The Island Dictionary: A few words you'll hear every day on Nusa Lembongan (and what they actually mean).
Before We Start...
If you're visiting Nusa Lembongan for the first time, you'll hear words that don't appear in your average phrasebook. Some are Bahasa Indonesia, some are Balinese, and some are just part of everyday island life.
The good news? You don't need to speak fluent Indonesian. Learning just a handful of words will earn plenty of smiles and show respect for the people who call these islands home.
(And if you'd rather learn through music than memorising flashcards, head over to our YouTube channel, Lembongan After Dark, where we're turning everyday Indonesian into songs you'll accidentally remember.)
Terima Kasih
Thank You
Probably the most useful phrase you'll learn.
You'll hear it everywhere, and saying it back is always appreciated.
Pronounced: Teh-ree-mah Kah-see
Sama Sama
You're Welcome
The reply you'll almost always hear after saying Terima Kasih.
Think of it as Indonesia's version of "No worries."
Selamat Pagi
Good Morning
Morning greetings are everywhere on the island.
You'll hear:
āļø Selamat Pagi (Good Morning)
š¤ Selamat Siang (Good Afternoon)
š Selamat Sore (Late Afternoon)
š Selamat Malam (Good Evening)
Warung
Small Local Restaurant
One of the first words you'll learn.
A warung is usually a family-run restaurant serving delicious Indonesian food at local prices.
Some of the very best meals you'll eat on Lembongan come from places with plastic chairs and handwritten menus.Ā
Bule
Foreigner
You'll hear this one.
It isn't usually offensive.
"Bule" simply means a foreigner, particularly someone from Western countries.
Kids might happily yell "Hello Bule!" as you ride past.
Just wave back.
Banjar
Village Community
Every village belongs to a Banjar.
They organise ceremonies, festivals, community events and help keep island traditions alive.
It's one of the reasons Balinese culture feels so connected.
Canang Sari
Daily Offering
Those beautiful little woven baskets filled with flowers?
They're called Canang Sari. These are blessings.
You'll see them outside homes, businesses, temples and even beside scooters.
Please don't step on them.
Penjor
The Tall Bamboo Decorations
If you're visiting during Galungan, you'll notice giant curved bamboo poles lining the streets.
These are Penjor.
They're handmade decorations symbolising prosperity and gratitude, making the island look even more magical.
Pura
Temple
Bali and the surrounding islands are home to thousands of temples.
Some are open to visitors, while others are reserved for ceremonies.
If you visit, dress respectfully and always follow any local signs or guidance.
Jalan Jalan
Going for a Wander
Literally meaning "walking" or "going for a stroll."
Around here, it basically means exploring without a plan.
Which, if you ask us, is the best way to discover Lembongan.
Om Swastiastu
Traditional Balinese Blessing
A respectful greeting often used when meeting someone.Ā
Similar to 'May God Bless you' or 'May peace and prosperity be with you'.
You don't need to use it every day, but understanding it helps you appreciate local culture.
Bonus Tip š
You don't have to learn dozens of words.
Even just saying Terima Kasih with a smile goes a long way.
The people of Nusa Lembongan are incredibly welcoming, and making a small effort to speak the local language is one of the easiest ways to show respect.