Indonesia

Take in the absolutely mesmerising Indonesian sunset and snap the gold medal of Instagram photos at one of Gili Trawangan’s iconic overwater swings.

The three Gili Islands are easily accessible from Lombok in Indonesia and each boast their own unique flair, and recently Gili Trawangan has become a social media sensation with it’s beautiful overwater swings that seem to float enchantingly above the shallow sea waters. After snapping a beautiful shot of you swinging dreamily against the blush pink sunset, be sure to stay for incredible Indonesian food and exciting nightlife.

Senggigi’s sands are known and loved by all who visit Lombok in Indonesia and for good reason, it’s never been easier to soak up the sun in such a beautiful destination and feel safe in the knowledge that there’s some excellent restaurants and bars mere footsteps away.

This stunning beach is also perfectly suited for surfing, snorkelling and even diving with plenty of reefs dwelling beneath the dazzling topaz waters. Whether you prefer to focus on that all-important tan or can’t wait to get onto the waters and start making some waves, Senggigi offers the perfect beach backdrop for every adventure.

You may have been to a lot of beaches in your time, but have you ever seen a pink beach in Indonesia?

Located along the coastline of Lombok sits a beautiful beach with a difference, and although it’s well-known across the world, it still remains fairly untouched. The powdery beachfront get the pink hue from the coral that washes onto the bay and mixes in with the soft sands, which is especially noticeable against the bright blue shades of the sea and the sky. Snap a shot of yourself on these fabled blush sands and boom, you’ve struck Instagram gold.

Indonesia is home of many waterfalls; some so tall they almost appear to be halfway to heaven, others nestled deep within jungles that require a real hike to get to, and others so beautiful they could be part of a movie set.

Travel to the northern part of Lombok and you’ll find numerous mesmerising waterfalls, all offering a refreshing escape from the balmy heat of the sun. After snapping a pic under the tumbling waters, be sure to dive in and have a swim in the waters that pool below in the shade of the island’s lush emerald trees.

Seemingly every nation in Asia knows how to put on a good market, and Indonesia’s collection of islands are no exception.

Visit Ampenan in Lombok and you’ll find a fantastic, authentic market heaving under the weight of fresh fruit, vegetables, spices, fish and so much more. The locals may do a double take when you arrive but that’s when you know you’ve potentially trodden the path less travelled. If you seek traditional souvenirs, clothing and jewellery, head to Cakrangara Market for a better selection of wares that will make excellent gifts for loved ones back home.

Mount Rinjani is the second tallest volcano in all of Indonesia, and it's easily one of Lombok's best highlights.

There are plenty of trails and tours that will take you to the summit of this incredible mountain, and the views are absolutely breathtaking. It's not all about the ascent itself either, as the surrounding area boasts beautiful lush fields and forests, and once you get to the top you'll been to see the gorgeous Crater Lake that resides in the middle of the mountain range.

Kuta's beautiful area is probably the second most visited after the famous shores of Sengiggi in Indonesia, and it’s as lively as it is beautiful.

The landscape around Kuta is absolutely gorgeous, and just a walk, bike ride or drive around the area will reveal lush green fields, idyllic swaying coconut palms, pristine coastlines and enchanting mountains in the distance. As well as Kuta beach itself, be sure to swing by the beaches of Mawun, Selong Belanak and Tanjung Aan as they're all not only close by but are absolutely gorgeous too.

Bali may be known across the world as a Buddhist nation, but the rest of Indonesia is actually predominately Muslim and therefore provides a completely different religious landscape to explore.

Around the island of Lombok for example, you'll see (and hear!) mosques everywhere, and some of them boast the most beautiful domed designs and golden accents. Come during Ramadan and it can get quite noisy and lively! There are also a number of Buddhist temples around Lombok for the Balinese minority who live on the island in Pura Meru and Pura Narmada.

The sunsets in Gili are some of the most spectacular in the world; think burnt orange and deep red hues filling the sky before it turns into a blanket of stars.

There are so many ways to admire the sunsets in Gili, whether it's with a private romantic picnic along the soft white sands, clinking glasses on a sunset cruise as it drifts dreamily along the waters, or with your feet in the sand among friends as you all enjoy an Indonesian banquet. There's no shortage of unforgettable memories to be had in Gili.