The original article was published in exquisite-taste-magazine.com. Read HERE.
Writer: Little Steps Asia
Bali, for sure, is a popular and a must-visit holiday destination, but Lombok is the place to go if you want to relax and enjoy some of Indonesia’s idyllic beaches. Yes, exactly like the ones you see on the pages of travel magazines. In Lombok partying is not on the top of the list and the atmosphere is more laid-back and relaxed compared to Bali, making it the perfect destination for families! A little piece of paradise that you definitely need to explore… Join us!
WHERE IS LOMBOK?
Lombok Island is located east of Bali and it’s geographically of similar size to Bali. Lombok is great for travelers looking for a picturesque and relaxed holiday destination. Blessed with exquisite white-sand beaches, epic surf, a lush forested interior, and hiking trails through tobacco and rice fields, Lombok is an absolute tropical paradise. And there’s much more. Lombok is home to Indonesia’s second-highest volcano, Gunung Rinjani, hot springs, and a dazzling crater lake.
HOW IS LOMBOK DIFFERENT FROM BALI?
Lombok might be geographically close to Bali but people here are predominantly Muslims – while in Bali they are Hindu – and the locals here are called “Sasaks”. Sasaks are related to the Balinese in language and race, but you will find they also use a dialect slightly different than the Bahasa Indonesia spoken in Bali.
HOW TO GET TO LOMBOK?
Lombok is easily accessible and you can reach it either by Air or by Fast Boat.
By Air: This is the most convenient, cheapest, and fastest way to reach Lombok from Bali. The flight from Bali to Lombok is about 30 mins and there are many daily flights. For those not traveling from Bali, there are also direct flights to Lombok from Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Perth, Jakarta, and more.
By Fast Boat: There are numerous fast boat services operating between Bali and Lombok. Find the departure harbor that is more convenient to your location, book online and you are ready! Keep in mind that Fast Boat Trips are NOT recommended for kids under the age of 2, pregnant women, and people who have heart or back problems, or other physical impediments as seas can get rough and the boat ride bumpy.
GETTING AROUND LOMBOK?
Car & Motorbike: Senggigi is the best place to organize car or motorcycle rental. Hotels and travel agencies offer the most competitive rates. Motorbikes can also be rented in Mataram and Senggigi. ‘Official’ car-rental companies often have a wider range of vehicles but tend to be more expensive. Hiring a car with a driver is a very sensible and popular option as you won’t be liable for any damage. If you decide not to hire a driver, make sure you carry an International Driving License since the Indonesian Law dictates this.
Taxi: Taxis are readily available in many parts of Lombok and are cheap and convenient to use. They can be simply flagged down in the street. Within the urban Mataram area and in Senggigi, you should have no problem finding a vacant taxi but in less built up areas – especially after dark – plan ahead and pre-book by phone. All taxis use a meter so there is no need to negotiate a fare before you set off. You can use taxis to take you to any destination in Lombok. The most popular and reputable is Bluebird Taxis (+62 370 627 000). They now have Uber and it’s pretty cheap too!
ACCOMMODATION: Family-Friendly Hotels And Resorts In Lombok
You find no soulless high-rise apartment blocks in Lombok. Wherever you choose to stay, you will get a uniquely local experience, even those with lavish five-star comforts. The island has a fabulous range of accommodation options to suit every budget. Enjoy sumptuous creature comforts in your own private boutique villa or beach hotel, escape to a tropical eco-resort, or get a taste of Lombok living in a colorful family-run homestay. There is an astonishing range of choice for every budget, and you’ll feel right at home in Lombok where ‘Sasak’ (Lombok’s local people) warm hospitality really shines through.
Family Friendly Hotels In Lombok:
Hotel Tugu Lombok, https://tuguhotels.com/hotels/lombok/
BEST RESTAURANTS IN LOMBOK:
There are a few finer experiences to be had than eating freshly grilled Lombok Seafood under the stars by the beach. You’ll find a selection of beachfront restaurants serving up dishes from every corner of the globe, but a food adventure should definitely involve one of the night food markets or street stalls. Dive into fiery sambal sauces, satay, and glutinous sweet snacks for a delicious introduction to Lombok cuisine.
THINGS TO DO WITH KIDS AND TODDLERS IN LOMBOK?
– Visit a pearl farm
– Relax/ Swim/ Paddle Board/ Snorkel At the Beach
– Visit a traditional weaving village
– Visit Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep Waterfalls in Senaru
– Go to Mawun, Tanjung Aan and Selong Belanak Beaches
– Book a boat tour to Gili Islands
– Enjoy scenic views at Sembalun Village, located on the slopes of Mount Rinjani
– Go to the traditional market in Ampenan
– Go on a Bike Tour
