Gili Trawangan: How to decide..." />

The first Gili Island you’ll approach from Bali is Trawangan, which also happens to be the most popular island, due to its best range of facilities, larger land size and good mixture of styles and preferences for dining and accommodation. Most of the diving operators are found here, and there are abundant choices in terms of PADI courses. The main southeastern coast with the boat harbour is packed with bars and restaurants, and budget guesthouses are not hard to find either. The finer resorts are located on the quieter sunset beach on its southeast.

Who is it For:

• Backpackers to moderately wealthy travellers.
• People who like a good mix, from lively beach nightlife scenes to exotic and quiet beaches
• People who like an eclectic dining experience

What's Good:

• Gorgeous sunset and sunrise moments
• Eclectic dining options and seafood galore
• The best range of facilities

What's Not So Good:

• Its main beaches near the harbour can be a little busy, especially during the high season

Gili Meno: How to decide..." />

Gili Meno is the total opposite to Trawangan. It is the ultimate island escape – literally. Meno suits best for honeymooners and couples looking for privacy, and absolute rest and relaxation. It’s also good for nature lovers. You won’t find the crowds common on Trawangan here. In fact, proponents of partying and nightlife avoid this quiet island altogether for an obvious reason – the local Meno village administration upholds a ban on late night partying. The more preserved atmosphere is great, coupled with the slow paced village life that you can learn from up close. Budget bungalow-style accommodation is found beside full-fledged luxury resorts along the pristine white coral sand coasts.

Who is it For:

• Everybody from backpackers to wealthy travellers
• People who prefer peace and quiet
• Nature lovers, honeymooners and couples

What's Good:

• Quietest beaches around
• Close connection to local village life

What's not so good:

• The least infrastructure among the three Gilis
• No shopping, no ATMs

Gili Air: How to decide..." />

Gili Air offers the best of both worlds and can be considered the smaller and even more refined version of Trawangan, with a good mix of restaurants, beach bars, diving centres and activities. Budget accommodation choices are not as many, but still can be found away from the coastal areas. The main south-eastern coast near the boat docks is naturally packed with all the variety of dining and nightlife choices, while the quieter northern beaches are great for the truer ‘escapists’. Air serves as a great alternative to Trawangan, and oftentimes is a concluding island hop for those travelling over all three islands. Its close proximity toLombok also makes it a perfect stepping stone for those ferrying off for an even prolonged trip to Bali’s neighbouring island.

Who is it For:

• Moderately wealthy travellers
• People who want a base to discover all 3 Gili Islands, and perhaps Lombok
• People looking for a beach break without the backpackers

What's Good:

• Adequate number of dining and shopping options
• Closest to Lombok

What's not so good:

• Not as many options for backpackers