With travel one of her favourite pastimes, as well as an integral part of her job, Donna has seen many beautiful places in the world. Moving away from her native Canada, she recently relaxed at the beautiful Puri Mas Resort in Lombok and is only too happy to share some of her insider’s tips.
Best coffee
Waking up in our private villa and then heading out to the Ballroom Restaurant for a Lombok coffee – it is thick and dark in colour – but full of flavour. And the best thing about it is you can drink as many as you want without having that ‘jolt’ or ‘edgy’ feeling after too much caffeine.
Best local experience
The beach sellers. This group of vendors is polite, respectful and brings quality products in which you would be interested. When engaging in conversation, you get to learn about the local people, local culture and lifestyle in the different villages. Thebeach sellers are not aggressive, nor persistent, like you would find in other Indonesian towns.
Best breakfast
The Puri Mas Resort is a boutique property that doesn’t allow children under 12 😉 and has only 40 rooms, so you never feel like you are in amongst ‘crowds of people. Breakfast is a treat, with ocean breezes and any type of breakfast treat that your heart desires. The Fresh fruit in the Indonesian islands is unbeatable! And when followed by an extensive local and international selection of delights, it’s easy to let two hours drift by as the warm and hospitable staff continues to serve you.
Best local view
Puri Mas – Ballroom Restaurant is right on the ocean and undoubtedly a highlight. Be sure to ask for table number 10 or 11 and get there early to watch the sun set.
One fun thing you can do for free
Beautiful long walks at any time of the day along the beach. In particular go for a sunset walk, stop at the one of the local bars for a refreshment and watch the sunset as the local fishermen come out to relax in the ocean, and try their luck at catching dinner.
Something only a local knows about
Go to the Gili Islands that are approximately 30 minutes away from the Puri Mas Resort. There are three independent islands, but Gili Air is the favourite. You can be dropped off by boat (that can be arranged by the Puri Mas staff). Walking around the island gives you a sense of the island life, resorts available, restaurants and local activities (no cars/vehicles on the island). There is one path around the parameter of the island and it takes 1½ hours to walk around at a leisurely pace. Lots to observe and plenty of rest stops along the way where one can get a bit to eat or a local drink.
Favourite thing to do in and around the city/region town
Head to Puri Mas Spa. The sister property – 2km away – is nestled at the base of the local mountain range and amongst the most magnificent gardens. The spa offers a range of treatments by professional staff. Relax afterwards and enjoy lunch by the pool. Both Puri Mas properties have beautiful and extensive gardens that are groomed and cared for with lots of love. Both complexes are luxurious without losing authenticity.
Why do you love this town/resort
Because they have good pearls! Be sure to head to Autore for a tour of how pearls are grown and harvested, it’s a real education, and there’s a beautiful shop to purchase if your budget allows. Lombok is one of the largest producers of south sea pearls in the world.
For all yourlifechoices bookings at puri Mas beach or spa resort we will give a complimentary one hour aromatherapy massage per person based on a double room booking.
Sounds like paradise, doesn’t it? Well, if you’re lucky enough to be heading to Lombok, YourLifeChoices has secured the following special offer for its members looking to stay at the Puri Mas Resort.
To receive the following, simply book direct and mention ‘YourLifeChoices’:
- Best available rate
- Welcome drink on arrival
- Welcome cool towel
- A one hour aromatherapy massage per person.
To book you directly contact:
[email protected]
www.purimas-lombok.com
or call +62 370 693831
Don’t forget to mention ‘YourLifeChoices’.