MEET THE LOCALS

From a rich food scene to a plethora of natural wonders, three Indonesians wax lyrical about their country

Radin Santo

TOUR GUIDE, MANDALIKA, LOMBOK

THE WORLD MAY LOVE BALI, BUT LOMBOK IS JUST AS BEAUTIFUL. Our white, sandy beaches are less crowded and the surrounding coastal landscapes — rolling, green hills and savannah — are spectacular. As a Mandalika local, I feel a great sense of pride sharing my hometown with travellers. Over time, we hope to share some of Bali’s spotlight.

MANDALIKA IS KNOWN FOR ITS ANNUAL, WEEK-LONG BAU NYALE FESTIVAL. As part of a traditional ritual performed by the local Sasak people, hundreds fl ock to Seger Beach to gather iridescent, green, blue and gold sea worms (nyale), which are seen as an incarnation of the fl owing locks of Princess Mandalika [a fi gure from local legend]. Famous for her beauty, princes from kingdoms far and wide were desperate to marry her. Overwhelmed with choice, she threw herself into the sea. Once a year, an abundance of worms emerge, which locals believe foreshadow bountiful harvests.

THE MOST IMPORTANT THING TOURISTS CAN DO IS HELP KEEP THE BEACHES AND SURROUNDING ENVIRONMENTS CLEAN. From majestic Mount Rinjani to the sparkling waters of Mandalika, we hope travellers respect our home and leave with cherished memories.