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Better than Bali? Some would say so. The Indonesian island of Lombok is far less tourist infested, but that won’t last as more and more travelers discover the diversity of its landscapes and authenticity of its indigenous cultures.

Lombok has deserts and rainforests, and over it all looms Gunung Rinjani, the island’s solitary volcano. A trek to the summit takes about 3 days and features stops at hot springs and the crater lake of Segara Anak. Lombok’s Kuta region has a stretch of tranquil white beaches that is renowned for its surfing. Developers have set their sights on carving up Kuta, so you might want to get there before that happens. Bangko Bangko, a.k.a. Desert’s Point, is also popular amongst surfers. Lombok’s resort area of Senggigi has already been established as a prime travel destination with all the necessary tourist amenities, including 5 star hotels and an assortment of restaurants. The Gili islands are a popular day trip for snorkelers and divers arriving from Lombok. Golfers have their choice of two island golf courses. Lombok is primarily inhabited by those of the Moslem faith, but the 18th century complex at Pura Lingsur contains temples devoted to the Hindu and indigenous Wektu Telu religions.