LOMBOK is growing in popularity as a honeymoon retreat, especially for couples marrying on the neighbouring island of Bali.
It is only a short hop between the two islands – the flight takes 40mins – but Lombok offers a total contrast to its neighbour.
Premier Holidays general manager Asia Paul Tilling said: “Lombok is more of a honeymoon destination than Bali. It is very beautiful.”
A popular hotel for honeymooners is the Oberoi, a luxury five-star property where accommodation is in secluded pavilions and villas.
Upmarket operator Elegant Resorts offers seven-night inclusive packages at the Oberoi from £1,080. Abercrombie and Kent, one of many operators featuring Lombok, says the destination attracts high-spending couples looking for an unusual location. Head of planning Stuart Douglass-Lee said:”The Oberoi in Lombok is popular because it is the sort of luxurious hotel that appeals to our clients.”
Other hotels on the island include the three-star-plus Holiday Inn on Senggigi Beach and the four-star-plus Sheraton Senggigi Beach. The beach here is reportedly the best on the island.
Tradewinds is featuring both properties for 2000. Package prices start at £689 for five nights at the Holiday Inn and £739 for five nights at the Sheraton.
Sightseeing opportunities on Lombok include ancient temples and palaces and local villages specialising in weaving and pottery.
Diving and snorkelling are also popular activities for visitors.
Like Bali, Lombok’s tourism industry has remained unscathed by Indonesia’s political problems and business to the islandis increasing.
Silverbird managing director Jerry Quinn said:”Lombok is picking up quite well. It has a really good infrastructure – the Oberoi is an excellent hotel – and sales at the top end of the market are good.”