Bali and Lombok Destination Guide

The place

Everyone has heard of Bali and Lombok, although some don’t realise that they are part of Indonesia and just two of 500 islands which make up this huge country. In terms of scenery, not surprisingly, perhaps, the neighbouring islands of Bali and Lombok are similar, although higher rainfall in Bali makes it lusher and greener. Bali is most definitely the livelier (and larger) of the two with a wider choice of resorts and accommodation. However, Lombok will be your choice if you seek a gentler pace of life.

The culture

Indonesia is culturally exotic and vibrant blending centuries old traditions with the present. The Balinese, rather surprisingly, traditionally had a fear of the sea, which contributed to their isolation until the early 20th century. Perhaps, as a direct result of this, community spirit is paramount in the lives of these peoples and caring and sharing are an intrinsic part of their lifestyle. On Bali, “the island of the gods”, daily offerings are made to acknowledge the bounty of the gods and the tradition of dance, music, painting sculpture and the arts continues to be maintained.

The shopping

On both islands, there are shopping opportunities in abundance and some excellent ethnic handicraft markets, where your bargaining skills will be put to good use. The people of Bali are well known for their artistic skills and you will find some great souvenirs to take home with you from beautiful wood carvings in ebony and ivory colours to stunning paintings.

The nightlife

It really is what you make it! It tends to be low key with most entertainment centred around the hotel complexes in the form of cultural shows and themed nights. Night owls should head for Kuta in Bali, where there are clubs and bars galore. Lombok is most definitely the quieter neighbour, but there are a few bars in the Senggigi Beach area. Eating out is fantastic value; there is a range of restaurants to try out the local cuisine with its unique Indonesian spices. Don’t miss out on the most famous Balinesian dish, "guling celeng" – spit roasted suckling pig. The locals do like their food hot, so beware! Western food is available in hotels for those who prefer to keep their taste buds intact.

The options

It’s easy to combine Bali with most South East Asian cities such as Bangkok, Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur and Singapore and since there are few direct flights, it is definitely worth considering a stopover en route. Lombok is an easy "hop" from Bali as an add on, but there are also direct lights from Singapore, if you prefer to "miss out" the bigger and brasher neighbour.

Private sightseeing

A private car and driver/guide can be hired for a tailor made sightseeing day. Please ask for details and prices.

The facts

Geography: Bali and Lombok are just two islands out of over 500 which make up the country of Indonesia.
Language: Bahasa Indonesia (a version of Malay)
Passports: You will need a full British passport valid for a minimum of six months beyond your date of return.
Visas: Visas are required for all visitors to Indonesia. They are issued on arrival at a charge of US$35 for stays of up to a maximun of 30 days. Non-British passport holders should check with relevant embassy for documentation requirements.
Vaccinations: Vaccinations are strongly recommended. For further information, please consult your doctor.
Travelling time: Bali is usually reached via Bangkok, Singapore, Hong Kong or Kuala Lumpur and the total travelling time including a 90 minute stop is approximately 17 hours. Lombok is 80 minutes from Bali by ferry or can be reached by direct flight from Singapore.
Local time: GMT + 8 hours
Currency: Indonesia Rupiah
Departure tax: From Bali 200,000 Rupiah and from Lombok 75,000 Rupiah is payable locally.
NYEPI DAY IN BALI
Nyepi Day is a sacred religious day observed on the island of Bali, which falls on 23 March 2012, and means 'Day of Silence.' On this day the Balinese people appease their gods and purify their lives of evil spirits and sins from the past year, by coming to a complete silence. There will be no lights on the island and no activities will take place, including tours and transfers, on this day. Denpasar Airport will be closed to all air traffic, with the exception of transit passengers. For our clients, Nyepi Day means an opportunity to relax within the grounds as guests are not permitted to leave the property as a mark of respect.
Swimming in the ocean is not permitted but may be allowed in the pool, depending on individual hotel's rules. We also kindly respect that after 6pm you close your guest room curtains to minimise the light. Nyepi Day is a very important date in the Balinese lunar calendar, and ensures that the island maintains a sense of harmony between modern tourism and it's ancient cultural traditions.

Source : http://www.premierholidays.co.uk/far_east/bali_and_lombok/destination_guide

Title : Bali and Lombok Destination Guide
Description : The place Everyone has heard of Bali and Lombok, although some don’t realise that they are part of Indonesia and just two of 500 islan...