The Lombok Guide Issue 241

FREE COPY

Issue 241 | 20 March – 3 April 2017

The

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

PUBLISHED BI-WEEKLY IN LOMBOK, FOR LOMBOK

The Beach Club Beach Bungalows

Page 82

IN THIS ISSUE Getting to Lombok

Page 2

Attractions & Actitvities

Page 4 & 8

Lombok Map

Page 6

Special Feature Page 10 Senggigi

Page 11 - 42

Senggigi Map

Page 14

What’s Hot/ Local News

Page 18

Special Feature Page 21 Local News

Page 34

Classifieds

Page 36

Distribution

Page 39

Local News

Page 41

Land & Property

Page 43 - 49

The Cities

Page 50 - 53

Cities Map

Page 52

The Southwest

Page 54 & 55

Kuta & The South Coast

Page 56 - 65

South Lombok Map

Page 64

North Lombok

Page 66 - 68

The Gilis

Page 69 - 88

Getting to Gilis

Page 72

Gilis Fast Facts Page 75 Gilis Map

Page 87

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

Gili Air by Dian

Special Feature Page 26 & 27

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, 7 April @ 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

8

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

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In Bali, for the 24 hours of Nyepi, visitors are required to stay within the grounds of their hotels and not leave the premises, except in cases of medical emergency.

You can see Bali in Lombok... but you can’t see Lombok in Bali!

This local Lombok saying is especially true during Nyepi – the Balinese Hindu “Day of Silence” – when you really can see Bali in Lombok!

Many people assume that Balinese Hindus only live in Bali but, with the two islands being so close together, Balinese settlement in Lombok dates back for centuries. Today, Balinese communities and temples are found all around the west coast and in the cities of Lombok.

Nyepi is one of the most important days in the Balinese calendar and the start of the Hindu New Year. This year Hari Raya Nyepi falls on Tuesday, 28 March.

Amati Lelungan: No journeys or travel; people are required to stay within their residences.

Amati Lelanguan: Prohibiting all forms of entertainment, recreation or general merrymaking.

In keeping with the strict traditions of this holy day, activities will grind to a halt in Bali for 24 hours – from 6.00am on 28 March until 6.00am on 29 March.

Bali’s airport is closed for both international and domestic travel during Nyepi and all seaports that connect to Bali are also closed.

Nyepi in Bali is observed by a “day of silence” based on four guiding principles called Catur Berata Penyepian. These four principles specify: Amati Geni: Prohibiting the lighting of fires, the use of lighting or the satisfaction of pleasurable human appetites.

Amati Karya: Prohibiting all forms of physical work other than those dedicated to spiritual cleansing and renewal.

Hotels are asked to limit outside lighting out of respect to the surrounding Balinese communities.

All businesses are closed and the streets are empty. Taxis do not operate on Nyepi and only emergency vehicles are permitted on the roads.

No passengers are allowed to land or take off from the airport and ports and, although some technical stops may be allowed, no passenger may disembark or embark during this period.

Domestic flights between Ngurah Rai Airport (Bali) and Lombok International Airport will not operate on Nyepi, nor will public ferries between Padang Bai Harbour (Bali) and Lembar Harbour (Lombok).

If you are planning a trip to Lombok, make sure you leave Bali by 27 March and be sure to book transfers and accommodation well in advance, as many people travel to Lombok and the Gilis during Nyepi.

The situation is different in Lombok, where the community is made up of a mixture of Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, Christians and other religions.

Of course, Lombok’s Hindu community observes Nyepi but the restrictions are not enforced in Lombok and this quiet time of no noise, lights, travel or work only takes place in the Hindu communities.

Most visitors to Lombok would be unaware of Nyepi practices as shops, restaurants and businesses are open and everything on the island operates as on any normal day.

However, there is one Nyepi tradition that draws the attention of both Lombok’s residents and visitors; this is when Lombok’s Hindu community participate in Ngerupuk or the “Ogoh-ogoh Parade”.

The parade takes place on 27 March, the day before Nyepi, and is an exciting and noisy procession of fantastic monsters that dance and twist their way along the main streets of Lombok’s capital city, Mataram.

Continued on Page 21

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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Senggigi Map

Senggigi

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Senggigi

Senggigi

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Puri Bunga Beach Cottages

Luxury and Tranquility Privately positioned on terraced slopes of beautiful flowers, overlooking Senggigi Bay and the Lombok Strait to Bali Deluxe and Suite Cottages with air conditioning, hot water, television, mini bar, telephone and internet access

Sea view cottages

From US$40* / room!

(Incl breakfast)

* tax and service charge and high season surcharges may apply

Enquire about our special offers!

Jalan Raya Senggigi, Senggigi, Lombok, Indonesia, Ph: +62 (0) 370 693013 Fax: +62 (0) 370 693286 | info@puribungalombok.com | www.puribungalombok.com

What’s Hot / Local News

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If you’re looking for something different from the restaurant or bar scene, you’ll find it at The Cowshed in Batu Layar!

With Nyepi coming up on 28 March, a lot of people will be looking for a quick break… and Lombok and the Gilis are popular choices, just a short hop away from Bali!

Scallywags is a fabulous option for a relaxing stay on the Gilis and is currently offering 10% discount on accommodation at all Scallywags Resorts.

Choose from Scallywags Resort on bustling Gili Trawangan or laid-back stays on Gili Air at Mango Retreat, Mango Motel, Smugglers Hideaway and The Beach Club Hideaway.

The discount applies for direct bookings only and is valid from 25 - 31 March 2017. See page 9.

The deluxe Novotel Lombok Resort, with its prime location on beautiful Mandalika Beach near Kuta, is offering Nyepi Escape Packages from 27- 29 March.

Choose from a range of different rooms and luxurious villas in the resort and enjoy daily breakfasts for two, a lunch

for two, a dinner for two, free 60 minute massages, Hair Spas and Beach Yoga for two, airport transfer and more.

With a wide range of facilities and activities, Novotel Lombok is the perfect base for exploring Lombok’s stunning south coast beaches. See page 63 for details.

On the west coast, Living Asia Resort is a luxurious and romantic resort on the superb beachfront at Lendang Luar, just 7 minutes north of Senggigi.

Take advantage of the Nyepi Package for just Rp 2.85 million which includes 2 nights’ accommodation, daily breakfasts, a massage and complimentary dinner in the beachfront restaurant.

The offer represents excellent value for money! See our back cover.

The popular steak house keeps the events coming with the monthly Pub Quiz on Thursday 30 March.

Held on the last Thursday of every month, the Pub Quiz is a great night out, with teams competing in all sorts of funpacked activities with quirky surprises each month.

If you want to join the action, it’s a good idea to book a table in advance. If you don’t have a team, there’s always room for one more at a table, so don’t be shy!

The fun starts from 7.30pm.

Also at The Cowshed, don’t miss the Saturday Night Showdown on 1 April!

Held on the first Saturday of the month, the Showdown is a fun-filled night of games such as ‘Charity Chase the Ace’, ‘Toss the Boss’, the monthly Darts Competition and a feast of beef and lamb on the spit! For more details, see page 15.

ASMARA RESTAURANT… 20 YEARS STRONG!

One of Senggigi’s best dining venues – Asmara Restaurant – celebrates its 20th anniversary next month!

20 years in business is a remarkable achievement for a restaurant anywhere in the world and is a testament to Asmara’s high standards and consistently good food.

To celebrate this milestone event, the restaurant will be hosting a 20th Anniversary Party on Friday, 14 April 2017.

renditions of acoustic blues, jazz, bluegrass and country and there will be free Draught Bintang beers for Asmara members and restaurant guests, as well as 20% discount on other beverages.

Talented musician Ary Juliyant and special guest musicians will entertain the crowd with their popular

Asmara welcomes members and dinner guests to come along and help them celebrate… 20 years of being great!

Senggigi

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Senggigi

Special Feature

NYEPI IN LOMBOK “Ogoh-ogoh” is the name given to the giant monsters representing Hindu creatures of the underworld (known in Balinese as buta kala).

Ogoh-ogoh are usually based on evil characters or spirits taken from traditional myths and legends, although more modern monsters include effigies of political characters, or symbolic representations of “the demon within” and evil temptations in the modern world.

21 Continued from Page 10

The people work together to create the monsters, using bamboo and wire frames, papier-mâché, polystyrene and other materials. Sometimes special artisans are brought in from Bali, gifted in monster making and hired to produce amazing monsters.

They are often works of art that have taken many hours to create. A simple Ogohogoh may cost as little as Rp 500 000 to make, but more elaborate figures can cost millions.

The young people of the villages take great delight in competing with other villages off any other evil spirits lurking there. to create the most gruesome, terrifying or The parade travels along Jl Pejanggik, the eye-catching Ogoh-ogoh. main street in Mataram, and can involve more than a hundred Ogoh-ogoh and If you are planning a trip to Lombok, thousands of spectators. make sure you leave Bali by 27 March The monsters are then paraded home to and be sure to book transfers and their respective Banjar, where they will accommodation well in advance, as often be burned in a ritual symbolising the many people travel to Lombok and the destruction of evil (although these days Gilis during Nyepi.

About one month before Nyepi, the Hindu community starts to plan their Ogoh-ogoh creations. If you drive around the back streets of Mataram and Cakra over the next The parade of the Ogoh-ogoh, although a couple of weeks, you will see these huge fun and popular event for spectators, is in constructions taking shape by the side of fact an important ceremony in preparation the roads. for Nyepi; representing a type of mass exorcism of evil in order to start the Hindu New Year spiritually fresh and clean.

Before the parade, a pemangku (temple priest) holds a ceremony to imbue the buta kala with spirit and power. Some say the monster gets heavier after this ceremony!

Each Balinese village, even those in Lombok, is run by a Banjar, a community council that supports and maintains the temples and village environment; as well as mediating problems in the village, etc.

In keeping with the traditions of Nyepi, Bali will grind to a halt for 24 hours – from 6.00am on 28 March until 6.00am on 29 March.

This does not happen in Lombok.

In preparation for Nyepi, the Banjar collects money, often with other smaller communities joining with a bigger one to create Ogoh-ogoh together.

The Ogoh-ogoh is then placed on a bamboo frame, so that many people can help to carry it, making wild movements and dancing to bring the monster to life.

Groups of people in traditional dress join the parade, taking turns to carry the heavy figures and dancing alongside their Ogohogoh.

Musical groups, gamelan players and dancers in costume often accompany their monster, creating a spectacle of sound and drama.

As evil spirits are believed to inhabit crossroads, particular attention is paid to each intersection, with the Ogoh-ogoh lurching and dancing wildly in the middle of the road to scare

some of the more elaborate creations are no longer being destroyed).

Most importantly, the Ogoh-ogoh parade has become a multi-cultural event in Lombok, with the whole community joining in the excitement.

It’s not unusual to see Muslim groups and Gendang Beleq troupes playing the big drums of Lombok – and even Chinese Lion Dancers –marching and laughing alongside the Hindu groups with their monsters.

If you would like to see the parade, join the crowds in the afternoon on 27 March at around 2pm along the main street of Mataram (near the Mataram Mall).

The Ogoh-ogoh parade is a fascinating event, full of music, dance, fun and excitement.

Spectators are always welcome… be sure to take your camera!

Senggigi

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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

Senggigi

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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

Senggigi

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CAFE ALBERTO

ITALIAN & INDONESIAN BEACHFRONT RESTAURANT Delicious Fresh Seafood, Authentic Italian Dishes, Oriental Food, Barbecue on the Beach Wood Oven Pizza, Homemade Pasta and Italian Bread

Jl. Raya Batu Bolong, Senggigi | Phone: 0370 693039 / 693313 | info@cafealberto.com

www.cafealberto.com

Live Music! Great Food! Good Times!

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

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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

Special Feature

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GILI AIR… WAITING FOR DIRECTION

The serene north coast

Lombok’s famous Gilis – the three small islands off the north-west coast of Lombok – are in a state of transition.

Gili Trawangan is currently re-inventing itself after the recent demolition of buildings on the island by the government.

On 23 February, Lombok authorities commenced demolition of all beachfront construction on Gili T – enforcing the Indonesian building laws that state that any permanent buildings must be set back a minimum of 30 metres from the tide line on beaches.

this case was a land dispute between the provincial (NTB) government and local land owners.

Hundreds of thousands of dollars in investment and, in some cases, years of hard work bit the dust as buildings were either voluntarily dismantled or forcibly demolished by bulldozer.

A similar thing happened almost a year ago on Gili Air, although the root cause in

The local land owners felt that they legally held title to land on the popular southeast coast of Gili Air and, over the years, had sold and leased the land to a number of people and companies, who had then invested heavily in the construction of hotels, restaurants and other tourism businesses.

Special Feature

27

The government believed otherwise – citing original state ownership of the land in dispute.

After years of legal wrangling, the high court in Jakarta eventually ruled in the government’s favour and those who had purchased or leased the disputed land were left without legal recourse.

The affected people were eventually offered new land leases from the government – effectively forcing some to pay twice for the land. removing their beachfront buildings, some were demolished by the government teams and a few remain, still locked in disputes.

Regardless, after the demolitions, the government then started construction of a ring-road on Gili Air that will run around the entire island, parallel to the beach (and through any existing buildings) – similar to what is happening on Gili Trawangan.

However, the government would not grant leases if there was any beachfront construction on the land – referring back to the Indonesian building law regarding permanent construction being set back 30m from the tide line on beaches.

After months of negotiation, the provincial government then exercised rights over the land by demanding the demolition of beachfront construction on that section of beach.

Some businesses complied by voluntarily

However, the government didn’t finish the road works and now some businesses in the south-east of Gili Air are stuck in limbo with a partially constructed road marked out along the beachfront and the existing road cutting through what is now legally their land.

The new road can’t be used as it is only partially complete and construction has now been halted for months, leaving the ‘old road’ as the only thoroughfare for horse carts, bicycles and foot traffic on the island.

It’s a frustrating situation and a valuable lesson in government planning for investors and would-be investors in Lombok.

It seems that any solutions for Gili Air have been put on hold while the government turns its attention to Gili Trawangan.

However, Gili Air businesses have been warned that the North Lombok

government will enforce the ‘30m tide line building law’ and carry out demolition of beachfront buildings in ‘either September 2017 or February 2018’.

(September being before the monsoon season and February being after the rains – presumably the timing will be dictated by how long it takes to enforce the law on Gili T).

In the meantime, businesses in the southeast heading toward the harbour on Gili Air are stuck in the middle of the road.

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

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

BUY 1 ICE COFFEE GET 1 FREE!

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Local News

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DIVE IN FOR BREKKY AT LA CHILL! Now that the warm weather is with us again, it’s time to head to the beach!

Burger and Indonesian favourites, Nasi Goreng and Mie Goreng.

The beach at Batu Bolong, just south of Senggigi, is perfect for a long stroll in the mornings and a delightful place for a swim. The water is warm and generally calm, with a good slope to the drop off into deeper water where you can float while taking in the gorgeous views.

Wash it down with healthy juices, milk shakes, lassis, or specialty teas and coffees. Or try one of the ‘Breakfast Cocktails’, featuring the famous hangover cure – Bloody Mary – and more.

The best places for swimming are between Café Alberto and La Chill Bar. At low tide, you can climb across the rocks just to the north of Café Alberto and walk all the way to the Sheraton.

After all that activity, head to La Chill Bar for breakfast! The popular beachfront hangout in Batu Bolong is now open daily

You can even celebrate with a bottle of well-priced bubbly to start your day… although you may end up staying for lunch as well! from 8am so you can enjoy a delicious fresh breakfast while gazing out across the waves.

On offer is a big selection of dishes – from traditional to trendy – including fresh and healthy Smoothie Bowls, Tropical Fruit Salad and Yoghurt, La Chill homemade granola, French toast, pancakes and more.

More substantial fare includes Smoked Salmon and Scrambled Eggs on wholegrain toast, Flame-grilled Imported Steak with eggs, grilled tomato and hand-cut potato wedges, Breakfast Pizza, Vegetarian Tempeh

It’s easy to spend a few hours here, swimming in the sea just in front of the bar and flopping on a beanbag on the beach with a good book and a glass or two of your favourite bevvy!

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Tempatku Indonesian Restaurant and Rooms Safe, comfortable and affordable accommodation in the heart of Senggigi 4 comfortable double rooms available - all air conditioned with 2 double beds in each room, shared bathrooms with hot water showers, common TV room, wi-fi throughout the property, free coffee and tea facilities, onsite security at night.

Our rooms are clean, comfortable and reasonably priced and include breakfast!

Seafood BBQ Every Friday, Saturday & Sunday Evening Senggigi Plaza (Opposite Honky Tonks), Senggigi Beach Road

Our restaurant serves Indonesian food and traditional Sasak dishes at attractive prices!

Stop in for freshly made juices, milkshakes, iced tea and coffee or a cold beer. We have dining inside and outside.

Phone: 0812 4612 9504

Open for lunch and dinner - 11am to 10pm

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

Pasar Classifieds

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PASAR CLASSIFIEDS

KUTA TWO HOUSES WITH SPACE FOR MORE

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

GILI T BEACHFRONT LAND FOR RENT! Prime location for restaurant/hotel, located between Hotel Villa Ombak and Scallywags.

Land certificate ± 1,700m2 ± 20m wide beachfront

Contact: +62 813 3860 0193

KUTA

LAND ON BYPASS ROAD: Perfect for Development Ocean views. 3 mins to Kuta Beach Over 37 are (3700sqm +) Certificated Hak Milik (Freehold)

SENGGIGI BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY BUILDING SPACE FOR RENT

Located on Senggigi main road, beside Marina Cafe FIRST FLOOR: 2 Shop/space for restaurant. 8 x 15m each shop/ space. Extra space for parking SECOND FLOOR: 3 Shop/space for spa, coffee shop, office, etc.

8 x 10m each shop/space. Extra outdoor area THIRD FLOOR: 6 Deluxe rooms. 4 x 10m each room + terrace.

Including small office/reception All shop/space include separate electricity (PLN) and water (PDAM) system.

Contact: +62 813 3860 0193

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.

Price: Rp 29 million / are Ph: 081 7667 3983

VILLA MANAGER

An exciting new 4 bedroom luxury modern villa near Selong Belanak is seeking an experienced Indonesian hospitality manager, to set up the villa team and then ensure smooth operations for a fabulous guest experience.

Price: Rp 65 million per are

Must be an excellent communicator, fluent in written and spoken English, reliable & honest and have a positive attitude with strong leadership and supervision skills.

Phone 0821 4587 5594

Please send CV to info@villaklombok.com

Best priced land in the heart of Kuta

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

6,000sqm (60 are) Lobster Bay, Bumbang - southern Lombok Stunning ocean views. Drive-on access Close to surf breaks Rp 35 million per are

Call 0821 4587 5594 / landinbumbang@yahoo.com

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LAND FOR SALE 1

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Call +62 877 6543 5258

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

PRICED FOR QUICK SALE! Rp 400 million Please call 0818 0363 8577

Nyoman Transport Safe and professional English-speaking driver with comfortable air conditioned car (seats 5 - 6). Private airport transfers or airport to Kuta, Mataram, Senggigi, Gilis, etc. Available for private charter and Lombok tours. Competitive rates and friendly service!

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

1. Land for Sale in Kuta. Land size 9,100 Sqm. Full view of ocean and Tanjung Aan. Siteplan and masterplan are ready. Interior design by acrhitect available. All government license are acquired. Certificate freehold.

Price IDR 3.5 billion.

2. Beachfront land in Sekotong. Land size 15,000 Sqm. 80 mins from Lombok Internationanl Airport.

Magnificient views of Gilis and sunset. Beach frontage 150 meter. Certificate freehold. Price IDR 25 million / 100 Sqm (Total price IDR 3,750,000,000) 3. Luxurious villa for sale in Montong (near Senggigi).

Main road access. Land size 2,300 sqm. Building size 700 sqm. Swimming pool. 5 Bedrooms + bathrooms.

Price IDR 6.5 billion.

4. Beachfront land in Kadinan Bay, Sekotong. Land size 5,000 Sqm. 30 mins from Mataram city. White sandy beach. Certificate freehold. Price IDR 30 million / 100 Sqm. 5. Land in Sekotong on Hilltop. Land size 2 and 5 Hectare. Only 300m from beach. Full views: ocean and sunset. Mainroad access. The best view in Sekotong.

Certificate freehold. Price IDR 40 Million / 100m2. Total Price IDR 8 billion or Approx. USD 600,000 (for 2Ha).

6. Land in Batu Layar on hill. Land size 6.000 Sqm. Full views: Ocean, sunset and Mataram city. Main road access. Electricity available. Certificate freehold. Total Price IDR 3.6 billion.

7. Land with Amazing views on Hilltop in Batu Layar.

Land size 2,400 sqm. Ocean views. Certificate freehold.

Price IDR 225 million / 100 sqm (Total price IDR 5.4 billion) 8. Land for sale on hill in Bengkaung Sandik. Land Size 16,000 Sqm. Full view Ocean and Mataram City. 30 mins from Senggigi. Road Access. Certificate freehold.

Price IDR 20 million / 100 Sqm. 9. Beachfront land in Sekotong. Land size 20,000 sqm.

Views: ocean and Gili Sudak. A hotel has been built near the plot. Ready for water and electricity. Price IDR 40 million / 100m2 (Total price IDR 8 billion)

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

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

Senggigi

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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, Solaria, The Vinette, XO Suki), Mataram Mall (Delicio Café, Gili Cafe, 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, Square Restaurant, Tempatku, 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 Italian 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

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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

Local News

AUSTRALIAN TRADE & INVESTMENT MISSION @ KATAMARAN RESORT

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The Australian Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment lead an Australian Government Trade and Investment mission to Indonesia from 6 - 10 March 2017.

The mission was part of Indonesia Australia Business week and included a delegation of Australian tourism development and industry experts, who visited main tourism areas in Lombok on 8 and 9 March.

cancellation had on tourism development in Lombok.

NTB Vice Governor, H Muh Amin with Sally-Ann Watts from Austrade

Austrade hosted a networking lunch for delegates and Lombok invitees at the beautiful Katamaran Resort in Mangsit on 9 March, during which participants discussed Australian capabilities in tourism destination and infrastructure development, particularly in Lombok.

He expressed his fervent wish that direct flights between Australia and Lombok could resume and his government’s willingness to reopen a direct route with Australia.

He also said that his government welcomed Australian investment in Lombok and Sumbawa.

The lunch was attended by NTB Vice Governor, H Muh Amin SH M.S, who was a keynote speaker. During his address, H Amin spoke about the loss of the direct Jetstar flights between Lombok and Perth in 2014 and the negative impact the flight

Head of the delegation, Sally Ann Watts said that the group was very impressed with the progress of the tourism industry in Lombok and the high standard of hotels and other tourist facilities.

All the delegates we spoke to at the lunch expressed their amazement at the natural beauty of Lombok and its potential for tourism development.

The Deputy Governor paid a working visit to Australia, together with the Australian Ambassador to Indonesia, in 2016 to discuss reopening the route.

“I really hope the direct flight from Australia to Lombok can be reopened because during that time, tourist numbers from Australia to Lombok were in the highest position,” he said. “I very much regret the loss of direct flights by Jetstar.”

Drew Boekel from the Aust Consul General in Bali (left) with NTB Vice Governor, H Muh Amin SH M.S

planned for Lombok’s south coast.

Also attending the networking lunch were Ngurah Wirawan and Edwin Darmasetiawan, Directors of Indonesia Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC), who spoke about investment opportunities in the Mandalika Resort Development – a 1,035 hectare mega-project

One of the key points to come out of networking opportunity was that the experts felt that Lombok must be developed as a destination with its own identity – distinct from that of Bali – and that nature and the island’s natural beauty were Lombok’s biggest assets, which should drive the branding of the destination.

Round table discussions

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Senggigi

Land & Property

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Land & Property

Land & Property

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Contact us for more information

info@indonesiapropertysales.com

|

+62 (0) 370 619 7706

Specialising in Land and Villa Sales – Representation throughout Indonesia

12 ARE Inland Block | Gili Gede, North This north-facing block is 12 ARE and enjoys stunning sunrise and sunset views. With the International Airport just 45 mins away, this is a logistically sound investment. Offers direct access to the turquoise waters and coral reefs for scuba and snorkeling. Set back from lush coconut plantations with magnicent views of South Lombok’s rolling hills.

IDR 900,000,000

Title: Freehold

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Close to beach

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Access provided

59 ARE 2 Bedroom Beachfront Villa & Land | Gili T A stunning beachfront block situated on the west side of popular Gili Trawangan island. Available as 59 ARE total or split into different configurations.

Entire 59 ARE Block: IDR 270,000,000 PER ARE 15.5 ARE Beachfront & Villa Plot: IDR 350,000,000 PER ARE Rear Blocks 21 & 22.5 ARE: IDR 250,000,000 PER ARE Title: Freehold

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Beachfront

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Access provided

CONTACT US

61 ARE Beachfront Block | Gili Gede, North This north-facing 61 ARE block enjoys stunning views of crystal clear waters and Lombok’s Mt Rinjani and Bali’s Mt Agung on a clear day, as well as sunrise and sunset views.

With the International Airport 45 mins away from Gili Gede, this is a logistically sound investment. Direct access to the coral reefs, ideal for scuba and snorkeling

IDR 7,625,000,000

Title: Freehold

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32m Beachfront

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Access provided

3 Bedroom 3 ARE Luxury Villa | Gili Trawangan Villa Ningaloo situated just a 2 minute walk from the beach and the best restaurants, shops and bars.

This is a contemporary villa with a modern, elegant style featuring a 11.5 x 3.5m fresh water swimming pool surrounded by a sunbathing deck and a small tropical garden.

Title: Freehold

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3 bed, 2 bath

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IDR 3,675,375,000

Access provided 10 ARE Hill Block | Gili Gede

IDR 800,000,000

This hillside block on the east side of Gili Gede borders the only public path that crosses the island from east to west and is adjacent to the prestigious Kokomo Gili Gede Resort development. Enjoys stunning 180 degree panoramic ocean and sunset/sunrise views to east and west. A perfect opportunity exists for a tiered development with stunning views of Bali’s Mt Agung and Lombok’s Mt Rinjani volcanoes.

Title: Freehold

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Hillside

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Access provided

+62 (0) 813 3974 7459 | www.indonesiapropertysales.com | PT. INDONESIA PROPERTI SPESIALIS

Land & Property

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BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY in GILI TRAWANGAN BUILT on 3,000m2 land. Beachfront Boutique Hotel with 7 ensuite bedrooms. Located on the northwest of Gili T with sunset views. Reception area, open living with separate kitchen, restaurant area and staff room. Price USD 1,500,000

BLOCK FOR SALE in GUNUNG SARI

2.8Ha (28,532m2). Sea view, main road access, water and electricity at location. Located a few minutes to traditional market and 15 minutes to Mataram.

Price USD 25 per m2

HOTEL OPPORTUNITY in SENGGIGI

RESORT on 1,100m2 land with pool. 14 bedrooms (ensuite) with H/W shower. Lobby area, swimming pool and rooftop restaurant. Walk to the beach, 90 mins to the airport.

Great investment! Price USD 770,000

BUILDING PLOT in BATU LAYAR 91.55 ARE (9,155m2). Magnificent Plot with sea & sunset views of Bali. Just 10 mins to the beach. Public road access, electricity available to the plot.

Price IDR 75 million/are (100m2)

HOME-STAY & VILLA FOR SALE in MENINTING

VILLA FOR SALE in SENGGIGI

13 ARE divided: 7 are for Home-stay (4 bedrooms with A/C, pool, fully furnished) and 6 are for Villa (3 bedrooms with A/C, open plan living & kitchen, 4 extra rooms).

NOW ONLY USD 215,000 NEGO!!

Secluded villa with pool on 167m2 land. 2 large bedrooms with A/C and ensuite with H/W shower. Spacious open plan dining/kitchen, large berugak overlooking the pool, 1 storage room. Beautiful garden, well maintained and totally new! Price USD 181,500

Jl Raya Senggigi (50m from Happy Café) | 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

MOUNT RINJANI ECO RESORT Beautifully built - direct beach frontage with swimming pool on the beach with views to the Gillis!

Large restaurant, 4 large cottages with ensuite and 5 separate backpacker cottages.

FIRST TIME OFFERED

Plus manager residence.

Exquisite gardens.

A must to view!

Asking Price Rp 3.5 billion

SETANGI LAND

VILLA MANGSIT

13 are of beautiful flat land with views to Setangi beach. 2 minutes to the beach.

OWNER SAYS SELL!

Close to Katamaran Resort, Qunci Villas and Sudamala Resort.

A must to view!

Asking price IDR 150 million/are

Bargain! 10.45 are of magnificent fruit trees with home studio. 5 minutes to Holiday Resort and beach.

Asking Price Rp 600 million

SETANGI BEACHSIDE VILLAS

Just a short drive north of the main tourist area of Senggigi, halfway between Mangsit and Malimbu beach. Less than 100m from the beach.

The Villas: •Villa land size: 500 to 900 sq metres.

•Villa floor space: 200 sq metres.

•Two bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms.

•Entertainment area on top of villa extension.

•Double sided roof insulation.

•Swimming pool 7.5m x 3.5m.

•Western Kitchen - including granite top and appliances.

•FREEHOLD First stage now available: •Villa 4 Priced at Rp 3 billion •Villa 5 Priced at Rp 2.5 billion

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.

Tourism Information

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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54 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’!

Tourism Information

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.

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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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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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Tourism Information

Kuta and The South Coast

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Tourism Information

MAGNETIC NORTH LOMBOK

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

traditions originate from this historic area.

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.

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.

Travelling north, look for the small signpost to Kerta Gangga Waterfalls, located between Gangga and Kerta Raharja village.

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 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.

North Lombok is one of the oldest settlements on the island and, with Muslims, Hindus and Buddhists living in the district, many different cultural

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!)

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

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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

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MAGNETIC NORTH LOMBOK Continued from Page 70

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.

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.

Nestled on the northern foothills of 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.

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.

Tiu Kelep Waterfall by Iwan Haryanto

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!

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

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.

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.

Tourism Information

The Gili Islands Unique tropical escapes!

Three perfect coral islands – Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno and Gili Air – fringed with white sands and swaying palm trees, lay in the sparkling ocean just off the north-west coast of Lombok.

Every year the Gilis attract tens of thousands of visitors from around the world for their pristine waters, great diving and snorkelling opportunities, and laid-back charm.

The word Gili actually means “small island”, and so these islands have come to be known as “The Gilis” by travellers. The Gilis are Lombok’s most popular islands and are consistently rated as top SEA island destinations by travellers and travel publications.

Although previously popular mainly with backpackers, the Gilis now attract a diverse range of visitors – serious diving enthusiasts, sun-seekers looking for the perfect beach getaway, singles, families, and couples of all ages find something to attract them to the Gilis.

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.

There is a good selection of accommodations, restaurants and bars on all three islands, with the biggest range on Gili Trawangan.

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.

While nobody comes to the Gilis

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.

Continued on Page 71

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Gili Trawangan

Luxury Villas on Gili Trawangan

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

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Continued from Page 69

Snorkelling is easy in the calm waters directly off the beaches, with plenty of colourful fish to see.

At greater depths and at specific dive locations around the three islands, the pristine waters are home to an abundant variety of corals, aquatic life and thousands of species of tropical fish.

An impressive array of sea life can be seen, including green and hawksbill turtles, morays, barracuda, reef sharks, occasionally leopard sharks and manta rays, and much more.

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.

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.

This means that travellers have a good choice, depending Gili Meno is the quietest of the three, on their individual tastes and perfect for really getting away from it all. what type of island escape they Choose the island that suits you most, or prefer. it’s easy to combine an island-hopping Gili Trawangan is the most holiday to sample the best of all three!

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.

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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 78

Tourism Information

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villas with private pools and sophisticated facilities in an exclusive setting on the beach.

Continued from Page 77 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 81

Gili Trawangan

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Gili Trawangan

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Gili Trawangan

Continued from Page 78 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.

81 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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GILI AIR

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.

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

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.

bars made from bamboo rubbing shoulders with some swanky new places along the beachfront.

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.

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.

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

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

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

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.

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

Just next to Scallywags, The Beach Club Gili Air offers accommodation for couples and families in eight charming Like all the Gilis, the best bungalows with large air conditioned swimming beaches are on the bedrooms, private terraces and semi-open east coast and most development air bathrooms. runs along the beaches here down Continued on Page 84

Gili Air

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

Continued from Page 83

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 beachfront here is a popular place for lounging on colourful bean bags during the day, or for romantic dining in the evening.

The beach bar and restaurant serves delicious meals and snacks, as well as all day breakfasts.

There are also free movies for restaurant guests on the beach every night (weather permitting) starting with children’s movies in the evenings, followed by adult feature movies.

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 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.

Activities include walking and cycling around the island, sun bathing, and swimming, snorkelling and diving, as well as yoga and meditation, and relaxing massages and body treatments.

For exploring, there is a path running parallel to the beach and it takes around 90 minutes to circle the whole island. The interior is criss-crossed with a maze of tracks that can get confusing, but all lead back to the beach.

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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Tourism Information

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