In Reply to: Perama to Gili Trewangan....? posted by Tommmo on Wednesday, 21. March 2007 at 06:40 Bali Time:
I have taken the slow boat, the long boat, ferry, and the row boat! I would hang the expense and take the 'eroplaino' to Mataram and then arange private transport all the way to Talak Nara. Tell them you want the speed boat to Gilli Trawangan -(best ride - fast, around RP75000)
Oh - the plane trip one way is RP300000 give or take 20000 or 30000 with Merpati airlines. This airline is reliable and the safest around????? You have never been on a flight that will make you crap your pants like this one - but I managed to survive every time! The planes are old and the overhead cabin doors always fall down,the windows have got cracks and are taped up with duct tape, the seats move side to side and if you look down the isle, you can see the cockpit and the captains hands moving everywhere, trying to control the plane!! Smoke pours out of the engines, and we still can't wait for the next trip. When you finally arive at Mataram, everyone claps!!!! It certainly is the best roller-coaster ride around!
Transport from Matram to Sengigi is around 45 minutes, and always stay in Sengigi for a couple of nights and then on to Talak Nara which takes about one hour. Beautiful scenery!! If you are on a budget, yes you can take Bemos, from Sengigi to Bangsal Habour where the local boat can take you to the Gili's for around RP20000 - 45mins -(depending on weather!)You will be met by many hawkers wishing to sell you stuff.
If you decide to be a little adventurous, you can travel past Bangsal to Sennaru. This village is on the foothills of Mount Rinjani. I have climbed this amazing Mountain. It was the best climb in Indonesia so far, but a day trip to the two waterfalls will give you a taste of the Mountain.
I hope this information has been of help, and if you have time on your side, try to travel using 'local' means to experience the flavour of Lombok and also is cheaper.