Why Bali Burned Us Out
After our most recent trip to Indonesia, I came home with two very strong opinions: I’m not going back to Bali anytime soon (even though one of my dearest friends lives there), and Lombok is our new family favorite.
Don’t get me wrong—Bali has its charm. But on our last visit, just north of Ubud, the traffic was beyond frustrating. What should have been a 20-minute ride could stretch into two hours, and trying to explain that unpredictability to restless kids? Not fun. I think we’ve got a little family trauma from all those hours stuck in a car watching motorbikes weave past us in gridlock.
Enter Lombok: Indonesia’s Underrated Gem
Lombok, by contrast, feels like a breath of fresh air. It’s quieter, less developed, and hasn’t (yet) been overtaken by the sprawling tourism scene. While the population size between Bali and Lombok is similar, getting around Lombok is somuch easier. You won’t spend your vacation in traffic. Instead, you’ll be hiking, waterfall-hopping, or lounging on some pretty jaw-dropping beaches.
Where We Stayed: Tetebatu Flush Harmony
We based ourselves in Tetebatu for a few nights, staying at a little gem called Tetebatu Flush Harmony. Picture a handful of cozy bungalows surrounded by rice paddies, a small pool where the kids could splash around, and a sleepy village just a short walk away. Honestly, it was the perfect mix of comfort and adventure. The on-site restaurant wasn’t anything to write home about—the waffles were kind of a miss, and service was sloooow—but we weren’t there for the cuisine.
Jungle Adventures and Waterfall Wonders
What really made our stay in Tetebatu special was the access to nature. The hotel helped us organize a local guide who took us on a slightly daring walk through rice paddies and forest trails, ending at a waterfall tucked away in the jungle. It was stunning. The kids were climbing rocks, splashing in the water, and feeling like little explorers. Was it a bit treacherous? Yes. Worth it? Absolutely.
A Rustic Night Near the Airport
Before flying home, we stayed near the Lombok airport at Turrall Bungalow—a no-frills spot that did the job for one night. It was super budget-friendly, but just a heads up: it’s rustic. The menu wasn’t in English, and the staff didn’t speak any either, so Google Translate came in handy.
Getting to Lombok with Kids
Getting to Lombok is pretty straightforward. We took a 30-minute Wings Air propeller flight from Bali. Once you get through the chaotic journey to the airport in Bali, the flight itself is easy, and kind of a novelty if your kids have never been on a prop plane. You can also take a ferry or fast boat, which ranges from about 1.5 to 3 hours depending on timing and stops.
Cultural Differences: Bali vs. Lombok
Lombok isn’t just different logistically—culturally, it’s a whole new world. While Bali is Hindu and known for its temples and rituals, Lombok is predominantly Muslim. You’ll hear the call to prayer several times a day (yes, including before sunrise). Flush Harmony even had earplugs in the room, which we quickly realized were not just a cute touch but a necessity. Still, what a meaningful way for our third culture kids to experience the rhythm of daily life in a Muslim-majority region.
Fun Fact: The Wallace Line
And here’s a fun nerdy fact we loved sharing with the kids: Lombok sits just across the Wallace Line. This imaginary line, named after naturalist Alfred Russel Wallace, marks a division between distinct ecosystems. Essentially, Bali and Lombok are on different tectonic plates, and over millions of years, their plants and animals evolved separately. So yes, you’ll see different monkeys in Lombok than in Bali!
What’s Next: Southern Beaches Await
Next time, we’re planning to explore Lombok’s south coast—home to the island’s most famous beaches. Everyone we met seemed to be headed there next, so we’re taking notes for our next visit. We’ll be sure to update this post once we get there.
Final Thoughts
If you’re considering a family trip to Indonesia and want something a little less chaotic, a little more authentic, and still packed with natural beauty—Lombok might just be your sweet spot. It sure was for us.
