The World Unlocked

Sunset at Rock Bar in Jimbaran

Rock Bar is famous as one of the best places to watch the sun go down with a drink in hand in all of Bali. There's a smart dress code here so you'll need to up your game from flip flops and vests. Come early as queues can build up at peak times. But the view from this stylish bar above Jimbaran Bay is worth the wait.

Surfing in Kuta Lombok

The bays around the wild coastline of Kuta Lombok have miles of untouched beaches and some incredible breakers. Mawi is recommended for experienced surfers and nearby Selong Blanak is a great place for novices to learn in the safe waters.

Best time to visit Indonesia

Stretched across the equator, Indonesia is hot and humid all year round but there are two main seasons. The dry season runs from April to October and the monsoon season from November to March. The monsoon rains can disrupt travel to some islands so plan your trip carefully.
But while the downpours are sudden and heavy, it is rare for the rains to last all day.
Indonesia's peak tourism season is in the middle of the dry season and corresponds with summer in Europe. December and January are also popular months, particularly with visitors from Australia, despite being in the wet season.
With a diverse mix of people, cultures and religions, there are major festivals across the year. Nyepi, which means 'Day of Silence' is Balinese New Year, generally falling in March. On the day itself everything in Bali closes but in the days preceding it, you'll see the people of Bali cleaning statues, scrubbing the streets clean, and a host of other rituals as they get ready for the New Year.
Galungan is one of the most important Hindu festivals and is a celebration of the gods and spirits being welcomed into homes. Evil spirits are driven off with firecrackers and thanks given to the gods through dancing and gifts.

What to eat in Indonesia

Indonesia's food is as diverse as its geography. The tropical waters surrounding the thousands of islands mean an abundance of ultra-fresh seafood. And the warm climate is perfect for growing rice, soya and spices inland. The Javanese style of cooking was influenced by Chinese and Indian traders and European colonists brought new ways of cooking to the East Indies.
Small local restaurants known as warungs can be found almost everywhere. This is where you'll find Indonesian's gathering to eat. The specialties will reflect the local region from whole roasted pig Babi Guling in Bali to Beef Rendang almost everywhere.

Jimbaran

Just south of busy Kuta, but a world away in terms of ambience, Jimbaran is one of the best resorts in Bali.
The turquoise waters of Jimbaran Bay are lined by three miles of golden sands with a tropical forest backdrop.
The calm waters of the bay are perfect for swimming and also great for those wanting to try surfing for the first time in quieter conditions.
The beach is lined with fresh seafood restaurants where the catch of the day is grilled in front of you before you tuck in. The most exclusive area is at the north end and the more casual is found at the southern end of the beach, but whichever direction you choose, the food will be fresh and delicious.
There are several upscale resorts in and around Jimbaran, but the village itself remains a low-key laid back spot. Just beyond the village, there are several other great beaches.
Jimbaran is the perfect location for a relaxing Bali beach holiday with plenty of interesting options for nearby day trips.

Nusa Dua

Nusa Dua means two islands in Indonesian and the resort gets its name from the two headlands, each with a temple on top that looks out over the area.
The purpose built resort area is one of the most exclusive in Bali. It is the perfect location for an upmarket family holiday or a romantic getaway.
You'll appreciate the best that Bali has to offer in 5-Star luxury.
The beaches are generally quieter than most in Bali and there is less traffic and fewer crowds, so if you appreciate the quiet life, this could be the spot for you.
While Nusa Dua is a quiet and laid back location, there is still plenty to do and it is a great base from which to explore the rest of the island. Some of the best spa treatments can be found in and around Nusa Dua.

There are beaches with great snorkelling straight from the beach and lots of water sports on offer as well as exclusive beach clubs to chill out in style.

Lombok

Lombok is rapidly catching up to the popularity of nearby Bali.
It is known for its tropical beaches and world class surfing at Kuta and Banko Banko.
You'll also find Indonesia's second highest volcano, the spectacular Mount Rinjani.
It is a strenuous two day trek to the top. But make the climb and you will be rewarded with a view that makes it all worthwhile of Lake Segara Anak at the top.
There are also dozens of spectacular waterfalls scattered across Lombok. One of the best is the famous Tiu Kelep Waterfall deep in the jungle.
Just off the coast of Lombok are the magical Gili Islands which are totally car free. Each has its own distinct character and can easily be visited on a day trip from Lombok via a short boat journey.
The original and most popular destination in Lombok is Senggigi. An hour west of the island's airport, Senggigi is nestled between a series of sweeping bays.
There is a great mix of beaches, nightlife, watersports and great restaurants.
The area around Kuta also has some of Indonesia's best surf spots. There's a stunning expanse of beaches across a dozen bays with wide stretches of sand, rugged hills and headland backed by lush tropical vegetation.

Gili Trawangan

Also known as Gili T, this is the largest and most popular of the Gili islands. Once a haven for backpackers Gili T has moved upmarket over the last few years and is now a cosmopolitan and upscale choice for families.
There's still a busy party scene if you look for it but there's also a host of family friendly entertainment options as well. There are several professional dive centres operating from the island for beginners and more experienced divers alike. You'll also find it is one of the cheapest places to dive. There's a wide range of international as well as hip local restaurants particularly close to the harbour.