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Published: April 14th 2014
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Well it's been 3 months and I am writing our last travel blog for 2014. In one way the time has gone by quickly but it seems like we have been away forever!
Our two weeks on Lombok has been a great way to end our trip with lots of R & R and time for enjoying the local people and exploring the island.
I have determined the climate is perfect on Lombok. It's hot but there doesn't seem to be that intense heat that can tire you out. Perhaps the humidex isn't as high? There always seems to be a gentle breeze that keeps it a little cooler. it's very enjoyable sitting on the pool deck overlooking the ocean. We haven't had any rain this week which is typical this time in April as the rainy season comes to an end. During the dry season (May to October) is when most travellers especially from Australia visit to escape their winter. (If you can call what they get a real winter)!
We took a tour up north the other day that involved a 5 km hike through the rain forest to two spectacular waterfalls. The trek was beautiful
through the lush jungle vegetation as we passed rice terraces in the distance, babbling creeks and scenic cliffs. We had a fantastic guide named Mr. Dee who safely led us across the fast flowing water and slippery rocks. When we arrived at the second waterfall I braved the cold spray and rugged rocks to get close enough to the waterfall to take a swim but the water was just too cold to get right in. But at least I tried! On the way back it rained a bit but it was refreshing and invigorating. Mountain trekking is a popular tourist activity in Lombok. The hike that we took carries on up to the mountains for two and three overnight camping trips. They say this area is some of the most beautiful in the world for mountain hiking.
Next we stopped at an ancient mosque built out of bamboo and coconut hair that is over a 1000 years old. It is still used a few times a year today. It's amazing how durable the bamboo is for construction in this part of the world.
Our last stop was at a traditional Lombok village that has existed for hundreds of
years. It was the most interesting and intriguing visit. It kind of reminded me of something you would read about in National Geographic. We had a tour guide who is also a local villager take us through the village. Apparently other than having running water now they live the same way they did generations ago. There are about 100 families who live there today. Their homes are built of bamboo. They grow their own food and have their own livestock. The kids were excited to have us in their village and enjoyed getting their picture taken. Somehow I don't think they watch TV or play with electronic devices!
The local Lombok people are so lovely, friendly and humble. We have enjoyed chatting with them and learning about their culture. We tipped a waitress the other day $2 and she told us the next day she bought her daughter a pencil and book to write in. She was so appreciative.
We fly back to Singapore on Tuesday and the start our 24 hour journey home. It has been a fantastic experience this year and we feel so fortunate that we can travel. However we miss our family and friends
especially our little ones - Parker, Ella and Maddox and look forward to seeing them next week. Thanks for reading. Until next year!
Mallory and Warrren
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Cathie Migneault
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beautiful pics
thanks for posting...hoping spring will have sprung with your return...Cath