TUGU LOMBOK

The island of Lombok, just east of Bali, has been growing in popularity over the last few years and one of our very favorite hotels in all of Indonesia is Tugu Lombok.

Located in the northwest corner of Lombok, Tugu is a convenient jump-off point for day trips to the Gili Islands, known for their wonderful snorkeling and diving.

Tugu Lombok is so unique in its style and design that it's hard to categorize. In describing hotels, "boutique" has become such an overused, misused word. But, Tugu Lombok is a true boutique property.

Tugu's bungalows, villas and suites are in free standing buildings, situated along meandering pathways. The decor is Balinese and Javanese antique with canopied beds and private gardens. The Bhagawat Gita suites have private pools that face the beach, and the sea beyond. Bathrooms feature rain showers and natural materials. Some accommodations have big outdoor tubs in a garden setting.

The lobby and lounge areas at Tugu Lombok are filled with gorgeous artwork and antiques. After dark it's almost like a fairyland, with subtle colored lighting that enhances the magical quality of the hotel.

The open-air restaurant at Tugu Lombok looks out to the pool area, with its garden setting and the sea in the background. The pool has an eye-catching design with extensions that look as if there are separate pools attached to the main pool. There's a lovely, uncrowded beach at Tugu Lombok and the water is calm, making it a good swimming beach.

Tugu Lombok is in an isolated area of the island, so don't expect to find restaurants or shops nearby. If you want more action, you'd be better off staying in the Senggigi Beach area of Lombok. But, if you're looking for serene, beautiful surroundings, good access to snorkeling or diving, lots of character, whimsy and romance, it's quite likely that you'll fall in love with Tugu Lombok.

Accommodation Categories:

• Kampong bungalows
• Aloon-Aloon villas
• Bhagawat Gita suites with private pool
• Puri Dadap Merah