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Gili Islands

The Gili Islands are a stunning trio of tiny islands located off the northwestern shores of Lombok, Indonesia. Characterized by sandy beaches, fringed with opulent palm trees, and surrounded by undulating turquoise waters, they are a picture-perfect tropical paradise. Known for their vibrant underwater world, the islands offer spectacular scuba diving and snorkeling experiences, teeming with a fascinating abundance of marine life including turtles, brightly colored fish and stunning coral reefs. The islands' tranquil, car-free environment and exquisite seaside accommodations make it a serene escape for travelers. Amid this idyllic setting, visitors can also enjoy unforgettable sunsets, explore the local night markets or embark on a serene horse cart ride, making the Gili Islands a go-to destination for those seeking a tranquil and picturesque retreat.

3.7 /5

Based on our research

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Safety:Safe

Gili Islands is generally considered safe for solo female travelers. Like any travel destination, basic precautions should be taken. The locals are friendly and the crime rate is relatively low. A few incidents have been reported in the past, but they are not common. As long as you stay within the tourist areas, avoid dimly lit areas at night, and be aware of your surroundings, you should have a safe and enjoyable experience.

Transport:Easy

Though not devoid of challenges, the Gili Islands are fairly easy to navigate. The islands are small enough to get around on foot, and bicycles are the most popular mode of transportation. There are no cars or motorbikes which makes for a peaceful environment. However, paths can be uneven and sandy, potentially causing minor difficulty.

Things to do:Interesting

Gili Islands offers breathtaking landscapes and a decent number of outdoor activities, providing quite an exciting experience for solo travellers. There are numerous beach spots to relax and soak up the sun. For more adventurous pursuits, there's activities like scuba diving and snorkelling which reveal a vibrant marine life. There are also horse riding and cycling opportunities, which allow you to explore the islands in a unique and active way. While there aren't a lot of cultural or historical attractions, the islands' natural beauty and sports activities provide a rewarding experience for most travelers.

Food:Above average

The Gili Islands offer a fairly diverse food scene, from local Indonesian cuisines, seafood caught straight from the ocean, to international dishes. There are plentiful options for both vegetarian and non-vegetarian diets. Local food stalls, cozy cafes, and beachside restaurants cater to varying budgets and preferences. The freshness of the ingredients usually stands out. The only downfall is the lack of variety in certain cuisines, but overall, the food experience is quite satisfying.

Budget:Moderate

Gili Islands can be moderately budget-friendly. Accommodations mainly comprise mid-range hotels and inexpensive hostels. Street food and local cuisine are incredibly cost-effective, but Western meals and alcohol can be pricey. Diving and snorkeling, the islands' main attractions, are fairly priced. Overall, you can manage on a modest budget if you're careful with your choices.

Solo travel experience

When I visited Bali last year in February, I had doubts about visiting the Gili islands. In the end, I decided on Gili Air and it was incredible (white beaches, sea turtles, good food, ...). I didn't regret it for a moment! I stayed at the Flower and Fire yoga garden, a really cool place, and met wonderful people there.

Posted: February 15, 2023

Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 4/5Safety: 5/5

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