The mighty Mount Rinjani which rises to 3,726 m (12,224 ft) dominates the landscape of Lombok and is the second highest volcano in Indonesia. Just a 45-minute flight from Bali, Lombok is well known for its white sandy beaches and surfing spots, particularly at Kuta and Banko Banko (in south Lombok). Have you heard of the Gili Islands? Three famous and very laid back islands, Gili Trawangan, Gili Air and Gili Meno are accessible from the mainland via a 20-minute boat ride. The Gili’s offer excellent diving on a multitude of colourful reefs. You will be swimming with the turtles in no time. 

There are no cars on the Gili’s, so you get around by horse-drawn cart, bicycle, or just walk. After a cultural experience? The culture is strong in Lombok, and the indigenous Sasak people make up 85% of the population. Do visit a weaving village and learn about Sasak handicraft, music and dance. With any luck, you will run into a street parade with boisterous Gendang Beleq musicians who play at what seems to be year-round weekend wedding celebrations. Lombok has it all – beauty, culture and adventure.