The Gili Islands

If there is a name that evokes paradise in Indonesia, it sure is Gili. The three sister islands sit in the turquoise waters of Lombok, fringed by white-sand beaches. Despite their popularity, the islands still remain tranquil and laid-back, with unique character and charm. There are no motorized vehicles on the Gilis and your two choices of transportation are horse and cart or bicycles. True to ourselves, we preferred to walk everywhere which made for great exploration.

Gili Islands... unbelievable!

Gili Air

We decided to stay on Gili Air, the middle island in size. Snorkelling was terrific right from the beach and on our first go, we saw a big sea turtle which we were lucky enough to follow for over half an hour – what a treat! Plenty restaurants dot the sandy beach with cushions and low tables to enjoy the view, from simple warungs to modern-ish venues. At night, Gili Air was very mellow, with a few places offering ‘tickets to the moon’ with magic mushrooms and trance music. We failed to see any sign of partying, however, but given we were in bed around 11 every night we might have intentionally missed the nightlife action. Local food is excellent and great value, people are friendly, and the island is big enough to keep discovering it over and over again.

Lunch, sea and sand 

Leave your bikes for a beach stroll

Gili Meno

After a few days exploring our own little peaceful isle, we decided to venture out with the public boat and visit the fellow Gilis. The smallest one is Meno, whose Turtle Sanctuary and empty beaches made for a perfect lazy day. We explored on foot and snorkeled in the perfectly transparent sea. We settled at a shabby tiki bar, rented our snorkels, sipped our mango shakes and took turn exploring the reef. I wouldn’t want to stay on Meno more than a day or two, but any Robinson Crusoe wannabe would disagree. As one diving instructor put it when we asked her for a street map: ‘Isn’t the island small enough for you?’.

Gili Meno - deserted much?

Mie goreng and snorkelling - this is the life!

Gili Trawangan

Gili T is quickly becoming Indonesia’s prime holiday spot. Luxurious hotels and trendy lounges can be found on the biggest of the Gilis. With legendary parties and renowned diving, it is no wonder Trawangan is so popular. We went there for a day, taking the public boat, and found that daily life doesn’t seem to be as hectic and touristy as we expected, although a bit more glitzy than the other two Gilis. Of course, a lot more restaurants and dive shops adorn the beach front, but the vibe remains chilled. I assume this would change at night: the local boat left at 4:30 and already a few heavy beats started emerging for the bars. During our walk around the island, we did spot some fantastic resorts which seemed perfectly set-up for honeymoons or fancy holidays, removed from the main drag.

Romantic much?

We had an amazing time soaking up the sun and bohemian character of the Gilis. Wild-haired island kids roam around the sandy streets, their laughs and cries echoing wherever you go. Bells from the horse and cart jingle like Santa’s sleigh would, warning you to move aside. Roosters cock-a-doodle while hens protectively gather their chicks. Dust sticks to your feet as you ‘jalan-jalan’ (wander around) the small alleys. Locals call you brother and sister, shake your hand and invite you to sit and chat. I can confirm it, the Gilis are truly magical.

Unforgettable Gilis