The Lombok Guide Issue 232

Issue 232 | 14 – 28 November 2016

The

FREE COPY

LOMBOK GUIDE ( 0812 3734 4894 | www.thelombokguide.com

PUBLISHED BI-WEEKLY IN LOMBOK, FOR LOMBOK

The Beach Club Beach Bungalows

Page 90

IN THIS ISSUE Getting to Lombok

Page 2

Attractions & Actitvities

Page 4 & 8

Lombok Map

Page 6

Special Feature Page 10 Senggigi

Page 12 - 50

Senggigi Map

Page 14

Special Feature Page 16 & 24 What’s Hot / Local News

Page 18

Special Feature Page 28 Distribution

Page 31

Special Feature Page 36 Classifieds

Page 38 & 39

Local Scene

Page 40

Useful Contacts Page 41 Land & Property

Page 51 - 55

The Cities

Page 56 - 59

Cities Map

Page 58

The Southwest

Page 60 & 61

Kuta & The South Coast

Page 62 - 73

South Lombok Map

Page 72

North Lombok

Page 74 & 75

The Gilis

Page 76 - 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 31 or visit www.thelombokguide.com and discover the magic of Lombok for yourself…

Like thousands of others, you’ll be enchanted!

Sunset at La Chill Bar, Senggigi

Special Feature Page 44

Tourism Information

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GETTING TO LOMBOK

It’s easy to get to Lombok from Bali – flight time is only around 30 minutes and fares start from around Rp 350,000 (approx. US $35) one way. Buy tickets direct from the airline counters at the domestic airports, or contact local travel agents in both Bali and Lombok.

Lombok International Airport (abbreviated to LIA with the IATA code “LOP”) is the main airport on Lombok.

The airport is close to Praya (Central Lombok); approximately 40km south of the city of Mataram, and around 1 ½ hours’ drive from Senggigi, and 25 minutes from Kuta.

Direct flights to Lombok from Bali, Jakarta, Jogja and Surabaya are available from multiple airlines every day and are usually timed to connect with European flights.

Lombok is an important connection for travel to the eastern islands, in particular the islands of Sumbawa, Komodo and Flores.

Garuda Indonesia / Citilink have direct flights daily between Lombok and Bali, Surabaya, Makassar and Jakarta. Call Centre: 08041 807 807. Sales Office: +62 370 642303 / 649999. Airport: 0370 649100. www.garuda-indonesia.com Lion Air / Wings Air has daily flights between Lombok, Bali, Bima (Sumbawa), Jakarta and Surabaya.

Ph: +62 370 6627444 / 642180. www.lionair.co.id

Airport departure tax is included in the price of all tickets.

BALI TO LOMBOK BY AIR In Lombok, all flights depart and arrive at Lombok International Airport. In Bali, flights arrive and depart at the domestic terminal at Ngurah Rai (Denpasar) Airport.

Garuda Airlines has direct flights between Lombok and Bali every day. Call Centre: 0 8041 807 807, Sales Office: +62 370 642303 / 649999. www.garuda-indonesia. com

Batik Air flies direct between Lombok and Jakarta, with two flights every day. www.batikair.com

BALI TO LOMBOK BY SEA

Padang Bai Harbour (Bali) provides the sea link between mainland Bali and Lombok. Lembar Harbour (Lombok) is on the southwest coast, approx. 1 hour south of Senggigi, Lombok.

Wings Air / Lion Air flies between Bali and Lombok daily. The Arrange your own transport and buy tickets direct from the companies code-share, so you may purchase a Lion Air ticket and harbours, or use a reputable tour company to provide a transfer find yourself on a Wings Air flight! Lombok, Call Centre: +62 80 service.

4177 8899. Bali, ph: +62 361 765132.

Public Ferries depart every hour for the sea voyage between www.lionair.co.id Padang Bai Harbour (Bali) and Lembar Harbour (Lombok). The INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS crossing between the islands costs Rp 44,000 per person and Lombok International Airport has full Visa on Arrival (VOA) takes approx. 4 to 5 hours. Lembar Harbour ph: +62 370 681 209. facilities, including 30 day “Visa Free” (no charge) for tourists.

Padang Bai Harbour ph: (+62 363) 41849 / 41840 Ph: +62 370 622987.

Silk Air (a subsidiary of Singapore Airlines) flies direct between Lombok and Singapore, four times per week (Sunday, Monday, Wednesday and Friday). Ph: +62 370 628254 / 628255. www.silkair.com Air Asia operates direct flights between Lombok and Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia, with many international connections available. Flights operate between Lombok and KL twice daily, seven days per week. www.airasia.com

FAST BOATS

There are now numerous “fast boat” services operating between Bali and Lombok.

Blue Water Express has services between Bali 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 operates several comfortable fast boats Garuda Airlines flies between Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia and connecting Bali and mainland Lombok every day, with a short stop-over in Jakarta. International Lombok (including Senggigi, connections from around the world are available via Jakarta. Call the Gili Islands and Gili Centre: 08041 807 807. Airport: +62 370 649100. www.garudaGede in the southwest) with indonesia.com daily transfers from Serangan Harbour on Bali. Fares include air DOMESTIC FLIGHTS conditioned hotel transfers to main points in Bali.

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

European connections are easy via Jakarta (the capital city of www.giligetaway.com Java), Bali and other capital cities such as Jogjakarta, Surabaya and Makassar.

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

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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.

Mangsit Beach

BEACHES The whole island is surrounded by fantastic unspoilt beaches, most with crystal clear waters and clean white sand fringed by coconut palms. Drive just north of Senggigi to Malimbu or Nipah and enjoy deserted beaches with fine snorkelling and swimming.

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.

The southwest coast also has fine beaches, especially around Sekotong and Taun. Visit the small island of Gili Asahan for rustic accommodation and great snorkelling just off shore or stay at the luxurious Ko - ko - mo Resort on Gili Gede to explore the undeveloped islands of the southwest.

For the more adventurous, there is superb diving around the islands off the southwest coast, as well challenging dives off the south coast and the small uninhabited islands off the east coast.

The beaches around Kuta are breathtakingly beautiful. Visit Tanjung Aan and Gerupuk for fantastic scenery, Selong Belanak for long stretches of white sand and turquoise waters, or swim in the lovely bay at Mawun.

DIVING

With so many beaches and 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

GOLF

Lombok Golf Kosaido Country Club (sometimes called Kosaido Golf Course or Pantai Sire Golf Course) is the only international 18 hole championship course in Lombok, located on the shores of Sire Beach in Tanjung, North Lombok (close to the Oberoi and Tugu Hotels). It is around 45 minutes drive from Senggigi.

This world-class course was designed

by Thomson, Wolveridge and Perrett, who have respected the unique setting and contours of the location.

Nestled between the shores of Sire Bay and the slopes of Mount Rinjani, the 18 hole, par

72 course (6295 meters) offers world-class challenges for golfing enthusiasts of all levels in a natural and picturesque environment.

Holes 1 - 9 face the sea, with the signature No 4 hole adjacent to the white sandy beach of Sire Bay. Holes 10 - 18 face the mountains with stunning views of Mt Rinjani and include Hole 12, the largest on the course with 540m, Par 5, Handicap one.

SURFING

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

Kuta, on the south coast, is surf-central and has a range of accommodations and facilities especially for surfers. Here you can hire a board, get board repairs and take surf lessons from the professionals.

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

Ekas Bay has two surf breaks: Inside Ekas and Outside Ekas with waves suitable for beginners to experts, depending on the season.

Continued on Page 8

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Lombok Map

Senggigi

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Tourism Information

8

ATTRACTIONS & ACTIVITIES

the Balinese temples in Lombok, founded by the 16th-century Javanese priest, Danghyang Nirartha.

Continued from Page 4 At certain times of the year when conditions are right, you’ll find locals surfing the breaks at Senggigi Point and Mangsit Beach, and off Gili Air and Gili Trawangan.

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!

TREKKING

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

There are a number of spectacular waterfalls on the island which provide lovely trekking opportunities, whether travelling independently or as part of a tour.

Sendang Gile near Senaru in the north is an easily accessible waterfall in a stunning jungle setting and popular with visitors.

For the more adventurous, there is a second beautiful waterfall – Tiu Kelep – located around an hour’s trek way.

Air Jeruk Manis, near Tetebatu, is set in a cool mountain location and reached by a pretty walk through rice fields and forest.

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.

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

Pura Lingsar is possibly the only place in the world where Hindus and Moslems come together to pray and celebrate. Built around 1714, Pura Lingsar was originally based on the prevailing animist beliefs of the time, and some of the original statues remain today. Perang Topat is an annual festival held at Lingsar and features a ritualised war with rice cakes, which also serve as an offering to the Gods.

MOUNTAIN CLIMBING

HANDICRAFT VILLAGES Lombok is famous for its traditional earthenware pottery made from local clay with distinctive designs, as well as 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 see the old traditional looms being used to create intricately woven, colourful fabrics.

Sukarara is 5 km to the west of Praya, heading south towards Kuta. This is another 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.

Mt Rinjani, Lombok’s famous volcano, soars 3726 m above sea level and is the second highest volcano in Indonesia, attracting thousands of visitors every year.

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 and is still active.

There are a number of caves, small waterfalls and hot springs located around the volcano. Rinjani, and its surrounding national park, are 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.

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

The gardens at Narmada are beautifully maintained and surround the pools and lake in this cool hillside setting.

Pura Suranadi, a complex of three temples located a few kilometres north of Narmada in Suranadi, is the oldest and holiest of

here.

Some of the larger pieces can take several months to weave and collectors from around the world visit these villages to purchase the blankets, sarongs and cloth produced

Banyumulek, easily reached on the road south to Lembar Harbour, is an important centre for pottery on Lombok. The small village has many 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, is famous internationally and is exported throughout the world.

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Special Feature

LOMBOK WINS AT WORLD LUXURY HOTEL AWARDS

Puri Mas Resort in Mangsit

Two of Lombok’s best resorts have scooped up trophies at the prestigious ‘2016 World Luxury Hotel Awards’.

Puri Mas Boutique Resort in Mangsit, West Lombok walked off with the ‘Best Luxury Boutique Hotel’ award in the country category for Indonesia.

Mahamaya Boutique Resort on Gili Meno, Lombok won the award for ‘Best Luxury Island Resort’ in the regional category for Southeast Asia.

The ‘World Luxury Hotel Awards’ is a recognised global organisation providing luxury hotels with recognition for world class facilities and service excellence.

Celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, the 2016 World Luxury Hotel Awards Gala Ceremony was held on 29 October at the St. Regis Doha in Qatar.

More than 350 guests from over 50 countries attended the luxurious awards ceremony, walking the red carpet to be greeted with champagne from Varichon & Clerc before enjoying a decadent 6-course dinner and entertainment, including live jazz performances and a glittering aerial performance by Valeria Baigacheva, who specialises in an extensive range of circus art forms.

Awards were presented to luxury hotels and resorts in over 60 categories on a country, regional, continent and global basis.

In celebration of the 10th anniversary, the World Luxury Hotel Awards designed a limited edition trophy for its winners, plated in 24 karat gold and meticulously crafted to symbolise elegance, grandeur, majesty and luxury.

Receiving the awards were Sara Sanders, General Manager of Puri Mas Boutique Resort and David Roberts, co-owner of Mahamaya Boutique Resort – both

of whom were overjoyed to be representing their properties at the awards.

Winning the prestigious awards is a fabulous coup for Puri Mas and Mahamaya – both independently owned properties which were competing against some of the most renowned luxury brands in the world for the awards.

This is also a coup for the island of Lombok, with the awards usually going to hotels in better-known destinations such as Bali.

Congratulations to both winners for your hard work and dedication to excellence (and for putting Lombok on the map at the World Luxury Hotel Awards)!

Mahamaya on Gili Meno

Senggigi

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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

Tourism Information 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

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The rugged peninsula on the southeast corner of Lombok is a largely unexplored area, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and pristine beaches – and steeped in history.

Used as a defensive outpost for invading Japanese forces during World War II, the cliffs of the peninsula are riddled with tunnels and, standing alone at the top of the hill, a rusting cannon bears silent testimony to a history that is being eroded as surely as its rusting steel.

Because the area is so remote and sparsely populated, little has been written about the Southeast Peninsula, which is truly “off the beaten track” Tanjung Ringgit is 103 kilometres from Senggigi and around three and a half hours by car, travelling south through the Central Lombok capital of Praya.

Alternatively, the area can be reached in about two hours by travelling east from Kuta on the south coast, driving past Ekas and following the signs all the way to the lighthouse at Tanjung Ringgit.

Photo by Simon Mammino

OFF THE BEATEN TRACK...

The Southeast Peninsula

will encounter a herd of water buffalo slowly making its way along the road attended by the herdsman. Apparently many years ago small deer roamed this peninsular, but alas, no more.

Following the road to the far tip of the peninsular, you will come to Pantai Tangsi (Tangsi Beach).

Tangsi is also the name of the area and is the Indonesian word for ‘Barracks’ (the first clue as to what once stood there).

The shore is lined with trees for relaxing in the shade and enjoying the beautiful views; on a clear day the volcanic peak of Mt Rinjani in the north is clearly visible.

It is best to hire a car with a local guide for the trip or, to truly explore the area, stay at the nearby ‘Jeeva Beloam Beach Camp’ or ‘Heaven on the Planet’. Both resorts are located nearby and have 4WD vehicles, as well as local knowledge of the area.

Few visitors realise that that the flat grassy area behind the beach was once the base camp for a Japanese gun battery during World War II, after the Japanese invaded Lombok on 9 May 1942.

A word of warning: some of the roads in southeast Lombok are particularly rough!

Still, the drive east is a fascinating journey.

Monkeys can be seen crossing the road occasionally and more than likely you The steep road leads 300 metres downhill to a beautiful sandy beach on the north coast of the peninsular.

This is Tangsi better known as Pantai Pink or “Pink Beach”, so-named for the pinkish colour of the sand here.

This beach has become popular with day-trippers and small fishing boats are often waiting to take visitors for trips across the bay and to nearby snorkelling areas.

Only red brick remnants are left of the old Japanese army office on the western side of the grassy area, which was used as a parade ground, complete with flag pole.

Today there are a few local houses and a couple of berugaq, (open sided thatched shelters with a raised platform for sitting), at the rear just below the base of the hill.

During WWII, two 6” or 15 centimetre anti-submarine guns and the equipment for a basic lighthouse were landed at Tangsi Beach.

Continued on Page 24

Senggigi

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Puri Bunga Beach Cottages

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What’s Hot / Local News

18 Pipe Dream Clubhouse in Kuta presents Lombok’s finest upcoming DJ talent with the Pipe Dream “Pool Party II Lombok On FIRE” on Saturday, 19 November.

For this special event, Kuta’s hottest dance and party venue has organised convenient transport from Mataram. Guests can meet at the Epicentrum Mall at 16.00 for coaches to the venue with return service at 02.00 to the Epicentrum.

DJ Rey Febrian stars at the event with an eclectic mix of RnB, Reggae, Commercial Dance and House music.

150k pp entry includes transport and one free drink.

Bring swimwear and your dancing feet!

Contact sales@pipedreamvillas.com or call 081337800615.

activities and quirky surprises each month!

Also at Pipe Dream, Raga Fullmoon continues his Monday night Solo Acoustic Jams singing soulful tracks and reggae music on Mondays at the Pipe Dream Club House from 6pm - 9pm.

Look out for the special party on Monday 21 November when Raga will be performing for Sean Uddin’s birthday party!

All are welcome at the pool party with free entry – bring your bathers!

See advert page 63.

Brainiacs, it’s on again… The Cowshed Pub Quiz this month is on Thursday, 24 November!

shy!

If you want to join the action, it’s a good idea to book a table in advance. If you don’t have a team, there’s always room for one more at a table, so don’t be

The smart crowd gets there early to enjoy some of the best steaks in town! The fun starts from 7.30pm. See page 15.

Low season brings great discounts on accommodation, even on Gili Trawangan!

The Aston Sunset Beach Resort is a luxurious property on the quieter east side of the island with comfortable and spacious rooms, a huge swimming pool with swim up bar and a fabulous beachfront lounge for enjoying cocktails and breath-taking sunset views.

Held on the last Thursday of every month, the Pub Quiz is a great night out, with teams competing in all sorts of fun-packed

At the moment, the Aston Sunset Beach is offering a great deal – stay for 3 nights and only pay for two! The offer is subject to availability and must be made by direct booking. See page 77 for details.

Prior to the new ruling, the agreement, under which a married couple could agree on things such as the separation of property and debt, could only be made before a marriage took place.

she finished paying for an apartment in Casablanca, South Jakarta, but the developer did not give her ownership rights to the unit after they became aware her husband was a foreigner.

The court, however, declared the requirement for a prenuptial contract to be unfair, as it prevented a married couple from separating property ownership during the marriage, thus violating Article 28E of the Constitution.

The case went to the East Jakarta District Court but Ike lost. The developer refunded the payments, but Ike refused to accept them, because she still wanted to fight to change the law.

PRENUP RULE FOR MIXED MARRIAGES ABOLISHED

Great news for Indonesian people in mixed marriages! The Jakarta Post reports that local spouses of foreigners can now purchase land or buildings without having to create a prenuptial agreement separating the ownership of their property.

The 42-year-old law was declared unconstitutional by the Constitutional Court on 27 October 2016.

The court decided to eliminate the requirement for a prenuptial marriage agreement in Article 29 of the 1974 Marriage Law, paving the way for thousands of Indonesians who are married to foreign nationals to own property, as they can now create an agreement on separate ownership during their marriage.

The Indonesian Mixed-Marriage Society (PerCa), which supported the judicial review petition against the law, welcomed the landmark decision, saying it was “a ruling that upholds the principal of justice and gives local spouses the constitutional rights they are entitled to.”

“We fully welcome the ruling by the Constitutional Court, which shows that it cares about and sides with mixedmarriage couples who are often subject to discrimination,” PerCa said in a statement to The Jakarta Post.

The 1974 Marriage Law treats a husband and a wife equally, allowing them to create a marriage agreement before a civil registry official or notary.

“In fact, many couples mull over whether to draw up a marriage contract after their marriage for many reasons,” said presiding judge Wahiddudin Adams, while reading the ruling at the Constitutional Court in Central Jakarta.

“Property ownership in a marriage is one of the factors behind many conflicts between a husband and wife,” Wahiddudin said.

Plaintiff Ike Farida, a PerCa member, said the ruling made it possible for locals who were married to foreign nationals to own property by creating a marriage contract that stipulated the separation of property ownership.

A lot of marriages, including mixed marriages, took place without the prenuptial contract, because most married couples were unaware of the regulation, Ike said.

Ike is a Jakarta-based lawyer married to a Japanese citizen. In May 2012,

“Some friends have been advised by their lawyers to divorce first and get married again just to create a marriage contract that enabled them to own property. They don’t need to do that after this ruling,” Ike said.

Apart from the 1974 Marriage Law, Ike also filed a review of Article 21 and Article 36 of the 1960 Agrarian Law, which prohibit foreigners, and Indonesians in mixed marriages who do not separate their property ownership, from possessing rightto-own permits and right-to-build permits, respectively.

The court decided to uphold the said provisions, citing the principle of nationality used by the Agrarian Law, in which only Indonesians can own property in the country.

“There is no way for foreigners to own property. The principle of nationality is still relevant at present when capital ownership has a pivotal role for Indonesians looking to bounce back from the sluggish economic situation,” Wahiddudin said.

Senggigi

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Senggigi

Senggigi

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Senggigi

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Puri Mas Luxury Spa Kerandangan

Full and Half Day Spa Revitalising Hydrotherapy Pool Ultimate Spa Treatments from Babor Facials for all Skin Types Delicious Body Rituals Body Scrubs, Wraps & Peelings Massages Aromatherapy, Shiatsu, Accupressure and Hot Stone Reflexology Manicure & Pedicure Gel Nails Pretty Feet and Hand Pampering Open 8am to 10pm Daily Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Menu

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

Conde Nast Johansens Voted “Best Couples Spa” 2015

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

Senggigi

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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!

Show starts 8pm

Thursday Night is Cultural Night!

A great opportunity to enjoy dinner while watching authentic traditional entertainment from Lombok Show opens with the famous Gendang Beleq Big Drums of Lombok, Peresean “Stick Fighting” from Central Lombok, Sasak Wedding Dance and Baris Dance from Bali – Lombok style!

Show starts 8pm

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

Special Feature

24

Continued from Page 16 The steep road down to the beach was made without the use of any machinery, by local people conscripted by the Japanese army. Thousands of local people were used to construct the camp, earthworks, trenches, tunnels, the road and the gun emplacements.

The two guns and the equipment for the lighthouse were hauled up this steep road, presumably in pieces, again without the help of machinery, to the top of the ridge.

From here they were dragged a further 800 metres eastwards along the top of the ridge to Tanjung Ringgit.

Here, at the site of the present day lighthouse, the original lighthouse was assembled. The two guns were dragged a further 300 metres down the slope to their emplacements, where they were assembled.

On the fence around the lighthouse, facing the road is a small sign which indicates the gun (meriam) is 300 metres away and the Giant’s Cave (Gua Raksasa) is 600 metres away.

From the corner of the fence at the bottom of the track can be seen another rough track curving downward to the left, and then around to the right, finally disappearing round the headland.

At a point around 100 or so metres before it “disappears” (and around 400 metres from the lighthouse) is the location of the remaining gun.

This gun battery, unlike the one near Bangko-Bangko on the southwest corner of Lombok, was not bombed by the United States warplanes, thus leaving us a tangible reminder of one of the darker periods in Lombok’s history.

Photo by David Clegg

During the war, each town or area had to supply a quota of men who worked for a week or so and then were replaced by men from the next area on the list. The majority of these conscripted men arrived on foot; some from the coastal areas arrived by paddling their outrigger fishing canoes, there being no motorised boats at that time.

Two guns were originally located here to try to prevent Allied submarines (British and American) from using the straits between Lombok and Sumbawa as an alternative route to the Lombok Strait between Bali and Lombok, which was heavily patrolled and partially mined during the war.

chisels, crowbars and similar implements; pick axes apparently were not available.

Some of the walls on the inside are still fresh and clean looking, as if they were chiselled out recently.

Indeed, a similar gun battery located on the cliffs in south-west Lombok, near Bangko-Bangko, is documented as “hurling shells” at the American submarine the SS -374 “Loggerhead”, apparently without damage, in the Lombok Straits on 14 July 1945.

No one knows exactly what happened to the second gun that guarded Tanjung Ringgit, although local people say it was dismantled and sold for scrap many years ago.

The simple tunnels are around a metre and a half wide and vary in height, from half a metre at the entrances, rising as you enter up to two metres, and then dropping back to a small hole again at the exit.

Many people talk about the ‘caves’ built here during the Japanese occupation – most of it is fanciful and exaggerated.

They are not caves: they are tunnels!

The only exception is the second tunnel, which has a large square opening, but is well hidden from the beach.

There are four relatively short tunnels just behind the beach; three to the west and one to the east of the main camp area.

These were excavated by hand using

There are no rooms or storage areas running off these tunnels; their only function appears to have been for surveillance in the event of an attack from sea.

Although beautiful Pantai Pink is becoming popular, relatively few tourists visit this area and most days the peninsula is very quiet.

The views from the peninsula are extraordinary, looking out over rugged cliffs to the wild ocean beyond dotted with small islands.

Although the trip down to Tanjung Ringgit is not easy, it is a breathtakingly beautiful and fascinating area to explore.

Senggigi

25

ANTIQUES & FINE ART EXHIBITION 2016 Paintings, furniture, earthenware, textiles, wood carvings – Antiques and Collectibles from Lombok and Beyond

Jl Raya Montong, 300m south of The Jayakarta Hotel P: 0857 3989 0705 | E: pamourlombok@gmail.com

www.pamourlombok.com

GILDA FARMA SENGGIGI For all your pharmacy needs Full range of prescription and over the counter medicines, first aid supplies, natural remedies and supplements, personal health and hygiene products , and more!

On duty doctor

available for consultation in our Senggigi clinic

from 6 to 9pm every day

Phone: 0878 6369 4000 / 0878 6449 5100

Jl Raya Senggigi, Next to Senggigi Abadi Supermarket

Order your medicine by phone and we will deliver to your door (for a minimum Rp 100,000 purchase)

Cheapest medicine prices in town!

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Senggigi

Senggigi

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Special Feature

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FABULOUS MERU RESTAURANT @ The Chandi

The Chandi, being just outside of the main Senggigi area, is often overlooked by diners but its Meru Restaurant is a fine choice for either lunch or dinner.

The Chandi Boutique Resort is nestled in one hectare of coconut groves fronting the peaceful beachfront in Batu Layar, just five minutes south of Senggigi.

Meru Restaurant is the resort’s flagship restaurant – a beautifully designed space overlooking the beach, luxuriously decorated with comfortable tables set well apart for privacy and intimate dining.

The kitchen, under the leadership of recently appointed Executive Chef Muhammad Ali, has earned a reputation for consistently delicious and good value meals.

Chef Ali, originally from East Java, is a long term resident of Lombok with an impressive résumé of experience in some of Lombok’s leading resorts including The Oberoi, The Beach House Gili T and Qunci Villas, in addition to The Tugu Malang and Amanwana Resort on Moyo Island.

food he loves to cook.

First up was a Thai Octopus Salad filled with fresh salad leaves and herbs and perfectly tender grilled octopus, accompanied by a sweet and tangy Thai style dressing. Light and tasty, this is a wonderful entrée or lunch choice.

He leads the kitchen team with confidence and has created a sophisticated Asian Fusion menu at Meru, with a touch of Thai influence gained from his time studying cooking in and the one at Meru ticks all the boxes!

Chiang Mai. This was a home-baked Pavlova with a On the day crispy shell, topped with whipped cream we visited, flavoured with just a hint of vanilla pod, he presented covered in fresh strawberries and oozing us with a strawberry coulis … simply divine! three course Both the lunch and the dinner menus at sampling of Meru offer a number of tempting dishes the type of that will keep us coming back for more.

Examples include Cajun Mahi Mahi Fillet, The Chandi Lamb Rack, Mixed Grilled Seafood Platter and the popular Aloo Gobi Indian vegetable curry.

For mains, Chef Ali served a 200gGrilled Australian Beef Tenderloin – one of the most popular dishes on the menu with The Chandi guests.

This was a beautifully presented dish with perfectly cooked medium rare tenderloin surrounded by oven-roasted vegetables (eggplant, zucchini, vine-ripened tomatoes and baby potatoes) and accompanied by a rich mushroom gravy. It’s easy to see why this dish is so popular!

The dessert selection at Meru is fabulous, thanks to the efforts of the fulltime pastry chef. Guests can choose from sweet offerings such as The Chandi Fallen Chocolate Cake, Passion Fruit Cheesecake, exotic Coco Pandanus Ice Cream, Beetroot Panna Cotta and more.

Being Australian, nothing beats a wellprepared Pavlova

Lighter meals include eclectic offerings such as Vietnamese Bhan Xao, Marinated Prawn and Scallop Salad, Smoked Salmon with Asparagus, Chicken Quesadillas, and Beer-battered Fish and Chips.

There is also a good selection of pasta dishes and a tapas menu for snacking while enjoying a cocktail, cold beer or curated wine from the wine cellar.

The Chandi also hosts a very popular Beach BBQ every Wednesday and Saturday night with a great selection such as beef Rib Eye and Australian Tenderloin, grilled prawns, fish and calamari, as well as salads, soups, sides and desserts. Served on the beachfront with cool breezes and accompanied by a trio playing laidback music, the BBQ is unbeatable value at just Rp 290,000++ per person.

Casual BBQ, a light lunch on the beach or intimate fine dining for a special occasion… don’t overlook Meru Restaurant at The Chandi!

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CV. SELECTA JAYA MARINE Yamaha Marine Dealer 3S NTB

Outoard Motor & Water Vehicle • Sales • Service • Spare Parts

Main Office: Jl Saleh Sungkar No 25-27 Ampenan, Ph. 0370 629252, Email: selecta_marine@yahoo.com Branch Office: Jl Raya Senggigi - Pemenang Mentigi Lombok Utara

Senggigi

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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

Distribution

31

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, Gallery Pamour, Lombok Epicentrum Mall (Ace Hardware, Bubbly House of Desserts, Burger King, Bread Talk, Cinema XXI, Excelso, Food Centrum, Front Desk, Hypermart, Indonesian Delights, Informa, J.Co, Joli Sourire, KFC, Maxx Coffee, Mokko Factory, Omah Cobek, Paris Castle, Pizza Pazza, Quali, Simple Pleasure, Solaria, The Vinette, XO Suki), Mataram Mall (Delicio Café, Gili Cafe, KFC, McDonalds, Mokko Factory, 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, Anna’s Giftshop, Aruna Senggigi Hotel, Asmara Restaurant, Café Alberto, Cafe Lombi, De Quake, Dive Zone, Gilda Farma, Globe Bar, Island Properties Lombok, Katamaran Resort, Kebun Villas, La Chill Bar, Living Asia, Lombok Property and Villas, Lotus Bayview Restaurant, Orchid Spa, Puri Bunga Cottages, Puri Mas Boutique Hotel, Qunci Villas, Senggigi Jaya Abadi Supermarket, Scuba Froggy, Sheraton, Spice Lounge & Bar, Square Restaurant, Temptations, The Chandi, The Cowshed, The Office, Verve Beach Club, Ye Jeon Restaurant.

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

GILI AIR: Scallywags, The Beach Club.

SOUTH LOMBOK: ko-ko-mo Gili Gede, Sempiak Villas BALI: 707 Beachberm, Air Bali, Asia Collection Tour, Asian Trails Tour, Bale Bali Restaurant, Bali Deli, Bali Medical Clinic, Bakfickan Bar & Rest, Batu Jimbar Resturant, Bebek Bengil Kuta, BIMC, Black Canyon Seminyak Square, Blue Café, Blue Water Express, Bounty Cruises, Bow Restaurant, Bungalow Café, Cafe Bali, Café Canggu, Café Marzano, Cafe Moka, Café Smorgas, Canggu Club, Canggu Station, Captain Cook Rest, Chez Gado-Gado, Club Havana, Cocoon Spa, Corner House Restaurant, Corner Store, Dijon, Eco Beach Rest, Exotissimo Travel Indonesia, Finn’s Beach Club, Firestation Restaurant, Gardenia Cafe & Bar, Gili GIli, Gili Shop Poppies 1, Gloria Jeans Coffee 1, Go Vacation Tour, Golden Kris Tour, Gourmet Cafe, Grain Bar, Grocer & Grind, Gypsy Restaurant, Habitual Queench Feed, Happy Chappy Canggu, Hog Wild Restaurant, Istana Kuta Galeria, Jalapeno Rest Sanur, Jones Lang Lasalle, Junction Bar & Rest, Kantor The Yak, Keraton Hotel, L’Assiette Restaurant, La Laguna Restaurant, Lila Pantai Sanur, Loop Rest, Living Stone Bakery, Mamas Rest, Mamasan Restaurant, Massimo Ittalian Restaurant, Meno Mojo, Metis Restaurant, Milk & Madu Restaurant, Monsieur Spoon Canggu, Monsieur Spoon Laksmana, Monsieur Spoon Rest, Motel Mexicola, Manikepis Restaurant, Nero Rest, Noemah by Lonny, Nude Nasty Fasion, Ocha Warung, Old Mans Rest & Bar, On On Bar, Pacific World, Pacto Tour, Pantarei Restaurant, PT Dimatique International, Reborn Salon, Red Carpet, Rutica Cucina Italiana, Samudra Bar, Sanur Beach Grove, Serba Antik, Soho Restaurant, SOS, Soul In Bowl, Souq Restaurant, Sprout Restaurant, Starbucks Coffee Kuta, Starbucks Discovery Mall, Stiff Chilli, Strawberry Fields, Taco Casa Restaurant, The Plumbers Arms, Tourist Information, The Savage Kitchen, Trattoria Cucina Italiana, Two Fish Drivers, Vila Lumbung, Warung Bonita, Warung Sulawesi, 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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Senggigi

Senggigi

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Senggigi

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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

Live Music! Great Food! Good Times!

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

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Special Feature

36

BOOK LAUNCH & ECO EXHIBITION AT ARUNA SENGGIGI

Lombok’s own “Queen of Recycling”, Aisyah Odist, hosted a fabulous book launch and exhibition of eco products at the new Aruna Senggigi Hotel on 27 October.

The event celebrated the launch of Aisyah’s second book “Management and Marketing Bank Sampah Kreatif”.

Aisyah heads the Bank Sampah (Rubbish Bank) organisations – an initiative that teaches and supports local communities in recycling waste and creating eco products from rubbish to generate incomes in poor villages.

There are now several Bank Sampah organisations working in Lombok because of her leadership and recycled products are being exported around the world for resale.

The exhibition showcased some of the products that the Bank Sampah groups are making including bags, purses and storage containers made from recycled plastics, eco-friendly soaps made from cooking oil, cushions, placemats, slippers… the possibilities are endless!

Also featured at the exhibition was a fascinating collection of recycled paper arts by The Griya Lombok, who specialise in paper and papier-mâché handicrafts.

Her first book explained how to set up rubbish banks in communities and her second teaches Bank Sampah leaders how to develop their groups and market their products.

This collection was really surprising with fantastic furniture, decorative poles and pillars, pots, functional art and home décor pieces – all created from recycled paper and cardboard.

One of the tables on display was constructed using 40kg of recycled paper! Strong and durable, this form of

Testing the strength of a recycled paper chair

recycling also has unlimited possibilities, including the use of recycled paper in the building industry.

Guests at the exhibition celebrated the launch of Aisyah’s second book with special presentations from guest speakers, including major sponsors PLN NTB (the state electricity company) who have been very supportive of the initiative and recently donated a van to keep Bank Sampah mobile!

In addition to making it easier to travel to remote locations, the van will also be used as a mobile eco library – carrying books and educational tools to be used in teaching local communities and schools about waste management and caring for the environment.

Senggigi

Anna’s

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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

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

Pasar Classifieds

38

PASAR CLASSIFIEDS

CV ANMELL JARINGNUSA Selling: Handy Talky / Handy Transceiver / HT - Two Way Radio Communication from well known brands such as Motorola, VertexStandard, HYT, Alinco, Clarigo, Radion.

Vital communications for Hotel, Resort, Restaurant, Cafe, Hospital, Harbour, Shuttle Boats, Warehouse, Safety, Office, Shops, Events, etc.

For more information, please contact: 0899 0209 998 / 0811 391 751 Email: anmell.jasa@gmail.com

LAND FOR SALE Views out over Kuta Bay

Road access to site of 62 are (6200sqm) Hak Milik Certificate (Freehold).

Drive to Kuta town or beach in less than 5 minutes.

KUTA

LAND OFF BYPASS ROAD: Perfect for Development Ocean views. 3 mins to Kuta Beach Over 37 are (3700sqm +).

Certificated Hak Milik (Freehold).

Price: Rp 29 million / are

Price: Rp 39 million per are

Ph: 081 7667 3983

Phone 0821 4587 5594

CERTIFIED LAND FOR SALE

HOUSE FOR RENT

8,200sqm (82 are) Lobster Bay, southern Lombok Stunning views. Drive on access Close to surf breaks Rp 25 million per are

Call 0821 4587 5594

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

HOUSE FOR SALE Located in Jl Bangau, Cakra

Phone: 0817 5789 207 / 0370 627 766

SOLAR WATER HEATER LOMBOK MITRA POOL DISTRIBUTOR 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

IMMIGRATION SERVICE Visas and Residency Permits Work and Business Visas Retirement Visas Police Permits | Land Certificates Land and Building Permits Foreign Investment (PMA) | Company Documents

VOA Extensions up to 30 days 0370 692 253 / 0818 360 415 / 0858 5822 3619 perwiralombok@yahoo.com damsiah@yahoo.com

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)

Nyoman Transport Safe and professional English-speaking driver with comfortable air conditioned car (seats 5 - 6). Private airport transfers or airport to Kuta, Mataram, Senggigi, Gilis, etc. Available for private charter and Lombok tours. Competitive rates and friendly service!

Ph: 0819 1701 3714 / 0821 4458 7910 Email: nyoman.translombok@yahoo.com

Pasar Classifieds

39

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

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

PT. ANANTA GUNA LESTARI OUR SERVICES: Pest Control | Rodent Control Termite Control | Fumigation

LOMBOK FREEHOLD COMMERCIAL OPPORTUNITY

Situated in the heart of Kuta on major Commercial Road stand two seriously constructed Western buildings, approx. 450 sqm over four levels, giving sea views with beautifully presented gardens on approx. 7.5 are or 750sqm freehold land.

Currently used as private accommodation and offices, this site can easily be transformed into a 5 star boutique hotel, restaurant, spa....

The options are limited to your imagination... you decide!

Truly needs to be viewed to be appreciated.

Just 200 metres walk to the beach.

Listed at below cost to replace today.

Please contact the owner direct on Phone 081 7667 3983

HOUSE FOR SALE INVESTMENT – RENTAL INCOME – HOME

Located in secure and elite Graha Permata Kota Complex in Selagalas, next to Harapan Keluarga Hospital. Land size: 105m2. 2 Bedrooms, 1 bathroom, kitchen, laundry, carport, water and electricity.

Certificate HGB (Hak Guna Bangun).

10 minutes to Mataram. 20 Minutes to Senggigi

Employee Recruitment (Out Sourcing) Cleaning Service (On Call) Gardener | Pool Maintenance

www.anantagl.com

Jalan Pariwisata No. 101 Sandik, Lombok Barat P/F: 0370 7507546 | M: 081 803 636 609 / 081 236 935 382 Email: anantagl@yahoo.co.id

PRICED FOR QUICK SALE! Rp 400 million Please call 0818 0363 8577

Local Scene

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CHEFS IN THE WILD @ QUNCI VILLAS

Qunci Villas in Mangsit hosted another exclusive “Chefs in the Wild” dinner at the stylish Quah Restaurant on 29 October.

Guests enjoyed a delicious multi-course degustation dinner prepared by Qunci Resident Chef, Gianluca Viscaglia, featuring dishes by Chef Chele Gonzalez from Gallery VASK in The Phillipines, paired with specially selected wines from Indowines.

Sour Ribs

Chef Gianluca with the Qunci Team

Chef Gonzales (rear right) from Galley VASK Seared Scallop, Fennel Puree and Orange Mustard

Ukoy, Chicharon and Mozzarella Stracciatella

Jackfruit Gelato Sphere

Octopus, Bell Pepper Sauce, Pacchero and Salsa Verde Air

Useful Contacts

41

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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Special Feature

Senggigi

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Qamboja Day Spa

Try Our Cucumber Aloe Wrap [ Sensuous, cooling and soothing... highly recommended for sun sensitive skin ]

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

Special Feature

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ENGLISH FOR A CAUSE by Sheraton Senggigi

The Sheraton Senggigi Beach Resort celebrates its 25th Anniversary in December 2016 and they are celebrating with a month of special events and activities!

On 3 November, staff at the resort conducted a special English language class with some of the beach sellers on Senggigi Beach.

“Our celebrations involve our staff, our guests and our community,” said Yogiartini, Sheraton Director of Human Resources. “Sheraton Senggigi fully believes in the spirit of ‘sharing is caring’ and we will continue giving.”

“The goal of our English class is to create a greater bond with the community, so Sheraton Senggigi decided to spend time with the beach sellers that work near the hotel to teach them English,” she explained.

“There was great excitement shown by the beach sellers in our first class with them and they

would like to have this as a continuous activity scheduled for them.”

45

discover nature’s greatest gift

Pearl Farm Tours Pearl and Jewellery Showroom Private viewings welcome

Showroom 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

Senggigi

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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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Senggigi

Senggigi

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Senggigi

Land & Property

51

Land & Property

52 .

VILLA FOR SALE in SENGGIGI 3 A/C bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, solar H/W, magnificent terrace, living & dining with fully fitted kitchen, storage room.

Infinity pool surrounded by garden, very well maintained.

Price USD 320,000

BUILDING PLOT in LENDANG LUAR

21.64 ARE (2,164m2). Unrestricted views of Bali and the ocean.

Road access, ideal for resort or private villa development, just 15 minutes drive to Senggigi.

Price IDR 155 million / are (100m2)

VILLA FOR SALE in SENGGIGI

3 bedrooms (2 with A/C’s and bathroom with shower).

Living area with European kitchen, extra toilet. Backyard, secure parking, 5 mins to the beach.

Price IDR 950 million

BUILDING PLOT on THE HILL 15.56 ARE (1,556m2). Unobstructed sea and Bali views.

Excellent road access, water and electricity available. Located in an established prestigious residential area, ready to build. 10 mins drive to Senggigi Price IDR. 255 million / are (100m2)

HOME-STAY & VILLA FOR SALE in MENINTING

CHEAP INVESTMENT LAND in BAYAN

13 ARE divided: 7 are for Home-stay (4 bedroom with A/C, pool, fully furnished) and 6 are for Villa (3 bedrooms with A/C, open plan living & kitchen, 4 extra rooms).

NOW ONLY USD 215,000 NEGO!!

2 Ha (20,000m2). Located 60kms north of Senggigi, flat land, lush location, excellent road access. Other European investors already involved in this area. Great investment opportunity!

Price IDR 7.5 million / are (100m2)

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

FABULOUS FLAT LAND IN GILI TRAWANGAN OWNER SAYS SELL!

This is a bargain!

All offers accepted.

5 minutes to Sunset Beach.

56 are beautiful coconut trees.

Fully fenced.

10 minute cycle from The Terminal.

THE JIWA RESORT FIRST TIME OFFERED

Magnificent Jiwa Luxury Villa in Medana Bay. Lovely ocean view.

Beautifully designed, 4 suites - 60 sqm each with full ensuite facilities, office, main residence on 63 are.

A must to inspect!

Asking USD 990,000 Asking Rp 90 million per are

VILLA SUKUN – BATU LAYAR

Contact Ali Akbar 0823 4099 9281

Situated on a hillside amongst coconut trees, Sukun is a beautiful villa with fabulous sunset views over the Lombok Strait to Mount Agung on Bali. The main villa, its stunning infinity pool and 4 additional bedrooms are all set in a lush tropical garden. Sukun Villa is a ten minute drive away from Senggigi and Mataram.

PRICE ON APPLICATION

MAGNIFICENT VILLA IN HEART OF SENGGIGI INSPECT NOW!!! A must to View!

JL CALIANDRA 19 GREEN VALLEY BRAND NEW TO THE MARKET!

Central location, 60 meters to Kila Resort and the beach.

3 minutes to the shops.

Central location, 5 minutes’ walk to the beach and to Temptations.

Meditteranian two-storey 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom, spacious lounge and dining area.

Fabulous location, 3 bedroom plus office, 2 bathroom.

Large kitchen and gym/ study.

Beautiful courtyard, carport. Fabulous pool and entertaining area downstairs.

Alfresco entertaining area second floor.

Asking Price Rp 3 billion

Nice garden. Gallery kitchen, plus storage room.

Asking Price AUD 70,000

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

We can make your dreams come true!

Land & Property

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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!

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

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

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.

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

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.

The Cities

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Cities Map

The Cities

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60 Southwest Lombok... a meandering coastline of pristine white sand beaches and thirteen small islands - the Southwest Gilis - floating in the sparkling turquoise waters just offshore.

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!

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.

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.

Accommodation at Taun has grown over the past few years and there are now a few small hotels and home stays on the bay such as the lovely Silver Fern Beach Retreat, Coral Palms, Villa Yukie and Krisna Bungalows.

It’s easy to base yourself on the mainland and take boat trips to explore all the southwest islands from here.

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 Gili Genting sits just off the tip of the the mainland). peninsular and at low tide you can walk across the sandbar and explore this Back on the main road and slightly uninhabited island. Old volcanic rocks and further south is the turn off for Cocotinos stone carved from centuries of tidal flow Boutique Beach Resort, set on the create small caves and alcoves, providing secluded beach at Tanjung Empat. shelter for picnics and interesting nooks With 28 rooms, including beachfront villas and crannies to explore. with private swimming pools, Cocotinos is Further south you will come to the only the only upmarket accommodation on the petrol station along the south coastal road mainland. at Tembowong Village. Nearby is the site Scuba diving courses and dives, operated for catching boats out to Gili Gede. Gili

by Odyssea Divers, are available from the Gede is easily reached by boat from the resort, together with snorkelling, boating village of Tembowong and is only minutes and other sea sports. across the water.

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.

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 many years ago and is still under construction.

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.

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.

All modern comforts such as air conditioning and ceiling fans, flat screen televisions with satellite channels and DVD, WiFi, fresh (not salt) hot water, plentiful power points for charging devices, and more are provided in each villa.

Facilities at the resort include a tennis court, a putting green, a small gym, a resort swimming pool and purpose-built Spa facility and a beachfront restaurant.

Guests at the restaurant can enjoy up-market

The Southwest

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dining with a menu prepared from fresh locally-sourced seafood, imported Australian meats and in-house breads and bakery items.

There is also an outstanding wine and drinks list. 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, Senggigi and Gili Gede... making Gili Gede easily accessible, even for a day trip.

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.

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 who come to the island to swim, snorkel and relax, as the scenery and beach here are so lovely.

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

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

For diving enthusiasts, Dive Zone, who operate out of Desert Point Lodge in Labuhan Poh, is a well-run diving facility and the experts on diving the southwest

There are small home-stays and private accommodations spaced out along the road to BangkoBangko – known as Desert Point and the surfing Mecca for those in the know – located on the far southwest tip of Lombok. islands, having pioneered development of previously unknown dive sites in this area.

Dive Zone offer dive trips around Sekotong and the islands, as well as in Belongas Bay, South Lombok and on Gili Air in the northwest.

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

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

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 Labuhan Poh 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.

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.

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.

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.

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 visited only by the lucky few.

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.

coming years.

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

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 64

Kuta and The South Coast

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Tourism Information

64 Continued from Page 62

Kuta

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.

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, fishing trips and boat tours at reasonable and with a stunning beachfront location, rates. Visit their website for details: the Novotel is a wonderful example of www.mimpimanis.com traditional Sasak architecture.

Otherwise, hire a car or motorbike and you Kuta attracts thousands of visitors can spend days visiting beautiful, mainly every year for the great surf locations at deserted beaches, both to the east and west Gerupuk, Ekas and the beaches to the of Kuta. east. It’s easy to hire a board and a surf Just east of Kuta is Seger Beach guide from (sometimes called Mandalika Beach, after here to learn surfing or, for the legendary Princess Mandalika – a experienced beloved character in Sasak folklore who surfers, is believed to have sacrificed herself for to access the good of her people from the rocks the more overlooking the beach). challenging surf breaks in It is here that thousands of people gather every year to celebrate the colourful ritual the area. of Bau Nyale, when masses of sea worms First-timers spawn in the waters offshore. to Kuta can

Homestay in Kuta.

benefit from an orientation tour operated

by Mimpi Manis

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”

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.

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.

Kuta and The South Coast

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Escape & Relax ...

sempiakvillas

Sempiak Villas

Ph: +62 821 4430 3337

www.sempiakvillas.com

Escape & relax in the sanctuary of Sempiak Villas with the stunning vistas of Selong Belanak Bay, its sugar white beach and the natural, unspoiled surroundings of this beautiful, largely uninhabited part of southern Lombok.

With services and facilities like Laut Biru Bar & Restaurant and The Spa by Sempiak, you will be indulged through all of your senses, making your stay a complete journey of escapism and relaxation.

lautbirurestaurant Ph: +62 821 4430 3339

Laut Biru & Restaurant Ph: +62 823 4099 0599

Tourism Information

66 Continued from Page 64

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

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.

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 surrounding islands and bays. There is a good surf school here and no fewer than five surf breaks.

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.

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!

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

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.

Continued on Page 68

Kuta and The South Coast

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Tourism Information

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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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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

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.

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

Kuta and The South Coast

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www.thelombokguide.com

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Tourism Information

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

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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

Perfect for mountain getaways and day trips from Senggigi and the Gilis!

SENARU - BAYAN - NORTH LOMBOK | Ph: +62 819 0738 4944 | E: info@rinjanilodge.com

www.rinjanilodge.com

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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 laid-back 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, sun-seekers looking for the perfect beach getaway, singles, families, and couples of all ages find something to attract them to the Gilis.

for shopping, each island has many small shops selling essentials such as sunscreen, mosquito repellent, toiletries, cold drinks, snacks and more. In addition, there are cheap clothing and t-shirts, sarongs and local handicrafts stalls.

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

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.

While nobody comes to the Gilis

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.

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Gili Trawangan

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Gili Trawangan

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Tourism Information

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Continued from Page 76

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.

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.

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.

This means that travellers have a good choice, depending Gili Meno is the quietest of the three, on their individual tastes and perfect for really getting away from it all. what type of island escape they Choose the island that suits you most, or prefer. it’s easy to combine an island-hopping Gili Trawangan is the most holiday to sample the best of all three!

Visibility is very good and commonly in the 15-30 m range; and water temperatures average 23°C (73°F) to 29°C (84°F).

Currents around the islands can be quite strong and drift diving is the norm.

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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.

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Gili Trawangan

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

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Gili Trawangan

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.

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Gili Trawangan

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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

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villas with private pools and sophisticated facilities in an exclusive setting on the beach.

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.

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.

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-ko-mo Resort is a collection of 1, 2 and 3 bedroom boutique

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.

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Even the shopping scene on Gili T is starting to resemble nearby Bali and new shops are springing Many of the larger restaurants, hotels up almost monthly. and dive shops accept credit cards and Shops and kiosks there are ATM’s in front of Gili T Resort selling the usual sarongs (near Sentral), in front of Vila Ombak and t-shirts now rub on the east coast and further north, near shoulders with 69 Slam, Blue Beach, as well as on the west side at Billabong, Innuendo and Ombak Sunset.

Blu Glue outlets, as well Internet cafés are readily available, as are as stylish little boutiques money-changers, tour operators and a large such as Topaz Shop. number of fast boat services.

But it is the beaches and There is a tennis club and fitness centre at the diving that remain Kelapa Villas and a medical centre at Vila the main draw card for Gili T. People flock Ombak with basic emergency facilities and here to sunbathe on white sand beaches a doctor on call. and swim in clean blue waters, to dive the fabulous reefs and to bask in the hedonistic pleasures of a tropical paradise.

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

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

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

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

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The Beach Club Gili Air Beach Bungalows

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www.thebeachclublombok.com

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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.

Continued on Page 92

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