The Lombok Guide Issue 108

Issue 108 | 6 - 20 February 2012

( 0370 6594005 | www.thelombokguide.com

FREE COPY

PUBLISHED BI-WEEKLY IN LOMBOK, FOR LOMBOK

SOUTH EAST LOMBOK… HOTPlanet country!

TRIPADVISOR TRAVELLERS’ CHOICE WINNERS

TOP PICKS FOR VALENTINE’S DAY!

SUNDANCER… GETTING READY TO SHINE!

Page 10

Page 40

Page 48

Page 65

IN THIS ISSUE Getting to Lombok Attractions & Actitvities Lombok Map Special Feature Senggigi Senggigi Map What’s Hot Local News Special Feature Local Scene Mr Fixer Distribution The Cities Cities Map Useful Contacts Special Features Southwest Kuta & The South Pasar Classifieds Discount Vouchers The Gilis Getting to the Gilis Gili Bytes Gilis Map

Page 2 Page 4/8 Page 6

Beach Bungalows

Page 15

ROMANTIC LOMBOK

Page 10 Page 12 Page 14 Page 18 Page 20/48 Page 30 Page 32 Page 40 Page 50 Page 52-59 Page 54 Page 60 Page 61/65 Page 62-67 Page 68-74 Page 76 Page 77 Page 78-92 Page 83 Page 89 Page 91

If you’re looking for somewhere special to escape the crowds and usual hype with your sweetheart, look no further than Lombok!

What could be more romantic than a walk along a deserted white sand beach, stopping to watch a magnificent sunset over the ocean with Bali floating on the horizon? Sip wine under the stars in a draped balé on the beachfront and dine on fresh seafood and top class international cuisine.

Or lay back on the terrace of your sumptuous villa, listening to the sound of the waves with no traffic noise to break the magic.

In Lombok, it’s Valentine’s Day every day!

To find out more, pick up a copy of The Lombok Guide from the locations listed on page 50 or visit www.thelombokguide.com and discover the magic of Lombok for yourself…

like thousands of others, you’ll be enchanted! ...Life is Good!

P: +62 (0) 370 614 2352 | E: reservation@beachhousegilit.com | W: www.beachhousegilit.com

Qunci Villas Lombok

The

Tourism Information

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GETTING TO LOMBOK

BALI TO LOMBOK BY AIR

It’s easy to get to Lombok from Bali – flight time is only 25 minutes.

Buy tickets direct from the airline counters at the domestic airports, or contact local travel agents, in both Bali and Lombok.

Garuda Airlines has direct flights between Lombok, Bali and Jakarta every day, Call Center : 0 804 1 807 807, Sales Office : 0370-642303,649999.www.garuda-indonesia.com Merpati Airlines flies direct between Bali and Lombok five times a day. Lombok, ph: 0370 621111, Airport: 0370 633637 / 087864253577. Bali, ph: 0361 420999. www.merpati.co.id Trans Nusa Air operates two flights between Bali and Lombok daily. Lombok, ph: 0370 624555. Bali, ph: 0361 8477395. www. transnusa.co.id Lion Air flies between Bali and Lombok with three flights daily.

Lombok, Call Centre: 080 4177 8899. Bali, ph: 0361 765183. www. lionair.co.id

INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS

Lombok International Airport (approx 40km south of the city of Mataram and 1 ½ hours drive from Senggigi ) has full Visa on Arrival facilities, with efficient and fast visa processing.

Silk Air (a subsidiary of Singapore Airlines) flies direct between Lombok and Singapore, three times per week. Lombok, ph: 0370 628254 / 628255. www.silkair.com Garuda Airlines flies between Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia and Lombok every day, with a short stop-over in Jakarta. Call Centre: 080 418 07807. Airport: 0370 649100. www.garuda-indonesia.com Merpati Airlines also has flights three times per week between Lombok and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (via Surabaya). Lombok, ph: 0370 621111. www.merpati.co.id DOMESTIC FLIGHTS European connections are easy via Jakarta (the capital city of Java) or Bali. Direct flights from Jakarta to Lombok are available every day and are usually timed to connect with European flights.

Lombok is easily accessible from Jakarta, Bali, Jogyakarta and Surabaya and is an important connection for travel to the eastern islands, in particular Sumbawa, Komodo and Flores.

Garuda Indonesia has direct flights between Lombok, Bali and Jakarta every day, Call Center : 0 804 1 807 807, Sales Office : 0370 642303, 649999. www.garuda-indonesia.com Lion Air has daily flights between Lombok, Jakarta and Surabaya.

Ph: 0370 6627444 / 642180. www.lionair.co.id Merpati Airlines has flights available between Lombok, Bali, Jakarta, Surabaya, Bandung, Sumbawa, Flores, Kupang and many other Indonesian destinations. Lombok, ph: 0370 621111. www.merpati.co.id Trans Nusa Air flies between Lombok, Sumbawa and Bima once a day. Lombok, ph: 0370 624555. www.transnusa.co.id

Batavia Air has flights between Lombok, Surabaya and Jakarta every day. Lombok, ph: 0370 648998. www.batavia-air.co.id

BALI TO LOMBOK BY SEA

Padang Bai Harbour (Bali) provides the sea link between mainland Bali and Lombok. Lembar Harbour (Lombok) is approx. 1 hour south of Senggigi, Lombok. 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 36 000 per person and takes approx. 4 to 5 hours. Lembar Harbour ph: 0370 681 209.

Padang Bai Harbour ph: (0363) 41849 / 41840ww.peramatour.com

FAST BOATS There are now numerous “fast boat” services operating between Bali and Lombok. Most serve Gili Trawangan, but several call at both Gili T and Teluk Kodek on mainland Lombok.

The crossing between the islands can be treacherous in bad weather, so choose a reliable operator and avoid companies that practice “over loading” in busy times.

Gili Bookings.com is an online booking service offering easy reservations for the leading fast boat services between Bali and Lombok. Availability checks, schedules and e-ticketing, as well as accommodation options on both islands, are all available online at the site. www.gilibookings.com Gili Cat departs Padang Bai Harbour – Bali at 11.30am every day for Gili Trawangan & Lombok (Teluk Kodek) and has an excellent safety record. The return voyage departs Gili Trawangan at 9.00am.

With a crossing time of just over 1 hour, Gili Cat provides the quickest sea crossing between Bali and Lombok of all the fast boat operators. Price includes free transfers between Padang Bai, Ubud, Kuta, Jimbaran, Nusa Dua and Sanur – Bali. Other locations are available with small additional surcharge. Ph: (0361) 271680. www.gilicat.com Island Getaway is a comfortable fast boat departing from Benoa Harbour, Bali (only 20 mins from Kuta) daily at 8am. The crossing takes around 2 hours to Gili Trawangan and Teluk Kodek on Lombok. Ph Bali: (0361) 751570 / 726 523; or Bali: 0819 1673 3051; Gili T: 0878 6432 2515. www.island-getaway.com Blue Water Express, operated by Blue Water Safaris, provides transfers between Bali and Gili Trawangan. BWS operates two boats, with 25 and 15 passenger capacities, departing from Serangan (near Benoa Harbour) at 8am and 10am, and from Padang Bai Harbour at 11.15am every day. Return transfer from Gili Trawangan is at 11am. Fares include air conditioned hotel transfers in Bali. Ph: (0361) 723 479. www.bwsbali.com

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Tourism Information

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Malimbu, West Lombok

Attractions & Activities

Getting around Lombok is easy by car or motorbike and you can hire these in all the main tourism areas, with an International Drivers License. The roads are generally in good condition and traffic is light. Alternatively, hire a car and driver for exploring or take part in the tours and day trips offered by the many tour agencies on the island.

BEACHES The whole island is surrounded by fantastic beaches, most of which are covered in clean white sand and 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 also has fine beaches, especially around Sekotong and Taun.

Visit the small island of Gili Nanggu for rustic accommodation and great snorkelling just off shore or stay at Secret Island Resort on Gili Gede to explore the twelve other undeveloped islands in the southwest. The beaches around Kuta are breathtakingly beautiful. Visit Gerupuk for fantastic scenery, Kuta for long stretches of white sand and turquoise waters, or swim in the peaceful lagoon at Mawun.

DIVING With so many beaches and small islands, Lombok offers a myriad of diving and snorkelling opportunities. The best known locations are around the Gili islands - Gili Air, Gili Meno and Gili Trawangan.

Snorkelling is easy from the shore and all three islands are well served by professional dive operators who offer full PADI certification courses, day and night dives to the many sites around the Gilis, as well as specialised courses and live-aboard adventures to exotic locations. For the

more adventurous, there is superb diving around the islands off the southwest coast, as well as near Kuta on the south coast and the small uninhabited islands off the east coast.

SURFING Lombok is becoming a world-renown surfing destination amongst surf enthusiasts world-wide. Huge waves and challenging surf lure die-hards to BangkoBangko (also known as Desert Point) on the south-western tip of Lombok. Kuta, on the south coast, is surf-central and has a range of accommodations and services catering specially to surfers.

Here you can hire a board, get board repairs and take surf lessons from the professionals.

The waves at Gerupuk and Kuta offer a variety of challenges from beginners to sheer madness!

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

There are a number of spectacular waterfalls on the island which provide lovely trekking opportunities, whether travelling independently or as part of a tour. Sendang Gile on the slope of Mt Rinjani in the north is an easily accessible waterfall in a stunning jungle setting and popular with visitors.

Air Jeruk Manis, near Tetebatu is reached by walking through pretty rice fields and forests. 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.

Photo by Simon Mammino

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k o - k o - mo G I L I T R AWA N G A N R E S O R T Get there fast, then take it slow...

WINE AND DINE YOUR VALENTINE Arrival Champagne Cocktail “Strawberry Bellini” Amuse Bouche Coriander seared tuna with horseradish cream ENTRÉE CHOICES PANCETTA WRAPPED SCALLOPS Seared with red wine reduction and olive oil hollandaise OYSTER PLATE 3 oysters served natural with fresh lime, champagne and caviar & nam jim dressing BEEF CARPACCIO Thinly sliced Australian “Harvey” Tenderloin, with fresh rocket, grana padano parmesan and black truffle oil MAINS CHOICES CONFIT SALMON FILLET On leek fondue with potato puree, fresh soy beans and salmon tartare ROAST SPATCHCOCK Pan-roasted spatchcock on truffle infused risotto with sautéed cauliflower and beetroot reduction BEEF TENDERLOIN Australian Beef Tenderloin, seared & roasted, on Dauphinoise potato, with caramelized shallots, browned garlic and red wine sauce DESSERT CHOICES DECADENT CHOCOLATE PUDDING Valentine chocolate pudding with strawberry coulis & Crème Anglaise VANILLA SLICE Vanilla custard surrounded by puff pastry, served with vanilla bean syrup CRÈME BRULEE Lemon myrtle Crème Brulee served with caramelized sugar and fresh fruit PETIT FOURS Chocolate-coated strawberries Rp 450.000 ++ / person

Private Luxury Villas and Fine Dining Restaurant Email: kokomogilit@ozemail.com.au Tel: +62 (0)370 614 4169 | Fax: +62 (0)370 614 9365 | Mob: +62 (0)813 3974 7459

www.kokomogilit.com

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Lombok Map

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On the beach at the Jetty... your Gili T holiday begins and ends here!

Clean and comfortable twin and double rooms with air conditioning, 60 channel satellite television, in-room safe, fully stocked mini bar and private bathrooms with fresh hot water.

60sqm fresh water swimming pool and separate kiddies pool.

Beachfront bar and restaurant serving quality Indonesian and International meals and snacks all day

The Jetty, ‘Sentral’, Gili Trawangan | Phone: 0370 6138513 gilitresort@hotmail.com | www.gilitresort.com

Tourism Information

Segara Anak Lake by SImon Mammino

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Attractions & Activities

MOUNTAIN CLIMBING Mt Rinjani, Lombok’s famous volcano, soars 3726 m above sea level and is the second highest volcano in Indonesia, attracting thousands of trekkers and climbers annually. The huge crater near the top contains a beautiful lake, Danau Segara Anak (Child of the Sea Lake) and a smaller volcanic cone, Gunung Baru Jari, which was formed a couple of hundred years ago. There are a number of caves, small waterfalls and hot springs located around the volcano.

In 2004 Rinjani won the World Legacy Award and the volcano is recognised internationally as an important eco-tourism destination. Two, three and four day treks on the volcano are offered by tour companies and trek organisers in all the main resort areas of Lombok.

HISTORIC SITES & TEMPLES There are a number of interesting temples around the west coast, many of which are Hindu or ancient animist sites of worship.

Pura Lingsar is possibly the only place in the world where Hindus and Moslems come together to pray and celebrate. Built around 1714, Pura Lingsar was originally based on the prevailing animist beliefs of the time, and some of the original animist 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.

Pura Narmada (or Narmada Temple), around 10 km east of Cakranegara in Narmada, was created circa 1805 as a replica of Gunung Rinjani and Segara Anak, the lake within Rinjani’s crater.

The gardens at Narmada are beautifully maintained and surround the pools and lake.

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!

HANDICRAFT VILLAGES Lombok is famous for its traditional earthenware pottery made from local Narmada Water Park

clay with distinctive “Lombok primitive” designs. You can also purchase 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 purchase traditionally woven, colourful fabrics.

Masbagik, close to Pringgasela, is a small pottery village. Wander the streets and see the pottery being made in the small yards behind the simple homes here and purchase the wares for amazingly cheap prices.

Sukarara is 5 km to the west of Praya, heading south towards Kuta. This is a 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 this village 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 is packed with 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, has become famous internationally and is exported throughout the world.

0370 645301 | www.scallywagsresort.com

SCALLYWAGS

United Flavours of

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Special Feature

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SOUTH EAST LOMBOK… HOTPlanet country!

For over 10 years now, there has only been one resort in south-east Lombok on the eastern side of beautiful Ekas Bay. The roads are bad, there’s no water, no electricity, but Heaven on the Planet (HOTPlanet) has simply ignored and overcome the problems.

Over the years, they’ve built their own roads, power grid, water reticulation and sewerage systems on their amazing 35 hectare (more than 80 acre) pristine property of coconut plantations, forests and farms.

They’ve planted more than 10,000 trees, nurtured the native monkey population back from the brink of losing their habitat, initiated Aloe Vera farming, and created an artificial reef in Ekas Bay to improve fish stocks.

HOTPlanet comprises two resorts on the same property. Heaven on the Planet sits on the cliff top overlooking the spectacular bay and bright red sunsets, while Ocean Heaven sits right on the sands of one of Lombok’s best known and most beautiful beaches: Pantai Sorga (called Heaven Beach by the locals).

Heaven on the Planet resort looks over Ekas beach’s famous surf break “Inside”, while Ocean Heaven is at “Outsides”. Both surf breaks are world renowned for surfers.

But the resorts have never only focused on surfing. They host weddings and honeymoons, couples and families, and adventurers looking for remote and beautiful escapes.

Using their own 4WD vehicles, the resort provides access to the off-the-beatentrack environment of Lombok’s stunning south east coast. Guests can explore the numerous deserted beaches and bays that make up this totally undeveloped part of Lombok; stunning coastlines, wilderness areas, remote villages and historical sites that were previously difficult to get to are now accessible, whilst guests have all the facilities and comforts of an eco-resort as their base.

HOTPlanet provide mountain bike tours for the adventurous, as well as water craft, stand-up paddling, wind surfers, fishing trips and snorkeling for ocean-based activities.

Photo by David Clegg

Many non-surfers just love the beautiful environment, natural setting, the lack of crowds and the evening walks along the beaches, cliffs and reefs. The owners joke that, for people who are tired of the crowds, “The best thing to do in Bali is to go to Heaven in Lombok”.

The resorts are perfect for people seeking peace and restoration, and have also hosted yoga retreats in the past. The magnificent marble spa and wellness centre is located in the coconut palms adjacent to the beach, providing absolute quiet and serenity. The staff is well trained in Indian Ayurvedic, Indonesian oil, Thai and Vichy water massages.

The resorts are owned by two Australians, Prof Kerry Black and Mr Greg Wolff. Prof Black is a world famous oceanographer, formerly Professor at University of Waikato in New Zealand, and is the owner of two consulting companies which specialise in making artificial surfing reefs and waves in inland pools (www.asrltd. co.nz; www.inlandwaves.com).

He remembers the early days when he started building from nothing. “We started with big Kiwi camping tents; then put a roof over the top, and then walls and floor, and finally the tents were removed.”

Now, those days are well gone, as the resorts offer full services in a beautifully constructed and laid out environment featuring infinity swimming pools, massage centres and wellserviced restaurants with extensive menus.

“But we have always wanted to retain a strong natural flavour, not overly manicured”, Prof Black said. “We’ve used villagers for most of the construction and many of the staff are local.

This has built wonderful bonds between the resort

and the surrounding villages. With 45 staff, the resorts have a big influence on the district, which was traditionally very poor. This is a good reward for the decade of effort to build up the business and friendships. The guests like to learn about the village and find the staff very natural and friendly” The resorts offer free transport from anywhere in Lombok, so it is easy to get there, especially now that the new Lombok International Airport is only a bit more than an hour away.

New roads have been built by the government late last year, although there are still some interesting sections that are 4WD only.

For years, the resorts have been shrouded in mystery, reserved for those “in the know” and, while many people in Lombok have heard of “Planet”, the resort has never advertised in its 12-year history until putting its first ever advertisements in The Lombok Guide.

The mystery is increased by the remoteness of the site. The resorts only host their resident guests … they don’t accept visitors for meals or allow them into the grounds.

Now, in an exclusive first time deal, HOTPlanet are offering spa and wellness packages to introduce our readers to their resorts.

Packages are all inclusive with transport from Bali or Lombok, all meals, accommodation and treatments. For further information, contact Moira Healey on 081237974846 or through the websites (www.heavenontheplanet.co.nz and www. oceanheaven.co.nz).

South-east Lombok is still totally undeveloped, with no other resorts and no industry at all. The scenery of the south is unsurpassed for beauty and is slated for future development, along with Kuta and West Lombok… but for now it remains Heaven on the Planet.

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SENGGIGI

WEST COAST RESORT Just over one hour from Lombok International Airport, Senggigi is the main tourism centre on Lombok and, apart from the Gili islands, the most developed tourism area on Lombok.

The town of Senggigi is about 10 km north of Ampenan, and about 30 minutes drive from Teluk Nara and Bangsal – the harbours to the Gili Islands.

Nowhere near as large or as busy as its Bali counterparts, Senggigi is a great base for exploring the rest of the island. The pace is laid-back, with activities centred on the beaches and day trips to places of interest, which are all within a few hours drive from the town.

At night, Jalan Raya Senggigi (the main street) comes alive. Dine in the many restaurants catering to all tastes and budgets, listen to live music at the bars, or dance the night away at the nightclubs.

Senggigi Beach is the large bay that forms the centre of Senggigi, with the main road running parallel to the beach, and large resorts occupying the space between. The Senggigi Beach Hotel, Santosa Villas and Resort, and the Sheraton Senggigi Resort all line the curved bay of Senggigi Beach and offer a full range of resort facilities, equally attractive for singles, couples and families.

The beachfront is currently undergoing “revitalisation” by the West Lombok Tourism Department, which threatens to ruin the natural beauty of the beach. It can become very crowded and is best avoided on Sundays and public holidays. However, many more beautiful beaches exist just minutes away to the north.

One of the most spectacular sights on the island is the sunset viewed from Senggigi Beach, with the bright orange sun sinking into the sea to the west and Bali’s Gunung Agung volcano silhouetted on the horizon like a giant pyramid floating in the ocean.

Senggigi Bay by Simon Mammino

Tourism Information

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with boutique style hotels positioned along the breathtaking beaches of this section of coast. The popular Qunci Villas, Puri Mas Beach Resort, Windy Beach Resort and Holiday Resort Lombok are located in Mangsit.

Furthest north are Klui and Lendang Luar, with two hotels – Jeeva Klui and Hotel Bulan Baru – and long stretches of The main road in Senggigi is lined with pristine beaches. small attractive hotels catering to all budgets, shops, tour agencies, restaurants, Mainly deserted white sand beaches, bars and nightclubs; many of which have flanked by coconut groves and untouched live music in the evenings. There are a by hotel development, continue all the couple of supermarkets, numerous ATM’s way north along the main coastal road. and moneychangers, a post office and all Malimbu and Nipah are two picturesque the normal tourist facilities. bays less than half an hour from Senggigi, which are good for snorkelling, swimming Senggigi is a relaxing and attractive place to stay, with a good range of luxury hotels and getting away from it all. and resorts, as well as mid-range and Teluk Nara and Teluk Kodek are on a budget accommodations. large bay that forms a natural harbour, about 25 kms north of Senggigi. All the Tourism development runs north along the main dive operators have boats here, coastal road for about 10 km, with many which transfer guests to the Gili islands, as hotels and restaurants positioned along the an alternative to nearby Bangsal Harbour. beautiful beaches that line the entire west Bangsal Harbour, less than 5km further coast. north, is reached by turning left at the About 2 km north of central Senggigi is crossroads in Pemenang and from there it Kerandangan Valley, with a popular is easy to catch the public ferries (actually beach nearby and some small boutique large outrigger boats) out to the Gilis, or to hotels, such as Dream Estate, Puri Mas charter boats for island hopping.

Spa Resort and Villa Campi Sorga, situated Whether you are seeking luxury in a pretty valley. accommodation at a top resort with fine At the end of the road through dining and spa facilities, or a budget Kerandangan Valley is the Taman Wisata holiday with days spent exploring – or all Alam – Kerandangan Nature Reserve – the choices in between – Senggigi caters with clearly marked hiking paths leading for all tastes and budgets. through the rain forest along the river.

From Senggigi, it’s easy to explore the There is a small Ranger’s hut and visitors attractions of the stunning south coast or centre near the entrance, and picnic areas with basic concrete tables along the paths. to hop on a boat to the famous Gili islands lying just offshore. Swim, snorkel, dive, The park boasts a small waterfall, pretty hike, lie in the sun, have a massage, eat river scenery, families of local monkeys, and a variety of tropical plants and birdlife. 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 Further north, Mangsit has developed as an accommodation alternative to Senggigi, Lombok.

Senggigi Reef, off the southern point, has good coral for snorkelling and, in the right conditions, some decent surf breaks.

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

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Senggigi Map

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The Beach Club Beach Bungalows, Bar & CafĂŠ

! !

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iews, beaut eat sunset v

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Deluxe Beach Bungalows & Backpacker Rooms

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Whole BBQ chickens take away Rp 70 000

Jl. Raya Senggigi, Batu Bolong - Lombok | Ph/Fax: +62 (0) 370 693637 Mobile: +62 (0) 818 0520 8807 | Email: thebeachclublombok@hotmail.com

www.thebeachclublombok.com

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LOSMEN

Cover Yourself in

TJABE MERAH

Jl. Saleh Sungkar, Gg. Sawah, Ampenan, Lombok Ph: +62 370 636150 - Fax: +62 370 637635

THE RED PEPPER INN New season swimwear now in store!

New designs every two weeks!

Clean and comfortable. Located in the middle of the”kampung”near the local Kebon Roek traditional market you immediately have a sense of the real Indonesian life. Ampenan is near Mataram and Cakra and only 7 kilometers away from Senggigi.

Room rates (smoking & non smoking) Standard room with fan – Rp 80 000 Standard room with TV & AC – Rp 130 000

OOK NEDERLANDS SPREKEND AMPENAN BEACH JALAN SALEH SUNGKAR KEBON ROEK MARKET

Gang Sawah

TO MATARAM

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LOSMEN TJABE MERAH

www.hotel-lombok.nl

CV. ANANTA GUNA LESTARI OUR SERVICES: Pest Control | Rodent Control Termite Control | Fumigation Employee Recruitment (Out Sourcing) PROPERTY MAINTENANCE: Cleaning Service | Painting | Plumbing Pool Maintenance | Floor Repairs Rubbish Removal | Carpentry Stone Coating | General Maintenance Work

Jl. Raya Senggigi (next to Senggigi Jaya Supermarket) ciokolataclothing@ymail.com

www.ciokolata.com

Jl. Alpa Raya Blok IV No. 4 BTN Sandik - Lombok Mobile: 0812 3693 5382 / 0818 0363 6609 Phone (0370) 6657069 / Fax: (0370) 621627 Email: anantagl@yahoo.co.id

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DREAM DIVERS DREAM IT...

DO IT

DREAM DIVERS have been Lombok diving specialists since 1996. Our PADI 5 Star facilities on Gili Trawangan (also home to the DREAM DIVERS Bungalows, Bar & Restaurant),Gili Air and in Senggigi, on mainland Lombok, offer fun diving for everyone and diving courses for all age groups and skill levels - from ‘Discover Scuba Diver’ to ‘Dive Instructor’.

MORE THAN JUST A DIVE CENTER! Our staff is ready to ensure that you experience a really great holiday. We can arrange snorkel trips, accommodation, domestic flights, transport, sightseeing tours, diving in South Lombok, Komodo or Bali, and much, much more. Let us help you make your stay unforgettable. Nothing is impossible - DREAM IT…DO IT! For our Senggigi based guests we offer daily transport & dive trips over to the Gili Islands, including a pick up from your hotel.

HEAD OFFICE SENGGIGI: Ph 0370 692 047 | Fax 0370 693 738 | Gili Trawangan: 0370 6134 496 | Gili Air: 0370 634 547 www.dreamdivers.com | info@dreamdivers.com

18 Blue Water Cruises are planning another fantastic cruise on 18 February. “The Boat that Rocked 2012” kicks off the first of their 2012 events, with 4 days of live music and cruising the stunning southwest coast.

Guests will be entertained with non-stop music on board by Perth band “Desert Radio” with their special blend of “dirty blues”, guitar, didgeridoo and sax, and Paramitsha with their gypsy inspired anthems and haunting vocals. Popular international DJ’s Malik Lomax and Stevie G will keep the boat rocking into the wee hours.

The 4 day cruise on board the beautiful and spacious “Alikaii” departs Bali, cruises to the Gilis and then Lombok, before heading south for an island hopping tour and includes surfing at Desert Point and snorkelling Gili Layar and Gili Asahan.

After a hugely successful season in 2011, “The Boat that Rocked” kicks off 2012 with an amazing line-up! See advert page 80 for full details.

We dropped into Anna’s Gift Shop this week to see the new range of painted statues that have just arrived in stock and were blown away by the fabulous colours and designs!

Owner, Dianne, has built an international reputation with European collectors for her creative work – taking the traditional wooden statues so well-known in Lombok and hand painting them in eye-catching patterns and designs, using imported acrylics to give them long-lasting colour and a new modern twist. Each statue is unique and no two are ever reproduced in the same colour or pattern… making them a perfect one-of-a-kind gift for someone special.

In addition to the statues, Anna’s Gift Shop carries a lovely range of jewellery, especially some unique genuine pearl pieces and designer silver jewellery in many styles, plus inexpensive sarongs, woven place mats and baskets, wooden handicrafts and statues. This great little shop is open every day and is in the Galleria Shops just up the road from Senggigi Abadi Supermarket (on the left, near Rambo Pet Shop). Ph: 0817 5730 012 We also visited the Puri Mas Gallery at Puri Mas Boutique Resort in Mangsit, looking for gift ideas for Valentine’s Day, and discovered that a new range of stock has just arrived there too!

The Gallery has expanded quite a lot from its early days – obviously as a result of its popularity with visitors and residents on the island. The beautiful purpose-built space is filled with interesting objet d’art and antiques from around the archipelago… many of them rare and highly collectible.

What’s Hot! The Gallery probably has the best range of wayang kulit (shadow puppets) in Lombok, as well as graceful Indonesian figurines for serious collectors. There are also some fun and frivolous figurines and a beautiful collection of intricate miniature bicycles, motorbikes and cidomo… which may be a great idea if you are having trouble finding a gift for the man in your life!

The Gallery also houses a small but fine selection of eye-catching and unusually-shaped coloured glassware – stunning bowls and art pieces to brighten any home. There are also hats, handbags, batik shirts and a very nice selection of pearl and gemstone jewellery, including some beautiful hand-crafted pieces by Italian designer, Mariella Pillato. The Gallery is open every day and is accessed from the main entrance to Puri Mas. Ph: 693 831 Too hot for us to let slide by: an interesting snippet from an article published in national newspaper, The Jakarta Post, on 25 January 2012.

The article states, “…state-run power company PLN has imposed rolling blackouts for the last five days in Mataram, West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) and Lombok Island, as residents have suffered under additional, unplanned service outages.

The rolling blackouts often take place from 9 am until 11 am and from 10:30 pm until 11:30 pm local time.

PLN NTB Technical Manager, Anang Widjajanto, said that the planned blackouts were needed to protect power lines and stations from the extreme weather.

It’s a big relief to know we’ve all been imagining the extended blackouts that can occur at any time of the day or night!

It’s also good to know that these blackouts aren’t due to the failure of the NTB government to provide for the purchase of diesel in the 2012 budget, nor the continuing delays in completion of the new power plants near Gerung.

However, we do have to wonder how these “scheduled 2 hour in the morning and 1 hour at night” blackouts protect the power lines and stations.

Does extreme weather only occur at these times? Perhaps we should all phone Pak Anang and ask him?

We know from your many emails and text messages that there is power in numbers (pun intended!) To find out when the next extreme weather is due, or simply to voice your displeasure, phone: PLN Mataram: 632 182 or PLN Senggigi: 693 535.

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Lonely Planet: “This terrific, hip hotel-restaurant has a well-selected modern menu [and] is an incredibly romantic setting�

[ Yo u r K e y t o a n I d y l l i c L o m b o k ]

Jl. Raya Mangsit, Senggigi, Lombok | Phone: +62 370 693800, Fax: +62 370 693802 Email: stay@quncivillas.com | Website: www.quncivillas.com

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Local News

TRIPADVISOR ANNOUNCES ITS 2012 TRAVELLERS’ CHOICE WINNERS

Top 25 Hotels for Service in Indonesia

TripAdvisor, the world’s largest travel site, has announced its “2012 Travellers’ Choice” winners and among the various winners are many of our top Lombok properties.

12. The Oberoi, North Lombok 17. Hotel Tugu, North Lombok 24. Jeeva Klui, Mangsit 25. Luce d’Alma Resort & Spa, Gili Trawangan

The 10th Annual Awards recognises properties around the world, in the categories of Luxury, Bargain, Service, B & B’s and Inns, AllInclusive, Spa, and Trendiest.

Top 25 Bargain Hotels in Indonesia 4. Jeeva Klui, Mangsit, 11. Luc d’Alma Resort & Spa, Gili Trawangan 13. Qunci Villas, Mangsit 22. Puri Mas Boutique Resort & Spa, Mangsit

In total, 3,943 properties have been recognised this year with dedicated lists featured for 30 countries and eight regions worldwide.

The TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards are based solely on the reviews and opinions submitted by its users and guests staying at the properties.

Qunci Villas in Mangsit, The Oberoi in North Lombok and Luce d’Alma Resort & Spa on Gili Trawangan featured heavily in the Awards, each with placements in several categories.

From the many beautiful and luxurious hotels throughout Indonesia, and particularly in Bali, it is fantastic to see hotels in Lombok taking 3 out of the 25 Awards for “Top 25 Hotels in Indonesia”:

Top 25 B & B’s and Inns in Indonesia Top 25 Hotels in Indonesia 10. Luce d’Alma Resort & Spa, Gili Trawangan 15. The Oberoi, North Lombok 20. Qunci Villas, Mangsit Top 25 Luxury Hotels in Indonesia 10. The Oberoi, North Lombok Top 25 Trendiest Hotels in Indonesia 15. Qunci Villas, Mangsit

Nearly one third of all the awards in this category went to accommodations in Lombok – an amazing achievement for our island!

2. Yuli’s Homestay, Kuta 8. Scallywags Resort, Gili Trawangan 9. Marta’s, Gili Trawangan 16. Julianto’s By the Sea, Gili Air 19. The Beach Club, Senggigi 21. Biba Beach, Gili Air 23. Hotel Villa Julius, Gili Trawangan 24. ko ko mo Resort, Gili Trawangan

Italian Beachfront Restaurant Delicious Fresh Seafood, Authentic Italian Dishes Oriental Food, Barbecue on the Beach Wood Oven Pizza, Homemade Pasta and Italian Bread

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

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Living in Style * Own Private Pool * Huge Bath Room

* Private Villas

* Comfortable Bed

* Bamboo Restaurant

* Spacious Dining

* Garden Lounge Café

& Living Room

* Billiard Bar

* Lush Surroundings

Jln. Raya Senggigi Km. 8, Lombok, Indonesia | Telp: +62 370 692 999 | Fax: +62 370 692 888 Email: booking@mannavillas.com | Website: www.mannavillas.com

Live Music!

Great Food!

Good Times!

Friday - ‘Ary Juliyant and Friends’ from 7.30 pm in the front garden

Free Fast

Available

Jl. Raya (Main Street) Senggigi, Lombok 0370 693619 restaurant@asmara-group.com

www.asmara-group.com

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Windy Beach Resort Mangsit, Senggigi, Lombok

“Next to Nature”

Phone: 0370 693191 | Fax: 0370 693193 Email: reservations@windybeach.com | Web: www.windybeach.com

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Open-air Garden Lounge CafĂŠ An ideal place to relax with your loved ones and listen to your favourite tunes Live Band & Singers 7.00pm - 12.00 midnight

Try the food specialties at Bamboo Restaurant Enjoy the lush surroundings and relax at our breezy poolside terrace.

11am - 11Pm Jln. Raya Senggigi Km. 8, Lombok, Indonesia (Opposite The Sheraton) www.mannavillas.com

OPEN 10am until LATE

Delicious and Authentic Indonesian Food... At Local Prices!

Soto Ayam, Soto Ceker, Rawon, Nasi Campur, Nasi Goreng, Mie Goreng and all your Indonesian favourites!

Fresh Juices, Es Buah, Soft Drinks and Beer. Delicious home-made cakes!

Take Away Orders and Home Delivery Service.

Catering, Birthday Cakes and Special Requests Welcome!

Senggigi Plaza, near Achi Acha Boutique. Ph: 0878 6558 0330 / 619 4109

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THE LOMBOK GUIDE 2012 FULL COLOUR INTERNATIONAL MAGAZINE

FOLLOWING THE SUCCESS OF THE LOMBOK GUIDE 2011 FULL COLOUR MAGAZINE, WE ARE DELIGHTED TO ANNOUNCE THE PUBLICATION OF

THE LOMBOK GUIDE 2012 MAGAZINE In 2008, 2009, 2010 and 2011, 5000 copies of our magazine were air mailed to over 100 travel agents internationally.

The magazines were also distributed by the Lombok Hotels Association and the Department of Culture and Tourism (Dinas Pariwisata) at travel fairs and expos in London, Australia, Berlin, Singapore, China, Malaysia and Kuala Lumpur, at the visit of the ASEAN ministers to Lombok, and at travel marts nationally.

This year, our magazine will be bigger and better than ever! Incorporating 120 pages of up-todate information and beautiful photos of Lombok, and published in full magazine format, The Lombok Guide is recognised as the most popular and effective international magazine publication for Lombok.

Guaranteed international distribution to over 100 proven travel agents and tourism industry professionals throughout Europe, Britain, Australia, New Zealand, Saudi Arabia, Hong Kong, China, Korea, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam and Japan; as well as all major cities throughout Indonesia.

Advertising sales are now open - don’t miss this exciting opportunity to promote your business internationally!

HURRY ~ FINAL DEADLINE 20 FEBRUARY 2012 PLEASE CALL US NOW TO CONFIRM YOUR SPACE: 0370 659 4005 or email kitadesign@hotmail.com

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Open 9am to 8pm, Monday to Saturday

Now available in Senggigi!

Imported products, pastas, herbs, cooking oils, lentils, butter, cheeses incl fresh mozzarella, jams and sauces, Lindt chocolates, fresh milk, juices and daily needs

Jl Raya Senggigi (next to Rambo Petshop) | Phone: 0370 693177

Complete pet supplies in Senggigi!

We carry a large selection of quality Dog and Cat Foods Pet Accessories (Collars, leads, cages, bowls, toys, etc) Pet Care Products (Vitamins, shampoos, flea and tick powders, coat conditioners and pet medicines) Hamster and fish foods and more!

Jl Raya Senggigi (30m from Asmara Restaurant)

Phone: 0370 693177

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Puri Bunga Beach Cottages

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

Sea view cottages

From US$40* / room!

(Incl breakfast)

* tax and service charge and high season surcharges may apply

Enquire about our special offers!

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

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Special Feature

TOP PICKS FOR VALENTINE’S DAY!

Valentine’s Day is on Tuesday, 14 February and where better to celebrate love than on the romantic island of Lombok?

Valentine’s Day is all about romantic candlelit dinners for two and magical moments… in this issue we bring you our top picks for places to dine and romantic escapes, as well as luxurious spa treatments and special gifts for the one that you love!

Qunci Villas is one of the most romantic boutique resorts on the island and, even if you have left it too late to book a romantic escape in one of their stylish rooms (although you can try!), an intimate meal for two dining by candlelight on the beachfront at Quali Restaurant will still put a light in your lover’s eyes.

Choose from the delicious a la carte menu or enjoy the special Valentine’s Day set menu, starting with Oven-baked Eggplant served with Tomato Sauce and Mozzarella Cheese, and followed by Seafood Corn Chowder and Garlic Bread.

For mains, choose from Grilled Tenderloin served with beef bacon and mushroom sauce and steamed potatoes or Pan-fried Sea Bass Fillet with steamed sesame rice, blanched spinach, carrot and tomato orange sauce. For dessert, there is Pavlova Cake with mixed fruit, served with chocolate sauce, plus complimentary coffee or tea. Bookings are highly recommended on 693 800.

Of course, even if you live in Lombok, a change is as good as a holiday… so a night or two in one of our beautiful resorts is a great way to add sparkle to any romance!

If you have never stayed at the lovely private pool villas at Kebun Villas and Resort, now is a perfect opportunity!

Large, spacious and superbly designed, the villas feature generous living areas and sumptuous bedroom suites surrounding a truly private swimming pool.

Walled courtyard gardens, private sun decks and room service mean you never have to leave the privacy of your villa. Or, if you do choose to go out to dinner, the resort is only a few minutes’ walk from the centre of Senggigi. Ph: 692 999 for reservations.

The Puncak is one of Senggigi’s best kept secrets and is ideal for a romantic getaway.

Set high on the top of The Hill – the prestigious residential estate in Batu Layar – this superb villa offers five luxurious private suites for discerning guests looking

for a peaceful place to stay in refined comfort. All suites open onto the infinity pool, which seems to hang suspended in the sky, and have magnificent views over the valley to Senggigi and across the ocean to Bali.

Charming hosts, Jean Paul and Nury, are on hand to make sure every little whim is taken care of, whilst discreetly ensuring guests’ privacy.

For the month of February they are offering their in-house guests “Je t’aime moi non plus” with complimentary special candlelight set up (on request) with their a la carte dinner menu (see photo this page). Ph 082 111 39595 or 0821 4710 4537 for details.

Further afield, HOTPlanet resorts – featuring Heaven on the Planet and Ocean Heaven resorts on Heaven Beach in South Lombok are offering a very special package for The Lombok Guide readers. Read our feature on page 10 or see the discount voucher on page 61 to find out how you and your honey can escape to heaven!

On Gili T, both The Beach House Resort and ko ko mo Resort are offering special menus for Valentine’s Day. Join the friendly crowd at The Beach House Resort and dine on a delicious 3-course menu with choices, served beachside in a casual and relaxed atmosphere.

The Valentine’s Day Menu starts with a complimentary Champagne Cocktail and includes Fresh Oysters, Peking Duck, Chargrilled Sirloin with Béarnaise Sauce, Roast Chicken Breast stuffed with Garlic Prawns, and much more for just Rp 250 000++. See page 88 or ph: 614 2352.

Wine and dine your special someone in style at ko ko mo Resort, with candlelit tables on the beachfront. Dine on a special 4-course gourmet Valentine’s Day menu created by Australian Executive Chef, Josh Job.

Choices include Pancetta Wrapped Scallops, Fresh Oyster Plate, Roast Spatchcock on Truffle-Infused Risotto, Confit Salmon Fillet on Leek Fondue and much more. Finish with the desserts that have made ko ko mo famous, such as Decadent Chocolate Pudding, Home-made Vanilla Slice, Crème Brûlée or Petit Fours. The price of Rp 450 000++ includes a glass of complimentary Champagne Cocktail “Stawberry Bellini” and Amuse Bouche.

See page 5 or ph: 614 4169

On the north coast of Gili T, Desa Dunia Beda provides a peaceful alternative to the busier southeast of the island.

Take advantage of their all-inclusive “Barefoot Luxury” package this month with 2 nights’ accommodation in one of their beautiful and luxurious traditional wooden Joglo, including breakfasts, a special Valentine’s Day dinner and more.

See advert on page 90 or phone 614 1575 for bookings.

If a romantic escape isn’t possible, why not take a mini break and indulge with a spa treatment at Royal Spa? The massage and beauty treatment centres are offering a Valentine’s Special to all customers from 13 to 16 February, with 25% discounts for couples’ treatments. The offer is available at all Royal Spa outlets, in Senggigi, the city and in Kuta. Ph: 686 6577 for appointments.

Ciokolata, the chic little boutique next to Senggigi Jaya Supermarket, always has trendy and fun fashions for local ladies (and a few for the guys too!) They also sell fashion jewellery, as well as belts, shoes and accessories to complete your wardrobe. Not sure of your ladies size or style? Give a Ciokolata gift voucher and let them have fun choosing!

Mawar Jewellery, in the Senggigi Plaza near Warung Kangen, has a beautiful range of jewellery and their Valentine’s Day Sale is now on!

Surprise your loved one with a beautiful and unique piece of jewellery crafted in white or yellow gold, platinum, or silver, adorned with pearls and semi-precious gemstones including amethyst, topaz, citrine and other gems.

Mawar Jewellery is also one of the few places in Lombok where you can find diamond and gold rings, or arrange to have one made to your design (especially if you have a proposal in mind!)

Ph: 693 634.

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Treasure Chest Gift Shop

The Little Shop Unique Gifts with Reasonable Prices We Sell: Wood Bowls, Shells, Accessories, Paintings, Statues, Bronze, Candles, Frames and Many More...

For your gift choices to your family and friends when you back home from our island

RETAIL AND WHOLESALE Phone: 0370 692 183 Art Market, Jl Raya Senggigi Lombok

Phone: 0370 693 647 | Art Market, Jl Raya Senggigi, Lombok

Exotic Style We Sell Nice Resort Wear, Hand Made Bags From Natural Materials and Many Kind of Accessories For Your Style at Tropical Island

Phone: 0370 693 358 | Art Market, Jl Raya Senggigi Lombok

Fashion - Bags - Accessories

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ns wind... and wind Monsoon season mea ! means... SURF’S UP ers - and a large rf su al loc 76 Around - gathered at crowd of spectators n i for the Surfing Fu Anjungan in Senggig ganised by Erdin, Day on 29 January or in, Jeremy, Sid & Dayat, Melong, Just competed in Under Andre, etc. Surfers g en categories, takin 14, Under 16 and Op ies hies... and memor home prizes and trop mping surf! of some awesome pu

Local Scene

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Plantation Teak Wood Synthetic Weaving Reclaimed Teak Wood Stainless Steel Aluminium

We offer a range of timeless and contemporary furniture for villas, hotels and restaurants NOW OPEN IN LOMBOK! PLEASE VISIT OUR SHOWROOM AT DUDUK GARDEN, SENGGIGI Showroom: Jl Raya Senggigi Duduk Garden No 6 Batu Bolong 83355 Lombok, Indonesia Phone: (Reni Beck) 0815 5810 0450, (Nisel Van Blommestein) 0817 973 7931 | Fax: 0370 6194 123 Email: elements_lombok@yahoo.com | Web: www.lombokelements.com

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“De Quake is One of the Most Enjoyable Places to Eat in Senggigi” – The Lonely Planet 2011

Art Market Senggigi Lombok - +62 370 693694

www.dequake.com

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The Studio Your ecofriendly home in Lombok The Hill - Bukit Batu Layar - Senggigi

phone: +62 8175 763 840 email: thestudio.lombok@gmail.com website: http://the-studio-lombok.page4.me/

Anna’s

Giftshop

Looking for nice presents or home decorations?

We sell: Salt and Freshwater Pearls, Lombok Pottery, Hand Painted Modern Wooden Statues and Masks, Paintings, Handwoven Ikats, Sarongs and much more!

Jl Raya Senggigi (next to Rambo Petshop) | P: 0817 5730 012 | E: lombok_annasgiftshop@hotmail.com

36 • Imported Meats, incl Harvey Beef • Home-baked Breads, Cakes & Pastries • Dairy – Yoghurt, Cheeses, Butter, Cream • Wide Range of Imported Products • Open Every Day for your Convenience!

Ask us about our Catering Services, Wedding & Birthday Cakes!

Jl Palm Raja No 5, BTN Green Valley, Senggigi. Phone: 0370 693251

SINTA PEST CONTROL

Melayani Pengendalian: Nyamuk DB / Malaria / Cikungunya Lalat, Kecoa, Semut Hama Tikus Rayap Hama Gudang

Controlling: Dengue, Malaria & Cikungunya Mosquito Fly, Cockroach, Ants Rats Termites Spiders and Other Pests & Bugs

PT SINTA AGRO MANDIRI (Ijin Dikes No: 03/52.71/PC/VII/11) Jl. TGH Hambali No 8, Mataram, Lombok | Phone: 0370 631176 / 627991

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SENDOK

GUEST HOUSE, BAR & RESTAURANT

Open for breakfast, lunch & dinner 10am – 11pm Live music every Tue, Thurs, Fri & Sat

For a Memorable Stay in Lombok Modern colonial interior design concept in “Tempoe Doeloe” style Clean and comfortable with friendly staff

TV, Air Conditioner, Safety Box, Free WiFi Hot & Cool Water, Swimming Pool Jl Raya Senggigi Km 8, Senggigi, Lombok | P: 0370 693176 | F: 0370 692270 E: info@sendokbali.com | W: www.sendokbali.com

delasan LOMBOK STYLE GIFT SHOP

Fashion, Accessories, Lombok Snacks, Souvenirs, Swimwear, etc

Jl Raya Senggigi (next to Sendok Bar & Restaurant) Lombok | Phone: 0370 693176

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Open 10am to 9pm

Rejuvenating, Refreshing, Relaxing

EVERYTHING’S A FAVORITE Aromatherapy Body Massage Traditional Body Massage Hot Stone Massage Body Scrub / Lulur Foot Reflexology Head Shiatsu / Creambath Manicure / Pedicure

Prices start from IDR 45,000 - 125,000++ VALENTINE’S DAY SPECIAL Reserve Couple Treatment 25% OFF

Valid for all Royal Spas during 13 -16 February 2012

Now Open

ROYAL SPA, Guest House and Cafe

in Kuta

Senggigi: Jl. Raya Senggigi Km 11 (next to Santosa Villas & Resort), Phone: 0370 6866577 Mataram: Jl. Bung Karno No.79 Mataram, Phone: 0370 6608777 Kuta: Jl. Raya Pantai Kuta Pujut, Central Lombok, Phone: 0370 6608666

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BLUE MARLIN DIVE SENGGIGI ...DIVE THE DIFFERENCE!

Lombok’s premier PADI 5 Star Dive Centre Senggigi’s most time efficient daily return trips Professionally trained dive and snorkel staff We do not combine our Senggigi-based guests with our other dive centres providing a more personalised service for you We ensure small groups for your comfort and safety Daily transfers direct from your hotel Excellent Restaurant and Facilities to enjoy during your break on Gili T

PADI Dive Courses Daily Dive & Snorkel Trips - Gili Island Transfers - Hotel Dive and Stay Packages

Please email and quote “Lionfish” for special discount offers

HOLIDAY RESORT & SENGGIGI BEACH HOTEL +62 370 693 719 www.bluemarlindive.com | senggigi@bluemarlindive.com

Mr Fixer

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Tongue-in-cheek answers to your personal and building problems QUESTION: I am addicted to gambling.

I came to the idyllic shores of Lombok to escape the casinos and one armed bandits of Europe – only to find that the new ATM machine recently installed in the holiday town of Senggigi can be just as exciting!

You put your card in and get the same adrenalin rush as at the casino, as you enter your pin number while being overlooked by a queue of eager customers waiting for their turn. During the few spinetingling seconds it takes for the machine to authorise the withdrawal, I swear the sweat is pouring down my face and my legs are beginning to buckle. It’s fantastic! And I win every time!

Sometimes I withdraw the minimum amount and immediately join the queue for another go. Do you think this activity will be made illegal and should the government tax it?

MR FIXER: Why not? They tax everything else in Europe! Don’t be tempted to do what my friend George did and use someone else’s card. He won 3 weeks in jail.

QUESTION: I am an Aussie sheila from

the back of beyond and I am a member of the “Extreme Holidays Club”. I am blonde (in most places) and I’m built like a brick sh##house.

My idea of a good holiday is to get blasted every night and tattooed every day, and bake in the sun till my skin falls off. You can forget bungee jumping… it’s bungee rubbish! It’s for wimps and puffters. I like Xtreme sports with a capital X. I like extreme shark surfing; that’s where you throw the surf board away and use sharks instead.

I am thinking of coming to the idyllic holiday island of Lombok to see what’s up. Can you suggest any dangerous holiday activities I might like?

MR FIXER: I recently heard of a new dangerous activity which involves drinking “Jungle Juice”. The concoction is laced with methanol (often used as anti-freeze or paint thinner) and can produce kidney failure and brain damage, and leaves you totally unable to speak. Hiring a motorbike in Bali can have the same effect. You would love it!

QUESTION: My name is Elmer Conboy from the good old US of A. I am an adventure traveller. I have travelled the Far East as far as Tibet and am working my way through the many glorious islands of Indonesia.

On my travels, I have worn out 4 wives.

They either died or gave up. I am 84, still have all my own teeth, and I have recently met a nice lady from Lombok who is half my age but she seems to have picked up some western ways, one of which is to insist on dyeing her hair.

One week she is blonde and the next week she is a brunette with red streaks.

I much prefer her the way she was when I first met her, with long jet black hair that compliments her coffee coloured skin perfectly. What do you suggest?

MR FIXER: I think most gentlemen prefer blondes. They get dirtier more quickly!

QUESTION: My girlfriend and I are on holiday on the peaceful tropical island of Lombok and I would like to buy her something special for Valentine’s Day. She is so beautiful with her hair all down her back. She even has some on her head. But sometimes she gets angry for no reason at all. Just the other day whatsername accused me of not giving her enough attention.

I would like to buy her something with a hint of romance like a ring, without giving her too much of an idea about marriage.

My friend has suggested a mood ring.

What do you think?

MR FIXER: My friend George bought one of those for his wife. When she is in a good mood, it turns green and when she is in a bad mood, it leaves a big red mark on his forehead.

Got a question for Mr Fixer? He’s always got a quirky answer your personal building problems! Just email your problem to “Mr Fixer” at kitadesign@hotmail.com

For more information: Jalan Wisata Alam Kerandangan 0813 3868 8524 | 0813 3972 1541

PLOTS and VILLAS

Models available starting from IDR 525.000.000 Sqm Building

Sqm Ground

IDR Price from

Studio

60

200

525.000.000

Kerandangan

80

200

615.000.000

Wine

118

200

950.000.000

Dream + Pool

243

8 are

2.534.000.000

Heca + Pool

360

10 are 3.900.000.000

Model

*All prices are 10% tax included and subject to (currency) change

Models for rent starting from IDR 3.700.000 pw Model Studio Kerandangan Wine

Per Week IDR Per Month IDR

3 700 000 4 500 000 6 300 000

8 500 000 11 000 000 15 400 000

*All prices are 10% tax included and subject to (currency) change Including electricity, water, gas, daily towel change and cleaning.

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[ Yo u r K e y to an I d yllic Lombok ]

Lombok’s Boutique Hotel [ The Lonely Planet: “Top Choice for Lombok” ] [ Cosmopolitan: “Lombok’s Hidden Beauty” ] [ Guide du Routard: “Le Reve!” ] Jl. Raya Mangsit, Senggigi, Lombok | Phone: +62 370 693 800, Fax: +62 370 693 802 Email: stay@quncivillas.com | Website: www.quncivillas.com

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NOW OPEN IN SENGGIGI! MAMAS, NIKMAT, CATER PRODUCTS Sirloin, Tenderloin, Fillet Steaks Cold Cuts and Deli Meats Salami, Ham, Chicken and Turkey Sausages - Breakfast, Pork, Chicken, Beef, Herb and Mixed Dry Pasta and Sauces Gandari Purified Ice Cubes

Open 9am to 10pm every day

Jl Raya Senggigi, next to Sendok Bar & Restaurant | Ph: 0370 693 531

UD. GANDARI ICE SOLUTION

Pure refreshing ice cubes made from UV sterilised and purified spring water.

Hygienically packaged for your convenience Supplying hotels, restaurants, bars, cafes & private villas

FREE DELIVERY EVERY DAY Jl Raya Senggigi, Duduk Garden No.6 Batu Bolong

www.gandari.com

Hotline: Hp: 081 836 8731 | Ph: 0370 619 4273 | Flexi: 0370 668 1958

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Puri Mas Gallery The Essence of Tradition, Luxury & Style

Fine Arts and Collectibles From Around the Archipelago

AT PURI MAS BOUTIQUE RESORT

Just 5 minutes north of Senggigi Phone 693831 for free pick up and drop off service in Senggigi area Jl. Raya Mangsit Beach, Senggigi, Lombok NTB Indonesia | Tel: 0370 693831 | Fax: 0370 693023 info@purimas-lombok.com | www.purimas-lombok.com | Skype: purimasreservations

Swiss Bakery & Cafeteria • High Quality home roasted Arabica, Robusta and Luwak coffee beans • Coffee Machine Rental and Maintenance • Oven fresh, made to order bread, pastry & cookies • Bread Supplier for Hotels & Restaurants • Aircon * Library * Notebooks • Best Cappucino - No Foam = Money Back!

Oven fresh Baguettes every morning at 9:30am!

TRY THE WORLD’S MOST EXCLUSIVE COFFEE!

Visit us at Senggigi Square Blok A/04. Ph: 0370 692085 / 0818365790 | Email: info@cafelombi.com

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LUXURY RESORT & SPA LOMBOK

Job Vacancies Career Opportunities January 2012 We are an established 5-star luxury villa resort, located to the north of Senggigi.

Our beautiful resort has 66 rooms, minimalist-design modern villas, Spa centre and meeting/conference rooms. Our sophisticated facilities are designed to satisfy our broad customer base from MICE, families and groups, couples, honeymooners and leisure travellers.

Our 5-star Living Asia Luxury Resort & Spa is opening in March 2012 and we are currently seeking suitable applicants for the following positions: A. Level: * Minimum 2 years’ experience in the same position at 4 - 5 star hotel (preferably): 1. Head of Department | 2. Assistant Dept * Minimum 1 year experience working in a similar position at 4 - 5 stars hotel: 3. Coordinator | 4. Supervisor | 5. General Staff B. Departments 1. Front Office 2. Housekeeping 3. Engineering 4. Food & Beverage Service 5. Food & Beverage Product 6. Accounting (with Bachelor’s Degree in finance) 7. IT Dept 8. Sales & Marketing 9. Human Resources 10. Safety & Security Dept General Requirements for all Levels and Departments: • Good English language, both written & oral • Hotel Background preferable • Good Communication Skills • Good Performance Record • Able to work individually and as member of the team • Able to work under pressure and with flexible working hours • Honest and able to keep confidential matters • Good managerial skills, team player, analytical abilities and sense of initiative • Excellent organizational skills with an eye for details • Active and Dynamic person Dedicated and service-minded hoteliers, please email your detailed CV to: recruitment@livingasiaresorts.com Only suitable candidates will be contacted | All applications will be treated confidential Closing date is February 15, 2012

Living Asia ... Feeling Asia

LUXURY RESORT & SPA LOMBOK

JI Raya Senggigi - Lendang Luar - Lombok - INDONESIA Ph: +62 370 69 35 033 E: info@livingasiaresorts.com W: www.livingasiaresorts.com

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PALM BEACH... Magnificent Land and Property for Sale

Villa Angin Halus Villa Angin Halus Sensational valley and ocean views! Luxurious two storey villa with large infinity swimming pool. Built to the highest standards of quality and design, the villa consists of spacious living and entertaining areas, 5 master bedrooms each with large ensuite bathrooms, modern western kitchen and much more.

A dream home!

Villa Gajah Mujur This superb quality villa is surrounded by 1549 sqm of peaceful tropical gardens and privacy walls. The main residence has a total floor area of 260 sqm with a huge living room, dining area, kitchen, 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a lobby, an open garage and large swimming pool.The villa also has a separate 55sqm guest house.

A comfortable and secluded villa in a lush valley setting.

Palm Beach Garden Residential Plots - Palm Beach Garden is situated 5km north of Senggigi, in Klui - a quiet valley surrounded by hills and open to the nearby sea. Astonishing panoramas, natural beauty and always a nice cool breeze from the many palm trees. Easy access from main road near Jeeva Klui. Shared services and facilities such as garden maintenance, cleaning, laundry, catering, security and staff housing are available.

Palm Beach Hill - A new residential development next to Palm Beach Garden! Located on the hills above Klui Valley with wonderful views over the valley and Klui Beach, and across the ocean to Mt. Agung on Bali. Level plots with access roads and electricity connections are ready to build. Everything you need to start building your own dream villa! But hurry.... five lots have already been sold!.

Villa Senja Ayu Perched on the hilltop, this luxurious and modern designed villa consists of 3 bedrooms built to the highest standards, set around a with large infinity swimming pool. Stunning panoramic views across the sea and amazing sunsets! Must be seen!

Office: Gallery Intan Laguna No 3, Jl Raya Senggigi, Lombok NTB Indonesia | www.lombokrealestate.com Phone: +62 370 693 796 | Hp: 0818 544 731 / 0813 5341 4121 | Fax: + 62 370 693 872

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48

Local News

TROPICAL CYCLONE IGGY POPS!

It is monsoon season in Indonesia and the effects of Tropical Cyclone Iggy have been making news across the archipelago for the past week.

Meteorologists upgraded Iggy to a Category One Tropical Cyclone on Thursday, 26 January 2012, as the cyclone moved slowly across the Indian Ocean, resulting in driving rains and winds of more than 60 kilometres per hour, and waves as high as 6 metres forming offshore.

Strong winds and rough seas have forced the temporary suspension of public ferry services between Lembar Harbour (Lombok) and Padangbai Harbour (Bali).

A public ferry crossing on the Padangbai to Lembar route was forced off course by strong currents and huge waves on 26 January, and ran aground on the small island of Gili Poh in southwest Lombok.

The Andika Nusantara set sail from Padangbai at 11 am and was bound for Lembar in West Lombok. At 2.10 pm the ferry was caught in rough waves and came dangerously close to capsizing before it ran aground. Fortunately, no one was killed in the accident and the 201 passengers were safely evacuated.

Carda Damanik, Head of the local branch of state-owned ferry operator ASDP Indonesia, said the rough seas caused the ship’s load, which included eight fully loaded trucks and dozens of cars, to shift toward one side.

Three ships were sent to rescue the passengers and crew. The evacuation took place about 11 hours after the initial incident. The passengers and crew were in shock but unharmed.

Transportation authorities in Kupang also halted services to Aimere-Flores, Sabu, Sumba, Lembata and Ende last week.

Authorities also closed Bangsal Harbour, the main port of departure for boats to the Gili Islands last week. Rough seas and strong winds made it too dangerous for public boats and local outriggers to make the crossing to the three islands.

“The waves are more than three meters high with a wind speed of over 30 knots, therefore we have prohibited any sailings to the three Gili islands,” the Head of Transportation, Communication and Information Agency, Ridwan Syah, told Antara News.

Ridwan said his agency would reopen the route to the three islands as soon as the weather allowed.

Travellers intending to make the crossing in the next few weeks are advised to check local weather conditions before travelling to Bangsal (alternatives may be available.

See page 83).

Strong winds are also making the roads treacherous with the risk of falling tree branches. A large branch crushed a Honda Jazz travelling on the road to Mataram this week, while another falling branch hit

a motorcyclist. Fortunately, no one was seriously injured.

We urge all motorists to exercise extreme caution when driving and to pay attention to trees that overhang the road, as well as power lines and the risk of falling rocks from hillsides, which may be washed loose by heavy rains.

If possible, delay travelling in stormy weather.

Similar weather conditions hit the neighbouring island of Bali, where strong winds toppled trees, killing three people and injuring eleven more.

Authorities closed popular beaches, including Sanur and Kuta.

“For the time being we have prohibited tourists from any beachside activities including swimming and surfing,” Kuta Beach official, I Gusti Ngurah Tresna, said. “The ban will be in place until further notice.”

He said that officials had been forced to close the usually busy beach because the waves had become so large they were almost reaching the main road that runs along the shore.

With Padangbai and Lembar Harbours still closed as we go to print, expect delays on goods transported between the islands. A line of traffic stretching more than five kilometres from the closed Padangbai port was reported.

AIRPORT TAXIS DEMAND END TO DAMRI SERVICE

Around 150 taxis drivers held a noisy protest at the offices of the Department of Transportation, Communication and Information (Dishubkominfo) NTB from Thursday, 26 January 2012, demanding an end to the DAMRI bus service.

DAMRI operate special buses for airport transfers, with routes between the cities and Lombok International Airport (known as BIL locally), and Senggigi and the airport.

Fares between Mataram and BIL are Rp 15 000 per person and between Senggigi and BIL are Rp 25 000 per person.

DAMRI buses operate every hour, commencing at 4.00 am and ending at 22:00 pm, to connect with the first flight out of Lombok at 6.00 am and the arrival of the last aircraft at 10.00 pm.

The taxi drivers are angry, saying that DAMRI buses are costing them business and have reduced their income drastically since they started operating.

“We demand that Damri Bus discontinue operations or reduce the operating frequency. Currently, Damri bus departs every hour or 8 times a day for delivery and pick-up. As a result, many passengers do not want to use the taxi and our income is reduced, sometimes even nil,” shouted the Coordinator for Action, HM Marzuki,

in front of press at the Dishubkominfo NTB office on Thursday.

Marzuki said that at present each taxi unit can only carry passengers once a day, because each taxi has to wait for their turn in the queue. The fare for one trip earns between Rp 90-100 000, but then the drivers must pay 15% surcharge to Angkasa Pura (the airport authority), plus deposits to Kotama (the taxi cooperative), taxes and gasoline.

“In the end, the taxi driver’s income is around Rp 20 000 or even nil,” he said.

However the Head of Land Transportation (Dishubkominfo) NTB, Agung Hartono, said that the department’s job was to prioritize passenger comfort and ensure smooth transport operations for the airport.

“Passengers should not be given only one choice of transportation to BIL or from BIL to his residence. That is, passengers are given the opportunity to choose modes of transportation in accordance with their wishes and abilities,” he said.

In addition to the DAMRI buses, there are four taxi companies licensed to operate from the airport: Blue Bird Taxis, Narmada Taxi Service, Lombok Baru Taxi and Kotama. Other modes of transport include tour and travel agencies and private transfers operated by hotels, etc.

Some taxi drivers also protested in front of the Governor’s office in Mataram and on Jalan Pejanggik (the main road in the city), before regrouping at the Transport Dept offices.

The demonstration continued for two days, with drivers on strike and refusing to operate taxis at the airport. Many chose to sleep in their cars overnight at the Transport Department office, saying they would stay there until their demands were met.

Aggressive verbal confrontations continued the next day, with dozens of police officers maintaining control and warning the crowd against “anarchy”.

No definite solution could be reached as the Head of the Department was away at the time.

Nevertheless, based on the results of dialogue between taxi drivers, police and the transport department, it is likely that the frequency of DAMRI bus operations will be reduced from 8 to 5 times per day.

The protesters were asked to be patient until the return of the Department Head on the following Monday (30 January) and to wait for his decision on policy.

At the time of going to press, we are still awaiting the final results of the dispute.

49

Distribution

50

The Lombok Guide is published by CV Kita Design

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DEADLINE NEXT EDITION 12 NOON 10 February

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EVERY TWO WEEKS AT THESE LOCATIONS:

Garuda Indonesia Airlines: Departure counters in LOMBOK, BALI & JAKARTA. BALI: Arena Sport Bar & Rest, Asia Collection Tour, Asian Trails Tour, Balcony Rest, BIMC, Blue Water Express, Bounty Cruises, Caesar Rest & Bar, Café Canggu, Café Marzano, Café Seminyak, Café Smorgas, Canggu Club, D Corner Bar & Rest, Double Dutch, Eco Beach Rest, Exotissimo Travel Indonesia, Gili Shop Poppies 1 & 2, Gili Cat Bali, Gloria Jeans Coffee 1 & 2, Go Vacation Tour, Golden Kris Tour, Grocer & Grind, Havana Club Bar & Rest, Indo-Ned, Jimmy Sport Bar & Rest, Junction Bar & Rest, Khaima Rest & Bar, Made’s Warung Kuta & Seminyak, Maya Coffee & Smothie Bar, Ocha Warung, Pacific World, Pacto Tour, Piduh Rest, Poppies bar & Rest, Red Carpet, Sate Bali Rest Echo Beach, Sendok Bar & Rest Legian, Sol Beach Rest, SOS, Sticky Fingers Italiana, The Cameng Bar & Rest, The Wicked Parrot, Ultimo Bar & Rest, Un’s Rest, Vila Lumbung, Warung Bale Bali, Warung Bonita, Warung Eropa, Warung Indonesia, Warung Italia, Warung Kolega, Warung Made Bar & Rest, Warung Max, Warung Pregina, Warung Sulawesi, White Sands Rest & Bar, Yut’s Place Rest. MATARAM: Blue Bird Taxi, Citramulia Travel, Depo Jaya Bangunan, Harapan Keluarga Hospital, Losmen Tjabe Merah, Mataram Mall (Delicio Café, Hero Supermarket, Joli Sourire Dental Care, McDonalds, Oceanic Café), Melissa Bakery, Pavilion Seafood & BBQ, Permata Hati Hospital, Redwood Café, Sinta Pest Control, The Berugaq, Toko Susana, XO Suki Rest. SOUTH LOMBOK: Bumbangku Beach Cottages, Dive Zone, Novotel, Pearl Beach Resort, Secret Island Resort. SENGGIGI: Anna’s Giftshop, Art Market (The Little Shop, Exotic Style, Treasure Chest), Asmara Restaurant, Blue Marlin Senggigi, Café Alberto, Cafe Lombi, Ciokolata, De Quake, Deli Senggigi, Delasan Gift Shop, Dream Divers, Dream Estate, Elements, Holiday Resort, Kebun Villas, Lombok Property & Villas, Lombok Real Estate, Mawar Jewellery, Meat Mart, Puri Bunga Cottages, Puri Mas Boutique Resort, Qunci Villas, Rambo Petshop, Royal Spa, Sendok Bar & Restaurant, Senggigi Abadi Supermarket, Senggigi Jaya Supermarket, Square Restaurant, Sundancer, Temptations, The Beach Club, The Chandi, The Office, The Pub, The Puncak, Warung Kangen, Windy Beach Resort. GILI T: Blue Marlin Dive, Blue Water Cruises, Coco’s, Coconut Dream, Desa Dunia Beda, Gili T Resort, Gili Villas, Island Getaway, Horizontal, ko-ko-mo Resort, Pesona Resort, Hotel Vila Ombak, Manta Dive, Scallywags, The Beach House, The Trawangan, Tir Na Nog. GILI MENO: Blue Marlin Dive, Tropical Hideaways Resort. GILI AIR: Karang Divers. SUMBAWA: Mini Mart, Newmont Mining Site.

Special thanks to our contributors: Barbara Lucas Cahyadi, Dian Cahyadi, Iwan Haryanto, Iain Kent, Nanang Wirawan, Simon Mammino, www.balidiscovery.com.

Printed by PT. Temprina Media Grafika, Denpasar, Bali Copyright © 2012. All rights reserved. Nothing in The Lombok Guide can be reproduced in whole or part without written permission from the publisher.

The Cities

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52

The Cities

The Cities The three main cities in Lombok – Ampenan, Mataram and Cakranegara – have expanded over the years and now merge together to create what is, for Lombok, an urban sprawl of shops, administrative centres and residential areas.

A visit to the cities makes an interesting day trip, exploring the numerous small shops selling everything imaginable at low prices. There are numerous pearl shops in Ampenan selling unset pearls and pearl jewellery at cheap prices. These are genuine pearls from the pearl farms on Lombok and Sumbawa and, if you bargain the price, are a good deal. Gold shops are also popular in both Ampenan and Cakra, with 24 kt gold being sold by the gram, regardless of the design.

For cheap and interesting food choices, explore the many restaurants, warungs and food stalls in the cities. Or just wander around the streets to soak up the atmosphere and discover fascinating insights into Lombok city life!

Ampenan was the original old 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. This area becomes a market at night, filled with warungs and kaki lima (food carts) for cheap, tasty food and local flavour. With its numerous shops, cheap hotels, dusty roads and plentiful cidomo (horse carts), gold and pearl shops, and its Arab quarter, Ampenan is a colourful town to explore.

Kebun Roek, just near the traffic lights in Ampenan on the road from the 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

THE CITIES

Mataram Mall come in. A stroll through the markets is a pungent and enlightening experience!

Mataram, about 3 km to the east of Ampenan, is the administrative centre for Lombok and Sumbawa (NTB Province), with government offices, banks, mosques, schools and colleges, bookstores, the main post office, and Mataram University downtown.

In Mataram, the Nusa Tenggara Barat Museum houses historical and cultural artefacts from Lombok and Sumbawa.

It’s an interesting place to visit and occasionally hosts special exhibits.

Displays include exhibits on geology, history and culture. Address: Jl Panji Tilar. Ph: 632159 for opening times.

There is a small admission fee. Also worth visiting is the cultural centre, Taman Budaya on Jl Majapahit. Music and dance performances are presented here regularly. Phone: 622428 for details.

Mataram Mall, on the main street in Mataram, has an upstairs food court for cheap local meals. Lombok’s only real mall, there are four floors of shops and stalls selling a vast selection of goods.

Particularly good buys are shoes, jeans, and copy brand bags and belts.

There is a department store, several electronics stores, and shops selling clothing, CD’s and DVD’s. Hero Supermarket, on the ground floor, is useful for some western goods, food and toiletries. The Chemist next door has imported toiletries, supplements and medicines. McDonalds and KFC have outlets on the ground floor.

Pura Meru (Meru Temple)

53

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 tour with gold

shops, sporting goods, clothing stores and very good fabric stores selling imported silks, laces and cottons, to name a few.

Many of Lombok’s weaving and basket making industries are located near Cakra; turn left at the central traffic lights and look for the market on the right near the bridge. The baskets in particular are sold in Bali at many times the local price.

The next large town east of Cakra, Sweta, has a huge market every day near the Bertais bus terminal, with all kinds of goods on sale, from foodstuffs to clothing, exotic birds, handicrafts and more.

Nearby Temples and Places of Interest Pura Meru on Jl Selaparang, Cakranegara, was built in 1720 by Balinese Prince Anak Agung Made Karang and is the largest temple on Lombok. Its three meru are for the Hindu trinity – Shiva, Vishnu and Brahma. This is an important temple for the Balinese here and its annual Pujawali festival, held over five days during the full moon in September or October, is the biggest Balinese Hindu event on Lombok. The outer courtyard hall has large drums used to announce ceremonies and festivals. In the central courtyard are two buildings with raised offering platforms. The interior enclosure has 33 shrines as well as the three multi-tiered meru.

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 a large artificial lake here and is used as a place for meetings and to relax. Today the palace gardens are a playground for children. The temple sits behind the sedate water gardens and is open daily; admission is by donation.

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The Cities

The Cities

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Redwood Café & Lounge Upstairs (2nd floor) at Melissa Bakery

w o N d n A

It’s Coffee!!!

And delicious meals, cakes,snacks, desserts and drinks. Coffee Breaks, Meetings, Lunch with Friends, All day dining!

Fresh Brewed Coffee

Organic Coffee | Luwak Coffee (Black or White) Redwood “HOUSE BLEND” REAL Cappuccino | Latte | Espresso Toraja Cappuccino | White Coffee Chai Tea Latte | Thai Tea | Espresso Brownies and more!

Special Single Origin: Aceh Gayo | Toraja | Bali Kintamani | Java Mocha Sumatra Mandheling | Peaberry Coffee Papua Wamena | Flores Bajawa | Trung Nguyen East Timor Arabica & Sumatra (lintong) Breakfast Blend Coffee Bean

Live Music 7pm Friday, Saturday & Sunday

Get 10% discount for Coffee to Go!* 15% discount for tourist & student (show your ID)* And get your lucky 7th coffee for free* (*only for Coffee to Go)

1st Floor

Melissa Bakery & Redwood Café Jl Pejanggik Mataram Mall

SMUK Kesuma

Jl Pejanggik, Cakranegara, Lombok | 0370 6886581, 628446

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The Cities

The Cities

57

MRI 1,5 TESLA

Specialists: Childrens (Pediatric) Specialist Maternity Specialist Internist Nerve Specialist Ear, Nose & Troat Specialist Eye Specialist Skin Specialist Heart & Vein Specialist General Surgery Specialist Nerve Surgery Specialist Orthopedic Specialist Urology Specialist Lung Specialist Gynaecologist Psychiatrist Nutritionist Dental Clinic

A hospital with modern technology and high quality facilities...

NOW OPEN IN LOMBOK!

CT SCAN TECHNOLOGY

24 HOURS

HI-END 128 SLICES

Medical Facilities: CT Scan (128 Slices) MRI 1,5 Tesla Fluoroscopy USG / Ultrasound Radiology Physiotherapy Medical Check Up

Ambulance, Emergency Room, Pharmacy, Laboratorium, Radiology

General Facilities: CafĂŠ Canteen Mosque ATM WiFi Internet Spacious Parking Area

Jl. Ahmad Yani No. 9 Selagalas, Lombok (2km north of the Sweta traffic lights) Telephone: (0370) 670 000 Fax: (0370) 673 666 Email: info@harapankeluarga.co.id Facebook: harapan.keluarga@live.com Website: www.harapankeluarga.co.id

The Cities

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International Standards at Local Prices Stop by The Berugaq to purchase a coffee lovers gift pack or beautiful artwork by local artists, or simply to enjoy one of our delicious specialty coffees and home-made cakes!

Jl. Adi Sucipto, KP Griya Ellen Indah | Telp: 62-0370-616-2667

Open urday: Monday - Sat 8am – 8pm Sunday: 8am – 7pm

Domestic Fares | International Tickets & Packages Visa Services | Tours | Direct Agent to Airlines (no middleman!)

Express Check-in Services | Fast, Modern & Professional We speak English!

LOMBOK: Jl. Pejanggik No 198 Cakra (Past the Mall, Opposite “fruit street”) P: 0370 633469, 633888 F: 0370 633453 E: citramulia@indo.net.id

WEST SUMBAWA: Jl. Teluk Balas RT 5 RW 6 Ds Pasir Putih, Maluk, Jereweh P: 0372 635535 HP: 08113943789 E: citramulia_swq@yahoo.com

The Cities

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Useful Contacts

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General Information (Directory Assistance): (0370) 108 AIRLINES Batavia Air Jl. Pejanggik No.88, Mataram, W. Lombok Phone: 0370 648998, Fax: 0370 648400. cs@ batavia-air.co.id. www.batavia-air.co.id Garuda Indonesia Jl. Pejanggik 42 – 44, Mataram, W. Lombok Phone: 0370 638259, Fax: 0370 637951. www. garuda-indonesia.com Indonesia Air Transport (IAT) Mataram, Ph: 0370 639589 Lion Air Mataram, West Lombok. Ph: 0370 6631444, 6640009, Fax: 0370 642180. www.lionair.cohh.id Merpati Jl. Pejanggik No. 69 Cakranegara, W.Lombok.

Phone: 0370 621111, Fax: 0370 633691. www. merpati.co.id Silk Air Jl. Panca Usaha No.11, Mataram, W. Lombok.

Phone: 0370 628254, Fax: 0370 628292. www. silkair.com Trans Nusa Jl. Adi Sucipto, Mataram, Lombok. Ph: 0370 6162428, 6162433, Fax: 0370 646840. Email: info@transnusa.com, www.transnusa.com Trigana Air Jl. Adi Sucipto, Mataram, Lombok. Ph: 0370 6162428, 6162433, Fax: 0370 646840. www. trigana-air.com BANK / ATM Bank Central Asia (BCA) Jl. Pejanggik No.67, Mataram, Lombok Phone: 0370 632588, Fax: 0370 622347 ATMs - Jl. Raya Senggigi, Senggigi, W. Lombok - Mataram Mall, Mataram, W. Lombok - MGM Plaza, Jl. AA Gede Ngurah, Mataram - Jl. Airlangga, Mataram, W. Lombok - Jl. Jendral Sudirman, Praya, C. Lombok - Jl. Langko, Mataram, W. Lombok Bank Danamon Indonesia Jl. Pejanggik No.117, Mataram, W. Lombok Phone: 0370 631322, Fax: 0370 633068 ATMs - Jl. Koperasi 1, Mataram, W. Lombok - Jl. Raya Senggigi, Senggigi, W. Lombok - Komplek Ruko B1, Sweta, W. Lombok Bank International Indonesia (BII) Jl. AA Gede Ngurah No.48, Mataram, W. Lombok. Phone: 0370 635027, 633347 ATMs - Jl. Airlangga No.25, Mataram, Lombok - Mataram Mall, Mataram, W. Lombok - Jl. Raya Senggigi, Senggigi, W. Lombok Bank Mandiri Jl. Pejanggik No.20-22, Mataram, W. Lombok.

Phone: 0370 631311 ATMs - Jl. Pejanggik No.20, Cakranegara, Lombok - Jl. Taruna Jaya, Mataram, W. Lombok - Mataram Mall, Mataram, W. Lombok - Selaparang Airport, Mataram, W. Lombok Bank Negara Indonesia (BNI) Jl. Langko No.64, Mataram, W. Lombok Jl. Raya Senggigi, Senggigi, W. Lombok Phone: 0370 631046, Fax: 0370 631005 ATMs - Jl. Langko No.64, Mataram, W. Lombok - Jl. Pejanggik No.68, Mataram, W.Lombok - University of Mataram (UNRAM) - Jl. Sandubaya, Sweta, W. Lombok - Jl. Selaparang No.37, Mataram, W. Lombok - Jl. Raya Senggigi, Senggigi, W. Lombok - Mataram Mall, Mataram, W. Lombok - Jl. Jendral Sudirman 51, Praya, C. Lombok Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) Jl. Pendidikan No.16, Mataram, Lombok Phone: 0370 632246, Fax: 0370 633084 ATMs - Jl. Airlangga, Mataram, W. Lombok - Mataram Mall, Mataram, W. Lombok - Jl. Pahlawan No.92, Selong, E. Lombok

MEDICAL / HEALTH CARE Medika Husada Clinic Jl Raya Senggigi (next to Choice Café, 50m from Art Market) Phone: 0370 6644820 Hospitals Mataram Public Hospital (Rumah Sakit Umum Mataram) Jl. Pejanggik No.6, Mataram, W. Lombok Phone: 0370 623498 / 6604605 New Mataram Public Hospital (Rumah Sakit Umum Mataram) Jl. Bung Karno 1 Mataram. Phone: 0370 645045 Central Lombok Public Hospital Jl. Jendral Basuki Rachmad, Praya, Central Lombok. Phone: 0370 654007 East Lombok Public Hospital Jl. Professor M. Yamin No. 55, Selong, East Lombok. Phone: 0376 21680 Biomedika Clinic Jl. Bung Karno 143 Mataram. Phone: 0370 645137 Risa Clinic Jl. Pejanggik 115 Cakranegara. Phone: 0370 625560 / 632117 DENTAL drg. Farida Istiarini, Sp.Ort (Hospital Permata Hati) Jl Majapahit No 8 Ampenan. Ph: 0370 631999 / 0818368528.

Joli Sourire Dental Care Mataram Mall. Jl. Pejanggik, Cakranegara. Ph: 0370 668 1797 drg. Lina Kulsum Jl. Gunung Dieng No.7, Mataram, Lombok Phone: 0818536236 / 0370 632131 MONEY CHANGERS Multigraha Kelolavalas - Jl. Rasa Senggigi km.10, Senggigi, W. Lombok, Ph; 0370 693693 - Jl. Pejanggik No.1, Mataram, W. Lombok, Ph: 0370 631567 Multigraha Valas Jl. Saleh Sungkar No.1 Ampenan, W. Lombok, Ph: +62 370 624045 PT. Bali Mispintjira Jl. Raya Senggigi km.13, Senggigi, West Lombok, Ph: 0370 692247, 0370 692247 SHOPPING Senggigi Abadi Supermarket Jl. Raya Senggigi, Km.8.5, Senggigi, West Lombok. Phone: 0370 693311 Senggigi Jaya Supermarket Jl. Raya Senggigi, Km.8, Senggigi, West Lombok. Phone: 0370 693530 Art Market (Pasar Seni) - Jl. Raya Senggigi, Senggigi West Lombok - Gili Trawangan, West Lombok Barata Department Store Jl. Niaga II, Ampenan, West Lombok Phone: 0370 646123 Grand Store Mataram Mall, 3rd floor, Jl. Pejanggik, Cakranegara, W. Lombok. Ph: 0370 629931 Hero Supermarket Mataram Mall, 1st floor, Jl. Pejanggik, Cakranegara, W. Lombok. Ph: 0370 629918 Tiara Department Store Mataram Mall, 1st & 2nd floor, Jl. Pejanggik, Cakranegara, West Lombok Phone: 0370 629902 Kharisma Book Shop Mataram Mall, 2nd floor, Jl. Pejanggik, Cakranegara, West Lombok Phone: 0370 629875 Ruby Supermarket Jl. Pejanggik No.111, Cakranegara, West Lombok. Phone: 0370 631092 Jembatan Baru Supermarket Jl. Pejanggik No.41, Cakranegara, West Lombok. Phone: 0370 636106 MGM Plaza Jl. AA Gede Ngurah No.98, Cakranegara, West

Lombok. Phone: 0370 646007 EMERGENCY Senggigi Tourism Police: Jl. Raya Senggigi, Phone. 00370 693267 Lombok Regional Police: Jl. Gajah Mada No. 7 Ampenan. Call this emergency number: 110 Fire Brigade: Phone. 0370 672013. In emergency call 113 Hospital UGD (Emergency Unit Service): Phone: 0370 622254 Ambulance: Phone. 0370 623498. In emergency call 118 TAXIS Blue Bird Taxi, Phone: 0370 627000 Lendang Karun, Phone: 0370 644444 IMMIGRATION Jl. Udayana, Mataram, Phone: 0370 632520 PUBLIC SERVICES ELECTRICITY PLN Mataram. Ph: 0370 632182 PLN Senggigi. Ph: 0370 693535 WATER PDAM Mataram. Ph: 0370 632 510 PDAM Senggigi. Ph: 0370 693886 POST OFFICES Mataram: Jl. Sriwijaya, Phone. 0370 632645 Senggigi: Jl. Raya, Phone. 0370 693711 CONSULATES AUSTRALIA (incl. New Zealand, Canada) Phone: 0361 241118, Fax: 0361 221195, Email: bali.congen@dfat.gov.au BRAZIL Phone: 0361 757775, Fax: 0361 751005.

Email: brazilconsul@bytheseatropical.com BRITAIN Phone: 0361 270601, Fax: 0361 287804, Email: bcbali@dps-centrin.net.id CHILE Phone: 0361 756781, Fax: 0361 756783.

Email: chilehonconsulate@bali-villa.com CZECH REPUBLIC Phone: 0361 286465, Fax: 0361 286408.

Email: bali@honorary.mzv.cz DENMARK & NORWAY Phone: 0361 701070, Fax: 0361 701073/4, Email: mimpi@mimpi.com FINLAND & SWEDEN Phone: 0361 288407, Fax: 0361 287242.

Email: segara1@denpasar.wasantara.net.id FRANCE Phone: 0361 285485, Fax: 0361 286406, Email: consul@dps.centrin.net.id GERMANY Phone: 0361 288535, Fax: 0361 288826, Email: germanconsul@bali-ntb.com HUNGARY Phone: 0361 287701, Fax: 0361 287456.

Email: cristofoli@denpasar.wasantara.net.id ITALY Phone: 0361 701005.

Email: italconsbali@italconsbali.com JAPAN Phone: 0361 227628, Fax: 0361 265066.

Email: konjpdps@indo.net.id SPAIN Phone: 0361 975736, Fax: 0361 975726, Email: rabik@indo.net.id SWITZERLAND & AUSTRIA Phone: 0361 751735, Fax: 0361 754457.

Email: bali@honrep.ch THAILAND Phone: 0361 263310, Fax: 0361 238044 THE NETHERLANDS Phone: 0361 761502, Fax: 0361 752777, Email: purwa@denpasar.wasantara.net.id USA Ph: 0361 233605, Fax: 0361 222426.

Email: amcobali@indosat.net.id

Special Feature

BIRU LANGIT LAUNCH @ OXYGEN

Guests enjoyed Hip Hop displays & live acoustic music at the launch party for Biru Langit... Lombok’s one-stop hotel supplier, event organiser and travel agency.

61

The Southwest

62

The Southwest

Secret Islands, Pristine Beaches!

Floating in the sparkling turquoise waters just off the southwest coast are thirteen small islands called the Southwest Gilis. Unlike the famous Gili islands in the northwest of Lombok, the Southwest Gilis are largely uninhabited and have yet to be discovered by most travellers, thus they are often called “The Secret Islands”.

The Sekotong region starts just south of Lembar Harbour and features stunning beaches and bays set against a backdrop of rolling hills. The drive itself is a worthwhile trip, meandering through villages where life is largely untouched by tourism and where the people are involved in their day-to-day activities of farming, fish cultivation, boating and fishing, brickmaking and other traditional pastimes.

Along the roadsides you will see people building and repairing boats, laying out hand-made bricks to dry in the sun, working in the fields, and sometimes guiding primitive wooden ploughs harnessed to huge water buffalo, as they prepare the fields for planting.

The peaceful village of Taun (or Tawun), is situated on a wide, placid bay in Sekotong. The ocean is sparkling turquoise and the dazzling white sand stretches in a wide sweep around the bay, while the hills behind form a perfect backdrop to this idyllic setting.

Just out in the calm bay are the three lovely islands of Gili Nanggu, Gili Tangkong and Gili Sudat – all easily accessible by local outrigger boats. A small sign in the nearby village will direct you

to the local boat hire area, where you can arrange boat trips out to Gili Nanggu and the other small islands offshore.

Of the three, only Gili Nanggu has accommodation for visitors, with Gili Nanggu Cottages providing simple cottages on the beach and a restaurant, as well as some more up-market rooms further back from the beach. The island is small and the beach here has soft white sand and a reef just off the beach for snorkelling.

Travelling a little further south, before the local marine culture complex (Balai Budaya Laut), there is a small dirt road leading out onto a white peninsular of sand that juts into beautiful clear waters. Drive to the end for superb views and a close up look at Gili Genting.

Gili Genting sits just off the tip of the peninsular and at low tide you can walk across the sandbar and explore this uninhabited island. Old volcanic rocks and stone carved from centuries of tides create small caves and alcoves, providing shelter

for picnics and interesting nooks and crannies to explore.

Back on the main road and slightly further south is Sundancer Resort, with its distinctive blue roofs dotted on the hillside overlooking another white sand beach. The hotel development is still under construction.

Across the road from Sundancer, on the beachfront, is Dive Zone – currently the only diving facility in this part of Lombok and the experts on diving around the southwest islands, having pioneered development of previously unknown dive sites in this area.

Dive Zone offer dive trips around Sekotong and the islands, as well as in three locations in South Lombok – including challenging world-class diving off southeast Lombok.

Past Dive Zone another few kilometres is Cocotinos Boutique Beach Resort, which opened in mid 2010 on the secluded beach at Tanjung Empat. With 28 rooms, including beachfront villas with private swimming pools, Cocotinos brings the first luxury accommodation option to the area.

At the next intersection there is a signpost to the right for Labuhan Poh and Pelangan, the site of Bola Bola Paradis.

This is a small hotel, situated right on the beachfront with comfortable and clean rooms at reasonable prices. The hotel is popular with people surfing the big waves at Bangko Bangko.

Continued on Page 66

The Southwest

63

The Southwest

64 One and 2 Bedroom Apartment Suites Private Hillside Lots & Exclusive Homes Resort Amenities and Facilities 100m Pier and Boat Dock Diving, Fishing and Island Hopping

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www.sundancerbeachresort.com

Special Feature

65

SUNDANCER…GETTING READY TO SHINE!

Construction is progressing at Sundancer Beach Resort & Spa in Sekotong and developers expect the magnificent property to be fully operational next year.

“Sundancer is a big resort and was originally planned with the international airport in mind, as many of our investors and potential tourist markets are from overseas”, said Alfie, at the Sundancer Sales Office in Senggigi. “Now, the airport is open and with the possibility of direct international flights to Lombok commencing later this year, the timing is right.”

“Sundancer will be well positioned to handle large numbers of visitors, as well as the future growth of southwest Lombok,” he said.

Sundancer encompasses an entire hillside (49 hectares) in the stunning Sekotong region on the southwest coast, with panoramic views over pristine beaches and the many small islands that make up the Southwest Gilis.

Many of the hillside lots have views of both Mt Rinjani volcano on Lombok and Mt Agung volcano on Bali, making for spectacular sunrises and sunsets.

The Sundancer development comprises a 5-star hotel with luxury apartment suites, as well as private estate plots and exclusive residences. Communal areas feature a 900sqm free flow swimming pool, His / Her Spa and Wellness Centre, Salon, tennis courts, a gymnasium,

Business Centre, and two onsite restaurants.

The apartments will be operated as a hotel by the resort management team.

With a stunning “Private” Beach Club set on 2.5 hectares of white sand beachfront, guests will be able to relax under a massage bale or enjoy cocktails from the bar.

“Sales have already started off strongly,” Alfie told us, “with the majority of interest coming from private investors who are familiar with the tourism potential of southwest Lombok”.

Water sports facilities include a 100m pier, boat docking / mooring, snorkelling, sailing and a vast range of water activities.

Already operational is an onsite scuba dive centre (operated by Dive Zone).

“Clients love the Sundancer combination of a holiday option every year with a guaranteed return on investment”.

In addition to the facilities and amenities on offer, Sundancer has been constructed Investors in the resort will also have access to environmentally sustainable standards to all the resort facilities and amenities, and was awarded the world’s first “Green while residents have the security of living Globe Award for Sustainable Development within a secure gated community with a in Tourism Design”. wide range of services close at hand.

Green Globe is the global environmental During Phase 1 of sales, the hillside benchmarking and certification programme residential villa plots, all with views across for the Travel and Tourism Industry the ocean, sold very quickly, with 65% and sets the international standard for sold out already. environmental design policy, based on Agenda 21 to implement the Kyoto “Land prices have steadily increased over Protocol. the past 3 years and our early investors The southwest coast of Lombok is one of are very happy with the continued capital the island’s most remarkable regions, with growth,” Alfie said. gently rolling hillsides framed by snowy Currently, Sundancer have investors white sand beaches and bright turquoise originating from Australia, Switzerland, waters.

United Kingdom, Sweden, Germany, Most of the beaches are, at present, India, Singapore and Indonesia. gloriously undeveloped… as are the 13 2012 sees the limited release of apartment small islands just off the coast. The calm sales, with Sundancer offering a waters in the area are perfectly suited to guaranteed rental return to investors… diving, snorkelling, swimming and island even before the resort opens! hopping, as well as fishing, yachting and boating activities.

The 66 apartments are luxuriously appointed and finished to western With small investment already gaining standards, as well as being very spacious; momentum in the area, tourism a one bedroom apartment measures 80 sqm development is about to take a huge leap and the 2 bedroom totals a huge 140 sqm. forward with the opening of Sundancer!

66 The largest of the islands in this area is Gili Gede, (appropriately translated as “Big Island”). The island lays just offshore and is so large, visitors often mistake it for part of the mainland. Gili Gede is easily reached in only minutes by boat from the village of Tembowong.

Gili Gede is one of the few islands in the area that has accommodation, at Secret Island Resort and at Via Vaccare on the other side of the island, with more hotels planned for the near future. There are around 400 people living on Gili Gede, who are very welcoming and not trying to sell tourists anything.

Gili Gede is a great island to explore, because of its natural beauty and friendly people.

Secret Island Resort has a range of accommodation, including a unique bungalow perched on a pier over the reef – the only one in either Lombok or Bali. The Resort offers activities that all the family will enjoy, while also being a place where you can get away from it all.

Continued from Page 62

The Southwest Gili Ringgit, Gili Layar and Gili Asahan are lined up like secret treasures in the calm sea.

Gili Asahan attracts visitors with deserted white sand beaches and swaying palm trees.

Pearl Beach Resort, newly-opened in 2010, is a lovely boutique hotel with charming and well-designed bungalows here looking out over a breath-taking beach.

Secret Island Resort has two different speed boats offering “Snorkel Mania” trips around some of Lombok’s very best snorkeling reefs, plus professional Sport Fishing Charters aboard their comfortable 9m custom-built boat, “Scorpio”.

The resort can also organise transfers and island hopping excursions to the other beautiful islands in the area.

To the south of Gili Gede, the islands of

Of a much higher standard than most of the southwest accommodation, each bungalow has a private terrace, and western standard bathrooms with hot water.

There is also a beachfront bar and restaurant serving western and Indonesian meals, and good snorkelling directly from the beach in front. The lovely setting calls visitors from the sea to picnic on the beach and swim in the clear turquoise waters.

Pearl Beach is perfect for romantic escapes and for those seeking the tranquillity of a private island resort.

The Southwest

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68

Kuta and The South Coast

Kuta and The South Coast

69

Indonesia boasts some of the most magnificent scenery in the world and the south coast of Lombok rates as being among the best.

South Lombok has beaches that inspire photographers from around the world and draw crowds to bake on the blindingly white sands, swim in the crystal clear oceans and challenge some of the best surf breaks in Indonesia.

Kuta 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 points of interest in the region.

Located around 60 km south of Mataram and about one and a half hour’s drive from Senggigi, Kuta (sometimes spelt Kute) makes for a wonderful day trip from other points in Lombok, or an alternative holiday destination for travellers exploring Lombok.

With the Lombok International Airport currently under construction in the area, all the major roads are being renovated and the main road to Kuta is very good.

The new airport is located only 15 minutes north of Kuta and is expected to spark major development in the area. For now, the beaches are pristine and spectacular.

Kuta and the surrounding beaches have gained an international reputation for some of the best surfing destinations in Southeast Asia. It is here that the gentle waters surrounding Lombok meet the currents of the Indian Ocean, forming

great swells and surf breaks. Kuta attracts thousands of visitors every year for the great surf locations at Gerupuk, Tanjung A’an and nearby beaches. 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.

The drive down to the south coast is an interesting rural tour of 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 (rice barns) and traditional homes made of thatch and bamboo, with hardened cow and buffalo dung floors.

Nearby, on the hilltop, is one of the oldest mosques in Lombok, Mesjid Kuno. The small building with a thatched roof is considered holy and many believers make pilgrimages to pray here.

Slightly further south is Sade, a hilltop village with more Lumbungs and traditional homes. Both villages have been renovated and cater to the tourist market, but are still interesting examples of traditional Sasak architecture and communal living within the compounds, where life continues as it has for centuries.

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.

The south coast itself provides plenty of opportunities for exploring beaches and coastal scenery of such breath-taking beauty it is hard to describe. Hire a car or motorbike and you can spend days visiting beautiful, mainly deserted beaches, both to the east and west of Kuta.

Continued on Page 73

70

Kuta and The South Coast

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Kuta and The South Coast

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72

Kuta and The South Coast

Kuta and The South Coast

73

Continued from Page 69

Kuta itself is a small, relatively unattractive town of hotels, home-stays and backpacker’s hostels that cater mainly to the thousands of surfers from around the world who are drawn to the area every year to surf the left- and right-hand breaks out in the bay.

There is a good variety of hotels and restaurants for budgets travellers and one luxury resort: the Novotel Lombok Resort.

Designed to blend in with its environment, and with a stunning beachfront location, the Novotel is a wonderful example of traditional Sasak architecture.

Situated just to the east of the main Kuta area is Mandalika, named after the legendary Princess Mandalika. It is near 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.

Around 4 km east of Kuta is Tanjung A’an, with perfect white sand beaches and good waves for surfers.

Slightly further east is Gerupuk, well known as a top surf location and situated on a peninsula of land that juts out into the ocean, with stunning views of the sea, and the surrounding islands and bays. There is a good surf school here and no fewer than five surf breaks.

The beaches and scenery continue all the way to the east coast, with fantastic places such as Bumbang,

Awang Bay, Ekas and Pantai Sorga (Heaven Beach)… the name says it all!

Simple beach cottages and a charming restaurant sit right on the sands of Bumbang beach, for those wishing to stay a few days, surfing and exploring the eastern beaches.

To the west of Kuta are another series of beautiful beaches and bays hidden behind headlands and rolling hills, providing peaceful and secluded spots for picnics and swimming. All are within easy day trips of Kuta.

Ashtari, around 2km west of Kuta, stands out from the usual Kuta cafés and is a “must stop” for those touring in the area.

Perched on top of the hill with spectacular views over Kuta and the surrounding beaches, Ashtari serves exquisite teas and juices, and delicious vegetarian meals and

snacks that are truly out of the ordinary.

Mawun Beach is around 30 minutes drive to the west and is a picturesque, almost circular bay with small green headlands rolling into the ocean from either side. It is a spectacular beach with calm blue waters, perfect for swimming and spending a day lazing on the white sand.

Mawi, around another 7km to the west, has good right- and left-hand barrels for surfing when the swell is large enough.

At other times, it is a lovely beach with impressive views of Gili Lawang just offshore; with three startling pinnacles of rock jutting out of the ocean.

Further west are picturesque Selong Blanak, Sepi and Blongas, and many more scenic bays and beaches along the way; all are mostly deserted. The road deteriorates rapidly and the going can be rough at times. Be sure to use an experienced local guide with a good vehicle. The recently opened Sempiak Villas in Selong Blanak has a restaurant and several comfortable villas for those wishing to stay in this secluded region.

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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Kuta and The South Coast

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BARGAIN VILLAS FOR RENOVATION 2 buildings with immediate hot tar road access. Water and electricity. Only 5 minutes from the beach. 60m2 of building on 483m2 plot. FREEHOLD ONLY USD 24,000 approx.

VALLEY VIEW VILLA WITH POOL 2 double en-suite A/C bedrooms with H/W in quiet location.

European standard kitchen. 2 extra guest houses included 1.500m2 of land. FREEHOLD USD 107,000 approx.

DELIGHTFULLY PEACEFUL 2 double bedroom with en-suites and H/W showers. 3 A/C’s, guest W/C. Open plan kitchen with gas oven and extractor fan. Carport, Sat TV. Tinted windows throughout. USD 49,500

EAST KUTA TOWN PLOT 55.15 ARE (55,150m2) With views of the bays and ocean, overlooking proposed golf course. Ideal for boutique resort / residential villa development. Electricity / water. USD 92,000 (approx)

HILLSIDE BUILDING PLOT With double views of ocean and Mataram town. 1,089m2 plot, electricity and water available. Private driveway access. Lush location. Just look at that view! FREEHOLD USD 82,500 (approx)

75m WIDE BEACH FRONT LAND: MALIMBU With excellent main road access. Ideal for subdivision or hotel development. IDR 85,000,000 per are.

HGB Certificate. USD 1,040,000 (approx)

Jl Raya Senggigi (50m from Happy Café) | Ph: 0812 3734 0117

www.lombokpropertyandvillas.com

Pasar Classifieds

76

PASAR CLASSIFIEDS CLASSIFIED AD Box (9,5cm x 4,9cm) only Rp 50 000 / issue

PT MULTIGRAHA KELOLAVALAS Authorized Money Changer Pedagang Valuta Asing Berijin

The Best Rate in Lombok !

Email: kitadesign@hotmail.com

Main Office: Jl Raya Senggigi, next to Taman Rest.

Ph: 0370 693 680 Branch Office: Toko Mas Melati, Jl. Pejanggik No. 1-3, Cakranegara. Ph: 0370 631 567 / 633 748 Mobile: 0811 391 269 | Flexi: 0370 660 1269

URGENTLY REQUIRED

GOLF PLAYERS WANTED

Phone: 0370 6599 4005

ASSISTANT EXECUTIVE HOUSE KEEPER

• Male or female maximum of 30 years old.

• Strong background in housekeeping environment • Managerial role experience in 4/5 stars environment • Good English written and spoken • Strong leadership • Good communication skill • Enthusiastic, creative and innovative • Able to work as a team Please send your application, CV and recent photograph before 15 February to Human Resources Department, Holiday Resort Lombok F: (0370) 693092 | E: hrmgr@holidayresort-lombok.com

MOTORBIKE FOR SALE HONDA V-TWIN 400 SHAFT DRIVE (1992) The only one in Lombok!

Good condition, still needs a little TLC. DR plates, fully registered with police.

25 juta / Rp 25 million

081 999 666 656 / paintbali@hotmail.com

SUPERBIKE FOR SALE Honda CBR 1100XX Super Blackbird 2003 Model Fuel Injected Contact: 081236831588 / 08127840609

GILI TRAWANGAN LAND FOR SALE

SENGGIGI HACKERS AMATEUR GOLF SOCIETY (SHAGS) Friendly, non-profit golf Games every week – Monthly Cup New members, tourists and casual games Discount rates!

ALL WELCOME!

Ph: 0813 398 1140 (Jim) | www.golf-lombok.com

HARDTOP FOR SALE

Contact: 0812 3683 1588 / 0812 7840 609

Toyota Hardtop Rebuild in 2008 Aircon,power steering Suspension lift kit Body lift kit Disc brake front Audio system Wheel spacer for tires Tires 36 x 12.5 x 16 Simex extreme trekker Hi-lift jack

FOR RENT

Kuta Beach: 9 are land inlcude bar & restaurant looking for long term lease.

LAND FOR SALE

KUTA: 2 are, 15 are & 90 are

Call owner 0878 6460 0950

Office for Rent or New Business Location

48 are Beachfront at Paradise Beach (South) Great sunset views Rp 200 million per are

Located in the center of Mataram, next door to Mataram Mall on Jalan Panca Usaha with large parking area available next door.

Ph Made: 0812 382 6262

Contact Owner on 0819 179 133 76

You can rent as little as 50sqm up to 200sqm on a short term or long term lease.

Discount Vouchers

77

DISCOUNT VOUCHERS Got a special offer or a bargain for our readers?

Discount vouchers only cost Rp 50 000 per issue.

Phone: 0370 659 4005 or email kitadesign@hotmail.com

Hotplanet Eco-Resorts and Sanctuaries

Present this coupon or quote “Lionfish” for either: 10% Discount on Fun Dives

Full package for $100 per person per night Including meals, transport, surf boat, massages and all the many other free facilities of our beautiful resorts

Valid 6 - 20 Feb 2012

Heaven On The Planet | www.heavenontheplanet.co.nz 0812 3797 4846 or 0878 6535 6905

10% Discount on all diving activities Please book in advance and present this voucher upon registration Cannot be used in conjunction with other offers

Gili Trawangan: +62 (0) 370 614 36 49 info@manta-dive.com | www.manta-dive.com

Valid 6 - 20 Feb 2012

Major Price Reduction

10% Discount on Snorkel Tours 5% Discount on PADI Dive Courses.

Please book in advance by phone: (0370) 693 719 or visit our offices at the Holiday Resort / Senggigi Beach Hotel

* Discount applies to max 2 people – Not in addition to any other promotions or discount offers

SECRET ISLAND RESORT Gili Gede, Southwest Lombok Valid 6 -20 Feb 2012

Valid 6 - 20 Feb 2012

Fantastic February

Rp 200 000 / night Get 2nd night for Rp 150 000 (Low season discount!)

Plus free use of double kayaks (for minimum 3 day stay) On presentation of this coupon

Phone: 0818 0376 2001 secretislandresort@xl.blackberry.com | www.secretislandresort.com

Real Fish ‘n’ Chips, Fresh Seafood, Salads and much more...

Valid 6 - 20 Feb 2012

Bring this voucher in for

10% Discount on all meals

Open for breakfast, lunch & dinner Gili Trawangan, Lombok. Ph: (0370) 642 217 Email: wrapasnapper@dps.centrin.net.id

IMMIGRATION SERVICE FOR ALL YOUR IMMIGRATION AND INVESTMENT SOLUTIONS Visas and Residency Permits Work and Business Visas Retirement Visas Police Permits Land Certificates Land and Building Permits Foreign Investment (PMA) Company Documents VOA Extensions up to 60 days For free information and advice contact:

DAMSIAH Office: 0370 692 253 / 0818 360 415 / 0858 5822 3619 perwiralombok@yahoo.com / damsiah@yahoo.com

your personal business guide to Indonesia Indo-Ned will help you in running your business in Indonesia. Assistance for foreigners who have, or intend to have, property in Indonesia. Indo-Ned will also be your partner for business and administrative affairs including business reports, and monthly and annual tax.

OUR SERVICES INCLUDE: Company Registration: - PMA (BKPM, Act of Notary, Domicile License, Tax Register, SK-Kehakiman, TDP) - PT Local - Representative Office in Indonesia Other Licenses: Import License, SRP, NPIK, Work Permits Legal Documents Tax Reports and Administration Assistance Jl. Raya Kuta No 68, Kompleks Komersial Istana Kuta Galaria (Kuta Central Park), Bali T: +62 361 76 91 02 / E: asimbolon@indo-ned.com “VISIT US AT OUR OFFICES IN BALI, JAKARTA &THE NETHERLANDS”

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Luxury Villas on Gili Trawangan

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

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Dive The Gili Islands • and Padi dive courses from beginner to instructor • Daily dive trips, night dives and equipment sales • Traditional style bungalows with AC, hot water, safety box, mini bar, wi-fi internet and beautiful outdoor bathroom Gili Trawangan +62 (0) 370 614 36 49 | info@manta-dive.com www.manta-dive.com

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Tourism Information

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The Gili Islands Pearls in The Ocean

Gili Trawangan

Three perfect coral islands, fringed with white sands and swaying palm trees, lay in the sparkling ocean just off the north-west coast of Lombok. For many years the Gilis have attracted visitors from around the world for their pristine waters, great diving and snorkelling opportunities, and laidback charm.

The word “Gili” actually means “small island” and so these islands have come to be known as “The Gilis” by travellers, who have long considered them to be at least equal to the appeal of Thailand’s and India’s south coasts.

The Gilis have sparse vegetation and rainfall, and it can seem much hotter than on the mainland. This means there is sunshine most days of the year, even when it’s raining in Lombok and Bali. Water is mainly drawn from wells or shipped from the mainland, so there is a need for conservation to preserve the limited resources. Be prepared for salty showers in most of the small hotels and homestays, although the larger hotels and villas provide fresh water.

There are no cars or motorbikes on the islands, and the main form of transport, apart from walking, is by horse and cart (locally called cidomo). There is a

good selection of restaurants, bars and accommodation on all three islands, with the biggest range on Gili Trawangan.

Telephone and internet facilities are available, and most of the normal tourist amenities, although there are no banks and only the larger hotels and dive operators accept credit cards. Moneychangers exchange at a slightly lower rate than the mainland, so it’s wise to change your money before going.

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

Popular dive companies are owned and operated by westerners with PADI qualifications, and professional standards of safety and environmental awareness.

Blue Marlin Dive, Dream Divers and DSM Dive Centre are probably the biggest dive companies, with offices on the Gilis and in Senggigi on the mainland. Manta Dive, Big Bubble, Trawangan Dive and Vila Ombak Diving Academy on Gili Trawangan also have good reputations.

Snorkelling is easy in the calm waters directly off the beaches and, although much of the coral in the shallow waters has been destroyed, it’s still enjoyable,

with plenty of fish to see.

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

All three islands have developed independently and at different paces, giving each a different personality or style, and catering to different types of holidaymakers and travellers. This means that travellers have a good choice, depending on their individual tastes and what type of island escape they prefer.

Gili Air is closest to the mainland and the most quickly accessed of the three Gilis.

This island has the largest local population of the three and combines the charm of a tropical island, with access to the people and culture that make Lombok so special.

Diving facilities abound and there is nice snorkelling directly from the shore, particularly from the east and northeast beaches. The south of the island has some good surf, in the right conditions.

Gili Meno is the middle and smallest island of the three, with the lowest population. It is not as developed as Trawangan or Air, but has its own special tranquil style.

Continued on Page 85

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Relaxing Day Cruises Mentigi - Gili Islands on a traditional phinisi Cruise from Mentigi Bay, 20 mins north of Senggigi, to the Gili Islands where you can swim, snorkel, dive, water ski banana boat, kayak, ride horse-back * or just plain chill out.

Departs Mentigi Bay 9am.

Free pick up (at 8am) in certain areas and drop off.

Fare: Rp 750,000 per passenger.

On board restaurant

*Cost of land and water-sport activities not included in fares, departure contingent on a minimum number of passengers

Komodo Island Tours

by Traditional Schooner

Cruise from Bali or Lombok to the eastern island of Flores on the way visit beautiful Moyo and Satonda Islands, see the Komodo Dragons dive pristine reefs and discover Flores Regular cruise departures Air conditioned cabins Delicious meals Attractive Cruise Only and Dive Packages Available

For more info & bookings, ph: 0812 3690 4414 | 0817 343 168 | 0361 8855 402

E: thegiliislands@yahoo.com | www.thegiliislands.com info@bluewatercruises.com | www.bluewatercruises.com

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Tourism Information

Getting To The Gilis

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The Gilis are easily reached from Bali via the numerous fast boat services now operating between Bali and Gili Trawangan.

From mainland Lombok, there are many different options, as described below. Tour companies and dive operators in Senggigi also provide transfers daily.

FROM BALI: The fast boat services are a popular option, providing fast and easy transfers direct from Bali to Gili Trawangan. www.GiliBookings.com is a booking site offering easy online ticketing services for fast boat transfers. See the “Getting to Lombok” section on page 2 for full details.

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

FROM TELUK NARA AND TELUK KODEK: Teluk Nara is a large peaceful bay on the west coast, about 25 minutes drive north of Senggigi. Most of the dive companies have their boats moored in the bay and transfer guests to the islands every day from Teluk Nara.

Gili Cat, Blue Water Express and Island Getaway also operate fast boat services between Lombok and Bali from this harbour. It is possible to negotiate private boat trips out to the islands with the local boat owners here, thereby avoiding the hassles of Bangsal.

At the northern end of the bay is Teluk Kodek, where Vila Ombak, The Beach House, ko ko mo and Scallywags have bases for transferring their guests by speedboat to the Gilis.

MENTIGI BAY: Also on the west coast, a few kilometres before Teluk Nara, Mentigi Bay is a base for Blue Water Cruises.

The company offers relaxing day cruises around the Gilis onboard a beautiful traditional phinisi boat, with plenty of opportunities for swimming and snorkelling.

Boats depart daily at 9am. There is a small café at the bay and a variety of fun water sport options available.

islands. Bangsal is a pretty area; it’s a shame some of the touts try to ruin it for everyone.

Blue Water Cruises also operate regular cruises to Komodo Island and other islands to the east, as well as dive and cruise packages. Visit their website for details: www.bluewatercruises.com.

If you get stuck at the harbour in the evening, there is a nice home-stay called Arnel on the harbour road with pretty rooms at reasonable prices.

FROM BANGSAL HARBOUR: Catch a taxi or bemo to Bangsal Harbour, the small harbour on the north-west coast, about 30 minutes from Senggigi.

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.

Public ferries (really just large outrigger boats) depart regularly to all three islands and charters are available, with prices depending on the number of passengers and your bargaining skills.

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.

Unfortunately, the area is plagued by touts and scams, so ignore them and head directly to the ticket office on the beachfront. Public ferry and charter boat prices are posted clearly on the wall of the ticket office.

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!

Be aware that public boats leave when there are enough passengers to warrant the trip, so you may have to wait for a while. Best times are between 8am and 4pm. If you don’t want to wait, it doesn’t cost very much to charter a boat, especially if you have a few people in your group.

Don’t let anyone carry your bags or, if they offer to carry baggage, negotiate a price first.

Ignore people who tell you that there are no return public transfers… there are; or that there is no water, mosquito repellent, etc., on the islands. All the essentials are readily available at shops on all three

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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Tropical Hideaways Resort Meno’s finest accommodation at very reasonable prices!

10 luxury bungalows, swimming pool and kiddies paddling pool, set in a private tropical garden just a stones throw away from the crystal blue ocean and white sandy beaches of Gili Meno...

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Tourism Information Continued from Page 79

The Gili Islands

The pace is a much slower, with the laidback charm of a true castaway tropical island experience. Small hotels and basic beach-side huts provide accommodation for those seeking a peaceful place in the sun, with unpopulated beaches, clean waters and quiet walks under the star-filled skies at night.

reached in less than an hour by local boat or 10 minutes by speedboat.

This is the most famous of the three Gilis, with a reputation as “the party island”.

While this reputation refers to the many fun parties held at different bars and restaurants on the island, it is a misleading description of this lovely place.

Gili Trawangan is the largest island and furthest from the mainland, but easily

There is a wide variety of accommodation on Gili Trawangan, ranging from simple

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Pearls in The Ocean

home-stays to up-market hotels and villas with swimming pools. There’s a great selection of bars and restaurants to suit all tastes, particularly toward the southern end, known locally as “Sentral”.

Snorkelling is extremely easy just off the shore and there is still an abundant variety of tropical fish species to enjoy. The island is famed for its vast gardens of coral and is one of the best dive spots in Lombok.

GILI T VILLA FOR SALE 2 bedrooms, ensuite bathrooms, kitchen, living room, with private swimming pool.

Just behind Big Bubble Dive.

29 years leasehold with option.

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Gili Trawangan’s only Indian Restaurant Sheesha Lounge & Beach Resort Luxury Suites, Villa Rooms, Deluxe Bungalows & Rooms with AC or Fan, situated in private gardens.

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Phone / Fax: +62 370 6123 521 Mobile: +62 818 0549 4876 Email: pesonaresort@hotmail.com

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LUXURIOUS VILLAS AND SINGLE SUITES Gili Trawangan, Lombok-NTB Indonesia P: 0370 6647066, M: 087864297487, F: 0370 647741 E: booking@thetrawangan.com W: www.thetrawangan.com

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VALENTINE’S DAY AT THE BEACH HOUSE Complimentary Valentine’s Day Champagne Cocktail ENTRÉE CHOICES Oyster Plate - 3 natural oysters with mango salsa, shallot dressing and fresh lime Peking Duck Stack - With fried wontons, shredded Asian vegetables and hoi sin sauce Spanish Style Seafood Soup - Selection of local seafood including prawns, calamari and snapper in a tomato and saffron soup, served with crunchy bread MAINS CHOICES Beach House Sirloin - Chargrilled sirloin with handcut chips, served with house-made Béarnaise sauce Snapper Fillet - Pan-fried and served on fried baby potato, wilted spinach and basil oil Roasted Chicken Breast - Stuffed with garlic prawns on sweet potato mash with green beans DESSERT CHOICES Decadent Chocolate Pudding - With strawberry coulis & Crème Anglaise Lemon Curd Tart - Crunchy shortcrust tart filled with a citrus cream Seasonal Fruit Plate - Sliced local fruit with fresh mint leaves, blossom honey and a little whipped cream Rp 250,000 ++ / person

Phone: +62 370 6142 352 Fax: +62 370 6148 365 Email: reservation@beachhousegilit.com

www.beachhousegilit.com

Gili Bytes

GILI AIR

Storms have continued to crash into Gili Air this month, making it an unpredictable time to be on the island. Two dive boats have capsized though – thankfully – no one has been injured and the boats were saved.

You could, perhaps, question why would you come to the islands at this time of year?

Well, there are a couple of good reasons.

This time of year is quiet, which means that you could have parts of the island to yourself. The weather isn’t bad every day; we’ve had several almost week-long stretches of bright sunshine. And the storms are good for surfers – I’ve seen several surfers here who have managed to keep themselves happily surfing the big waves generated by the storms.

As a writer, I am loving the surly nature of the island weather right now! It has a certain moody quality and, at the minute, the island is covered in clouds of dragonflies, which it gives it an almost apocalyptic nature.

The other question I guess people might ask is: why would you want to go diving at this time of the year?

Well, the water is now full of plankton and the water temperature has dropped from the balmy summertime temperature of 31 degrees to a more comfortable 27 degrees.

With the drop in temperature and the plankton as a plentiful food source, there is the chance to see some amazing creatures in the water, which only visit at this time of year – the type of thing you usually only see in documentaries on TV! So far there have been sightings of whale sharks and giant mantas. Plus, we have seen lots more reef sharks than

89 normal and, only a few days ago, I saw three large cuttlefish together, which appeared to be having a small social gathering!

Learning to dive at this time of year can also be fortuitous. The water is still warm but the extra current plus the decrease in visibility means that you have to put all your new diving skills to the test, so you tend to learn faster and become adept more quickly.

All the fish are still there and many dive schools, including ours, teach you how to get close to the reef without doing it, or yourself, any damage. This means you are right there among the fish. Even if the visibility is poor above you, it rarely drops below five metres and, when you are nice and close to the reef, you see all the glory that the waters around the Gilis have to offer.

For the more adventurous, this is an excellent time of year to search out the strange and unusual at the world class Muck Diving site of Teluk Nare – only twenty minutes from Gili Air. This is a great site for those divers seeking something different.

Bring your camera or rent one on the island and see if you can catch sight of one of super cool mimic octopus. These fantastic animals are the chameleons of the sea: they have the ability to camouflage themselves, but can also “impersonate” other sea life.

Now, on another point, there are a couple of rumours bouncing around the island at the moment.

When it comes to rumours, it is hard to know what is true and what isn’t – so, don’t take any of the following as fact, but they are interesting to share and when I can confirm them I will.

The first is that all the Fast Boats from Bali will stop visiting the Gilis and will instead dock at Bangsal and, from there, local boats will bring people to the islands.

I’ve heard this from several sources now and the last time I went through Bangsal they had pretty much finished a large pier and a new building, which looks like it could cope with an increase in tourists.

The second rumour somewhat contradicts the first one. It is about

the large piece of land at the side of the dive shop, Ocean’s 5.

Currently there is a pier but it’s not built to take the Fast Boats, so they usually pull up to the beach quickly, people climb off the boat (rather precariously at times!) and then the boat pulls away before it finds itself beached – far from ideal.

The land next to Ocean’s 5 has been cleared and work was supposed to commence there last June but, as yet, there has been nothing but rumours about what will be happening.

The main rumour is that there is going to be a large resort built there and it is going to have its own pier. The rumour continues that the owners of the new resort actually own three of the Fast Boats and they want to dock their own boats at the new resort; clearly contradicting the idea that the Fast Boats will no longer serve Gili Air. If the new building at Bangsal is evidence for the rumour about the boats going to Bangsal, then the huge concrete pillars that are now lying on the cleared land on Gili Air might be evidence for a new pier here.

I have to say that I like seeing the Fast Boats arrive and bringing all the new tourists and travellers to the island, so I would hate to see that stop. Time will tell, I guess.

The other new thing I noticed recently was a banner near another strip of empty land announcing the arrival of a new resort called Bel Air. The banner makes it look very fancy but, as yet, the ground has still to be broken.

From February, the wet season starts to clear and the monsoon winds should settle down. Whatever time of year you come to visit this tranquil island, there is always something new and exciting to discover.

If you do come in the rainy season, just remember to bring a smile and make all your plans in pencil!

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Valentine’s Day …….

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Tourism Information

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