The Lombok Guide Issue 113

The

Issue 113 | 16 – 30 April 2012

FREE COPY

( 0370 6594005 | www.thelombokguide.com SOUTH AFRICA AND LOMBOK… A COOPERATIVE IN CLAY

KAMI SUKA...

XO SUKI!

Page 10 & 22

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

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PUBLISHED BI-WEEKLY IN LOMBOK, FOR LOMBOK

Blue Water Cruises THE BOAT THAT ROCKED!

BEWARE THE TOMCAT BITE!

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The Beach Club

Beach Bungalows Page 15

SPRING OVER TO LOMBOK! With the worst of the monsoon rains behind us, and the celebration of Spring Equinox in the northern hemisphere on 20 March, Lombok is being blessed with beautiful weather right now… it’s almost like Spring in the west!

April is a wonderful time to visit Lombok – and the best time to take advantage of “low season” discounts and cheap rates at hotels and resorts on the island.

It is also the perfect time for enjoying the mild sunny days and gentle breezes at night – dining out under the stars, swimming in the crystal clear beaches, trekking through lush green jungles and relaxing in the unspoiled natural environment for which Lombok is famous!

To find out more, pick up a copy of The Lombok Guide from the locations listed on page 68 or visit www.thelombokguide.com and discover the magic of Lombok for yourself…

Page 48 Page 50 Page 51 Page 53-60 Page 54 Page 61-67 Page 68 Page 69-75 Page 76-92 Page 83 Page 87 Page 89 Page 91

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

Tourism Information

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GETTING TO LOMBOK

GETTING TO LOMBOK

DOMESTIC FLIGHTS

It’s easy to get to Lombok from Bali – flight time is only 25 minutes European connections are easy via Jakarta (the capital city of and fares start from around Rp 300,000 (approx US $33) one way. Java) or Bali. Direct flights from Jakarta to Lombok are available Buy tickets direct from the airline counters at the domestic airports, every day and are usually timed to connect with European flights. or contact local travel agents, in both Bali and Lombok.

Lombok is easily accessible from Jakarta, Bali, Jogyakarta and Lombok International Airport (or Bandara Internasional Lombok, Surabaya and is an important connection for travel to the eastern commonly abbreviated to BIL) is the only airport on Lombok. The islands, in particular Sumbawa, Komodo and Flores. airport is approximately 40km south of the city of Mataram, and Garuda Indonesia has direct flights between Lombok, Bali and around 1 ½ hours’ drive from Senggigi and 25 minutes from Kuta.

Jakarta every day, Call Center : 0 804 1 807 807, Sales Office : Airport departure tax is Rp 25,000 for domestic departures and Rp +62 370 642303, 649999. www.garuda-indonesia.com 100,000 for international departures.

Lion Air has daily flights between Lombok, Bali, Jakarta and BALI TO LOMBOK BY AIR Surabaya. Ph: +62 370 664009. www.lionair.co.id In Lombok, flights depart and arrive at Lombok International Aiport. In Bali, flights arrive and depart at Ngurah Rai (Denpasar) Domestic Airport.

Merpati Airlines has flights available between Lombok, Bali, Bima, Deli, Bandung, Flores and Kupang. Lombok, ph: +62 370 621111. www.merpati.co.id

Garuda Airlines has direct flights between Lombok, Bali and Trans Nusa Air flies between Lombok, Sumbawa and Bima once Jakarta every day, Call Center : 0 804 1 807 807, Sales Office: +62 a day. Lombok, ph: +62 370 624555. www.transnusa.co.id 370-642303, 649999. www.garuda-indonesia.com Batavia Air has flights between Lombok, Jakarta every day.

Merpati Airlines flies direct between Bali and Lombok four times a Lombok, +62 804 1 222 888 / +62 21 38 999 888. day. Lombok, ph: +62 370 621111, Airport: +62 370 633637 / +62 www.batavia-air.co.id 87864253577. Bali, ph: +62 361 420999. www.merpati.co.id Sky Aviation offers flights to remote and difficult to get to Trans Nusa Air operates two flights between Bali and Lombok destinations, including Labuhan Bajo on Flores, Batam, daily. Lombok, ph: +62 370 624555. Bali, ph: +62 361 8477395.

Pekanbaru, Jambi and more. Ph: +62 370 630787 or see their www.transnusa.co.id website for full details. www.sky-aviation.co.id Lion Air flies between Bali and Lombok with three flights daily.

BALI TO LOMBOK BY SEA The company share-codes with Wings Air, so you may purchase a Lion Air ticket and find yourself on a Wings Air flight! Lombok, Padang Bai Harbour (Bali) provides the sea link between mainland Call Centre: +62 80 4177 8899. Bali, ph: +62 361 765132. www.

Bali and Lombok. Lembar Harbour (Lombok) is approx. 1 hour lionair.co.id south of Senggigi, Lombok.

Sky Aviation operates morning and afternoon flights between Bali and Lombok every day. The company also offers private charter flights between the islands, as well as other destinations throughout Indonesia. Lombok, ph: +62 370 630 787. Bali, ph: +62 361 936 8320. www.sky-aviation.co.id

INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS Lombok International Airport 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: +62 370 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: 0 80 418 07807. Airport: +62 370 649100. www.garuda-indonesia.com

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: +62 370 681 209.

Padang Bai Harbour ph: (+62 363) 41849 / 41840

FAST BOATS There are now numerous “fast boat” services operating between Bali and Lombok. Most serve Gili Trawangan, but several also call at Teluk Kodek on mainland Lombok, so fast boats from Lombok to Bali (and vice versa) are an option to flying.

See the “Getting to the Gilis” section for details.

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Tourism Information

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

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.

Kuta Lombok by Iwan Haryanto

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

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Tiu Kelep Waterfall by Simon Mammino

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.

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Get there fast, then take it slow...

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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

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 clay

Segara Anak Lake & Mt Baru Jari by Simon Mammino

Tourism Information

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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.

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Special Feature

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SOUTH AFRICA AND LOMBOK… A COOPERATIVE IN CLAY What do Qunci Villas, a worldrenowned ceramist and a small pottery workshop in Lombok have in common?

Hennie lives with his wife and two sons in Durbanville, Cape Town, where he works and teaches from his studio at home, when not travelling the world and exhibiting his work.

That’s what we came to find out when visiting South African ceramist Hennie Meyer visited Lombok last month.

We caught up with Hennie while he was in Lombok recently, installing his latest works at the new extension of Qunci Villas Resort in Mangsit.

Hennie is a highly acclaimed South African artist and ceramist, who creates unique clay and ceramic pieces that are both works of art and stunningly distinctive examples of a master ceramicist.

Visitors to the resort will already be familiar with some of Hennie’s work from the fantastic three-dimensional clay tiles that grace the walls of the reception area at Qunci Villas.

His work has been exhibited around the world, from as far apart as London and China, and has been collected by museums and art galleries, as well as being highly sought-after by private collectors.

In his latest effort, Hennie was commissioned by Qunci owner, Scott, to create sculptural art pieces for the new reception area at Qunci as well as for the beautiful new purpose-built Spa facilities at the resort.

To meet the man gives little indication of his standing in the world of ceramics. Laid-back, modest and incredibly charming, Hennie likes to tell the story of how he “fell into ceramics” in his late teens.

The panels that now decorate the main entrance to the resort are made up of hundreds of ceramic tubes, each painstakingly crafted by hand to create a three-dimensional sculpture that was transported from South Africa and installed on-site by Hennie.

At the end of his schooling in South Africa, Hennie was selected by Rotary to study as an exchange student in Bendigo, Australia.

On arrival in 1983, however, he found that the school would not accept a white South African – obviously intending the exchange to be for native students!

Unable to attend the school, he was enrolled in a ceramics course at Bendigo TAFE instead… and the rest is history!

The fantastic studio in Australia and a great teacher inspired his career in ceramics.

He returned to South Africa where he graduated as an art teacher from the University of Stellenbosch in Cape Town and embarked upon a career in sculptural ceramics that has been his passion ever since.

The tubes frame a series of handmade textured tiles running down the centre, which echo the original tiles decorating Qunci Pool Villas reception area.

Backlit with green lights at night, the earthtoned panels form a stunning feature to the resort’s entrance.

Likewise, ceramic tubes continue the theme in the water feature that forms the heart of the new Spa at Qunci Villas.

Smooth river rocks surround the installation of hundreds of hand-formed pipes rising out of the gently flowing water.

Glazed in creams and banded in varying tones of earthy greens, the sculpture mimics an otherworldly stand of bamboo rising out of a jungle stream.

While in Lombok, however, Hennie was also keen to see the techniques used by local potters on this island famed for handcrafted pottery.

Lombok has a long tradition of potterymaking and Lombok pottery has been sold and exported around the world for many years.

Villages such as Penakak near Masbagik, in East Lombok, Penujak (Central Lombok) and Banyumulek (West Lombok) are home to hundreds of traditional potters whose skills have been preserved for generations.

Continued on Page 22

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Tourism Information

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

Senggigi Bay by Simon Mammino

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like a giant pyramid floating in the ocean.

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

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

The main road in Senggigi is lined with small attractive hotels catering to all budgets, shops, tour agencies, restaurants, bars and nightclubs; many of which have live music in the evenings. There are a couple of supermarkets, numerous ATM’s and moneychangers, a post office and all the normal tourist facilities.

Senggigi is a relaxing and attractive place to stay, with a good range of luxury hotels and resorts, as well as mid-range and budget accommodations.

Tourism development runs north along the coastal road for about 10 km, with many hotels and restaurants positioned along the beautiful beaches that line the entire west coast.

About 2 km north of central Senggigi Kerandangan Valley has a popular beach nearby and some small boutique hotels, such as Puri Mas Spa Resort and Villa Campi Sorga, situated in a pretty valley.

Kerandangan Beach

Dream Estate Park comprises private villa accommodation for owners and investors, and has villas available for short and long term rental in a secure, well-managed estate.

At the end of the road through Kerandangan Valley is the Taman Wisata Alam – Kerandangan Nature Reserve – with clearly marked hiking paths leading through the rain forest along the river.

There is a small Ranger’s hut and visitors centre near the entrance, and picnic areas with basic concrete tables along the paths.

The park boasts a small waterfall, pretty river scenery, families of local monkeys, and a variety of tropical plants and birdlife.

Further north, Mangsit has developed as an accommodation alternative to Senggigi, with boutique style hotels positioned along the breathtaking beaches of this section of coast. The popular Qunci Villas, Puri Mas Beach Resort, Windy Beach Resort and Holiday Resort Lombok are located in Mangsit.

Furthest north are Klui and Lendang Luar, with two hotels – Jeeva Klui and Hotel Bulan Baru – and long stretches of pristine beaches.

Mainly deserted white sand beaches, flanked by coconut groves and untouched by hotel development, continue all the way north along the main coastal road.

Malimbu and Nipah are two picturesque bays less than half an hour from Senggigi, which are good for snorkelling, swimming and getting away from it all.

Teluk Nara and Teluk Kodek are on a large bay that forms a natural harbour, about 25 kms north of Senggigi. All the main dive operators have boats here, which transfer guests to the Gili islands, as an alternative to nearby Bangsal Harbour.

Bangsal Harbour, less than 5km further north, is reached by turning left at the crossroads in Pemenang and from there it is easy to catch the public ferries (actually large outrigger boats) out to the Gilis, or to charter boats for island hopping.

Whether you are seeking luxury accommodation at a top resort with fine dining and spa facilities, or a budget holiday with days spent exploring – or all the choices in between – Senggigi caters for all tastes and budgets.

From Senggigi, it’s easy to explore the attractions of the stunning south coast or to hop on a boat to the famous Gili islands lying just offshore. Swim, snorkel, dive, hike, lie in the sun, have a massage, eat and drink at some of the great restaurants and bars in town; or just take a break and be enchanted by the peace and beauty of Lombok.

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Senggigi Map

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The Beach Club Beach Bungalows, Bar & Café

Whole BBQ chickens take away Rp 70 000

TWO PERFECT BEACH LOCATIONS IN LOMBOK! Senggigi - Comfortable beach front bungalows with AC, hot water, dvd, satellite TV, private balcony and swimming pool. 5 minutes walk from Senggigi!

Gili Air - Comfortable Bungalows with AC, Fresh Hot Water Showers, Balcony and Day Bed with views of Gili’s fantastic white sandy beaches – perfect for snorkelling – just steps from your room!

The Beach Club Senggigi

Deluxe Beach Bungalows & Standard Rooms

The Beach Club Gili Air

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

www.thebeachclublombok.com

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ITH NOW W IN R A MAND S! N O S S LE

Our students are our best advertisers!

International and Indonesian curriculum: SD, SMP, SMA and IGCSE’s to A levels Kurikulum Internasional dan Indonesia SD, SMP, SMA and CIE hingga A Level Bilingual English and Indonesian language Menggunakan dwibahasa yaitu Bahasa Inggris dan Indonesia Native English speaking teachers and Indonesian teachers in every class Guru-guru asing dan Indonesia setiap kelas International standard facilities

Fasilitas berstandar internasional Expatriate and Indonesian students welcome Kami menerima murid-murid ekspatriat dan Indonesia Maximum 20 students per class Maksimum 20 murid per kelas We develop subject knowledge and understanding, thinking and communications skills in fun and engaging ways Kurikulum yang mengembangkan pengetahuan dan pemahaman, kemampuan berpikir dan berkomunikasi melalui cara yang menarik serta menyenangkan

Jl Pantai Meninting, 83355, Lombok | Ph 0370 647 514 | Email: nusaalam@yahoo.com | www.nusaalam.com

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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 As reported in Issue 110 of The Lombok Guide, the Department of Transport has reduced the size of the DAMRI buses operating out of Lombok International Airport.

The Department has replaced the 40-seat passenger buses with smaller units carrying a maximum of 27 passengers on all of its airport transfer routes.

The move is the result of strikes by airport taxi drivers that took place in February this year, when taxi drivers licensed to operate out of the airport stopped work and staged a series of demonstrations, demanding an end to the DAMRI bus service – saying that the public bus transfer was costing them money in lost fares, with less passengers travelling from the airport by taxi.

An agreement to end the dispute was hammered out between representatives of the respective taxi companies, the Department of Transport, DAMRI reps and airport authorities on 11 February, with DAMRI agreeing to reduce the size of the buses

by April 2012.

DAMRI now operate eight of the medium-sized buses on the route between the airport, Mataram city and Senggigi, with departures from the airport every hour until the last flight arrival at night. All buses have comfortable seats and air conditioning.

Fares remain the same as previously, ie: to and from Mataram: Rp 15,000 p/p, and to and from Senggigi: Rp 25,000 p/p (one way). The service from Senggigi to the airport operates from 7am until 5pm every day.

What’s Hot! The Head of Department of Transportation (Dishubkominfo) NTB, H Ridwansyah, asserted that the public buses would not affect the operations of the taxis at the airport, as there was enough traffic to justify the service.

“Indeed, if the public in accordance with its load factor requires more services than the existing eight buses, the government will give the opportunity to DAMRI to increase the number of buses,” he told reporters on Thursday, 5 April.

State-owned oil and gas company Pertamina is sponsoring two important projects in Lombok this month.

The first, to take place on Friday, 13 April, will see the company organise the planting of 1,000 trees at Lombok International Airport.

The project is part of the company’s “Pertamina Sobat Bumi” (Pertamina Friend of Earth) programme to plant 100 million trees throughout Indonesia by 2015. The aim of the programme is to reduce carbon emissions caused by deforestation and forest degradation in Indonesia.

Then, on Saturday, 14 April, representatives of the company will hold an inaugural ceremony to commence a coral restoration programme on Gili Trawangan.

Pertamina will sponsor the construction of a Biorock artificial reef to be anchored in the ocean offshore from Big Bubble Dive as part of its contribution toward the rehabilitation of coral reefs, working together with The Gili Eco Trust, Gili T dive companies and Gili authorities.

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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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Special Feature

KAMI SUKA…. XO SUKI! thin pastry), meats moulded around sticks of lemongrass or leeks, chicken and beef Bakso balls, fish balls, tofu with chicken filling, large juicy imported scallops, Tasmanian salmon, fresh King Prawns and much more. Fresh vegies are also in abundance, including imported bok choy, asparagus, broccoli, Enoki and Shiitake mushrooms, and more.

On a wet and windy night recently, four of us piled into a taxi in search of some real Chinese food to suit the weather. Inspired by the photos in their advertisements and good reports from friends, we headed for XO Suki in the city.

XO Suki is a popular Chinese-style restaurant chain with branches in Jakarta, Surabaya and Bali.

large screen televisions with karaoke facilities if required (for that very Asian fondness of singing after supper!) Rooms are soundproofed. The Function Hall is a separate ‘restaurant within a restaurant’ and comes complete with a stage for live music (PA available) and a small dance floor. This would be perfect for birthday parties and other private celebrations.

Their Lombok restaurant is on Jalan Selaparang, the main road in Cakra, and is on the right around 100m past the main traffic intersection. From the outside it looks like any large three-storey building but inside is a surprisingly modern and stylish restaurant.

The main dining floor is spacious with comfortable table settings spaced well apart. At the far end are display cabinets for all the fresh ingredients used in the Suki (more about that later!) One wall is taken up with aquariums in which fresh fish, lobsters and more await your selection and, ultimately, the cooking pot.

Off the main room and on the two upper floors are a number of rooms designated as VIP rooms. These are exclusive rooms for guests who wish to dine privately and are suitable for all sizes, from a couple or small group, through to larger groups in the upper rooms, and to up to 100 in the Function Hall.

Each room is spacious and set off from the others. Inside are comfortable seating areas, individual air conditioning and

Once everything has been selected, it’s back to the table where the hot pot is divided into two sections with a mild chicken stock in one side and a spicy, Thai-style soup similar to Tom Yam in the other side. Then it’s just a matter of selecting what you want to eat and plunging it into the simmering stock until it’s cooked. Lift out and enjoy!

Different condiments are provided to spice up the taste: tangy soy sauce with sliced chillies, fried and raw garlic, and a sweet and sour dipping sauce. This is a delicious style of eating, with each person being able to control what they eat and the flavour and spiciness of each dish.

Of course, there is also a full a la carte menu available with a variety of authentic and delicious dishes prepared by the Singaporean head chef.

Fortunately, none of us were interested in singing for our supper and we were happy to just relax back into the comfort of our VIP room where we could chat and laugh while sampling the food in private.

An attentive waitress was discreetly on hand to whisk away dirty plates and bring bottles of cold beer when required.

This is a great concept and the intimate atmosphere is similar to a having dinner party at home, without all the cooking and cleaning up.

But onto the food! Each table is set with a Lazy Susan, which makes sharing easy, and in the centre is a hot pot. The name Suki in the XO Suki actually refers to the Thai style of Suki, rather than Japanese Sukiyaki. Similar to Shabu-Shabu or Chinese Hot Pot, the pot is filled with tasty broth and kept simmering throughout the meal. Diners choose an assortment of foods to drop into the pot and cook at the table.

And what a selection of goodies there is!

The display cabinets at XO Suki are filled with small dishes containing all types of fish and seafood, chicken, beef and tofu snacks, as well as pangsit (wrapped in a

The selection is very large and includes fresh fish and seafood prepared in a number of different ways, chicken and beef dishes, noodles, soups and rice dishes of all varieties.

From the aquarium we selected a fresh Kerapu (Grouper), which was served in two different ways: steamed with vegetables and a Chinese style sauce, and fried with dipping sauces. The Crispy Skin Duck was prepared in the classic Chinese style; crispy skin, moist flesh and delicious.

A meal at XO Suki can be as cheap or as expensive as you wish. Obviously, if you are choosing live lobster, imported salmon and scallops, the price will mount up; as it can when selecting many small dishes for the Suki. The restaurant also has a very good selection of set-course meals ranging from Rp 288 000 for four people up to Rp 888 000 for ten people; making catering for groups easy.

XO Suki is a welcome addition to the city dining scene, where quality restaurants are still lacking. The VIP rooms, the classic décor, well-trained and professional staff – plus the excellent variety of foods – all combine to make this a “must visit” place.

Take your friends!

21

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

Special Feature

22

SOUTH AFRICA AND LOMBOK… A COOPERATIVE IN CLAY Continued from page 10

Hennie jumped at the chance to take part in a class held at SMKN5 School in Mataram.

The college is similar to a technical college in the west where students are taught skills that will enable them to find employment and have livelihoods in technical professions.

Hennie was surprised to find a well-equipped pottery studio at the college and a lot of eager young potters learning the craft. The students are participating in a three-year course in pottery and ceramics at SMIK. “I was really impressed with some of the techniques these guys were using and their creativity,” Hennie said. “Their work is really distinctive and quite sophisticated. I was also surprised to see that they had good equipment, such as electric pottery wheels and gas kilns.

This looks like a really good place for them to learn.”

The students, in turn, were happy to meet another ceramicist who had achieved the pinnacle of success in the industry and were delighted when he joined in making pieces with the local Lombok clay.

They were also eager to learn the different techniques that Hennie uses in creating sculptures and he was equally happy to share his ideas and skills with the group.

Hennie will return to Lombok in June to arrange the installation of further works to complete the unique displays that are featured at Qunci Villas and hopes to visit the college again, perhaps to pass on some more new ideas and tricks of the trade to Lombok’s budding artisans.

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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THE SUMMIT

Luxurious Villa perched at the very top of The Hill with 360 degree Panoramic Views 3 bedrooms each with private ensuite bathrooms Extensive living and entertaining areas, Bar, Designer Kitchen, and all mod cons Infinity Pool with magnificent Ocean and Mountain Views Available for short and long-term rental Bukit Batu Layar, Senggigi, Lombok | Phone: 081 33 99 00 754 | Website: www.holidayvillaslombok.com

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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 • 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

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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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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

TO SENGGIGI

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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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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Open 9am to 8pm, 7 Days a Week

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!

Open 7 days a week

Jl Raya Senggigi (30m from Asmara Restaurant)

Phone: 0370 693177

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30

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

Exotic Style Fashion - Bags - Accessories

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

For your gift choices to your family and friends when you back home from our island Phone: 0370 693 647 | Art Market, Jl Raya Senggigi, Lombok

Treasure Chest Gift Shop

RETAIL AND WHOLESALE

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

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

32

Blue Water Cruises

Local Scene

THE BOAT THAT ROCKED!

Text by Diane Somerton. Photos by Kayty Denham

where he had been studying music. With his soulful saxophone adding to the blues and jazz inspired music of the group, they started to travel further afield. That was 10 years ago; today they had flown from Australia to play for Britta and be a part of this special weekend.

Around sunset, Blue Water Cruises’ beautiful wooden sailing boat, Aliikai, set sail from Serangan Harbour in Bali. Cruising through the clear waters – accompanied by Tarik from Bali-based band Paramitsha on his Spanish acoustic guitar playing haunting gypsy melodies – over 30 guests from around the world headed to Gili Air for an overnight stay as they embarked on a 4-day trip; not to be forgotten.

By 5pm, the Aliikai was really rockin’ and Neil’s sandpaper and silk vocals went down as smoothly as the free flow bar. Rean joined the band for a mind-blowing solo rendition of “Colt 45” by Afro Man. The Aliikai was alive with talented and eclectic guests sharing their passion for music. As midnight approached, DJ Malik Lomax and Stevie G cranked up the volume and we partied on into the morning.

This second of “The Boat That Rocked” cruises for 2012 had a special meaning, as this voyage was also to celebrate the birthday of Blue Water Cruises owner and hostess, Britta Slippens.

After a leisurely breakfast, the Aliikai cruised to Gili Trawangan to pick up more guests and then proceeded to beautiful Mentigi Bay on Lombok to pick up the last group of revellers. Now the real fun began.

As we sailed south along the Lombok coast, Paramitsha serenaded us once again into the sunset. The Desert Radio Band, a mainly self-taught Australian band from Dunsborough in Western Australia who have earned success by supporting such popular artists as Angry Anderson, James Reyne, The Angels and Matt Taylor from Chain, played into the night.

Lead singer, Neil, and two of his school mates started off jamming in their garage and playing small pubs around their area. They added to their trio when ‘Johnny the Pom’ joined them from Queensland,

The Mari sailed alongside The Aliikai and provided a peaceful haven for those whose spirits were willing to party on ‘til daylight but whose bodies weren’t. Boat tenders ferried guests back and forth on demand.

As music floated across the water and stirred us from our sleep, we rose to a glorious sunny day and the stunning surroundings of the southwest Gilis – Gili Asahan, Gili Layar and Gili Ringgit.

We shuttled back to The Aliikai for a full cooked breakfast, followed by swimming, snorkelling, scuba diving and water skiing. Some just chose to spend the day lazing around reading, getting a massage or a henna tattoo, or chilling to some laid back sounds.

Later that day, we sailed back to Sengiggi and, after bidding farewell to some of the guests, the Aliikai headed back to Gili Trawangan and Gili Air for an early evening barbecue before setting sail for Bali.

33

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 Trawangan 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

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

Art Market Senggigi Lombok - +62 370 693694

www.dequake.com

35

The Studio

Bookings:

a natural touch of luxury The Hill - Bukit Batu Layar - Senggigi

thestudio.lombok@gmail.com

Anna’s

http://the-studio-lombok.page4.me/

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

Mr Fixer

36 were worshiped as gods. Cats have never forgotten this…

Get a grip! Get a vet! Get them doctored or find a responsible cat lover like yourself to take a few of them off your hands!

Tongue-in-cheek answers to your QUESTION: As a regular holiday tourist personal and building to Lombok, I am appalled at the amount of problems rubbish that seems to accumulate in the streets and rivers.

QUESTION: I am now a single lady animal lover who came to the idyllic shores of Lombok to relax and take some time out for myself for a change. My husband said it was him or the cats. I do miss him sometimes.

I have rented a small villa with a garden and fruit trees. One day a stray cat just arrived and moved right in. The next thing I knew she had 6 kittens. Such delightful creatures, I could hardly turn them away.

Then a dog arrived and he just stayed there at the gate. I couldn’t help but feel sorry for him, so I fed him some scraps. He was so grateful and he has moved right in as well.

The kittens have grown up now and at least one of them is going to have kittens of her own. It is getting out of hand and I don’t know what to do.

MR FIXER: Time spent with cats is never wasted. Dogs have masters, cats have slaves. Dogs come when they are called.

Cats take a message and get back to you later. Thousands of years ago, cats

Just the other day, I was driving down the road and food wrappers and banana skins came flying out of the windows of the car in front of me.

Plastic bags are supplied with everything these days and only end up gathering in gutters causing rats and other vermin to spread disease. Local burning of plastic rubbish is just as dangerous, as it introduces toxic dioxins into the air we all have to breathe. This kind of selfish behavior just makes my blood boil.

I sincerely hope the authorities don’t make the same mistake as Bali and allow this situation to continue and ruin the booming tourism industry in Lombok, after so much effort has been made to get it back to where it is now set to rocket.

MR FIXER: Efforts are being made. A nice new yellow rubbish bin just appeared out of nowhere outside the Santosa Resort in the last few weeks. If it gets emptied often enough, it might help. Efforts are also being made by entrepreneurs who are going around to schools teaching citizens of the future about the benefits of proper rubbish separation and disposal.

The kids get a free lunch and drink and are taught that the cardboard box that the lunch arrived in goes in a special bin for cardboard, the leftover food goes in the special compost bin and the plastic drink bottle gets separated for recycling.

The nice people who supply the freebies are doing so with their own money.

If the rubbish gets to be too much, you could take some back to Europe in your suitcase. Every little helps!

QUESTION: I have recently met a nice tourist from Scotland near England land who says he wants to marry me.

We enjoy romantic meals in the many new restaurants in the holiday town of Senggigi and nights out in the Happy Café where he can get his sinuses cleared for free.

However, my new boyfriend is a bit weird.

He likes to watch porno movies backwards.

He says he likes the bit where the lady gives the money back. He says it is erotic. I think it is kinky. What’s the difference?

MR FIXER: Erotic is where you use a feather. Kinky is where you use the whole chicken! Hope this helps…

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.

37

[ 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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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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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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41

Individual and Group Pearl Farm Tours Pearl and Jewellery Showroom Private viewings welcome

Showroom and CafĂŠ Open Daily

PT Autore Pearl Culture, Teluk Nara, Malaka, Lombok Phone: +62 370 6844 895 / 0813 3992 0020 | Email: pearlfarm@pearlautore.com.au

Local News

42

BEWARE THE TOM CAT BITE! corticosteroid creams for extreme symptoms.

The heavy rains during monsoon season bring out all types of tropical bugs and insects. The latest scourge to surge across Indonesia is the Rove Beetle, locally known as Tomcat.

extracts is also effective.

From personal experience, we have also found that a local traditional oil – Minyak Tawon - containing natural plant

Bottles of the oil are available cheaply at small stores and supermarkets locally.

Apply to the skin regularly to control itching and dry out the blisters.

The nasty critters have been causing havoc Children can suffer extreme reactions in Java recently and are now being found to the toxin, with high fever and itching in Lombok and Bali. rashes. Professional medical advice is recommended.

Less than 1cm in size, the tomcat is a poisonous insect that looks similar to an ant but has a longer body decorated with orange and black stripes.

The Rove Beetle (paederus littoralis) is also known as semut semai or semut kayap in Indonesia but the popular name is tomcat, probably because it is shaped like F-14 Tomcat fighter plane.

The tomcat toxin is said to be 12 times more dangerous than the poison of cobra snake.

When threatened, the tomcat raises its abdomen in the manner of a scorpion. Its toxin or haemolymph fluid is released automatically when it touches human skin.

The toxin, paederin, can cause serious inflammation or dermatitis. Blisters form 24 to 48 hours after contact with the skin and spread rapidly. Scratching or bursting the blisters spreads the rash further.

Tomcats are not naturally aggressive and do not bite, but the toxin can be released by brushing against the insect if it lands on your skin, or by accidentally crushing it.

Those who do come into contact with the bugs are advised to thoroughly wash the bites with mild soap, rinse the affected skin under flowing water and apply an antiseptic solution such as Betadine. A cold compress can help prevent blisters from spreading.

Recommended treatment for the rashes includes salves containing antibiotics such as tetracycline or chloramphenicol, or

Tomcats commonly live in rice fields, forests and areas of high humidity and are a favourite of farmers, as they feed on grasshoppers and caterpillars, which can destroy crops.

The explosion in the tomcat population this year has apparently been caused by heavy rains and the destruction of the insect’s natural habitat, forcing them to invade human settlements, particularly those near rice fields or bushy areas.

The tomcat is attracted to light, which may also explain why they are entering houses.

Most attacks occur at night so be alert if you are sitting outside under a light, and remember to check bedding before sleeping. A couple of tomcats in your bed can cause weeks of misery.

Researchers say that the infestation should die down in late April at the beginning of the dry season.

NTB INAUGURATES TERRORISM PREVENTION FORUM A new organisation aimed specifically at preventing terrorism activities was inaugurated in Mataram on 4 April, 2012.

The Terrorism Prevention Coordination Forum (FKPT) brings together government authorities, teachers, religious and other community leaders to work in synergy, rather than placing the responsibility for identifying and combating terrorism solely on government shoulders.

The forum is made up of military and police leaders, community and religious leaders, youth group leaders, students, academics, the Chairman of the Indonesian Ulema Council NTB and Muslim boarding school leadership, among others.

The Forum for Combating Terrorism in the NTB is the first of 15 regional areas planned for the establishment of such forums across Indonesia.

Deputy Head of the National Agency for Combating Terrorism Prevention (BNPT) Major Gen Agus SB, said that the task of terrorism prevention should exist everywhere, even in the development and dissemination of programmes within the community and at schools as a necessary step in prevention.

“Anything that endangers public order we will approach in the region,” he told reporters. “The agreement is to ensure that NTB is free of terrorism.”

The strategy of the government in dealing with terrorism until now has been aimed at the prevention of action and response to threats, whereas the task of the forum is to identify radical elements and seek to prevent terrorism at the root.

Speaking at the first meeting, NTB Governor, M Zainul Majdi, said that the establishment of the forum in NTB was not because the area is prone to terrorism but there was a need to be aware of the deviation of Islamic teachings by radicals.

The forum will link Lombok and Sumbawa to the FKPT anti-terrorism network across the country.

“This is for our mutual benefit and will make NTB even better,” he said.

43

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

44

PALM BEACH... Magnificent Land and Property for Sale

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!

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.

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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46

The Gandari

The Gandari Villa Residence complex, Lombok, is currently under development and consists of 3 luxurious Villas. Each of the 2-storey Villas features 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, a kitchen, a store-room, a dining room and a maid’s quarter. The splendor of the Villa extends to a balcony and terrace with a swimming pool, outdoor shower, Bale (Berugak), a fish pond and covered car park. The superior craftsmanship, quality of building materials and design speaks for itself and can be viewed at any time.

Each Villa is nestled in its own compound with a size of 600sqm and a separate main entrance and an entrance from the covered car park.

The Villas have been uniquely designed and feature a Master Bedroom on the ground floor with direct access to the swimming pool. In addition, this bedroom also has a walk-in wardrobe and an indoor and outdoor shower.

The kitchen has an adjacent store-room with a separate access to deliver goods through a separate entrance, leaving the main entrance to the living room for guests. It is centrally located and offers easy access to serve dinners in the dining area or living room.

The dining room is designed as part of the gardens, covered by a roof, but can be enclosed with open folding doors and is air-conditioned as a part of the indoor area.

A very unique feature is the open ceiling of the living area; from the ground floor to the first floor, into a gallery with an open study. The study has direct access to a cozy covered balcony and also another balcony leading directly down to the pool and garden.

Both upper bedrooms have an individual bathroom and through the gallery, direct access via a outdoor staircase to the pool and garden.

The complex houses a maid’s quarter as well as an area for an emergency generator.

The Gandari Villa Residence complex features individual road access for each villa and offers, at an extra monthly charge, security, gardening, pool and Villa maintenance services to ensure optimal comfort and convenience for owners.

www.gandari.com

47

Villa Residence

PRICE: ONLY US$ 645,000 PER VILLA (B, C, D) Down payment 50%, Upon 50% completion another 40% and 10% before handover. * The above price excludes VAT according to government regulations.

VILLA INCLUSIONS: - Hak Milik Land certificate - Road use certificate - PLN (Electricity connection) - PDAM (City water connection) - Aircon Split Unit in the 3 bedrooms - STP Sewage treatment system - Administration cost (Notary)

- Built-in Kitchen with Oven (Gas), Fridge, Exhaust & Dishwasher - Bathroom fixtures and bathtub - Phone (Landline) - Proper Architectural design and planning documents

OPTIONS AT EXTRA CHARGE: - Power Generator - Deep Water Well - Loose furniture and interior design, furniture/curtains - Burglar alarm system - Air condition for Living room - Intercom (phone system to all bedrooms and living areas) - WIFI and internet connection through Speedy - Separate air condition split unit for the dining area ADDITIONAL SERVICE OPTIONS AT EXTRA CHARGE: - Security, gardening and maintenance service at a fee - We can take care of the service for a fee, if the owner wishes to rent the Villa, we can assist through dedicated agents and arrange housekeeping and service staff for guests LEGAL DOCUMENTS AND OWNERSHIP : The land certificates are all Hak Milik – which means that the land with the villa will be owned by the purchaser and not leased. As an Indonesian citizen you can own the land and Villa personally, while as a foreigner you will need to use a “nominee” which is a common practice as foreigners cannot own land in Indonesia.

Our legal consultant will be happy to brief anyone on the Indonesian regulations and will professionally handle all necessary documents and legal requirements.

www.gandari.com

Please contact: Putu Anggreni Beck The Gandari Villa Residence Jalan Raya Senggigi, Duduk Garden No.6, Batu Bolong, Lombok 83355, Indonesia Phone: +62 370 619 4273 Fax: +62 370 619 4123 HP: +62 815 5810 0450 or +62 821 4777 7705 (English & Indonesian speaking) email: reni@gandari.com / info@gandari.com

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

49

SEA VIEW BUILDING PLOT (1,500m2) AFFORDABLE PLOTS (1,000m2) Flat and ready to build with unobstructed views to Bali.

2 sloping terraces with dramatic panoramic sea views of Water and electricity already on site. Excellent road access with Senggigi reef and Bali sunset views. Excellent private road access. private entrance. IDR 80 million per are. USD 133,000 approx Water / electricity available. IDR 55 million per are . USD 60,500

LARGE SUB-DIVIDABLE PLOT (4,160m2) With stunning sunset views of Bali and the ocean. Private access from main road. Almost flat land. Water and electricity available. IDR 55 million per are (USD 251,000 approx)

READY TO BUILD (2,350m2) Lush location. Gentle sloping land with stunning Bali and sea views.

Water and electricity available. Excellent immediate main road access. ONLY IDR 55 million per are (USD 142,000 approx)

SMALL BUILDING PLOT (810m2) With unobstructed sea views. Excellent immediate private road access. Water and electricity available. Affordable plot with a million dollar view. IDR 70 million per are. USD 63,000 approx

LUXURY VILLA COMPLEX 5 Double A/C bedrooms with H/W showers. 3 kitchens. Sleeps 12 guests. Spiral staircase. Shared salt chlorine pool. Driveway entrance, landscaped gardens. 3 villas for ONLY USD 389,000

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

www.lombokpropertyandvillas.com

Discount Vouchers

50

Nyoman Transport

IMMIGRATION SERVICE

Safe and professional English-speaking driver with comfortable air conditioned car (seats 5 - 6).

Private airport transfers or airport to Kuta, Mataram, Senggigi, Gilis, etc Available for private charter and Lombok tours.

Competitive rates and friendly service!

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

Phone: 0819 1701 3714 Email: nyoman.mance@yahoo.co.id

Professional Massage Call-out Service

Enjoy a professional massage or body treatment in the comfort of your home or villa.

Experienced and trained masseur offers massage (traditional, aromatherapy, deep tissue), reflexology, shiatsu and Thai massage.

Intro offer: 1.5 hours for just Rp 100,000

VOA Extensions up to 60 days For free information and advice contact:

DAMSIAH

Phone: 0878 6487 1113

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

Strictly professional massage - no extras please

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

Present this coupon or quote “Lionfish” for either:

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 16 - 30 April 2012

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

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

Valid 16 - 30 April 2012

10% Discount on all diving activities

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 a min 2 people – Not in addition to any other promotions or discount offers

SECRET ISLAND RESORT Gili Gede, Southwest Lombok Valid 16 - 30 April 2012

Valid 16 - 30 April 2012

10% Discount on Fun Dives

“3 Day Package Deal” Standard Double Room + 2 breakfast, + free use of double Kayak, Rp 400.000 On presentation of this coupon Phone: 0818 0376 2001 secretislandresort@xl.blackberry.com | www.secretislandresort.com

Pasar Classifieds

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PASAR CLASSIFIEDS JOB VACANCY

Looking for man/woman chef, cook, receptionist, engineer, house keeper / room boy, waiter / waitress, bartender, driver & accounting.

Requirements: Experienced in the field, honest, hard working, responsible, friendly and good looking, min SMA / SMK / STM, good at communicating, good in English (speaking & writing), max 30 years old.

Please send your CV at the latest 30 April 2012 to:

Housekeeper and gardener needed to look after private villa on Bukit Batu Layar. Free accommodation on site (fully furnished 2-bedroom house), water/electricity paid, fuel allowance. Need to be able to provide highest standard, and discretion as well as show professionalism and pride in the job

Contact: 0819 3317 2356 PT MULTIGRAHA KELOLAVALAS Authorized Money Changer Pedagang Valuta Asing Berijin

The Best Rate in Lombok !

d’Oria Boutique Resort Lombok

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

FOR SALE

GOLF PLAYERS WANTED

Jl. Raya Senggigi, Lendang Luar Email: iva.usman@yahoo.co.id.

Phone: 0878 5579 8979

Kuta, 92 are hill ocean view, 15 are, 2 are, 9 are beachside.

Sekotong, 5 hectar

Phone: 081 9999 15775

CAR FOR SALE

Daihatsu Hiline GC Heavy duty front bumper. New tires, replaced part list to long to list. Owner mechanic, turn key.

0819 3316 5752

GILI TRAWANGAN LAND FOR SALE 48 are Beachfront at Paradise Beach (South) Great sunset views Rp 200 million per are Ph Made: 0812 382 6262

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 11140 (Jim) | www.golf-lombok.com

VILLA FOR SALE

Furnished 1-bedroom villa with big tropical garden, swimming pool, fishpond on 10 are (1000m2) It is located in Sandik near Singgigi about 10 minutes from the beach.

Price Rp 750 juta (Euro 62.500)

Phone: 0813 9249 6568

LAND FOR SALE

Located in Setangi, 1,8 hectare, road and electricity access available, 5 minutes to the beach.

Freehold certificate.

Contact 081 836 0415

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BONITA LOMBOK Land Investigator and Villa Explorer Find Beautiful Rural Land Direcly From The Owner

Discount Hotel Accommodations Luxury Villa Rentals Guaranteed Land Investment P: +62 361 4731918 / +62 817 975 5656 F: +62 361 4731918 / E: Invest@Bonitabali.com

WWW.BONITABALI.COM WWW.BONITALOMBOK.COM

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

55

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

w

And No

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

1st Floor

Live Music 7pm: Friday, Saturday & Sunday 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

58

The Cities

The Cities

59

The Cities

60

International Standards at Local Prices

New handicraft items available!

Berugaq coasters and miniature berugaqs!

50% discount on gift packs for a limited time!

Jl. Adi Sucipto, KP Griya Ellen Indah (Between the old airport & Kebun Roek Market in Ampenan) | Ph: 0370 616-2667

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

Open Monday - Saturday: 8am – 8pm Sunday: 8am – 7pm

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

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Speechless Beauty...

Sublime Surf • Safe Swimming • Clean, Secure Bungalows • Panoramic Cafe / Restaurant • Delicious Sasak Curries & Apres Surf Munchies • Big Hearted Locals and South Serenity • Only 8km From Kuta

www.aregoling.com

Jalan Kuta, Mawun, Lombok | Ph: +62 (0) 8175 739 322 / +61 414 878 645 | E: info@aregoling.com

62

The Southwest

63

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

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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The Southwest

65

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 63

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

67

Distribution

68

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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, 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, Sekolah Nusa Alam, 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, Holiday Resort, Kafe Foto, Kebun Villas, Lombok Property & Villas, Lombok Real Estate, 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, 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, Ombak Sunset, Queen Villas & Spa, 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, Didik Hariadi, 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.

Kuta and The South Coast

69

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Kuta and The South Coast

Kuta and The South Coast

71

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

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Kuta and The South Coast

Kuta and The South Coast

73

Continued from Page 71

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

Kuta and The South Coast

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75

Tourism Information

76

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 79

The Gili Islands

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The Gili Islands

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The Gili Islands

The Gili Islands Pearls

79

in The Ocean

Continued from Page 76

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

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.

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The Gili Islands

80

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

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The Gili Islands

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The Gili Islands

Tourism Information

GETTING TO THE GILIS

83

The Gilis are easily reached from Bali via the numerous fast boat services now operating between Bali and Gili Trawangan. Alternatively, you can fly to Lombok and travel across to the Gilis.

Fast Boats: With Lombok’s airport now based further away in central Lombok, the fast boat services are a popular option, providing fast and easy transfers between Bali to Gili Trawangan.

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 Cat departs Padang Bai Harbour on 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: +62 361 271680. www.gilicat.com

as described below. Tour companies and dive operators in Senggigi also provide transfers daily.

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 and many businesses on the Gilis 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 (including fast speed boats) out to the islands with 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.

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: +62 361 723 479. www.bwsbali.com Gili 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: +62 361 751570 / 726 523; or Bali: +62 819 1673 3051; Gili T: +62 878 6432 2515. www.island-getaway.com

By Plane: Fly to Lombok and either stay on the mainland before making a trip out to the Gilis or travel to Senggigi (1 hour 15 minutes) to arrange transport to the Gilis. There are many different options,

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. www.bluewatercruises.com.

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

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

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

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

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

Ignore people who tell you that there are no return public transfers… there are; or that there is no water, mosquito repellent, etc., on the islands. All the essentials are readily available at shops on all three islands. Bangsal is a pretty area; it’s a shame some of the touts try to ruin it for everyone.

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

The attached Salero Minang restaurant serves delicious Minang meals and the friendly owners can help with everything from vehicle hire to travel information and laundry services.

FROM SENGGIGI: You can charter local outrigger boats from the beachfront in Senggigi (in front of the Art Markets). The trip out to the islands takes around one and a half hours.

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

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

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

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The Gili Islands

The Gili Islands

85

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

86

The Gili Islands

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.

Private terraces with Hammocks, hot water, western bathrooms, TV & DVD, AC, Safety box, 24hr security and shady tropical gardens.

Bali, Lombok & Gilis Transfers Available

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

www.pesonaresort.com

Tourism Information

87

GILI ISLANDS FAST FACTS Gili Trawangan by Didiek Hariadi

There are numerous fast boat services operating between Bali and the Gilis. In good weather, fast boats can make the crossing in around 80 minutes but in heavy seas the trip can take two hours or more.

Make sure you choose a reputable company who care about passenger comfort and safety, rather than “pack them in and profit”. Check weather conditions before going – the Lombok Strait is one of the deepest bodies of water in the world and seas can get very rough, with waves up to 5 metres in bad weather. Refuse to board overloaded boats.

It is also possible to fly to Lombok and transfer to the Gilis from the mainland. See “Getting to Lombok” and “Getting to the Gilis” sections for details.

Electricity on all three Gilis is supplied by generators and blackouts are sometimes a problem. Many places have their own emergency generators but the smaller businesses may rely on candles and lanterns when the power goes out.

Water is a scarce resource on the islands and fresh water is shipped from the mainland daily. A business on Gili T now supplies desalinated water and fresh water showers are becoming common. However, smaller hotels and home-stays may only

provide salt water showers. Use bottled water to rinse off.

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

Internet is available on the Gilis at internet cafés and most larger hotels and restaurants. Connections can be intermittent and speeds are generally slow.

ATM machines are available on Gili Trawangan and Gili Air. Credit cards are accepted at most dive shops and larger hotels and restaurants. Money changers are available on all the islands, although the rate is lower than on Lombok.

Health services on the islands are limited.

There is a 24-hour Clinic at Hotel Vila Ombak on Gili T, and small local clinics on Gili Meno and Air. Dive shop staff have emergency first aid training and basic medical supplies but for anything serious, get to the mainland as fast as possible.

Weather is generally hotter on the islands than mainland Lombok. Make sure you drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and use sun protection, even on cloudy days.

There is no motorised transport on any of the islands. Walk, ride a bicycle or ride in a cidomo (local horse cart). None of

the islands is very large, so walking is an easy option. Bicycles can be hired for between Rp 25,000 and Rp 50,000 per day, depending on the type and condition of the bike. Some hotels provide bikes free of charge for guests.

Cidomo fares are now fixed by law and fares are displayed in the front of the cart.

Generally, short distances will cost around Rp 40,000; a round-the-island tour costs Rp 125,000 on Gili T. Dress is casual on the islands and it is normal to see tourists walking around in swimsuits, sarongs and shorts. Remember that the islands’ residents are Muslim and nude or topless sunbathing is frowned upon. Please respect island sensibilities and keep clothes on!

Mosquitoes can sometimes be a problem, especially during rainy season. DEET repellents are the best protection and local products such as “Autan” and “OFF!” are relatively cheap and readily available in the shops.

The Gili Eco Trust (GET) is a non-profit organisation based on Gili T that works to protect and conserve the environment.

GET activities include reef conservation, resource management, waste management and education programmes, to name a few. To date, the Eco Trust has installed 63 Bio Rock structures around the islands. The metal frame structures create artificial reefs using low voltage current to promote new coral growth and provide homes for schools of fish and reef creatures.

The Eco Trust raises funds for its programmes through an Eco-tax of Rp 50,000 collected from divers on the islands.

Clean-up days, to collect rubbish from the beach and sea, take place on the first Friday of every month on Gili T. Register at Gili T dive shops and join in the fun!

To find out more about Eco-projects and to support GET programmes, visit: www.giliecotrust.com

The Gili Islands

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The Beach House on Gili Trawangan is an innovative and contemporary resort set amidst tropical gardens, facing the sparkling turquoise waters of the Lombok Straits.

Accommodation choices include a range of private villas, each with their own freshwater pools. Pool suites sharing a freshwater plunge pool, and 12 bungalows set in tropical gardens.

The Beach House provides a range of facilities, including a beachfront freshwater resort pool and bar, and a beachside bar and restaurant serving international cuisine.

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

www.beachhousegilit.com

Gili Bytes

89 too, so if you want to get your island cat done, or just want more information on the Trust, that’s a good place to start.

The other thing I love about sitting here is the feeling of the sun beating down on me. Since the start of April we have had sunshine every day. There has been the odd spot of rain but it really feels like the rainy season is reaching an end now.

GILI AIR

The next thing to do is come and visit our new additions. Our shop cat, Bones, (named because she was so skinny when she first arrived – she isn’t now) has had four lovely cute kittens. All four are girls and look like carbon copies of their mother.

We also have one tabby boy kitten. He’s very noisy. He was abandoned by his mother, so we rescued him and persuaded Bones to adopt him. If you have read this column before, I’m sure you’ll know I’m not a fan of roosters and I’ve already started showing the kittens pictures of roosters so they’ll hate them too (not really)!

The cute little things really need a home.

We’re happy to have them around the shop but loving homes would be most welcome.

Divine Divers have already stepped up and said they’ll take the noisy boy. Please contact me if you can offer the little girls a safe home.

Gili Eco Trust, which does some great work on the islands, has said that they are arranging for a vet to visit here over the next few months and we’re going to get Bones, and any other cats we can find, neutered. The Trust has a Facebook page,

Then you could spend another couple of days back on Gili Air to recover, maybe taking day trips to the other two Gilis or one of the many day tours to see the sights on Lombok.

After that, if you still have time, you could travel on a live-aboard to Komodo; dive, see the dragons and some spectacular scenery.

I am sitting in my favourite place on the island – on the steps of Karang Divers shop. It’s a lovely spot. I can look out over the sea and have, pretty much, an uninterrupted view over to Bali.

If you’re walking past Villa Karang, where we’re based, you will first notice the huge, new pizza oven that is almost finished and then see if I’m on the step. If I am, call me and you can see how surprised I look when a stranger knows my name.

I think you could quite easily fill three or four weeks around the Gilis and Lombok.

You could come to Gili Air, spend a few days settling in, relaxing and diving, of course. Then you could pop over to Lombok and perhaps climb Indonesia’s second largest volcano, Mt Rinjani.

I think a live-aboard experience around Komodo would be a pretty magical experience. The diving off Komodo is different to the Gilis: there is much more current around the national park than here.

I think a sure sign that the weather is improving for good is the appearance of a number of live-aboard boats in the harbour. Many look like posh pirate ships although, as yet, I haven’t seen any flying a skull and crossbones on the mast.

Some of these ships take people on cruises around Lombok. Perhaps the most fun are those that take divers to Komodo. There is an excellent trip that takes eight days, allowing divers to do a minimum of fifteen dives. The nice thing about a live-aboard is that you get to visit dive sites that you would generally not get to see on standard day trip.

If the idea of staying on board a ship doesn’t appeal, the selection of accommodation on Gili Air is growing all the time.

I wasn’t here this time last year but I have heard that there was a shortage of accommodation on this tiny island back then. Now everyone seems to be adding to their bungalow options and that is a good thing for when the high season arrives.

Walking around the island a lot of building work is coming along nicely. The Beach Club in Tourist Town is really taking shape and should be ready to open soon.

Work around Seven Seas is progressing; they will have a fancy new reception area.

Ocean’s Five are building new bungalows and a restaurant.

Plus, in perhaps the quietest place on the island (if you’re not there on Wednesday nights when the nearby bars party into the night), Bintang Beach have three new bungalows going up.

My suggestion would be to dive the Gilis first, as I think it would pay any diver to enjoy dives around these quieter islands, almost like limbering up for the more strenuous dives you can have off Komodo.

Plus, dives around the Gilis are excellent.

Halik is still my favourite dive site at the moment. It’s certainly the most reliable and allows divers to see pretty much everything on offer around these islands.

On my dive today I saw a couple of black tip reef sharks, six huge bump-head parrot fish and a giant moray, plus schools of unicorn fish and a bunch of turtles.

There aren’t too many places you can dive in the world that offer the diversity that you find around these shores.

Whatever you do in this wonderful part of the world, have fun!

“Exotic Charm, Modern Comfort”

Gili Trawangan, Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia P. +62 370 6141 575 F. +62 370 6141 585 M. +62 811 39 06 76 ddb@desaduniabeda.com www.desaduniabeda.com

Barefoot Luxury in the Gilis

It’s time to come and stay with us at the most exotic beach resort.

A perfect occasion ......

A splendid idea ......

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The Gili Islands

Tourism Information

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The Gili Islands