From La Buan Bajo/Komodo we fly back westward to the large island Lombok, just east of Bali.
Wee red dots pinpoint Lombok
Lombok is described as the new Bali in tourism although that is starting to change.
Beautiful rice fields as we fly in.
Our choice of the Ibluden Hotel as a hub for spending most of the next month was ideal.
A little gem with beautiful gardens, pool, and modern accommodationsPerfect place to relax
We are located in a non-touristy area of Senggigi just north of the city of Mataram, the provincial capital of West Nusa Tengara.
Typical street scenes coming out of our hotel oasisWarungs (casual eating establishments) line the ocean-front a short walk from our place. It’s low season so lots of interest in our business.
We discover an interesting space nearby that looks like it was dropped haphazardly into Lombok: a Korean compound, PT Replay, comprising of an art gallery, shop and restaurant within lovely grounds.
We meet one of the current exhibit’s artist, La Lu and enjoy a Korean meal. Exhibits and groundsLocal Offerings: huge shopping centre sells an assortment of motorbikes and scooters; beach fun Drive out to our favourite beach.Our favourite swimming spot all to ourselves: Nipah Beach
We spend two days touring with Ridwan ( see below for contact, a terrific guide with very good English.
One day focuses on the local area and its economy:
Women’s work: not enough to live on. Told it was to augment the family income = rationale to pay women poorly.
We run into a Hindu funeral ceremony that we stop to investigate. This one is for several individuals (common practise for the non-wealthy).
Lots of offerings, singing, and socializing.We taste some samples of food sold nearby: top: mini omelets with herbs; bottom: meatballs.
At the funeral the weather turns rainy.
Palm plantation and building prefab structuresCarrying a load with a smile; typical “suburb” often being built on ricefields, and issue since Lombok imports rice to augment that what is grown locally.
A special dinner ends our stay in Lombok.
A visit to a traditional Sasak village outside of Mataram shows typical life:
We have a walk about with a local resident; traditional Sasak buildingTraditional Sasak two room home with elaborate carving. Inside a few museum worthy items such as sword shown.Cottage industries including lanterns and lighters for upcoming celebrations;
A must-see is the Islamic Centre in Mataram, the largest in Lombok:
Looking the part Left: women’ section; Right: main part for men. Scattering of people there seemed to be sleeping or on their cell phones.
We want to have the best Durian possible and, with a number of varieties available, we are happy to have Ridwan pick one out.
Ridwan chooses this stall for our durian tastingEdible small fruit from Rukim tree; rambutan tree with fruit, and Golden Durian – smooth as silk and yummy.
Another stop outside of Mataram is at the historical park: Taman Narmada with its fresh water spring and numerous pools, gardens and castle remnants that was built in 1727 combining Hindu and Sasak style.
A grey day meant few peopleStructures and lush greeneryBirthday celebration at Nooq Trattoria, Senggigi
Kerry Travels 
Nice work kiddo. 👍Call me tonight before you go to bed.XOXOXOXO
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Beautiful and informative Post Kerry! Thanks aga
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