FREE COPY
Issue 193 | 18 May – 1 June 2015
The
LOMBOK GUIDE ( 0812 3734 4894 | www.thelombokguide.com The Beach Club Beach Bungalows
Page 86
IN THIS ISSUE Getting to Lombok
Page 2
Attractions & Actitvities
Page 4/8
Lombok Map
Page 6
PUBLISHED BI-WEEKLY IN LOMBOK, FOR LOMBOK
BEAUTIFUL FACES OF LOMBOK!
Senggigi
Page 12
Senggigi Map
Page 14
What’s Hot / Local News
Page 18
Local News
Page 24 & 31
Local Scene
Page 34
Classifieds
Page 38-39
Distribution
Page 41
Land & Property
Page 44-53
The Cities
Page 54-57
Cities Map
Page 56
The Southwest
Page 58-61
Kuta & The South Coast
Page 62-69
South Lombok Map
Page 69
North Lombok
Page 70 & 71
Kite Flying at Bumbang, South Lombok by Punky
Special Feature Page 10 & 11
Useful Contacts Page 72 The Gilis
Page 73-92
Gilis Fast Facts Page 75 Getting to Gilis
Page 76
Gilis Map
Page 91
To find out more, pick up a copy of The Lombok Guide from the locations listed on page 41 or visit www.thelombokguide.com and discover the magic of Lombok for yourself… Like thousands of others, you’ll be enchanted!
THE ONLY FASTBOAT DIRECT BALI GILI TRAWANGAN! DIRECT TRANSFERS BETWEEN BALI, THE GILI ISLANDS AND LOMBOK HASSLE-FREE BOOKINGS AND COMFORTABLE TRANSFERS EVERY DAY ON BOARD GETAWAY II
Gili Getaway
BOOK NOW: +62 81 916 733 051 | +62 81 337 074 147 | +62 361 8037171 | +62 361 8785892 | +62 87 864 322 515
giligetaway@ozemail.com.au | www.giligetaway.com
2
Tourism Information
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 Sumbawa, Komodo and Flores. approximately 40km south of the city of Mataram, and 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 Jakarta. Call Centre: 08041 807 807. Sales Office: +62 370 Airport departure tax is Rp 45,000 for domestic departures 642303 / 649999. Airport: 0370 649100. (Rp 75,000 from Bali) and Rp 150,000 for international www.garuda-indonesia.com departures (Rp 200,000 from Bali). Lion Air / Wings Air has daily flights between Lombok, BALI TO LOMBOK BY AIR Bali, Jakarta and Surabaya. Ph: +62 370 6627444 / 642180. www.lionair.co.id In Lombok, all flights depart and arrive at Lombok International Airport. In Bali, flights arrive and depart at Batik Air flies direct between Lombok and Jakarta, with two Ngurah Rai (Denpasar) Domestic Airport. flights every day. www.batikair.com Garuda Airlines has direct flights between Lombok and Bali BALI TO LOMBOK BY SEA every day. Call Centre: 0 8041 807 807, Sales Office: +62 Padang Bai Harbour (Bali) provides the sea link between 370 642303 / 649999. www.garuda-indonesia.com mainland Bali and Lombok. Lembar Harbour (Lombok) is Wings Air / Lion Air flies between Bali and Lombok daily. on the southwest coast, approx. 1 hour south of Senggigi, The companies code-share, so you may purchase a Lion Air Lombok. Arrange your own transport and buy tickets direct from the harbours, or use a reputable tour company to ticket and find yourself on a Wings Air flight! Lombok, Call Centre: +62 80 4177 8899. Bali, ph: +62 361 765132. www. provide a transfer service. lionair.co.id Public Ferries depart every hour for the sea voyage between Padang Bai Harbour (Bali) and Lembar Harbour INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS (Lombok). The crossing between the islands costs Rp Lombok International Airport (IATA: LOP) has full Visa 40,000 per person and takes approx. 4 to 5 hours. Lembar Harbour ph: +62 370 681 209. Padang Bai Harbour ph: on Arrival (VOA) facilities, with fast and efficient visa (+62 363) 41849 / 41840 processing. A 30-day Tourist VOA costs US $35. Ph: +62 370 622987. FAST BOATS Silk Air (a subsidiary of Singapore Airlines) flies direct There are now numerous “fast boat” services operating between Lombok and Singapore, five times per week between Bali and Lombok. (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday). Blue Water Express has services between Bali and Lombok, ph: +62 370 628254 / 628255. www.silkair.com mainland Lombok, with convenient departures from Air Asia operates direct flights between Lombok and two different locations on Bali – Serangan (near Benoa 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 www.giligetaway.com available, via Jakarta. Call Centre: 08041 807 807. Airport: See the “Getting to the Gilis” section for more details. +62 370 649100. www.garuda-indonesia.com
3
Hot Taste, Cool Venue
The Perfect Place to Wine & Dine in Lombok Senggigi Square Blok B-10, Jl. Raya Senggigi, Lombok, Indonesia Ph: +62 370 6644 888, 693 688 | Fax: +62 370 623 975 square_marina@yahoo.com | www.squarelombok.com
Tourism Information
4
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
5
k o - k o - mo G I L I T R AWA N G A N R E S O R T
Get there fast, then take it slow...
Private Luxury Villas and Fine Dining Restaurant Email: kokomogilit@ozemail.com.au Tel: +62 (0)370 614 4169 | Fax: +62 (0)370 614 9365 | Mob: +62 (0)813 3974 7459
www.kokomogilit.com
6
Lombok Map
Senggigi
7
Tourism Information
8
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.
9
Special Feature
10
The high mineral content of the water, mixed with volcanic clay, is probably responsible for the healing powers attributed to Aik Kalak.
Traditionally, water collected from the springs and mixed with coconut oil has been used to make medicinal potions and, in times past, the waters were used to test the supernatural powers of weapons and heirlooms.
The Hot Springs of Rinjani
There is a wealth of information available about Mt Rinjani but not so much has been written about Aik Kalak Hot Springs – although they are a highlight on any trek up Lombok’s famous volcano. The main camping area for those climbing Rinjani is on the northern shore of Lake Segara Anak – the beautiful lake in the crater of Rinjani volcano. Aik Kalak is located around 200m north and slightly east of the lake camp. From the lake’s edge, a track leads to a spring for fresh water (turning left), or walking straight ahead for another 5 minutes or so will bring you to Aik Kalak hot springs.
The springs get their name from traditional Bahasa Sasak: Aik (water) kalak (hot). The hot springs are actually two pools, one larger and the other smaller, separated by rocks. The larger pool is at least 20m wide and deep enough to swim and dive. Everyone that climbs Rinjani is grateful when they reach Aik Kalak and have a chance to rest their aching bodies in the volcanically heated waters. All the aches and pains of the long trek – together with the dirt and sweat of the voyage – melt away in the warmth of the scenic pools. Hydrotherapy – the internal or external use of water for treating disease – is among the earliest “healing” practices and forms the basis for Spas today. The waters of Aik Kalak have spiritual significance for the indigenous Sasak people of Lombok, too. Bathing in the water is said to cure skin diseases and physical ailments, refresh the senses and slow the aging process.
The water in the pools is comfortably warm, after you have adjusted to the temperature. The smaller pool is slightly hotter, with temperatures in some areas measuring up to 44°C.
The heat comes from underground springs heated beneath the volcano; these flow through the rocks to mix with the cold waters of the lake. Both pools are fed by waterfalls and are milky coloured from mixing with the clay and minerals in the earth. If you are camping at the lake, Aik Kalak is ‘a must’ to visit and one of the reasons we suggest planning your itinerary to spend some extra time at the lake. Visitors to Lombok often try to cram as much as they can into their limited time on the island. A typical week-long itinerary might include the trek up Rinjani, a couple of days on the Gilis and a quick visit to the south coast… not really allowing enough time to take in the experiences of any of them. In reality, climbing Rinjani is as much about the journey as the destination.
Special Feature
Most treks up the volcano are for 3 days and 2 nights. Depending on each itinerary, the first day is spent travelling to either Sembalun or Senaru (the main gateways for the trek) and starting the hike up the side of the mountain to a base camp where you will spend the night.
11
sublime views and peacefulness of this natural ‘sea within a volcano’. You will also have more time to explore the surroundings and more opportunities to soak your weary body in the healing waters of Aik Kalak, before facing the trek back down again. During the day, explore the lake shores, wonder at the cone of Baru Jari smoking on the opposite shore, stroll to Aik Kalak in the early morning and see the steam rising off the waterfalls in the morning light. If you’re lucky, you’ll have a pool to yourself.
The second day you will start very early (around 3am) for the exhausting climb to summit and back down again. Day two is also when you will descend into the crater – another challenging climb, with steep paths and loose rocks taking a toll on your legs, particularly your shins. That night you will camp at the lake for a brief rest before starting your climb out of the crater early on the third day. From there it’s a 7 - 8 hour hard push to get back down the mountain. Some treks don’t even stay overnight at the lake; instead returning to the camp on the crater rim in the late afternoon so that they can start the trek back down the mountain early the next day. Although exhilarating, 3 day treks are exhausting. By taking an extra night at the lake you will have time to truly appreciate the
At night, a soak in the hot springs brings a delightful warmth after the cold air of the lake. Later, sit by the campfire eating fresh fish and relaxing in the stillness under a canopy of millions of stars.
The next day (or even a couple of days later, if you take our tip), you’ll be relaxed and refreshed – ready to make another trek back down the mountain. If you want to truly enjoy your time on Rinjani, talk to your trek organiser – most are happy to organise an extra night camping for you.
Tourism Information
12
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.
Imported steaks, fresh seafood, organic salads, sushi and more
Quality Beachfront Dining Open for Lunch & Dinner
www.vervebeachclublombok.com
Jl Raya Mangsit (next to Qunci Villas) | Reservations: 0877 6588 8703 | Email: vervebeachclub@gmail.com
GREAT FOOD - FANTASTIC VIEWS - VIP BOOTHS - CHILL OUT MUSIC - SUNSET HAPPY HOUR
Renown Tapas | Cool Cocktails Chill Out Lounge
Senggigi 13
14
Senggigi Map
Senggigi
15
Senggigi
16
CAFE ALBERTO
ITALIAN & INDONESIAN BEACHFRONT RESTAURANT Delicious Fresh Seafood, Authentic Italian Dishes, Oriental Food, Barbecue on the Beach Wood Oven Pizza, Homemade Pasta and Italian Bread
Jl. Raya Batu Bolong, Senggigi | Phone: 0370 693039 / 693313 | info@cafealberto.com
www.cafealberto.com
Live Music! Great Food! Good Times! Jl Raya (Main Street) Senggigi Ph: 0370 693619 E: restaurant@asmara-group.com
www.asmara-group.com
Live Music Every Friday ‘Ary Juliyant and Friends’ from 7.30 pm in the garden
Senggigi
17
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 Whiz kids get your thinking caps on! The Cowshed is running its first Pub Quiz on Thursday, 28 May. The Pub Quiz will be set up with tables for 16 teams of 4 people, so get a smart group together and book a table now. Food and drinks are available as usual; get there early for dinner… first questions start at 8pm and there are prizes for the winning team! The popular steak house in Batu Bolong hopes to make the Pub Quizzes regular events for Lombok residents and visitors – come along and enjoy a night of friendly competition and fun! All are welcome! See advert page 15.
WHAT’S The Best in Lombok H
What’s Hot / Local News
T
wines) for three hours. Sounds like a great deal to us! Better yet, get there early and stay for dinner – the weekly specials are always delicious! See advert page 16.
Asmara Restaurant has just given us more reasons to dine out! The restaurant on the main street in Senggigi – a long-standing favourite with residents and tourists alike for consistently good food – has now introduced “Happy Hours” every day from 4 – 7pm!
Anna’s Gift Shop is a little treasure trove of gifts and unique collectibles on the main street in Senggigi (just 20m north of Santosa Villas & Resort) that is always worth a visit, as owner Diane is continually adding new and interesting stock.
Pop in for a drink in the pretty garden at front or the cool restaurant inside and enjoy 25% off all beverages (excluding
The latest addition to her collection is a fantastic range of lamps and lights
to brighten up homes and businesses. The plastic interlocking lamps are already proving a big hit – the kits come with an endless range of styles, shapes and colours and look fabulous suspended at different heights from the ceiling. Another range of fibreglass lamps is available with many different shapes (such as Buddha statues, owls and on-trend abstract designs) and colours that create a beautiful diffuse glow in any room. Also worth checking out is Dianne’s own range of gorgeous jewellery featuring precious South Sea pearls. Each piece is one-ofa-kind and includes earrings, necklaces, rings and bracelets set with classic white, cream and coloured South Sea pearls – at very reasonable prices. Anna’s Gift Shop is a great place to pick up gifts and souvenirs to take home, or to find something unique for a special friend. See advert page 27.
DENGUE IS ON THE RISE
All taxi drivers know the location of these hospitals (or see our “Useful Contacts” list on page 72).
Dengue Fever (called Deman Berdarah in Bahasa Indonesia) is on the rise in Bali and Lombok, perhaps because of the extended rainy season this year.
The best way to prevent Dengue Fever is to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes. Use mosquito repellent, even indoors. Autan and Soffell mosquito repellents are readily available in local supermarkets and shops.
A number of cases have been reported in Senggigi, Kuta and the Gili Islands recently and local hospitals have seen a large increase in cases from all over the island over the past two months. The same is true in Bali, where an estimated 4,000 cases of Dengue have been confirmed in the first four months of 2015. Bali Health officials have linked 16 deaths to the mosquito borne disease. The Bali Health Department confirmed that the number of reported cases is much higher this year than compared to the same period in 2014. Dengue is transmitted through the bite of the Aedes Aegypti mosquito, which normally bites during the daytime hours. Initial symptoms of the disease can include high fever, severe headaches, muscle and joint pain and sometimes pain behind
Aedes Aegypti mosquito
the eyes. Other symptoms can include a rash of red spots on the body, nausea and vomiting. Immediate medical attention is required and often includes hospitalisation to prevent dehydration and complications such as the potentially fatal Dengue Shock Syndrome. A simple blood test can readily confirm if you are suffering from Dengue Fever. Local hospitals such as Rumah Sakit Harapan Keluarga in Selagalas and Risa Medika Klinik in Mataram are well equipped to handle uncomplicated cases.
Cover up with long sleeves where possible when outdoors. Use air conditioning indoors to repel mosquitoes, and make sure windows and doors are secure to prevent mosquitoes getting inside. Residents can help to reduce mosquito populations by cleaning up around their homes and removing any sources of standing water that serve as breeding grounds for mosquitoes. This includes rubbish such as cans, coconut shells, pot plant containers and anywhere rainwater can collect. Change water in ponds and pet containers regularly. A local product called “Abate” can be used to kill mosquito larvae in standing water such as lotus ponds.
Senggigi
19
Fresh Breads, Cakes and Baked Goods Daily, Pod Coffees, Specialty Teas and Cold Drinks Free Wifi and use of laptops
DINE IN OR TAKE-AWAY!
OPEN 8AM - 9PM EVERY DAY
Local and imported meats, chicken and seafood
BED & BREAKFAST NOW OPEN!
Dairy - cheeses, yoghurts, cream and fresh milk Packaged and tinned goods Fresh vegetables and herbs Nuts, sauces, chips, biscuits and so much more...
YOUR ONE-STOP PANTRY IN SENGGIGI!
Our spacious Bed and Breakfast has been designed to provide our guests privacy, luxury and comfort. Air conditioned, separate lounge room, Satellite Television, Bose Docking sound system,WiFi, Pod Coffee Machine, Refrigerator, modern en-suite bathroom, Private entrance, Swimming Pool, Laundry, Off Street Parking. See our website for details
Jl Palm Raja No.3 Green Valley, Senggigi. Ph: 0370 693463
www.temptations-lombok.com
20
Senggigi
Senggigi
21
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
Senggigi
22
[ Fine Wining and Dining on the Beachfront ]
NooQ
Cocktail & Tapas Lounge
Celebrating Cultural Performances Every Monday Night, Beach BBQ Wednesday, Pasar Malam Friday, Elegant Candlelight Beach Dinner Saturday
[ Yo u r K e y t o a n I d y l l i c L o m b o k ]
Jl. Raya Mangsit, Senggigi, Lombok | Phone: +62 370 693 800 Email: stay@quncivillas.com | Website: www.quncivillas.com
Senggigi
23
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
Local News
24
LOMBOK GOVERNMENT ASKS SILK AIR TO PICK UP PERTH – LOMBOK ROUTE
The NTB government has put forward a proposal to Silk Air to operate flights between Lombok and Perth.
However, our sources say it’s early days yet and we should not get our hopes up.
The news has sparked rumours amongst the Lombok tourism industry desperate to see a recommencement of direct flights between Lombok and Perth. However, although news of the proposal by the government is true, However, less than a year later, on 5 June 2014, the airline announced it would planning is only in the early stages and subject to difficult to obtain aviation rights. suspend the flights due to “lack of demand for the service”, despite averaging a 65 Silk Air (the domestic subsidiary of 70% load factor for the new route. Singapore Airlines) has operated direct The last flight between Lombok and Perth flights between Lombok and Singapore took place on 16 October. for a number of years and currently flies between the two islands five times per The news was devastating for Lombok’s week. tourism industry, which had enjoyed According to an article published in local newspaper The Lombok Post on 2 May, 2015, Deputy Governor Muhammad Amin told reporters that he had communicated with the management of Silk Air and confirmed that the airline is planning to expand its business by serving routes to Perth. As a result, the local government asked Silk Air to pick up the route between Lombok and Perth previously operated by Jetstar. Under the proposal, flights would operate out of Singapore with a stopover in Lombok before continuing on to Perth. Singapore Airlines already operate direct flights between Singapore and Perth, Western Australia. If the Silk Air flights were to go ahead, the route would allow Singaporean travellers a lower cost option between Singapore and Perth, as well as the option of stopping over in Lombok.
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 setback for Lombok, but shows the potential for development of the island if there are direct international connections, particularly with Australia.
The biggest benefit, of course, is that the flights would provide direct links for Perth travellers to and from Lombok.
The rapid growth in Australian tourist arrivals during 2014 sparked a surge of development on Lombok, with investors racing to start building projects. Many of these are suspended at the moment – halted by the abrupt drop in tourism directly related to the loss of the Jetstar flights.
Jetstar Airways was the first airline to commence direct flights between Perth and Lombok. The flights commenced on 24 September 2013.
A Silk Air Perth – Lombok route (or indeed, any airline picking up the route) would be welcomed with open arms by Lombok’s tourism stakeholders.
While the local government has given the ‘go-ahead’ to Silk Air management, our sources have told us that “Fifth Freedom” rights would make it very difficult for Silk Air to receive approval to operate the route. The “Freedoms of the Air” are a set of commercial aviation rights granting a country’s airlines the right to enter and land in another country’s airspace. The “Fifth Freedom rights” refer to the right to fly between two foreign countries on a flight originating or ending in one’s own country. This allows an airline the right to carry passengers from its own country to a second country and from that country to a third country (and so on). Fifth freedom traffic rights are intended to enhance the economic viability of an airline’s long haul routes, but tend to be viewed by local airlines and governments as potentially unfair competition Fifth freedom traffic rights are sought by airlines wishing to take up un-served or under-served routes, or by airlines whose flights already make technical stops at a location. The excess capacity on multi-sector routes could be filled by picking up and dropping off passengers along the way. The negotiations for fifth freedom traffic rights can be lengthy, because in practice the approval of at least three different nations is required – in this case, Singapore, Indonesia and Australia. While our sources confirm that Silk Air Head Office in Singapore is investigating the possibility of obtaining Fifth Freedom rights from Indonesia, they warn that such approval is difficult to obtain and, even if granted, the Lombok – Perth route would still need market studies to ascertain the route’s viability.
Senggigi
25
Senggigi
26
Thirsty Thursdays! 15% Discount on Beer and Food!
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
Senggigi
BACK PACKERS SENGGIGI – LOMBOK
27
Rates from Rp 100,000 per night
Right in the Centre of Senggigi | 5 Minutes Walk to the Beach | Free WiFi | Aircon Rooms Western Toilets | Games Room | Guest Kitchen | Friendly Staff | 24 Hour Security
Jalan Raya Senggigi (opposite Post office), Ph: 0819 3675 9231 (Komang) / 0370 692305 Email: komangozstay@gmail.com | Website: www.ozstaylombok.com
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: annasgiftshoplombok@gmail.com
Senggigi
28
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 Phone: +62 370 693 925
reservation@lachill.com
www.lachill.com
La Chill Bar
LIVE MUSIC EVERY SATURDAY
Drink safely at La Chill Bar Genuine imported spirits served. NO ARAK
Puri Mas Boutique Resorts & Spa The Essence of Tradition, Luxury & Style
Ultimate Spa Treatments with Babor: Babor Facials for all Skin Types Delicious Babor Body Treatments Full and Half Day Spa Manicure & Pedicure Gel Nails 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 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
Senggigi
29
Puri Mas Boutique Resorts & Spa The Essence of Tradition, Luxury & Style
The Ballroom Restaurant Enjoy first class a la carte dining 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! Open 7am to 11pm Child policy - Minimum guest age 12yrs
Ballroom Restaurant is Ranked #3 out of 54 Restaurants in Senggigi by TripAdvisor
Monday Night is Latin Night! Bring your dancing shoes or just enjoy the entertainment during dinner Performances by Lombok’s Top Latin & Salsa Dancers Junior Amateur Champions of Indonesia performing weekly “Dancing with the Stars” in Lombok!
Thursday Night is Cultural Night! A great opportunity to enjoy dinner while watching authentic traditional entertainment from Lombok Including the Famous Peresean “Stick Fighting” from Central Lombok and Baris Dance from Bali – Lombok style!
JUST 5 MINS FROM SENGGIGI - FREE TRANSFER SERVICE RESERVATIONS CALL: 0370 693 831 / Email: fb@purimas-lombok.com
Senggigi
30
Qamboja Day Spa
Slip into our “Volcanic Mud Wrap”
[ Luxurious treatment to draw out toxins and break down cellulite ]
Herbal bath, deluxe massage, facial, manicure & pedicure using all natural and traditional products *Yoga available upon request
Try our healthy vegetarian lunch using only raw ingredients to boost, invigorate and rejuvenate
[ “Gorgeous Spa” - Lonely Planet ]
[ 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
Local News
TIME RUNNING OUT FOR INDONESIAN AIRLINES
31
Cover Yourself in
The Jakarta Globe reports that 11 Indonesian airlines have failed to meet the 30 April deadline set by the Ministry of Transportation for the submission of detailed financial reports. Those failing to meet the deadline are pleading that more time is needed to compile the requested figures. Among the eleven failing to report are Lion Air Mentari Airlines and AirAsia Indonesia – the two largest Indonesian low-cost carriers and two companies frequently under scrutiny for their flight safety. The tightening of safety reviews by the Ministry has followed the appointment of a new Minister and the fatal crash of the AirAsia flight from Surabaya to Singapore in December that cost 162 lives. Also among the airlines failing to submit the required financial audits are Wings Abadi and Batik Air Indonesia, AirAsia’s long-haul carrier Indonesia AirAsia X, Sriwijaya Air, Nam Air, Tri MG Intra Asia Airlines, Trigana Air Service, My Indo Airlines and Cardig Air. To help the airlines meet their reporting obligations, a new deadline of 30 June has been set by the government. The reason for the extension of the deadline is because this is the first year such reports have been required with the implied suggestion being that in coming years the deadline will be more rigorously applied. The reports are intended to show the financial soundness of each carrier and ensure adequate funds are being spent on repairs and maintenance. Among the airlines that have met the filing deadline of 30 April 2015 are Garuda Indonesia, Citilink, ASI Pudjiastuti Aviation, Travel Express Aviation Service, Transnusa Aviation Mandiri, Aviastar Mandiri, Kalstar Aviation and Jatayu Gelang Sejahtera.
Ciokolata New Boutique Collections Jl. Raya Senggigi (next to Senggigi Jaya Supermarket) ciokolataclothing@ymail.com
www.ciokolata.com
32
www.pearlautore.com.au
Individual and Group Pearl Farm Tours Pearl and Jewellery Showroom Private viewings welcome
Showroom and CafĂŠ Open Daily
PT Autore Pearl Culture, Teluk Nara, Malaka, Lombok Phone: +62 8133 992 0015 / +62 8133 992 0020 | Email: pearlfarm@pearlautore.com.au
Senggigi
33
34
Local Scene
PEDULI ANAK PIZZA DAY @ LOTUS BAYVIEW RESTAURANT
Last week, 40 children and staff from the Peduli Anak Foundation enjoyed an afternoon eating pizzas on the beach at Lotus Bayview Restaurant in Senggigi. Maurizio Cammarota, Lotus Manager and Chef, and his wife Ibu Suharni have been loyal supporters of the children’s charity for many years and, every year since 2012, Maurizio has invited the children of Peduli Anak to come to the popular Italian restaurant in Senggigi to learn how to make (and eat) pizza. Many of the children have never tasted pizza before but they obviously had lots of fun in the kitchen, where the patient staff showed them how to roll out the pizza dough and make the toppings, before popping them into the wood-fired oven to cook‌ and, of course, the best part was eating the pizzas! Yayasan Peduli Anak (Care for Children Foundation) is a non-profit organization founded to fight for the rights of underprivileged children in Indonesia. It currently provides care for 75 children in Lombok.
Senggigi
35
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
36
SERBA ANTIK
“The perfect partner for your home and villa”
Curtain - Sheer Outdoor Fabrics Upholstery Fabrics – Sofas Roman, Wooden, Roller Blinds Walpaper HPL Accessories Jl Patih Jelantik Central Parkir, Kuta, Bali Tel. 0361 769 400 Fax. 0361 769 405 serbaantikbali@dps.centrin.net.id
Senggigi
37
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
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
Pasar Classifieds
38
PASAR CLASSIFIEDS
LAND FOR SALE IN NORTH LOMBOK AT GANGGA WATERFALLS
GILI ASAHAN BEACHFRONT LAND FOR SALE
Beautiful 78 are (7,800sqm), just 150 meters from famous Gangga Waterfalls. One lower plot (rice field) and an upper hill plot with unobstructed sea view (two Hak Milik certificates). Nestled between rice fields and mountains in developing tourism area with new public road access, electricity and water already in place. Price: IDR 25 million/are
Stunning 2,800 m² freehold plot on the southern Gilis, with 55 meter beachfront, gently sloping up a hill. Really rare to find! Gili Asahan is well known for its clear water, unique diving and snorkeling opportunities. Next to the land is a dive and holiday resort. Reachable by taxi boat (10 Minutes)
Phone: 0853 3851 2006
Phone: 0853 3851 2006
KUTA LAND FOR SALE BY OWNER
2 plots at Tanjung Ocean View with unobstructed views to Tanjung Aan and Kuta beach at Kuta’s No.1 residential development! Ready to build your dream villa? Freehold title and protective regulations (CC&R contract) within the residential development for each individual land owner. Road access done, electricity available. Plot A: 9.75 are (975m²) IDR 65 million/are Plot B: 14 are (1,400m²) IDR 95 million/are
Phone: 0853 3851 2006
Detached House with Pool for Sale
Two Storey house in Jl Palm Tree, Senggigi Residence IN THE HEART OF SENGGIGI Open plan living area, furnished to high standard with European kitchen. Air-conditioned throughout, 2 bedrooms plus office, en suite with bath and shower. H/water. For sale from owner, Well maintained pool and 0370 6194 194 / 081 757 94877 garden.
Price: 89,000 USD
FOR SALE: OCEAN HEAVEN RESORT The most beautiful land you’ll ever see!
6.8 Ha with 500m coastal frontage. Fully operational Resort – 5 rooms with ocean views, restaurant, infinity pool, large spa with private pool, large dam, staff accommodation and more. The land is at beach level and above cliffs with endless views and access to the world-class surfbreak “Outside Ekas”. www.sanctuaryinlombok.com email: kerrypeterblack@gmail.com
SOUTH LOMBOK (FREEHOLD) LAND SALE BY OWNER
Plot A - overlooking Belongas and Pengantap Beaches Beautiful hill land, unobstructed sea view. Direct access from new main road. Water and electricity already in place. 315 are (3.15ha) IDR 8 million/are Plot B - flat hill plateau overlooking Torok Aik Belik Bay and rice fields. Stunning sea view, only 3min drive to the beach on new main road. 284 are (2.84ha) IDR 22 million/are
Phone: 0853 3851 2006
HOUSE FOR RENT SPECIAL FOR FOREIGNER WE ARE EXPANDING AND NEED SPECIAL PEOPLE FOR OUR TEAM:
* F&B Manager * House Keeping Supervisor * Receptionist Experience essential Proficient in speaking English Positive attitude to leadership & teamwork Please email your CV to: sempiakvillas@gmail.com
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
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
Pasar Classifieds
39
PASAR CLASSIFIEDS
PROFESSIONAL BUILDING SERVICES PRIVATE AND COMMERCIAL 16 Years experience in Lombok
www.counsellingforall.com +62 812 3962 2355
IMMIGRATION SERVICE Visas and Residency Permits Work and Business Visas Retirement Visas Police Permits | Land Certificates Land and Building Permits Foreign Investment (PMA) | Company Documents
VOA Extensions up to 30 days 0370 692 253 / 0818 360 415 / 0858 5822 3619 perwiralombok@yahoo.com damsiah@yahoo.com
PT. ANANTA GUNA LESTARI
Complete Building Services from foundation to lock-up. Renovations, Small Repairs, Electrical, Plumbing - Call Out Service
PHONE MEL: 0812 3759 9118
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
LAND FOR SALE
Tours and Travel Service Available!
1. Land Size: 5,930 sqm / 54m sandy beach 2. Documents: FREEHOLD Certificate for ownership, Akta, Building License, License for restaurant, License for villa / homestay 3. 70m from main bitumen road with direct access to the land 4. Electricity existing 5. Two existing ground water wells. Access to public water main – 50 m. 6. Views to the three small islands – Gili Lampu, Gili Pasir and Gili Petagan – considered the best snorkeling and diving in East Lombok. 7. Just 10 mins drive from Kayangan Port 8. 150m from harbour for boat and fast boats 9. Price: Rp 22,500,000 / are (100m2)
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
Serious buyers, please contact: 0819 3314 7723 (Ind) / 0853 3850 0104 (Eng) Email: freddymaun@yahoo.com
OUR SERVICES: Pest Control | Rodent Control Termite Control | Fumigation Employee Recruitment (Out Sourcing) Cleaning Service (On Call) Gardener | Pool Maintenance
www.anantagl.com
www.ananta-vacation.com
Senggigi
40
[ 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
Distribution
41
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, Gili Cafe, Joli Sourire Dental Care, KFC, Gili Cafe, McDonalds, Oceanic Café), Sasaku, 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, Ananta Tours & Travel, Anna’s Giftshop, Asmara Restaurant, Blue Marlin Senggigi, Café Alberto, Cafe Lombi, Ciokolata, Cowshed, De Quake, Globe Bar, Graha Beach Senggigi Hotel, Holiday Resort, Island Properties Lombok, Kebun Villas, La Chill Bar, Living Asia, Lotus Bayview Restaurant, Orchid Spa, OZ Stay, Puri Bunga Cottages, Puri Mas Boutique Hotel, Qunci Villas, Senggigi Jaya Abadi Supermarket, Square Restaurant, Temptations, The Chandi, The Office, Verve Beach Club, 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, 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.
42
Senggigi
Senggigi
43
Land & Property
44
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
Land & Property
45
Land & Property
46
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.
Land & Property
47
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.
•
Units are available on a perpetual 99-year lease for Indonesian citizens and foreigners.
•
All units come with an 8% guaranteed ROI (Return On Investment) per year for 5 years.
•
All units come with a 5 year buy back guarantee.
•
Split payment system on construction stages.
•
Entitlement of 30 days of free use per year.
•
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
48
Land & Property
Land & Property
49
lombok-property.com Come and join us for a great investment in Lombok! BUMBANG - KUTA ± 500 are white sand beach front land in Bumbang, Kuta Lombok. Electricity and water provided. Flat and hill. Opening price IDR 65 million / are. USD 5,200 per sqm DUNDUN - KUTA Beautiful flat and valley land. Size 3.5 hectare. Freehold certificated. Price IDR 30,000,000 per 100m2 / USD 2,700 per sqm (negotiable)
Please contact direct owner at mobile number: +62 812 375 7070
TAKAR AKAR BUMBANG - KUTA ± 180 are hill land. Plots available between 5 are 10 are. Electricity and water available. Price IDR 60 million / are (negotiable)
SEKOTONG Beautiful hill land, size 30,000m2. Freehold certificated. Only IDR 25,000,000 per 100m2 / USD 2,300 per sqm
SEKOTONG 1,700m2 hill land with wies of beautiful hill, gilis, mountain, laying tropical trees and sunset view. Freehold certificated. Status: Active. ONLY EUR 43,000
GILI ASAHAN - SEKOTONG Beautiful private beach. Size 20,000m2. Very good for snorkelling. Suitable for private villas. Freehold certificated. PRICE ON APPLICATION
Phone: +62 812 375 7070 | www.lombok-property.com
Land & Property
50
VILLA FOR SALE IN MANGSIT SECLUDED Villa on 1,100m2 land. 2 double ensuite bedrooms, separate guest house. European kitchen, open plan living/dining, secure parking. 10 mins to Senggigi. Price USD 350,000
HOME-STAY & VILLA IN MENINTING 13 ARE - 7 are for Home-stay (4 bedroom with A/C, pool, fully furnished) and 6 are for villa (3 bedrooms with A/C, open plan living & kitchen, 4 extra rooms). ONLY USD 300,000
KAYANGAN BEACHFRONT 22 ARE beachfront plot with 40m sandy beach. Sunset & Gili island views. Flat and ready to build, main road access, electricity available in area. Price only USD 60,000 (total)
BUILDING PLOT IN MENINTING 5.43 ARE (543m2) flat land & ready to build. Main road access. Perfect location, close to residential area. 10 mins to Senggigi and 20 mins to Mataram. Price IDR 60 million/are (100m2)
BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY - KERANDANGAN 4 EXISTING buildings on 655m2 land. Has water & electricity. Perfect for homestay (5 bedrooms available). Fix it and start your business! Price 110,000 approx
VILLA FOR RENT IN SETANGI DOUBLE bed bungalow with pool and sea view, just 3 mins walk to the beach. 12 mins to Senggigi. European kitchen, newly finished. Medium term rent preferred. USD 900 / month
Jl Raya Senggigi (50m from Happy CafĂŠ) | Ph: 0812 3734 0117
info@lombokpropertyandvillas.com l www.lombokpropertyandvillas.com
Land & Property
51
Land & Property
52
MAIN OFFICE: Jl. Bung Karno / Opposite Lombok Garden Hotel Ph: 0370 648863 | Mobile: 082 147 768 880 | Email: ismail_sb78@yahoo.com
www.ira-property.com
1: Villa for sale in Stangi, land size 600m2, 3 bedrooms, swimming pool, 100m from the beach, 10 minutes to Senggigi, price IDR 2 billion. 2: Land for sale in Stangi, land size 1.200m2, 100m direct access to the beach, suitable for villa, 10 minutes to senggigi, price IDR 125 million/100m2. 3: Land for sale in Sandik Batu Layar, land size 1,800m2, road access, view Mataram city, Price IDR 20 million/100m2. 4: Land for sale near Batu Layar, on hill, Land size 16,000m2, full view ocean and Mataram city, road access, certificate, Price IDR 2.5 billion. 5: Beachfront Land and Villa in Induk beach, Land size 6,000m2, 30 minutes to Mataram city, sunset view, certificate, price IDR 2 billion. 6: Beachfront land in Kuranji, Land size 10,000m2, 20 minutes from Mataram city, View sunset and Mt. Agung Bali, certificate, price IDR 30 million/100m2. 7: Land for sale in Gunung Sari, land size 15,000m2, full view ocean and Mataram city, 15 mins to Mataram, road access, certificate, price IDR 3 Billion. 8: Land for sale in central Kuta, Land size 4,100m2, main road acces, View Tanjung Aan beach, 300m from the beach, certificate, Price IDR 2.8 billion. 9: Beachfront land for sale in Sekotong, land size 5,000m2, suitable for Villa, view sunset, white sandy beach, price IDR 1 billion.
Land & Property
53
ISLAND PROPERTIES LOMBOK Real Estate Specialists
THE HILL Ready to build!
Sweeping views. Access road. Built to European standards. 20 are (2000m2) at IDR 200 million per are.
Price IDR 4 billion DUDUK JERO – SUBDIVISION Attention all investors, developers and private home buyers Duduk Jero is now open for buyers! A magnificent estate, many blocks with ocean views on gently sloping land, down to level, flat, fully-palmed lots overlooking waterways.
PLUMBAGO 24 IN GREEN VALLEY 4 Bedroom, 4 Bathroom, Pantry, European Kitchen, Laundry, Maid Quarters. Large open plan lounge and dining area. Upstairs large verandah overlooking hill. 5 minutes to the beach. Land size 1.85 are. In a quiet street. A must to view! Asking Price IDR 1.55 billion or AUD 155,000
Prices range from Rp 60 million to Rp 170 million Full infrastructure with bitumen roads. Please call for subdivision plan
VILLA MANGSIT Spacious open plan living area with large European kitchen. Two large bedrooms, one with huge bathroom, walk-in robe. 2nd bedroom has bathroom. Fabulous entertaining areas at front and rear of the home. Large berugaq overlooking pool and guest suite. This property is set in luscious gardens on 11 are. 10 minutes from Senggigi and 5 minutes from Holiday Resort. Asking Price USD 350,000
KEBUN ESTATE Set to be the Beverly Hills of West Lombok, the Kebun Estate will be home to the island’s upper class! Residential plots are now open for sale with concrete road access, water, electricity and unparalleled views of Senggigi Bay. Prices starting from Rp 95,000,000 / are Viewing by appointment only.
Phone Angela: 0819 1742 0804 / Danny: 0821 1078 7511 / Santi (Indonesia): 0877 6660 3939 islandpropertieslombok@gmail.com | www.islandpropertieslombok.com
We can make your dreams come true!
54
Tourism Information
THE CITIES Many of Lombok’s weaving and basket making industries are located near Cakra; turn left at the central traffic lights and look for the market on the right near the bridge. The baskets in particular are sold in Bali at many times the local price.
Mataram Mall The three main cities in Lombok – Ampenan, Mataram and Cakranegara – have expanded over the years and now merge together to create what is, for Lombok, an urban sprawl of shops, administrative centres and residential areas. A visit to the cities makes an interesting day trip, exploring the numerous small shops selling everything imaginable at low prices. There are numerous pearl shops in Ampenan selling unset pearls and pearl jewellery at cheap prices. These are genuine pearls from the pearl farms on Lombok and Sumbawa and, if you bargain the price, are a good deal. Gold shops are also popular in both Ampenan and Cakra, with 24 kt gold being sold by the gram, regardless of the design. For cheap and interesting food choices, explore the many restaurants, warungs and food stalls in the cities. Or just wander around the streets to soak up the atmosphere and discover fascinating insights into Lombok city life! Ampenan was the original old port in Lombok during Dutch colonial times and some of the old architecture is still visible around the town, particularly toward the beach to the west. This area becomes a market at night, filled with warungs and kaki lima (food carts) for cheap, tasty food and local flavour. With its numerous shops, cheap hotels, dusty roads and plentiful cidomo (horse carts), gold and pearl shops, and its Arab quarter, Ampenan is a colourful town to explore. Kebun Roek, just near the traffic lights in Ampenan on the road from the old Selaparang airport, is the site of the local markets. Every day traders set up stalls
Mayura Park
selling fresh produce from around the island, local snacks and products, live chickens and fresh fish in the afternoon when the fishing boats come in. A stroll through the markets is a pungent and enlightening experience! Mataram, about 3 km to the east of Ampenan, is the administrative centre for Lombok and Sumbawa (NTB Province), with government offices, banks, mosques, schools and colleges, bookstores, the main post office, and Mataram University downtown. In Mataram, the Nusa Tenggara Barat Museum houses historical and cultural artefacts from Lombok and Sumbawa. It’s an interesting place to visit and occasionally hosts special exhibits. Displays include exhibits on geology, history and culture. Address: Jl Panji Tilar. Ph: 632159 for opening times. There is a small admission fee. Also worth visiting is the cultural centre, Taman Budaya on Jl Majapahit. Music and dance performances are presented here regularly. Phone: 622428 for details.
The next large town east of Cakra, Sweta, has a huge market every day near the Bertais bus terminal, with all kinds of goods on sale, from foodstuffs to clothing, exotic birds, handicrafts and more. Nearby Temples and Places of Interest Pura Meru on Jl Selaparang, Cakranegara, was built in 1720 by Balinese Prince Anak Agung Made Karang and is the largest temple on Lombok. Its three meru are for the Hindu trinity – Shiva, Vishnu and Brahma. This is an important temple for the Balinese here and its annual Pujawali festival, held over five days during the full moon in September or October, is the biggest Balinese Hindu event on Lombok. The outer courtyard hall has large drums used to announce ceremonies and festivals. In the central courtyard are two buildings with raised offering platforms. The interior enclosure has 33 shrines as well as the three multi-tiered meru.
Mataram Mall, on the main street in Mataram, has an upstairs food court for cheap local meals. Lombok’s only real mall, there are four floors of shops and stalls selling a vast selection of goods. Particularly good buys are shoes, jeans, and copy brand bags and belts. There is a department store, several electronics stores, and shops selling clothing, CD’s and DVD’s. Hero Supermarket, on the ground floor, is useful for some western goods, food and toiletries. The Chemist next door has imported toiletries, supplements and medicines. McDonalds and KFC have outlets on the ground floor. Cakranegara (usually abbreviated to “Cakra”) is Lombok’s main shopping area. It is also home to many Chinese and Balinese, who make up over 50 percent of the city’s population. The streets of the city make an interesting tour with gold shops, sporting goods, clothing stores and very good fabric stores selling imported silks, laces and cottons, to name a few.
Pura Mayura, just across the street from Pura Meru, was built in 1744 as the court temple of the last Balinese kings in Lombok. An open hall or bale kambang (floating pavilion) stands in a large artificial lake here and is used as a place for meetings and to relax. Today the palace gardens are a playground for children. The temple sits behind the sedate water gardens and is open daily; admission is by donation.
The Cities
Explore the beauty of Red Beach and another exotic destination in East Java direct with The World’s 5 Stars Airline.
55 Effective on 2 February 2015, Garuda Indonesia Fly from Lombok to Surabaya.
Lombok to Surabaya Start from
IDR
414,000
*Exclude tax & additional fee. Terms & condition apply Effective 2 February to 15 June 2015 Book your tickets here via contact centre in 0 804 1 807 807 or visit the nearest Garuda Indonesia office and your appointed travel agent. *Book your ticket easier with our direct contact. Monday to Friday from 9am to 4.30pm Java: 0856 3956 878 Fery: 0817 0300 1003
56
Cities Map
The Cities
57
58
The Southwest Secret Islands, Pristine Beaches!
Sekotong
Floating in the sparkling turquoise waters just off the southwest coast are thirteen small islands called the Southwest Gilis. Unlike the famous Gili islands in the northwest of Lombok, the Southwest Gilis are largely uninhabited and have yet to be discovered by most travellers... thus we call them “The Secret Islands”. The Sekotong region starts just south of Lembar Harbour and features stunning beaches and bays set against a backdrop of rolling hills. The drive itself is a worthwhile trip, meandering through villages where life is largely untouched by tourism and where the people are involved in their day-to-
day 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.
The Southwest 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 beach. The island is small and the beach has soft white sand and a good reef just offshore for snorkelling. 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. 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. Continued on Page 60
The Southwest
59
The Southwest
60
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.
Continued from Page 58 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, 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.
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 custombuilt boat “Scorpio”.
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.
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. 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. To the south of Gili Gede, the islands of Gili Ringgit, Layar and Asahan are lined up like secret treasures in the calm sea.
Bounty Cruises, a Bali based company, own a large parcel of land on Gili Ringgit The largest of the islands in the area is Gili and have constructed a boat mooring Gede, appropriately meaning “Big Island”. and pier on the island. There is good The island lays just offshore and is so large snorkelling on the west side of Gili Ringgit, accessed by boat. Large gardens visitors often mistake it for part of the of hard and soft corals lay just beneath the mainland. surface and the reef extends along most of Gili Gede is one the island’s coast. of the few islands On the other side of the island is where in the area that has the pier is located, with a fantastic white accommodation, sand beach. It is a favourite for guests at Secret Island Resort on the south, from Secret Island Resort, and Dive Zone often brings divers to the island to relax in Via Vaccare on the between dives, as the scenery and beach northwest and Yut Inn and Madak Belo here are so lovely. on the east. It’s easy to snorkel offshore, just north of the pier and, although the reef isn’t as large The island is large as on the other side of the island, there enough to provide is still plenty to see. Bright blue starfish a range of activities drape themselves across patches of coral, such as hiking to the and bright yellow and black Moorish hills in the centre Idols dart through the water. Schools of for fantastic views hundreds of small iridescent fish swim past across the other and weirdly shaped squid drift by in the islands, exploring deeper areas. deserted beaches Tourists who take trips with Dive Zone and hidden coves commonly describe the diving around the and meeting the people living on the southwest as some of the best they’ve ever island, who are very experienced. Many are astounded by the friendly and, as yet, pristine conditions and huge schools of unspoilt by tourism. turtles seen near Gili Layar! Secret Island has comfortable budget accommodation, including two unique bungalows perched on a pier over the reef – the
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.
The Southwest
61
Slightly south of Gili Gede, beautiful Gili Asahan attracts visitors with deserted white sand beaches, clear calm waters and swaying palm trees.
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.
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.
Those who wish to explore the underwater world further can join dive adventures with either Dive Zone in Sekotong or Odyssea Divers at Cocotinos
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.
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, There are small home-stays and private accommodations spaced out along the road the beach is buzzing with surfers, but otherwise it is a remote and peaceful area. to Bangko-Bangko – known as Desert Bali is clearly visible, with the island of Point and the surfing Mecca for those in the know – located on the far southwest tip Nusa Penida only about an hour’s sail away. of Lombok.
The dive sites reflect a good cross-section of what Indonesian diving has to offer. Dive in and be fascinated by turtles, white tip reef sharks, cuttlefish, moray eels and many other varieties of marine life. The reefs are full of bright soft corals and colourful corals, which harbour an amazing variety of rare marine life, including ghost pipe fish, leaf fish, pygmy seahorses and much more. The southwest is slated for tourism development and it’s easy to imagine hotels and resorts on all these beaches and islands in the future, as well as yachts, fishing boats, windsurfers, dive boats and the like. But for now, the Southwest is unspoilt and the Gilis remain the secret islands… stunningly beautiful, pristine and unique; and known only to the lucky few.
Kuta and The South Coast
62
Kuta by Barbara
KUTA AND THE SUBLIME SOUTH COAST
Lombok boasts some of the most magnificent scenery in Indonesia and the south coast of Lombok easily rates among the best!
South Lombok is a region on the move and it’s easy to see why so many people are investing here. The south coast has views that inspire – and leaves visitors from around the world speechless at the sublime panoramic beauty that unfolds beach after beautiful beach. Tourists are drawn to the stunning beaches of the south coast for the pure white sands and the crystal clear oceans, as well as 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 places of interest in the region. The Lombok International Airport (locally known as BIL) is the only commercial airport on Lombok and is located just 25 minutes’ drive north of Kuta , making access to the south very easy. 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. Major roads have been upgraded and the main road to Kuta is very good. The proximity to the airport has sparked an
investment boom in the area over the past couple of years and Kuta has blossomed, with many new hotels, restaurants and cafes catering to 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. 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. Just before arriving in Kuta, the road passes two traditional Sasak villages – Sade and Rambitan. On the east side of the road is Rambitan, a village that caters to tourists and has authentic clusters of thatched Lumbung, or rice barns, and traditional homes made of thatch and bamboo, with hardened cow and buffalo dung floors. Nearby, on the hilltop, is one of the oldest
mosques in Lombok, Mesjid Kuno. The small building with a thatched roof is considered holy and many believers make pilgrimages to pray here. Slightly further south is Sade, 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. 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 that is transforming every year. In the past, it offered mainly home-stays and backpacker’s hotels catering 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. These days, there is a good variety of accommodation to suit all budgets and tastes, plus many restaurants and tourist facilities. With investment taking off, more options are opening all the time. 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. Continued on Page 64
Kuta and The South Coast
63
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
Kuta and The South Coast
64
is believed to have sacrificed herself for the good of her people from the rocks overlooking the beach).
Continued from Page 62
It is here that thousands of people gather every year to celebrate the colourful ritual of Bau Nyale, when masses of sea worms spawn in the waters offshore. Designed to blend in with the environment, and with a stunning beachfront location, the Novotel is a wonderful example of traditional Sasak architecture. Kuta attracts thousands of visitors every year for the great surf locations at Gerupuk, Ekas and the beaches to the east. 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 the area. First-timers to Kuta can benefit from an orientation tour operated by Mimpi Manis Homestay in Kuta. The long-established guest house is popular with budget travelers not just for the good value accommodation, but also for the local knowledge the expat British and Balinese couple freely shares with anyone visiting Kuta.
Orientation tours are also available to outside guests and usually include a tour of Kuta and its main attractions, as well as visits to nearby Seger Beach and Tanjung Aan.
There are great views from the beach and even better views if you climb the surrounding hills. There are small stalls selling drinks and snacks to enjoy after taking a swim or a stroll to enjoy the views.
Other tours can be arranged to take in your particular interests, as well as transfers, car and motorbike rental, Rinjani trekking and more. Mimpi Manis also runs “Shore Thing” fishing trips and boat tours at reasonable rates. Visit their website for details: www.mimpimanis.com
The government has built a rather ugly building here to host the annual Bau Nyale Festival but nearby there is a lovely monument in the bay commemorating the Mandalika Legend. Continued on Page 66
Otherwise, hire a car or motorbike and you can spend days visiting beautiful, mainly deserted beaches, both to the east and west of Kuta. Just east of Kuta is Seger Beach (sometimes called Mandalika Beach, after the legendary Princess Mandalika – a beloved character in Sasak folklore who
Mandalika Monument at Seger Beach
Cottages, Bar & Restaurant
Experience the beauty of this pristine, undiscovered beach on the south coast
Only 9km east of Kuta, close to Gerupuk surfing paradise Stay in our natural beach cottages and dine on freshly caught seafood at our beachfront bales Phone: +62 852 3717 6168 / +62 823 3987 3222 info@bumbangkulombok.com | www.bumbangkulombok.com
Kuta and The South Coast
65
Kuta and The South Coast
66 Continued from Page 64
The beaches and scenery continue all the way to the east coast, with fantastic places such as Bumbang, Awang Bay, Ekas and Pantai Sorga (Heaven Beach)… the name says it all! At Bumbang, Bumbangku Beach Cottages has simple thatched cottages and comfortable brick deluxe rooms right on a beautiful deserted beach.
Warung Turtle
Tanjung Aan, around 5kms east of Kuta, is a long picturesque beach with a wide sweep of white sand, perfect aquamarine water and shady trees on the shore. At the far west end is “Warung Turtle”, a charming beach café that sells cold drinks and beer, as well as surprisingly good meals. Guests are welcome to relax on the sun lounges on the beach in front of Warung Turtle and spend the day swimming in the calm waters. Dine on the beachfront or in the shade of the café. The fresh grilled fish and the Chicken in Red Sauce are both highly recommended. The Warung has snorkeling equipment, surfboards and stand-up paddle boards for hire and the local owner, Herman, is a friendly host with a wealth of information to help make the most of your visit. Further east 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. There is a good surf school here and no fewer than five surf breaks.
snacks and meals throughout the day in a pretty restaurant on the beach. Spend a day exploring the area, with lunch and a swim here as the highlights of your trip. Further west are picturesque Sepi and Blongas bays, and many more scenic beaches along the way; all are mostly deserted.
The road deteriorates rapidly and the going There is a good restaurant, serving fresh can be rough at times. For exploring this fish and seafood caught by local fishermen, remote area it’s best to use an experienced and easy access to the best surfing spots local guide with a good vehicle. nearby. Steeped in history and legend, surrounded Further east, Heaven on the Planet and by beaches of almost surreal beauty, the Ocean Heaven (collectively known as south coast is a fascinating area to visit, HOTPlanet) offers accommodation, a whether your interests are historical, restaurant, swimming pool, a Spa and cultural or just the opportunity to see and Wellness Centre and a host of water explore some of the most beautiful and activities, such as surfing, snorkelling, pristine coastal scenery in Indonesia. kayaking, wind-surfing and more. Heading west from Kuta are another series of beautiful beaches and bays hidden behind headlands and rolling hills, providing peaceful and secluded spots for picnics and swimming. All are within easy day trips of Kuta.
Mawun Beach is around 30 minutes’ drive to the west and is an almost circular bay with small green headlands rolling into the ocean from either side. It is a spectacular beach with calm blue waters, perfect for swimming and spending a day lazing on the white sand. Mawi, around another 7km to the west, has good right- and left-hand barrels for surfing when the swell is large enough. At other times, it is a lovely beach with impressive views of Gili Lawang just offshore; look for the three startling pinnacles of rock jutting out of the ocean. Selong Belanak is a long sweeping bay framed on each end by headlands and surrounded by rolling hills. Sempiak Villas has plush villas perched on the hillside overlooking the bay with breath-taking panoramic views. Laut Biru Bar and Restaurant at Sempiak Villas is a popular place for a stop – and justifies a day trip in itself – serving fresh and delicious
THE SOUTH LOMBOK COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION The South Lombok Community Association (SLCA) is an association of businesses, investors and residents in South Lombok working with government and local communities to improve conditions in Kuta and surrounding areas on the south coast. The SLCA carries out a number of important services including the provision of security and safety patrols, rubbish collection and waste management, and environmental projects such as “Clean Up” events in Kuta and at the surrounding beaches. The association is self-funded and all south coast residents and businesses are encouraged to support this community initiative. If you are visiting Kuta, please help SLCA keep up their work – clearly marked donation boxes are placed in a number of local businesses and even a small donation can help towards funding rubbish bins and security staff. To join SLCA, or support their work with a donation, please email southlombokca@gmail.com
For security issues, contact 0823 4097 1957
Kuta and The South Coast
67
Kuta and The South Coast
68
KHD
PT DOBLER INDAH
KUTA HEIGHTS DEVELOPMENT LAND FOR SALE
Certificated land all within minutes to Kuta Beach. 20 mins drive from international airport. Private road with onsite management office and security
Ph: 0821 4587 5594 / +62 817 667 3983 | www.kutaheightslombok.com
A small selection of what KHD has to offer...
STUNNING OCEAN AND JUNGLE VIEWS Views cannot be built out. See the sun rise and set, and look back to Mt Rinjani and jungle views. 4 plots available USD 89,000 each.
KUTA GREEN PEACEFUL VALLEY VIEWS Birdsong, coconut and cashew trees just a few minutes to Kuta restaurants and beach, but perfect peace. We have a small number of plots available ranging in size from 500-3000 sqm. Starting at USD 26,500 per plot
The safe way to buy land and build in Kuta!
A LARGE HOTEL OR VILLA BLOCK Close to the Bypass road and 2 mins to the beach. 3780 sqm. Mainly flat with ocean view at the top. USD 170,000
69
www.thelombokguide.com
Kuta and The South Coast
70
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
71
Useful Contacts
72
General Information (Directory Assistance): (0370) 108 BANK / ATM Bank Central Asia (BCA) Jl. Pejanggik No.67, Mataram, Lombok Phone: 0370 632588, Fax: 0370 622347 ATMs - Jl. Raya Senggigi, Senggigi, W. Lombok - Mataram Mall, Mataram, W. Lombok - MGM Plaza, Jl. AA Gede Ngurah, Mataram - Jl. Airlangga, Mataram, W. Lombok - Jl. Langko, Mataram, W. Lombok - Jl Raya Senggigi (Senggigi Square) Bank Danamon Indonesia Jl. Pejanggik No.117, Mataram, W. Lombok Phone: 0370 631322, Fax: 0370 633068 ATMs - Jl. Koperasi 1, Mataram, W. Lombok - Jl. Raya Senggigi, Senggigi, W. Lombok - Komplek Ruko B1, Sweta, W. Lombok Bank International Indonesia (BII) Jl. AA Gede Ngurah No.48, Mataram, W. Lombok. Phone: 0370 635027, 633347 ATMs - Jl. Airlangga No.25, Mataram, Lombok - Mataram Mall, Mataram, W. Lombok - Jl. Raya Senggigi, Senggigi, W. Lombok Bank Mandiri Jl. Pejanggik No.20-22, Mataram, W. Lombok. Phone: 0370 631311 ATMs - Jl. Pejanggik No.20, Cakranegara, Lombok - Jl. Taruna Jaya, Mataram, W. Lombok - Mataram Mall, Mataram, W. Lombok - Selaparang Airport, Mataram, W. Lombok - Jl Raya Senggigi (In Front of Santosa) Bank Negara Indonesia (BNI) Jl. Langko No.64, Mataram, W. Lombok Jl. Raya Senggigi, W. Lombok Phone: 0370 631046, Fax: 0370 631005 ATMs - Jl. Langko No.64, Mataram, W. Lombok - Jl. Pejanggik No.68, Mataram, W.Lombok - University of Mataram (UNRAM) - Jl. Sandubaya, Sweta, W. Lombok - Jl. Selaparang No.37, Mataram, W. Lombok - Jl. Raya Senggigi, W. Lombok - Mataram Mall, Mataram, W. Lombok - Jl. Jendral Sudirman 51, Praya, C. Lombok Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) Jl. Pendidikan No.16, Mataram, Lombok Phone: 0370 632246, Fax: 0370 633084 ATMs - Jl. Airlangga, Mataram, W. Lombok - Mataram Mall, Mataram, W. Lombok HOSPITALS Rumah Sakit Harapan Keluarga Jl Ahmad Yani 9 Selagalas. Ph: 6177000, 670000. Emergency (24hrs): 6177009. Mataram Public Hospital (Rumah Sakit Umum Mataram) Jl. Pejanggik No.6, Mataram, W. Lombok Phone: 0370 623498 / 6604605 New Mataram Public Hospital (Rumah Sakit Umum Mataram) Jl. Bung Karno 1 Mataram. Phone: 0370 645045 Central Lombok Public Hospital Jl. Jendral Basuki Rachmad, Praya, Central Lombok. Phone: 0370 654007 East Lombok Public Hospital Jl. Professor M. Yamin No. 55, Selong, East Lombok. Phone: 0376 21680 Biomedika Clinic Jl. Bung Karno 143 Mataram. Phone: 0370 645137 Risa Clinic Jl. Pejanggik 115 Cakranegara. Phone: 0370 625560 / 632117
DENTAL drg. Farida Istiarini, Sp.Ort (Joli Sourire Dental Care) Mataram Mall. Jl. Pejanggik, Cakranegara. Ph: 0370 633 474 / 668 1797 / Mobile: 0878 6490 1535
TAXIS Blue Bird Taxi, Phone: 0370 627000 Express Group Taxi, Ph: 0370 647555
VET dr. I Gede Sudiana (FB: lombokanimalrescue) Jl Sadewa 9 Cakra. Ph: 0878 6585 6260
PUBLIC SERVICES ELECTRICITY PLN Mataram. Ph: 0370 632182 PLN Senggigi. Ph: 0370 693535 WATER PDAM Mataram. Ph: 0370 632510 PDAM Senggigi. Ph: 0370 693886 Telkom (Phone/Internet). Ph: (0370) 147
MONEY CHANGERS Multigraha Kelolavalas - Jl. Rasa Senggigi km.10, Senggigi, W. Lombok, Ph; 0370 693693 - Jl. Pejanggik No.1, Mataram, W. Lombok, Ph: 0370 631567 Multigraha Valas Jl. Saleh Sungkar No.1 Ampenan, W. Lombok, Ph: +62 370 624045 PT. Bali Mispintjira Jl. Raya Senggigi km.13, Senggigi, West Lombok, Ph: 0370 692247, 0370 692247 SHOPPING Senggigi Abadi Supermarket Jl. Raya Senggigi, Km.8.5, Senggigi, West Lombok. Phone: 0370 693311 Senggigi Jaya Supermarket Jl. Raya Senggigi, Km.8, Senggigi, West Lombok. Phone: 0370 693530 Alfa Mart Jl Raya Senggigi Art Market (Pasar Seni) - Jl. Raya Senggigi, Senggigi West Lombok - Gili Trawangan, West Lombok Barata Department Store Jl. Niaga II, Ampenan, West Lombok Phone: 0370 646123 Grand Store Mataram Mall, 3rd floor, Jl. Pejanggik, Cakranegara, W. Lombok. Ph: 0370 629931 Hero Supermarket Mataram Mall, 1st floor, Jl. Pejanggik, Cakranegara, W. Lombok. Ph: 0370 629918 Tiara Department Store Mataram Mall, 1st & 2nd floor, Jl. Pejanggik, Cakranegara, West Lombok Phone: 0370 629902 Kharisma Book Shop Mataram Mall, 2nd floor, Jl. Pejanggik, Cakranegara, West Lombok Phone: 0370 629875 Ruby Supermarket Jl. Pejanggik No.111, Cakranegara, West Lombok. Phone: 0370 631092 Jembatan Baru Supermarket Jl. Pejanggik No.41, Cakranegara, West Lombok. Phone: 0370 636106 MGM Plaza Jl. AA Gede Ngurah No.98, Cakranegara, West Lombok. Phone: 0370 646007 Hypermart Jl AA Gede Ngurah, Dasan Cermen, Mataram EMERGENCY Senggigi Tourism Police: Jl. Raya Senggigi, Phone. 00370 693267 Lombok Regional Police: Jl. Gajah Mada No. 7 Ampenan. Call this emergency number: 110 Fire Brigade: Phone. 0370 672013. In emergency call 113 Hospital UGD (Emergency Unit Service): Phone: 0370 622254 Ambulance: Phone. 0370 623498. In emergency call 118
IMMIGRATION Jl. Udayana, Mataram, Ph: 0370 632520
POST OFFICES Mataram: Jl. Sriwijaya, Phone. 0370 632645 Senggigi: Jl. Raya, Phone. 0370 693711 CONSULATES AUSTRALIA (incl. New Zealand, Canada) Phone: 0361 241118, Fax: 0361 221195, Email: bali.congen@dfat.gov.au BRAZIL Phone: 0361 757775, Fax: 0361 751005. Email: brazilconsul@bytheseatropical.com BRITAIN Phone: 0361 270601, Fax: 0361 287804, Email: bcbali@dps.centrin.net.id CHILE Phone: 0361 756781, Fax: 0361 756783. Email: chilehonconsulate@bali-villa.com CZECH REPUBLIC Phone: 0361 286465, Fax: 0361 286408. Email: bali@honorary.mzv.cz DENMARK & NORWAY Phone: 0361 701070, Fax: 0361 701073/4, Email: mimpi@mimpi.com FINLAND & SWEDEN Phone: 0361 288407, Fax: 0361 287242. Email: segara1@denpasar.wasantara.net.id FRANCE Phone: 0361 285485, Fax: 0361 286406, Email: consul@dps.centrin.net.id GERMANY Phone: 0361 288535, Fax: 0361 288826, Email: germanconsul@bali-ntb.com HUNGARY Phone: 0361 287701, Fax: 0361 287456. Email: cristofoli@denpasar.wasantara.net.id INDIA Ph. 0361 259502/259503, Fax. 0361259505 E: cons.bali@mea.gov.in / hoc.bali@mea.gov.in ITALY Phone: 0361 701005. Email: italconsbali@italconsbali.com JAPAN Phone: 0361 227628, Fax: 0361 265066. Email: konjpdps@indo.net.id SPAIN Phone: 0361 975736, Fax: 0361 975726, Email: rabik@indo.net.id SWITZERLAND & AUSTRIA Phone: 0361 751735, Fax: 0361 754457. Email: bali@honrep.ch THAILAND Phone: 0361 263310, Fax: 0361 238044 THE NETHERLANDS Phone: 0361 761502, Fax: 0361 752777, Email: purwa@denpasar.wasantara.net.id USA Ph: 0361 233605, Fax: 0361 222426. Email: amcobali@indosat.net.id
Tourism Information
73
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 74
Gili Trawangan
74 Continued from Page 73
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.
75
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
76
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
77
78
Gili Trawangan
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
79
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 82
80
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
81
Tourism Information
82
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 79 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.
Gili Trawangan
83
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
Pick up and return service - Serangan Harbour (15 mins from the airport, Kuta, Legian) International safety standards and safety equipment Large comfortable seats and sun beds on upper deck Clean and comfortable onboard toilet Onboard movies & earphones, complimentary water and juices BOOK NOW: +62 81 916 733 051 | +62 81 337 074 147 | +62 361 8037171 | +62 361 8785892 | +62 87 864 322 515
giligetaway@ozemail.com.au | www.giligetaway.com
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
84
Gili Trawangan
Luxury Villas on Gili Trawangan
Elegantly furnished villas with private pool Generous living space, dining and kitchen Centrally located to beach, restaurants and bars Last minute discounts available
www.gilivillasindonesia.com +62 (0) 81 237 55 721
Gili Meno
85
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 450,000 (one way). Share the cost with other travellers if possible.
Gili Air
86
The Beach Club Beach Bungalows, Bar & Café
PERFECT BEACH LOCATION IN GILI AIR!
Comfortable Bungalows with AC, Fresh Hot Water Showers, Balcony and Day Bed and one of Gili Air’s best white sandy beaches – perfect for snorkelling – just steps from your room!
Gili Air, Lombok | M: +62 (0) 818 0520 8807 E: thebeachclubgiliair@hotmail.com
www.thebeachclublombok.com
Tourism Information
87 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 88
Gili Air
88 Continued from Page 87
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
89
90
Gili Trawangan
Tourism Information
91
92
Senggigi