Live Your Best Lives
In September 2016, I backpacked to Indonesia, entering through the bustling island of Bali and then flying east to Lombok. Bali is a commercial destination, with itineraries galore, but Lombok, a relatively unpopular destination, captivated me deeply. Visiting off-the-beaten-path destinations is a cool thing for me, and it's a key factor in my travel destination choices.
Today, I recommend Lombok, located east of Bali. Like a young woman about to marry, she's fully prepared. Her delicate features can only be seen through her sarong, but her delicate features can never be lifted to reveal her. This makes it a perfect holiday destination for tourists. Lombok, also known as "LOMBOK ISLAND" in English, means chili in Indonesian. The scenery here lives up to its name: just like the chili, it's a place that leaves those who visit it wanting more.
Lombok is just east of Bali. It only takes half an hour to fly from Bali to Mataram Airport on Lombok. The plane flies at a relatively low altitude throughout the entire journey. You can see various islands in Indonesia from the plane. It is recommended that you choose a window seat.
In addition, tourists can also take a speedboat from Padangbai Pier in Bali to Lombok. Large and small speedboat companies operate this route, so there are boats from morning to night, and the journey takes about two and a half hours.
I first saw Lombok through these photos online, taken at Mount Rinjani on Lombok. It is Bali's sister island, but has a different look from Bali:
1) The residents here are almost isolated from the outside world, and the streets without a strong commercial atmosphere are filled with the simple smiles of the locals;
2) Mount Rinjani, an active volcano that attracts hikers from all over the world, is located here. You can spend 3-4 days climbing to the crater to see the magnificent volcanic lake below 600 meters and the geological wonders of large volcanoes nesting small volcanoes.
3) There are also three famous Gili Islands hidden here, each with crystal clear waters and different styles;
4) There are few people and beautiful scenery. You will hardly see Chinese tourists here. Post pictures on your Moments to show your curiosity and high-end taste.
There are two ways to exchange rupiah (Indonesian currency) in Lombok.
1) ATM withdrawal. However, I couldn't withdraw cash from the airport ATM with my VISA card. I'm not sure why. However, some ATMs on T Island can withdraw cash, and the real-time exchange rate is quite good.
2) Exchange US dollars at home and then exchange them for rupiah locally. As with other places, the airport exchange rate is always lower than outside. There are also many currency exchange shops on T Island, and the exchange rates vary, but they are generally higher than at the airport. So, my advice remains the same: exchange a small amount at the airport for transportation and exchange the rest on T Island.
When you land and turn on your phone, only to find you can't access the internet or GPS, you're in for a real panic. Even so, don't buy a SIM card at the airport. Whether in Bali or Lombok, airports are a rip-off for beginners. Ask your driver to find a SIM card shop in downtown Mataram. There are many carriers and data plans available, depending on your needs. Ask the vendor about signal strength; they'll recommend one.
Now let me tell you about some must-see attractions in Lombok.
Senggigi Beach is 14 kilometers from Mataram, Lombok's largest city. Bemo buses take you directly to Senggigi Beach. The waters are remarkably azure and calm, often compared to a tranquil lake. Senggigi Beach is Lombok's oldest tourist attraction. While strollers and swimmers can be seen on the beach, it often feels sparsely populated, resulting in a distinctly empty atmosphere. The air is exceptionally fresh, tranquil, and warm. Consequently, watersports here are mostly quiet diving, rather than the bustling waters of water biking. Visitors here are drawn to the tranquility of this rare escape from the hustle and bustle.
Tips:
How to get there:
A long-distance bus (bemo) directly to Senggigi Beach costs approximately IDR 35,000. Taxis also operate directly from the airport and can be booked at the arrivals counter. The ride takes approximately 20 minutes and costs IDR 30,000. From Bangsal to Senggigi, you can use the unique local pony taxis. Many travel agencies in Bali offer point-to-point transportation from any location in southern Bali to Senggigi Beach, with the total fare being approximately IDR 140,000. Taxis and pony taxis are available for travel between Senggigi Town, the beach, and hotels. Taxis generally use meters. Pony taxis are often found soliciting outside hotels, and the minimum fare is IDR 10,000 to 15,000.
This is a map of Lombok. In the upper left corner is the Gili Islands, divided into Gili Trawangan (T), Meno (M), and Air (A). They form a group of islands off Lombok.
Gili Trawangan is the busiest of the three, offering everything from hotels and hostels to villas. Gili Trawangan is closest to the main island and falls somewhere in between, with more villas than hotels and no hostels. Gili Trawangan is the quietest, with minimal construction, but you can see on Airbnb and Booking that the most expensive villas in the Gili Islands are on Gili Trawangan.
Tips:
The red line is the driving route I recommend, and the coastal route will always give you a scenic experience.
1) Depart from Bali
As mentioned earlier, large and small speedboat companies operate speedboats/ferries from Bali to Padangbai Pier and Lombok every day. They will stop at T Island before heading to the terminal in Lombok, so you can take these ships to go there.
2) Fly to Mataram Airport in Lombok and then take a car or ship transport
After landing, I first looked for a taxi to the pier. Anyone who's been to Indonesia knows there's a local taxi service called Blue Bird. These taxis are metered, so they're quite reliable. However, unlike Bali, public transportation in Lombok isn't very well developed, and Blue Bird taxis are rare. Even at the airport, you can only spot a few. (P.S.: Taxis from other companies are plentiful, but they're not as reliable.)
Of course, there are also various chartered car companies in the airport arrival hall, where you can find vehicles of various models.
There are two labels in the upper left corner of the previous image, indicating two ways to get to the Gili Islands from the pier. One is from a private pier, where you can take a speedboat to the island of your choice in a very short time, but the price is relatively high. The other is from Bangsal Pier, where you can take a public boat. The fare is very cheap, less than 10 yuan per person, making it suitable for budget travelers. However, it is like a bus, stopping at each island to pick up and drop off passengers, although this part of the journey is not very time-consuming.
There are no cars on the Gili Islands, and there are bicycle rental places all over the island. From ordinary bicycles to cool beach bicycles, there are many price levels. If you are patient and good at bargaining, you should be able to negotiate a good price.
In addition to bicycles, you can also see many horse-drawn carriages shuttling through the alleys, with the horses wearing some local Indonesian accessories.
1) Snorkeling
When it comes to islands, the first thing that comes to mind is, of course, diving. There's a place to get a diving license, and when I visited, I even saw a Chinese-language diving school under construction right on the main road.
There are numerous snorkeling spots around the island. Snorkeling is my favorite outdoor sport. Many shops along the main road rent snorkeling gear. You can rent diving masks and fins of various sizes there. If you can't swim, you can also rent a life jacket, which is quite safe. Also, some shops rent GoPro cameras. For a little extra money, they'll give you an SD card, so you don't have to buy one specifically.
In the Gili Islands, you can shore dive directly without taking a boat. However, be aware that shells and coral debris are more common in shallow waters, so try to find flat areas for your dives. Dive when the sea is relatively calm, as this provides the best view of the seabed and helps avoid encountering coral and reefs. As an amateur, I experienced some significant setbacks this time, which I'll discuss later.
I went diving twice, and the diverse array of fish was a feast for the eyes. As you venture further out, the seabed becomes a drop-off, with no end in sight. Occasionally, you'll spot the shadows of large fish, a truly thrilling experience. It's also worth noting that snorkeling in the Gili Islands offers a high probability of spotting sea turtles.
2) Dining
It's worth mentioning that the Gili Islands are Muslim islands, and the islanders are all Muslims. There's a large mosque on T Island. Just like the time, the call to prayer is played at a fixed time every day.
Due to religious restrictions, you won't find pork products like bacon and sausage on the island. Most of the island is grill & bar. Every evening around 5pm, the beachfront restaurants open, and waiters place freshly caught seafood on the tables for sale, offering a wide variety of fish, shrimp, and crab. Each grilled fish comes with a salad, rice, or potatoes—not fries, but whole potatoes! The meal costs around 50 per person, though if you order lobster or tiger prawns, it's a different story. One complaint: no matter what kind of fish is grilled, it tastes the same. Every time I eat, I long for China.
There are Western restaurants like Italian pizza and sushi bars on the island, but they're certainly expensive. Besides the beachfront, there are also small, affordable restaurants tucked away in the alleys of the island, mostly used by island residents. Unlike the beach restaurants, you can enjoy local Indonesian cuisine here. While not as delicious as in China, the prices are more than justifiable.
There is a food stall on the beach. It starts to get lively around 6pm every day, and the smell of barbecue will fill the streets and alleys of Gili T Island.
3) Nightlife
Gili T Island is also known as the "Party Island." It's a bustling place, with bands playing at the beachside bars every evening. Mid-month, a full-moon party is also held on the beach. When the aroma of barbecue smoke curls up from the island, it signifies the beginning of real life. If T Island's days are defined by the clear blue sea, then its nights are defined by bubbling beers. After dinner, people relax on beach chairs with a drink. For those who enjoy shisha, the two are a perfect match.
Tip: Beer prices vary, even from convenience store to convenience store. Those near the pier are generally more expensive. For the cheapest beer, head inside and ask at the small shops in the alleys.
4) Island Hopping
If you're tired of the bustle of the city, Gili Air might be your perfect escape. Public boats run between Island A and Island T, and fares are very affordable; simply buy a ticket for the next available boat at the ticket office. Island A is smaller than Island T; I once walked around it in about two hours. Island A doesn't offer as many entertainment options as Island T, but that's not necessary. With a beer and a book, you can enjoy an afternoon on a lounge chair.
Mount Rinjani is an active volcano located in northern Lombok, Indonesia. Its highest peak stands at 3,726 meters, making it the second-highest volcano in Indonesia. Its most recent eruption was in May 2010. Mount Rinjani is unique in that it contains smaller volcanoes nested within the larger volcano. Within its crater lies a volcanic lake, Segara Anak, at an altitude of approximately 2,000 meters. Within this lake lies a smaller volcano, Baru, formed by a secondary eruption. Baru's highest point reaches 2,363 meters. In 2008, the Indonesian government applied to UNESCO for Mount Rinjani to be designated a World Geopark, but the application was not approved due to inadequate facilities and services.
Tips: The best travel season is from April to November each year, when Lombok is in its dry season; from December to March is Lombok’s rainy season, and mountain climbing is prohibited.
You can sign up for the Rinjani Mount Hiking Tour online or when you arrive at the local area. The packages are generally divided into 2 days and 1 night, 3 days and 2 nights, and 4 days and 3 nights.
/2 days and 1 night/
We started our ascent from SENARU (600m) at the foot of the mountain, climbed to SENARU RIM (2641m) and camped there that day, then descended the next morning after watching the sunrise. (Very, very tough)
/3 days and 2 nights/
The first day's itinerary is the same as above. On the second day, we will go down from the camp to the volcanic lake (2000 meters) and soak in the volcanic hot springs. Then we will climb 600 meters to Sembalun Rim (2639 meters) to camp. On the third day, we will get up early (around 3 am) to watch the sunrise at the summit, then go down to the campsite for breakfast and then go down the mountain.
/4 days and 3 nights/
The itinerary is the same as the 3-day 2-night itinerary, with an additional camping stop by the lake on the second day, which is relatively relaxing.
1. Measure your physical fitness scientifically
The first few times you go hiking, it is best to stick to walking for a few hours instead of planning how far you must go. After you have a few such tests and understand your abilities, you can appropriately increase the intensity of your hike.
2. Don’t just keep your head down while walking and miss the scenery around you.
When hiking outdoors, keeping fit is only one of the goals. Don't run wild for some so-called "self-torture" purpose. High-intensity physical exertion can sometimes be counterproductive. Remember, when hiking outdoors, the appropriate pace is the one you can maintain throughout the day.
3. Learn the resting steps
When it comes to walking, everyone has their own way. When hiking, you should walk in a way that is comfortable for you, so that your physical strength can be used scientifically and effectively.
4. Increase the frequency of "eating and drinking more" when hiking
When hiking, the body loses a lot of heat, so to replenish your energy, you need to drink water and food promptly. Remember to drink water in small sips, just enough to not feel thirsty. Drink more water before climbing a steep slope. If the weather is hot and you're sweating a lot, add some salt to your drinking water.
5. Pay attention to scientific rest during hiking
Generally, you need to rest for 5 minutes every 50 minutes of walking. Different people can add or subtract minutes according to their own situation.
6. Know your position and direction
When moving forward, always pay attention to the obvious natural signs you pass by, such as rivers, lakes, rock walls, and hills with distinctive shapes. In this way, if you get lost, you can use these obvious signs to find your way back. When hiking, it is best to check the time frequently so that you can have a clear idea of how far you have to go. Find a campsite or prepare to rest in time according to the time, and try to avoid walking at night when hiking.
7. Recovery and maintenance after hiking
Hiking consumes a lot of physical energy. If possible, you should take a hot bath after the hike to relieve fatigue. Before going to bed, pat your legs thoroughly with your arms to avoid body aches the next day.
To sum up, climbing to the summit of Mount Rinjani is quite strenuous, so you should do it according to your ability. Other precautions are the same as for other outdoor hiking activities. Hiking shoes are a must, and you should try your best to prepare a windbreaker, trekking poles, a flashlight, and knee pads. Other things are best if you have them, but it doesn't matter if you don't.
The porters will prepare tents and sleeping bags. If you like cleanliness and are afraid of cold, you can prepare a thin sleeping bag. Try to travel light and reduce unnecessary things.
I have prepared some equipment needed for mountaineering, and listed them here for your reference!
1. A mountaineering bag with a carrying system (for changing clothes and some essential items. A carrying system will make your waist more comfortable)
2. A pair of trekking poles (or just one, which can be used as a leg when climbing and descending)
3. A pair of comfortable hiking shoes (a pair of well-fitting hiking shoes will make your trip more efficient. Brother Xu on this trip demonstrated the importance of these hiking shoes)
4. A pair of knee pads (going downhill is very steep and hurts the knees, so wearing them can protect your knees)
5. Sun hat (This is a must, for both men and women. Girls should not think that having long hair will not cause sunburn. You will regret it when your scalp starts to fall off. Hats have many benefits. If you can't wash your hair for a few days, it can cover your greasy hair.)
6. High-factor sunscreen (this is a must, the consequences of not applying it are quite serious. I have been back for almost half a month and my skin is still peeling)
7. Swimsuit (there are volcanic hot springs when you go down to the volcanic lake. It is very refreshing to change into a swimsuit and take a warm bath. It is really comfortable)
8. Slippers (it is recommended to bring a pair. Whenever you arrive at the campsite for the day, the first thing you should do is to put on your shoes and let your feet fly. Slippers are very useful)
9. Long-sleeved quick-drying T-shirt (I actually only brought one short-sleeved quick-drying T-shirt to use as pajamas at night. I can also wear it when it’s hot during the day, but most of the time I wear a thin long-sleeved quick-drying shirt, which is both sun-proof and warm when it’s cold. It’s best not to bring pure cotton T-shirts, as they don’t dry well after absorbing sweat)
10. A headlamp or flashlight (essential for the summit the next day, and also for going to the restroom at night. I personally find a headlamp convenient, as it frees up my hands to hold up my pants when I go to the restroom)
11. A quick-drying towel (although you won’t have many opportunities to wash your face during the days of hiking, it can still be used to wipe away sweat)
12. Mouthwash (It’s not easy for porters to carry water, and they are embarrassed to use drinking water to brush their teeth, so mouthwash is enough)
13. Wet wipes (this is a good thing to wipe your face and hands, and it keeps you clean when there is no water)
14. Socks (three pairs are enough, one pair per day. Outdoor hiking socks are best, as they dry easily)
15. Fleece pants, fleece jacket, and ultralight down jacket (it will be very cold at the top of the mountain, and it will also be cold when sleeping at night. Fleece pants and jackets can be worn as pajamas and warm clothes. Ultralight down jackets are relatively light and save space and are also good for warmth. I personally feel that jackets are too heavy and take up space)
16. Wear gloves when climbing (to protect your hands, otherwise they will be black and useless)
17. Toilet paper (I brought my own roll, but the guide will also provide one)
18. Medicines (Band-Aids, anti-inflammatory drugs, cold medicine, enteral medicine, fever reducers, thermometer, etc., just in case you feel uncomfortable during the few days in the mountain)
19. Mobile phone (power bank and charging cable, there may be signal on the mountain, which can be used to send messages to friends or report safety)
20. Food (bring some beef jerky, Snickers bars, etc. to boost your energy when you get tired of climbing. It’s cold on the mountain, so don’t worry about the Snickers bars melting)
21. Passport and cash (prepare tips for guides and porters in advance)
22. Camera (optional, bring it if you like taking photos and are not afraid of getting tired)
Lombok, an island where we can release our passion and enjoy inner peace.
When I talk to many Indonesians about Mount Rinjani, they become incredibly excited. It's clear that Mount Rinjani has become etched in the minds of most modern Indonesians as a sacred mountain. Young Indonesians are eager to experience the breathtaking beauty of this mountain, while older Indonesians lament that they missed out on it in their youth and no longer have the energy to climb it.
The Gili Islands on the other side of the island are like another safe haven for us. Perhaps you have just broken up and are suffering from emotional torture, or perhaps you are not doing well in the workplace and are beaten down by the reality of society, or perhaps you are still on the road to study and are overwhelmed by the heavy workload. As long as you come here, it will gladly accept all the negative emotions of you and me, allowing us to escape from the hustle and bustle of the world, even if it is only for a short time. Everything here is enough for us to lick the wounds brought by impetuousness.
