Lombok, Indonesia

Approaching this island, we had made no plans because of a dismal weather forecast.  A 90% chance of rain does not mix well with touring or beach activities.  But arriving the following day, the skies were clear and sunny.  At this port, our ship was anchored offshore, so we boarded a tender and headed into shore.  Once at the port, we were able to quickly secure a driver/guide to take us wherever we wanted to go for the full day for just $80.  Unlike previously prearranged trips, this drivers' English language skills were limited but we selected only 3 stops since we were looking for a low-key day and it worked out well.

Sukarara is a small community where hand-woven textiles dominate.  We made a stop at one cooperative to watch women working on the looms.  Upon arrival, a guide from the coop came out to show us around the facility.  It is slow, close work with beautiful designs incorporated into the pieces.  After watching them work, we wound up making a purchase as well.  

Our next stop was a traditional Sasak village at Sade.  Once again we were met at the entrance by a local guide.  Towering rice barns are the most distinctive feature.  Homes are made from bamboo and mud with a large overhanging straw roof which is replaced every 7 years as a community project.  Floors, made of mud and cow dung, are refinished every month with fresh cow dung.  They sleep on the floor on bamboo mats.  On this predominately Muslim island, roughly 90%, women and young children sleep inside the hut and the men sleep in an outer, open area under the roof.  Cooking is done over a wood stove located inside.  As we wandered around, we spotted a young woman weaving and were told she was working on her wedding sari.  While most Balinese have transitioned to somewhat more modern housing, villages of the old way still exist.  

Kuta beach, along the southern side, was our final destination.  Though there is a public beach area with no facilities, we had been told before leaving the port of a resort with a restaurant, covered lounge chairs, and white sand beaches and that was our goal.  After a few misses, our driver was able to locate it.  Following a first-class lunch overlooking the infinity pool and ocean, we found a palapa with chairs.  It was a perfect way to spend the afternoon, walking  the beach, swimming and relaxing. 

Photos follow.

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