Although often mentioned in the same breath as Bali, neighbouring Lombok – a couple of hours by boat across the Straits – is geographically and culturally distinct, with a predominantly Muslim population and a more open, windblown landscape. Tourism has, with the exception of a handful of resorts clustered along the coast north of the capital, Mataram, made considerably less impact here, leaving the island’s traditional Sasak culture to flourish. Often dubbed “a rough diamond” because of its undiscovered feel, Lombok will particularly suit anyone who enjoys off-track exploration.