Lombok, Indonesia
After an 8 hour flight to Jakarta, an overnight stay and another 2 hour flight, we finally reached Lombok. As soon as we got out of the airport, you could appreciate the green-ness of the place. There were families sitting, possibly waiting for loved ones and the sounds taxis and cars. As we followed our driver towards our car, we walked through a lovely outdoor area with some food places and the aroma of Roti-o (i assume it’s Pappa Roti) hits you.
As we drove to our hotel, we were awestruck by the tree lined roads, the rice fields and the mosques. There were so many motorbikes on the road, some had 2 adults and 2 kids on them (!)
Our drive to the resort took about an hour, which was spent looking at the roads and scenery.
We stayed at the Katamaran Resort in Senggigi. As we piled out of our transport, we admired the beautiful decor of the outside-inside recpetion. With its water features around it, it was a perfect backdrop for some pictures. We were greeted with cold lemongrass drinks, which were welcome after our drive. We checked in and made our way to our rooms. We had booked the tropical pool villas, these were certainly not cheap but we liked the idea of our own private pool for extra privacy. The rooms were so clean and the decor was really lovely. The outdoor area was lush around the pool, with a water feature at edge of the pool. There was lounger chairs and a garden bed too for relaxing.
The resort was really beautiful. Our package came with spa treatments which we enjoyed and daily mocktails. We spent plenty of time in our own pool, and on the beach too, which was rarely occupied in the day time. There were 3 other pools and lounging areas too, along with 2 restaurants. The staff and service was impeccable. It was lovely to be greeted with Salaam by everyone. One thing i noticed was the amount of locals staying there, which to me is good indication of a good hotel.
We hired a car for 2 days to venture in Lombok. Originally, we had considered touring many places but the family were enjoying the resort so didnt want to be away too long. We decided to see the Sendang Gila waterfall. It was a scenic 2 hour drive, with hens on the road and going through some local areas, seeing peoples homes and streets. Once we parked up, we walked down about 200 steps to the waterfall. There were lots of local families having picnics, and wading in the water. The waterfall was stunning. To see Allah’s creation. No camera could do it justice. Then there was the trek back up. Let’s just say we were glad when that was done!
We also decided to visit the oldest mosque in Lombok, Bayan Beleq Mosque apparently dating back to 1634. It was a shame that we weren’t actually able to go in and see but this is because of its prehistoric nature. It only opens in Ramadan for everyone to come to pray which must make it quite a special experience. However, you can see through a small gap that it is a very small simple room. There are some of their imams buried there in separate areas. It’s in a very scenic area and attracts many visitors and local families.
We also visited some shops and eateries. One place was Cafe Alberto. It was very deceptive when we parked up. As we walked though the walkway to the restaurant, we saw that it was located on the beachfront, with a stunning view. The food was great too.
As with any beach resort, its also a place for vendors to sell their merchandise to you. One day, whilst we were having dinner, we met a man called Ahmad selling jewellery. The girls were interested in his bracelets made of volcano stone. I wasn’t planning to buy anything until he showed me some tasbihs (misbaha). He had some really pretty ones. I asked if he had ones with 99 beads. He didnt but the next day he came back having made it for me. I will remember him every time i use it.
Overall, Lombok was beautiful and extremely relaxing. We ate lovely food and really enjoyed the place and the people. The girls really enjoyed their late night swims. Did we see a lot? Probably not, but im a firm believer that holidays are about resting and doing as much as your body allows. We had all had a crazy year and needed rest. And, ان شاء الله we will get to go back again.
