Welcome to the island of Lombok, my cherished home.
Since making Lombok my haven two years ago, I've been blessed to witness numerous first-time visitors fall under its spell. Each guest, captivated by its allure, has echoed the sentiment: "You should become a travel advisor."
And so, I've answered the call. I'm thrilled to announce my certification as a travel advisor with FORA Travel, a global agency renowned for its partnerships with the biggest names in hospitality.
For those unfamiliar with Lombok's treasures, let me extend a warm invitation to explore this tropical island paradise.
Ready for your tour guide's introduction to Lombok?
Nestled within the archipelago of Indonesia lies a hidden gem waiting to be explored - the serene and enchanting island of Lombok. With its untouched landscapes, warm-hearted locals, and a plethora of adventures awaiting, Lombok offers an experience unlike any other. Here’s why you should pack your bags and embark on an unforgettable journey to this paradise:
1. An Undiscovered Gem: Lombok stands as an undiscovered gem among Indonesia's islands. Far from the bustling crowds, it offers a serene escape for those seeking tranquility amidst breathtaking natural beauty.
2. Friendly Locals: One of the most striking features of Lombok is its warm and welcoming people. The locals are known for their genuine hospitality, always ready to greet visitors with open arms and share their rich culture and traditions. It is an ideal destination for solo travelers and families alike. You can explore its wonders with peace of mind, knowing that you're in a secure environment.
3. Secluded Beaches: Imagine strolling along pristine shores, with only the sound of gentle waves caressing the coastline. Lombok boasts secluded beaches where you can bask in solitude and marvel at the untouched beauty of nature. This is what tropical island vacation dreams are made of.
4. Secret Gilis: Venture off the beaten path to discover Lombok's secret gilis (small islands). These hidden gems promise secluded beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a sense of serenity found nowhere else.
5. Adventurous Escapades: For the more adventurous, Lombok offers a myriad of diverse activities. From waterfall hikes and river rafting to horse riding and trekking the majestic Mt Rinjani, there's no shortage of adventures to embark on.
6. Surfing Mecca: With its world-class waves and uncrowded breaks, Lombok is a paradise for surfers of all levels. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner eager to ride the waves, you'll find your perfect surf spot here.
7. Diverse Accommodation: Whether you prefer exclusive private villas overlooking the ocean or cozy homestays nestled in traditional kampungs (villages), Lombok offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference.
8. Discover Serenity: Amidst Lombok's natural wonders, find moments of serenity and inner peace. Lose yourself in the lush tropical forests, chase waterfalls hidden in the heart of the island, or simply unwind on its pristine beaches.
9. Uncrowded Paradise: Unlike its bustling neighbor Bali, Lombok remains blissfully uncrowded with tourists. Here, you can explore at your own pace, away from the hustle and bustle of mass tourism. This is what a tropical island vacation should feel like.
10. Natural Beauty Awaits: From towering volcanic peaks to cascading waterfalls and turquoise lagoons, Lombok's natural beauty is simply mesmerizing. Explore tropical forests, chase waterfalls, lounge on pristine beaches, and gaze upon the iconic silhouette of Mt Rinjani.
Oh, don’t forget the food.
Gastronomical Delights: Prepare your taste buds for a culinary adventure like no other. Lombok offers a gastronomical extravaganza with its diverse array of dishes, blending traditional Indonesian flavours with unique local spices and ingredients. A must-have when visiting Lombok is the Ayam Taliwang, Lombok’s version of spicy grilled chicken. “It’s the best grilled chicken in the world” - Mark Wiens, the world-famous YouTube vlogger.
From street food to international dining, you can savour it all in Lombok.
Vibrant Cafe Culture: Immerse yourself in Lombok's vibrant cafe culture, where you can savour freshly brewed local coffee while soaking in the laid-back island vibes. From cosy beachside cafes to chic urban hubs, there's a cafe for every palate.
Some coffee shop recommendations:
Kinta coffee – Get your speciality coffee brew accompanied by live entertainment
MVP coffee company – A local Lombok Indonesian coffee brand for coffee lovers
Nyaman Coffee – A vibrant modern café where the young crowd hangs out
Embark on a journey to Lombok and unlock the secrets of this captivating island. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Lombok promises an experience that will linger in your heart long after you've left its shores.
Still not convinced? You’re a tough cookie hey. Well, check out these comments from people who have come to visit me.
“Lombok was truly a life-changing experience. It was exactly what I needed last year, after losing my Mojo due to health issues and burnout, I spent 3 weeks there. It's the lesser-known sibling of Bali, but here are a few of the advantages Lombok: Uncluttered - far less tourists Great infrastructure - The roads are stunning. Internet is fast. Cheap - It is SO affordable. I was often left amazed at the quality of service, food and experiences you can get for the price Multifaceted - it does have everything you need. Isolation if you want, sport, surfing, snorkel/scuba, nice coffee shops, great live music at most BEAUTY - And then there is the beauty of the place. WOW.
It is definitely worth looking into. Chat to Abbas.”
Seraj Toefy
“I miss waterfall hikes, fresh and cheap seafood, swimming in the late afternoon sun on the best beaches I've seen, perfect snorkelling and beautiful people. Thank you for the introduction to your island and a perfect trip. To think we extended by 4 days!”
Shafeeqah Isaacs
Ready to experience Lombok? Check out my FORA profile and let me help you plan your dream tropical island getaway.
Lombok is definitely on our family's to do list! My only suit don't fit me no more, and I have a pair of 'instiekers' (sandals) made from re-cycled plastic, so almost good to go. What are the visa requirements?
Lombok is definitely on our family's to do list! My only suit don't fit me no more, and I have a pair of 'instiekers' (sandals) made from re-cycled plastic, so almost good to go. What are the visa requirements?