Exploring Lombok

Located directly east of Bali across the 1300m deep Lombok Strait the island of Lombok is relatively untouched by tourism. Anyone who has visited Bali and Lombok will tell you the latter has a fraction of the tourism of Bali. Lombok is roughly the same size as Bali with roughly the same population, however it was never the big draw for foreign tourists that Bali was. This was due partly to infrastructure, partly to culture.

The island is a wonder of surprises and delightful people. This sister island to Bali, Lombok has so much on offer to see and do. The environment is pristine with natural, curving bays and high mountains affording spectacular views.

Many people have said to me that Lombok is like Bali was twenty years ago and, they are correct. There are many things I basically liked about Lombok; no traffic jams, the peace and quiet, delicious cuisine and an intriguing culture that I found quite absorbing. When I visited Lombok recently I utilised the resources of Perama Tours. They have an excellent selection of daytrip and overnight trips and, all prices suited to the budget traveller.

Lombok is easily reached from Bali via boat or air. Being only a half hour flight away, Lombok is a delightful place to visit even if only for a few days. The neighbouring Gilli Islands are reached by boat from Lombok and are a definite must-see for any lover of snorkelling, surfing or just plain chilli’ out on the pure white stretches of sand.