Hi, my name is Chris Hodges. And I’ve found myself stranded on a tropical island in far-flung Indonesia, while an insidious virus runs riot around the globe and while my friends and family back home in Melbourne endure one of the toughest lockdowns in the world.
Fate can be a cruel mistress.
Still, I have a family here to support and I’m a part owner of two businesses, a guesthouse in Lombok, Indonesia and a pub in Melbourne, Australia. Both have been dramatically impacted by this crazy virus.
So for now I’m doing whatever I can to get myself, my family and my staff all safely to the other side.
As we all wait for the day when we can start travelling again, against a backdrop of coronavirus, climate change, social change and a world in general turmoil, (let’s just call it the new normal shall we?) I’ll be posting stories of my time in Lombok and showing you all the reasons why you should be adding a trip here to your bucket list.
From stunning beaches and mountain treks to street food and local culture. It’s an amazing part of the world and a place where you can still experience the real Indonesia.
For now though, stay positive and be kind to each other. We will all be travelling again soon.
Publisher’s Note: Chris completed a BA in Indonesian Language and Professional Writing some time last century. He presently derives no income from either pursuit though he hopes to, one day.
He presently lives in Lombok, Indonesia with his wife Dewi and twin children Kevin and Kezia.