The Lombok Guide Issue 216

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Issue 216 | 4 – 18 April 2016

The

LOMBOK GUIDE ( 0812 3734 4894 | www.thelombokguide.com The Beach Club Beach Bungalows

Page 90

PUBLISHED BI-WEEKLY IN LOMBOK, FOR LOMBOK

DIVE INTO LOMBOK!

IN THIS ISSUE Getting to Lombok

Page 2

Attractions & Actitvities

Page 4/8

Lombok Map

Page 6

Special Feature Page 10 & 11 Senggigi

Page 12-51

Senggigi Map

Page 14

Special Feature Page 16 What’s Hot/ Local News

Page 18

Useful Contacts Page 24 Local News

Page 26

Classifieds

Page 33,35,37

Special Feature Page 34 Distribution

Page 39

Local News

Page 42 & 46

Land & Property

Page 52-57

The Cities

Page 58-61

Cities Map

Page 60

The Southwest

Page 62-65

Kuta & The South Coast

Page 66-75

South Lombok Map

Page 73

North Lombok

Page 76 & 77

The Gilis

Pgae 78-96

Getting to Gilis

Page 80

Gilis Fast Facts Page 83 Gilis Map

Page 95

To find out more, pick up a copy of The Lombok Guide from the locations listed on page 39 or visit www.thelombokguide.com and discover the magic of Lombok for yourself…

Like thousands of others, you’ll be enchanted!

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Tourism Information

GETTING TO LOMBOK

It’s easy to get to Lombok from Bali – flight time is only DOMESTIC FLIGHTS around 30 minutes and fares start from around Rp 350,000 European connections are easy via Jakarta (the capital city (approx. US $35) one way. Buy tickets direct from the airline of Java), Bali and other capital cities such as Jogjakarta, counters at the domestic airports, or contact local travel Surabaya and Makassar. agents in both Bali and Lombok.

Direct flights from Jakarta to Lombok are available every Lombok International Airport (or Bandara Internasional day and are usually timed to connect with European flights.

Lombok, commonly abbreviated to BIL, and using the IATA Lombok is easily accessible from Jakarta, Bali, Jogjakarta, code “LOP”) is the only airport on Lombok.

Surabaya and Makassar and is an important connection The airport is close to Praya (Central Lombok); for travel to the eastern islands, in particular the islands of Sumbawa, Komodo and Flores. approximately 40km south of the city of Mataram, and around 1 ½ hours’ drive from Senggigi, and 25 minutes from Garuda Indonesia / Citilink have direct flights daily Kuta. between Lombok and Bali, Surabaya, Makassar and Jakarta. Call Centre: 08041 807 807. Sales Office: +62 370 Airport departure tax is Rp 45,000 for domestic departures 642303 / 649999. Airport: 0370 649100.

(Rp 75,000 from Bali) and Rp 150,000 for international www.garuda-indonesia.com departures (Rp 200,000 from Bali).

Lion Air / Wings Air has daily flights between Lombok, BALI TO LOMBOK BY AIR Bali, Bima (Sumbawa), Jakarta and Surabaya.

Ph: +62 370 6627444 / 642180. www.lionair.co.id In Lombok, all flights depart and arrive at Lombok International Airport. In Bali, flights arrive and depart at Batik Air flies direct between Lombok and Jakarta, with two Ngurah Rai (Denpasar) Domestic Airport. flights every day. www.batikair.com Garuda Airlines has direct flights between Lombok and Bali BALI TO LOMBOK BY SEA every day. Call Centre: 0 8041 807 807, Sales Office: +62 Padang Bai Harbour (Bali) provides the sea link between 370 642303 / 649999. www.garuda-indonesia.com mainland Bali and Lombok. Lembar Harbour (Lombok) is Wings Air / Lion Air flies between Bali and Lombok daily. on the southwest coast, approx. 1 hour south of Senggigi, The companies code-share, so you may purchase a Lion Air Lombok. Arrange your own transport and buy tickets direct from the harbours, or use a reputable tour company to ticket and find yourself on a Wings Air flight! Lombok, Call Centre: +62 80 4177 8899. Bali, ph: +62 361 765132. www. provide a transfer service. lionair.co.id Public Ferries depart every hour for the sea voyage between Padang Bai Harbour (Bali) and Lembar Harbour INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS (Lombok). The crossing between the islands costs Rp Lombok International Airport (IATA: LOP) has full Visa 40,000 per person and takes approx. 4 to 5 hours. Lembar Harbour ph: +62 370 681 209. Padang Bai Harbour ph: on Arrival (VOA) facilities, with fast and efficient visa (+62 363) 41849 / 41840 processing. A 30-day Tourist VOA costs US $35.

Ph: +62 370 622987.

FAST BOATS Silk Air (a subsidiary of Singapore Airlines) flies direct There are now numerous “fast boat” services operating between Lombok and Singapore, four times per week between Bali and Lombok.

(Sunday, Monday, Wednesday and Friday).

Blue Water Express has services between Bali and Ph: +62 370 628254 / 628255. www.silkair.com mainland Lombok, with convenient departures from Air Asia operates direct flights between Lombok and two different locations on Bali – Serangan (near Benoa Harbour) and Padang Bai Harbour – every day. Fares two destinations in Malaysia, with many international include air conditioned hotel transfers in Bali. Ph: +62 361 connections available. Flights between Lombok and Kuala Lumpur operate every day, and between Lombok and Johor 895 1111 / 0813 3841 8988. www.bluewater-express.com Bahru 3 times per week. www.airasia.com Gili Getaway also connects Bali and mainland Lombok with daily transfers from Serangan Harbour on Bali. Fares Garuda Airlines flies between Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia include air conditioned hotel transfers to main points in Bali. and Lombok every day, with a short stop-over in Jakarta.

Ph: +62 819 1673 3051 / +62 813 3707 4147.

International connections from around the world are www.giligetaway.com available, via Jakarta. Call Centre: 08041 807 807. Airport: See the “Getting to the Gilis” section for more details. +62 370 649100. www.garuda-indonesia.com

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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.

Surfing at Senggigi Bay by SId Blade Malimbu Beach by Iwan Haryanto

BEACHES The whole island is surrounded by fantastic beaches, most of which are covered in clean white sand and fringed by coconut palms. Drive just north of Senggigi to Malimbu or Nipah and enjoy deserted beaches with fine snorkelling and swimming. The southwest coast also has fine beaches, especially around Sekotong and Taun.

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

DIVING

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

Snorkelling is easy from the shore and all three islands are well served by professional dive operators who offer full PADI certification courses, day and night dives to the many sites around the Gilis, as well as specialised courses and live-aboard adventures to exotic locations. For the more adventurous, there is superb diving around the islands off the southwest coast, as well as near Kuta on the south coast and the small uninhabited islands off the east coast.

SURFING

Lombok is becoming a world-renown surfing destination amongst surf enthusiasts world-wide. Huge waves and challenging surf lure die-hards to BangkoBangko (also known as Desert Point) on the south-western tip of Lombok.

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.

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

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

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

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.

Benang Setokel Waterfall by Iwan Haryanto

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Lombok Map

Senggigi

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Tourism Information

8

ATTRACTIONS & ACTIVITIES designs. You can also purchase handwoven sarongs and fabrics (ikat).

Pringgasela in central Lombok is a small village which is steeped in tradition and is a major centre for weaving ikat. Visit the small houses and shops here to purchase traditionally woven, colourful fabrics.

Pelawangan Sembalun at Mt Rinjani

by Iwan Haryanto

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.

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.

a ritualised war with rice cakes, which also serve as an offering to the Gods.

Taman Narmada (or Narmada Park), around 6 km east of Cakranegara in Narmada, was created in the late 1800’s as a replica of Gunung Rinjani and Segara Anak, the lake within Rinjani’s crater.

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

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

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!

Pura Lingsar is possibly the only place in the world where Hindus and Moslems come together to pray and celebrate. Built around 1714, Pura Lingsar was originally based on the prevailing animist beliefs of the time, and some of the original animist statues remain today. Perang Topat, is an annual festival held at Lingsar and features

Lombok is famous for its traditional earthenware pottery made from local clay with distinctive “Lombok primitive”

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

HANDICRAFT VILLAGES

Sukarara is 5 km to the west of Praya, heading south towards Kuta. This is a weaving village where quality ikat and traditional cloth is displayed and sold.

Weavers work outside many of the shops, using antiquated “back strap looms” to painstakingly produce works of art.

Some of the larger pieces can take several months to weave, and collectors from around the world visit this village to purchase the blankets, sarongs and cloth produced here.

Banyumulek, easily reached on the road south to Lembar Harbour, is an important centre for pottery on Lombok. The small village is packed with shops selling pottery produced in the area, as well as from the other main pottery-making villages such as Penujak and Masbagik. Lombok pottery, with its distinctive terracotta styles, has become famous internationally and is exported throughout the world.

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Special Feature

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DIVE INTO LOMBOK! Forget Thailand! Forget Malaysia! If you love to dive into the big blue, you’re going to love diving into Lombok!

©2016. Photos courtesy of Dive Zone Lombok

This issue, Lombok is in Singapore at ADEX – the largest dive expo in Asia, and we’re bringing you this special feature on why your next dive holiday should be in Lombok!

Whether you’ve always wanted to learn to dive or you’re a world-traveller with hundreds of hours of diving on your log – with its pristine beaches, perfect small islands and exciting dive sites – Lombok has something to offer everyone. sites for all levels. There is a plethora of PADI and SSI certified dive centres on the islands with qualified instructors speaking a range of languages, making it easy to find an outfit that suits you.

Depths rarely exceed 50m in the Gilis and water temperature is usually between 27 - 30ºC, making the islands an ideal destination for beginners – in fact, the Gilis are the most popular place to learn to dive in Indonesia!

The Gilis – these three small islands just off the northwest coast of Lombok are home to some of the most renowned scuba diving in Indonesia and are touted as the ‘Turtle Capital of the World’ because of the many turtles living around the islands.

The three islands – Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno and Gili Air – have a good range of accommodation to suit all travellers, as well as restaurants, bars, shops and a well developed tourism infrastructure.

The three islands offer different holiday experiences, so read our “Gilis Section” for more information on each island.

The Gilis are known for excellent visibility and have a good variety of exciting dive

Experienced divers are in good company with the many expat diving enthusiasts living and teaching on the islands – nitrox dives, drift dives, night dives and wreck dives are all on offer, as are advanced qualifications such as Instructor and Technical Diver training.

The many dive sites around the three islands provide a good cross section of marine life found throughout Indonesia. Just offshore, you can encounter turtles, stingrays, white-tip and black-tip reef sharks, schools of tropical fish such as angel fish, puffer fish,

Moorish Idols, butterfly fish and more, as well as moray eels and barracuda.

Manta rays can be spotted during the rainy season and reef sharks abound at Manta Point and at Shark Point (both off Gili Trawangan). Chances are also good for spotting dogtooth tuna, rays, angelfish, puffer fish and bumphead parrotfish.

Meno Wall, just north of Gili Meno, is best for encounters with Hawksbill and Green turtles, as well as white-tip reef sharks, known to rest in the sandy areas of the channel.

At Takat Malang, also off Gili Meno, are big coral heads (takats), each sculpted with overhangs, outcrops and swimthroughs. There is a great variety of hard and soft corals all over the major takats and massive gorgonian fans on the walls.

The channels between the takats are great to cruise around and take in the beautiful topography.

Malang Reef, between Gili Meno and Gili Air, features big coral heads, overhangs and a few swim-throughs, and lures

Special Feature

11 peaceful beauty of the area and its unspoiled dive sites.

You won’t find many travellers in the surrounding bays and on the islands – they are pristine, picturesque and perfect for walks along the empty beaches. Nondivers also can enjoy the area and wade out to explore the beautiful reefs offshore or take a kayak out into the calm waters.

While scuba diving the southern Gilis, you are likely to see turtles, blue spotted stingrays, cuttlefish, moray eels, frog fish, ghost pipefish scorpion fish and much more, as well as an amazing abundance of macro life.

The Southwest Gili dive sites have plenty of variety, offering long stretches of hard coral reefs that are a favorite for trevallies, barracudas and white tip reef sharks.

this will be filled with coral and teeming with marine life, becoming another Gili Air Wall is a coral wall, with brain and fascinating dive site on the star corals and some acropora formations.

Gilis.

The wall drops steeply down to about 28m This is only a sampling and there are overhangs and arches along of the exciting dive sites the wall filled with glassfish, moray eels, available on the Gilis; the anemones with clownfish and sometimes variety of sites sees divers octopus. Several species of reef fish can returning year after year to be found including six-banded angelfish, explore more. lionfish, a variety of triggerfish, sweetlips and damselfish.

Southwest Lombok – in contrast In February 2016, a new to the northwest Gilis, wreck site was created the 13 small islands off off Gili Trawangan. The the southwest coast are Glenn Nusa was the first known as “The Secret ship of its kind to be Gilis”. deliberately sunk here and sits in around 28m Largely undeveloped, of water, with the top at these islands float in around 22m deep. Soon advanced divers to spot giant grouper, schooling banner fish and rays aplenty.

the calm aquamarine ocean just off the mainland and are surrounded by pristine reefs teaming with marine life.

Base yourself on the mainland around Sekotong, or on the islands of Gili Gede, Gili Nanggu or Gili Asahan, and spend days island hopping and delighting in the

On other reefs around the area one finds massive soft coral growth – a paradise for macro fans!

Dive sites like Gili Renggit and Gili Layar are made up of soft corals teaming with colourful fish and are a paradise for macro photographers.

A little further south, toward Bangko Bangko, the chances of seeing turtles and white-tip reef sharks are fairly high. Because these islands are largely unexplored, scuba diving the Southwest Gilis offers an abundant variety and numerous possibilities for new discoveries!

If you enjoy pristine diving at intact reefs, the southern Gilis is where you can find it!

Continued on Page 16

Tourism Information

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SENGGIGI

West Coast Resort

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

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

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

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

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

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

Senggigi 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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Senggigi Map

Senggigi

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Special Feature

DIVE INTO LOMBOK! Continued from Page 11

South Lombok – is best known as a surfing Mecca with awesome waves that attract surfers from all over the world.

It is also becoming known as a top dive location for divers seeking out-ofthe-ordinary experiences at pristine dive sites. For the moment, diving South Lombok is still an insider tip amongst the diving community!

Apart from the diving, the south coast is also one of the most beautiful places for enjoying a relaxed tropical vacation with breathtaking ocean views and gorgeous un-crowded beaches.

South Lombok is unique amongst the other dive locations around Lombok. Here one still finds exclusive dive sites and the chance to explore undiscovered waters.

On the south western coast of Lombok, beyond the southern Gilis and about 2 hours’ drive

south of Senggigi, lies Belongas Bay. Facing the Indian Ocean, this is an exciting, untouched and challenging dive destination that offers the opportunity to meet some of the big fish in an underwater paradise with pristine reefs, an intact environment and impressive marine diversity!

The most famous Belongas dive site is ‘The Magnet’ – home to both the smaller Scalloped Hammerhead (around 2 to 4 meters) as well as the Great Hammerhead Shark (around 4 to 6 meters).

According to some experts, ‘The Magnet’ is one of only a few places in the world where you can see both kinds of Hammerhead Sharks in one place at the same time.

‘The Magnet’ can be reached by boat in half an hour and is a pinnacle located in the open sea, rising up to the surface from 80m with waves crashing on top and over it, creating a big surge that can be felt down to 15+ metres on challenging days.

Here divers can expect seasonal sightings of schooling Hammerhead Sharks, barracudas, tunas, schools of mackerel, white-

and black tip reef sharks and other pelagic life. Mola Mola have occasionally been spotted here, too.

Due to the rough conditions, diving at ‘The Magnet’ is only for the experienced diver, but these can find world-class dive adventures and ‘adrenaline diving’ at Belongas Bay. The Hammerhead season is from May to October and Mobula- and Eagle Rays school in huge congregations from midAugust til mid-September.

Apart from Belongas, there are many other dive sites on the south coast are very suitable for less experienced divers and offer breathtaking coral reefs and an abundance of underwater life. Schools of mantas or macro paradise – here you can find it all!

Scuba diving the south coast offers even the well-travelled scuba diver an unexpected and unforgettable experience!

Senggigi

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Puri Bunga Beach Cottages

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Sea view cottages

From US$40* / room!

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* 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

What’s Hot / Local News

18 Temptations Bakery and Pantry is hosting “Organic April” this month.

Throughout April, the popular shopping spot in Green Valley will be showcasing a range of healthy products – including organic, gluten free and vegan products.

Celiac disease and gluten intolerance is a growing problem around the world and many people don’t even know they have the disorder, which has been linked to a number of serious diseases. It is caused by sensitivity (similar to allergy) to the proteins found in wheat, rye and barley.

Symptoms include bloating, abdominal discomfort or pain, constipation and diarrhoea and, occasionally, muscular disturbances and bone or joint pain. You may be gluten sensitive if you experience these symptoms or notice fatigue and brain fog after eating a gluten-heavy meal.

just that during April.

enjoy a snack or pub style meal with a few drinks.

You can also take advantage of the Happy Hours every night with “buy 2 beers and get one free” from 7 – 10pm. See advert page 3.

Love having a long leisurely brunch and then lazing by the pool? The Sheraton Senggigi Beach Resort invites you to do

For the entire month, the Sheraton is offering guests the chance to enjoy a fabulous buffet breakfast and then laze around the pool until sunset, as well as enjoy an afternoon tea at the resort.

April Breakfast gives you resort access from 10am to 6pm and includes buffet breakfast (until 11am), pool access and sun beds, and afternoon tea at the Sunset Bar overlooking the beach.

All this for just Rp 150,000++ with 50% discount for kids under 12 years old!

Take a break the whole family will love!

See advert page 49.

Those who suffer from gluten intolerance, or who prefer to eat organic and vegan foods, know how difficult it is to buy these products in Lombok (or in Indonesia, for that matter!)

If you are keen to find some healthier alternatives, head to Temptations during April! See advert page 20.

Marina Café in Senggigi has a great offer on at the moment: buy a meal of delicious Short Ribs and get a free draught beer to go with it!

Marina is best known as the most popular nightclub in town, with live bands and DJ’s every night, but it also boasts a comfortable sports bar and café, which is a great place to catch up with friends and

AUSTRALIA VISA FREE AT LAST!

After many months of “maybe, or maybe not”, Indonesia has extended visa free privileges to Australians.

The Presidential Decree signed by Indonesian President Joko Widodo on 2 March 2016 expanded the list of countries to be given free visas on arrival (VOA) in Indonesia to a total of 169 countries.

Citizens of these countries are no longer required to pay US $35 for a visa on arrival.

Under the new rules, tourists are entitled to a 30-day visa free of charge. The ‘free visa’ cannot be extended nor converted into another class of visa. The free visa is strictly limited to tourism visits and cannot be used for work or journalistic visits.

Among the 168 nations eligible for freevisa under the newly announced law are: Albania, Algeria, Andorra, Angola,

Antigua & Barbuda, Argentina, Armenia, Australia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Bahamas, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Barbados, Belgium, Belize, Belorussia, Benin, Bhutan, Bolivia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Botswana, Brazil, Brunei Darussalam, Bulgaria, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cambodia, Canada, Cape Verde, Chad, Chile, Comoros, Commonwealth Dominica, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cuba, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Egypt, Estonia, Fiji, Finland, France, Gabon, Gambia, Georgia, Germany, Ghana, Greece, Grenada, Guatemala, Guyana, Haiti, Honduras, Hong Kong (SAR), Hungary, Iceland, India, Ireland, Italy, Ivory Coast, Jamaica, Japan, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Kiribati, Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Latvia, Lebanon, Lesotho, Lichtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macao (SAR), Macedonia, Madagascar, Malawi,

Malaysia, Maldives, Mali, Malta, Marshall Islands, Mauritania, Mauritius , Mexico, Moldavia, Monaco, Mongolia, Morocco, Mozambique, Myanmar, Namibia, Nauru, Nepal, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Norway, Oman, Palau, Palestine, Panama, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, China (PRC), Peru, Poland, Portugal, Puerto Rico, Qatar, Romania, Russian Federation, Rwanda, Saint Kitts & Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent & Grenadines, Samoa, San Marino, São Tomé & Príncipe, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Serbia, Seychelles, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Solomon Islands, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Sri Lanka, Suriname, Swaziland, Sweden, Switzerland, Tanzania, Taiwan, Tajikistan, Thailand, The Netherlands, The Philippines, The Vatican, Timor Leste, Togo, Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago , Tunisia, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Tuvalu, Uganda, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates (UAE), United Kingdom (UK), United States (USA), Uruguay, Uzbekistan, Vanuatu, Venezuela, Vietnam, Zambia, Zimbabwe.

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BLUE MARLIN DIVE Senggigi Lombok’s premier PADI 5 Star Dive Centre

...DIve the difference PADI Dive Courses

Daily Dive & Snorkel Trips - Gili Trawangan Transfers - Hotel Dive and Stay Packages Blue Marlin based from Senggigi has taken the unique dive centre position; We do not combine our Senggigi based guests with our Gili dive centres – providing a more personalised service for you We are able to offer you the most time efficient daily return trips All of our dive guides are experienced PADI DiveMasters and Instructors Blue Marlin has a dedicated Snorkel guide to accompany you during your tours We ensure small groups for your comfort safety and enjoyment Daily transfers direct from your hotel in the Senggigi area Excellent facilities and restaurant to enjoy your break on Gili T We feel these factors and more make a huge difference to your day tour.

Join us and ... dive the difference!!!

Please email and quote “Lionfish” for special discount offers

Main Office: Holiday Resort – Mangsit – Senggigi – Lombok T: +62 (0) 370 693 719 E: senggigi@bluemarlindive.com W: www.bluemarlindive.com

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Senggigi

Senggigi

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1 HOUR MASSAGE ONLY Rp 70,000 NET

Complete Spa Services at Local Prices!

ORCHID PACKAGE 1

Massage, Body Scrub, Body Mask Rp 175,000 net / 2 hours

ORCHID PACKAGE 2

Massage, Body Scrub, Body Mask, Manicure, Pedicure, Nail Polish Rp 250,000 net / 3 hours

Phone: 0819 1593 2899

OPEN EVERY DAY FROM 10AM TO MIDNIGHT

THREE CONVENIENT LOCATIONS IN SENGGIGI Senggigi Beach Road

Next to Santosa Resort

Galeria Shops

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w w w. l o t u s - r e s t a u r a n t s . c o m

Specialising in delicious and authentic meals... real Italian food from our real Italian chef!

FREE Transport and delivery service in Senggigi area

On the beachfront, Senggigi Art Market Ph: +62 (0) 370 693 758 | Fax: +62 (0) 370 693 375

Senggigi

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Useful Contact

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USEFUL CONTACTS EMERGENCY SERVICES Senggigi Tourism Police: Jl Raya Senggigi, Phone: 0370 693267 Lombok Regional Police: Jl Gajah Mada No 7, Ampenan. Call this emergency number: 110 Fire Brigade: Phone: 0370 672013.

In emergency call 113 Hospital UGD (Emergency Unit Service): Phone: 0370 622254 Ambulance: Phone: 0370 623498.

In emergency call 118 Emergency Rescue (RSU Mataram) Ph: 0370 620009.

HOSPITALS

Multigraha Valas Jl Saleh Sungkar No 1 Ampenan, Ph: 0370 624045

HUNGARY Phone: 0361 287701, Fax: 0361 287456.

Email: cristofoli@denpasar.wasantara.net.id

PT. Bali Mispintjira Jl Raya Senggigi. Ph: 0370 692247 / 0370 692247

INDIA Ph. 0361 259502/259503, Fax. 0361259505 E: cons.bali@mea.gov.in / hoc.bali@mea.gov.in

TAXI Blue Bird Taxi, Ph: 0370 627000 AIRPORT BUS / DAMRI Senggigi / Mataram, Ph: 0370 671240, 0878 6475 5513, 0813 9862 4975 IMMIGRATION Jl Udayana, Mataram, Ph: 0370 632520 PUBLIC SERVICES

Rumah Sakit Harapan Keluarga Jl Ahmad Yani 9, Selagalas. Ph: 6177000 / 670000. Emergency (24hrs): 6177009.

ELECTRICITY PLN Mataram. Ph: 0370 632182 PLN Senggigi. Ph: 0370 693535

Mataram Public Hospital (Rumah Sakit Umum Mataram) Jl Pejanggik No 6, Mataram Phone: 6604605

WATER PDAM Mataram. Ph: 0370 632510 PDAM Senggigi. Ph: 0370 693886

New Mataram Public Hospital (Rumah Sakit Umum Mataram) Jl Bung Karno 1, Mataram.

Phone: 0370 645045

Directory Assistance (Lombok Phone Numbers): Ph. 0370 108

Central Lombok Public Hospital Jl Jendral Basuki Rachmad, Praya, Central Lombok. Phone: 0370 654007 East Lombok Public Hospital Jl Professor M Yamin No 55, Selong, East Lombok. Phone: 0376 21680 Biomedika Clinic Jl Bung Karno 143, Mataram.

Phone: 0370 645137 Risa Clinic Jl Pejanggik 115 Cakranegara.

Phone: 0370 625560 / 632117 DENTISTS

TELKOM (Phone/Internet). Ph: 0370 147

POST OFFICES Jl Sriwijaya, Mataram. Ph: 0370 632645 Jl Raya Senggigi. Ph: 0370 693711

Multigraha Kelolavalas - Jl Raya Senggigi. Ph: 0370 693693 - Jl Pejanggik No 1, Mataram Ph: 0370 631567

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

Email: amcobali@indosat.net.id BANKS

Bank Danamon Indonesia Jl Pejanggik No 117, Mataram.

Phone: 0370 631322, Fax: 0370 633068

BRAZIL Phone: 0361 757775, Fax: 0361 751005.

Email: brazilconsul@bytheseatropical.com

Bank International Indonesia (BII) Jl AA Gede Ngurah No 48, Mataram.

Phone: 0370 635027, 633347

BRITAIN Phone: 0361 270601, Fax: 0361 287804, Email: bcbali@dps.centrin.net.id

Bank Mandiri Jl Pejanggik No 20-22, Mataram.

Phone: 0370 631311

CZECH REPUBLIC Phone: 0361 286465, Fax: 0361 286408.

Email: bali@honorary.mzv.cz

MONEY CHANGERS

SWITZERLAND & AUSTRIA Phone: 0361 751735, Fax: 0361 754457.

Email: bali@honrep.ch

AUSTRALIA (incl. New Zealand, Canada) Phone: 0361 241118, Fax: 0361 221195, Email: bali.congen@dfat.gov.au

drg. Yuanita Jl Sriwijaya (opposite Kura-Kura Waterpark). Ph: 0812 3763 156

dr. I Gede Sudiana (FB: lombokanimalrescue) Jl Sadewa 9 Cakra. Ph: 0878 6585 6260

SPAIN Phone: 0361 975736, Fax: 0361 975726, Email: rabik@indo.net.id

CONSULATES

CHILE Phone: 0361 756781, Fax: 0361 756783.

Email: chilehonconsulate@bali-villa.com

Nobel Petshop Jl Sriwijaya (Next to Town Palace). Ph: 0370 6160300

JAPAN Phone: 0361 227628, Fax: 0361 265066.

Email: konjpdps@indo.net.id

Bank Central Asia (BCA) Jl Pejanggik No 67, Mataram, Lombok Phone: 0370 632588, Fax: 0370 622347

drg. Farida Istiarini, Sp.Ort (Joli Sourire Dental Care) 1st Floor at Lombok Epicentrum Mall.

Jl Sriwijaya, Mataram. Ph: 0878 6490 1535

VETS / PET CARE

ITALY Phone: 0361 701005.

Email: italconsbali@italconsbali.com

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

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

Bank Negara Indonesia (BNI) Jl Langko No 64, Mataram.

Ph: 0370 646200.

Jl Raya Senggigi, Ph: 0370 631046, Fax: 0370 631005 Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) Jl Pendidikan No 16, Mataram.

Phone: 0370 632246, Fax: 0370 633084

Things change... so do offices and phone numbers!

If you find a wrong number, or if you think something should be added to this list, please email us at kitadesign@hotmail.com

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Local News

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LOMBOK… #5 DESTINATION IN ASIA!

Senggigi #5 Destination in Indonesia

Love it or loathe it, TripAdvisor® is one of the world’s most influential travel sites.

The site announced the winners of its Travelers’ Choice™ Top Destinations in the world on 21 March 2016 and we are delighted to see Lombok awarded number 5 place in the “Top Ten Islands in Asia” for the second year in a row.

TOP TEN ISLANDS – ASIA 1. Koh Tao, Thailand 2. Bali, Indonesia 3. Phuket, Thailand

TOP 25 LUXURY HOTELS IN INDONESIA 19. The Oberoi Lombok, Tanjung 22. Hotel Tugu Lombok, Tanjung

4. Koh Samui, Thailand 5. Lombok, Indonesia 6. Koh Lanta, Thailand 7. Koh Phangan, Thailand 8. Boracay, Philippines 9. Palawan, Philippines 10. Langkawi, Malaysia TOP TEN BEACHES INDONESIA

Travelers’ Choice award winners are determined based on millions of reviews and opinions collected in a single year from TripAdvisor travellers worldwide.

According to the awards, Lombok is home to 4 of the “Top Ten Beaches in Indonesia”; 2 of the “Top Ten Destinations in Indonesia”; 5 of the “Top 25 Hotels in Indonesia”; and has 6 of the“25 Most Romantic Hotels in Indonesia”… congratulations to all our winners this year!

Selong Belanak #4 Beach in Indonesia

1. Gili Meno

TOP 25 SMALL HOTELS IN INDONESIA

4. Selong Belanak, South Lombok

4. The Lombok Lodge, Tanjung

6. Mawun Beach, South Lombok

TOP 25 BARGAIN HOTELS IN INDONESIA

9. Tanjung Aan, South Lombok

16. Manta Dive, Gili Air

TOP TEN DESTINATIONS IN INDONESIA

TOP 25 B&B’s & INNS IN INDONESIA 13. Café Alberto B & B, Senggigi

5. Senggigi, Lombok 9. Kuta, Lombok TOP 25 HOTELS IN INDONESIA 10. The Oberoi Lombok,Tanjung 16. Sudamala Suites & Villas, Mangsit 20. Qunci Villas, Mangsit 21. Hotel Tugu Lombok, Tanjung 22. Jeeva Klui Resort, Mangsit TOP 25 HOTELS FOR ROMANCE IN INDONESIA 6. The Lombok Lodge, Tanjung 19. Qunci Villas, Mangsit 20. Puri Mas Boutique Resort & Spa, Mangsit 21. Hotel Tugu Lombok, Tanjung 22. Jeeva Klui Resort, Mangsit 24. Sudamala Suites & Villas, Mangsit

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Senggigi

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JUST 2 MINUTES WALK FROM THE BEACH AND FAST BOAT JETTY AND 2 MINUTES TO RESTAURANTS AND SHOPS! Come and enjoy a drink or light meal in our garden courtyard... The coldest beer and the friendliest staff in Senggigi!

Clean and comfortable air conditioned rooms - singles, twin, doubles and dorm. Satellite TV, hot showers and strong free WiFi. Rates from just Rp 100,000 per night (including breakfast)!

OPEN 8am til late Jl Pantai Senggigi (Senggigi Beach Road) #69, Senggigi Ph: 0370 6195238 / 0818 0229 5238 Oggies Place

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 Papa Besar Cafe) | P: 0817 5730 012 | E: annasgiftshoplombok@gmail.com

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discover nature’s greatest gift

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 8133 992 0015 / +62 8133 992 0020 | Email: pearlfarm@pearlautore.com.au

www.pearlautore.com.au

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Senggigi

Pasar Classifieds

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PASAR CLASSIFIEDS

GILI ASAHAN BEACHFRONT LAND FOR SALE

Stunning 2,800m² freehold plot on the southern Gilis, with 55 metre beachfront, gently sloping up a hill. Really rare to find!

Gili Asahan is well known for its clear water, unique diving and snorkeling opportunities. Next to the land is a dive and holiday resort. Reachable by taxi boat (10 Minutes) Price: IDR 44 million/are

Phone: 0821 4746 4945

PONDOK SANTI ESTATE GILI TRAWANGAN 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

• • • •

is currently offering the opportunity to fill the following positions: Engineering Supervisor Bartender Supervisor Housekeeping Supervisor Boatman / Captain Accounting Staff (Purchasing / Store Attendant) Bar Attendant Room Boy Requirements: Energetic & self motivated Minimum 4 years experience working with any reputable hotel / villa Strong command of spoken & written English Focus-oriented for customer satisfaction

If you feel that you meet the qualification and are up to the challenge, please send your complete application to: office@pondoksanti.com

SOUTH LOMBOK (FREEHOLD) LAND SALE BY OWNER

Plot A - overlooking Belongas and Pengantap Beaches Beautiful hill land, unobstructed sea view. Direct access from new main road. Water and electricity already in place.

315 are (3.15ha) IDR 8 million/are Plot B - flat hill plateau overlooking Torok Aik Belik Bay and rice fields. Stunning sea view, only 3min drive to the beach on new main road.

284 are (2.84ha) IDR 18 million/are

Phone: 0821 4746 4945

LAND FOR SALE

5,930 sqm / 54m sandy beach. FREEHOLD Certificate for ownership, AKTA, building licence, license for restaurant, license for villa / homestay. 70m from main bitumen road with direct access to the land. Electricity existing. Two existing ground water wells. Access to public water mains – 50m.

150m from harbour for boat and fast boats.

Price: Rp 25,000,000 / are (100 m2)

Ph: 0821 4639 3624 / e-mail: nizlatev@abv.bg

URGENTLY REQUIRED

THE BEACH HOUSE GILI TRAWANGAN RESORT We would like to invite an outstanding & experienced candidate to join our team for the position of:

HEAD CHEF Requirements: • Energetic and self motivated • Minimum 3 years experience working with any reputable hotel / villa • Strong command of spoken and written English • Required to manage, train & develop team members • Ability to work under pressure • Focus-oriented for customer satisfaction If you feel that you meet the qualification and are up to the challenge. Please send your complete application to:

corporatehrmanager2014@gmail.com / suhitadewi644@gmail.com Hotline HRD: 0819 0764 5350

LAND FOR SALE 2 ha and 1.15 ha – beautiful ocean views in Gili Gede, Sekotong, West Lombok. Already has certificate and access road from the beach to the location.

Call +62 8133 914 292 / +62 8341 406 944

LAND FOR SALE

Good investment opportunity! Beach land for sale in Gili Gede, Sekotong, West Lombok. ± 7 are. 25m beach front, size already certificated. Best location for restaurant, diving school, rooms, etc.

Call +62 8133 9104 292 / +62 823 4140 6944

PAPALAGI RESORT GILI GEDE Papalagi Resort Gili Gede is a beautiful quite place to enjoy your holiday with nice bungalow and rooms on the beachfront. Also great place for snorkeling, diving and fishing!

Call +62 813 3910 4292 / +62 823 4140 6944 www.thepapalagi.com

Special Feature

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COCOTINOS... Southwest Escape! is only steps away from any room.

Resort facilities include a beachfront swimming pool, the Ela Ela Restaurant and Bar overlooking the bay, the Laleina Spa on the beach, Odyssea Divers dive centre, a guest library and small boutique.

The distinctive jetty jutting out into the bay provides mooring for visiting boats and the calm water of the bay is ideal for swimming, canoeing and snorkelling.

Days can be spent lazing by the pool and beachcombing, watching the magnificent sunrises and sunsets, and indulging in massages and treatments at the Spa. Since it first opened in 2010, Cocotinos Boutique Resort has established itself as one of the premier places to stay in Sekotong on Lombok’s southwest coast.

Located on the secluded beach at Tanjung Empat, Cocotinos fronts onto over 300 metres of white sand beach and looks out over the three small islands of Gili Nanggu, Gili Tangkong and Gili Sudat floating just off shore in the calm bay.

It’s an idyllic location that offers a true getaway for those looking for peace and relaxation.

Cocotinos is probably best known as a dive resort – it is the home base on Lombok for the renowned Odyssea Divers dive centre and is the sister resort of the well-known Cocotinos in Manado, Sulawesi.

Guests often combine holidays with diving at the famous Bunaken National Marine Park in Sulawesi, followed by a relaxing break exploring the stunning islands of Southwest Lombok.

For non-divers, Cocotinos offers peace and relaxation – a luxurious

escape where 4-star comforts combine with nature to give guests a place to truly unplug from daily life and enjoy the simple pleasures of life.

The white-sand beaches and calm bay facing the resort make the location ideal

This small boutique resort has 18 rooms and 5 villas set amidst a coconut grove fronting onto the sandy beach and its private cove.

Accommodation is set in lovely gardens, with a choice of terrace rooms, garden rooms and sea view rooms. The three luxury Water’s Edge Villas with plunge pools are located right on the beachfront, as is the 2 bedroom Tangkong Villa; while the two-storey, 2 bedroom Rinjani Villa with private plunge pool is located on the hillside overlooking the ocean.

All rooms are comfortably furnished and feature modern facilities such as air conditioning and free WiFi; and the beach

for relaxing getaways, as well as being the perfect base for exploring the idyllic Sekotong countryside and island hopping to the nearby islands.

These thirteen islands – called the “Secret Islands” – are mainly deserted and are in pristine condition. Most are surrounded by calm translucent blue water, providing an ideal habitat for the colourful reefs and marine life.

Protected coves and bays provide myriad safe anchorages for boating and sailing, as well as delightful deserted beaches for day trippers.

For the adventurous, Odyssea Divers can arrange dive courses and fun dives to the many dive locations and the resort can organise snorkelling trips to nearby islands such as Gili Asahan and Gili Layar.

Other than snorkelling and diving activities, the resort also offers nearby village and morning-market tours, city tours, and tours to craft and cultural villages further away.

Pasar Classifieds

35

PASAR CLASSIFIEDS

SOLAR WATER HEATER LOMBOK HOUSE FOR RENT Distributor of LUMINOUS, battery back-up and solar-power systems INTI SOLAR, solar water heaters All installations by our own service-team.

Spare parts directly available.

Please call or send an email for a free quotation: 0878 6494 2137 / 0813 3721 9666 info@solar-waterheater-lombok.com

NEW HOUSE FOR SALE IN GREEN VALLEY - SENGGIGI Freehold title! Land size 80 sqm. One bedroom with swimming pool. 2 storey and fully furnished.

Strategic location.

Price Rp 1.2 Billion (negotiable)

DAILY, WEEKLY OR MONTHLY

Located in Montong, near Senggigi. Fully furnished, 2 bedrooms, AC, hot water, bar and kitchen.

Quiet area, lush atmosphere, relaxing.

Suitable for tourist or expat who loves garden, animals.

Single / couple, no chemistry.

Contact: 0878 6458 2231 marksihombing25@gmail.com / http://villasejuk.wordpress.com

HOLIDAY HOME FOR RENT Available daily / weekly / monthly.

Located in Green Valley, Senggigi. Fully furnished, 2 bedrooms (sleeps 4) with A/C, hot & cold water, kitchen & cable TV & DVD.

Contact : 0813 3874 8318

LAND FOR SALE IN SENGGIGI Freehold title!

Land size 1350 sqm.

Strategic location (across from Asmara Restaurant).

Comes with existing building and swimming pool.

Perfect for hotel / restaurant / spa.

Price on application!

Contact : 0813 3874 8318

WAREHOUSE/SHOP FOR LEASE! New beachfront warehouse/shop for lease in Telok Kodek. Size 5 x 12 meter (60 sqm), Priced at Rp 60 million per year with 2 years minimum lease.

For further information please contact

0878 6236 5815

For more information, please contact Ibu Debbie

081 1542 5432 / baleteratai@gmail.com LAND FOR SALE WITH AMAZING VIEW TO MATARAM CITY, LOMBOK STRAITS, GUNUNG AGUNG! Location on The Hill of Batu Layar, 1234sqm, flat and ready to build for private residence. Infrastructure are ready on site: Water, Electricity, Road access to location and Canalisation.

Price USD 260,000/Negotiable. Certificate Hak Milik.

For survey location please email: atiek1717@gmail.com or WhatsApp No +41797228524 - owner (speak Bahasa, English and German / Swiss German)

HOUSE FOR RENT

(Special for foreigner) 1,000m2 with yard, fully furnished, 2 garage, 3 bedrooms, H/W shower, AC. Located in Jl Ranget & Jl Candrakirana, Cakra.

HOUSE FOR SALE Located in Jl Bangau, Cakra

Phone: 0817 5789 207 / 0370 627 766

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Qamboja Day Spa

Slip into our “Volcanic Mud Wrap”

[ Luxurious treatment to draw out toxins and break down cellulite ]

Herbal bath, deluxe massage, facial, manicure & pedicure using all natural and traditional products *Yoga available upon request

Try our healthy vegetarian lunch using only raw ingredients to boost, invigorate and rejuvenate

[ “Gorgeous Spa” - Lonely Planet ]

[ 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 | Website: www.quncivillas.com/spa

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PASAR CLASSIFIEDS MITRA POOL DISTRIBUTOR Pool Chemicals: Granular 90%, Chlorine tab 90%, Terussi, HCL, PAC, etc.

Pool Equipment: Product Hayward, Astral, Emaux, etc Tlp: 0819 1734 8141 / whatsapp: 0812 3842 4758 Website: www.mitrapool-chemical-equipment.com email: mitrapoolchemical@gmail.com Jl Raya Senggigi No 88 (Next to Square Restaurant)

PT. ANANTA GUNA LESTARI OUR SERVICES: Pest Control | Rodent Control Termite Control | Fumigation Employee Recruitment (Out Sourcing) Cleaning Service (On Call) Gardener | Pool Maintenance

www.anantagl.com

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

ALL WELCOME! Ph: 0813 5359 9771 (Paul) | www.golf-lombok.com

Tours and Travel Service Available!

www.ananta-vacation.com Jln. Cendana Blok E No.3 Puncang Hijau, Lombok Barat P/F: 0370 6170182 | M: 081 803 636 609 / 081 236 935 382 Email: anantagl@yahoo.co.id

CAFE LOMBI ~ COFFEE SHOP In House Roasted Coffee Beans or Ground to order Kopi Luwak Coffee Machines (Sell, Rent & Repair) Coffee Business Solutions Show roasting Single Origin Specialty Grade Arabica Beans Sandwiches Pastries & Cakes TELP. 0370 692085 / 0818 365 790 www.CafeLombi.com

Wild Kopi Luwak

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Live Music! Great Food! Good Times!

Senggigi

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

www.asmara-group.com

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

Distribution

39

LOMBOK GUIDE The

LOMBOK’S #1 TOURISM NEWSPAPER AND INFORMATION RESOURCE 8000 copies distributed throughout Lombok, the Gilis and Bali every month!

Around 200 international & national visits to our website every day! www.thelombokguide.com An average of 7000 people reading our online digital paper every month! http://issuu.com/thelombokguide WITH MORE THAN 20,000 READERS EVERY MONTH, HOW CAN YOU AFFORD NOT TO ADVERTISE???

Contact us now for economical advertising that gets results!

0812 3734 4894

kitadesign@hotmail.com

www.thelombokguide.com

4000 COPIES DISTRIBUTED EVERY TWO WEEKS AT: BLUE BIRD TAXI: Exclusively available in every Blue Bird Taxi in Lombok.

AIRPORT: Lombok Baru Taxi, Kotama Taxi, Golden Bird Travel, Trec, BLT Travel and every counters outside International Lombok Airport.

MATARAM: Autore, Era Rinjani Property, Kokoh Toko Bangunan, Lombok City Center Mall, Lombok Epicentrum Mall (Ace Hardware, Beef Bar, Bubbly House of Desserts, Burger King, Bread Talk, Cinema XXI, Food Centrum, Front Desk, Hypermart, Informa, Jesslin Bread & Cake, J.Co, Joli Sourire, KFC, Maxx Coffee, Mokko Factory, Omah Cobek, Paris Castle, Pizza Pazza, Quali, Solaria, The Vinette), Mataram Mall (Delicio Café, Gili Cafe, KFC, Gili Cafe, McDonalds, Oceanic Café), Toko Susana.

KUTA: Bombora Bungalows, Discovery Coffee House, Kuta Bay Homestay, Kuta Heights, Kuta Indah Hotel, Mimpi Manis Homestay, Novotel, Puri Rinjani, Sekar Kunning / Yellow Flower, The Chili Cafe, Warung Bule.

SENGGIGI: Alfa Mart, Ananta Tours & Travel, Anna’s Giftshop, Asmara Restaurant, Blue Marlin Senggigi, Café Alberto, Cafe Lombi, Cowshed, De Quake, Dive Zone, Globe Bar, Graha Beach Senggigi Hotel, Holiday Resort, Island Properties Lombok, Kebun Villas, La Chill Bar, Living Asia, Lombok Property and Villas, Lotus Bayview Restaurant, Oggie’s Place, Orchid Spa, Puri Bunga Cottages, Puri Mas Boutique Hotel, Qunci Villas, Senggigi Jaya Abadi Supermarket, Scuba Froggy, Sheraton, Square Restaurant, Temptations, The Chandi, The Office, Verve Beach Club, Ye Jeon Restaurant.

GILI T: Blue Marlin Dive, Desa Dunia Beda, Gili Getaway, Kayu Cafe, ko-ko-mo Resort, Le Resto, Oceano Resort, Manta Dive, Martas Bungalows, Scallywags, The Beach House, The Trawangan.

GILI MENO: Blue Marlin Dive, Tropical Hideaways Resort.

GILI AIR: Scallywags, The Beach Club.

NORTH LOMBOK: Rinjani Lodge BALI: Air Bali, Arena Sport Bar & Rest, Asia Collection Tour, Asian Trails Tour, Bali Deli, Balcony Rest, Barb’s Sport Warung, BIMC, Blue Water Express, Bounty Cruises, Caesar Rest & Bar, Café Canggu, Café Marzano, Cafe Moka, Café Smorgas, Canggu Club, Canggu Station, Captain Cook Rest, Club Havana, Cocoon Spa, Corner Store, De Banjar Rest, Dijon, Eco Beach Rest, Exotissimo Travel Indonesia, Firestation Restaurant, Gardenia Cafe & Bar, Gili GIli, Gili Shop Poppies 1 & 2, Gloria Jeans Coffee 1 & 2, Go Vacation Tour, Gold Dust Beauty Lounge, Golden Kris Tour, Gourmet Cafe, Grocer & Grind, IndoLinen, Jimmy Sport Bar & Rest, Junction Bar & Rest, Khaima Rest & Bar, Loop Rest, Luna Negra, Mamas Restaurant, Maya Coffee & Smothie Bar, Meno Mojo, Monsier Spoon Canggu, Monsier Spoon Rest, Nero Rest, Ocha Warung, Old Mans Rest & Bar, Pacific World, Pacto Tour, Piduh Rest, Red Carpet, Rutica Cucina Italiana, Salty Seagull Rest, Samudra Bar, Sate Bali Rest Echo Beach, Soho Restaurant, SOS, Starbucks Coffee Kuta, Starbucks Discovery Mall, The Cameng Bar & Rest, The Plumbers Arms, The Porch Cafe, Trattoria Cucina Italiana, Ultimo Bar & Rest, Vila Lumbung, Warung Bale Bali, Warung Bonita, Warung Eropa, Warung Mina, Warung Italia, Warung Pregina, Warung Sulawesi, White Sands Rest & Bar, Y Bar, Zanzibar Restaurant.

Special thanks to our contributors: Barbara Kathleen, Dian Cahyadi, Iwan Haryanto, www.balidiscovery.com.

Printed by PT. Temprina Media Grafika, Denpasar, Bali

Copyright © 2007 – 2016. We have spent years travelling all over Lombok, documenting, photographing and updating.

If you want to write about Lombok, we suggest you do the same!

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be copied, reproduced or transmitted in any form (electronically, print or otherwise) without prior written permission from the Publisher. Opinions expressed in The Lombok Guide are those of the author and not necessarily the Publisher. We reserve the right to refuse advertising or articles at the Publisher’s discretion.

While all care is taken to avoid copyright infringements, The Lombok Guide will not be held responsible for images or text directly supplied by advertisers and/or contributors.

Tired after a day of mischief

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Puri Mas Boutique Resorts & Spa Spa Resort - Kerandangan

Puri Mas Luxury Spa Full and Half Day Spa’s Ultimate Spa Treatments from Babor Facials for all Skin Types Delicious Body Rituals Body Scrubs, Wraps & Peelings Cellulite Treatments Massages - Aromatherapy, Shiatsu, Accupressure and Hot Stone Reflexology Manicure & Pedicure Gel Nails Pretty Feet and Hand Pampering by Alessandro

Conde Nast Johansens Voted “Best Couples Spa” 2015

Revitalising Hydrotherapy Pool

We use only the famous international Babor Brand of Body & Facial Products

Dine in our Javanese Pavilions

Enjoy authentic Indonesian feasts in our traditional Javanese Pavilions an unforgetable experience in an intimate setting with Personalised Butler Service

SPA OR RESTAURANT RESERVATIONS: (0370) 693 831 | Email: info@purimas-lombok.com FREE PICK UP AND DROP OFF IN THE SENGGIGI MANGSIT AREAS

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Puri Mas Boutique Resorts & Spa Beach Resort - Mangsit

The Ballroom Restaurant Enjoy first class a la carte dining with some of the best seafood platters in town Uninterrupted views across the ocean to Bali Intimate candle light dinners Romantic sunset cocktails Enticing authentic Indonesian cuisine prepared by our internationally experienced Chef.

The Way Exceptional Dining Should Be! Open 7am to 11pm Child policy - Minimum guest age 12yrs

The Ballroom Restaurant is Ranked #1 out of 55 Restaurants in Senggigi by TripAdvisor

Monday Night is Latin Night!

Bring your dancing shoes or just enjoy the entertainment during dinner Performances by Lombok’s Top Latin & Salsa Dancers Junior Amateur Champions of Indonesia performing weekly “Dancing with the Stars” in Lombok!

Thursday Night is Cultural Night!

A great opportunity to enjoy dinner while watching authentic traditional entertainment from Lombok Including the Famous Peresean “Stick Fighting” from Central Lombok and Baris Dance from Bali – Lombok style!

JUST 5 MINS FROM SENGGIGI - FREE TRANSFER SERVICE RESERVATIONS CALL: 0370 693 831 / Email: fb@purimas-lombok.com

Local News

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WORLD WATER DAY WITH SQUIDLY COLE ©2016. Photos courtesy of Solihin Alfan and Blue Water Cruises Thousands of people joined in the celebrations for World Water Day 2016 held in Ampenan on 26 March.

A special floating stage was erected on the Jangkok River in Ampenan where famous Jamaican reggae musician Squidly Cole, together with local musicians, hosted a free concert titled Suara Sungai (Sound of the River).

Squidly Cole is one of the world’s top reggae musicians and has been the Marley family drummer for over 20 years. The legendary drummer toured the world with reggae giant, Jimmy Cliff, at the age of fourteen and has played with artists such as Lauryn Hill, Buju Banton, Damian Marley, and Ziggy Marley & the Melody Makers.

Squidly lent his voice to support the cleanup of Jangkok River and to send an environmental message to the crowd about the importance of caring for Lombok’s environment.

Jangkok River is a major waterway that runs through the city of Ampenan before emptying into the sea. Villagers upriver, and those living in Ampenan, habitually throw rubbish and waste into the river and, during the rains, that rubbish is carried down to the ocean to be washed up on the beaches.

During the World Water Day event, guest speakers talked to the crowd about caring for the environment, especially stopping pollution of the rivers and the ocean.

Volunteers from the police and armed forces also joined in the cleanup, using boats to fish rubbish out of the river.

The event was presented by local government and community group SAMPAN (Semeton Ampenan), and is an initiative of locally-based dive and cruise company, Blue Water Cruises, and Oceans Care who hope to raise awareness about the Jangkok River and eventually install a solar-powered waterwheel that will collect rubbish from the river. For more info, visit: www.bluewatercruises.com and oceans.care

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

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

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CAFE ALBERTO

ITALIAN & INDONESIAN 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@cafealberto.com

www.cafealberto.com

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

Hungry Thursdays!

15% Discount on Food and Beer!

Sunday Beach BBQ

Just Rp 10,000 per skewer!

Choice of 2 per skewer (beef, chicken, fish or veggies) Art Market Senggigi, Lombok +62 370 693694

www.dequake.com

Local News

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MELIÁ HOTELS TO BUILD RESORT ON GILI TANGKONG from Lombok International Airport.

The addition of the Meliá Lombok Tangkong allows the Spanish hotel chain to continue to strengthen its presence in Indonesia, a key growth market in the region. Meliá currently operates five hotels in Bali, Jakarta and Jogjakarta, together with nine other hotel projects under development.

Gili Nanggu (left) and Gili Tangkong

The idyllic islands of the southwest continue to attract plenty of attention, with the prestigious Meliá Hotel Group announcing that they will build a five-star resort on the small island of Gili Tangkong – an almost deserted 15-hectare paradise island in Lombok.

Gili Tangkong is one of three small islands located in the bay of Tawun in Sekotong. To the left of the island is Gili Nanggu – already well-known as a popular snorkelling spot and island escape in the southwest – and to the right is Gili Sudat.

Surrounded by soft white sand and clean turquoise water, Gili Tangkong is postcardperfect and, at the moment, untouched.

The hotel, owned by Indonesian developer PT Meta Archipelago Hotels (PT Martel), will enjoy a privileged location: privacy on a deserted, white-sand beach lapped by crystal-clear waters and surrounded by one of the most beautiful coral reefs in the area.

Meliá Lombok Tangkong plans to open in 2018 with 65 one- to three-bedroom luxury villas and 40 hotel rooms, some of which will built on stilts over the sea and others with their own private swimming pools.

The resort will also have numerous facilities for guests to enjoy an luxurious and relaxing stay, such as a spa with openair spaces and panoramic sea views in one of the finest locations in the resort.

Several dining outlets are planned, as well as a resort swimming pool, hilltop viewing deck, yoga and meditation areas, banquet

hall, helipad, marina, walking trail, biking track, and sports and entertainment facilities.

The small island of Gili Tangkong can be reached by boat from Sekotong, which is about an hour’s drive

Gili Tangkong

TIGERAIR AUSTRALIA COMMENCES BALI – AUSTRALIA FLIGHTS “This is a significant milestone for Tigerair Australia as we continue to grow in line with consumer demand,” Sharp said in a statement.

Tigerair Australia went international on 24 March 2016, when its inaugural flights to Bali departed from Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth.

The first Tigerair Australia flight, using a Boeing 737-800, left Melbourne’s Tullamarine Airport at 9:30 am local time for the 5 and a half hour flight to Bali.

Flights will operate daily from Melbourne and Perth, and five times per week from Adelaide.

Tigerair chief executive, Rob Sharp, who was among the passengers on the first flight, said the airline’s entry onto the competitive Bali route would offer travellers more choice.

“Bali is renowned as a popular holiday destination for many Australians looking for an affordable tropical holiday year round and we are confident our new services will prove popular with our core market of leisure travelers,” Sharp added.

Tigerair Australia is taking over flights previously operated by its parent company, Virgin Australia and is now flying to Bali from Adelaide, Melbourne and Perth.

The low-cost carrier is using three Virgin Boeing 737-800s that have been repainted in the airline’s livery to operate its first international services.

Each plane is configured to carry 180 alleconomy seats with five premium rows offering added leg room.

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[ Fine Wining and Dining on the Beachfront ]

NooQ

Cocktail & Tapas Lounge

Celebrating Cultural Performances Every Monday Night, Beach BBQ Wednesday, Pasar Malam Friday, Elegant Candlelight Beach Dinner Saturday

[ 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: +62 370 693 800 Email: stay@quncivillas.com | Website: www.quncivillas.com

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Land & Property

52 .

LOCO HILL - NEW RESIDENTIAL PLOTS

STUNNING OCEAN & SUNSET VIEWS! A new prestigious hillside development, ideal for residential plots.

Water and electricity will be provided. 5 minutes’ drive to Senggigi.

Various sizes available. Prices start from IDR 85 million per are (100m2) to IDR 140 million/are.

DON’T MISS THIS CHANCE! ONLY A FEW PLOTS!

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

info@lombokpropertyandvillas.com l www.lombokpropertyandvillas.com

Land & Property

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Land & Property

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ISLAND PROPERTIES LOMBOK Real Estate Specialists

GILI TRAWANGAN LAND A Must to View!

Superb location on Paradise Island Gili Trawangan!

Choice of 3 flat residential development lots 10 are (100m2) each.

Buy one or 3 lots at IDR 130 million per are.

5 minutes to the beach and all the restaurants.

BELONGAS LAND Over one hectare direct beachfront access.

An hour drive to airport, one and quarter hour drive to Selong Belanak, 30 min boat ride to Kuta, Lombok.

Absolute beach frontage.

10,350m² (103.5 are / 1,035 hectare)

Excellent value on today’s market!

Asking (USD 110,000)

FOR RENT – JL BARONANG, GREEN VALLEY

PURI HONDJE – GILI TRAWANGAN For Sale - Leasehold 21 Oct 2013 = 15 years

Very central 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 5 minutes to the beach.

Second bathroom fully renovated with bath.

Open plan living area and granite top on the kitchen bench.

Price 6,000 USD per annum

BRAND NEW VILLA SENTELUK – BATU LAYAR

An opportunity too good miss on Gili Trawangan!

Puri Hondje Villas – Boutique Accommodation.

Consists of two large onebedroom suites with bathroom, AC and fresh water shower.

Overlooking 5 x 2 meter plunge pool.

Two-storey one-bedroom villa overlooking the pool terrace and bathroom.

The accommodation is on 3 are (300m2) of land with reception, staff room and open kitchen. All rooms have AC, fresh water, wifi, Indovision and sat TV. The lease hold is for sale at USD 131,250

MAGNIFICENT VILLA IN SANDIK INSPECT NOW!!!!!

ALL OFFERS WELCOME

Lovely villa overlooking rice paddy.

Brand new villa to the market.

3 large bedrooms with 3 ensuites.

Quality finish throughout. Overlooking the proposed pool.

The owner will build the pool to the purchaser’s plan on 3 are. Alfresco kitchen and dining overlooking the pool.

Asking Price IDR 1.5 billion

A magnificent home. Spacious 4 Bedrooms, 3 Bathrooms.

Beautifully finished. Large pool and entertaining area, European kitchen with Granite tops, open plan.

Lovely garden set on 6 are overlooking a tropical jungle mountain. 15 minutes from Senggigi.

Asking Price Rp 2 billion (nego)

Phone Angela: 0819 1742 0804 / Santi (Indonesia): 0877 6660 3939 islandpropertieslombok@gmail.com | www.islandpropertieslombok.net

We can make your dreams come true!

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58

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

A visit to the cities makes an interesting day trip, exploring the numerous small shops selling everything imaginable from everyday items to gold and pearls.

There are many pearl shops in Ampenan selling unset pearls and pearl jewellery at attractive prices. These are genuine pearls – some cheap quality from China and the more expensive ones are farmed in Lombok and Sumbawa. If you bargain the price, you can usually get a good deal.

There are gold shops in both Ampenan and Cakra with 24 kt gold being sold by the gram at market price.

For cheap and interesting food choices, explore the many restaurants, warung 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 port in Lombok during Dutch colonial times and some of the old architecture is still visible around the town, particularly toward the beach to the west where the remnants of the port are slipping into the sea.

The streets become a market at night, filled with warung and kaki lima (food carts) for cheap, tasty food and local flavour.

Kebun Roek, just near the traffic lights in Ampenan on the road from the old Selaparang airport, is the site of the local markets. Every day traders set up stalls selling fresh produce from around the island, local snacks and products, live chickens and fresh fish in the afternoon when the fishing boats come in. A stroll through the markets is a pungent and enlightening experience!

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.

Tourism Information

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

Cakranegara (usually abbreviated to “Cakra”) is Lombok’s main shopping area. It is also home to many Chinese and Balinese, who make up over 50 percent of the city’s population. The streets of the city make an interesting walk with gold shops, sporting goods, clothing and fabric stores selling imported silks, laces and cottons, to name a few.

There is a local market at the main intersection in Cakra; turn right at the traffic lights and look for the entrance to the market on the left. Inside is a labyrinth of stalls selling everything from baskets to fresh flowers and local foods.

The next large town east of Cakra is Sweta. The Bertais bus terminal is located here for connections to the east of the island and beyond. Near the bus terminal there is a huge local market every day with all kinds of goods on sale, from foodstuffs to clothing, exotic birds, handicrafts and more.

Shopping Lombok Epicentrum Mall on Jl Sriwijaya (see cities map) was opened in October 2015 and is a large, modern shopping centre with four floors of retail outlets.

The complex houses a Hypermart supermarket and a Matahari Department Store, as well as a Cinema XXI movie theatre and Timezone entertainment centre.

There is a well-stocked Ace Hardware store, an Informa furniture store, and a Guardian pharmacy. Other retailers sell a wide variety of fashion, shoes, electronics, sporting goods, and much more.

There are many food outlets and cafes, as well as Bread Talk, J. Co, Starbucks, Excelso, The Coffee Bean, Wendy’s and more.

Lombok City Centre on Jl Raya Narmada (the main road east of Sweta) is Lombok’s newest mall and is still in the final stages of construction.

However, some stores are already open for business in LCC including Matahari Department Store, Hypermart

supermarket, and other small retailers, as well as cafes and food stores.

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.

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

Pura Mayura, just across the street from Pura Meru, was built in 1744 as the court temple of the last Balinese kings in Lombok. An open hall or bale kambang (floating pavilion) stands in the middle of a large artificial lake here and an interesting temple is sheltered under huge old trees at the rear of the lake.

The gardens and the adjoining Pura Jagatnatha temple complex are a peaceful place to escape the bustle of the city and well worth exploring. Taman Mayura is open every day, from 8am to 8pm; admission is Rp 5000 per person. The gardens are popular on weekends so the best time to visit is during the weekdays.

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Cities Map

The Cities

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62 Thirteen small islands - the Southwest Gilis - float in the sparkling turquoise waters just off the southwest coast. Unlike the famous ‘Gili Islands’ in northwest Lombok, the Southwest Gilis are largely uninhabited and have yet to be discovered by most travellers... that’s why we call them ‘The Secret Islands’!

Tourism Information

The Southwest Secret Islands, Pristine Beaches!

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 tidal flow create small caves and alcoves, providing shelter for picnics and interesting nooks and crannies to explore.

The picturesque Sekotong region starts just south of Lembar Harbour and features stunning beaches and bays set against a backdrop of rolling green hills.

The drive down the southwest coast is an enjoyable trip, meandering through villages where life is largely untouched by tourism and where the people are involved in their day-to-day activities of farming, fish cultivation, boating and fishing, brickmaking and other traditional pastimes.

Along the roadsides you will see people selling freshly caught fish, 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. The hills behind form a perfect backdrop to this idyllic setting.

Just out in the calm bay are the three lovely islands of Gili Nanggu, Gili Tangkong and Gili Sudat (and the tiny island of Gili Kedis) – all easily accessible by local outrigger boats. A small sign in the nearby village will direct you to the local boat hire area, where you can arrange boat trips out to Gili Nanggu and the other islands.

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 has soft white sand and a good reef just offshore for snorkelling.

There is also simple accommodation at Nirvana on Gili Sudat (the island closest to the mainland).

Back on the main road and slightly further south is the turn off for Cocotinos Boutique Beach Resort, set on the

secluded beach at Tanjung Empat. With 28 rooms, including beachfront villas with private swimming pools, Cocotinos is the only upmarket accommodation on the mainland.

Cocotinos in Sekotong is the second venture for the Odyssea Asia group, with their first dive resort already well established in Manado, Sulawesi. Scuba diving courses and dives, operated by Odyssea Divers, are available from the resort, together with snorkelling, boating and other sea sports.

Fronting the resort is a glorious white sand beach which spans over 300m, part of which is a private cove. Facilities include a 17m beach front swimming pool, a restaurant overlooking the bay, the Laleina Spa on the waterfront, a boat jetty, and diving and boating facilities.

Further south you will come to the only petrol station along the south coastal road at Tembowong Village.

Nearby is the site for catching boats out to Gili Gede. Gili Gede is easily reached by boat from the village of Tembowong and is only minutes across the water.

The largest of the islands in the area is Gili Gede, appropriately meaning ‘Big Island’.

The island lays just offshore and is so large visitors often mistake it for part of the mainland.

Gili Gede is one of the few islands in the area that has a choice of accommodation, including the luxurious ko – ko - mo Gili Gede Resort, which opened in February 2016. ko - ko - mo Gili Gede is the sister resort to ko - ko - mo Resort on Gili Trawangan and is a stylish all villa resort, comprising fifteen 1 and 2 bedroom villas with private swimming pools, and one bedroom Villa Kecil (small villas), spread out over spacious grounds on a pristine beachfront.

Slightly further south is Sundancer Resort, with its distinctive blue roofs dotted on the hillside overlooking another white sand beach. The hotel development was started All modern comforts such as air many years ago and is still conditioning and ceiling fans, flat screen under construction. televisions with satellite channels and DVD, WiFi, fresh (not salt) hot water, Across the road from plentiful power points for charging Sundancer, on the devices, and more are provided in each beachfront, is Dive villa.

Zone – a well-run diving facility and the experts Facilities at the resort include a tennis on diving the southwest court, a putting green, a small gym, a resort islands, having pioneered swimming pool and purpose-built Spa development of previously unknown dive facility and a beachfront restaurant. sites in this area.

Guests at the restaurant can enjoy upDive Zone offer dive trips around market dining with a menu prepared from fresh locally-sourced seafood, imported Sekotong and the islands, as well as Australian meats and in-house breads and in three locations in South Lombok – bakery items. There is also an outstanding including challenging world-class diving wine and drinks list. off southeast Lombok.

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.

ko - ko - mo has a purpose-built jetty at the front of the resort and operate their own fast boat service under the ‘Gili Getaway’ mantle between Bali, Gili T and Gili Gede... making Gili Gede easily accessible, even for a day trip.

Continued on Page 64

The Southwest

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The Southwest

64 Other choices for simple accommodation on Gili Gede include Secret Island Resort on the south, Via Vaccare on the northwest and Yut Inn and Madak Belo on the east.

Each provides meals and can arrange boat trips, island hopping and snorkelling around the islands.

Continued from Page 62

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

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

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

On the other side of the island is where the pier is located, with a fantastic white sand beach. It is a favourite for guests from other nearby islands and Dive Zone often brings divers to the island to relax in between dives, as the scenery and beach here are so lovely.

near Gili Layar – the island between Gili Ringgit and Gili Asahan.

There is accommodation at Layar Beach Bungalows and, although the bungalows are simple, they are comfortable and clean and the location right on the beach is superb. There is also a restaurant here serving delicious fresh juices and tasty meals.

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

Both Gili Asahan Eco Lodge and Pearl Beach Resort offer comfortable accommodation in charming bungalows and each have restaurants, providing good dining options on the island.

Leaving Gili Asahan and back on the mainland, continue south on the coastal road until you come to a main intersection.

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 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.

A signpost to the left leads to the spectacular large bay at Mekaki.

The road to the right leads to 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.

Tourists who take trips with Dive Zone commonly describe the diving around the southwest as some of the best they’ve ever experienced.

There are small home-stays and private accommodations spaced out along the road to Bangko-Bangko – known as Desert Point and the surfing Mecca for those in the know – located on the far southwest tip of Lombok.

Many are astounded by the pristine conditions and huge schools of turtles seen

The wide white sand bay is lined with fisherman’s huts and draws hundreds of

surfers every year from as far away as Hawaii and Brazil to challenge the huge waves of Desert Point, just offshore.

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

Bali is clearly visible, with the island of Nusa Penida only about an hour’s sail away.

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

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

Those who wish to explore the underwater world of the Southwest Gilis can join dive adventures with either Dive Zone in Sekotong or Odyssea Divers at Cocotinos The dive sites reflect a good cross-section of what Indonesian diving has to offer.

Dive in and be fascinated by turtles, white tip reef sharks, cuttlefish, moray eels and many other varieties of marine life. The reefs are full of colourful corals, which harbour an amazing variety of marine life, including ghost pipe fish, leaf fish, pygmy seahorses and much more.

For non-divers, the islands are a delight for snorkelling – abundant coral reefs lay just below the surface waiting to be explored, filled with thousands of brightly coloured tropical fish, huge sprawling blue starfish and magical turtles gently gliding through the water.

It’s easy to imagine hotels and resorts on all these beaches and islands in the future but for now, the Southwest is unspoilt and the Gilis remain the secret islands… stunningly beautiful, pristine and unique, and known only to the lucky few.

The Southwest

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Tourism Information

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Kuta by Barbara

KUTA AND THE SUBLIME SOUTH COAST

Lombok boasts some of the most magnificent scenery in Indonesia and the south coast of Lombok easily rates among the best!

South Lombok is a region on the move and it’s easy to see why so many people are investing here. The south coast has views that inspire – and leaves visitors from around the world speechless at the sublime panoramic beauty that unfolds beach after beautiful beach.

Tourists are drawn to the stunning beaches of the south coast for the pure white sands and the crystal clear oceans, as well as some of the best surf breaks in Indonesia.

Kuta (sometimes spelt Kute) is the main town and tourism centre on the south coast of Lombok, and is the hub for exploring the fantastic southern beaches and the many places of interest in the region.

The Lombok International Airport (locally known as BIL) is the only commercial airport on Lombok and is located just 25 minutes’ drive north of Kuta , making access to the south very easy.

Located around 60 km south of Mataram, and about one and a half hour’s drive from Senggigi, Kuta makes for a wonderful day trip from other points in Lombok, or an alternative holiday destination for travellers exploring Lombok. Major roads have been upgraded and the main road to Kuta is very good.

The proximity to the airport has sparked an investment boom in the area over the past couple of years and Kuta has blossomed, with many new hotels, restaurants and cafes catering to increased numbers of tourists.

The proposed Mandalika Resort development, with its plans for luxury hotels, villas and supporting facilities on over 1000 hectares of prime beach land, will further transform the south coast in coming years.

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

The drive down to the south coast is

an interesting rural tour through small villages and farming communities. Fields of tobacco, corn and peanuts line the roadsides and farmers till the fields using antiquated ploughs pulled by large water buffalo.

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

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

Continued on Page 68

Kuta and The South Coast

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Tourism Information

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Continued from Page 66 Slightly further south is Sade, a hilltop village with more Lumbung 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.

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

These days, there is a good variety of accommodation to suit all budgets and tastes, plus many restaurants and tourist facilities. With investment taking off, more options are opening all the time.

Selong Belanak

First-timers to Kuta can benefit from an orientation tour operated by Mimpi Manis Homestay in Kuta.

The long-established guest house is popular with budget travelers not just for the good value accommodation, but also for the local knowledge the expat British and Balinese couple freely shares with anyone visiting Kuta.

Orientation tours are also available to outside guests and usually include a tour of Kuta and its main attractions, as well as visits to nearby Seger Beach and Tanjung Aan. Other tours can be arranged to take in your particular interests, as well as transfers, car and motorbike rental, Rinjani trekking and more. Mimpi Manis also runs “Shore Thing” fishing trips and boat tours at reasonable rates. Visit their website for details: www.mimpimanis.com

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.

Kuta attracts thousands of visitors every year for the great surf locations at Gerupuk, Ekas and the beaches to the east. It’s easy to hire a board and a surf guide from here to learn surfing or, for experienced surfers, to access the more challenging surf breaks in the area.

Mandalika Monument at Seger Beach

Otherwise, hire a car or motorbike and you can spend days visiting beautiful, mainly deserted beaches, both to the east and west of Kuta.

Just east of Kuta is Seger Beach (sometimes called Mandalika Beach, after the legendary Princess Mandalika – a beloved character in Sasak folklore who is believed to have sacrificed herself for the good of her people from the rocks overlooking the beach).

It is here that thousands of people gather every year to celebrate the colourful ritual of Bau Nyale, when masses of sea worms spawn in the waters offshore.

There are great views from the beach and even better views if you climb the surrounding hills. There are small stalls selling drinks and snacks to enjoy after taking a swim or a stroll to enjoy the views.

Continued on Page 70

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Southern Lombok’s beautiful secret...

Luxury–Unwind–Escape–Enjoy Sempiak Villas Selong Belanak, Lombok

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The Laut Biru Bar & Restaurant is located on beautiful Selong Belanak Bay. Rustic driftwood mixed with blue tiles and white, fresh walls create a lovely setting for you to relax with your meal whilst gazing at one of the best views in Lombok!

Breakfast is served between 8am and 10am, and our A la Carte Lunch menu is available between 11am and 5pm.

Dinner, with a range of specials, is served from 6pm onwards.

Coffees, teas and other hot beverages may be served with cake at any time of the day or evening; or enjoy a cocktail, cold beer or cool glass of wine to enhance your dining experience!

Please call for bookings!

Open Daily from 8am to 9pm

Selong Belanak, Lombok

Laut Biru Bar and Restaurant

+62 821 4430 3339

Tourism Information

70 The government has built a rather ugly building here to host the annual Bau Nyale Festival but nearby there is a lovely monument in the bay commemorating the Mandalika Legend.

Continued from Page 68

Tanjung Aan, around 5kms east of Kuta, is a long picturesque beach with a wide sweep of white sand, perfect aquamarine water and shady trees on the shore.

At the far west end is “Warung Turtle”, a charming beach café that sells cold drinks and beer, as well as surprisingly good meals.

Mawun Beach by Asriel aryadi www.instagram.com/asrielharyadi

The Warung has snorkeling equipment, surfboards and stand-up paddle boards for hire and the local owner, Herman, is a friendly host with a wealth of information to help make the most of your visit.

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.

Guests are welcome to relax on the sun lounges on the beach in front of Warung Turtle and spend the day swimming in the calm waters. Dine on the beachfront or in the shade of the café. The fresh grilled fish and the Chicken in Red Sauce are both highly recommended.

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!

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.

Further east, Heaven on the Planet and Ocean Heaven (collectively known as HOTPlanet) offers accommodation, a restaurant, swimming pool, a Spa and Wellness Centre and a host of water activities, such as surfing, snorkelling, kayaking, wind-surfing and more.

Continued on Page 74

THE SOUTH LOMBOK COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION The South Lombok Community Association (SLCA) is an association of businesses, investors and residents in South Lombok working with government and local communities to improve conditions in Kuta and surrounding areas on the south coast.

The SLCA carries out a number of important services including the improvement of security and safety in the south, rubbish collection and waste management, and environmental projects such as “Clean Up” events in Kuta and at the surrounding beaches.

The association is self-funded and all south coast residents and businesses are encouraged to support this community initiative.

If you are visiting Kuta, please help SLCA keep up their work – clearly marked donation boxes are placed in a number of local businesses and even a small donation can help towards funding rubbish bins and community projects.

To join SLCA, or support their work with a donation, please email southlombokca@gmail.com

Kuta and The South Coast

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Kuta and The South Coast

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Tourism Information 73

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Kuta and The South Coast framed on each end by headlands and surrounded by rolling hills. Sempiak Villas has plush villas perched on the hillside overlooking the bay with breath-taking panoramic views.

Continued from Page 70

Laut Biru Bar and Restaurant at Sempiak Villas is a popular place for a stop – and justifies a day trip in itself – serving fresh and delicious snacks and meals throughout the day in a pretty restaurant on the beach.

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.

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 an 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 Belanak is a long sweeping bay

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.

Kuta and The South Coast

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Tourism Information

MAGNETIC NORTH LOMBOK

For those looking for a change of pace in sublime natural surroundings, North Lombok is a relaxing and rewarding escape.

Lombok’s magnificent volcano, the village of Senaru is surrounded by the natural beauty of the Rinjani National Park and has glorious views of both the mountains and the valleys below.

Senaru is also the perfect base for those wishing to visit the famed waterfalls of Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep, or to spend time trekking through the jungles and visiting remote traditional villages.

There is a good selection of accommodation available in the area, ranging from basic backpacker home-stays to nice cottages in scenic settings.

Segara Anak Lake at Mt Rinjani by Iwan Haryanto

Dominated by the majesty of Mt Rinjani and the surrounding mountain ranges, North Lombok offers stunning landscapes for travellers who like to go “off the beaten path”.

The large town of Tanjung is the administrative capital for North Lombok and has numerous warung and shops, and one of the few public telephone offices (wartel) on the island.

The many waterfalls and rivers, jungles and rainforest with towering old-growth trees, and the unique flora and fauna of the region – together with long curves of deserted beaches – make the north coast an ideal destination for those who appreciate true natural beauty.

Further up the coast, Godang is a small village near a good beach. A trail leads northeast to Tiu Pupus Waterfall, around 6km away. In rainy season, the spring-fed falls flow into a deep pool at the base.

North Lombok is one of the oldest settlements on the island and, with Muslims, Hindus and Buddhists living in the district, many different cultural traditions originate from this historic area.

Travelling north, look for the small signpost to Kerta Gangga Waterfalls, located between Gangga and Kerta Raharja village. There are three beautiful waterfalls and pools set amongst the jungle, and a small bat cave nearby. Local guides are useful for showing the best places (they will find you!)

The restaurant serves fantastic food, with a varied menu that ranges from traditional Indonesian favourites to fresh seafood to modern cuisine such as falafel wraps in tortilla served with hummus and tahini... not your usual Senaru fare!

Bayan, further north, is steeped in history and maintains old Sasak traditions. This is a fascinating area to explore, although accommodation is limited.

The Rinjani National Park is a nature reserve of 41,330 hectares surrounding the volcano that provides many opportunities for eco-tourism.

Bayan is the home of the unique religion, Wetu Telu, which is only found in Lombok. Wetu Telu combines the original Sasak people’s traditional animistic beliefs with Islam and elements of Hinduism.

Trekking on the volcano is open from the beginning of April until the end of December every year, with a variety of treks available including the challenging climb to the 3726m summit, or 2 and 3 day treks to the spectacular lake cradled in the caldera.

One of the oldest and most important mosques in Lombok, Masjid Kuno, is in Bayan, near the village of Beleq. Believed to have been built in 1634, the mosque sits on a small hill with pretty views.

From Bayan the road leads to Senaru, the gateway to the Rinjani National Park and one of the main bases for trekkers climbing Mt Rinjani.

Tiu Kelep Waterfall by Iwan Haryanto

By far the nicest place to stay is the newly-opened Rinjani Lodge, with deluxe bungalows and a stunning infinity pool perched on the side of a lovely valley and located around 100m from the main gateway to Sendang Gile Waterfall.

Nestled on the northern foothills of

The whole area is a picturesque haven, featuring magnificent waterfalls, lush and accessible jungle trekking, traditional villages, and plantations of tobacco and cashew nuts, grown alongside verdant rice terraces. Tropical animals including monkeys, deer and tropical birds live in the surrounding jungle, as well as abundant varieties of tropical plants and flowers.

North Lombok

Stunning mountain and valley views located at the gateway to Mt Rinjani and the waterfalls Stylish bungalows with WiFi, A/C, Cable TV, DVD’s, garden bathrooms, hot water and private terraces Infinity swimming pool, chill-out spaces and restaurant serving fresh western and Indonesian specialties

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Tourism Information

The Gili Islands Unique tropical escapes!

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.

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

with the biggest range on Gili Trawangan.

While nobody comes to the Gilis for shopping, each island has many small

There is a good selection of accommodations, restaurants and bars on all three islands, 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.

Tourism Information

79 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.

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.

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).

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!

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Tourism Information

GETTING TO THE GILIS

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

There are now dozens of fast boat services operating between Bali and the Gilis (as well as many that stop at Teluk Nara on the northwest coast of mainland Lombok).

Alternatively, you can fly to Lombok and travel across to the Gilis.

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

The crossing between the islands can be treacherous in bad weather and sometimes transfers must be cancelled for the safety of passengers. Some companies have a good safety record and offer a high standard of customer service, including hotel pick-up and drop off services, insurance, and international safety equipment and procedures.

Others can be a risky proposition – practicing overloading of baggage and exceeding the number of passengers a vessel can carry safely.

The Lombok Strait – between Bali and Lombok – is one of the deepest bodies of water in the region and, during certain times of the year, waves can reach up to 5 metres. Choose a reliable operator by checking reviews on internet sites and avoid companies that practice “over loading” in busy times.

Blue Water Express, operated by Blue Water Safaris, is one of the leading fast boat operators, with up to four boats travelling between Bali and Lombok.

route of other boats. The return trip leaves Gili T at 12.15pm direct to Bali.

Fares include air conditioned hotel transfers to main points in Bali. Ph: +62 819 1673 3051 / +62 813 3707 4147. www.giligetaway.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.

By Helicopter: Air Bali offers a regular helicopter transfer service between Bali and Gili Trawangan. Private charters are also possible (subject to availability).

Ph: +62 361 767466 or 766 582. www.airbali.com 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.

BWS has services between Bali, Gili T, Gili Air and mainland Lombok, with convenient departures from two different locations on Bali – Serangan (near Benoa Harbour) and Padang Bai Harbour – every day. Fares include air conditioned hotel transfers in Bali. Ph: +62 361 895 1111 / 0813 3841 8988. www.bluewater-express.com Gili Getaway is a comfortable fast boat departing from Serangan Harbour (only 20 mins from Kuta) daily with transfers between Bali, Gili T and Gili Gede (Southwest Lombok).

This is the only fast boat that offers direct transfers between Bali and Gili T. Passengers are transferred from Bali to Gili T first, and then the boat transfers onward passengers to Gili Air and Teluk Kodek on Lombok, avoiding the “island hopping”

FROM TELUK NARA AND TELUK KODEK: Teluk Nara is a large peaceful bay on the west coast, about 25 minutes’ drive north of Senggigi.

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

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

Be aware that public boats leave when there are enough passengers to warrant the trip, so you may have to wait for a while. Best times are between 8am and 4pm.

If you don’t want to wait, or if the public boat is dangerously overloaded, 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.

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.

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.

It is possible to negotiate private boat trips (including speed boat transfers) out to the islands with local boat owners here, thereby avoiding the hassles of Bangsal.

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!

At the northern end of the bay is Teluk Kodek, where Vila Ombak, The Beach House, kokomo and Scallywags have bases for transferring their guests by speedboat to the Gilis. Blue Water Express and Gili Getaway also operate fast boat services between Lombok and Bali from this harbour.

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

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

The Gili Islands

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Gili Trawangan

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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Tourism Information

GILI ISLANDS FAST FACTS

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.

Alcohol and the risk of methanol poisoning have been in the spotlight since 2009 and there have been a significant number of deaths from contaminated alcohol in Bali, Lombok and the Gilis. Avoid bars and places that serve arak or other “local spirits”, including cocktails such as “Jungle Juice” and “Arak Attack”.

With imported alcohol heavily taxed in Indonesia, “Welcome drinks”, “Two for one” cocktails and cheap shots should all be viewed with suspicion. If it seems too cheap to be the real deal, it probably is.

Large hotels and restaurants generally serve imported alcohol; otherwise, stick

to beer and steer clear of places that put profits before your safety.

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.

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There is no motorised transport on any of the islands. Walk, ride a bicycle or catch a cidomo (local horse cart). None of the islands is very large, so walking is an easy option. Bicycles can be hired for 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 fixed and rates 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. Walking or riding a bike is a nicer option.

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 your 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.

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

Gili Trawangan

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THE ONLY FASTBOAT DIRECT BALI GILI TRAWANGAN! Gili Getaway

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The Beach House on Gili Trawangan - an innovative and contemporary resort set in 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 | Email: reservation@beachhousegilit.com

www.beachhousegilit.com

Tourism Information

GILI TRAWANGAN

Gili Trawangan – affectionately abbreviated to ‘Gili T’ – is the most wellknown and popular of the three Gilis.

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

Tagged “the party island” by The Lonely Planet, Gili T continues to cater to the party crowd but also has a cosmopolitan vibe that becomes more evident every year.

Today, Gili T is rated as one of the top destinations in Indonesia and the popular TripAdvisor® website recently rated it as one of the ‘Top 10 Islands in Asia’.

Gone are the days when backpackers flocked to the island for Rp 20,000 a night huts on the beach and Rp 5,000 Bintang beers. While Gili T still hosts backpackers and budget travellers, these days they are joined by singles, couples and families from all walks of life and all around 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 your bike through sandy sections in the north).

This is the only Gili to rise significantly above sea level and the hill in the south is a great lookout from which to enjoy the spectacular sunsets across the ocean to Bali or the brilliant sunrise over Mt Rinjani on mainland Lombok.

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simple hotels 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, DVD and satellite TV.

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.

The main development on Gili T is on the east coast, but Gili T’s popularity means growth has extended around the entire island.

Accommodation on Gili T ranges from basic home stays to luxury hotels and villas. The old style bungalows have mostly disappeared, to be replaced by

The busiest area, called ‘Sentral’, is on the southeast of the island, close to the jetty where the boats dock. Resorts, restaurants, bars and shops line both sides of the paved ‘road’ that runs along the entire east coast up to the northern corner of the island.

Scallywags Resort and The Beach House are both popular options in this area, with comfortable rooms and all mod cons such as air conditioning and swimming pools. The Beach House has a range of rooms, suites, private pool villas and a large 4 bedroom private pool villa, while Scallywags offers tasteful double and twin rooms, some with private plunge pools.

Tracks meander from the main coastal road inland, where many of the island’s local people live and where investors have built home-stays, small hotels and private villas that offer a quieter (and often cheaper) alternative to the beachfront choices.

Continued on Page 86

86 Continued from Page 85 Amalika Villa is a new and ultra-stylish 2 bedroom villa located in a walled garden with private pool, just back from the beach in Sentral. Modern amenities, personalised services and beautiful designer furnishings provide a luxurious escape close to the action.

Gili Villas, just behind the Night Market, has four elegant villas each with private pools. 1 and 2-bedroom villas offer comfortable and modern facilities just off the main strip.

The north coast has a quieter vibe and offers peaceful alternatives to the central area. Although the beaches to the north can

be a bit ordinary, the views are beautiful and snorkelling from the beach is good; plus the location makes it easy to access the dining and nightlife options only minutes away.

Oceano Resort offers comfortable and affordable rooms and bungalows on a nice section of beach. Desa Dunia Beda, slightly further north, features unique

restored teak Joglo houses with sumptuous ethnic furnishings, modern facilities and a romantic atmosphere.

Likewise, the south and west coasts are popular with travellers seeking a place away from the crowds and are now dotted with small hotels, private villas and a couple of larger resorts.

Although the beaches aren’t as nice as those on the east, the sunsets across the sea to Bali are magical.

Just minutes from Sentral, Pearl of Trawangan boasts a beautiful beachfront and modern, comfortable rooms, suites and villas with lovely furnishings and all modern amenities, including a secluded waterfall swimming pool.

Slightly further south, but still on the fringe of the action, ko-komo Resort is a collection of 1, 2 and 3 bedroom boutique villas with private pools and sophisticated facilities in an exclusive setting on the beach.

The Trawangan Resort combines south coast tranquillity with tasteful rooms, suites and private pool villas just steps from the beach, close to the surfing and only a few minutes to Sentral.

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Restaurants rival Bali in quality and there are bars, Internet cafés, movie “theatres” and beachside cafés galore. Dining choices range from the typical Indonesian dishes to Indian, Italian, Mexican and more; simple cafés on the beach to international fine dining restaurants, and everything between.

There is a lively bar scene at night and the island has a rotating roster, where different bars have licenses to host a party on one night of the week (hence the “party island” reputation). These parties are a big drawcard for the crowds of younger people who come to the island.

For those who prefer quieter entertainment, there are sophisticated dining opportunities, particularly at places such as ko-ko-mo Resort, Scallywags Resort, and the stylish Pearl Beach Lounge next door, and at Wilson’s Retreat and Desa Dunia Beda in the north.

These days, Gili T is a serious tourist destination with a good infrastructure and a wide range of tourist facilities.

Continued on Page 88

Gili Trawangan

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88 Continued from Page 86 Many of the larger restaurants, hotels and dive shops accept credit cards and there are ATM’s in front of Gili T Resort (near Sentral), in front of Vila Ombak on the east coast and further north, near Blue Beach, as well as on the west side at Ombak Sunset.

Internet cafés 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 outlets, as well as stylish little boutiques Ombak with basic emergency facilities andsuch as Topaz Shop. a doctor on call.

But it is the beaches and the diving that remain the main draw card for Gili T. Free diving, SUP and other water sports People flock here to sunbathe on white are popular activities. Horses can be hired sand beaches and swim in clean blue from The Stud on the southeast coast; sea waters, to dive the fabulous reefs and kayaking is available at Karma Kayak to bask in the hedonistic pleasures of a on the north coast; yoga, meditation, tropical paradise. massages and other health and beauty There is a good surf break on the south treatments are available at numerous coast near The Trawangan Resort with a places around the island. fast right-hander that pumps in the right Even the shopping scene on Gili T is conditions. Local surfers will happily lead starting to resemble nearby Bali and new the way and rent you a board. shops are springing up almost monthly.

Shops and kiosks selling the usual sarongs The best snorkelling on the island starts on the northern end of the east coast, where and t-shirts now rub shoulders with 69 Slam, Billabong, Innuendo and Blu Glue you can wade to the reef just offshore.

Tourism Information 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 a variety of tropical fish species to enjoy.

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 now a worldclass tourism destination is emerging.

While some will no doubt lament the constant development, there’s a whole new scene unfolding on Gili T. That’s not to say that the original charms that attracted travellers in the beginning are gone. The perfect white sand beaches, clear turquoise waters and laid-back island style are still what attract visitors today.

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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Gili Air

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Beach Bungalows, Bar & Café

6 Comfortable Double and Two Family Bungalows with AC, Fresh Hot Water Showers, Balcony and Day Bed and one of Gili Air’s best white sandy beaches – just steps from your room!

Gili Air, Lombok | M: +62 (0) 818 0520 8807 | E: thebeachclubgiliair@hotmail.com

www.thebeachclublombok.com

Tourism Information

91 crafts, as well as three small boutiques with eclectic mixes of island wear, jewellery and accessories.

Like all the Gilis, the best swimming beaches are on the east coast and most development runs along the beaches here down to the south.

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

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

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

Gili Air was originally spelled as “Ayer”, with the word “Air” meaning water; thus Gili Air is the water island.

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 island’s main appeal is its low-key and unspoilt nature… and that’s why so many people love it.

Telephone and internet facilities are available on the island, as are most of the normal tourist amenities. Although there are no banks, there are ATMs on the south coast (near 7Seas) and two machines on the east, near Bel Air Resort.

There are three clinics on the east of the island – one to the north (inland from Orong Cottages), Gam Clinic (inland from Biba Beach Village) and Royal Medical (to the south near 7 Seas).

There are also some funky shops selling home-made jewellery, arts and wooden

While nowhere near as busy and developed as Gili Trawangan, Gili Air has evolved rapidly over the past few years and is certainly slated for more development in the future.

For now, Gili Air is still a laid back island with funky bars and simple cafés bars made from bamboo rubbing shoulders with some swanky new places along the beachfront.

Accommodation on Gili Air ranges from simple back-packer bungalows to luxurious air-conditioned rooms with hot water and swimming pools.

Old-style hotels built from wood with thatched roofs sit alongside some of the more modern boutique hotels and villas, such as the up-market Waterfront Hotel with eight contemporary air-conditioned bungalows and a swimming pool set in nice gardens.

Guests can wine and dine at the very good Waterfront Restaurant and Bar housed in a stylish wooden Joglo on the beachfront.

Next door, Manta Dive offers comfortable bungalow accommodation, a swimming pool, and professional dive courses and dive trips to all three Gilis.

Scallywags – who have another popular resort on Gili Trawangan – operate Scallywags Organic Beach Club on the southern end of the beach.

Scallywags

The restaurant has an excellent menu and guest facilities, as well as a friendly atmosphere and excellent swimming directly in front of the restaurant.

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Gili Air

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Just next to Scallywags, The Beach Club Gili Air offers accommodation for couples and families in eight charming bungalows with large air conditioned bedrooms, private terraces and semi-open air bathrooms.

dishes to up-market international 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.

The beachfront here is a popular place for lounging on colourful bean bags during the Activities include day, or for romantic walking and dining in the cycling around the evening. The beach island, sun bathing, The Beach Club bar and restaurant and swimming, snorkelling and diving, serves delicious meals and snacks, as well as well as yoga and meditation, as all day breakfasts. and relaxing massages and body There are also free movies for restaurant treatments. guests on the beach every night (weather For exploring, there is a path running permitting) starting with children’s movies parallel to the beach and it takes in the evenings, followed by adult feature around 90 minutes to circle the whole movies. island. The interior is criss-crossed with a maze of tracks that can get confusing, but all lead back to the beach.

Other activities include kite surfing, glass bottom boat trips, kayaking, stand up paddle boarding and surfing.

7Seas

Further south, near the harbour, 7Seas International is a professional dive operation, and also offers comfortable and modern air conditioned cottages on the white sand beach.

It is one of the few places on the island that offers family accommodation, in Duplex Family Cottages, only a step away from the pool. Each has two spacious rooms, a big bathroom, a large terrace and small garden, and sea views from the 2nd floor. The existing bedding is suitable for 5 people and up to 3 extra beds can be added on request.

There is a good variety of restaurants and beachside cafés on the island, offering everything from traditional Indonesian

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.

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 a clear, translucent aquamarine, 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 usually gentle, allowing snorkellers to drift in a dreamy daze amongst this panorama of aquatic shapes and colours.

For those who have never had the pleasure of viewing the magical world under the ocean, Gili Air offers a superb opportunity to do so in safety and comfort.

For those of us who are already addicted to the silence and beauty of the depths, this is an island where days could melt into weeks, quite happily drifting with the current and immersing oneself in the wonders of the underwater landscape.

Gili Meno

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GILI MENO

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 the quietest of the three Gilis, with the laidback charm of a true castaway island.

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.

quietly taking place over the past years.

Mahamaya Boutique Resort, on the northwest coast, has luxurious accommodation and the restaurant earns accolades for top quality cuisine served in the shady dining area or at pretty tables on the beachfront.

Karma Resorts operates The Reef Resort, with comfortable air conditioned lumbung style bungalows in a prime beachfront location on the east coast.

Nearby, Meno Mojo Beach resort is currently under construction, with two villas already operating, and a total of 16 stylish villas surrounding the resort swimming pool planned for the near future.

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 ecologically sound concepts.

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.

Dotted around the island, casual beachfront cafés and bars serve Indonesian and popular western meals, with fresh fish and wood-fired pizzas being Gili Meno specialties.

Some provide low-key entertainment in the evenings, more so in the high seasons, 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.

The restaurant and beach club is already open and provides sun lounges, shady bales and comfortable tables overlooking the beach, with a good selection of meals and drinks; grilled and barbecued fresh seafood is the specialty.

Also on the east coast, Tropical Hideaways, located a short stroll inland (down the lane next to Blue Marlin Dive), is a good mid-range option and has air conditioned rooms with western bathrooms.

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 under the star-filled skies. There is no rowdy bar scene or noisy The water surrounding the island is clear turquoise and the beaches are covered in full moon parties here. brilliant white sand, fringed with groves of Like all the Gilis, the best swimming coconut palms. beaches and most tourist facilities (including boat docking and departure) are There is good snorkelling along the northwest coast and it is often possible along the east coast. to see Green, Leatherback and Hawksbill Although there are small places dotted all turtles. To swim with these huge creatures around the island, many of the hotels and – that are so awkward and ungainly restaurants are located along the southon land but move through their natural eastern coast, with beautiful views over element with grace – is perhaps the most Gili Air and to Mt Rinjani in the east. special underwater experience of all and a major reason for visiting Gili Meno.

It is possible to walk around the whole island on a small beachside track in There is also good snorkelling off the west around 90 minutes. Those seeking total coast near the now-defunct Bounty Resort. tranquillity head to the north and west Swim out to where the old pontoon has coasts, where more development has been sunk and become a home for many fish.

Unlike the public boats from Bangsal to Gili Trawangan and Gili Air, public boats to Gili Meno do not run as frequently, but transfers are available daily at 10am, 2pm, and 5pm.

Return boats from Gili Meno to Bangsal operate at 8am and 3pm (with the exception of Friday, when there is no afternoon boat from Meno to Bangsal).

Apart from public boat transfers, you can charter a boat for around Rp 450,000 (one way). Share the cost with other travellers if possible.

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Gili Trawangan

Tourism Information

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Senggigi