THE LOMBOK GUIDE ISSUE 315

Issue 315 | 10 – 24 February 2020

The

FREE COPY

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

PUBLISHED BI-WEEKLY IN LOMBOK, FOR LOMBOK

Desa Dunia Beda, Gili Trawangan

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GETTING TO LOMBOK Wings Air / Lion Air flies between Bali and Lombok daily. The companies code-share, so you may purchase a Lion Air ticket and find yourself on a Wings Air flight. Note: tickets include no The airport is close to Praya (Central Lombok); approximately luggage allowance. Lombok Call Centre: +62 80 4177 8899. Bali, 40km south of the city of Mataram, and around 1 hour drive from ph: +62 361 765132. www.lionair.co.id Senggigi, and 25 minutes from Kuta.

DOMESTIC FLIGHTS Airport departure tax is included in the price of all tickets.

European connections are easy via Jakarta (the capital city of INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS Java), Bali and other capital cities such as Jogjakarta, Surabaya and Makassar. Direct flights to Lombok from Bali, Jakarta, Jogja and Lombok International Airport has full Visa on Arrival (VOA) Surabaya are available from multiple airlines every day and are facilities, including 30 day “Visa Free” (no charge) for tourists. usually timed to connect with European flights.

Ph: +62 370 622987.

Lombok International Airport (abbreviated to LIA with the IATA code “LOP”) is the main airport on Lombok.

Air Asia operates direct flights between Lombok and Perth, Western Australia four times per week: every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday. Book cheap flights now through the AirAsia website.

AirAsia also flies direct between Lombok and Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia, with many international connections available. Flights operate every day, seven days per IN THIS ISSUE week, with two flights daily every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.

Getting to www.airasia.com Lombok Page 2 Getting Around Lombok Map Best in Lombok Senggigi Senggigi Map What's Hot / Local News Special Feature Special Feature Classifieds Distribution Special Feature Special Feature Special Feature Special Feature Land & Property The Cities Cities Map Useful Contacts South Lombok Map The Southwest Kuta & The South Coast Kuta Map The Gilis Gili Islands Fast Facts Getting to Gilis Gilis Map

Page 4 & 8 Page 6 Page 10 & 11 Page 12 & 16 Page 14 Page 18 Page 20 Page 22 & 23 Page 30 & 33 Page 35 Page 36 Page 40 & 41 Page 42 Page 44 & 45 Page 47 - 49 Page 50 - 55 Page 52 Page 56 Page 57 Page 58 - 61 Page 62 - 71 Page 69 Page 72 - 84 Page 79 Page 81 Page 83

Silk Air (a subsidiary of Singapore Airlines) flies direct between Lombok and Singapore, three times per week (Monday, Wednesday and Friday). Ph: +62 370 628254 / 628255. www.silkair.com Garuda Airlines connects Lombok to major destinations around the world including London, Singapore, Amsterdam, Bangkok and more, with a short stop-over in Jakarta.

Call Centre: 08041 807 807. www.garuda-indonesia.com BALI TO LOMBOK BY AIR It’s easy to get to Lombok from Bali – flight time is only around 40 minutes and fares start from around Rp 200,000 (approx. US $15) one way. Buy tickets online, or direct from the airline counters at the domestic airports, or contact local travel agents in both Bali and Lombok.

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.

Lombok is an important connection for travel to the eastern islands, in particular the islands of Sumbawa, Komodo and Flores.

AirAsia operates flights between Lombok and Bali, and Lombok and Jakarta every day; 4 times per week to Surabaya, and 3 times per week to Yogyakarta. All flights use Airbus 320 aircraft. Tickets are available online now at www.airasia.com.

Garuda Indonesia (and its subsidiary Citilink) has direct flights daily between Lombok and Bali, Surabaya, and Jakarta. Call Centre: 08041 807 807. www.garuda-indonesia.com Lion Air / Wings Air has daily flights between Lombok, Bali, Labuhan Bajo (Flores), Bima and Sumbawa Besar (Sumbawa), Jakarta, Jogja and Surabaya. Ph: +62 370 6627444 / 642180. www.lionair.co.id Batik Air flies direct between Lombok and Jakarta every day. www.batikair.com NAM Air operates flights between Lombok and Bali, and Lombok and Bima (Sumbawa) every day using Boeing 737-500 aircraft. Bookings can be made online at www.sriwijayaair.co.id.

BALI TO LOMBOK BY SEA Padang Bai Harbour (Bali) provides the sea link between mainland Bali and Lombok. Lembar Harbour (Lombok) is on the southwest coast, approx. 1 hour south of Senggigi. Arrange your own transport and buy tickets direct from the harbours, or use a reputable tour company to provide a transfer service.

Public Ferries depart every hour for the sea voyage between Padang Bai Harbour (Bali) and Lembar Harbour (Lombok). The crossing between the islands costs Rp 46,000 per person and takes approx. 4 to 5 hours. Lembar Harbour ph: +62 370 681 209.

Padang Bai Harbour ph: (+62 363) 41849 / 41840 FAST BOATS There are numerous fast boat services operating between Bali and Lombok. Google “Gili Fast Boats” to choose from a range of operators.

Fast boat companies depart from Padang Bai, Serangan (near Benoa Harbour), Sanur and Amed and connect Bali to Lombok (Bangsal Harbour in North Lombok) via the Gili Islands every day.

AirAsia operates flights between Lombok and Bali two times every day. Flights are onboard Airbus 320 aircraft. Tickets are available online now at www.airasia.com.

Gili Getaway operates several comfortable fast boats connecting Bali and mainland Lombok (including the Gili Islands and Gili Gede in southwest Lombok) with daily transfers from Serangan Harbour on Bali. Fares include air conditioned hotel transfers to main points in Bali.

Garuda Airlines has direct flights between Lombok and Bali every day.

Call Centre: 0 8041 807 807. www.garuda-indonesia.com

They also offer a VIP transfer service from Gili Gede to the south coast, the cities, Senggigi and other destinations around Lombok.

Ph: +62 811 380 1717 or +62 821 4489 9502.

(WhatsApp): +62 813 3707 4147. www.giligetaway.com

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Happy Hours daily from 5 - 7pm BUY 2 GET 1 FREE for Heineken & Bintang!

BUY 1 GET 1 FREE for all cocktails!

Relax and enjoy your stay at Kemangi Bed & Breakfast in one of our luxurious rooms.

Featuring high quality amenities such as LCD TVs, air conditioning, mini bars, coffee and tea making facilities, safety deposit boxes, high speed internet, telephones, and room service.

Room options include two 41 sqm Superior Rooms on the ground level, offering twin and king size beds, and two Deluxe Rooms on the second floor - one with 50 sqm of living space and beautiful hillside views; the other provides 56 sqm of living space with garden views and a private balcony.

Jalan Pariwisata Pantai Kuta, Central Lombok P: 0370 7561 777, 0878 6152 4585 | E: info@kemangilombok.com | www.kemangilombok.com

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GETTING AROUND

Tourism Information DAMRI operate a regular schedule of 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).

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, Kuala Lumpur and Perth.

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.

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.

Getting to the Airport: Lombok Taxi (Blue Bird) is the most convenient taxi operator throughout Lombok and will drop passengers directly in front of the departure terminal. Note: Lombok Taxi cannot pick up passengers from inside the airport grounds.

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).

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.

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).

Approximate taxi fares: to Senggigi Rp 220,000; to Mataram Rp 160,000; to Kuta: Rp 100,000; to Bangsal Harbour Rp 350,000.

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.

These taxis are licensed and insured and will use the meter to calculate your fare anywhere on the island.

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.

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 DAMRI counter is located inside the arrivals hall, at the end on the left hand side and is manned by an information officer who issues tickets for the bus service. Prices are clearly shown on sign boards at the counter. The bus parks just outside the hall on the left.

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; however, it is not practical to drive around Lombok in one day.

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ko - ko - mo GILI TRAWANGAN RESORT

Private Luxury Villas and Fine Dining Restaurant

Valentine's Day Dinner 2 Glasses of Prosecco Homemade Freshly Baked Bread With Virgin Olive Oil Amuse Bouche (ENTRÉE & MAIN – Choose one shared platter for two) ENTRÉE Antipasto di Mare - Chilled Italian seafood salad with prawns, octopus, calamari, shellfish, fresh herbs & virgin olive oil or Japanese Mixed Plate - Sashimi of Gold Band Snapper and Yellowfin Tuna with wasabi, soy sauce & pickled vegetables, and Tempura Fried Prawns and Vegetables with wasabi mayonnaise MAIN Seafood Platter - Grilled lobster, jumbo prawns, calamari and snapper with green salad & french fries or Mixed Pasta Platter - Lobster Napolitano cooked in a tomato cream sauce with saffron & coriander served with steamed snow peas; and Spaghetti with Tiger Prawns, fennel, haloumi cheese, fresh tomatoes, kalamata olives, coriander and olive oil DESSERT Mixed Dessert Plate with a taste of tiramisu, chocolate mousse, strawberry chilled soufflé and crème brulée Coffee or Tea served with Biscotti Rp 700,000 ++ per person For special dietary requirements, please let us know in advance

Tel: +62 (0)370 613 4920 | Fax: +62 (0)370 614 4169 | Mob: +62 (0)813 3974 7459 Email: kokomogilit@ozemail.com.au

www.kokomogilit.com

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Lombok Map

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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.

Lombok Taxi (operated by Blue Bird Taxi, light blue colour) is the largest company in Lombok and you will find them in the cities and around tourist areas such as Senggigi.

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.

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 / 0859 5462 7000 (or download the ‘My Blue Bird’ App from Google Play, iTunes, or from the Blue Bird Group website).

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.

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.

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 during peak seasons.

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 - 500,000 per day, including basic insurance.

Cidomo (pronounced ‘chi doh moh’) are traditional horse drawn carts that were once the main form of transport in Lombok and are still used today, although they have been replaced by cars and

Tourism Information

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.

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.

Bemo (pronounced ‘bee 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.

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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Tourism Information

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BEST IN

Photo by Neil Cave

BEACHES People come to Lombok for our fantastic unspoiled beaches! The whole island is surrounded by postcard perfect beaches 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.

The southwest coast has particularly fine beaches, especially in Sekotong and the small islands off the coast.Visit the small islands of Gili Asahan and Gili Layar for the ultimate island escapes or stay at the luxurious Ko - ko - mo Resort on Gili Gede to explore the secret islands of the southwest.

The beaches around Kuta are so breathtakingly beautiful they must be seen to be believed! Visit Tanjung Aan for fantastic scenery, Selong Belanak for long stretches of white sand and turquoise waters, or swim in the lovely protected bay at Mawun.

Snorkelling is easy from the shore and all three islands are well served by professional dive operators who offer certification courses, day and night dives and specialised courses, as well as liveaboard adventures to exotic locations.

For the more adventurous, there is superb snorkelling and diving around the islands off the southwest coast, as well challenging dive sites off the south coast and the small uninhabited islands off the east coast.

GOLF Sire Beach Golf Club is located on the shores of Sire Beach in northwest Lombok, close to the Oberoi and Tugu hotels. It is less than one hour’s 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. The 18 hole, par 72 championship course (6245 meters) offers world-class challenges for golfing enthusiasts of all levels in a natural and picturesque environment.

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.

At certain times of the year when conditions are right, you’ll find locals surfing the breaks at Senggigi and Mangsit Beach, and off Gili Air and Gili Trawangan.

DIVING AND SNORKELLING With so many 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. And yes – the Gilis are open and already receiving a lot of visitors!

TREKKING Much of the island is still covered by natural rain forest and jungles, making Lombok ideal for ecotourism and adventure tours.

Surfing Gerupuk by Gretah Gray

11 HISTORIC SITES & TEMPLES

LOMBOK

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.

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.

Benang Kelambu Waterfall by Iwan Haryanto

There are a number of spectacular waterfalls on the island which provide lovely trekking opportunities, whether travelling independently or as part of a tour.

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.

The gardens at Narmada are beautifully maintained and surround the pools and lake in this cool hillside setting. Take a picnic and enjoy a few relaxing hours here or combine the trip with a visit to Lingsar or Suranadi.

Pura Suranadi, a complex of three temples located a few kilometres north of Narmada in Suranadi, is the oldest and holiest of the Balinese temples in Lombok, founded by the 16th-century Javanese priest, Danghyang Nirartha.

Underground streams bubble up into restored baths, used for ritual bathing.

Huge sacred eels live in the pools and

streams here, and can sometimes be lured out with an offering of boiled eggs (purchased at a nearby stall). To see a sacred eel is considered very lucky!

Across the road from the temple is a local market complex where you can sample tasty charcoal grilled satays and buy cold drinks and fresh seasonal fruits.

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.

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 here.

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.

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.

Narmada Water Park by Barbara

Tourism Information

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SENGGIGI &

The West Coast Senggigi Bay by Neil Cave

Senggigi is the main tourism resort area on Lombok’s West Coast and is around a onehour drive northwest of Lombok International Airport.

The Chandi Boutique Resort, with contemporary villas in a peaceful coconut grove, and the resort’s Meru Restaurant, are located on the quiet beachfront here.

The Senggigi tourism strip starts a few kilometres before central Senggigi and 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.

The Cowshed Steakhouse is also located on the main road in Batu Layar, just a five minute drive south of Senggigi.

A few kilometres south of Senggigi, The Hill (locally called The Bukit), is a residential community perched on a green hillside in Batu Layar. The homes and villas here feature stunning architectural design and have magnificent views over the ocean.

road runs parallel to the beach and large resorts occupy the space between; with Kila Senggigi Beach Hotel at the south end and the Sheraton Senggigi Beach Resort at the north end of the bay.

Closer to Senggigi, Batu Bolong is the beach resort area forming a strip between the historic Batu Bolong Temple and the southern gateway to Senggigi.

Café Alberto is located on the beachfront in Batu Bolong, just before the entrance to Senggigi. Directly across the road from Café Alberto is the main entrance to the Green Valley residential area.

Senggigi Beach is a wide protected bay with promontories at each end. The beach is lovely for swimming and relaxing but can become crowded on Sundays and public holidays.

Senggigi Beach is the large bay that forms the centre of Senggigi. The main

Continued on Page 16

Senggigi Beach by Neil Cave

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[ All you need is love ]

Valentine's Day Romantic Dinner Gamberi, Ricotta, Pomodorini Confit and Melanzane Butter poached prawns, Home-made ricotta, semi dried tomato, fresh basil, eggplant veloute and crispy polenta Bottega Millesimato Brut, 2016 Italy Spuma di Patate e Tartulo Nero con Polvere di Porcini Black truffle and potato espuma, porcini dust Jacob's Creek, South Eastern, Chardonnay, 2016/18, Australia Agnolotti di Capesante, Cavolfiori, Piselli, Salsa al Nero di Seppia, Menta e Lime Scallops agnolotti, cauliflower, green peas, squid ink sauce, mint and lime Jacob's Creek, South Eastern, Chardonnay, 2016/18, Australia Petto di Anatra ai Lamponi Sous vide duck breast with vanilla carrots, raspberry sauce and rosemary mashed potato Aromo Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2016, Chile Cuore di San Valentino Valentine chocolate and caramel heart with strawberry Artemisa Moscatel de Alexandria 2017, Chile

Rp 400,000 ++ Food Only Rp 850,000 ++ Food Pairing with Wines Dinner starts at 7.30pm sharp at Quah Restaurant

[ Y ou r Key to an Id yllic L ombok ]

Jl Raya Mangsit, Senggigi, Lombok Ph: +62 370 693 800 E: stay@quncivillas.com W: www.quncivillas.com

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Senggigi Map

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WHATS HAPPENING @ PURI MAS BOUTIQUE RESORT & SPA

PURI MAS BALLROOM RESTAURANT Mangsit Beach

OPEN AIR BEACHFRONT OCEAN VIEWS Specialising in fresh seafood International and Indonesian cuisine HAPPY HOURS – 5 TO 7PM EVERY DAY BUY 2 GET 1 FREE – COCKTAIL & SPIRITS THURSDAY NIGHTS SHOW STARTS 8PM - LATIN NIGHT, LIVE MUSIC & PERFORMANCES by the students of the Puri Mas Social Dance Project

AUTHENTIC INDONESIAN CUISINE

SUNDAY NIGHTS – SPECTACULAR CULTURAL SHOW STARTS AT 7.45PM Dine in the beautiful surroundings of a 200 year old Javanese Sultan’s Palace. Open daily 8am-10pm for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Authentic Indonesian Cuisine, plus international flavours.

Pick up/drop off in our Classic Volkswagon Senggigi and Mangsit Areas

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Enjoy facials and body treatments using only the finest European Babor products MINIMUM GUEST AGE 12 YEARS JL RAYA MANGSIT - JUST 2KM NORTH OF SENGGIGI www.purimas-lombok.com and live chat with us to book FREE PICK UP & DROP OFF SENGGIGI / MANGSIT AREAS – 0370693831 or WA 087865615553

Tourism Information

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Continued from Page 12

However, it is still scenic and peaceful during weekdays. In the early mornings, enjoy a stroll along the beach looking out to the ocean dotted with the bright, colourful sails of fishing boats, as the local fishermen return with the day’s catch.

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.

In the centre of the bay is the Pasar Seni (Art Markets) with many small shops selling handicrafts, clothing, sarongs and other souvenirs. Lining the beach side of the Markets are small restaurants for dining next to the waves. Come for a drink at sunset and then enjoy pizza and delicious Italian and Indonesian food at Lotus Bayview Restaurant.

Malimbu by Iwan Haryanto

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 Ranger’s hut and basic visitors centre near the entrance.

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.

On the south end of Mangsit Beach is the lovely Puri Mas Boutique Resort. The popular Qunci Villas is in the centre and Katamaran Resort is located on the north end.Verve

Beach Club is also located along this stretch of beach, along with small local beach cafes selling cold beer and cheap eats.

There is good snorkelling in front of Puri Mas at high tide and, when the wind is right, surfers take to the waves in front of Qunci Villas.

Furthest north are Klui and Lendang Luar, with Living Asia Resort located on the long stretch of pristine beach at Lendang Luar.

Mainly deserted white sand beaches, flanked by coconut groves 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.

West Coast by Barbara

Senggigi Reef, off the southern point, has good coral for snorkelling during high tide. To the left of the reef, Anjungan is a popular surf spot and, in the right conditions, has some decent surf breaks. When the winds are high, local surfers can be seen catching the waves here every day.

Canoes can be hired from the beach on the weekends and during peak tourism times. Local outrigger boats (perahu) can be chartered from the beachfront for trips along the coast or out to the Gili Islands.

Away from the beach, the main road (Jalan Raya Senggigi) is lined with restaurants, shops, tour agencies, bars and nightclubs; many of which have live music in the evenings. There are convenience stores and supermarkets, numerous ATM’s, money changers, a post office and other tourist facilities.

About 2 km north of central Senggigi, Kerandangan has a popular beach nearby and a road leading into a residential area situated in a pretty valley. This area was badly damaged during the earthquakes in August and is being rebuilt.

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 – the Senggigi area caters for all tastes and budgets.

From Senggigi, it’s easy to explore the attractions of the south coast or to hop on a boat to the famous Gili Islands for the day. 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 West Lombok.

17

18 g Tír na nÓg – The Irish Bar or just The Irish – is probably the most legendary place on Gili Trawangan.

WHAT'S HOT!

What's Hot / Local News

T HE B EST IN LO M B O K

It's a firm favourite with islanders and visitors alike, offering a fun, relaxed and safe atmosphere whether you are stopping Head to The Irish every Wednesday from 9pm for a legendary night out. in for a snack or looking to party.

Sláinte! See advert on page 75.

With its great location on the beachfront g Scallywags Resorts have an and right in the middle of all the Gili T action, Tír na nÓg has a reputation for unbeatable Spa and Accommodation offer some of the best food on the island, available from now until 29 February – including old pub favourites such as just spend Rp 2 million on pampering Fish 'n' Chips, Bangers and Mash, burgers treatments at their beautiful Wagwan and imported steaks, as well as tasty and Spa on Gili Trawangan or Gili Air exciting dishes from around the world. and you will receive one free night’s The bar always has great drink specials accommodation on Gili T or Gili Air! and music, either live bands or DJs. This is a fantastic deal! Wagwan Spa If you’re out on Gili T, stop by for Daily is a delightful, clean and professional spa Happy Hours every day from 3 -7pm offering a range of massages and beauty with “Buy 1 Get 1 Free for ALL treatments for girls and guys from spirits and cocktails”, plus Small aromatherapy massages to reflexology, Bintangs Rp 24K, Large Bintangs Rp 42K, nails, hair and facials. and Smirnoff Ice Rp 32K. The island's biggest party night is also at Book yourself and a partner or friend a day of pampering and then stay at one The Irish! Party night is every Wednesday of the fabulous Scallywags properties on night with fabulous drink specials, live either Gili T or Gili Air absolutely free! music on the Tír na nÓg stage, a great atmosphere, and dancing and fun till late.

See our back cover.

g Families with children should head to Lombok Epicentrum Mall for the Aeon Fantasy Carnival running from 10 February to 8 March.

The Atrium on the ground floor will be transformed into a playground with lots of entertainment for kids, featuring the latest toys from Japan provided by wellknown Indonesian brands Kidzoona and Fanpekka.

Kidzoona describe their playgrounds as unique “edutainment” centres for children, with toys and games designed to educate and entertain, as well as naturally develop communication skills and social skills through play.

Fanpekka, based in Jakarta, specialises in setting up playgrounds for children, from toddlers to age 12, with fun and interactive games and equipment.

Ticket prices start from Rp 40,000 for members and there are hourly and daily tickets available. Aeon Fantasy is open every day so bring the kids along and watch them have hours of fun! See advert page 53.

CHEF GUY JEFFREYS AT QUNCI VILLAS Lovers of fine dining are in for a treat this month when Qunci Villas hosts another of its fabulous “Chefs in the Wild” dinners.

“Chefs in the Wild” is a unique concept run by the resort for a number of years, in which Qunci Villas invites renowned guest chefs from around the world to visit Lombok and prepare a dinner at the stylish resort – giving diners the opportunity for a world-class dining experience not normally available in Lombok.

prepared a magnificent feast for diners at Qunci Villas.

On Friday, 21 February Chef Guy will host a ‘Cooking Master Class’ in the garden alongside Quali Restaurant at Qunci. prides itself on serving their customers home-made, estate grown fare featuring local artisan producers.

This month, Qunci Villas will host Chef Guy Jeffreys from multi-award winning Millbrook Winery in Western Australia.

Guy and the team at Millbrook Winery Restaurant have consecutively been awarded amongst the top ten restaurants in Western Australia, and Millbrook was named one of the Top 100 Restaurants in Australia in the 2018 Australian Financial Review.

Starting his apprenticeship in Noosa Heads twenty-five years ago, Guy Jeffreys now lives in Western Australia, where he has worked in some of the state’s top restaurants, including Star Anise, Leeuwin Estate and Divido.

Guy Jeffreys was named Chef of the Year 2017 by the West Australian Good Food Guide for "plating up food that is memorable, creative and generous" with the restaurant rated 2nd across the whole state.

Guy is in charge of the kitchen and garden at Millbrook Winery, where the restaurant

Guy Jeffreys last visited Lombok as a Chef in the Wild in December 2014 when he

Guests can enjoy seeing a top chef in action, pick up some cooking tips and sample some of the delicious dishes he prepares. This is a free event and starts at 5pm.

On Saturday, 22 February Chef Guy and Qunci Resident Chef Gianluca Visciglia will collaborate to prepare a gourmet dinner for guests at Quah Restaurant.

The 5-course degustation dinner will showcase top dishes from both these talented chefs.

The dinner is priced at just Rp 550,000++.

For the best experience, enjoy the menu paired with selected wines from Milbrook & Deep Woods Winery for Rp 1,000,000++ inclusive. Dinner starts at 7.30pm… don’t be late!

See advert page 17.

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Special Feature

20

THE WEDDING MARCH… Lombok Style!

In the West, we’re all familiar with the ‘bridal march’ up the aisle but here in Lombok you may have a chance to see the wedding party march up the road!

Weddings are happy occasions anywhere and visitors to Lombok have a unique opportunity to see weddings celebrated nearly every weekend, in the traditional style of the local Sasak people.

A Sasak wedding is a loud and colourful event, often involving the whole community, with intricate decorations to be made and special food to be prepared, costumes, traditions, blessings, and a lively procession to the village for all to join in.

In the local kampung (small village), the preparations are being made to host the wedding of one of the daughters. There is a quiet air of controlled excitement as the women work together preparing special food for the wedding.

The earth surrounding the modest homes has been swept clean, the chickens have been shooed away, and a special area has been set aside and decorated for the bride and groom to sit in during the ceremony.

This area, called a “Pelaminan”, is the place of honour for the newly-weds. The chairs are framed on each side with elaborate “janur” –woven decorations created from coconut leaves and adorned with colourful fruits and vegetables.

Marriage in Lombok, as in western societies, can take place in different ways.

Photo by Barbara

One way can be as an arranged event, after a courtship approved by both sets of parents.

The wedding can take place in the village as a traditional ceremony; with everyone wearing their best clothing and the celebrations accompanied by music ranging from gentle gamelan to the popular dangdut.

The party can be as small or as large as the family can afford.

Photo by Rosin Abiantoro

buffet dinners. The bride may choose to wear traditional dress or an expensive western-style gown, and be accompanied by bridesmaids and close family members dressed in similar finery.

These types of weddings are large celebrations that must be organised for months in advance, usually with hundreds of guests from the extended families attending. This can be extremely expensive and often places a large financial burden on the families.

More modern and wealthy families these days hire halls, hotels and convention centres, elaborately decorated and The less costly and more orchestrated by event organisers, traditional alternative is to elope! with professionally catered

Continued on Page 22

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THE WEDDING MARCH… Lombok Style!

Continued from Page 20

Elopement (kawin lari) is common in Lombok and has been practiced here for centuries. Kawin Lari is usually a tacit agreement, with at least one of the parents of the bride or a family member being aware of what is going to happen.

The girl is “kidnapped” by her groom-tobe, to the “amazement” of their parents, and spends a night away from her family home. The following day, the parents meet to decide what to do about this state of affairs, and a simple wedding is usually hastily arranged (to the relief of all concerned)!

Nyongkolan by Barbara

Special Feature

Photo by Rosin Abiantoro

Today’s wedding is the result of an elopement and the bride’s village is preparing to welcome the family of the groom to their community.

Everyone is neatly dressed, even the excited children, and many are wearing traditional sarongs; the men proudly wear their cloth headscarves or “sapuk”, while the women show off their beautiful lace “kebayak” blouses.

The groom is proud and handsome, wearing his traditional Sasak uniform of a black jacket with gold buttons, sarong and

sapuk. The bride is enchanting; beautifully dressed in traditional clothes, with makeup carefully applied and many hours spent in decorating her hair, which is crowned with a traditional golden headdress (“hiasan kepala”).

Together with friends, family and bridal party, they stand nervously awaiting the commencement of the wedding procession along the road to the bride’s village and waiting family.

From across the village, almost a kilometre away, the sound of drums is heard,

followed by a discordant burst of sound from a keyboard. The procession is about to begin – the “nyongkolan” or the wedding march to the bride’s home.

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Nyongkolan is a tradition unique to Lombok.You’ll see people lining the road, chatting excitably as the procession approaches. Ladies dressed in traditional dress cluster around the beautifully dressed bride, sheltering her under an umbrella.

The groom is also shaded by an umbrella and escorted by men wearing traditional sarongs and jackets. Behind, family, friends and community members join in the procession in a long trail, dancing and laughing along the middle of the road. This is the Lombok wedding march!

Music is an important part of the wedding festivities and traditionally the procession was accompanied by the sound of large drums, known as “Gendang Beleq” and gamelan music.

More often these days, the young people are choosing “Kecimol” music for their celebrations – their helpers dragging huge speakers down the road, blasting out the music on full volume.

Kecimol is a raucous fusion of drums with an almost military marching beat, over-ridden by wild keyboard playing in an Arabic style, and wailing flutes lending Eastern tones to the mix. It is an unmistakable sound, played at high volume, announcing the parade to all the villages and homes it passes along the way.

The children run to join in the parade and all along the road people come out of their homes to watch, or to join in the joyful crowd; dancing to the music and adding their best wishes to the happy couple: “Blessings for your marriage!” they call: “Selamat!”

Kecimol by Barbara

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AUD 130 / day - AUD 600 / week - AUD 2000 / month

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Selling a small new modern hostel on Gili Trawangan with good location and just 100 metres from the beach.

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Distribution

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LOMBOK’S #1 TOURISM MAGAZINE WITH MORE THAN 42,000 READERS EVERY MONTH, HOW CAN YOU AFFORD NOT TO ADVERTISE???

4000 COPIES DISTRIBUTED EVERY TWO WEEKS AT: LOMBOK: AIRPORT: LIA Tourist Information Board, Lombok Baru Taxi, Kotama Taxi, Golden Bird Travel, Trec, BLT Travel and every counter at Lombok International Airport.

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NEXT DEADLINE 12 NOON 14 FEBRUARY COPYRIGHT © 2007 – 2020 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.

Special Feature

36

ROMANTIC LOMBOK! Valentine’s Day is on Friday, 14 February and where better to celebrate love than in romantic Lombok?

Lombok is often referred to as “One of the Most Romantic Places on Earth”…

With its luxurious resorts and beachfront restaurants, it’s all about romantic candlelit dinners for two and magical moments with the one you love!

WEST LOMBOK Aruna Senggigi Resort in central Senggigi is celebrating with two Valentine Packages for dinner.

Enjoy a delicious set menu dinner for just Rp 585,000 nett per couple including a mocktail, appetiser, main course and dessert, plus receive a rose and chocolate praline.

La Chill Bar & Restaurant on the beach in Batu Bolong, just minutes south of Senggigi, is always fun for a casual and relaxing night out under the stars!

Relax on the bean bags watching the waves or at the comfortable tables undercover and enjoy romantic live music with fabulous cocktails, snacks and meals.

There will be door prizes and lots of fun!

Entry is free. Get there early to watch the sunset and nab the best spots!

See page 37.

Qunci Villas is one of the most romantic resorts on the island and an intimate candle-lit table for two at Quah Restaurant will put a shine in your lover’s eyes.

The elegant Valentine’s Night menu prepared by Chef Gianluca features five Add a bottle of Velvet or Rose wine to the sensuous courses starting with Butter above package for Rp 998,000 (inclusive) Poached Prawns, with home-made ricotta, per couple. semi-dried tomato, fresh basil, eggplant The atmosphere will be ultra romantic velouté and crispy polenta, followed by with special table set ups for couples!

Black Truffle and Potato Espuma and See page 34.

Porcini Dust.

Mains include Scallops Agnolotti with cauliflower, green peas, squid ink sauce, mint and lime, and Sous Vide Duck Breast with vanilla carrots, raspberry sauce and rosemary mashed potato.

Finish with a decadent Valentine Chocolate and Caramel Heart with Strawberry.

Price is Rp 400,000 ++ pp for the 5 course dinner or Rp 850,000++ for dinner with specially selected wine pairings with each course. Dinner starts at 7.30pm and bookings are highly recommended.

See page 13 for the full menu.

Sheraton Senggigi Beach Resort is the place to impress your loved one with its idyllic location on the beachfront!

The resort is currently running its “Chef Invasion” featuring specially prepared dishes from guest chef, William Wongso.

Learning his craft from sidewalk food vendors and eventually studying pastry making with hotels throughout Indonesia, William Wongso is now widely known as a chef, restaurateur and leading culinary expert in Indonesia.

Continued on Page 40

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ROMANTIC LOMBOK!

Continued from Page 36

On 14 February, experience a “Hearty Indonesian Set Dinner” at Bawang Putih Restaurant in the resort, when Chef Wongso will prepare a feast of dishes from around the archipelago.

Aura Lounge & Bar, Selong Belanak

Experience romantic dining with a 5-course dinner overlooking the ocean with the twinkling lights of the fishing boats below.

Better still, book a romantic stay in one of Selong Selo Residences' stunning villas and celebrate love in decadent luxury.

See page 65.

Novotel Lombok Resort is the perfect Start with an Amuse Bouche from the choice for those staying in the south and chef’s garden, followed by Pumpkin Velouté the only place for beachfront dining in - rosemary smoked duck breast, vanilla Kuta. brown butter, and local honey.

Set on a gorgeous white sand beach with Next, enjoy Ruby Snapper with sambal fabulous views of the ocean, the resort For something different, head to Senja – matah, squid ink tagliatelle, and kemangi celebrates with a great value Valentine’s Indonesian Beachfront Dining in the resort Day Set Menu for couples, accompanied cress, followed by Wagyu Ribeye with for the first Silent Disco in Senggigi! by acoustic jazz music. black garlic pureé, baby spinach, nutmeg, Dance the night away with 3 different shimeji mushrooms, and red wine jus.

Enjoy an Amuse Bouche, Smoked Salmon genres available – DJ Willy XX playing Salad, palate cleanser, and your choice House, DJ Quency with EDM, and DJ End this delightful feast with Chocolate of Grilled Beef Tenderloin, Pan Seared Sandykicil playing Hip Hop. Fondant, seasonal fruit coulis, and vanilla Salmon, or Grilled King Prawn for main bean ice cream.

The Silent Disco starts at 8pm and runs course, followed by Chocolate Fondant until 11pm. Admission is just Rp 100,000 for dessert.

Dinner is Rp 845K++ per person or net and includes a welcome drink! choose the full menu with selected wine Price is an attractive Rp 900,000 net per See page 19. pairings for Rp 1,250K++ pp. couple and includes a complimentary SOUTH LOMBOK bottle of local wine and a bouquet of Dinner starts at 7pm and bookings are roses.

Spectacular Aura Lounge & Bar, required 24 hours in advance. nestled on the Jabon Hills with majestic For families, children under 12 years Don't forget the Selong Selo shuttle views over Selong Belanak Beach, is an receive a free Kids Meal and the Kids service to and from Kuta is available, Club is open until 9pm so mum and dad unforgettable location to celebrate a so you can relax and enjoy the evening can enjoy a romantic meal together! truly romantic Valentine’s Day with your See page 63 for contact details. sweetheart. without having to drive.

Dinner is available from 6pm to 10pm and costs Rp 400,000++ per person (and includes access to the Silent Disco at Senja).

Special Feature THE GILIS On Gili Trawangan, you can escape to another world at Desa Dunia Beda Resort and make your Valentine’s memories last forever.

Enjoy the peace and serenity of Gili T’s north coast with a stay in a beautifully appointed Joglo room right on the beachfront – with a special 35% discount for direct bookings throughout the month of February!

On Valentine’s night, enjoy an all-youcan-eat BBQ Buffet Dinner on the beach with fresh fish and seafood, meats and chicken, and all the accompaniments, or ala carte beachfront dining at attractive prices. See page 82.

41 For main course, choose either a Seafood Platter with Grilled Lobster, Jumbo Prawns, Calamari and Snapper accompanied by Green Salad and French Fries; or Mixed Pasta Platter: Lobster Napolitano - cooked in a tomato cream sauce with Saffron and Coriander and served with Steamed Snow Peas, and Spaghetti with Tiger Prawns, Fennel, Haloumi Cheese, Fresh Tomatoes, Kalamata Olives, Coriander and Olive Oil. Finish with a decadent Mixed Dessert Plate with samplings of Tiramisu, Chocolate Mousse, Strawberry Chilled Soufflé, and Crème Brulée.

Price is Rp 700,000 ++ per person and includes coffee or tea and biscotti. Special dietary requests can be made in advance.

See page 5.

Ko – ko – mo Resort Gili T needs no introduction as one of the most romantic fine dining venues on the island.

Scallywags Resorts on both Gili Trawangan and Gili Air are famous for stylish beachfront dining with fresh seafoods and imported meats a specialty.

The special Valentine’s dinner is designed for couples and starts with two glasses of Prosecco, freshly baked bread and an Amuse Bouche.

Enjoy a romantic 3 course dinner on the beach at either venue for just Rp 800,000 per couple including 2 glasses of wine.

For entrée, choose from two different sharing platters including Antipasto Di Mare of Chilled Italian Seafood Salad with Prawns, Octopus, Calamari, Shellfish, Fresh Herbs and Virgin Olive Oil; or Japanese Mixed Plate with Sashimi of Gold Band Snapper and Yellowfin Tuna with Wasabi, Soy Sauce and Pickled Vegetables, Tempura Fried Prawns and Vegetables and Wasabi Mayonnaise.

Scallywags also have an unbeatable Spa and Accommodation offer available until 29 February – just spend Rp 2 million on pampering treatments at their beautiful Wagwan Spa on Gili Trawangan or Gili Air and you will receive one free night’s accommodation on Gili T or Gili Air! How’s that for great value? Wagwan Spa has a range of body and beauty treatments for both girls and guys - from

massages and reflexology, to nails, hair and facials. Great for couples pampering on Valentine’s (or any time)!

See our back cover.

Tír na nÓg – affectionately known as The Irish Bar – is one of the best party places on Gili T and always has a fun and happening crowd!

For Valentine’s, join in Frisky Friday Singles Night and party the night away with “Buy 1 Get 1 Free Valentine’s Day Cocktails” and free “Love Potion #9 Shots” every hour on the hour from 9pm – close!

Get there earlier for dinner and enjoy some of the best food on the island, then let your hair down and party to late.

See page 75 for more.

BALI If you’re not in Lombok, you can still celebrate in style at one of the best dining venues in Bali – Henry’s Grill and Bar. Henry’s is located at Aryaduta Bali in Lippo Mall on Jl Kartika Plaza and regularly receives rave reviews for top quality imported meats and grills.

Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a delicious selection of dishes for dinner featuring the special of the month: Chateaubriand (prime cut Beef Tenderloin) served with two side dishes of your choice.

Price is just Rp 800,000++ per couple and includes a bottle of wine! See page 9.

Desa Dunia Beda, Gili T

Special Feature

42

BAU NYALE FESTIVAL PROGRAMME 14 February – Parade Budaya – a wonderful parade representing Lombok culture and arts with music and colourful costumes. Usually held along the main street of Praya, starting at 4pm.

The programme of events was announced after a meeting of stakeholders held on 31 January. At the time of going to press, times and locations have not yet been announced so check for signs and roadside banners around Kuta closer to the date, or ask hotel and restaurant staff for details.

The ‘Core Event’ takes place on 14 February at Tanjung Aan Beach and continues all night, culminating with the catching of the nyale sea worms in the early morning hours.

The big night officially opens at 7.30pm with the crowning of Putri Mandalika 2020 (Princess Mandalika) and Gendang Beleq (the big drums for which Lombok is famous).

As we reported in our last issue (#314 published 27 January 2020), Lombok’s famous “Bau Nyale Festival” takes place this year on Friday, 14 and Saturday, 15 February.

In a departure from previous years, this year the official Bau Nyale Festival will be held at beautiful Tanjung Aan Beach on the south coast (around 7 kilometres east of Kuta).

“Bau Nyale” is one of Lombok’s most important and unique events that attracts thousands of visitors to the south coast every year. Many visitors to Lombok plan their trip to coincide with Bau Nyale.

During the festival guests will be entertained by performances such as traditional dancing and music, the crowning of this year’s “Princess Mandalika”, live theatrical performances, as well as Peresean (traditional stick fighting competitions), live bands, and more.

The Lombok government has just published the programme of events leading up to and including the main festival (or Core Event on 14 and 15 February).

Between 8 - 15 February, you can attend a number of fun events in and around Kuta, including: * 8 February – The finals of the Princess Mandalika (Putri Mandalika) Competition, choosing a local lady to represent the legendary princess at the festival. * 9 - 13 February – Peresean (traditional stick fighting) competitions held daily. Last year these were held on the beachfront in Kuta. * 9 – 15 February – Photography Competition with the winner announced at the Core Event. * 13 February – Mandalika Fashion Carnival showcasing local art and design * 14 February – Kampoeng Kuliner, with a variety of stalls selling traditional foods will start at Tanjung Aan Beach from 4pm.

The rest of the night is filled with music and performances, including a fascinating traditional theatrical re-enactment of the Princess Mandalika legend Although it’s possible to drive to the south coast for the event, staying in nearby Kuta is the best way to experience Bau Nyale. It’s a good idea to get to the beach early to secure the best spot from which to watch the performances!

43

discover nature’s greatest gift

Pearl Farm Tours

(Groups or 2 adults minimum)

Pearl and Jewellery Showroom Private viewings welcome

Showroom Open Daily 9am - 5pm

PT Autore Pearl Culture, Teluk Nara, Malaka, Lombok +62 8133 992 0020 | Email: pearlfarm@autorepearls.com.au | autorelombok

www.autorepearls.com.au

44 Special Feature

44

The race is on to complete the circuit for the Mandalika MotoGP, scheduled to be held in Lombok in 2021.

The Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs and Investment, Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan, recently told reporters that the construction of the Mandalika circuit is targeted to be completed by October 2020.

The purpose-built circuit is the first of its kind, featuring beautiful views of the Mandalika tourism area, with stretches of white sand beaches, stunning coastlines and rolling hills.

CEO of Dorna Sports SL, Carmelo Ezpeleta observed the construction site in late October 2019 and told reporters that he was satisfied with the progress of construction of the circuit.

He was optimistic that “…the Mandalika circuit would become the most iconic and beautiful highway circuit in the world.”

Lombok currently has an agreement with Dorna to host the MotoGP races from 2021 to 2023.

Currently, the infrastructure of the circuit is around 40% complete, he said.

If finished by October, the circuit will be ready exactly one year before the MotoGP event is held. He also said that all motor racing preparations were carried out in accordance with international standards.

“The preparations are very good, and indeed this is the first place in the world to have a (circuit) on the beach,” Luhut said in Jakarta on 29 January 2020.

The Mandalika street circuit, being built in the Mandalika region near Kuta in South Lombok, is a 4.31 km long MotoGP and SuperBike racing highway with 17 turns.

The street circuit complex is being developed from the ground up, housing a paddock area with 40 garages, 50,000 grandstand seats, standing area for 138,000 spectators, and hospitality suites that can accommodate up to 7,700 people.

Seeing the “excitement” that MotoGP has brought to Indonesia, Ricky Baheramsjah, Head of Investment and Marketing at the state-owned Indonesia Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC), the country’s integrated tourism developer and operator, said there are plans to bring more sports events to the destination.

“For us to have a sustainable business plan, we should do more races than just MotoGP,” he stated.

“In fact, we have signed the contract to host World Superbike in 2021 too. The World Superbike is the second biggest motorbike race in the world and we do not want to stop there. We plan to host more races, with the MotoGP as the ‘pearl’ of the calendar.”

ITDC management feels that they can leverage the race infrastructure, when completed, to host more than just motorbike races.

“The aim is to have back-to-back races on weekends that stretch into the following

week to encourage longer stays,” he added.

Most of the progress so far has been timeconsuming excavation and earthworks, mapping out the circuit, drainage, and basic foundation work in preparation for compacting the surface.

While some parts of the circuit include existing roads, these were previously designed only as “third class” regional roads, which now need to be brought up to the equivalent of “first-class” roads to conform to the structural and security strength standards set by the Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM).

Mandalika Operational Manager, Made Pariwijaya, told reporters on 30 January that large-scale construction is planned to begin in March.

Additional heavy equipment for larger construction is needed and some of that equipment has begun to arrive, with the first shipment arriving at Lembar Harbour in West Lombok on 27 January.

Rather than asphalting the circuit in sections, as is normal in local road construction, the surface will be laid continuously once the foundation work is completed.

The roadwork equipment is being shipped in from Kalimantan and is scheduled to be ready to start in Lombok by the beginning of March.

45

MOTOGP PRE-BOOKING TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW! some extraordinary entertainment,” Abdulbar said, referring to the exclusive commercial and television rights holder for MotoGP, Dorna Sports.

Meanwhile, Mandalika Grand Prix Association (MGPA) officially started prebooking for MotoGP tickets on 20 January 2020.

Interested MotoGP spectators can now register online for pre-booking the opportunity to get priority ticket purchases when the MotoGP ticket sales are officially opened.

Pre-booking registration is available from 20 January to 20 February, with the first 10,000 tickets up for grabs.

President Director of the Indonesia Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC), Abdulbar M Mansoer, said that around 3,200 people had signed up as at 29 January.

“We are waiting for Dorna too, who will make an announcement later in August 2020. Price for the tickets will be adjusted to the financial capabilities of the people.

What’s clear is that they will be given

Mandalika Grand Prix Association (MGPA) is a subsidiary engaged in the management of MotoGP races under the auspices of ITDC, who are developing Mandalika and the MotoGP circuit.

MGPA, with the approval of ITDC, has collaborated with Dorna Sports to become a promoter for the MotoGP and World Superbike races.

Pre-booking tickets are available online now at https://themandalikagp.com/ pre-booking

Great Food! Good Times!

Jl Raya (Main Street) Senggigi Ph: 0370 693619 E: restaurant@asmara-group.com

www.asmara-group.com

OPEN DAILY 11AM – 11PM TAKE AWAY AVAILABLE AND DELIVERY TO SENGGIGI AREAS HALAL CERTIFIED

46

Land & Property

47

Advertise your home, villa and land in our “Land & Property” Section your Guide to investment in Lombok!

FOR SALE • FOR LEASE • FOR RENT We offer the most economical and effective way to market your property with 4,000 copies of The Lombok Guide distributed every two weeks throughout Lombok, the Gilis and Bali PLUS reach thousands of readers around the world through our website and our online digital paper!

Email us now to find out how easy it is to market your property! kitadesign@hotmail.com

Land & Property

48

KUPU KUPU LOMBOK

“Kupu Kupu Lombok” is a designer villa in Kerandangan, just minutes from Senggigi, shops, restaurants and nearby beaches.

Set on a lush 31.5 are (3150m2) block in the “Bukit Tohano” estate, the villa is newly built and fully furnished with quality fixtures and fittings.

Freehold (Hak Milik) title.

3 bedrooms with A/C (2 Double with King bed and covered balcony or terrace, 1 Single / Study with Queen bed and covered balcony).

Open plan Living & Dining with Western kitchen and open Pantry.

1 main Bathroom with hot/cold water and1 Powder Room, Store Room, private parking, good water and electricity supply, established trees, beautiful valley and garden views.

Price: IDR 3.950 Billion (negotiable) Contact owner Anita: 0812 1001 1492 Email: winklerlombok@yahoo.com

HOUSES FOR SALE – GREEN VALLEY, SENGGIGI

Jl Lumba Lumba 1 No 10, Green Valley A Must to View!

Fantastic studio villa.

5 minute’s stroll to watch the sunsets on Senggigi Beach and to the café strip.

Open lounge and great European style kitchen.

2 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms.

Spacious main bedroom with en-suite.

Comfortable, good-sized second bedroom.

Garage. Mediterranean relaxation area with berugaq set in tropical gardens.

Price: IDR 750 million Annual Rental Income IDR 60 million

Located in an established, quiet and secure position at the end of the road, this spacious 3 bedroom, 2.5 bathrooms home is only 10 minute’s walk to Senggigi centre and the beach.

Spacious main bedroom with AC. Good sized backyard with laundry and berugaq. Room for a pool. Car parking space. Covered rear patio. Entertaining area.

Land size 2.8 are (288 sqm).

Sale Price: IDR 1.25 billion Great Investment! Annual Rental Income: IDR 100 million

Contact Angela at Island Properties Lombok +62 8191 7420 804

Land & Property

49

RAY WHITE REAL ESTATE – SOUTH LOMBOK There has never been a more exciting time to invest in South Lombok!

Ray White of South Lombok has a strong team with more than 20 years of local real estate experience. We expertly guide you through every stage of the process.

Land, villas and commercial properties – no inquiry is too big or too small.

Send us an email or visit our Kuta offices for more information.

Office Address: Jalan Terusan Kuta - Mawun 1, Kuta Lombok Email: southlombok@raywhite.co.id Phone: +44 777 592 1784 (Whatsapp) | +62 821 4515 5326

KCVX4

AGV10 Lovely Villa for Sale - Are Guling - Ocean Views - 3 bed / 3 bath This lovely 3 bed / 3 bath villa sits atop 1,000sqm of verdant land featuring full ocean views, a kitchen and 3 spacious terraces. The land is certified and comes with an IMB. A fantastic opportunity for investment.

Exclusive to Ray White.

Price: IDR 2,300,000,000 | USD 165,000

KMV04

4 Brand New Luxury Villas For SALE - Kuta Center - High ROI Exclusive to Ray White, these 4 brand new villas are ready for operation.

Built, designed and furnished to a very high spec. The purchase of all 4 villas is an amazing opportunity to immediately capitalize on the demands of the current and future property market.

Price on application

KCL11

Freehold Sale - Rare Find - Affordable 3 Bedroom Villa 4 are - Gated. Tucked away in a quiet corner of Kuta and just 5 mins to the beach, this spacious villa features large, rambling gardens with at least 15 different types of mature fruit trees.

A rare investment opportunity and ideal for a family home.

Price: IDR 980,000,000 | USD 70,000 | AUD 105,000

11 are - Central Kuta Location - Certified Land Smart Investment This certified land borders a paved public access road. Privacy. Walking distance to all the Kuta shops and developments. Smart investment as the land will appreciate due to prime location. Ideal for villa development.

Price: IDR 1,320,000,000 | USD 94,000 | AUD 135,000

GL250

SBL20 Stunning Land for Quick Sale - 20 are - Selong Belanak Ocean Views Watch the sunset melt into the ocean - a special feature of this beautiful land. High-end residential area. Flat at the top and gentle hillside below.

IMB and Certified land. Exclusive to Ray White.

Price: IDR 1,200,000,000 | USD 85,000

2.5 Hectares of Certified Land. Stunning Ocean Views.

Surf Mecca. Ideal for subdivision or development. 2.5 hectares located in Gerupuk, minutes from the most popular surf spot in South Lombok. Clear road access. Flat hilltop. Stunning ocean views. Walking distance to beach and restaurants. Ideal for savvy investment. Cannot be built out.

Price: 30 million per are.Total: IDR 7,620,000,000 | USD 550,000

* All prices are in IDR, other currencies estimated for example only

Tourism Information

50

THE CITIES

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.

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.

Photo by Ambara Jaya

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!

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 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.

Continued from Page 54

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.

The Cities

51

52

Tourism Information

The Cities

53

Tourism Information

54

Continued from Page 50

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 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 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,

buildings with raised offering platforms.

The interior enclosure has 33 shrines as well as the three multi-tiered meru.

The caretaker will meet you and give you a sash to wear in the temple. Please sign the guestbook and give a donation.

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

Pura Meru by Barbara

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.

Pura Mayura (Mayura Temple) by Barbara

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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Tourism Information

56

USEFUL CONTACTS EMERGENCY SERVICES Senggigi Police (POLSEK Senggigi): Jl Raya Senggigi. Phone: 0370 693267 | 632733 Lombok Police (POLDA NTB): Jl Gajah Mada 7, Mataram. Ph: 0370 693110. Emergency No: 110 Fire Brigade: Phone: 0370 672013.

Emergency No: 113 State Hospital UGD (Emergency Unit Service): Phone: 0370 622254 Ambulance: Phone: 0370 623489. Emergency No: 118 Emergency Rescue (RSU Mataram) Ph: 0370 620009.

HOSPITALS (Rumah Sakit) Siloam Hospitals Mataram Jl Majapahit 10 Mataram | Phone: 0370 623 999 / 628 111. Emergency: 1-500-911 Rumah Sakit Harapan Keluarga Jl Ahmad Yani 9, Selagalas. Ph: 0370 670000 | 6177000. Emergency (24hrs): 6177009.

Mataram Public Hospital (Rumah Sakit Umum Mataram) Jl Pejanggik No 6, Mataram Phone: 0370 6660224 | 638464 New NTB Province Public Hospital (Rumah Sakit Umum Propinsi) Jalan Prabu Rangkasari, Dasan Cermen Phone: 0370 7502424 Central Lombok Public Hospital (Rumah Sakit Umum Praya) Jl H Lalu Hasyim, Tiwugalih, Praya.

Phone: 0370 6635050 East Lombok Public Hospital (Rumah Sakit Umum Dr R Sudjono) Jl Professor M Yamin No 55, Selong, East Lombok. Phone: 0376 21599 Biomedika Hospital Jl Bung Karno 143, Mataram.

Phone: 0370 645137 Risa Sentra Medika Hospital Jl Pejanggik 115, Cakranegara.

Phone: 0370 625560 | 632117 DENTISTS (Dr Gigi) Drg Farida Istiarini, Sp.Ort (Joli Sourire Dental Care) 1st Floor at Lombok Epicentrum Mall.

Jl Sriwijaya, Mataram. Ph: 0878 6490 1535 Drg Yuanita Jl Sriwijaya (opposite Kura-Kura Waterpark), Mataram. Ph: 0812 3763 156 Drg. Mumu Jl Bung Hatta 14, Mataram. Ph: 0853 3730 7008 VETS (Dr Hewan) / PET CARE Dr Dani (Scotty Pet Care) Jl. Majapahit No.40, Taman Sari, Ampenan.

Ph: 0823 3910 2011 Dr Wahyu (Nobel Petshop) Jl Sriwijaya (next to Town Palace), Mataram.

Ph: 0370 6160300

Dr I Gede Sudiana (FB: lombokanimalrescue) Jl Sadewa 9, Cakra. Ph: 0878 6585 6260 Dr Ajus Ph: 0878 6441 3232 Dr Yoses Kristianto (DC Petshop) Jl Saleh Sungkar, Ampenan. Ph: 0819 99831337 Dr Dwi Ph: 0878 6477 0490 Dr Irfan Ph: 0817 579 0834 Dr Nurul (Kuta) Ph: 0818 0366 2612 TAXI Blue Bird Taxi: 0370 627000 / 08595462 7000 AIRPORT BUS / DAMRI Senggigi / Mataram, Ph: 370 642947 | 0878 6475 5513 | 0813 9862 4975 IMMIGRATION Jl Udayana, Mataram, Ph: 0370 632520 PUBLIC SERVICES ELECTRICITY PLN Mataram. Ph: 0370 643123 PLN Senggigi. Ph: 0370 693535 WATER (PDAM Mataram) Ph: 0370 632510 TELKOM (Phone/Internet) Ph: 021147 Directory Assistance (Phone Numbers): Ph. 021 108 POST OFFICES (Kantor Pos) Mataram: Jl Sriwijaya. Ph: 0370 632645 Senggigi: Jl Raya Senggigi. Ph: 0370 693711 CONSULATES AUSTRALIA Phone: 0361 2000100. Emergency: +61 26261 3305. Email: Bali.congen@dfat.gov.au BELGIUM Phone: 0343 740274. Emergency: 021 3162030.

Email: stefaan.vancolen@st-group.com BRAZIL Phone: 0361 8446530. Emergency: 0821 44440018. Email: renato@bythesea.co.id BRITAIN Phone: 021 23565200. Email: john.makin@fco. gov.uk / ika.larasyati@fco.gov.uk CHILE Phone: 0361 281501 / 0811 394 045 Emergency: 021 252 1981.

Email: chilehonconsulate@bali-villa.com CHINA Phone: 0361 239001. Emergency: 0361 239902.

Email: chinaconsul_dps_id@mfa.gov.cn DENMARK & NORWAY Phone: 081 1398 0220.

Emergency: 021 5761487 / +45 3392 0000.

Email: danishconsbali@gmail.com ESTONIA Emergency: 0811 987111.

Email: bharat@consul-estonia.or.id FINLAND & SWEDEN Phone: 0361 282223.

Emergency: 0817 9723658.

Email: finnishconsulatebali@yahoo.com FRANCE Phone: 0361 9345862. Emergency: 021 23557600. Email: consul@dps.centrin.net.id GERMANY Phone: 0361-288535. Emergency: 0812 3913938. Email: sanur@hk-diplo.de HUNGARY 0361 425924. Emergency: 081 2385 3781 / 082 144 933 506. Email: hubaliconsul@gmail.com INDIA Ph. 0361 259502/3. Emergency: 08113976388.

Email: cg.bali@mea.gov.in / cgsecy@gmail.com ITALY Phone: 0361 701005. Emergency: 081 2390 4471. Email: italconsbali@italconsbali.org JAPAN Phone: 0361 227628. Emergency: 0361 227628.

Email: sokhibi@dp.mofa.go.jp MEXICO Phone: 0361 223266, 0361 245828. Emergency: 0361 288218. Email: yudhara@astinatravel.com NEW ZEALAND Phone: 0361 8446456. Emergency: 0819 99477552. Email: indy.honcondibali@gmail.com NORWAY Ph: 0361 282223. Emergency: 0817 9723658.

Email: norwegianconsulatebali@yahoo.com POLAND Phone: 0361 263967 / 081 238 78324.

Emergency: 0811 389449.

Email: iblolec@pacificworld.com RUSSIA Emergency: 021 5222912 SLOVAK REPUBLIC Phone: 0361 9005583. Emergency: 0811810680.

Email: konsulslowakbali@yahoo.com SOUTH AFRICA Ph: 0361 751223. Emergency: 0857 39114748.

Email: bagus.sudibya@bagusdiscovery.com SPAIN Phone: 0853 3838 5008. Emergency: 081 38004 1258. Email: honorary.cspainbali@gmail.com SRI LANKA Phone: 0361 726200. Emergency: 0361 728483.

Email: citrabaliide@yahoo.co.id SWEDEN Phone: 0361 282223. Emergency: 0817 9723658. Email: sweconsul@yahoo.com SWITZERLAND & AUSTRIA Phone: 0361 264149. Email: bali@honrep.ch THAILAND Phone: 081 238 25542. Emergency: 021 2932 8190. Email: rtcdps@yahoo.com TIMOR LESTE Phone: 0361 4722099. Emergency: 081 338 556373. Email: cgtl@dpsbali.com TUNISIA Ph: 0361 242659. Emergency: 021 52892328.

Email: tunisconsulbali@popodanes.org THE NETHERLANDS Phone: 0361 761502. Emergency: 0818 789444.

Email: dutchconsulate@kcbtours.com USA Ph: 0361 233605. Emergency: 081 112 44220 / 081 133 4183. Email: CABali@state.gov

www.thelombokguide.com

Tourism Information 57

58

Tourism Information

The Southwest

Southwest Lombok by Asriel Haryadi

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.

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’!

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 their day-to-day activities of farming, fish cultivation, boating and fishing, brickmaking and other traditional pastimes.

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.

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.

There is also simple accommodation on Gili Sudak (the island closest to 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.

Just out in the calm bay are the three lovely islands of Gili Nanggu, Gili Tangkong and Gili Sudak (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 Gili Genting sits just off the tip of the peninsular and at low tide you can walk to Gili Nanggu and the other islands. across the sandbar and explore this Accommodation at Taun has grown over uninhabited island. Old volcanic rocks and the past few years and there are now stone carved from centuries of tidal flow a few small hotels and home stays on create small caves and alcoves, providing shelter for picnics and interesting nooks the bay. It’s easy to base yourself on the mainland and take boat trips to explore all and crannies to explore. the southwest islands from here.

Continued on Page 60

Sekotong by Barbara

The Southwest

59

VILLA SELALU Gili Gede, Lombok

A private, luxury hilltop retreat on Gili Gede with 360 degree uninterrupted views of a truly unique and untouched part of the world.

Villa Selalu offers four king size bedrooms with marble ensuites and can comfortably accommodate up to 12 guests. *private white sand beach *18m infinity pool *hillside BBQ pavilion *private entertainment room *WIFI *spacious open plan living *fully air conditioned *satellite tv’s in bedrooms *commercial kitchen *fully catered *hillside breakfast berugak *bespoke furnishings and amenities *beach lounges *dedicated manager and staff *boat house *bikes *snorkelling equipment, kayaks, stand-up paddle-boards Whether booking one bedroom as a couple or two or more bedrooms as a group, enjoy exclusive access to the entire villa.

For all enquiries: villaselalubookings@gmail.com +62 812 3961 6327 I +61 411 031 607 www.villaselalugiligede.com Visit our BRAND NEW beach box cafĂŠ, Gili Gede during your stay.

Tourism Information

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Sunset on Gili Gede by Barbara

Continued from Page 58

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.

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.

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.

The fully serviced 4 bedroom villa boasts unparalleled luxury with all mod cons and ultra chic furnishings. Guests can enjoy a number of indoor and outdoor living areas, as well as an 18m infinity pool overlooking the ocean surrounded by a spacious deck, BBQ area and lounging pavilion.

Villa Selalu has a private beachfront and a boathouse equipped with snorkelling gear, sea kayaks, paddle boards and bikes to make the most of your holiday.

Gili Gede is developing as the main hub for the Southwest Gilis as is one of the 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.

retreat that enjoys outstanding 360º views of the stunning surroundings.

Individual rooms are available or rent the villa in entirety for the ultimate island escape!

ko - ko - mo has a purpose-built jetty at the front of the resort and operate their own fast boat service – ‘Gili Getaway’ – making Gili Gede easily accessible, even for a day trip.

Perched on the hilltop just to the north of ko - ko – mo is Villa Selalu, a private luxury

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 Resort 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.

Villa Selalu, Gili Gede by Barbara

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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.

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 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, 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.

Southwest Gilis

There is simple accommodation on Gili Layar and a restaurant serving fresh juices, beers and tasty meals.

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 to the right leads to Labuhan Poh and Pelangan.

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.

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.

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S

KUTA & THE

Tourism Information

UBLIME OUTH COAST

Kuta Beachfront by Dian

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.

over 1000 hectares of prime beach land, will further transform the south coast in coming years.

traditional homes made of thatch and bamboo, with hardened cow and buffalo dung floors.

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

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.

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

Slightly further south is Sade, another hilltop village with more Lumbung and traditional homes.

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.

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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

Aura Lounge Selong Belanak

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64 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 and positioning itself as the tourism hub for South Lombok.

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.

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luxurious villas with private swimming pools.

As with accommodation options, new restaurants, coffee shops and eateries are springing up in the area almost monthly.

Restaurants and cafes in Kuta now rival the foodies scene in Bali and offer a range of choices including Mediterranean, Japanese, Mexican, Asian Fusion, vegan and gluten free, nouvelle cuisine, home-made cakes and breads – diners are truly spoilt for choice and you can dine in a different place every night without being bored!

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 minimarkets in town selling drinks, snacks, toiletries and other daily needs, as well as ATM facilities, tour agencies and more.

These days, there is a wide variety of accommodation to suit all budgets and tastes, from simple and cheap hotels to

Tourism Information

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.

The stunning resort swimming pool and a bar overlook the beach and happy hours in the late afternoon are popular even with non-staying guests.

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Kuta and The South Coast

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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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Tanjung Aan Beach by Krisztina Nemeth

Continued from Page 64

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.

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.

The fresh grilled fish and the Chicken in Red Sauce are both highly recommended.

There are great views from the beach and even better views if you climb the surrounding hills.

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.

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 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 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 around the bay 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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Selong Belanak Beach by DC

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The view from Kuta Heights

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Tourism Information

Mawun Beach by DC

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.

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.

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.

Gerupuk is also evolving and offers a range of simple accommodation and restaurants to cater to the growing tourist Mawun Beach is around 30 minutes’ drive to the west and is an almost circular bay trade. with small green headlands rolling into the The beaches and scenery continue all the ocean from either side. way to the east coast, with fantastic places It is a spectacular beach with calm blue such as Bumbang, Awang Bay, Ekas and waters, perfect for swimming and spending Pantai Sorga (Heaven Beach)… the name a day lazing on the white sand. There are says it all! stalls on the beach selling drinks, snacks In the opposite direction, heading west and simple meals. from Kuta, are another series of beautiful beaches and bays hidden behind headlands Mawi, around another 7km to the west, is for experienced surfers and has good and rolling hills, providing peaceful and right- and left-hand barrels for surfing secluded spots for picnics and swimming. when the swell is large enough.

All are within easy day trips of Kuta.

Sempiak Villas at Selong Belanak by Asriel Haryadi

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.

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.

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.

Laut Biru Restaurant and Bar at Sempiak Villas is a beautiful all-white venue right on the beachfront with lovely views. It is

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Surfing at Selong Belanak Beach by DC

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.

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.

There are both covered and outdoor options for dining at comfortable tables 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.

Further west of Selong Belanak are the picturesque bays of Torok Aik Berik, Pengantap, Sepi and Belongas, and many more scenic beaches along the way; all are mostly deserted.

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.

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Tourism Information

THE GILIS… Lombok’s Three Iconic Islands

Three perfect tropical islands – Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno and Gili Air – sit in the sparkling ocean just off the northwest coast of Lombok.

mosquito repellent, toiletries, cold drinks, snacks and more. In addition, there are cheap clothing and t-shirts, sarongs and local handicrafts stalls.

The Gilis, together with Rinjani volcano, are Lombok’s most famous icons and are consistently rated among the top destinations in S E Asia by travellers and travel publications.

Activities include walking, riding bikes, horse riding and kayaking on Gili T, yoga, massage and beauty treatments, glass bottom boat trips and island hopping, liveaboard dive trips and cruises to nearby islands, fishing, sailing, surfing, SUP and all kinds of water-based activities.

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

The word Gili actually means “small island” in the local dialect, and so these islands have come to be known as “The Gilis” by travellers.

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

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

While nobody comes to the Gilis for shopping, each island has many shops selling essentials such as sunscreen,

Gili Trawangan

Many of the popular dive companies are owned and operated by westerners and are PADI and SSI licensed dive operators, with professional standards of safety and environmental awareness.

Each Gili has developed independently and at different paces, giving each island a different “personality” or style. This means that travellers have a good choice, depending on their individual tastes and what type of island escape they prefer.

The islands provide ample opportunities for visitors to swim, relax, sunbathe, explore, snorkel and scuba dive with the many internationally accredited dive operators based in Lombok.

Gili Trawangan – affectionately abbreviated to ‘Gili T’ – is the most developed and popular of the three Gilis, with the greatest range of facilities and activities.

Snorkelling from the shore is easy from each of the Gilis and at specific dive locations around the three islands, the pristine waters are home to an abundant variety of corals and thousands of species of tropical fish.

It is the largest island of the three and the furthest from the mainland, but is easily reached from Bali in less than 2 hours and is only 10 minutes by speedboat from Lombok.

An impressive array of aquatic life can be found here, including green and hawksbill turtles, moray eels, barracuda, reef sharks, and occasionally leopard sharks and manta rays, and more.

Visibility is very good and commonly in the 15-30 m range; and water temperatures average 23°C (73°F) to 29°C (84°F).

Tagged “the party island”, Gili T continues to cater to the party crowd but also has a cosmopolitan vibe that becomes more evident every year. TripAdvisor® recently rated it as one of the ‘Top 10 Islands in Asia’.

The island itself is around 3km long and 2km wide, so walking is easy and you can cycle around the island in around 1 ½ 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.

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.

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The GIlis

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The busiest area on Gili T is the east coast, but Gili T’s popularity means development extends around the entire island.

Resorts, restaurants, dive centres, bars, shops and other businesses line the paved ‘road’ that runs around the entire coast of the island.

Accommodation on Gili T ranges from basic budget places to mid-range and luxury hotels and private villas, so there is something for everyone.

Small roads meander inland from the main coastal road, where many of the island’s local people live. Home-stays, small hotels and private villas here offer a quieter (and often cheaper) alternative to the beachfront choices.

Restaurants rival Bali in quality and choice, and there are beachside cafés galore. Dining choices range from fresh seafood and modern healthy fare to authentic Indian, Italian and other cuisines; and from inexpensive Indonesian dishes to sophisticated fine dining.

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, and other brand outlets, as well as stylish little boutiques.

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 draw-card for the crowds of younger people who come to the island.

For those who prefer quieter entertainment, there are many low-key and romantic options, such as beachside dining, Spas, yoga retreats and more.

The busiest area, called ‘Sentral’, is on the east of the island, close to the harbour. Here you will find the greatest number of bars and restaurants, many hotels and resorts, and lots of shops and activities.

The north coast of Gili T has a quieter vibe and offers a peaceful alternative 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.

The location makes it easy to access the dining and nightlife options nearby but also offers a different, more natural side of the island.

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.

Gili Meno Gili Meno is the smallest and quietest of the three Gilis, perfect for really getting away from it all.

Located between Gili Air and Gili T, Meno has the lowest population of the three Gilis and the least number of visitors.

However, 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.

If you base yourself on Gili Meno, it is easy to dive around the other islands and to make day trips to Gili T and Gili Air via public boats and private boat charter.

The water surrounding the island is clear turquoise and the beaches are covered in brilliant white sand, fringed with coconut palms and native sea pines.

Like all the Gilis, the best swimming beaches and the most tourist facilities (including the boat harbour) are located along the east coast.

It is possible to walk around the whole island on a small beach 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.

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The Gilis

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The Gilis

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Photo by Sander Buis

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.

Depicting 48 life-size male and female figures, standing together in a circle and entwined together on the ground, the art installation by famous sculptor Jason deCaires Taylor is hauntingly beautiful and well worth a visit.

Apart from these, small hotels and bungalows provide accommodation for those seeking a peaceful place in the sun with uncrowded beaches, clean waters and peaceful nights under the star-filled skies.

There is no rowdy bar scene or noisy full moon parties here.

Gili Meno is also famous for the many turtles that live here. To swim with these huge creatures – that are so awkward and ungainly on land but move through their natural element with grace – is perhaps the most special underwater experience of all and a major reason for visiting Gili Meno.

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 season, but visitors to Gili Meno largely come for romantic escapes and a chance to rejuvenate on the island’s pretty beaches.

A major attraction off the west coast is the underwater sculpture named ‘Nest’ located in the sea directly in front of BASK Resort. Snorkelling trips often include a visit to the sculpture or you can swim out to the site from the beach.

Gili Air Gili Air has a relaxed, laid-back style and is a good balance between the buzz of Gili T and the chill of Gili Meno.

Gili Air is the island closest to the mainland and can be reached in around 20 minutes by local boat or five minutes by speedboat.

Being the closest of the Gilis to the mainland, Gili Air has the largest local population of the three islands; combining the charm of a tropical island with access to the people and culture that make Lombok unique.

Like all the Gilis, the best swimming beaches are on the east coast and most development runs along the beaches here down to the harbour in 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 and private villas with hot water and swimming pools.

There is a good variety of restaurants and beachside cafés on the island, offering everything from traditional Indonesian dishes to up-market international fare, authentic Italian and other cuisines.

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. Alternatively, pull up a seat at one of the beach bars and enjoy live music by some talented local musicians.

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Photo by Blue Marine Yoga

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Photo by Ilse Verdaasdonk

Activities include walking and cycling around the island, sun bathing, and swimming, snorkelling and diving, free diving, Subwing, kite surfing, glass bottom boat trips, stand up paddle boarding, surfing and other water sports.

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 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 professional dive centres on the island and, of course, it is easy to explore the other islands from here.

Photo by Blue Horizon

Popular dive sites on Gili Air that attract divers from the other Gilis include Air Wall off the west coast, Hans Reef and Frogfish Point off the north coast.

The water surrounding the island is a clear, translucent aquamarine, made even more pure by the sparkling white sand beneath.

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.

Other activities on the island include yoga and meditation classes, cooking classes, browsing the cute shops, relaxing massages and body treatments, and simply chilling out on a beautiful little tropical island.

Photo by Alexkyddphoto

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GILI ISLANDS FAST FACTS Gili Trawangan by Barbara

Boats and Island Hopping: Gili Air, Meno and Trawangan are grouped together off the northwest coast of Lombok and only a short distance apart, so it is easy to move between the three islands.You may want to explore each island for a couple of days or base yourself on one and take day trips to the other islands.

Public boats leave from the harbours on each island with transfers to the other islands available every morning and afternoon, eg; Gili Air to Gili Meno, or Gili Air to Gili Trawangan, and vice versa.

Prices are reasonable. Purchase tickets at the ticket office located at the harbour on each island.

It is possible to charter perahu (local outrigger boats), speed boats and even glass bottom boats for exploring the islands. Bargain hard!

Electricity is fairly stable on all three Gilis, although blackouts are sometimes a problem. Most places have their own emergency generators for back-up power but smaller businesses may rely on candles and lanterns when the power goes out.

Water is a scarce resource on the islands and is supplied by desalination plants and ground water wells.Your awareness in conserving this finite resource is appreciated; take short showers and opt to reuse bedding and towels.

The tap water on all the islands is not suitable for drinking but bottled water is cheap and readily available.

Internet is available on all three Gilis at most hotels and restaurants.

Connections can be intermittent and speeds are generally slow.

All three islands have ATM machines so you don’t need to carry a lot of cash. 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 improving and there are basic medical supplies available. There are around a dozen clinics on Gili T, including a 24-hour Clinic at Hotel Vila Ombak. Gili Air also has several clinics and there are local clinics on Gili Meno.

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 culture and keep your clothes on!

Dive shop staff are also trained for emergency first aid. For anything serious, it is best to visit a hospital on the mainland (see our “Useful Contacts” page).

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.

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 around 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 generally expensive and rates are fixed by the koperasi on each island. On Gili T, rates are displayed in the front of the cart. Generally, short distances will cost around Rp 50,000 – 100,000; depending on your bargaining skills. Walking or riding a bike is a nicer option.

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 nonprofit organisation based on Gili T that works to protect and conserve the environment. GET activities include reef conservation, waste management and education programmes, to name a few.

The Eco Trust raises funds for its programmes through an Eco-tax collected from divers on the islands. The Trust holds regular clean-up days to collect rubbish from the beach and sea.

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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The Gilis

Tourism Information

GETTING TO THE GILIS

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Photo by Neil Cave

There are numerous fast boat services operating between Bali and the Gilis (as well as many that stop at Bangsal Harbour 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 based in Central Lombok, fast boat services are a popular option to flying, and provide fast and easy transfers between Bali and the Gilis.

Most fast boats leave Bali from either Serangan Harbour in the south of Bali (around 30 minutes from Kuta) or from Padang Bai Harbour in East Bali (around 2 ½ hours from Kuta).

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.

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 4 metres high. Check sea conditions before travelling.

As there are so many boats to choose from, search the internet for “Gili fast boat” to check other travellers’ reviews and choose a reliable operator. Avoid companies that practice “over loading” in busy times.

Gili Getaway is a comfortable fast boat departing from Serangan Harbour daily. Gili Getaway provides transfers to Gili T, Gili Air, Bangsal Harbour (on Lombok), as well as to Gili Gede in Southwest Lombok.

Fares include air conditioned hotel transfers to main points in Bali. Ph: +62 811 380 1717 | +62 813 3707 4147. www.giligetaway.com

By Plane: Fly to Lombok and either stay on the mainland before making a trip out to the Gilis or travel to Senggigi (around 1 hour) to arrange transport to the Gilis.

Alternatively, organize a taxi or private

driver from the airport to Bangsal Harbour (approx 1 hour 45 minutes). There are many different options, as described below. Tour companies and dive operators in Senggigi also provide transfers daily.

HOTEL TRANSFERS: Many hotels on the islands provide speedboat transfers for guests, as well as pick up services from the airport – enquire when you make your booking.

FROM TELUK NARA AND TELUK KODEK: Teluk Nara is a large peaceful bay on the northwest coast, about 25 minutes’ drive north of Senggigi, and Teluk Kodek is a smaller bay directly alongside. Most of the dive companies, hotels and many businesses on the Gilis have boats moored here and transfer guests to the islands every day.

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.

FROM BANGSAL HARBOUR: Catch a taxi to Bangsal Harbour, the main harbour to the Gilis on the northwest coast, about 30 minutes from Senggigi (and a few minutes north of Teluk Nara).

Tickets are available from the sign-posted ticket office on the beachfront and boats are operated by Koperasi Angkutan Laut (Sea Transport Cooperative), which monopolises transport to the islands and sets the prices. Ignore touts who want to sell you tickets and buy directly from the office.

Public boats are the cheapest option and depart regularly to each of the three islands.

Get there early as departures are easier in the mornings. Boat charters are available, with prices depending on the number of passengers and your bargaining skills.

Public speedboats operate from Bangsal Harbour to Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno and Gili Air daily from 9am - 4.20pm; but it’s best to get there in the morning. Boats leave roughly every hour and also provide fast and easy transfers between the islands (eg. Gili Air to Gili T). Price is Rp 85,000 per person.

Private speedboat charters are available to all three islands, from around Rp 350,000 to Rp 500,000 depending on your bargaining

skills and which island you are going to.

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 displayed 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 2pm. If you don’t want to wait, or if the public boat looks dangerously overloaded, you may want 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 Bungalows 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. www.arnel-restaurant.com FROM SENGGIGI: You can charter local outrigger boats from the beachfront in Senggigi (in front of the Art Markets). The trip out to the islands takes around one and a half hours.

The journey up the coast in the morning is very scenic, but you may get wet on the way back. Make sure you negotiate a price with the boatman first!

A good alternative is to check out the many dive centres on the main street in Senggigi who offer reasonable rates for transfers, usually including pick up from your hotel.

Arranging snorkelling and dive trips inclusive of island transfers is a good way to save time, money and hassles.

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The Gilis

Tourism Information

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