Mataram, Lombok

After a very exciting night in Senggigi we went to Mataram, the capital of Lombok. Many things were closed due to the holiday so we couldn't do very much sightseeing. We tried to go to a local mall, just to see what it was like, but the only things that were open were KFC and McDonalds! Had a good time regardless of many things being closed.

Gas station: motorbikes go on the inside, cars go on the outside

We saw many cool mosques in the area.

In the evening we went to a park across the street where we were staying, where many young people were hanging out. They were very friendly, one group even asked for a picture with us.

Park across the street from us

The next day we headed to Lembar, where we were able to take the ferry back to Bali. Passed many rice fields along the way.

The crops are burnt after the rice has been cut

I'd been prepared for a long and uncomfortable ferry journey, but it was quite nice! Comfortable seats, four hours as advertised, plenty of room, and they even played Hollywood movies (surprising and a bit odd).

Enjoyable ride

The locals opted for sleeping areas rather than the seats.

Local preference on the left

Loved the ferry ride! Would highly recommend it over the famous "fast boats" which, though faster, are much more uncomfortable and so bumpy it can be a bit frightening...