West Sumbawa, a hidden gem located in the West Nusa Tenggara province of Indonesia. It is a beautiful destination that offers a unique and authentic travel experience for first-timers. The district is home to a population of about 160,000 people. It is mainly composed of Sasak, Mbojo, and Bali ethnic groups, who have preserved their traditional customs and culture. There is very little tourism in Sumbawa. You can encounter a few travel barriers which is why we provide you with our Sumbawa Travel Tips blog post.
If you’re a first-time traveler to West Sumbawa, Indonesia, there are some things you need to know before you go. This blog post offers valuable tips and insights into the district’s unique challenges. From navigating the low level of English in rural areas to finding suitable accommodation and transportation options!
1. West Sumbawa Is Not Touristic
Sumbawa Travel Tip No. 1: West Sumbawa is not popular tourism destination at all due to several reasons. Firstly, the district is located off the beaten path, making it less accessible for travelers. Secondly, there is a lack of infrastructure and development in the area. You will find only limited transportation or accommodation choices, and tourist attractions. Thirdly, low tourism interest. The Indonesian government and travel agencies do not heavily promote the district, resulting in few tourists.
Low English levels and cultural differences may deter visitors. Yet, they create West Sumbawa’s unique, authentic experience. Unspoiled beauty, friendly locals, and rich culture make it a hidden gem for adventurous travelers. Going beyond usual tourist spots shows West Sumbawa’s beauty. Enjoy this chance to see untouched nature and learn local customs.
2. Getting Around In Sumbawa
Sumbawa Travel Tip No. 2: Getting around West Sumbawa is challenging due to limited transport options. There’s scarce information on Moyo Island boats. At Sumbawa Airport, rent a car and ask for the public boat to Moyo Island. Negotiate prices; we paid 100,000 IDR for a car to Pantai Goa’s public boat.
Mobilising West Sumbawa can be challenging due to limited availability. The district is not a popular tourist destination, so there are few options. You cannot find the driver with an app as well like when you are in Bali for example, you need to find the information online and call them.
3. People Not Used to Travelers in Rural Areas
Sumbawa Travel Tip No. 3: Rural areas of West Sumbawa do not often receive many tourism visitors, so local people are not accustomed to them. This district is not a heavily touristic area. This can create a cultural shock for some travelers, as they may feel like outsiders or may struggle to communicate due to the low level of English in rural areas. However, local people actively display friendliness and a willingness to help others.. It’s essential to approach interactions with an open mind and a friendly demeanor. This can help to foster positive relationships and make for a more enjoyable travel experience.
Consider learning basic Indonesian or using translation apps to connect with locals. While rural West Sumbawa’s unfamiliarity with tourists requires adjustment, it offers an authentic, immersive experience.
4. Few Choices of Accommodation
Sumbawa Travel Tip No. 4: West Sumbawa has limited accommodation options, especially in rural areas where tourism is less developed. Visitors may find it challenging to find suitable accommodation. However, there are still options available for those who plan ahead and are flexible with their expectations. Homestays and guesthouses are the most common types of accommodation in West Sumbawa, offering simple and affordable rooms with basic amenities.
Beachfront bungalows are also available in some areas, providing stunning ocean views and a more rustic experience. While the accommodation options in West Sumbawa may be limited, they offer a chance to immerse oneself in the local culture and connect with the friendly and welcoming people of the district. It’s advisable to book accommodation in advance and have a backup plan in case your preferred option is not available.
5. Carry Enough Cash
Sumbawa Travel Tip No. 5: Carrying enough cash is essential when traveling to West Sumbawa, as ATMs can be scarce in rural areas, and credit card payments are not widely accepted. Visitors should plan ahead and bring enough cash to cover expenses such as accommodation, transportation, food, and activities. It’s also advisable to carry small bills and change, as some vendors may not have change for larger bills.
It’s important to note that the cost of living in West Sumbawa can be relatively expensive compared to other destinations with more tourism. A taxi car ride from Sumbawa airport to Kertasari could cost between 650.000 to 800.000 IDR one way.
6. Friendly People Who Are Willing to Help
Our Last Sumbawa Travel Tip No. 6: One of the most significant advantages of traveling to West Sumbawa is encountering friendly and smiley local people. Despite not being accustomed to many travelers in rural areas, the people of West Sumbawa are known for their hospitality and willingness to help visitors. They are often curious about different cultures and eager to share their own customs and traditions. Visitors can expect to receive warm greetings and friendly conversations with locals, who are always ready to offer assistance and recommendations on where to go and what to do.
Like when we got lost following google maps getting to Waterfall local guy came after us and showed us the way, it’s optional if you want to give him some money or not. We bought him gasoline and some small money since the distance was not too far away.
It’s essential to approach interactions with respect and an open mind, as this can help to foster positive relationships and make for a more enjoyable travel experience. Overall, the friendly people of West Sumbawa are one of the district’s greatest assets, providing visitors with a chance to connect with the local culture and make lasting memories.
Conclusion
Traveling to West Sumbawa offers a unique and authentic travel experience for adventurers seeking to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations in Indonesia. While the district presents several challenges, such as limited accommodation options, a low level of English in rural areas, and challenging getting around, these factors contribute to the destination’s unspoiled beauty and unique hospitality.
Visitors to West Sumbawa can expect to encounter friendly and welcoming locals who are willing to help and share their customs and traditions. Furthermore, carrying enough cash and being prepared to relax and take things slow can help visitors to immerse themselves in the local culture and make the most of their trip. Overall, traveling to West Sumbawa is an opportunity to step outside of one’s comfort zone, embrace a new culture, and create unforgettable memories in an unexplored and stunning region of Indonesia.
Tourism is not yet developed and you get a chance to explore the real Indonesia. Hopefully, this article provided useful Sumbawa Travel tips :)
Now you are ready for your adventure in Sumbawa. So why not check out our 4 day travel blog about Moyo Islands? It’s a great start to explore Sumbawa
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