When I first arrived in Loyok Village, I instantly felt the calm rhythm of the countryside. The air smelled fresh, a mix of bamboo and earth after rain, and people greeted me with warm smiles as if I’d been there before. For someone like me who loves eco-tourism, it felt like stepping into the kind of place where culture and nature are perfectly in balance.

One of my favorite experiences was joining the bamboo craft workshop. Watching the artisans work was mesmerizing—every cut, every weave was so precise yet looked effortless. They handed me strips of bamboo and taught me how to make a simple basket. At first, my fingers were clumsy, but the women laughed kindly and guided me patiently. By the end, I actually held something I made with my own hands. It wasn’t perfect, but it was mine, and it felt so rewarding.

Beyond the craft, I joined a walk through the plantations and rice fields around Loyok. The guide explained the spices, herbs, and fruits growing there cloves, cinnamon, lemongrass, mangoes, coconuts. I even got to taste fresh fruit picked straight from the tree, which somehow felt so different and more alive than buying it in a supermarket. I loved hearing stories about how agriculture is part of daily life here, not just a job but a tradition passed down through families.

Staying at Peraja Bungalow Homestay was another highlight. The bungalow itself was simple but beautiful, built in harmony with its surroundings. At night, I could hear the sounds of crickets and flowing water, and in the morning, the view of the rice terraces was like a dream. The family who hosted me made me feel like a friend, not just a guest. They served me traditional home-cooked meals, and I can still taste the spicy sambal and fragrant curry we shared around the table.

What struck me most was the connection with the community. I didn’t feel like a tourist just observing. I felt like I was part of something. The children waved and shouted “Hello!” when I biked past, and the elders always offered warm greetings. Even though my Bahasa Indonesia is very limited, the smiles and gestures were enough to make me feel included.

As someone who values responsible and eco-friendly travel, this experience in Loyok gave me exactly what I was looking for. It wasn’t about fancy resorts or crowded attractions; it was about slowing down, learning from people who live close to nature, and respecting traditions that have survived for centuries. I left with more than photos. I left with a new appreciation for simplicity, craftsmanship, and human connection.

If you’re ever in Lombok and want to experience something truly authentic, I cannot recommend Loyok Village and Peraja Bungalow enough. It’s not just a place you visit. it’s a place that stays with you. For me, it was the perfect reminder that sometimes the best journeys are not about how far you go, but how deeply you connect.