Q&A WITH BE & ANJA – FOUNDERS & OWNERS OF TLLH®

‘ … Hello, we ara Ben & Anja. Together we created The Lombok Lodge Hospitality. A journey that started with a love for genuine hospitality and a deep appreciation for quiet, refined luxury. When we first arrived on Lombok, something simply clicked.

This island. So pure, so untouched. The local way of life has taught us the essence of grace, respect, and harmonious living among diverse cultures. With four religions—Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, and Christianity, peacefully coexisting here, Lombok is a true testament to unity in diversity. It’s a way of life that has enriched our values and shaped the soul of everything we do … ‘

 

LOMBOK ISLAND

1. Where are we right now, and how would you describe this place to someone who’s never been?

‘ … We are on Lombok Island—Indonesia’s hidden gem. Just a 20-minute flight from Bali or 1.5 hours from Jakarta, yet a world apart. Lombok is pure, unspoiled, and profoundly authentic. It was love at first sight for Ben and me—and honestly, it still is. The beauty here continues to take our breath away …’

2. Take us back to the beginning—what was the first moment that made you want to build something?

‘ … The turning point was when we discovered the plot of land where The Lombok Lodge Boutique Hotel now stands—at Medana Bay. It was another love-at-first-sight moment. Interestingly, it’s located right next to The Oberoi Lombok, a property we admired deeply in the 1990s. It felt like everything aligned perfectly … ‘

3. Did the vision come all at once, or did it grow over time?

‘ … The core vision for The Lombok Lodge Boutique Hotel came quite clearly from the beginning. But over the past 16 years, it has evolved significantly. Our concept gradually expanded into The Lombok Lodge Hospitality brand, which now also includes The Lombok Private Villa Estate and Bagno Di Gili. It’s been a beautiful, organic evolution … ‘

4. Do you remember standing on this land and feeling like, ‘Yes, this is where it begins’?

“Absolutely. That moment is still vivid in my memory. It was powerful—exciting and, frankly, a little terrifying. But I’ve always believed that if something doesn’t scare you at least a little, it probably isn’t exciting enough.”

“If your dreams don’t scare you, they’re not big enough.” — Ellen Johnson Sirleaf

 

LOMBOK VS BALI

1. Most people know Bali, but Lombok has a different energy. What makes this island so special to you?

“The authenticity. Lombok has a primitive charm and a quiet dignity rooted in respect for life’s basic values. It’s a place where simplicity and sincerity still matter—and that, to us, is deeply special.”

2. What did you find here—in the land, the silence, the people—that made you stay?

“We were touched by the island’s natural beauty and the genuine kindness of its people. There’s a stillness here, a sense of space and serenity, that makes you feel both grounded and inspired.”

3. Did anyone ever tell you not to do this—that it wouldn’t work here?

Absolutely—many people did. At the time, classic luxury hospitality simply didn’t exist on Lombok. And of course, Lombok was not Bali—and thankfully, it still isn’t. Back then, there wasn’t even a perceived need for this kind of offering. But times have changed. Today, travelers are increasingly seeking authenticity, intimacy, and destinations that are less discovered.

And that’s exactly what attracted us: the rare opportunity to create something refined and meaningful in a place that was still so pure and untouched.

 

4. Looking back, what did you risk—emotionally, personally, professionally—to make this happen?

“Our greatest risk was professional—we sold a thriving business in Belgium to pursue this dream. But we were still young, and in our view, if it didn’t work out, we could always start again. The dream was worth the leap.”

5. Was there ever a moment when it got so hard you thought about walking away?
“Honestly—never. Of course, there were challenges, but our mindset was: ‘Screw it, let’s do it.’ We were all in, and we still are.”

 

THE COLLECTION – THREE PROPERTIES, THREE STORIES

1. For someone who doesn’t know what you offer, can you explain the three properties and how they’re different?

“The Lombok Lodge Hospitality” today—after 16 years in Lombok—consists of three distinctive experiences:

The Lombok Lodge Boutique Hotel, established in 2010, is located in the upscale northwest of the island, just 20 minutes from the Gili Islands. It’s where our story began.

The Lombok Private Villa Estate, our second property, is set amidst serene rice fields, about 20 minutes further north. It offers ultimate privacy, while still being beachfront, and is ideal for those seeking space, tranquility, and the luxury of a private pool.
Bagno Di Gili, our beach club on Gili Meno, is a stylish barefoot luxury concept with nine exclusive beach gazebos, an open-fire grill restaurant, and a stand-alone luxury beach tent for guests who wish to sleep under the stars—Gili in style.

2. Why did you feel the need to create not just one, but three different experiences?
It happened quite naturally. First, we discovered a truly unique piece of land in Gondang, which inspired us to create something new. Second, we began receiving frequent guest requests for private pool options—so we thought, why not create the most beautiful private pools on Lombok, in the most beautiful location?

The Gili extension followed a similar logic. Our guests loved the Gili Islands, but often mentioned the lack of service on the islands comparable to what they experienced at our boutique hotel. We responded by bringing our signature style and service to Gili Meno. And so, the collection grew.

3. Who is each place really for—not by demographic, but by feeling?

The Lombok Lodge Boutique Hotel – For lovers of small luxury hotels and refined design.
The Lombok Private Villa Estate – For travelers seeking peace, privacy, and a sense of personal space.
Bagno Di Gili – For those who want to experience the best of the Gili Islands—stylish, relaxed, and exclusive.

4. What’s the thread that connects them, even though each one stands on its own?
The timeless charm of The Lombok Lodge Hospitality. Our style, our sense of detail, and our heartfelt, classic approach to hospitality. Everything is infused with the spirit of “bagus sekali”—beautiful, in every sense of the word.

5. If someone were to stay at all three, what kind of journey would that take them on?
It would be a carefully curated journey through the essence of Lombok. Starting with design and culinary excellence at our boutique hotel, moving into serene, private luxury at the villa estate, and concluding with barefoot elegance and island simplicity at Bagno Di Gili. It’s a seamless blend of comfort, authenticity, and discovery.

 

 

THE LOMBOK LODGE – WHERE IT BEGAN

1. Let’s talk about The Lombok Lodge—this was the first chapter. What was the idea behind it?

The vision was simple yet bold: Lombok, but with a difference. We wanted to combine the luxury and service of a five-star establishment with the warmth, intimacy, and personality of a privately owned, family-run hotel. A place where excellence meets authenticity.

2. What makes the Lodge feel different from the other properties?

The soul. And the details. There’s an emotional quality to The Lodge—every corner reflects care, thoughtfulness, and refinement. It feels personal because it truly is.

3. You’re right by the sea, it feels intimate and quiet—what was the atmosphere you wanted to create?

We envisioned a place of complete peace and relaxation. An escape from stress and decision fatigue. Here, you don’t need to wonder where to go for dinner tonight—everything has been thoughtfully prepared for you. It’s effortless luxury, with nothing left to worry about.

4. The food has always been a big part of The Lodge experience. Why is that important to you?
It’s in our roots. My parents were butchers, and both Ben and I started our careers in the restaurant world. We’ve always had a deep love for food and hospitality. We also love to travel, to explore culinary trends and discover new cuisines. Bringing that passion to our guests is simply part of who we are.

5. Is there a detail at The Lodge that still makes you smile when you see it?
So many. Each detail has its own little story, its own purpose. Sometimes I think we should have written a book—it would have been a bestseller! We’ve received so much beautiful feedback over the years, often about the smallest touches. That’s what makes it all so rewarding.

 

THE VILLA ESTATE – SPACE, PRIVACY, AND CALM

1. Now let’s talk about the Villa Estate. What was the vision behind creating it?

Our vision was to create the most unique and thoughtfully designed villas in Lombok—without compromising on hospitality. We’ve often stayed in stunning villas around the world, only to find that the service and dining experience were lacking. At the Villa Estate, exceptional service and food quality are just as important as architectural beauty.

2. Who did you imagine staying here—what kind of guest, what kind of mindset?

Guests who value privacy and authenticity. People who are looking to truly disconnect. No need to dress up, no pressure—just meaningful time together, whether as a couple or with family. Quiet luxury in its purest form.

3. There’s a quietness here that feels intentional. How do you design for peace?

By letting Lombok speak for itself. We followed the natural flow of the land—simple lines, minimalist architecture, nothing too ornate. We believe peace doesn’t need to be designed; it needs to be respected and preserved.

4. When you walk through the Villa Estate now, what do you feel?

Gratitude, and a deep sense of pride. We support over 140 Indonesian families through this project, and I can honestly say—we have happy employees. That, for me, is one of the greatest achievements.

5. What does this space give back to you—not as the owner, but as a person?

It gives me perspective. A reminder of what really matters: nature, community, simplicity. The Villa Estate is not just a place we built—it’s a place that continues to build us, every day.

 

 

BAGNO DI GILI – A PRIVATE GIFT TURNED EXPERIENCE

1. Bagno Di Gili started as a personal gift. Can you tell us that story?
In short, it was Ben’s gift to me for my 50th birthday. I’m usually the organiser, the planner, the one behind the scenes making sure everyone is happy—that’s my true passion. But for this milestone, I longed for something different. A space where I wouldn’t be the one arranging everything for everyone else. Ben knew this, and he created Bagno Di Gili as a personal, heartfelt surprise. It was his way of giving me a moment of joy, just for me.

2. What were you trying to create that didn’t exist anywhere else?
We wanted to craft a beach experience that was truly elevated—one that combined the natural beauty of Gili Meno with the elegance and soul of The Lombok Lodge Hospitality. Not a typical beach club, not a loud and flashy venue—but a refined, barefoot-luxury experience where comfort, beauty, and privacy come together effortlessly.

3. You’ve kept it low-key and almost private. Why?
Because that’s what makes it special. It’s not meant to be a crowded destination—it’s meant to feel intimate, personal, almost like a secret. The exclusivity is part of its charm, and it allows us to maintain the level of quality and care we believe in.

4. What does glamping mean to you, when it’s done with soul?
Glamping, for us, is not just about sleeping in a tent—it’s about emotion. It’s about watching the stars in silence, hearing the sea from your bed, feeling completely connected to nature without giving up comfort or elegance. It’s luxurious, yes—but in the quietest and most sincere way.

5. What’s one moment at Bagno Di Gili that always stops you in your tracks?
The Sunset & the Sunset boNFIRES. Every single time. The colors, the light, the way the island seems to pause—it’s magic. No matter how many times I see it, it still takes my breath away. And seeing our guests experience that same wonder—that’s truly priceless.

REFLECTION, PURPOSE, AND LEGACY

1. How has this journey changed you—not just your work, but your life?
I feel deeply grateful for the opportunity to meet people from all over the world. This journey has opened my eyes, broadened my heart, and given me a true sense of connection—both with our guests and with this island. It has taught me patience, resilience, and the power of living with intention.

2. What has it taught you about each other?
It has made clear what we value most in life. I find joy in creating—developing new ideas, refining every detail. Ben, in contrast, is the silent strength in the background. He is calm, steady, and quietly keeps everything grounded. We are very different, and yet, perfectly complementary.

3. After the earthquake in 2018, you helped your team rebuild. How did that change your connection to this community?
We were on the property on August 6, 2018, and felt the same fear and uncertainty our team did. That experience bonded us in a way nothing else could. The solidarity, the mutual care—it deepened our connection immensely. And the support we received from guests, friends, and family during that time is something we will never, ever forget.

4. When guests return year after year, what does that mean to you?
That’s truly what we live for. It is the greatest compliment we could receive. We’re so thankful to all our returning guests—it’s like welcoming old friends home. Their loyalty confirms that the soul of what we’ve created really resonates.

5. If your life here were a poem, what would the final line be?
“Here, where the ocean meets the land, we learned what truly matters.”