Open your eyes to the sights of this untouched ground,i did! After a long stopover in Denpasar airport and a shaky half an hour flight I landed myself in the heart of Indonesian culture. A place consisting of dirt roads and ravenous potholes, all the more personality added to this small island bursting with hidden gems. Not forgetting to add it allows motorbike speed to maximise to a rowdy 10km/hr or if your really the daring kind...a strong 30km/hr will have your bouncing in every direction. Tip 1 ladies, always wear a sports bra if your going to be dangerous. trust me its good advice. None the less a sense of adventure and good dodging skills goes a long way . This island is a breeding ground for surfers! I know I know your probably thinking but Lana I lack balance, skill and I'm all round uncoordinated. This will not be stopping you ladies and gents. The locals here will be begging you to join them in the deep blue where you can test your limits and hopefully feel the stoke of catching a wave. For those of you who can surf, you have found your paradise. A short boat trip and you will be able to chose a break best suited to you. Oh and the backdrop will have you breathless. In addition you can feel like the professionals with a photographer capturing each captivating turn and spitting sea spray, perfect for bragging to your mates and to show off all over social media.
With the small centre town just around the corner from where I stayed(The Novotel Lombok Resort was simply amazing must I add) the little warungs never failed to impress. Yes I know they don't have legislation put in place for the safe consumption of food like we have here in Australia and I don't know what standard their hygienic practices are up to but trust me none of this even needs to be put into consideration when you take a bite into those heavenly spring rolls and lick off the bit of chicken curry that has just dribbled down your chin.t These meals had me breathless(literally from the chilli). But seriously, there's one way to spice up your life!
Okay so here are my top 5 tips for staying in Lombok:
1.Don't be lazy and get up early, don't miss out on those sunrises
2.Give surfing a go, if you epically fail retreat back to the pool, no harm done:)
3.Embrace the local cuisine. Ask the locals what they recommend and give it a stab, what is the worst that can happen, right?
4.Take day trips around the island , there is more to explore than what meets the eye(I recommend the waterfalls and definitely Selong Belanak beach)
5.Lastly, talk to others, due to it being less tourist populated you genuinely get to meet people from a diverse range of countries. Dont question it...just get lost in conversation and you might just find yourself on the off beaten track to hidden gems Good Luck!
