Lombok

Often described as an untainted version of Bali, it’s hard to find a reason not to visit Lombok. This Indonesian island offers local food and pristine scenery, without the tourist-driven commerce and built-up attractions of Bali. While resorts and luxury hotels are certainly available, engulfing yourself in the indigenous vibe via homestay is a preferred mode of lodging among frequent visitors. Lombok’s Sasak people are welcoming locals and homestays often include a fishing lesson or farming demonstration, as well as perfectly acceptable amenities. After a peek into the Sasak lifestyle, a visit to one of Lombak’s beaches is mandatory. Surfers head to Bangko-Bangko for the big waves, while a 15-minute boat ride to Gili Nanggu brings tourists to colorful reefs and dream-worthy beaches. Enjoy the stunning landscapes of this exotic island by hiking up Mount Rinjani, the second highest volcano in Indonesia in addition to discovering its paradisiacal waterfalls, lush forests and endless paddy fields Your Lombok tour guide familiar with the local setup would suggest not to depend on public transportation, as it can be unreliable on the island. Taxis and cars are common options, or you can opt to travel as the locals do, hitting the open island road via motorcycle!