The Lombok Guide Issue 283 is Online Now!

The

Issue 283 | 12 – 26 November 2018

FREE COPY

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

PUBLISHED BI-WEEKLY IN LOMBOK, FOR LOMBOK

Getting to Lombok

Page 2

Getting Around

Page 4 & 8

Lombok Map

Page 6

Best in Lombok

Page 10 & 11

Senggigi

Page 12 - 16

Senggigi Map

Page 14

What’s Hot / Local News

Page 18

Special Feature

Page 22 & 23

Local News

Page 25 & 26

Special Feature

Page 36 & 37

Distribution

Page 40

Classifieds

Page 42

Useful Contacts

Page 44

The Cities

Page 45 - 47

Cities Map

Page 46

The Southwest

Page 48 - 51

South Lombok Map

Page 52

Kuta & The South Coast

Page 53 - 63

Kuta Map

Page 63

The Gilis

Page 64 - 76

Gili Islands Fast Facts

Page 71

Getting to Gilis

Page 73

Gilis Map

Page 75

Gili Pasir by Asriel Haryadi

IN THIS ISSUE

To find out more, pick up a copy of The Lombok Guide from the locations listed on page 40 or visit www.thelombokguide.com and discover the magic of Lombok for yourself…

Like thousands of others, you’ll be enchanted!

FAST BOAT TRANSFERS BETWEEN BALI, GILI T AND LOMBOK EASY TRANSFERS TO GILI GEDE (SOUTHWEST LOMBOK)

Gili Getaway Hassle-free bookings and safe, comfortable transfers every day!

Ph: +62 811 380 1717 or +62 821 4489 9502 | (WhatsApp): +62 ONLINE BOOKINGS &813 INFO3707 4147 giligetaway@ozemail.com.au www.giligetaway.com

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Tourism Information

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.

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 The airport is close to Praya (Central Lombok); approximately Lombok and Bali, Surabaya, Makassar and Jakarta. Call Centre: 40km south of the city of Mataram, and around 1 hour drive from 08041 807 807. www.garuda-indonesia.com Senggigi, and 25 minutes from Kuta.

Lion Air / Wings Air has daily Airport departure tax is included in the price of all tickets. flights between Lombok, Bali, Bima (Sumbawa), Jakarta and Surabaya.

BALI TO LOMBOK BY AIR Ph: +62 370 6627444 / 642180.

In Lombok, all flights depart and arrive at Lombok International www.lionair.co.id Airport. In Bali, flights arrive and depart at the domestic terminal Batik Air flies direct between at Ngurah Rai (Denpasar) Airport.

Lombok and Jakarta, with two Garuda Airlines has direct flights between Lombok and Bali flights every day. www.batikair.com every day. Call Centre: 0 8041 807 807.

NAM Air operates a flight between Lombok and Bima in www.garuda-indonesia.com Sumbawa every day using Boeing 737-500 aircraft. Bookings can

be made online at www.sriwijayaair.co.id.

Wings Air / Lion Air flies between Bali and Lombok daily.

BALI TO LOMBOK BY SEA The companies code-share, so you may purchase a Lion Air ticket and find yourself on a Wings Air flight! Lombok, Call Centre: +62 Padang Bai Harbour (Bali) provides the sea link between mainland Bali and Lombok. Lembar Harbour (Lombok) is on the southwest 80 4177 8899. Bali, ph: +62 361 765132. www.lionair.co.id coast, approx. 1 hour south of Senggigi, Lombok. Arrange your NAM Air operates a daily flight between Lombok and Bali every own transport and buy tickets direct from the harbours, or use a reputable tour company to provide a transfer service. evening using Boeing 737-500 aircraft. Bookings can be made Public Ferries depart every hour for the sea voyage between online at Padang Bai Harbour (Bali) and Lembar Harbour (Lombok). The www.sriwijayaair.co.id crossing between the islands costs Rp 46,000 per person and takes approx. 4 to 5 hours. Lembar Harbour ph: +62 370 681 209.

INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS Padang Bai Harbour ph: (+62 363) 41849 / 41840 Lombok International Airport has full Visa on Arrival (VOA) FAST BOATS facilities, including 30 day “Visa Free” (no charge) for tourists.

Ph: +62 370 622987.

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

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

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

Air Asia operates direct flights between Lombok and Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia, with many international connections available. Flights operate between Lombok and KL twice Gili Getaway operates daily, seven days per week. several comfortable fast boats www.airasia.com connecting Bali and mainland Lombok (including the Gili Garuda Airlines flies between Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia and Lombok every day, with a short stop-over in Jakarta. International Islands and Gili Gede in the connections from around the world are available via Jakarta. Call southwest) with daily transfers from Serangan Harbour on Centre: 08041 807 807. www.garuda-indonesia.com Bali. Fares include air conditioned hotel transfers to main points DOMESTIC FLIGHTS in Bali. They also offer a VIP transfer service from Gili Gede to the south coast, the cities, Senggigi and other destinations European connections are easy via Jakarta (the capital city of Java), Bali and other capital cities such as Jogjakarta, Surabaya and around Lombok. Ph: +62 811 380 1717 or +62 821 4489 9502.

(WhatsApp): +62 813 3707 4147. www.giligetaway.com Makassar.

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BUY 1 GET 1 FREE for all cocktails!

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Featuring high quality amenities such as LCD TVs, air conditioning, mini bars, coffee and tea making facilities, safety deposit boxes, high speed internet, telephones, and room service.

Room options include two 41 sqm Superior Rooms on the ground level, offering twin and king size beds, and two Deluxe Rooms on the second floor - one with 50 sqm of living space and beautiful hillside views; the other provides 56 sqm of living space with garden views and a private balcony.

Jalan Pariwisata Pantai Kuta, Central Lombok P: 0370 7561 777, 0878 6152 4585 | E: info@kemangilombok.com | www.kemangilombok.com

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GETTING AROUND

Tourism Information Three airport shuttle services are available – one to and from central Senggigi (LIA Senggigi), another to and from Mataram (LIA - Mataram Pool Damri), and one to and from Selong in East Lombok (LIA – Selong Pancor).

Officially, the scheduled departure times are every hour for shuttle buses to the city of Mataram and every 1 and 1/2

LOMBOK INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT is a relatively small airport that handles domestic flights between Bali, Jakarta and other Indonesian cities and international flights to and from Singapore and Kuala Lumpur.

There are official taxi counters inside the arrivals hall that will allocate you a fixed price taxi to most destinations plus charge an additional airport fee of Rp 17,500; however, it is just as easy to walk outside and catch a metered taxi independently.

Ignore the many touts that will approach you with offers of cheap fares – they are not licensed operators and often quote low prices, which can quickly change once you are in the car. Avoid eye contact and avoid the hassle.

Getting to the Airport: Lombok Taxi (Blue Bird) is the most convenient taxi operator and are allowed to drop passengers directly in front of the departure terminal. Note that they cannot pick up passengers from inside the airport grounds.

If you do need to use an independent driver – if you are a large group or have a lot of luggage or sports equipment, such as surf boards – make sure you negotiate a fixed price before you get in the vehicle.

From the Airport: taxis are available to meet all arriving flights. After collecting your baggage, head out of the exit doors of the terminal and through the arrivals hall to the official airport taxi parking area (at the end on the right hand side).

Kotama and Kotasi are the main operators, using dark blue sedans carrying a maximum of 4 passengers (less if you have a lot of luggage).

These taxis are licensed and insured and will use the meter to calculate your fare anywhere on the island.

Approximate taxi fares: to Senggigi Rp 220,000; to Mataram Rp 160,000; to Kuta: Rp 90,000; to Bangsal Harbour Rp 350,000.

The helpful drivers tend to stop at other popular points along the route, including dropping off passengers at the roundabout in Gerung (useful if you are heading to Sekotong or Lembar), several points near the city, and outside the old Selaparang Airport on the way to Ampenan (where taxis also await the arrival of the buses).

The trip terminates opposite the Galleria shops on the main street in Senggigi (just south of Asmara Restaurant). If you need to stop beforehand, let the driver know and he will usually accommodate your request.

Organising an airport transfer with your hotel is often the easiest option, with the hotel driver meeting you on arrival and transferring you to your hotel in comfort.

Check with your hotel – charges are usually only slightly more than a taxi.

For low cost airport transfers, the DAMRI bus is the cheapest way to travel between Senggigi, Mataram and the airport (see below).

hours to Senggigi, from 3am until 8pm.

However, you may find yourself on a bus that combines both routes, stopping first near Mataram and then continuing on to Senggigi.

The public DAMRI bus uses air conditioned Mercedes buses which seat around 40 passengers and are an economical solution to airport transfers to and from Senggigi and the cities.

The DAMRI counter is located inside the arrivals hall, at the end on the left hand side. The bus parks just outside the hall on the left.

The DAMRI counter is manned with an information officer who issues tickets for the bus service. Prices are clearly shown on sign boards at the counter.

DAMRI operate a regular schedule of departures every day to coincide with airline schedules.

The trip to Senggigi takes around 90 minutes and costs just Rp 40,000 per person (Rp 30,000 to Mataram, and Rp 35,000 to Selong).

If your hotel is outside of Senggigi, flag down a metered Blue Bird taxi from the shuttle stop in Senggigi to take you to your hotel or villa.

Around Lombok: Lombok is easy to get around. The roads are in good condition and there is little traffic, apart from in the cities.

The island itself is only slightly smaller than Bali at 115km (70 miles) long and 80km (50 miles) wide; it is not practical to drive around Lombok in one day.

Continued on Page 8

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ko - ko - mo RESORT GILI GEDE

Unspoilt Paradise Ko – Ko – Mo Resort Gili Gede 5-star Luxury in Southwest Lombok

Stay

Escape to the timeless serenity of Gili Gede - Gateway to the Southwest Gilis in one of our luxurious one- and two- bedroom air conditioned villas with private swimming pools or an absolute beachfront bungalow all day dining at our romantic beachfront restaurant and bar at the Spa or in our Resort Swimming Pool on our Tennis Court, Putting Green or in our Gym Water Sports, Island Hopping, Snorkelling and Diving

Enjoy

Relax Play Explore

Get there fast and then take it slow... with easy fastboat transfers from Bali direct to our private jetty

www.kokomogiligede.com | kokomogiligede@ozemail.com.au | +62 (0) 813 3762 7306

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Lombok Map

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GETTING AROUND Continued from Page 4

Taxis are easily available in Lombok and, unlike in other areas of Asia, all use their meters (argo) to calculate fares, so there is no need to haggle a price.

Bluebird taxis (light blue colour) are the largest company in Lombok and you will find them in the cities and around tourist areas such as Senggigi.

Motorbikes are the most popular form of transport and are generally small, light 125cc bikes with automatic gears. Modern and economical motor scooters, such as a Yamaha Mio, are easy to ride and do not have gears. Expect to pay between Rp 35 – 60,000 per day for motorbike rental, depending on age and type.

Both require an international drivers’ licence.

Tours are readily available in all the tourist areas, and drivers and guides are licensed by the local Kotasi (tour organisation), who also regulate prices in the industry.

Express Taksi (white cars) are also available, mainly in the cities.

Taxis can be used to make trips to Kuta or Lembar and Bangsal Harbours and, if you are shopping or making day trips by taxi, ask the driver to wait and leave the meter running. Fares are still very low compared to those in the west. Short trips around Senggigi will cost around Rp 20,000; a taxi from Senggigi to Mataram is around Rp 65,000.

Express Taxi, ph: 0370 647 555 Cars and Motorbikes can be hired in Lombok and driving yourself is easy.

Cars drive on the left hand side of the road (as in the UK). Modern, air conditioned cars that comfortably seat 5 people including the driver can be hired for between Rp 350 – 450,000 per day, including basic insurance.

and are still used today, although they have been replaced by cars and motorbikes in the cities. The covered wooden carriages are pulled by small local ponies and, in villages and at the local markets in Kebun Roek, they are popular transport, particularly for carting goods.

Use cidomo for short trips, such as getting to restaurants and hotels around Senggigi. A short trip should cost around Rp 20,000; negotiate the fare with the driver before climbing in.

There are no cars or motorised transport on the Gili Islands, so cidomo are the main form of transport and the islands’ cidomo have a fixed price schedule of fares, much higher than on Lombok.

Most tour operators are reliable and will have a wealth of local knowledge, which can make touring a more rewarding experience. It is also the most comfortable way to explore the island, as you have time to sit back and observe, rather than negotiating traffic and unfamiliar roads.

Bemo (pronounced ‘be moh’) are generally small minibuses used as public transport in towns and cities.

They are a cheap way of travelling, but can be uncomfortably crowded.

Phone for a taxi or ask your hotel to phone, or flag one down from the side of the road. Make sure the driver starts the meter when you get in.

Lombok Taxi (Blue Bird), ph: 0370 627 000 (or download the ‘My Blue Bird’ App from Google Play, iTunes, or from the Blue Bird Group website)

Tourism Information

Popular tours, such as day trips to Sedang Gile waterfall, or to Kuta and the south coast, are structured to take in a full day of sightseeing. Tours range between Rp 350 – 700,000 a day for a driver and an air conditioned vehicle for up to 4 passengers, depending on distances and the number of places visited. * Expect to pay high end prices quoted during peak seasons.

Cidomo (pronounced ‘chi doh moh’) are traditional horse drawn carts that were once the main form of transport in Lombok

The small versions used in villages are vans with an open back and seats along each side. Flag down a passing bemo from the side of the road and climb on board; press the button on the ceiling when you want to stop and get off and pay the driver when you disembark. Short hops cost around Rp 5,000.

These bemos can also be chartered for your private use; negotiate a fare with the driver for a direct trip to a specific location, without stopping to pick up other passengers.

In the cities, larger bright yellow bemos travel the routes from Ampenan to Mataram, Mataram to Cakra, and beyond. You will see them cruising the streets, horns beeping, as they pick up and drop off passengers. If you are travelling between the cities, you will need to change bemo, as each serves only one area. Fares between cities are Rp 5,000.

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Tourism Information

10

BEST IN

This world-class course was designed by Thomson, Wolveridge and Perrett, who have respected the unique setting and contours of the location. The 18 hole, par 72 championship course (6245 meters) offers world-class challenges for golfing enthusiasts of all levels in a natural and picturesque environment.

SURFING

Kuta Beach

BEACHES People come to Lombok for our fantastic unspoiled beaches! The whole island is surrounded by postcard perfect beaches 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.

The southwest coast has particularly fine beaches, especially in Sekotong and the small islands off the coast.Visit the small islands of Gili Asahan and Gili Layar for the ultimate island escapes or stay at the luxurious Ko - ko - mo Resort on Gili Gede to explore the secret islands of the southwest.

The beaches around Kuta are so breathtakingly beautiful they must be seen to be believed! Visit Tanjung Aan for fantastic scenery, Selong Belanak for long stretches of white sand and turquoise waters, or swim in the lovely protected bay at Mawun.

DIVING AND SNORKELLING With so many 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. And yes – the Gilis are open and already receiving a lot of visitors!

Snorkelling is easy from the shore and all three islands are well served by professional dive operators who offer certification courses, day and night dives and specialised courses, as well as liveaboard adventures to exotic locations.

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.

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

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

GOLF Sire Beach Golf Club is located on the shores of Sire Beach in northwest Lombok, close to the Oberoi and Tugu hotels. It is less than one hour’s drive from Senggigi.

Surfing Gerupuk by Gretah Gray

Tourism Information

Benang Kelambu Waterfall by Iwan Haryanto

LOMBOK

11 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.

The gardens at Narmada are beautifully maintained and surround the pools and lake in this cool hillside setting. Take a picnic and enjoy a few relaxing hours here or combine the trip with a visit to Lingsar or Suranadi.

Pura Suranadi, a complex of three temples located a few kilometres north of Narmada in Suranadi, is the oldest and holiest of the Balinese temples in Lombok, founded by the 16th-century Javanese priest, Danghyang Nirartha.

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

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

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.

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 here.

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

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.

Lombok is famous for its traditional earthenware pottery made from local clay with distinctive designs, as well as handwoven sarongs and fabrics (ikat).

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.

TREKKING

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

HANDICRAFT VILLAGES

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!

Across the road from the temple is a local market complex where you can sample tasty charcoal grilled satays and buy cold drinks and fresh seasonal fruits.

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.

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.

Tourism Information

12

Senggigi Bay by Simon Mammino

SENGGIGI & THE WEST COAST Senggigi is the main tourism resort area on Lombok’s West Coast and is around a onehour drive northwest of Lombok International Airport.

The Chandi Boutique Resort, with contemporary villas in a peaceful coconut grove, and the resort’s Meru Restaurant, are located on the quiet beachfront here.

The Senggigi tourism strip starts a few kilometres before central Senggigi and 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.

The Cowshed Steakhouse is also located on the main road in Batu Layar, just a five minute drive south of Senggigi.

A few kilometres south of Senggigi, The Hill (locally called The Bukit), is a residential community perched on a green hillside in Batu Layar. The homes and villas here feature stunning architectural design and have magnificent views over the ocean.

Closer to Senggigi, Batu Bolong is the beach resort area forming a strip between the historic Batu Bolong Temple and the southern gateway to Senggigi.

Café Alberto is located on the beachfront in Batu Bolong, just before the entrance to Senggigi. Directly across the road from Café Alberto is the main entrance to the Green Valley residential area.

Senggigi Beach is the large bay that forms the centre of Senggigi. The main

Senggigi Beach

road runs parallel to the beach and large resorts occupy the space between; with Kila Senggigi Beach Hotel at the south end and the Sheraton Senggigi Beach Resort at the north end of the bay.

Senggigi Beach is a wide protected bay with promontories at each end. The beach is lovely for swimming and relaxing but can become crowded on Sundays and public holidays.

Continued on Page 16

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Senggigi Map

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Tourism Information

16 Continued from Page 12

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.

In the centre of the bay is the Pasar Seni (Art Markets) with many small shops selling handicrafts, clothing, sarongs and other souvenirs. Lining the beach side of the Markets are small restaurants for dining next to the waves. Come for a drink at sunset and then enjoy pizza and delicious Italian and Indonesian food at Lotus Bayview Restaurant.

SENGGIGI & THE WEST COAST 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 Ranger’s hut and basic visitors centre near the entrance.

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.

On the south end of Mangsit Beach is the lovely Puri Mas Boutique Resort. The popular Qunci Villas is in the centre and Katamaran Resort is located on the north end.Verve

Malimbu by Iwan Haryanto

However, it is still scenic and peaceful during weekdays. In the early mornings, enjoy a stroll along the beach looking out to the ocean dotted with the bright, colourful sails of fishing boats, as the local fishermen return with the day’s catch.

Beach Club is also located along this stretch of beach, along with small local beach cafes selling cold beer and cheap eats.

There is good snorkelling in front of Puri Mas at high tide and, when the wind is right, surfers take to the waves in front of Qunci Villas.

Furthest north are Klui and Lendang Luar, with Living Asia Resort located on the long stretch of pristine beach at Lendang Luar.

Mainly deserted white sand beaches, flanked by coconut groves 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.

West Coast by Barbara

Senggigi Reef, off the southern point, has good coral for snorkelling during high tide. To the left of the reef, Anjungan is a popular surf spot and, in the right conditions, has some decent surf breaks. When the winds are high, local surfers can be seen catching the waves here every day.

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

Away from the beach, the main road (Jalan Raya Senggigi) is lined with restaurants, shops, tour agencies, bars and nightclubs; many of which have live music in the evenings. There are convenience stores and supermarkets, numerous ATM’s, money changers, a post office and other tourist facilities.

About 2 km north of central Senggigi, Kerandangan has a popular beach nearby and a road leading into a residential area situated in a pretty valley. This area was badly damaged during the earthquakes in August and is being rebuilt.

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 – the Senggigi area caters for all tastes and budgets.

From Senggigi, it’s easy to explore the attractions of the south coast or to hop on a boat to the famous Gili Islands for the day. 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 West Lombok.

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[ You r Key to an Idyllic Lombok ]

[ Good Taste is Never Out of Style ]

Elegant Italian Dining

Asian & Indonesian Restaurant

Beachfront Dining Restaurants Open Daily 7am - 11pm

Jl. Raya Mangsit, Senggigi, Lombok | Phone: +62 370 693 800 Email: stay@quncivillas.com | Website: www.quncivillas.com

18 • If you’re on the south coast and looking for a lovely place for lunch or dinner, you can’t go past Kemangi Bar & Kitchen in Kuta.

The elegant restaurant serves up a good range of international meals such as Lamb Shank on mashed potato covered with rich brown gravy, US Beef Striploin with herb butter and black pepper sauce, as well as delicious seafood dishes, fresh pasta and more.

Well-priced local specialties include Ikan Saus Kemangi (Baby Snapper Fillet with a piquant basil sauce), Lombok’s iconic dish Ayam Taliwang (grilled chicken with a spicy sauce), as well as popular dishes such as Nasi Goreng and mixed satays with peanut sauce.

For more casual dining, the garden provides a relaxed space for meeting friends for drinks and dining at shaded tables with comfy cushioned benches, surrounded by greenery and soothing water features.

The garden is also the perfect place to enjoy Kemangi Happy Hours from 5 –

What’s Hot / Local News • The Kliff at Katamaran Resort in Mangsit is well-known for stunning sunsets and stylish dining.

7pm every day with Buy 1 Get 1 Free for all cocktails and Buy 2 Get 1 Free Heineken and Bintang Beers! Kemangi is open for lunch and dinner daily. See advert on page 3.

• Don’t forget the fabulous weekly events programme on at the moment at Aura Lounge & Bar at Selong Selo in Selong Belanak.

There’s something for everyone with events and specials happening every day– Monday Movie Nights,Tuesday Botram traditional foods, Wednesday Ladies Day,Thursday Moroccan Night, Friday Happy Day with all day Happy Hour, Saturday Live Music and Sunday Roast!

To take the hassle out of driving, take advantage of their daily shuttle service to and from Kuta. For full details, see advert on page 61.

Perched high above the resort, The Kliff offers expansive views across the ocean and is one of the west coast’s best venues for sunset cocktails and innovative fine dining.

On Saturday, 24 November get some friends together and enjoy the chilled vibe and music by popular DJ Gitok with Sunset Session @ The Kliff. The fun starts at 5pm! See advert on page 13.

• The Jungle Bar – Gili T’s premier nonsmoking party venue – is open!

Enjoy partying and dancing in the air conditioned bar with a live DJ all night until 1am and cheap but safe local and imported spirits to go with the ice cold beer and party atmosphere!

Happy Hours are available from 8pm – 10pm every night with 10K shots, 20K beers and spirits at 15K single and 25K double! See advert on page 72.

NEW GOVERNOR SENDS LOMBOK STUDENTS TO STUDY OVERSEAS Keeping true to one of his election promises, new NTB Governor Dr. H. Zulkieflimansyah, SE, M Sc, (informally known as Dr Zul) has sent the first group of Lombok university students to study overseas.

Dr Zul has spoken publically about the many valuable things he has gained from studying abroad, starting from the benefits of studying During his election campaigning, Dr Zul was at universities with high adamant about sending local students overseas standards of education, the to study. His ambition is to send 1,000 local various new experiences students a year on overseas study scholarships. that come from living overseas, and the benefits The first group of 20 students departed of having a network of Lombok recently to study at Masters’ level at Collegium Civitas University in Warsaw, Poland. friendships across nations.

“The programme of The Governor explained that Poland was an sending Indonesian students to study overseas attractive choice for the students as the cost is a way to grow and strengthen the pride of of education in Poland is 20% cheaper than the nation,” he said. education in other western countries, but the quality of education is European Union The governor said that scholarships were only standard. available for S2 (post-graduate education) at the moment because these students were “Dr Zul wants to make NTB a Research considered to have experience and were and Science center in Indonesia,” Indonesian serious about seeking doctoral scholarships.

Ambassador to Poland, Peter F Gontha, told reporters.“He wants to exchange ideas about Dr Zul is also discussing the possibility of renewable energy. He has big dreams.” sending NTB school teachers overseas to receive a higher level of education, which will During his election campaign, Dr Zul stressed then translate to better education levels in the importance of getting an education abroad, local schools. he himself having studied in a number of In related news, the Governor has also just different countries over the years including released the departure of 20 Vocational High Australia and Scotland.

School students from Sumbawa who received a scholarship at Nanjing Polytechnic Institute in China.

Dr Zul told the press that he was proud of the achievements of the students from Sumbawa and also appreciated the board of Sumbawa Vocational High School 2, which had a collaborative education scholarship programme in China for their students.

He said he believes that the NTB children will be able to conquer the challenges of life abroad and achieve an extraordinary future, bringing knowledge and skills back into the country.

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PURIBeachBUNGA Cottages

Luxury and Tranquility in the Heart of Senggigi Privately positioned on terraced slopes of beautiful flowers, overlooking Senggigi Bay and the ocean to Bali

Deluxe and Suite Cottages with air conditioning, hot water, television, mini bar, telephone and internet access

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

Special Feature

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THERE’S NEVER BEEN A BETTER TIME TO VISIT LOMBOK!

Gili Air by Blue Horizon

The holiday season is coming and everyone is making plans for where to spend Christmas and New Year!

The Indonesian rupiah is currently trading at almost 15,000 rupiah to the dollar, more than 17,000 to the Euro and 19,400 to Pounds Sterling – that gives holidaymakers a lot of buying power!

Who doesn’t want to spend their holidays knowing they can afford the best – clean unspoiled beaches, luxurious resorts, and plenty of activities like diving, surfing and trekking in amazing locations?

have top-class PADI and SSI dive centres south coast and death-defying waiting to teach you how and to show you mammoths at Desert Point, we’ve the diverse underwater world of Lombok. got you covered. There’s surf board hire and motorbikes with racks so There’s dozens of magical locations to you can head out to the best places explore on the three Gili Islands, as well and surf to your heart’s content. as in South and Southwest Lombok. In fact, there are too many fascinating dive sites There’s also kite surfing in Kaliantan, to cover in just one visit!

Subwing in Gili Air, island hopping in Sekotong, SUP, canoeing, snorkelling, day cruises, party boats, trips to Komodo and Flores, hiking through forests and rice terraces, picnics by the waterfalls, and so much more to discover.

Well, Lombok has it all and more!

You’ll also find some of the best surfing in S E Asia in Lombok. Head south to Kuta (that’s Kuta Lombok, not Bali) and you’ll find a whole world of surf enthusiasts to show you the best waves and locations – without the crowds!

For the adventurous, discover scuba diving or brush up on your open water skills. We

From beginner surf lessons at Selong Belanak to fun surf camps around the

Special Feature

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If relaxing by the pool is more your style, Lombok has some of the most gorgeous resorts you will ever visit!

No matter where you choose to base yourself – the Gilis, Senggigi, South Lombok or Southwest – there are luxe accommodations just waiting to be discovered.

from just MYR 334 pp – that’s around US $80.24 return!

From Singapore to Lombok, you can fly in full service comfort for S $420 return (departing 16 December and returning 28 December). Fly home on New Year’s Eve and it’s even cheaper at S $390.50 (US $283.66)!

From Australia, you can fly Perth - Lombok return (from 17 December to 27 December) for as little as AU $550 flying AirAsia and Garuda (search flights on skyscanner.com). *

Lombok hotels and resorts are offering fabulous deals too!

Luxurious villas with private pools, resorts with infinity pools overlooking stunning views, indulgent Spas and body treatments, superb dining in beachfront restaurants… we have all the ingredients to make your holiday memorable!

During November and December there are some great flight deals on offer from Silk Air and AirAsia direct to Lombok, or book a Garuda flight with easy connections from Bali or Jakarta to Lombok.

For example, AirAsia has return flights from Kuala Lumpur to Lombok departing 16 December and returning 28 December for Christmas in Lombok

Check rates on TripAdvisor, Booking.com and Agoda.com for the best prices – but book with the hotel direct and you’ll usually get an even better deal!

You’ll find all the best hotels and resorts in Lombok listed in our pages… visit their websites and drop them an email for secret deals and special privileges!

With so much buying power and so many cheap deals on flights and hotels, there’s never been a better time to visit Lombok! *prices are correct at time of going to print

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Local News

25

TNI MARATHON IN LOMBOK A HUGE SUCCESS!

The TNI International Marathon 2018 held in Lombok on Sunday, 4 November was a huge success!

The event, held at Kuta Beach and Mandalika attracted 7,000 national participants and 240 international participants from 22 countries, all competing for a total prize pool of Rp 10 billion – the largest ever in Asia!

skydiving, with 73 paratroopers dropping from the sky to land on Mandalika Beach to waves of applause from the crowd.

TNI Marathon 2018 is the biggest international marathon race in Indonesia with runners competing for prizes and medals in four categories: 5K, 10K, 21K and 42K. The routes for the 21 K Half Marathon and the 42K Full Marathon both have international certification and are recognized internationally.

The event was held to commemorate the 73rd Anniversary of the Indonesian Armed Forces (TNI).

During the marathon, participants were treated to spectacular aerial displays by the Air Force’s Jupiter Aerobatic Team and

The well organized event also included cultural shows and an exhibition of land, sea and air defense equipment by TNI. “The purpose of this event is to restore the trust of national and international communities that Lombok is safe to visit,” Colonel Inf Kristomei Sianturi said during a press conference at Lombok Epicentrum Mall.

The routes along Kuta Beach and the Mandalika region showcased the stunning panoramas of the south coast, with over 16km of sparkling beaches, and drew praise from the participants who were impressed by the beauty of the scenery during the races.

Among the 22 countries who participated in the event was a contingent of swiftfooted athletes from Kenya who dominated the winners’ circle.

TNI International Marathon 2018 winners and time: 42K International – Rp 330 million prize Male: Muteti Cosmas from Kenya (Time: 2.21.25) Female: Tecla Kirongo from Kenya (2.41.14) 42K National – Rp 185 million prize Male: Hamdan Sayuti (2.41.19) Female: Meri Paijo (3.25.08) 21K International – Rp 165 million prize Male: Joshua Nakeri from Kenya (1.04.54) Female: Esther Wawbui Karimi from Kenya (1.15.14) 21K National - Rp 125 million prize Male: Agus Prayogo (1.11.30) Female: Odekta Naibaho (1.24.42)

Local News

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LOMBOK AT WTM IN LONDON! Lombok was wellrepresented at the prestigious World Travel Market in London this year

by Sara Sanders from Puri Mas Boutique Resort & Spa in Mangsit and David Roberts from Mahamaya Resort, Gili Meno.

World Travel Market (WTM) London is the leading global event for the worldwide travel and tourism industry.

government ministers, international press and global influencers.

The three-day event, held from 5 - 7 November at ExCeL London exhibition centre, is the ‘must-attend’ business-tobusiness (B2B) exhibition for the world travel industry, attracting over 51,000 senior travel industry professionals,

Sara and David were based at the ‘Wonderful Indonesia Pavilion’ hosted by the Indonesian Tourism Ministry, where they did a fabulous job of promoting Lombok (and distributing The Lombok Guide) to potential buyers!

WTM London generates around £2.8 billion of travel industry contracts each year and around 4,225 Indonesian tour packages are expected to be sold during the 2018 event, with an estimated foreign exchange potential for Indonesia totalling Rp 3.08 trillion (around US $205,979,620).

Lombok and Puri Mas was also showcased

by Sara at the Sales Mission held in the UK on 1 November, before the WTM event, which was attended by 75 buyers and travel industry representatives.

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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

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

Always Beautiful...

Always Unique...

Jl. Raya Mangsit, Senggigi, Lombok | Phone: +62 370 693 800 Email: stay@quncivillas.com | Website: www.quncivillas.com

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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 Cafe Lombi temporarely moved to the following location: Mandalika Homestay, Jl.Raya Sandik, Montong Meninting.

Ph. 087 765 122 391 | www.CafeLombi.com

Wild Kopi Luwak

WET n DRY AHLINYA BERSIH

UPHOLSTERY CLEANING SOFAS, CHAIRS, CARPETS, MATTRESSES, CAR SEATS, ETC

Restore fabrics and soft furnishings. Shampoo and machine extraction. Express cleaning!

Professional results – fresh and hygienic

FOR HOME, VILLA, HOTELS & OFFICES Call us now for a free quote!

081 805 215 320 | 081 237 54 350 087 761 192 047 | (0370) 622 224

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APAPUN KENDARAAN YANG ANDA NAIKI DAN DIMANAPUN ANDA BERADA

JANGAN BUANG SAMPAH KE JALAN

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Complete Spa Services at Local Prices!

1 HOUR MASSAGE ONLY Rp 80,000 NET

ORCHID PACKAGE 1

Massage, Body Scrub, Body Mask Rp 200,000 net / 2 hours

ORCHID PACKAGE 2

Massage, Body Scrub, Body Mask, Manicure, Pedicure, Nail Polish Rp 300,000 net / 3 hours

OPEN EVERY DAY 10am - 10pm Phone: 0819 1593 2899 0819 0753 1704

FREE WIFI

TWO CONVENIENT LOCATIONS IN SENGGIGI Senggigi Beach Road & Galeria Shops

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Live Music! Great Food! Good Times!

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

www.asmara-group.com

OPEN DAILY 3PM – 11PM TAKE AWAY AVAILABLE AND DELIVERY TO SENGGIGI AREAS HALAL CERTIFIED

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!

Lombok.Annas.Giftshop

Find us on TripAdvisor!

Jl Raya Senggigi (next to Papa Besar Cafe) | P: 0819 171 37 308 | E: annasgiftshoplombok@gmail.com

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MULANG PEKELEM AT NARMADA

Special Feature

According to the records, the huge park took around 12 years to complete and its design symbolically represents Rinjani volcano and the crater lake, Danau Segara Anak.

The construction of Narmada as a replica of the sacred volcano served an important purpose for the aging king, who was no longer able to complete his annual pilgrimage to Rinjani for the Mulang Pekelem rituals.

The steep steps leading up to Pura Kelasa, the temple on the top tier of the complex, Every year a beautiful traditional ceremony takes place on Lombok.

Mulang Pekelem is so important that it attracts hundreds of worshippers, including Hindu’s from around Indonesia who travel to Lombok specifically for this event.

Held on the fifth full moon in the Balinese calendar (either October or November each year), Mulang Pekelem usually takes place at Segara Anak Lake on Rinjani volcano.

However, as the volcano is currently closed to visitors, this year the ceremony was held at beautiful Narmada Water Park in West Lombok on 24 October.

Taman Narmada, is located around 6km east of the cities and is around one hour’s drive from Senggigi.

Built into the slopes of the hillside, the park covers around 2 hectares of gardens

and pools, and offers a remarkable look back into the days of the Balinese kings on Lombok.

The park was originally built as a Summer Palace for King Anak Agung Ngurah Karangasem in 1727, when the king desired a cool place to retreat from the palace in Cakranegara during Lombok’s hot, dry summer months.

represent the steep climb up to the summit of Rinjani and Telaga Ageng, the large lake bordering the south of the park, symbolises Segara Anak Lake within the volcano.

First records of the Mulang Pekelem ceremony held at Lake Segara Anak date back to the time of the ruling Balinese kingdoms during the early 18th Century.

Special Feature

37

According to these records, Lombok was struck by a prolonged drought that devastated crops and brought disease and suffering to the island.

The ritual is based on the Hindu concept of Tri Hita Karana – harmony between God, human beings, and the environment.

So it was that this important ritual was held again this year, with hundreds of participants dressed in white ceremonial clothing, praying in the historic temple overlooking the gardens amidst clouds of sweet smelling incense and frangipani.

The ruling Balinese king at the time, King AA Anglurah Ketut Karangasem, met with priests to pray together at a temple in Gunung Sari, West Lombok. copper and include shrimp-shaped figures symbolising fertility; turtles symbolising the world; fish as a symbol of life, and fowl as a symbol of the universe.

The King followed the divine instructions and the first Mulang Pekelem ceremony was held on Rinjani.

According to legend, immediately after the ritual the much-needed rains began to fall on Lombok and the drought was ended.

During his meditations, the King is said to have received instructions from Bharata Gunung Agung, the Lord of Mount Agung, to perform the Mulang Pekelem ceremony at Mount Rinjani.

Mulang Pekelem consists of two words: Mulang means “to throw”, and Pekelem means “to sink”; literally meaning to submerge offerings in water.

The king was instructed to make offerings of gold and silver, in the form of certain animals, to bring balance between the worlds of man and nature.

These offerings are still made today in gold, silver and

The ceremonies have continued to this day, although they were stopped briefly at the time of the Japanese occupation during WWII and started again after the declaration of Indonesian independence in 1945.

The annual Mulang Pekelem is a sacred ceremony intended to restore balance and harmony to the world; to make offerings to the Gods and ask them to grant rain, fertility, and natural balance to the island and those living here.

After the prayers, the crowd moved down the steps to the “lake” – symbolically representing the pilgrimage down from the ridge of the mountain to the lake below.

There the Hindu priests led the ancient ritual with chanting, gamelan, prayers and blessings before submerging the offerings into the lake… bringing balance and fertility to the land for another year.

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Puri Mas Boutique Resort The Essence of Tradition, Luxury and Style

Located just 5 minutes drive north of Senggigi, Puri Mas Beach Resort offers romantic Private Pool Villas, Jacuzzi Villas and Classic Rooms on the beachfront in Mangsit

JL RAYA MANGSIT - JUST 2KM NORTH OF SENGGIGI FREE PICK UP & DROP OFF SENGGIGI / MANGSIT AREAS - TEL: WA 087865615552/0370 692021

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The Ballroom Restaurant @ Puri Mas Boutique Resort

OPEN AIR BEACHFRONT RESTAURANT OCEAN VIEWS AND MAGICAL LOMBOK SUNSETS OPEN FOR BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER EVERY DAY

Specialising in fresh seafood and authentic Indonesian dishes The best Indian menu in town!

Happy Hours - 5 to 7pm Every Day Sunset Happy Hours Buy 2 Get 1 Free Cocktails and spirits

PURI MAS AWARD WINNING LUXURY SPA HAS RELOCATED TO OUR BEACHFRONT RESORT

Using Only The Finest Products From “Babor” International Germany.

Let Our Professional Therapists Take You on a Journey That is All About YOU. Enjoy Babor Facials & Body Treatments, Massages with Aromatherapy Oils, Hot Stone, Herbal Compress, and MORE. Pretty Nails & Feet Including Gel Nails. Waxing and, of Course, our 3 Hour Treatments to Complete Your Holiday.

FREE PICK UP & DROP OFF – RESERVE NOW 0370693831 or WA 087865615553

Distribution

40

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: LIA Tourist Information Board, Lombok Baru Taxi, Kotama Taxi, Golden Bird Travel, Trec, BLT Travel and every counters outside International Lombok Airport.

MATARAM: Autore, Lombok Epicentrum Mall (Ace Hardware, Burger King, Bread Talk, Cinema XXI, Excelso, Food Centrum, Front Desk, Hypermart, Informa, J.Co, Joli Sourire, KFC, Maxx Coffee, Mokko Factory, My Kopi-O, Omah Cobek, Paris Castle, Pizza Pazza, Quali, Solaria, Starbucks Coffee, The Vinette, XO Suki), Lombok Plaza, Mataram Mall (Delicio Café, McDonalds, Mokko Factory, Oceanic Café), Toko Susana.

KUTA: Bombora Bungalows, Discovery Coffee House, El Bazar, Kemangi Bar & Kitchen, KRNK, Kuta Bay Homestay, Kuta Heights, Kuta Indah Hotel, Mimpi Manis Homestay, Novotel, Nuggets Corner, Puri Rinjani, Sekar Kuning / Yellow Flower, The Chili Cafe, Warung Bule.

SENGGIGI: Anna’s Giftshop, Aruna Senggigi Hotel, Asmara Restaurant, Café Alberto, Cafe Lombi, Island Properties Lombok, Living Asia, Lotus Bayview Restaurant, Orchid Spa, Pasta Pojok, Puri Bunga Cottages, Puri Mas Boutique Hotel, Qunci Villas, Senggigi Jaya Abadi Supermarket, Sheraton, Square Restaurant, Temptations, The Chandi, The Cowshed, The Office.

GILI T: Blue Marlin Dive, Desa Dunia Beda, Gili Divers, Gili Eco Trust, Gili Getaway, Gili T Resort, Kayu Cafe, Karma Kayak, Oceano Resort, Pearl Beach Lounge, Pesona Resort, Manta Dive, Scallywags, The Beach House, The Trawangan, Tir Na Nog, Trawangan Dive,Villa Ombak.

GILI AIR: Scallywags, Sunrise Gili Air. SOUTH LOMBOK: ko-ko-mo Gili Gede, Novotel Resort, Sempiak Villas BALI: • SANUR: Air Bali, Bakfickan Bar & Rest, Bali Wake Park, Batu Jimbar Restaurant, Blue Café, Blue Water Express, Bounty Cruise, Patagonia Express, Coffee Bali House Sanur, Fire Station Restaurant, Jalapeno Rest Sanur, Lila Pantai Sanur, Massimo Italian Restaurant, Soul In A Bowl, Stiff Chilli, Tratoria Restaurant, Two Fish Drivers. • KUTA / SIMPANG SIUR: BIMC, Cocoon Spa, Dijon, Gloria Jean Coffee 1, PT Indo Ned, Reborn Salon, Rejuvie Salon, SOS Clinic.

• KUTA: Aryaduta Hotel, Henry's Bar & Grill, Club Havana, Mamas Restaurant, Samudera Bar & Restaurant, Tourist Information, Tourist Information Matahari Square. • LEGIAN: Bale Bali Restaurant,Bali Deli,Cafe Marzano,Café Moka,Chez Gado-Gado,Grain Bali,King Kebab Restaurant, Nero Bali Bar & Restaurant, Pantarei Restaurant, Souq Restaurant,Warung Italia,Warung Jerami, Warung Ocha,Y Sports Bar Bali, Zanzibar Restaurant, Jari Menari. • PETITENGET: Taco Casa Restaurant, Living Stone Bakery, Bambu Restaurant, Kynd Community Restaurant, Warung Sulawesi, Gourmet Café. • LAKSMANA / OBEROI: The Daily Coffee Kitchen, Blow Bar Bali, Café Bali, Char - Char Bar & Grill, Corner House Restaurant, Happy Chappy Restaurant, Grocer & Grind, Junction Bar and Rest, Kunis Japanese Restaurant, Mamasan Restaurant, Monsieur Spoon Laksmana, Motel Mexicola, Red Carpet, Soho Restaurant, Ultimo Italian Restaurant.

• MERTANADI: Daily Grind, Som Chai Restaurant, L'Assiette Restaurant • UMALAS / BATU BELIG: Rustica Cucina Italiana, Hog Wild Restaurant, Monsieur Spoon Restaurant, My Warung Batu Belig, Bow Restaurant, Spoiled Hairdresser, Habitual Quench & Feed, Nook Warung. • CANGGU: Bungalow Living Café, Finn's Recreation Club, Canggu Station, Echo Beach Rest, Old Mans, Peloton Restaurant, The Plumbers Arms, Warung Gouthe, The Savage Kitchen.

SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR CONTRIBUTORS: Barbara Kathleen, Asriel Haryadi, Dian Cahyadi, Didik Hariadi, Iwan Haryanto, Nanang Wirawan Printed by PT Temprina Media Grafika, Denpasar, Bali

Scan here to receive our online issues!

NEXT DEADLINE 12 NOON 16 NOVEMBER

Copyright © 2007 – 2018. 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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discover nature’s greatest gift

Pearl Farm Tours

(Groups or 2 adults minimum)

Pearl and Jewellery Showroom Private viewings welcome

Showroom Open Daily 9am - 5pm

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

Pasar Classifieds

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PASAR CLASSIFIEDS

CERTIFIED LAND FOR SALE 27.5 are (2,750 sqm) Just 5 minutes to Kuta Beach.

Mature trees.

Two entrances.

Can be subdivided.

Rp 79 million per are (Approx. USD 145,800 TOTAL) This is a great deal!

Ph +62 878 5964 2482 Indonesian/ English 0821 4587 5594 / WA: +62 821 4587 5594 rosaliedobson@ymail.com

YOUR PRIVATE DRIVER IN LOMBOK Explore the island of Lombok with your experienced English speaking private driver.

Entdecken Sie die wunderschĂśne Insel Lombok mit Ihrem deutschsprachigen Privatfahrer.

WhatsApp +62 818 0555 9594 Email: iwan.manyong@gmail.com http://www.iwanlomboktours.com

RENT HOUSE DAILY / WEEKLY OR MONTHLY

HOUSE FOR RENT

Cozy house for yearly rent in a green environment in Bale Pelangi Residential Area - strategic location between Mataram City and Senggigi Beach.

2 bed, 1 bath, kitchen and living room with furniture & TV. Secure 1 are (100m2) plot with wall and gate.

Rp 35 million per year Phone: 0878 6551 7563

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

KUTA BIG BLOCK FOR SALE 15 Hectare (150,000 sqm) of prime certificated land in Kuta. 6 minutes’ drive to the beach and main restaurants and facilities.

20 minutes to Lombok International Airport.

Concrete road to the entrance. Lush vegetation.

The only sounds you hear are bird song!

Located at BTN Puri Mansion, Montong. Good for short stays, designed like villa, suit expat. 1 large house with two bedrooms, air conditioning, hot water, kitchen, two separate living rooms, tasteful design with bamboo art, big garden.

Interested Please Contact Mark: 0812 2115 8431 (WA)

Rp 19 million per are: To be sold as one block

Ph +62 878 5964 2482 Indonesian/ English 0821 4587 5594 / WA: +62 821 4587 5594 rosaliedobson@ymail.com

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ISLAND PROPERTIES LOMBOK Real Estate Specialists

TAMPAH BEACH LAND

A Must to View! DIRECT BEACHFRONT. Fantastic Tampah Bay. 9 km from Kuta and 10 km from Selong Belanak. 40 are.

Price Rp 125 million/are

LOMBOK SENGGIGI HOTEL

Central Senggigi.

14 bedroom hotel.

Excellent location 80 metres from the central tourist strip, restaurant.

Room to expand on further 14-16 units.

Asking Price AUD 390,000 NEGO

10 x 4 pool and alfresco area.

28.90 ARE LAND IN CENTRAL KUTA THIS IS A MUST TO VIEW! Absolute central location in the heart of Kuta, great frontage to the block.

Commercial / tourism zoning, possible hotel site.

5 minutes’ walk to the Mandalika Beach Price Rp 300 million/are

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

We can make your dreams come true!

Tourism Information

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USEFUL CONTACTS EMERGENCY SERVICES Senggigi Police (POLSEK Senggigi): Jl Raya Senggigi. Phone: 0370 693267 | 632733 Lombok Police (POLDA NTB): Jl Gajah Mada 7, Mataram. Ph: 0370 693110. Emergency No: 110 Fire Brigade: Phone: 0370 672013.

Emergency No: 113 State Hospital UGD (Emergency Unit Service): Phone: 0370 622254 Ambulance: Phone: 0370 623489. Emergency No: 118 Emergency Rescue (RSU Mataram) Ph: 0370 620009.

HOSPITALS (Rumah Sakit) Rumah Sakit Harapan Keluarga Jl Ahmad Yani 9, Selagalas. Ph: 0370 670000 | 6177000. Emergency (24hrs): 6177009.

Mataram Public Hospital (Rumah Sakit Umum Mataram) Jl Pejanggik No 6, Mataram Phone: 0370 6660224 | 638464 New NTB Province Public Hospital (Rumah Sakit Umum Propinsi) Jalan Prabu Rangkasari, Dasan Cermen Phone: 0370 7502424 Central Lombok Public Hospital (Rumah Sakit Umum Praya) Jl H Lalu Hasyim, Tiwugalih, Praya. Phone: 0370 6635050 East Lombok Public Hospital (Rumah Sakit Umum Dr R Sudjono) Jl Professor M Yamin No 55, Selong, East Lombok. Phone: 0376 21599 Biomedika Hospital Jl Bung Karno 143, Mataram.

Phone: 0370 645137 Risa Sentra Medika Hospital Jl Pejanggik 115, Cakranegara.

Phone: 0370 625560 | 632117 DENTISTS (Dr Gigi) Drg. Farida Istiarini, Sp.Ort (Joli Sourire Dental Care) 1st Floor at Lombok Epicentrum Mall.

Jl Sriwijaya, Mataram. Ph: 0878 6490 1535 Drg.Yuanita Jl Sriwijaya (opposite Kura-Kura Waterpark).

Ph: 0812 3763 156 Drg. Mumu Jl Bung Hatta 14, Mataram. Ph: 0853 3730 7008 VETS (Dr Hewan) / PET CARE Dr Wahyu (Nobel Petshop) Jl Sriwijaya (Nex t to Town Palace). Ph: 0370 6160300 Dr. I Gede Sudiana (FB: lombokanimalrescue) Jl Sadewa 9, Cakra. Ph: 0878 6585 6260 Dr. Ajus. Ph: 0878 6441 3232 Dr.Yoses Kristianto (DC Petshop) Jl Saleh Sungkar, Ampenan. Ph: 0819 99831337 Dr Dwi. Ph: 0819 99831337 Dr Irfan. Ph: 0817 579 0834 Dr Nurul (Kuta). Ph: 0818 0366 2612

TAXI Blue Bird Taxi, Ph: 0370 627000 AIRPORT BUS / DAMRI Senggigi / Mataram, Ph: 370 642947 | 0878 6475 5513 | 0813 9862 4975 IMMIGRATION Jl Udayana, Mataram, Ph: 0370 632520 PUBLIC SERVICES ELECTRICITY PLN Mataram. Ph: 0370 643123 PLN Senggigi. Ph: 0370 693535 WATER PDAM Mataram. Ph: 0370 632510 PDAM Senggigi. Ph: 0370 693886 TELKOM (Phone/Internet). Ph: 0370 147 Directory Assistance (Lombok Phone Numbers): Ph. 0370 108 POST OFFICES (Kantor Pos) Mataram Jl Sriwijaya. Ph: 0370 632645 Senggigi Jl Raya Senggigi. Ph: 0370 693711 CONSULATES AUSTRALIA Phone: 0361 2000100. Emergency: +61 26261 3305. Email: Bali.congen@dfat.gov.au BELGIUM Phone: 0343 740274. Emergency: 021 3162030.

Email: Stefaan.vancolen@st-group.com BRAZIL Phone: 0361 8446530. Emergency: 0821 44440018. Email: renato@bythesea.co.id BRITAIN Phone: 021 23565200. Emergency: 0811 8860053. Email: Consulate.Bali@fco.gov.uk CHILE Phone: 0361 756781.

Emergency: 021 29401677.

Email: chilehonconsulate@bali-villa.com CHINA Phone: 0361 239001. Emergency: 081239169767.

Email: chinaconsul_dps_id@mfa.gov.cn CZECH REPUBLIC Phone: 0361 286408. Emergency: 0812 3970129. Email: bali@honorary.mzv.cz DENMARK & NORWAY Phone: 0361 8216979. Emergency: 0361 766638 | 0812 39186023. Email: danishconsbali@gmail. com ESTONIA Phone: 021 70 82 8803. Emergency: 0811 987111. Email: bharat@consul-estonia.or.id FINLAND & SWEDEN Phone: 0361 282223.

Emergency: 0817 9723658.

Email: finnishconsulatebali@yahoo.com FRANCE Phone: 0361 4730834. Emergency: 021 23557600. Email: consul@dps.centrin.net.id

GERMANY Phone: 0361-288535. Emergency: 0812 3913938. Email: sanur@hk-diplo.de HUNGARY Phone: 0361 287701. Emergency: 0811 389680.

Email: huconbali@gmail.com INDIA Ph. 0361 259502/3. Emergency: 08113976388.

Email: hoc.bali@mea.gov.in ITALY Phone: 0361 701005. Emergency: 0361 701005.

Email: italconsbali@italconsbali.org JAPAN Phone: 0361 227628. Emergency: 0361 227628.

Email: denpasar@mofa.go.jp MEXICO Phone: 0361 223266. Emergency: 0811 399929.

Email: yudhara@astinatravel.com NEW ZEALAND Phone: 0361 8446456. Emergency: 0819 99477552. Email: indy.honcondibali@gmail.com NORWAY Phone: 0361 282223.

Emergency: 0817 9723658.

Email: norwegianconsulatebali@yahoo.com POLAND Phone: 0361 282474. Emergency: 0811 389449.

Email: iblolec@pacificworld.com PORTUGAL Phone: 0361 975736. Emergency: 0813 38189313. Email: arief@indobamboo.com RUSSIA Phone: 0851 00791560. Emergency: 021 5222912. Email: bali@russiaconsul.com SLOVAK REPUBLIC Phone: 0361 9005583. Emergency: 0811810680.

Email: konsulslowakbali@yahoo.com SOUTH AFRICA Phone: 0361 751223.

Emergency: 0857 39114748.

Email: bagus.sudibya@bagusdiscovery.com SPAIN Phone: 0361 975736. Emergency: 0818 365920.

Email: amir@rabik.co.id SRI LANKA Phone: 0361 726200. Emergency: 08123801063.

Email: citrabaliide@yahoo.co.id SWEDEN Phone: 0361 282223. Emergency: 0817 9723658. Email: sweconsul@yahoo.com SWITZERLAND & AUSTRIA Phone: 0361 264149. Emergency: 0811 3850041. Email: bali@honrep.ch THAILAND Phone: 0361 249461. Emergency: 021 29328190. Email: rtcdps@yahoo.com TIMUR LESTE Phone: 0361 4722099. Emergency: 0813 38556373. Email: cgtl@dpsbali.com TUNISIA Phone: 0361 242659.

Emergency: 021 52892328.

Email: tunisconsulbali@popodanes.org THE NETHERLANDS Phone: 0361 761502. Emergency: 0818 789444.

Email: dutchconsulate@kcbtours.com USA Ph: 0361 233605. Emergency: 0811 334183.

Email: CABali@state.gov

Tourism Information

THE CITIES

for Lombok and Sumbawa (NTB Province), with government offices, banks, mosques, schools and colleges, bookstores, the main post office, and Mataram University downtown.

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 shops selling everything imaginable from everyday items to gold and pearls.

There are many pearl shops in Ampenan and the nearby village of Sekarbela that sell unset pearls and pearl jewellery at attractive prices. These are genuine pearls – some cheap quality from China and more expensive ones 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 (local cafés) and food stalls in the cities.

Or just wander around the streets to soak up the atmosphere and discover fascinating insights into Lombok city life!

Ampenan was the original port in Lombok during Dutch colonial times and some of the old architecture is still visible around the town, particularly toward the beach to the west, where the remnants of the port are slipping into the sea.

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

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

Mataram, about 3 km to the east of Ampenan, is the administrative centre

In Mataram, the Nusa Tenggara Barat Museum houses historical and cultural artefacts from Lombok and Sumbawa. It’s an interesting place to visit and occasionally hosts special exhibits. Displays include exhibits on geology, history and culture. Address: Jl Panji Tilar. Ph: 632159 for opening times. There is a small admission fee.

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

Phone: 622428 for details.

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 woven baskets to fresh flowers and local food.

45 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 several pharmacies. Other retailers sell a wide variety of fashion, shoes, electronics, sporting goods, and much more.

There are many food outlets and cafés, as well as Burger King, KFC, Bread Talk, J. Co, Starbucks, Excelso, and more.

The older Mataram Mall on Jl Pejanggik is a more low key shopping centre with a Hero Supermarket, Tiara Department Store, McDonalds and KFC outlets, electronics and home ware stores, and a good selection of specialty shops.

Nearby Temples and Places of Interest Pura Meru on Jl Selaparang, Cakranegara, was built in 1720 by Balinese Prince Anak Agung Made Karang and is the largest temple on Lombok. Its three meru are for the Hindu trinity – Shiva,Vishnu and Brahma.

This is an important temple for the Balinese here and its annual Pujawali festival, held over five days during the full moon in September or October, is the biggest Balinese Hindu event on Lombok.

The outer courtyard hall has large drums used to announce ceremonies and festivals. In the central courtyard are two buildings with raised offering platforms.

The interior enclosure has 33 shrines as well as the three multi-tiered meru.

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

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.

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.

Shopping

The gardens and the adjoining Pura Jagatnatha temple complex are a peaceful place to escape the bustle of the city and well worth exploring.

Lombok Epicentrum Mall on Jl Sriwijaya (see cities map) is Lombok’s most modern shopping centre with four floors of retail outlets. The complex houses a Hypermart Supermarket and a Matahari Department

Taman Mayura is open every day, from 8am to 8pm; admission is Rp 5000 per person. The gardens are popular on weekends so the best time to visit is during the weekdays.

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The Cities

47

Tourism Information

48

The Southwest

Southwest Lombok by Asriel Haryadi

Far from the earthquake zones in the north, Southwest Lombok feels like it exists in another time and place.

The Southwest consists of long meandering coastlines of pristine white sand beaches with 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 Gilis’!

The big island of Gili Gede is rapidly becoming the hub for tourism in the Southwest and, with a range of accommodation and facilities, it’s a good base for island hopping and exploring the area.

The picturesque Southwest region starts at Sekotong, 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.

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. 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 simple cottages on the beach and a restaurant. The island is small and the beach has soft white sand and a good reef just offshore for snorkelling.

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

Back on the main road and slightly further south is the turn off for Cocotinos Boutique Beach Resort, set on the secluded beach at Tanjung Empat.

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

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

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

Continued on Page 50

The Southwest

49

VILLA SELALU Gili Gede, Lombok

A private, luxury hilltop retreat on Gili Gede with 360 degree uninterrupted views of a truly unique and untouched part of the world.

Villa Selalu offers four king size bedrooms with marble ensuites and can comfortably accommodate up to 12 guests. *private white sand beach *18m infinity pool *hillside BBQ pavilion *private entertainment room *WIFI *spacious open plan living *fully air conditioned *satellite tv’s in bedrooms *commercial kitchen *fully catered *hillside breakfast berugak *bespoke furnishings and amenities *beach lounges *dedicated manager and staff *boat house *bikes *snorkelling equipment, kayaks, stand-up paddle-boards Whether booking one bedroom as a couple or two or more bedrooms as a group, enjoy exclusive access to the entire villa.

For all enquiries: villaselalubookings@gmail.com +62 812 3961 6327 I +61 411 031 607 www.villaselalugiligede.com Visit our BRAND NEW beach box cafĂŠ, Gili Gede during your stay.

Tourism Information

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Gili Layar

Further south you will come to the only petrol station along the south coastal road at Tembowong Village. Nearby is the site for catching boats out to Gili Gede, only a few minutes across the water.

Gili Gede: 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 developing as the main hub for the Southwest Gilis as is one of the few islands in the area that has a choice of accommodation, making it an ideal base for exploring the other nearby islands.

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

Guests at the restaurant can enjoy upmarket 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 – ‘Gili Getaway’ – making Gili Gede easily accessible, even for a day trip.

Villa Selalu has a private beachfront and a boathouse equipped with snorkelling gear, sea kayaks, paddle boards and bikes to make the most of your holiday.

Individual rooms are available or rent the villa in entirety for the ultimate island escape!

At the other end of the scale, there are a few small cottages and home stays on the island with simple accommodation for budget travellers.

Thamarind Resort is a family-run resort with reasonably priced accommodation on the beachfront in comfortable rooms or individual bungalows, including a spacious family bungalow.

Ideal for a low-key and relaxing holiday on the beach, the resort has private beach area and a restaurant with lovely views serving Indonesian and western meals. The friendly Perched on the hilltop just to the north of staff at Thamarind can organise a range of ko - ko – mo is Villa Selalu, a private luxury activities for all ages and interests.

All modern comforts such as air retreat that enjoys outstanding 360º views The nearby Ultimate Gili Gede Dive conditioning and ceiling fans, flat screen of the stunning surroundings.

Resort Gil is geared for travellers who televisions with satellite channels and The fully serviced 4 bedroom villa boasts are looking for fun and adventure, with DVD, WiFi, fresh (not salt) hot water, unparalleled luxury with all mod cons a range of activities including diving the plentiful power points for charging devices, and ultra chic furnishings. Guests can Southwest Gilis and surfing trips to nearby and more are provided in each villa. enjoy a number of indoor and outdoor Desert Point – a world famous surf Facilities at the resort include a tennis living areas, as well as an 18m infinity pool location. court, a putting green, a small gym, a overlooking the ocean surrounded by a The resort offers 4 beach bungalows and resort swimming pool and purpose-built spacious deck, BBQ area and lounging Spa facility and a beachfront restaurant. a 3 bedroom villa for families and friends pavilion.

Gili Asahan

Tourism Information sharing. On the hillside above the resort is Villa Vista – a spacious and fully-serviced private 4 bedroom villa, which shares all the resort facilities and boasts a swimming pool and stunning views across the ocean.

51 Gili Ringgit and Gili Asahan. 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.

Both resorts provide meals and can arrange transfers, boat trips, island hopping and snorkelling around the islands.

There is simple accommodation on Gili Layar and a restaurant serving fresh juices, Gili Gede is large enough to provide a beers and tasty meals. 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.

Slightly further south, beautiful Gili Asahan attracts visitors with its deserted white Bounty Cruises, a Bali based company, own sand beaches, clear calm waters and a large parcel of land on Gili Ringgit and swaying palm trees. have constructed a boat mooring and pier on the island. There is good snorkelling on Gili Asahan Eco Lodge and Pearl Beach Resort both offer comfortable the west side of Gili Ringgit, accessed by accommodation options on the island. boat.

Leaving Gili Asahan and back on the Large gardens of hard and soft corals mainland, continue south on the lay just beneath the surface and the reef coastal road until you come to a main extends along most of the island’s coast. intersection.

On the other side of the island is where the pier is located, on a fantastic white A signpost to the left leads to the sand beach. spectacular large bay at Mekaki. The road 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, and the scenery and beach are lovely.

Many are astounded by the pristine conditions and huge schools of turtles seen near Gili Layar – the island between

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.

The dive sites of the Southwest 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.

to the right leads to Labuhan Poh and Pelangan.

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.

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

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.

www.thelombokguide.com

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Tourism Information

Tourism Information

S

KUTA & THE

53

UBLIME OUTH COAST

Batu Payung by Didik Hariadi

At around 90km south and 3 - 4 hours drive from the earthquake affected zones in the north, Kuta and the south coast of Lombok was unaffected by the natural disaster in August 2018.

If you are worried about travelling to Lombok, the south coast is far removed from the quake damage and boasts some of the most magnificent scenery in Indonesia!

Tourists are drawn to the south for the stunning beaches and scenery, the laid back lifestyle, and almost year-round sunshine… 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 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 cafés catering to increased numbers of tourists.

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

But for now, the south is still 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

The Lombok International Airport (LIA) 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 in very good condition.

Aura Lounge Selong Belanak

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 56

54

Kuta and The South Coast

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Kuta and The South Coast

55

Luxurious Escapes...

Private Villas | Holiday Houses | Restaurant & Bar | The Spa Relax and unwind with a luxurious escape at Sempiak Villas with the stunning beauty of Selong Belanak Beach.

Enjoy delicious snacks, meals, cool drinks and cocktails at Laut Biru Restaurant on the beachfront or escape to the cool sanctuary of The Spa by Sempiak.

Ph: +62 821 4430 3337 | www.sempiakvillas.com

Tourism Information

56 Continued from Page 53

surf lessons and surfboard hire and more.

There are several mini-markets in the town selling drinks, snacks, toiletries and other daily needs, as well as ATM facilities, tour agencies and more.

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, the unique style of the buildings at the Novotel are a wonderful example of traditional Sasak architecture.

El Bazar

Slightly further south is Sade, another hilltop village with more Lumbung and traditional homes.

are springing up in the area. These offer a range of choices – Mediterranean, Japanese, vegan and gluten free, nouvelle cuisine, home-made cakes and breads – diners are spoilt for choice!

The Novotel occupies a privileged location on the scenic beachfront at Mandalika with a long white sand beach and lovely views across the bay. There is a resort swimming pool and a bar

These days, there is a good variety of accommodation to suit all budgets and tastes, from simple and cheap hotels to luxurious villas with private swimming pools.

Among our favourites are El Bazar for on trend cuisine and healthy choices, Milk Espresso for delicious breakfasts, laid back all day dining and great cocktail hours, and Palate Café for cool vibes, good food and top notch live music in the evenings.

overlooking the beach (happy hours in the late afternoon are popular even with nonstaying guests).

As with accommodation options, new restaurants, coffee shops and eateries

Kuta offers a full range of tourist facilities from motorbike hire, car rental and tours,

Both villages have been renovated and cater to the tourist market, but there 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 town on the move that is evolving quickly.

In the past, it offered mainly low budget hotels catering to the thousands of surfers from around the world who are drawn to the area every year.

There is also an upmarket Spa and two restaurants at the resort, which hosts a good variety of theme dinners with traditional entertainment during the week.

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

First-timers to Kuta can benefit from an orientation tour operated by British expat Gemma and her Balinese husband, Made, from Mimpi Manis Homestay in Kuta.

Selong Belanak Beach

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

Continued on Page 58

Kuta and The South Coast

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58 Continued from Page 56

Kuta by DC

Further east of Tanjung Aan is Gerupuk – well known as a top surf location and situated on a peninsula of land that juts out into the ocean.

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.

The bay is used for lobster farming and is filled with local boats, which ferry avid surfers to no fewer than five surf breaks nearby.

For non-surfers, if you can brave the treacherous road, it is a lovely beach surrounded by small hills, with impressive views; look for the three pinnacles of rock jutting out of the ocean.

Gerupuk is also evolving and offers a range of simple accommodation and restaurants to cater to the growing tourist trade.

Selong Belanak is a long sweeping bay framed on each end by headlands and surrounded by rolling hills. The beach is lovely for swimming and has good waves for body surfing, as well as being popular for beginners surfing lessons.

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!

In the opposite direction, 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.

Are Guling is popular with surfers, with left and right hand reef breaks as well as a beach break for beginners. There are great views over the bay and to the small island of Gili Nusa just off-shore.

Are Guling has a good amount of simple accommodation, mainly catering to surfers and a number of local cafés, including places on the beach.

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

There are many small stalls selling drinks and snacks, as well as offering surf lessons and surf board hire.

Sempiak Villas has plush villas, some with private pools, perched on the hillside overlooking the bay with breath-taking panoramic views.

It is a spectacular beach with calm blue waters, perfect for swimming and spending a day lazing on the white sand. There are stalls on the beach selling drinks, snacks and simple meals.

Laut Biru Restaurant and Bar at Sempiak Villas is a beautiful all-white venue right on the beachfront with lovely views. It 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. There is also a serene Day Spa offering massages and beauty treatments.

Spend a day exploring the area, with lunch and a swim here as the highlights of your trip.

Mawun Beach by Asriel Haryadi

In the Jabon hills behind Selong Belanak is the stunning Aura Lounge and Bar at Selong Selo Residences. Approaching via the winding mountain road, the contemporary design creates a surprising contrast to the small traditional homes dotted on the hilltops.

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Other tours can be arranged to take in your particular interests and Made also runs “Shore Thing” fishing trips and boat tours at reasonable rates.Visit their website for details: www.mimpimanis.com

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There are small stalls selling drinks and snacks to enjoy after taking a swim or a stroll to enjoy the views.

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

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

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.

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

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

There are a number of warung or beach cafés along the beach selling cold drinks and beer, as well as snacks and simple meals. One of the best is Warung Turtle.

There are great views from the beach and even better views if you climb the surrounding hills.

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 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 water at Tanjung Aan is calm and clear, with a white sandy bottom making it fantastic for swimming. There are also perahu (local outrigger boats) available for hire, offering trips out of the bay to Batu Payung (an unusual shaped rock and local attraction) and to the nearby surf breaks.

There is a small hill towards the east end with steps cut into the side. It’s an easy climb to the top for lovely views and you can watch the surfers catching the waves offshore.

On the far western end of the beach is Bukit Merese – a larger hill and a slightly tougher climb – but worth the effort for the fantastic views from the top. It is popular in the late afternoon, when everyone climbs up to see the spectacular sunsets.

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Mawun Beach by Didik Hariadi

Perched high on the hilltop, Aura Lounge and Bar overlooks the terraced green valley across to the wide crescent of Selong Belanak Beach and beyond. It’s a breath-taking vista and one that has been attracting hundreds of guests since Aura opened.

and couches artfully arranged to take in the fabulous views.

Guests can choose from a delicious assortment of all-day snacks and meals, or pull up a stool at the stylish bar and order an icy cold beer or signature cocktail.

The outdoor viewing deck overlooks a 23m infinity pool edged in white stone where guests can relax on sun lounges or float in the cool water with the illusion of flowing out into the blue of the bay beyond.

There are both covered and outdoor options for dining at comfortable tables

Tanjung Aan Beach

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

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

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

Kuta and The South Coast

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Kuta and The South Coast

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Tourism Information

THE GILIS…

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Lombok’s Three Iconic Islands

Three perfect tropical islands – Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno and Gili Air – sit in the sparkling ocean just off the northwest coast of Lombok.

The Gilis, together with Rinjani volcano, are Lombok’s most famous icons and are consistently rated among the top destinations in S E Asia by travellers and travel publications.

Every year the Gilis attract tens of thousands of visitors from around the world for their pristine waters, great diving and laid-back charm.

The word Gili actually means “small island” in the local dialect, and so these islands have come to be known as “The Gilis” by travellers.

Today the Gilis 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.

accommodation, restaurants and bars, and tourist facilities on all three islands, with the biggest range on Gili Trawangan.

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

Activities include walking, riding bikes, horse riding and kayaking on Gili T, yoga, massage and beauty treatments, glass bottom boat trips and island hopping, liveaboard dive trips and cruises to nearby islands, fishing, sailing, surfing, SUP and all kinds of water-based activities.

There is a good selection of

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

Snorkelling from the shore is easy from each of the Gilis and at specific dive locations around the three islands, the

pristine waters are home to an abundant variety of corals and thousands of species of tropical fish.

An impressive array of aquatic life can be found here, including green and hawksbill turtles, moray eels, barracuda, reef sharks, and occasionally leopard sharks and manta rays, and more.

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

Pearl of Trawangan GIli T

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

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The GIlis

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Gili Meno by Barbara

Each Gili has developed independently and at different paces, giving each island a different “personality” or style. This means that travellers have a good choice, depending on their individual tastes and what type of island escape they prefer.

Gili Trawangan – affectionately abbreviated to ‘Gili T’ – is the most

easily reached from Bali in less than 2 hours and is only 10 minutes by speedboat from Lombok.

Tagged “the party island”, Gili T continues to cater to the party crowd but also has a cosmopolitan vibe that becomes more evident every year. TripAdvisor® recently rated it as one of the ‘Top 10 Islands in Asia’.

The island itself is around 3km long and 2km wide, so walking is easy and you can cycle around the island in around 1 ½ hours (but will need to get off and push your bike through sandy sections in the north).

developed and popular of the three Gilis, with the greatest range of facilities and activities.

It is the largest island of the three and the furthest from the mainland, but is

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.

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 busiest area on Gili T is the east coast, but Gili T’s popularity means development extends around the entire island.

Accommodation on Gili T ranges from basic budget places to mid-range and luxury hotels and private villas, so there is something for everyone.

Restaurants rival Bali in quality and choice, and there are beachside cafés galore.

Dining choices range from fresh seafood and modern healthy fare to authentic Indian, Italian and other cuisines; and from inexpensive Indonesian dishes to sophisticated fine dining.

Even the shopping scene on Gili T is starting to resemble nearby Bali and new shops are springing up almost monthly.

Shops and kiosks selling the usual sarongs and t-shirts now rub shoulders with 69 Slam, Billabong, and other brand outlets, as well as stylish little boutiques.

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The Nest underwater sculpture Gili Meno

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beaches and laid back charm – all within easy reach of the diving and activities that have made the Gilis famous.

If you base yourself on Gili Meno, it is easy to dive around the other islands and to make day trips to Gili T and Gili Air via public boats and private boat charter.

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

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

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 draw-card for the crowds of younger people who come to the island.

For those who prefer quieter entertainment, there are many low-key and romantic options, such as beachside dining, Spas, yoga retreats and more.

The busiest area, called ‘Sentral’, is on the east of the island, close to the harbour.

Here you will find the greatest number of bars and restaurants, many hotels and resorts, and lots of shops and activities.

Resorts, restaurants, dive centres, bars, shops and other businesses line the paved ‘road’ that runs around the entire coast of the island.

Small roads meander inland from the main coastal road, where many of the island’s local people live.

Home-stays, small hotels and private villas here offer a quieter (and often cheaper) alternative to the beachfront choices.

The north coast of Gili T has a quieter vibe and offers a peaceful alternative 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.

The location makes it easy to access the dining and nightlife options nearby but also offers a different, more natural side of the island.

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

The north coast boasts some beautiful quiet beaches and quality accommodation

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.

Gili Meno Gili Meno is the smallest and quietest of the three Gilis, perfect for really getting away from it all.

Located between Gili Air and Gili T, Meno has the lowest population of the three Gilis and the least number of visitors.

However, Meno’s popularity has soared over the past 5 years as travellers discover this ‘quieter Gili’ with its beautiful undeveloped

such as the luxurious Mahamaya Boutique Resort, quirky Adeng-Adeng Resort, and the elegant Seri Resort and Yoga Retreat to the northeast.

Apart from these, small hotels and bungalows provide accommodation for those seeking a peaceful place in the sun with uncrowded beaches, clean waters and peaceful nights under the star-filled skies. There is no rowdy bar scene or noisy full moon parties here.

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.

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bathing, and swimming, snorkelling and diving, free diving, Subwing, kite surfing, glass bottom boat trips, stand up paddle boarding, surfing and other water sports.

Some provide low-key entertainment in the evenings, more so in the high season, but visitors to Gili Meno largely come for romantic escapes and a chance to rejuvenate on the island’s pretty beaches.

A major attraction off the west coast is the underwater sculpture named ‘Nest’ located in the sea directly in front of BASK Resort. Snorkelling trips often include a visit to the sculpture or you can swim out to the site from the beach.

Depicting 48 life-size male and female figures, standing together in a circle and entwined together on the ground, the art installation by famous sculptor Jason deCaires Taylor is hauntingly beautiful and well worth a visit.

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

Gili Air Gili Air has a relaxed, laid-back style and is a good balance between the buzz of Gili T and the chill of Gili Meno.

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.

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

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

There is a good variety of restaurants and beachside cafés on the island, offering everything from traditional Indonesian dishes to up-market international fare, authentic Italian and other cuisines.

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. Alternatively, pull up a seat at one of the beach bars and enjoy live music by some talented local musicians.

Activities include walking and cycling around the island, sun

For exploring, there is a path running parallel to the beach and it takes around 90 minutes to circle the whole island. The interior is criss-crossed with a maze of tracks that can get confusing, but all lead back to the beach.

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 professional dive centres on the island and, of course, it is easy to explore the other islands from here.

Popular dive sites on Gili Air that attract divers from the other Gilis include 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.

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.

Other activities on the island include yoga and meditation classes, cooking classes, browsing the cute shops, relaxing massages and body treatments, and simply chilling out on a beautiful little tropical island.

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GILI ISLANDS FAST FACTS

Gili Trawangan by Barbara

Boats and Island Hopping: Gili Air, Meno and Trawangan are grouped together off the northwest coast of Lombok and only a short distance apart, so it is easy to move between the three islands.You may want to explore each island for a couple of days or base yourself on one and take day trips to the other islands.

Public boats leave from the harbours on each island with transfers to the other islands available every morning and afternoon, eg; Gili Air to Gili Meno, or Gili Air to Gili Trawangan, and vice versa.

Prices are reasonable. Purchase tickets at the ticket office located at the harbour on each island.

It is possible to charter perahu (local outrigger boats), speed boats and even glass bottom boats for exploring the islands. Bargain hard!

Electricity is fairly stable on all three Gilis, although blackouts are sometimes a problem. Most places have their own emergency generators for back-up power but smaller businesses may rely on candles and lanterns when the power goes out.

Water is a scarce resource on the islands and is supplied by desalination plants and ground water wells.Your awareness in conserving this finite resource is appreciated; take short showers and opt to reuse bedding and towels.

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

Internet is available on all three Gilis at most hotels and restaurants. Connections can be intermittent and speeds are generally slow.

All three islands have ATM machines so you don’t need to carry a lot of cash.

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.

will cost around Rp 50,000 – 100,000; depending on your bargaining skills.

Walking or riding a bike is a nicer option.

Health services on the islands are improving and there are basic medical supplies available. There are around a dozen clinics on Gili T, including a 24-hour Clinic at Hotel Vila Ombak. Gili Air also has several clinics and there are local clinics on Gili Meno.

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 culture and keep your clothes on!

Dive shop staff are also trained for emergency first aid. For anything serious, it is best to visit a hospital on the mainland (see our “Useful Contacts” page).

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

There is no motorised transport on any of the islands. Walk, ride a bicycle or catch a cidomo (local horse cart). None of the islands is very large, so walking is an easy option.

Bicycles can be hired for around Rp 50,000 per day, depending on the type and condition of the bike. Some hotels provide bikes free of charge for guests.

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.

Cidomo fares are generally expensive and rates are fixed by the koperasi on each The Gili Eco Trust (GET) is a nonprofit organisation based on Gili T that island. On Gili T, rates are displayed in the front of the cart. Generally, short distances works to protect and conserve the environment. GET activities include reef conservation, waste management and education programmes, to name a few.

The Eco Trust raises funds for its programmes through an Eco-tax collected from divers on the islands. The Trust holds regular clean-up days to collect rubbish from the beach and sea. 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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The Gilis

Tourism Information

GETTING TO THE GILIS

cost around Rp 20,000 per person.

There are 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).

Speedboat charters are available to all three islands, from around Rp 350,000 to Rp 500,000 depending on your bargaining skills and which island you are going to.

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

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

Most fast boats leave Bali from either Serangan Harbour in the south of Bali (around 30 minutes from Kuta) or from Padang Bai Harbour in East Bali (around 2 ½ hours from Kuta).

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.

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 4 metres high.

As there are so many boats to choose from, search the internet for “fast boat Gili Islands” to check other travellers’ reviews and choose a reliable operator. Avoid companies that practice “over loading” in busy times. *** Since the earthquake in August, fast boat services have resumed to the Gili Islands. Blue Water Express, Gili Getaway, Eka Jaya Fast Boat, Patagonia Xpress, Ganggari, Golden Queen, and Freebird Express (from Amed) are all operating daily transfers now.

More operators are expected to resume their routes this month.

Blue Water Express is one of the longest running and most reliable fast boat operators travelling between Bali and Lombok.

Blue Water Express has services between Bali, Gili T, Gili Air and mainland Lombok, with convenient departures from two different locations on Bali – Serangan and Padang Bai Harbour – every day. Fares include air conditioned hotel transfers in Bali. Ph: +62 361 895 1111 | +62 813 3841 8988. www.bluewater-express.com

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Gili Getaway is a comfortable fast boat departing from Serangan Harbour daily. Gili Getaway provides transfers to Gili T, Gili Air, Bangsal Harbour (on Lombok), as well as to Gili Gede in Southwest Lombok.

Fares include air conditioned hotel transfers to main points in Bali. Ph: +62 811 380 1717 | +62 813 3707 4147. www.giligetaway.com

By Plane: Fly to Lombok and either stay on the mainland before making a trip out to the Gilis or travel to Senggigi (around 1 hour) to arrange transport to the Gilis.

Alternatively, organize a taxi or private driver from the airport to Bangsal Harbour (approx 1 hour 45 minutes). There are many different options, as described below.

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

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

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

Bangsal.

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

FROM BANGSAL HARBOUR: Catch a taxi to Bangsal Harbour, the small harbour on the northwest coast, about 30 minutes from Senggigi (and a few minutes north of Teluk Nara).

Public boats depart regularly to each of the three islands and charters are available, with prices depending on the number of passengers and your bargaining skills.

Public ferries operate from 8am – 5pm; but it’s best to get there in the morning and

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 displayed 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 2pm. If you don’t want to wait, or if the public boat looks dangerously overloaded, you may want 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 Bungalows is a nice option with pretty rooms at reasonable prices. The attached Salero Minang restaurant serves delicious Minang meals and the friendly owners can help with everything from vehicle hire to travel information and laundry services.

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

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

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

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

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The Gilis

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