Climate:
Lombok has basically two seasons - wet and dry. The wet season generally occurs from November through to February, with heavy monsoon rainfall and cloud. During this time it can be quite humid but still hot. The dry season from March to October can still experience rain but is generally fine, clear and hot with average temperatures around 28"C. Around August and September it can also be quite breezy. The best months for good surf are June , July and August.

Passport Requirements:
No visas are required for Australian passport holders to enter Indonesia, however your passport must have a minimum of 6 months validity from the date of entrance into Indonesia. For passengers of other nationalities its best to check your visa requirements with the nearest Indonesian consulate.

Departure Taxes:
The current International departure tax from Indonesia is Rp75.000 (approx $15 Australian dollars). Domestic Departure tax is currently Rp11.000 (approx $3 Australian dollars)

Currency:
The unit of currency throughout Indonesia is the Rupiah (Rp). Currently the exchange rate is approximately Rp10.000 for $1 American and Rp 5.000 for $1 Australian dollar on the island of Lombok . Higher rates are available in Bali. However as the Rupiah has still not stabilized and rates may vary greatly.

Credit Cards:
Most larger hotels and some restaurants in Lombok accept credit cards, however smaller hotels and losmens, particularly on the islands will accept cash only.

Changing Money:
Money can be changed at larger hotels and banks or money changers that can be found in the Senggigi area. If traveling to areas outside of Senggigi or particularly onto other islands east of Lombok it can be very difficult to get money converted and enough Rupiah needs to be carried in cash. It is wise to have a money belt worn under your shirt to protect your cash. As the exchange rates are generally higher in Bali , it may be an idea to change your money prior to traveling to Lombok.

Language:
The national language is Bahasa Indonesia and various dialects are also spoken throughout Indonesia. English is taught as a second language in all schools. English is widely spoken in most tourist areas and generally wherever you travel no matter how remote, someone can be found who speaks English. There is usually no shortage of locals wanting to try out their English skills.

Religion:
the main religion of Lombok is Muslim although there is also a Hindu population particularly in the tourist areas.

Transportation

Public Transport:
Public buses operate between main towns throughout Lombok. They are not air-conditioned and can be quite run down and crowded though they are a very cheap and good means of traveling between towns for those on a budget. Prices are fixed and beware!! Indonesians do not travel well on buses.

Bemos or Taxis:
Metered taxis operate in the Senggigi area and are quite cheap. Bemos, or small vans can be found in most towns and will take you anywhere at a price to be negotiated. Make sure you set a price before getting in.

Cidomos:
The cheapest and the most fun way to travel short distances in Lombok is by cidomo , a locally designed horse-drawn cart. These can be found everywhere , even on the small Gili Islands

Car and Motor Bike Hire:
The roads in Lombok are generally quite good and traffic is fairly easy to drive in, even in the cities of Lombok. On the country roads the main traffic is often cidomos or motorbikes. To hire a car in Lombok a valid international drivers license is required.

Electricity:
The power supply throughout Indonesia is 220 volts. Some large hotels have adaptors, but adaptors can be purchased from most Duty Free stores before traveling.

Food and Water:
Food in Lombok can be one of the highlights of your stay. There are many excellent restaurants, and some have quite a good range of meals for vegetarians. As well as delicious local dishes, western style meals are available almost everywhere in Lombok. Water from the taps is not healthy to drink. Water can be purchased in sealed bottles and is available everywhere, larger hotels usually have drinking water in flasks in the room. Water served in restaurants with your meal is also fit to drink.

Health:
Malaria is found in some parts of Lombok, though it is considered safe around the Senggigi region. Please check with your doctor or Traveller Medical Vaccination Centre in your state for advise.

Backpacking:
Lombok is a great place to backpack around quite easily. Most budget hotels or losmens around the countryside have very basic facilities and bathrooms. The ones recommended by E.R Tours are chosen as clean, reliable and friendly, but are still quite basic. Often they do not have soap or toilet paper so it is wise to always travel with these items yourself.

Mosquitoes can be a nuisance in some areas and malaria is present, so a light mosquito net and repellent is also good to carry, plus you should also speak to your local doctor or medical centre for details.

E.R Tours offers a variety of means of traveling around- local transport, Perama backpacker shuttle bus, or private vehicle with their local operator in Lombok. While their tour buses are slightly more expensive, you will be accompanied by one of their experienced local guides. They can be of great assistance particularly in the country , and can take you to places off the normal transport routes. Please also note, some insurance policies do not cover transport by public vehicle, so please ensure you check this before traveling, as some companies will take no responsibility for any injury, loss or damage incurred while utilizing local public transport if this is what you choose.