text:
Issue 132 | 7 – 21 January 2013
LOMBOK GUIDE ( 0370 6594005 | www.thelombokguide.com LOMBOK IS SET FOR 2013
BALI TO SENGGIGI IN 45 MINUTES
CHRISTMAS AT ASMARA
Page 10, 16 & 24
IN THIS ISSUE Getting to Lombok
Attractions & Actitvities
Special Feature Page 10/16 Senggigi
Special Feature Page 24 Local Scene
In Good Taste
Kuta & The South Coast
South Coast Map
PUBLISHED BI-WEEKLY IN LOMBOK, FOR LOMBOK SHAGS BOXING DAY TOURNAMENT
The Beach Club
LOMBOK WELCOMES 2013!
What a wonderful start to the New Year it was in Lombok! As we said goodbye to 2012 and welcomed 2013, thousands of people flocked to our island to celebrate the holidays, with many reporting the busiest festive season ever! With the coming year looking optimistic for Lombok, there’s every reason to expect this will be an exceptional year in terms of tourism and investment. Oh well… we know we can’t keep paradise a secret forever! To find out more, pick up a copy of The Lombok Guide from the locations listed on page 67 or visit www.thelombokguide.com and discover the magic of Lombok for yourself…
Useful Contacts Page 77 The Gilis
Gilis Fast Facts Page 81 Getting to the Gilis
like thousands of others, you’ll be enchanted! ...Life is Good!
+62 (0) 370 614 2352 | email@example.com | www.beachhousegilit.com
GETTING TO LOMBOK
GETTING TO LOMBOK
Garuda Airlines flies between Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia and Lombok every day, with a short stop-over in Jakarta. It’s easy to get to Lombok from Bali – flight time is only 25 minutes Call Centre: 0 80 418 07807. Airport: +62 370 649100. and fares start from around Rp 300,000 (approx. US $33) one way. www.garuda-indonesia.com Buy tickets direct from the airline counters at the domestic airports, DOMESTIC FLIGHTS or contact local travel agents, in both Bali and Lombok. European connections are easy via Jakarta (the capital city of Lombok International Airport (or Bandara Internasional Lombok, Java) or Bali. Direct flights from Jakarta to Lombok are available commonly abbreviated to BIL) is the only airport on Lombok. The every day and are usually timed to connect with European flights. airport is close to Praya (Central Lombok); approximately 40km Lombok is easily accessible from Jakarta, Bali, Jogjakarta and south of the city of Mataram, and around 1 ½ hours’ drive from Surabaya and is an important connection for travel to the eastern Senggigi, and 25 minutes from Kuta. islands, in particular Sumbawa, Komodo and Flores. Airport departure tax is Rp 25,000 for domestic departures and Rp Garuda Indonesia has direct flights between Lombok, Bali, 100,000 for international departures. Surabaya, Makassar and Jakarta every day, Call Centre: 0 804 1
BALI TO LOMBOK BY AIR
In Lombok, flights depart and arrive at Lombok International Airport. In Bali, flights arrive and depart at Ngurah Rai (Denpasar) Domestic Airport. Garuda Airlines has direct flights between Lombok, Bali and Jakarta every day, Call Centre: 0 804 1 807 807, Sales Office: +62 370-642303, 649999. www.garuda-indonesia.com
807 807, Sales Office : +62 370 642303, 649999. www.garudaindonesia.com Lion Air has daily flights between Lombok, Bali, Jakarta and Surabaya. Ph: +62 370 664009. www.lionair.co.id Merpati Airlines has flights available between Lombok, Bali, Bima, Dili, Bandung, Flores and Kupang. Lombok, ph: +62 370 621111. www.merpati.co.id
Trans Nusa Air flies between Lombok, Sumbawa and Bima once Merpati Airlines flies direct between Bali and Lombok four times a a day. Lombok, ph: +62 370 624555. www.transnusa.co.id day. Lombok, ph: +62 370 621111, Airport: +62 370 633637 / +62 Batavia Air has flights between Lombok, Surabaya and Jakarta 87864253577. Bali, ph: +62 361 420999. www.merpati.co.id every day. Lombok, +62 804 1 222 888 / +62 21 38 999 888. Trans Nusa Air operates two flights between Bali and Lombok www.batavia-air.co.id daily. Lombok, ph: +62 370 624555. Bali, ph: +62 361 8477395. Sky Aviation offers flights to remote and difficult to get to www.transnusa.co.id destinations, including Labuhan Bajo on Flores, Batam, Lion Air flies between Bali and Lombok with three flights daily. Pekanbaru, Jambi and more. Ph: +62 370 630787 or see their The company share-codes with Wings Air, so you may purchase a website for full details. www.sky-aviation.co.id Lion Air ticket and find yourself on a Wings Air flight! Lombok, Call BALI TO LOMBOK BY SEA Centre: +62 80 4177 8899. Bali, ph: +62 361 765132. www.lionair. Padang Bai Harbour (Bali) provides the sea link between mainland co.id Bali and Lombok. Lembar Harbour (Lombok) is on the southwest Sky Aviation operates morning and afternoon flights between coast, approx. 1 hour south of Senggigi, Lombok. Bali and Lombok every day. The company also offers private Arrange your own transport and buy tickets direct from the charter flights between the islands, as well as other destinations throughout Indonesia. Lombok, ph: +62 370 630 787. Bali, ph: +62 harbours, or use a reputable tour company to provide a transfer service. 361 936 8320. www.sky-aviation.co.id Public Ferries depart every hour for the sea voyage between INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS Padang Bai Harbour (Bali) and Lembar Harbour (Lombok). Lombok International Airport (IATA: LOP) has full Visa on Arrival The crossing between the islands costs Rp 36,000 per person and facilities, with fast and efficient visa processing. +62 370 622987 takes approx. 4 to 5 hours. Lembar Harbour ph: +62 370 681 209. FREE +62 370 622987 Padang Bai Harbour ph: (+62 363) 41849 / 41840 Silk Air (a subsidiary of Singapore Airlines) flies direct between Lombok and Singapore, three times per week. Lombok, ph: +62 370 628254 / 628255. www.silkair.com Air Asia operates direct flights between Lombok and Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia three times per week (Wednesday, Friday and Sunday). www.airasia.com
FAST BOATS There are now numerous “fast boat” services operating between Bali and Lombok. Most serve Gili Trawangan, but several also call at Teluk Kodek on mainland Lombok, making fast boats from Lombok to Bali (and vice versa) an option to flying. See the “Getting to the Gilis” section for details.
HOT TASTE, COOL VENUE
The Perfect Place to Wine & Dine in Lombok Senggigi Square Blok B-10, Jl. Raya Senggigi, Lombok, Indonesia Ph: +62 370 6644 888, 693 688 | Fax: +62 370 623 975 firstname.lastname@example.org | www.squarelombok.com
ATTRACTIONS & ACTIVITIES Getting around Lombok is easy by car or motorbike and you can hire these in all the main tourism areas, with an International Drivers License. The roads are generally in good condition and traffic is light. Alternatively, hire a car and driver for exploring or take part in the tours and day trips offered by the many tour agencies on the island.
Climbing Mt Rinjani by Iwan Haryanto
Mawun Beach by Barbara
all three islands are well served by professional dive operators who offer full PADI certification courses, day and night dives to the many sites around the Gilis, as well as specialised courses and live-aboard adventures to exotic locations. For the more adventurous, there is superb diving around the islands off the southwest coast, as well as near Kuta on the south coast and the small uninhabited islands off the east coast.
The whole island is surrounded by fantastic beaches, most of which are covered in clean white sand and fringed by coconut palms. Drive just north of Senggigi to Malimbu or Nipah and enjoy deserted beaches with fine snorkelling and swimming. The southwest coast also has fine beaches, especially around Sekotong and Taun.
Lombok is becoming a world-renown surfing destination amongst surf enthusiasts world-wide. Huge waves and challenging surf lure die-hards to BangkoBangko (also known as Desert Point) on the south-western tip of Lombok.
Visit the small island of Gili Nanggu for rustic accommodation and great snorkelling just off shore or stay at Secret Island Resort on Gili Gede to explore the twelve other undeveloped islands in the southwest. The beaches around Kuta are breathtakingly beautiful. Visit Gerupuk for fantastic scenery, Kuta for long stretches of white sand and turquoise waters, or swim in the peaceful lagoon at Mawun.
Here you can hire a board, get board repairs and take surf lessons from the professionals.
DIVING With so many beaches and small islands, Lombok offers a myriad of diving and snorkelling opportunities. The best known locations are around the Gili islands - Gili Air, Gili Meno and Gili Trawangan. Snorkelling is easy from the shore and
Kuta, on the south coast, is surf-central and has a range of accommodations and services catering specially to surfers.
The waves at Gerupuk and Kuta offer a variety of challenges from beginners to sheer madness! Ekas Bay has two surf breaks: Inside Ekas and Outside Ekas, which are suitable for beginners to experts, depending on different peaks and tides.
TREKKING Much of the island is still covered by natural rain forest and jungles, making Lombok ideal for ecotourism and adventure tours. There are a number of spectacular waterfalls on the island which provide lovely trekking opportunities, whether travelling independently or as part of a tour. Sendang Gile on the slope of Mt Rinjani in the north is an easily accessible waterfall in a stunning jungle setting and popular with visitors. Air Jeruk Manis, near Tetebatu is reached by walking through pretty rice fields and forests. The awesome Benang Stokel and Benang Kelambu waterfalls, in central Lombok, are located within a short trek of each other and make a perfect day trip for those who appreciate truly magical natural surroundings.
k o - k o - mo G I L I T R AWA N G A N R E S O R T
Get there fast, then take it slow...
Private Luxury Villas and Fine Dining Restaurant Email: email@example.com Tel: +62 (0)370 614 4169 | Fax: +62 (0)370 614 9365 | Mob: +62 (0)813 3974 7459
On the beach at the Jetty... your Gili T holiday begins and ends here! Clean and comfortable twin and double rooms with air conditioning, 60 channel satellite television, in-room safe, fully stocked mini bar and private bathrooms with fresh hot water. 60sqm fresh water swimming pool and separate kiddies pool. Beachfront bar and restaurant serving quality Indonesian and International meals and snacks all day
The Jetty, â€˜Sentralâ€™, Gili Trawangan | Phone: 0370 6138513 firstname.lastname@example.org | www.gilitresort.com
ATTRACTIONS & ACTIVITIES Aik Kalaq (Hot Spring Water) near Segara Anak Lake at Mt Rinjani by Koes Nadi
animist statues remain today. Perang Topat, is an annual festival held at Lingsar and features a ritualised war with rice cakes, which also serve as an offering to the Gods.
MOUNTAIN CLIMBING Mt Rinjani, Lombok’s famous volcano, soars 3726 m above sea level and is the second highest volcano in Indonesia, attracting thousands of trekkers and climbers annually. The huge crater near the top contains a beautiful lake, Danau Segara Anak (Child of the Sea Lake) and a smaller volcanic cone, Gunung Baru Jari, which was formed a couple of hundred years ago. There are a number of caves, small waterfalls and hot springs located around the volcano. In 2004 Rinjani won the World Legacy Award and the volcano is recognised internationally as an important eco-tourism destination. Two, three and four day treks on the volcano are offered by tour companies and trek organisers in all the main resort areas of Lombok.
HISTORIC SITES & TEMPLES There are a number of interesting temples around the west coast, many of which are Hindu or ancient animist sites of worship. Pura Lingsar is possibly the only place in the world where Hindus and Moslems come together to pray and celebrate. Built around 1714, Pura Lingsar was originally based on the prevailing animist beliefs of the time, and some of the original
Pura Narmada (or Narmada Temple), around 10 km east of Cakranegara in Narmada, was created circa 1805 as a replica of Gunung Rinjani and Segara Anak, the lake within Rinjani’s crater. The gardens at Narmada are beautifully maintained and surround the pools and lake. Pura Suranadi, a complex of three temples located a few kilometres north of Narmada in Suranadi, is the oldest and holiest of the Balinese temples in Lombok, founded by the 16th-century Javanese priest, Danghyang Nirartha. Underground streams bubble up into restored baths, used for ritual bathing. Huge sacred eels live in the pools and streams here, and can sometimes be lured out with an offering of boiled eggs (purchased at a nearby stall). To see a sacred eel is considered very lucky!
HANDICRAFT VILLAGES Lombok is famous for its traditional earthenware pottery made from local clay with distinctive “Lombok primitive” designs. You can also purchase hand-woven sarongs and fabrics (ikat). Pringgasela in central Lombok is a small village which is steeped in tradition and is a
major centre for weaving ikat. Visit the small houses and shops here to purchase traditionally woven, colourful fabrics. Masbagik, close to Pringgasela, is a small pottery village. Wander the streets and see the pottery being made in the small yards behind the simple homes here and purchase the wares for amazingly cheap prices. Sukarara is 5 km to the west of Praya, heading south towards Kuta. This is a weaving village where quality ikat and traditional cloth is displayed and sold. Weavers work outside many of the shops, using antiquated “back strap looms” to painstakingly produce works of art. Some of the larger pieces can take several months to weave, and collectors from around the world visit this village to purchase the blankets, sarongs and cloth produced here. Banyumulek, easily reached on the road south to Lembar Harbour, is an important centre for pottery on Lombok. The small village is packed with shops selling pottery produced in the area, as well as from the other main pottery-making villages such as Penujak and Masbagik. Lombok pottery, with its distinctive terracotta styles, has become famous internationally and is exported throughout the world. Pura Suranadi (Suranadi Temple) by Barbara
LOMBOK IS SET FOR 2013
As a new year begins, it is time to reflect on the changes 2012 brought to Lombok and to speculate about what the coming year may hold for our beautiful island. The Lombok International Airport opened to mixed reactions on 1 October 2011 but has come into its own during 2012. Most travellers rate Lombok’s airport experience as efficient and hasslefree (particularly in comparison to the mess at Bali’s Ngurah Rai airport over the past year!) Domestic flight connections have increased during 2012 with Garuda Airlines adding direct flights between Lombok with Makassar (formerly Ujang Pandang) in Sulawesi, and Surabaya in Java, in addition to existing flights to Jakarta and Bali daily. Numerous other airlines provide daily flights between Bali and Lombok, as well as other Indonesian destinations, making access to Lombok very easy. International Flights: The big news for 2012 was the commencement of direct Kuala Lumpur - Lombok flights by lowcost carrier, Air Asia in October 2012. Attracting another international airline is seen as a major boost to developing
tourism in Lombok and will give other airlines the confidence to follow. Air Asia flights through Kuala Lumpur connect throughout south-east Asia and include China, the Middle East, Australia, and Europe. This means that tourists from all over the world can fly to Lombok through Kuala Lumpur; very important for our developing tourism industry. Air Asia is currently operating three flights per week between Lombok and the Malaysian capital (also the hub for Air Asia headquarters) and reports good passenger numbers. The airline has said it plans to increase flight frequency to every day in 2013. Silk Air (the domestic subsidiary of Singapore Airlines) continues to operate three direct flights per week between Lombok and Singapore – another important connection not only for Singaporean tourists, but also for those coming from Europe and other destinations who can enjoy a Singapore stopover en route to Lombok. Earlier in the year, Silk Air proposed increasing their flight frequency to five times per week. The proposal was rejected by the government amidst dismay and
disbelief from the tourism industry and rumours of political manoeuvrings by Garuda – the national airline. Rumours continue that Garuda will announce direct Lombok – Singapore flights in 2013. Garuda are also currently in discussions to recommence their flights between Bali and Darwin, in the Northern Territory, Australia. We wouldn’t be surprised if the airline is also exploring a Perth - Lombok connection in the coming year. Air Asia have also been hinting at direct Australian flights since they commenced operating out of Lombok International Airport and a direct flight between Perth and Lombok seems likely in the future. International Tourism continues to increase, with international arrival figures showing steady growth over the past five years. In early 2012, the NTB Government and the Department of Tourism kicked off their “Visit Lombok & Sumbawa 2012” campaign, aimed at attracting one million visitors to Lombok and Sumbawa in 2012 and claims to have exceeded this target by November 2012. Better access to Lombok from domestic and international flights, a large number of fast boat services already operating between Bali and Lombok, and the island’s inclusion on a growing number of cruise ship and sailing itineraries, all bode well for tourism growth in 2013. Property and Investment: 2012 continued the accelerated growth trend seen in 2011, with land prices doubling in some areas. Good news for investors who got in early!
Nipah Beach, West Lombok
Local investment has been strong for a number of years but we are seeing increasing interest from Bali. With land prices in Bali continuing to spiral, and the scarcity of land available in soughtafter areas, more investors are turning to Lombok as the “next best thing”. Continued on Page 16
WEST COAST RESORT
Senggigi Bay by Iwan Haryanto
Malimbu by Koes Nadi
Just over one hour from Lombok International Airport, Senggigi is the main tourism centre on Lombok and, apart from the Gili islands, the most developed tourism area on Lombok. The town of Senggigi is about 10 km north of Ampenan, and about 30 minutes drive from Teluk Nara and Bangsal – the harbours to the Gili Islands. Nowhere near as large or as busy as its Bali counterparts, Senggigi is a great base for exploring the rest of the island. The pace is laid-back, with activities centred on the beaches and day trips to places of interest, which are all within a few hours drive from the town. At night, Jalan Raya Senggigi (the main street) comes alive. Dine in the many restaurants catering to all tastes and budgets, listen to live music at the bars, or dance the night away at the nightclubs. Senggigi Beach is the large bay that forms the centre of Senggigi, with the main road running parallel to the beach, and large resorts occupying the space between. The Senggigi Beach Hotel, Santosa Villas and Resort, and the Sheraton Senggigi Resort all line the curved bay of Senggigi Beach and offer a full range of resort facilities, equally attractive for singles, couples and families. The beachfront is currently undergoing “revitalisation” by the West Lombok Tourism Department, which threatens to ruin the natural beauty of the beach. It can become very crowded and is best avoided on Sundays and public holidays. However, many more beautiful beaches exist just minutes away to the north. One of the most spectacular sights on the island is the sunset viewed from Senggigi Beach, with the bright orange sun sinking into the sea to the west and Bali’s Gunung Agung volcano silhouetted on the horizon
like a giant pyramid floating in the ocean. Senggigi Reef, off the southern point, has good coral for snorkelling and, in the right conditions, some decent surf breaks. Canoes can be hired from the beach on the weekends and during peak tourism times. Local outrigger boats (prahu) can be chartered from the beachfront for trips along the coast or out to the Gili Islands. The main road in Senggigi is lined with small attractive hotels catering to all budgets, shops, tour agencies, restaurants, bars and nightclubs; many of which have live music in the evenings. There are a couple of supermarkets, numerous ATM’s and moneychangers, a post office and all the normal tourist facilities. Senggigi is a relaxing and attractive place to stay, with a good range of luxury hotels and resorts, as well as mid-range and budget accommodations. Tourism development runs north along the coastal road for about 10 km, with many hotels and restaurants positioned along the beautiful beaches that line the entire west coast. About 2 km north of central Senggigi Kerandangan Valley has a popular beach nearby and some small boutique hotels, such as Puri Mas Spa Resort and Villa Campi Sorga, situated in a pretty valley. Dream Estate Park comprises private villa accommodation for owners and investors, and has villas available for short and long term rental in a secure, well-managed estate. At the end of the road through Kerandangan Valley is the Taman Wisata Alam – Kerandangan Nature Reserve – with clearly marked hiking paths leading through the rain forest along the river. There is a small Ranger’s hut and visitors centre near the entrance, and picnic areas with basic concrete tables along the paths.
The park boasts a small waterfall, pretty river scenery, families of local monkeys, and a variety of tropical plants and birdlife. Further north, Mangsit has developed as an accommodation alternative to Senggigi, with boutique style hotels positioned along the breathtaking beaches of this section of coast. The popular Qunci Villas, Puri Mas Beach Resort, Windy Beach Resort and Holiday Resort Lombok are located in Mangsit. Furthest north are Klui and Lendang Luar, with two hotels – Jeeva Klui and Hotel Bulan Baru – and long stretches of pristine beaches. Mainly deserted white sand beaches, flanked by coconut groves and untouched by hotel development, continue all the way north along the main coastal road. Malimbu and Nipah are two picturesque bays less than half an hour from Senggigi, which are good for snorkelling, swimming and getting away from it all. Teluk Nara and Teluk Kodek are on a large bay that forms a natural harbour, about 25 kms north of Senggigi. All the main dive operators have boats here, which transfer guests to the Gili islands, as an alternative to nearby Bangsal Harbour. Bangsal Harbour, less than 5km further north, is reached by turning left at the crossroads in Pemenang and from there it is easy to catch the public ferries (actually large outrigger boats) out to the Gilis, or to charter boats for island hopping. Whether you are seeking luxury accommodation at a top resort with fine dining and spa facilities, or a budget holiday with days spent exploring – or all the choices in between – Senggigi caters for all tastes and budgets. From Senggigi, it’s easy to explore the attractions of the stunning south coast or to hop on a boat to the famous Gili islands lying just offshore. Swim, snorkel, dive, hike, lie in the sun, have a massage, eat and drink at some of the great restaurants and bars in town; or just take a break and be enchanted by the peace and beauty of Lombok.
The Beach Club Beach Bungalows, Bar & Café
TWO PERFECT BEACH LOCATIONS IN LOMBOK!
er, dvd, front bungalows with AC, hot wat Senggigi - Comfortable beach Senggigi! mming pool. 5 minutes walk from satellite TV, private balcony and swi
Gili Air - Comfortable Bungalows with AC, Fres h Hot Water Showers, Balcony and Day Bed with views of Gili’s fantastic white sandy beaches – perfect for snorkelling – just steps from your room!
Jl. Raya Senggigi, Batu Bolong | Ph/Fax: +62 (0) 370 693637 M: +62 (0) 818 0520 8807 | E: email@example.com
LOMBOK IS SET FOR 2013
introduction of a direct BaliSenggigi boat service by Marina Srikandi, all provide attractive options to travellers.
Continued from Page 10
While the airport certainly makes tourism in the south more accessible, it will take some time to develop the necessary infrastructure to support mass tourism, whereas Senggigi already has a strong infrastructure in place. Gili Trawangan
So strong is the demand, several wellknown Bali-based real estate agents have opened branches in Lombok in the past six months, including Ray White, Elite Havens, and Exotiq Real Estate.
to redesign the project, as the proposed subdivision was too large, with individual holdings of tens to hundreds of hectares; restricting development to only large investors and large-scale developments.
The South Coast: The airport’s location at Tanak Awu, just 15 minutes’ drive northwest of the resort area of Kuta, has opened up the south coast for tourism and the region is slated for rapid expansion in the coming year.
The government wants more land available in parcels of various sizes, thus providing the opportunity for small and medium investors to participate in the development.
Many new businesses and development projects have sprung up in Kuta and surrounds over the past year and many more are expected to open in 2013. Tanjung Ocean View, Kuta Heights Development, Bali Land & Villas, and Elevations Estate all have projects underway on the south coast. Bali-based property agent, Ray White Real Estate has recently joined forces with Lombok-based builder and property developer KutaCon, with an office in Kuta. The increased interest in the area has already sparked an investment boom which has extended to the beautiful beaches to the east and west of Kuta. A major project by a Swiss developer is planned for the remote Tanjung Ringgit peninsular and Jeeva Beloam (partner to the successful Jeeva Klui Resort near Senggigi) recently opened here.
Although it means an extra wait, we believe the decision shows good sense by the government and allows for a greater, more diverse range of investments. Large-scale developments often take years to manifest whereas, with a greater diversity of land packages available, expect to see smaller projects commenced during 2013. Senggigi and the West Coast: While some speculated that the relocation of the Lombok International Airport to the south of the island would negatively affect tourism on the west coast, this has been far from the case. Although the transfer time from the airport is now over an hour, a number of fast boat operators from Bali offer transfers to mainland Lombok and the recent
Investment along the west coast continues to be strong, with very little land available in a 10 kilometre strip both north and south of Senggigi. Development now stretches as far north as the small harbour at Teluk Nara with the beaches at Malimbu and Nipah, as well as the hillside development at Mentigi Bay, attracting investors. The trend continues to be boutique resort and villa development, with highly successful boutique resorts such as Qunci Villas, Jeeva Klui and Puri Mas all reporting high occupancies year-round. Qunci Villas extended their two separate properties to create one unified resort along the Mangsit beachfront in March 2012, while Living Asia opened their Lendang Luar resort at the end of 2012. A drive along the coast road from Senggigi to Setanggi shows many areas of the 7km strip currently under development with new resorts and boutique accommodations due to open in coming months. The Gili Islands, off the northwest coast, continue to be the biggest asset to tourism in Lombok and attract tens of thousands of visitors to Lombok every year. The opening of the international airport has impacted on transport services, with fast boat operators reaping the benefits!
The much talked about Mandalika Resort tourism development area, comprising around 1200 hectares of pristine south coast property and being developed by the Bali Tourism Development Corporation (BTDC), will almost inevitably be finalised this year.
So many fast boat companies commenced service in 2012 it is almost impossible to count them all. Very few people travelling to the Gilis use the airport anymore, as fast boats link the islands to Bali in around 1 and 1/2 hours. Some even advertise the Gilis as being islands off Bali!
Progress was stalled in 2012 by a number of issues, including finalising land acquisition and documentation relating to environmental impact studies, as well as an application for special zoning permission from the Ministry of Economic Affairs, which would allow investors special long-term lease arrangements over the land. The application was rejected by the Ministry and BTDC have been ordered
The range of accommodation available, together with facilities such as restaurants, bars, banks, ATM’s, tour and travel agencies – plus Senggigi’s convenient location for exploring other areas of the island – assures the future viability of the tourism resort.
Gili Trawangan has come a long way from the thatched huts and beach bars that drew crowds of backpackers during the 80’s and 90’s. Whether you love it or hate it, the new and sophisticated Gili T continues to evolve. Qunci Villas
Continued on Page 24
DREAM DIVERS DREAM IT... DO IT
DREAM DIVERS have been Lombok diving specialists since 1996. Our PADI 5 Star facilities on Gili Trawangan (also home to the DREAM DIVERS Bungalows, Bar & Restaurant),Gili Air and in Senggigi, on mainland Lombok, offer fun diving for everyone and diving courses for all age groups and skill levels - from ‘Discover Scuba Diver’ to ‘Dive Instructor’. MORE THAN JUST A DIVE CENTER! Our staff is ready to ensure that you experience a really great holiday. We can arrange snorkel trips, accommodation, domestic flights, transport, sightseeing tours, diving in South Lombok, Komodo or Bali, and much, much more. Let us help you make your stay unforgettable. Nothing is impossible - DREAM IT…DO IT! For our Senggigi based guests we offer daily transport & dive trips over to the Gili Islands, including a pick up from your hotel.
HEAD OFFICE SENGGIGI: Ph 0370 692 047 | Fax 0370 693 738 | Gili Trawangan: 0370 6134 496 | Gili Air: 0370 634 547 www.dreamdivers.com | firstname.lastname@example.org
BALI TO SENGGIGI IN 45 MINUTES “Beginning in February, Bali Cahaya Tours will open Lombok as a destination for its large Chinese market. Chinese tourists will be offered sightseeing trips to Lombok onboard Marina Srikandi 8,” Pak Jelantik said. At the launch, the company demonstrated how the low draft of the vessel allowed Marina Srikandi 8 to moor in front of the Sheraton and passengers were able board directly from the beach. A floating jetty has been constructed near the existing jetty on Senggigi Beach to allow easy boarding during difficult sea conditions.
The launch of the new Marina Srikandi Fast Boat service between Bali and Lombok was held on 18 December at the Sheraton Senggigi Beach Resort. The official launch ceremony was attended by over 300 members of the travel and tourism industry, including around 180 agents from Bali who arrived at Senggigi Beach onboard two of the Marina Srikandi fast boats. Marina Srikandi announced at the launch that they would immediately begin operating a direct service between Padang Bai Harbour (Bali) and Senggigi (Lombok), with Lombok departures and arrivals from Senggigi Beach. The company already operates two daily fast boats between Bali and the Gili Islands with an 80 passenger capacity. For the Senggigi route, the company will use the latest boat to join their fleet – the Marina Srikandi 8 – a super-fast vessel with a capacity for 138 passengers. Marina Srikandi 8 currently operates twice daily, with morning and afternoon transfers available from Senggigi. Mr. Mulyadi, President Director of PT Marina Srikandi and Bali Cahaya Tours, said the decision to create direct access to Senggigi from Bali was intended to bring more tourists to Senggigi, the main hub for tourism on the west coast of Lombok. He cited the high popularity of the Gili Islands and pointed to the number of fast boats operating services between Bali and the Gilis as being directly responsible for the rapid growth of tourism on the islands.
The Marina Srikandi 8 is powered by 8 x 300hp Suzuki engines and has a cruising speed of 50 knots. The company says that it can make the 62km sea crossing between Bali and Lombok in around 45 minutes, which was confirmed in the inaugural crossing on 18 December. Speaking at the launch, Sales and Marketing Manager for the Sheraton Senggigi Beach Resort, Pak Jelantik, said, “This fast boat service offers a speedier connection between Bali and Lombok, as an alternative to the slow public ferry crossing or to flying. With the new Lombok International Airport located more than an hour’s drive south of Senggigi, this is an ideal alternative for tourists wanting to stay in Senggigi and explore Lombok.” Marina Srikandi plans to increase their service to four times a day in January 2013.
Onboard the vessel has comfortable aircraft style seating, is fully air conditioned, has an onboard monitor displaying safety features and instructions for passenger’s peace of mind, and is equipped with life rafts and safety vests. As part of its opening promotions, the company is offering incredibly low introductory fares of just Rp 250,000 per person one way. Ticket price includes free shuttle services in Bali, including Denpasar, Sanur, Nusa Dua, Kuta and Ubud. Lombok passengers will be served by a shuttle to all Senggigi resorts, and De Bakoel Restaurant in Mataram will be the pick up and drop-off point in the city, to encourage local travellers to use the service. The Senggigi office is located at Senggigi Plaza A3, Jalan Pantai Senggigi (the small road leading to Senggigi Beach). For more information, visit their website at: www.marinasrikandi.com
“De Quake is One of the Most Enjoyable Places to Eat in Senggigi” – The Lonely Planet
Lunch daily 11am - 3pm Freshly baked breads and homemade pastas, delicious sandwiches, salads and burgers
Dinner from 4pm til late Fine cuisine and fresh ingredients Steak, seafood, pasta and Asian specialties
Art Market Senggigi, Lombok +62 370 693694
Italian Beachfront Restaurant Delicious Fresh Seafood, Authentic Italian Dishes Oriental Food, Barbecue on the Beach Wood Oven Pizza, Homemade Pasta and Italian Bread
Jl. Raya Batu Bolong, Senggigi | Phone: 0370 693039 / 693313 email@example.com | www.cafealbertolombok.com • Imported Meats, incl Harvey Beef • Home-baked Breads, Cakes & Pastries • Dairy – Yoghurt, Cheeses, Butter, Cream • Wide Range of Imported Products • Open Every Day for your Convenience!
Ask us about our Catering Services, Wedding & Birthday Cakes! Jl Palm Raja No 5, BTN Green Valley, Senggigi. Phone: 0370 693251
New Culinary Excellence at Sheraton Senggigi Beach Resort Change is in the air. New menus and culinary delights to tempt all palates. New Tapas at our Sunset Bar. A new approach to cuisine, using the freshest local ingredients prepared with international excellence. Because you donâ€™t just wine and dine in paradise... You belong.
Book now at firstname.lastname@example.org or call +62 370 693 333
22 OPEN 9am to 10pm 7 Days a Week
Try our home-cooked foods without MSG: fresh garden salad, chicken sandwiches and chicken burgers, spaghetti bolognese, spring rolls, fresh salsa, Indonesian soto and nasi goreng, or our delicious burgers with the meat patty made from fillet steak and based on a Slavic “cevapcici” recipe
While you’re eating delicious food in the Warung, drop into the Deli which sells a range of handy products such as Imported goods, pastas, herbs, cooking oils, lentils, nuts, butter, cheeses, jams and sauces, Lindt chocolates, juices, and fresh vegetables
All from Rp 15,000 to Rp 30,000!
Fresh Salads Garden
Jl Raya Senggigi (Between Rambo Petshop & Papa Besar Cafe) | Phone: 0370 693177
Complete pet supplies in Senggigi! We carry a large selection of quality Dog and Cat Foods Pet Accessories (Collars, leads, cages, bowls, toys, etc) Pet Care Products (Vitamins, shampoos, flea and tick powders, coat conditioners and pet medicines) Hamster and fish foods and more!
Open 7 days a week
Jl Raya Senggigi (next to Deli Senggigi)
Phone: 0370 693177
Windy Beach Resort “Next to Nature”
Mangsit, Senggigi, Lombok | Phone: 0370 693191 | Fax: 0370 693193 Email: email@example.com | Web: www.windybeach.com
LOMBOK IS SET FOR 2013 Continued from Page 16
Land prices have soared on the island and development has now extended to the previously quiet south and west coasts, as well as the small hill on the island.
development to the north and another development planned for the west coast, as well as numerous smaller places popping up all around the island.
With new construction continuing monthly and the demand for accommodation ever on the rise, there is no doubt Gili T will remain the most popular of the Gilis in 2013.
Gili Meno lends itself to “green” development and private villas, rather than large scale commercialism, and we expect more private villas and small boutique hotels to spring up on the island in 2013.
Gili Meno has always been known as the quiet island, between Gili Trawangan and Gili Air, but the island has quietly been doing quite a lot of growing over the past year as astute investors recognize the appeal of this island’s lovely deserted beaches and close proximity to the other two Gilis.
Gili Air was once overshadowed by Gili Trawangan, but has steadily attracted its own fan-base over the years and is now coming into its own.
Mahamaya Boutique Resort, which opened in 2012, lifted the standard of accommodation on the island with an upmarket beachfront restaurant and two contemporary villas on the north coast. Pool suites are due to open in early 2013. Other projects are already underway, including a large investment villa
Mahamaya on Gili Meno
Easily accessed from mainland Lombok and with stunning white sand beaches and turquoise waters, Gili Air is now the laidback alternative to the more fast-paced Gili T and has much of that island’s charm of ten years ago. Accommodation has increased quickly over the past year, with a good selection of mid-range places and upmarket rooms and villas now available, supplementing the simple backpacker accommodation that previously dominated the island. The owners of the popular Senggigi resort, The Beach Club, opened new accommodation with a beachfront bar and restaurant on the island in 2012 and there seem to be new places opening every month. A better quality of accommodation has made the island more appealing to the middle market and attracted a different crowd to Gili Air. As the island continues to grow in popularity, this is an island to watch in 2013.
[ Fine Wining and Dining on the Beachfront ]
C o c k t a i l & Ta p a s L o u n g e Lonely Planet: â€œThis terrific, hip hotel-restaurant has a well-selected modern menu [and] is an incredibly romantic settingâ€?
[ Yo u r K e y t o a n I d y l l i c L o m b o k ]
Jl. Raya Mangsit, Senggigi, Lombok | Phone: +62 370 693800, Fax: +62 370 693802 Email: firstname.lastname@example.org | Website: www.quncivillas.com
CHRISTMAS BRUNCH @ ASMARA Families and friends enjoyed a traditional Christmas at Asmara Restaurant with roast turkey, a visit from Santa Claus, door prizes and beautiful Christmas of the Santa Monica Choir
ISLAND PROPERTIES LOMBOK Real Estate Specialists
GOLONG This magnificent Villa is nestled on the par 8 of the famous world class GEC Rinjani Golf Course and Country Club. 3 large bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms, fantastic living and entertaining areas. This is the golfers dream getaway and / or family retreat. This property is available for US $200,000 or 4 x US $50,000 Shared Ownership.
THE RESIDENCES KERANDANGAN 2 or 3 bedroom luxury Villas nestled in a beautiful green belt, next to a National Park. European design and western quality construction. The most exciting development in Lombok DON’T MISS OUT!!!
KERANDANGAN This 3 Bedroom stunning villa is the ultimate in contempory sophisticated living. Includes separate guest house, lap pool, and massive outdoor entertaining all on 40 spacious are (4000sqm). CALL US TO INSPECT TODAY.
VILLA LOCO This impressive contempory Villa has amazing Views overlooking Senggigi bay. Designed to maximize tropical outdoor living, this 3 BRM, 3 Bathroom property is a must see. DON’T MISS THIS FANTASTIC OPPORTUNITY!
MONTONG Direct beach frontage and sunset views. Magnificent new 2-Storey 3 Bedroom, 3 Bathroom Villa. 3 Minutes to International school. Large swimming pool, lovely gardens on 5.6 are block. A VIEWING MUST!!! US $315,000
KERANDANGAN LAND Attention astute purchasers! Rare opportunity to purchase one hectare of elevated ocean and palm tree views. 10 mins from the tourist centre of Sengiggi. Peaceful outlook and tranquil destination - be one with nature. A BARGAIN AT 20 MILLION PER ARE GREEN VALLEY 10 minute walk to the beach and cafes. Two level villa overlooking tropical scenery and coconut trees. Two bedrooms, one bathroom, spacious living and open plan kitchen/dining. Includes all furniture. INVESTORS DREAM! US $35,000
GREEN VALLEY Two bedroom brick and tile residence in quiet cul de sac on the river. Room for a second storey. 10 minute walk to the beach, restaurants and tourist strip. ONLY US $28,000 / Rp 262 Million
Art Market , Jl. Raya Senggigi | Ph : 0819 1742 0804 / 0878 6155 1001 www.islandpropertieslombok.com
We can make your dreams come true
P uri Mas Gallery The Essence of Tradition, Luxury & Style AT PURI MAS BOUTIQUE RESORT
Just 5 minutes north of Senggigi Free pick up and drop off service in Senggigi area Fine Arts and Collectibles From Around the Archipelago
Chakra Healing Crystals Now in Store
Jl. Raya Mangsit Beach, Senggigi, Lombok NTB Indonesia | Tel: 0370 693831 | Fax: 0370 693023 email@example.com | www.purimas-lombok.com | Skype: purimasreservations
Swiss Bakery & Cafeteria • High Quality home roasted Arabica, Robusta and Luwak coffee beans • Coffee Machine Rental and Maintenance • Oven fresh, made to order bread, pastry & cookies • Bread Supplier for Hotels & Restaurants • Aircon * Library * Notebooks • Best Cappucino - No Foam = Money Back!
Oven fresh Baguettes every morning at 9:30am! TRY THE WORLD’S MOST EXCLUSIVE COFFEE!
Visit us at Senggigi Square Blok A/04. Ph: 0370 692085 / 0818365790 | Email: firstname.lastname@example.org
Individual and Group Pearl Farm Tours Pearl and Jewellery Showroom Private viewings welcome
Showroom and CafĂŠ Open Daily
PT Autore Pearl Culture, Teluk Nara, Malaka, Lombok Phone: +62 370 6844 895 / 0813 3992 0020 | Email: email@example.com
VERVE purveyor of life’s little luxuries
NOW AVAILABLE IN LOMBOK! Toiletries for Villas & Hotels And personal use
QUALITY ALL NATURAL INGREDIENTS
Shampoo Conditioner Shower Gel Body Lotion
~~~ BEST SELLER ~~~ PERSONAL MOSQUITO SPRAY LAVENDER | CITRONELLA | GERANIUM Sun Care Packs – Ideal for Guests Individual Sized Lip Balm, Mosquito Spray, Sunscreen SPF35+, and After Sun Cooling Gel
Massage Oil Body Scrub Room Freshner
NO MINIMUM ORDER PERSONALISED LOGO FOR HOTELS & VILLAS
To order: HP +62 812 4640 0246 E: firstname.lastname@example.org
FOR SALE: Gallery Jacks Gallery, House & Workshop
ILLNESS FORCES URGENT SALE! Located on the main road in Melase, Batu Layar (near Jayakarta Hotel). Good location for business. Electricity and water available. Buildings include local house, large workshop at rear and shopfront on the roadside. Currently houses gallery but would also suit café / restaurant / home stay / minimart in growing area. 2.5 are (250m2) 3 years leasehold with option to renew at nominal annual rent. Price with gallery and workshop stock: Rp 225 million Price without gallery stock: Rp 160 million. All offers considered!
!!!FOR SALE up to 50% discount!!! Wooden Furniture, Fibreglass Lamps and More! Ph: Jack 0817 575 2059 / Carla 0819 0784 3327
PUBLIC APOLOGY / PERMINTAAN MAAF The purpose of this letter is to formally offer my deepest and most sincere apologies to The Lombok Guide for the unauthorized use of their copyrighted articles in “Gili & lombok” FreeMagazine distributed in December 2012. As the Editor in Chief of “Gili & Lombok” I am very sorry that we used a large amount of your original material in our magazine, without your prior knowledge and without your permission. The publication of your copyrighted articles, and the attempt to pass the work off as my own, was a serious lapse in judgment and moral behaviour on my part. I wish to publically state that “Gili & lombok” has no legal connection to The Lombok Guide and that the copyrighted materials used in “Gili & lombok” on pages 10, 11, 12, 15, 20, 21, 22, 25, 28, 29, 30, 31, 36, 37, 38, 46, 47, 54, 55, 56 and 57 are in fact the property of The Lombok Guide. Most of these pages were copied directly from The Lombok Guide 2011 Magazine. Gili & lombok mag 2012
I also apologise to those clients and advertisers of The Lombok Guide who were misled by the articles we copied and thought “Gili & Lombok” was published by The Lombok Guide. It was not my intention to mislead them when attempting to sell advertising space to those clients. I am deeply sorry for the confusion and embarrassment I have caused and promise that I will not publish The Lombok Guide articles again. ~~~ Tujuan dari surat ini adalah untuk secara resmi mengucapkan permintaan maaf saya yang terdalam dan paling tulus kepada The Lombok Guide untuk penggunaan yang tidak sah dari hak cipta artikel mereka di FreeMagazine “Gili & lombok” yang didistribusikan pada bulan Desember 2012. Sebagai Pemimpin Redaksi “Gili & lombok” Saya sangat menyesal bahwa kami menggunakan sejumlah besar materi asli dari The Lombok Guide di majalah kami, tanpa sepengetahuan mereka sebelumnya dan tanpa izin dari mereka. Mempublikasikan artikel hak cipta The Lombok Guide, dengan membubuhkan bahwa itu sebagai hak cipta saya sendiri, adalah kesalahan yang serius dalam tindakan dan perilaku moral dari pihak saya. Saya ingin menyatakan kepada publik bahwa “Gili & lombok” tidak memiliki hubungan sah apapun dengan The Lombok Guide dan bahwa hak cipta materi yang digunakan dalam “Gili & lombok” pada halaman 10, 11, 12, 15, 20, 21, 22, 25, 28 , 29, 30, 31, 36, 37, 38, 46, 47, 54, 55, 56 dan 57 tersebut sebenarnya adalah milik The Lombok Guide. Sebagian besar dari artikel yang disalin tersebut adalah langsung dari Majalah International The Lombok Guide tahun 2011. The Lombok Guide 2011 Saya juga meminta maaf kepada klien-klien dan pengiklan dari The Lombok Guide atas kebingungan yang kami sebabkan oleh artikel yang kami salin dan berpikir bahwa “Gili & lombok” adalah diterbitkan oleh The Lombok Guide. Bukanlah maksud saya untuk menimbulkan kesalahpahaman pada saat mencoba menjual iklan kepada klien-klien tersebut.
Saya sangat menyesal atas kesalahpahaman dan rasa malu yang saya timbulkan dan berjanji bahwa saya tidak akan mempublikasikan artikel hak cipta The Lombok Guide lagi. 28 December 2012. Yours sincerely
Frank Benjamin Editor in Chief Gili & lombok FreeMagazine
Cover Yourself in
Jl. Saleh Sungkar, Gg. Sawah, Ampenan, Lombok Ph: +62 370 636150 - Fax: +62 370 637635
THE RED PEPPER INN Clean and comfortable. Located in the middle of the”kampung”near the local Kebon Roek traditional market you immediately have a sense of the real Indonesian life. Ampenan is near Mataram and Cakra and only 7 kilometers away from Senggigi.
Room rates (smoking & non smoking) Standard room with fan – Rp 80 000 Standard room with TV & AC – Rp 130 000
OOK NEDERLANDS SPREKEND AMPENAN BEACH JALAN SALEH SUNGKAR KEBON ROEK MARKET
LOSMEN TJABE MERAH
CV. ANANTA GUNA LESTARI OUR SERVICES: Pest Control | Rodent Control Termite Control | Fumigation Employee Recruitment (Out Sourcing) PROPERTY MAINTENANCE: Cleaning Service | Painting | Plumbing Pool Maintenance | Floor Repairs Rubbish Removal | Carpentry Stone Coating | General Maintenance Work New season swimwear now in store! New designs every two weeks! Jl. Raya Senggigi (next to Senggigi Jaya Supermarket) email@example.com
Jl. Alpa Raya Blok IV No. 4 BTN Sandik - Lombok Mobile: 0812 3693 5382 / 0818 0363 6609 Phone (0370) 6657069 / Fax: (0370) 621627 Email: firstname.lastname@example.org
[ Yo u r K e y to an I d yllic Lombok ]
Lombok’s Boutique Hotel [ The Lonely Planet: “Top Choice for Lombok” ] [ Cosmopolitan: “Lombok’s Hidden Beauty” ] [ Guide du Routard: “Le Reve!” ] Jl. Raya Mangsit, Senggigi, Lombok | Phone: +62 370 693 800, Fax: +62 370 693 802 Email: email@example.com | Website: www.quncivillas.com
ISLAND PROPERTIES LOMBOK Real Estate Specialists
ISLAND PROPERTIES LOMBOK ARE PROUD TO PRESENT VILLA ESTAR, DUDUK, BATU LAYAR ONLY US $200,000 The owner has instructed Island Properties to sell this magnificent Villa nestled in the valley with glorious palm tree vista. The garden is the best in Lombok! Enjoy the scenery and quiet surroundings from your berugak. This is a magnificent spacious three bedroom home with 3 large en suite bathrooms and open plan living area. Features include large European kitchen with granite bench tops, pantry, laundry and large entertainment area overlooking landscaped gardens and pool. Private maids quarters. This villa is a must to view. Donâ€™t wait to live the island paradise dream, make your life a reality and buy now. Land Area : 1012m2. Building area 130m2.
Contact : Angela Olifent Island Properties Real Estate firstname.lastname@example.org 0819 1742 0804
Puri Bunga Beach Cottages
Luxury and Tranquility Privately positioned on terraced slopes of beautiful flowers, overlooking Senggigi Bay and the Lombok Strait to Bali Standard, Deluxe and Suite Cottages with air conditioning, hot water, television, mini bar, telephone and internet access
Sea view cottages
From US$40* / room! (Incl breakfast)
* tax and service charge and high season surcharges may apply
Enquire about our special offers!
Jalan Raya Senggigi, Senggigi, Lombok, Indonesia, Ph: +62 (0) 370 693013 Fax: +62 (0) 370 693286 | email@example.com | www.puribungalombok.com
36 I would imagine that sometime in the next 65 years or so, when the first applications come up for renewal, the law will have changed or been amended to make further extensions possible. The pressure to do something will be too great to do nothing.
Indonesian cuisine with a western twist. The spicy sauces are particularly tempting but I always end up eating too much and get a tummy upset the next day. Is there anything I should avoid eating?
stands will allow for the land on HGB lease to be re-sold to an Indonesian entity (an Indonesian citizen or PT company).
QUESTION: My fiancé and I are thinking of getting married in the idyllic tropical surroundings of the holiday island of Lombok. I am 92 and my wife to be is 87 years young.
Tongue-in-cheek answers to your personal and building problems If nothing changes, then the law as it QUESTION: My corporate business partners and I are considering the purchase of some beach front land in Lombok with the intention of developing a luxury spa resort for the rich and famous. We have been advised by several lawyers that the safest way for foreigners to own land in Indonesia is through a PMA (a wholly foreign owned company). It seems that in this case, the land reverts from Hak Milik (privately owned) to Hak Guna Bangunan or HGB title, which is the term used to describe land that is leased for up to 80 years. What happens at the end of the 80 year lease period? MR FIXER: There seems to have been no provision in the law as to what may happen after the 80 years lease has expired. The lease is allocated in increments of 30 +30 + 20 or 25 + 25 + 30, etc.
The land can then become Hak Milik, or may be able to be flipped back to the original company as HGB and the 80 year process will begin all over again. In 80 years from now, you will have consolidated your asset for a large profit and be resting on your yacht in the Karimunjawa sipping iced Martinis, surrounded by half naked women. It’s either that or you will be pushing up daisies. Either way, you won’t care. Cheers! QUESTION: I have been holidaying in the tropical island of Lombok for many years now and every year there seem to be more and more restaurants to delight every taste. Just recently, I have been trying the local warung, which seem to specialise in
Models for rent starting from IDR 3.700.000 pw Model Studio Kerandangan Wine
Per Week IDR Per Month IDR
3 700 000 4 600 000 6 500 000
9 500 000 11 200 000 15 400 000
*All prices are 10% tax included and subject to (currency) change Including electricity, water, gas, daily towel change and cleaning.
MR FIXER: The most lethal thing I have found so far is wedding cake.
We have been discussing the wedding and are thinking of choosing one of the new boutique resorts near Senggigi, as we have heard that there is a new pharmacy that sells all the medications we need, such as heart medication, medicine for circulation, rheumatism and scoliosis, memory problems, arthritis and jaundice. They also sell vitamins, sleeping pills, Geritol and antidotes for Parkinson’s Disease, as well as wheelchairs and walkers in all speeds and sizes. Can you recommend a good venue for our wedding? MR FIXER: Yes! Why not book the pharmacy for the ceremony? I bet they even sell Viagra!
For more information: Jalan Wisata Alam Kerandangan 0813 3868 8524 | 0813 3972 1541
d’Oria is derived from the Latin word, meaning “SUNRISE” With stunning sunrise and sunset views, luxurious spaces filled with antiques and collectibles, and our peaceful ambience, d’Oria offers you authentic and memorable vacation experiences Jl. Raya Senggigi, Lendang Luar Lombok Utara, Indonesia | Ph: +62 370 693246 / +62 811 390 7779 Fax: +62 370 693247 | E-mail: firstname.lastname@example.org | www.orialombok-resort.com
SENGGIGI LAND FOR SALE
GRAHA SENGGIGI BEACH HOTEL
Strategic Location: 100m to main street, 200m to the public entrance of the beach. From 1000 to 8500 sqm, Rp 40 - 50 million / are Direct contact with owner: email@example.com
LOMBOK INTERNATIONAL LANGUAGE INSTITUTE
New at SEKOLAH NUSA ALAM
BASED ON CAMBRIDGE ESL COURSES
BAHASA INDONESIA Classes by Native Speakers Starter, Elementary and Pre-Intermediate levels
Commencing January 2013 For Information or to register contact us now
Phone 0370 647514 Email: firstname.lastname@example.org
1 HOUR MASSAGE ONLY Rp 60 000
Complete Spa Services at Local Prices! Open every day from 10am to 10pm Phone: 0819 1593 2899 Two convenient locations in Senggigi Senggigi Plaza Blok 3 No.9 (Senggigi Beach Road)
Galeria Shops (Near Rambo Petshop)
LOMBOK PHOTOGRAPHER Lombok Photographer is more than just a collection of fantastic images. It’s a celebration of creating and sharing great photography. It’s about a lot of people getting involved and contributing a little bit each to create something. We invite you to share some of your best photos! There is no cost to get involved and where ever you are ‘at’ with your photography, you’re sure to get a lot out of it
Photography Consultant Description - Stock Images - Training - Travelling Photography (aerial photography, landscape, human interest, caving and underwater) - Taking Pictures - Photography Contests - Exhibitions - Publicity - Photo Curator - Photo Marketing - Design 3D View & 3D Animation
Looking for nice presents or home decorations?
We sell: Salt and Freshwater Pearls, San Marco Jewellery, Lombok Pottery, Hand Painted Modern Wooden Statues and Masks, Unique Lamps, Paintings, Handwoven Ikats, Sarongs and much more!
Jl Raya Senggigi (next to Rambo Petshop) | P: 0817 5730 012 | E: email@example.com
BLUE MARLIN DIVE SENGGIGI ...DIVE THE DIFFERENCE!
Lombok’s premier PADI 5 Star Dive Centre Senggigi’s most time efficient daily return trips Professionally trained dive and snorkel staff We do not combine our Senggigi-based guests with our other dive centres providing a more personalised service for you We ensure small groups for your comfort and safety Daily transfers direct from your hotel Excellent Restaurant and Facilities to enjoy during your break on Gili T
PADI Dive Courses Daily Dive & Snorkel Trips - Gili Trawangan Transfers - Hotel Dive and Stay Packages
Please email and quote “Lionfish” for special discount offers
Main Office: HOLIDAY RESORT LOMBOK +62 370 693 719 www.bluemarlindive.com | firstname.lastname@example.org
Live Music! Great Food! Good Times! Every Friday ‘Ary Juliyant and Friends’ from 7.30 pm in the garden
Jl. Raya (Main Street) Senggigi, Lombok 0370 693619 email@example.com
Contemporary Furniture Outdoor and Indoor Furniture Highest Quality Synthetic Ratan Jl. Raya Senggigi Duduk Garden No.6 Batu Bolong 83355 Lombok Phone/Fax: 0370 6194 123, HP: 0813 3955 5456| www.gandari.com
MAIN OFFICE: Jl. Bung Karno / Opposite Lombok Garden Hotel Ph: 0370 648863 | Mobile: 082 147 768 880 | Fax: 0370 648865
1. HOUSE and VILLA IN MONTONG: 22.5 are, swimming pool, certificate. IDR 3.2 billion. 2. HOUSE FOR SALE: at Montong Kedaton near Senggigi. IDR 225 million. 3. FLAT LAND ON THE HILL with ocean view. Land size 2.8 Ha certificate. Price IDR 23 million/are. 4. LAND ON THE HILL. Batu Layar, Senggigi, 1800 m2. Rp 45 million/are 5. LAND FOR SALE: 2.7 Ha near Senggigi, ocean and sunset view. 6. Land in Sekotong: 1,1 Ha white sandy beach, certificate, 1.5 hour from airport, price IDR 18 million/are. 7. 33 ARE LAND ON HILL with ocean and Mt. Agung Bali view. Suitable for villa with road access. Price IDR 40 million/are 8. LAND IN TANJUNG Near OBEROI: 1.2 Ha. 25 million/are. 9. LAND IN KUTA: 1 Ha, certificate, ocean view & Kuta panorama, suitable for resort, hotel and villa. IDR 40 million/are.
In Good Taste... Welcome to Lombok! As an expat working here in Lombok, I want to share with all our valuable visitors a few of the recipes that you will try around our lovely island, so hopefully you can take more than just a great memory home and show your friends that – apart from beautiful scenery, sexy beaches, amazing weather and friendly people – we have some exquisite food available here and Lombok people do take their food seriously! Selamat Makan! By Bryce Adamson, Chef and Beverage at Qunci Villas.
This is a recipe from Bryce Adamson, Chef and Beverage at Qunci Villas When the beef is cooked to your liking, take the tray out of the oven and transfer the beef to a board to rest for 15 minutes or so. Cover it with a layer of tinfoil and a tea towel and put aside to rest while you make your gravy and any other accompaniments.
Happy New Year everyone! I can’t blame any of the chefs for not contacting me this issue with a recipe, as we’ve all been swamped with work and special dinners for the festive season. This time of the year, roasts are popular and perfect for sharing with family or groups of friends, so here is the Prime Rib recipe that I used on New Year’s Eve.
This roast tastes great with horseradish sauce or mustard sauce, and is traditionally served with Yorkshire Puddings.
PRIME RIB ROAST
Save any left-over meat for delicious roast beef sandwiches the next day!
Ingredients: 1.5 kg quality rib of beef 2 medium onions 2 carrots 2 sticks celery 1 bulb garlic 1 small bunch fresh thyme, rosemary, bay or sage, or a mixture of these Olive oil Sea salt Freshly ground black pepper Method: Take your beef out of the fridge 30 minutes before it goes into the oven. Preheat your oven to 240°C. Peel the vegetables or, if you prefer, just give them a wash and roughly chop them. Break the garlic bulb into cloves, leaving them unpeeled. Pile all the vegetables, garlic and herbs into the middle of a large roasting tray and drizzle with olive oil. Drizzle the beef with olive oil and season well with salt and pepper, rubbing it all over the meat. Place the beef on top of the vegetables. Place the roasting tray in the preheated oven. Turn the heat down immediately to 200°C and cook for 1 hour for medium beef. If you prefer it medium-rare, take it out 5 to 10 minutes earlier. For well done, leave it in for another 10 to 15 minutes. If you’re doing roast potatoes and veggies, get them into the oven for the last 45 minutes of cooking.
Baste the beef halfway through cooking and if the vegetables look dry, add a splash of water to the tray to stop them from burning.
If any Lombok chefs would like to contribute a local recipe, please contact me at firstname.lastname@example.org
2013 INDONESIAN PUBLIC HOLIDAYS The Indonesian government has formally announced the list of national holidays for 2013. A total of 19 days have been designated “holidays”, and include international and religious holidays, as well as “shared holidays” or (cuti bersama), usually to form long weekends around national holidays. The holidays listed below apply to all government offices, as well as most banks and public businesses. Shops and shopping malls, as well as cafés, bars, restaurants, and hotels are generally open.
Thursday, 9 May: Ascension Day of Jesus Christ into Heaven Saturday, 25 May: Hari Raya Waisak 2557 Thursday, 6 June: Isra Mi’raj Prophet Mohammad SAW - the Ascension of the Prophet Muhammad SAW Monday, 5 August: Shared Holiday Tuesday, 6 August: Shared Holiday Wednesday, 7 August: Shared Holiday Thursday & Friday, 8 & 9 August: Hari Raya Idul Fitri 1434H
Indonesian National Holidays 2013: Saturday, 17 August: Indonesian Independence Day Tuesday, 1 January 2013: New Year’s Monday, 14 October: Shared Holiday Day Thursday, 24 January: Birthday of the Tuesday, 15 October: Idul Adha 1434H Prophet Mohammad SAW Sunday, 10 February: Chinese New Year - Imlek 2564
Tuesday, 5 November: Islamic New Year 1435H
Tuesday, 12 March: Hari Nyepi Cakra 1935 (Balinese Day of Silence)
Wednesday, 25 December: Christmas Day
Friday, 29 March: Good Friday (start of Easter)
Thursday, 26 December: Shared Holiday
MARSHANDER SPA & SALON PROFESSIONAL BEAUTY & HEALTH CARE
Hair and Beauty – Trained Hair Stylist Facials and Skin Care – Body Shop and Biokos Products Waxing and Nails Massage, Reflexology and Body Treatments Spa Packages OPEN DAILY 10am to 9pm
Great Prices and Trained Therapists... Come in and try our full range of services for beauty, health and relaxation!
Senggigi Square Blok A/05 (next to Cafe Lombi), Jl Raya Senggigi. Ph: 0878 6228 0693
The Gandari Villa Residence
The Gandari Villa Residence is currently under development and consists of 3 luxurious Villas within a peaceful and secluded compound, just 5 minutes from Senggigi and 2 minutes from the beach. Each of the 2-storey Villas features:
“The Superior Craftsmanship, Quality Of Building Materials And Stylish Design Speaks For Itself.”
• 3 Bedrooms and 3 Bathrooms • Master has Ensuite Bathroom and Pool Access • Modern Kitchen with Built-In Appliances, • Store Room and Separate Service Access • Luxury Dining with Indoor / Outdoor Features • Spacious Living Areas and Upstairs Gallery • Private Study / Home Office with Balcony • Separate Maid’s Quarters • All Utilities (Private Road Use, State Electricity and Water Connections, STP Sewerage Treatment System and Phone Land Line) • 600sqm Land with Freehold (Hak Milik) Certificate • Landscaped Swimming Pool • Outdoor Entertaining Terrace • Garden Bale and Fish Pond • Separate Entrance and Covered Car Park
Putu Anggreni Beck, Jalan Raya Senggigi, Duduk Garden No.6 Batu Bolong, Lombok, 83355, Indonesia Phone: +62 370 619 4273 | Fax: +62 370 619 4123 | HP: +62 821 4777 7705 (English & Indonesian) email: email@example.com / firstname.lastname@example.org / www.gandari.com
Many styles and colours! PURI Leisure Furniture Jl. Raya Senggigi Duduk Garden No.6 Batu Bolong (Kampung Duduk) Phone / Fax: +62 (0) 370 6194 123 / 0813 3955 5456 | www.gandari.com
NOW OPEN IN SENGGIGI! MAMAS, NIKMAT, CATER PRODUCTS Sirloin, Tenderloin, Fillet Steaks Cold Cuts and Deli Meats Salami, Ham, Chicken and Turkey Sausages - Breakfast, Pork, Chicken, Beef, Herb and Mixed Dry Pasta and Sauces Gandari Purified Ice Cubes
Open 9am to 10pm every day
Jl Raya Senggigi, next to Sendok Bar & Restaurant | Ph: 0370 693 531
UD. GANDARI ICE SOLUTION
Pure refreshing ice cubes made from UV sterilised and purified spring water. Hygienically packaged for your convenience Supplying hotels, restaurants, bars, cafes & private villas
FREE DELIVERY EVERY DAY Jl Raya Senggigi, Duduk Garden No.6 Batu Bolong
Hotline: Hp: 081 836 8731 | Ph: 0370 619 4273 | Flexi: 0370 668 1958
VILLA FOR RENT
3 BEDROOM VILLA WITH POOL AND SEA VIEWS FULLY FURNISHED AND ALL AMENITIES PROBABLY NOT AS EXPENSIVE AS YOU THINK! Phone: 0819 1738 7775
NEW CONCEPT, SAME PRICE, BIGGER PORTIONS!
Presents NEW ALL BAND | TUESDAY NIGHT FREE TAX & SERVICE! For All Food and Beverages! | REGGAE NIGHT Every Wednesday HAPPY HOUR From 5-8pm Buy 1 Large Anker Get 1 Free Small Anker. COCKTAIL SENZATION Buy 1 Get 1 Free!
Jl Raya Senggigi Km.8 Senggigi, Lombok | Phone: 0370 693616 | Email: email@example.com
PLEASANT 3 BEDROOM VILLA Set in 2,600m2 of tropical gardens. Open plan living room / kitchen. A/C’s throughout. 10x6 oval shaped pool. Adjoining 1,000m2 plot also available. Good location just 2 minutes from the beach. USD 290,000
LUXURY 3 BED VILLA WITH SEA VIEW All bedrooms are en-suite with walk in robes. Separate guest W/C. Generous living room with open plan kitchen. 10x4 infinity pool. Outside guest house. Just look at that view! USD 445,000
UNIQUE DESIGN – 2 SPACIOUS DOUBLE BEDROOMS Both with ensuites. Open plan living with private pool and decking. Parking at entrance. Just 3 minutes stroll to the beach. Excellent rental returns on a managed estate. ONLY USD 149,500
BREATHTAKING MINIMALIST 5 BED LUXURY VILLA With everything - including drop-down screen private cinema and the kitchen of your dreams! Unobstructed views of Senggigi Bay and Bali. 2 infinity pools! Fully furnished. USD 1,100,000
MAGNIFICENT PLOT - 740m2 FLAT LAND VILLA IN BANGSAL WITH GILI ISLAND VIEWS Fully furnished. Double en-suite bedrooms with H/W showers. Ocean and sunset views. Ready to build - water and electricity to plot. Sliding glass doors on 3 sides. Open plan with luxury kitchen. Wood Private road access from main road. Just 5 mins walk to beach. ONLY construction. 120m2 build on 1,250m2 plot. FREEHOLD USD 249,000 IDR 60 million per are (100m2) FREEHOLD USD 47,250 (approx)
Jl Raya Senggigi (50m from Happy Café) | Ph: 0812 3734 0117
3 EXCLUSIVE FREEHOLD VILLAS
RY! HUR LY ON T! F 2 LE
Located in a peaceful estate 5 minutes to Senggigi 3 minutes to beach
2 spacious double bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms, open living areas, private swimming pool, sun deck and barbeque terrace.
PRICED TO SELL! IDR 1.35 Billion Approx USD 142,000 (offers considered)
Phone: 0819 1593 2899 (Indonesian) / 0819 3676 6611 (English) | Email: firstname.lastname@example.org
Comfortable Air Conditioned Dining Inside Sidewalk Al Fresco & Private Smoking Terrace Delicious Asian and Western Meals & Snacks Fresh Juices, Cool Drinks, Coffee and more!
Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner Every day 10am to late
Jalan Raya Senggigi, Galleria Shops (between Rambo Petshop and Annaâ€™s Gift Shop) Phone: 0370 692070 | Email: email@example.com | Find us on
GUEST HOUSE FOR RENT Ready to move in Nice & secured, 2 bedroom with AC, Hot water, swimming pool,fully Furnished, kitchen, quiet area (daily, weekly, long-term Rental).
Please call Owner 0819 1660 4000
PERTH – NORTH FREMANTLE
Two bedroom character cottage. Fully furnished. Nestled on the banks of the Swan River, 5 mins from public transport and historic Fremantle town and beaches. AVAILABLE NOW! SHORT OR LONG STAYS. Email: firstname.lastname@example.org Phone Terry: +62 878 6155 1001 or Leanne: +62 819 1598 5549
HOUSE FOR RENT Special for foreigner. 700sqm with yard. Fully furnished, garage for 3 cars, 4 bedroom, hot water system, AC. Located in Jalan Candrakirana, Cakra 0817 578 9207 / 0370 627 766
For Sale Kijang Innova 2009 Automatic, Silver, only 37000km, 18” wheels, Sports Roof Rack, Tinted Windows, excellent condition. Rp 200 Juta. Please call 087862287517 or email email@example.com’
PT MULTIGRAHA KELOLAVALAS Authorized Money Changer (Pedagang Valuta Asing Berijin)
The Best Rate in Lombok ! Senggigi: Next to Taman Rest. Phone: 0370 693 680 Cakranegara: Toko Mas Melati, Jl. Pejanggik No. 1-3, Phone: 0370 631 567 / 633 748
IN NEED OF HELP?
Translations (Dutch-English-Indonesian-German) Visa arrangements and permits House Management- IT Solutions www.lombok-personal-assistant.com Tel. 081221617850 or 08121006776
Rp 40 MILLION/ARE (NEGOTIABLE) Desa Kerandangan Valley 5-10 minutes to Senggigi shops, cafes & restaurants. 5 minutes to the nearest beach. Owner Certificate (Sertifikat Hak Milik) 2500m2 (25 are). Please contact the owner: Nuni/Ted Bain, email: firstname.lastname@example.org or email@example.com Mobile: +61-403816181 (Sydney-Australia)
GOLF PLAYERS WANTED SENGGIGI HACKERS AMATEUR GOLF SOCIETY (SHAGS) Friendly, non-profit golf Games every week – Monthly Cup New members, tourists and casual games Discount rates! ALL WELCOME!
Ph: 0813 398 11140 (Jim) | www.golf-lombok.com
Visas and Residency Permits | Work and Business Visas Retirement Visas | Police Permits Land Certificates | Land and Building Permits Foreign Investment (PMA) Company Documents VOA Extensions up to 60 days
Office: 0370 692 253 / 0818 360 415 / 0858 5822 3619 firstname.lastname@example.org / email@example.com
Pasar Classifieds & Discount Vouchers
MOVING SALE (too big to move) Antique French (or English?) Grandfather Clock, height 2m. Running perfectly and striking on the hour. Price Rp 9.5 million (Euro 750)
Beautiful oil on linen painting of a Javanese man preparing his “Siri”. Dimensions including frame 100 x 125 cm. Signed: Lyon’s Alex Studio’s Price: Rp 15,5 million (Euro 1225)
JUNIOR PROJECT DEVELOPMENT MANAGER
To join our expanding planning and development team based in Selong Belanak. The successful candidate must have Civil Engineering Architecture Qualifications With a minimum of 2 years working in either the construction industry or building project management. A good command of English, Computer skills including Autocad and a car drivers license.
Both items must be seen! No offers please.
Please send your application with CV and references by email to firstname.lastname@example.org
Nyoman Transport Phone: 0819 1701 3714 Email: email@example.com
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!
DISCOUNT VOUCHERS Present this coupon or quote “Lionfish” for either: 10% Discount on Fun Dives Valid 7 – 21 Jan 2012
PASAR CLASSIFIEDS & DISCOUNT VOUCHERS BOX (9,5cm X 4,9cm) ONLY Rp 50,000 / ISSUE EMAIL: firstname.lastname@example.org
10% Discount on Snorkel Tours 5% Discount on PADI Dive Courses. Please book in advance by phone: (0370) 693 719 or visit our offices at the Holiday Resort / Senggigi Beach Hotel * Discount applies to a min 2 people – Not in addition to any other promotions or discount offers
Real Fish ‘n’ Chips, Fresh Seafood, Salads and much more...
SECRET ISLAND RESORT Gili Gede, Southwest Lombok
10% Discount on all meals
Open for breakfast, lunch & dinner Gili Trawangan, Lombok. Ph: (0370) 642 217 Email: email@example.com
Valid 7 – 21 Jan 2012
Valid 7 – 21 Jan 2012
Bring this voucher in for
“3 Day Package Deal” Standard Double Room + 2 breakfast, + free use of double Kayak, Rp 400.000 On presentation of this coupon Phone: 0818 0376 2001 firstname.lastname@example.org | www.secretislandresort.com
SHAGS BOXING DAY TOURNAMENT
encourages visitors and tourists to join with them on golf days.
The club plays at the Sire Golf Course (Kosaido); an 18-hole course with beautiful views overlooking the Gili islands. Monthly cups and regular games are played each week. To join, phone club Captain, Jim, on 0813 3981 1140, or visit the SHAGS website at www.golf-lombok.com, where you can make contact with SHAGS members.
The Sengiggi Hackers Amateur Golf Society (SHAGS) played their annual Boxing Day Tournament on 26 December, 2012 at Kosaido Country Club in North Lombok. Four teams competed in the Texas Scramble Tournament, with the winners
coming up with a convincing score of 72, which is par for the course. The winning team consisted of Larry, Arthur, Steve and Tony, who was visiting from Australia. SHAGS is a non-profit club which
(From left) Tony, Larry, Steve and Arthur
THE LOMBOK GUIDE 2013 FULL COLOUR INTERNATIONAL MAGAZINE
FOLLOWING THE SUCCESS OF THE LOMBOK GUIDE 2012 FULL COLOUR MAGAZINE, WE ARE DELIGHTED TO ANNOUNCE THE PUBLICATION OF
THE LOMBOK GUIDE 2013 MAGAZINE
Every year, since 2008, we have distributed 5000 copies of our magazine to over 100 international travel agents and tour companies.
Our magazines are also distributed by the Lombok Hotel Association at travel fairs and expos in London, Australia, Berlin, Singapore, China, Malaysia and Kuala Lumpur, and at all major national travel marts. Incorporating 120 pages of up-to-date information and beautiful photos of Lombok, The Lombok Guide Annual Magazine is recognised as the most popular and effective international publication for Lombok. Guaranteed distribution to over 100 travel agents and tourism industry professionals throughout the Europe, Britain, Australia, New Zealand, Saudi Arabia, Hong Kong, China, Korea, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam and Japan; as well as all major cities throughout Indonesia. DONâ€™T MISS THIS EXCITING OPPORTUNITY TO PROMOTE YOUR BUSINESS INTERNATIONALLY!
Please Call 0370 659 4005 or email: email@example.com
56 The three main cities in Lombok – Ampenan, Mataram and Cakranegara – have expanded over the years and now merge together to create what is, for Lombok, an urban sprawl of shops, administrative centres and residential areas. A visit to the cities makes an interesting day trip, exploring the numerous small shops selling everything imaginable at low prices. There are numerous pearl shops in Ampenan selling unset pearls and pearl jewellery at cheap prices. These are genuine pearls from the pearl farms on Lombok and Sumbawa and, if you bargain the price, are a good deal. Gold shops are also popular in both Ampenan and Cakra, with 24 kt gold being sold by the gram, regardless of the design. For cheap and interesting food choices, explore the many restaurants, warungs and food stalls in the cities. Or just wander around the streets to soak up the atmosphere and discover fascinating insights into Lombok city life! Ampenan was the original old port in Lombok during Dutch colonial times and some of the old architecture is still visible around the town, particularly toward the beach to the west. This area becomes a market at night, filled with warungs and kaki lima (food carts) for cheap, tasty food and local flavour. With its numerous shops, cheap hotels, dusty roads and plentiful cidomo (horse carts), gold and pearl shops, and its Arab quarter, Ampenan is a colourful town to explore. Kebun Roek, just near the traffic lights in Ampenan on the road from the airport, is the site of the local markets. Every day traders set up stalls selling fresh produce from around the island, local snacks and products, live chickens and fresh fish in the afternoon when the fishing boats
Mataram Mall come in. A stroll through the markets is a pungent and enlightening experience! Mataram, about 3 km to the east of Ampenan, is the administrative centre for Lombok and Sumbawa (NTB Province), with government offices, banks, mosques, schools and colleges, bookstores, the main post office, and Mataram University downtown. In Mataram, the Nusa Tenggara Barat Museum houses historical and cultural artefacts from Lombok and Sumbawa. It’s an interesting place to visit and occasionally hosts special exhibits. Displays include exhibits on geology, history and culture. Address: Jl Panji Tilar. Ph: 632159 for opening times. There is a small admission fee. Also worth visiting is the cultural centre, Taman Budaya on Jl Majapahit. Music and dance performances are presented here regularly. Phone: 622428 for details. Mataram Mall, on the main street in Mataram, has an upstairs food court for cheap local meals. Lombok’s only real mall, there are four floors of shops and stalls selling a vast selection of goods. Particularly good buys are shoes, jeans, and copy brand bags and belts. There is a department store, several electronics stores, and shops selling clothing, CD’s and DVD’s. Hero Supermarket, on the ground floor, is useful for some western goods, food and toiletries. The Chemist next door has imported toiletries, supplements and medicines. McDonalds and KFC have outlets on the ground floor.
Pura Meru (Meru Temple)
Cakranegara (usually abbreviated to “Cakra”) is Lombok’s main shopping area. It is also home to many Chinese and Balinese, who make up over 50 percent of the city’s population. The streets of the city make an interesting tour with gold
shops, sporting goods, clothing stores and very good fabric stores selling imported silks, laces and cottons, to name a few. Many of Lombok’s weaving and basket making industries are located near Cakra; turn left at the central traffic lights and look for the market on the right near the bridge. The baskets in particular are sold in Bali at many times the local price. The next large town east of Cakra, Sweta, has a huge market every day near the Bertais bus terminal, with all kinds of goods on sale, from foodstuffs to clothing, exotic birds, handicrafts and more. Nearby Temples and Places of Interest Pura Meru on Jl Selaparang, Cakranegara, was built in 1720 by Balinese Prince Anak Agung Made Karang and is the largest temple on Lombok. Its three meru are for the Hindu trinity – Shiva, Vishnu and Brahma. This is an important temple for the Balinese here and its annual Pujawali festival, held over five days during the full moon in September or October, is the biggest Balinese Hindu event on Lombok. The outer courtyard hall has large drums used to announce ceremonies and festivals. In the central courtyard are two buildings with raised offering platforms. The interior enclosure has 33 shrines as well as the three multi-tiered meru. Pura Mayura, just across the street from Pura Meru, was built in 1744 as the court temple of the last Balinese kings in Lombok. An open hall or bale kambang (floating pavilion) stands in a large artificial lake here and is used as a place for meetings and to relax. Today the palace gardens are a playground for children. The temple sits behind the sedate water gardens and is open daily; admission is by donation.
Redwood Café & Lounge Upstairs (2nd floor) at Melissa Bakery
It’s Coffee!!! And delicious meals, cakes, snacks, desserts and drinks. Coffee Breaks, Meetings, Lunch with Friends, All day dining!
Fresh Brewed Coffee
Organic Coffee | Luwak Coffee (Black or White) | Redwood “HOUSE BLEND” REAL Cappuccino | Latte | Espresso Toraja Cappuccino | White Coffee Chai Tea Latte | Thai Tea | Espresso Brownies and more! Special Single Origin: Aceh Gayo | Toraja | Bali Kintamani Java Mocha | Sumatra Mandheling Peaberry Coffee | Papua Wamena Flores Bajawa | Trung Nguyen East Timor Arabica & Sumatra (lintong) | Breakfast Blend Coffee Bean
Live Music 7pm: Friday & Saturday Melissa Bakery & Redwood Café Jl Pejanggik Mataram Mall
Jl Pejanggik, Cakranegara, Lombok | 0370 6886581, 628446
International Standards at Local Prices
Come by and enjoy delicious food and drinks in our relaxed atmosphere! Local art, batik, Berugaq souvenirs and new handicrafts available for purchase supporting Yayasan Sopoq Angen (One Heart Foundation).
Open Monday to Saturday 10am to 9pm Closed Sundays
Jl. Adi Sucipto, KP Griya Ellen Indah (Between the old airport & Kebun Roek Market in Ampenan) | Ph: 0370 616-2667
SINTA PEST C NTR L Melayani Pengendalian: Nyamuk DB / Malaria / Cikungunya Lalat, Kecoa, Semut Hama Tikus | Rayap Hama Gudang Controlling: Dengue, Malaria & Cikungunya Mosquito Fly, Cockroach, Ants Rats | Termites Spiders and Other Pests & Bugs PT SINTA AGRO MANDIRI (Ijin Dikes No: 03/52.71/PC/VII/11) Jl. TGH Hambali No 8, Mataram, Lombok | Phone: 0370 631176 / 627991
The Cities Wild Kopi Luwak
ONE STOP COFFEE SHOP Coffee Shop & Lounge In House Roasting Coffee Equipment Sell, Rent & Repair Machines Barista School
Mataram Mall 2 Lt.3 (3rd Floor) Ph: 0818 365 790 www.coffeelombok.com
All about coffee & delicious stuff that goes with coffee! (Try our authentic Belgian waffles)
Domestic Fares | International Tickets & Packages Visa Services | Tours | Direct Agent to Airlines (no middleman!) Express Check-in Services I M M I G RAT I O N S E RV I CE S Fast, Modern & Professional | We speak English!
LOMBOK: Jl. Pejanggik No 198 Cakra (Past the Mall, Opposite “fruit street”) P: 0370 633469, 633888 F: 0370 633453 E: firstname.lastname@example.org
Open Monday - Saturday: 8am – 8pm Sunday: 8am – 7pm
WEST SUMBAWA: Jl. Teluk Balas RT 5 RW 6, Ds Pasir Putih, Maluk, Jereweh P: 0372 635535 HP: 08113943789 E: email@example.com
Spacious, Convenient Location & Great Low Prices! Lombok gift and Souvenir shop Sarongs, Ikat & Fabrics, T-shirts, accessories, and many more! Phone: 0370 646 122 / 087 765 229 449 Email: firstname.lastname@example.org
Jalan Meninting Raya No.10 (In front of Meninting Raya Bungalows) Branch: Cakra Market at Jl. Tumpangsari No 14
Secret Islands, Pristine Beaches!
Floating in the sparkling turquoise waters just off the southwest coast are twelve small islands called the Southwest Gilis. Unlike the famous Gili islands in the northwest of Lombok, the Southwest Gilis are largely uninhabited and have yet to be discovered by most travellers, thus they are often called “The Secret Islands”. The Sekotong region starts just south of Lembar Harbour and features stunning beaches and bays set against a backdrop of rolling hills. The drive itself is a worthwhile trip, meandering through villages where life is largely untouched by tourism and where the people are involved in their day-to-day activities of farming, fish cultivation, boating and fishing, brickmaking and other traditional pastimes.
across the sandbar and explore this uninhabited island. Old volcanic rocks and stone carved from centuries of tides create small caves and alcoves, providing shelter for picnics and interesting nooks and crannies to explore.
Elak Elak, Sekotong by Didiek Hariadi
the northwest and Madak Belo on the east. Gili Gede is large enough to provide a range of activities such as hiking to the hills in the centre for fantastic views across the other islands, exploring deserted beaches and hidden coves and meeting the people living on the island, who are very friendly and, as yet, unspoilt by tourism.
Back on the main road and slightly further south is Sundancer Resort, with its distinctive blue roofs dotted on the Secret Island has comfortable budget hillside overlooking another white sand accommodation, including a unique beach. The hotel development is still under Along the roadsides you will see people bungalow perched on a pier over the reef – construction. building and repairing boats, laying the only one in either Lombok or Bali. The out hand-made bricks to dry in the sun, Resort offers a host of activities that all the Across the road from Sundancer, on the working in the fields, and sometimes family will enjoy, while also being a place beachfront, is Dive Zone – currently guiding primitive wooden ploughs where you can get away from it all. the only diving facility in this part of harnessed to huge water buffalo, as they Lombok and the experts on diving around prepare the fields for planting. Secret Island can also organise fishing trips the southwest islands, having pioneered and island hopping excursions to the other The peaceful village of Taun (or Tawun), is development of previously unknown dive beautiful islands in the area, most of which sites in this area. situated on a wide, placid bay in Sekotong. are deserted, about their comfortable 9m The ocean is sparkling turquoise and the custom-built boat “Scorpio”. Dive Zone offer dive trips around dazzling white sand stretches in a wide Sekotong and the islands, as well as To the south of Gili Gede, the islands of sweep around the bay, while the hills in three locations in South Lombok – Gili Ringgit, Layar and Asahan are lined behind form a perfect backdrop to this including challenging world-class diving up like secret treasures in the calm sea. idyllic setting. off southeast Lombok. Bounty Cruises, a Bali-based company, Just out in the calm bay are the three Past Dive Zone another few kilometres is own much of the land on Gili Ringgit and lovely islands of Gili Nanggu, Gili Cocotinos Boutique Beach Resort on the have constructed a boat mooring and pier Tangkong and Gili Sudat – all easily secluded beach at Tanjung Empat. With accessible by local outrigger boats. A small 28 rooms, including beachfront villas with on the island. There is good snorkelling on the west side of Gili Ringgit, accessed by sign in the nearby village will direct you private swimming pools, Cocotinos is the boat. Large gardens of hard and soft corals to the local boat hire area, where you can only luxury accommodation in the area. lay just beneath the surface and the reef arrange boat trips out to Gili Nanggu and extends along most of the island’s coast. At the next intersection there is a the other small islands offshore. signpost to the right for Labuhan Poh and The other side of the island, where the Of the three, only Gili Nanggu has Pelangan, the site of Bola Bola Paradis. pier is located, has a fantastic white sand accommodation for visitors, with Gili This is a small hotel, situated right on Nanggu Cottages providing simple beach and is a favourite for guests from the beachfront with comfortable and cottages on the beach and a restaurant, as Secret Island Resort and Dive Zone, as the clean rooms at reasonable prices. The well as deluxe rooms further back from the hotel also organises snorkelling tours and scenery and beach here are so lovely. beach. The island is small and the beach is a popular choice for those surfing at It’s easy to snorkel offshore just north of here has soft white sand and a good reef Bangko-Bangko. the pier and, although the reef isn’t as large just off the beach for snorkelling. The largest of these islands is Gili Gede, as on the other side of the island, there is Travelling a little further south, before the appropriately meaning “Big Island”. The still plenty to see. marine culture complex (Balai Budaya island lays just offshore and is so large Bright blue starfish drape themselves Laut), there is a small dirt road leading out visitors often mistake it for part of the across patches of coral, and bright yellow onto a white peninsular of sand that juts mainland. Gili Gede is easily reached by into beautiful clear waters. Drive to the boat from the village of Tembowong and is and black Moorish Idols dart through end for superb views and a close up look the water. Schools of hundreds of small only minutes across the water. at Gili Genting. iridescent fish swim past and weirdly Gili Gede is one of the few islands in the shaped squid drift by in the deeper areas. Gili Genting sits just off the tip of the area that has accommodation, at Secret peninsular and at low tide you can walk Island Resort on the south, Via Vaccare on Continued on Page 66
66 We met a boat load of happy tourists on Gili Ringgit, out for the day with Dive Zone, who described the diving as some of the best they’ve ever experienced. Most couldn’t stop gushing about the huge school of turtles they had just seen near Gili Layar! All around these Southwest Gilis, abundant coral reefs lay just below the surface waiting to be explored, filled with thousands of brightly coloured tropical fish, huge sprawling blue starfish and magical turtles gently gliding through the water. Slightly south of Gili Gede, beautiful Gili Asahan attracts visitors with deserted white sand beaches, clear calm waters and swaying palm trees. Pearl Beach Resort, the only accommodation on the island, is a lovely boutique hotel with charming and welldesigned bungalows here looking out over a breath-taking beach. Of a much higher standard than most of the accommodation in the southwest, each bungalow is spacious with a private terrace and western standard bathrooms with hot water showers.
Continued from Page 64
There is also a beachfront bar and restaurant serving western and Indonesian meals, and good snorkelling directly from the beach. The resort is popular with divers and can arrange diving and snorkelling trips, as well as island-hopping tours.
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.
Pearl Beach is perfect for romantic escapes The southwest is slated for tourism and for those seeking the tranquillity of a development and it’s easy to imagine private island resort. hotels and resorts on all these beaches and Leaving Gili Asahan and back on the islands in the future, as well as yachts, mainland there are small home-stays and fishing boats, windsurfers, dive boats and private accommodations spaced out along the like. But for now, the Southwest is the road to Bangko-Bangko – the surfing unspoilt and the Gilis remain the secret Mecca for those in the know, located on islands… stunningly beautiful, pristine and the far southwest tip of Lombok. The unique; and known only to the lucky few.
The Lombok Guide is published by CV Kita Design
EVERYONE CAN AFFORD TO ADVERTISE IN THE LOMBOK GUIDE Phone:
0370 659 4005 Email:
DEADLINE NEXT EDITION 12 NOON 11 JANUARY
3500 COPIES DISTRIBUTED
EVERY TWO WEEKS AT THESE LOCATIONS:
Garuda Indonesia Airlines: Departure counters in LOMBOK, BALI & JAKARTA. Airport: Hotel counters outside the airport. BALI: Amo Spa, Arena Sport Bar & Rest, Asia Collection Tour, Asian Trails Tour, Balcony Rest, Bali Mystique, Barb’s Sport Warung, BIMC, Blue Water Express, Bounty Cruises, Caesar Rest & Bar, Cafe Bali, Café Canggu, Café Marzano, Café Seminyak, Café Smorgas, Canggu Club, D Corner Bar & Rest, Double Dutch, Eco Beach Rest, Exotissimo Travel Indonesia, Gili Shop Poppies 1 & 2, Gili Cat Bali, Gloria Jeans Coffee 1 & 2, Go Vacation Tour, Golden Kris Tour, Grocer & Grind, Havana Club Bar & Rest, Jimmy Sport Bar & Rest, Indo-Ned, Junction Bar & Rest, Khaima Rest & Bar, Made’s Warung Kuta & Seminyak, Maya Coffee & Smothie Bar, Ocha Warung, Pacific World, Pacto Tour, Piduh Rest, Poppies bar & Rest, Red Carpet, Sate Bali Rest Echo Beach, Sendok Bar & Rest Legian, Sol Beach Rest, SOS, Sticky Fingers Italiana, The Cameng Bar & Rest, The Porch Cafe, The Wicked Parrot, Ultimo Bar & Rest, Vila Lumbung, Warung Bale Bali, Warung Bonita, Warung Eropa, Warung Italia, Warung Kolega, Warung Made Bar & Rest, Warung Max, Warung Sulawesi, White Sands Rest & Bar, Yut’s Place Rest. MATARAM: Blue Bird Taxi, Citramulia Travel, CV Ananta Guna Lestari, Depo Jaya Bangunan, Losmen Tjabe Merah, Mataram Mall (Delicio Café, Hero Supermarket, Ira Property, Joli Sourire Dental Care, KFC, Lombok Coffee House, McDonalds, Oceanic Café), Melissa Bakery, NTB Museum, Pisa Kafe, Redwood Café, Sekolah Nusa Alam, Sinta Pest Control, The Berugaq, Toko Susana. SOUTH LOMBOK: Secret Island Resort. SENGGIGI: Alfa Mart, Anna’s Giftshop, Asmara Restaurant, Blue Marlin Senggigi, Café Alberto, Cafe Lombi, Ciokolata, d’Oria Boutique Hotel, De Quake, Deli Senggigi, Dream Divers, Dream Estate, Gandrung Lombok, Graha Beach Senggigi Hotel, Holiday Resort, Kebun Villas, Living Asia, Lombok Property & Villas, Lombok Real Estate, Marshander Spa & Salon, Meat Mart, Orchid Spa, Papa Besar Cafe, Papaya Cafe, Puri Furniture, Puri Bunga Cottages, Puri Mas Boutique Resort, Qunci Villas, Rambo Petshop, Royal Spa, Senggigi Jaya Abadi Supermarket, Sheraton, Square Restaurant, Stars Cafe, Temptations, The Beach Club, The Chandi, The Office, Windy Beach Resort. GILI T: Blue Marlin Dive, Coco’s, Desa Dunia Beda, Egoiste, Gili T Resort, Gili Getaway, ko-ko-mo Resort, Pesona Resort, Hotel Vila Ombak, Manta Dive, Ombak Sunset, Scallywags, The Beach House, The Trawangan. GILI MENO: Blue Marlin Dive, Divine Divers, Mahamaya, Tropical Hideaways Resort. GILI AIR: Scallywags, The Beach Club. SUMBAWA: Mini Mart, Newmont Mining Site. Special thanks to our contributors: Barbara Lucas Cahyadi, Dian Cahyadi, Didik Hariadi, Iwan Haryanto, Iain Kent, Koes Nadi, www.lombokphotographer.com, www.balidiscovery.com. Printed by PT. Temprina Media Grafika, Denpasar, Bali Copyright © 2012. All rights reserved. Nothing in The Lombok Guide can be reproduced in whole or part without written permission from the publisher.
Kuta and The South Coast
KUTA AND THE SUBLIME SOUTH COAST
Indonesia boasts some of the most magnificent scenery in the world and the south coast of Lombok rates as being among the best.
Kuta this year and smaller developments are already under construction. Kuta by Barbara
South Lombok has views that inspire artists and photographers and leaves visitors from around the world speechless at the sublime panoramic beauty that unfolds beach after beach, bay after bay, all along the coast. The beaches of the south draw crowds to bake on the blindingly white sands, swim in the crystal clear oceans and challenge some of the best surf breaks in Indonesia. Kuta (sometimes spelt Kute) is the main town and tourism centre on the south coast of Lombok, and is the hub for exploring the fantastic southern beaches and the many points of interest in the region. Located around 60 km south of Mataram and about one and a half hour’s drive from Senggigi, Kuta makes for a wonderful day trip from other points in Lombok, or an alternative holiday destination for travellers exploring Lombok. Since the Lombok International Airport opened in late 2011, many of the major roads have been upgraded and the main road to Kuta is very good. The new airport is located only 25 minutes’ drive north of Kuta and has made access to the south very easy. The proximity to the airport has already sparked an investment boom in the area and major developments are expected over the coming year. For now, the south is uncrowded, pristine and spectacular. The drive down to the south coast is an interesting rural tour of small villages and farming communities. Fields of tobacco, corn and peanuts line the roadsides and farmers till the fields using antiquated ploughs pulled by large water buffalo.
mosques in Lombok, Mesjid Kuno. The small building with a thatched roof is considered holy and many believers make pilgrimages to pray here. Slightly further south is Sade, an hilltop village with more Lumbungs and traditional homes. Both villages have been renovated and cater to the tourist market, but are still interesting examples of traditional Sasak architecture and communal living within the compounds, where life continues as it has for centuries. Residents, who act as guides for a small fee, encourage walks through either of these villages and are happy to share a glimpse of their lifestyles with visitors.
Nearby Mandalika Beach is named after the legendary Princess Mandalika, a beloved character in Sasak folklore. It is near here that thousands of people gather every year to celebrate the colourful ritual of Bau Nyale, when masses of sea worms spawn in the waters offshore.
Ashtari, around 2km west of Kuta, stands out from the usual Kuta cafés and is a “must stop” for those touring in the area. Kuta itself is a small town with hotels, Perched on top of the hill with spectacular home-stays and backpacker’s hostels that views over Kuta and the surrounding cater mainly to the thousands of surfers beaches, Ashtari serves exquisite teas and from around the world who are drawn to juices, and delicious vegetarian meals and the area every year to surf the left- and organic gourmet snacks that are truly out right-hand breaks out in the bay. of the ordinary. Open Tuesday to Sunday, There is a good variety of accommodation, for breakfast and lunch only. restaurants and facilities for travellers and – with investment taking off –more options Kuta attracts thousands of visitors every year for the great surf locations are opening all the time. There are plans at Gerupuk, Tanjung Aan, Ekas, and the for a luxury beachfront resort in central beaches to the west. It’s easy to hire a board and a surf guide from here to learn surfing or, for experienced surfers, to access the more challenging surf breaks in the area. Hire a car or motorbike and you can spend days visiting beautiful, mainly deserted beaches, both to the east and west of Kuta. Around 4 km east of Kuta is Tanjung A’an, with perfect white sand beaches and good waves for surfers. Slightly further east is Gerupuk, well known as a top surf location and situated on a peninsula of land that juts out into the ocean, with stunning views of the sea, and the surrounding islands and bays. There is a good surf school here and no fewer than five surf breaks.
Just before arriving in Kuta, the road passes two traditional Sasak villages – Sade and Rambitan. On the east side of the road is Rambitan, a village that caters to tourists and has authentic clusters of thatched Lumbung, or rice barns, and traditional homes made of thatch and bamboo, with hardened cow and buffalo dung floors. Nearby, on the hilltop, is one of the oldest
At present, Kuta boasts just one luxury resort: the Novotel Lombok. The Novotel has a range of accommodation, from comfortable hotel rooms to spacious suites and luxurious villas, some with private swimming pools. Designed to blend in with the environment, and with a stunning beachfront location, the Novotel is a wonderful example of traditional Sasak architecture.
The beaches and scenery continue all the way to the east coast, with fantastic places such as Bumbang, Awang Bay, Ekas and Pantai Sorga (Heaven Beach)… the name says it all! Continued on Page 73
Kuta and The South Coast
Kuta and The South Coast
Live The High Life At Lombok’s Premium Ocean View Address
Unbelievable • Location • Facilities • Services
LAND SELLING NOW
CALL FOR MORE DETAILS +62 812 464 37 251 email@example.com For those who expect a cut above the rest
• Services • Quality • Value
Kuta and The South Coast
A View from Kuta Heights Development
LAND FOR SALE • Certificated land off Kuta’s new By Pass Road • Private Road, already well under construction • 20 minutes to new international airport • 3 minutes to stunning Kuta beach • Breathtaking 360o views over Ocean and Mt Rinjani • Or Kuta Green, our quiet lush valley area • Self or Managed villa build • Land and build packages available • On-site management office and KHD security • Environmentally sustainable goals for development • Assistance with Legal/Architectural requirements • Plots from AUS $25,000
“KHD... the safe way to buy land and build in Kuta” Until recently only large plots of land were available for sale in Kuta Lombok. With huge demand from westerners, fuelled by the development of the new international airport just an easy 20 minutes’ drive away, KHD are now developing what westerners have been seeking - manageable blocks of land where you can build your dream villa. We have plots with stunning views across Kuta and the bay, or buy in Kuta Green, our lush peaceful valley. Owners can self manage or have your home professionally managed and rented out while you are away.
Phone: 0817 667 3983
Visit us at www.kutaheightslombok.com
73 on accommodation in the southeast, although there are plans to develop the Tanjung Ringgit area.
Continued from Page 69
At Bumbang, Bumbangku Beach Cottages has simple thatched cottages and comfortable brick deluxe rooms right on a beautiful deserted beach. There is a good restaurant, serving fresh fish and seafood caught by local fishermen, and easy access to the best surfing spots nearby. Even for non-surfers, Bumbangku is a delightful place to spend a few days, swimming, strolling along the wide calm bay and relaxing in the peaceful natural surroundings. Further east, Heaven on the Planet and Ocean Heaven (collectively known as HOTPlanet) currently has the monopoly
For now, however, these two exclusive properties provide the chance to really escape from the outside world in sublime surroundings. The resorts feature comfortable accommodation, good restaurants, swimming pool, a Spa and Wellness Centre and a host of water activities, such as surfing, snorkelling, kayaking, wind-surfing and more. Heading west from Kuta are another series of beautiful beaches and bays hidden behind headlands and rolling hills, providing peaceful and secluded spots for picnics and swimming. All are within easy day trips of Kuta. Mawun Beach is around 30 minutes’ drive to the west and is a picturesque, almost circular bay with small green headlands rolling into the ocean from either side. It is a spectacular beach with calm blue waters, perfect for swimming and spending a day lazing on the white sand.
Mawi, around another 7km to the west, has good right- and left-hand barrels for surfing when the swell is large enough. At other times, it is a lovely beach with impressive views of Gili Lawang just offshore; look for the three startling pinnacles of rock jutting out of the ocean. Selong Blanak is a long sweeping bay framed on each end by headlands and surrounded by rolling hills. Sempiak Villas has plush villas perched on the hillside with breath-taking panoramic views. Laut Biru Café at Sempiak Villas is a popular place for a stop – or justifies a day trip in itself – and serves fresh and delicious snacks and meals throughout the day in a pretty restaurant overlooking the beach. Spend a day exploring the area, with lunch and a swim here as the highlights of your trip. Further west are picturesque Sepi and Blongas bays, and many more scenic beaches along the way; all are mostly deserted. The road deteriorates rapidly and the going can be rough at times. For exploring this remote area it’s best to use an experienced local guide with a good vehicle. Steeped in history and legend, surrounded by beaches of almost surreal beauty, the south coast is a fascinating area to visit, whether your interests are historical, cultural or just the opportunity to see and explore some of the most beautiful and pristine coastal scenery in Indonesia.
The most popular and comprehensive English language guide to Lombok ides rism Gu u s o T 0 0 35 o week w t y r e ted ev distribu
More than 100+ national & international visits to our website
Interna tional Magazi nes
Attractive advertising rates and effective solutions to your marketing needs Contact us now and be part of our success in “Taking Lombok to the World”!
Ph: 0370 659 4005
Kuta and The South Coast
South Lombok Map 75
PALM BEACH... Magnificent Land and Property for Sale
Palm Beach Garden Residential Plots Palm Beach Garden is situated 5km north of Senggigi, in Klui - a quiet valley surrounded by hills and open to the nearby sea. Astonishing panoramas, natural beauty and always a nice cool breeze from the many palm trees. Easy access from main road near Jeeva Klui. Shared services and facilities such as garden maintenance, cleaning, laundry, catering, security and staff housing are available. Palm Beach Hill A new residential development next to Palm Beach Garden! Located on the hills above Klui Valley with wonderful views over the valley and Klui Beach, and across the ocean to Mt. Agung on Bali. Level plots with access roads and electricity connections are ready to build.
Everything you need to start building your own dream villa! But hurry.... these prime lots are selling fast!
Office: Gallery Intan Laguna No 3, Jl Raya Senggigi, Lombok NTB Indonesia | www.lombokrealestate.com Phone: +62 370 693 796 | Hp: 0818 544 731 / 0813 5341 4121 | Fax: + 62 370 693 872
Professional Carpentry Equipment Panel Saw (3,000mm) – Rp 45 million Dust Collector – Rp 2 million Chisel Mortiser – Rp 7.5 million
Large workshop already set up for woodworking / carpentry. Separate entrance. Ideal location on main road in central Senggigi. All offers considered.
Phone Gerard: 0812 370 4500
General Information (Directory Assistance): (0370) 108 BANK / ATM Bank Central Asia (BCA) Jl. Pejanggik No.67, Mataram, Lombok Phone: 0370 632588, Fax: 0370 622347 ATMs - Jl. Raya Senggigi, Senggigi, W. Lombok - Mataram Mall, Mataram, W. Lombok - MGM Plaza, Jl. AA Gede Ngurah, Mataram - Jl. Airlangga, Mataram, W. Lombok - Jl. Jendral Sudirman, Praya, C. Lombok - Jl. Langko, Mataram, W. Lombok - Jl Raya Senggigi (Senggigi Square) Bank Danamon Indonesia Jl. Pejanggik No.117, Mataram, W. Lombok Phone: 0370 631322, Fax: 0370 633068 ATMs - Jl. Koperasi 1, Mataram, W. Lombok - Jl. Raya Senggigi, Senggigi, W. Lombok - Komplek Ruko B1, Sweta, W. Lombok Bank International Indonesia (BII) Jl. AA Gede Ngurah No.48, Mataram, W. Lombok. Phone: 0370 635027, 633347 ATMs - Jl. Airlangga No.25, Mataram, Lombok - Mataram Mall, Mataram, W. Lombok - Jl. Raya Senggigi, Senggigi, W. Lombok Bank Mandiri Jl. Pejanggik No.20-22, Mataram, W. Lombok. Phone: 0370 631311 ATMs - Jl. Pejanggik No.20, Cakranegara, Lombok - Jl. Taruna Jaya, Mataram, W. Lombok - Mataram Mall, Mataram, W. Lombok - Selaparang Airport, Mataram, W. Lombok - Jl Raya Senggigi (In Front of Santosa) Bank Negara Indonesia (BNI) Jl. Langko No.64, Mataram, W. Lombok Jl. Raya Senggigi, W. Lombok Phone: 0370 631046, Fax: 0370 631005 ATMs - Jl. Langko No.64, Mataram, W. Lombok - Jl. Pejanggik No.68, Mataram, W.Lombok - University of Mataram (UNRAM) - Jl. Sandubaya, Sweta, W. Lombok - Jl. Selaparang No.37, Mataram, W. Lombok - Jl. Raya Senggigi, W. Lombok - Mataram Mall, Mataram, W. Lombok - Jl. Jendral Sudirman 51, Praya, C. Lombok Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) Jl. Pendidikan No.16, Mataram, Lombok Phone: 0370 632246, Fax: 0370 633084 ATMs - Jl. Airlangga, Mataram, W. Lombok - Mataram Mall, Mataram, W. Lombok - Jl. Pahlawan No.92, Selong, E. Lombok MEDICAL / HEALTH CARE Medika Husada Clinic Jl Raya Senggigi. Phone: 0370 6644820 HOSPITALS Rumah Sakit Harapan Keluarga Jl Ahmad Yani 9 Selagalas. Ph: 6177000, 670000. Emergency (24hrs): 6177009. Mataram Public Hospital (Rumah Sakit Umum Mataram) Jl. Pejanggik No.6, Mataram, W. Lombok Phone: 0370 623498 / 6604605 New Mataram Public Hospital (Rumah Sakit Umum Mataram) Jl. Bung Karno 1 Mataram. Phone: 0370 645045 Central Lombok Public Hospital Jl. Jendral Basuki Rachmad, Praya, Central Lombok. Phone: 0370 654007 East Lombok Public Hospital Jl. Professor M. Yamin No. 55, Selong, East Lombok. Phone: 0376 21680
Biomedika Clinic Jl. Bung Karno 143 Mataram. Phone: 0370 645137 Risa Clinic Jl. Pejanggik 115 Cakranegara. Phone: 0370 625560 / 632117
Fire Brigade: Phone. 0370 672013. In emergency call 113 Hospital UGD (Emergency Unit Service): Phone: 0370 622254 Ambulance: Phone. 0370 623498. In emergency call 118
DENTAL drg. Farida Istiarini, Sp.Ort (Joli Sourire Dental Care) Mataram Mall. Jl. Pejanggik, Cakranegara. Ph: 0370 668 1797 drg. Lina Kulsum Jl. Gunung Dieng No.7, Mataram, Lombok Phone: 0818536236 / 0370 632131
TAXIS Blue Bird Taxi, Phone: 0370 627000
MONEY CHANGERS Multigraha Kelolavalas - Jl. Rasa Senggigi km.10, Senggigi, W. Lombok, Ph; 0370 693693 - Jl. Pejanggik No.1, Mataram, W. Lombok, Ph: 0370 631567 Multigraha Valas Jl. Saleh Sungkar No.1 Ampenan, W. Lombok, Ph: +62 370 624045 PT. Bali Mispintjira Jl. Raya Senggigi km.13, Senggigi, West Lombok, Ph: 0370 692247, 0370 692247 SHOPPING Senggigi Abadi Supermarket Jl. Raya Senggigi, Km.8.5, Senggigi, West Lombok. Phone: 0370 693311 Senggigi Jaya Supermarket Jl. Raya Senggigi, Km.8, Senggigi, West Lombok. Phone: 0370 693530 Alfa Mart Jl Raya Senggigi Indomaret Jl Raya Senggigi Art Market (Pasar Seni) - Jl. Raya Senggigi, Senggigi West Lombok - Gili Trawangan, West Lombok Barata Department Store Jl. Niaga II, Ampenan, West Lombok Phone: 0370 646123 Grand Store Mataram Mall, 3rd floor, Jl. Pejanggik, Cakranegara, W. Lombok. Ph: 0370 629931 Hero Supermarket Mataram Mall, 1st floor, Jl. Pejanggik, Cakranegara, W. Lombok. Ph: 0370 629918 Tiara Department Store Mataram Mall, 1st & 2nd floor, Jl. Pejanggik, Cakranegara, West Lombok Phone: 0370 629902 Kharisma Book Shop Mataram Mall, 2nd floor, Jl. Pejanggik, Cakranegara, West Lombok Phone: 0370 629875 Ruby Supermarket Jl. Pejanggik No.111, Cakranegara, West Lombok. Phone: 0370 631092 Jembatan Baru Supermarket Jl. Pejanggik No.41, Cakranegara, West Lombok. Phone: 0370 636106 MGM Plaza Jl. AA Gede Ngurah No.98, Cakranegara, West Lombok. Phone: 0370 646007 EMERGENCY Senggigi Tourism Police: Jl. Raya Senggigi, Phone. 00370 693267 Lombok Regional Police: Jl. Gajah Mada No. 7 Ampenan. Call this emergency number: 110
IMMIGRATION Jl. Udayana, Mataram, Phone: 0370 632520 PUBLIC SERVICES ELECTRICITY PLN Mataram. Ph: 0370 632182 PLN Senggigi. Ph: 0370 693535 WATER PDAM Mataram. Ph: 0370 632 510 PDAM Senggigi. Ph: 0370 693886 POST OFFICES Mataram: Jl. Sriwijaya, Phone. 0370 632645 Senggigi: Jl. Raya, Phone. 0370 693711 CONSULATES AUSTRALIA (incl. New Zealand, Canada) Phone: 0361 241118, Fax: 0361 221195, Email: firstname.lastname@example.org BRAZIL Phone: 0361 757775, Fax: 0361 751005. Email: email@example.com BRITAIN Phone: 0361 270601, Fax: 0361 287804, Email: firstname.lastname@example.org CHILE Phone: 0361 756781, Fax: 0361 756783. Email: email@example.com CZECH REPUBLIC Phone: 0361 286465, Fax: 0361 286408. Email: firstname.lastname@example.org DENMARK & NORWAY Phone: 0361 701070, Fax: 0361 701073/4, Email: email@example.com FINLAND & SWEDEN Phone: 0361 288407, Fax: 0361 287242. Email: firstname.lastname@example.org FRANCE Phone: 0361 285485, Fax: 0361 286406, Email: email@example.com GERMANY Phone: 0361 288535, Fax: 0361 288826, Email: firstname.lastname@example.org HUNGARY Phone: 0361 287701, Fax: 0361 287456. Email: email@example.com ITALY Phone: 0361 701005. Email: firstname.lastname@example.org JAPAN Phone: 0361 227628, Fax: 0361 265066. Email: email@example.com SPAIN Phone: 0361 975736, Fax: 0361 975726, Email: firstname.lastname@example.org SWITZERLAND & AUSTRIA Phone: 0361 751735, Fax: 0361 754457. Email: email@example.com THAILAND Phone: 0361 263310, Fax: 0361 238044 THE NETHERLANDS Phone: 0361 761502, Fax: 0361 752777, Email: firstname.lastname@example.org USA Ph: 0361 233605, Fax: 0361 222426. Email: email@example.com
The Gili Islands
Unique tropical escapes!
Although previously popular mainly with backpackers, the Gilis now attract a diverse range of visitors – serious diving enthusiasts, sun-seekers looking for the perfect beach getaway, singles, families, and couples of all ages find something to attract them to the Gilis.
Three perfect coral islands – Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno and Gili Air – fringed with white sands and swaying palm trees, lay in the sparkling ocean just off the north-west coast of Lombok. Every year the Gilis attract tens of thousands of visitors from around the world for their pristine waters, great diving and snorkelling opportunities, and laidback charm. The word Gili actually means “small island”, and so these islands have come to be known as “The Gilis” by travellers. The Gilis are Lombok’s most popular islands and are consistently rated as top SEA island destinations by travellers and travel publications.
There is a good selection of accommodations, restaurants and bars on all three islands, with the biggest range on Gili Trawangan. While nobody comes to the Gilis for shopping, each island has many small shops selling essentials such as sunscreen, mosquito repellent, toiletries, cold drinks, snacks and more. In addition, there are cheap clothing and t-shirts, sarongs and local handicrafts stalls. Activities include walking, riding bikes, horse riding and kayaking on Gili T, yoga, massage and beauty treatments,
glass bottom boat trips and island hopping, live-aboard dive trips and cruises to nearby islands, fishing, sailing, surfing and all kinds of water-based activities. The islands provide ample opportunities for visitors to swim, relax, sunbathe, explore, snorkel or scuba dive with the many internationally accredited dive operators based in Lombok. Snorkelling is easy in the calm waters directly off the beaches, with plenty of colourful fish to see. At greater depths and at specific dive locations around the three islands, the pristine waters are home to an abundant variety of corals, aquatic life and thousands of species of tropical fish. Continued on Page 80
LUXURIOUS VILLAS AND SINGLE SUITES Gili Trawangan, Lombok-NTB Indonesia P: 0370 6647066, M: 087864297487, F: 0370 6147741 E: firstname.lastname@example.org W: www.thetrawangan.com
80 Continued from Page 78 An impressive array of sea life can be seen, including green and hawksbill turtles, morays, barracuda, reef sharks, occasionally leopard sharks and manta rays, and much more. Visibility is very good and commonly in the 15-30 m range; and water temperatures average 23°C (73°F) to 29°C (84°F). Currents around the islands can be quite strong and drift diving is the norm. Many of the popular dive companies are owned and operated by westerners and PADI and SSI licensed dive operators, with professional standards of safety and environmental awareness, exist on all three islands. Each Gili has developed independently and at different paces, giving each a different “personality” or style, and catering to different types
of holidaymakers and travellers. This means that travellers have a good choice, depending on their individual tastes and what type of island escape they prefer. Gili Trawangan is the most developed and popular of the three, with the greatest range of facilities and activities; while Gili Air has a relaxed, laid-back style and is popular with couples and families. Gili Meno is the quietest of the three, perfect for really getting away from it all. Choose the island that suits you most, or it’s easy to combine an island-hopping holiday to sample the best of all three!
Gili Trawangan’s only Indian Restaurant Sheesha Lounge & Beach Resort
Luxury Suites, Villa Rooms, Deluxe Bungalows & Rooms with AC or Fan, situated in private gardens. Private terraces with Hammocks, hot water, western bathrooms, TV & DVD, AC, Safety box, 24hr security and shady tropical gardens. Bali, Lombok & Gilis Transfers Available
Phone / Fax: +62 370 6123 521 | Mobile: +62 818 0549 4876 | Email: email@example.com
GILI ISLANDS FAST FACTS Gili Trawangan by Didiek Hariadi
There are numerous fast boat services operating between Bali and the Gilis. In good weather, fast boats can make the crossing in around 80 minutes but in heavy seas the trip can take two hours or more. Make sure you choose a reputable company who care about passenger comfort and safety, rather than “pack them in and profit”. Check weather conditions before going – the Lombok Strait is one of the deepest bodies of water in the world and seas can get very rough, with waves up to 5 metres in bad weather. Refuse to board overloaded boats. It is also possible to fly to Lombok and transfer to the Gilis from the mainland. See “Getting to Lombok” and “Getting to the Gilis” sections for details. Electricity on all three Gilis is supplied by generators and blackouts are sometimes a problem. Many places have their own emergency generators but the smaller businesses may rely on candles and lanterns when the power goes out. Water is a scarce resource on the islands and fresh water is shipped from the mainland daily. A business on Gili T now supplies desalinated water and fresh water showers are becoming common. However, smaller hotels and home-stays may only
provide salt water showers. Use bottled water to rinse off. The tap water on all the islands is not suitable for drinking but bottled water is cheap and readily available. Internet is available on the Gilis at internet cafés and most larger hotels and restaurants. Connections can be intermittent and speeds are generally slow. ATM machines are available on Gili Trawangan and Gili Air. Credit cards are accepted at most dive shops and larger hotels and restaurants. Money changers are available on all the islands, although the rate is lower than on Lombok. Health services on the islands are limited. There is a 24-hour Clinic at Hotel Vila Ombak on Gili T, and small local clinics on Gili Meno and Air. Dive shop staff have emergency first aid training and basic medical supplies but for anything serious, get to the mainland as fast as possible. Weather is generally hotter on the islands than mainland Lombok. Make sure you drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and use sun protection, even on cloudy days. There is no motorised transport on any of the islands. Walk, ride a bicycle or ride in a cidomo (local horse cart). None of
the islands is very large, so walking is an easy option. Bicycles can be hired for between Rp 25,000 and Rp 50,000 per day, depending on the type and condition of the bike. Some hotels provide bikes free of charge for guests. Cidomo fares are now fixed by law and fares are displayed in the front of the cart. Generally, short distances will cost around Rp 40,000; a round-the-island tour costs Rp 125,000 on Gili T. Dress is casual on the islands and it is normal to see tourists walking around in swimsuits, sarongs and shorts. Remember that the islands’ residents are Muslim and nude or topless sunbathing is frowned upon. Please respect island sensibilities and keep clothes on! Mosquitoes can sometimes be a problem, especially during rainy season. DEET repellents are the best protection and local products such as “Autan” and “OFF!” are relatively cheap and readily available in the shops. The Gili Eco Trust (GET) is a non-profit organisation based on Gili T that works to protect and conserve the environment. GET activities include reef conservation, resource management, waste management and education programmes, to name a few. To date, the Eco Trust has installed 63 Bio Rock structures around the islands. The metal frame structures create artificial reefs using low voltage current to promote new coral growth and provide homes for schools of fish and reef creatures. The Eco Trust raises funds for its programmes through an Eco-tax of Rp 50,000 collected from divers on the islands. Clean-up days, to collect rubbish from the beach and sea, take place on the first Friday of every month on Gili T. Register at Gili T dive shops and join in the fun! To find out more about Eco-projects and to support GET programmes, visit: www.giliecotrust.com
GETTING TO THE GILIS
The Gilis are easily reached from Bali via the numerous fast boat services now operating between Bali and Gili Trawangan. Alternatively, you can fly to Lombok and travel across to the Gilis.
Fast Boats: With Lombok’s airport now based further away in central Lombok, the fast boat services are a popular option, providing fast and easy transfers between Bali to Gili Trawangan. The crossing between the islands can be treacherous in bad weather, so choose a reliable operator and avoid companies that practice “over loading” in busy times. Blue Water Express, operated by Blue Water Safaris, provides transfers between Bali and Gili Trawangan. BWS operates two boats, with 28 and 30 passenger capacities, departing from Serangan (near Benoa Harbour) at 8am and 10am, and from Padang Bai Harbour at 11.15am every day. Return transfer from Gili Trawangan is at 11am. Fares include air conditioned hotel transfers in Bali. Ph: (0361) 841 3421-24 / 0813 3841 8988. www.bluewater-express.com
FROM TELUK NARA AND TELUK KODEK: Teluk Nara is a large peaceful bay on the west coast, about 25 minutes’ drive north of Senggigi. Most of the dive companies and many businesses on the Gilis have their boats moored in the bay and transfer guests to the islands every day from Teluk Nara. Gili Cat, Blue Water Express and Island Getaway also operate fast boat services between Lombok and Bali from this harbour. It is possible to negotiate private boat trips (including fast speed boats) out to the islands with local boat owners here, thereby avoiding the hassles of Bangsal. At the northern end of the bay is Teluk Kodek, where Vila Ombak, The Beach House, ko ko mo and Scallywags have bases for transferring their guests by speedboat to the Gilis.
Gili Getaway is a comfortable fast boat departing from Benoa Harbour, Bali (only 20 mins from Kuta) daily at 8am. The crossing takes around 2 hours to Gili Trawangan and Teluk Kodek on Lombok. Ph Bali: (0361) 751570 / 726 523; or Bali: 0819 1673 3051; Gili T: 0878 6432 2515. www.island-getaway.com GiliBookings.com is an online booking service offering easy reservations with the leading fast boat operators between Bali and Lombok. Availability checks, schedules and e-ticketing, as well as accommodation options and more, are all available online from their website: www.gilibookings.com By Plane: Fly to Lombok and either stay on the mainland before making a trip out to the Gilis or travel to Senggigi (1 hour 15 minutes) to arrange transport to the Gilis. There are many different options, as described below. Tour companies and dive operators in Senggigi also provide transfers daily. HOTEL TRANSFERS: Many of the larger hotels on the islands now provide speedboat transfers for guests, as well as pick up services from the airport – enquire when you make your booking.
MENTIGI BAY: Also on the west coast, a few kilometres before Teluk Nara, Mentigi Bay is a base for Blue Water Cruises. The company offers relaxing day cruises around the Gilis onboard a beautiful traditional phinisi boat, with plenty of opportunities for swimming and snorkelling. Boats depart daily at 9am. There is a small café at the bay and a variety of fun water sport options available. Blue Water Cruises also operate regular cruises to Komodo Island and other islands to the east, as well as dive and cruise packages. Visit their website for details: www.bluewatercruises.com.
Be aware that public boats leave when there are enough passengers to warrant the trip, so you may have to wait for a while. Best times are between 8am and 4pm. If you don’t want to wait, it doesn’t cost very much to charter a boat, especially if you have a few people in your group. Don’t let anyone carry your bags or, if they offer to carry baggage, negotiate a price first. Ignore people who tell you that there are no return public transfers… there are; or that there is no water, mosquito repellent, etc., on the islands. All the essentials are readily available at shops on all three islands. Bangsal is a pretty area; it’s a shame some of the touts try to ruin it for everyone. If you get stuck at the harbour in the evening, there are some basic home-stays on the road from the beach. Arnel is a nice option with pretty rooms at reasonable prices. The attached Salero Minang restaurant serves delicious Minang meals and the friendly owners can help with everything from vehicle hire to travel information and laundry services. FROM SENGGIGI: You can charter local outrigger boats from the beachfront in Senggigi (in front of the Art Markets). The trip out to the islands takes around one and a half hours. The journey up the coast in the morning is very scenic, but you may get wet on the way back. Make sure you negotiate a price with the boatman first!
FROM BANGSAL HARBOUR: Catch a taxi or bemo to Bangsal Harbour, the small harbour on the north-west coast, about 30 minutes from Senggigi.
A good alternative is to check out the many dive centres on the main street in Senggigi who offer reasonable rates for transfers, usually including pick up from your hotel.
Public ferries (really just large outrigger boats) depart regularly to all three islands and charters are available, with prices depending on the number of passengers and your bargaining skills.
Arranging snorkelling and dive trips inclusive of island transfers is a good way to save time, money and hassles.
Unfortunately, the area is plagued by touts and scams, so ignore them and head directly to the ticket office on the beachfront. Public ferry and charter boat prices are posted clearly on the wall of the ticket office.
Luxury Villas on Gili Trawangan
Elegantly furnished villas with private pool Generous living space, dining and kitchen Centrally located to beach, restaurants and bars Last minute discounts available
www.gilivillasindonesia.com +62 (0) 81 237 55 721
Dive The Gili Islands • and Padi dive courses from beginner to instructor • Daily dive trips, night dives and equipment sales • Traditional style bungalows with AC, hot water, safety box, mini bar, wi-fi internet and beautiful outdoor bathroom Gili Trawangan +62 (0) 370 614 36 49 | firstname.lastname@example.org www.manta-dive.com
Gili Air +62 (0) 81 353 050 462 | email@example.com www.manta-dive-giliair.com
The most well-known and popular of the three Gilis, Gili Trawangan is the largest island and the furthest from the mainland, but easily reached in less than an hour by local boat and only 10 minutes by speedboat from Lombok.
and Bali, together with singles, couples and families from all over the world.
The island itself is around 3km long and 2km wide, so walking is easy and you can cycle around the island in around 1 1/2 hours (but will need to get off and push Previously tagged “the party island” by the your bike through sandy sections on the Lonely Planet, Gili T (as it is affectionately west side). known) has moved on and up. This is the only Gili to rise significantly above sea level and the hill in the south Gone are the days when backpackers is a great lookout from which to enjoy flocked to the island for Rp 20,000 a the spectacular sunsets across the ocean night huts on the beach and Rp 5,000 to Bali; or in the mornings, the brilliant Bintang beers. Today, Gili T has a sleek sunrise over Gunung Rinjani on mainland sophisticated side that becomes more Lombok. evident every year. That’s not to say that the original charms that attracted tourists in the beginning are gone. The perfect white sand beaches, clear turquoise waters and laid-back island style are still there in buckets.
On the far south end of the hill are the remnants of old WWII Japanese gun emplacements and crumbling bunkers, but the hand-dug tunnels have been blocked up.
But the island has cast off its grungy origins and now combines the best of a tropical island paradise with a touch of chic and all the mod cons of a top holiday destination.
The main development on the island is on the east coast, particularly southeast in the area called “Sentral”, where the boats dock. The tracks inland are through coconut groves and pockets of development.
Gili T still hosts backpackers and budget travellers, but these days they are joined by expatriates and trendsetters from Java
Development runs all along the east coast with swish places rubbing shoulders with
the older bars and accommodations. The north coast is quieter and offers peaceful alternatives to the central area. Such is the appeal of the island, the south and west coasts are now dotted with small hotels, home-stays, private villas and a couple of larger resorts. This part of the island is the quietest and, although the beaches aren’t as nice as those on the east, the sunsets looking across to Bali are magical. Accommodation on Gili T ranges from basic home stays to luxury hotels and villas. The old style bungalows with woven bamboo walls and thatched roofs are slowly disappearing, to be replaced by simple cottages with western style bathrooms to suit the budget crowd. At the other end of the scale, boutique hotels and luxurious villas boast all the comforts of 5 star resorts, including designer furnishings, private swimming pools or Jacuzzis, WiFi internet, iPod docks, satellite TV and DVD. Restaurants rival Bali in quality, if not numbers. There are lounges and sophisticated bars, Internet cafés, movie “theatres” and beachside cafés galore. Most restaurants and bars are located along the east coast, although the north coast has some lovely low-key options. Dining choices range from the typical Indonesian nasi goreng to sushi; barbecued seafood on the beach to international fine dining; and everything between. There is a lively bar scene at night and the island has a rotating party roster, where some of the top places have licences to host a party on one night of the week (hence the “party island” reputation). These, and the full moon parties that take place on the beach during high season, are a big draw-card for the crowds of younger people who come to the island.
Photo by Blue Marlin Dive
Continued on Page 87
The Beach House on Gili Trawangan is an innovative and contemporary resort set amidst tropical gardens, facing the sparkling turquoise waters of the Lombok Straits. Accommodation choices include a range of private villas, each with their own freshwater pools. Pool suites sharing a freshwater plunge pool, and 12 bungalows set in tropical gardens. The Beach House provides a range of facilities, including a beachfront freshwater resort pool and bar, and a beachside bar and restaurant serving international cuisine.
Phone: +62 370 6142 352 Fax: +62 370 6148 365 Email: firstname.lastname@example.org
87 There is a good surf break on the south coast with a fast right-hander that really pumps in the right conditions. Local surfers will happily lead the way and rent you a board.
Continued from Page 85 For those who prefer quieter entertainment, there are sophisticated dining opportunities, particularly at places such as ko ko mo, Scallywags Resort, and on the beachfront at Hotel Vila Ombak. Cocos has an upbeat café scene during the day and Horizontal is the coolest place to chill out, day or night. The social options are virtually unlimited.
The best snorkelling on the island starts on the northern end of the east coast, where you can wade to the reef just offshore. The water is calm and there is a drift from north to south, making it easy to lie on the surface and float down the coral outcrops. Although much of the coral is damaged, there is still an abundant variety of tropical fish species to enjoy and patches of colourful coral.
These days, Gili T is a serious tourist destination with a good infrastructure and range of tourist facilities. Many of the larger restaurants, hotels and dive shops accept credit cards; there are ATM’s in front of Vila Ombak on the east coast and further north, near Horizontal, as well as on the west side at Ombak Sunset. Internet cafés with Wifi are readily available, as are money-changers, tour operators and a large number of fast boat services. There is a tennis club and fitness centre at Kelapa Villas and a medical centre at Vila Ombak with emergency facilities and a doctor on call.
Horses can be hired from The Stud on the southeast coast; sea kayaking is available at Karma Kayak on the north coast; yoga, meditation, massages and other health and beauty treatments are available at numerous places around the island. There is even shopping at the Pasar Seni (Art Markets) in Sentral and at any number of shops and kiosks all around the island, selling everything from pearls to sarongs to hammocks. Innuendo has some upmarket resort wear and Silver Dragon sells beautiful silver jewellery. But it is the beaches and the diving that remain the main draw card for Gili T. People flock here to sunbathe on white sand beaches and swim in clean blue waters, to dive the fabulous reefs and to bask in the hedonistic pleasures of a tropical paradise.
Cidomo (Horse Cart)
Further off shore, the island is famed for its vast gardens of coral and is one of the best dive spots in Lombok, which is why thousands of divers visit Gili T every year. It is also one of the safest and easiest places to learn to scuba dive, with warm water temperatures, calm seas and excellent visibility almost all year round. There is a very good selection of professional western-operated dive shops and a range of dive locations suitable for beginners through to thrill seekers. It’s been a slow evolution over the past 20 years for Gili Trawangan, but the island’s time has come. While the backpackers will no doubt lament, there’s a whole new scene unfolding on Gili T. A world-class tourism destination is emerging – without the traffic and pollution – set down on an idyllic tropical island.
B o u t i q u e Re s o r t and R e s t a u ra n t
T u r t l e P o i n t G i l i M e n o | L o m b o k Bookings Tel | +62 (0)888 71 55 828 w w w . m a h a m a y a . c o
MAHAMAYA is ultimate paradise Tripadvisor “Number 1 Restaurant” and “Number 1 B&B” in the Gili Islands
Tatler UK: “Meno’s first smart boutique hideaway – a contemporary place with properly stylish rooms”
under the star-filled skies. There is no rowdy bar scene and no noisy full moon parties here. Like all the Gilis, the best swimming beaches and most tourist facilities (including boat docking and departure) are along the east coast. Although there are small places dotted all around the island, many of the hotels and restaurants are located along the southeastern coast, with beautiful views over Gili Air and Mt Rinjani to the east. It is possible to walk around the whole island on a small beachside track in around 90 minutes. Those seeking total tranquillity head to the north and west coasts, where more development has been quietly taking place over the past year. Mahamaya on the northwest coast has the most luxurious accommodation on the island, with two exclusive beachfront villas and more planned for later in the year. The restaurant is earning accolades for top quality cuisine served in the shady dining area or at pretty tables on the beachfront. Stylish rooms and personalised service make Mahamaya popular with honeymooners and those seeking luxe island escapes.
Gili Meno is the middle and the smallest of the three Gili Islands, with the lowest population and the least number of visitors. The island has not developed as quickly as Gili T or Gili Air and suffered unpopularity when, in the mid-90’s, The Lonely Planet wrote that the salt lake on the island created mosquito problems. This was untrue – mosquitoes are no more prevalent on Gili Meno than anywhere else – but the damage was done. Many would say that the bad publicity was a blessing in disguise. Today, Meno
is probably the prettiest of the three Gilis, with the laid-back and uncomplicated charm of a true castaway tropical island. The water surrounding the island is clear turquoise and the beaches are covered in brilliant white sand, fringed with groves of coconut palms. Although investors are steadily buying up land, especially on the west coast facing Gili T, there is no major development on the island as yet. There are a few upmarket villas, but no large resorts. Fortunately, much of the investment taking place here is low-key and – perhaps recognising the pristine nature of the island – development tends to be along environmentally and ecologically sound concepts. For now, small hotels and basic beachside bungalows provide accommodation for those seeking a peaceful place in the sun with un-crowded beaches, clean waters and peaceful nights
Good mid-range options include Tropical Hideaways and Adeng-Adeng. Tropical Hideaways, located a short stroll from the best beaches on the east coast, has comfortable and modern air conditioned rooms and a good restaurant and bar, serving delicious and well-priced meals. Set in shady gardens, Tropical Hideaways has one of the few swimming pools on the island. Adeng-Adeng is a new resort being developed along ecological lines on the north coast. Rooms and dining pavilions are set on unique islands surrounded by small canals in a pretty garden shaded by conifers. Continued on Page 91
Tropical Hideaways Resort Bar & Restaurant Gili Meno Island
Resort Bar & Restaurant
STRESSED OUT......? NEED TO RELAX & CHILL ......? TROPICAL HIDEAWAYS PRIVATE RESORT Email: email@example.com Website: www.tropicalhideawaysresort.com
91 There is also good snorkelling off the west coast near the now-defunct Bounty Resort. Swim out to where the old pontoon has sunk and become a home for many fish. Inland from the beaches, the island is quite dry with small homes scattered through the coconut groves. In the middle, toward the west coast, is a salt lake from which the local people still harvest salt on a small scale. It can be quite full in rainy season but dries up in the summer. Also inland, on the main track from the east coast, Gili Meno Bird Park has some tropical birds and a few interesting animals. There is accommodation here and a great display of Beatles memorabilia collected by the owner.
Continued from Page 89 Accommodation includes air conditioning and lovely open-air bathrooms, while the garden café and beachfront bar are already attracting popularity for excellent quality cocktails and delicious freshly-prepared meals. There is good snorkelling in front of Adeng-Adeng and along the northwest
coast, where it is often possible to see Green, Leatherback and Hawksbill turtles.
Casual beachfront cafés and bars serve Indonesian and popular western meals, with fresh fish and wood-fired pizzas being Gili Meno specialties.
To swim with the turtles – these huge creatures that are so awkward and ungainly on land but move through their natural element with a breath-taking dignity and grace – is perhaps the most special underwater experience of all and a major reason for visiting Gili Meno.
Some provide low-key entertainment in the evenings, more so in the high season, but visitors to Gili Meno largely come for romantic escapes and a chance to rejuvenate in the natural beauty of the island’s deserted beaches, which some argue are the best of all three Gilis.
Dive Divine Phone: 085 240 570 777 | Gili Meno, Indonesia | www.divinedivers.com
90 minutes to circle the whole island. The interior is criss-crossed with a maze of tracks that can get confusing, but all lead back to the beach. There is a good surf break with a barrelling right hander known as “Play Gili” off the south coast that attracts crowds when it is pumping. It breaks over sharp coral, so check with local surfers about conditions and board hire. Diving opportunities abound and there is a good selection of reliable dive operators on the island, including Blue Marlin, Dream Divers, Oceans 5 and Manta Dive.
Gili Air is the island closest to the mainland and can be reached in around 20 minutes by local boat or five minutes by speedboat. Gili Air has the largest local population of the three islands, combining the charm of a tropical island with access to the people and culture that make Lombok unique. At present, Gili Air is a laid back island with a beachfront lined with simple cafés and bars made from bamboo and thatch. Its main appeal is its unspoilt nature, with few of the swanky restaurants and villas that have sprouted up on Gili T… and that’s why so many people love it. However, with some believing that Gili T is becoming over-developed, Gili Air is taking off as an alternative destination. Over the past couple of years, investors have been snapping up land on Gili Air and a number of up-market accommodations and restaurants have sprung up, with more to open in the next year. Most development is on the east coast and towards the south. Scallywags, who have another popular resort on Gili Trawangan, own Scallywags Organic Beach Club on the southern end of the east coast with excellent swimming in front and a friendly atmosphere. The restaurant has taken island dining to a new level with its excellent menu and guest facilities. Just to the south of Scallywags, the Australian owners of the successful Senggigi business, The Beach Club, opened The Beach Club Gili Air in mid2012 and offer eight charming bungalows, similar to their Senggigi accommodations, with large air conditioned bedrooms, private terraces and semi-open air bathrooms. The bar and restaurant serves aboveaverage meals and the beachfront here is a great place for lounging during the day, or
upmarket dining in the evening. Existing accommodation on the island is generally simple and until now, has mainly been the domain of the backpacker crowd; although the Gili Air Hotel on the north of the island has a variety of rooms and a swimming pool. Oceans 5, on the south coast, is a well-managed resort with above-average rooms, a good restaurant and swimming pool. Manta Dive has nice air-conditioned bungalows and a swimming pool. Many of the older places offer thatchroofed bungalows with basic amenities, close to white sand beaches and at relatively low prices. There is a good variety of small restaurants and beachside cafés on the island, with many offering traditional Indonesian dishes and basic western fare. The beach barbecues with freshly caught fish are particularly good. The bar scene can get pretty lively in the evenings and, during high season, the island kicks into high gear with Full Moon parties on the beach. Popular places include Chillout Bar and Zipp Bar. Activities include walking and cycling around the island, sun bathing, and swimming, snorkelling and diving in the crystal clear waters. Yoga and meditation, together with relaxing massages and body treatments, are available at H2O Yoga and Meditation. For exploring, there is a path running parallel to the beach and it takes around
The calm waters and good visibility make Gili Air an ideal place to learn to dive or to upgrade diving skills. There are a number of popular dive sites that attract divers from the other Gilis, including Air Wall off the west coast, Hans Reef and Frogfish Point off the north coast. The water surrounding the island is of a colour hard to describe – a clear, translucent turquoise, made even more pure by the sparkling white sand beneath. Gili Air still boasts living reefs off much of its coast and there is wonderful snorkelling directly from the shore, particularly from the east and northeast beaches. The coral starts within metres of the beach, making it easily accessible to anyone – even novices who have never snorkelled before. Because the island is protected by reefs, there are few waves and the ocean is amazingly gentle, allowing snorkellers to drift in a dreamy daze above this panorama of aquatic shapes and colours. As is the case on all the Gilis, there are no cars or motorbikes allowed on the island, thus there is no pollution to spoil the clean air and the peaceful atmosphere. The views from all points of the island are stunning but the east coast, facing Lombok, is probably the most fantastic – looking back at the big island with its white beaches and green mountains dominated by the volcano, Mt Rinjani.
“Exotic Charm, Modern Comfort”
Gili Trawangan, Lombok West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia P. +62 370 6141 575 F. +62 370 6141 585 M. +62 811 39 06 76 firstname.lastname@example.org www.desaduniabeda.com
Best Wishes for a Happy New Year!
Cause the best gift ..... is having you!
It’s not wrapped in paper ....
The best gift is easy to see ....