My Lombok issue 44

mylombok VOLUME 044

MARCH–APRIL 2019

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A NOTE FROM THE EDITOR

After witnessing a spectacular Chinese New Year, all attention now falls on Lombok’s vibrant Balinese community with another equally colourful New Year celebration. Lombok is now gearing up for Nyepi in its own unique way. It’s an epic cultural happening not to be missed whatever your religious leanings are. We also bring news on a host of other cool events taking place island-wide. We mark the Horizon at Ashtari Grand opening in Kuta, Kids marathon and look at the making of Birthplace movie.

Our latest chef Interview profiles Mustofa, chef at Gili Teak and also in Gili T we took a look at the updated Tapaz restaurant. Our latest new luxe discovery is stylish retreat Villa Strata – read on for full details. There is also a distinctly arty vibe at Cocotao resort in the Gili Islands too; check it out.

ON THE COVER

We chatted to Ibu Dewi from Divine Nail & Wax Bar in Senggigi, profile the revolutionary architecture of sustainable Dome houses and take a journey ‘Through A Lense’ with Kevin Latumaelissa’s ' Good Times.' All this and more of the usual news and updates of what’s hot around Lombok. Enjoy!

Models: M. Novian Rangga Praja Domy Isanggeni Photography: @kevin_pentaxian

ENQUIRIES Telephone: +62 (0)8191 600 1539 E-mail: info@mylombok.co.id Instagram: @mylombokmag Facebook: /mylombokmag

THE BAD GUY NOTICE No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior permission of PT Tujuan Indah. The views and opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the authors and My Lombok disclaims any responsibility for any errors, ommissions or complaints arising there from. The publisher will not be held responsible for copyright infringement on images supplied by advertisers and or by contributors.

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contents

PLAY

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Local Profile Waxing and Nail Bar – Just Divine!

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Activity Plastic Pollution: Oceans in Peril

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Helping Hands What is the Story of Dome Village?

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Meet the Expat Theo Dandine

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Through A Lens Good Times EAT

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Chef Interview Mustofa, Chef of Gili Teak Resort

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Superfood Apple

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Restaurant Review Tapaz Bar STAY

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Luxury Living Villa Strata

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Hotel Review Cocotoa, Gili Trawangan

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Social Grand Opening of Horizon at Ashtari, Kuta

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Guazzetto

Spaghetti Marinara

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Spaghetti Luciano

Sinfonia

Prawns Carpaccio

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PL AY

Divine Waxing and Nail Bar

Theo Dandine

Good Times

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WHAT’SON

Tuesday Sunset Sessions & Friday Thematic Nights @ Horizon at Ashtari Don’t miss the Tuesday DJ Sunset Sessions from 6pm to 9pm where you can enjoy the All-You-Can-Eat Pizza Buffet from only 90k per person & drinks promo’s. On Friday’s try the New Thematic Nights with Live Acoustic Music, drinks promo’s & a ‘special’ dish for the night: Paella, Crêpes or Tapas. Starts from 6pm with a live acoustic performance from Lombok’s local talent! Enjoy the Daily Sunset Happy Hour @ Horizon at Ashtari from 5pm to 6pm – All cocktails 80k & Pizza’s for 120k from 6pm to 7pm every day with buy–oneget-free(not available on Fri & Tues). Games are available for kids to play and you can enjoy daily Yoga classes for all levels. Open from 12pm to 9pm Mon – Fri, 8am to 9pm Sat – Sun & Bank Holidays.

Karma Reef, Gili Meno Karma Reef Resort on Gili Meno re-open’s it’s doors in March. Come and try the newly renovated restaurant on the beach or stay in one of their beautiful one-bedroom seafront tents or one-bedroom seaview bungalow’s and enjoy one of the ‘best’ spots on the island!

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Romance @ Selong Selo If you are looking to spend quality time with your loved one or the ‘perfect’ honeymoon getaway – Selong Selo has it all! Enjoy a romantic escape in one of their beautiful villa’s with special butler service, coupled with experiences such as private-dining, couples spa-treatments and cooking classes. There are also more adventurous activities to enjoy together such as waterfall tours, surf lessons, snorkeling, tours of South Lombok and lots more! Aura can also be booked for weddings and other special occasions. Privatedining bookings for non-resort guests can be booked direct with an exclusive table setup on the viewing deck overlooking the bay, or a quiet private poolside dinner.

30% Discount @ Lotus, Senggigi Do not miss this amazing deal at Lotus Bayview in Senggigi. Enjoy a delicious range of authentic Italian and Local Indonesian dishes served right on the beach front and enjoy the magnificent sunset each evening with a generous 30% discount on the menu during Happy Hour Only from 3pm to 7pm. Delivery is also available call: 0370-693758/6195236.

Week Full of Specials @ Origin Lombok Origin Lombok set in the lush rice paddies of Tanjung A’an, Kuta is offering a week full of specials just for you! Monday: Movie Night & Extended Happy Hour from 4pm to 10:30pm. Tuesday: BBQ Corn Night. Wednesday: ALL DAY Happy Hour. Thursday: Wine & Beer Festival. Fridays: Extended Happy Hour from 4pm to 10:30pm.

Saturday: Live Staff Show & Infusion Cocktails from only 70k++.

Sunday: BBQ Gilled Prawns for only IDR110k++. Come and enjoy the laid-back ambience at Origin with a choice of 2 swimming pools, a day spa to unwind, billiards table and afternoon tea is served daily.

‘Happy Hour’ @ Quali Restaurant, Qunci Enjoy ‘Happy Hour’ from 5pm to 7pm every day at Quali Restaurant.

You can sip on your cocktail at the restaurant, by the pool or on the beach whilst taking-in the idyllic sunsets looking across to Mount Agung on Bali.

Seafood BBQ @ Scallywags Scallywags Beach Club on Gili Air and Scallywags Resort on Gili Trawangan are both open and in full operation. Try the new ‘Super Seafood Special’ - a feast of grilled tropical lobster, grilled king prawns, fillet of fish, fried calamari & sautéed clams dressed with a garlic butter sauce all for just 850K. Or take advantage of the Scally Sundowner specials from 4pm to 7pm every day: Small Bintang 25k, Large Bintang 35k & 2 for 1 cocktails, wine and sangria.

Hot Stone Massage for only 170k for My Lombok Readers @ Verve Beach Spa Treat yourself to a 90 min Hot Stone Massage at the new Verve Beach Spa in Mangsit. Mention MY LOMBOK to receive a whopping discount – Regular Price is 300k and you only pay 170k. *Must mention My Lombok when booking & discount only applies to Hot Stone Massage.

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CULTURE

NYEPI IN LOMBOK

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The Balinese Day of Silence – with a Lombok twist. While neighbouring Bali winds down to a complete standstill, Lombok embraces its Balinese influences.

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yepi is the most revered period in the Balinese religious calendar and remains a unique cultural happening far removed from Indonesia’s predominantly Islamic festivities. Yet there is a sizeable ethnic Balinese community in Lombok, so large swathes of West Lombok and Mataram in particular also get consumed

by Nyepi fever.

papier-mâché monsters, witches and devils representing the evil spirits of Hindu folklore. You’ll notice the big bulging eyes, contorted faces and enough fake blood to give you sleepless nights. These frighteningly realistic Ogoh-Ogoh can take weeks or even months to create and are eventually burned in an age-old ritual to symbolize the destruction of evil.

It marks the New Year and new beginnings for Balinese Hindus and is an official Indonesian public holiday, falling on March 7 in 2019. Just like with all the very best cultural happenings in Indonesia, the backstory is a typically vivid one with immortal gods, evil spirits, witches and superstitions galore. Legend has it that Yama, the lord of evil, opened up the gates of hell and unleashed all evil demons to descend upon Bali. What follows each year is a series of very meticulous purification ceremonies, aimed at getting back to a more natural state of mind and to strike a balance. It is not only the good forces that have to be worshipped but at the same time, these evil gods have to be placated.

It is a highly important Hindu ceremony but has taken on a multi-cultural element with the whole community joining in to watch the spectacle – Muslims, local Chinese, expats and curious tourists too. It’s a fascinating occasion to experience with the deafening noise of loud drumming, marching Gamelan musicians, firecrackers and traditional dancing.

As dawn arrives the famed Day of Silence begins and lasts for a full 24 hours. In Hindu-majority Bali, there is not a soul to be seen, or virtually a voice to be heard. This is a day for reflection for every Balinese family, and designed to fool the evil spirits into thinking Bali is completely empty. Across Bali there is no transport on the roads, no electricity, all businesses are closed and tourists remain inside their hotels to patiently see out these 24 hours of silence.

Amid an overwhelming Muslim majority across Lombok it is easy to forget that such an elaborate Hindu celebration is taking place all around them in the tight-knit Balinese communities such as those in parts of Cakranegara, Senggigi and Tanjung. In these communities all Balinese run businesses grind to a halt during the big day – the Day of Silence - but in the days leading up to this, there is a flood of activity centered around Balinese temples, the ‘Banjars’ and home compounds. Just like across the water in Bali, the most conspicuous sign of this is the vibrant, traffic-stopping ‘Ogoh-Ogoh’ parade on the eve of Nyepi.

The biggest event in Lombok takes place in Cakranegara with a huge procession which can number over 100 huge and terrifying ‘Ogoh-Ogoh.’ These are large, hand-made

However, while the Balinese community in Lombok follows these rituals, it is business as usual for the rest of us. Only Lombok’s Balinese owned businesses close so it’s the best of both worlds for everyone else – the chance to witness a unique cultural happening, but without the restrictions that follow on Nyepi Day itself.

Due to a complete 24-hour closure of Bali during Nyepi Day, there is an exodus of tourists to Lombok, with the island’s main resort areas like the Gili Islands, Senggigi and Kuta seeing an influx of arrivals from Bali. It may still be the low season but there is a lively buzz across the island. For many of these, it is their very first taste of Lombok’s charms.

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LOCAL PROFILE

Waxing and Nail Bar – Just Divine!

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ewi Holzer was born in Bandung (West Java), and initially saw her career in the travel industry.

She changed direction, and started her Lombok business based on two sound principles – identifying, and filling, a gap in the market, and combining her experience with a pursuit of something she personally loves. She spoke with My Lombok recently about her Divine Waxing and Nail Bar. Could you tell us a little more about your background?

I grew up in Bandung, Kalimantan and Malang, and graduated from university in Bandung, majoring in Public Relations. I started my career in travel – first working for a travel agent in Bali and then in my own travel agency there.

Then, in 2007, I moved to Lombok and built a little resort in Gili Trawangan.

I also attended beauty school and took rigorous tests in various countries to get my beauty licences – for example, from the WaxXXX Academy in Singapore, and the Nail & Lash Academy in Jakarta. I also have certificates in body sugaring from iSugarUniversity in the US, micro blading from Brow Squad Academy in Australia. At the moment, I'm studying to be an SPMU (Semi-Permanent Make Up) artist, while doing Law courses at Universitas Terbuka Indonesia.

When did you first become interested in beauty treatments as a business possibility?

I have always been fascinated with nail polish, and how you can add colours and make the nails look pretty – creating so many different kinds of nail art. And since I lived close to the beach, waxing had become a part of my beauty routine.

When I moved to Lombok it was difficult to find a waxing and nail salon, so I learned how to wax at home. Back then the only waxing paste I could find was strip wax, so I definitely learned the hard way.

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After I sold my business 4 years ago, I moved back to Bali.

I suppose I was spoiled for a while, because I didn't have to do my nails and waxing myself.

After two years living in Bali we moved back to Lombok. I still couldn’t find a reliable waxing and nail salon. That's when I realised it was a business possibility.

What did you hope for, in starting up your own business?

At first, my main thoughts were about finding something I could do that wouldn't be boring, where I would have some level of control over my work, and where I wouldn't face age discrimination.

In the process, I found the beauty industry more and more fascinating. I knew it was important always to generate new looks, styles and concepts.

Did you have support or inspiration from anyone in particular?

My biggest support has come from my team at Divine and from my children.

Independent, stylish and strong women, from the past and the present, inspire me the most – women like Cleopatra, Coco Chanel, Mary Wollstonecraft, Michelle Obama and Susi Pudjiastuti.

Tell us about your team, and about your services and products.

At the moment Divine has 6 employees. They have been trained as qualified Nail & Lash Technicians and Wax Therapists. We're located in the heart of Senggigi. We focus on giving our clients professional service, an enjoyable experience and, of course, the best results, using the best and latest tools and products.

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Divine offer a range of treatments. We are specialists in Brazilian Hollywood waxing. For all our waxing services we use luxurious waxes that are suitable for the most sensitive skins. We offer manicures and pedicures, and clients can choose from various nail gel polishes and nail extensions such as gel, polygel and nail dips. For lashes, we use the best quality products to do lash lifts and lash extensions, from a natural look to a totally glamorous effect. We also do meticulous eyebrow shaping, and henna brows.

Everything is within reach, and I don’t have to worry about traffic. I can always go for a walk on the beach in the morning, or in the afternoon and then catch the sunset. I go out from Senggigi to snorkel, dive, go to the forest, climb a mountain, walk along the rice fields, and visit temples and villages. Or sometimes go to the movies to get a bit of an update.

And soon we will launch our home waxing and lash extension service.

Lombok has a global and hip environment. Because Lombok is a tourist destination, working here definitely has an edge. You have a better chance of working with people from different nationalities.

What do you think makes your business stand out from others?

The beauty industry is advancing and changing very quickly, with new competitors, products, and services arriving each day. It is definitely a fun industry that is full of opportunities for growth and success.

What was the most difficult obstacle or challenge in building the business?

It’s always a challenge to start your own business – especially when you introduce something new. And especially when it's waxing! When you start something from scratch, it takes more time, energy, and resources.

My goal for Divine is to identify a specific niche market.

We will try our best to position ourselves by focusing on providing the best result with the best products. I want to introduce clients to high quality products, which should also be safe and reliable.

What has been the best experience?

The challenge! I admire the constant changes to what's 'in style', and what's not.

What would a typical day at work be like for you?

I start by preparing for the day's schedule, and setting up the work area. Then I work with clients, clean up after each one, and recheck the schedule. I also make sure I spend as much time as I can transferring my knowledge to my team.

What kinds of customers does your business attract?

Because Senggigi is one of the main tourist destinations in Lombok, we have lots of tourists as clients. But since Divine became one of the first salons to specialise in waxing, a lot of locals and business owners also come to our salon.

What do you enjoy most about living and working in Lombok?

Lombok is a beautiful island, and it’s been a home for me and for my children since they were young. The beautiful sunsets and the diversity of people always make me feel at home.

And having purpose! I get to work every single day with a clear purpose.

What do you hope the future will hold for your business?

There is a huge demand for services in the beauty industry, across all age groups. Everybody is conscious of looking good and I think that is a good move. The industry will grow exponentially, with many aspirational people creating more jobs and new ventures. That will give a huge boost to the industry and drive the businesses.

What would you say were the most important skills in building a successful business?

You need a dream. Then you need the focus, discipline and perseverance to succeed.

And you must always have respect.

Jl. Raya Senggigi km8, Senggigi, Lombok +62 370 698112 / +62 853 3876 6883 divinelombok

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ACTIVITY

PLASTIC POLLUTION: OCEANS IN PERIL THE MAKING OF THE MUSIC VIDEO BIRTHPLACE

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lastic waste inflicts massive damage on the world's oceans and represents untold dangers to sea life.

The Birthplace project – a collaborative effort between musicians, filmmakers and a local freediving expert – is designed to draw attention to the pollution that threatens marine environments.

Picture the scene.

The screen is filled with an image of a pristine ocean of foam-flecked blue waves. Then, as the camera submerges, the viewer is taken down towards the seabed, to the idyllic world deep below the surface.

A man, wearing street clothes, and unencumbered by breathing apparatus, strides across the soft sands of the ocean floor….

This is Michael Board, a British diving expert and former Royal Marine Commando. He is an international champion who holds records in freediving and free immersion, and is a trainer in SCUBA and Technical Diving Instruction. He now lives on Gili Trawangan, where he offers training courses at Freedive Gili – a freediving and yoga training centre.

He was the obvious choice for the role of the diver.

Now he launches himself upwards into the clear blue waters, totally at home among the waving and beautifully coloured sea plants and the ocean's creatures – schools of fish, a fleshy pink and white squid, a giant ray, and a majestic sea turtle.

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The sound track accompanying the imagery is Birthplace – a beautiful and haunting melody by Novo Amor. It inspired the makers of the video, who used its basic concept, and the track's name, for their film.

The diver swims towards what appears at first to be a jellyfish. Then mood changes as we see it for what it really is – a plastic bag, incongruous in the magnificent natural surroundings.

The makers of Birthplace have chosen a highly symbolic and subtle way to convey a message. It's about raising awareness, and exposing the problems associated with ocean pollution. Those who care enough to explore further, can discover disturbing facts about human neglect of the marine environment.

• Every minute 1.3 million plastic bags are used throughout the world • Every year 8 million tonnes of plastic are dumped into the world's oceans • By 2050 there will be more plastic in the ocean than fish

As we watch, vast amounts of plastic material, cans and discarded rubbish swirl into view. The diver finds it increasingly difficult to find his way through this ocean of waste. Now in a foetal position, he floats, still and lifeless.

The diver's figure reminds viewers of the paradox. The oceans – from which all life emerged, and on which human life depends – are being destroyed by human activity.

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The film's message becomes clearer, as the massive figure of a whale dominates the screen.

The whale is a universal symbol of the need to protect the ocean environment. For the film, the designers' amazing creation was modelled on the humpback whale and is made entirely of rubbish. The project involved local children, who collected the rubbish needed for its construction.

One human being meets his fate inside a creature made from plastic waste. Is this a strange justice? So many ocean creatures have died from swallowing plastic waste dumped by human beings.

The whale's belly is womb-like. Do we sense that humanity has literally 'trashed' the environment that gave it life?

In the words of the song, 'It's still our nest' – our birthplace.

The whale opens its huge jaws, and 'swallows' the human figure that drifts towards it.

The imagery is multi-layered. It manages to strike a chord in viewers from very different backgrounds, and poses challenging questions.

Like the biblical character, Jonah – also swallowed by a whale – does the diver remain there, representing, and repenting, human wrongdoing?

Birthplace was written and directed by Sil van der Woerd and Jorik Dozy. The superb cinematography was by Nihal Friedel, with the music of Ali Lacey (Novo Amor). Michael Board captures perfectly the 'everyman' figure, and embodies the gentle but powerful message of the film.

It's a message that has been well received and acknowledged. The film has been widely viewed on social media and was recently awarded Video of the Year at the AIM Independent Music Awards, in London.

See the video at: https://vimeo.com/279665122 and the story behind its making at: https://vimeo.com/276623191 Music video Birthplace is directed and written by Sil van der Woerd (IG: @silvanderwoerd) and Jorik Dozy (IG: @jorik_dozy) Cast by Michael Board (IG: @mikefreediver), music by Novo Amor (IG: @iamnovoamor), cinematography by Nihal Friedel (IG: nihal_friedel) Produced by Sean Lin, New Frontier Pictures

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HELPING HANDS

WHAT IS THE STORY OF DOME VILLAGE?

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t all began with two young ambitious Swedish guys meeting in America. They quickly found out they shared many interests and had so much more in common beyond being in the same place at the same time.

David Paulin and Christain Goran, both passionate about sustainability, met while on a building course in California, learning super-adobe construction.

They realised they both had a common passion for surfing too, and as it turned out, Lombok was the place that had given them their best waves. Soon their plans started to take shape. They came back to Lombok together and purchased a piece of hillside land overlooking the famed surf spots of Gerupuk.

They were determined to push the boundaries of sustainable architecture to create their own piece of paradise. The mission is to offer barefoot luxury amenities with minimal impact on the environment. They used their newly-acquired super-adobe knowledge to create what is now being transformed into Dome Village.

So what exactly is a super-adobe dome? Super-adobe is a building technique originally developed by Iranian architect Nader Khalili. It is a revolutionary building system that integrates traditional earth architecture from Iran with contemporary global safety requirements. It has proven to be extremely resistant against earthquakes, fires and floods. The main ingredient for any super adobe construction is natural soil. Domes are made from filling long or short bags with soil and sand. Filled bags are put on top of each other with rows of barbed wire to secure and compact them together. With a little imagination and geometry know-how one can create beautiful round spaces.

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The round shapes of Dome Village blend seamlessly into the hills and become an integral part of nature. Luckily, David is a coating specialist and he's managed to create a natural lime plaster for rendering the domes that is both visually attractive and able to withstand Lombok’s heavy tropical rains. With the help of cross ventilation and the dense earth-bag walls the inside of the domes are always at a constant, comfortable temperature.

Dome village is still in the construction phase with many great plans ahead. The original concept has been expanded as new ideas have been added, significantly extending the scope of David and Christian’s original plans. Dome Village is collaborating with like-minded companies to create an alternative lifestyle based around ethical construction, travelling, working and dining.

www.dome-lombok.com info@dome-lombok.com dome_lombok

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Recently Dome Village teamed up with PuraWorka.

PuraWorka is launching vibrant Co-Working spaces in exotic destinations around the world to foster a pure balance between work and lifestyle. In early 2019, they will launch the first Co-Working space on the island boasting wonderful views in South Lombok. In 2020 the first phase of the village will be up and running, with nine Domes, an infinity pool, a Co-Working space and a farm-to-table restaurant. Dome Village is open to visitors and investors and will soon launch building workshops for people eager to learn super-adobe building techniques too.

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INTERVIEW WITH THEO DANDINE

COASTAL CHIC, SUSTAINABLE DESIGN

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private beachfront, a villa designed for style and comfort, and all the services you would expect from a luxury resort. Sounds like a dream? Project developer and CEO of Amber Resort, Theo Dandine, thought so too, and has been working with designers and architects to make it come true. He spoke to My Lombok recently, and described his latest venture – a project that combines natural beauty with ultra-modern features and offers the perfect beachside getaway.

Can you tell us about where you came from?

I grew up in Nice, in southern France, with my father, who was a builder, and my mother, an artist. The area is well known as a seaside destination but we actually spent a lot of time in the mountains or in the hinterland. The vegetation varies a lot, depending on the altitude, and the whole region is very attractive. Now that I'm living far from my parents, I always try to imagine how they would do things in Lombok – both technically and creatively – and that gives me inspiration.

What brought you to Lombok?

I used to work in Hong Kong but I would often travel to Bali for weekend getaways. After a while, though, I got tired of all the traffic, so I decided to go somewhere else for a calmer holiday. That's when I discovered Lombok. It's only a 30-minute flight from busy, bustling Bali, but it's a totally peaceful sanctuary. I was blown away by the beautiful uncrowded beaches!

Are you concerned about your buildings being environmentally and socially sustainable?

Many people make the mistake of thinking that sustainability is all about using wood, or collecting rain for showers. There is so much more to 'green building' than that.

You have to think about overall infrastructure, such as taking care of your underground water source, designing rooms to make them earth-friendly by default – by using

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only cold water taps, pre-set room temperatures, and glass water bottles. It's also important to put standard operational procedures efficiently into place when you manage a hotel.

There are about 100 features we have worked on – from the materials used for construction to our management procedures – so yes, we care deeply for the Earth.

You have two projects that we know of in Lombok, Villa Bliss and Origin. Are there any other projects on the horizon – either in Lombok or in a different location?

With Villa Bliss and Origin, we were experimenting with something new in Lombok, by breaking from the usual joglo1 designs and trying to build an experienced team. We are now working on a new project called Amber, located in the Selong Belanak area, on Torok Beach. It started about four years ago; there were no roads to the area at the time.

The Amber Resort project offers a range of villas for sale, located within the grounds of a managed hotel resort. The beachfront site has it all – big mountain backdrops, offshore breaks to create a perfect lagoon, and even a new road, which cuts driving time to Selong (less than 8 minutes), Kuta (35 minutes) and the airport (45 minutes).

None of our projects are located in busy areas, like central Kuta, because we want to offer a retreat experience far from the crowds, the noise and the dust. Amber Resort will have full holiday facilities: a restaurant, a lounge, pools, an Ayurvedic spa, health and wellness consultations, yoga shala, a gym, a boutique and a recreational kiosk.

We want our guests to experience a relaxed atmosphere and genuine service they'll always remember.

Why did you choose the name Amber?

Amber is a resin that is prized for its gorgeous spectrum of colours. For us, it's a reflection of south Lombok's natural beauty. Amber is a stone that clears the mind and eases stress – and that's what the resort will do for our guests. In short, we aim to make it the gem of Torok Beach.

Traditional Javanese house designs, particularly relating to the shape of the roof

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MEET THE EXPAT

How would you describe the design of Amber?

I'd use three terms: bohemian chic, coastal, and ecofriendly. This will be obvious in the warmth of the materials, the nautical-inspired hues and laid-back California vibes.

Guests today have very different needs from what we've seen in the past. The rooms have to be ergonomic and include all modern comforts, without the bling. There must be lots of social areas. Food and beverages have to be innovative, with a menu that is frequently updated. The design of Amber had to take all this into consideration, with overall aesthetics a key priority. Let's be honest: it has to be Instagram-worthy.

What is your ‘vision’ for Amber?

Amber is luxury without the pretence. The resort will be a destination in itself – an oasis on the beach. We hope to provide a carefree holiday experience for well-travelled visitors, and a place where they feel at home.

What is a unique feature that will set Amber apart?

Amber will have an Ayurvedic program for guests who want to combine their holidays with health and wellness, including retreat and detox options. My wife Amy will lead the program; her extensive experience in yoga, Ayurveda and teaching will allow us to offer something exclusive in Lombok and cater to a rapidly growing market for holistic healthcare.

Having already completed 2 projects in Lombok, you are now taking on a third. Some might call you ‘crazy’. How do you feel about this, and why choose Lombok again?

I say we’d be crazy not to continue! The first years were difficult. We almost quit the project twice. But with time (and a lot of patience) you find people who share the same vision and passion for high-quality results. Then things get interesting, and a little bit easier. Lombok is a place where anything is possible as long as you have the motivation and discipline to put your ideas into action.

What are the most difficult situations you have faced?

There wouldn't be enough time or space to tell you about all of them! Let's just say you need to have a good sense of humour when you're working on a project like this.

So it's all looking good?

Absolutely! We have just signed an agreement to work in collaboration with the talented ARTOTEL team to manage Amber. With their energy, their approach to hospitality and their dedication to guest satisfaction, they are a perfect fit for our vision. Amber is in competent hands, and ARTOTEL will deliver the best service imaginable.

In terms of your work, what is your ultimate goal? What do you want to be remembered for?

I prefer to stay in the shadows, rather than be in the spotlight. I like to work on a project with other passionate people, so we can achieve a common goal. Whether it's about building or managing, there is always something you can do better, and with more originality. I think people are remembered for how they stand out from the others. And that's exactly where I put my energy.

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34 THROUGH A LENS

There is a time to work and there is a time to play together.

There are friends, and then there is family. And then there are friends who become family‌

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Stores Chikycloth (IG: @chikycloth) Vasted Collective Store (IG: @vasted.store) Models M. Novian Rangga Praja Domy Isanggeni Thomas Deleflie Photography IG: @kevin_pentaxian

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E AT

Mustofa

Apple

Tapaz Bar

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CHEF INTERVIEW

INTERVIEW WITH CHEF MUSTOFA OF GILI TEAK RESORT

Look, Learn, Cook…

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ustofa comes from Central Java. He has always been interested in food. In his childhood, he learned by doing, and often took on the role of cooking for the family while his mother was working. Now he is Executive Chef at Gili Teak Resort on Gili Trawangan, where, as he told My Lombok recently, he still makes sure there's time for teaching and learning.

Is there one dish you love and remember from your childhood?

The best memory from my mother’s kitchen is her pumpkin curry. I just loved it – and I still do. The taste is very 'homey' and comforting.

How did your family react when you told them you wanted to become a chef?

At first they were not very happy. My mum thought that working as a chef was a position for women, and not for men. But as time went on and she saw me succeeding and loving my job, she understood. Now she is happy for me.

Tell us about your career and some of the places you have worked.

Everything I know about cooking comes from learning in the kitchen. I didn’t do chef training.

After school I went straight to Bali and had a job as a bartender for 3 years. Then I started working in the kitchen, first as a junior chef at Café Moccha in Uluwatu, then at Café Gili on Gili Trawangan, and later at Café Warna.

After that I went back to Bali and worked at Watercress Café there, then at Café Organic in Seminyak, where I was a consultant chef and then at Shelter Café. I moved back to Gili Trawangan as a consultant chef at Pesona Resort, and now I am Executive Chef at the Gili Teak Resort.

How would you define your style of cooking?

I would describe it as rustic fine food – featuring mainly vegetarian and vegan dishes.

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Tell us about the concept for your menu at Gili Teak?

Most of the dishes I cook are vegan or vegetarian friendly, with an Indonesian touch. We also serve chicken and beef for the meat lovers.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

My wife does the cooking, so I have a break from that when I'm at home. I especially like the beach on Gili Trawangan.

I also love to garden.

Which dish do you most like to cook?

The Quinoa Taco Bowl and the Dry Chicken Curry are among my favourites, I think. I am very comfortable making these dishes and they make me happy when I cook them.

What foods do you really love to eat? Anything you would never eat?

I love to eat tempe, but I would never eat pork as I am Muslim.

Which do you think are the guests' favourite?

Without a doubt they would be the Quinoa Taco Bowl and the Seafood Curry.

If you hadn't become a chef, what do you think you would be doing right now?

I think I would probably be an archaeologist. I love to find things and learn about their history and meaning. I grew up in Blora, in the northeastern part of Java. There are many cultural sites nearby, so maybe that is where my interest came from.

Do you have particular ingredients you really like to cook with?

Yes, cumin. I absolutely love the smell!

Which is your 'must have' kitchen gadget?

The oven. With an oven I can make anything.

Describe your typical working day.

I start work at 9am, and check the staff and the kitchen, to make sure everything is hygienic. Then I supervise the preparation, and I check all the orders coming through to the kitchen.

At 3pm I take a break. After that, I check the stock and, at the moment, I am also focusing on a new menu. During the service I check each dish for the presentation, as I believe this is extremely important. I normally go home around 9pm, depending on how busy the kitchen is that evening.

What do you like most about your job?

I like that I am always learning things in the kitchen. I never stop learning.

What is the biggest challenge?

Training the staff, I'd say. Transferring my knowledge to the staff is definitely challenging. It's important to be super patient and keep teaching.

Other than creating great food, what would you say are the most important qualities that make a successful chef?

Two main things: a successful chef has to be creative, and must never stop learning.

Do you have a favourite celebrity chef?

Yes, I have two. My favourite Indonesian celebrity chef is Rudi Khoirudin. That's because wherever he goes – anywhere in the world – he always cooks Nasi Tumpeng. It's a cone-shaped rice dish with side dishes of vegetables and meat, and is a very traditional Indonesian dish. My favourite western chef is Jamie Oliver. He is so cool, and I like him because he really loves to bring a smile to everything he does.

Any tips for budding chefs?

People who want to be chefs must be consistent. They must want to learn, and to keep learning – and never stop. Being a chef means always discovering something new.

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Gili Teak Dipping Platter Ingredients Dips (Hummus) • 50gr cooked chickpeas • 1 clove garlic • 1tsp cumin powder • 1tbs olive oil • salt and pepper to taste • 1tbs lime juice

Method Blend all the ingredients together until smooth and creamy

Dips (Red Bean Dip) • 50gr red beans cooked • 20gr roasted mixed capsicum • 10gr roasted onion • 1 clove roasted garlic • salt and pepper to taste • 1tsp cumin powder • 1tbsp coriander leaf chopped

Tzatziki • 50gr greek yogurt • 20gr cucumber slices • 5gr mint leaves chopped • salt and pepper to taste • 1tbsp lime juice

Method Mix all the ingredients together

Method Blend all the ingredients together until smooth and creamy

To Serve 1. Put dips into individual small pots 2. Serve with vegetable sticks and pita bread 3. Garnish with fresh herbs of your choice

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Gili Teak’s Dry Chicken Curry Ingredients Salad • 20gr snake beans • 40gr cherry tomato halved • 10gr lemon grass thin slices • 40gr mixed capsicum • 100gr green papaya • 15gr big red chilli • 10gr red onion sliced • 1gr mint torn • 1gr coriander leaf torn • 1gr basil torn • 1tbsp roasted peanuts crushed • pinch roasted rice

Curry Sauce • 1 chicken leg (large) • 1tbs curry paste • 1tbs water • 2tbs coconut cream Coconut Rice • 150gr jasmine rice • 1tbs crispy shallot chopped • 1tbs coconut oil • 1tbs coconut cream • salt and pepper

Method 1. Marinade the chicken in curry paste and add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.

2. Fry the Chicken until crispy.

3. Make the curry sauce by heating the ‘curry sauce’ ingredients together in the pan. Cook until thick and creamy.

4. Add the chicken to the sauce.

5. Mix all salad ingredients together in a bowl and add the dressing.

Toss the salad together.

6. Cook the rice and then mix in all the above ingredients.

Salad Dressing • 1tbs sweet chili sauce • 1/2tbs lime juice • 1/2tbs fish sauce

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The Apple of Everyone’s Eye

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t’s pretty hard to fault apples. Seriously, who doesn’t love them? They are usually included in any lists of ‘healthy foods’, and they tend to get very good press.

You could safely say ‘Apple’ worked quite well for the Beatles, too, and for Steve Jobs and partners.

Most cultivated apples ( Malus pumila) have developed from earlier species and we could trace their ancestry back thousands of years. Most likely, they originated in Central Asia, and were possibly among the first fruits ever cultivated for human consumption. Now found all over the world, apples would probably be the most widely grown and recognised fruit on the planet Apple Growing in Indonesia Apples are grown very successfully in East Java, especially in Malang and Batu. Early Dutch settlers guessed the slightly cooler conditions at 800m metres above sea level might be suitable for apple trees. The early efforts were probably disappointing, as the fruits, when they survived, were smaller and more sour tasting than European varieties.

Later developments and more sophisticated agricultural practices saw the evolution of the Malang apple into a crispy, juicy fruit – perhaps lacking the sweetness of many other variants, but refreshing and pleasant to eat.

Apple production continues in East Java, mainly on higher ground, and orchards yield healthy annual crops to satisfy local and regional markets. The Batu region is famous for its apples.

The main varieties are: • Manalagi – also known as the Ba'Kelalan apple – a pale green crispy apple, similar to a Golden Delicious.

• Rome Beauty – a red, mild-flavoured apple, said to be developed from the first Dutch apples • Anna – a pink and yellowish-green apple, similar to the Jonathan, and suited to slightly warmer climates

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Their success of apple growing is probably encouraged and boosted by the Ministry of Agriculture's regulation of the importation of certain fruits from overseas, a measure that aims to help local growers, and maintain reasonable prices.

The Symbolism of Apples The apple is so common its name is sometimes used for 'fruit' in a general way. Tomatoes, for example, have been called 'love apples', and then there are the somewhat lazy terms – the English 'pineapple' (no relation), and the French pomme de terre, literally 'apple from the earth', which means potato.

When art and literature tell the ancient story of Adam and Eve, in which the first human beings eat the ‘forbidden fruit’, the fruit is usually depicted as an apple, for no really good reason – especially as some versions of the story describe it as looking more like grapes. The idea caught on, though.

A prominent larynx is called an Adam's apple – a reminder of the first man's ‘sinful deed’, still stuck in his throat.

It didn’t help that the Latin word for apple was the same as the word for evil. As a result the apple has sometimes been used as a symbol of wickedness or bad fortune – think of the poisoned apple in the Snow White story.

It mainly stands for good things. Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love, was associated with apples. Scandinavian legends say the apple is what made their gods immortal, and in tales of the Arabian Nights, there is an enchanted apple that cures every human ill. At Jewish New Year celebrations apples and honey are symbols for sweet things ahead.

Keeping the Doctor Away?

Most people are sold on the health benefits of eating apples. No foods are miracle medicines but, as part of a healthy balanced diet, these fruits pack a lot of 'pluses'.

Apples:

• Are high in fibre, which promotes beneficial gut flora, improves gut health and digestion, and helps reduce bad cholesterol in the blood • Contain anti-oxidants, which protect the body against inflammation • Are said to promote neurological health, possibly helping to reduce nerve cell degeneration • Have potential antibacterial effects. Manalagi apple peel has been tested, and shown to have antibacterial activity against Streptococcus mutans, the organism that causes tooth decay A Source of Nutrition Although they are mostly water (85%), apples are also 14% carbohydrate – mainly sugar (10.5%), with some fibre (2.5%), which is mainly found in the skin. They are low in protein, and almost fat-free (0.2%).

100 grams of raw apple – which is one very small apple or half a large one – provide about 220 kilojoules. In terms of vitamins and minerals, this amount supplies 6% of the daily recommendation (DV) for Vitamin C, useful levels of vitamins B6 (3%DV), B2 (2%DV), and K (2%DV), and also provides 2%DV of manganese, phosphorus and potassium, with traces of calcium, magnesium and iron.

The apple seed, or pip, contains a chemical compound of cyanide. Although this is a deadly poison, a huge number of seeds would be needed to produce a dangerous dose.

In short, no-one has ever died of eating apple pips, but it's best not to eat them anyway.

Enjoying Apples There’s no limit to how apples can be prepared and eaten, and they are happy to be in all sorts of company.

Cooked in pies, cakes and tarts, their perfect taste partners are cinnamon and ginger. The apple pie is as American as… well, apple pie! And the cheeky French tarte tatin quite literally wouldn't be the same without apples.

In smoothies, drinks and salads, apple and cucumber seem made for each other, apple and kiwi fruit make a tasty couple, and apples get along well with just about everything in a fruit salad. They are particularly happy to rub up against a lemon or orange, to avoid going brown after being peeled.

Apple cider loves to get hot and spicy (cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves) with sliced oranges. And although apple cider vinegar has its sour moments, it livens up vinaigrettes, sauces and marinades.

For some, happiness is a toffee (or candy) apple, or caramelised apples with cream. And what's better than a hot apple turnover? Others just can't go past the very 'spirit' of apples – the divine Calvados – Normandy's apple brandy.

‘She’ll be apples’, the Australians say, when they know everything will be just fine. Spot on!

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REVIEW

TA PA Z BA R Gili T’s Mediterranean culinary hotspot is back in business with a new vibrant eco-look

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here have been many changes taking place in Gili Trawangan as the community and businesses get back on their feet. Gili T’s popular Mediterraneanstyle hangout Tapaz Bar is one that has now relaunched better than ever. It sports a vibrant new look after taking stock in the earthquake aftermath to create a refreshingly new design concept.

Rather than simply rebuild walls damaged in the quake, Tapaz Bar has taken the opportunity to create something unique which carries an important eco message. The idea was to create an eco-wall made of plastic bottles which are themselves filled with plastic trash. Each bottle weighs 500gr, and transforms throw-away trash into highly versatile construction materials. While extremely practical, it’s a symbolic feature which aims to raise awareness for recycling and emphasize the impact that plastic pollution has on small island communities like Gili Trawangan.

These eco-brick bottles were purchased from local women in Lombok, providing much needed income for locals.

Tapaz Bar has been artfully blending the eco-bricks with alternative art, to create something very distinctive. It resembles a vibrant pop art inspired seascape. It’s probably the most unique wall on the entire island.

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The changes at Tapaz Bar extend beyond the new design concept. The menu has also been given a new reboot.

Building on its status as a hub for fusion cuisine, spanning Italian, Spanish and Moroccan flavours, there is a new Paella Valenciana and bountiful seafood selection. The menu features the only fresh hand-made pasta dishes on the island incorporating both Italian and Spanish recipes.

The timeless Moroccan tagine is definitely one of the musttry highlights comprising a choice of vegetarian, chicken, lamb or fish. Complete the experience with a traditional Moroccan mint tea.

All the familiar tapas treats are on the menu; patas bravas, gambas and tuna tatare, and the Spanish tapas bar vibe clicks perfectly within a tropical island setting. No doubt the cool frozen cocktails, ice cold beers, wine and sangria has something to do with this. Live music adds to the convivial, cosmopolitan buzz. There is a good mix of expat regulars, locals and tapas loving travellers.

Tapas is essentially all about social snacking, drinks and sparkling conversation with friends, and the compact, cozy layout of Tapaz Bar, just steps from the beach, blends in perfectly with the Gili T good time vibe.

Jl. Pantai Gili Trawangan, Gili Indah Pemenang Kabupaten Lombok Utara, Gili Trawangan, Nusa Tenggara Barat 83352 www.tapaz-bar-gili.business.site tapazbargili

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STAY

Villa Strata

Cocotoa

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LUXURY LIVING

VILLA STRATA Immerse in Lombok luxury at a cool new island abode

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n the rolling green hills overlooking Gerupuk, Villa Strata certainly catches the eye. Resembling the secretive abode of a Bond villain, this new luxe villa retreat takes minimalism into a stylish new direction. It has a very definite symmetrical style offering a compelling contrast amid the surrounding forested hills.

Accommodating a dozen guests in style, Villa Strata’s five bedrooms all face towards the undulating landscape, each offering a front-row seat to awesome sunsets. Unique wood lattice windows unlock the evening’s vibrant hues of diminishing sunlight, which project an artful glow of colour inside. The rooms are spacious and uncluttered with dramatic geometric lines and smooth flooring that frame the interiors with a sense of contemporary flair. Each has a bright and expansive en suite bathroom with luxury fittings.

The lower level serves as a multifaceted communal space with a fully equipped ultra-modern kitchen and breakfast bar tucked away in the corner, al fresco dining area and an expansive lounge. Its indoor-outdoor open plan aspect presents a multitude of inspiring vistas of turquoise ocean and emerald hills on all sides. It has a wraparound effect with 360-degree panoramas emitting cooling sea breezes.

The lounge retains the urbane minimalist feel that runs throughout the villa but with a more idiosyncratic layout.

Comfy seating is scattered across the lounge area intermingling with well positioned tropical plants and elegant natural stonework. Tasteful modern art adorns

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the walls. It’s a versatile social space. There are various nooks to seek a little personal quietude, and areas ideal for social snacking, sunset drinks or simply stretching out for an afternoon nap.

Just a few steps away is the inviting infinity pool framed by a pool deck and well-manicured greenery. This is an inviting spot to spend a languid day with a good book and a cool cocktail in hand. The panoramic vistas are all the invitation you need to spend hours soaking in the pool. The slightly exposed position makes it a good spot to capture the cool breezes. The serene waters seem to slip over an unseen precipice which leads to another lower level reserved for guest parking and appealing tropical landscaping.

Despite a somewhat secluded position, Villa Strata provides a full complement of luxury creature comforts. There is complementary Wi-Fi, on-demand massage services, breakfast, a selection of wines, a barbecue area and full air conditioning. It’s a sophisticated haven tailor made for relaxation, yet offers easy access to Gerupuk’s more adventurous pursuits including water sports, fishing and awesome surf spots. Villa Strata is an easy drive from cosmopolitan Kuta Beach and its burgeoning bar and dining scene.

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Jl. Mandalika Resort Pantai Putri Nyale Gerupuk, Sengkol, Pujut, Kabupaten Lombok Tengah, Nusa Tenggara Barat 83573 +62 853 3731 2804 villastrata

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Cocotoa, Gili Trawangan You’ll trip the light fantastic in these arty, illuminated rooms

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mid the rows of identikit lumbung and modern minimalist resorts that dot the laneways of Gili Trawangan, there are still pleasant surprises to be found. Bucking the trend in its own inimitable way is Cocotoa, a new hotel that proves a little imagination can go a long way. Cocotoa is the brainchild of four European partners whose intention was to create an imaginative fusion of eastern and western styles. The artful design is pretty unique for local standards, yet still recreates an authentic, homely ambience befitting a small tropical inspired boutique haven.

Spread over two levels, there is a mix of deluxe guest rooms and spacious suites, each with their own distinctive style.

Interiors are roomy with a wealth of vibrant design touches.

Exposed brick walls contrast with traditional wood fixtures and are enriched with vibrant lighting effects. Ensuite bathrooms are spacious in semi-open style, again making good use of traditional stonework and the light hues. Rooms on the upper level boast a spacious balcony overlooking the pool. The junior suites have a cosy separate lounging space with ample comfy seating to kick back and relax.

It you crave a sassy abode with a touch of exuberant flair, check out the king suite. Bathed in light pink and electric blue lighting, it’s an open plan haven of effervescent style, showcasing some of the most eclectic interior design found on Gili T. The rooms and suites nestle around the small pool deck which offers a relaxing spot to snooze away the afternoon on a lounger or sip a fruity beverage. The pool is inviting and just steps away from each room, and is nicely illuminated in soft lighting reflecting on the water after dark.

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Aside from the pool deck the restaurant is the social hub of the hotel. It’s the place for a healthy breakfast to start the day, lunch time snacking or dinner after dark. It’s a light and airy yet compact eatery with a touch of modern Mediterranean style, fusing whitewashed walls, rattan ceilings, exposed brickwork and smooth polished wood tables. Bright artwork provides a splash of extra colour.

The seating layout across two long tables encourages convivial social dining – sharing light bites and sparkling conversation. Cocotoa Resto serves health conscious vegetarian meals with a passion for simplicity, using locally sourced produce in a diverse array of local and international dishes, snacks and drinks.

The visual appeal of Cocotoa is very evident yet there is a strong service ethic to support the style. There is a sharp focus on guest service, and delivers it in a seamless, unobtrusive way. The hotel nestles inland just a short stroll from the beachfront in a quiet spot. If you seek a happy medium of quietude, yet is only a short walk to the myriad bars and restaurants, Cocotoa fits the bill.

Jl. Penyu, Gili Trawangan, 83353 Lombok, Indonesia +62 878 6013 2922 cocotoahotel@gmail.com www.cocotoahotel.com

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MONTH OF LOVE Art Exhibition @ Qunci Villas Qunci Villa’s once again hosted the annual Month of Love Art Exhibition, supporting local artist Karyana. He was born in Lombok and of Balinese heritage. He is a self-taught Professional Artist and Painter and uses all mediums to create and likes to paint in many different styles. His inspiration comes from deep within and his passion is reflected on the canvas. The exhibition was opened on February 4th, where guests enjoyed the exquisite original artworks on display at the hotel and watched Karyana live painting.

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Gili Teak Resort Hosts the 2nd Kiddies Triathlon Gili Teak Resort in Gili Trawangan hosted the 2nd Kiddies Triathlon for Bumblebees Montessori School. The day started with huge smiles all around as the children jumped into the pool, swam and ran all over Gili Teak Resort in an excited chaos. Limbo, 3 legged races and a fruity snack were enjoyed in between all the fun. Thanks to the volunteers from @giliecotrust who organised such a fun day!

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Grand Opening of Horizon at Ashtari, Kuta Horizon at Ashtari celebrated its Grand Opening on November 30th. The new restaurant where the Sky meets the Sea, East meets West, celebrated with a Drum Circle, Traditional Music & Dance Performance, Live Acoustic Music and sit-down dinner. Guests enjoyed the evening and got to take part in the drum circle and traditional dance. Much fun was had by all.

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ASTROLOGY

horoscopeofthemonth Aries (March 21 – April 19) You’ve entered a challenging nine-year period where you won’t see the electrical cord on the floor or the car careening around the corner coming straight at you. The culprit that fuzzy ice ball Chiron who tells you that even the wise cannot save themselves. You have a need for speed, and you aren’t good at scouting the dangers ahead.

However, you are required now to stop, look, listen and consider your next move instead of dashing toward adventure.

Leo (July 23 – August 22) You usually have a clear idea of your goals, but during these next two months you may trip yourself up. The problem is over reach and expecting more of others than they are prepared or can give. You confuse those you manage with conflicting calls to action and second guessing their creative ideas.

You only saving grace is looking at both sides and giving people their say. Otherwise proud Leo may not have people to follow him and we can’t have that.

Taurus (April 20 – May 20) The planet of the unexpected just entered your sign for the next nine years bringing you lessons about your special gift to the world. Uranus is sudden ideas, sudden events, sudden lightning strike moments. It moves fast while you’d rather sit on the couch and relax after a hard day of counting your money. But you can’t ignore Uranus like you would that nice church lady that tries to visit. He’s a god, you know, and doesn’t like to ignored. Get ready.

Virgo (August 23 – September 22) Everything is easy when you’re living the dream.

A grand trine between your sun and planets in the signs Taurus and Capricorn smooths your path and helps you get what you want. Your relationships with others go well, and you have no worries. And therefore you should. A feeling of invincibility often descends during grand trine transits, and you don’t look around corners to see potential pitfalls. See beyond the immediate to divine the truth.

Gemini (May 21 – June 20) You have precious little to help you except your wit and your gift for gab which are your usual weapons anyway. Still the forces that beset you are of your own making. Failing to examine or control money matters constructively you must now pay the piper, or the extra interest rates. Something seems like a good investment but is it? Do you need to buy that big screen television? Loving the new and the brightest lures you into purchases you can ill afford.

Cancer (June 21 – July 22) Though still under its influence for the next for years the planet of transformation, Pluto is easing his icy grip on your throat. That’s good news. What isn’t is that he’s handed off some of his tasks on the planet of duties and responsibilities Saturn. Your hard work isn’t over yet, but by now under the tutelage of the master the underworld, you’ve developed ninja skills to get you over the hurdles.

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Libra (September 23 – October 22) It feels like destiny. What? Everything! Your sun is locked in by the power of a configuration called a yod, often called the Finger of God. Is God waggling his finger at you or pointing you out for extra recognition. With a yod you don’t know until it happens. The planets forming the base of your yod are Neptune, the planet of illusion or delusion, and Sun/Mercury in combination. Whatever happens people will be talking.

Scorpio (October 23 – November 21) People are watching, Scorpio, trying to learn your secrets. Foolish humans, first for trying to track you (Scorpio is the sign of spies) or attempting to divine your arcane ways. The reason you are so successful is the exact reason people can’t pinpoint how you pull off your magic. Your instincts are razor sharp and your intuition even more so. Don’t explain yourself, Scorpio. For your fans the fun is in not knowing how the trick is done.

Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21) Others sideswipe you with trying to suck you into their emotional dramas. No matter your best intentions if you get involved, it’s impossible to back away once your feet get caught in the muck. You realize as wrong as it felt not to help, it’s impossible to do so constructively. Don’t fall for passive aggressive behavior or emotional blackmail. Some days it’s just best to walk away.

Capricorn (December 22 – January 19) New influences up the stakes. The planet of the unexpected moves in Taurus providing extra sparkle or annoyances to your life. For routine oriented Capricorn new elements are often irritations. Try instead to see them as opportunities to explore creative solutions to old problems and ways to make new money. There that should motivate you. Good thing because the planet of energy, Mars, is at your back pushing you to action.

Aquarius (January 20 – February 18) The transiting Sun and Moon in Mercury will provide supportive energies for activities involving communications. Gaming? Done. Cold calling to raise money for your favorite charities? You’re a star. Accidentally walking into frame on a movie set, photo shoot, or newscast? Natch. The only hitch is that it’s all flash while the substance part just isn’t in the picture. Don’t expect lasting fame from your thirty seconds of it.

Pisces (February 19 – March 20) Other people are running around planning vacations, taking short trips and in general yapping about what a good time they are having. You wonder what all the buzz is about and you feel left out. Don’t worry, Pisces. It’s not you; it’s them.

Some people have to make their lives seem better than they are. Let them do them. You’ve got some serious business to take care of which will reap you tremendous benefits. Those that can don’t talk about it.

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(0370)

For more information please contact us

647510

or visit our website at

www.nusaalam.sch.id

We are Nusa Alam Sekolah Nusa Alam is currently the only international standard or ‘national plus’ school in Lombok.

It is the only licensed SPK (Satuan Pendidikan Kerjasama). It is the only school licensed to teach the Cambridge International Curriculum in Lombok and oversee Cambridge examinations. Our national and international accreditation includes; • IGCSE Cambridge (Accredited testing centre) • ANPS (Founding member of Association of National Plus School) Accredited – “A” Rating • Indonesian Government: SPK licensed • Indonesian Government Accredited at “A” rating at every level (TK, SD, SMP, SMA) Over the years, students from Sekolah Nusa Alam have frequently been recognized with awards for achievement in the sports and the arts. Many graduates have gone on to successful academic careers in overseas universities and other international schools.

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Perumahan Grand Natura, Jl. Terusan Bung Hatta, Karang Baru, Mataram, Lombok P: +62 370 647 510 F: +62 370 647 514 E: nusaalam@yahoo.com info@nusaalam.net

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Mowies

This is Lombok!

Lombok’s time is here and now, having finally stepped out of Bali’s shadow, showcasing to the world its unique mix of adventure, pristine natural scenery and captivating art and culture. A new airport, international yacht marina and improved roads have made travel to and within Lombok much easier, but it is its untamed natural beauty and traditional charm that captivates. It is an adventure-seeker’s paradise, home to world-class scuba diving, surfing and mountain climbing yet travellers looking for a cosmopolitan beach lifestyle and luxury creature comforts will not be short of options. Experience the best of Lombok with these recommended highlights and hidden gems: Senggigi and The West Coast Senggigi, just a short drive from the island capital Mataram is Lombok’s premier beach resort, extending along a series of sweeping bays. The main beach strip is fringed by a wide expanse of sand framed nightly by spectacular ocean sunsets. It is a fairly spread out beach town that rarely feels overcrowded yet there is a broad variety of places to stay, eat and socialise. There is a vibrant expat community here with lots of opportunity for sports and leisure, business networking and searching out those hard to find imported goods. Senggigi is the best place to arrange days out and guided trips to other parts of Lombok. The beach road then winds its way north to upmarket Mangsit, dotted with hip boutique hotels and villas among some of west Lombok’s most captivating scenery. In all, the Senggigi area stretches for almost 10 km along the west coast, and away from the main tourist centre, comprises numerous palm fringed beaches dotted with colourful fishing boats.

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Gili Islands A trio of tiny tropical islands off the northwest coast, known simply as ‘the Gilis’ are the go-to place for laid-back island life and the simple pleasures of sun, sea and superb scuba diving. Each of these three islands has its own distinctive atmosphere; the smallest is Gili Meno, a peaceful tropical island haven with few distractions other than deserted white sand beaches and a couple of chilled out beach bars. Legendary ‘party island’ Gili Trawangan is largest and most cosmopolitan of the Gili Islands with no shortage of swanky boutique villas, diverse dining and plenty of action after dark. Gili Air, located closest to the Lombok mainland, sits somewhere in the middle of these two extremes and has the most authentic local atmosphere. The enduring appeal of the Gili Islands is the refreshing absence of any motorised transport making for a pleasant alternative to Bali’s congested beach resorts. Scuba diving is still the main draw and it is one of Asia’s top spots to learn the basics and get qualified. For landlubbers, there are few better places to get horizontal on a tropical beach and soak up the unique island vibe.

Kuta and South Lombok Like its namesake in Bali, Kuta Lombok is synonymous with world-class waves but thankfully without the hassle of 24/7 traffic and infuriating beach hawkers. In fact, Lombok’s south coast surf breaks are more than a match for the best in Bali, and savvy surfers are heading here to enjoy miles of uncrowded, adrenaline-fuelled waves.

Kuta, invitingly close to Lombok’s new international airport, is the main tourist hub yet remains a fairly tranquil tropical haven favoured by both surfers and adventurous families. It makes for a great base for exploring the rugged southern coastline dotted with numerous breathtaking beaches. Scenic highlights include up-andcoming Tanjung A’an, Gerupak and isolated Ekas Bay.

The Southwest Lombok’s ruggedly beautiful southwest peninsular is largely unexplored by visitors but is now getting serious recognition with the discovery of superb offshore scuba diving and miles of deserted beaches.

The main gateway is Sekotong Bay, located just south of Lombok’s main ferry port Lembar and is the jumping off point for Lombok’s ‘Secret Gilis.’ These small offshore islands feature pristine coral reefs and idyllic tropical beaches for a real castaway experience. Heading south, the coastal road winds its way past tiny fishing communities and secluded bays all the way to the tip of the peninsular where the legendary surf breaks of Bangko Bangko (Desert Point) are found — rated among the best in the world.

Mount Rinjani For an alternative to surf, scuba and sandy beaches, a trek up the immense Rinjani volcano is hard to beat. At over 3,700 meters, this is Indonesia’s second highest volcano and makes for challenging 3–4 day trek but the views are definitely worth all the effort. The mountain dominates much of north Lombok and the caldera alone covers a mind-boggling 50 square kilometres. Most climbers only go as far as the crater rim which offers vertigo-inducing views down into the volcanic lake but the extra effort to get to the summit will be rewarded with views as far as Java and eastwards across to the island of Sumbawa. If this all sounds too arduous for comfort, the mountain’s foothills offer a wealth of leisurely hiking opportunities. Head to Senaru village for easy-going walks through remote weaving villages and dense jungle to uncover a succession of scenic waterfalls.

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THE DIRECTORY EAT Senggigi and the West Coast Cafe Alberto +62 370 693 039 / 693 313 www.cafealberto.com La Chill +62 370 693 925 www.lachillbar.com Lotus Bayview +62 370 693 758 www.lotus-restaurants.com/lotusbayview Quah Restaurant +62 370 693 800 www.quncivillas.com Quali Restaurant +62 370 693 800 www.quncivillas.com SENJA Lounge & Dine +62 370 693 333 www.sheratonsenggigi.com/senja Square Restaurant & Lounge +62 370 664 4888 www.squarelombok.com Temptations +62 812 3948 3982 The Kliff +62 370 6197 888 www.katamaranresort.com The Ballroom Restaurant +62 370 693 831 www.purimas-lombok.com The Taman +62 370 693 842 www.the-taman.com Warung Plaza Senggigi +62 878 6561 6688

Kuta and South Lombok Aura Lounge & Bar +62 812 3682 3141 www.selongselo.com/aura

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El Bazar Cafe & Restaurant +62 819 9911 3026 Horizon at Ashtari +62 812 3608 0862 www.ashtarilombok.com KRNK Restaurant +62 823 4017 9854 Nugget’s Corner +62 878 6546 1505 Spice Market +62 370 6153 333 www.accorhotels.com/gb/hotel-0571novotel-lombok-resort-and-villas

Scallywags Beach Club +62 878 6584 7309 www.scallywagsresort.com/beach-club

Wagwan Spa +62 370 614 5301 www.wagwanspa.com

The Mexican Kitchen Gili Air +62 877 6550 3931

Gili Air

Gili Meno

H20 Yoga and Meditation +62 877 6103 8836 www.h2oyogaandmeditation.com

Karma Reef Beach Resort +62 370 630 981 www.karmagroup.com/karma-beach

Gili Meno

Mahamaya Restaurant & Bar +62 888 715 5828 www.mahamaya.co

Karma Sea Spa +62 370 630 982 www.karmaspas.com

Gili T

Adeng-Adeng Beach Restaurant & Bar +62 818 0534 1019

Retail Senggigi and West Coast

Kayu Cafe +62 878 6239 1308

PLAY

Asmara Collection, Lombok +62 370 693 619

Spas and Wellness Senggigi

Sasaku +62 899 1000 031

Divine Wax & Nail Bar +62 370 698112

Kuta and South Coast

Malibu Beach Club +62 370 619 5251 www.malibuclubgili.com Pearl Beach Lounge +62 81 337 156 999 www.pearlbeachlounge.com Scallywags Seafood Bar & Grill +62 819 17432086 www.scallywagsresort.com/bar-grill The Banyan Tree +62 878 6239 1308 Pituq Cafe +62 812 3677 5161 The Roast House +62 896 1027 3326 www.giliroasthouse.com

The Laguna Beach Spa +62 370 693 333 www.starwoodhotels.com Puri Mas Spa +62 370 693 831 www.purimas-lombok.com Qambodja Spa +62 370 693 800 www.quncivillas.com Verve Beach Spa +62 812 4640 0246

Matcha Spa +62 823 3905 0182 Nalua Surf Shop +62 819 0796 9162

Gili T Casa Vintage +62 819 1724 3808

Health & Leisure / Recreation Senggigi and West Coast

Kuta and South Lombok

Pirates’ Bay Cruising +62 821 4500 3903 www.piratesbaycruising.com

Ashtari Yoga +62 812 3892 0735 m.facebook.com/AshtariYoga

Scuba Froggy +62 370 693 901 www.scubafroggy.com

Novotel Beachside Yoga +62 812 3892 0735

Sire & Tanjung

Gili Air Coffee & Thyme +62 853 3879 4046 Mowie's +62 878 6423 1384 www.mowiesgiliair.com

Gili T Pachamama Organic Cafe +62 878 6415 2100 www.pachamamagiliair.com

Azure Spa at Pesona Resort +62 823 3910 4881

Lombok Golf Kosaido Country Club +62 370 640 137

Kuta and South Coast

Other

Ashtari Cooking Class +62 812 3608 0862 www.ashtarilombok.com

Rinjani Country Club Golf Course +62 828 9703 0270 www.lombok-golf.com

The Playground +62 811 3907 501 www.lombokplayground.com

Weddings

What Sup? Lombok +62 878 6597 8701 www.whatsuplombok.com

Sekotong DiveZone +62 819 0785 2073 www.divezone-lombok.com

White Sand Weddings www.whitesandweddingslombok.com

STAY Hotels Senggigi and West Coast The Chandi Boutique Resort & Spa +62 370 692198 www.the-chandi.com

Gili T Freedive Gili +62 858 5718 7170 www.freedivegili.com Gili Cooking Classes +62 877 6324 8215 www.gilicookingclasses.com Gili Golf +62 821 4501 6419 Manta Dive +62 370 614 3649 www.manta-dive.com Scallywag Divers +62 877 6586 7517

Gili Air Gili Cooking Classes +62 878 2157 0188 Oceans5 +62 813 3877 7144 www.oceans5dive.com

Jeeva Klui +62 370 693 035 www.jeevaklui.com Kebun Villas & Resort +62 370 692 999 www.kebunresort.com

Sudamala Suites, Lombok +62 370 693 111 www.sudamalaresorts.com

Kuta and South Lombok Origin Lombok +62 370 615 8550 www.originlombok.com Kies Villas +62 878 6553 4450 www.kiesvillaslombok.com Novotel +62 370 615 3333 www.novotel.com Selong Selo Residences +62 813 3779 1400 www.selongselo.com

Sekotong Cocotinos +62 819 0797 2401 www.cocotinos-sekotong.com

Gili T Kila Senggigi +62 370 693210 www.aerowisatahotels.com/hotel/ kila-senggigi-beach-lombok Living Asia Resort & Spa +62 370 693 519 www.livingasiaresort.com The Oberoi Lombok +62 370 613 8444 www.oberoihotels.com/hotels-inlombok Puri Mas Boutique Resort & Spa +62 370 693 831 www.purimas-lombok.com

Aston Sunset Beach Resort +62 370 633 686 www.aston-international.com/eng/ hotel-detail/244/aston-sunset-beachresort---gili-trawangan Pondok Santi Estate +62 819 0705 7504 www.pondoksanti.com

Property Amber Lombok Beach Resort www.amber-lombok.com Kuta Heights Development +62 821 4587 5594 +62 817 6673 983 www.kutaheightslombok.com Lombok Eco Developments +62 817 713 708 www.lombokecodevelopments.com Lombok Property & Investment +62 819 0797 4075 www.lp-i.co NAGAINDO +62 813 5332 9501 www.naga-indo.com Private Sanctuary +62 821 4741 9919 www.private-sanctuary.com Reef Property Lombok +62 852 3801 4269 Tate Developments +62 818 0376 0677 www.tatedevelopments.com

Charity Endri's Foundation www.endrifoundation.or.id Face This www.facethis.org

Pearl of Trawangan +62 813 3715 6999 www.pearloftrawangan.com

Gili Eco Trust +62 813 3960 0553 www.giliecotrust.com

Gili Meno

John Fawcett Foundation www.balieye.org

Qunci Villas +62 370 693 800

Karma Reef Beach Resort +62 370 630 981 www.karmagroup.com/karma-beach

The Sheraton Senggigi Beach Resort +62 370 693 333 www.sheraton.com/senggigi

Mahamaya, Gili Meno +62 370 637 616 www.mahamaya.com

Lombokcare +62 370 6194201

Gili Meno Amber Yoga Retreat & Spa +62 822 3759 6677

Pelita Foundation Lombok www.pelitafoundationlombok.org

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ESSENTIAL INFORMATION

EMERGENCY NUMBERS Ambulance Phone: 0370 623 489 Emergency call: 118 Fire Brigade Phone: 0370 672 013 Emergency call: 113 Lombok Police Jl. Gajah Mada No7, Ampenan Phone: 0370 693 110 Emergency call: 110 Tourist Police Senggigi Jl. Raya Senggigi km 1 Phone: 0370 632 733 HOSPITALS Harapan Keluarga Jl. Ahmad Yani, Selagalas Phone: 0370 617 7000/617 7009 Risa Sentra Medika Jl. Pejanggik No.115, Cakranegara Phone: 0370 625 560 New Mataram Public Hospital Jl. Bung Karno No.1, Mataram Phone: 0370 645 045 Mataram Public Hospital Jl. Pejanggik No.6, Mataram Phone: 0370 623 498 Siti Fajar Moslem Hospital Jl. Panca Warga, Mataram Phone: 0370 623 498 Anthonius Catholic Hospital Jl. Koperasi, Ampenan Phone: 0370 621 397 Police Hospital Jl. Langko No.54, Ampenan Phone: 0370 633 701 Army Hospital Jl. HOS Cokroaminoto No.11, Mataram Phone: 0370 621 420 Central Lombok Public Hospital Jl. Jen Basuki Rachmat, Praya Phone: 0370 654 007 East Lombok Public Hospital Jl. Prof M. Yamin No.55, Selong Phone: 0376 216 80 HEALTH CLINICS Biomedika Clinic Jl. Bung Karno No.143, Mataram Phone: 0370 645 137 Medika Husada Clinic Jl. Raya Senggigi Phone: 0370 664 480 Sengiggi Beach Hotel Clinic Phone: 0370 693 210 Klinik Prodia Jalan Pejanggik No.107, Mataram Phone: 0370 635 010 Hotel Villa Ombak Clinic Gili Trawangan Phone: 0370 642 336

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Jolie Sourire Dental Care Mataram Mall Jl. Pejanggik, Mataram Phone: 0370 668 1797 PHARMACIES Guardian Pharmacy Mataram Mall Jl. Pejanggik, Mataram Phone: 0370 629 921 Kimia Farma Jl. Sriwijaya No.295, Mataram Phone: 0370 633 211 Jl. Pejanggik No.48, Mataram Phone: 0370 638 502 Jl. Catur Warga, Mataram Phone: 0370 634 774 Jl. M. Yamin No.155 Selong, East Lombok Phone: 0376 220 51 TAXI Bluebird Taxis Phone: 0370 627 000 Express Taxis Phone: 0370 635 968 Narmada Trans Taxi Phone: 0370 702 5333 IMMIGRATION OFFICE Department of Immigration Jl. Udayana, Mataram Phone: 0370 632 520 POST OFFICES Central Post Office Jl. Sriwijaya, Mataram Phone: 0370 632 645 Jl. Langko, Ampenan Phone: 0370 631 642 Jl. Raya Senggigi Phone: 0370 693 711 INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS Nusa Alam Jl. Pantai Meninting Phone: 0370 647 514 AIRLINE SALES OFFICES Silk Air Lombok Raya Hotel Jl. Panca Usaha No.11, Mataram Phone: 0370 628 254 Garuda Indonesia Jl. Majapahit No. 2, Ampenan phone: 0370 642303/649100 Lion Air Jl. Sriwijaya No.81, Mataram Phone: 0370 629 111 Merpati Nusantara Airlines Jl. Pejanggik No.69, Mataram Phone: 0370 636 745

TransNusa Jl. Panca Usaha No.28, Mataram Phone: 0370 624 555 CAR RENTAL COMPANIES Lombok Rent Car Jl. Raya Senggigi Km 12, Senggigi Phone: 0370 667 7887 FREIGHT/COURIER COMPANIES Tiki Jl. Anyelir No. 1, Mataram Phone: 0370 633 014 DHL Jl. Hos Cokroaminoto No.53G, Mataram Phone: 0370 639 400 PUBLIC UTILITIES Electricity (PLN) Jl. Langko No. 25, Ampenan Phone: 0370 632 182 Jl. Raya Sengiggi Phone: 0370 693 535 Water (PDAM) Jl. Pendidikan No.29, Mataram Phone: 0370 632 510 Jl. Raya Sengiggi Phone: 0370 693 886 CHURCH SERVICES Bethany Mataram Church Jl. I Gusti Ketut Jelantik Gosa No.23, Mataram Phone: 0370 625 956 HKBP Mataram Church Jl. Gili Air No.4, Mataram Phone: 0370 632 924 Kristen Tuhan Church Jl. Ekas No.47, Mataram Phone: 0370 621 811 Masehi Advent H7 Church Jl. Kom L Yos Sudarso No.16, Mataram Phone: 0370 638 500 Pantekosta Church Jl. Pariwisata No.4, Mataram Phone: 0370 631 219 Katholik Church Jl. Majapahit No.10, Mataram Phone: 0370 634 397 CONSULATES IN BALI Australia (Also consular service for Canada and New Zealand nationals) Jalan Tantular No. 32, Renon, Denpasar Phone: 0361 241 118 Brazil Jl. Raya Legian No.186, Kuta Phone: 0361 757 775

Czech Republic Jalan Pengembak No.17, Sanur Phone: 0361 286 465 Denmark Jl. By Pass Ngurah Rai–Pemogan No. 852, Denpasar Phone: 0361 821 6979 France Jl.Mertasari Gg. II No.8, Sanur Phone: 0361 285 485 Germany Jl. Pantai Karang No.17, Sanur Phone: 0361 288 535 Italy Lotus Enterprise Building Jl. By Pass Ngurah Rai, Jimbaran Phone: 0361 701 005 India Jl. Raya Puputan No.42, Renon, Denpasar Phone: 0361 241 987 Japan Jl. Raya Puputan No.170, Renon, Denpasar Phone: 0361 227 628 Mexico Jl.Prof. Moh. Yamin No.1, Renon, Denpasar Phone: 0361 223 266 Netherlands Jl.Raya Kuta No.127, Kuta Phone: 0361 761 502 Norway Segara Village Hotel Jl. Segara Ayu, Sanur Phone: 0361 282 223 Russia Bali Kencana Resort II Block Cendrawasih No.18, Ungasan Phone: 0361 279 1560 Spain Kompleks Istana Kuta Galeria Blok Valet 2, No. 1 Jl.Patih Jelantik, Kuta Phone: 0361 769 286 Sweden & Finland Jl. Segara Ayu No.2, Sanur Phone: 0361 282 223 Switzerland Kompleks Istana Kuta Galeria Blok Valet 2 No.12 Jl. Patih Jelantik, Kuta Phone: 0361 751 735 United Kingdom Jl. Tirta Nadi No.20, Sanur Phone: 0361 270 601 United States of America Jl. Hayam Wuruk No.188, Denpasar Phone: 0361 233 605

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