For two decades, journalist Ian Neubauer has journeyed to the Indonesian island of Lombok, and for just as long, he has winced at the well-worn comparison dubbing it 'The New Bali'. In a recent piece for The West Australian, he argues that Lombok's charm lies not in imitation, but in its own distinct evolution, which has recently taken a significant leap forward with a wave of new, quality facilities.
The End of the 'Not Quite Right' Era
Neubauer's long history with Lombok highlighted a persistent gap: a lack of sophisticated places to stay and eat for the average traveller. With the exception of a few high-end luxury hotels, accommodation and dining options were often 'Not Quite Right' (NQR). This stood in stark contrast to Bali, where tourists famously 'eat and sleep like kings and queens'. However, a visit in late 2025 revealed a turning point. The writer discovered an expanding selection of high-quality boutique hotels and special restaurants, signalling a major upgrade to the island's tourist infrastructure.
Lombok's Unique Allure: Similarities and Strengths
While rejecting the 'New Bali' label, Neubauer celebrates what makes Lombok special. It shares Bali's lush jungles, terraced rice paddies, palm-fringed beaches, and volcanic landscapes with crater lakes. Its scattered islets rival the beauty of the Maldives. Crucially, Lombok remains free of Bali's infamous traffic congestion, making it ideal for road trips by car or motorcycle. The indigenous Sasak people are noted for their generosity and rich culture, while the local cuisine offers a fiercely spicy adventure.
How to Get to the New Lombok: Flights, Ferries & Speedboats
For Australian travellers, reaching Lombok requires a connection. There are currently no direct flights from Australia to Lombok's international airport. Options from Perth involve connecting via Bali with airlines like AirAsia, Batik Air, and Scoot, with return fares starting from $705. Alternatively, you can fly to Bali first and then take a short 20-minute (40-50 minute total) hop to Lombok on carriers such as Wings Air or Lion Air.
For a more scenic route, vehicle ferries depart Padangbai in Bali every few hours for the 5-8 hour journey to Lembar Port. A car costs around $36, a motorcycle $16. Travelling at night is advised to avoid heat, and paying an extra $5 for a mattress is recommended. Note that Indonesian vehicle ferries have poor safety records.
Speedboats are a faster alternative, taking 2-3 hours from Padangbai to Bangsal port in northwest Lombok, costing between $27 and $53. However, travellers are strongly cautioned: from October to April, seasonal winds create large, dangerous waves in the Lombok Strait. The sector is poorly regulated, so always check weather conditions independently before booking.
Neubauer's conclusion is clear: Lombok is not becoming a Bali clone. It is forging its own path as a 'New Lombok', with improved amenities that complement its inherent natural beauty and cultural authenticity. Whether you're a seasoned Bali visitor or an Asia first-timer, the island now offers a compelling and more accessible adventure.
