers to main points in Bali. and Lombok every day, with a short stop-over in Jakarta.

Ph: +62 819 1673 3051 / +62 813 3707 4147.

International connections from around the world are available, via Jakarta. Call Centre: 08041 807 807. Airport: www.giligetaway.com +62 370 649100. www.garuda-indonesia.com See the “Getting to the Gilis” section for more details.

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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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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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LOMBOK IN 2015

Special Feature

fly between the two islands five times per week.

The airline reports that demand is strong and, with the benefits of code-share, Singapore has become a popular stop-over for Europeans en route to Lombok.

Domestic Flights: As surprising as it may sound, there are actually less domestic airlines flying between Bali and Lombok than before the international airport opened.

In this issue we review the changes 2014 brought to Lombok and speculate about what the coming year may hold for our beautiful island.

back for Lombok, but shows the potential for development of the island if there are direct international connections, particularly with Australia.

It is now three years since the Lombok International Airport opened on 1 October 2011. Contrary to what the government and tourism authorities expected, the opening didn’t cause airlines to change schedules and rush to create new routes out of Lombok, although the number of international connections is steadily growing each year.

Despite rumours of either AirAsia or Garuda Airlines picking up the route, no announcement has been made as yet.

International Flights: The biggest news for 2014 was the suspension of direct flights between Lombok and Perth (Australia) by Jetstar Airways.

The flights commenced on 24 September 2013.

However, less than a year later, on 5 June 2014, the airline announced it would suspend the flights due to “lack of demand for the service”, despite averaging a 65 - 70% load factor for the new route.

The last flight between Lombok and Perth took place on 16 October.

The news was devastating for Lombok’s tourism industry, which had enjoyed unprecedented growth as a direct result of the Australian flights.

According to Bureau of Statistics figures for the first six months of 2014, international arrivals into Lombok increased by a whopping 300+%.

Industry analysts estimate the Jetstar service brought between Rp 50 - 60 billion worth of business into Lombok in the first 6 months of operation and was worth hundreds of billions of rupiah as the route grew.

The loss of the direct Australian flights has seen hotel occupancies plunge since October and is considered a grave set-

Tiger Air also joined Jetstar, suspending their direct service between Singapore and Lombok in April 2014, just five months after commencing the flights. In July, Tiger Mandala Airways suspended its flight operations after suffering huge losses and filed for bankruptcy in December 2014.

However, direct Lombok flights are proving to be a winner for AirAsia, who first introduced Kuala Lumpur - Lombok flights in October 2012.

Flight frequencies between Lombok and Malaysia have increased from the initial three flights per week to the current 10 flights per week, with the airline announcing it will increase again to two flights daily (14 flights per week) in January 2015.

In addition, AirAsia introduced a new direct service between Lombok and its second Malaysian destination, Johor Bahru, on 12 July 2014. Flights are currently available three times per week.

This month, AirAsia is set to add Singapore to its Lombok itinerary, with the low cost carrier announcing direct flights between Lombok and Singapore commencing on 28 January 2015, with three flights per week.

AirAsia becomes the second airline providing direct flights between Singapore’s Changi Airport (SIN) and Lombok International Airport (LOP).

Silk Air (the domestic subsidiary of Singapore Airlines) has operated direct flights between Lombok and Singapore for a number of years and continues to

When the old Selaparang Airport was operating, numerous airlines including Merpati, Trans Nusa, Wings, Trigana and Garuda offered flights on the main route for international tourists between Bali and Lombok.

In 2015, there are just two airlines – Garuda and Lion Air – operating BaliLombok flights.

Domestic travellers from within Indonesia, however, are well served with numerous daily connections available between Lombok and Jakarta, Jogjakarta and Surabaya on Java, Makassar in Sulawesi, and to the eastern islands (see page 2 for full details).

Lack of access has plagued Lombok’s development for years and – particularly with the suspension of the Jetstar flights – ease of transit between Bali and Lombok has never been more important, especially for Australian travellers.

The lack of connecting flights between the islands, combined with the popularity of the ‘Gili Islands’, has spurred a huge increase in the number of boat transfers between Bali and the Gilis.

Fast Boat transfers are now the most popular way of accessing the Gilis and are becoming an increasingly popular option for transfers between Bali and mainland Lombok.

Whilst the majority of fast boat operators focus on Gili Trawangan, there are an increasing number serving Gili Air and Meno, as well as mainland Lombok harbours at Teluk Nara and Senggigi Beach.

International Tourism on Lombok continues to increase, particularly from within SE Asia, and more European travellers are taking advantage of the direct connections via Singapore and Kuala Lumpur.

Continued on Page 40

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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Senggigi

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Live Music! Great Food! Good Times!

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

CAFE ALBERTO

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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

18 After its successful “Month of Love” programme last year, Qunci Villas is again running a series of special events in January and February this year celebrating romance and love of food and the arts!

From 20 January, the stylish resort in Mangsit will host two artists-in-residence: Ni Ketut Ayu Sri Wardani and Erland Sibuea. Anyone who would like to meet these respected Indonesian artists and view them at work is invited to visit Qunci from 20 January to 7 February.

An exhibition of their works will be held at Qunci on 6 February. Attendance is free of charge but places are limited and booking must be made in advance (see page 28 & 29 for details). www.quncivillas.com The Indonesian Government has released the official minimum monthly wages (UMP) for 2015. UMP stands for Upah Minimum Provinsi or Provincial Minimum Wage.

The minimum wage is based on 40 hours of work per week and can either be: a) 7 hours per day and 40 hours per week for 6 days of work per week.

WHAT’S The Best in Lombok H

What’s Hot / Local News

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b) 8 hours per day and 40 hours per week for 5 days of work per week.

The 2015 minimum wage for NTB (West Nusa Tenggara, comprising the islands of Lombok and Sumbawa) is Rp 1,330,000, an increase of Rp 120,000 over last year’s basic wage (Rp 1,210,000).

The minimum wage for workers in Bali is Rp 1,621,172 (2014 was Rp 1,542,600), although this may vary according to different regencies, which generally have higher wages (e.g. Denpasar Rp 1,800,000 and Badung Rp 1,905,000).

An order by the Minister of Transportation, Ignasius Jonan, to include the Airport Service Charge in the price of airline tickets sold in Indonesia by 1 January 2015 has now been postponed until 1 March 2015.

The additional time is needed by airlines in Indonesia to coordinate payment procedures with Indonesian airport

operators – Angkasa Pura I and Angkasa Pura II. The Minister has made it clear that all airlines must conform with his order to collect the ASC at the time of ticket sales with no exceptions to be granted after the 1 March 2015 deadline.

What to do with clothing and toys we no longer need is something people often ask… so why not give them to our local communities?

As we mentioned in our last issue, the local people in Tanah Embet (a kampung about 10 minutes south of Senggigi) are in desperate need of clothing and toys for their children and a few things to make their lives easier.

Now that Christmas is over and, with so many kids getting new toys and clothes for gifts, this is a good time to clean out their rooms and put a smile on some little faces by donating!

Clothing for all ages (including adults) and toys – clean and in good condition, please – can be dropped off at Globe Bar in Senggigi Square, The Cowshed in Batu Bolong or at Mod’s Bar on Jl Pantai Senggigi (alongside Senggigi Plaza); or contact event organiser Kerry on 0817 34 1 475.

BAHASA INDONESIA REQUIRED IN PROPOSED NEW WORK PERMIT RULES IN 2015 Foreigners working in Indonesia will need to do some studying if tough new manpower rules for 2015 go ahead.

The proposed new procedures for issuing work permits to foreigners are currently before the Ministry of Justice and Human Rights for review with other regulations.

If approved, Employment Minister, M Hanif Dhakiri, said his department will immediately implement the government regulations related to foreign workers in Indonesia, including requiring them to demonstrate Indonesian language skills.

The new rules are believed to be part of the Indonesian government’s strategy to crack down on immigration system abuses by foreigners living and working in Indonesia and to tighten the inflow of foreign workers to Indonesia All foreigners working in Indonesia are required to hold an IMTA (Ijin Mempekerjakan Tenaga Kerja Asing).

This “work permit” is the authorisation

given by the Manpower department to a company to employ a foreigner. If you do not hold an IMTA, you are not working legally in Indonesia.

According to the rules, work permits are only issued to companies that require a specific position to be reserved for an expatriate when there is currently not an Indonesian qualified to fill that same position.

Under the proposed new rules, possibly starting as early as March 2015, applicants would be required to provide the following: 1. A copy of their diploma or university degree (minimum: 3 years degree) 2. A certificate or documented evidence showing competency for the applied position and relevant experience (from a previous work place) 3. Successful completion of an examination in Bahasa Indonesia, based

on the TOIFL test (Test of Indonesian as a Foreign Language) from the University of Indonesia.

4. A statement of willingness to transfer expertise onto Indonesian workers employed in a similar position and named in the permit.

These requirements will not apply to foreign workers with the position of directors and commissioners named in the certificate of incorporation authorised

by Kemenkumham (Ministry of Justice and Human Rights), such as foreign investment companies (PMA).

In other changes, applications for the work permit must now be made online (uploaded together with all supporting documents), which is intended to speed up the process of IMTA approvals.

Based on data issued by the Ministry of Labour, there were 64 604 work permits issued to foreigners working in Indonesia as of October 2014.

Senggigi

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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 8133 992 0015 / +62 8133 992 0020 | Email: pearlfarm@pearlautore.com.au

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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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Thai N ight s

@NooQ Our chefs have returned from Chiang Mai’s top cooking school and present authentic Thai dining for your enjoyment

Different Menu Choices Daily [ 7-10pm; Bookings Essential ]

[ Yo u r K e y t o a n I d y l l i c L o m b o k ]

Jl. Raya Mangsit, Senggigi, Lombok | Phone: +62 370 693 800 Email: stay@quncivillas.com | Website: www.quncivillas.com

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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

Anna’s

Giftshop

Looking for nice presents or home decorations?

We sell: Salt and Freshwater Pearls, San Marco Jewellery, Lombok Pottery, Hand Painted Modern Wooden Statues and Masks, Unique Lamps, Paintings, Handwoven Ikats, Sarongs and much more!

Jl Raya Senggigi (next to Rambo Petshop) | P: 0817 5730 012 | E: lombok_annasgiftshop@hotmail.com

Special Feature

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CREATOR OF SENGGIGI ARTIFICIAL REEF SELECTED AS TEMPO ARTIST OF THE YEAR

Teguh Ostenrik, With sponsorship On 23 May 2014, the huge sculpture was the artist who from Qunci moved to the Art Markets in Senggigi created the Villas the idea and volunteers began the arduous task of underwater took flight, dismantling the sections, carrying them sculpture for the helped along by to the sea and re-assembling them around ARTificial Reef the expertise of 100m offshore in front of De Quake at Senggigi Delphine and the Restaurant.

Beach, has Gili Eco Trust been selected and support from In a massive effort that took two days to complete, the sections were assembled as ‘Artist of the members on the ocean bed where a previous reef the Year 2014’ from the once existed, alongside some of the stillCorals and juvenile fish Fish on the sculpture in Visual Arts Lombok Hotel Category by Tempo Magazine.

Association and Indonesian Marine Affairs living corals. The divers and volunteers completed the project by attaching corals and Fisheries (KKP).

Teguh, who appears on the cover of Tempo to the frame to start the regeneration Magazine’s 5-11 January 2015 edition, Teguh then created a special metal process. was artist-in-residence at Qunci Villas sculpture that he named ‘Domus Today the sculpture is showing remarkable during their “Month of Love” programme Sepiae’, Latin for ‘house of squid’, as progress with hard and soft corals already last year when he conceived the idea a remembrance of the squid for which growing on the frames and schools of of creating an underwater sculpture for Senggigi was once famous. fish living and breeding in the Senggigi.

The massive 3.2 sheltered structure.

Teguh then met with Delphine Robbe tonne work of art Visitors are encouraged to (Coordinator for the Gili Eco Trust) who had to be cut into snorkel or dive to see the introduced him to the successful ‘Biorock’ 2m sections so ARTifical Reef Park – it technology, which is being used to create that it could be and regenerate dozens of reefs on Gili moved from land really is a special attraction Trawangan. Biorock technology uses low and installed on on Senggigi Beach. Access is voltage current to encourage the formation the ocean floor at easy from the beach (but please of mineral growth on the metal frames.

Senggigi Beach. don’t touch the delicate corals).

Teguh working on his sculpture

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

PURI MAS LUXURY SPA brings you – GEL NAILS BY ANGEL PRO FROM KOREA Say Goodbye to Chips, Nicks and Smudges Forever…

Our fully trained nail technicians will beautify your nails with NON-DAMAGING AND NON-TOXIC ANGEL PRO...

BEAUTIFUL GLOSSY NAILS THAT LAST LONGER, WON’T CHIP OR CRACK, AND HELPS NAILS GROW FASTER WITHOUT DAMAGE

• CLEAR GEL POLISH • ONE COLOUR • TWO COLOUR/FRENCH POLISH • NAIL ART • DIAMONTE DECORATION • TOUCH UP/BOTH HANDS • SOAK OFF/BUFF/CLEANSE

Rp 300,000 Rp 350,000 Rp 400,000 Rp 450,000 Rp 30,000 each Rp 250,000 Rp 250,000

(Soak off / manicure or pedicure available at extra charge)

By appointment only: Tel: (0370) 693 831 / 692 021 | Email: spareservations@purimas-lombok.com Free pick up and drop off in the Senggigi Mangsit Areas

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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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Local Scene

CHRISTMAS DAY @ VERVE BEACH CLUB Guests from around the world celebrated Christmas together at the ‘soft opening’ launch of the new and chic Verve Beach Club in Mangsit.

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Complete Spa Services at Local Prices!

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

Open every day from 10am to 10pm – Phone: 0819 1593 2899

THREE CONVENIENT LOCATIONS IN SENGGIGI Senggigi Beach Road

Next to Santosa Villas

Galeria Shops

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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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LAND FOR SALE BEST VIEW IN SEKOTONG!

Cover Yourself in

Two 2 hectare parcels on a hill located in Gili Gede bay freehold Sertipikat (Hak Milik).

360 degree panoramic from the top.

Enjoy Gunung Agung and Rinjani from the same spot. 30 mins from Bangko Bangko (Desert Point) and 15 mins from Mekaki Beach. Has access road as well as easy tie in for electric. Main road newly widened. Perfect for villa development or plotting. Rp 19,000,000/are

Contact at info@landinlombokforsale or Ben at 08175723332

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

www.anantagl.com

Ciokolata New Boutique Collections

Tours and Travel Service Available!

www.ananta-vacation.com Jln. Cendana Blok E No.3 Puncang Hijau, Lombok Barat P/F: 0370 6170182 | M: 081 803 636 609 / 081 236 935 382 Email: anantagl@yahoo.co.id

Jl. Raya Senggigi (next to Senggigi Jaya Supermarket) ciokolataclothing@ymail.com

www.ciokolata.com

Local News

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The Puncak

Charming and Exclusive Boutique Rooms Is looking for qualified and motivated people to join our team of trained staff:

INDONESIA PUBLIC HOLIDAYS IN 2015 The Indonesian Government has decreed 19 national public holidays in 2015. This total is comprised of 15 official holidays and 4 “shared holidays” designated by the government to create long weekends and encourage domestic tourism.

The number of official holidays and shared holidays in 2015 is three days less than 2014 (which had 22 holidays).

NATIONAL HOLIDAYS IN 2015: Thursday, 1 January - New Year’s Day

Saturday, 3 January - Birthday of the Prophet Muhammad “Maulid”

BUTLER (WAITER+) Good attitude & fluent English speaking

HOUSEKEEPING

Serious & positive attitude

LAUNDRY Responsible

Contact: 082 147104537 / 082 111139595 thepuncaklombok@gmail.com www.thepuncak.com

Thursday, 19 February – Chinese New Year (Imlek 2566) Saturday, 21 March –Bali Hindu New Year “Nyepi” (Saka 1937) Friday, 3 April – Good Friday Friday, 1 May – Labour Day Thursday, 14 May – The Ascension of Jesus Christ Saturday, 16 May – Ascension of the Prophet Muhammad Tuesday, 2 June – Birthday of Buddha (Waisak 2559) Thursday, 16 July – Shared Public Holiday Friday-Saturday, 17 & 18 July – Idul Fitri “Lebaran” (1436 Hijriah) Monday, 20 July – Shared Public Holiday Tuesday, 21 July – Shared Public Holiday Monday, 17 August – Indonesian Independence Day Thursday, 24 September – Idul Adha (1436 Hijriah) Wednesday, 14 October – Islamic New Year (1437 Hijriah) Thursday, 24 December – Shared Public Holiday Friday, 25 December – Christmas Day

CAFE LOMBI ~ COFFEE SHOP In House Roasted Coffee Beans or Ground to order Kopi Luwak Coffee Machines (Sell, Rent & Repair) Coffee Business Solutions Show roasting Single Origin Specialty Grade Arabica Beans Sandwiches Pastries & Cakes TELP. 0370 692085 / 0818 365 790 www.CafeLombi.com

Wild Kopi Luwak

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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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Qamboja Day Spa

Try Our Cucumber Aloe Wrap [ Sensuous, cooling and soothing... highly recommended for sun sensitive skin ]

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

[ 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

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Pasar Classifieds

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PASAR CLASSIFIEDS

HOUSE FOR SALE

DICARI PEMBANTU / TUKANG KEBUN LAKI-LAKI, 25-35 TAHUN SOPAN, TIDAK HARUS BERPENGALAMAN YANG PENTING RAJIN KERJA, MAU BELAJAR DAN

Located in Green Valley Senggigi, 3.7 are, 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom, separate maid toilet, 3 new AC / hot water, quiet area, nice garden.

FREEHOLD (Hak Milik). Rp 900 million nego.

PUNYA KENDARAAN PRIBADI

SMS 0878 6150 7760

SMS 0812 3734 3894

HOUSE FOR RENT SPECIAL FOR FOREIGNER

2 PROPERTIES – LOMBOK AND PATAS BALI BOTH BEACH FRONTAGE

700m2 with yard. 4 Bedroom. Fully furnhised.

Hot water system. AC. Garage for 3 cars.

Located in Jalan Candrakirana Cakra

Phone: 0817 578 9207 / 0370 627766

BANANA TREE CAFE FOR SALE Main road location in Senggigi New Reno and fitout, new equipment/furniture Great staff in place All permits in place AUD 75,000 with 5 yr lease Option to purchase building Email: mishaenquiries@hotmail.com for info

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!

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

FOR SALE

Lombok: Lendang Luar 23,980 are, priced at Rp 200,000,000 per are. Walk-in Walk-out, includes all buildings, fixtures and fittings. (Personal items not included) Bali: Patas 78,780 are, priced at Rp 50,000,000 per are.

Land only. Very good fresh water, power and road.

Phone Max Heitman +62 818 540 099 (English) No agents – private sale. Terms may be offered

IMMIGRATION SERVICE Visas and Residency Permits Work and Business V isas 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

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

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LOMBOK IN 2015

Continued from Page 10 With greater connectivity from within have opened over the past two years, Indonesia, the domestic market also providing a greater variety of options to continues to grow, both with independent travellers, and we expect this trend to and corporate travellers. continue in 2015.

Despite the loss of the Jetstar flights, awareness of Lombok as a holiday destination has spread to more Australians, who continue to make the effort to seek out Lombok as an alternative to Bali.

The negative effect of over-crowding and traffic congestion in Bali cannot be ignored when discussing Lombok’s tourism potential.

The cleanup of the Kuta beachfront in October 2013, which saw the makeshift stalls and shops relocated to a centralised market area, has done much to improve the atmosphere of the beautiful beach that forms the focal-point of the town.

Locally-based real estate agency, Island Properties, recorded a record-breaking number of sales during 2014 for both residential and investment properties. The demand for private residential resulted in an unprecedented $1.2 million sale for one property near Senggigi.

In 2014, we saw increased interest from overseas buyers particularly from Singapore, Malaysia and Australia. With land prices in Bali continuing to spiral, and the scarcity of land available in soughtafter areas, more investors are turning to Lombok as the “next best thing”.

The South Coast: With its many picturesque and undeveloped beaches, and its proximity to Lombok International Airport, the south coast continues to be an attractive opportunity for development.

Many small businesses, including privately-owned hotels and restaurants,

location for exploring other areas of the island, assuring the future viability of this tourism area.

It is also becoming increasingly popular as a residential base for expatriates living on Lombok.

The west coast has good roads and a strong infrastructure with established resorts, hotels and restaurants, together with facilities such as restaurants, bars, banks, ATM’s, tour and travel agencies.

Residential areas such as ‘Green Valley’ and Kerandangan have seen strong demand in the property market, with prices for properties and land steadily increasing in both areas.

‘The Hill’ development, just south of Senggigi, continues to attract upmarket buyers, with most of the ridge blocks sold and developed, or under construction, and with strong demand for the hillside land.

As more tourists become disillusioned with the situation in Bali – which is the opposite of the unspoilt environment in Lombok – it is inevitable that Lombok will attract more interest as an alternative to Bali.

Property and Investment: The dramatic increase in tourism arrivals in 2014 prompted accelerated land sales and development throughout Lombok, with land prices rising dramatically.

Special Feature

Senggigi and nearby areas will see a dramatic change over the next two years with a number of new developments.

The government is currently building a number of facilities in the area, as well as widening the road along the beachfront.

Despite a lot of hype by the local government, the much talked-about Mandalika Resort tourism development area continues to flounder and not much progress was seen in 2014.

The Resort, comprising around 1200 hectares of pristine south coast land, being developed by the Indonesia Tourism Development Corporation (formerly the Bali Tourism Development Corporation) in conjunction with the local government, has been stalled by a number of issues, including finalising land acquisition and the lack of infrastructure to support a development of this size.

The Graha Beach Senggigi, in central Senggigi, is currently upgrading its existing property to a 5-storey complex comprising a 139-room hotel with restaurant, shops, and meeting and convention facilities.

Just south, in Green Valley, the luxurious X2 Amanah Senggigi will become the first Lombok property to be managed by the international Louvre Hotels Group.

Currently under construction, X2 Amanah will offer a fully integrated hotel and condominium complex of 35 exclusive apartments and penthouses with 5-star services and facilities and panoramic views overlooking the ocean.

A new master plan is being developed and is due for release in March 2015.

Much like the long wait for the international airport, the development of Mandalika Resort seems inevitable and we do expect to see some progress in 2015.

Meanwhile, much of the progress on the south coast is being driven by the private sector, including the establishment of the South Lombok Community Association this year, formed to help address important issues such as safety, security and waste management.

Senggigi and the West Coast: Senggigi, as the main town on the west coast, remains a popular destination for travellers and is a convenient

Also in Senggigi, construction on the Sentul City 4-star Condotel development planned for the hillside overlooking Café Alberto is currently on hold, with a planned start date in late 2015.

A surprising number of master-plans have been submitted to the government for new hotels and large developments in and around Senggigi over the past year – it will be interesting to see which ones eventuate.

Investment along the west coast continues to be strong, with a large project currently

Special Feature

under construction by PT Sinar Mas at the north end of Kerandangan Beach.

Mangsit continues to be a sought-after location for boutique resort and villa development, with successful resorts such as Puri Mas, Qunci Villas and Holiday Resort all located on the beach here. The recently opened Verve Beach Club, Bar and Restaurant adds another sophisticated facility to Mangsit.

Slightly further north, Jeeva Klui and Living Asia Resort both enjoy exclusive access to their beaches, at least for now.

However, a drive along the coast road from Senggigi to Teluk Nara shows a number of developments taking place all along the west coast road, with the beaches at Malimbu and Nipah earmarked for hotels in the near future.

South of Senggigi, areas such as Montong and Meninting have changed substantially over the past year and are attracting interest due to their proximity to Senggigi and the city of Ampenan, as well as Sekolah Nusa Alam, the island’s international school.

41 The 96-room pop art Idoop Hotel, also opened in 2014, joins the latest city options which include the 122-room Hotel Santika (part of the well-known Santika chain), and the 142-room Lombok Plaza Hotel and Convention Centre, both opened in 2013.

With several more large hotels currently under construction in the cities, we expect this trend to continue in 2015 to cater for the strong domestic market, as well as the developing MICE market.

While Lombok still only boasts one major shopping centre, Mataram Mall, construction on the Lombok Epicentrum mall on Jalan Sriwijaya commenced in January 2014 with the “soft opening” planned for 2015.

Spread over a total land area of 76,000sqm, Lombok Epicentrum will be four stories high and host a supermarket, a department store (possibly a Matahari Department Store), Hardware & Furniture Centre, Cinema & Games Complex, specialty stores, a food court and an area for expos and events.

Also under construction in Bertais is the huge Lombok City Centre complex, being developed over 8.8 ha by the Black Steel Group at an estimated cost of Rp 1 trillion.

Royal Kamuela, managed by Archipelago International (formerly Aston International), will open their “5 star beachfront resort” in Montong in 2015. In addition to villas with private swimming pools, the resort boasts a Japanese Fusion restaurant, Tapas Bar, “Aum” Signature Spa, a 30 metre swimming pool and Jacuzzi pool bar.

The Cities: If the upward growth of Lombok’s economy can be seen anywhere, it is in the cities of Mataram and Cakra.

Meeting the demand of the domestic leisure and corporate markets, older hotels have been replaced with stylish and modern Indonesian hotels, including the newly opened Golden Palace Hotel, currently the highest and largest hotel in Lombok. The 12 storey complex houses 198 rooms and suites, restaurants, meeting and event facilities, fitness and business centres, and more.

southwest Lombok. The lack of pollution or development, combined with stunning landscapes and clean beaches, excellent diving, surfing and sailing opportunities, offer a wealth of potential to investors.

Gili Gede, the largest of the twelve islands that dot the southwest coast and easily accessed from the mainland in just minutes, is the logical starting point for exploration of Lombok’s “secret islands”.

The island currently offers simple accommodation but will undergo rapid development in the coming years.

Currently under construction is the prestigious ko-ko-mo Gili Gede Resort – sister property to the successful ko-ko-mo Resort on Gili Trawangan.

This 5-star resort will include luxurious villas with private pools, beach bungalows, two restaurants, swimming pools, a dive shop, tennis court, Spa, a private jetty and exclusive beach access, as well as a host of facilities and activities.

Nearby, the long-awaited Lombok Marina Resort project was finally given the green light in 2014 and will open up this area for yachting and sailing opportunities.

The natural harbour on Gili Gede and the 20- berth marina will offer safe anchorage to visiting yachts, as well as a base for exploring the islands around Lombok and beyond.

Facilities will include year-round anchorage, berthing facilities, pens and moorings, WiFi, fuel and provisioning and more. Future development includes villa accommodation, restaurants and bars to support the marina services.

To be constructed in three phases, the Centre will include an 80,000 sqm shopping mall, convention facilities for 5,000 people, a hospital, cinema complex, hotels and residences. Retailers are said to include Hypermart, Matahari, and Sogo department stores. Planned opening of the first phase is at the end of 2015.

The one to watch: Southwest Lombok!

The southwest of Lombok has been slowly but quietly growing over the past few years and 2015 looks to be the year this beautiful and, as yet, undiscovered part of Lombok will take off.

Like the famous ‘Gili Islands’ off the northwest coast, there is no motorised transport on the islands of

On the nearby island of Gili Asahan, plans are unfolding for the Sapphire Bay Resort set on a pristine section of beach with sheltered clear waters. The luxury development will include unique Over Water Villas and Beachfront Villas, private swimming pools, three restaurants and two bars.

With its each of access from both Lembar Harbour and the international airport – combined with the untapped potential of its fabulous islands – the southwest is the one to watch in 2015 (and beyond).

See Gilis Page 86

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Local Scene

80’s PARTY @ THE COWSHED

The Cowshed in Batu Layar (just south of Senggigi) proved they have more to offer than just great steaks, rocking Christmas Eve with a fun 80’s Party hosted by international DJ, Hip Replacement!

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FOOD • COCKTAILS • SUNSETS • SHISHA

Serving fresh seafood, imported meats, gourmet pizzas, exotic juices, icy beers & colourful cocktails Open 7 days a week from 11am - 12pm 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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THREE GILIS TOUR (Code: IZKA 7) Visit the 3 Gilis - Gili Air, Gili Meno and Gili Trawangan - by Charter Boat. Additional places to visit include Pusuk Pass Monkey Forest, Nipah Beach, Malimbu 1 & 2, Senggigi and Batu Bolong Temple.

From Rp 410,000 / pax for minimum 5 pax SEMBALUN VILLAGE (Code: IZKA 8) KUTA TOUR 1 (Code: IZKA 1) Visit the South Coast: Sade and Rembitan traditional villages, beautiful Tanjung Aan and Kuta Beaches.

On the way back explore Banyumulek and the Cities From Rp 180,000 / pax for minimum 5 pax KUTA TOUR 2 (Code: IZKA 2) More of the South Coast: Sade and Rembitan, Tanjung Aan, Kuta Beach, Mawun Beach, and Selong Blanak On the way back: Banyumulek and Cities From Rp 250,000 / pax for minimum 5 pax GILI TRAWANGAN TOUR (Code: IZKA 3) Route / Places to Visit: Pusuk Pass Monkey Forest, Gili Trawangan, Nipah Beach, Malimbu 1 & 2, Central Senggigi & Beach, Pura Batu Bolong. Include Public Boat transfer VV. From Rp 250,000 / pax for minimum 5 pax WATERFALL TOUR 1 (Code: IZKA 4) Route / Places to Visit: Pusuk Pass (Monkey Forest), Tanjung City, Senaru Village, Sendang Gile Waterfall, Tiu Kelep Waterfall, Nipah Beach, Malimbu 1 & 2, Central Senggigi and Beach, Batu Bolong Temple From Rp 250,000 / pax for minimum 5 pax GILI NANGGU TOUR (Code: IZKA 5) Explore the Southwest Islands: with three beautiful islands off the Sekotong coast - Gili Nanggu, Gili Kedis and Gili Sudak. Includes Charter Boat to the islands From Rp 410,000 / pax for minimum 5 pax WATERFALL TOUR 2 (Code: IZKA 6) Visit the stunning Benang Stokel and Benang Kelambu Waterfalls in Central Lombok, and historic Narmada Water Park and Lingsar Temple in West Lombok.

From Rp 180,000 / pax for minimum 5 pax

Discover the Mountains: Travel to Pusuk Pass (Monkey Forest), Bayan village, Pergasingan Hill Camp, Sembalun Lawang, Sembalun Bumbung and Sembalun Pusuk, before returning to Cities/Senggigi area via Nipah Beach, Malimbu 1 & 2, and Senggigi From Rp 350,000 / pax for minimum 4 pax GILI LAWANG & GILI SULAT TOUR (Code: IZKA 9) Travel to the North Coast via Malimbu and Nipah Beaches, then explore Segenter, Bayan, Bayan Beleq Mosque, and Sugian Village before visiting East Coast islands of Gili Lawang and Gili Sulat with Charter Boat.

Return to Cities/Senggigi via Pusuk Pass.

From Rp 410,000 / pax for minimum 5 pax PINK BEACH TOUR (Code: IZKA 10) Discover the Pink Beach (Pantai Pink), Tanjung Aan and Kuta Beaches, plus Sade and Rembitan villages.

From Rp 400,000 / pax for minimum 5 pax LAND CRUISE ARRANGEMENT (Code: IZKA 11) INNOVA G LUXURY(2014) + DRIVER IDR 475K, Additional Cost IDR 10K/9km INNOVA G REGULAR(2014) + DRIVER IDR 450K, Additional Cost IDR 10K/10km AVANZA G (2014) + DRIVER IDR 350K, Additional Cost IDR 10K/12km

TRANSFERS (Code: IZKA 12) INNOVA G LUX 2014 Bangsal/Teluk Kode/Teluk Nara – BIL: IDR 325K Senggigi – Lembar / Senggigi – BIL: IDR 300K Cities – BIL: IDR 225K INNOVA G 2014 Bangsal/Teluk Kode/Teluk Nara – BIL: IDR 300K Senggigi – Lembar / Senggigi – BIL: IDR 250K Cities – BIL: IDR 200K AVANZA G 2014 Bangsal/Teluk Kode/Teluk Nara – BIL: IDR 250K Senggigi – Lembar / Senggigi– BIL: IDR 200K Cities – BIL: IDR 175K Terms and Conditions Apply

PT INDONESIA ZAMRUD KATULISTIWA Komplek Ruko Meninting, Jl Raya Senggigi Km2 No 3-4 Meninting, Batu Layar, Lombok Barat.

Telp: (0370) 638 588 | Fax: (0370) 638 586 | Fast response: 0819 0730 6786 (XL) 0813 3784 9927 (SIM) Email: infotourlombok@gmail.com

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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

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[ Yo u r K e y to an I d yllic Lombok ]

Lombok’s Boutique Hotel [ The Lonely Planet: “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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A first for Lombok...

Introducing Amanah – Lombok’s new Luxury Accommodation Experience a level of facilities and services never previously available in Lombok.

Luxurious One-and Two-bedroom Apartments and Penthouses with State-of-The-Art facilities and top quality finishing... Unique living spaces designed for Unique Personalities.

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NOW UNDER CONSTRUCTION A fully integrated Hotel and Condominium Complex – stylish living spaces, Thalasso Therapy Spa Centre, Restaurant and Infinity Pool, Sky Bar Lounge, Business Centre And Meeting Rooms – All backed by quality personalised service and top-end management.

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Units are available on a perpetual 99-year lease for Indonesian citizens and foreigners.

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All units come with an 8% guaranteed ROI (Return On Investment) per year for 5 years.

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All units come with a 5 year buy back guarantee.

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Split payment system on construction stages.

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Entitlement of 30 days of free use per year.

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Fractional ownership available.

www.amanahlombok.com Jl. Adi Sucipto Pertokoan Central City N0. 3A Rembiga, Ampenan 83111 Lombok – Indonesia info@amanahlombok.com INDONESIAN +62 (0) 851 0779 8888 ENGLISH +62 (0) 8786 4020 888

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ONE BEDROOM UNIT

Spacious fully furnished one bedroom unit Luxurious bathroom with bathtub Open plan kitchen, dining and living areas Terrace with Jacuzzi, covered and open air day beds, and al fresco dining with panoramic views Total area: 137.6 m2 Indoor: 69.3 m2 Terrace: 68.3 m2

Prices start from US $173,000 Early bird offer 15 Dec 2014 - 15 Jan 2015 10% discount!

www.amanahlombok.com

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TWO BEDROOM UNIT

Spacious fully furnished two bedroom unit with luxurious ensuite bathroom and bathtub Open plan kitchen with cooking island, dining, home theatre and living areas Terrace with chillout lounge, Jacuzzi, covered and open air day beds, and al fresco dining with panoramic views Total area: 255.8 m2 Indoor: 129.9 m2 Terrace: 125.9 m2

Prices start from US $195,000 Early bird offer 15 Dec 2014 - 15 Jan 2015 10% discount!

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3 BEDROOM PENTHOUSE

Exclusive and luxurious fully furnished penthouses Two master bedrooms with ensuite bathroom and Jacuzzi. Third bedroom with ensuite bathroom.

Open plan kitchen with cooking island, dining, home theatre and living areas Terrace with covered BBQ chillout lounge, private pool, covered day beds, and al fresco dining with magnificent panoramic views Total area: 316.6 m2 Indoor: 204.0 m2 Terrace: 112.6 m2

Prices start from US $395,000 Early bird offer 15 Dec 2014 - 15 Jan 2015 10% discount!

www.amanahlombok.com

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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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RENTAL: Excavator Rock Breaker Earth Moving Cut and Fill Construction & Design With over two decades of experience in Lombok, we specialise in all areas of investment and development including earthworks, infrastructure design, architecture, planning and construction

LAND FOR SALE THE HILL TOP RESIDENCE

Developed by

An outstanding opportunity to secure a position in our exclusive development on The Hill. 50% complete. Concrete road access.

Many established villas and prestigious homes on lower slopes. Various block sizes and positions available. Stunning ocean vistas and skyline views across Lombok and Bali

Phone: +62 852 0530 3999, +62 8133 990 9998 Email: brett@ptlapd.com, will@ptlapd.com, tari@ptlapd.com

www.ptlapd.com

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NICE SEA VIEW PLOT New prestigious hillside development. Unrestricted panoramic sea views. Water and electricity available. Concrete road access. 6.86 are (686m2). IDR 165 million per are (100m2). Total USD 93,500

AFFORDABLE 850m2 PLOT ON THE HILL Unrestricted sea and Bali views. Concrete road. Water and electricity available. Sloping land. IDR 165 million per are (100m2). ONLY USD 117,500 JUST LOOK AT THAT VIEW!

4Ha UNRESTRICTED VIEWS OF THE OCEAN In Pengantap. Main road access. Plot roadside. Electricity avail. Just 5 mins to beach. Investment opportunity. Look at that view! IDR 17 million per are (100m2) Total USD 553,000

MAGNIFICENT PLOT ON THE HILL Sea and sunset views of Bali. 12.65 are (1,265m2). Water and electricity provided to plot. Almost flat and ready to build. 5 mins to beach. IDR 150 million per 100m2. TOTAL USD 157,500

UNOBSTRUCTED SEA AND BALI VIEW 10 Are (1,000m2) plot on The Hill. Concrete access road, water and electricity available. Prestigious villa development area. 15 mins to beach. IDR 125 million per are (100m2) - Total USD 107,000

BARGAIN HILLSIDE LAND WITH SEA VIEW In Teluk Kombal. Available 80 are (8,000m2). Elevated views of Gili Air. New concrete road in place. 10 minutes to the beach.

IDR 20,000,000 per are (100m2). TOTAL USD 132,500

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

www.lombokpropertyandvillas.com

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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 : Land for sale near Senggigi, land size 1800m2, certificate, full view Mataram city, price IDR 20 Million / 100m2 2 : Villa and land for sale near Mataram, beachfront, land size 8000m2, 3 bedrooms, certificate, road access, price IDR 2.5 Billion.

3 : Land for sale in Setangi, land size 1200m2, 100 meter direct access to the beach, suitable for villa, price IDR 125 Million / 100m2.

4 : Beachfront land in Sekotong, size 5.000m2, price IDR 1 Billion, 1 hour from airport, 1 hour from senggigi, white sandy beach, certificate 5 : Beachfront land for sale in Medane, land size 25.000m2, near oberoi hotel, view Gili Trawangan and sunset, beach length 120m, certificate price IDR 65 Million / 100m2 6 : Land for sale in Kuta, land size 9.600m2, full view of Tanjung Aan, behind Mandalika Resort Project, main road access, price IDR 4 billion.

7 : Land for sale in Selong Belanak, on hill, land size 12.000m2, rull view Selong Belanak beach, 500m from the beach, certificate, road access, price IDR 1.2 Billion 8 : Beachfront land for sale in Sire, Land size 17.000m2, View Gili, main road access, price IDR 150 Million / 100m2 9 : Land for sale in Malimbu, Land size 20.000m2, View sunset & Mt. Agung Bali, main road access,price IDR 85 Million / 100m2

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ISLAND PROPERTIES LOMBOK Real Estate Specialists

MONTONG

Asking Rp 3.5 billion nego

Excellent home / development, comprising 2 blocks.

Land size 29.3 are.

300m2 in size.

4 Bedroom, 2 Bathrooms, Large kitchen. Alfresco entertaining area, pool, separate toilet/shower.

DREAM ESTATE KERANDANGAN FOR SALE

Beautifully built, superb resort, 9 villas and business for sale.

Exquisite grounds nestled in the greenbelt of Kerandangan.

Direct road access. Fabulous business.

Tax report figures available. US $1,574 million

LAND FOR SALE IN MENTIGI BAY This great villa plot of 800m2 has amazing views across to the Gili islands.

THE ESTATE DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITY 6,845 ARE Once in a lifetime opportunity! 50m direct beach frontage House is 400m2 with 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 4 air conditioners (in each bedroom). Formal lounge, dining room. American style kitchen. 3 car bay, enclosed garage. Upstairs features large entertainment area with ocean and Mt Agung views. Set in exquisite landscaped gardens. This property could easily support 6 exclusive villas. 4 hak milik titles.

LAND FOR SALE IN BATU LAYAR.

GILI TRAWANGAN SUCCESSFUL PIZZERIA

Magnificent views to Mount Agung.

Gently sloping block. With power.

Land size 91 are

Fabulous location.

Ocean views. Next to Art Market. Excellent returns. Lease with an option to extend for another four years.

Rp 55 million / are

THE RESIDENCE The residence consists of five, 2 and 3 bedroom luxury villas. Nestled between a heritage green belt and a nature reserve.

Just 5 minutes from Senggigi, these exceptional villas are European designed and fully furnished. The ultimate in luxury living.

Asking Price USD 170,000 per villa

Asking Price Rp 150 Million/are.

Asking price Rp 1.2 Billion GILI TRAWANGAN BEACH FRONT LOCATION! Looks across to Gili Meno. Successful resort / restaurant.

Excellent reputation.

15 year lease until 2 April 2029 with a 20 year extension till 2049 available.

Excellent returns - 1.4 billion net! A must to view - transport available. Asking Rp 3.8 Billion

Phone Angela: 0819 1742 0804 / Danny: 0821 1078 7511 / Win (Indonesia): 0878 6567 1005 islandpropertieslombok@gmail.com | www.islandpropertieslombok.com

We can make your dreams come true!

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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.

Cities Map

Mayura Park

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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”.

beach. The island is small and the beach has soft white sand and a good reef just offshore for snorkelling.

The Sekotong region starts just south of Lembar Harbour and features stunning beaches and bays set against a backdrop of rolling hills.

Cocotinos in Sekotong is the second venture for the Odyssea Asia group, with their first dive resort already well established in Manado, Sulawesi. Scuba diving courses and dives, operated by Odyssea Divers, are available from the resort, together with snorkelling, boating and other sea sports.

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.

The peaceful village of Taun (or Tawun), is situated on a wide, placid bay in Sekotong.

The ocean is sparkling turquoise and the dazzling white sand stretches in a wide sweep around the bay, while the hills behind form a perfect backdrop to this idyllic setting.

Just out in the calm bay are the three lovely islands of Gili Nanggu, Gili Tangkong and Gili Sudat – all easily accessible by local outrigger boats. A small sign in the nearby village will direct you to the local boat hire area, where you can arrange boat trips out to Gili Nanggu and the other islands.

Of the three, only Gili Nanggu has accommodation for visitors, with Gili Nanggu Cottages providing simple cottages on the beach and a restaurant, as well as deluxe rooms further back from the

Back on the main road and slightly further south is the turn off for Cocotinos Boutique Beach Resort, set on the secluded beach at Tanjung Empat. With 28 rooms, including beachfront villas with private swimming pools, Cocotinos is the only luxury accommodation in the area.

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.

Slightly further south is Sundancer Resort, with its distinctive blue roofs dotted on the hillside overlooking another white sand beach. The hotel development is still under construction.

Across the road from Sundancer, on the beachfront,

The Southwest

is Dive Zone – a well-run diving facility and the experts on diving the southwest islands, having pioneered development of previously unknown dive sites in this area.

Dive Zone offer dive trips around Sekotong and the islands, as well as in three locations in South Lombok – including challenging world-class diving off southeast Lombok.

Travelling a little further south, before the marine culture complex (Balai Budaya Laut), there is a small dirt road leading out onto a white peninsular of sand that juts into beautiful clear waters. Drive to the end for superb views and a close up look at Gili Genting.

Gili Genting sits just off the tip of the peninsular and at low tide you can walk across the sandbar and explore this uninhabited island. Old volcanic rocks and stone carved from centuries of tidal flow create small caves and alcoves, providing shelter for picnics and interesting nooks and crannies to explore.

Further south you will come to the only petrol station along the south coastal road at Tembowong Village. Nearby is the site for catching boats out to Gili Gede. Gili Gede is easily reached by boat from the village of Tembowong and is only minutes across the water.

Continued from Page 66

The Southwest

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There’s also a beachfront restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as friendly hosts to arrange activities such as snorkelling, swimming, fishing and trekking.

Continued from Page 64

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

Mawun Beach by Didik Hariadi

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.

bungalows perched on a pier over the reef – the only ones in either Lombok or Bali.

The resort offers a host of activities, while also being a place where you can get away from it all.

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 Yut Inn and Madak Belo on the east.

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

The island 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 two unique

Yut Inn Flower Paradise is also a good option for budget accommodation with six bungalows of different types set in pretty gardens right on the beach. All have simple but comfortable facilities and clean private bathrooms, as well as terraces overlooking the beach.

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 the island’s coast.

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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.

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 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!

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.

Gili Nanggu

Leaving Gili Asahan and back on the mainland, continue south on the coastal road until you come to a main intersection.

A signpost to the left leads to the spectacular large bay at Mekaki. The road to the right leads to 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.

There are small home-stays and private accommodations spaced out along the road to Bangko-Bangko – known as Desert Point and the surfing Mecca for those in the know – located on the far southwest tip of Lombok.

The wide white sand bay is lined with

fisherman’s huts and draws hundreds of surfers every year from as far away as Hawaii and Brazil to challenge the huge waves of Desert Point, just offshore.

Although the road deteriorates after Labuhan Poh, it is still passable for most vehicles in the dry season. During the surfing season, from mid-May to September and again in December, the beach is buzzing with surfers, but otherwise it is a remote and peaceful area.

Bali is clearly visible, with the island of Nusa Penida only about an hour’s sail away.

The drive to the point is dotted with bucolic scenery and tiny villages, making it a worthwhile trip even for non-surfers.

There is basic surfer accommodation in the area and plans for development in the near future.

Those who wish to explore the underwater world further can join dive adventures with either Dive Zone in Sekotong or Odyssea Divers at Cocotinos The dive sites reflect a good cross-section of what Indonesian diving has to offer.

Dive in and be fascinated by turtles, white tip reef sharks, cuttlefish, moray eels and many other varieties of marine life.

The reefs are full of bright soft corals and colourful corals, which harbour an amazing variety of rare marine life, including ghost pipe fish, leaf fish, pygmy seahorses and much more.

Sekotong

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

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LOMBOK GUIDE The

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

Around 200 international & national visits to our website every day! www.thelombokguide.com An average of 7000 people reading our online digital paper every month! http://issuu.com/thelombokguide WITH MORE THAN 20,000 READERS EVERY MONTH, HOW CAN YOU AFFORD NOT TO ADVERTISE???

Contact us now for economical advertising that gets results!

0812 3734 4894

kitadesign@hotmail.com

www.thelombokguide.com

4000 COPIES DISTRIBUTED EVERY TWO WEEKS AT: BLUE BIRD TAXI: Exclusively available in every Blue Bird Taxi in Lombok.

GARUDA INDONESIA AIRLINES: Departure counters in LOMBOK, BALI & JAKARTA. AIRPORT: Lombok Baru Taxi, Kotama Taxi, Golden Bird Travel, Trec, BLT Travel and every counters outside International Lombok Airport.

MATARAM: Bean Bags, Falcon Developments, Ira Property, Mataram Mall (Delicio Café, Joli Sourire Dental Care, KFC, McDonalds, Oceanic Café), NTB Museum, PT Ananta Guna Lestari, Toko Susana.

KUTA: Bombora Bungalows, 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, Ciokolata, Cowshed, De Quake, Dream Divers, Dream Estate, Globe Bar, Graha Beach Senggigi Hotel, Holiday Resort, Jeeva Klui, La Chill Bar, Living Asia, Lombok Property & Villas, Lotus Bayview Restaurant, Marshander Spa & Salon, Meat Mart, Orchid Spa, PT LAPD, Puri Bunga Cottages, Puri Mas Boutique Hotel, Qunci Villas, Senggigi Jaya Abadi Supermarket, Square Restaurant, Temptations, The Chandi, The Office, Ye Jeon Restaurant.

GILI T: Amalika Villa, Blue Marlin Dive, Desa Dunia Beda, Gili Getaway, Kayu Cafe, ko-komo Resort, Oceano Resort, Manta Dive, Martas Bungalows, Ombak Sunset, Scallywags, The Beach House, The Trawangan.

GILI MENO: Blue Marlin Dive, Tropical Hideaways Resort.

GILI AIR: 7Seas Bungalows, Scallywags, The Beach Club.

NORTH LOMBOK: Rinjani Lodge BALI: Air Bali, Arena Sport Bar & Rest, Asia Collection Tour, Asian Trails Tour, Bali Deli, Balcony Rest, Barb’s Sport Warung, BIMC, Blue Water Express, Bounty Cruises, Caesar Rest & Bar, Café Canggu, Café Marzano, Cafe Moka, Café Smorgas, Canggu Club, Canggu Station, Captain Cook Rest, Club Havana, Cocoon Spa, Corner Store, De Banjar Rest, Dijon, Eco Beach Rest, Exotissimo Travel Indonesia, Firestation Restaurant, Gardenia Cafe & Bar, Gili GIli, Gili Shop Poppies 1 & 2, Gloria Jeans Coffee 1 & 2, Go Vacation Tour, Gold Dust Beauty Lounge, Golden Kris Tour, G ourmet Cafe, Grocer & Grind, Jimmy Sport Bar & Rest, Junction Bar & Rest, Khaima Rest & Bar, Loop Rest, Luna Negra, Mamas Restaurant, Maya Coffee & Smothie Bar, Meno Mojo, Monsier Spoon Canggu, Monsier Spoon Rest, Nero Rest, Ocha Warung, Old Mans Rest & Bar, Pacific World, Pacto Tour, Piduh Rest, Red Carpet, Rutica Cucina Italiana, Salty Seagull Rest, Samudra Bar, Sate Bali Rest Echo Beach, Soho Restaurant, SOS, Starbucks Coffee Kuta, Starbucks Discovery Mall, 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 Mina, Warung Italia, Warung Pregina, Warung Sulawesi, White Sands Rest & Bar, Y Bar, Zanzibar Restaurant.

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

Printed by PT. Temprina Media Grafika, Denpasar, Bali

Copyright © 2006 – 2015. We have spent years travelling all over Lombok, documenting, photographing and updating.

If you want to write about Lombok, we suggest you do the same!

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be copied, reproduced or transmitted in any form (electronically, print or otherwise) without prior written permission from the Publisher. Opinions expressed in The Lombok Guide are those of the author and not necessarily the Publisher. We reserve the right to refuse advertising or articles at the Publisher’s discretion. While all care is taken to avoid copyright infringements, The Lombok Guide will not be held responsible for images or text directly supplied by advertisers and/or contributors.

Kuta and The South Coast

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Kuta by Barbara

KUTA AND THE SUBLIME SOUTH COAST

Indonesia boasts some of the most magnificent scenery in the world and the south coast of Lombok easily rates 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.

Tourists are drawn to the stunning beaches of the south coast to bake on the blindingly white sands, swim in the crystal clear oceans, explore the unique dive sites 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 Kuta has blossomed over the past couple of years, with many new hotels, restaurants and cafes opening to cater for increased numbers of tourists.

The proposed Mandalika Resort development, with its plans for luxury hotels, villas and supporting facilities on over 1000 hectares of prime beach land, will further transform the south coast in coming years.

But for now, the south is uncrowded, pristine and spectacular.

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.

The drive down to the south coast is an interesting rural tour through 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.

Slightly further south is Sade, a hilltop village with more Lumbung 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.

Continued on Page 70

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.

Kuta and The South Coast

70 Continued from Page 69 Residents, who act as guides for a small fee, encourage walks through either of these villages and are happy to share a glimpse of their lifestyles with visitors.

Kuta itself is a small town with hotels, home-stays and backpacker’s hostels that cater mainly to the thousands of surfers from around the world who are drawn to the area every year to surf the left- and right-hand breaks out in the bay.

There is a good variety of accommodation, restaurants and facilities for travellers and – with investment taking off – more options are opening all the time.

On the main road into town, on the left just past the roundabout, Ocean Breeze Gourmet Foods is a great place to stock up on freshly baked breads and pastries, snacks, and imported gourmet products such as cheeses, meats and dairy products.

The café serves light meals and snacks, or take-away foods such as freshly made rolls – perfect to pick up for a picnic on the beach! In the evening, enjoy the daily specials with delicious fresh meals including gourmet tapas nights.

Mawun Beach

of Bau Nyale, when masses of sea worms spawn in the waters offshore.

Ashtari, around 2km west of Kuta, is perched on top of the hill with spectacular views over Kuta and the surrounding beaches. The café serves vegetarian meals and organic gourmet snacks that are truly out of the ordinary. Open every day from 6.30am until 8pm for breakfast, lunch, dinner and all day dining.

Kuta attracts thousands of visitors every year for the great surf locations at Gerupuk, Ekas, and the beaches to the west.

At present, Kuta boasts just one luxury resort: the Novotel Lombok. The Novotel has a range of accommodation, from comfortable hotel rooms to spacious suites and luxurious villas, some with private swimming pools.

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) offers accommodation, a restaurant, swimming pool, a Spa and Wellness Centre and a host of water activities, such as surfing, snorkelling, kayaking, wind-surfing and more.

It’s easy to hire a board and a surf guide from here to learn surfing or, for experienced surfers, to access the more challenging surf breaks in Heading west from Kuta are another the area. series of beautiful beaches and bays Hire a car or motorbike hidden behind headlands and rolling hills, and you can spend days providing peaceful and secluded spots for visiting beautiful, mainly picnics and swimming. All are within easy deserted beaches, both to day trips of Kuta. the east and west of Kuta.

Continued on Page 74 East of Kuta is Gerupuk, well known as a top surf location and situated on a peninsula of land that juts out into the ocean, with stunning views of the sea, and the surrounding islands and bays.

Designed to blend in with the environment, There is a good surf school here and and with a stunning beachfront location, no fewer than five surf breaks. the Novotel is a wonderful example of traditional Sasak architecture.

The beaches and scenery continue all the way to the east coast, with Nearby Mandalika Beach is named after fantastic places such as Bumbang, the legendary Princess Mandalika, a Awang Bay, Ekas and Pantai Sorga beloved character in Sasak folklore. It is (Heaven Beach)… the name says it near here that thousands of people gather every year to celebrate the colourful ritual all!

Kuta and The South Coast

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Southern Lombok’s beautiful secret...

Luxury–Unwind–Escape–Enjoy Sempiak Villas Selong Belanak, Lombok

www.sempiakvillas.com

+62 821 4430 3337

NOW OPEN! The new Laut Biru Bar and Restaurant on Selong Belanak beach!

Offering delicious Indonesian and International cuisine, cold drinks at the bar or hot coffee and cake, this new restaurant has one of the best views in Lombok!

Visit us for breakfast, lunch or dinner and take advantage of our shuttle bus pick up in the Kuta area at 11am and 5.30pm daily. Call for bookings and conditions.

Open Daily from 8am to 9pm

Selong Belanak, Lombok

Laut Biru Bar and Restaurant

+62 821 4430 3339

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Kuta and The South Coast

Kuta and The South Coast

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Kuta and The South Coast

74 Continued from Page 70

South Coast Lombok

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.

Surfing at Gerupuk by Nanang Wirawan

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.

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.

Sempiak Villas

Further west are picturesque Sepi and Blongas bays, and many more scenic beaches along the way; all are mostly deserted.

The road deteriorates rapidly and the going can be rough at times. For exploring this remote area it’s best to use an experienced local guide with a good vehicle.

Steeped in history and legend, surrounded by beaches of almost surreal beauty, the south coast is a fascinating area to visit, whether your interests are historical, cultural or just the opportunity to see and explore some of the most beautiful and pristine coastal scenery in Indonesia.

Kuta and The South Coast

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Kuta and The South Coast

www.thelombokguide.com

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Kuta and The South Coast

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Tourism Information

MAGNETIC NORTH LOMBOK

For those looking for a change of pace in sublime natural surroundings, North Lombok is a relaxing and rewarding escape.

Lombok’s magnificent volcano, the village of Senaru is surrounded by the natural beauty of the Rinjani National Park and has glorious views of both the mountains and the valleys below.

Senaru is also the perfect base for those wishing to visit the famed waterfalls of Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep, or to spend time trekking through the jungles and visiting remote traditional villages.

There is a good selection of accommodation available in the area, ranging from basic backpacker home-stays to nice cottages in scenic settings.

Segara Anak Lake at Mt Rinjani by Iwan Haryanto

Dominated by the majesty of Mt Rinjani and the surrounding mountain ranges, North Lombok offers stunning landscapes for travellers who like to go “off the beaten path”.

The large town of Tanjung is the administrative capital for North Lombok and has numerous warung and shops, and one of the few public telephone offices (wartel) on the island.

The many waterfalls and rivers, jungles and rainforest with towering old-growth trees, and the unique flora and fauna of the region – together with long curves of deserted beaches – make the north coast an ideal destination for those who appreciate true natural beauty.

Further up the coast, Godang is a small village near a good beach. A trail leads northeast to Tiu Pupus Waterfall, around 6km away. In rainy season, the spring-fed falls flow into a deep pool at the base.

North Lombok is one of the oldest settlements on the island and, with Muslims, Hindus and Buddhists living in the district, many different cultural traditions originate from this historic area.

Travelling north, look for the small signpost to Kerta Gangga Waterfalls, located between Gangga and Kerta Raharja village. There are three beautiful waterfalls and pools set amongst the jungle, and a small bat cave nearby. Local guides are useful for showing the best places (they will find you!)

The restaurant serves fantastic food, with a varied menu that ranges from traditional Indonesian favourites to fresh seafood to modern cuisine such as falafel wraps in tortilla served with hummus and tahini... not your usual Senaru fare!

Bayan, further north, is steeped in history and maintains old Sasak traditions. This is a fascinating area to explore, although accommodation is limited.

The Rinjani National Park is a nature reserve of 41,330 hectares surrounding the volcano that provides many opportunities for eco-tourism.

Bayan is the home of the unique religion, Wetu Telu, which is only found in Lombok. Wetu Telu combines the original Sasak people’s traditional animistic beliefs with Islam and elements of Hinduism.

Trekking on the volcano is open from the beginning of April until the end of December every year, with a variety of treks available including the challenging climb to the 3726m summit, or 2 and 3 day treks to the spectacular lake cradled in the caldera.

One of the oldest and most important mosques in Lombok, Masjid Kuno, is in Bayan, near the village of Beleq. Believed to have been built in 1634, the mosque sits on a small hill with pretty views.

From Bayan the road leads to Senaru, the gateway to the Rinjani National Park and one of the main bases for trekkers climbing Mt Rinjani.

Tiu Kelep Waterfall by Iwan Haryanto

By far the nicest place to stay is the newly-opened Rinjani Lodge, with deluxe bungalows and a stunning infinity pool perched on the side of a lovely valley and located around 100m from the main gateway to Sendang Gile Waterfall.

Nestled on the northern foothills of

The whole area is a picturesque haven, featuring magnificent waterfalls, lush and accessible jungle trekking, traditional villages, and plantations of tobacco and cashew nuts, grown alongside verdant rice terraces. Tropical animals including monkeys, deer and tropical birds live in the surrounding jungle, as well as abundant varieties of tropical plants and flowers.

North Lombok

Stunning mountain and valley views located at the gateway to Mt Rinjani and the waterfalls Stylish bungalows with WiFi, A/C, Cable TV, DVD’s, garden bathrooms, hot water and private terraces Infinity swimming pool, chill-out spaces and restaurant serving fresh western and Indonesian specialties

Perfect for mountain getaways and day trips from Senggigi and the Gilis!

SENARU - BAYAN - NORTH LOMBOK | Ph: +62 819 0738 4944 | E: info@rinjanilodge.com w w w. r i n j a n i l o d g e . c o m

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Tourism Information

The Gili Islands Unique tropical escapes!

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.

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.

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.

Continued on Page 82

Gili Trawangan

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Gili Trawangan

82 Continued from Page 80

environmental awareness, exist on all three islands.

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.

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

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.

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

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!

Tourism Information

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

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.

83

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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Tourism Information

GETTING TO THE GILIS

There are now dozens of fast boat services operating between Bali and the Gilis (as well as many that stop at Teluk Nara on the northwest coast of mainland Lombok).

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 to flying, providing fast and easy transfers between Bali and the Gilis.

The crossing between the islands can be treacherous in bad weather and sometimes transfers must be cancelled for the safety of passengers. Some companies have a good safety record and offer a high standard of customer service, including hotel pick-up and drop off services, insurance, and international safety equipment and procedures.

Others can be a risky proposition – practicing overloading of baggage and exceeding the number of passengers a vessel can carry safely.

The Lombok Strait – between Bali and Lombok – is one of the deepest bodies of water in the region and, during certain times of the year, waves can reach up to 5 metres. Choose a reliable operator by checking reviews on internet sites and avoid companies that practice “over loading” in busy times.

return trip leaves Gili T at 12.15pm direct to Bali.

Fares include air conditioned hotel transfers to main points in Bali. Ph: +62 819 1673 3051 / +62 813 3707 4147. www.giligetaway.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

Blue Water Express, operated by Blue Water Safaris, is one of the leading fast boat operators, with up to four boats travelling between Bali and Lombok.

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.

BWS has services between Bali, Gili T, Gili Air and mainland Lombok, with convenient departures from two different locations on Bali – Serangan (near Benoa Harbour) and Padang Bai Harbour – every day. Fares include air conditioned hotel transfers in Bali. Ph: +62 361 895 1111 / 0813 3841 8988. www.bluewater-express.com

FROM TELUK NARA AND TELUK KODEK: Teluk Nara is a large peaceful bay on the west coast, about 25 minutes’ drive north of Senggigi. Most of the dive companies and many businesses on the Gilis have their boats moored in the bay and transfer guests to the islands every day from Teluk Nara.

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.

Gili Getaway is a comfortable fast boat departing from Serangan Harbour (only 20 mins from Kuta) daily. This is the only fast boat that offers direct transfers between Bali and Gili T. Passengers are transferred from Bali to Gili T first, and then the boat transfers onward passengers to Gili Air and Teluk Kodek on Lombok, avoiding the “island hopping” route of other boats. The

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

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, or if the public boat is dangerously overloaded, 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.

The Gili Islands

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Gili Feature

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THE GILIS... 2014 TO 2015 The Gili Islands, off the northwest coast, continue to be the biggest tourist attraction in Lombok and draw hundreds of thousands of visitors to Lombok every year.

as free diving, glass boat tours, kayaking, surfing, party boats and cruises, horse riding, yoga and meditation, Spas and massage, cooking classes and more.

club, cocktail lounge and beach bar, a restaurant designed by Chef Dan Moran of Sydney’s iconic Rockpool Bar and Grill, a spa and wellness centre.

It is now almost impossible to count the number of fast boat companies operating services between Bali and the Gilis. Very few people travelling to the Gilis use the airport anymore, as fast boats link the islands to Bali in around 1 and 1/2 hours.

Some even advertise the Gilis as being “islands off Bali”... cheeky devils!

Land prices continue to soar on the island and development now extends to the previously quiet south and west coasts, as well as the small hill on the island.

While there are still plenty of budget accommodations and simple restaurants on the island, growth on Gili Meno trends toward boutique development, rather than large scale commercialism. We expect more private villas and sophisticated options to spring up on the island in 2015.

New businesses open monthly and it is impossible to list all the new restaurants and accommodation that has appeared over the past year.

Offering something for everyone, there is no doubt Gili T will remain the most popular of the Gilis in 2015.

Gili Meno, between Gili Trawangan and Gili Air, has always been known as “the quiet island” but the island has quietly been doing quite a lot of growing over the past couple of years!

Gili Trawangan is by far the most famous of the three Gilis. The island has come a long way over the past few years and continues to evolve.

Although it is still possible to find the thatched huts and basic restaurants that first attracted backpackers in the 90’s, the trend is more towards quality accommodations and contemporary restaurants and bars.

Sophisticated dining options, with cuisines from around the world, stand side-byside with funky bars and cafes along the beachfront. Organic produce, yoga, raw foods and chill-out music are becoming de rigueur.

Activities on the island are boundless with a huge selection of diving options; as well

Astute investors recognize the appeal of this island’s lovely deserted beaches and its close proximity to the other two Gilis, and land has been snapped up over the past few years.

Mahamaya Boutique Resort, which opened in 2012, lifted the standard of accommodation on the island and has continued to expand in both 2013 and 2014; adding 9 new suites, a spa and adults-only pool in 2014.

Gili Air was once overshadowed by Gili Trawangan, but has steadily attracted its own fan-base over the years and is changing by the year. A number of fast boat operators now include Gili Air transfers, making it easy to access from Bali.

With stunning white sand beaches and turquoise waters, Gili Air is now the laidback alternative to the more fast-paced Gili T and has much of that island’s past charms.

While there are still plenty of “old style” options, development on the island has increased quickly over the past three years, with a good selection of mid-range places and upmarket rooms now available, supplementing the simple backpacker accommodation that previously dominated the island.

Restaurants and bars are also moving upmarket and trendy places offering tapas and Asian fusion cuisine now rub shoulders with the Rasta bars on the beachfront.

Seri Resort opened in 2014, adding to the upmarket accommodation on the island with 12 charming bungalows and a ‘longhouse’ offering 16 comfortable suites. The resort facilities include a beachfront swimming pool, restaurant and purpose-built yoga and wellness centre.

The biggest development – Bask Resort Gili Meno – will open in 2016 and will offer 98 villas and rooms in total. The eco-resort is being developed by a team of Australian creators led by entrepreneur Greg Meyer.

Situated on 300 meters of private, white-sand beach on Gili Meno’s west-facing shore, the resort will include a beach

A number of reputable dive shops operate a thriving dive industry on the island, and there is also a good selection of activities available such as surfing, free diving, kite surfing, yoga retreats and massages.

Better quality accommodation has made the island more appealing to the middle market and attracts a different crowd than in the past. As the island continues to grow in popularity, Gili Air is a place to watch in 2015.

Tourism Information

GILI TRAWANGAN

The most well-known and popular of the three Gilis, Gili Trawangan is the largest island and the furthest from the mainland, but easily reached in less than an hour by local boat and only 10 minutes by speedboat from Lombok.

Previously tagged “the party island”

by The Lonely Planet, Gili T (as it is affectionately known) has moved on and up.

Gone are the days when backpackers flocked to the island for Rp 20,000 a night huts on the beach and Rp 5,000 Bintang beers. Today, Gili T has a sleek sophisticated side that becomes more evident every year.

That’s not to say that the original charms that attracted travellers in the beginning are gone. The perfect white sand beaches, clear turquoise waters and laid-back island style are still what attracts visitors today.

But the island has cast off its grungy origins and now combines the best of a tropical island paradise with a touch of chic and all the mod cons of a top holiday destination.

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 and families from all over the world.

The island itself is around 3km long and 2km wide, so walking is easy and you can cycle around the island in around 1 1/2 hours (but will need to get off and push your bike through sandy sections on the west side).

This is the only Gili to rise significantly above sea level and the hill in the south is a great lookout from which to enjoy the spectacular sunsets across the ocean to Bali; or in the mornings, the brilliant sunrise over Gunung Rinjani on mainland Lombok.

On the far south end of the hill are the remnants of old WWII Japanese gun emplacements and crumbling bunkers, but the hand-dug tunnels have been blocked up.

The main development on the island is on the east coast, particularly southeast in the area called “Sentral”, where the boats dock. Tracks meander from the main coastal “road” inland through coconut groves to pockets of secluded development.

Development runs all along the east coast with swish places rubbing shoulders with

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the older bars and accommodations. The north coast is quieter and offers peaceful alternatives to the central area.

Such is the appeal of the island, the south and west coasts are now dotted with small hotels, home-stays, private villas and a couple of larger resorts. This part of the island is the quietest and, although the beaches aren’t as nice as those on the east, the sunsets looking across to Bali are magical.

Accommodation on Gili T ranges from basic home stays to luxury hotels and villas. The old style bungalows with woven bamboo walls and thatched roofs are slowly disappearing, to be replaced by simple cottages with western style bathrooms to suit the budget crowd.

At the other end of the scale, boutique hotels and luxurious villas boast all the comforts of 5 star resorts, including designer furnishings, private swimming pools or Jacuzzis, WiFi internet, iPod docks, satellite TV and DVD. Restaurants rival Bali in quality, if not numbers. There are lounges and sophisticated bars, Internet cafés, movie “theatres” and beachside cafés galore.

Most restaurants and bars are located along the east coast, although the north coast has some lovely low-key options. Dining choices range from the typical Indonesian nasi goreng to sushi; barbecued seafood on the beach to international fine dining; and everything between.

There is a lively bar scene at night and the island has a rotating party roster, where some of the top places have licences to host a party on one night of the week (hence the “party island” reputation).

These, and the full moon parties that take place on the beach during high season, are a big draw-card for the crowds of younger people who come to the island.

Continued on Page 91

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Gili Trawangan

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 ONLY FASTBOAT DIRECT BALI GILI TRAWANGAN! Gili Getaway

DIRECT HIGH SPEED TRANSFERS BETWEEN BALI, THE GILI ISLANDS AND LOMBOK HASSLE-FREE BOOKINGS AND COMFORTABLE TRANSFERS EVERY DAY ONBOARD GETAWAY II

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The Beach House on Gili Trawangan - an innovative and contemporary resort set in 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 | Email: reservation@beachhousegilit.com

www.beachhousegilit.com

Tourism Information

91 There is a good surf break on the south coast with a fast right-hander that really pumps in the right conditions. Local surfers will happily lead the way and rent you a board.

Continued from Page 87

For those who prefer quieter entertainment, there are sophisticated dining opportunities, particularly at places such as ko-ko-mo Resort, Scallywags Resort, and on the beachfront at Hotel Vila Ombak, as well as the stylish Pearl Beach Lounge next door.

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.

But it is the beaches and the diving that remain the main draw card for Gili T. People flock here to sunbathe on white sand beaches and swim in clean blue waters, to dive the fabulous reefs and to bask in the hedonistic pleasures of a tropical paradise.

Further off shore, the island is famed for its vast gardens of coral and is one of the best dive spots in Lombok, which is why thousands of divers visit Gili T every year.

It is also one of the safest and easiest places to learn to scuba dive, with warm water temperatures, calm seas and excellent visibility almost all year round. There is a very good selection of professional western-operated dive shops and a range of dive locations suitable for beginners through to thrill seekers.

It’s been a slow evolution over the past 20 years for Gili Trawangan, but the island’s time has come. While the backpackers will no doubt lament, there’s a whole new scene unfolding on Gili T. A world-class tourism destination is emerging – without the traffic and pollution – set down on an idyllic tropical island.

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Gili Trawangan

Luxury Villas on Gili Trawangan

Elegantly furnished villas with private pool Generous living space, dining and kitchen Centrally located to beach, restaurants and bars Last minute discounts available

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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 the quietest of the three Gilis, with the laidback charm of a true castaway island.

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.

quietly taking place over the past years.

Mahamaya Boutique Resort, on the northwest coast, has luxurious accommodation and the restaurant earns accolades for top quality cuisine served in the shady dining area or at pretty tables on the beachfront.

Karma Resorts operates The Reef Resort, with comfortable air conditioned lumbung style bungalows in a prime beachfront location on the east coast.

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.

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 ecologically sound concepts.

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.

Dotted around the island, 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.

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 (down the lane next to Blue Marlin Dive), is a good mid-range option and has air conditioned rooms with western bathrooms.

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 The water surrounding the island is clear turquoise and the beaches are covered in full moon parties here. brilliant white sand, fringed with groves of Like all the Gilis, the best swimming coconut palms. beaches and most tourist facilities (including boat docking and departure) are There is good snorkelling along the northwest coast and it is often possible along the east coast. to see Green, Leatherback and Hawksbill Although there are small places dotted all turtles. To swim with these huge creatures around the island, many of the hotels and – that are so awkward and ungainly restaurants are located along the southon land but move through their natural eastern coast, with beautiful views over element with grace – is perhaps the most Gili Air and to Mt Rinjani in the east. special underwater experience of all and a major reason for visiting Gili Meno.

It is possible to walk around the whole island on a small beachside track in There is also good snorkelling off the west around 90 minutes. Those seeking total coast near the now-defunct Bounty Resort. tranquillity head to the north and west Swim out to where the old pontoon has coasts, where more development has been sunk and become a home for many fish.

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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The Beach Club Beach Bungalows, Bar & Café

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www.thebeachclublombok.com

Tourism Information

95 crafts, as well as three small boutiques with eclectic mixes of island wear, jewellery and accessories.

Like all the Gilis, the best swimming beaches are on the east coast and most development runs along the beaches here down to the south.

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 Indonesia’s second largest volcano, Mt Rinjani.

GILI AIR 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.

Being the closest of the Gilis to the mainland, 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.

Gili Air was originally spelled as “Ayer”, with the word “Air” meaning water; thus Gili Air is the water island.

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 island’s main appeal is its low-key and unspoilt nature… and that’s why so many people love it.

Telephone and internet facilities are available on the island, as are most of the normal tourist amenities. Although there are no banks, there are ATMs on the south coast (near 7Seas) and two machines on the east, near Bel Air Resort.

There are three clinics on the east of the island – one to the north (inland from Orong Cottages), Gam Clinic (inland from Biba Beach Village) and Royal Medical (to the south near 7 Seas).

There are also some funky shops selling home-made jewellery, arts and wooden

While nowhere near as busy and developed as Gili Trawangan, Gili Air has evolved rapidly over the past few years and is certainly slated for more development in the future.

For now, Gili Air is still a laid back island with funky bars and simple cafés bars made from bamboo rubbing shoulders with some swanky new places along the beachfront.

Accommodation on Gili Air ranges from simple back-packer bungalows to luxurious air-conditioned rooms with hot water and swimming pools.

Old-style hotels built from wood with thatched roofs sit alongside some of the more modern boutique hotels and villas, such as the up-market Waterfront Hotel with eight contemporary air-conditioned bungalows and a swimming pool set in nice gardens.

Guests can wine and dine at the very good Waterfront Restaurant and Bar housed in a stylish wooden Joglo on the beachfront.

Next door, Manta Dive offers comfortable bungalow accommodation, a swimming pool, and professional dive courses and dive trips to all three Gilis.

Scallywags – who have another popular resort on Gili Trawangan – operate Scallywags Organic Beach Club on the southern end of the beach.

Scallywags

The restaurant has an excellent menu and guest facilities, as well as a friendly atmosphere and excellent swimming directly in front of the restaurant.

Continued on Page 96

Gili Air

96 Continued from Page 95

Just next to Scallywags, The Beach Club Gili Air offers accommodation for couples and families in eight charming bungalows with large air conditioned bedrooms, private terraces and semi-open air bathrooms.

dishes to up-market international 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.

The beachfront here is a popular place for lounging on colourful bean bags during the Activities include day, or for romantic walking and dining in the cycling around the evening. The beach island, sun bathing, The Beach Club bar and restaurant and swimming, snorkelling and diving, serves delicious meals and snacks, as well as well as yoga and meditation, as all day breakfasts. and relaxing massages and body There are also free movies for restaurant treatments. guests on the beach every night (weather For exploring, there is a path running permitting) starting with children’s movies parallel to the beach and it takes in the evenings, followed by adult feature around 90 minutes to circle the whole movies. island. The interior is criss-crossed with a maze of tracks that can get confusing, but all lead back to the beach.

Other activities include kite surfing, glass bottom boat trips, kayaking, stand up paddle boarding and surfing.

7Seas

Further south, near the harbour, 7Seas International is a professional dive operation, and also offers comfortable and modern air conditioned cottages 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 restaurants and beachside cafés on the island, offering everything from traditional Indonesian

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.

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 a clear, translucent aquamarine, 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 usually gentle, allowing snorkellers to drift in a dreamy daze amongst this panorama of aquatic shapes and colours.

For those who have never had the pleasure of viewing the magical world under the ocean, Gili Air offers a superb opportunity to do so in safety and comfort.

For those of us who are already addicted to the silence and beauty of the depths, this is an island where days could melt into weeks, quite happily drifting with the current and immersing oneself in the wonders of the underwater landscape.

Gili Air

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Gili Trawangan

Tourism Information

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Senggigi