Why Gili?
Well it looks like everybody has heard of the fabulous islands of the Gili’s – the three magical Gili Islands – located on the west coast of the island of Lombok, a ferry or speed boat ride away from Bali. The three islands, Gili Trawangan, Gili Air and Gili Meno all have limited land transport and only bicycles or traditional carts are available on the island, called “dokar”, led by small horses.
The Gili’s are a tourist hot-spot, and this is justifiable, as the Gili Islands provide a wide range of fun activities that goes beyond diving and snorkeling. But most of all, let’s be honest, the Gili’s just look like paradise. There is so much to do here; be it for family vacations, honeymoons, personal time or even a wedding. The Gilis are always welcoming.
The Gili Trawangan and the Gili islands in Lombok are the perfect escape for anyone wanting to get away to beautiful, natural and relaxing surroundings. White sandy beaches, tropical coral reefs, warm inviting waters, no motorcycles, no cars, what a pleasure! Scuba diving enthusiasts will also be delighted (wrecks, reef sharks, etc.) and those who simply snorkel with snorkeling will also have the opportunity to put their eyes in the middle of the fish multicolored and sea turtles. A perfect place for doing nothing but relaxing on the white beaches and splashing in the turquoise water.
Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno and Gili Air all have their own characteristics and it is therefore advisable to learn about choosing the one that suits you best.
Gili Trawangan – Best for Choice
Trawangan, the most popular of the three and home to that famous sunset swing spot complete with a queue to get the perfect Instagram shot. With the biggest choice of accommodation, ranging from small huts to swanky beach clubs. The boats bring in the crowds daily, there is always someone new to grab a beer with but also a sense of belonging you can grasp onto from a small island. It does also have a great viewpoint you can casually ‘trek’ up, a buzzing night food market and a Turtle Hatchery project on the beach.
Gili Meno – Best for Romance
The middle island and the least likely to sleep on. It is known as the romantic island, with resorts, villas and couples on honeymoon. If you want quiet (by far the least developed of the islands), ultra relaxing and to feel as remote as possible Gili Meno is just perfect! It also has a cool and slightly random lake in the middle of it that you can easily explore.
Gili Air – Best for Balance
Gili Air is increasingly favored with less of a party vibe than Trawangan but still more than enough going on than compared to Meno, it has the balance of life ideal for a week of doing nothing. Grab a bike, hire some scuba gear, enjoy the sunsets and eat fresh fish. If you are a yoga lover, there is 2 ashram and a gym on the Island, but best of all don’t forget to try the multiple choice fine cuisine.