Indonesia
-
Angie
- January 25, 2024
Our initial venture into Indonesia was a spontaneous weekend trip to the capital, Jakarta. Following that, we returned to Malaysia from Jakarta, as this was a “visa run” trip. While contemplating our next destination for an extended stay, we chose to explore Bali for two months, followed by its neighbouring island, Lombok, for an additional two months. Each place we visited in Indonesia has presented a distinct and unique experience.
Table of Contents
Indonesia
Jakarta
Our visit to Jakarta was a short weekend trip. We booked this journey the night before flying from Malaysia. With our 60-day visas nearing expiration, we chose Jakarta to obtain another 60- day visa upon returning to Malaysia’s capital, Kuala Lumpur. At that time, we didn’t know much about Jakarta, the capital of Indonesia, except for Indonesia being the country with the largest number of Muslims in terms of population.
Travel to Jakarta
We flew to Jakarta from Kuala Lumpur, which was a 2-hour flight. We booked this trip the night before. It was our first time flying with Air Asia. Worried we would miss the boarding window, we hurried through KL airport, only to find out that Air Asia, a budget airline, is notorious for being late, and our flight had not even started boarding yet. This was the first of many disappointing flights with this airline. Despite this we were happy such a short flight could get us from one capital to another, similar to travelling between European countries.
Visa in Jakarta
As we decided to make a trip to Jakarta the night before, we did not know much about it or the visa requirements, which we assumed would be similar to Malaysia, where you are granted a 60-day free visa on arrival. As we walked towards the border control following the signs, we saw a visa on arrival counter. We queued up and waited, only to be told when reaching the counter that we had to first pay for the visa in cash. Due to Indonesia’s currency not being strong, we had to pay “millions.” This was a 30-day visa, which was relatively expensive, especially as we were flying back out of Indonesia the following day. I think the high visa price is an effort to boost Indonesia’s economy. After we paid for our visas, our passports were stamped, and we were granted entry. We were asked how long we were planning on staying in Jakarta but did not need to show proof of accommodation or a return flight.
Transport in Jakarta
During our stay in Jakarta, we opted for Uber as our primary mode of transportation due to the city’s challenges with walkability and pedestrian-friendliness. Jakarta’s traffic, which I found to
be the most congested and chaotic I’ve ever encountered, made walking less feasible. The city’s streets were filled with vehicles, including scooters and tuk-tuks, and the driving style seemed quite reckless, with constant beeping, minimal space between vehicles, and frequent instances of cutting each other off. Despite the challenging traffic conditions, Uber proved to be the most affordable option for getting around the city. The convenience of Uber helped us navigate Jakarta’s bustling streets and efficiently reach our destinations.
Accommodation in Jakarta
During our brief stay in Jakarta, we selected a hotel that, despite its reasonable cost, appeared to be relatively high-end and offered complimentary breakfast. The hotel room exceeded my expectations and stood out as one of the nicest accommodations I’ve experienced, providing a high level of comfort.
However, I was surprised by the breakfast offerings. Given the hotel’s upscale appearance, I anticipated a diverse menu. Unfortunately, the breakfast was tailored primarily to local tastes, lacking typical Western options such as eggs, bread, yoghurt, or cereal. This experience emphasised the importance of carefully reviewing hotel amenities, especially breakfast offerings, and considering reviews before making reservations. Definitely a lesson learnt for future travels.
Restaurants in Jakarta
During our brief visit to Jakarta, we decided to dine at a steak restaurant with multiple branches across the city. The first experience was surprisingly affordable and the steak tasted relatively good. However, the following day, we visited the same restaurant chain but at a different location. To our disappointment, we found that the menu and taste were significantly different from our previous experience. It was unexpected to encounter such variations in both menu offerings and food quality within the same nationwide restaurant chain, especially with just a 20- minute travel time between the two locations in the same city.
Attractions in Jakarta
In Jakarta, there are various sites and attractions to explore, including the National Monument, Istiqlal Mosque, museums, and shopping malls. However, my expectations for the city’s offerings were higher, and I’m content with the decision to spend only two days exploring Jakarta. I am unsure what we would spend our time doing if we had opted to stay here longer, due to lack of attractions in my opinion. I think another important thing to mention is I would call us “fast travellers”. If you are someone who takes their time viewing attractions and seeing things, you could probably stretch your time out more here or other places we have been.
Mosques and female prayer areas in Jakarta
During our time in Jakarta, we explored several mosques, with Istiqlal Mosque leaving the most lasting impression. As the largest mosque in Southeast Asia, Istiqlal Mosque might appear unremarkable from the outside, but its grandeur becomes evident once inside, with multiple floors to explore. It’s noteworthy that non-Muslims are welcome to visit, making it a worthwhile experience. However, I was surprised to find that the female prayer section on the ground floor lacked privacy, as it was located adjacent to the men’s sections.
While exploring Jakarta, we noticed a lack of segregation in smaller prayer areas or mosques for females. The prayer areas in shopping malls were notable for their size and cleanliness, indicating deliberate efforts in the design of these malls and their internal prayer spaces.
Conclusion of Jakarta
Our experience of Jakarta was not as enjoyable as we had hoped. In contrast to Malaysia, the neighbouring country, Indonesia’s capital is marked by overpopulation, congestion, and a lack of cleanliness. We were relieved to depart the following day, and it became apparent why Indonesia’s president is relocating the capital to Borneo. However, one notable aspect was the warmth and kindness of the people. Despite economic challenges, we found the people of Indonesia to be remarkably happy, earning it the moniker of the “land of smiles,” a notable contrast to our experiences in Malaysia.
Bali
Bali was a destination we hesitated to visit initially, primarily due to negative stories we had heard and concerns about the island’s Hindu-majority culture potentially posing challenges for prayer and finding halal food. Despite these reservations, we chose to explore Bali, motivated by the consistent rain in Malaysia and Bali’s reputation for organic food and a healthy lifestyle.
Travel and Visa in Bali
We took a 3-hour flight from Kuala Lumpur to Bali, which was a smooth journey. Having experienced the visa process in Jakarta, we decided to apply for our visas online before travelling to Bali. This time, we obtained a 60-day visa, providing proof of accommodation, sufficient funds, and evidence of a departure flight from Bali. While the visa was relatively costly, the online application was efficient, and we received instant approval after payment, suggesting that document verification might be minimal.
Sim Card in Bali
We arrived in Bali without prior research on sim card providers. At the airport, we encountered individuals directing travellers to two different card provider kiosks. Seeking the best data coverage, we were assured that the chosen provider offered superior service on the island. However, we later discovered that the coverage was mostly 3G, contrary to the promised 5G. To avoid such issues, I recommend researching the best provider for coverage and obtaining sim cards from different providers if you are travelling with someone, ensuring a backup in case of poor service.
Transport in Bali
Opting for convenience, we chose to take an Uber from the airport to our hotel in Bali. However, our decision was met with persistent hassling from numerous individuals offering taxis at double the price of Uber. Exiting the airport, we encountered a man who claimed to match Uber’s price, but his approach seemed suspicious. He guided us to his car in the parking lot and asked probing questions about if we have obtained sim cards and if we know anyone in Bali. For solo travellers, I would strongly recommend sticking with Uber due to safety concerns. Upon our arrival, we were taken aback by the severity of traffic in Bali, surpassing our initial expectations. In response, we relied on Uber and Gojek during our first week. A journey that should have taken 5-10 minutes, such as from our accommodation to the gym, ended up lasting 30/45 minutes due to standstill traffic. Faced with this situation, we often chose to walk. Unfortunately, Bali proved to be one of the least pedestrian-friendly places I’ve ever experienced. The narrow sidewalks are often occupied by bikes, utilising them to bypass traffic. Walking is neither safe nor efficient in this environment, compounded by the high levels of pollution.
After a week of relying on walking, Uber, and Gojek, we decided to embrace the local mode of transportation and rented a scooter. Initially hesitant due to concerns about safety, we observed the traffic conditions and found that riding a scooter was relatively safe given the slow pace and scarcity of accidents. The cost of scooter rental was affordable, and I would recommend this option, especially for those who are already familiar with riding scooters or cars. Additionally riding a scooter was the fastest means of transport which would save you at least half the journey time compared to driving a car.
During our stay in Bali, we chose a villa with a pool on the outskirts of Canggu. Our villa featured one bedroom, one bathroom, and an open living room area equipped with a fridge, along with a garden hosting the pool. Regrettably, the kitchen area was small and poorly maintained, rendering it unusable. Booking our villa through a well-known worldwide website and opting for a month-long stay granted us a substantial discount. It seems that villa prices in Bali have surged lately, but we were fortunate to stumble upon such a great deal. If you’re considering a trip to Bali lasting 3-6 months or more, there are plenty of stunning villas offering fantastic amenities for those willing to sign mid to long-term contracts. If we were to revisit Bali in the future and intended to stay for an extended period, we would definitely explore this option further.
There are a few important considerations to keep in mind when travelling to Bali. Firstly, Bali lacks the infrastructure to fully accommodate its growing tourism industry. Consequently, we experienced frequent power outages and water shortages due to burst pipes during our stay. Additionally, the iconic rice fields that define Bali’s landscape are gradually being replaced by an increasing number of villas.
Secondly, it’s crucial to exercise caution when dealing with individuals offering villas online, especially those requesting deposits to secure accommodations. This is a common scam in Bali, where individuals use images of villas found online to lure unsuspecting travellers. To avoid falling victim to such scams, it’s advisable to only utilise approved websites or, ideally, visit the villas in person before making any payments. Always ensure that a formal contract is signed before providing any further funds.
Accommodation in Bali
During our stay in Bali, we chose a villa with a pool on the outskirts of Canggu. Our villa featured one bedroom, one bathroom, and an open living room area equipped with a fridge, along with a garden hosting the pool. Regrettably, the kitchen area was small and poorly maintained, rendering it unusable. Booking our villa through a well-known worldwide website and opting for a month-long stay granted us a substantial discount. It seems that villa prices in Bali have surged lately, but we were fortunate to stumble upon such a great deal. If you’re considering a trip to Bali lasting 3-6 months or more, there are plenty of stunning villas offering fantastic amenities for those willing to sign mid to long-term contracts. If we were to revisit Bali in the future and intended to stay for an extended period, we would definitely explore this option further.
There are a few important considerations to keep in mind when travelling to Bali. Firstly, Bali lacks the infrastructure to fully accommodate its growing tourism industry. Consequently, we experienced frequent power outages and water shortages due to burst pipes during our stay. Additionally, the iconic rice fields that define Bali’s landscape are gradually being replaced by an increasing number of villas.
Secondly, it’s crucial to exercise caution when dealing with individuals offering villas online, especially those requesting deposits to secure accommodations. This is a common scam in Bali, where individuals use images of villas found online to lure unsuspecting travellers. To avoid falling victim to such scams, it’s advisable to only utilise approved websites or, ideally, visit the villas in person before making any payments. Always ensure that a formal contract is signed before providing any further funds.
Gym in Bali
One of the primary reasons we chose to visit Bali was the abundance of gym and health facilities available. Unlike our experiences in Kuala Lumpur, where finding quality gyms or fitness centres proved challenging, Bali offered excellent value for money in this regard. We were pleasantly surprised to discover several crossfit gyms that not only provided top-notch workout facilities but also featured recovery areas complete with saunas and ice baths. Additionally, many of these gyms boasted cafes offering nutritious food and beverages, adding to the overall appeal of our fitness experience in Bali. After finalising our accommodation arrangements, we started looking for nearby gyms and stumbled upon Wanderlust Fitness Village. It was conveniently located just a 5-minute scooter ride away from us (without traffic) or approximately a 30-minute walk.
At Wanderlust, a wide array of daily fitness classes awaits, with a particular focus on their crossfit sessions. Intrigued, we decided to also give their Olympic weightlifting classes a try, attracted by the elite coaching included. This gave us the opportunity to delve into the fundamentals and techniques of Olympic weightlifting, a discipline that typically takes years to master.
Opting for the full package, we gained access to their comprehensive recovery area, where we could indulge in the rejuvenating benefits of the sauna and ice bath multiple times a week. Additionally, we made it a habit to dine at the on-site cafe daily, appreciating the detailed macro breakdowns provided for all food and drinks, perfect for those with specific goals such as bulking or cutting.
Beyond the fitness amenities, Wanderlust boasts a sprawling outdoor pool area with picturesque views of the surrounding rice fields, offering ample space for sunbathing and relaxation. For those seeking an all-encompassing fitness experience, there’s even a package that includes on-site accommodation.
In summary, Wanderlust Fitness Village proved to be a haven for individuals with diverse fitness goals, whether aiming to get in shape, bulk or cut. Wanderlust has a strong sense of community, creating an unparalleled atmosphere that resonated deeply with us. It’s undeniably one of the most memorable places we’ve ever experienced, and it’s a destination we’d eagerly return to in the future. Our time at Wanderlust was foundational and pivotal during our two- month stay in Bali, as we found ourselves immersed in its vibrant ambiance six days a week for the entirety of our stay.
Restaurants in Bali
Bali boasts a plethora of cafes and restaurants offering organic and nutritious meals, making it a haven for food enthusiasts. We were particularly impressed by the extensive variety of dining options available on the island. However, it’s important to note that Bali is the only Hindu- majority island in Indonesia, which means not all food establishments serve halal dishes. Consequently, we made it a habit to verify whether restaurants offered halal options before dining.
During our second month in Bali, we decided to explore the convenience of a meal prep service. This allowed us to have lunch and dinner prepared and delivered to us daily, with the added benefit of having the macros already calculated for each meal. Not only was this option more affordable than dining out twice a day, but it also helped us save valuable time and stay on track with our fitness goals. Overall, I highly recommend considering a meal prep service, especially if you have specific dietary requirements or fitness objectives in mind. Attractions in Bali
Bali, being a sizable island, boasts an array of attractions waiting to be explored. For an optimal experience, I highly recommend renting a scooter, as it provides convenient access to the island’s numerous beaches. During our stay, we had the opportunity to explore various regions such as Canggu, Kuta, Ubud, and Uluwatu, each offering its own unique vibe and atmosphere. Uluwatu captivated us with its breathtaking cliffs and pristine beaches, perfect for relaxation and exploration. In contrast, Kuta boasts a vibrant scene with its expansive beachfront, bustling mall, lively stalls, and diverse restaurant options. Canggu stood out with its abundance of fitness facilities, organic cafes, and vibrant nightlife, making it a hotspot for those seeking both wellness and entertainment. Finally, Ubud’s charm lies in its lush rice fields, ancient temples, and tranquil pace of life, providing an ideal setting for relaxation and introspection. Overall, renting a scooter allowed us the freedom to uncover Bali’s diverse offerings, from its stunning natural landscapes to its vibrant cultural hubs.
For those who love to surf or have always wanted to try, Bali is an ideal destination. Many of its beaches offer surfboard rentals and surfing lessons, catering to both beginners and experienced surfers alike. Depending on your skill level, you can find beaches with gentle waves perfect for learning, as well as those with bigger waves for more seasoned surfers to enjoy. Bali is often referred to as the “Island of a Thousand Temples,” and it’s easy to understand why.
Throughout your stay, you’ll encounter numerous temples dotting the landscape, each offering a glimpse into Balinese spirituality and culture. It’s not uncommon to witness locals adorned in traditional Balinese attire, particularly on certain days of the week, as they make offerings and prayers inside these sacred spaces to them.
Although our main focus during our time in Bali was centred around fitness activities, we did manage to experience some of the island’s attractions. One memorable outing was a visit to a zoo that featured a safari experience. This unique adventure involved riding in the back of a caged jeep through the safari area. Along the way, we had the opportunity to feed camels, zebras, and even lions, creating lasting memories of our time in Bali.
While we thoroughly enjoyed our experiences, it’s worth noting that Bali offers a wealth of attractions and activities beyond what we were able to explore. For instance, we regret not being able to partake in activities such as climbing Mount Batur, a popular hiking destination on the island. Indeed, Bali’s diverse offerings ensure that there is always something new and exciting to discover.
Prayer Areas in Bali
Given that Bali is predominantly Hindu, we did not encounter any prayer areas or mosques which was a big contrast to other destinations we have visited recently. However, during our frequent visits to a mall in Kuta, we did stumble upon a prayer area located in an underground car park. Despite the challenge of navigating the area due to the lack of signage, we appreciated having this prayer area. Despite the scarcity of formal prayer facilities, we felt comfortable seeking assistance in restaurants or finding quiet spots to pray on our own. We always make sure to carry a prayer mat with us.
Culture in Bali
Balinese culture is profoundly shaped by its Hindu religion, which manifests in various aspects of daily life. The prevalence of temples, observance of religious days, and traditional attire worn by locals on specific days of the week contribute to the intense spiritual atmosphere of the island. In my experience, Balinese people exhibit a strong commitment to their religious beliefs, surpassing that of many other destinations I’ve visited.
Despite the intensity of religious practices, I found Balinese culture to be exceptionally welcoming to tourists. It’s evident that tourism plays a significant role in the island’s economy, and locals are generally hospitable and accommodating to visitors. This blend of devout religious adherence and hospitality towards tourists creates a unique and enriching cultural experience for visitors to Bali.
Attractions in Bali
Bali, being a sizable island, boasts an array of attractions waiting to be explored. For an optimal experience, I highly recommend renting a scooter, as it provides convenient access to the island’s numerous beaches. During our stay, we had the opportunity to explore various regions such as Canggu, Kuta, Ubud, and Uluwatu, each offering its own unique vibe and atmosphere. Uluwatu captivated us with its breathtaking cliffs and pristine beaches, perfect for relaxation and exploration. In contrast, Kuta boasts a vibrant scene with its expansive beachfront, bustling mall, lively stalls, and diverse restaurant options. Canggu stood out with its abundance of fitness facilities, organic cafes, and vibrant nightlife, making it a hotspot for those seeking both wellness and entertainment. Finally, Ubud’s charm lies in its lush rice fields, ancient temples, and tranquil pace of life, providing an ideal setting for relaxation and introspection.
Overall, renting a scooter allowed us the freedom to uncover Bali’s diverse offerings, from its stunning natural landscapes to its vibrant cultural hubs.
For those who love to surf or have always wanted to try, Bali is an ideal destination. Many of its beaches offer surfboard rentals and surfing lessons, catering to both beginners and experienced surfers alike. Depending on your skill level, you can find beaches with gentle waves perfect for learning, as well as those with bigger waves for more seasoned surfers to enjoy. Bali is often referred to as the “Island of a Thousand Temples,” and it’s easy to understand why.
Throughout your stay, you’ll encounter numerous temples dotting the landscape, each offering a glimpse into Balinese spirituality and culture. It’s not uncommon to witness locals adorned in traditional Balinese attire, particularly on certain days of the week, as they make offerings and prayers inside these sacred spaces to them.
Although our main focus during our time in Bali was centred around fitness activities, we did manage to experience some of the island’s attractions. One memorable outing was a visit to a zoo that featured a safari experience. This unique adventure involved riding in the back of a caged jeep through the safari area. Along the way, we had the opportunity to feed camels, zebras, and even lions, creating lasting memories of our time in Bali.
While we thoroughly enjoyed our experiences, it’s worth noting that Bali offers a wealth of attractions and activities beyond what we were able to explore. For instance, we regret not being able to partake in activities such as climbing Mount Batur, a popular hiking destination on the island. Indeed, Bali’s diverse offerings ensure that there is always something new and exciting to discover.
Conclusion of Bali
Bali exceeded my expectations in numerous ways. The warmth and friendliness of the Balinese people were reminiscent of the welcoming atmosphere I experienced in Jakarta. The weather, averaging around 25-30 degrees Celsius, remained consistently pleasant throughout our two- month stay, with only one day of rain. We seamlessly embraced the healthy and active lifestyle we sought in Bali. However, the island’s overwhelming crowding and traffic congestion were notable drawbacks. Bali’s rapid development and increasing tourist influx have transformed it into a vastly different destination from its former self. It’s disheartening to witness the challenges posed by overcrowding and infrastructure strain, issues that are becoming increasingly apparent. Despite these concerns, our primary focus during our time in Bali remained on enhancing our health and well-being, a goal we achieved successfully. Bali undeniably offers something for everyone, and while grappling with its evolving landscape, it continues to captivate visitors with its diverse offerings and unparalleled charm. Lombok
Lombok
Our journey through Indonesia concluded with a visit to Lombok. Our initial weekend excursion allowed us to see if this is somewhere we could stay long term,resulting in our second trip to Lombok being a two-month stay.
Despite its close proximity to Bali, Lombok presents a distinct contrast, notably as a Muslim- majority island. During our time in Bali, we were told by a local that while Bali is often referred to as the “Island of a Thousand Temples,” Lombok is described as the “Island of a Thousand Mosques.” This cultural distinction, coupled with Lombok’s renowned laid-back atmosphere and relative lack of crowds compared to Bali, motivated our decision to explore this neighbouring island.
Our journey through Indonesia concluded with a visit to Lombok. Our initial weekend excursion allowed us to see if this is somewhere we could stay long term,resulting in our second trip to Lombok being a two-month stay.
Despite its close proximity to Bali, Lombok presents a distinct contrast, notably as a Muslim- majority island. During our time in Bali, we were told by a local that while Bali is often referred to as the “Island of a Thousand Temples,” Lombok is described as the “Island of a Thousand Mosques.” This cultural distinction, coupled with Lombok’s renowned laid-back atmosphere and relative lack of crowds compared to Bali, motivated our decision to explore this neighbouring island.
Travel to Lombok
On our first weekend trip to Lombok, we opted to fly from Bali, a short 45-minute flight with minimal security checks. The scooter ride from our villa in Bali to the airport was around 30 minutes and a taxi from the airport in Lombok to our hostel in Kuta was also around a 30 minute journey. While this mode of travel is relatively expensive compared to the passenger boat, it offers the advantage of time-saving convenience. However, it’s worth noting that we were limited to carrying only backpacks onboard as taking suitcases would have made this flight even more costly. This option is ideal for those looking to maximise their time, travel light, and perhaps only plan to spend a few days exploring Lombok.
When we made the decision to return to Lombok for an extended two-month stay, we opted for the passenger boat for several reasons. Firstly, this mode of transportation was significantly more affordable. Additionally, we appreciated the ability to bring our large suitcases without incurring any additional costs. We also anticipated that the journey would not be significantly longer compared to other options.
We were picked up from our hotel and transported to the ferry port as part of the boat ticket package. However, what was expected to be a 45-minute journey extended to over 2 hours due to numerous stops to pick up passengers from various areas along the way. Contrary to our initial assumption that the boat would provide a direct route from Bali to Lombok, it instead made stops at the Gili Islands first, including Gili T, Gili Meno, and Gili Air. Consequently, what was supposed to be a 1 hour 45-minute trip ended up lasting over 3 hours, primarily due to delays and additional stops. Additionally, the boat was uncomfortably hot and overcrowded, detracting from the overall experience.
Upon arrival at the ferry port in the north of the island, we had prearranged a taxi to take us to Kuta in the south, where we were staying—a journey spanning approximately 2 hours by road. In total, this door-to-door journey consumed approximately 7 hours, in stark contrast to the mere 2 and a half hours it took during our initial trip by plane.
Visa in Lombok
Having obtained a 60-day visa online prior to our arrival in Bali, we initially believed that we could extend it for another 60 days. However, when we attempted to extend our visas a week before the expiration date, we were informed that the type of visa we held was not eligible for extension. Consequently, we had to arrange for another visa run before heading to Lombok. To address this issue, we applied for and obtained another 60-day visa online. We then flew to Kuala Lumpur, where we were granted a 60-day free entry visa upon arrival. After spending a night at a hotel near the airport, we returned to Bali the following morning. Upon reentry, we were granted a new 60-day stay using the visas we had applied for online.
This process of obtaining new visas to extend our stay in Indonesia by an additional two months proved to be quite costly. I would recommend always researching if your visa can be extended and reading all the small print on any form you obtain.
Sim card in Lombok
Upon our arrival in Lombok, we were pleased to find that we could seamlessly continue using the SIM cards we had been using for the past two months in Bali. Whenever our data ran out, we simply topped up our SIM cards and purchased new data plan packages. However, I observed that some other tourists had difficulties using the SIM cards they had acquired in Bali or Jakarta.
For travellers planning to explore a vast country like Indonesia, it’s essential to inquire whether your SIM card will be usable in all the destinations you intend to visit. Additionally, it’s worth noting that our SIM cards were unexpectedly blocked after approximately two months of usage, likely due to tax-related reasons. Fortunately, we were able to resolve this minor inconvenience quickly by paying a fee for assistance in unblocking our SIM cards, allowing us to continue using them without further issues.
Transport in Lombok
During our first month in Lombok, we decided to rent a scooter similar to the one we had in Bali. Interestingly, scooter rental appeared to be more costly in Lombok. However, with a bit of negotiation, we managed to secure a good deal on a relatively new scooter. Driving around Lombok was remarkably easy compared to Bali, thanks to the minimal traffic and the scenic, untouched landscape characterised by hilly roads.
During our second month in Lombok, we opted to rent a car as my mum had come to visit us on holiday. Knowing that renting a second scooter wouldn’t be practical, we found the price of car rental to be relatively affordable. We chose to rent our car from the same rental service we had used for our scooter, which proved to be a convenient arrangement.
Renting a car offered us a much more comfortable and convenient mode of transportation, allowing us to explore the majority of the island with ease.
Accommodation in Lombok
During our initial visit to Lombok, we opted to stay in a hostel in Kuta, where we booked a private room. The accommodation proved to be very affordable, clean, and even included breakfast. Impressed by our experience, we made the decision to return to Lombok for an additional two-month stay. As a result, we began our search to secure accommodation for our upcoming visit.
During our weekend trip, I came across a villa listing on a social media website. After viewing the villa and making a deposit, we secured accommodation for our upcoming stay in Lombok. This villa featured one bedroom, one bathroom, and an open-plan kitchen and sitting area, complemented by a private garden and pool. Unlike our villa in Bali, this accommodation boasted a fully functional kitchen equipped with all necessary appliances.
Similar to our experiences in Bali, we encountered frequent power and water outages during our stay in Lombok. These interruptions made remote working particularly challenging, especially when compounded by the unstable internet connection. Additionally, we faced a new issue in Lombok: a gecko that made regular visits to our accommodation, both during the day and in the middle of the night. Unaware of the loud and strange sounds geckos make, we found ourselves awakened many times during our stay. Despite our host’s attempts to catch the unwanted guest, the gecko remained elusive.
Gym in Lombok
Lombok is still in the early stages of development and expansion compared to its neighbouring island, Bali, with Kuta emerging as the prime tourist spot. While exploring Kuta, we were aware of a small crossfit gym in the area which we decided to visit. However, we found that this gym charged approximately the same amount as the one we had trained at in Bali, yet offered considerably less value for money. We attributed this discrepancy to the principles of supply and demand, coupled with the lack of competitors in the area.
A new gym had recently opened in Kuta a few months prior to our arrival, offering a significantly different experience from the first one we visited. This gym boasted ample space, brand-new equipment, and a wider range of classes. Additionally, they were in the process of constructing a recovery area, cafe, and co-working space. The gym’s design drew inspiration from Japanese bamboo architecture, resulting in a grand and visually stunning environment. Despite its impressive features, this gym remained relatively quiet and felt like a hidden gem in the area. Despite this gym lacking the sense of community, wide range of classes and recovery area we had become accustomed to in Bali it was still sufficient for us, although we missed Wanderlust in Bali.
Restaurants in Lombok
The main tourist road in Kuta boasted a variety of cafes and restaurants, offering convenience for us as it was just a 5-minute drive or a 25-minute walk from our villa. While all the restaurants provided halal options, some items on the menu were not halal, prompting us to double-check when ordering meals. Although we frequented a handful of restaurants during our stay, we found that the dining options became somewhat repetitive due to the limited variety available. That said, for visitors planning a week or two in Kuta Lombok, there are still plenty of restaurants to choose from. However, it’s worth noting that compared to Bali, Kuta Lombok may offer fewer organic restaurants or meals with pre-counted macros.
Attractions in Lombok
Lombok presents a distinctly laid-back atmosphere compared to Bali, offering fewer attractions overall. It’s an ideal destination for travellers seeking relaxation at the beach or engaging in activities like surfing. During our stay, we opted for various attractions, including a boat trip to small islands for snorkelling and visits to waterfalls, appreciating the island’s picturesque scenery as we explored by car.
One notable attraction we regret not experiencing was the Mount Rinjani crater hike, a multi-day excursion lasting around three days. Despite not undertaking this hike ourselves, I would highly recommend it to others seeking a challenging and rewarding adventure on the island.
Mosques in Lombok
As previously mentioned, Lombok is often referred to as the “Island of a Thousand Mosques,” and it certainly lived up to this description. During our journey from the north to the south of the island, we encountered numerous mosques with grand, colourful domes scattered throughout villages. Additionally, we observed ongoing construction of more mosques, emphasising the island’s strong Islamic presence. The azan resonated throughout the island, audible from various locations including our villa, the gym, and even the beach. We found it easy to locate mosques for prayer, and the female prayer areas were spacious and accommodating.
One unique aspect to consider when travelling to Lombok is the additional cultural practice alongside the five daily calls to prayer, which is common in all Muslim-majority countries. In Lombok, it is customary for Quran recitations to be broadcasted over the speakers prior to each call to prayer, lasting approximately 10-20 minutes. This tradition can be somewhat challenging to acclimate to, particularly when the recitations occur around 30 minutes before the Fajr prayer, typically taking place between 4-5 am.
We were surprised by the daily wake-up call provided by Quran recitations from not one, but two mosques in our area. Adjusting to this unique aspect of local culture added an interesting dimension to our experience in Lombok. Despite saying this we appreciated living somewhere with a strong muslim community alongside being able to hear the azan daily.
Culture in Lombok
The locals in Lombok exuded the same warm and welcoming demeanour that we had encountered in Jakarta and Bali. We found ourselves easily adjusting to the cultural norms in Lombok, which bore similarities to our experiences in Kuala Lumpur, given their shared Muslim- majority status. One aspect that surprised us was the noticeable influence of Balinese culture within the Lombok community.
We speculated that this integration might be attributed to Lombok’s history as a Hindu island before Indonesia transitioned to a Muslim-majority country. We felt a strong sense of community during our time in Lombok, which greatly enriched our overall experience on the island.
Conclusion of Lombok
Lombok is undeniably a tranquil and stunning island, although its peaceful atmosphere may be deemed too peaceful for some travellers. It’s evident that the island is still in the process of development, and there’s much work to be done to boost tourism. One significant challenge facing Lombok is its limited international flight options, which hinders the island’s appeal to tourists.
Despite these obstacles, it’s clear that the locals value tourism and recognize its economic significance. They strive to ensure that visitors have an enjoyable experience in the hopes of fostering return visits. While we appreciated our two-month stay on the island, we believe that Lombok still requires substantial development and more diverse activities to thrive as a long- term living destination.
