Guest User
July 5, 2023
Once in a while - not very often - the traveller has the good fortune to book into extraordinary accommodation. Villa Karingal is one such place. It's hard to know where to begin in explaining why this property is so amazing - but I'll give it a shot! Firstly, the location. Perched high on a hill, cloaked in lush tropical gardens, overlooking the stunning Sengiggi coastline, the location is breathtaking. There's something magical about the way the villa seems to float above its surroundings. It's quiet, serene and relaxed yet just a stone's throw from the beaches, restaurants, bars and other attractions of the Sengiggi area. Wherever you want to go is just minutes (and only a few dollars) away by taxi or rideshare. The villas themselves are gorgeous: clean, comfortable, well-designed, quiet and with all the amenities you'd want (aircon, rain shower, satellite TV, minibar, etc.) for a reasonable price. The sparkling swimming pool deserves special mention. You'd be hard-pressed finding a more spectacular pool in any hotel in Lombok - or, anywhere, for that matter. Nur's breakfasts are delicious, with a range of Western and Indonesian meals, Lombok coffee, tropical fruits and freshly-made juices. The lovely and multi-talented Nur is also a trained masseur who gives wonderful in-house massages! Gill, the hospitable and worldly owner of Villa Karingal, is the perfect host and an absolute delight. She strikes the perfect balance between friendliness and privacy, steering clear when you want space yet somehow appearing if you need something, have a question or just feel like a bit of a chat. Any visitor to Villa Karingal would be well advised to spend some time with Gill, whose knowledge of Lombok and Indonesia is immense. She can also arrange tours for you and even took us on one herself, taking my partner and I on a day trip to the Gili Sudak in southern Lombok's 'secret Gilis', where we had lunch, swam, snorkelled and got up close and personal with countless colourful reef fish and coral. In the end, despite Villa Karingal's many positive aspects, it's the people who are its greatest asset, and I have nothing but the highest praise for Gill, Nur, Agus and Jae. Each and every one of you are lovely, welcoming people who know how to make a guest feel right at home. Thank you so much for the loveliest six nights on Lombok. We are already planning our return! Peter and Martin