This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Gili Air.
If you've ever dreamt of a breathtakingly beautiful tropical island with pristine white sands, palm trees, and a very slow and relaxed way of life, Gili Air is exactly that place! Gili Air is located off the coast of Lombok, only about a kilometre from the mainland, and is the closest of the three islands that make up the Gili Islands.
Stepping off the tiny boat where passengers are squeezed in amongst dozens of boxes of eggs, vegetables, and all kinds of goods that are making their way to the island, you may feel that time has stopped on this island. There are no cars or even motorbikes, instead horse carriages transport visitors around the place that is not much larger than a kilometre from top to bottom.
The three Gilis are all said to have their very own unique character and Gili Air is known as the chill-out place and its reputation was not gained by accident. All around the island, there are tranquil bungalows, cafes, and tiny and authentic local eateries. The sound of soft meditative music fills the island and people are welcome to sit down on the many sitting commodities all over the coastline to enjoy the view and the amazing sunsets the island has to offer.
This place is heaven for the lovers of the beach, as all around the island they will find different beaches, some with white sand and some with stones -- as long as you are careful not to cut your legs on the amazing coral life under the sea, you can enjoy the quiet waves, nice sunshine, and amazing scenery. The other reason why the island is so popular is the snorkeling opportunities it offers. Wherever you go, you will stumble upon a million offers for diving and snorkeling courses and there are some really good deals too. Apart from the amazing underwater life, you are likely to see giant turtles as well, which will make the trip a really memorable experience for sure.
However, if you take a stroll toward the central part of the island, a completely new world opens up, with local families leading a very traditional way of life. You can buy items in the tiny shop that sells everything and watch as the locals come together to make sate with peanut sauce at night. You can see as children wearing uniforms walk toward the school and as to the sound of the muezzin, people gather to walk to the mosque.
Gili Air is a truly special place where a traditional way of life mingles with a tourist paradise, which makes it a very unique holiday destination. A stay at a Gili Air hostel is a great way to experience this one-of-a-kind place!
Written by local enthusiast for Gili Air hostels
JudyM
