Just giving you guys some updates on this thread.
First, the
Jetty is still dive-able. There has been more boat activity on occasion. During the G20, two Indonesian frigates docked there for the night. You guys should have seen the faces of the military when they saw me paddling my surfski under the Jetty one morning LOL! The Jetty has not been as prolific for macro in the last few months. It is probably just seasonal and is now getting better.
Second, Absolute Scuba is still running. Both the hotel, diveshop and restaurant (best pizza in town and happy hour cocktails) are working as usual. Olivier, the former manager, unfortunately passed suddenly a while back, RIP brother! Marsha from Java is now running the resort. Her German boyfriend Julian is running the dive shop. These guys are good friends of Geko...
Third, the reggae bars are now shut, RIP too! These have been replaced by dive shops, a gelato, a sandwich and a coffee place. For restaurant recommendations, I'm confident to give the following:
- Fish: Ibu Jero, by the corner of the harbor in the same street as Zen Inn. Tasty whole fish, shrimps and cuttlefish depending on the catch of the day. Ibu Jero and her family are the friendliest guys in town (after Geko's guides, of course!)
- Western & Asian: Omang Omang has great Western & Asian dishes for all palates. I love the pulled pork burger and their beef rendang is the best in town.
- Fat Thursdays: Rico and Ayesha put together a great night for diners on Thursdays. Set meal that changes every week. Options range from Couscous to Beef Strogonoff through a ton of different options.
- Pizza: La Cabana
@Absolute Resort. They even have a great vegan pizza, but my personal favorite is the Diavola with extra chillies and cheese, yum!
Best night out is music night at Omang Omang every Monday... Don't miss out!
Bias Tugel/White Sand Beach is still a great option for lazzying around after the dives. I'd also recommend taking a walk to the shore through the Silayukti parking. There is a great little temple set amongst the volcanic stone formations. It's actually built on a blowhole and makes a furious noise when waves abound.