It’s been over a year now since we made this island our home, and the love we feel for it grows each day. Lombok is not just a place; it’s a lifestyle embraced by people from all corners of the world.
In Lombok, there is a beautiful similarity in how everyone values community, physical activity and nourishing their bodies. It’s a shared rhythm that makes you feel connected, no matter where you are from. Living here has been a transformative experience for many, myself included. Lombok has this magical ability to turn lives upside down, prompting us to question ambitions and beliefs, and inspiring us to see the world with fresh eyes.
I could give you a list of must-see places on this breathtaking island – and I am going to do so in another article – but for now let’s focus on the small, yet incredibly beautiful moments that make life in Lombok truly special.
1. Wake Up Early
My husband and I are from Europe and know how tough it can be to drag yourself out of bed in the morning. It’s a whole different story in Lombok! The sun is already high in the sky, and the gentle warmth invites you to start the day. My husband usually gets up around 5 AM to catch the morning surf. Even if I haven’t set an alarm, my day typically begins by 6.
Since my husband often leaves the front door open for our dogs to expend their energy outside, it’s only a matter of time before they invite their neighborhood pals over, joyfully racing through our house. This is one of those moments when a dream comes true that I didn’t even know I had. Being woken up by a bunch of playing dogs who are taking themselves for a walk and getting along well with each other is the best start I could wish for. If you live in Lombok, you can make this happen too.
If you’re just here for vacation, at least embrace the early rising part – the days are so beautiful; you wouldn’t want to sleep through them.
2. Do a Free Diving Course
The understanding that Lombok is a paradise for surfers is no secret. It boasts some of the most stunning surf spots around the world, catering to every skill level. Just imagine: wake up early, feel the crisp breeze on your scooter ride to breathtaking beaches surrounded by lush green landscape and find the perfect wave. Witness the sunrise or sunset on the water and become one with the elements of our incredible nature. Nowhere else can you clear your mind and escape the daily routine like in the vastness of the sea.
However, not everyone is a surf-enthusiast. As a surf beginner approaching my thirties, I find it a bit more challenging to fearlessly dive into the waves. After being washed a few times, my enthusiasm drastically drops as the next set rolls in. Still, there is this fascination within me- this desire to one day glide over the water just like the locals do.
That’s why my husband and I headed to Gili Trawangan and embarked on a freediving course. There, we learned to trust our own abilities and discovered we could hold our breath much longer than we initially thought. We pushed our limits and spent extended periods on the open sea. I found true comfort out there. No matter how busy the sea is on the surface, underneath it’s calm and quiet. Without any equipment, my husband dove 15 meters into the deep, and I did 12 meters to pass the certification for the Molchanovs Wave 1 Freediver Course. This experience erased my fears completely. You can check out their website here:
If you find yourself less comfortable with the water, don’t give up too fast. Instead, explore the other opportunities Lombok has to offer and embrace the full experience. Don’t let your fears hold you back from life’s adventures 🙂
3. Visit the Lomdogs; hike the mountains with over 80 dogs or enjoy a Puppy Yoga class!
Another way to dive into the full Lombok experience is by visiting the local animal shelter. Affectionately known as the “Lomdogs,” they eagerly await you in the heart of the jungle. It started small, but now over 80 dogs call it home, and they can’t wait for your visit!
The shelter is very well organized with morning and afternoon shifts of volunteers who help feed the many dogs and explore the fantastic mountain landscape on delightful walks. When you are there, all your worries vanish away in an instant because the dogs demand your full attention. They roam freely, just waiting for you to give them some affection. Unfortunately, Lombok still faces a significant issue with stray dogs, many badly injured and starving. However, the shelter provides so much hope, and you can’t help but return home with a full heart. Check out the shelter’s website here: https://shelterforlombokdogs.org/
Twice a month, the shelter even hosts Puppy Yoga where tiny pups smile at you and show you how the downward facing dog is properly done!
Puppy Yoga takes place at an off-site location hosted by Cocoon Reserve. We have purposefully built a pavilion for such occasions, which is set to officially open as a café around mid-2024. The idea behind this is to create a platform for social organizations such as the local dog shelter, allowing them to reach a wider audience and raise funds for their good cause. The pavilion is nestled in the heart of Kuta, Lombok, making it easily accessible for everyone. The venture is provided to the shelter free of charge and we are always delighted to welcome our little furry friends to another rejuvenating yoga class.
4. Enjoy a Sauna & Ice Bath
Life in Lombok, filled with high-energy activities, can take a toll on your body, making recovery a crucial part of your routine. The consistent thrill of surfing and a multitude of adventurous pursuits set the stage for an enriched life experience. The daily ritual of sauna and ice bath has evolved into a way to replenish and rejuvenate the vessel that empowers you to embrace all that this island has to offer. After each demanding day, our bodies deserve a moment of recovery.
The benefits of sauna and ice bath are extensive, and you can delve into the details in this podcast featuring Dr. Huberman.
My preferred destination for sauna and ice bath sessions is Loka Gym. Their well-maintained facilities include two options for ice baths: a 5-degree option and a 10-degree option. The attentive staff ensures that these baths maintain at optimal temperatures throughout the day.
Exciting news awaits at Cocoon Reserve! In our upcoming recovery center, set to open in 2024, we will be introducing sauna and ice bath facilities for the exclusive use of our resort guests and those participating in the transformative retreats. Explore our home page to learn more about the exciting offerings coming in 2024.
5. Eat a Crepé On The Main Road
There is no better way to end a day than strolling along the bustling main road of Kuta at night. And treating yourself to a delicious crepé from one of the charming street vendors. The sellers are all incredibly friendly and customize the crepé to your liking – do you prefer it more doughy or crispy crunchy? My absolute favorite is banana and Nutella, and I savor every bite. Sometimes I get one straight after a workout. And then those calories taste even better because I know I have earned them! Perhaps I associate these street vendors with fun fairs or Christmas markets back home, so there is always something special for me about buying a little treat from them.
I hope you have found some inspiration for your next Lombok stay. Wishing you a fantastic time- may you embrace the island and its charm just as we have.
Founder Cocoon Reserve
