The Lombok Guide issue 133

The

Issue 133 | 21 January – 4 February 2013

FREE COPY

LOMBOK GUIDE ( 0370 6594005 | www.thelombokguide.com

PUBLISHED BI-WEEKLY IN LOMBOK, FOR LOMBOK

REBO BUNTUNG… Warding Off Bad Luck

DON’T DIE FROM A DRINK

METHANOL POISONING ALERT!

AIRASIA TO INCREASE FLIGHT FREQUENCIES

Page 10 & 16

Page 18

Page 24, 38 & 44

Page 40

IN THIS ISSUE Getting to Lombok

Page 2

Attractions & Actitvities

Page 4/8

Lombok Map

Page 6

Special Feature Page 10/16 Senggigi

Page 12

Senggigi Map

Page 14

What’s Hot / Local News

Page 18

Special Report

Page 24/38/44

Local Scene

Page 26

Mr. Fixer

Page 36

Local News

Page 40

In Good Taste

Page 41

Land & Property

Page 45-51

The Cities

Page 56-63

Cities Map

Page 58

The Southwest

Page 64-66

Distribution

Page 67

Kuta & The South Coast

Page 68-75

South Coast Map

Page 75

Classifieds

Page 76-77

Discount Vouchers

Page 77

The Gilis

Page 78-96

The Beach Club

Beach Bungalows Page 15

COLOURFUL LOMBOK! In this issue we feature Rebo Buntung – one of the traditional rituals of the native Sasak people of Lombok.

We are constantly being amazed at the rich and diverse culture of our island – whether it be traditional Sasak rituals, drama and music, or the colourful festivals of our Hindu, Arab and Chinese communities. Visit us soon... there is so much to see in fascinating, colourful Lombok!

To find out more, pick up a copy of The Lombok Guide from the locations listed on page 67 or visit www.thelombokguide.com and discover the magic of Lombok for yourself…

Gilis Fast Facts Page 81 Getting to the Gilis

Page 83

Gilis Map

Page 95

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

+62 (0) 370 614 2352 | reservation@beachhousegilit.com | www.beachhousegilit.com

Tourism Information

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GETTING TO LOMBOK

GETTING TO LOMBOK

Garuda Airlines flies between Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia and Lombok every day, with a short stop-over in Jakarta.

It’s easy to get to Lombok from Bali – flight time is only 25 minutes Call Centre: 0 80 418 07807. Airport: +62 370 649100. and fares start from around Rp 300,000 (approx. US $33) one way. www.garuda-indonesia.com Buy tickets direct from the airline counters at the domestic airports, DOMESTIC FLIGHTS or contact local travel agents, in both Bali and Lombok.

European connections are easy via Jakarta (the capital city of Lombok International Airport (or Bandara Internasional Lombok, Java) or Bali. Direct flights from Jakarta to Lombok are available commonly abbreviated to BIL) is the only airport on Lombok. The every day and are usually timed to connect with European flights. airport is close to Praya (Central Lombok); approximately 40km Lombok is easily accessible from Jakarta, Bali, Jogjakarta and south of the city of Mataram, and around 1 ½ hours’ drive from Surabaya and is an important connection for travel to the eastern Senggigi, and 25 minutes from Kuta. islands, in particular Sumbawa, Komodo and Flores.

Airport departure tax is Rp 25,000 for domestic departures and Rp Garuda Indonesia has direct flights between Lombok, Bali, 100,000 for international departures.

Surabaya, Makassar and Jakarta every day, Call Centre: 0 804 1

BALI TO LOMBOK BY AIR

In Lombok, flights depart and arrive at Lombok International Airport. In Bali, flights arrive and depart at Ngurah Rai (Denpasar) Domestic Airport.

Garuda Airlines has direct flights between Lombok, Bali and Jakarta every day, Call Centre: 0 804 1 807 807, Sales Office: +62 370-642303, 649999. www.garuda-indonesia.com

807 807, Sales Office : +62 370 642303, 649999. www.garudaindonesia.com Lion Air has daily flights between Lombok, Bali, Jakarta and Surabaya. Ph: +62 370 664009. www.lionair.co.id Merpati Airlines has flights available between Lombok, Bali, Bima, Dili, Bandung, Flores and Kupang. Lombok, ph: +62 370 621111. www.merpati.co.id

Trans Nusa Air flies between Lombok, Sumbawa and Bima once Merpati Airlines flies direct between Bali and Lombok four times a a day. Lombok, ph: +62 370 624555. www.transnusa.co.id day. Lombok, ph: +62 370 621111, Airport: +62 370 633637 / +62 Batavia Air has flights between Lombok, Surabaya and Jakarta 87864253577. Bali, ph: +62 361 420999. www.merpati.co.id every day. Lombok, +62 804 1 222 888 / +62 21 38 999 888.

Trans Nusa Air operates two flights between Bali and Lombok www.batavia-air.co.id daily. Lombok, ph: +62 370 624555. Bali, ph: +62 361 8477395.

Sky Aviation offers flights to remote and difficult to get to www.transnusa.co.id destinations, including Labuhan Bajo on Flores, Batam, Lion Air flies between Bali and Lombok with three flights daily.

Pekanbaru, Jambi and more. Ph: +62 370 630787 or see their The company share-codes with Wings Air, so you may purchase a website for full details. www.sky-aviation.co.id Lion Air ticket and find yourself on a Wings Air flight! Lombok, Call BALI TO LOMBOK BY SEA Centre: +62 80 4177 8899. Bali, ph: +62 361 765132. www.lionair.

Padang Bai Harbour (Bali) provides the sea link between mainland co.id Bali and Lombok. Lembar Harbour (Lombok) is on the southwest Sky Aviation operates morning and afternoon flights between coast, approx. 1 hour south of Senggigi, Lombok.

Bali and Lombok every day. The company also offers private Arrange your own transport and buy tickets direct from the charter flights between the islands, as well as other destinations throughout Indonesia. Lombok, ph: +62 370 630 787. Bali, ph: +62 harbours, or use a reputable tour company to provide a transfer service.

361 936 8320. www.sky-aviation.co.id Public Ferries depart every hour for the sea voyage between INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS Padang Bai Harbour (Bali) and Lembar Harbour (Lombok).

Lombok International Airport (IATA: LOP) has full Visa on Arrival The crossing between the islands costs Rp 36,000 per person and facilities, with fast and efficient visa processing. +62 370 622987 takes approx. 4 to 5 hours. Lembar Harbour ph: +62 370 681 209.

FREE +62 370 622987 Padang Bai Harbour ph: (+62 363) 41849 / 41840 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 Air Asia operates direct flights between Lombok and Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia three times per week (Wednesday, Friday and Sunday). www.airasia.com

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, making fast boats from Lombok to Bali (and vice versa) an option to flying.

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

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HOT TASTE, COOL VENUE

Enjoy Sundays at Lombok’s best fine dining venue!

Available each month on the Sunday after our famous Friday Cellar Party, the Square Sunday Brunch offers exceptional value and the perfect way to share a lazy Sunday with your family and friends.

BRUNCH MENU Freshly Made Juices: Watermelon, Honeydew Melon, Papaya or Pineapple Yoghurt And Cereals: Plain Yoghurt, Special K, Corn Flakes, Rice Crispy, and Bircher Muesli Live Cooking Station: Your choice of Fried, Scramble, Boiled or Poached Eggs or Omelettes Buffet Accompaniments: Turkey Bacon, Chicken and Beef Sausages, Baked Beans, Roasted Tomato, Sauteed Potatoes Pastry and Bakery: White and Brown Breads, Muffin, Donuts, Pancake with Maple Syrup, Square French Toast Fresh from the Wok: Fried Rice or Egg Noodles with Chicken, Vegetables, and Oyster Sauce Soups: Gazpacho and Miso Soups Main Courses: Roasted Chicken with Rosemary, Cap Cay Seafood (wok fried Seafood and Vegetables), Dim Sum with Dipping Sauce, Penne Pasta with Tomato Basil Sauce, Prawn Papaya Salad with Chilli Lime Dressing, Goreng Daging (Sumbawa-style Braised Beef in Spicy Sauce) Sushi and Sashimi: Catch of the Day Sashimi and Assorted Sushi with Pickled Ginger, Soy Sauce and Wasabi Cold Cuts and Cheese: Tea-smoked Chicken, Dill Cured Fresh Mahi-Mahi, Sliced Emmental Cheese Salad Bar and Condiments: Assorted Lettuce, Sliced Cucumber, Fresh Tomato, Carrots, Sweet Corn, Red and Green Paprika, Prawn Crackers, Acar, Tomato Sambal Desserts: Mixed Tropical Fruits, Bubur Injin (Black Sticky Rice Pudding), Chocolate Cake with Cream

3 February 11am to 3pm

Just Rp 160,000 Net per person

Senggigi Square Blok B-10, Jl. Raya Senggigi, Lombok, Indonesia Ph: +62 370 6644 888, 693 688 | Fax: +62 370 623 975 square_marina@yahoo.com | www.squarelombok.com

Tourism Information

4

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.

Climbing Mt Rinjani by Iwan Haryanto

Mawun Beach by Barbara

BEACHES

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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

Snorkelling is easy from the shore and

Kuta, on the south coast, is surf-central and has a range of accommodations and services catering specially to surfers.

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

Ekas Bay has two surf breaks: Inside Ekas and Outside Ekas, which are suitable for beginners to experts, depending on different peaks and tides.

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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Lombok Map

7

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

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

60sqm fresh water swimming pool and separate kiddies pool.

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

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

Tourism Information

8

ATTRACTIONS & ACTIVITIES Aik Kalaq (Hot Spring Water) near Segara Anak Lake at Mt Rinjani by Koes Nadi

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.

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

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 with distinctive “Lombok primitive” designs. You can also purchase hand-woven 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.

Pura Suranadi (Suranadi Temple) by Barbara

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Special Feature

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REBO BUNTUNG… Warding Off Bad Luck

It’s just after 7 o’clock in the morning and we are speeding across the smooth highway that connects the west of the island to the east. As always when I travel this road, I am entranced by the scenery passing by; the beauty and diversity of Lombok.

We pass through cities bustling with activity and commerce, and then through small towns that look like throwbacks to the 1950’s.

Between it all are endlessly changing vistas – small picturesque villages nestled against a backdrop of mountains, fast flowing rivers with little brown-skinned children playing on the banks, fields of tobacco, corn and other crops, and stretches of bright green padi with rice farmers in conical hats lost in timeless activity, oblivious to the cars and trucks rushing by.

This morning we are heading almost all the way to the east coast, to the town of Pringgabaya; around 2 hour’s drive from Senggigi.

Once a year this town, and the nearby beach at Tanjung Mengangis, plays host to a unique Lombok tradition called Rebo Buntung.

Rebo Buntung (literally “cut off Wednesday” in the Sasak language) is held on the last Wednesday in the month of Safar, the second month in the Islamic calendar; this year on 10 January.

Many people believe the month of Safar is unlucky – a time of catastrophes and the spread of disease. On Rebo Buntung, local people in East Lombok will leave their houses and take part in the Tetulak Tamperan ritual.

Tetulak Tamperan (“tolak bala” in Bahasa Indonesia), roughly means to “ward off bad luck” and is a tradition unique to the Sasak people of Lombok. No one knows when the first of these rituals began but the

tradition of Rebo Buntung is known to be many centuries old and pre-dates Islam on the island.

Turning off the main road at the bustling market in Pringgabaya, we make our way

down a muddy dirt track to the beach at Tanjung Mengangis. Already visitors from all around are starting to arrive and the track is crowded with people trailing children and picnic baskets; horse-carts, cars and trucks loaded with more people fill the tiny laneway.

On the beachfront, hundreds of people are already gathered. Stalls selling snacks, toys and balloons are set up, ice cream vendors push their bikes through the sand, and there is an excited festival atmosphere.

We sit under the tents already filled with village leaders, government dignitaries, reporters and VIP guests, hoping the grey skies don’t open to pour down rain on the proceedings. A gamelan band plays Sasak music; an old man in front leading the way on a long traditional wooden flute.

Thousands gather on the beach for Rebo Buntung

Continued on Page 16

Senggigi

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Tourism Information

Senggigi

WEST COAST RESORT

Senggigi Bay by Iwan Haryanto

12

Malimbu by Koes Nadi

Just over one hour from Lombok International Airport, Senggigi is the main tourism centre on Lombok and, apart from the Gili islands, the most developed tourism area on Lombok. The town of Senggigi is about 10 km north of Ampenan, and about 30 minutes drive from Teluk Nara and Bangsal – the harbours to the Gili Islands.

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

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

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

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

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

like a giant pyramid floating in the ocean.

Senggigi 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.

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.

Senggigi

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14

Senggigi Map

Senggigi

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The Beach Club Beach Bungalows, Bar & Café

TWO PERFECT BEACH LOCATIONS IN LOMBOK!

er, dvd, front bungalows with AC, hot wat Senggigi - Comfortable beach Senggigi! mming pool. 5 minutes walk from satellite TV, private balcony and swi

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

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

www.thebeachclublombok.com

AUSTRALIA DAY BBQ Sat, 26 Jan – 1pm at The Beach Club Senggigi

Special Feature

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Continued from Page 10 Adat elders bring offerings to the ritual

At the ceremony the Regent was awarded the Indigenous Peoples Alliance of the Archipelago Award (Aman) NTB for preserving cultural values and prosperous community life in the area.

At the end of the ceremony, everyone joined the procession down to the beachfront.

REBO BUNTUNG… Warding Off Bad Luck

Soon there is the sound of the Gendang Beleq troupe – the heart-stirring big drums, over a metre long, that are endemic to Lombok. The drummers march in two rows, beating a rapid tempo to generate excitement. The procession follows, led by Sasak elders bearing offerings; the most important of which is a buffalo head on a covered tray.

One group carries a large square-shaped offering decorated with palm leaves, fruits and vegetables; inside is a box covered in yellow cloth and a live chicken.

Women are also part of this ritual, and a group of elder women bear more offerings, bowls and ceret malingan (traditional water pitchers), accompanied by ladies in traditional Sasak dress and lace kebayak blouses balancing platters of rice, fruits, betel leaves, chicken and other offerings on their heads.

language, giving thanks to God and asking for blessings and protection from disasters.

The lilting sounds flow back and forth between the leaders of the two groups weaving a hypnotic vocal magic, backed by the soft strains of the long flute.

Offshore, three boats are waiting and, as the procession reaches the sand, the boats are bought ashore. There is much jostling as the huge crowd draws close to see this part of the ceremony.

With some difficulty, the elders board the main boat and the offerings, including the buffalo head and the large square “house”, are loaded aboard. From here these will be taken out into the middle of the sea and cast into the waters as an offering to the gods of the sea.

“Whatever the reason, most of us already no longer appreciate nature.

Therefore, ritual Rebo Buntung is a kind of reflection with the need for harmony between humans and nature,” said Mugis, one of the elders.

The Regent of East Lombok, HM Sukiman Azmy, said in his speech, “This is not just an expression of gratitude to god In the centre of the floor, two groups of Sasak adat (tradition) elders sit facing each and an appeal for protection, but also reminds us that from time immemorial our other and, when the crowds fall silent, the leader begins to chant in the ancient Sasak ancestors would appreciate and maintain the harmonious relationship between man and nature.”

Gendang Beleq parade on the beach

The Regent urged the public to preserve their local culture for the future. “The culture of our region is part of the national culture,” he said.

An important part of the ritual occurs when the buffalo head is thrown into the ocean. If it sinks, all will be well; but if it floats back to the surface, it will be interpreted as a sign of bad luck and the community must prepare itself for some calamity in the near future.

As the boats sail away, the crowds run to bathe in the ocean to symbolically “clean” themselves of negative energies and thoughts, and ward off potential disease.

Once the formal part of the ritual is over, the celebrations begin and by late afternoon thousands of people will join the beach festival with live music and dancing until the early morning… with the whole community celebrating the clearing of bad energies and the return of balance to the universe.

Senggigi

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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

What’s Hot / Local News

18 Aussies, looking for a place to celebrate Australia Day on 26 January? Fortunately, Glenn and Dee have returned from their trip to Australia and will be celebrating with their annual Australia Day BBQ at The Beach Club in Batu Bolong.

Get your akubra on and head to The Beach Club for a few cold ones. Throw a couple of prawns on the barbie… the fun starts at 1pm! Ph: 693 637 Square Restaurant kicks off a new year with another great offer to add to their programme of regular events, in addition to their hugely popular Cellar Party on the first Friday of every month.

Square Sunday Brunch will now be available every month, on the Sunday after the Cellar Party. Guests can enjoy a huge selection of breakfast items, including cereals, fresh juices, eggs and all the trimmings, as well as a big buffet of lunch items including sushi and sashimi, main courses, salads and desserts (see advert page 3 for full menu).

The brunch runs from 11am to 3pm and costs just Rp 160,000 nett per person for all you can eat!

The next Cellar Party is on 1 February and the first Sunday Brunch will be on 3 February. Be there or be square! Ph: 6644 888 or 693 688 As regular readers know, we have

been running feature articles on a group of local ladies in Kuta, South Lombok who have banded together to form a cooperative called “Bersahara” aimed at combining their skills and creating better lives for themselves.

During 2012, the Bersahara ladies taught themselves to sew and, with the help of a visiting German tourist, began producing beautiful bags which combine traditional woven fabrics, such as ikat and songket, with modern styles and designs.

If you’re in Kuta, stop in to Bersahara Shop and pick up a unique handmade treasure… and help support the empowerment of these amazing local ladies!

Gili Air will soon have a new Clinic. The new building is currently under construction just next to the office of the Head of the three islands and will soon house a new medical clinic for Gili Air.

They held several market days in Kuta to test their product and were hugely successful. With the money they made, these enterprising ladies have now opened a permanent shop in Kuta to showcase their expanded range of bags, yoga bags, and other accessories.

Bershara Shop is located in front of Matahari Inn in Kuta and is open from Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm and Sunday from 2 pm to 7 pm.

In the meantime, there is a temporary clinic erected alongside the construction site, which will be closed when the new building is finished. The new clinic is expected to be open in the next couple of weeks.

Currently people with injuries or illnesses on Gili Air have to make their way to the clinic at Villa Ombak on Gili Trawangan or to one of the clinics or hospitals on mainland Lombok. The new clinic will be a great improvement for the local people on the island and for visiting tourists!

DON’T DIE FROM A DRINK

Arak is a local home-brew made in the villages in Indonesia. There is no government control over how it is made, its alcohol content, or what ingredients are used. The number of deaths from methanol contaminated arak is a tragedy… don’t become a victim!

As a general guideline, travellers should avoid locally brewed drinks sold on the side of the road, and in bars and restaurants.

Avoid “free welcome drinks” (which often contain arak and fruit juice) and avoid binge drinking.

Cocktails sold in up-market bars, hotels and restaurants, where bottled and brandname liquors are sold, are usually safe.

If in doubt, stick to bottled drinks such as beer and wine that can be opened in front of you.

Avoid any bar or restaurant that lists arak on their menu. With so many deaths related to arak, these places are obviously not concerned about the safety of their guests.

The initial symptoms of methanol poisoning can feel like a bad hangover and include headache, dizziness, nausea and vomiting, stomach pains, blurry vision and problems with eyesight, lethargy and depression, lack of coordination and confusion.

Be suspicious of bars selling cheap shots of spirits (even bottled “brand name” spirits) or cheap cocktails, particularly ones with local names like “Jungle Juice”, etc.

As methanol metabolises in the body and can be delayed by the consumption of alcohol, symptoms can occur from 40 minutes up to 36 hours after ingestion.

If methanol poisoning is suspected, drink plenty of water and seek medical assistance immediately. Most Indonesian hospitals do not have methanol testing available and rely on physical diagnosis.

The symptoms of methanol poisoning can be similar to other ailments, so tell medical staff about any drinks consumed and insist that they check for methanol poisoning.

When travelling, always have medical insurance. If you are at a hospital with suspected methanol poisoning, have someone contact your insurer immediately in case emergency medical evacuation is needed and keep in contact with the insurer.

Methanol poisoning progresses quickly and treatment time can mean the difference between life and death.

Senggigi

19

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

Lunch daily 11am - 3pm Freshly baked breads and homemade pastas, delicious sandwiches, salads and burgers

Dinner from 4pm til late Fine cuisine and fresh ingredients Steak, seafood, pasta and Asian specialties

Art Market Senggigi, Lombok +62 370 693694

www.dequake.com

Senggigi

20

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

Senggigi

21

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

Senggigi

22 OPEN 9am to 10pm 7 Days a Week

Try our home-cooked foods without MSG: fresh garden salad, chicken sandwiches and chicken burgers, spaghetti bolognese, spring rolls, fresh salsa, Indonesian soto and nasi goreng, or our delicious burgers with the meat patty made from fillet steak and based on a Slavic “cevapcici” recipe

While you’re eating delicious food in the Warung, drop into the Deli which sells a range of handy products such as Imported goods, pastas, herbs, cooking oils, lentils, nuts, butter, cheeses, jams and sauces, Lindt chocolates, juices, and fresh vegetables

All from Rp 15,000 to Rp 30,000!

s

Burger

hes

Sandwic

Spring

Rolls

Fresh Salads Garden

Jl Raya Senggigi (Between Rambo Petshop & Papa Besar Cafe) | 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 (next to Deli Senggigi)

Phone: 0370 693177

Senggigi

23

Windy Beach Resort “Next to Nature”

Mangsit, Senggigi, Lombok | Phone: 0370 693191 | Fax: 0370 693193 Email: bookings@windybeach.com | Web: www.windybeach.com

24

Special Report

METHANOL POISONING ALERT!

The popular bar on the Indonesian holiday island of Gili Trawangan, north of Lombok, was named by friends of Mr Davies as the place where he bought his fatal drink on New Year’s Eve…”

Australian newspapers have been filled with stories over the past couple of weeks, as Australians react with shock and anger to the latest methanol poisonings on the Gili Islands, off Lombok.

“Despite the claims, no investigation has been launched into Mr Davies’ death, no bar staff have been interviewed and no attempt has been made to test the drinks that are still being served to tourists.

Since 2009, an alarming number of tourists have been killed or poisoned by locallybrewed arak and methanol contaminated drinks.

19 year old Liam Davies was among a group of young men from Perth who came to Lombok to celebrate Christmas and New Year with the Magee family, who live in Lombok.

The boys spent Christmas on Lombok with the family and then went to celebrate New Year on popular Gili Trawangan, just off the northwest coast of Lombok.

Having been warned about the dangers of arak and cheap drinks by Mr Magee, they promised to drink only beer and imported spirits; a promise they kept.

On New Year’s Eve, the group gathered at a popular bar on Gili T, where the majority drank Bintang Beer. Liam and another friend, Kieran, drank Vodka and Lime, which they saw being poured from a Smirnoff Vodka bottle.

They were joined by another tourist, 18 year old Rosalind Jay from Canada, who spent the evening with the group and also drank Vodka and Limes.

The next day, Liam felt unwell but thought he was suffering from a hangover, while Kieran was having problems seeing clearly. They returned to the Magee house on Lombok and rested there.

At 4am, the Magee’s son, Hamish, woke his parents to say something was very wrong with Liam. He was in pain and seemed confused and disorientated.

During the emergency dash to Rumah Sakit Harapan Keluarga hospital near Mataram, Liam suffered his first seizure and his body locked up.

Hospital staff initially diagnosed Liam’s condition as tetanus, as his jaw was locked and his body became stiff. This is the effect of the poison as it metabolises and starts shutting down vital organs.

By the next morning, it became clear Liam was not responding and Mr Magee contacted the boy’s insurance company to arrange medical evacuation to a hospital in Perth.

In a nightmare scenario, the medevac team from Darwin had trouble gaining clearance and didn’t arrive in Lombok until 6pm.

The West Australian travelled to Gili Trawangan this week and took two drink samples on Wednesday from Rudy’s Pub. Liam Davies

40 minutes out of Perth, Liam’s heart stopped and the team revived him. They eventually arrived at Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital at around 10pm that night.

Doctors at SCG Hospital immediately identified methanol poisoning, saying “We have seen many cases of this.”

Despite the best efforts of doctors, Liam was declared brain dead and removed from life support on 7 January.

Kieran is gradually recovering his eyesight, although still having problems with one eye. Hopefully he will make a full recovery.

Meanwhile, Rosalind Jay who celebrated New Year’s Eve with the boys told The West Australian newspaper that she was violently ill the next morning and passed out on the ferry to Bali. She said passengers had to move her when her head kept banging against the side of the boat and she did not wake up.

Her vision became increasingly blurred, she was disoriented and had trouble staying awake. When she sat down to dinner that night, she suddenly became “very confused, dizzy, lightheaded and nauseous”.

Her parents rushed her to Bali International Medical Centre in Kuta where she began immediate treatment for methanol poisoning. She continued treatment at a hospital in Malaysia before flying back home to Canada yesterday.

She said the vodka-based mix was the only alcohol other than Bintang beer that she drank while on the island.

“I am very lucky to be alive,” she said.

When we contacted the owner of the bar on Gili Trawangan this week, he said that he had heard nothing about the death of Liam Davies and that his bar did not sell arak.

However, in a report published by The West Australian on 11 January, 2013, reporter Steve Pennells wrote: “An investigation by The West Australian has found that as recently as two days ago, Rudy’s Pub served poisonous vodka-based drinks laced with methanol.

The first was a long island iced tea-style cocktail called Gili Island. The second was a 300ml vodka-Sprite mix similar to the one that is believed to have killed Mr Davies.

The samples were tested in a private clinical laboratory in Denpasar yesterday.

The Gili Island cocktail showed no trace of methanol but the vodka mix – which was meant to contain only vodka, Sprite and ice water – registered a methanol level of 0.02 per cent.

The 300ml drink contained a 30ml shot of vodka diluted by 270ml of sprite and ice water, which would put the actual methanol content of the vodka at around 0.2 percent…”

A disturbing number of tourists have been poisoned in the past year. In September 2011, prominent Perth rugby player Michael Denton died in Bali and an autopsy later ruled that the cause of his death was methanol poisoning.

Last month, a Sydney teenager was blinded after drinking a cocktail laced with methanol during school celebrations in Bali.

Last June, Swedish backpacker Johan Lundin, 28, died after drinking a mojito laced with methanol on Gili Trawangan and Swiss national, Rasmuss Lindholm died in April 2011 after drinking on Gili T. In October 2011, Jamie Johnston, a nurse from Australia, suffered permanent injuries after drinking at a popular café in Senggigi, Lombok. Roisin Burke, a teacher from Ireland, died in May 2011 after drinking at the café with friends.

The deaths have outraged Australians who are calling on the Australian government to take action by asking Indonesian authorities to clamp down on bars that sell arak and methanol contaminated drinks.

Many Australians are calling on travellers to boycott travel to Bali, Lombok and the Gilis.

Australian Foreign Minister, Bob Carr, has said he will ask Indonesian authorities to do more to protect tourists after the death of the Perth teenager.

Continued on Page 38

Senggigi

25

[ Fine Wining and Dining on the Beachfront ]

NooQ

C o c k t a i l & Ta p a s L o u n g e 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

Local Scene

26

REBO BUNTUNG... pictorial story Ancient traditions and authentic Sasak Culture... beautiful local people celebrate Rebo Buntung this month.

Senggigi

27

LOMBOK, INDONESIA

AT

Sheraton, We help you feel at ease from the moment you enter no matter where you are in the world

BOOK NOW !!!

sales.senggigi@sheraton.com 0370 - 693333

LOMBOK SUPER DEAL 2 NIGHTS STAY Rates begin from just USD150++/night Take advantage of our LOMBOK SUPER DEAL Promotion, enjoy super privileges such as: • Return Transfer with MARINA SRIKANDI 8 FAST BOAT with Full Air-conditioned for 2 persons from PADANG BAI Bali – SENGGIGI (SHERATON SENGGIGI direct).

• Free PICK UP and DROP OFF with Air-conditioned transfer in Bali meeting point : Nusa Dua, Jimbaran, Kuta, Seminyak, Denpasar and Sanur.

• International Buffet Breakfast for 2 persons, Welcome Drink, Health Club, 25% disc for food consumed at hotel restaurants, 25% off on all Spa Treatment at Laguna Spa and 25% disc on Laundry.

• Additional Night Stay, received Lombok Traditional SPA Treatment 1 x 60 minutes or Set Dinner for 2 persons.

Term & Conditions: The above rates is based on a Superior Room per night for two adult. The Lombok Super Deal Package is based on a minimum 2 night stay. Third person rate when sharing a Superor Room is USD 60++/night include breakfast and fast boat transfer. Rate is subject to 10% service and 11% prevailing government tax.

Rates and offer are valid from January to 31 March 2013

SHERATON SENGGIGI BEACH RESORT

Jl. Raya Senggigi Km.8 P.O. Box 1154 Mataram 83355, Senggigi – Lombok – Indonesia t –– +62 370 693333 f –– +62 370 693241

www.sheraton.com/senggigi

Senggigi

28

P uri Mas Gallery The Essence of Tradition, Luxury & Style AT PURI MAS BOUTIQUE RESORT

Just 5 minutes north of Senggigi Free pick up and drop off service in Senggigi area Fine Arts and Collectibles From Around the Archipelago

Chakra Healing Crystals Now in Store

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

29

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

Senggigi

30

MARSHANDER SPA & SALON PROFESSIONAL BEAUTY & HEALTH CARE

Hair and Beauty – Trained Hair Stylist Facials and Skin Care – Body Shop and Biokos Products Waxing and Nails Massage, Reflexology and Body Treatments Spa Packages OPEN DAILY 10am to 9pm

Great Prices and Trained Therapists...

Come in and try our full range of services for beauty, health and relaxation!

Senggigi Square Blok A/05 (next to Cafe Lombi), Jl Raya Senggigi. Ph: 0878 6228 0693

FOR SALE: Gallery Jacks Gallery, House & Workshop

ILLNESS FORCES URGENT SALE! Located on the main road in Melase, Batu Layar (near Jayakarta Hotel). Good location for business.

Electricity and water available. Buildings include local house, large workshop at rear and shopfront on the roadside. Currently houses gallery but would also suit café / restaurant / home stay / minimart in growing area. 2.5 are (250m2) 3 years leasehold with option to renew at nominal annual rent.

Price with gallery and workshop stock: Rp 225 million Price without gallery stock: Rp 160 million.

All offers considered!

!!!FOR SALE up to 50% discount!!!

Wooden Furniture, Fibreglass Lamps and More!

Ph: Jack 0817 575 2059 / Carla 0819 0784 3327

Senggigi

31

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

Main Office: HOLIDAY RESORT LOMBOK +62 370 693 719 www.bluemarlindive.com | senggigi@bluemarlindive.com

Senggigi

32

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 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 New season swimwear now in store!

New designs every two weeks!

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

Senggigi

33

[ 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

Senggigi

34

Live Music! Great Food!

Good Times!

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

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

www.asmara-group.com

Senggigi

35

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

Mr Fixer

36

Tongue-in-cheek answers to your personal and building problems QUESTION: I am a British expat who has decided to spend 3 months on the idyllic holiday island of Lombok and have some fun. My idea of a relaxing time is to chat with friends over a meal and have a few beers and then go home to sleep it off.

I usually end up in the ever popular Happy Café where I can get my sinuses cleared for free but just the other night, I had a few too many and decided to leave my hire car on the street and get a taxi home.

such a way as to scare the living daylights out of anyone who might think of even sucking a wine gum and driving home.

block let him through with no trouble at all. He had never driven a taxi before and didn’t even remember where he got it!

It never ceases to amaze me that in Indonesia it is possible to smoke a stinky cigarette in a public place, get blind drunk, stagger across the road and hire a car or bike with no license required and drive as fast as you like with no lights.

QUESTION: I have just bought a sea view building plot in a prestigious location on the holiday island of Lombok, where I would like to build the house of my dreams.

If you drive a motorbike, you can have red headlights, green headlights, no headlights, white tail lights, blue flashing tail lights or – my personal favourite – no headlights with blinding white tail lights and blue and red strobe lights on each side.

The nice lady who sold it to me said it was 16 are but I have just had it re-measured and it turns out to be only 12 are big.

This came as quite a surprise, as I had paid for 16 are. What can I do?

MR FIXER: Land in Indonesia is usually sold per are – the local word for a land measurement of 100sqm.

My social conscience got the better of me.

Did I do the right thing?

Helmets are optional. Apparently, a religious head dress is sufficient protection When buying land, I always recommend you use a proper real estate agent to against severe concussion or brain injury oversee the process. Buying direct from and is quite acceptable. the owner may sound cheaper but can When driving such a mobile death trap, end up costing more in the long run. you can also drive on the wrong side It should be standard procedure to of the road into oncoming traffic with have the land re-measured by BPN complete impunity. (the government body responsible for It is almost obligatory to remove or destroy certification and re-measurement) before the baffles in the exhaust so that everyone any purchase. That way, any mistakes can hear you coming from as far away as with boundaries can be rectified before the Mataram Mall. money changes hands.

MR FIXER: Although there are similar laws in Indonesia that frown on drink driving, they are hardly ever enforced in

Next time you think you have had one too many, take a taxi home. My friend George did that last week and the police road

The drink driving laws in the UK are so strict that just a few beers with a few pals in a social session can result in a brush with the law that can leave you without a license or even lose you your job.

It is hardly surprising that mistakes occur, as my friend George has been lying to his wife about how big 6 inches is for years.

Contemporary Furniture Outdoor and Indoor Furniture Highest Quality Synthetic Ratan Jl. Raya Senggigi Duduk Garden No.6 Batu Bolong 83355 Lombok Phone/Fax: 0370 6194 123, HP: 0813 3955 5456| www.gandari.com

Senggigi

37

e

kag c a P

hts g i N c P 2 i s t y n a a 3 D Rom for r + e n n Di ouple C o rom

081933131024 qwadru@gmail.com

IDR 1.500.000 nett

Jl. Raya Senggigi, Lendang Luar Lombok Utara, Indonesia | Ph: +62 370 693246 / +62 811 390 7779 Fax: +62 370 693247 | E-mail: d.oria_resort@yahoo.co.id | www.orialombok-resort.com

Special Report

38 Continued from Page 24

METHANOL POISONING ALERT!

Australian Medical Association spokesman, David Mountain, said bars selling unregulated drinks should be prosecuted by Indonesian authorities.

the body to produce formaldehyde and eventually formic acid. As little as 6-10 ml can cause blindness, coma and even death.

failed to pick up the reports coming out of Australia daily and most local people are unaware of the problem.

“The bar owners that are selling these things really do need to have consequences. In Australia this would be manslaughter, if a bar actually did this to a patron,” he said.

Small amounts of methanol are contained in the “mash” of brewed alcohol as a natural by-product of the fermentation process. Brewers will usually discard the first 50 – 100ml of a brew to prevent the drink from being contaminated.

Considering that arak is a local drink, it is likely that hundreds of local people have died from methanol poisoning without ever knowing the cause.

Arak is a local Indonesian drink made from fermented palm wine. It is popular with tourists because it is cheap and quite potent. It is often used in cheap cocktails, or sold as “Arak Attack”, or mixed with honey and lime as “Arak Madu”.

However, in Indonesia, where the import tax on a bottle of liquor is more than 380 per cent, the incentive to cut alcohol with cheap, locally produced spirits such as arak is high.

Methanol (or Methyl Alcohol) is a toxic chemical compound often used in paints, solvents or as an anti-freeze agent. It is used in Indonesia as a fuel for lanterns, similar to Methylated Spirits in the west.

Methanol should not be confused with Ethanol – a chemical component found in all alcoholic drinks. Methanol is highly dangerous and even a small amount can have a toxic effect. It is metabolised in

Unscrupulous sellers often dilute the original arak brew to make more bottles and then add chemicals, such as methanol, to increase the alcohol content.

A batch of arak contaminated with methanol and sold in Bali in 2009 killed 25 people, and there have been many deaths since then.

The problem is compounded by a lack of information on Lombok. Local media have

The owners of The Beach House and ko ko mo Resort on Gili T today issued a statement that they do not support the sale of arak and will not sell it in their establishments.

They have also sent a bulk emailing to other businesses on Gili T urging them to stop selling arak and remove all stock from their bars.

Because we believe this information is so important, The Lombok Guide is publishing this story in both English and Indonesian. Copies of this issue will be distributed to the Governor, the Chief of Police, the Tourism Police, the West Lombok Regent, the Head of the Gili Islands, major hospitals on Lombok and businesses on the Gilis.

WASPADA KERACUNAN METHANOL!

Surat kabar Australia telah diisi oleh banyak berita selama beberapa minggu terakhir, sebagai reaksi dari kekagetan dan kemarahan warga Australia terhadap masalah keracunan methanol di pulau Gili, Lombok baru-baru ini.

Keesokan harinya, Liam merasa tidak enak badan yang disangkanya akibat mabuk semalam, sementara itu Kieran mengalami masalah penglihatan yang kurang jelas.

Mereka kembali ke rumah keluarga Magee di Lombok dan beristirahat di sana.

Sejak tahun 2009, jumlah turis yang terbunuh atau teracuni oleh miras oplosan lokal dan minuman yang terkontaminasi oleh methanol adalah sangat mengkhawatirkan.

Pada pukul 4 dini hari, anak lelaki Magee yang bernama Hamish, membangunkan orang tuanya untuk memberitahukan bahwa ada sesuatu yang tidak beres dengan Liam. Dia merasa sakit dan tampak sangat bingung.

Liam Davies, berumur 19 tahun, salah satu diantara sekelompok pemuda dari Perth yang datang ke Lombok untuk merayakan Natal dan Tahun Baru bersama keluarga Magee, yang berdomisili di Lombok.

Mereka merayakan Natal di Lombok bersama keluarga dan kemudian merayakan Tahun Baru di pulau Gili Trawangan yang populer, di lepas pantai barat laut Lombok.

Setelah diperingatkan tentang bahayanya arak dan minuman murah oleh Mr Magee, mereka berjanji untuk hanya minum bir dan minuman impor saja.

Pada malam tahun baru, mereka berkumpul di sebuah bar yang populer di Gili T, dimana kebanyakan diantara mereka minum bir Bintang. Hanya Liam dan kawannya, Kieran, yang minum Vodka dan Sprite, yang mereka lihat dituangkan dari botol Vodka Smirnoff.

Kemudian seorang turis lain ikut bergabung dengan mereka, Rosalind Jay, berumur 18 tahun, dari Kanada, yang berkumpul bersama mereka dan juga minum Vodka dan Sprite.

Selama dalam perjalanan darurat menuju Rumah Sakit Harapan Keluarga di dekat Mataram, Liam menderita kejang pertama dan tubuhnya seperti terkunci.

Karyawan rumah sakit awalnya mendiagnosis kondisi Liam sebagai tetanus, karena rahangnya terkunci dan tubuhnya menjadi kaku. Ini adalah efek dari racun yang telah termetabolisasikan dan mulai mematikan organ-organ vital.

Keesokan harinya, Liam tidak mampu merespon apapun dan Mr Magee langsung menghubungi perusahaan asuransi nya untuk mengatur evakuasi medis ke rumah sakit di Perth.

Di dalam skenario mimpi buruk ini, tim evakuasi medis dari Darwin mengalami kesulitan mendapatkan izin dan tidak bisa tiba di Lombok sampai pukul 6 sore.

40 menit sebelum sampai di Perth, jantung Liam berhenti dan tim medis menyadarkannya kembali. Mereka akhirnya tiba di Rumah Sakit Sir Charles Gairdner sekitar pukul 10 malam itu.

Dokter di Rumah Sakit SCG segera mengidentifikasi kondisinya sebagai keracunan methanol, dokter mengatakan “Kami telah melihat banyak kasus seperti ini.”

Setelah segala upaya terbaik yang dilakukan oleh para dokter, Liam dinyatakan mati otak dan meninggal dunia pada tanggal 7 Januari.

Secara bertahap penglihatan Kieran mulai pulih kembali, meskipun masih mengalami masalah dengan satu mata. Semoga saja ia akan pulih sepenuhnya.

Sementara itu, Rosalind Jay yang merayakan malam tahun baru dengan para pemuda tersebut mengatakan kepada surat kabar The West Australian bahwa ia mengalami sakit keras keesokan harinya dan pingsan di atas feri menuju ke Bali.

Ia mengatakan, penumpang lain harus memindahkannya pada saat melihat kepalanya terus terbentur di sisi kapal dan tidak membuat ia terbangun.

Penglihatannya menjadi semakin kabur, ia merasa bingung dan mengalami kesulitan untuk tetap terjaga. Ketika ia duduk untuk makan malam pada malam itu, ia tiba-tiba menjadi “sangat bingung, kepala ringan, sangat pusing dan mual”.

Orangtuanya bergegas membawanya ke Bali International Medical Centre di Kuta dimana ia segera diberi pengobatan terhadap keracunan methanol. Ia melanjutkan perawatan di sebuah rumah sakit di Malaysia sebelum terbang pulang ke Kanada kemarin.

Continued on Page 44

Senggigi

39

1 HOUR MASSAGE ONLY Rp 60 000

Complete Spa Services at Local Prices!

Open every day from 10am to 10pm Phone: 0819 1593 2899 Two convenient locations in Senggigi Senggigi Plaza Blok 3 No.9 (Senggigi Beach Road)

Galeria Shops (Near Rambo Petshop)

40

Local News

AIRASIA TO INCREASE FLIGHT FREQUENCIES Southeast Asia’s largest budget carrier, Air Asia launched its first direct flights between Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia and Lombok on 12 October 2012.

initiative to do this and that everything went as planned. We believe that the Air Asia flights will bring a significant boost to the growing tourism industry in Lombok,” Stephane said. “Sadly, for years, The Kuala Lumpur tourism development - Lombok route is in Lombok has been available 3 times hampered by a lack weekly and the of direct flights to airline uses Airbus Lombok and limited 320 and 330 for the NTB Vice Governor, IR Badrul Munir with his wife and traditional dancers from Sumbawa air service between flights, with a seating Lombok and neighbouring Bali.

Servin continued, “We are grateful that capacity for 180 to 257 passengers.

Visit Indonesia Tourism Officer (VITO) “This new route will assist in opening At the time of the launch, Air Asia readily agreed to assist us once they Lombok up to the world and give Chief Executive Officer of Malaysian heard about our promotional mission to travellers a greater variety of choices, Operations, Aireen Omar, said that there Malaysia. We are especially honoured for with travellers from all over Asia being had been a healthy interest in the route and the active contribution, valuable assistance able to easily transit through KL and on to that, if there was sufficient demand, flight and exceptional service provided by Mr Lombok. Moreover, because of the great frequency would be increased in 2013.

Muhammad Shafie Obed, VITO Country potential of the Chinese tourist market, True to her words, Air Asia is planning Manager for Malaysia who helped us we are planning to launch another sales to increase its frequency to four flights tremendously throughout the whole mission to China in the very near future. weekly, starting 28 January 2013. The process.”

Chinese travellers will be able to quickly flights, which are currently available on Furthermore, upon hearing about the plan, link to Lombok via KL.” Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays, will West Nusa Tenggara’s Vice Governor, Ir Badrul Munir later stated, “We would soon be available on Mondays as well.

Ir Badrul Munir, personally volunteered like to seize this opportunity to thank This progress and development would to participate in and collaborate on this VITO and Malaysia’s tour and travel not have been achieved as quickly strategic marketing and promotional agents for their great hospitality and without the joint efforts and hard work campaign. sincere interest. We would also like to between Air Asia Malaysia’s Promotion & express our utmost appreciation to Air In all, 15 LHA members joined the threeMarketing Team and the tourism industry Asia for the warm reception in Kuala day sales mission to Kuala Lumpur (5-7 stakeholders in Lombok.

Lumpur and their tremendous contribution December 2012), together with PHRI Lombok Hotels Association (LHA) and to the number of business and leisure members and Ir Badrul Munir as the team the Indonesian Hotels and Restaurants travellers arriving into Lombok. They have leader.

Association (PHRI), for example, put created a bridge that will greatly contribute Over those three days, they successfully forth an outstanding marketing effort and toward strengthening Malay-Indonesian aggressive Lombok promotional campaign met more than 58 Malaysian-based tour ties and help enhance the economy in and travel agents and introduced the in Kuala Lumpur during their sales two ways, through greater business and beauty of West Nusa Tenggara through mission last month. tourism activity.” a comprehensive slideshow presentation Mr Stephane Servin, Chairman of LHA, Additionally, Air Asia is already of the wonders of West Nusa Tenggara, explained, “We are hopeful and have discussing the possibility of direct flights accompanied by traditional handicraft been waiting patiently since August for from Lombok to Australia, which is a key presentation, live traditional dance the Lombok Department of Culture and market in the region. and music. The team also invited two Tourism to do something, or at least plan big agents in Lombok to join the sales Bali already has 16 direct flights to/from something, in response to this new and mission.

Australia daily but Lombok, which is promising opportunity provided by the Air geographically closer to Australia, doesn’t The mission was very successful in Asia direct flights to Lombok. generating multiple queries and newfound have any.

However, when they failed to do anything interest, especially for available activities “We believe that once Australians discover

by November, we decided that we couldn’t such as Rinjani trekking, snorkelling and Lombok – a beautiful resort island only 3 wait any longer and decided to contact Air diving, and holiday packages targeted at hours by plane from Western Australia – Asia Malaysia to discuss the possibility honeymooners and families. more airlines with new routes are sure to of embarking on a marketing and sales follow,” Stephane said. mission to Malaysia ourselves.”

“We are glad that we have taken the

In Good Taste

41

In Good Taste...

Welcome to Lombok! As an expat working here in Lombok, I want to share with all our valuable visitors a few of the recipes that you will try around our lovely island, so hopefully you can take more than just a great memory home and show your friends that – apart from beautiful scenery, sexy beaches, amazing weather and friendly people – we have some exquisite food available here and Lombok people do take their food seriously! Selamat Makan!

By Bryce Adamson, Chef and Beverage at Qunci Villas.

This is a recipe from Bryce Adamson, Chef and Beverage at Qunci Villas butter in large bowl until well blended.

Add eggs one at a time, beating until well blended after each addition.

Well, January is already flying past and, with Valentine’s Day coming up soon, I thought I’d please a few of our regular clients who rave about the Red Velvet Cake I make here at Qunci.

5) Beat in dry ingredients in 4 additions, alternating with buttermilk mixture in 3 additions.

Once again, though, I’d like to shout out to all Lombok chefs: it takes minimal effort to get in touch with me to contribute a recipe here and – other than Chef Lamberto (from the Sheraton) and Chef Patrick (from De Quake) – none of you are promoting yourselves or your food!!

6) Divide batter between the two prepared pans. Bake cakes until tester inserted into center comes out clean, about 27 minutes.

7) Cool in pans on racks for 10 minutes and then turn cakes out onto racks to cool completely.

I know it is slow season now, so send me an email and let’s get together and show the international community what kind of specialties we have on our beautiful island!! Bon appetite!

This is a sweet delicate cake with an amazing cream cheese frosting and perfect for birthday celebrations and romantic occasions!

RED VELVET CAKE

For frosting: 1) Beat cream cheese and butter in large bowl until smooth. Beat in vanilla. Add powdered sugar and beat until smooth.

Frosting

2) Place one cake layer, flat side up, on platter. Spread 1 cup frosting over top of cake.

Cake

• 2 8-ounce packages cream cheese, at room temperature

• 2 1/4 cups sifted cake flour (sifted, then measured)

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature

• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder

• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

4) Cover and refrigerate. Let stand at room temperature for one hour before serving.

• 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar

This cake can be made one day ahead.

Preparation

As always, if you don’t feel like doing all this work, visit Qunci Villas in Mangsit where our team will be more than happy to serve a piece of delicious Red Velvet Cake to you!

• 1 teaspoon baking powder • 1 teaspoon baking soda • 1/2 teaspoon salt • 1 cup buttermilk • 1 tablespoon red food coloring • 1 teaspoon distilled white vinegar • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract • 1 1/2 cups sugar

For the cake: 1) Preheat oven to 350°F. Butter and flour two 9-inch-diameter cake pans with 1 1/2-inch-high sides.

2) Sift sifted flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt into medium bowl.

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature

3) Whisk buttermilk, food coloring, vinegar, and vanilla in small bowl to blend.

• 2 large eggs

4) Using an electric mixer, beat sugar and

3) Top with second cake layer, flat side down. Spread remaining frosting over top and sides of cake.

If any Lombok chefs would like to contribute a local recipe, please contact me at brycethechef@gmail.com

Senggigi

42

NEW CONCEPT, SAME PRICE, BIGGER PORTIONS!

Presents NEW ALL BAND | TUESDAY NIGHT FREE TAX & SERVICE! For All Food and Beverages! | REGGAE NIGHT Every Wednesday HAPPY HOUR From 5-8pm Buy 1 Large Anker Get 1 Free Small Anker.

COCKTAIL SENZATION Buy 1 Get 1 Free!

Jl Raya Senggigi Km.8 Senggigi, Lombok | Phone: 0370 693616 | Email: rsvp@papayalombok.com

Senggigi

43

44 Continued from Page 38

Special Report

WASPADA KERACUNAN METHANOL!

Ia mengatakan, selain bir Bintang, minuman beralkohol lain yang ia minum pada saat berada di Gili Trawangan hanyalah minuman berbasis vodka.

Bulan lalu, seorang remaja Sydney menjadi buta setelah minum koktail dicampur dengan methanol selama perayaan sekolah di Bali.

“Saya sangat beruntung masih hidup,” katanya.

Bulan Juni lalu, wisatawan Johan Lundin, umur 28 dari Swedia, meninggal setelah minum mojito dicampur dengan methanol di Gili Trawangan dan seorang wisatawan dari Swiss, Rasmuss Lindholm meninggal pada bulan April 2011 setelah minum di Gili T.

Ketika kami menghubungi pemilik bar di Gili Trawangan minggu ini, pemilik bar tersebut mengatakan bahwa ia tidak mengetahui apapun tentang kematian Liam Davies dan bar nya tidak menjual arak.

Namun, dalam sebuah laporan yang diterbitkan oleh The West Australian pada tanggal 11 Januari 2013, reporter Steve Pennells menulis: “Sebuah penyelidikan oleh The West Australian dua hari yang lalu telah menemukan bahwa Rudy’s Pub menyajikan minuman beracun berbasis vodka dicampur dengan methanol.

Bar populer di Gili Trawangan, Lombok Utara yang dikenal sebagai pulau liburan di Indonesia, yang disebut oleh temanteman Mr Davies sebagai tempat dimana ia membeli minuman fatal pada Malam Tahun Baru ... “ “Meskipun telah ada pernyataan tersebut, tidak ada investigasi yang dilakukan mengenai kematian Mr Davies, tidak ada karyawan bar yang diwawancarai dan tidak ada usaha yang dilakukan untuk menguji minuman yang masih disajikan kepada wisatawan.

The West Australian melakukan perjalanan menuju Gili Trawangan minggu ini dan mengambil dua sampel minuman dari Rudy’s Pub pada hari Rabu.

Yang pertama adalah sebuah minuman koktail Long Island Ice Tea yang diberi nama Gili Island. Yang kedua adalah campuran Vodka-Sprite 300ml sama dengan salah satu yang diyakini telah membunuh Mr Davies.

Pada bulan Oktober 2011, Jamie Johnston, seorang perawat dari Australia, menderita cacat permanen setelah minum di sebuah kafe yang populer di Senggigi, Lombok.

Roisin Burke, seorang guru dari Irlandia, meninggal pada bulan Mei 2011 setelah minum di kafe tersebut bersama kawankawannya.

Kematian-kematian ini telah memicu amarah warga Australia, sehingga mereka meminta pemerintah Australia untuk mengambil tindakan dengan meminta pemerintah Indonesia untuk menekan barbar yang menjual arak dan minuman yang terkontaminasi oleh methanol.

Banyak warga Australia menghimbau kepada para wisatawan untuk memboikot perjalanan ke Bali, Lombok dan Gili.

Setelah kematian remaja Perth ini, Menteri Luar Negeri Australia, Bob Carr, mengatakan beliau akan meminta pemerintah Indonesia untuk berbuat lebih banyak untuk melindungi turis.

Juru bicara Australian Medical Association, David Mountain, mengatakan bar-bar yang menjual miras oplosan lokal yang tidak sesuai standar regulasi, harus dituntut oleh pihak berwenang di Indonesia.

“Para pemilik bar yang menjual hal-hal tersebut diatas benar-benar perlu untuk mendapatkan konsekuensi. Di Australia Sampel diuji di laboratorium klinik swasta ini terklasifikasi sebagai pembunuhan tak terencana, jika bar-bar tersebut melakukan di Denpasar kemarin. Koktail Gili Island hal-hal ini kepada para pengunjungnya,” menunjukkan tidak ada jejak methanol, namun campuran Vodka - yang seharusnya katanya. berisi Vodka saja, Sprite dan air es – Arak adalah miras oplosan lokal Indonesia menunjukkan tingkat methanol yang yang terbuat dari getah palem yang terkandung sebesar 0,02 persen. difermentasi. Hal ini populer di kalangan wisatawan karena murah dan cukup Minuman 300ml tersebut mengandung ampuh. Dan sering digunakan dalam 30ml vodka yang dicampurkan dengan koktail murah, atau dijual sebagai “Arak 270ml sprite dan air es, ini menunjukkan Attack”, atau dicampur dengan madu dan isi metanol yang sebenarnya di dalam jeruk nipis sebagai “Arak Madu”. vodka tersebut adalah sekitar 0,2 persen ... “ Methanol (atau Alkohol Methyl) adalah senyawa kimia beracun yang sering Jumlah wisatawan yang telah teracuni digunakan dalam cat, pelarut atau sebagai pada tahun lalu adalah sangat bahan anti beku. Zat ini digunakan di mengkhawatirkan. Pada bulan September Indonesia sebagai bahan bakar untuk 2011, pemain rugby ternama dari Perth, lentera, mirip dengan alkohol spirtus di Michael Denton meninggal di Bali dan dunia barat. hasil otopsi kemudian menyatakan bahwa Methanol tidak seharusnya dibingungkan penyebab kematiannya adalah keracunan dengan Ethanol (komponen kimia yang methanol.

ditemukan dalam semua minuman beralkohol). Methanol sangat berbahaya dan bahkan sejumlah kecil dapat memiliki efek beracun. Methanol yang termetabolisme dalam tubuh menghasilkan formaldehida dan pada akhirnya asam formiat. Dengan kadar sesedikit 6-10 ml dapat menyebabkan kebutaan, koma dan bahkan kematian.

Sejumlah kecil methanol yang terkandung dalam produksi alkohol jumlah banyak adalah merupakan bahan alami produk dari proses fermentasi. Produsen biasanya akan membuang 50-100ml pertama dari minuman untuk mencegah minuman dari kontaminasi.

Namun, di Indonesia, dimana pajak impor pada botol minuman keras lebih dari 380 persen, sehingga insentif untuk mengganti alkohol dengan alkohol murah, yang dioplos secara lokal seperti arak, adalah sangat tinggi.

Penjual yang tidak bermoral seringkali mengencerkan minuman arak asli guna membotolkan lebih banyak arak dengan menambahkan bahan kimia, seperti methanol, untuk meningkatkan kandungan alkohol.

Arak yang terkontaminasi dengan methanol yang dijual di Bali pada tahun 2009 telah menewaskan 25 orang, dan ada banyak kematian lagi sejak saat itu.

Masalah ini diperparah oleh kurangnya informasi di Lombok. Media setempat tidak tahu dan tidak berusaha mencari tahu dari berita-berita di Australia setiap harinya dan kebanyakan orang lokal tidak menyadari akan masalah ini.

Menimbang bahwa arak adalah miras oplosan lokal, ada kemungkinan bahwa ratusan penduduk lokal telah meninggal akibat keracunan methanol tanpa pernah mengetahui penyebabnya.

Pemilik The Beach House dan ko ko mo Resort di Gili T hari ini mengeluarkan pernyataan bahwa mereka tidak mendukung penjualan arak dan tidak akan menjualnya di tempat usaha mereka.

Mereka juga mengirim email massal kepada para pengusaha pariwisata lain di Gili T, mendesak mereka untuk menghentikan penjualan arak dan memusnahkan semua stok dari bar mereka.

Oleh karena kami percaya bahwa informasi ini sangatlah penting, The Lombok Guide menerbitkan berita ini dalam bahasa Inggris dan Indonesia.

Terbitan edisi ini akan disebarkan kepada Gubernur NTB, Kepala Polisi Daerah, Polisi Pariwisata, Bupati Lombok Barat, Kepala Kepulauan Gili, beberapa rumah sakit besar di Lombok dan perusahaan-perusahaan di Gili.

Land & Property

45

Land & Property Section FOR SALE FOR LEASE FOR RENT

The Gandari Villa Residence

The Gandari Villa Residence is currently under development and consists of 3 luxurious Villas within a peaceful and secluded compound, just 5 minutes from Senggigi and 2 minutes from the beach.

Each of the 2-storey Villas features:

“The Superior Craftsmanship, Quality Of Building Materials And Stylish Design Speaks For Itself.”

• 3 Bedrooms and 3 Bathrooms • Master has Ensuite Bathroom and Pool Access • Modern Kitchen with Built-In Appliances, • Store Room and Separate Service Access • Luxury Dining with Indoor / Outdoor Features • Spacious Living Areas and Upstairs Gallery • Private Study / Home Office with Balcony • Separate Maid’s Quarters • All Utilities (Private Road Use, State Electricity and Water Connections, STP Sewerage Treatment System and Phone Land Line) • 600sqm Land with Freehold (Hak Milik) Certificate • Landscaped Swimming Pool • Outdoor Entertaining Terrace • Garden Bale and Fish Pond • Separate Entrance and Covered Car Park

Putu Anggreni Beck, Jalan Raya Senggigi, Duduk Garden No.6 Batu Bolong, Lombok, 83355, Indonesia Phone: +62 370 619 4273 | Fax: +62 370 619 4123 | HP: +62 821 4777 7705 (English & Indonesian) email: reni@gandari.com / info@gandari.com / www.gandari.com

Land & Property

46

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.

SPECIAL OFFERS! 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.... these prime lots are selling fast!

Villa Senja Ayu

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

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

Land & Property

MAIN OFFICE: Jl. Bung Karno / Opposite Lombok Garden Hotel Ph: 0370 648863 | Mobile: 082 147 768 880 | Fax: 0370 648865

www.ira-property.com

47

1. HOUSE and VILLA IN MONTONG: 22.5 are, swimming pool, certificate. IDR 3.2 billion.

2. HOUSE FOR SALE: at Montong Kedaton near Senggigi.

IDR 225 million.

3. FLAT LAND ON THE HILL with ocean view. Land size 2.8 Ha certificate. Price IDR 23 million/are.

4. LAND ON THE HILL. Batu Layar, Senggigi, 1800 m2. IDR 45 million/are 5. LAND FOR SALE: 2.7 Ha near Senggigi, ocean and sunset view.

6. LAND IN SEKOTONG: 1,1 Ha white sandy beach, certificate, 1.5 hour from airport, price IDR 18 million/are.

7. 33 ARE LAND ON HILL with ocean and Mt. Agung Bali view.

Suitable for villa with road access.

Price IDR 40 million/are 8. LAND IN TANJUNG Near OBEROI: 1.2 Ha. 25 million/are.

9. LAND IN KUTA: 1 Ha, certificate, ocean view & Kuta panorama, suitable for resort, hotel and villa. IDR 40 million/are.

Land & Property

48

This 3 bedroom stunning villa is the ultimate in contempory sophisticated living. Includes separate guest house, infinity pool and massive outdoor entertaining area all on 42 spacious are (4,200sqm). Price: AUS $750,000 CALL US TO INSPECT TODAY: Angela +62 819 1742 0804 | Terry +62 878 6155 1001 Email: islandpropertieslombok@gmail.com | Website: www.islandpropertieslombok.com

3 EXCLUSIVE FREEHOLD VILLAS

RY! HUR LY ON T! F 2 LE

Located in a peaceful estate 5 minutes to Senggigi 3 minutes to beach

2 spacious double bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms, open living areas, private swimming pool, sun deck and barbeque terrace.

PRICED TO SELL! IDR 1.35 Billion Approx USD 142,000 (offers considered)

Phone: 0819 1593 2899 (Indonesian) / 0819 3676 6611 (English) | Email: wouter.linden@gmail.com

Land & Property

49

ISLAND PROPERTIES LOMBOK Real Estate Specialists

S

sting

i L t e r c e

Price US $550,000

???

Located in Lombok’s most prominent location Returning US $450 a night

THE RESIDENCES KERANDANGAN 2 or 3 bedroom luxury Villas nestled in a beautiful green belt, next to a National Park.

European design and western quality construction.

The most exciting development in Lombok DON’T MISS OUT!!!

VILLA LOCO This impressive contempory Villa has amazing Views overlooking Senggigi bay.

Designed to maximize tropical outdoor living, this 3 BRM, 3 Bathroom property is a must see.

DON’T MISS THIS FANTASTIC OPPORTUNITY!

GREEN VALLEY FIRST TIME OFFERED Contemporary design, modern conversion, top quality finish!!!

2 large bedroom, 2 bathroom: Rp 600 Million.

THIS IS A BARGAIN!

MONTONG Direct beach frontage and sunset views.

Magnificent new 2-Storey 3 Bedroom, 3 Bathroom Villa.

3 Minutes to International school. Large swimming pool, lovely gardens on 5.6 are block.

A VIEWING MUST!!! US $315,000

GREEN VALLEY Two bedroom brick and tile residence in quiet cul de sac on the river.

Room for a second storey. 10 minute walk to the beach, restaurants and tourist strip.

ONLY US $28,000 / Rp 262 Million

GREEN VALLEY 10 minute walk to the beach and cafes.

Two level villa overlooking tropical scenery and coconut trees.

Two bedrooms, one bathroom, spacious living and open plan kitchen/dining. Includes all furniture.

INVESTORS DREAM! US $35,000

KERANDANGAN LAND Attention astute purchasers! Rare opportunity to purchase one hectare of elevated ocean and palm tree views. 10 mins from the tourist centre of Sengiggi.

Peaceful outlook and tranquil destination - be one with nature.

A BARGAIN AT 20 MILLION PER ARE

Art Market , Jl. Raya Senggigi | Ph : 0819 1742 0804 / 0878 6155 1001 islandpropertieslombok@gmail.com | www.islandpropertieslombok.com

We can make your dreams come true

Land & Property

50

SENGGIGI LAND FOR SALE

GRAHA SENGGIGI BEACH HOTEL

Strategic Location: 100m to main street, 200m to the public entrance of the beach.

From 1000 to 8500 sqm, Rp 40 - 50 million / are Direct contact with owner: ebtex@ymail.com Models for rent starting from IDR 3.700.000 pw Model Studio Kerandangan Wine

Per Week IDR Per Month IDR

3 700 000 4 600 000 6 500 000

9 500 000 11 200 000 15 400 000

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

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

Land & Property

51

155 METRES OF PINKY WHITE SAND SUMBAWA 5 Ha – 250m WHITE SANDY BEACH FRONT 200m deep-flat land, gentle slope to the rear. Unforgetable views of the Zoned for tourism and hotel development. Hot tar road access. 30 bay. Clear blue water. 3 Ha Freehold (Hak Milik). Only IDR 12,000,000 mins from airport, next to existing hotel on the same beachfront. ONLY per are (100m2). Great land bank investment. TOTAL USD 375,000 (approx) IDR 3,000,000 per are (100m2) Unbelievable at ONLY USD 160,000

UNIQUE DESIGN – 2 SPACIOUS DOUBLE BEDROOMS Both with ensuites. Open plan living with private pool and decking. Parking at entrance. Just 3 minutes stroll to the beach.

Excellent rental returns on managed estate. ONLY USD 149,500

KUTA SEA VIEW PLOT 42 ARES (4.250m2) With stunning panoramic views of Kuta Bay. Main road access, electricity available. Owner will sell 900m2 plots for only IDR 30,000,000. ONLY USD 30,000! Just look at that view!

MAGNIFICENT PLOT - SEA & SUNSET VIEWS OF BALI ISLAND VIEW VILLA IN BANGSAL Fully furnished. Double en-suite bedrooms with H/W showers. 917m2 flat land ready to build with water and electricity to plot. Private Sliding glass doors on 3 sides. Open plan with luxury kitchen. Wood road access from main road. ONLY IDR 70,000,000 per are (100m2) construction. 120m2 build on 1,250m2 plot. FREEHOLD USD 249,000 Just 5 mins walk to the beach. FREEHOLD USD 68,300 (approx)

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

www.lombokpropertyandvillas.com

Senggigi

52

Comfortable Air Conditioned Dining Inside Sidewalk Al Fresco & Private Smoking Terrace Delicious Asian and Western Meals & Snacks Fresh Juices, Cool Drinks, Coffee and more!

Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner Every day 10am to late

Jalan Raya Senggigi, Galleria Shops (between Rambo Petshop and Anna’s Gift Shop) Phone: 0370 692070 | Email: papabesar_cafe@yahoo.co.id | Find us on

Bean Bags!

Many styles and colours!

PURI Leisure Furniture Jl. Raya Senggigi Duduk Garden No.6 Batu Bolong (Kampung Duduk) Phone / Fax: +62 (0) 370 6194 123 / 0813 3955 5456 | www.gandari.com

Senggigi

53

LOMBOK PHOTOGRAPHER Lombok Photographer is more than just a collection of fantastic images. It’s a celebration of creating and sharing great photography. It’s about a lot of people getting involved and contributing a little bit each to create something.

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Anna’s

Giftshop

Looking for nice presents or home decorations?

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

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

54

55

THE LOMBOK GUIDE 2013 FULL COLOUR INTERNATIONAL MAGAZINE

FOLLOWING THE SUCCESS OF THE LOMBOK GUIDE 2012 FULL COLOUR MAGAZINE, WE ARE DELIGHTED TO ANNOUNCE THE PUBLICATION OF

THE LOMBOK GUIDE 2013 MAGAZINE

Every year, since 2008, we have distributed 5000 copies of our magazine to over 100 international travel agents and tour companies.

Our magazines are also distributed by the Lombok Hotel Association at travel fairs and expos in London, Australia, Berlin, Singapore, China, Malaysia and Kuala Lumpur, and at all major national travel marts.

Incorporating 120 pages of up-to-date information and beautiful photos of Lombok, The Lombok Guide Annual Magazine is recognised as the most popular and effective international publication for Lombok.

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

DON’T MISS THIS EXCITING OPPORTUNITY TO PROMOTE YOUR BUSINESS INTERNATIONALLY! Please call 0370 659 4005 or email kitadesign@hotmail.com

Tourism Information

56 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)

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.

The Cities

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58

The Cities

The Cities

59

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

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And No

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The Cities

60

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SINTA PEST C NTR L 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

The Cities

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62

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The Cities Wild Kopi Luwak

ONE STOP COFFEE SHOP Coffee Shop & Lounge In House Roasting Coffee Equipment Sell, Rent & Repair Machines Barista School

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The Cities

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Spacious, Convenient Location & Great Low Prices!

Lombok gift and Souvenir shop Sarongs, Ikat & Fabrics, T-shirts, accessories, and many more!

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Jalan Meninting Raya No.10 (In front of Meninting Raya Bungalows) Branch: Cakra Market at Jl. Tumpangsari No 14

The Southwest Elak Elak, Sekotong by Didiek Hariadi

64

The Southwest

Secret Islands, Pristine Beaches!

Floating in the sparkling turquoise waters just off the southwest coast are twelve 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.

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 deluxe rooms further back from the beach. The island is small and the beach here has soft white sand and a good reef just off the beach for snorkelling.

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

Gili Genting sits just off the tip of the peninsular and at low tide you can walk across the sandbar and explore this uninhabited island. Old volcanic rocks and stone carved from centuries of 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 Just out in the calm bay are the three its distinctive blue roofs dotted on the lovely islands of Gili Nanggu, Gili hillside overlooking another white sand Tangkong and Gili Sudat – all easily accessible by local outrigger boats. A small beach. The hotel development is still under construction. sign in the nearby village will direct you to the local boat hire area, where you can Across the road from Sundancer, on the arrange boat trips out to Gili Nanggu and beachfront, is Dive Zone – currently the other small islands offshore. 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 on the secluded beach at Tanjung Empat. With 28 rooms, including beachfront villas with private swimming pools, Cocotinos is the only luxury accommodation in 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 also organises snorkelling tours and is a popular choice for those surfing at Bangko-Bangko.

The largest of these islands is Gili Gede, appropriately meaning “Big Island”. The island lays just offshore and is so large visitors often mistake it for part of the mainland. Gili Gede is easily reached by boat from the village of Tembowong and is only minutes across the water.

Continued on Page 66

The Southwest

65

The Southwest

66 Continued from Page 64

Gili Gede is one of the few islands in the area that has accommodation, at Secret Island Resort on the south, Via Vaccare on the northwest and Madak Belo on the east.

and black Moorish Idols dart through the water. Schools of hundreds of small iridescent fish swim past and weirdly shaped squid drift by in the deeper areas.

There is also a beachfront bar and restaurant serving western and Indonesian meals, and good snorkelling directly from the beach.

Gili Gede is large enough to provide a range of activities such as hiking to the hills in the centre for fantastic views across the other islands, exploring deserted beaches and hidden coves and meeting the people living on the island, who are very friendly and, as yet, unspoilt by tourism.

We met a boat load of happy tourists on Gili Ringgit, out for the day with Dive Zone, who described the diving as some of the best they’ve ever experienced. Most couldn’t stop gushing about the huge school of turtles they had just seen near Gili Layar!

The resort is popular with divers and can arrange diving and snorkelling trips, as well as island-hopping tours.

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

All around these Southwest Gilis, abundant coral reefs lay just below the surface waiting to be explored, filled with thousands of brightly coloured tropical fish, huge sprawling blue starfish and magical turtles gently gliding through the water.

Secret Island can also organise fishing trips and island hopping excursions to the other beautiful islands in the area, most of which are deserted, about their comfortable 9m custom-built boat “Scorpio”.

Slightly south of Gili Gede, beautiful Gili Asahan attracts visitors with deserted white sand beaches, clear calm waters and swaying palm trees.

Leaving Gili Asahan and back on the mainland there are small home-stays and private accommodations spaced out along the road to Bangko-Bangko – the surfing Mecca for those in the know, located on the far southwest tip of Lombok. The wide white sand bay is lined with fisherman’s huts and draws hundreds of surfers every year from as far away as Hawaii and Brazil to challenge the huge waves of Desert Point, just offshore.

To the south of Gili Gede, the islands of Gili Ringgit, Layar and Asahan are lined up like secret treasures in the calm sea.

Bounty Cruises, a Bali-based company, own much of the land on Gili Ringgit and have constructed a boat mooring and pier on the island. There is good snorkelling on the west side of Gili Ringgit, accessed by boat. Large gardens of hard and soft corals lay just beneath the surface and the reef extends along most of the island’s coast.

The other side of the island, where the pier is located, has a fantastic white sand beach and is a favourite for guests from Secret Island Resort and Dive Zone, as the scenery and beach here are so lovely.

It’s easy to snorkel offshore just north of the pier and, although the reef isn’t as large as on the other side of the island, there is still plenty to see.

Bright blue starfish drape themselves across patches of coral, and bright yellow

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

Although the road deteriorates after Labuhan Poh, it is still passable for most vehicles in the dry season. During the surfing season, from mid-May to September and again in December, the beach is buzzing with surfers, but otherwise it is a remote and peaceful area.

Of a much higher standard than most of the accommodation in the southwest, each Bali is clearly visible, with the island of bungalow is spacious with a private terrace Nusa Penida only about an hour’s sail and western standard bathrooms with hot away. water showers.

The drive to the point is dotted with bucolic scenery and tiny villages, making it a worthwhile trip even for non-surfers.

There is basic surfer accommodation in the area and plans for development in the near future.

Pearl Beach Resort, the only accommodation on the island, is a lovely boutique hotel with charming and welldesigned bungalows here looking out over a breath-taking beach.

The southwest is slated for tourism development and it’s easy to imagine hotels and resorts on all these beaches and islands in the future, as well as yachts, fishing boats, windsurfers, dive boats and the like. But for now, the Southwest is unspoilt and the Gilis remain the secret islands… stunningly beautiful, pristine and unique; and known only to the lucky few.

Distribution

The Lombok Guide is published by CV Kita Design

EVERYONE CAN AFFORD TO ADVERTISE IN THE LOMBOK GUIDE Phone:

0370 659 4005 Email:

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DEADLINE NEXT EDITION 12 NOON 25 JANUARY

67

3500 COPIES DISTRIBUTED

EVERY TWO WEEKS AT THESE LOCATIONS:

Garuda Indonesia Airlines: Departure counters in LOMBOK, BALI & JAKARTA. Airport: Hotel counters outside the airport. BALI: Amo Spa, Arena Sport Bar & Rest, Asia Collection Tour, Asian Trails Tour, Balcony Rest, Bali Mystique, Barb’s Sport Warung, BIMC, Blue Water Express, Bounty Cruises, Caesar Rest & Bar, Cafe Bali, 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, Indo-Ned, 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 Porch Cafe, The Wicked Parrot, Ultimo Bar & Rest, Vila Lumbung, Warung Bale Bali, Warung Bonita, Warung Eropa, Warung Italia, Warung Kolega, Warung Made Bar & Rest, Warung Max, Warung Sulawesi, White Sands Rest & Bar, Yut’s Place Rest. MATARAM: Blue Bird Taxi, Citramulia Travel, CV Ananta Guna Lestari, Depo Jaya Bangunan, Losmen Tjabe Merah, Mataram Mall (Delicio Café, Hero Supermarket, Ira Property, Joli Sourire Dental Care, KFC, Lombok Coffee House, McDonalds, Oceanic Café), Melissa Bakery, NTB Museum, Pisa Kafe, Redwood Café, Sinta Pest Control, The Berugaq, Toko Susana. SOUTH LOMBOK: Secret Island Resort.

SENGGIGI: Alfa Mart, Anna’s Giftshop, Asmara Restaurant, Blue Marlin Senggigi, Café Alberto, Cafe Lombi, Ciokolata, d’Oria Boutique Hotel, De Quake, Deli Senggigi, Dream Divers, Dream Estate, Gandrung Lombok, Graha Beach Senggigi Hotel, Holiday Resort, Kebun Villas, Living Asia, Lombok Property & Villas, Lombok Real Estate, Marshander Spa & Salon, Meat Mart, Orchid Spa, Papa Besar Cafe, Papaya Cafe, Puri Furniture, Puri Bunga Cottages, Puri Mas Boutique Resort, Qunci Villas, Rambo Petshop, Royal Spa, Senggigi Jaya Abadi Supermarket, Sheraton, Square Restaurant, Stars Cafe, Temptations, The Beach Club, The Chandi, The Office, Windy Beach Resort. GILI T: Blue Marlin Dive, Coco’s, Desa Dunia Beda, Egoiste, Gili T Resort, Gili Getaway, ko-ko-mo Resort, Pesona Resort, Hotel Vila Ombak, Manta Dive, Ombak Sunset, Scallywags, The Beach House, The Trawangan. GILI MENO: Blue Marlin Dive, Divine Divers, Mahamaya, Tropical Hideaways Resort. GILI AIR: Scallywags, The Beach Club. SUMBAWA: Mini Mart, Newmont Mining Site.

Special thanks to our contributors: Barbara Lucas Cahyadi, Dian Cahyadi, Didik Hariadi, Iwan Haryanto, Iain Kent, Koes Nadi, www.lombokphotographer.com, www.balidiscovery.com.

Printed by PT. Temprina Media Grafika, Denpasar, Bali Copyright © 2013. All rights reserved. Nothing in The Lombok Guide can be reproduced in whole or part without written permission from the publisher.

68

Kuta and The South Coast

Tourism Information

69

KUTA AND THE SUBLIME SOUTH COAST

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

Kuta this year and smaller developments are already under construction.

Kuta by Barbara

South Lombok has views that inspire artists and photographers and leaves visitors from around the world speechless at the sublime panoramic beauty that unfolds beach after beach, bay after bay, all along the coast.

The beaches of the south 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 (sometimes spelt Kute) is the main town and tourism centre on the south coast of Lombok, and is the hub for exploring the fantastic southern beaches and the many 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 makes for a wonderful day trip from other points in Lombok, or an alternative holiday destination for travellers exploring Lombok.

Since the Lombok International Airport opened in late 2011, many of the major roads have been upgraded and the main road to Kuta is very good. The new airport is located only 25 minutes’ drive north of Kuta and has made access to the south very easy.

The proximity to the airport has already sparked an investment boom in the area and major developments are expected over the coming year. For now, the south is uncrowded, pristine and spectacular.

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.

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, an 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.

Nearby Mandalika Beach is named after the legendary Princess Mandalika, a beloved character in Sasak folklore. 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.

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

Kuta itself is a small town with hotels, Perched on top of the hill with spectacular home-stays and backpacker’s hostels that views over Kuta and the surrounding cater mainly to the thousands of surfers beaches, Ashtari serves exquisite teas and from around the world who are drawn to juices, and delicious vegetarian meals and the area every year to surf the left- and organic gourmet snacks that are truly out right-hand breaks out in the bay. of the ordinary. Open Tuesday to Sunday, There is a good variety of accommodation, for breakfast and lunch only. restaurants and facilities for travellers and – with investment taking off –more options Kuta attracts thousands of visitors every year for the great surf locations are opening all the time. There are plans at Gerupuk, Tanjung Aan, Ekas, and the for a luxury beachfront resort in central beaches to the west. 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. Hire a car or motorbike and you can spend days visiting beautiful, mainly deserted beaches, both to the east and west of Kuta.

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.

Just before arriving in Kuta, the road passes two traditional Sasak villages – Sade and Rambitan. On the east side of the road is Rambitan, a village that caters to tourists and has authentic clusters of thatched Lumbung, or rice barns, and traditional homes made of thatch and bamboo, with hardened cow and buffalo dung floors.

Nearby, on the hilltop, is one of the oldest

At present, Kuta boasts just one luxury resort: the Novotel Lombok. The Novotel has a range of accommodation, from comfortable hotel rooms to spacious suites and luxurious villas, some with private swimming pools. Designed to blend in with the environment, and with a stunning beachfront location, the Novotel is a wonderful example of traditional Sasak architecture.

Weaving

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!

Continued on Page 73

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Kuta and The South Coast

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Kuta and The South Coast 71

Kuta and The South Coast

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Tourism Information

73 on accommodation in the southeast, although there are plans to develop the Tanjung Ringgit area.

Continued from Page 69

At Bumbang, Bumbangku Beach Cottages has simple thatched cottages and comfortable brick deluxe rooms right on a beautiful deserted beach. There is a good restaurant, serving fresh fish and seafood caught by local fishermen, and easy access to the best surfing spots nearby.

Even for non-surfers, Bumbangku is a delightful place to spend a few days, swimming, strolling along the wide calm bay and relaxing in the peaceful natural surroundings.

Further east, Heaven on the Planet and Ocean Heaven (collectively known as HOTPlanet) currently has the monopoly

For now, however, these two exclusive properties provide the chance to really escape from the outside world in sublime surroundings.

The resorts feature comfortable accommodation, good restaurants, swimming pool, a Spa and Wellness Centre and a host of water activities, such as surfing, snorkelling, kayaking, wind-surfing and more.

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

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; look for the three startling pinnacles of rock jutting out of the ocean.

Selong Blanak is a long sweeping bay framed on each end by headlands and surrounded by rolling hills. Sempiak Villas has plush villas perched on the hillside with breath-taking panoramic views.

Laut Biru Café at Sempiak Villas is a popular place for a stop – or justifies a day trip in itself – and serves fresh and delicious snacks and meals throughout the day in a pretty restaurant overlooking the beach. Spend a day exploring the area, with lunch and a swim here as the highlights of your trip.

Further west are picturesque Sepi and Blongas bays, and many more scenic beaches along the way; all are mostly deserted.

The road deteriorates rapidly and the going can be rough at times. For exploring this remote area it’s best to use an experienced local guide with a good vehicle.

Steeped in history and legend, surrounded by beaches of almost surreal beauty, the south coast is a fascinating area to visit, whether your interests are historical, cultural or just the opportunity to see and explore some of the most beautiful and pristine coastal scenery in Indonesia.

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Kuta and The South Coast

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Tourism Information

The Gili Islands

Unique tropical escapes!

Gili Trawangan

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

Three perfect coral islands – Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno and Gili Air – fringed with white sands and swaying palm trees, lay in the sparkling ocean just off the north-west coast of Lombok.

Every year the Gilis attract tens of thousands of 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. The Gilis are Lombok’s most popular islands and are consistently rated as top SEA island destinations by travellers and travel publications.

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

While nobody comes to the Gilis for shopping, each island has many small shops selling essentials such as sunscreen, mosquito repellent, toiletries, cold drinks, snacks and more. In addition, there are cheap clothing and t-shirts, sarongs and local handicrafts stalls.

Activities include walking, riding bikes, horse riding and kayaking on Gili T, yoga, massage and beauty treatments,

glass bottom boat trips and island hopping, live-aboard dive trips and cruises to nearby islands, fishing, sailing, surfing and all kinds of water-based activities.

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

Snorkelling is easy in the calm waters directly off the beaches, with plenty of colourful fish to see. At greater depths and at specific 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.

Continued on Page 80

Gili Trawangan

LUXURIOUS VILLAS AND SINGLE SUITES Gili Trawangan, Lombok-NTB Indonesia P: 0370 6647066, M: 087864297487, F: 0370 6147741 E: booking@thetrawangan.com W: www.thetrawangan.com

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Tourism Information

80 Continued from Page 78 An impressive array of sea life can be seen, including green and hawksbill turtles, morays, barracuda, reef sharks, occasionally leopard sharks and manta rays, and much more.

Visibility is very good and commonly in the 15-30 m range; and water temperatures average 23°C (73°F) to 29°C (84°F). Currents around the islands can be quite strong and drift diving is the norm.

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

Each Gili has 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 Trawangan is the most developed and popular of the three, with the greatest range of facilities and activities; while Gili Air has a relaxed, laid-back style and is popular with couples and families. Gili Meno is the quietest of the three, perfect for really getting away from it all.

Choose the island that suits you most, or it’s easy to combine an island-hopping holiday to sample the best of all three!

Gili Trawangan’s only Indian Restaurant Sheesha Lounge & Beach Resort

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

www.pesonaresort.com

Tourism Information

81

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

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Gili Trawangan

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.

Blue Water Express, operated by Blue Water Safaris, provides transfers between Bali and Gili Trawangan. BWS operates two boats, with 28 and 30 passenger capacities, departing from Serangan (near Benoa Harbour) at 8am and 10am, and from Padang Bai Harbour at 11.15am every day. Return transfer from Gili Trawangan is at 11am. Fares include air conditioned hotel transfers in Bali. Ph: (0361) 841 3421-24 / 0813 3841 8988. www.bluewater-express.com

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.

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: (0361) 751570 / 726 523; or Bali: 0819 1673 3051; Gili T: 0878 6432 2515. www.island-getaway.com GiliBookings.com is an online booking service offering easy reservations with the leading fast boat operators between Bali and Lombok. Availability checks, schedules and e-ticketing, as well as accommodation options and more, are all available online from their website: www.gilibookings.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, 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.

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

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

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

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

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 are some basic home-stays on the road from the beach.

Arnel is a nice option with pretty rooms at reasonable prices. The attached Salero Minang restaurant serves delicious Minang meals and the friendly owners can help with everything from vehicle hire to travel information and laundry services.

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!

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

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.

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.

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

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.

Gili Trawangan

84

Luxury Villas on Gili Trawangan

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

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

Gili Air +62 (0) 81 353 050 462 | info@manta-dive-giliair.com www.manta-dive-giliair.com

Tourism Information

GILI TRAWANGAN

The most well-known and popular of the three Gilis, Gili Trawangan is the largest island and the furthest from the mainland, but easily reached in less than an hour by local boat and only 10 minutes by speedboat from Lombok.

and Bali, together with singles, couples and families from all over the world.

The island itself is around 3km long and 2km wide, so walking is easy and you can cycle around the island in around 1 1/2 hours (but will need to get off and push Previously tagged “the party island” by the your bike through sandy sections on the Lonely Planet, Gili T (as it is affectionately west side). known) has moved on and up.

This is the only Gili to rise significantly above sea level and the hill in the south Gone are the days when backpackers is a great lookout from which to enjoy flocked to the island for Rp 20,000 a the spectacular sunsets across the ocean night huts on the beach and Rp 5,000 to Bali; or in the mornings, the brilliant Bintang beers. Today, Gili T has a sleek sunrise over Gunung Rinjani on mainland sophisticated side that becomes more Lombok. evident every year.

That’s not to say that the original charms that attracted tourists in the beginning are gone. The perfect white sand beaches, clear turquoise waters and laid-back island style are still there in buckets.

On the far south end of the hill are the remnants of old WWII Japanese gun emplacements and crumbling bunkers, but the hand-dug tunnels have been blocked up.

But the island has cast off its grungy origins and now combines the best of a tropical island paradise with a touch of chic and all the mod cons of a top holiday destination.

The main development on the island is on the east coast, particularly southeast in the area called “Sentral”, where the boats dock. The tracks inland are through coconut groves and pockets of development.

Gili T still hosts backpackers and budget travellers, but these days they are joined by expatriates and trendsetters from Java

Development runs all along the east coast with swish places rubbing shoulders with

85

the older bars and accommodations. The north coast is quieter and offers peaceful alternatives to the central area.

Such is the appeal of the island, the south and west coasts are now dotted with small hotels, home-stays, private villas and a couple of larger resorts. This part of the island is the quietest and, although the beaches aren’t as nice as those on the east, the sunsets looking across to Bali are magical.

Accommodation on Gili T ranges from basic home stays to luxury hotels and villas. The old style bungalows with woven bamboo walls and thatched roofs are slowly disappearing, to be replaced by simple cottages with western style bathrooms to suit the budget crowd.

At the other end of the scale, boutique hotels and luxurious villas boast all the comforts of 5 star resorts, including designer furnishings, private swimming pools or Jacuzzis, WiFi internet, iPod docks, satellite TV and DVD. Restaurants rival Bali in quality, if not numbers. There are lounges and sophisticated bars, Internet cafés, movie “theatres” and beachside cafés galore.

Most restaurants and bars are located along the east coast, although the north coast has some lovely low-key options.

Dining choices range from the typical Indonesian nasi goreng to sushi; barbecued seafood on the beach to international fine dining; and everything between.

There is a lively bar scene at night and the island has a rotating party roster, where some of the top places have licences to host a party on one night of the week (hence the “party island” reputation).

These, and the full moon parties that take place on the beach during high season, are a big draw-card for the crowds of younger people who come to the island.

Photo by Blue Marlin Dive

Continued on Page 87

Gili Trawangan

86

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

Tourism Information

87 There is a good surf break on the south coast with a fast right-hander that really pumps in the right conditions. Local surfers will happily lead the way and rent you a board.

Continued from Page 85 For those who prefer quieter entertainment, there are sophisticated dining opportunities, particularly at places such as ko ko mo, Scallywags Resort, and on the beachfront at Hotel Vila Ombak.

Cocos has an upbeat café scene during the day and Horizontal is the coolest place to chill out, day or night. The social options are virtually unlimited.

The best snorkelling on the island starts on the northern end of the east coast, where you can wade to the reef just offshore. The water is calm and there is a drift from north to south, making it easy to lie on the surface and float down the coral outcrops. Although much of the coral is damaged, there is still an abundant variety of tropical fish species to enjoy and patches of colourful coral.

These days, Gili T is a serious tourist destination with a good infrastructure and range of tourist facilities. Many of the larger restaurants, hotels and dive shops accept credit cards; there are ATM’s in front of Vila Ombak on the east coast and further north, near Horizontal, as well as on the west side at Ombak Sunset.

Internet cafés with Wifi are readily available, as are money-changers, tour operators and a large number of fast boat services. There is a tennis club and fitness centre at Kelapa Villas and a medical centre at Vila Ombak with emergency facilities and a doctor on call.

Horses can be hired from The Stud on the southeast coast; sea kayaking is available at Karma Kayak on the north coast; yoga, meditation, massages and other health and beauty treatments are available at numerous places around the island.

There is even shopping at the Pasar Seni (Art Markets) in Sentral and at any number of shops and kiosks all around the island, selling everything from pearls to sarongs to hammocks. Innuendo has some upmarket resort wear and Silver Dragon sells beautiful silver jewellery.

But it is the beaches and the diving that remain the main draw card for Gili T. People flock here to sunbathe on white sand beaches and swim in clean blue waters, to dive the fabulous reefs and to bask in the hedonistic pleasures of a tropical paradise.

Cidomo (Horse Cart)

Further off shore, the island is famed for its vast gardens of coral and is one of the best dive spots in Lombok, which is why thousands of divers visit Gili T every year.

It is also one of the safest and easiest places to learn to scuba dive, with warm water temperatures, calm seas and excellent visibility almost all year round. There is a very good selection of professional western-operated dive shops and a range of dive locations suitable for beginners through to thrill seekers.

It’s been a slow evolution over the past 20 years for Gili Trawangan, but the island’s time has come. While the backpackers will no doubt lament, there’s a whole new scene unfolding on Gili T. A world-class tourism destination is emerging – without the traffic and pollution – set down on an idyllic tropical island.

Gili Meno

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B o u t i q u e Re s o r t and R e s t a u ra n t

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MAHAMAYA is ultimate paradise Tripadvisor “Number 1 Restaurant” and “Number 1 B&B” in the Gili Islands

fabulous food

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Gili Meno

89

GILI MENO

under the star-filled skies. There is no rowdy bar scene and no noisy full moon parties here.

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

Although there are small places dotted all around the island, many of the hotels and restaurants are located along the southeastern coast, with beautiful views over Gili Air and Mt Rinjani to the east.

It is possible to walk around the whole island on a small beachside track in around 90 minutes. Those seeking total tranquillity head to the north and west coasts, where more development has been quietly taking place over the past year.

Mahamaya on the northwest coast has the most luxurious accommodation on the island, with two exclusive beachfront villas and more planned for later in the year. The restaurant is earning accolades for top quality cuisine served in the shady dining area or at pretty tables on the beachfront. Stylish rooms and personalised service make Mahamaya popular with honeymooners and those seeking luxe island escapes.

Gili Meno is the middle and the smallest of the three Gili Islands, with the lowest population and the least number of visitors.

The island has not developed as quickly as Gili T or Gili Air and suffered unpopularity when, in the mid-90’s, The Lonely Planet wrote that the salt lake on the island created mosquito problems.

This was untrue – mosquitoes are no more prevalent on Gili Meno than anywhere else – but the damage was done.

Many would say that the bad publicity was a blessing in disguise. Today, Meno

is probably the prettiest of the three Gilis, with the laid-back and uncomplicated charm of a true castaway tropical island.

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

Although investors are steadily buying up land, especially on the west coast facing Gili T, there is no major development on the island as yet. There are a few upmarket villas, but no large resorts.

Fortunately, much of the investment taking place here is low-key and – perhaps recognising the pristine nature of the island – development tends to be along environmentally and ecologically sound concepts.

For now, small hotels and basic beachside bungalows provide accommodation for those seeking a peaceful place in the sun with un-crowded beaches, clean waters and peaceful nights

Good mid-range options include Tropical Hideaways and Adeng-Adeng. Tropical Hideaways, located a short stroll from the best beaches on the east coast, has comfortable and modern air conditioned rooms and a good restaurant and bar, serving delicious and well-priced meals.

Set in shady gardens, Tropical Hideaways has one of the few swimming pools on the island.

Adeng-Adeng is a new resort being developed along ecological lines on the north coast. Rooms and dining pavilions are set on unique islands surrounded by small canals in a pretty garden shaded by conifers.

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Gili Meno

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Tropical Hideaways Resort Bar & Restaurant Gili Meno Island

Resort Bar & Restaurant

STRESSED OUT......?

NEED TO RELAX & CHILL ......?

TROPICAL HIDEAWAYS PRIVATE RESORT Email: info@tropicalhideawaysresort.com Website: www.tropicalhideawaysresort.com

Bedroom

Swimming Pool

Swimming Pool

Garden

Reception

Gili Meno

91 There is also good snorkelling off the west coast near the now-defunct Bounty Resort.

Swim out to where the old pontoon has sunk and become a home for many fish.

Inland from the beaches, the island is quite dry with small homes scattered through the coconut groves. In the middle, toward the west coast, is a salt lake from which the local people still harvest salt on a small scale. It can be quite full in rainy season but dries up in the summer.

Also inland, on the main track from the east coast, Gili Meno Bird Park has some tropical birds and a few interesting animals. There is accommodation here and a great display of Beatles memorabilia collected by the owner.

Continued from Page 89 Accommodation includes air conditioning and lovely open-air bathrooms, while the garden café and beachfront bar are already attracting popularity for excellent quality cocktails and delicious freshly-prepared meals.

There is good snorkelling in front of Adeng-Adeng and along the northwest

coast, where it is often possible to see Green, Leatherback and Hawksbill turtles.

Casual beachfront cafés and bars serve Indonesian and popular western meals, with fresh fish and wood-fired pizzas being Gili Meno specialties.

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

Some provide low-key entertainment in the evenings, more so in the high season, but visitors to Gili Meno largely come for romantic escapes and a chance to rejuvenate in the natural beauty of the island’s deserted beaches, which some argue are the best of all three Gilis.

Dive Different

Dive Divine Phone: 085 240 570 777 | Gili Meno, Indonesia | www.divinedivers.com

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Gili Air

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GILI AIR

90 minutes to circle the whole island. The interior is criss-crossed with a maze of tracks that can get confusing, but all lead back to the beach.

There is a good surf break with a barrelling right hander known as “Play Gili” off the south coast that attracts crowds when it is pumping. It breaks over sharp coral, so check with local surfers about conditions and board hire.

Diving opportunities abound and there is a good selection of reliable dive operators on the island, including Blue Marlin, Dream Divers, Oceans 5 and Manta Dive.

Gili Air is the island closest to the mainland and can be reached in around 20 minutes by local boat or five minutes by speedboat. Gili Air has the largest local population of the three islands, combining the charm of a tropical island with access to the people and culture that make Lombok unique.

At present, Gili Air is a laid back island with a beachfront lined with simple cafés and bars made from bamboo and thatch.

Its main appeal is its unspoilt nature, with few of the swanky restaurants and villas that have sprouted up on Gili T… and that’s why so many people love it.

However, with some believing that Gili T is becoming over-developed, Gili Air is taking off as an alternative destination. Over the past couple of years, investors have been snapping up land on Gili Air and a number of up-market accommodations and restaurants have sprung up, with more to open in the next year.

Most development is on the east coast and towards the south. Scallywags, who have another popular resort on Gili Trawangan, own Scallywags Organic Beach Club on the southern end of the east coast with excellent swimming in front and a friendly atmosphere. The restaurant has taken island dining to a new level with its excellent menu and guest facilities.

Just to the south of Scallywags, the Australian owners of the successful Senggigi business, The Beach Club, opened The Beach Club Gili Air in mid2012 and offer eight charming bungalows, similar to their Senggigi accommodations, with large air conditioned bedrooms, private terraces and semi-open air bathrooms.

The bar and restaurant serves aboveaverage meals and the beachfront here is a great place for lounging during the day, or

upmarket dining in the evening.

Existing accommodation on the island is generally simple and until now, has mainly been the domain of the backpacker crowd; although the Gili Air Hotel on the north of the island has a variety of rooms and a swimming pool. Oceans 5, on the south coast, is a well-managed resort with above-average rooms, a good restaurant and swimming pool. Manta Dive has nice air-conditioned bungalows and a swimming pool.

Many of the older places offer thatchroofed bungalows with basic amenities, close to white sand beaches and at relatively low prices.

There is a good variety of small restaurants and beachside cafés on the island, with many offering traditional Indonesian dishes and basic western fare. The beach barbecues with freshly caught fish are particularly good.

The bar scene can get pretty lively in the evenings and, during high season, the island kicks into high gear with Full Moon parties on the beach. Popular places include Chillout Bar and Zipp Bar. Activities include walking and cycling around the island, sun bathing, and swimming, snorkelling and diving in the crystal clear waters. Yoga and meditation, together with relaxing massages and body treatments, are available at H2O Yoga and Meditation.

For exploring, there is a path running parallel to the beach and it takes around

The calm waters and good visibility make Gili Air an ideal place to learn to dive or to upgrade diving skills. There are a number of popular dive sites that attract divers from the other Gilis, including Air Wall off the west coast, Hans Reef and Frogfish Point off the north coast.

The water surrounding the island is of a colour hard to describe – a clear, translucent turquoise, made even more pure by the sparkling white sand beneath.

Gili Air still boasts living reefs off much of its coast and there is wonderful snorkelling directly from the shore, particularly from the east and northeast beaches.

The coral starts within metres of the beach, making it easily accessible to anyone – even novices who have never snorkelled before. Because the island is protected by reefs, there are few waves and the ocean is amazingly gentle, allowing snorkellers to drift in a dreamy daze above this panorama of aquatic shapes and colours.

As is the case on all the Gilis, there are no cars or motorbikes allowed on the island, thus there is no pollution to spoil the clean air and the peaceful atmosphere.

The views from all points of the island are stunning but the east coast, facing Lombok, is probably the most fantastic – looking back at the big island with its white beaches and green mountains dominated by the volcano, Mt Rinjani.

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

“Exotic Charm, Modern Comfort”

Make your Valentine’s Day memories last forever..!

Happy Valentine’s day !

• 2 Nights accommodation • Welcome drink and fresh fruit upon arrival • Daily breakfast for 2 persons • 1 x Romantic dinner on the 14th Feb 2013 on the beach or beside the swimming pool for 2 persons • Return horse cart (Cidomo) transfer from/to Harbor

Only USD 305 net/room, includes:

Barefoot Luxury in the Gilis

is a day to express your love and to celebrate the spirit of love. A splendid idea on that day is to open your heart to your special someone and let them know how you feel. It’s a perfect occasion to express your deepest feelings and love. It’s time to come and stay with us at the most exotic beach resort.

Valentine’s Day …….

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Gili Trawangan

Tourism Information

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Gili Trawangan