Planning a Trip

When on Lombok . . . -- Be respectful of the Muslim culture, which tends to be more conservative than the Hindu culture.

On Lombok you will find ATMs in Mataram, Senggigi, and Praya. Be sure to have enough cash before arrival.

Newspapers & Websites for Lombok -- The Lombok Guide (www.thelombokguide.com), the island's English-language newspaper, is published every 2 weeks and is an invaluable resource of information about places to visit, things to do, accommodations, restaurants, spas, shopping, tours, diving, and more. Other useful sites include www.lombok-network.com and www.thelombokguide.com.

Specialized Lombok Tours

Sunda Trails (tel. 0370/647390; www.sundatrails.com) offers off-the-beaten-track tours to remote villages. Run by the enthusiastic Anita, with many years of experience traveling throughout Lombok and the nearby islands, Sunda works closely with local communities and is ideal for those with an interest in different cultures. Tours can be tailor-made for individuals or groups. Ready-made tours range from trips around Lombok and the islands to the east, tours to Mount Rinjani, trekking and trips to Komodo Island to see the Komodo dragons, and trips based on specific cultural festivals or events.

To see Lombok up close and personal, book a tour through Lombok Biking Tours (tel. 0370/692164). These safe and professional bike tours are designed for all levels of fitness, from easy rides near Senggigi to challenging trips through hills and over winding roads. Friendly and experienced local guides accompany your trip on well-maintained bicycles and mountain bikes. Tours include the service of a local guide, bottled water and snacks, plus private transport to wherever your trip begins and ends. Their shop is located on the main street in Senggigi (next to Bumbu Café).

Online Traveler's Toolbox

www.asiawebdirect.com: A guide to booking a hotel room in Bali

www.balidiscovery.com: Award-winning website with up-to-date information on everything you need to know about Bali for your holiday

www.baliguide.com: An insider's guide to Bali

www.bali-paradise.com: Complete online travel guide to Bali

www.baliplus.com: Bali's biggest little guide book online, with up-to-date information on exhibitions, festivals, and just about everything

www.balistarisland.com: A one-stop travel agency to Bali

www.balitourismboard.org: The official tourist board website

www.baliwww.com: The best online guide to Bali with an excellent blog

www.gili-paradise.com: The best online resource for the Gili Islands

www.i-escape.com: All the details on the best hip hideaways

wwwistylemagazine.net: I Style Magazine's website for great fashion and home decor shops

www.indo.com: Comprehensive travel guide to Indonesia

www.kecak.com: Booking portal for Bali and Lombok hotels

www.thelombokguide.com: The definitive guide to Lombok

www.theyakmag.com: Bali's most fashionable rag with the latest in fashion, food, and accommodation

www.whygo.com: Best deals on flights to and accommodation in Indonesia