There is a peculiar paradox in modern travel.

A person will spend fifty weeks of the year trapped in a relentless corporate rhythm - battling traffic, managing spreadsheets, surviving back-to-back Zoom calls, and dedicated lunch times. Then, finally, the annual leave arrives. They board a flight, cross the ocean, fly ten thousand miles across the globe, and check into a luxury resort.

They step through grand sliding glass doors into an air-conditioned lobby marble-clad and fragrant with generic hotel perfume. They drink a cocktail from a standardized menu, lie beside a manicured infinity pool, and eat a club sandwich that tastes identical to one in Sydney, London, or Cape Town.

They are in a new country, yet completely insulated from it. They have travelled across the world only to remain in a bubble, looking at paradise through a pane of tempered glass.

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Over the weekend, my wife Mariam and I were reminded of how different travel can be when you step outside those walls.

We had a couple visiting us from Australia. They were seasoned travellers, lovely people who had stayed in some of the finest properties around the world. But having lived here on Lombok for four years now, I’ve made it an unspoken rule that whenever guests come to stay with us, I don’t just show them the postcard version of the island. I take them where the island lives and breathes.

Around midday on Saturday, we picked them up from their five-star hotel and drove north along the coastal road toward Pantai Nipah.

Nipah is a crescent of soft, powdery white sand framed by rows of swaying coconut palms, where calm, turquoise water laps gently against the shore. It is not an exclusive private beach club. No daybed minimum spends, no electronic house music pulsating through outdoor speakers, and no polished waiters in starched uniforms.

Instead, tucked beneath the shade of the palm trees along the sand, sits a row of humble, open-air wooden warungs with very simple roof structures providing shade from the heat.

As we pulled up, the sweet, smoky aroma of burning coconut husks was already drifting through the sea breeze. We kicked off our sandals and walked straight onto the sand. The owner of our regular little spot, Ehsan, a gentle Sasak man whose face breaks into an immediate, crinkly-eyed smile every time he sees us, walked over to greet us with both hands over his heart. There was no formal reservation, no clipboard. Just a genuine, unhurried warmth that makes you feel like an old friend returning home.

Together with our Australian guests, we walked over to the icebox. Resting on the crushed ice was the morning’s catch, pulled from the ocean just hours earlier by local fishermen: plump red snapper, sweet barunang, and large, translucent tiger prawns.

We picked our fish, agreed on the marinade, and while the coals were being stoked, we went to relax in the shade on the baruga.

The water at Nipah is crystal clear and refreshingly warm. We relaxed and shared stories lazily under the tropical sun with the green coastal hills of Lombok rising up behind us. There was no schedule. No notification chimes. No rush.

And then the food arrived.

We sat down at natural carved wooden benches and table, metres from the water, our feet buried in the sand. Out came the plates with our seafood feast. The barunang was charred to perfection over the coconut coals, glistening with sweet soy and sambal, the skin crispy and smoky, the flesh tender and sweet. The grilled prawns were perfectly marinated and grilled, a bowl of water spinach (kangkung) sautéed with garlic and chilli, nasi putih - white steamed rice, and a dish of grilled eggplant topped with freshly crushed tomato sambal.

We ate with our fingers, the ocean breeze keeping us cool, sipping fresh young coconuts hacked open with a machete.

Halfway through the meal, the Australian husband put down his prawn, looked around at the humble warung, looked at the sparkling bay, and then looked at me. His eyes were wide with sheer disbelief.

“Abbas,” he said, shaking his head slowly. “We would never have found this place on our own. We would have stayed inside the hotel restaurant eating a buffet. This... this is the real Indonesia. Spending time with the locals, eating what the locals eat, sitting right on the sand. This is easily one of the freshest, most incredible seafood meals I have ever had in my life. And the owner is just so kind.”

His words lingered with me long after we packed up and drove home along the winding coastal cliffs as the sun was setting.

It made me realise how easily we can fall into the trap of taking everyday miracles for granted. What had become our simple Sunday routine was, for our guests, a once-in-a-lifetime revelation.

It also reminded me of a deeper truth about the human spirit: modern travellers are tired of the plastic polish. We don’t really cross oceans to sit inside another air-conditioned cage. Deep down, what our souls are starved for is authenticity. We crave the simple, unscripted moments. We want the taste of food that has a story. We want to look into the eyes of a local who smiles not because it’s in their job description, but because hospitality is in their blood.

We are searching for the real thing.

When I suffered my heart attack four years ago and walked away from the high-stakes corporate world, I thought I was just looking for a quiet place to recover. What I actually found here in Lombok was a masterclass in how to live.

Life doesn’t have to be a race against the clock. The highest luxuries in this world are not manufactured in a factory or priced into a five-star suite. They are found in the warmth of a stranger, the rhythm of the tides, the smell of woodsmoke on a quiet beach, and the freedom to sit barefoot on the sand with the people you care about.

Whenever friends and guests come to visit us on the island, this is the world we open up for them. We enjoy the comfort and elegance of world-class resorts, but we never let those walls separate us from the soul of the island. We take the back roads. We eat at the humble beachside warungs. We introduce you to the people who make this place magic.

If you are sitting at your desk right now, feeling the weight of the daily grind, and wondering what it feels like to leave the rush behind and experience a simpler, richer way of living, even just for a few days, take this as your sign.

The sand is warm, the fish is fresh, and the island is waiting to welcome you home.

Keep exploring, stay curious, and give yourself permission to slow down.

Warmly from Lombok,

Abbas

There is a distinct moment that happens to almost every traveller who sets foot on Lombok. You can see it in their shoulders first. They drop an inch or two. The tension in their jaw softens. The subtle, restless urge to check a smartphone every three minutes quietly fades away.

It is what I have come to call The Lombok Effect.

Having lived on this beautiful island for four years now, after trading the high-speed rat race of the corporate world for a pair of sandals, I have had the absolute privilege of watching visitors arrive from all over the globe. They come looking for a tropical getaway, but what they actually discover is something far more profound: a blueprint for how life was always meant to be lived.

If you’ve ever sat in a café, looking out at the ocean, wondering what makes this island so magnetically special, here are the four elements that visitors always carry home in their hearts.

1. The Soul of the Island: Her People

Ask anyone who has spent time in Lombok what stands out the most, and before they mention the turquoise waters or the palm trees, they will talk about the Sasak people.

There is an innate, unforced humility here. The locals possess a warmth that isn’t rehearsed for tourism; it is simply who they are. Everywhere you go, you are met with genuine, radiant smiles from people who sincerely want to help you, expect nothing in return, and welcome you as a guest rather than a tourist.

Even after four years, whenever I travel away from Lombok, this is the very first thing I miss. The moment you return, you are instantly reminded of what authentic human connection feels like. It grounds you immediately.

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2. A Shift in Mindset: The Magic of Safety

Visitors are continually astonished by how safe Lombok feels. It is a place where anxiety about your surroundings simply evaporates. It isn’t even a thought. In the local kampungs (villages), you will often see young children, eight or nine-year-old girls, cycling freely through the lanes late into the evening, completely safe and at peace.

Not long ago, I was sitting in a hotel lobby waiting to meet someone when a European guest rushed in, visibly flustered and on the verge of panic. She explained to the front desk that she had misplaced her bag and feared she had left it on the public beach in front of the hotel. You could see the despair in her eyes; in most major cities around the world, a bag left unattended on a beach is gone forever.

The local staff behind the counter didn’t panic. They simply smiled with a gentle, calming warmth and said, “Yes, we have a bag. Please tell us what is inside.”

After she described the contents and named the exact amount of cash in her wallet, the receptionist calmly reached under the counter, handed her the bag intact, and asked her to double-check that everything was there. No formal interrogation, no fuss, no drama.

What struck me wasn’t just the honesty; as someone who has lived here for years, I fully expected the bag to be there. What struck me was the stark contrast in mindsets. The traveller was operating in an urban mindset of loss, panic, and cynicism. The local staff were operating in a mindset of complete trust: Of course the bag is here. The guest will come get it when she realises it’s missing.

That level of peace and safety is rare in today’s world. It is, quite simply, priceless.

3. Raw, Untouched Natural Beauty

Lombok is an absolute paradise for nature lovers, offering an incredible variety of landscapes squeezed into one pristine island.

In a single day, you can go from snorkelling in crystal-clear turquoise waters alongside sea turtles to walking along powdery white-sand beaches without another footprint in sight. You can venture inward to trek through lush jungle forests, stand under the refreshing mist of majestic waterfalls, or find total stillness beside calm, emerald rice paddies.

And guarding it all from above is the towering, majestic Mount Rinjani, an active volcano rising over 3,600 meters into the sky. Lombok allows you to experience wildly different microclimates and untouched natural wonders all in one small, accessible paradise.

4. The Art of the Slow Life

Perhaps the most transformative part of visiting Lombok is the calmness.

Life here moves to an entirely different rhythm. There is no rush. For travellers arriving from big, modern cities, this can actually be a little unsettling at first. We are so conditioned to living life on fast-forward that we don’t even realise we’re doing it.

Think about it: back home, everything is aggressively timed. Food delivery, grocery drop-offs, microwaves, email response expectations, GPS arrival times, traffic lights. We measure our days in frantic seconds.

Lombok invites you, gently but firmly, to leave that burden behind. When you feel that internal urge to hurry, the island softly asks: Where are you rushing to?

Lombok gives you a rare, precious glimpse of what life feels like when you finally allow yourself to stop counting the minutes and start living them. It gives you room to breathe.

Experience the Magic for Yourself

Over the years, I’ve had countless readers reach out to me after reading my books, asking how they can experience this sanctuary for themselves, without having to worry about the logistics, the planning, or sacrificing an ounce of comfort.

So, I’ve put together something truly special.

I am inviting you to step into this world and experience the magic of Lombok firsthand with a curated, luxury escape.

We have designed an exclusive 11-Day 5-Star Luxury Island Package, starting from just R13,950 per person (approximately $850 USD).

Imagine 11 days of complete tranquillity: staying in world-class luxury accommodations, exploring majestic waterfalls, sailing across crystal waters, eating exquisite food, and soaking in the slow, restorative energy of the island, all seamlessly arranged so you don’t have to lift a finger.

Whether you need to reset after a demanding year, reconnect with nature, or simply experience what true peace feels like, Lombok is waiting for you.

How to Book:

Spaces for these specialised luxury itineraries are strictly limited to ensure an intimate, high-end experience. Reach out directly to me (details below) to check availability and secure your dream island holiday today.

Leave the fast lane behind for a little while. Come to Lombok, kick off your shoes, and let us show you how to slow down.

Keep exploring, stay curious, and open your heart to a slower rhythm.

Warmly from paradise,

Abbas

Four years ago, I made a choice that felt, at the time, like a radical act of self-preservation. I stepped away from the relentless, high-octane corporate world that had defined my identity for over three decades. The catalyst wasn’t elegant; it was a sudden heart attack - a sharp, unmistakable warning from my body that the race I was running had no finish line, only a breaking point.

So, I packed up my life, exchanged my corporate suits for a pair of sandals, and moved to the tranquil island of Lombok, Indonesia. I was seeking simplicity. I wanted to learn how to breathe again.

For the first couple of years, the transition was a gentle negotiation between my past and my present. I kept one foot in the corporate world by coaching senior executives, helping them navigate the very pressures that had nearly broken me. I also dabbled in inbound tourism, fascinated by the travellers arriving on our shores.

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That period of reflection birthed two books. The first, From Suits to Sandals, was written as a manual for those corporate leaders still trapped in the rat race, looking for an exit ramp. The second, Discover Lombok, was born out of observing a very specific kind of traveller - the tourist sitting in a local beachside café, staring out at the turquoise ocean, wondering, “I wonder what it’s actually like to live here?” I wanted to write the book that answered that question, sharing the magic and the practical reality of island life.

Living here has been nothing short of life-changing, refreshing, stimulating, and profoundly rewarding. I learned to trade deadlines for sunsets, and for the first time in my life, I truly began to embrace the concept of slow living.

But there is a funny thing about the entrepreneurial mind. You can take the man out of the corporate boardroom, but you cannot entirely quiet the part of his brain that sees potential, gaps in the market, and modern opportunities. For years, I actively resisted. Every time a business idea sparked, I would look down at my sandals, look out at the ocean, and whisper to myself, “No. Stay still. Keep it simple.”

And then, I stumbled into a new passion that managed to completely disarm my resistance.

Matcha.

It started not as a business interest, but as a deeply personal ritual. I became captivated by the rich traditions and the profound sense of mindfulness that accompanies Japanese tea culture. There is an inherent beauty in slowing down just to prepare a single cup of tea - understanding exactly where it comes from, how it is shaded and grown, when it is harvested, and delving deep into the anatomy of the product. This fascination made me incredibly particular about what I drank. Matcha isn’t just green tea; when prepared correctly, it is a meditative experience.

A few months ago, I visited a good friend on Gili Trawangan - the tiny, vibrant paradise island just off the coast of Lombok. Gili T is a massive global tourist hub, bustling with international travellers, chic beach clubs, and sophisticated speciality coffee shops. Knowing the high standard of the local culinary scene, I was genuinely looking forward to treating myself to a premium ceremonial matcha.

I spent days searching. And to my surprise, I really struggled to find a good cup of high-quality, authentically prepared matcha. Everywhere I went, it was commercial powders, pre-mixed batches, or rushed preparations drowned in artificial sweeteners.

That was the exact moment the universe whispered to the entrepreneur in me. But this time, it didn’t feel like a distraction from my journey of slow living. It felt like the ultimate extension of it. I thought: What if we opened the premier matcha destination shop right here? A sanctuary of absolute stillness in the middle of paradise.

The journey from concept to reality moved with a beautiful, synchronous momentum. It began with sourcing perfection. After an exhaustive search, we were incredibly fortunate to connect with an exceptional supplier in Jakarta who sources directly from heritage farms in Shizuoka, Japan - securing a grade of matcha that stands completely alone. Then, the circle widened beautifully when a dear friend from back home in Cape Town stepped in as our financial partner, providing the foundation we needed to build this dream.

Bringing a concept to life is one of my greatest joys, but what made this project truly sacred was collaboration. Working closely alongside my son and daughter, we poured our collective energy into building the ethos, design, and soul of what would become Slow Matcha.

We decided to build something entirely uncompromising. Slow Matcha is a premier matcha atelier. We made a bold choice right from the start: we sell only matcha. No coffee. No food. No distractions. Just pure, excellent matcha.

Furthermore, we banned batch-mixing, and we banned electric machines. Every single cup of matcha we serve is handcrafted entirely from scratch right in front of the guest. When you step into our space, you are immediately introduced to the traditional, 500-year-old Japanese tea-making tools. You watch the precise measurement of the vibrant green powder into the chawan (the ceramic bowl) using the chashaku (the bamboo tea scoop). You watch the hot water poured just at the right temperature, and you experience the rhythmic, hypnotic movement of the chasen (the bamboo whisk) as it creates a perfect, creamy microfoam.

There is absolutely no rush here.

When you enter our doors, the frantic heat and bustle of Gili T melts away, replaced by a striking, minimalist Japandi design. The space is anchored by cool, polished cement floors, smooth cream cement walls, and custom, handmade wooden furniture designed to complement the natural, grounded aesthetic.

The experience is entirely human-centric. We welcome you warmly. We exchange names. We ask how your journey has been, and how long you are staying on the island. Only after a genuine connection is established do we help you put together the perfect matcha flavour profile to suit your exact taste.

After your drink is being meticulously prepared in front of you, you are invited to wander through our curated micro-gallery inside the atelier, titled “Whispers from Shizuoka.” The gallery features stunning visual storytelling that transports you directly to the misty, terraced hills of Japan where our tea leaves are grown.

Your matcha is then brought to you on a beautifully hand-carved wooden tray, accompanied by a selection of traditional Indonesian sweets - a subtle nod to our local island heritage. And then, you take your first sip.

The response has left us completely overwhelmed. We created this as a deeply personal passion project, but it seems the world was craving exactly what we were searching for. In our very first two weeks of opening our doors, we received over sixty 5-star reviews from travellers all over the globe.

“The best matcha I have ever tasted.”

Our guests aren’t just loving the taste; they are loving the feeling.

This venture aligns so perfectly with where I am on my own journey of life. I feel immensely blessed to be able to build a brand that is actively inviting people to slow down, and even more blessed to spend my days resting, thinking, and working within this beautiful, quiet space. Every day, I get to meet extraordinary people from every corner of the globe who share this deep appreciation for stepping out of the chaos to experience true ceremonial matcha prepared the traditional way.

It has made me realise that no matter how fast the world moves, our souls still crave the slow whisk.

Wherever you find yourself in the world right now, whether you are grinding away in a corporate boardroom, running a business, or navigating the daily hustle of a crowded city - I want to ask you a question: Do you have that quiet space you can go to? Do you have a sanctuary where you can unwind, relax, reflect, and just take a deep, uninterrupted breath from the busy lives we live?

If you don’t, I encourage you to build one, find one, or carve it out of your day. And if you ever find yourself wandering the shores of Gili T, looking to escape the heat, come find us. Let’s share names, let’s slow down, and let’s enjoy a moment of perfect stillness together.

Keep exploring, stay curious, and never forget to honour the rhythm of your own journey.

With peace and clarity,

Abbas

You can follow Slow Matcha on Instagram

It’s hard to believe how beautifully the threads of our lives are woven by a hand far wiser than our own. We sketch our blueprints, map out our trajectories, and build our expectations. But every so often, the Almighty reveals a grander, more breathtaking canvas that leaves us standing in absolute awe, realising we are merely characters in a masterpiece spanning centuries and oceans.

For me, May has always been a significant month. But May 2026 will forever be etched in my heart as the moment a 300-year-old circle finally closed.

On the 24th of May, my Indonesian daughter, Yasmin, gave birth to a beautiful, healthy baby girl. Holding this precious new life, they chose a name that carries the weight of memory, love, and legacy: Fatima. She is named after my dear late mother.

As I looked down at little Fatima, a profound wave of realisation hit me. My roots here in Lombok, Indonesia, have just taken deeper hold in the soil. What started four years ago as a leap of faith - a move from South Africa to this tranquil island - has transformed into something permanent, living, and breathing. This is not just an expat journey anymore. It is a full circle. It is a homecoming.

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To understand the weight of this moment, we have to travel back over three centuries into a dark chapter of history that was stealthily engineered into a miracle.

Growing up in a traditional Muslim home in Cape Town, South Africa, I was raised with the rich, distinct traditions of the Cape Malay community. We used words in our daily colloquial language that were distinct from Arabic or English, and we practiced customs that felt uniquely ours. As a primary school boy, I learned the history behind those words. I learned about a man named Shaykh Yusuf.

Shaykh Yusuf was a revered nobleman, Islamic scholar, and fierce freedom fighter from Macassar on the island of Sulawesi, Indonesia. In the late 17th century, he stood as a massive thorn in the side of Dutch colonial expansion. Unable to break his spirit on his home soil, the Dutch East India Company captured him and, in 1694, exiled him to the isolated southern tip of Africa, Cape Town.

At the time, to his followers and family, this forced removal must have felt like an absolute catastrophe. Stripped of his homeland, isolated across the vast Indian Ocean, it looked like the end of an era.

But what the colonizers intended as a prison sentence, the Almighty ordained as a planting.

By banishing Shaykh Yusuf to the Cape, the Dutch inadvertently established the foundations of Islam in South Africa. The area where he lived and was eventually buried just outside Cape Town became a sanctuary for runaway slaves and dissidents, and to this day, that very area is known as Macassar. From that catastrophic exile, a vibrant, resilient, and deeply spiritual community was born. The Cape Malays. My people.

Fifty years ago, as a schoolboy listening to the legendary tales of Shaykh Yusuf of Macassar, I was captivated by the history. But never in my wildest, most imaginative dreams could I have predicted how intimately that history would claim me.

Fast forward to four years ago. My wife and I made the life-altering decision to trade the corporate race for a simpler, more intentional rhythm of life, packing our bags and moving to Indonesia. A year later, my son met and married a local Indonesian girl. When we met her family, the universe seemed to stand still for a moment.

Her family comes from Macassar.

Let the gravity of that sink in. Three centuries ago, a man was violently torn from Macassar and sent to Cape Town to anchor my heritage. Three hundred years later, his descendants return from Cape Town to Indonesia, and my son marries a daughter of Macassar. And now, on the 24 of May, little Fatima is born - a beautiful, living manifestation of this ancient lineage. She carries the blood of Cape Town and the blood of Macassar. The circle is completely, undeniably unbroken. If that isn’t a divine script, I don’t know what is.

As if this celestial alignment wasn’t enough, May decided to shower our family with even more joy. This month has truly become the month of birth and celebration for the women in my life. My wife and my two Indonesian daughters, Yasmin and Bitah, all celebrate their birthdays in May. To bring the blessing entirely full circle across the oceans, my lovely granddaughter, Rahma, back home in South Africa, was born on the 4th of May.

It makes you pause and marvel at the sheer symmetry of life.

We have been living in Indonesia for four years now, and it has been an incredibly beautiful, soul-stretching experience. We came looking for a slower pace, but we found a bigger life. We have explored hidden corners of these islands, met remarkable souls, made lifelong friends, and now, we are watching our family grow across borders.

My life’s journey has led me precisely to this point, to this place, at this exact time. Every detour, every challenge, and every leap into the unknown was just a step toward this beautiful destination. It reinforces the profound truth we hold as Muslims: we can sketch our timelines and make our grand plans, but the Almighty’s plan for us is always infinitely bigger, sweeter, and more magnificent than anything we could write for ourselves.

And speaking of births, new beginnings, and the beauty of a slower rhythm, this month of May hasn’t just brought new life into our home; it is also witnessing the birth of a passion project I’ve been quietly pouring my heart into.

I am currently in the process of setting up a new business here in Indonesia called Slow Matcha.

It is designed to be more than just a brand; it is a curated celebration of intentional, mindful, slow living - a space to breathe, connect, and appreciate the present moment, much like the life we’ve discovered on these islands. But I will keep you guessing on the details for now. I promise to share the full story, the philosophy, and the journey of Slow Matcha in my next newsletter.

Until then, I leave you with this reflection: look at the historical circles closing in your own life. Trust the narrative, even when a chapter feels like a catastrophe. Keep exploring, stay fiercely curious, and open your mind to a future that is much, much bigger than you.

With gratitude and wonder,

Abbas

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It’s hard to believe we’ve already reached the end of the first third of the year. Time is moving so quickly lately.

Between working with my publisher in Jakarta and getting a brand-new business launched here in Lombok, my days have been full. I’m keeping the details of that new venture close to my chest for now, but I’ll have plenty to tell you in the next newsletter.

The big news is that Discover Lombok is officially in print! We are right on schedule to launch the hard copy on a very special day - my wife’s birthday, May 26. Just a reminder: the hard copy will only be available here on the island. It’s meant to be a tactile piece of Lombok you can actually hold in your hands.

Last month, I gave you a glimpse into Chapter 21, all about Senggigi - The Bay of Perpetual Sunsets that I now call home. Today, I’m offering you another piece of the puzzle. I want to share Chapter 28: A Holiday with a Purpose.

This chapter is essentially a 7-day itinerary for discovering this beautiful island. But before we get into the days, we have to talk about how you get here.

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Entering the Bay

There is a specific feeling you get when you arrive in Lombok by sea. Crossing the Lombok Strait from Bali is a rite of passage.

If you take the fast ferry, make sure you are on the upper deck as the boat approaches the coastline. There is a profound, memorable quality to watching the lush green hills of Lombok first begin to rise out of the deep blue water. As the boat slows down and glides into the bay of Senggigi, you can almost feel the frantic pace of the outside world dropping away.

It’s the moment you realise you aren’t just on holiday; you’re stepping into a different version of life.

The 7-Day Itinerary: Your Strategic Reconnaissance

In Chapter 28, I take you through a week-long immersion designed to ground your dreams in the soil, sand, and saltwater of Lombok. This isn’t about ticking boxes; it’s about inhabiting the space as a potential future resident. Here is what that week looks like:

• Day 1: Seaside Serenity in Senggigi

The dissolve begins the moment you check into your island home, perhaps a traditional Limasan villa at The Studio, tucked into the lush forest. We spend the afternoon on the main beach meeting locals, then journey north to elevated lookouts for panoramic views of turquoise bays. We end with a Senggigi sunset, a daily ritual that paints the sky in fire and violet.

• Day 2: Waterfall Wanderlust

We head deep into the verdant interior to visit the Benang Stokel and Benang Kelambu waterfalls. Standing in the mist of these “curtain falls,” where water cascades through lush greenery, offers a moment of profound clarity. It’s a day to align your internal rhythm with the pulse of the land.

• Day 3: Cultural Immersion in Senggigi

This is where the “resident” mindset takes root. We start at the local fresh market, a sensory-rich melting pot, before taking a walking tour through the kampung of Batu Layar to meet craftsmen and enjoy a traditional Sasak meal. We end the day in the main town of Mataram, dining among the locals to glimpse the community you are joining.

• Day 4: Island Escape to Gili Air

We cross to Gili Air, where the “Sandal” lifestyle is a geographic reality. There are no engines here, only the clip-clop of horse-drawn cidomos and the soft whir of bicycles. We find a shaded bale on the beach, our “office” for the day, where the only deadline is the movement of the tide.

• Day 5: The Silent World of the Gilis

We dive into the liquid horizon on a private outrigger. We swim among the underwater statues at Gili Meno and drift alongside ancient sea turtles at Turtle Point. Lunch is grilled prawns at a rustic seaside table on Gili Meno, the most serene of the three islands. By evening, the “Suit” has never felt further away.

• Day 6: The Pulse of the South Coast

We bid farewell to the Gilis and drive south, pausing at a traditional Sasak village to witness fifteen generations of preserved architecture and weaving. From there, we hit Kuta, a cosmopolitan blend of surf culture and international flair. We soak in the energy of the town that may soon be your neighbour.

• Day 7: The South Coast Odyssey and the Golden Hour

Our final day is for beach hopping from the powdery half-moon of Tanjung Aan to the dramatic coves of Mawun. We have lunch at a beach warung with our toes in the sand before the legendary ritual: sunset at Bukit Merese Hill. As the sky ignites over the Indian Ocean, you realise your “Southern Cross” is finally illuminating the ground you stand upon.

Start Your Discovery

I wrote this chapter for the person who is tired of the race. I wrote it for the traveller who wants more than a tan, the one who wants a roadmap to a simpler, more intentional life.

Lombok is more than a destination; it’s a lifestyle choice. This 7-day itinerary is the first step toward making it yours.

I’ve made the full version of Chapter 28: A Holiday with a Purpose available for you to download for free. It contains the detailed routes, specific local spots I recommend, and the practical “Recce” tips for each of these seven days.

Download Chapter 28 Here

I hope this guide helps you find the same peace and purpose I found when I first glided into the bay of Senggigi.

See you on the island,

This first quarter has been a whirlwind of family, tradition, and the final push to bring my latest book to life.

We began the year in Cape Town. Returning to South Africa is always a complex emotional journey for me. It is the place that shaped me as a person, but it is also the place where I realized I needed to find a simpler life. Spending December and January there was all about family and friends. There is a specific kind of joy in spending time with your grandchildren - a reminder of the circle of life.

We soaked up the Cape Town summer, reconnected with old friends, and shared stories of our new life in Indonesia. But as the month drew to a close, the “Southern Cross” began to point us back toward our island sanctuary.

The Javanese Wedding: A Tapestry of Tradition

When we arrived back in Lombok, we barely had three days to catch our breath before we were back in the air. This time, our destination was Central Java for a deeply personal milestone: my son’s wedding in Wonogiri.

Central Java is the cultural heart of Indonesia, and experiencing a traditional wedding there is like stepping into a living history book. I had the immense honour of wearing the traditional Javanese outfit. There is a particular weight to the attire, literally and symbolically. The centrepiece is the Keris, the Javanese dagger with a wooden sheath. It isn’t just a weapon; it is a spiritual object, a symbol of heroism and martial prowess.

As I stood there with the keris tucked into my waistband at the back, as is the custom for Javanese men during ceremonies, I felt a profound connection to the heritage of my new home. The ceremony was a beautiful blend of solemnity and celebration, a moment where two families and two cultures truly became one.

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Surabaya: The Vibrant Megacity

Following the wedding, we spent two nights in Solo before boarding the train east toward Surabaya. If Lombok is the “Sandal” life, Surabaya is the peak of Indonesian “Modernity.” As the nation’s second-largest city after Jakarta, it is a staggering, vibrant metropolis.

Surabaya is a port city with a fascinating duality. On one hand, you have the soaring skyscrapers and the frantic energy of a global trade hub. On the other hand, you have the quiet, narrow canals and the enduring architecture of its Dutch colonial past.

In the heart of this “Megacity,” you can find the soul of traditional Indonesia if you know where to look. We stayed right opposite Kampung Ketandan, a traditional urban village nestled amidst the soaring skyscrapers. I found a deep sense of peace there; I would literally walk out of our modern hotel, cross the road, and step into a different world. Entering the kampung for early morning prayers was particularly special. In those pre-dawn moments, before the city roared to life, the narrow alleys offered a quiet, spiritual stillness that felt worlds away from the glass and steel of the surrounding metropolis. It was a powerful reminder that even in the fastest-growing cities, the rhythm of the kampung remains the true soul of the people.

Ramadan: The Season of Stillness

We finally flew back to Lombok just in time for the start of Ramadan. If you have never experienced Ramadan on a predominantly Islamic island like Lombok, it is difficult to describe the shift in energy. It is a time of intentional reflection and “gourmet Isolation.”

The roads, usually buzzing with scooters, fall remarkably quiet. During the day, the food warungs along the side of the road are closed, restaurants’ colourful curtains drawn as the community observes the fast. This is the virtue of sabr (patience) in action. But as the sun begins to dip toward the horizon, the island begins to stir.

The moment of Buka Puasa (breaking the fast) is a unique phenomenon. For a brief window, the roads are completely empty as families gather in their homes or at the local mosque. Then, as evening takes hold, the kampung starts to come alive. Children play in the streets until late into the night, and the air is filled with the scent of street food and the sound of community.

Eid and the Spirit of Lebaran Topat

Our Eid celebration was a beautiful whirlwind. After the Eid Salaah (prayer), we had men from the local mosque come to our home for breakfast, followed by a steady stream of new friends we’ve made since moving to Senggigi. This level of community connection is exactly what I was searching for in my new life.

But in Lombok, the festivities don’t end with Eid. A week later, we celebrate Lebaran Topat, a tradition unique to this island. This year, it fell over this past weekend (Saturday and Sunday). It is a joyous bookend to the holiday season. Families flock to the coast, and the beaches are packed with people enjoying the water and sharing meals. It was the perfect way to wrap up a quarter defined by movement and connection.

A Gift for You: Discovering Lombok

In between the weddings, the trains across Java, and the quiet nights of Ramadan, I have finally finished the e-book version of my new book: Discovering Lombok: A personal journey of reconnection and the essential island guide.

As a subscriber, I want you to be the first to see it. I’m inviting you to download a free sample today, featuring Chapter 20: Senggigi, the Bay of Perpetual Sunsets.

Senggigi is my home town. It’s the place where the “Suit” world finally faded for me, replaced by a peace I didn’t think was possible.

In this chapter, I’ll share:

• The Spirit of Senggigi: Why this bay is the emotional heart of the island.

• My Local Culinary Map: The hidden gems where you can find the most authentic flavours.

• The Ultimate Beach Hangout: Where I go to sit on the sand, eat fresh grilled fish, and watch the translucent ocean.

This chapter isn’t just travel advice; it’s a window into island life. I hope it inspires you to start your own “strategic reconnaissance mission.”

Discover Lombok FREE sample

Book Launch Details:

• E-book Launch: This Friday, 3rd April.

• Hard Copy Launch: Friday, 24th April, only available in Lombok.

A Special Note for “From Suits to Sandals” readers: If you purchased a copy of my previous book, you qualify for a free copy of the new e-book. No, this isn’t an April Fool’s joke! Please reach out to me directly to claim your copy.

Thank you for being part of this journey. Here’s to a second quarter filled with as much purpose and peace as the first.

Since my last dispatch in August, I have been busy expanding the research for my book and travelling to Cape Town to spend two months with our grandchildren. My initial work, From Suits to Sandals: A futures roadmap to help professionals live a simpler life, was self-published in February 2024 and, to my immense surprise, hit the Number One Bestseller spot in Amazon’s Business Coaching and Mentoring section.

I originally wrote it for my international consulting clients, professionals trapped by “golden handcuffs” and the relentless pursuit of deadlines. I offered them a Futures Roadmap that provided the mindset and tools to trade corporate anxiety for an authentic purpose. Yet, as the book found its audience, something unexpected happened: the destination eclipsed the framework.

Whether on LinkedIn or through my Substack newsletter, the feedback was unanimous: “Tell me more about Lombok”. You were captivated by the stories of a life lived at 40km/hr - a life free of traffic jams, rich in community spirit, and anchored by profound simplicity.

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Announcing the New Evolution

Today, I am proud to announce that the final draft of my new book has been sent to the publisher. While I have kept the original name you loved, I have updated the subtitle to reflect this new focus.

From Suits to Sandals: Unlocking the Simpler Life on the Island of Lombok will be released on Friday, 17 April 2026.

This version retains the essential tools of the original while providing a tangible, practical guide to making Lombok your home:

• Part 1: The Futures Roadmap - Now condensed and revised to be less “corporate” based on your feedback. It retains its philosophical core, teaching you to define your “Southern Cross” (purpose), master “Back-casting,” and use the “Future Funnel” to create actionable plans.

• Part 2: The Lombok Life - A deep dive into the reality of island living. You will move beyond the tourist map to conduct your own strategic reconnaissance.

Inside, you will discover:

• The Sanctuary Effect: Why Lombok is the perfect environment to heal your inner clock and embrace the virtue of sabr (patience).

• A Place for Every Purpose: An introduction to the island’s unique hubs, from the stability of Mataram and the charm of Senggigi to the energy of Kuta and the simplicity of the Gilis.

• The “Secret” Map: Access to the quiet corners, hidden eateries, and local haunts that won’t show up on a standard itinerary.

• The Reality of Paradise: A transparent look at the actual cost of living, from daily expenses and local markets to the true price of a lifestyle upgrade.

• Unseen Stories: Fascinating research and local lore that will leave you in awe of the island’s soul.

• The Business of Paradise: Real-world wisdom on navigating a new culture, building a life, and finding your rhythm in a place that moves at its own pace.

• The Final Action Plan: Practical guidance on visas, holiday itinerary, and an essential checklist for your first “recce” trip.

Writing this has been a “radical, beautiful confrontation with simplicity”. I realised that relocating here isn’t just about finding a beach; it’s about the emotional breakthrough that happens when you finally let go of your old identity. It’s about learning to live in the gaze of a giant, Mount Rinjani, that doesn’t care about your CV or past titles.

I have made a conscious decision to focus on the physical hard copy first. In a fleeting digital world, I wanted something tactile you can hold while sitting at a beach warung in Senggigi or resting after a summit push on Mount Rinjani.

Starting April 17, these books will be available across Lombok in the very places I describe in the book. My goal is to reach tourists and expats sitting at a beachside warung, watching the sunset and wondering, “What would it be like to live here?”

For those of you abroad, I am working on an e-book version that includes a gallery of photographs that does justice to the island’s translucent turquoise water. I will be working on this over the next month to ensure it is ready for the official launch date.

My silence is over. In the coming weeks leading up to the launch, I’ll be sharing more about the “Unseen Hand” that guides life here, the logistics of paradise, the community of the Beach Boys for Change, and the vital work of the Horses of Gili.

Thank you for sticking with me through these quiet months. The pivot is complete. The “Sandal” life is officially here.

Life in a big city is a race, and you might not even realize you’re on the track. The entire environment is built for convenience and speed, pushing you to move faster, work harder, and do more.

Freeways are designed to get you from point A to point B as quickly as possible, a blur of concrete and steel. Your calendar is a battlefield of back-to-back meetings, and your phone buzzes with an endless stream of notifications.

Even a simple meal is a sprint: food delivered in 20 minutes, coffee grabbed on the go, lunch breaks spent hunched over a laptop. There’s a constant, low-level hum of anxiety that you mistake for productivity, a pressure to fill every second with action.

This relentless pace leaves no room for stillness, and you spend your life rushing to meet friends, rushing to do the shopping, and rushing to get home, only to collapse in a heap of exhaustion.

This becomes painfully clear when you step away.

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On my last visit back to Cape Town, the very first thing that hit me was the speed of the freeway. We don't realize the impact this has on our psyche—hurtling along a road at 120 km/hr, our bodies subtly tense up, a silent, stress-filled reaction to the unreal speed.

Even at that breakneck speed, there were other cars zipping past, people with their own urgent destinations, rushing to a meeting, to pick up children, to get to a show. It felt like I was back on the hamster wheel, and my body was screaming for me to get off.

Moving to this island was like a global pause button.

The frantic energy of the city was replaced by a gentle hum, and the race was over. Here, the entire environment supports a different way of being, a way that can be summed up by a single, beautiful Arabic word: sabr. It's more than just patience; it’s a quiet endurance, a deep acceptance of the present moment.

It took time to adjust.

When we first moved here, I’d get frustrated waiting for the handyman to arrive or the slow traffic. Things happen at a different pace here. People drive at a leisurely 30 km/hr, not because they're being inconsiderate, but because there's simply nowhere to rush to. At first, it felt like an inconvenience. The city part of me wanted to speed things up, but I've learned that you can't force the tide to come in any faster.

My morning ritual is now proof of this profound shift. In the city, a walk was a weekend escape—a planned activity to unplug before the rhythm of the city pulled me back in. Here, it’s a daily practice of immersion.

I step out of my door and within five minutes, my feet are either sinking into the warm, soft sand of the beach or crunching on leaves as I walk through the forest. The air is cool and clean, and the only sounds are the rustle of the trees or the gentle lapping of the waves. It’s not a hurried walk to squeeze in some exercise; it’s a moment of complete stillness.

My connection to nature isn't something I have to plan for. I live it every single day.

Of course, you can try to live a slower life in a big city. You can meditate, take up yoga, or be more mindful of your breathing. But it requires constant, conscious effort to push back against a system built to do the opposite.

On an island like this, the tide is on your side. The pace of life naturally slows down, giving you a chance to breathe, to be present, and to reconnect with a version of yourself that the city had no time for.

And perhaps this is a lesson that people have sought for centuries. Throughout history, great thinkers and spiritual leaders have retreated from the clamour of the world to find quiet and solace. The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) went to the cave of Hira to meditate and contemplate, a place where he ultimately received revelation.

In the modern era, Steve Jobs, at the height of his youthful ambition, dropped out of college and travelled to India in search of spiritual enlightenment. He came back with a shaved head and a new philosophy, deeply influenced by his quest for simplicity and clarity. This experience would ultimately become the driving force behind the simplicity of the legendary Apple design.

Sometimes, the only way to find your true path is to remove yourself from the noise. For me, the relief of being able to drive slowly, wait without worry, and simply be is one of the most rewarding aspects of living here.

It's not something I have to practice anymore; it's just life.

I'm heading down the main road from the coastal town of Senggigi to the city of Mataram. The road hugs the land as it winds from one bay to the next, offering awesome views across the Lombok Strait to Bali. At the various lookout points, you’ll find informal food stalls (warungs) with seating set up to enjoy the sunset. As the road moves away from the coast, you enter a more built-up area with formal shops on both sides. Between the shops, you can see rice fields on the left and glimpses of the ocean on the right.

There are many more scooters (motor) than cars (mobil) on the road. The road straightens out, and I end up behind two cars. They’re driving slow—like 40km/hr. The road is narrow, and it’s difficult to overtake with the oncoming traffic.

This is where you learn patience...

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When I first arrived on the island of Lombok two years ago, these slow vehicles used to really frustrate me. "Can't you drive faster?" or "Why don't you just move to the side so I can pass?"

Over time, I realized, "You are living on an island. Where are you rushing to?"

I have learned to become a patient driver. I even find myself driving at 40km/hr sometimes, just enjoying the scenery.

That was not my life before.

I grew up in Cape Town, South Africa, a city of about 5 million people. Not a mega-city, but big enough to experience long peak-hour traffic jams every day of the week. When you get into your car, you need to mentally prepare yourself for a road battle.

People rushing to work to clock in on time. Everyone wants to get ahead of the next vehicle. Vehicles constantly switching lanes because they think that the lane next to them is moving faster. When I left Cape Town two years ago, you had to leave home at 6:30 am to avoid traffic; now you need to leave at 6 am.

I remember sitting in early morning meetings and people arriving late saying, "Sorry I got caught in traffic." My standard response: "You weren't sitting in traffic; you were traffic."

Millions of people across the world experience this every working day of the week. One thing you can't tell these people is: "Be patient."

And so this becomes the norm when driving in Cape Town and most big cities. You are rushing to get somewhere. You are watching the clock on your dashboard. Checking Google Maps for traffic congestion- what is your ETA. One incident along your route and your day is buggered.

Constantly against the clock.

Life is different on the island.

The only time you find traffic in Lombok is on a Sunday evening towards sunset. Many young people are on their scooters heading to their favourite sunset viewpoint. Hundreds of scooters heading from Mataram city towards the coastal town of Senggigi.

It got me thinking: Most people in big cities sit in traffic to go and clock in at work. In Lombok, they sit in traffic to go and watch the sunset... Interesting.

Unfortunately, this chase and rush don’t just stop with our driving. It filters into all aspects of our lives. We need to get things done as quickly as possible because we have to move on to the next thing. Rushing to a meeting, picking up children, doing groceries, heading to a function, going to the gym...

Everything we do and consume has to be convenient because we need to get it done as easily and quickly as possible. We have become a society of convenience. We can't warm food on a stove—we need a microwave. And a kettle, a toaster, an air fryer, a deep freezer, an egg boiler, a blender...

We can't hang washing on the line—we need a dryer.

We have created so many things to make our life convenient and faster that it touches every aspect of our lives.

From pre-cooked meals to online check-ins, it's all geared to make our lives more convenient and faster.

But it has also changed our mindset. This is no longer a convenience issue making my life easier; it has become a way of life.

"I placed the pizza order 20 minutes ago, and the delivery guy is not here yet. He is definitely not getting a tip."

“Can you believe it, the train was 7 minutes late this morning?  It just messed up my whole day.”

“They said the service would take one hour and my vehicle is still not ready.  This is really frustrating.”

And then you move to a place like Lombok.

And it humbles you. No one is interested in your rush. If you want to overtake, you find the gap.

If you have a doctor's appointment, leave earlier. Well, there is no peak-hour traffic, so you will probably be early. And the doctor will probably arrive late.

Life operates at a different pace on a small island.

Pic: Practicing patience with a friend in Lombok

Not just the traffic, but everything. When you go out with friends to a restaurant, the food comes out as each dish is ready, not all together. If they missed your order, you will find out after everyone has received their food. By the time your dish arrives, everyone has already completed their meals. And that's fine, it's really not an issue. You got your food, didn't you?

The only thing that runs on time like clockwork five times a day is the call to prayer (Athaan). When the Athaan is made, people in the village head towards the mosque.

One day, I arrived on time for prayers at the local mosque, and no one was there. That's strange? It turns out the person who makes the Athaan was late. I stood around for about ten minutes, and he arrived. He made the Athaan, and slowly people started arriving for prayers.

I realized that day that the people in the village don't watch a clock for prayer time. They wait for the call to prayer and then head to the mosque. No one was upset that he was late. In fact, I'm not sure that they even knew he was late.

Can you imagine a life without rushing?

A life without constant deadlines.

Just living in the moment.

A life where patience is a virtue. It is possible, as I've discovered.

PS: We don’t have a microwave, but we do have a rice cooker.

I follow many travel vloggers and often hear some of them say, "I’ve lived in 10 different countries." But how long must you stay in a country to say you've truly lived there?

Is a month or two as a digital nomad in Bali enough to claim you have lived there?

Some people believe you must spend at least a year in a place to say you've lived there. This at least allows you to experience all the seasons of that country. We know some places look and feel completely different in summer compared to winter. Here in Lombok, we have the wet and dry seasons. The wet season, from November through February, is extremely humid. Daily activities change significantly during this period. If you're planning to visit Lombok during this period, prepare for rain and high humidity.

Staying a year usually means taking a long-term lease, which gives you a feeling of residency. It also gives you the experience of entering into a legal contract with a local. Lease contracts in Lombok are very casual compared to South Africa. When you lease a property for a year, you take full responsibility for it. So, no calling your landlord about the water pump not working. You sort it out at your expense.

June 2024 marks two years since we moved here, meaning I've seen two cycles of seasons and entered into two long-term lease contracts.

The two cycles of seasons have been very different. I don't remember our first year in Lombok being as humid as the second year. The first year, we stayed high on a hill in a forest environment with beautiful views overlooking the Lombok Strait. The higher altitude always brought a gentle breeze through the house.

In our second year, we moved to the coastal town of Senggigi. Our new house was within walking distance of the beach and close to restaurants and shops. It was a very convenient location but lacked the ocean breeze to cool our house. It’s amazing what a difference of 200 metres in altitude can do in a tropical environment.

Or maybe it was just climate change because even the locals were complaining about the heat during the last wet season.

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Beyond time frames other aspects qualify you to say you've lived in a place.

One is if you can drive around without using Google Maps. This shows you've stayed long enough to know the area. We used Google Maps a lot when we first moved here, but our dependence on it slowly decreased over the first year. I can now comfortably get in the car and drive somewhere without actively thinking about the route. It feels like being a local.

Another aspect that qualifies you as having lived in a place is regular use of their healthcare system. Since moving here, I've been admitted to the hospital twice. The first time was for a suspected heart-related incident, and then the second time was earlier this month for dengue fever. Dengue fever is a bugger of a disease caused by a simple mosquito bite. My symptoms included a high temperature, low blood pressure, and low blood platelet count, which can lead to internal bleeding. It took me two weeks to recover.

An interesting thing about being hospitalized in Lombok is that the hospital expects a family member to stay over with you. They have special rooms where family members can sleep. In my case, my wife slept on a sleeper couch in my ward.

However, personally, the big one that qualifies me to say that I have lived in Lombok is that I feel at home here. This feeling comes from many factors, including our lifestyle, the natural environment, and most importantly, the people.

The island of a thousand mosques aligns with our Muslim lifestyle. We stay close to the mosque, and five times a day, we are reminded that we are in a Muslim environment. The PA system at the mosque switches on about fifteen minutes before the call to prayer with melodious reciting. It is hard to miss your prayers in congregation in Lombok. Besides the mosques, there are prayer facilities everywhere, including in malls, restaurants, and hotels.

The pace of island life is also a notch or two down from the big city lifestyle. Everything operates at a different pace here. It is normal to find vehicles driving at 40 km/h. This was a big challenge for me when I moved here. I constantly tried to overtake slow drivers. But then I realized, "Where are you rushing to? You live on an island."

When you ask someone to come to do repairs at your house, they will eventually get there. As we say in Cape Town, "You must learn to sabr." Sometimes they arrive at 8 pm, but eventually, they do show up.

The people in Lombok are some of the most caring, kind, and friendly people I have met. In Cape Town, we had a word, "sopang," to describe a soft, humble and normally elderly person.  The people in Lombok are very sopang. This word originated from Indonesia and is so apt in Lombok.

We have been embraced into the local community, which has been heart-warming and humbling. When I take my morning walks on the beach or through the village, people wave and greet me by name. Most of them know the tall guy who looks like a local. When I was hospitalized, locals from the village visited me and brought me bananas and bread. These are people who have very little and had to take a 30-minute scooter ride to come and visit me in the hospital.

The people of Lombok are special, and they have embraced our family and made us feel at home. We are still very much on our journey of reconnection, and we don't know what lies ahead.

Living here has been more than just an adventure; it's been a transformation. Every day brings a new lesson, a fresh perspective, and an opportunity to grow. The slower pace of island life has taught us patience and mindfulness. The natural beauty that surrounds us is a constant reminder to appreciate the simple things.

Our hearts have been touched by the kindness and generosity of the local people. Their smiles, their warmth, and their willingness to help have shown us the true meaning of community. We've made friendships that will last a lifetime, and we've been welcomed into a culture that values respect, harmony, and togetherness.

As I look back on these two years, I am filled with gratitude. Gratitude for the experiences that have shaped us, for the challenges that have made us stronger, and for the serenity that island life has brought into our lives. Lombok is not just a place we live; it's a place we cherish.

After two years I can comfortably say, "I have lived in Lombok."

Welcome to Lombok, a dream tropical island where secluded white sand beaches and traditional village life await. From laid-back beach resorts to crystal-clear snorkelling with turtles and Asia's best surfing spots, Lombok has something for every traveller.

In last month’s newsletter, I introduced you to the idea of visiting Lombok for your next holiday. The response was overwhelming, with many of you expressing keen interest in exploring this tropical paradise. In fact, I am thrilled to announce that I will be welcoming four readers to Lombok this month alone.

Many of you reached out with questions about planning your Lombok getaway:

1. How many nights do we need for Lombok?

2. Can we combine Lombok with Bali?

3. Can you help us put together an itinerary?

Here are the answers:

1. At least 5

2. Yes

3. Hell yes

I am delighted to present your draft itinerary for five unforgettable nights on the tropical island of Lombok. This itinerary is flexible and can be tailored to suit your preferences and interests.

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Lombok caters to travellers seeking relaxation as well as those craving adventure. Whether you prefer to kick back and sink your feet into the sand or embark on thrilling activities such as summiting an active volcano or catching the best waves in Indonesia, Lombok promises an unforgettable holiday experience.

Your Dream Lombok Itinerary

A minimum of five nights are recommended to discover the beauty of this diverse island.  Spend your first three nights in the tranquil seaside town of Senggigi, where magical sunsets await. (This is also the place I call home.) Then, escape to the tiny paradise island of Gili Air for two nights of pure bliss.

Day 1: Seaside Serenity in Senggigi

Upon arrival in Senggigi, check into your hotel and feel the stress melt away as you sink your toes into the soft sand. Take a leisurely stroll along the beach, exploring the local area and soaking in the serene atmosphere. As the sun begins to set, indulge in a sunset dinner at a beachfront eatery, savouring delicious local cuisine as you watch the sky ablaze with colours.

Day 2: Waterfall Wanderlust

Embark on a full-day waterfall excursion, venturing into the heart of Lombok's lush landscapes to discover its hidden natural wonders. Traverse winding paths through verdant forests and terraced rice fields as you make your way to breathtaking waterfalls, including the renowned Benang Stokel and Kelambu. Marvel at the cascading water and rejuvenate your spirit in the midst of nature's beauty.

Day 3: Cultural Immersion in Senggigi

Immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture with a visit to the bustling fresh market, where colourful displays of fresh produce and lively exchanges capture the essence of daily life in Lombok. Continue your cultural exploration with a guided tour of the serene village of Batu Layar, where narrow alleyways and friendly locals await. Experience the warmth of traditional hospitality as you enjoy a sumptuous meal prepared by your gracious hosts.

Day 4: Island Escape to Gili Air

Bid farewell to Senggigi and catch a speedboat to the enchanting island of Gili Air, where paradise beckons with crystal-clear waters and pristine beaches. Spend the day leisurely exploring the island by bicycle, meandering along sandy paths and discovering hidden treasures around every corner. Indulge in beachside relaxation, snorkel in the vibrant coral reefs, and delight in the simple pleasures of island life.

Day 5: Snorkeling Adventure in Gili Trawangan and Gili Meno

Rise with the sun and witness the daybreak over Gili Air before embarking on a half-day snorkelling adventure to the neighbouring islands of Gili Trawangan and Gili Meno. Dive into the azure waters and discover a vibrant underwater world teeming with life, from colourful coral gardens to exotic marine creatures. Swim alongside majestic sea turtles at Turtle Point and marvel at the captivating underwater statues at Nest, a testament to conservation efforts in the region.

Extend Your Journey

For those seeking further exploration, consider extending your stay to explore the south coast of Lombok, a surfing mecca with stunning beaches and vibrant culture. Unwind on Lombok's best beaches near the charming surfing town of Kuta, where dazzling stretches of white sand meet emerald waters. From world-class surfing at Selong Belanak to serene bays like Mawun, the south coast offers secluded spots for swimming, snorkelling, and sunbathing. Escape the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary on Lombok's sun-drenched shores.

Adventurous travellers can also embark on a trek to summit Mount Rinjani for an unforgettable hiking experience amidst breathtaking landscapes and panoramic vistas. Traverse lush forests and volcanic terrain, soaking in panoramic views of the magnificent Danau Segara Anak crater lake along the way. Whether you commence your journey from Senaru or Sembalun Lawang, the ascent promises to be both challenging and exhilarating, leaving you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.

Come and Experience Paradise in Lombok

Discover the unspoiled natural beauty, secluded beaches, and rich cultural heritage of Lombok. Let this enchanting tropical island captivate your senses and leave you longing for more. Come and explore paradise in Lombok, where adventure and relaxation await at every turn.

I hope this has enticed you to add the island of Lombok to your travel bucket list.

Feel free to reach out if you'd like to discuss planning your holiday.

Let’s design your unforgettable tropical island getaway.

Picture yourself catching sunsets in paradise.

I'll personally welcome you at the jetty.

Start your journey HERE

Picture this:

• Beautiful white beaches.

• Warm turquoise water.

• Beautiful people.

• Tropical forests.

• Tasty food.

• No traffic.

• A laid-back life where nothing happens quickly.

• A place where you can embrace simple living.

Welcome to the island of Lombok, my cherished home.

Since making Lombok my haven two years ago, I've been blessed to witness numerous first-time visitors fall under its spell. Each guest, captivated by its allure, has echoed the sentiment: "You should become a travel advisor."

And so, I've answered the call. I'm thrilled to announce my certification as a travel advisor with FORA Travel, a global agency renowned for its partnerships with the biggest names in hospitality.

For those unfamiliar with Lombok's treasures, let me extend a warm invitation to explore this tropical island paradise.

Ready for your tour guide's introduction to Lombok?

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Nestled within the archipelago of Indonesia lies a hidden gem waiting to be explored - the serene and enchanting island of Lombok. With its untouched landscapes, warm-hearted locals, and a plethora of adventures awaiting, Lombok offers an experience unlike any other. Here’s why you should pack your bags and embark on an unforgettable journey to this paradise:

1.     An Undiscovered Gem: Lombok stands as an undiscovered gem among Indonesia's islands. Far from the bustling crowds, it offers a serene escape for those seeking tranquility amidst breathtaking natural beauty.

2.     Friendly Locals: One of the most striking features of Lombok is its warm and welcoming people. The locals are known for their genuine hospitality, always ready to greet visitors with open arms and share their rich culture and traditions.  It is an ideal destination for solo travelers and families alike. You can explore its wonders with peace of mind, knowing that you're in a secure environment.

3.     Secluded Beaches: Imagine strolling along pristine shores, with only the sound of gentle waves caressing the coastline. Lombok boasts secluded beaches where you can bask in solitude and marvel at the untouched beauty of nature.  This is what tropical island vacation dreams are made of.

4.     Secret Gilis: Venture off the beaten path to discover Lombok's secret gilis (small islands). These hidden gems promise secluded beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a sense of serenity found nowhere else.

5.     Adventurous Escapades: For the more adventurous, Lombok offers a myriad of diverse activities. From waterfall hikes and river rafting to horse riding and trekking the majestic Mt Rinjani, there's no shortage of adventures to embark on.

6.     Surfing Mecca: With its world-class waves and uncrowded breaks, Lombok is a paradise for surfers of all levels. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner eager to ride the waves, you'll find your perfect surf spot here.

7.     Diverse Accommodation: Whether you prefer exclusive private villas overlooking the ocean or cozy homestays nestled in traditional kampungs (villages), Lombok offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference.

8.     Discover Serenity: Amidst Lombok's natural wonders, find moments of serenity and inner peace. Lose yourself in the lush tropical forests, chase waterfalls hidden in the heart of the island, or simply unwind on its pristine beaches.

9.     Uncrowded Paradise: Unlike its bustling neighbor Bali, Lombok remains blissfully uncrowded with tourists. Here, you can explore at your own pace, away from the hustle and bustle of mass tourism.  This is what a tropical island vacation should feel like.

10. Natural Beauty Awaits: From towering volcanic peaks to cascading waterfalls and turquoise lagoons, Lombok's natural beauty is simply mesmerizing. Explore tropical forests, chase waterfalls, lounge on pristine beaches, and gaze upon the iconic silhouette of Mt Rinjani.

Oh, don’t forget the food.

Gastronomical Delights: Prepare your taste buds for a culinary adventure like no other. Lombok offers a gastronomical extravaganza with its diverse array of dishes, blending traditional Indonesian flavours with unique local spices and ingredients.  A must-have when visiting Lombok is the Ayam Taliwang, Lombok’s version of spicy grilled chicken. “It’s the best grilled chicken in the world” - Mark Wiens, the world-famous YouTube vlogger.

From street food to international dining, you can savour it all in Lombok.

Vibrant Cafe Culture: Immerse yourself in Lombok's vibrant cafe culture, where you can savour freshly brewed local coffee while soaking in the laid-back island vibes. From cosy beachside cafes to chic urban hubs, there's a cafe for every palate.

Some coffee shop recommendations:

Kinta coffee – Get your speciality coffee brew accompanied by live entertainment

MVP coffee company – A local Lombok Indonesian coffee brand for coffee lovers

Nyaman Coffee – A vibrant modern café where the young crowd hangs out

Embark on a journey to Lombok and unlock the secrets of this captivating island. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Lombok promises an experience that will linger in your heart long after you've left its shores. 

Still not convinced?  You’re a tough cookie hey.  Well, check out these comments from people who have come to visit me.

“Lombok was truly a life-changing experience. It was exactly what I needed last year, after losing my Mojo due to health issues and burnout, I spent 3 weeks there. It's the lesser-known sibling of Bali, but here are a few of the advantages Lombok:
Uncluttered - far less tourists
Great infrastructure - The roads are stunning. Internet is fast.
Cheap - It is SO affordable. I was often left amazed at the quality of service, food and experiences you can get for the price
Multifaceted - it does have everything you need. Isolation if you want, sport, surfing, snorkel/scuba, nice coffee shops, great live music at most
BEAUTY - And then there is the beauty of the place. WOW.

It is definitely worth looking into. Chat to Abbas.”

Seraj Toefy

“I miss waterfall hikes, fresh and cheap seafood, swimming in the late afternoon sun on the best beaches I've seen, perfect snorkelling and beautiful people. Thank you for the introduction to your island and a perfect trip. To think we extended by 4 days!”

Shafeeqah Isaacs

Ready to experience Lombok? Check out my FORA profile and let me help you plan your dream tropical island getaway.

Abbas@FORA

It had been 20 months since I left Cape Town with one bag containing everything I owned.  I returned with the same bag but just this time half of it was packed with clothes and toys for our grandchildren.  Our third grandchild, Yacoob, was born in December.  This was the main reason for our visit back to Cape Town, to see our grandchildren.  Ok to see my son and family and friends as well, LOL.

We would be spending four weeks in the Mother City.

It also nicely coincided with me finishing my book: “From Suits to Sandals.” It would be an opportunity to celebrate the occasion with close family and friends.

It was a busy four weeks.

We spent time with our grandchildren almost every day. I was amazed by the wonders of technology. Our granddaughter, Rahma, who was 7 months old when I last saw her, immediately recognized me thanks to the video calls my wife has with the children almost every day. However, Rahma referred to both of us as "Grammy," the two people she always sees on the phone. “Grammy is on the phone.”

At least my eldest grandson, Musa, calls me "Pops."

In addition to spending time with my grandchildren, I had the opportunity to meet with a few people whom I hadn't seen in over a year and a half. Our family and large group of friends (our tribe) invited us for lunch and dinner, and there was always dessert, which made it difficult for me to stick to my low-sugar diet. Unfortunately, due to many commitments, I couldn't meet all the people I was hoping to see.

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The book launch was initially planned to take place online, with two radio stations lined up to interview me about the book and my move from Cape Town to Lombok. However, some friends felt that this wasn't a proper way to celebrate the occasion. So a physical book launch was included in our four-week holiday.

One friend offered the venue at the historic Castle of Good Hope, another friend arranged for the printing of the books at short notice, and family and friends helped with the catering. It was wonderful to have everyone in the same room to celebrate the launch of my first book.

At the end of the four weeks, my wife and I were starting to feel the strain. It was wonderful spending time with the children and catching up with friends and family but at 57 your body struggles with the almost daily social gatherings. 

When we boarded the plane, we were looking forward to a good sleep on the long flight to Singapore.

A short two-night stopover in Singapore, the island city.   The city is a seamless mix of technology, innovation and natural beauty. A city that gives you a true glimpse into the future.

This was followed by a two-night stopover in Kuala Lumpur, the modern capital of Malaysia.  The city skyline is dominated by the 451m tall Petronas Twin Towers.  We managed to make it up the towers this time, a pretty spectacular piece of engineering.

After the two stopovers, it was finally time to head back home.

On Wed 28th February at 5pm, our plane approached the island of Lombok. 

We passed over the small coastal town of Senggigi, the place we call home. 

From the plane, I got a bird's eye view of the majestic Mount Rinjani. 

An active volcano that dominates the skyline of Lombok.

Lush tropical forests and fertile rice fields also greeted us. 

The different shades of green brought an immediate calmness to me as we touched down.

The natural scenery brought a sense of calm as we made our way from the airport to Senggigi.

The journey took us about an hour, and during this time, I could see the sun gradually setting between the palm trees that lined the main road.

The sky was painted with a soft, gentle shade of orange that was beautifully reflected off the water in the rice fields we passed by.

As we turned onto the winding coastal road, the sun had already set, but there was still a lingering light that illuminated the gentle waves breaking on the beach.

The sight of children playing in the water and families enjoying the stunning sunset at the beach warungs felt familiar.

Along the road, we saw many groups of youngsters who had pulled off with their scooters to catch a glimpse of the sunset.

Watching the sunset is a big thing in Lombok, especially in the Senggigi area.

On the drive from the airport, I noticed a calmness had overcome me. 

A feeling of peace. 

You know that feeling when you go away for a relaxing weekend in nature somewhere?

You can just feel that busyness of day-to-day life fading away.

The deadlines, the appointments, the meetings, the traffic.

Yes, that feeling.

That is what I felt.

I had missed Lombok.

Having spent four weeks in the big cities of Cape Town, Singapore and Kuala Lumpur was fun but it was busy. The energy and heartbeat of these cities are intoxicating.  People thrive on it.  I was part of this life previously… before I moved to Lombok.

On the drive from the airport, I realized that I had forgotten how beautiful this island was.

Had I been taking it for granted in the 20 months that I have stayed here?

I suddenly felt a deep feeling of appreciation for being given this opportunity to experience this lifestyle.

It is not something I have always dreamed of.  In fact, it was something that I never thought was possible.  Something that other people do.  People with much more money, people who have sold their businesses or cashed in their shares.  But I was not one of them. 

Yet here I am.

Living on an island.

Living a life of reconnection.

Reconnecting to serenity, spirituality and sustainability.

We all need that stillness now and then in our lives.

Especially if you are living a busy life.

Especially if you find yourself saying “I just don’t have time.”

You are responsible for finding the time.

You are responsible for finding your Space of Stillness.

The highly anticipated day has finally arrived! My debut book "From Suits to Sandals" is now LIVE and ready for you to embark on this journey with me.

Through the pages of my book, you'll experience a life of deadlines transformed into a life of purpose. The excitement and nervousness are almost tangible, but what makes this moment truly special is sharing it with YOU, my loyal subscribers.

CLAIM your copy

Your unwavering support has been the fuel that has kept me going, and for that, I am eternally grateful. Your messages of encouragement have touched my heart and given me the strength to push through.

To the 300 individuals who have already downloaded Chapter 1, be on the lookout for launch emails from me. I'll keep this brief so you can focus on diving into the rest of the book.

I must take a moment to give a special shoutout to my wife, Mariam. Her unwavering support and love have been the cornerstone of this crazy journey of writing a book. Our memories together have inspired this book, and I couldn't have done it without her.

By supporting this launch, you're also supporting a cause close to our hearts. Throughout the launch month, 100% of my proceeds will be donated to provide much-needed assistance to my friend, Azhaar, a young mother living in Gaza.

DOWNLOAD "From Suits to Sandals"

My hope is that "From Suits to Sandals" will not only offer you a fresh perspective on your future but also inspire you in ways you never thought possible.

I can't wait to hear your thoughts and reactions.

Thank you for being a part of this incredible moment with me. I am beyond grateful and humbled by your support.

Hope you're all having an awesome weekend! 

I've got thrilling news to share – a sneak peek into my upcoming book,

"From Suits to Sandals," and I want YOU to be a part of it!

Remember the teaser I shared in my last newsletter?

Your response was incredible, and I'm grateful for the enthusiasm and support!

Now, let's take it up a notch!

I'm excited to offer you the FIRST CHAPTER for FREE!

Claim your sneak peek into Chapter 1

Join the adventure from the corporate world to the freedom of sandals.

This chapter is a glimpse into the start of my journey,

and I'm sure it'll leave you wanting more!

Feel free to share this opportunity with your friends, family, and fellow book lovers.

The more, the merrier!

Your feedback has been invaluable in shaping this project.

I'd love to hear your thoughts on the first chapter.

Drop your impressions, questions, or any insights in the comments below.

Thank you for being part of this incredible journey.

Your support means the world to me!

Let's make "From Suits to Sandals" a shared adventure!

Happy reading, and may this book transport you to a world of discovery and transformation!

We are a few days into the new year and I hope you are still brimming with excitement about those resolutions you pledged to on 31 December 2023. Did they dare you enough to make you a little nervous?

One of my resolutions for 2024 was to get my first book published. Now that is daunting. Especially for someone with no experience as a writer.

But I'm thrilled to let you know that my manuscript is with the editor and 6 February is the expected publication date. This exercise has been a remarkable journey. I'm absolutely over the moon.

To celebrate completing the writing stage, I have decided to share an excerpt from the book to whet your appetite.

Enjoy.

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Chapter 18: Being Courageous to Change Direction

The early morning air was warm against my skin as I strolled down the main road in Senggigi.

Tall palm trees lined both sides of the street, providing me with welcome shade from the rising heat.

Scooters passing by occasionally interrupted the peaceful atmosphere's tranquility. The birds chirping filled the air, a soothing melody that blended with the distant sound of the ocean.

The locals were just beginning to open their family-owned warungs. As I passed by, smiling faces greeted me with a friendly "Selamat pagi." Most of the warung owners know me, the tall foreigner who looks like an Indonesian. 

The sun was rising, bringing with it a gentle warmth. The sights and sounds of tropical island life surrounded me, and it felt like home.

Suddenly, I heard the screeching of an air brake.

I whipped around to see a huge vehicle towering behind me. It was a gleaming, modern tourist bus, stretching out to be almost 40 feet long. The sleek machine gracefully made a sharp turn across the street. It took up the entire width, from sidewalk to sidewalk.

The sound of the engine reverberated around the area, creating an auditory spectacle.

The bus driver had blocked the entire road. He was attempting to make an impossible U-turn on the narrow street.

I was astonished, wondering how he would pull it off.

I watched in awe, expecting this to take a while. But to the bus driver, it was a simple 3-point turn. In a matter of seconds, the bus was facing the opposite direction.

Before I could even catch my breath, the bus was already speeding away. I let out a sigh of relief, thankful that the driver had managed to make the turn without any issues.

While walking back home, I had a realization. Sometimes our lives resemble a long, cumbersome tourist bus.

We speed down the coast of life, maneuvering tight bends and heavy traffic. We hit the brakes hard as if every turn could be our last.

But then there are times when we need to completely change direction. We know we're heading the wrong way; we took the wrong road. These moments can be difficult and even seem impossible. Turning around will cause some unrest amongst those accompanying you.

But if you're not willing to alter your course or take a U-turn, you'll soon be faced with a disaster.

Your desired destination becoming out of reach is a terrible possibility. It could completely upend your life. The consequences will be severe, and the repercussions felt in your later years.

A heart attack left me teetering on the brink of death. It shook me to the very core, a near-death experience.

I knew I was heading down the wrong road, but I had the skill and knowledge to make the necessary changes that would turn my life around. I had the tools to manoeuvre my bus and turn it around, like an experienced bus driver.

You too can become a master of changing direction by embracing this way of thinking and getting comfortable with the tools in this book.

If you are questioning the direction of your life, it takes courage to make a change. Taking responsibility for your future can feel daunting and overwhelming, but it's important to be honest with yourself.

No one is coming to save you if you are on the wrong path.

This book provides you with the mindset and tools to help you make a U-turn. Take a bold step and trust in yourself.

It takes an immense amount of bravery to break away from the status quo and forge a new path. Don't be scared to take risks and challenge yourself.

Believe in yourself and start the journey to create the life you desire.

An extract from my book: “From Suits to Sandals – A futures roadmap to help professionals live a simpler life.” 

As loyal subscribers to my newsletter, I will keep you updated with launch details.

PS If you would like some help with turning your bus around reach out for a chat.

Let's have a chat

Over the past three months that I have been working on the book, you may have noticed that you did not receive my monthly newsletter.

Besides being busy with the book, there was something else that was weighing heavily on me - the ongoing genocide in Gaza.

Over this period, I have found it incredibly difficult to promote my brand on LinkedIn (my primary social media platform) and through this newsletter.

This tragedy has allowed all of us to reflect on the state of humanity and has shown us the importance of standing up for justice.

In light of events in Palestine, I have decided to donate all proceeds from the sale of my book during the launch month to Gaza. This is the least I can do.

I will continue to speak up against genocide across my channels.

Here are some of my LinkedIn posts related to Gaza:

Take a stand against genocide- A LinkedIn guide

Elon Musk has gone to the dark side.

I do not support a two-state solution in the Middle East.

The uncomfortable truth that Piers Morgan must accept.

Please UNFOLLOW me.  I haven’t posted in the last 2 weeks.

The Burden of Possessions.

She says:
 
"For many people, material wealth is an expression of selfhood, proof of their existence.
 
Consciously or otherwise, they associate their identity and self-image with the things they possess.
 
The more they have, the more secure, accomplished and fulfilled they feel.
 
Everything becomes objectified and aspirational: material goods, bargains, works of art, acquaintances, ideas, friends, lovers, holidays, a god, even the ego.
 
People consume, acquire, accumulate, collect.
 
They ‘have’ friends and contacts, ‘hold’ their diplomas, titles awards.
 
They stagger under the weight of their possessions and forget, or fail to realise, that their acquisitiveness saps their vital energies, making them listless, and subject to increasingly urgent needs and desires."

On the journey to simple living we all have our own paths to walk.

When I moved to Lombok I boarded the plane with one bag containing everything I owned.

50 years of accumulating stuff.  Trust me, it’s a lot of stuff.

Of course, you do not have to move to a tropical island to experience simple living.

But living amongst people who live day to day brings a new perspective to simple living.

I have a different sense of appreciation for simple things.

Which has contributed significantly to my personal journey.
 
It’s an inner journey that then spills over into the outer.

The things you spend your time on.

The company you keep.

The things you buy.

Your home.
 
People have been asking me what my simple living space looks like on an island.
 
I suppose people have visions of me living in a shack on the beach. 😃
 
Now this might be simple living for some people.
 
Good for them.

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We all need to define what it means for ourselves.
 
I have been hesitant to share photos of my space because well it’s my personal space.
 
But I eventually succumbed,  so here is a glimpse into my personal space.
 
No judgment.
 
I’m still very much on my own journey.

Entrance Lobby

This beautiful bougainvillea is what greets me when I open the door to our outdoor entrance lobby.

Every day when I enter the house I’m greeted by this simple tree which brings me much joy.

You can find this plant all over the island and this one has been trimmed down similar to a bonsai.  

I loved it the first time I saw it.

Lesson: Fill your entrance with something that brings you joy... everyday.

Lounge

So firstly the only things I own in this picture are the TV and the WIFI router.

We are fortunate that we were able to rent a house that was fully furnished.

Not buying big household furniture items works for us as it keeps us mobile.

We re-arranged the furniture in a way that suits our lifestyle.

Although the furniture is bulky it works because we have not brought any other unnecessary items into the space.

Lesson: A lounge/TV area can be uncluttered

Dining room

This beautiful wooden table was badly damaged by the previous tenants.

We found a local craftsman who could refurbish the table and paid for it ourselves.

We now have a beautiful piece of furniture that we use every day.

The management agent initially said we can put a table cloth on the table... HELL NO.

We could have argued with the owner that he should pay for the refurb, not worth the negative energy.

Money well spent.

Lesson: Spend money on refurbing good items that you can use every day.

Breakfast area

Toast with peanut butter and banana... and a drizzle of honey, yummy.

This outdoor furniture was also badly damaged and we stripped it down and painted it a soft grey which goes well will the natural wood.

Goodbye to the dark wood stain and black metal frames.

A set of soft stripe cushions and we have a beautiful breakfast space that we enjoy every day.

Lesson: Create a beautiful simple airy space for your daily routines.

Quiet space

Creating quiet spaces is important on your journey to simple living.

You preferably want these spaces outdoors.

If you do not have an outdoor area at least ensure its airy with as much natural light as possible.

We spent money on buying plants to create these quiet spots.

Nothing fancy, just a simple chair if you want some quiet time.

Lesson: Intentionally create spaces of peace and tranquillity

Bringing nature indoors

Bringing nature into our home was an important element for my wife.

She has created these beautiful spaces that give you an immediate feeling of serenity and peace.

Even though we have bought a lot of pots it does not feel cluttered.

The combination of the different plants just works.

And of course, the cats love climbing into the pots for a nap.

Lesson: Bring nature into your living space.

Kitchen

This is where my wife creates her magic.

It’s a 3x3 m and only had a two-plate gas stove and fridge. We basically had to buy everything else.

Some kitchen appliances including a mini oven for baking, a nice crockery set, good cutlery and 2 sets of beautiful glasses.

I specifically mention these items because we took our time getting things that we really liked.

Simple living does not mean getting cheap things that you will regret buying.

Especially if you are using it every day.

Very importantly we ensure that there is fresh fruit on the counter daily.

Lesson: invest in buying items that you will enjoy using daily.

Important stuff

When we moved to Lombok we decided that we were getting rid of everything.

The process of getting rid of a house full of “stuff” was life-changing.

We have digital memories of friends and family stored in the cloud.

But I brought along this one piece of art that has deep sentimental value to me. It’s a painting done by my dear mother before she succumbed to Alzheimer.

It will go along with me wherever I find myself on this beautiful planet.

Lesson: Find a small simple thing that reminds you of loved ones.

I hope you enjoyed the glimpse into my personal space and hopefully, you have been inspired to start your own journey to simple living. 

It can start with a simple thing like decluttering that lounge area.

Or creating a quiet space in your home.

Start to create empty spaces.

Enjoy the journey.

For a little over a year, we've called the enchanting island of Lombok our home. It had wrapped us in its warm embrace and nestled itself deep in our hearts. Until recently, we enjoyed the privilege of renewing our visas from within the country. But with the easing of COVID restrictions, this arrangement had come to an end, necessitating us to apply for our new visas from outside the country.

We saw this as a golden opportunity to take a brief “break” from our island life and embark on a "holiday" to another captivating destination. After some research on flights and places that beckoned to our wanderlust, we found ourselves drawn back to Malaysia. It had been 15 years since our last visit, and the memories still lingered, enticing us with its charm. Our plan was a week in Malaysia, divided between the bustling metropolis of Kuala Lumpur and the heritage-rich town of Melaka. According to the tales from the YouTube travel channels, Melaka is a favoured haven for expatriates when they make their transition to this diverse country.

One of the many privileges of residing in Asia is the proximity to a number of exotic countries, a striking contrast to our homeland, South Africa. The three-hour flight from Lombok to Kuala Lumpur came at a mere $200, a steal when compared to the costs of domestic flights back in South Africa.

Our Air Asia flight touched down in Kuala Lumpur at 8:30 PM. To our surprise, the weather was not as humid as we had expected, or perhaps we had simply acclimatized to the warmth after a year on Lombok. Right from the arrivals terminal, a convenient walkway led us to the KL Airport express train, effortlessly whisking us into the heart of this modern metropolis in a mere 28 minutes.

Kuala Lumpur greeted us with a symphony of skyscrapers, towering apartment complexes, and colossal shopping malls adorned with dazzling advertising screens. The City Centre, known as KLCC, invited us to explore its bustling streets, anchored by the iconic twin towers. These towering marvels loomed large on the cityscape and offered the most breathtaking view from the KLCC park, a sprawling 50-acre urban oasis replete with jogging tracks, serene lakes, a vast children's playground, and a myriad of outdoor activities. In the early morning, locals embraced the park, engaging in morning runs and peaceful tai chi sessions. As night fell, the Lake Symphony fountain came alive with mesmerizing sound and light displays.

Our days in Kuala Lumpur were spent wandering the vibrant streets of KLCC, immersing ourselves in the outdoor food markets that added a dash of local flavor to our adventure. One memorable evening led us to Jalan Alor, a renowned food street that transported us to a different world, far removed from towering skyscrapers and shopping malls. Rows upon rows of food vendors lined the street, tempting us with some of Malaysia's finest culinary delights. Here, we not only savored the diverse flavors but also soaked in the rich culture of Malaysia.

We share a table with a young Malaysian couple and we strike up a conversation with them.  They are both professionals and have taken a break from the children to come and grab a meal.  We share our story of Lombok and how things in KL are very pricey compared to the island.  Interestingly they spent their honeymoon in Lombok, what a coincidence.  They finish their meal before us, and we say goodbyes and tell them to look us up if they ever visit Lombok again.  I ask the owner for the bill when we are ready to leave only to be told that our “friends” paid for our meal. Embarrassing… But a very nice gesture.

From Kuala Lumpur, we embarked on a comfortable two-hour bus journey south to Melaka, our anticipation fueled by countless YouTube videos. This charming city, a UNESCO World Heritage site, had evolved from a humble fishing village into a captivating cultural tapestry. Our chosen abode in the Indian district, nestled close to Jonker Street at the heart of Chinatown, ensured we were within reach of the historical sites that showcased the mingling of Dutch, Chinese, Indian, and Malay influences. The city's meandering river added an extra layer of charm to its picturesque beauty.

In Melaka, it is not necessary to adhere to a strict itinerary. Instead, we allowed the winding streets to guide our explorations, unveiling hidden treasures with every turn. Cafes, museums, and quaint shops beckoned, each offering its unique allure. One culinary highlight was Pak Putra, an Indian café where the dining tables spilled out into the parking lot. Here, two massive tandoori ovens on the sidewalk worked their magic, crafting exquisite tandoori chicken and warm naan bread. Amidst the hustle and bustle, we savoured tandoori chicken and curry like never before. If you have an affinity for curries, this place is a must-visit.

Kuala Lumpur had injected a dose of modern city living into our souls, while Melaka had immersed us in a rich cultural tapestry. However, after a week in Malaysia, an unexpected revelation dawned upon us – we were missing Lombok.

It was a yearning for the laid-back lifestyle that we had become accustomed to. We missed the natural beauty of Lombok, the gentle sway of palm trees, and the simple pleasure of morning swims at the beach. A scooter ride along the beautiful winding coastal road.  The morning walk to the corner shop for fresh bread and fruit.

Above all, we missed the charm of the local people and their vibrant culture, which had become our way of life. "Selamat pagi, apa kabar?" – we missed those familiar greetings.

The local cuisine of Lombok, with its Gado Gado, Satays and Nasi Campur, was another craving we couldn't ignore, especially when we considered the prices we had paid for similar dishes in Malaysia.

But it wasn't just the physical aspects of Lombok that we missed. It was the spiritual connection, the island's ability to provide a serene sanctuary for those seeking inner peace.

As our week in Malaysia came to an end, we realized that what we needed wasn't a break from Lombok.

Lombok was our break.

Lombok was home.

So you might have noticed that you did not receive a newsletter from me last month.

(I know you were eagerly awaiting your Living Light June edition, LOL)

Well, the title of this month’s newsletter says it all. I normally put my first draft together a few days before month-end, so that would have been Monday 26^th June.

Monday morning 26^th June I went to the local mosque for morning prayers.
While standing in prayer I was overcome by an overwhelming feeling.
Like someone just opened the oven door.

The intense heat was choking me.
My breathing became heavy.
I felt my body shutting down.
My arms dropped to my side.
I had to sit down.
 
Thoughts were racing through my head.
 
This was it; I was going.
 Not a bad way to go I thought.
"In the mosque during prayers."
 
Sitting still, focused on my breathing.
Heart pill under my tongue.
Vision becoming blurry.
Sweating profusely.
Flashes of my life.
Feeling grateful.

A few of the men at the mosque helped me up and took me home.
 
30 minutes later we pulled up at the local hospital and I was wheeled into the ER.

A buzz of activity around me.

Intravenous injections in both arms.

Wires from the ECG machine attached to my chest.

I could hear the machines beeping.

Doctors on the phone with my cardiologist. They are speaking Bahasa!!!
 
My blood pressure and oxygen levels are extremely low.

They were treating it as a heart attack but were concerned with my low blood pressure.
 
After a few hours they managed to stabilize me and I was moved to the ICU.

 
My wife, Mariam, is normally very calm through these emergencies. But the next day the stress and anxiety took its toll, and she was also admitted to hospital. I spent two days in ICU on oxygen and drugs to stabilize my blood pressure. From ICU I was moved to a general ward.
 
The hospital was kind enough to place Mariam and me in our own room for the next two days. And that’s where we spent Eid on Thursday the 29th June.

 
Our hospital window had a view of Mount Rinjani and… sunrise. The sunrise on Eid morning was extra special for me. The rays of the sun, the outline of the clouds, the early morning sky … all special. I have been given an opportunity to experience another day. The simple things really do become special in moments like this.

 
My first heart attack in February 2021 was the impetus to change my lifestyle. That’s how we ended up here on an island in Indonesia. This second heart episode just further emphasized the importance of being grateful.
 
Grateful for the opportunity to experience another sunrise.
 
Grateful to be living this adventure.
 
Grateful to be alive.
 
 
The healthcare and attention I received at the hospital in Mataram was amazing. They took special care of us and even provided us with a special meal on Eid. We had a few people coming to visit us in the hospital. These were people who had become our friends over the 13 months that we had been staying in Lombok.

Friends from the village brought us bananas and some other goodies. We even had a family from Johannesburg, who were on holiday in Lombok, pop in to see us. And when we got home a number of people came around to the house. Since I had my incident in the mosque people in the village were enquiring about me. And when I went back to the mosque a few days later people came up to me to wish me good health, “Sehat” which means stay healthy.

Over this period we were also sending messages to our friends and family in South Africa. We received many good wishes via WhatsApp and video. It was special.

But it was just not the same as having them in the room. And this would probably be one of the biggest challenges you face when you move to a foreign country. Not having friends and family around you during an emergency.

It reminded me of my heart attack in February 2021. It was in the heart of lockdown (excuse the pun). No one was allowed into the ER when I was admitted. And when I came home I couldn’t get any visitors. (Besides the few who were adamant they were coming to see me.  (PS you know who you are.) So in a small way COVID gave me a taste of what it felt like to not have people around you during a traumatic episode.

This time it was different because I was on an island 10,000 km away from my place of birth. Far away from my eldest son and grandchildren.  Far away from family and close friends. It gave me a deeper appreciation for relationships.

Relationships are the things that get us through difficult times.

Be it a parent, child, sibling, cousin or friend.

Our lives are defined by relationships.

But yet sometimes we don’t want to speak to someone because of …

• a difference of opinion,

• a misunderstanding,

• he said, she said…

Sometimes this goes on for so long that we can’t even remember what was actually said.

We just know that we don’t speak to that person.

Life is short.  We don’t know when is our final curtain.

If you have a relationship like this in your life, be the bigger person and reach out.

Even if you were right.

Especially if you are convinced that you were right.

This lesson is for me first.

View from our hospital window

It was a beautiful morning on Sunday, April 30th. The humidity of the morning made it clear that it would be a hot day. I was in Batu Layar, a small Indonesian village, to join a walking tour with a local named Han. He had started a new business to give foreigners a taste of village life, and I was going to join a family of four from Poland.

Han had met Pablo on the beach the day before, and he had invited him to join the tour. Han’s new business was all about showing visitors what life was like in Batu Layar. The tour started at the local masjid, which was a fitting starting place since it was the center of village life. Klaudia and Pablo arrived with their two children on scooters.

Han welcomed us to Jalan Jalan Kampung, which translates to “village walk”. Han’s three children joined us, and we quickly made introductions before the tour started. We navigated through narrow alleyways and met locals along the way. Everyone in the village knew each other, and everyone greeted us with smiles and curiosity.

A couple of the warungs were already open, and people were arranging their goods for the day. We learned that all the homes in the village had been rebuilt after the devastating earthquake in 2018. Residents had to sleep in tents for a year before the government reconstruction program kicked in.

The rebuilt homes were very basic with cement skimmed walls and tiled floors. The homes were tightly packed together and varied in size from two to three-bedroom homes, with an average size of only 40sqm- the size of our lounge area.

As we exited the narrow alleyways, we were suddenly immersed in a lush green tropical landscape. The village of Batu Layar was located in a valley surrounded by lush green hills. Thick green foliage with palm trees was what greeted us when we gazed up from the village. It felt like we were on the movie set of Jurassic Park, without the hungry dinosaurs.

Batu Layar consisted of two hamlets, and we were moving from the first one which had a much more tightly compacted layout to the second one, which was more spread out. Even though it was a beautiful clear day, we were covered by the shadows of thick foliage. We made a few stops along the way for the children to interact with some animals. We stopped in at someone’s outdoor kitchen, and she showed us her baby. We walked along a river and got to cross it by foot. Fortunately, I was wearing sandals, and the fresh running water provided a cool relief to our feet.

Our next stop was at a small house that made a traditional coconut brew and brown palm sugar. We were invited in to see how the brew was manufactured. There was a huge pot of brew boiling on an open fire, and surprisingly the room was not as hot as we expected. We got to sample the sweet drink, and the Polish couple bought some brown sugar which came in a coconut shell.

We were then invited to have some traditional Lombok kopi at their small beruga. A beruga is a raised wooden structure with a roof where families and friends eat and socialize. The house did not have any visible neighbors. We were sitting in the middle of a tropical forest, on a traditional beruga, drinking a coconut brew and kopi. The tour so far had been an amazing experience.

We headed back to Han’s home where his wife had been preparing our meal. He didn’t have much space at his home, so we were shown towards his brother’s home, just a few steps away. The house is located right by the river, and the beruga is positioned perfectly on the edge of the water. We're handed freshly chopped coconuts with straws, and Ana brings out the food, taking the time to explain each dish.

The setting is idyllic, and we enjoy the company of a local family along with the fresh coconuts and delicious food. The Soto Ayam, a traditional local dish made with chicken, lontong, noodles and rice vermicelli, is served in a spicy broth of fresh vegetables. The Gado Gado, a traditional salad with steamed vegetables, lontong, fried tofu and tempeh, all covered with a tasty peanut sauce dressing, is equally delicious.

We sit at the beruga, savoring the food and chatting, completely immersed in the tropical environment. Pablo exclaims that this is the best meal he's had on the island and that joining this walking tour has been the highlight of his visit. I couldn't agree more.

When we arrived in Indonesia in June 2022, the minister of tourism had spoken about attracting tourists after the lockdown. He wanted to build a new narrative for their tourism offering around serenity, spirituality, and sustainability. Klaudia and Pablo were precisely the kind of tourists he had in mind.  They were not interested in seeking out parties and night clubs.  They wanted to experience a different culture and expose their children to a simpler way of life.

After a month in Indonesia, they were keen to show their children that life is not just about the latest Playstation console or accumulating more stuff. By embarking on this walking tour, they gained a better appreciation for what they have.

If you plan to visit the island of Lombok, I strongly recommend reaching out to Han and booking this walking tour.

And if you're looking to experience this way of life every day, don't hesitate to contact me. I can show you how I escaped the rat race to live a simpler life.

Please support Jalan Jalan Kampung by following his social media channels:

https://www.facebook.com/jalan2kampung

Google maps: https://goo.gl/maps/3GQ1Xx7sm6JJzA5a6