Lombok: another paradise in Indonesia

In early December 2013, I had a golden opportunity to arrange a sales trip to Lombok for approximately 100 top business performers and leaders of the bank I worked for. It turned out that the journey was more than just a trip. It was a discovery of a new paradise in Indonesia for me. It had expanded my view and perspective on the richness of Indonesia and re-enhanced my believe that tourism should be one of Indonesia's economic growth drivers.

Generally, Lombok offers relatively similar experiences with Bali (the most famous tourism destination in Indonesia). Majority of the activities are around sun & sea, hang out at night and breathtaking scenery. The focal point of the acitivities is located in Senggigi area. Many 4-5 stars hotels have their presence there, such as Sheraton and Novotel. However, to date, Lombok is much less crowded than Bali. Therefore, it is a perfect place to uplift the life tension, let the heart takeover the mind, pour it into the uniqueness of nature and enjoy nothing but laziness.

There's a very special beach in Lombok called Kute (sound like beach Kuta in Bali). In addition to its beautiful scenery, the size of the sand is as bigger as a pepper. It is true.... you may bring it home as a souvenir. The local people collect it in a bottle and sell it for around Rp. 3000 - 5000 per bottle (600 ml). Well, it is about USD 02-0.4.

In fact, Lombok is not only about beach. It also promises a more adventureous journey. Mt Rinjani is awaiting to be conquered. There are 3 (three) waterfalls nearby. Two are opened for public while the other one is still (or continue to be) prohibited to be visited, due to superstitious and mystical reasons. Hhhhmmm...

The native tribe of Lombok is Sasak tribe. An original village of Sasak is still preserved until now and can be visited. They live in a extremely simple hunts and living a vey simple life. For modern people like us, it is unimaginable to live in such way....trust me.

For those who love pearl, Lombok is a must visit place. Amongst others, Lombok produces one of the best pearl in the world.

GILI TRAWANGAN

While Senggigi is more or less like Bali, Gili Trawangan is a true escape site. There are 3 (three) tiny islands nearby Lombok main island, named Gili Trawangan, Gili Manuk and Gili Air. The first mentioned is the biggest one with about 9 km square (imagine the size of the smaller one). About 2000 people live in this island. A lot of hotel, bungalow and villas available along the beach, with rent price ranging from few hundred thousands of Rupiah to about Rp. 2.5 millions

It takes about 35 minutes using open boat to arrive at the island. It is an enjoyable ride. It feels like sitting in a craddle and being rocked by a gentle wave. Wind caused by the speed neutralize the hot of the sun, perfecting a view of blue sky and ocean. Turning off all the happy laughter and sound of chats usually occured during the ride, you'll be at the point of peacefullness.

However, if you are in the boat and caught by rain, be ready to face a mini and simplified version of "Pirates of the Carribean". I experienced this on the way back to Lombok. The whole body, especially the uncovered part, was hit by the rain. Even a tiny drop of water, if powered by the speed of wind, can hurt your skin. Hahahaha..... but, I actually enjoyed it. It brought back my memory of youth, riding bicycle and playing in the rain, facing the sky and shout "give me more.....".

Well....back to the story of Gili Trawangan. If you know the "welcome to my paradise" song lyrics, you'll understand my impression as I approached the island. The beach is crystal clear. It immediately seduced you to jump into the water for simple swimming, playing water, snorkling, sun bathing, kayaking, etc. There are also glass bottom boat tour available for those who just want to see the coral reef and fish without getting wet. In addition, many bicycle are available for rent to enjoy the island. There are cafes and restaurants ready to serve you foods and beverages.

So, just enjoy the island the way you want it to be....

There are several unique rules in Gili Trawangan. Firstly, those who live there are strictly prohibited to engage in physical fighting. The violents will be expelled from the community for certain years and are not allowed to live in the island. This is not a government regulation, but a cultural heritage rule. Secondly, motorcycle or car are not allowed. The transportation modes are by foot, bicycle or horse cart. Well, with the size of the island, they certainly don't need those machine, but still, maintaining it as a rule has to be appreciated. I sincerely hope and wish these rules will be preserved and becoming one of the heritages of Lombok.

The only minor weakness of Gili Trawangan is the lack of public shower and rest/changing room. Although some cafes provide it, the capacity is much less beyond the need of the visitors. Therefore, probably the best way to enjoy the day to the fullest is to stay a night there.

SIDE NOTE: LOCAL TOUR GUIDE (MR. USMAN)

During my trip, I was accompanied by a local tour guide, Mr. Usman. He is a Sasak-ian who was born, grow up and live in Lombok. Although he only accompanied us for 4 (four) days, the group admitted that Usman is very knowledgeable, calm and possesses a sense of humor as well. In addition to Indonesian, he speaks English and a little bit of Germany. His coverage areas are Lombok, Bali and surrounding.

The reason I write this recommendation note is not because of his good performance as a professional guide, but because of his attitudes...well, at least the behaviours revealed during the trip.

Firstly, the sincere willingness to help. Many guides tends to direct or influence guests to purchase souvenirs to certain places for commissions. It is a normal business practice. Unsincere guide tends to avoid helping guests if it will not resulted in any financial benefit for him/her. Several common arguments are "the schedule is tight or arranged", "very difficult to find that items", "the price or quality is not good", etc. Usman doesn't like that. He proactively offers me assistant and help to get what I'm looking for.

Secondly, he has passion to contribute to the development of Lombok. I always like that fighting spirit. I don't know how far he can go, but I like the spirit. It is the idealism that should be owned by millions of Indonesian, to develop this country on our feet.

Thirdly, he expresses eagerness to learn new things and grow further. I didn't notice this until he openly said that he was listening to my brief during the closing session of the trip. I never meet a tour guide who really put attention to speech or brief delivered by guest. What they usually concern is the itinerary.

Therefore, if you have plan to visit Lombok, why not contact Mr. Usman? His mobile number is +62-817-368-020. Who knows he can assist you to enjoy Lombok as much as I do.