If you’re feeling hesitant right now whether or not you’re going to pick Lombok as your next trip destination, let me tell you something from a local perspective. This island is as gorgeous as other places, but even more humble than you might have imagined.
There are certainly safe strategies to spend time on the island. As any other places, there are places you might want to visit with a bit of carefulness. But there are also places where you’d certainly feel at ease.
So here’s a list of general rule of thumbs to help you navigate a safe trip in Lombok.
Locals are Generally Humble, But Doing a Little Research Won’t Hurt
If you are a first-time traveler, I would assume that you have a limited information of how Lombok people generally treat tourists.
As an Indonesian (the country where Lombok is located), I think everyone should know one crucial thing before touching down on the island: Lombok is not Bali. Seasonal tourists coming to Bali often consider Lombok, its neighboring island, as a short escape from the hustle and bustle of the Denpasar area.
However, Lombok’s people, culture, and nature are widely different from what you might have seen in Bali.
Since Lombok is generally quieter, and there are still a lot of unexplored hidden gems, you might encounter shy locals who do not feel comfortable communicating with tourists. It’s not that they blatantly disapprove of your presence, but they likely do not have enough resources to welcome tourists as many would have expected.
Nevertheless, the people of Lombok are so generous. The first time I set foot on the island, I got this unfamiliar gaze directed towards me. It was a little awkward, but then I figured that the way I dress (just an ordinary pair of jeans and a T-shirt) and how I presented myself are considered ‘foreign’ compared to what local women usually do.
Yet, based on my experience, this is not an issue at all. For the years I’ve spent living and socializing with locals in Lombok, I’ve felt genuinely accepted.
Showing Respect as Everyone Should Do
Lombok people, especially those coming from the native tribe, Sasak, still maintain their cultures up to this day. Nyongkolan and begawe are among Sasak’s traditional values that I can visibly see being lived every day.
There are absolutely many other traditions they proudly preserve. So, if you expect to have a memorable trip on the island while embracing all the beautiful characteristics of its people, respecting their lifestyle is one way to do it.
For example, since the majority of these people are Moslem, you’ll most likely find a different view compared to the neighboring island, Bali. Mosques are everywhere (that’s why Lombok is known as an island with thousands of mosques). Typically, they would broadcast these calls for prayer five times a day, with the first call relayed at the crack of dawn.
If you are new to this stuff, let it be tip for you so that you could be prepared–especially if you prefer spending your holiday in an extremely quiet environment.
Taking Precautions Before Visiting Remote Places
I certainly can’t count how many exotic remote beaches that Lombok has to offer since I haven’t been able to visit them all. But I guess one or two of those places are on your destination list.
If yes, then it’s best for you to make sure that those places are accessible. Not only can they be reached by cars or motorcycles, but also by your guide. Going there without consulting with your guide or locals might be a little risky.
There is a potential for some form of crime to take place. A few cases of theft or robbery have been reported. Although it rarely happens nowadays, being a little careful will definitely make a change.
If this is your first time enjoying the island, I’d encourage you to find assistance from legitimate sources. There are numerous channels you can get information from. But if you are referred to someone you hardly find clues about, including on the internet, it’s better to reconsider an alternative.
We, locals, are chronically online. So if you are feeling a little doubtful, you may consider asking for information on local communities on Threads or Instagram. I believe that these locals wouldn’t mind giving a hand (Indonesians are known as a helpful nation. We just love to do something for other people).