Visiting the Gili Islands and Lombok as a family
So, here we are, diving back into the Gili Islands scene, this time swapping the chill vibes of Gili Air for the more bustling Gili Trawangan. Now, don't get me wrong, these islands are like a postcard come to life—turquoise waters, swaying palms, the whole tropical shebang. But let me spill the tea—there's a hint of "scammy" in the air, especially on Gili T.
Gili Trawangan, the party island they call it. Well, it's a party, alright, but you might need to dodge a few enthusiastic sales pitches and keep your wallet on a tight leash. Everyone's got a "special deal" for you, from bike rentals to snorkeling trips. Just be prepared to haggle like your life depends on it and to potentially not get exactly what you wanted.
And then there's the infamous Mount Rinjani. A beauty, no doubt, but it's like nature decided to test our parenting skills. Picture this: hauling a 12-kilo kiddo up that beast of a mountain. It's not your average Sunday stroll, let me tell you. But hey, the views from the top? Worth every sweaty, "are we there yet?" moment. More about this on our dedicated article but hiking mount Rinjani with a baby.
This return to the Gilis is like déjà vu, but with a tiny human in tow. Gili Trawangan's got the buzz, Rinjani's got the challenge, and we've got our backpacks and a whole bunch of stories. Because when life hands you a 12-kilo backpack and a possibly scammy island, you climb a mountain and laugh about it later.
Best restaurants and cafés in Gili T.
In general, Gili T stroke us as expensive and not really living up to the quality of the food we had in Bali, we however found two good spots.
1. Hellocapitano Lifestyle Café $$
This café is a hidden gem! The avocado toast is on another level, and the coffee? It's basically a hug in a mug. But wait, it gets better. The team running the show and the owner? Absolute delights. It's like they sprinkle extra kindness on your order.
And can we talk about the decor? Cute doesn't even cut it. It's like walking into Pinterest, but cozier. Every corner is Instagram-worthy, making your brunch not just a meal but a whole aesthetic experience. If you're into good vibes, great food, and a sprinkle of charm, this café is your spot.
Discovered a Padang food haven tucked away – might be the best we've had. This family-owned warung is a gem, with the owners graciously explaining each dish. Go for the spicy sate and the heavenly rendang – absolute flavor magic! A must-visit for anyone craving authentic Padang cuisine.
Where to stay in Gili T and Lombok
As much as we weren’t seduced by the food scene, we were however very happy about our hotels both in Lombok and Gili T.
1.Gili T - Tipsea Turtle
Surpassing expectations, this hotel near the harbor was a delightful surprise. More than just a hostel, its close proximity to the harbor, friendly staff, and stylish decor created an cool experience. Highly recommend for an amazing value-for-money stay.
2.Shibui Garden Bungalows and Restaurant
A budget-friendly find, this sustainable place is conveniently located a short drive from the harbor. The host is not only welcoming but also a great cook. The cozy atmosphere and eco-friendly approach make it a practical choice for a comfortable stay.
Scams in Gili Trawangan and Lombok
Getting to and coming back from Lombok and the Gili Islands is a tough experience, especially with a child. Be super mindful of the reviews, reconfirm that they have functionning AC, reconfirming that the boats are direct (no transfer) and be prepared with water and snacks. Also don’t listen to scammers. So far, the two companies we can recommend are Starfish and Wahana Virendra. We do recommend to accept to pay a bit more for comfort when travelling with a child in this case.
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