Issue 237 | 23 January – 6 February 2017
FREE COPY
( 0812 3734 4894 | www.thelombokguide.com
PUBLISHED BI-WEEKLY IN LOMBOK, FOR LOMBOK
The
LOMBOK GUIDE The Beach Club Beach Bungalows
Page 86
IN THIS ISSUE Getting to Lombok
Page 2
Attractions & Actitvities
Page 4 & 8
Lombok Map
Page 6
Special Feature Page 10 & 22 Senggigi
Page 11 - 47
Senggigi Map
Page 14
What’s Hot/ Local News
Page 18
Local News
Page 35
Classifieds
Page 36
Distribution
Page 39
Local News
Page 44
Land & Property
Page 48 - 53
The Cities
Page 54 - 57
Cities Map
Page 56
The Southwest
Page 58 & 59
Kuta & The South Coast
Page 60 - 69
South Lombok Map
Page 68
North Lombok
Page 70 & 71
Useful Contacts Page 72 The Gilis
Page 73 - 92
Getting to Gilis
Page 76
Gilis Fast Facts Page 79 Gilis Map
Page 91
The Bullet
To find out more, pick up a copy of The Lombok Guide from the locations listed on page 39 or visit www.thelombokguide.com and discover the magic of Lombok for yourself… Like thousands of others, you’ll be enchanted!
Fast – safe – comfortable speedboat transfers!
Getting to the Gilis has never been so easy!
Gili Getaway
Senggigi – Gili Trawangan – Senggigi Senggigi – Gili Air - Senggigi Senggigi – Gili Gede – Senggigi DAILY DEPARTURES Senggigi office: Senggigi Jetty, Senggigi Beach | Ph: +62 812 339 188 281 Gili T: +62 87 864 322 515 | +62 852 3836 3899 Gili Gede: +62 812 3661 0812 | +62 819 0732 5135
ONLINE BOOKINGS & INFO
www.giligetaway.com
Katamaran Resort, Mangsit, West Lombok
Special Feature Page 40 & 41
Tourism Information
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GETTING TO LOMBOK
It’s easy to get to Lombok from Bali – flight time is only around 30 minutes and fares start from around Rp 350,000 (approx. US $35) one way. Buy tickets direct from the airline counters at the domestic airports, or contact local travel agents in both Bali and Lombok. Lombok International Airport (abbreviated to LIA with the IATA code “LOP”) is the main airport on Lombok. The airport is close to Praya (Central Lombok); approximately 40km south of the city of Mataram, and around 1 ½ hours’ drive from Senggigi, and 25 minutes from Kuta.
Direct flights to Lombok from Bali, Jakarta, Jogja and Surabaya are available from multiple airlines every day and are usually timed to connect with European flights. Lombok is an important connection for travel to the eastern islands, in particular the islands of Sumbawa, Komodo and Flores. Garuda Indonesia / Citilink have direct flights daily between Lombok and Bali, Surabaya, Makassar and Jakarta. Call Centre: 08041 807 807. Sales Office: +62 370 642303 / 649999. Airport: 0370 649100. www.garuda-indonesia.com Lion Air / Wings Air has daily flights between Lombok, Bali, Bima (Sumbawa), Jakarta and Surabaya. Ph: +62 370 6627444 / 642180. www.lionair.co.id
Airport departure tax is included in the price of all tickets.
BALI TO LOMBOK BY AIR In Lombok, all flights depart and arrive at Lombok International Airport. In Bali, flights arrive and depart at the domestic terminal at Ngurah Rai (Denpasar) Airport. Garuda Airlines has direct flights between Lombok and Bali every day. Call Centre: 0 8041 807 807, Sales Office: +62 370 642303 / 649999. www.garuda-indonesia. com
Batik Air flies direct between Lombok and Jakarta, with two flights every day. www.batikair.com
BALI TO LOMBOK BY SEA
Padang Bai Harbour (Bali) provides the sea link between mainland Bali and Lombok. Lembar Harbour (Lombok) is on the southwest coast, approx. 1 hour south of Senggigi, Lombok. Wings Air / Lion Air flies between Bali and Lombok daily. The Arrange your own transport and buy tickets direct from the companies code-share, so you may purchase a Lion Air ticket and harbours, or use a reputable tour company to provide a transfer find yourself on a Wings Air flight! Lombok, Call Centre: +62 80 service. 4177 8899. Bali, ph: +62 361 765132. Public Ferries depart every hour for the sea voyage between www.lionair.co.id Padang Bai Harbour (Bali) and Lembar Harbour (Lombok). The INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS crossing between the islands costs Rp 44,000 per person and Lombok International Airport has full Visa on Arrival (VOA) takes approx. 4 to 5 hours. Lembar Harbour ph: +62 370 681 209. facilities, including 30 day “Visa Free” (no charge) for tourists. Padang Bai Harbour ph: (+62 363) 41849 / 41840 Ph: +62 370 622987. Silk Air (a subsidiary of Singapore Airlines) flies direct between Lombok and Singapore, four times per week (Sunday, Monday, Wednesday and Friday). Ph: +62 370 628254 / 628255. www.silkair.com Air Asia operates direct flights between Lombok and Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia, with many international connections available. Flights operate between Lombok and KL twice daily, seven days per week. www.airasia.com
FAST BOATS
There are now numerous “fast boat” services operating between Bali and Lombok. Blue Water Express has services between Bali and mainland Lombok, with convenient departures from two different locations on Bali – Serangan (near Benoa 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
Gili Getaway operates several comfortable fast boats Garuda Airlines flies between Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia and connecting Bali and mainland Lombok every day, with a short stop-over in Jakarta. International Lombok (including Senggigi, connections from around the world are available via Jakarta. Call the Gili Islands and Gili Centre: 08041 807 807. Airport: +62 370 649100. www.garudaGede in the southwest) with indonesia.com daily transfers from Serangan Harbour on Bali. Fares include air DOMESTIC FLIGHTS conditioned hotel transfers to main points in Bali. Ph: +62 819 1673 3051 / +62 813 3707 4147. European connections are easy via Jakarta (the capital city of www.giligetaway.com Java), Bali and other capital cities such as Jogjakarta, Surabaya and Makassar. See the “Getting to the Gilis” section for more details.
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Hot Taste, Cool Venue
CELLAR PARTY – Friday, 3 February @ 7 - 10.30pm Cellar Party: Rp 450,000 nett / person Buffet Only: Rp 200,000 nett / person Senggigi Square Blok B-10, Jl. Raya Senggigi, Lombok, Indonesia Ph: +62 370 693 688 / +62 8776 5294 866 | square_marina@yahoo.com | www.squarelombok.com
Tourism Information
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ATTRACTIONS & ACTIVITIES
Getting around Lombok is easy by car or motorbike and you can hire these in all the main tourism areas, with an International Drivers License. The roads are generally in good condition and traffic is light. Alternatively, hire a car and driver for exploring or take part in the tours and day trips offered by the many tour agencies on the island. Mangsit Beach
BEACHES The whole island is surrounded by fantastic unspoilt beaches, most with crystal clear waters and clean white sand fringed by coconut palms. Drive just north of Senggigi to Malimbu or Nipah and enjoy deserted beaches with fine snorkelling and swimming.
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.
The southwest coast also has fine beaches, especially around Sekotong and Taun. Visit the small island of Gili Asahan for rustic accommodation and great snorkelling just off shore or stay at the luxurious Ko - ko - mo Resort on Gili Gede to explore the undeveloped islands of the southwest.
For the more adventurous, there is superb diving around the islands off the southwest coast, as well challenging dives off the south coast and the small uninhabited islands off the east coast.
The beaches around Kuta are breathtakingly beautiful. Visit Tanjung Aan and Gerupuk for fantastic scenery, Selong Belanak for long stretches of white sand and turquoise waters, or swim in the lovely bay at Mawun.
DIVING
With so many beaches and 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
GOLF
Lombok Golf Kosaido Country Club (sometimes called Kosaido Golf Course or Pantai Sire Golf Course) is the only international 18 hole championship course in Lombok, located on the shores of Sire Beach in Tanjung, North Lombok (close to the Oberoi and Tugu Hotels). It is around 45 minutes drive from Senggigi. This world-class course was designed by Thomson, Wolveridge and Perrett, who have respected the unique setting and contours of the location. Nestled between the shores of Sire Bay and the slopes of Mount Rinjani, the 18 hole, par
72 course (6295 meters) offers world-class challenges for golfing enthusiasts of all levels in a natural and picturesque environment. Holes 1 - 9 face the sea, with the signature No 4 hole adjacent to the white sandy beach of Sire Bay. Holes 10 - 18 face the mountains with stunning views of Mt Rinjani and include Hole 12, the largest on the course with 540m, Par 5, Handicap one.
SURFING
Lombok is a world-renown surfing destination amongst surf enthusiasts world-wide. Huge waves and challenging surf lure die-hards to Bangko-Bangko (also known as Desert Point) on the southwestern tip of Lombok. Kuta, on the south coast, is surf-central and has a range of accommodations and facilities especially for surfers. Here you can hire a board, get board repairs and take surf lessons from the professionals. The waves at Gerupuk and Tanjung Aan offer a variety of challenges from beginners to sheer madness! Ekas Bay has two surf breaks: Inside Ekas and Outside Ekas with waves suitable for beginners to experts, depending on the season. Continued on Page 8
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ko - ko - mo RESORT GILI GEDE
Unspoilt Paradise Ko – Ko – Mo Resort Gili Gede 5-star Luxury in Southwest Lombok Escape to the timeless serenity of Gili Gede - Gateway to the Southwest Gilis
Stay in one of our luxurious one- and two- bedroom air conditioned villas with private swimming pools or an absolute beachfront bungalow
Enjoy all day dining at our romantic beachfront restaurant and bar Relax at the Spa or in our Resort Swimming Pool Play on our Tennis Court, Putting Green or in our Gym Explore Water Sports, Island Hopping, Snorkelling and Diving Get there fast and then take it slow... with easy fastboat transfers from Bali, Gili Trawangan and Senggigi direct to our Private Jetty
www.kokomogiligede.com | kokomogiligede@ozemail.com.au | +62 (0) 813 3762 7306
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Lombok Map
Senggigi
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Tourism Information
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ATTRACTIONS & ACTIVITIES
the Balinese temples in Lombok, founded by the 16th-century Javanese priest, Danghyang Nirartha.
Continued from Page 4 At certain times of the year when conditions are right, you’ll find locals surfing the breaks at Senggigi Point and Mangsit Beach, and off Gili Air and Gili Trawangan.
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!
TREKKING
Much of the island is still covered by natural rain forest and jungles, making Lombok ideal for ecotourism and adventure tours. 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 near Senaru in the north is an easily accessible waterfall in a stunning jungle setting and popular with visitors. For the more adventurous, there is a second beautiful waterfall – Tiu Kelep – located around an hour’s trek way. Air Jeruk Manis, near Tetebatu, is set in a cool mountain location and reached by a pretty walk through rice fields and forest. 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.
HISTORIC SITES & TEMPLES There are a number of interesting temples around the west coast, many of which are Hindu or ancient animist sites of worship. Pura Lingsar is possibly the only place in the world where Hindus and Moslems come together to pray and celebrate. Built around 1714, Pura Lingsar was originally based on the prevailing animist beliefs of the time, and some of the original statues remain today. Perang Topat is an annual festival held at Lingsar and features a ritualised war with rice cakes, which also serve as an offering to the Gods.
MOUNTAIN CLIMBING
HANDICRAFT VILLAGES Lombok is famous for its traditional earthenware pottery made from local clay with distinctive designs, as well as 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 see the old traditional looms being used to create intricately woven, colourful fabrics. Sukarara is 5 km to the west of Praya, heading south towards Kuta. This is another 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.
Mt Rinjani, Lombok’s famous volcano, soars 3726 m above sea level and is the second highest volcano in Indonesia, attracting thousands of visitors every year. 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 and is still active. There are a number of caves, small waterfalls and hot springs located around the volcano. Rinjani, and its surrounding national park, are 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.
Taman Narmada (or Narmada Park) in Narmada (around 6 km east of Cakranegara), was created in the late 1800’s as a replica of Gunung Rinjani and its crater lake. The gardens at Narmada are beautifully maintained and surround the pools and lake in this cool hillside setting. Pura Suranadi, a complex of three temples located a few kilometres north of Narmada in Suranadi, is the oldest and holiest of
here.
Some of the larger pieces can take several months to weave and collectors from around the world visit these villages to purchase the blankets, sarongs and cloth produced
Banyumulek, easily reached on the road south to Lembar Harbour, is an important centre for pottery on Lombok. The small village has many 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, is famous internationally and is exported throughout the world.
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Special Feature
Chinese New Year on Lombok... Celebrating Diversity!
Chinese New Year is on Saturday, 28 January this year and the Chinese community in Lombok will be celebrating our ethnic diversity as we bid goodbye to the Year of the Fire Monkey. Both Lombok and Bali are popular destinations for thousands of tourists from mainland China, Hong Kong and Singapore who travel during the Lunar New Year holiday.
Today, there are more than 10,000 residents in Lombok of Chinese descent, originating from many areas of China, with the majority being Hakka and Hokkien from Guangdong. They practice a number of religions including Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, as well as being Catholic and Protestant.
As the holiday falls over the weekend this year, many hotels in Lombok are already reporting high occupancies. Chinese New Year (also called the Spring Festival or the Lunar New Year) is the most important of the traditional Chinese holidays. The festival begins on the first day of the first New Moon in the Chinese calendar (this year on 28 January) and ends on the 15th day (called the Lantern Festival). Chinese New Year is called “Imlek” in Bahasa Indonesia and celebrations incorporate customs, beliefs and practices brought to Indonesia by Chinese immigrants who still follow the practices handed down from their parents. In the past, government policies discriminated against the Chinese community in Indonesia (which makes up approximately three to four percent of the Indonesian population). In 1967, the Chinese bore the brunt of shifting political regimes when an anti-communist purge wiped out the Indonesian Communist
Party (PKI) and killed an estimated 500,000 Indonesian Chinese. For thirty years, no public displays of Chinese culture or traditions – including Imlek celebrations – were permitted and many Chinese living in Indonesia were afraid to draw attention to their heritage. It was only after 1997, and the end of the Suharto regime, that some of the discriminative policies were revoked or changed. Then, in 2002, Chinese New Year became a national holiday, to the relief of millions of Chinese Indonesians.
Last year, the Lombok government hosted a huge parade in the city to celebrate Lombok’s ethnic diversity. Titled “Acara Silaturahmi Kebudayaan Tahun Baru Imlek” the parade through the city celebrated the Lantern Festival and featured Lion and Dragon Dances, hundreds of lanterns and colourful costumes, and music and cultural performances that blended traditional Chinese and Sasak (ethnic Lombok) customs. Continued on Page 22
Senggigi
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SENGGIGI West Coast Resort
Just over one hour from Lombok International Airport, Senggigi is the main tourism centre on Lombok and, apart from the Gili islands, the most developed tourism area on Lombok. The town of Senggigi is about 10 km north of Ampenan, and about 30 minutes drive from Teluk Nara and Bangsal – the harbours to the Gili Islands. Nowhere near as large or as busy as its Bali counterparts, Senggigi is a great base for exploring the rest of the island. The pace is laid-back, with activities centred on the beaches and day trips to places of interest, which are all within a few hours drive from the town. At night, Jalan Raya Senggigi (the main street) comes alive. Dine in the many restaurants catering to all tastes and budgets, listen to live music at the bars, or dance the night away at the nightclubs. Senggigi Beach is the large bay that forms the centre of Senggigi, with the main road running parallel to the beach, and large resorts occupying the space between. The Senggigi Beach Hotel, Santosa Villas and Resort, and the Sheraton Senggigi Resort all line the curved bay of Senggigi Beach and offer a full range of resort facilities, equally attractive for singles, couples and families. The beachfront is currently undergoing “revitalisation” by the West Lombok Tourism Department, which threatens to ruin the natural beauty of the beach. It can become very crowded and is best avoided on Sundays and public holidays. However, many more beautiful beaches exist just minutes away to the north. One of the most spectacular sights on the island is the sunset viewed from Senggigi Beach, with the bright orange sun sinking into the sea to the west and Bali’s
Gunung Agung volcano silhouetted on the horizon like a giant pyramid floating in the ocean. Senggigi Reef, off the southern point, has good coral for snorkelling and, in the right conditions, some decent surf breaks. Canoes can be hired from the beach on the weekends and during peak tourism times. Local outrigger boats (prahu) can be chartered from the beachfront for trips along the coast or out to the Gili Islands. The main road in Senggigi is lined with small attractive hotels catering to all budgets, shops, tour agencies, restaurants, bars and nightclubs; many of which have live music in the evenings. There are a couple of supermarkets, numerous ATM’s and moneychangers, a post office and all the normal tourist facilities. Senggigi is a relaxing and attractive place to stay, with a good range of luxury hotels and resorts, as well as mid-range and budget accommodations. Tourism development runs north along the coastal road for about 10 km, with many hotels and restaurants positioned along the beautiful beaches that line the entire west coast. About 2 km north of central Senggigi Kerandangan Valley has a popular beach
Tourism Information nearby and some small boutique hotels, such as Puri Mas Spa Resort and Villa Campi Sorga, situated in a pretty valley. Dream Estate Park comprises private villa accommodation for owners and investors, and has villas available for short and long term rental in a secure, well-managed estate. At the end of the road through Kerandangan Valley is the Taman Wisata Alam – Kerandangan Nature Reserve – with clearly marked hiking paths leading through the rain forest along the river. There is a small Ranger’s hut and visitors centre near the entrance, and picnic areas with basic concrete tables along the paths. The park boasts a small waterfall, pretty river scenery, families of local monkeys, and a variety of tropical plants and birdlife. Further north, Mangsit has developed as an accommodation alternative to Senggigi, with boutique style hotels positioned along the breathtaking beaches of this section of coast. The popular Qunci Villas, Puri Mas Beach Resort, Windy Beach Resort and Holiday Resort Lombok are located in Mangsit. Furthest north are Klui and Lendang Luar, with two hotels – Jeeva Klui and Hotel Bulan Baru – and long stretches of pristine beaches. Mainly deserted white sand beaches, flanked by coconut groves and untouched by hotel development, continue all the way north along the main coastal road. Malimbu and Nipah are two picturesque bays less than half an hour from Senggigi, which are good for snorkelling, swimming and getting away from it all. Teluk Nara and Teluk Kodek are on a large bay that forms a natural harbour, about 25 kms north of Senggigi. All the main dive operators have boats here, which transfer guests to the Gili islands, as an alternative to nearby Bangsal Harbour. Bangsal Harbour, less than 5km further north, is reached by turning left at the crossroads in Pemenang and from there it is easy to catch the public ferries (actually large outrigger boats) out to the Gilis, or to charter boats for island hopping. Whether you are seeking luxury accommodation at a top resort with fine dining and spa facilities, or a budget holiday with days spent exploring – or all the choices in between – Senggigi caters for all tastes and budgets. From Senggigi, it’s easy to explore the attractions of the stunning south coast or to hop on a boat to the famous Gili islands lying just offshore. Swim, snorkel, dive, hike, lie in the sun, have a massage, eat and drink at some of the great restaurants and bars in town; or just take a break and be enchanted by the peace and beauty of Lombok.
Senggigi
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BEACH CHILL OUT - AMAZING SUNSETS BEACHFRONT DINING - DJ FROM 5 - 10PM
HAPPY HOUR EVERY DAY 4 – 6pm 20% OFF Cocktails, Beers and House Wine
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SEAFOOD BARBEQUE
EVERY SATURDAY NIGHT Rp 175,000++
VERVE POOL PARTY
EVERY SUNDAY FROM 4PM - BRING YOUR BATHERS! Jl Raya Mangsit Ph: 0877 6588 8703
www.vervebeachclublombok.com
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Senggigi Map
Senggigi
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Senggigi
Senggigi
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Puri Bunga Beach Cottages
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* tax and service charge and high season surcharges may apply
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Jalan Raya Senggigi, Senggigi, Lombok, Indonesia, Ph: +62 (0) 370 693013 Fax: +62 (0) 370 693286 | info@puribungalombok.com | www.puribungalombok.com
What’s Hot / Local News
18 The Lombok government has confirmed that the annual Bau Nyale Festival will be held on 16 17 February, 2017. The Bau Nyale Festival is one of Lombok’s most popular festivals and focuses on the centuries old tradition of catching the nyale (a type of sea worm that only surfaces once a year). The festivities are based at Seger Beach, near Kuta and will feature events such as a huge cultural parade, Peresean competition (traditional stick fighting), a beach clean-up, surfing, beach volleyball competitions, selfie competition, kampung culinary fair, the Mandalika beauty pageant and live music.
Also at The Cowshed, don’t miss the Saturday Night Showdown on 4 February!
Lombok International Airport and around 30 minutes west of Kuta - Aura Lounge & Bar is a stylish hang-out with stunning views over Selong Belanak Beach. Guests can spend the day swimming and lazing by the infinity pool and then enjoy a BBQ on the lawn while the resident DJ plays relaxing tunes.
If you plan to attend the festival, allow plenty of time to reach Seger Beach as tens of thousands of people crowded onto the beach last year.
‘Sunday BBQ and Vibes’ is available every Sunday 11am to 8pm. Get there for the BBQ from 12 – 4pm and order up Tapas Plates from 5 – 7pm. Entry is Rp 350,000++ inclusive! See advert on page 65.
Although it’s possible to head to the south coast from anywhere on Lombok for the festival, it’s best to stay in Kuta at least overnight to make the most of all the fun!
The Cowshed goes mobile! Our favourite steak house and watering hole in Batu Bolong has just put their new cow car on the road.
Looking for the perfect way to spend a Sunday? Make your way down to magnificent Aura Lounge & Bar at Selong Selo and laze the day away with their ‘Sunday BBQ and Vibes’.
No wheels? No problem! Just call 693 909 and the car will come and pick you up from your hotel in Senggigi, free of charge!
Perched high on the hills of Jabon above Selong Belanak – just 25 minutes from
Held on the first Saturday of the month, the Showdown is a fun night of competitions and games including Chase the Ace, Toss the Boss and Darts Competitions… plus the famous Cowshed Spit Roast! See advert on page 15. This month’s Cellar Party is on Friday, 3 February! The Cellar Party is held at Square Restaurant in Senggigi on the first Friday of every month and features three and a half hours of free-flow imported red and white wines, together with a delicious buffet including sushi, tapas, pasta, roast meats, salads and desserts. The Cellar Party starts at 7pm and costs just Rp 450,000 per person (inclusive) for a night of wining and dining. Or you can choose the ‘buffet only’ option for just Rp 200,000 nett per person... excellent value for a delicious meal and a great night out at one of Senggigi’s best dining venues! See advert on page 3.
LOMBOK’S NEW PUBLIC BUS SERVICE Koridor III (shuttle service) from the roundabout at ex-Selaparang Airport along Jalan Udayana - Jalan Airlangga to Jalan Gajah Mada, terminating at the roundabout at Lingkar Selatan.
Lombok now has its first public bus transport system – “Metro Trans Mataram”.
A total of 25 buses are now in service, operated by Damri Corporation (which already provides airport shuttle bus services in Lombok). The comfortable, bright blue, air conditioned buses carry around 50 passengers and currently operate four routes around the cities. Service starts at 6.00am until 3.40pm, with fares costing just Rp 4,000 one way. The four routes are as follows: Koridor I (shuttle service) from Jalan Yos Yudarso (the crossroads at Ampenan) - Jalan Langko - Jalan Pejanggik (Governor’s Office) - Jalan Selaparang - Jalan Teguh Faisal - Jalan Brawijaya - Jalan AA Gede Ngurah - Jalan Panca Usaha - Jalan Catur Warga - Jalan
Pendidikan - Jalan Majapahit - Jalan Yos Sudarso. Koridor II (loop route) from Mandalika Terminal in Sweta - North Rim to SayangSayang - Jalan Adi Sucipto - Kebon Roek Markets - Jalan Energi –J alan Arya Banjar Getas - Jalan Dr Sujono Jalan TGH M Rais - Jalan TGH Ali Batu –J alan TGH Saleh Hambali - Jalan TGH Faisal returning to Mandalika Terminal.
Koridor IV (shuttle service) from the Art Market at Sayang-Sayang along Jalan Jenderal Soedirman – Monjok - Jalan Bung Hatta - Jalan Bung Karno to Pagutan terminating at the roundabout in Karang Genteng. The government has so far built a total of 36 bus stops throughout the cities and hopes that the new bus system will encourage people to use public transport rather than their own vehicles. Plans are in place to extend another route between Ampenan and Senggigi in the coming year.
Senggigi
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Senggigi
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w w w. l o t u s - r e s t a u r a n t s . c o m
Specialising in delicious and authentic meals... real Italian food from our real Italian chef!
FREE Transport and delivery service in Senggigi area
On the beachfront, Senggigi Art Market Ph: +62 (0) 370 693 758 | Fax: +62 (0) 370 693 375
Senggigi
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1 HOUR MASSAGE ONLY Rp 70,000 NET
Complete Spa Services at Local Prices!
ORCHID PACKAGE 1
Massage, Body Scrub, Body Mask Rp 175,000 net / 2 hours
ORCHID PACKAGE 2
Massage, Body Scrub, Body Mask, Manicure, Pedicure, Nail Polish Rp 250,000 net / 3 hours
Phone: 0819 1593 2899 0819 0753 1704
THREE CONVENIENT LOCATIONS IN SENGGIGI Senggigi Beach Road 10am - 10pm
Next to Santosa Resort 10am - Midnight
Galeria Shops 10am - 10pm
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Chinese New Year on Lombok... Celebrating Diversity!
Special Feature give Ang Pau the dancers, so you will often see people placing the red envelopes into the mouth of the lion or dragon during the parades. Lighting firecrackers also signifies a joyous occasion, as well as symbolically driving away bad spirits, and has become an integral aspect of Chinese New Year celebrations. An interesting place to visit is Po Hwa Kong Temple, on Jalan Yos Sudarso 180 in Ampenan (the road leading down to the old port).
Continued from Page 10 Many local hotels and restaurants celebrate the Lunar New Year by hosting Chinese New Year dinners and adding special Chinese dishes to their menus; some entertain guests with lion dances and traditional entertainment.
distributed during Imlek. These packets contain money in certain numbers that reflect good luck and honour. The number 4 is considered bad luck and the number 8 is considered lucky.
Chinese New Year celebrations include visits to family, relatives and friends and sharing a special feast together, similar to celebrations in the west. New clothing is usually worn to signify a new year and the colour red is liberally used in all decorations.
The people of China have a long held belief that they are descendants of the dragon; a tradition that is firmly embedded in their culture and one that is encountered across all aspects of Chinese society and in the minds of its people. The dragon is held in high esteem for its dignity and power for good.
On the days before the New Year celebration, Chinese families give their home a thorough ‘spring clean’. It is believed that the cleaning sweeps away the bad luck of the preceding year and makes their homes ready for good luck. The biggest event of any Chinese New Year’s Eve is the dinner every family will host. A reunion dinner is held on New Year’s Eve where members of the family, near and far, get together for the celebration. Red packets, called Ang Pau, are traditionally
Built in 1806, this is an important temple for Chinese Indonesians living in Lombok and many come to worship here on the Lunar New Year.
The most vibrant and spectacular way of expressing fondness for the dragon is the Dragon Dance or the Lion Dance (locally known as Barongsai). This has evolved from what was once a ritual rain dance into a popular entertainment performed during the period from Spring Festival until the Lantern Festival. It is believed that the loud beats of the drum and the deafening sounds of the cymbals, together with the dragon dancing aggressively, can drive away bad or evil spirits. Some families and businesses may invite a dragon dance troupe to perform, as a symbolic ritual to usher in the Lunar New Year as well as to rid the premises of bad spirits. It is considered lucky to
On the evening before Imlek (27 January), the temple is cleaned and decorated in preparation for the New Year. The Lion Dance is usually performed in the evening and Ang Pau envelopes are distributed outside the temple to the elderly and the poor from the local communities. Visit the temple during the 15 days from New Year to the Lantern Festival and see people making offerings amongst the vibrant red and gold decorations, beautiful statues of dragons and gods, and clouds of sweet smelling incense. Entrance is by donation.
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Puri Mas Luxury Spa Kerandangan
Full and Half Day Spa Revitalising Hydrotherapy Pool Ultimate Spa Treatments from Babor Facials for all Skin Types
Pamper yourself and your loved one this festive season... Gift vouchers available
Delicious Body Rituals Body Scrubs, Wraps & Peelings Massages Aromatherapy, Shiatsu, Accupressure and Hot Stone Reflexology Manicure & Pedicure Gel Nails Pretty Feet and Hand Pampering Open 8am to 10pm Daily Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Menu
We use only the famous international Babor Brand of Body & Facial Products
Conde Nast Johansens Voted “Best Couples Spa” 2015
Dine in our Javanese Pavilions
Enjoy authentic Indonesian feasts in our traditional Javanese Pavilions an unforgetable experience in an intimate setting with Personalised Butler Service
SPA OR RESTAURANT RESERVATIONS: (0370) 693 831 | Email: info@purimas-lombok.com FREE PICK UP AND DROP OFF IN THE SENGGIGI MANGSIT AREAS
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Puri Mas Boutique Resorts & Spa Beach Resort - Mangsit
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
The Ballroom Restaurant is Ranked #1 out of 55 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! Show starts 8pm
Thursday Night is Cultural Night! A great opportunity to enjoy dinner while watching authentic traditional entertainment from Lombok Show opens with the famous Gendang Beleq Big Drums of Lombok, Peresean “Stick Fighting” from Central Lombok, Sasak Wedding Dance and Baris Dance from Bali – Lombok style! Show starts 8pm
JUST 5 MINS FROM SENGGIGI - FREE TRANSFER SERVICE RESERVATIONS CALL: 0370 693 831 / Email: fb@purimas-lombok.com
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CAFE ALBERTO
ITALIAN & INDONESIAN BEACHFRONT RESTAURANT Delicious Fresh Seafood, Authentic Italian Dishes, Oriental Food, Barbecue on the Beach Wood Oven Pizza, Homemade Pasta and Italian Bread
Jl. Raya Batu Bolong, Senggigi | Phone: 0370 693039 / 693313 | info@cafealberto.com
www.cafealberto.com
Live Music! Great Food! Good Times! 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
Anna’s
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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 Papa Besar Cafe) | P: 0817 5730 012 | E: annasgiftshoplombok@gmail.com
CAFE LOMBI ~ COFFEE SHOP In House Roasted Coffee Beans or Ground to order Kopi Luwak Coffee Machines (Sell, Rent & Repair) Coffee Business Solutions Show roasting Single Origin Specialty Grade Arabica Beans Sandwiches Pastries & Cakes TELP. 0370 692085 / 0818 365 790 www.CafeLombi.com
Wild Kopi Luwak
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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
RECLAIMED HARDWOOD DECKING AND FLOORING SPECIALIST
Reclaimed Kalimantan hardwoods for home and commercial builders in Indonesia & internationally. Forest-friendly wood supplies and homewares
WWW.KALTIMBER.COM +62 361 975 219 / +62 878 6020 4246
Jalan Raya Sakah 22x Batuan, Sukawati, Bali 80582
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20 to 25 JANUARY KARYANA Drawing classes with talented Lombok painter, Karyana 11am - 1pm daily
16 JANUARY – 4 FEBRUARY POTTERY CLASS 11am - 1pm daily
5 – 12 FEBRUARY LOMBOK TEXTILE WEAVING CLASS 11am - 1pm daily
10 FEBRUARY COOKING CLASS
11 FEBRUARY COLLABORATION DINNER
Hosted by Masterchef Indonesia judge, Matteo 5pm sharp
With Masterchef Indonesia judges & Resident Chef Gianluca 7pm sharp at Quah Restaurant
12 FEBRUARY TALIWANG COMPETITION 2nd Annual Taliwang Competition with the judges of Masterchef Indonesia, Jed from FOODIE Magazine and Resident Chef Gianluca Starts at 10am sharp Followed by Qunci Sparkling Brunch starting 12 noon
13 – 21 FEBRUARY TRADITIONAL SASAK DANCE CLASS Come and learn traditional dance! 2-4pm daily
22 – 28 FEBRUARY LOMBOK TEXTILE EHIBITION & FASHION SHOW By talented Lombok designer Epoel Daeng Hasanung Fashion Show on the beach deck @ Quali Retaurant 27 February, 7 - 9pm
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[ Celebrating Romance and Love of Food and the Arts ]
Love
Month of
[ Limited places for all events Bookings essential ] Ph: 0370 693 800 E: love@quncivillas.com | www.quncivillas.com
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Senggigi
Local News
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2017 INDONESIAN PUBLIC HOLIDAYS
The Indonesian government has announce the official public holidays for 2017. In total, there will be 15 national holidays and four Cuti Bersama (shared holidays). Of the 15 national holidays, three fall on weekends: Chinese New Year falls on a Saturday, while New Year’s Day and the first day of Hari Raya Idul Fitri fall on Sundays. The longest break will be for Hari Raya Idul Fitri which will see Indonesians enjoying a six day break at the end of the fasting month, from Friday 23 June. This year, President Joko Widodo decreed that Pancasila Day (1 June) will be a national holiday from 2017, celebrating the principles of the Indonesian Constitution.
Holiday
Date
Sunday 1 January
New Years Day
Monday 2 January
Shared Public Holiday (New Years Day)
Saturday 28 January
Imlek / Chinese New Year
Tuesday 28 March
Nyepi / Bali Hindu New Year
Friday 14 April
Good Friday
Monday 24 April
Isra Miraj / Ascension of Prophet Muhammad
Monday 1 May
May Day / International Labour Day
Thursday 11 May
Waisak Day / Buddha’s Birthday
Thursday 25 May
Ascension Day of Jesus Christ
Thursday 1 June
Pancasila Day / Constitution Day
Sunday 25 June
Hari Raya Idul Fitri / Lebaran
Monday 26 June
Hari Raya Idul Fitri / Lebaran
Tue 27 June
Shared Public Holiday (Lebaran)
Wednesday 28 June
Shared Public Holiday (Lebaran)
Thursday 29 June
Shared Public Holiday (Lebaran)
Friday 30 June
Shared Public Holiday (Lebaran)
Thursday 17 August
Hari Raya Merdeka / Indonesian Independence Day
Friday 1 September
Idul Adha / Feast of Sacrifice
Thursday 21 September
Muharram / Islamic New Year
Friday 1 December
Maulid / Birthday of Prophet Muhammad
Monday 25 December
Christmas Day
Tuesday 26 December
Boxing Day / Shared Public Holiday
HILLTOP VILLA - FOR SALE balconies with to east and west. 2 bedrooms with a/c, h/w, separate bath shower and w/c.
8m x 6m pool with swim-up pool bar, plunge pool and waterfall. Kitchen and covered garage adjoining. Store room and pump room. Fabulous entertaining area surrounding pool. Koi fish pond and established gardens with natural stone landscaping. Residence 3500w, external buildings 2200w electricity. Internet & WiFi, Satellite TV's & telephone. Private / shared 40m3 water supply & pump station. Jl Jasmine, Green Valley, Sengiggi. Two storey villa on 6 are (600m2) with fantastic views to Ampenan, Batu Bolong, Sengiggi and ocean views to Bali. Ground floor: 54m2 Master Bedroom with en-suite, h/w, a/c. Openplan living and dining with fully-fitted kitchen, all Modena appliances, imported Egyptian red granite bench tops and breakfast bar. Sewing / utility room, laundry area, pantry and guest w/c. Entry alcove and terrace off kitchen/ living area. First floor: 73m2. Exposed timber ceilings, open-plan living with large
First class materials, fittings and fixtures throughout. Freehold title (Hak Milik) - all documents 100% complete. Price includes furniture.
USD 465,OOO
Enquiries / Inspection ph: 0813 3841 7839 | 0370 6197385 | email: itasriwd@yahoo.com
Pasar Classifieds
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PASAR CLASSIFIEDS
LAND FOR SALE
Great Views out over Kuta Bay Formed road access to site of 60 are (6,000sqm) Hak Milik Certificate (Freehold). Drive to Kuta town or beach in less than 3 minutes.
EMPLOYMENT
PONDOK SANTI ESTATE RESORT & SANTI LOUNGE RESTAURANT AND BAR is expanding and looking for experienced staff in the hospitality industry looking for a new exciting challenge!
Price: Rp 29 million / are
You will be working with a great team in one of the most exclusive properties in the Gili Islands.
Ph: 081 7667 3983
We are looking for people who are hard working, motivated, team players and service minded.
KUTA
ENGINEER, COOK, SECURITY, BARTENDER
LAND ON BYPASS ROAD: Perfect for Development
Must speak basic English and have a minimum of 2 years experience
Ocean views. 3 mins to Kuta Beach Over 37 are (3700sqm +) Certificated Hak Milik (Freehold)
Must have minimum 1 year experience
Price: Rp 39 million per are
Best priced land in the heart of Kuta
LAUNDRY ATTENDANT
CRUISE DIRECTOR / SNORKEL GUIDE Must speak English and have expereince in leading snorkeling tours in the Gili Islands.
Phone 0821 4587 5594
Please send all applications to reservations@pondoksanti.com
LOMBOK FREEHOLD COMMERCIAL OPPORTUNITY
SOUTH LOMBOK (FREEHOLD) LAND SALE BY OWNER
Situated in the heart of Kuta on major Commercial Road stand two seriously constructed Western buildings, approx. 450 sqm over four levels, giving sea views with beautifully presented gardens on approx. 7.5 are or 750sqm freehold land. Currently used as private accommodation and offices, this site can easily be transformed into a 5 star boutique hotel, restaurant, spa.... The options are limited to your imagination... you decide! Truly needs to be viewed to be appreciated. Just 200 metres walk to the beach.
Listed at below cost to replace today Rp 5.4 billion / USD 395,000 Please contact the owner direct on Phone 081 7667 3983
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 18 million/are
Phone: 0821 4746 4945
GILI ASAHAN BEACHFRONT LAND FOR SALE Stunning 2,800m² freehold plot on the southern Gilis, with 55 metre 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) Price: IDR 44 million/are
Phone: 0821 4746 4945
SOLAR WATER HEATER LOMBOK CERTIFIED LAND FOR SALE Distributor of LUMINOUS, battery back-up and solar-power systems INTI SOLAR, solar water heaters All installations by our own service-team. Spare parts directly available. Please call or send an email for a free quotation: 0878 6494 2137 / 0813 3721 9666 info@solar-waterheater-lombok.com
8,200sqm (82 are) Lobster Bay, Bumbang - southern Lombok Stunning ocean views. Drive-on access Close to surf breaks Rp 19 million per are
Call 0821 4587 5594
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HOUSE FOR SALE INVESTMENT – RENTAL INCOME – HOME
Located in secure and elite Graha Permata Kota Complex in Selagalas, next to Harapan Keluarga Hospital. Land size: 105m2. 2 Bedrooms, 1 bathroom, kitchen, laundry, carport, water and electricity. Certificate HGB (Hak Guna Bangun). 10 minutes to Mataram. 20 Minutes to Senggigi
PT. ANANTA GUNA LESTARI OUR SERVICES: Pest Control | Rodent Control Termite Control | Fumigation Employee Recruitment (Out Sourcing) Cleaning Service (On Call) Gardener | Pool Maintenance
www.anantagl.com
PRICED FOR QUICK SALE! Rp 400 million Please call 0818 0363 8577
APAPUN KENDARAAN YANG ANDA NAIKI DAN DIMANAPUN ANDA BERADA
Jalan Pariwisata No. 101 Sandik, Lombok Barat P/F: 0370 7507546 | M: 081 803 636 609 / 081 236 935 382 Email: anantagl@yahoo.co.id
Nyoman Transport
Safe and professional Englishspeaking 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!
JANGAN BUANG SAMPAH KE JALAN
Phones: 0819 1701 3714 / 0821 4458 7910 Email: nyoman.translombok@yahoo.com
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[ Yo u r K e y to an I d yllic Lombok ]
Lombok’s Boutique Hotel [ The Lonely Planet: “Best Place to Stay in Lombok” ] [ Cosmopolitan: “Lombok’s Hidden Beauty” ] [ Guide du Routard: “Le Reve!” ] Jl. Raya Mangsit, Senggigi, Lombok | Phone: +62 370 693 800 Email: stay@quncivillas.com | Website: www.quncivillas.com
Distribution
39
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. AIRPORT: Lombok Baru Taxi, Kotama Taxi, Golden Bird Travel, Trec, BLT Travel and every counters outside International Lombok Airport. MATARAM: Autore, Lombok Epicentrum Mall (Ace Hardware, Burger King, Bread Talk, Cinema XXI, Excelso, Food Centrum, Front Desk, Hypermart, Informa, J.Co, Joli Sourire, KFC, Maxx Coffee, Mokko Factory, Omah Cobek, Paris Castle, Pizza Pazza, Quali, Simple Pleasure, Solaria, The Vinette, XO Suki), Mataram Mall (Delicio Café, Gili Cafe, KFC, McDonalds, Mokko Factory, Oceanic Café), Toko Susana. KUTA: Bombora Bungalows, Discovery Coffee House, Kuta Bay Homestay, Kuta Heights, Kuta Indah Hotel, Mimpi Manis Homestay, Novotel, Puri Rinjani, Sekar Kunning / Yellow Flower, The Chili Cafe, Warung Bule. SENGGIGI: Anna’s Giftshop, Aruna Senggigi Hotel, Asmara Restaurant, Café Alberto, Cafe Lombi, De Quake, Dive Zone, Gilda Farma, Globe Bar, Island Properties Lombok, Katamaran Resort, Kebun Villas, La Chill Bar, Living Asia, Lombok Property and Villas, Lotus Bayview Restaurant, Orchid Spa, Puri Bunga Cottages, Puri Mas Boutique Hotel, Qunci Villas, Senggigi Jaya Abadi Supermarket, Scuba Froggy, Sheraton, Spice Lounge & Bar, Square Restaurant, Temptations, The Chandi, The Cowshed, The Office, Verve Beach Club, Ye Jeon Restaurant. GILI T: Blue Marlin Dive, Desa Dunia Beda, Gili Getaway, Kayu Cafe, ko-ko-mo Resort, Le Resto, Oceano Resort, Malibu Beach Club, Manta Dive, Martas Bungalows, Scallywags, The Beach House, The Trawangan. GILI AIR: Scallywags, The Beach Club. SOUTH LOMBOK: ko-ko-mo Gili Gede, Novotel Resort, Sempiak Villas BALI: 707 Beachberm, Air Bali, Asia Collection Tour, Asian Trails Tour, Bale Bali Restaurant, Bali Deli, Bali Medical Clinic, Bakfickan Bar & Rest, Batu Jimbar Resturant, Bebek Bengil Kuta, BIMC, Black Canyon Seminyak Square, Blue Café, Blue Water Express, Bounty Cruises, Bow Restaurant, Bungalow Café, Cafe Bali, Café Canggu, Café Marzano, Cafe Moka, Café Smorgas, Canggu Club, Canggu Station, Captain Cook Rest, Chez Gado-Gado, Club Havana, Cocoon Spa, Corner House Restaurant, Corner Store, Dijon, Eco Beach Rest, Exotissimo Travel Indonesia, Finn’s Beach Club, Firestation Restaurant, Gardenia Cafe & Bar, Gili GIli, Gili Shop Poppies 1, Gloria Jeans Coffee 1, Go Vacation Tour, Golden Kris Tour, Gourmet Cafe, Grain Bar, Grocer & Grind, Gypsy Restaurant, Habitual Queench Feed, Happy Chappy Canggu, Hog Wild Restaurant, Istana Kuta Galeria, Jalapeno Rest Sanur, Jones Lang Lasalle, Junction Bar & Rest, Kantor The Yak, Keraton Hotel, L’Assiette Restaurant, La Laguna Restaurant, Lila Pantai Sanur, Loop Rest, Living Stone Bakery, Mamas Rest, Mamasan Restaurant, Massimo Ittalian Restaurant, Meno Mojo, Metis Restaurant, Milk & Madu Restaurant, Monsieur Spoon Canggu, Monsieur Spoon Laksmana, Monsieur Spoon Rest, Motel Mexicola, Manikepis Restaurant, Nero Rest, Noemah by Lonny, Nude Nasty Fasion, Ocha Warung, Old Mans Rest & Bar, On On Bar, Pacific World, Pacto Tour, Pantarei Restaurant, PT Dimatique International, Reborn Salon, Red Carpet, Rutica Cucina Italiana, Samudra Bar, Sanur Beach Grove, Serba Antik, Soho Restaurant, SOS, Soul In Bowl, Souq Restaurant, Sprout Restaurant, Starbucks Coffee Kuta, Starbucks Discovery Mall, Stiff Chilli, Strawberry Fields, Taco Casa Restaurant, The Plumbers Arms, Tourist Information, The Savage Kitchen, Trattoria Cucina Italiana, Two Fish Drivers, Vila Lumbung, Warung Bonita, Warung Sulawesi, 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 © 2007 – 2017. 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. Tired after a day of mischief
Special Feature
40
PAINTED ARMCHAIRS… The Chinese Cemetery
Most visitors travelling to Senggigi will notice the large Chinese cemetery on the left side of the road a couple of kilometres north of Ampenan.
Kuburan Cina Bintaro (Bintaro Chinese Cemetery) spreads over a vast area and is filled with huge rounded and mounded Chinese graves, many of which are beautifully decorated and painted in bright colours. Cremation is not common among the Chinese and the burial of the dead is a matter taken very seriously in Chinese society. Funeral arrangements can either bring good fortune, or wreak bad luck and disaster on the family of the deceased if incorrectly carried out. Chinese funerals traditionally follow a prescribed form with rites befitting a person’s age, status, etc., and must be performed correctly, even if this means the family of the deceased must go into debt. Family members consult the Chinese Almanac to determine the best date to hold the funeral ceremony, and funeral homes and local temples help the family prepare the body and coordinate the funeral rites. Preparation for a funeral often begins before a death has occurred and a coffin
will already have been ordered by the family of a person close to death. A traditional Chinese coffin is rectangular with three ‘humps’, although in modern times it is becoming common for a western style coffin to be used. Like much in traditional Chinese life, burials require a balance between yin and yang elements. In Chinese culture, houses for the living are known as yang houses; whereas those for the dead, or graves, are known as yin houses. Yin houses for the deceased reflect the same qualities desired in yang houses – elegant, elaborate and beautifully decorated houses are considered pleasing to both living and dead.
Traditionally, the Chinese have regarded the form of an armchair as the ideal shape for a grave. An armchair gives a sense of wealth, comfort and dignity. In historic times, only the elite or ruling class could afford armchairs. Moreover, armchairs symbolise authority and power, as the armchair was traditionally the seat for the magistrate when he presided in court in the olden days. By creating a grave in the shape of an armchair, people believed that their ancestors could enjoy comfort, dignity, and pride in the yin world and, therefore, the interaction between the yin and the yang would be harmonious and beneficial. For some, there is also the hope that the deceased may inherit the power symbolised by the armchair in the afterlife, thus enabling them to bestow further good luck on the living from their elevated status in the otherworld. The history of building graves in the armchair shape can be traced back to the Northern Song Dynasty, from 960-1127 AD, and has been the preferred shape for Chinese graves until present time. Hence, many of the graves in the Ampenan Chinese Cemetery are shaped like large, round armchairs with mounded centres and a curved edge representing the padded back and arms of the chair. However, these armchair graves tend to be
Special Feature
41 representations of cars, televisions, clothes, statues and other possessions are burnt at the gravesite… symbolically sending these goods to the deceased to provide comforts in the afterlife. The Chinese cemetery is still used today and visitors may have the opportunity to see a Chinese burial taking place. Mourners in white robes and peaked conical hats kneel and pray close to the gravesite, while family members pray alongside the coffin. Paper money and figurines are burnt and clouds of incense scent the air.
very large, are expensive to build and take up considerable space. Bintaro Cemetery is almost full now and it is likely that a new cemetery will be constructed in the next few years.
In China and Hong Kong, where space is limited and land must be paid for, such armchair graves become prohibitively expensive and many people now opt for cremation and columbaria (vaults with niches in which the cremated remains are stored). Not all of the graves follow the armchair shape. Some are large square or rectangular shrines with extravagant headstones, and quite a few are Christian
graves, decorated with crosses and beautifully carved religious scenes. The older graves tend to be smaller and simpler and it is interesting to see that, as society has become more affluent, so the graves have become more elaborate. Some of thenewer graves inthe Chinese cemetery copy modern Hong Kong designs, with a moulded concrete porch-shaped framework in which a tablet of polished granite or other stone is set. The tablet on thegrave usually gives the name of the person buried there, as well as the dates of birth and death. As you wander around the cemetery, you will see many examples of fine stonework and craftsmanship, with elaborate scenes and designs carved into the polished stone. Many of the graves have richly painted depictions of elegant scenes, goods and riches, or carefully sculptured statues of friends and attendants surrounding the grave. This follows the belief that, just as the living require money and material objects, friends and helpers, so do the dead. For this reason, paper money and modelled
The cemetery will be filled with large boards decorated with floral arrangements and words of sympathy for the family or poetry for the deceased. If you want to witness the ceremony, no one will object… simply show the same respect as you would at any funeral and do not intrude upon the mourners or the family beside the coffin. The cemetery is also a poignant reminder of all the early Chinese settlers and citizens who died in the Communist purge under Suharto rule in 1965. In a backlash against perceived “communist plots”, violence swept across Indonesia with the Chinese the target for brutal organised attacks. In Lombok alone, an estimated 50,000 Chinese people were slain and many more were tortured and imprisoned.
The dates on some of the graves bear testimony to this shameful period of Indonesian history and the Chinese who suffered. The cemetery is a peaceful and interesting place to visit, wandering amongst the gently curved mounds, taking in the elaborate artwork and decoration on the graves, and gaining an insight into the fascinating Chinese culture.
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Senggigi
Senggigi
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Local News
44
times are every hour for shuttle buses to Sweta Bus Terminal (near the city of Mataram) and every 1 and 1/2 hours to Senggigi, from 3am until 8pm. However, you may find yourself on a bus that combines both routes, stopping first near Mataram and then continuing on to Senggigi.
It’s good to see efforts being made to create a better atmosphere at Lombok International Airport, although the airport authority still has a long way to go to present a truly ‘international’ image, particularly in controlling the mess of annoying touts and tour operators waiting just outside the main doors. However, the arrivals area is looking more organised and we are pleased to see the introduction of a designated area for DAMRI, the bus transport system at the airport. The new DAMRI counter is located around the corner from the arrivals doors, just past the airport taxi counters (opposite the new Maxx Coffee outlet). The DAMRI counter is manned with an information officer who issues tickets for the bus service. Prices are clearly
shown on sign boards at the counter. DAMRI operate the airport shuttle services using 40 seat, air conditioned Mercedes buses and have a regular schedule of departures every day to coincide with airline schedules. Three airport shuttle services are available – one to and from central Senggigi (‘Senggigi – Airport’) another between Mandalika Terminal in Sweta (‘City – Airport’) and one to and from Selong in East Lombok (‘Selong – Airport’). Officially, the scheduled departure
The helpful drivers tend to stop at other popular points along the route, including dropping off passengers at the roundabout in Gerung (useful if you are heading to Sekotong or Lembar), several points near the city, and outside the old Selaparang Airport on the way to Ampenan (where taxis also await the arrival of the buses). The trip terminates opposite the Galleria shops on the main street in Senggigi (just south of Asmara Restaurant). If you need to stop beforehand, let the driver know and he will usually accommodate your request. The trip to Senggigi takes around 90 minutes and costs just Rp 35,000 per person. At the shuttle stop in Senggigi, flag down a metered Blue Bird taxi to take you to your hotel or villa.
Children from SD1 primary school in Kuta received a special visit from teachers of the Slovenian dance group, ‘KD Qulenium’, on 6 January. Teachers Katja Kušar, Ana Romih and Urska Medved visited the school and gave the children of Year 4 a lesson in modern dance. The children were taught to explore orientation space, voice, colours and movement to encourage them to develop their imagination and creativity, and to express themselves through their bodies. The enthusiastic kids had plenty of fun ‘becoming’ many things such as mountains, monsters, motorbikes, wind, trees, etc! At the end of the class each group presented their dance for the rest of the children and teachers. All three teachers studied dance at University in Netherlands or Austria and currently teach children’s dance in Slovenia. Urska had just arrived in Lombok from India, where she has been doing voluntary work with primary schools there.
©2017. Contributed by Gemma from www.mimpimanis.com
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discover nature’s greatest gift
Pearl Farm Tours Pearl and Jewellery Showroom Private viewings welcome
Showroom Open Daily
PT Autore Pearl Culture, Teluk Nara, Malaka, Lombok Phone: +62 8133 992 0015 / +62 8133 992 0020 | Email: pearlfarm@pearlautore.com.au
www.pearlautore.com.au
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Senggigi
Senggigi
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Land & Property
48
LAND & PROPERTY SECTION Advertise your home, villa and land in our “Land & Property� Section - your Guide to investment in Lombok! We offer the most economical and effective way to market your property with 4,000 copies of The Lombok Guide distributed every two weeks throughout Lombok, the Gilis and Bali PLUS reach thousands of readers around the world through our website and our online digital paper!
FOR SALE FOR LEASE
Email us now to find out how easy it is to market your property! kitadesign@hotmail.com
FOR RENT
FOR SALE - GILI TRAWANGAN
Boutique villa / hotel on the south side of Gili Trawangan - close to all the action but far enough away for peace and relaxation. The land size is 9720m2 with 65m of white sand beachfront facing Mt Rinjani on Lombok. The existing buildings can be taken over and run as a hotel or developed as a beach club.
Contact +62 (0) 821 94148157 or +62 (0) 878 2182 6658
Land & Property
49
Land & Property
50 .
6 BEACHSIDE VILLAS FOR SALE IN SETANGI SPECIAL OFFER!
PRICES START FROM USD 245,000
6 Beachside Villas Setangi 1 - 874 m2 2 - 514 m2 3 - 638 m2 4 - SOLD 5 - 478 m2 6 - 502 m2
VILLA FOR SALE in SENGGIGI SECLUDED villa with pool. Built on 659m2 land with 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms plus guest house, open plan living / kitchen area, maid room, storage room, tropical garden, 5 mins. walk to the beach. Price EUR 250.000
LAND BLOCK IN KERANDANGAN 1.9 H. (19,580m2). Lush location, excellent road access, mostly flat with elevated area to the rear, walk distance to the beach, 5 mins. to Senggigi, electricity available, ideal for resort or land bank portfolio. Price IDR 100 million / are (100m2)
GET SPECIAL DISCOUNT PRICE FOR SHOW-VILLA NUMBER 5
LAND BLOCK IN SEKOTONG 2 H. (20,145m2). Ideal opportunity to build resort/hotel or land bank portfolio, stunning views, direct main road access, water & electricity available, 4 villas already built, swimming pool 29m X 15m. Price IDR. 7 billion for total block
BEACHSIDE VILLAS Just a short drive north of Senggigi, six luxurious, secured villas in a beachside development in the picturesque village of Setangi. Development is well under way and a showvilla is ready for inspection. 2 bedrooms with en-suites, entertainment area, private pool, western kitchen, 3 A/C’s, fresh water bore, building license (IMB) for PONDOK WISATA, built under western supervision. Direct from Owner - No Commission!
Jl Raya Senggigi (In front of Central Inn) | Ph: 0812 3734 0117
info@lombokpropertyandvillas.com l www.lombokpropertyandvillas.com
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Land & Property
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ISLAND PROPERTIES LOMBOK Real Estate Specialists
THE HILL – BEST BLOCK AVAILABLE! 25.86 are. Magnificent sweeping views of the bay. Asking price IDR 175 million/are
SETANGI LAND
13 are of beautiful flat land with views to Setangi Beach. 2 minutes to the beach. Close to Katamaran Resort, Qunci Villas and Sudamala Resort.
FABULOUS OPPORTUNITY TO PURCHASE... Flat land overlooking Verve Beach Club. Not expensive to develop. Great ocean views 1.569 Hectares
A must to view! Asking price IDR 150 million/are
Asking price IDR 165 million/are
JL BARONANG 19,GREEN VALLEY
JL CALIANDRA 19, GREEN VALLEY For short time rent and sale!
Very central! 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 5 minutes to the beach.
Central location, 5 minutes’ walk to the beach and to Temptations.
Second bathroom fully renovated with bath. Open plan living area and granite top kitchen bench. Asking Price IDR 400,000,000
Fabulous location 3 bedroom plus office. 2 bathrooms. Nice garden Gallery kitchen, plus storage room. Price On Application.
Phone Angela: 0819 1742 0804 / Santi (Indonesia): 0877 6660 3939 islandpropertieslombok@gmail.com | www.islandpropertieslombok.net
We can make your dreams come true!
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THE CITIES 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 from everyday items to gold and pearls. There are many pearl shops in Ampenan selling unset pearls and pearl jewellery at attractive prices. These are genuine pearls – some cheap quality from China and the more expensive ones are farmed in Lombok and Sumbawa. If you bargain the price, you can usually get a good deal. There are gold shops in both Ampenan and Cakra with 24 kt gold being sold by the gram at market price. For cheap and interesting food choices, explore the many restaurants, warung 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!
Also worth visiting is the cultural centre, Taman Budaya on Jl Majapahit. Music and dance performances are presented here regularly. Phone: 622428 for details.
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 walk with gold shops, sporting goods, clothing and fabric stores selling imported silks, laces and cottons, to name a few. There is a local market at the main intersection in Cakra; turn right at the traffic lights and look for the entrance to the market on the left. Inside is a labyrinth of stalls selling everything from baskets to fresh flowers and local foods. The next large town east of Cakra is Sweta. The Bertais bus terminal is located here for connections to the east of the island and beyond. Near the bus terminal there is a huge local market every day with all kinds of goods on sale, from foodstuffs to clothing, exotic birds, handicrafts and more. Shopping
Ampenan was the original 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 where the remnants of the port are slipping into the sea. The streets become a market at night, filled with warung and kaki lima (food carts) for cheap, tasty food and local flavour. Kebun Roek, just near the traffic lights in Ampenan on the road from the old Selaparang airport, is the site of the local markets. Every day traders set up stalls selling fresh produce from around the island, local snacks and products, live chickens and fresh fish in the afternoon when the fishing boats come in. A stroll through the markets is a pungent and enlightening experience! Mataram, about 3 km to the east of Ampenan, is the administrative centre for Lombok and Sumbawa (NTB Province), with government offices, banks, mosques, schools and colleges, bookstores, the main post office, and Mataram University downtown. In Mataram, the Nusa Tenggara Barat Museum houses historical and cultural artefacts from Lombok and Sumbawa. It’s an interesting place to visit and occasionally hosts special exhibits. Displays include exhibits on geology, history and culture. Address: Jl Panji Tilar. Ph: 632159 for opening times. There is a small admission fee.
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supermarket, and other small retailers, as well as cafes and food stores. 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.
Lombok Epicentrum Mall on Jl Sriwijaya (see cities map) was opened in October 2015 and is a large, modern shopping centre with four floors of retail outlets. The complex houses a Hypermart supermarket and a Matahari Department Store, as well as a Cinema XXI movie theatre and Timezone entertainment centre. There is a well-stocked Ace Hardware store, an Informa furniture store, and a Guardian pharmacy. Other retailers sell a wide variety of fashion, shoes, electronics, sporting goods, and much more. There are many food outlets and cafes, as well as Bread Talk, J. Co, Starbucks, Excelso, The Coffee Bean, Wendy’s and more. Lombok City Centre on Jl Raya Narmada (the main road east of Sweta) is Lombok’s newest mall and is still in the final stages of construction. However, some stores are already open for business in LCC including Matahari Department Store, Hypermart
The caretaker will meet you and give you a sash to wear in the temple. Please sign the guestbook and give a donation.
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 the middle of a large artificial lake here and an interesting temple is sheltered under huge old trees at the rear of the lake. The gardens and the adjoining Pura Jagatnatha temple complex are a peaceful place to escape the bustle of the city and well worth exploring. Taman Mayura is open every day, from 8am to 8pm; admission is Rp 5000 per person. The gardens are popular on weekends so the best time to visit is during the weekdays.
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Cities Map
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58 Southwest Lombok... a meandering coastline of pristine white sand beaches and thirteen small islands - the Southwest Gilis - floating in the sparkling turquoise waters just offshore. Unlike the famous ‘Gili Islands’ in northwest Lombok, the Southwest Gilis are largely uninhabited and have yet to be discovered by most travellers... that’s why we call them ‘The Secret Islands’!
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The Southwest Secret Islands, Pristine Beaches!
The picturesque Sekotong region starts just south of Lembar Harbour and features stunning beaches and bays set against a backdrop of rolling green hills. The drive down the southwest coast is an enjoyable 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, brickmaking and other traditional pastimes. Along the roadsides you will see people selling freshly caught fish, 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. Just out in the calm bay are the three lovely islands of Gili Nanggu, Gili Tangkong and Gili Sudat (and the tiny island of Gili Kedis) – 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. Accommodation at Taun has grown over the past few years and there are now a few small hotels and home stays on the bay such as the lovely Silver Fern Beach Retreat, Coral Palms, Villa Yukie and Krisna Bungalows. It’s easy to base yourself on the mainland and take boat trips to explore all the southwest islands from here. 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. There is also simple accommodation at
Nirvana on Gili Sudat (the island closest to Gili Genting sits just off the tip of the the mainland). peninsular and at low tide you can walk across the sandbar and explore this Back on the main road and slightly uninhabited island. Old volcanic rocks and further south is the turn off for Cocotinos stone carved from centuries of tidal flow Boutique Beach Resort, set on the create small caves and alcoves, providing secluded beach at Tanjung Empat. shelter for picnics and interesting nooks With 28 rooms, including beachfront villas and crannies to explore. with private swimming pools, Cocotinos is Further south you will come to the only the only upmarket accommodation on the petrol station along the south coastal road mainland. at Tembowong Village. Nearby is the site Scuba diving courses and dives, operated for catching boats out to Gili Gede. Gili by Odyssea Divers, are available from the Gede is easily reached by boat from the resort, together with snorkelling, boating village of Tembowong and is only minutes and other sea sports. across the water. 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 was started many years ago and is still under construction. 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.
The largest of the islands in the area is Gili Gede, appropriately meaning ‘Big Island’. The island lays just offshore and is so large visitors often mistake it for part of the mainland. Gili Gede is one of the few islands in the area that has a choice of accommodation, including the luxurious ko – ko - mo Gili Gede Resort, which opened in February 2016. ko - ko - mo Gili Gede is the sister resort to ko – ko - mo Resort on Gili Trawangan and is a stylish all villa resort, comprising fifteen 1 and 2 bedroom villas with private swimming pools, and one bedroom Villa Kecil (small villas), spread out over spacious grounds on a pristine beachfront. All modern comforts such as air conditioning and ceiling fans, flat screen televisions with satellite channels and DVD, WiFi, fresh (not salt) hot water, plentiful power points for charging devices, and more are provided in each villa. Facilities at the resort include a tennis court, a putting green, a small gym, a resort swimming pool and purpose-built Spa facility and a beachfront restaurant. Guests at the restaurant can enjoy up-market
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dining with a menu prepared from fresh locally-sourced seafood, imported Australian meats and in-house breads and bakery items. There is also an outstanding wine and drinks list. ko – ko - mo has a purpose-built jetty at the front of the resort and operate their own fast boat service under the ‘Gili Getaway’ mantle between Bali, Gili T, Senggigi and Gili Gede... making Gili Gede easily accessible, even for a day trip. Other choices for simple accommodation on Gili Gede include Secret Island Resort on the south, Via Vaccare on the northwest and Yut Inn and Madak Belo on the east. Each provides meals and can arrange boat trips, island hopping and snorkelling around the islands. Gili Gede is large enough to provide a range of activities such as hiking to the hills in the centre for fantastic views across the other islands, exploring deserted beaches and hidden coves, and meeting the people living on the island, who are very friendly and, as yet, unspoilt by tourism. 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 and have constructed a boat mooring and pier on the island. There is good snorkelling on the west side of Gili Ringgit, accessed by boat. Large gardens of hard and soft corals lay just beneath the surface and the reef extends along most of the island’s coast. On the other side of the island is where the pier is located, with a fantastic white sand beach. It is a favourite for guests from other nearby islands who come to the island to swim, snorkel and relax, as the scenery and beach here are so lovely. It’s easy to snorkel offshore, just north of the pier and, although the reef isn’t as large as on the other side of the island, there is still plenty to see. Bright blue starfish drape themselves across patches of coral, and bright yellow and black Moorish Idols dart through the water. Schools of hundreds of small iridescent fish swim past and weirdly shaped squid drift by in the deeper areas. For diving enthusiasts, Dive Zone, who operate out of Desert Point Lodge in Labuhan Poh, is a well-run diving facility and the experts on diving the southwest
There are small home-stays and private accommodations spaced out along the road to BangkoBangko – known as Desert Point and the surfing Mecca for those in the know – located on the far southwest tip of Lombok. 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 Belongas Bay, South Lombok and on Gili Air in the northwest. Tourists who take trips with Dive Zone commonly describe the diving around the southwest as some of the best they’ve ever experienced. Many are astounded by the pristine conditions and huge schools of turtles seen near Gili Layar – the island between Gili Ringgit and Gili Asahan. There is accommodation at Layar Beach Bungalows and, although the bungalows are simple, they are comfortable and clean and the location right on the beach is superb. There is also a restaurant here serving delicious fresh juices and tasty meals. Slightly further south, beautiful Gili Asahan attracts visitors with its deserted white sand beaches, clear calm waters and swaying palm trees. Both Gili Asahan Eco Lodge and Pearl Beach Resort offer comfortable accommodation in charming bungalows and each have restaurants, providing good dining options on the island. Leaving Gili Asahan and back on the mainland, continue south on the coastal road until you come to a main intersection.
The wide white sand bay is lined with fisherman’s huts and draws hundreds of surfers every year from as far away as Hawaii and Brazil to challenge the huge waves of Desert Point, just offshore. Although the road deteriorates after Labuhan Poh, it is still passable for most vehicles in the dry season. During the surfing season, from mid-May to September and again in December, the beach is buzzing with surfers, but otherwise it is a remote and peaceful area. Bali is clearly visible, with the island of Nusa Penida only about an hour’s sail away. The drive to the point is dotted with bucolic scenery and tiny villages, making it a worthwhile trip even for non-surfers. There is basic surfer accommodation in the area and plans for development in the near future. Those who wish to explore the underwater world of the Southwest Gilis can join dive adventures with either Dive Zone in Labuhan Poh or Odyssea Divers at Cocotinos The dive sites reflect a good cross-section of what Indonesian diving has to offer. Dive in and be fascinated by turtles, white tip reef sharks, cuttlefish, moray eels and many other varieties of marine life. The reefs are full of colourful corals, which harbour an amazing variety of marine life, including ghost pipe fish, leaf fish, pygmy seahorses and much more.
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.
For non-divers, the islands are a delight for snorkelling – 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.
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.
It’s easy to imagine hotels and resorts on all these beaches and islands in the future but for now, the Southwest is unspoilt and the Gilis remain the secret islands… stunningly beautiful, pristine and unique, and visited only by the lucky few.
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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. Continued on Page 62
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Kuta
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.
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. 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 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 Designed to blend in with the environment, folklore who is believed to have sacrificed herself and with a stunning beachfront location, for the good of her the Novotel is a wonderful example of people from the rocks traditional Sasak architecture. overlooking the beach). Kuta attracts thousands of visitors It is here that thousands of every year for the great surf locations at people gather every year Gerupuk, Ekas and the beaches to the to celebrate the colourful east. It’s easy to hire a board and a surf ritual of Bau Nyale, when guide from here to learn surfing or, for masses of sea worms experienced surfers, to access the more spawn in the waters challenging surf breaks in the area. offshore.
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. 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. 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.
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Escape & Relax ...
sempiakvillas
Sempiak Villas
Villa Kemos, Villa Kidung, Villa Kemiri (Sempiak Holiday Houses)
Sempiak Holiday Houses Ph: +62 821 4430 3337
Sempiak Holiday Houses are situated about 5 mins walk to
Selong Belanak Beach - well-known for its sugar white sand and the natural unspoiled surroundings of this beautiful, largely uninhabited part of southern of Lombok. These boutique holiday houses are perfect for families and groups. With services and facilities like Laut Biru Bar & Restaurant and The Spa by Sempiak nearby, you will be indulged through all of your senses... making your stay a complete journey of escapism and relaxation.
lautbirubarrestaurant Ph: +62 821 4430 3339
Laut Biru Bar & Restaurant Ph: +62 823 4099 0599
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Further west are picturesque Sepi and Blongas bays, and many more scenic beaches along the way; all are mostly deserted.
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The road deteriorates rapidly and the going can be rough at times. For exploring this remote area it’s best to use an experienced local guide with a good vehicle.
Mawun Beach by Asriel aryadi www.instagram.com/asrielharyadi
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. 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.
activities, such as surfing, snorkelling, kayaking, wind-surfing and more. Heading west from Kuta are another series of beautiful beaches and bays hidden behind headlands and rolling hills, providing peaceful and secluded spots for picnics and swimming. All are within easy day trips of Kuta. Mawun Beach is around 30 minutes’ drive to the west and is 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, There is a good restaurant, serving fresh has good right- and left-hand barrels for fish and seafood caught by local fishermen, surfing when the swell is large enough. and easy access to the best surfing spots At other times, it is a lovely beach with nearby. impressive views of Gili Lawang just Further east, Heaven on the Planet and offshore; look for the three startling Ocean Heaven (collectively known as pinnacles of rock jutting out of the ocean. HOTPlanet) offers accommodation, a Selong Belanak is a long sweeping bay restaurant, swimming pool, a Spa and framed on each end by headlands and Wellness Centre and a host of water surrounded by rolling hills. Sempiak Villas has plush villas perched on the hillside overlooking the bay with breathtaking 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 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.
Steeped in history and legend, surrounded by beaches of almost surreal beauty, the south coast is a fascinating area to visit, whether your interests are historical, cultural or just the opportunity to see and explore some of the most beautiful and pristine coastal scenery in Indonesia.
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 improvement of security and safety in the south, 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 community projects. To join SLCA, or support their work with a donation, please email southlombokca@gmail.com
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www.thelombokguide.com
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Kuta and The South Coast
KHD
PT DOBLER INDAH
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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
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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
www.rinjanilodge.com
Useful Contacts
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USEFUL CONTACTS EMERGENCY SERVICES Senggigi Tourism Police: Jl Raya Senggigi, Phone: 0370 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 Emergency Rescue (RSU Mataram) Ph: 0370 620009. HOSPITALS
Multigraha Valas Jl Saleh Sungkar No 1 Ampenan, Ph: 0370 624045
HUNGARY Phone: 0361 287701, Fax: 0361 287456. Email: cristofoli@denpasar.wasantara.net.id
PT. Bali Mispintjira Jl Raya Senggigi. Ph: 0370 692247 / 0370 692247
INDIA Ph. 0361 259502/259503, Fax. 0361259505 E: cons.bali@mea.gov.in / hoc.bali@mea.gov.in
TAXI Blue Bird Taxi, Ph: 0370 627000 AIRPORT BUS / DAMRI Senggigi / Mataram, Ph: 0370 671240, 0878 6475 5513, 0813 9862 4975 IMMIGRATION Jl Udayana, Mataram, Ph: 0370 632520 PUBLIC SERVICES
Rumah Sakit Harapan Keluarga Jl Ahmad Yani 9, Selagalas. Ph: 6177000 / 670000. Emergency (24hrs): 6177009.
ELECTRICITY PLN Mataram. Ph: 0370 632182 PLN Senggigi. Ph: 0370 693535
Mataram Public Hospital (Rumah Sakit Umum Mataram) Jl Pejanggik No 6, Mataram Phone: 6604605
WATER PDAM Mataram. Ph: 0370 632510 PDAM Senggigi. Ph: 0370 693886
New Mataram Public Hospital (Rumah Sakit Umum Mataram) Jl Bung Karno 1, Mataram. Phone: 0370 645045
Directory Assistance (Lombok Phone Numbers): Ph. 0370 108
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 DENTISTS
TELKOM (Phone/Internet). Ph: 0370 147
POST OFFICES Jl Sriwijaya, Mataram. Ph: 0370 632645 Jl Raya Senggigi. Ph: 0370 693711
Multigraha Kelolavalas - Jl Raya Senggigi. Ph: 0370 693693 - Jl Pejanggik No 1, Mataram Ph: 0370 631567
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 BANKS
Bank Danamon Indonesia Jl Pejanggik No 117, Mataram. Phone: 0370 631322, Fax: 0370 633068
BRAZIL Phone: 0361 757775, Fax: 0361 751005. Email: brazilconsul@bytheseatropical.com
Bank International Indonesia (BII) Jl AA Gede Ngurah No 48, Mataram. Phone: 0370 635027, 633347
BRITAIN Phone: 0361 270601, Fax: 0361 287804, Email: bcbali@dps.centrin.net.id
Bank Mandiri Jl Pejanggik No 20-22, Mataram. Phone: 0370 631311
CZECH REPUBLIC Phone: 0361 286465, Fax: 0361 286408. Email: bali@honorary.mzv.cz
MONEY CHANGERS
SWITZERLAND & AUSTRIA Phone: 0361 751735, Fax: 0361 754457. Email: bali@honrep.ch
AUSTRALIA (incl. New Zealand, Canada) Phone: 0361 241118, Fax: 0361 221195, Email: bali.congen@dfat.gov.au
drg. Yuanita Jl Sriwijaya (opposite Kura-Kura Waterpark). Ph: 0812 3763 156
dr. I Gede Sudiana (FB: lombokanimalrescue) Jl Sadewa 9 Cakra. Ph: 0878 6585 6260
SPAIN Phone: 0361 975736, Fax: 0361 975726, Email: rabik@indo.net.id
CONSULATES
CHILE Phone: 0361 756781, Fax: 0361 756783. Email: chilehonconsulate@bali-villa.com
Nobel Petshop Jl Sriwijaya (Next to Town Palace). Ph: 0370 6160300
JAPAN Phone: 0361 227628, Fax: 0361 265066. Email: konjpdps@indo.net.id
Bank Central Asia (BCA) Jl Pejanggik No 67, Mataram, Lombok Phone: 0370 632588, Fax: 0370 622347
drg. Farida Istiarini, Sp.Ort (Joli Sourire Dental Care) 1st Floor at Lombok Epicentrum Mall. Jl Sriwijaya, Mataram. Ph: 0878 6490 1535
VETS / PET CARE
ITALY Phone: 0361 701005. Email: italconsbali@italconsbali.com
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
Bank Negara Indonesia (BNI) Jl Langko No 64, Mataram. Ph: 0370 646200. Jl Raya Senggigi, Ph: 0370 631046, Fax: 0370 631005 Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) Jl Pendidikan No 16, Mataram. Phone: 0370 632246, Fax: 0370 633084
Things change... so do offices and phone numbers! If you find a wrong number, or if you think something should be added to this list, please email us at kitadesign@hotmail.com
Tourism Information
The Gili Islands Unique tropical escapes!
73 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. Continued on Page 75
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.
GILI OCEAN CLUB GILI TRAWANGAN +62 878 6439 6090 +62 823 3941 2760 www.gilioceanclub.com
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Gili Trawangan
Luxury Villas on Gili Trawangan
Elegantly furnished villas with private pool Generous living space, dining and kitchen Centrally located to beach, restaurants and bars Last minute discounts available
www.gilivillasindonesia.com +62 (0) 81 237 55 721
Tourism Information
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Continued from Page 73
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.
An impressive array of sea life can be seen, including green and hawksbill turtles, morays, barracuda, reef sharks, occasionally leopard sharks and manta rays, and much more. Visibility is very good and commonly in the 15-30 m range; and water temperatures average 23°C (73°F) to 29°C (84°F). Currents around the islands can be quite strong and drift diving is the norm. Many of the popular dive companies are owned and operated by westerners and PADI and SSI licensed dive operators, with professional standards of safety and environmental awareness, exist on all three islands. 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.
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.
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. Gili Meno is the quietest of the three, perfect for really getting away from it all. Choose the island that suits you most, or it’s easy to combine an island-hopping holiday to sample the best of all three!
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Tourism Information
GETTING TO THE GILIS
FROM BANGSAL HARBOUR: Catch a taxi or bemo to Bangsal Harbour, the small harbour on the north-west coast, about 30 minutes from Senggigi.
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. 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.
route of other boats. The 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 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 Gili Getaway is a comfortable fast boat departing from Serangan Harbour (only 20 mins from Kuta) daily with transfers between Bali, Gili T and Gili Gede (Southwest Lombok). 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”
FROM TELUK NARA AND TELUK KODEK: Teluk Nara is a large peaceful bay on the west coast, about 25 minutes’ drive north of 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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
A good alternative is to check out the many dive centres on the main street in Senggigi who offer reasonable rates for transfers, usually including pick up from your hotel. Arranging snorkelling and dive trips inclusive of island transfers is a good way to save time, money and hassles.
The Gili Islands
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Gili Trawangan
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.
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There is no motorised transport on any of the islands. Walk, ride a bicycle or catch a cidomo (local horse cart). None of the islands is very large, so walking is an easy option. Bicycles can be hired for between Rp 25,000 and Rp 50,000 per day, depending on the type and condition of the bike. Some hotels provide bikes free of charge for guests. CIDOMO fares are fixed and rates are displayed in the front of the cart. Generally, short distances will cost around Rp 40,000; a round-the-island tour costs Rp 125,000 on Gili T. Walking or riding a bike is a nicer option. DRESS is casual on the islands and it is normal to see tourists walking around in swimsuits, sarongs and shorts. Remember that the islands’ residents are Muslim and nude or topless sunbathing is frowned upon. Please respect island sensibilities and keep your clothes on! MOSQUITOES can sometimes be a problem, especially during rainy season. DEET repellents are the best protection and local products such as “Autan” and “OFF!” are relatively cheap and readily available in the shops. THE GILI ECO TRUST (GET) is a non-profit organisation based on Gili T that works to protect and conserve the environment. GET activities include reef conservation, resource management, waste management and education programmes, to name a few. The Eco Trust raises funds for its programmes through an Eco-tax of Rp 50,000 collected from divers on the islands. Clean-up days, to collect rubbish from the beach and sea, take place on the first Friday of every month on Gili T. Register at Gili T dive shops and join in the fun! To find out more about Eco-projects and to support GET programmes, visit: www.giliecotrust.com
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Gili Trawangan
Tourism Information
GILI TRAWANGAN
Gili Trawangan – affectionately abbreviated to ‘Gili T’ – is the most wellknown and popular of the three Gilis. It is the largest island of the three and the furthest from the mainland, but easily reached in less than two hours from Bali and only 10 minutes by speedboat from Lombok. Tagged “the party island” by The Lonely Planet, Gili T continues to cater to the party crowd but also has a cosmopolitan vibe that becomes more evident every year. Today, Gili T is rated as one of the top destinations in Indonesia and the popular TripAdvisor® website recently rated it as one of the ‘Top 10 Islands in Asia’. 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. While Gili T still hosts backpackers and budget travellers, these days they are joined by singles, couples and families from all walks of life and all around 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 in the north). 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 the brilliant sunrise over Mt Rinjani on mainland Lombok.
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simple hotels 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, DVD and satellite TV.
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 Gili T is on the east coast, but Gili T’s popularity means growth has extended around the entire island. Accommodation on Gili T ranges from basic home stays to luxury hotels and villas. The old style bungalows have mostly disappeared, to be replaced by
The busiest area, called ‘Sentral’, is on the southeast of the island, close to the jetty where the boats dock. Resorts, restaurants, bars and shops line both sides of the paved ‘road’ that runs along the entire east coast up to the northern corner of the island. Scallywags Resort and The Beach House are both popular options in this area, with comfortable rooms and all mod cons such as air conditioning and swimming pools. The Beach House has a range of rooms, suites, private pool villas and a large 4 bedroom private pool villa, while Scallywags offers tasteful double and twin rooms, some with private plunge pools. Tracks meander from the main coastal road inland, where many of the island’s local people live and where investors have built home-stays, small hotels and private villas that offer a quieter (and often cheaper) alternative to the beachfront choices. Continued on Page 82
Tourism Information
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villas with private pools and sophisticated facilities in an exclusive setting on the beach.
Continued from Page 81 Amalika Villa is a new and ultra-stylish 2 bedroom villa located in a walled garden with private pool, just back from the beach in Sentral. Modern amenities, personalised services and beautiful designer furnishings provide a luxurious escape close to the action. Gili Villas, just behind the Night Market, has four elegant villas each with private pools. 1 and 2-bedroom villas offer comfortable and modern facilities just off the main strip. The north coast has a quieter vibe and offers peaceful alternatives to the central area. Although the beaches to the north can be a bit ordinary, the views are beautiful and snorkelling from the beach is good; plus the location makes it easy to access the dining and nightlife options only minutes away. Oceano Resort offers comfortable and affordable rooms and bungalows on a nice section of beach. Desa Dunia Beda, slightly further north, features unique restored teak Joglo houses with sumptuous ethnic furnishings, modern facilities and a romantic atmosphere.
The Trawangan Resort combines south coast tranquillity with tasteful rooms, suites and private pool villas just steps from the beach, close to the surfing and only a few minutes to Sentral.
Likewise, the south and west coasts are popular with travellers seeking a place away from the crowds and are now dotted with small hotels, private villas and a couple of larger resorts. Although the beaches aren’t as nice as those on the east, the sunsets across the sea to Bali are magical. Just minutes from Sentral, Pearl of Trawangan boasts a beautiful beachfront and modern, comfortable rooms, suites and villas with lovely furnishings and all modern amenities, including a secluded waterfall swimming pool. Slightly further south, but still on the fringe of the action, ko-ko-mo Resort is a collection of 1, 2 and 3 bedroom boutique
Restaurants rival Bali in quality and there are bars, Internet cafés, movie “theatres” and beachside cafés galore. Dining choices range from the typical Indonesian dishes to Indian, Italian, Mexican and more; simple cafés on the beach to international fine dining restaurants, and everything between. There is a lively bar scene at night and the island has a rotating roster, where different bars have licenses to host a party on one night of the week (hence the “party island” reputation). These parties are a big drawcard for the crowds of younger people who come to the island. For those who prefer quieter entertainment, there are sophisticated dining opportunities, particularly at places such as ko-ko-mo Resort, Scallywags Resort, and the stylish Pearl Beach Lounge next door, and at Wilson’s Retreat and Desa Dunia Beda in the north. Continued on Page 85
Gili Trawangan
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Gili Trawangan
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k o - k o - mo G I L I T R AWA N G A N R E S O R T
Get there fast, then take it slow...
Private Luxury Villas and Fine Dining Restaurant Email: kokomogilit@ozemail.com.au Tel: +62 (0)370 613 4920 | Fax: +62 (0)370 614 4169 | Mob: +62 (0)813 3974 7459
www.kokomogilit.com
Gili Trawangan
Continued from Page 82 These days, Gili T is a serious tourist destination with a good infrastructure and a wide range of tourist facilities. Many of the larger restaurants, hotels and dive shops accept credit cards and 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.
85 Even the shopping scene on Gili T is starting to resemble nearby Bali and new shops are springing up almost monthly. Shops and kiosks selling the usual sarongs and t-shirts now rub shoulders with 69 Slam, Billabong, Innuendo and Blu Glue outlets, as well as stylish little boutiques such as Topaz Shop.
Internet cafés are readily available, as are money-changers, tour operators and a large But it is the beaches and number of fast boat services. the diving that remain the main draw card for Gili T. People flock There is a tennis club and fitness centre at here to sunbathe on white sand beaches Kelapa Villas and a medical centre at Vila Ombak with basic emergency facilities and and swim in clean blue waters, to dive the fabulous reefs and to bask in the hedonistic a doctor on call. pleasures of a tropical paradise. There is a good surf break on the south coast near The Trawangan Resort with a fast right-hander that pumps in the right conditions. Local surfers will happily lead the way and rent you a board.
Free diving, SUP and other water sports are popular activities. 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.
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 a variety of tropical fish species to enjoy.
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 now a worldclass tourism destination is emerging. While some will no doubt lament the constant development, there’s a whole new scene unfolding on Gili T. 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 attract visitors today.
Gili Air
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The Beach Club Gili Air Beach Bungalows
6 Comfortable Double and Two Family Bungalows with AC, Fresh Hot Water Showers, Balcony and Day Bed and one of Gili Air’s best white sandy beaches – 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
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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 Meno
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GILI MENO
Gili Meno is the smallest and probably the least known of the Gili Islands. Located between Gili Air and Gili T, Meno has the lowest population of the three Gilis and the least number of visitors. Meno’s popularity has soared over the past 5 years as travellers discover this ‘quieter Gili’ with its beautiful undeveloped beaches and laid back charm – all within easy reach of the diving and activities that have made the Gilis famous. The island has not developed as quickly as Gili T or Gili Air and suffered a setback when, in the mid-90’s, The Lonely Planet wrote that the salt lake on the island created mosquito problems. This is untrue – mosquitoes are no more prevalent on Gili Meno than anywhere else in Indonesia. Many would say that the bad publicity was a blessing in disguise. Today, Meno is a haven for those seeking a unspoiled island escape.
other facilities. It is easy to make day trips to Gili T and Gili Air via public boats and private boat charter. ATM’s are located near Malia’s Bungalows (east coast), Kontiki Cottages (southeast), and Little Bali Restaurant (north coast). It is possible to walk around the whole island on a small beachside track in around 90 minutes. Those seeking total tranquillity head to the north and west coasts, where more development has been quietly taking place over the past years. The north coast boasts some beautiful quiet beaches and quality accommodation such as the luxurious Mahamaya Boutique Resort, quirky Adeng-Adeng Resort, and the elegant Seri Resort and Yoga Retreat to the northeast. On the east coast, Karma Resorts operates The Reef Resort with comfortable air conditioned bungalows in a prime beachfront location.
Although investors have been steadily buying up land for the past ten years, there is no large scale development on the island as yet. Much of the investment taking place is low-key and – perhaps recognising the pristine nature of the island – development tends to be environmentally sensitive. Like all the Gilis, the best swimming beaches and the most tourist facilities (including the boat harbour) are located along the east coast. Many of the hotels and restaurants are located along the south-eastern coast, with beautiful views over Gili Air and to Mt Rinjani in the east. The water surrounding the island is clear turquoise and the beaches are covered in brilliant white sand, fringed with coconut palms and sea pines. Facilities include simple stalls selling t-shirts, sarongs and handicrafts, as well as shops selling bottled water, snacks and drinks, and basic necessities. There are money changers and internet cafés, tour businesses, boat charter and
Nearby, Meno Mojo Beach Resort has 16 stylish villas, a restaurant and beach club 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.
element with grace – is perhaps the most special underwater experience of all and a major reason for visiting Gili Meno. There is also good snorkelling off the west coast near the now-defunct Bounty Resort. Swim out to where the old pontoon has sunk and become a home for many fish. Inland from the beaches, the island is quite dry with small places 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 on the island’s deserted beaches.
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. Apart from these, small hotels and basic bungalows provide accommodation for those seeking a peaceful place in the sun with un-crowded beaches, clean waters and peaceful nights under the star-filled skies. There is no rowdy bar scene or noisy full moon parties here. There is good snorkelling along the northwest coast and it is often possible to see Green, Leatherback and Hawksbill turtles. To swim with these huge creatures – that are so awkward and ungainly on land but move through their natural
Eka Jaya Fast Boat is the only company that provides transfers direct from Bali to and from Gili Meno. From Lombok, public boats operate between Gili Meno and Bangsal Harbour several times daily. Charter boats are available to and from Bangsal Harbour and Teluk Nara – share the cost with others if possible.
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Gili Trawangan
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Senggigi