Top 5

Top 5 - Bali and Lombok

Unwind in Bali and Lombok

The volcanic island of Bali in Indonesia has pristine beaches, pounding surf, emerald green rice paddies and ornate temples. The former fishing village of Sanur on the east coast is a laid-back resort, perfect for families and those looking for a tranquil holiday. The cultural centre of Bali is located in Ubud, where the local artisans can be found sculpting, painting and carving.

Bali and Lombok have long been thought of as two of the world’s most exotic holiday destinations and conjure up images of picturesque green rice fields and plantations, soaring volcanoes, cool lakes and rushing rivers, lush forests and palm-fringed beaches.

Holidaymakers visit these Indonesian islands as much for their sun, surf, shopping and cultural experience as for the relaxed lifestyle that tends to rub off as soon as you arrive. Bali is the more developed island with great nightlife and shopping, whereas Lombok offers tranquillity for those that simply want to get away from it all.

Bali has plenty of amazing beaches whether you wish to stay on the Kuta side of the island or in the exclusive area of Nusa Dua. Those wanting to surf will find fantastic waves on the western side of the island. Lombok is an island that represents the Bali of 20 years ago. Although only a 15 minute flight away this laid-back island is mellower and far less commercial, with its uncrowded beaches and offshore islands.

Top 5 places to Visit

The trendy area of Bali is Seminyak with its up-market restaurants and bars. There are also some lovely boutique shops and furnishing outlets for picking up local arts and crafts.

Sanur is a great destination for families with young children and people wanting a slower pace to their holiday. Most of the hotels are on the beach and set within tropical gardens.

For those looking for a cultural experience Ubud is the cultural centre of Bali and about an hours drive from Denpasar and the Kuta areas. Here you will find many of the artisans of Bali, including silversmiths, wood carvers, stone sculptures and painters. There are also many interesting shops and galleries. Many of the hotels in this area overlook rivers and rice paddies and offer the chance to experience the nature and tranquillity of the island.

For one of Bali’s best kept secrets, head to Manggis in East Bali. Manggis is famed for its cooking school specialising in East Balinese cuisine and its wondrous dive sites – it is also overlooked by the majestic Mount Agung, Bali’s most sacred mountain.

Visitors will be struck by the island’s rural feel with its green countryside, rice paddies and fishing villages. There are a number of low key resorts on Lombok, mainly situated around the white sands of Sengiggi Beach. These offer a retreat away from the crowds and a place to truly unwind. The local community is predominately Sasak and is an interesting culture to discover. A trip inland will take you to tiny villages where you will be able to interact more with the islands inhabitants. The Gilli Islands, situated a short boat ride from the west side of Lombok, are ideal for a total getaway with white sand beaches and breathtaking snorkelling and diving.

Climate

You can expect a pleasant climate all year round on Bali and Lombok. The wettest months are January and February however the rains usually pass quickly. The dry months of April to October are less humid and fresh, with temperatures averaging about 31°C.