Bali and Lombok, who doesn’t dream about traveling to these places? Both Indonesian bounty islands with a lot in common, although they also show some differences that might be relevant when choosing your holiday destination.
The more touristy Island of Gods – as Bali is also named – is known for its forested volcanic mountains, iconic rice paddies, pristine beaches, coral reefs and has a rich and diverse culture.
Almost as big as Bali, Lombok is more like the undiscovered island next door, mostly suited for adventurous travelers. Its volcanic center offers rewarding trekker experiences while the untrodden idyllic beaches make for the perfect setting for some jealous-making photos to send home.
Are you not in the position to travel to both islands? We will mention some differences to help you make a choice between those two paradises.
Island hopping : Bali or Lombok
From Bali you can hop to the islands of Nusa Lembongan, with the reputation of being a slower version than Bali, or the almost forgotten island of Nusa Ceningan or the isolated island of Nusa Penida (where you can now camp by the beach!). These islands are a great getaway from the busy South Bali, and also offers a great deal of local experiences such as cruising on a local boat and snorkel, cycling in the villages, and visit a few temples.
Lombok is the gateway to the popular motor vehicle free Gili Islands with its picturesque beaches and incredible snorkel and scuba diving options. In this beautiful paradise you can keep yourself busy for days with various activities, or just lay on the beach soaking up the bounty feeling.
Diving & Snorkelling: Bali or Lombok
Bali offers an endless list of scuba diving possibilities. From the discovery of underwater gardens in Amed to advanced diving day trip to Nusa Penida where you can see the incredibly weird and wonderful Mola Mola (Ocean Sunfish) and Manta Ray amidst all sorts of other marine life like tuna and tiger mackerel. Other divers’ favorite include Pemuteran (North of Bali) and Menjangan island with its underwater temples. Or Tulamben in the East of Bali, that boasts one of the richest marine life on the island.
In Lombok similar diving options are offered at the more remote and quieter places around the Gili Islands and Sekotong. Also here you can experience your first scuba dive or even take a 3 days diving course to get your certification in one of the most welcoming diving spot in the world : the Gili islands.
Romance : Bali or Lombok
Bali and its pristine beaches, breathtaking cliff edge views, sensual sunsets is a honeymooner paradise. An endless list of romantic activities awaits you and will inspire for a wedding proposal, pre-wedding photo-shoot or a romantic dinner spot.How about an irresistibly intimate dinner with the view of the sun setting over the Indian Ocean, while being surrounded by the majestic Tanah Lot temple?
Do not underestimate Lombok thatcertainly has its charm too and with more remote and adventurous activities it might be more suited for couples that look for deserted beaches and exploration. You can also choose one of the many multiple day cruise and boat tours or a stay at a luxury resort like Oberoi or Tugu to just enjoy the presence of your loved one in this tropical paradise.
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