The
Issue 278 | 3 – 17 September 2018
FREE COPY
LOMBOK GUIDE ( 0812 3734 4894 | www.thelombokguide.com
IN THIS ISSUE
Getting to Lombok
Page 2
PUBLISHED BI-WEEKLY IN LOMBOK, FOR LOMBOK
#LOMBOKSTRONG
Getting Around
Page 4 & 8
Lombok Map
Page 6
Special Feature
Page 10 & 11
Senggigi
Page 12 - 34
Senggigi Map
Page 12
Feature
Page 14 & 16
Distribution
Page 26
Presean by Ambara Jaya
Special
Special Feature
Page 27
Classifieds
Page 29
The Cities
Page 35 - 37
Cities Map
Page 36
Special Feature
Page 38
South Lombok Map
Page 39
The Southwest
Page 40 - 44
Kuta Map
Page 45
Kuta & The South Coast
Page 46 - 55
The Gilis
Page 56 - 63
Getting to Gilis Page 60 Gilis Map
Page 63
To find out more, pick up a copy of The Lombok Guide from the locations listed on page 26 or visit www.thelombokguide.com and discover the magic of Lombok for yourself… Like thousands of others, you’ll be enchanted!
FAST BOAT TRANSFERS BETWEEN BALI, GILI T AND LOMBOK EASY TRANSFERS TO GILI GEDE (SOUTHWEST LOMBOK)
Gili Getaway Hassle-free bookings and safe, comfortable transfers every day! Ph: +62 811 380 1717 or +62 821 4489 9502 | (WhatsApp): +62 ONLINE BOOKINGS &813 INFO3707 4147 giligetaway@ozemail.com.au www.giligetaway.com
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 hour 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. 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. www.garuda-indonesia.com
Batik Air flies direct between Lombok and Jakarta, with two flights every day. www.batikair.com NAM Air operates a flight between Lombok and Bima in Sumbawa every day using Boeing 737-500 aircraft. Bookings can be made online at www.sriwijayaair.co.id.
BALI TO LOMBOK BY SEA
Wings Air / Lion Air flies between Bali and Lombok daily. The companies code-share, so you may purchase a Lion Air ticket and Padang Bai Harbour (Bali) provides the sea link between find yourself on a Wings Air flight! Lombok, Call Centre: +62 80 mainland Bali and Lombok. Lembar Harbour (Lombok) is on the southwest coast, approx. 1 hour south of Senggigi, Lombok. 4177 8899. Bali, ph: +62 361 765132. www.lionair.co.id Arrange your own transport and buy tickets direct from the NAM Air operates a daily flight harbours, or use a reputable tour company to provide a transfer between Lombok and Bali every service. evening using Boeing 737-500 Public Ferries depart every hour for the sea voyage between aircraft. Bookings can be made Padang Bai Harbour (Bali) and Lembar Harbour (Lombok). The online at www.sriwijayaair.co.id crossing between the islands costs Rp 46,000 per person and takes approx. 4 to 5 hours. Lembar Harbour ph: +62 370 681 209. INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS Padang Bai Harbour ph: (+62 363) 41849 / 41840 Lombok International Airport has full Visa on Arrival (VOA) FAST BOATS facilities, including 30 day “Visa Free” (no charge) for tourists. Ph: +62 370 622987. There are now numerous “fast boat” services operating between Bali and Lombok. 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
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 connecting Bali and Garuda Airlines flies between Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia and mainland Lombok (including Lombok every day, with a short stop-over in Jakarta. International the Gili Islands and Gili connections from around the world are available via Jakarta. Call Gede in the southwest) with daily transfers from Serangan Harbour on Bali. Fares include air Centre: 08041 807 807. www.garuda-indonesia.com conditioned hotel transfers to main points in Bali. They also offer DOMESTIC FLIGHTS a VIP transfer service from Gili Gede to the south coast, the cities, Senggigi and other destinations around Lombok. Ph: +62 811 380 European connections are easy via Jakarta (the capital city of 1717 or +62 821 4489 9502. (WhatsApp): +62 813 3707 4147 Java), Bali and other capital cities such as Jogjakarta, Surabaya www.giligetaway.com and Makassar.
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GETTING AROUND
LOMBOK INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT is a relatively small airport that handles domestic flights between Bali, Jakarta and other Indonesian cities and international flights to and from Singapore and Kuala Lumpur.
Getting to the Airport: Lombok Taxi (Blue Bird) is the most convenient taxi operator and are allowed to drop passengers directly in front of the departure terminal. Note that they cannot pick up passengers from inside the airport grounds. Organising an airport transfer with your hotel is often the easiest option, with the hotel driver meeting you on arrival and transferring you to your hotel in comfort. Check with your hotel – charges are usually only slightly more than a taxi. For low cost airport transfers, the DAMRI bus is the cheapest way to travel between Senggigi, Mataram and the airport (see below). From the Airport: taxis are available to meet all arriving flights. After collecting your baggage, head out of the exit doors of the terminal and through the arrivals hall to the official airport taxi parking area (at the end on the right hand side). Kotama and Kotasi are the main operators, using dark blue sedans carrying a maximum of 4 passengers (less if you have a lot of luggage).
There are official taxi counters inside the arrivals hall that will allocate you a fixed price taxi to most destinations plus charge an additional airport fee of Rp 17,500; however, it is just as easy to walk outside and catch a metered taxi independently. Ignore the many touts that will approach you with offers of cheap fares – they are not licensed operators and often quote low prices, which can quickly change once you are in the car. Avoid eye contact and avoid the hassle.
If you do need to use an independent driver – if you are a large group or have a lot of luggage or sports equipment, such as surf boards – make sure you negotiate a fixed price before you get in the vehicle. The public DAMRI bus uses air conditioned Mercedes buses which seat around 40 passengers and are an economical solution to airport transfers to and from Senggigi and the cities. The DAMRI counter is located inside the arrivals hall, at the end on the left hand side. The bus parks just outside the hall on the left.
The DAMRI counter is manned with an information officer who issues tickets These taxis are licensed and insured and will use the meter to calculate your for the bus service. Prices are clearly fare anywhere on the island. shown on sign boards Approximate taxi fares: to Senggigi at the counter. Rp 220,000; to Mataram Rp 160,000; DAMRI operate a to Kuta: Rp 90,000; to Bangsal regular schedule of Harbour Rp 350,000.
departures every day to coincide with airline schedules. Three airport shuttle services are available – one to and from central Senggigi (LIA - Senggigi), another to and from Mataram (LIA - Mataram Pool Damri), and one to and from Selong in East Lombok (LIA – Selong Pancor).
Officially, the scheduled departure times are every hour for shuttle buses to the city of Mataram and every 1 and 1/2 hours to Senggigi, from 3am until 8pm. However, you may find yourself on a bus that combines both routes, stopping first near Mataram and then continuing on to Senggigi. The helpful drivers tend to stop at other popular points along the route, including dropping off passengers at the roundabout in Gerung (useful if you are heading to Sekotong or Lembar), several points near the city, and outside the old Selaparang Airport on the way to Ampenan (where taxis also await the arrival of the buses). The trip terminates opposite the Galleria shops on the main street in Senggigi (just south of Asmara Restaurant). If you need to stop beforehand, let the driver know and he will usually accommodate your request. The trip to Senggigi takes around 90 minutes and costs just Rp 40,000 per person (Rp 30,000 to Mataram, and Rp 35,000 to Selong). If your hotel is outside of Senggigi, flag down a metered Blue Bird taxi from the shuttle stop in Senggigi to take you to your hotel or villa. Around Lombok: Lombok is easy to get around. The roads are in good condition and there is little traffic, apart from in the cities. The island itself is only slightly smaller than Bali at 115km (70 miles) long and 80km (50 miles) wide; it is not practical to drive around Lombok in one day. 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
Stay
Escape to the timeless serenity of Gili Gede - Gateway to the Southwest Gilis in one of our luxurious one- and two- bedroom air conditioned villas with private swimming pools or an absolute beachfront bungalow all day dining at our romantic beachfront restaurant and bar at the Spa or in our Resort Swimming Pool on our Tennis Court, Putting Green or in our Gym Water Sports, Island Hopping, Snorkelling and Diving
Enjoy
Relax Play Explore
Get there fast and then take it slow... with easy fastboat transfers from Bali and Lembar Harbour 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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GETTING AROUND Continued from Page 4
Taxis are easily available in Lombok and, unlike in other areas of Asia, all use their meters (argo) to calculate fares, so there is no need to haggle a price. Bluebird taxis (light blue colour) are the largest company in Lombok and you will find them in the cities and around tourist areas such as Senggigi.
Express Taksi (white cars) are also available, mainly in the cities. Taxis can be used to make trips to Kuta or Lembar and Bangsal Harbours and, if you are shopping or making day trips by taxi, ask the driver to wait and leave the meter running. Fares are still very low compared to those in the west. Short trips around Senggigi will cost around Rp 20,000; a taxi from Senggigi to Mataram is around Rp 65,000.
insurance.
Motorbikes are the most popular form of transport and are generally small, light 125cc bikes with automatic gears. Modern and economical motor scooters, such as a Yamaha Mio, are easy to ride and do not have gears. Expect to pay between Rp 35 – 60,000 per day for motorbike rental, depending on age and type. Both require an international drivers’ licence. Tours are readily available in all the tourist areas, and drivers and guides are licensed by the local Kotasi (tour organisation), who also regulate prices in the industry.
Express Taxi, ph: 0370 647 555 Cars and Motorbikes can be hired in Lombok and driving yourself is easy. Cars drive on the left hand side of the road (as in the UK). Modern, air conditioned cars that comfortably seat 5 people including the driver can be hired for between Rp 350 – 450,000 per day, including basic
Use cidomo for short trips, such as getting to restaurants and hotels around Senggigi. A short trip should cost around Rp 20,000; negotiate the fare with the driver before climbing in. There are no cars or motorised transport on the Gili Islands, so cidomo are the main form of transport and the islands’ cidomo have a fixed price schedule of fares, much higher than on Lombok.
Most tour operators are reliable and will have a wealth of local knowledge, which can make touring a more rewarding experience. It is also the most comfortable way to explore the island, as you have time to sit back and observe, rather than negotiating traffic and unfamiliar roads. Bemo (pronounced ‘be moh’) are generally small minibuses used as public transport in towns and cities. They are a cheap way of travelling, but can be uncomfortably crowded.
Phone for a taxi or ask your hotel to phone, or flag one down from the side of the road. Make sure the driver starts the meter when you get in. Lombok Taxi (Blue Bird), ph: 0370 627 000 (or download the ‘My Blue Bird’ App from Google Play, iTunes, or from the Blue Bird Group website)
used today, although they have been replaced by cars and motorbikes in the cities. The covered wooden carriages are pulled by small local ponies and, in villages and at the local markets in Kebun Roek, they are popular transport, particularly for carting goods.
Popular tours, such as day trips to Sedang Gile waterfall, or to Kuta and the south coast, are structured to take in a full day of sightseeing. Tours range between Rp 350 – 700,000 a day for a driver and an air conditioned vehicle for up to 4 passengers, depending on distances and the number of places visited. * Expect to pay high end prices quoted during peak seasons. Cidomo (pronounced ‘chi doh moh’) are traditional horse drawn carts that were once the main form of transport in Lombok and are still
The small versions used in villages are vans with an open back and seats along each side. Flag down a passing bemo from the side of the road and climb on board; press the button on the ceiling when you want to stop and get off and pay the driver when you disembark. Short hops cost around Rp 5,000. These bemos can also be chartered for your private use; negotiate a fare with the driver for a direct trip to a specific location, without stopping to pick up other passengers. In the cities, larger bright yellow bemos travel the routes from Ampenan to Mataram, Mataram to Cakra, and beyond. You will see them cruising the streets, horns beeping, as they pick up and drop off passengers. If you are travelling between the cities, you will need to change bemo, as each serves only one area. Fares between cities are Rp 5,000.
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Special Feature
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#LOMBOKSTRONG
Kuta by http://beckrocchi.com.au/
As Lombok was rocked by earthquakes and aftershocks during August, we could only watch in horror as the epicentres hit the north of the island, claiming hundreds of lives and destroying thousands of homes and infrastructure such as roads, hospitals, schools, and places of worship. It was a natural disaster on a scale usually reserved for Japan or Mexico; not a small tropical island ticking along in the middle of its annual high season.
north-east of the island – an area centred on the Rinjani mountain range and filled with remote villages. To put this in perspective, the island of Lombok is almost as large as Bali, measuring 80 km from east to west and around 90 km from north to south. The area affected by the earthquakes equates to around 20% of the island. In the weeks following the disaster, the community bound together to provide aid to the worst affected areas. Local and expatriate residents, businesses on the island, NGO’s and charity organizations provided emergency aid until government relief could reach the remote villages. Throughout this natural disaster, we have seen the rise of many heroes.
Media reports were filled with sensational headlines, as tourists were evacuated from the Gilis to ensure their safety, and newspapers were filled with photos of broken and collapsed buildings. Anyone would think that the whole island was destroyed. Yet it must be stressed that the majority of damage was confined to the north and
Tourists already arriving at Lombok Airport 19 August 2018
financed by the Indonesian government, is now operating on the island. Thousands of Indonesian police and military
Home-grown hero, Endri Susanto and the team of the Endri Foundation (Yayasan Endri) have worked tirelessly every day and often late into the night distributing aid to the villages in North Lombok. We wish we could name and thank the many, many heroes that rose to the challenge and stood firm Endri and Autore Pearls distribute fresh water to villages during this time… you know who you are and Lombok and the personnel are working to repair critical Gilis are strong today because of you. infrastructure in the north. The “State of Emergency” status for the area was lifted on 25 August 2018 and the recovery effort is now well underway.
Infrastructure on the remainder of the island has been unaffected throughout this time.
The post-quake recovery programme, led by the provincial government and
Lombok International Airport has been operating normally, as has Lembar
Special Feaure
#GILISTRONG
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https://www.facebook.com/BegadangBackpackers/ Gili Gosong by Asriel Haryadi
local people who depend directly and indirectly on the tourism industry – from those working in hotels to the farmers in the field and suppliers across the island – need their jobs if they are to rebuild their lives. Senggigi and west coast areas are recovering rapidly and most hotels and businesses have either re-opened now or will be open within the next couple of weeks. Tourists are already returning to the area. The cities of Ampenan, Mataram and Cakranegara are open for commerce and are operating normally.
Harbour, the main port linking Bali and Lombok. Flights and ferry connections continue to operate normally. The first fast boat connection between Bali and Lombok, Eka Jaya Fast Boat, resumed service on Thursday, 16 August. Electricity, water, internet, roads and other infrastructure are fully operational throughout the island, with the exception of some of the more remote areas in North and East Lombok. Businesses on the island are picking themselves up and brushing themselves off, ready to start rebuilding their lives and the tourism sector. Tourism is one of the main sources of revenue for Lombok and its people, and the economy must keep functioning if we are to rebuild and help the people in the north recover. Once all this is over, the hundreds of thousands of
Electricity has been restored on the Gilis and the cleanup of the islands is well underway. Foreign and local residents, and their staff, have returned to the Gilis and are working to rebuild their islands. Many businesses plan to re-open in early September. Public boats servicing the Gilis from mainland Lombok have resumed regular services and the first tourists returned to Gili Air on Friday, 17 August. Kuta and the south coast (Mandalika, Gerupuk, Selong Belanak, etc), together
Tourists enjoying Gili Sudak 25 August 2018
with the Southwest coast and its islands (Sekotong, Tawun, Gili Gede, etc), were unaffected by the earthquakes and continue to welcome visitors as normal. We are grateful for the support we have received locally and from around the world, and sincerely thank everyone who has contributed to our island’s recovery. The best way to assist Lombok’s recovery now is to keep coming to Lombok and the Gilis and support our tourism industry. It is vital that we keep local businesses open and local people employed for the future. The spirit of the people in Lombok and the Gilis remains strong as we work together to recover from this natural disaster – together we are restoring our island to the paradise that it has always been.
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Senggigi Map
Senggigi
OM R N F ON E OP 2 NO AY 1 RY D E EV
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Special Feature
SENGGIGI AND THE WEST COAST Senggigi Bay by Simon Mammino
Shaken but not stirred, Senggigi and the west coast tourism areas – Batu Layar, Batu Bolong, central Senggigi, Mangsit, Klui and Lendang Luar – are recovering quickly.
In the event of a natural disaster, responsible business operators will close down and await insurance inspections (and often, inspections by a structural engineer) to ensure that buildings are safe prior to re-opening.
The majority of the damage in this area was caused by the earthquake on 5 August and its aftershocks. Most of the major resorts and hotels closed their doors after relocating guests for their safety. This is normal procedure after a natural disaster and is determined by management disaster guidelines and the businesses’ insurance companies.
As was the case in North Lombok, poor construction techniques saw locally built homes and buildings in some residential areas destroyed. One of the worst affected areas was Kerandangan, where many homes in the valley have collapsed and residents are living in temporary shelters. At the time of writing, many west coast businesses have completed their safety inspections and are now re-open. Others plan to re-open in September. Hotels currently open and accepting guests include: Qunci Villas, Puri Mas Boutique Resort, Katamaran Resort (all in Mangsit), Jeeva Klui in Klui, Living Asia in Lendang Luar, Puri Bunga Beach Cottages, Aruna Senggigi, Kila Senggigi, (central Senggigi), Café Alberto B&B in Batu Bolong, and The Chandi Boutique Resort in Batu Layar.
Senggigi
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Special Feature
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West Coast
Restaurants and bars are open and more continue to come back on line daily, including Asmara Restaurant, Lotus Bayview Restaurant, Square Restaurant, Pasta Pojok, Temptations Café & Bakery, Bottletop Bar, Café Alberto, Quali Restaurant at Qunci Villas,
Ballroom Restaurant at Puri Mas,Verve Beach Club and Restaurant, The Cowshed Steak House, Meru Restaurant at The Chandi, and Melaka Restaurant at Living Asia Resort. Qunci Villas
Nusa Alam International School resumed classes on 15 August and are doing a great job in restoring normality to the children’s’ lives. The buildings at Lombok Learning Village were undamaged and the school set up a relief centre for people whose homes were damaged. They are currently conducting trauma healing and activities for children and families in the community. The beaches around Senggigi – Senggigi Beach, Mangsit, Nipah, Malimbu – are still as beautiful as they have always been. If you come now, you’ll enjoy them without any crowds!
Senggigi
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WET n DRY AHLINYA BERSIH
UPHOLSTERY CLEANING SOFAS, CHAIRS, CARPETS, MATTRESSES, CAR SEATS, ETC
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Senggigi
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w w w. l o t u s - r e s t a u r a n t s . c o m
Specialising in delicious and authentic meals... real Italian food from our real Italian chef!
FREE Transport and delivery service in Senggigi area
On the beachfront, Senggigi Art Market Ph: +62 (0) 370 693 758 | Fax: +62 (0) 370 693 375
Senggigi
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Anna’s
Senggigi
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! Lombok.Annas.Giftshop
Find us on TripAdvisor!
Jl Raya Senggigi (next to Papa Besar Cafe) | P: 0819 171 37 308 | E: annasgiftshoplombok@gmail.com
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Senggigi
Senggigi
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Senggigi
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ISLAND PROPERTIES LOMBOK Real Estate Specialists
HOMESTAY OPPORTUNITY VILLA ORCHID, GREEN VALLEY The house is set in a beautiful tropical orchid gardens. Three separate homes, positioned on a block of 6.6 are (660sqm) in a quiet cul de sac. The first house has 3 large bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, open plan design with European kitchen and spacious lounge overlooking the swimming pool. PLUS beautifully furnished, large two storey Lumbung dwelling AND another third building! Home has maid quarters and storage areas. Excellent homestay possibility! Asking Price Rp 3.8 billion
LOMBOK SENGGIGI HOTEL
Central Senggigi. 14 bedroom hotel with restaurant.
VILLA MONTONG FOR RENT
• 4 Bedroom 2 Storey 3 Bathroom
• Entertaining area with separate bathroom and kitchen
Excellent location - 80 metres from the central tourist strip shops and restaurants!
• Swimming pool 40 x 24 • Security building and bathroom plus storage facility
Room to expand a further 14 - 16 units.
• 300 square meters main house • 17 are (1,700sqm) land
10 x 4m pool and alfresco area. Asking Price AUD 550,000
Asking Price USD 16,000 / annum
MENO MOJO RESORT – GILI MENO
10 ARE LAND IN GILI MENO
Exquisite direct beach frontage units! The views to the ocean and Mt. Rinjani are stunning.
There is nowhere else you can wake up to that magical view anywhere in the world! Professionally managed USD 98,000. 10% guaranteed return for 3 years.
10 are (1,000sqm) located next door to Ottalia Resort. 10 minutes to the beach. Lovely palm trees on the block. Excellent opportunity to develop!
Lease hold 25x25x25x25 = 100 years
Rp 75 million / are
Phone Angela: 0819 1742 0804 / Santi (Indonesia): 0877 6660 3939 islandpropertieslombok@gmail.com | www.islandpropertylombok.com
We can make your dreams come true!
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
Distribution
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LOMBOK GUIDE The
LOMBOK’S #1 TOURISM NEWSPAPER AND INFORMATION RESOURCE 8000 copies distributed throughout Lombok, the Gilis and Bali every month! Around 200 international & national visits to our website every day! www.thelombokguide.com An average of 7000 people reading our online digital paper every month! http://issuu.com/thelombokguide WITH MORE THAN 20,000 READERS EVERY MONTH, HOW CAN YOU AFFORD NOT TO ADVERTISE???
Contact us now for economical advertising that gets results! 0812 3734 4894
kitadesign@hotmail.com
www.thelombokguide.com
4000 COPIES DISTRIBUTED EVERY TWO WEEKS AT: BLUE BIRD TAXI: Exclusively available in every Blue Bird Taxi in Lombok. AIRPORT: LIA Tourist Information Board, 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, My Kopi-O, Omah Cobek, Paris Castle, Quali, Solaria, XO Suki), Mataram Mall (Delicio Café, McDonalds, Mokko Factory, Oceanic Café), Toko Susana. KUTA: Bombora Bungalows, Discovery Coffee House, El Bazar, Kemangi Bar & Kitchen, KRNK, Kuta Bay Homestay, Kuta Heights, Kuta Indah Hotel, Mimpi Manis Homestay, Novotel, Nuggets Corner, Puri Rinjani, Sekar Kuning / Yellow Flower, The Chili Cafe, Warung Bule. SENGGIGI: Anna’s Giftshop, Aruna Senggigi Hotel, Asmara Restaurant, Café Alberto, Cafe Lombi, Island Properties Lombok, Katamaran Resort, La Chill Bar, Living Asia, Lombok Property and Villas, Lotus Bayview Restaurant, Orchid Spa, Pasta Pojok, Puri Bunga Cottages, Puri Mas Boutique Hotel, Qunci Villas, Senggigi Jaya Abadi Supermarket, Sheraton, Square Restaurant, Temptations, The Chandi, The Cowshed, The Office, Verve Beach Club, White Elephant Restaurant. GILI T: Blue Marlin Dive, Desa Dunia Beda, Gili Getaway, Kayu Cafe, ko-ko-mo Resort, Oceano Resort, Pearl Beach Lounge, 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 – 2018. We have spent years travelling all over Lombok, documenting, photographing and updating. If you want to write about Lombok, we suggest you do the same! All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be copied, reproduced or transmitted in any form (electronically, print or otherwise) without prior written permission from the Publisher. Opinions expressed in The Lombok Guide are those of the author and not necessarily the Publisher. We reserve the right to refuse advertising or articles at the Publisher’s discretion. While all care is taken to avoid copyright infringements, The Lombok Guide will not be held responsible for images or text directly supplied by advertisers and/or contributors. Tired after a day of mischief
Special Feature Anjungan by Sid Blade
27 Photo by Asriel Haryadi
Photo by Scuba Froggy
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Live Music! Great Food! Good Times!
Senggigi
Jl Raya (Main Street) Senggigi Ph: 0370 693619 E: restaurant@asmara-group.com
www.asmara-group.com
OPEN DAILY 2PM – 10PM TAKE AWAY AVAILABLE AND DELIVERY TO SENGGIGI AREAS HALAL CERTIFIED
Pasar Classifieds
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PASAR CLASSIFIEDS
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MEMILIKI KENDARAAN
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APAPUN KENDARAAN YANG ANDA NAIKI DAN DIMANAPUN ANDA BERADA
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Senggigi
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[ Yo u r K e y to an I d yllic Lombok ]
3 1 /0 8 /2 0 1 8
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17.45
Senggigi
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Puri Mas Boutique Resort The Essence of Tradition, Luxury and Style
Located just 5 minutes drive north of Senggigi, Puri Mas Beach Resort offers romantic Private Pool Villas, Jacuzzi Villas and Classic Rooms on the beachfront in Mangsit
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Senggigi
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The Ballroom Restaurant @ Puri Mas Boutique Resort
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Senggigi
Cities Map
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THE CITIES
with government offices, banks, mosques, schools and colleges, bookstores, the main post office, and Mataram University downtown.
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 shops selling everything imaginable from everyday items to gold and pearls. There are many pearl shops in Ampenan and the nearby village of Sekarbela that sell unset pearls and pearl jewellery at attractive prices. These are genuine pearls – some cheap quality from China and more expensive ones farmed in Lombok and Sumbawa. If you bargain the price, you can usually get a good deal.
In Mataram, the Nusa Tenggara Barat Museum houses historical and cultural artefacts from Lombok and Sumbawa. It’s an interesting place to visit and occasionally hosts special exhibits. Displays include exhibits on geology, history and culture. Address: Jl Panji Tilar. Ph: 632159 for opening times. There is a small admission fee. Also worth visiting is the cultural centre, Taman Budaya on Jl Majapahit. Music and dance performances are presented here regularly. Phone: 622428 for details. 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 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 (local cafés) and food stalls in the cities. Or just wander around the streets to soak up the atmosphere and discover fascinating insights into Lombok city life! Ampenan was the original 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),
Tourism Information
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 several pharmacies. Other retailers sell a wide variety of fashion, shoes, electronics, sporting goods, and much more.
There are many food outlets and cafés, as well as Burger King, KFC, Bread Talk, J. Co, Starbucks, Excelso, and more. The older Mataram Mall on Jl Pejanggik is a more low key shopping centre with a Hero Supermarket, Tiara Department Store, McDonalds and KFC outlets, electronics and home ware stores, and a good selection of specialty shops. 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 multitiered meru.
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 woven baskets to fresh flowers and local food. 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 Lombok Epicentrum Mall on Jl Sriwijaya (see cities map) is Lombok’s most modern shopping
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.
The Cities
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GO SOUTH!
Special Feature
Selong Belanak
TANJUNG AAN The best beach for swimming on the south coast! This long curve of white sand and clean turquoise water makes for a perfect day at the beach! Swim, sunbathe, climb the hill for fabulous views, buy fresh coconuts and grilled fish from the beachside stalls. Warung Turtle is our top pick! SELONG BELANAK The gorgeous views speak for themselves! Swim, body surf, learn to surf! It’s easy to spend the whole day enjoying this beach – splashing in the waves, lounging on the
Tanjung Aan
sand or getting active. Surf board hire and surf lessons are available, and lots of little local stalls selling food and drinks on the beach. Laut Biru Restaurant and Bar is our favourite spot!
of the best reefs in the area. Don’t miss the surprising good home cooked Italian food at Gili Asahan Eco Lodge!
GILI ASAHAN
Stunning sunrise views, hills to climb and hidden coves to explore, plus easy island hopping to the other Secret Gilis! The Big Island of the southwest has oodles of charm. For luxe stays, Kokomo Resort is hard to beat; for budget friendly fun, head to Ultimate Gili Gede or Thamarind Resort!
The picture postcard perfect deserted tropical island in Southwest Lombok. Spend the day strolling along pristine white sand beaches and jumping in the clear water to cool off. There’s fabulous snorkelling straight from the beach or charter a local boat out to Gili Layar to snorkel one Gili Gede
GILI GEDE
Gili Getaway Fast Boat can get you there from Bali or Lombok. There’s also a VIP Transfer Service available to and from the south coast and other points on Lombok.
www.thelombokguide.com
Tourism Information 39
Tourism Information
40
Southwest Lombok by Asriel Haryadi
The Southwest 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 Gilis’!
Far from the earthquake zones in the north, Southwest Lombok feels like it exists in another time and place.
their day-to-day activities of farming, fish cultivation, boating and fishing, brickmaking and other traditional pastimes.
There is also simple accommodation on Gili Sudat (the island closest to the mainland).
The Southwest consists of long meandering coastlines of pristine white sand beaches with thirteen small islands - the Southwest Gilis floating in the sparkling turquoise waters just offshore.
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.
Back on the main road and slightly further south is the turn off for Cocotinos Boutique Beach Resort, set on the secluded beach at Tanjung Empat.
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 Gilis’!
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.
The big island of Gili Gede is rapidly becoming the hub for tourism in the Southwest and, with a range of accommodation and facilities, it’s a good base for island hopping and exploring the area. The picturesque Southwest region starts at Sekotong, 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
Accommodation at Taun has grown over the past few years and there are now a few small hotels and home stays on the bay. 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 simple cottages on the beach and a restaurant. The island is small and the beach has soft white sand and a good reef just offshore for snorkelling.
With 28 rooms, including beachfront villas with private swimming pools, Cocotinos is the only upmarket accommodation on the mainland. Travelling a little further south, before the marine culture complex (Balai Budaya Laut), there is a small dirt road leading out onto a white peninsular of sand that juts into beautiful clear waters. Drive to the end for superb views and a close up look at Gili Genting. Gili Genting sits just off the tip of the peninsular and at low tide you can walk across the sandbar and explore this uninhabited island. Old volcanic rocks and stone carved from centuries of tidal flow create small caves and alcoves, providing shelter for picnics and interesting nooks and crannies to explore. Further south you will come to the only petrol station along the south coastal road at Tembowong Village. Nearby is the site for catching boats out to Gili Gede, only a few minutes across the water. Gili Gede: 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 developing as the main hub for the Southwest Gilis as is one of the Continued on Page 42
The Southwest
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VILLA SELALU Gili Gede, Lombok
A private, luxury hilltop retreat on Gili Gede with 360° uninterrupted views of a truly unique and untouched part of the world. The villa offers 4 king size bedrooms with marble ensuites and can accommodate up to 12 guests in absolute comfort. * private, white sand beach * 18m infinity pool * hillside BBQ pavilion * entertainment room * WIFI * spacious open plan living * fully air conditioned * TV & DVD players * commercial kitchen (full service or self catering options) * hillside breakfast berugak * bespoke luxury furnishings and amenities * dedicated manager and staff * beach lounging pavilion * boathouse complete with snorkelling equipment, kayaks, SUP’s & bikes. Book one bedroom for couples or two or more bedrooms for groups and enjoy exclusive access to the entire villa. villaselalubookings@gmail.com +62 812 3961 6327 | +61 411 031 607 www.villaselalugiligede.com
Tourism Information
42 Continued from Page 40 few islands in the area that has a choice of accommodation, making it an ideal base for exploring the other nearby islands. The luxurious ko - ko - mo Gili Gede Resort, which opened in February 2016, is the sister resort to ko - ko - mo Resort on Gili Trawangan. The stylish all villa resort, comprising fifteen 1 and 2 bedroom villas with private swimming pools, and one bedroom Villa Kecil (small villas), is 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 upmarket 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 – ‘Gili Getaway’ –
Villa Selalu Gili Gede
making Gili Gede easily accessible, even for a day trip.
overlooking the ocean surrounded by a spacious deck, BBQ area and lounging pavilion.
Perched on the hilltop just to the north of ko - ko – mo is Villa Selalu, a private luxury Villa Selalu has a private beachfront and a retreat that enjoys outstanding 360º views boathouse equipped with snorkelling gear, sea kayaks, paddle boards and bikes to of the stunning surroundings. make the most of your holiday. The fully serviced 4 bedroom villa boasts Individual rooms are available or rent the unparalleled luxury with all mod cons villa in entirety for the ultimate island and ultra chic furnishings. Guests can escape! enjoy a number of indoor and outdoor living areas, as well as an 18m infinity pool Continued on Page 44
The Southwest
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DIVE RESORT
Ultimate Gili Gede – your ultimate experience on beautiful Gili Gede! VILLA VISTA
Diving | Snorkelling | Surf Trips | SUP| Fishing | Guided Bike Tours | Spa Treatments | Pizza Delivery! Fun in Paradise! 4 Beach Bungalows and one 3 Bedroom Villa, Restaurant and Shop, Ocean Views, King Size Beds, AC, TV/DVD, Wifi, Fridge, Coffee & Tea Facilities.
VILLA VISTA – 4 BEDROOM HILLSIDE VILLA WITH STUNNING VIEWS King Sized Beds, AC, TV/DVD, Wifi, Hot Water Showers, Kitchen Facilities, Bicycles and Snorkelling Gear included! Easy transfers from Bali and Lombok to Gili Gede on Gili Getaway fast boat
Phone: ID: 0819 3616 5000 | USA: +1 (910) 300-7156 E: ultimategiligede@gmail.com | W: www.ultimategiligede.com
THAMARIND RESORT GILI GEDE
Many years ago, my grandfather, who was a sailor for the Royal House in Macassar, Sulawesi, landed on the uninhabited island of Gede and settled there, becoming the founding father of the island. The large Thamarind trees that he planted, give the name ‘Thamarind’ to the resort. We offer comfortable and clean accommodation to suit all budgets in our Spacious Family Room, Beach Bungalows, and Eco Pondok Rooms. Enjoy kayaking, snorkelling and diving. Island hopping trips, fishing trips and coconut harvesting can be arranged by our island-born staff.
+62 819 1817 0111 | reservasi.thamarindresort@gmail.com www.thamarindresort.com
Our restaurant has 180 degree sea views and serves delicious traditional Indonesian dishes, fresh fish and seafood, and western treats.
The Southwest
44 Continued from Page 42
Gili Layar
At the other end of the scale, there are a few small cottages and home stays on the island with simple accommodation for budget travellers. Thamarind Resort is a family-run resort with reasonably priced accommodation on the beachfront in comfortable rooms or individual bungalows, including a spacious family bungalow. Ideal for a low-key and relaxing holiday on the beach, the resort has private beach area and a restaurant with lovely views serving Indonesian and western meals. The friendly staff at Thamarind can organise a range of activities for all ages and interests. The nearby Ultimate Gili Gede Dive Resort Gil is geared for travellers who are looking for fun and adventure, with a range of activities including diving the Southwest Gilis and surfing trips to nearby Desert Point – a world famous surf location.
On the other side of the island is where the pier is located, on a fantastic white sand beach. 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, and the scenery and beach are lovely. Many are astounded by the pristine conditions and huge schools of turtles seen near Gili Layar – the island between Gili Ringgit and Gili Asahan. 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. There is simple accommodation on Gili Layar and a restaurant serving fresh juices, beers and tasty meals.
The resort offers 4 beach bungalows and a 3 bedroom villa for families and friends sharing. On the hillside above the resort is Villa Vista – a spacious and fully-serviced private 4 bedroom villa, which shares all the resort facilities and boasts a swimming pool and stunning views across the ocean.
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.
There are small home-stays and private accommodations spaced out along the road to Bangko-Bangko – known as Desert Point and the surfing Mecca for those in the know – located on the far southwest tip of Lombok. The wide white sand bay is lined with fisherman’s huts and draws hundreds of surfers every year from as far away as Hawaii and Brazil to challenge the huge waves of Desert Point, just offshore. Although the road deteriorates after Labuhan Poh, it is still passable for most vehicles in the dry season. During the surfing season, from mid-May to September and again in December, the beach is buzzing with surfers, but otherwise it is a remote and peaceful area. Bali is clearly visible, with the island of Nusa Penida only about an hour’s sail away. The drive to the point is dotted with bucolic scenery and tiny villages, making it a worthwhile trip even for non-surfers. There is basic surfer accommodation in the area and plans for development in the near future. The dive sites of the Southwest 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.
Both resorts provide meals and can arrange transfers, 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 right leads to Labuhan Poh and Pelangan.
Slightly further south, beautiful Gili Asahan attracts visitors with its deserted white sand beaches, clear calm waters and swaying palm trees. Gili Asahan Eco Lodge and Pearl Beach Resort both offer comfortable accommodation 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. A signpost to the left leads to the spectacular large bay at Mekaki. The road
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. 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. 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.
Kuta Map
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S
KUTA & THE
Tourism Information
UBLIME OUTH COAST
Batu Payung by Didik Hariadi
At around 90km south and 3 - 4 hours drive from the earthquake affected zones in the north, Kuta and the south coast of Lombok was unaffected by the recent natural disasters in North Lombok. That didn’t stop the dynamic community of the south from helping their northern counterparts though! Kuta businesses rallied around fast, holding numerous fund raising events and sending trucks and cars with emergency aid to the north daily. The generosity of the south was given freely, despite the impact that the disaster had on tourism in the area. If you are worried about travelling to Lombok, the south coast is far removed from the quakes and boasts some of the most magnificent scenery in Indonesia! Tourists are drawn to the south for the stunning beaches and scenery, the laid back lifestyle, and almost year-round sunshine… 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 (LIA) 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 in very good condition. 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 cafés 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 still 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. Continued on Page 48
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Selong Belanak by Asriel haryadi
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Slightly further south is Sade, another hilltop village with more Lumbung and traditional homes.
tastes, from simple and cheap hotels to luxurious villas with private swimming pools.
Both villages have been renovated and cater to the tourist market, but there are still interesting examples of traditional Sasak architecture and communal living within the compounds, where life continues as it has for centuries.
As with accommodation options, new restaurants, coffee shops and eateries are springing up in the area. These offer a range of choices – Mediterranean, Japanese, vegan and gluten free, nouvelle cuisine, home-made cakes and breads – diners are spoilt for choice!
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 town on the move that is evolving quickly. In the past, it offered mainly low budget hotels catering to the thousands of surfers from around the world who are drawn to the area every year. These days, there is a good variety of accommodation to suit all budgets and
Among our favourites are El Bazar for on trend cuisine and healthy choices, Milk Espresso for delicious breakfasts, laid back all day dining and great cocktail hours, and Palate Café for cool vibes, good food and top notch live music in the evenings. Kuta offers a full range of tourist facilities from motorbike hire, car rental and tours, surf lessons and surfboard hire and more. There are several mini-markets in the town selling drinks, snacks, toiletries and other daily needs, as well as ATM facilities, tour agencies and more.
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. Designed to blend in with the environment, the unique style of the buildings at the Novotel are a wonderful example of traditional Sasak architecture. The Novotel occupies a privileged location on the scenic beachfront at Mandalika with a long white sand beach and lovely views across the bay. There is a resort swimming pool and a bar overlooking the beach (happy hours in the late afternoon are popular even with nonstaying guests). There is also an upmarket Spa and two restaurants at the resort, which hosts a good variety of theme dinners with traditional entertainment during the week. Kuta attracts thousands of visitors every year for the great surf locations at Gerupuk, Ekas and the beaches to the east. It’s easy to hire a board and a surf guide from here to learn surfing or, for experienced surfers, to access the more challenging surf breaks in the area. First-timers to Kuta can benefit from an orientation tour operated by British expat Gemma and her Balinese husband, Made, from 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 couple freely shares with anyone visiting Kuta.
Selong Belanak Beach
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Luxurious Escapes...
Private Villas | Holiday Houses | Restaurant & Bar | The Spa Relax and unwind with a luxurious escape at Sempiak Villas with the stunning beauty of Selong Belanak Beach. Enjoy delicious snacks, meals, cool drinks and cocktails at Laut Biru Restaurant on the beachfront or escape to the cool sanctuary of The Spa by Sempiak.
Ph: +62 821 4430 3337 | www.sempiakvillas.com
Tourism Information
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of white sand, perfect aquamarine water and shady trees on the shore. There are a number of warung or beach cafés along the beach selling cold drinks and beer, as well as snacks and simple meals. One of the best is Warung Turtle. 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.
Other tours can be arranged to take in your particular interests and Made 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 folklore who is believed to have sacrificed herself for the good of her people from the rocks overlooking the beach).
It is here that thousands of people gather every year to celebrate the colourful ritual of Bau Nyale, when masses of sea worms spawn in the waters offshore. 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 5km east of Kuta, is a long picturesque beach with a wide sweep
The water at Tanjung Aan is calm and clear, with a white sandy bottom making it fantastic for swimming. There are also perahu (local outrigger boats) available for hire, offering trips out of the bay to Batu Payung (an unusual shaped rock and local attraction) and to the nearby surf breaks. There is a small hill towards the east end with steps cut into the side. It’s an easy climb to the top for lovely views and you can watch the surfers catching the waves offshore. On the far western end of the beach is Bukit Merese – a larger hill and a slightly tougher climb – but worth the effort for the fantastic views from the top. It is popular in the late afternoon, when everyone climbs up to see the spectacular sunsets.
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Kuta by DIdik Haryadi
Further east of Tanjung Aan is Gerupuk – well known as a top surf location and situated on a peninsula of land that juts out into the ocean.
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.
For non-surfers, if you can brave the treacherous road, it is a lovely beach surrounded by small hills, with impressive views; look for the three pinnacles of rock jutting out of the ocean.
The bay is used for lobster farming and is filled with local boats, which ferry avid surfers to no fewer than five surf breaks nearby. Gerupuk is also evolving and offers a range of simple accommodation and restaurants to cater to the growing tourist trade.
Selong Belanak is a long sweeping bay framed on each end by headlands and surrounded by rolling hills. The beach is lovely for swimming and has good waves for body surfing, as well as being popular for beginners surfing lessons.
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! In the opposite direction, 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. Are Guling is popular with surfers, with left and right hand reef breaks as well as a beach break for beginners. There are great views over the bay and to the small island of Gili Nusa just off-shore. Are Guling has a good amount of simple accommodation, mainly catering to surfers and a number of local cafés, including places on the beach.
Mawi, around another 7km to the west, is for experienced surfers and has good right- and left-hand barrels for surfing when the swell is large enough.
There are many small stalls selling drinks and snacks, as well as offering surf lessons and surf board hire. Sempiak Villas has plush villas, some with private pools, perched on the hillside overlooking the bay with breath-taking panoramic views.
It is a spectacular beach with calm blue waters, perfect for swimming and spending a day lazing on the white sand. There are stalls on the beach selling drinks, snacks and simple meals.
Laut Biru Restaurant and Bar at Sempiak Villas is a beautiful all-white venue right on the beachfront with lovely views. It 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. There is also a serene Day Spa offering massages and beauty treatments. Spend a day exploring the area, with lunch and a swim here as the highlights of your trip. In the Jabon hills behind Selong Belanak is the stunning Aura Lounge and Bar at Selong Selo Residences. Approaching via the winding mountain road, the contemporary design creates a surprising contrast to the small traditional homes dotted on the hilltops. Continued on Page 54
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Tourism Information
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Mawun Beach by Didik Hariadi
Perched high on the hilltop, Aura Lounge and Bar overlooks the terraced green valley across to the wide crescent of Selong Belanak Beach and beyond. It’s a breath-taking vista and one that has been attracting hundreds of guests since Aura opened.
and couches artfully arranged to take in the fabulous views. Guests can choose from a delicious assortment of all-day snacks and meals, or pull up a stool at the stylish bar and order an icy cold beer or signature cocktail. The outdoor viewing deck overlooks a 23m infinity pool edged in white stone where guests can relax on sun lounges or float in the cool water with the illusion of flowing out into the blue of the bay beyond.
There are both covered and outdoor options for dining at comfortable tables
Tanjung Aan Beach
Further west of Selong Belanak are the picturesque bays of Sepi and Belongas, and many more scenic beaches along the way; all are mostly deserted.
The road deteriorates rapidly and the going can be rough at times. For exploring this remote area it’s best to use an experienced local guide with a good vehicle. Steeped in history and legend, surrounded by beaches of almost surreal beauty, the south coast is a fascinating area to visit, whether your interests are historical, cultural or just the opportunity to see and explore some of the most beautiful and pristine coastal scenery in Indonesia.
Kuta and The South Coast
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THE GILIS…
Tourism Information
Lombok’s Three Iconic Islands
Gili Trawangan
It’s no secret that the Gilis – Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno and Gili Air – were hit hard by the earthquake on 5 August. The islands were enjoying a busy high season when the natural disaster struck and thus had the additional challenge of getting thousands of panicked holidaymakers to safety.
There are many heroic people on each of the Gilis, who showed their strength both during this time and in the weeks following. In reality, there are simply too many heroes to list here… you know who you are and that local lives have been saved because of your efforts.
After the tourists were safely evacuated, residents and business people on the A tsunami warning was issued by islands immediately began organising the BMKG (Indonesian Agency for donations to support their staff, many of Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics) whom come from North Lombok. but was revoked within 2 hours. The highest wave recorded was in fact just 13.5cm in Carik, North Lombok. To their credit – and thanks to the bravery of the local people and business operators on the islands – an estimated 4,600 local residents, domestic and foreign tourists were safely evacuated from the Gilis after the disaster, without the death of any foreign tourists. Sadly seven Indonesian citizens lost their lives. At the same time they worked to secure business premises, clear the roads of Fast boat operators – Blue Water Express, rubble, take care of the horses and cats Patagonia Xpress and others – were abandoned on the islands, and organise quick to come to the rescue, transporting tenacious cleanup crews. people to safety free of charge. At the time of going to press, cleanup operations were in full swing with businesses on Gili T banding together to cover the cost of an excavator and trucks to clear the rubble. Gili Meno and Gili Air cleanup crews are hard at work making their islands beautiful again. Some businesses are already operating and many hotels, restaurants, dive shops and
other businesses on the Gilis are aiming to re-open from 1 September. Contrary to some media reports, there are NO RESTRICTIONS on tourists visiting any of the three Gilis. The first tourists returned to Gili Air on Friday, 17 August and by 26 August, there were already tourists staying on Gili Air and Gili Trawangan. All three Gilis have water, electricity, internet and other facilities. Although it will take some time to cleanup everything, the people are doing an amazing job and there’s no reason why you shouldn’t visit. The speedy return of tourists to the Gilis is necessary to help the islands recover and to keep all the staff employed… it is the best way anyone can help! Many dive companies are already operating – so this is your chance to snorkel and dive in some of the most unique and un-crowded conditions you will ever see on the Gilis. The Gilis are beautiful and the people on the Gilis are resilient, creative and dynamic. They will rebuild and be better than ever. There is nothing uncertain about the future... it will just take a little time. Continued on Page 58
Blue Water Express bringing supplies from Bali to Gili T
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WHAT’S OPEN NOW (OR WILL OPEN THIS MONTH) Continued from Page 56
Oceans5 guests diving with the turtles on 23 August
For updates on businesses that are opening or the status of other Gili businesses, visit: https://gilistrong.org GILI TRAWANGAN
open and ATM’s are working. Most of the dive companies, shops and other businesses will open during September. GILI MENO People are returning every day to Meno and many of the local home-stays, shops and warung are opening.
If you’re looking for places to stay (and eat), Gili Trawangan has many places already open including: Desa Dunia Beda Resort , Pearl of Trawangan Resort, Gili Divers, Gili Mansion, Manta Dive, Gili Teak Resort, Freedive Gili, Kelapa Villas, Trawangan Dive, Tir Na Nog Irish Bar, Broken Compass and Gili Hostel, Gili T Resort, Lutwala Dive and Bungalows, My Mates Place and Oceano Resort. Restaurants, Bars & Eats: Pearl Beach Lounge, Wilsons Retreat, Pesona Indian Restaurant, Banyan Tree, Tir Na Nog Irish Bar, The Exile, Laguna, Blue Beach Bar at Vila Ombak, and NICO Boulangerie. Many of the supermarkets and small local shops are
Accommodation: Mahamaya Resort, Seri Resort, Meno Mojo, Kura Kura Resort, Avia Resort, Meno Madia Bungalows, Shack 58, and Amigos Bungalows, Mao Meno, and Ana Warung and Bungalows. Restaurants, Bars & Eats: Adeng Adeng Beach Bar, Ana Warung, and Diana Café. Dive: Divine Divers, Blue Marlin Dive.
Accommodation: Begadang, Blue Marlin, Oceans5 Resort, Bollata Beach House, Orong Village, Villa Karang, Gili Lumbung, DeCoco Villas, 7 Seas, Lucy’s Garden, and more. Restaurants and bars: Coffee and Thyme, Cheeky Monkey, Harmony, Lucky’s, Mola Mola, Mowies, Pura Vida, Aura Bowls, etc. Some shops, warung and local businesses are already open; others will follow in early September.
Contrary to some media reports, there are NO RESTRICTIONS on tourists visiting any of the three Gilis. Tourists are welcome and necessary to support the islands’ recovery and keep local staff employed.
GILI AIR As of 29 August, more than 50 businesses were already open on Gili Air and more returning every day. These businesses have already resumed activities: Oceans 5 Dive Freedive Flow, Dream Divers, Blue Marlin, and Gili Divers.
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Tourism Information
GETTING THERE: Eka Jaya Fast Boat resumed operating between Bali, Gili T and Lombok on 16 August. The company plans to begin transfers to Gili Air from 1 September. Blue Water Express will resume its service between Bali and Lombok on 1 September. Gili Getaway Fast Boat to Gili T and Lombok will resume operating early September.
https://www.facebook.com/BegadangBackpackers/
Many other fast boat operators are expected to resume business in September. Public boats are operating daily from Bangsal Harbour to Gili T, Gili Meno and Gili Air. Best to take boats in the morning or before 2pm at the moment. Private speed boats are also available to all three islands.
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Gili Trawangan
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Senggigi