Lombok Island: New Virgin island
The island of Lombok in the West Nusa Tenggara province of Indonesia is often compared to Bali, which is actually across the Lombok Strait. And while there are many similarities, the two lands are quite different. The majority of the population in Lombok is actually Sasak, but when they arrived or where they came from is lost to time. It is likely that these migrant peoples likely first showed up sometime in the 13th or 14th century from Java. The culture today is based on a local version of Islam that has many added elements of Hinduism as well as Wektu Telu tribal beliefs also mixed in.
The majority of the population is Sasak, both culturally and linguistically, but there are also members of the Wektu Telu people’s there as well, and these people practice a unique form of Islam. The name of this group actually means “Three Prayers,” and this is because they pray three times a day, instead of the five times as required by the Quran.
The people of Lombok are very polite and the island resort is very welcoming of tourists. It is important to note that this is a Muslim nation, so the standard traditions of Islam should be observed. The left hand for example is considered unclean, and as handshakes are customary for both males and females you should avoid using your left hand to exchange items or carry food. Shoes must be removed when entering a mosque or visiting someone’s home, and women should avoid exposed skin or tight fitting clothing. This is very important when away from the beaches or tourist area. Alcohol does flow in Lombok, but visitors should understand that public intoxication is a serious offense. Generally however the island of Lombok is one of a unique and old culture, and tourism today is a major part of the economy so visitors should expect a warm greeting, and people that are happy to have you visit their home.
The majority of the population is Sasak, both culturally and linguistically, but there are also members of the Wektu Telu people’s there as well, and these people practice a unique form of Islam. The name of this group actually means “Three Prayers,” and this is because they pray three times a day, instead of the five times as required by the Quran.
The people of Lombok are very polite and the island resort is very welcoming of tourists. It is important to note that this is a Muslim nation, so the standard traditions of Islam should be observed. The left hand for example is considered unclean, and as handshakes are customary for both males and females you should avoid using your left hand to exchange items or carry food. Shoes must be removed when entering a mosque or visiting someone’s home, and women should avoid exposed skin or tight fitting clothing. This is very important when away from the beaches or tourist area. Alcohol does flow in Lombok, but visitors should understand that public intoxication is a serious offense. Generally however the island of Lombok is one of a unique and old culture, and tourism today is a major part of the economy so visitors should expect a warm greeting, and people that are happy to have you visit their home.
