THE DEVELOPING ISLAND

LOMBOK.
Several years ago, Lombok was a barren land. Sweat-of-the-brow slog characterised the main endeavour of the inhabitants. An inhospitable terrain frequently stricken by drought was not a good provider. Its really different with Bali island, neighboring island.

old Lombok

ubud, Bali

One factor was the problem of getting there. Flights from bali were erratic; cancellations legendary. The ferry from Bali to Lombok was a marathon - you left Bali at dawn and finally arrived shattered at your spartan Lombok hotel (if you could find one!) around midnight.
Lombok was isolated because of it's geographic location and because it was thought to be less exciting than other destinations in indonesia. Now however, the former isolated position and uniqueness have become its strengths. That small island between Bali and Sumbawa is finally attracting a lot of attention. Airlines and fast boats are popped out and many trevellers are becoming familiar with an enchanting island. Glistening paddy plains, verdant hills, a rugged mountain chain and miles of white, sandy beaches loom through the windows of arriving aircraft. Lombok's peaceful surroundings are obvious the moment you set foot on the island. The friendliness and hospitality of the people is apparent.

First on the list of attractions is the national heritage selected Mt Rinjani with its beautiful crater lake, one of the most stunning climbable volcanoes in the world. But it's not only trekkers that can enjoy the mountain as the foothills offer scenery and colourful villages that are worth exploring. Areas like Sembalun valley with mountain folk, in appearance not far removed form  others in the world's cold mountain areas present attractions unlike any other in indonesia.

Fast becoming Lombok's most visited destination for international visitors are The Gilis-three small coral islands off the west coast of the island that are a diver's heaven. Sophisticated restaurants and stunning accommodation possibilities are features that underline the truly international feel of Gili Trawangan - you could be on a Greek island or somewhere in Ibiza..No cars or motor bikes to disturb diners seated right by waves lapping at their tables edges as they dine on cuisine that could easily pass as dishes prepared in Europe's finest restaurants.

And then there is senggigi beach, for many years the heart of Lombok tourism with its international resort and stunning bay. Accommodation ranges from the Holiday Resort with its beautiful cottages and apartments to the Senggigi Beach Hotel with its designer Pool Villa club occupying the area's best beachside real estate to the revamped Sentosa Villas, likewise right on the beach.

The kuta area in central Lombok has developed slowly but because of its stunning pristine beaches and surf opportunities is now rapidly gaining popularity which is sure to increase even more with the opening of the international airport located near by.

Now, with all amazing place that it have, the flood of visitors recently suggest in Lombok. And the most important, Lombok is not defeated from Bali.

Lombok 2013