Ready for some new Gili Island discoveries? Our latest issue is out with new inspiration on where to stay, play and dine. As the islands gear up for spring and summer, we profile new experiences and old favourites to revisit. Congrats to fast boat pioneer Bluewater Express which celebrates 20 years connecting Bali with the Gili Islands. Learn about the luxury Villa Antara and the resort experience at Hotel Ombak Sunset ahead of your next Gili staycation, and sample the delights of casual eatery Amsterdam Restaurant.
In our Chef interview, Ando, from KAI The Spice Table on Gili Air, talks about a passion for food. Susi Lestari offers a local perspective of growing up and giving back on Gili Trawangan, while expat Fabien shares his decade long journey as co-owner of GiliFit.
We also looked back at the recent Gili Backyard Ultra endurance race, hosted at Pondok Santi, and the latest Gili Trawangan cat clinic.
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BLUEWATER EXPRESS
20 YEARS CONNECTING BALI AND THE GILI ISLANDS
A LIFE ON GILI TRAWANGAN
FROM ISLAND CHILDHOOD TO CONSERVATION ADVOCATE
FROM DRIFT TO DRIVE
Finding Purpose on a Tiny Island
Fabien, co-owner of GiliFit has been on Gili Trawangan for the last decade. Born in France, but grew up in the French Caribbean and Reunion Island, it seems you can’t take the island out of a boy!
Fabien, what made you come to the Gilis in the first place?
I came to Gili for the first time in Jan 2016. I was a university student at the time and did not really know what I wanted to do work-wise, or in my life overall. I decided to take a year off between my 1st and 2nd year of a biology Master's to gain on-field experience in conservation as well as to discover a new country and culture. I’d heard about the Gili Eco Trust's work with coral reef restoration, via the Biorock technology, and waste management. I joined as a volunteer to help out and learn.
Unsurprisingly, I realised after 6 months that I did not want to go back home and was ready to pursue the right opportunity to make it happen.
I’ve always been a fitness enthusiast, and the fitness offer on the island was clearly lacking at the time. GiliFit was then a youth hostel with a small island gym, which was in dire need of renovations after the earthquake of 2018. I had met in the meantime like-minded people with a matching “vision” for what GiliFit could be. We took over the place and started the renovations by the end of 2019.
What challenges do you face being a large-ish fitness centre on a smallish island?
Besides the maintenance of the fitness equipment in such a salty, humid environment, one of the biggest challenges was definitely bringing all the fitness equipment to GiliFit. Larger islands have shipping docks, whereas on Gili at the time, our equipment was transported by local boats and dropped off directly on the beach. Gili Trawangan is famous for not having any motorised vehicles, and we wanted to limit the use of horse carts, concerned about the weight of it all. We built a custom trolley, small enough to manoeuvre the paths of Gili but strong enough to carry the heaviest part of the equipment.
How did your time with an environmental project reflect what you are doing today, or how you are running your business?
Starting my life on Gili volunteering within the environmental sector gave me first-hand experience with the island's waste problem. I spent some time helping at the dump, collecting glass bottles to later be crushed into sand and used to build eco bricks.
I had never really thought about waste management beforehand. Back home, you learn to put your rubbish in the bin, and that is it. As the saying goes, “out of sight, out of mind”. I did not really have any thought through what was happening after that. Gili T is such a small island
which produces so much rubbish, especially because of all the single-use plastic. I decided then that if I were ever in a position to manage or own a business, I’d try my best to put measures in place to limit as much as possible the amount of waste produced.
Fast forward to today, we are not selling nor using single use plastic wherever possible, we offer free water refill across the complex, our soaps are locally made and delivered plastic free, we make our own cleaning product using natural ingredients for the gym, we use home compostable packaging at Pokemu (GiliFit’s onsite restaurant) and we sort all our rubbish to facilitate recycling when possible.
We also used the eco brick where and when we could. For example, the ground floor of the GiliFit rooms and the GiliFit bar are made with them!
I know that, fundamentally, owning a business doesn’t help the environment, but if there are easy adjustments that will significantly reduce the rubbish that we create, we should take them! However, I also know alternative solutions usually cost more, so it’s hard to adopt all sustainable options for a business of any size. So, it is not about being perfect—we are not. It is about doing anything you can where you can, even if it does not feel like much. Because, unless you care, nothing is going to get better.
You can follow GiliFit’s activities and class schedules over on their instagram @gilifit.
BLUEWATER EXPRESS
20 Years Connecting Bali and The Gili Islands
The Gili Islands have been a traveller hotspot for decades, but it wasn’t always plain sailing getting there. Back in the 1990s and early 2000s, the relatively short 100mile trip from South Bali to the Gilis was in fact an arduous journey lasting most of the day. That all changed 20 years ago.
The introduction of the fast boat services revolutionised the travel experience and in doing so, put the Gili Islands firmly on the map as a major traveller destination. BlueWater Express was there from the very beginning in 2006 as one of the pioneers connecting Bali and the Gili Islands in just two hours.
It is now marking twenty years of service with the same mission—a safe, seamless and speedy journey across the Lombok Strait. While many other, much larger fast boats have entered the market since, BlueWater Express has kept its promise of low-density vessels for a boutique travel experience without the overcrowding or the stress.
Since day 1, it has maintained a 100% safety record with a strong focus on customer care and hospitality. However, it isn’t resting on its laurels. It is now tapping the latest innovations in maritime technology to ensure every trip is safe and comfortable. It has inked a partnership with Volvo Penta and Cetasol, to adopt AI-powered monitoring
across the fleet. This advanced system offers real time monitoring for all vessels, relaying live data to crew and provides predictive warnings. Where the weather and fastmoving sea conditions are concerned, nothing is left to chance.
From its humble beginnings 20 years ago, BlueWater Express employs a team of about 100 staff based in Bali and the Gili Islands. All crew are fully licensed and experienced in navigating the waters of Bali and Lombok.
Boat services depart from both Serangan Harbour in south Bali and Padang Bai Harbour in the east. In fact, the BlueWater Express travel experience begins well before you get to the pier. When departing from Bali, you can book door-to-door hotel pickup from many areas in Bali at an extra charge, ensuring a hassle-free start to every Gili Island getaway.
What did you like the most about growing up in Gili Trawangan as a child?
My childhood was very memorable. 30 years ago, there were still not many residents or tourists, so the island wasn’t too crowded. I often spent my time playing on the beach, cycling around the island, playing traditional games, and doing many other activities with my friends. I left Gili to study and graduate from the Faculty of Psychology in 2018.
How long have you been working with the Front Masyarakat Peduli Lingkungan (FMPL)? What is your role there?
I joined FMPL, which translates to the “Community Front for Environmental Care” in 2019. Here, I am responsible for administrative tasks, including assisting customers with registering for waste collection services, preparing letters, drafting proposals as needed, recording customer payments, monitoring employee attendance, and other related duties.
There are lots of exciting new changes for Gili T and waste management. What do the new islands incineration plans mean for the island?
Despite the challenges we currently face in waste management, we are very grateful to have received support in the form of a new incinerator that can help with waste processing. However, there are many things that need to be prepared before it can run efficiently.
In addition, while waiting for the permit to operate the incinerator, we have gradually started implementing a waste segregation system at the source in several companies. The goal is to reduce the accumulation of unsorted trash being disposed of at the landfill.
Alongside handling the waste issues on the Gilis, you also specialise in turtle conservation. What tasks do you carry out with Proyek Penyu?
Several of my friends and I are trainers and rangers in Proyek Penyu. Our role is to provide free workshops to business owners and the general public about how to protect nesting sea turtles, with the hope of increasing awareness of how important sea turtles are, especially for tourism.
Other activities I am involved in include releasing turtles, checking and protecting nests, and monitoring when there is information about turtles coming ashore to lay eggs. I also help provide advocacy to protect sea turtles when there are illegal activities that could harm them.
Why do you think it’s important to safeguard the turtle nests on Gili Trawangan?
We know that today sea turtle populations around the world are still threatened with extinction. As a woman who lives on an island with beaches and seas still chosen by sea turtles as their home, it is truly a blessing and a privilege.
Since I was a child, I have been very familiar with seeing many turtles swimming around the beach. Sea turtles have long been an icon of Gili Trawangan and have contributed greatly to the sustainability of tourism on the island. However, for me personally, sea turtles are not just a tourism icon. They play a very crucial role in the marine ecosystem of Gili Trawangan. Protecting them means protecting the entire reef ecosystem.
The rapid growth of tourism requires us to take immediate action to protect the survival of sea turtles. The beaches where they nest are becoming increasingly limited due to human activities. Therefore, providing advocacy to protect them and raising awareness among everyone has become extremely important.
Do you have any secret tips, activities or places to eat for a tourist visiting Gili Trawangan for the first time?
Want to try something different? I would recommend getting to know the friendly local community and spending time with them. You could try homemade food or have a small beach bonfire while eating roasted sweet potatoes and grilled shrimp that can be caught during low tide. I believe this is an experience that is rare to find in other places (At least, as locals, this is something we sometimes do with foreign friends we meet, and they usually really enjoy it). Oh, and certainly, hiking up the hill and watching the sunset from up there!
My guess is you LOVE spicy food?! What is your favourite dish from Gilis/Lombok?
My favourite foods are Ayam Taliwang, Sate Rembiga, and Nasi Balap. They are very easy to find in Gili or Lombok. For some people, these dishes might be quite spicy, but the flavors of the spices are so delicious that they are hard to resist.
+62 819 9134 3236
fmplgilitrawangan
CHEF ANDO, KAI, THE SPICE TABLE INDONESIA MEETS THE MEDITERRANEAN
AMSTERDAM RESTAURANT, GILI TRAWANGAN
A NEW GILI T STAPLE FOR BREKKIE, BRUNCH AND DINNER
EAT
CHEF ANDO—KAI, THE SPICE TABLE, VILLA TOKAY RESORT, GILI AIR
Indonesia Meets The Mediterranean
For Ando, the chef at KAI, The Spice Table at the Villa Tokay Resort, a love of food and cooking began early. After moving to Bali from his home in Surabaya, he discovered whole new worlds to explore. He spoke with mygilis recently and explained how it all came about.
When did your interest in food begin?
My love for food started at home. I would wake up to the wonderful smell of my mother’s cooking and head straight to the kitchen to find out what she was doing. That early curiosity and fascination led me to study Culinary Management at STP Nusa Dua Bali. It was the beginning of my professional life in the kitchen.
Tell us something about your career and some of the places you have worked. When I moved to Bali it was a turning point. I was suddenly introduced to a whole new world of food. I had the opportunity to connect with remarkable chefs from around the globe and have exposure to some of the island’s most inspiring kitchens.
The moment I realised a chef’s career could be creative and highly rewarding financially, I knew it was for me.
I wanted to learn all I could, so I trained in Penang, Malaysia, and in the Maldives. These international environments played a significant role in shaping my mindset, teaching me how to collaborate across cultures and adapt different culinary perspectives.
Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working at the Radisson Blu Bali Uluwatu, The Cave By Chef Ryan Clift and Maya Sanur, in Bali. All of these great experiences are reflected in my current work at KAI, The Spice Table
How would you describe your style of cooking?
My cooking style is simple and focused on highlighting the natural flavours of each main ingredient. I try to bring out the magic in every core component, and then enhance it with touches of spice and seasoning.
Where do you find inspiration for your dishes?
I take inspiration from the street food I love to try, from various ingredients and cooking techniques I’ve learned from the chefs I’ve worked with, and even from Instagram.
Do you have a particular ‘philosophy of cooking’?
For me, cooking is all about joy. Every dish should come from a happy heart. It’s not just about flavours and making food taste good; it’s about creating an experience that lingers and a memory that stays with the people who sit down to enjoy it.
What’s the best piece of cooking-related advice you’ve ever received?
Two pieces of advice come to mind—from two different chefs I worked for. First, ‘Good things always take time’ and second, ‘When you do something, do it properly’.
Tell us about the concept for your menu at KAI, The Spice Table.
I suppose our philosophy focuses on celebrating the rich, vibrant flavours of Indonesian spices, balanced with subtle Mediterranean influences. The lunch menu is designed to
be playful and approachable. We serve ‘comfort food’ that’s great to look at as well as taste; it’s presented on rustic wooden, rattan or stoneware plates, for a warm, casual feel. Dinner is a completely different experience. It’s more immersive and refined, and each dish is carefully crafted and presented on ceramic and clay tableware. The flavours are more intense and the techniques more intricate. We’re aiming for a dining experience that engages all the senses—appearance, taste, texture and aroma.
What are your favourite dishes and ingredients?
I love to make Indonesian home-style meals, such as bubur ayam, a traditional chicken, rice and vegetable dish, sayur lodeh, which is a vegetable dish cooked with coconut milk, or nasi goreng, a spicy fried rice dish, with a lot of chillis.
I also enjoy cooking with kecombrang (ginger flower), cabai rawit (cayenne pepper), kemangi (lemon basil), gula merah (palm sugar) and virgin coconut oil.
Describe a typical day at work. My day is a mix of creativity, leadership and hands-on cooking. Mornings often start with a bit of research. I experiment with ideas for upcoming menu items and work on refining flavours. During the day, I meet with the team to review the previous night’s dinner service; we celebrate what went well, share constructive feedback and make sure everyone’s aligned on our standards. I also manage the paperwork and design individual development programs for the staff, because nurturing talent is just as important as perfecting a dish. By evening, it’s all hands on deck as we take our positions for dinner service. We’re all focused on delivering a dining experience that’s memorable.
What is most rewarding about your job?
There are so many things. I get to travel the world, exploring new flavours and cultures. I meet VIPs and have the chance to make them happy with my food, and to create moments they’ll never forget. I’m constantly pushed to grow—not just in the kitchen, but as a person. I can shape my skills and my perspective and find a deeper sense of purpose every single day.
What is the biggest challenge?
The biggest challenge is maintaining motivation when the pressure is high and staying focused and strong during busy or difficult times, and never becoming complacent. It’s always important to improve, no matter what level you’ve reached in your career.
What are your hopes and plans for the future?
My goal is to share the richness of Indonesian cuisine with the world, and to bring KAI, The Spice Table into the international spotlight. I want people everywhere to experience the depth of our flavours, the creativity behind our dishes, and the stories that each spice and ingredient can tell. Ultimately, it’s about making Indonesian culinary culture recognised, respected and celebrated globally.
What do you like most about living on Gili Air?
The community is amazing, the nature is stunning and the beaches are absolutely beautiful. There’s no pollution and, unlike some neighbouring islands, you don’t have to take a long boat ride to get around; that’s definitely a plus! And of course, as a food lover, I can’t get enough of all the great restaurants scattered across the island.
Apart from cooking and creating dishes, what other things do you really enjoy?
I really enjoy everything related to music, especially singing. If I hadn't become a chef, I think I might have tried to become a singer... maybe.
Who is your favourite celebrity chef?
Chef Eric Ripert from Le Bernardin, in NYC, because he puts his heart into his cooking, and his restaurant has survived for years.
Do you have any tips for budding chefs?
My advice is to stay curious and never stop learning. Be open to new techniques, flavours, and cultures, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Every challenge is an opportunity to grow. Most importantly, always cook with passion and dedication, because that’s what makes your food memorable.
Nasi Kuning Arancini with Mozzarella & Sambal Mayo
Ingredients
Yellow Rice:
• 100 gr cooked rice
• 30 ml coconut milk
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 small clove garlic, minced
• 1 shallot, minced
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp sugar
Arancini:
• 10 gr mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
• 1 sheet nori, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 small egg, beaten
• 2 tbsp bread crumbs
• Tempeh chips (whole), to place on top as garnish
• Sambal mayo, to serve
Method
1. Prepare the yellow rice:
• In a small pan heat a little oil, then sauté the garlic and shallots until fragrant.
• Add turmeric powder, salt, and sugar, stir briefly.
• Add the cooked rice and coconut milk, cook over low heat until fully infused with flavour. Allow to cool slightly.
2. Make the Nasi Kuning arancini balls:
• Take about 40 gr of rice and flatten it in your hand.
• Place a small cube of mozzarella (10 gr) in the center, fold rice around it, shaping it into a ball.
• Mix some chopped nori onto the outer layer for extra flavour.
3. Coat the arancini:
• Roll each rice ball first in flour, then dip in beaten egg, and finally coat evenly with breadcrumbs.
4. Cook the arancini:
• Deep-fry or pan-fry over medium heat until golden brown and crispy.
• Remove and drain on paper towels.
5. To Serve:
• Place the three Nasi Kuning Arancini balls on a plate, place one whole tempeh chip on top of each ball as garnish, and serve with sambal mayo.
Watermelon Gohu with Kenari, Avocado Mayo and Watercress
Ingredients
Gohu:
• 100 gr watermelon, diced small
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp sugar
• 1 tsp chili, finely chopped (optional, adjust to taste)
For the base:
• 1 tbsp Kenari, chopped
Avocado mayo:
• 20 gr ripe avocado
• ½ tsp lime juice
• ½ tsp salad oil
• Pinch of salt and pepper
Garnish:
• Small watercress sprigs
Method
1. Prepare the watermelon gohu:
• In a bowl, combine diced watermelon with lime juice, salt, sugar, and chopped chilli. Gently mix and let it marinate for 5 to 10 minutes to allow flavours to meld.
2. Prepare the avocado mayo:
• Mash the avocado in a small bowl.
• Add lime juice, salad oil, and season with salt and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
3. Assemble with ring cutter:
• Place chopped Kenari on the serving plate as the base.
• Using a ring cutter, mold the marinated watermelon into a neat cylinder on top of the Kenari base.
4. Add garnish:
• Top each watermelon gohu with a small dollop of avocado mayo.
• Finish with fresh watercress sprigs for color and a subtle peppery note.
5. To Serve:
• Serve immediately as a refreshing starter, balancing sweet, tangy, creamy, and crunchy textures.
AMSTERDAM RESTAURANT, GILI TRAWANGAN
A New Gili T Staple for Brekkie, Brunch and Dinner
Seeking a new favourite hangout for breakfast and brunch in the Gilis? Go Dutch at Amsterdam Restaurant in Gili Trawangan. Located in the heart of Gili T, this is a refreshing new concept for café style casual dining, complete with authentic island vibes.
This should be your new go-to spot for a quick caffeine pitstop, morning breakfast, brunch, a lazy lunch or dinner. Set in a large coconut grove, it has covered and outdoor dining on the terrace in stylish, rustic décor with natural timber and rattan. The location in the centre of the island means quietude a world away from the stream of e-bikes, horse carts and noise of the main beach strip. It’s the perfect stress-free way to start the day.
Uniquely, it serves up shareable small plates for breakfast and brunch offering a range of eclectic options that can be tailored to your tastes. This is a mix and match concept that appeals to a variety of palates, making it popular with couples and groups. The five-dish customisable lunch set is a popular highlight.
Serving local Indonesian options as well as a wide array of international dishes, locally sourced fresh ingredients are mostly used. The guest service reflects genuine hospitality and there are playful little touches that add to the experience, notably the charming oversized coffee mugs and earthen tableware.
Amsterdam’s menu is wide ranging and inventive, and fully customisable. Breakfast options include fluffy pancakes, eggs any way, breads, plus healthy fruit salads, berries and yoghurt bowls. It also has all the caffeine options covered. There’s barista made expresso, flat white, latte cappuccino and more, plus various teas, juices and smoothies.
There is an inventive selection of breads and dips, plus starters like nachos, bruschetta and beef carpaccio. The list of mains is eclectic with satay, Chicken Piri Piri, BBQ pork spare ribs and a meat lover’s mixed grill with all of these included and more. Amsterdam has its own unique burger options including a mixed bean patty for vegetarians. Other veggie options include falafel, cauliflower curry and quinoa salad.
Room for a delectable dessert? It serves up a traditional Dutch stroopwaffle with ice cream and the classic apple crumble. The well stocked bar features smoothies, beers, wine, liquor and expertly mixed cocktails like Mojito, Pina Colada and the classic margarita.
In short, Amsterdam Restaurant transcends merely a place to eat—it’s an all-day culinary destination to snack or dine exactly how you like, with fully customised meals and relaxed island vibes.
Jl. Vila Klp., Gili Indah, Lombok Utara, NTB 83352 amsterdamgili
KALYANA VILLA ANTARA, GILI AIR
UNWIND IN THIS LUXURY ISLAND SANCTUARY
HOTEL OMBAK SUNSET, GILI TRAWANGAN
LARGE BEACH RESORT WITH THAT BOUTIQUE, LAID BACK ISLAND VIBE
ESTATE
KALYANA VILLA ANTARA, GILI AIR
Unwind in This Luxury Island Sanctuary
For your next staycation getaway, make it a special Gili Air weekend. Nestled in the heart of the island is an inviting hidden oasis called Kalyana Villas. Featuring a small collection of eclectically designed villas, it’s the ideal spot for peace, harmony and chilling out during the tranquil low season. Kalyana’s two-bedroom Villa Antara ticks all the right boxes if you seek luxury island escapism.
Kalyana Villa Antara is an eye-catching example of modern tropical architectural design with an effortless flow between lounging, dining, sleeping and outdoor spaces. It can be both a sheltered private refuge and a versatile social space for groups.
The intricate timber design is grounded in traditional Indonesian architecture while taking inspiration from various European styles. Every room, nook and cranny features artistic wooden carvings like timeless motifs and stylish latticework. This is a very different kind of rustic design that bridges old world luxury and modern flair.
Villa Antara features a spacious living area with a comfy, big sofa, a dedicated dining area and adjacent island kitchen. This opens onto a private pool terrace with a well-manicured tropical garden surrounding the inviting swimming pool. It’s a safe sanctuary for kids to play.
If you like what you see, but two bedrooms isn’t enough, Villa Antara transforms into a more expansive retreat thanks to a connecting door to the adjacent Villa Bulat. This enables seamless access between both the self-contained villas, and creates a space for up to eight guests—perfect for a group gathering or an extended family retreat. Additionally, starting this year, Kalyana Villas is available for private retreats of any kind for corporate and social gatherings, complete with an event planning service for guests.
Villa Antara’s bedrooms are spacious with full in-room amenities like unlimited tea, coffee and drinking water, mini bar and ample storage space. You may choose to include breakfast as part of your stay and there is Wi-Fi, with a desk for diligent remote workers. The ensuite bathrooms are large and lavish with vanity areas.
All in all, Antara is an eye-catching architectural gem that effortlessly blends a number of global design styles while providing versatile indoor and outdoor spaces to kick back in natural surroundings. This is exactly the calming atmosphere you’ll crave for unwinding after a day on the beach.
All the outdoor spaces are enclosed and peaceful, so whether relaxing in a comfy corner of the garden or chilling at an intimate pool party, Villa Antara provides all the privacy you need.
Large Beach Resort with That Boutique, Laid Back Island Vibe
For those that crave a short stay in a large resort but without the impersonal cookie cutter experience, Hotel Ombak Sunset just might be the perfect island escape. Overlooking the beach on the quiet west coast of Gili Trawangan, it’s aptly named. Here, you get gently lapping waves and a front row seat to the iconic ocean sunsets each evening. It’s an expansive resort property with everything you could possibly need, but with that quintessential low key island vibe. It’s a long way from the bright lights of Gili T’s busy beach strip and you’ll likely only hear the ‘clip-clop’ of a passing cidomo horse cart and the tall palm trees rustling in the sea breezes.
The resort’s daytime focal point is an impressive 40-metre pool, complete with a Jacuzzi, and dedicated kids pool for lounging and sipping a cool drink surrounded by tall palm trees and manicured lawns. The overall feel of Hotel Ombak Sunset is of a traditional village complete with timeless tropical décor. You’re in the lap of luxury with a range of elegant rooms, bungalows and private villas.
The deluxe terraced rooms and island and sunset bungalows feature stylish interiors with elegant soft furnishings in traditional motifs. With smooth stone flooring, high ceilings and dark wood fixtures, they have an unmistakable Indonesian flavour.
For more space and privacy, the contemporary styled oneand two-bedroom villas provide a sleek haven for couples and families respectively. They feature a dedicated indoor lounging space and a large outdoor courtyard and garden with a pool. Bathrooms are spacious and sleek. It ticks all the boxes as a honeymoon hideaway.
The resort also has a dedicated weddings booking service with a professional team of planners on hand. If your dream nuptials has always been a barefoot wedding on a pristine beach, this is the place to come.
A weekend getaway at Hotel Ombak Sunset should find time for some lavish pampering. It houses the SPa, an exclusive sanctuary to rejuvenate with a range of therapeutic treatments for body, mind, and soul. Indulge in a facial, full body massage, body mask and more.
Datu Restaurant is the hotel’s semi-fine dining restaurant expertly serving up an array of exquisite Eastern and Western dishes in elegant surroundings. The resort also presents the bold flavours of India with classic Butter Chicken, Pani Puri and Garlic Naan among a host of authentic delights. Each dish is sure to transport you on a culinary journey and get those taste buds tingling. There is also the option of a romantic meal on the sand by the water’s edge, or how about a casual sunset BBQ feast?
The hotel is a prime haven for kicking back to island time for pure relaxation, yet those with energy to burn have plenty of options. There is a padel and tennis court, water sports, snorkelling along with more leisurely activities like horse riding or a cookery class.
Jl. Pantai Gili Trawangan, Gili Indah, Lombok Utara, NTB 83352 +62 811 3900 5999 ombaksunset www.ombaksunset.com
Running Beyond Limits: The Gili Backyard Ultra
This year, Pondok Santi played host to The Gili Backyard Ultra—a powerful coming together of endurance, community, and purpose, all in support of mental health awareness in Indonesia.
Seventy runners took to the course, collectively pushing through 64 laps and over 400 kilometres, each step a testament to resilience and shared commitment. Yet, beyond the numbers, it was the spirit of the event that truly defined the experience.
To every runner, supporter, volunteer, and partner—this was more than a race. It was a movement. A reminder that together, we can go further, not just for ourselves, but for something far greater than the finish line.
IG: pondoksantiestate | giliecotrust
A Purr-fect Mission on Gili Trawangan
Meow! Gili Trawangan’s latest cat clinic, held on January 25 and 26th , welcomed 54 cats and kittens for care. Of those, 43 were spayed or neutered, including 28 females, marking an important step in supporting the island’s animal welfare.
Most of the cats were found to be in good health, with only minor issues such as skin conditions and parasites—nothing out of the ordinary for island life. Some younger kittens stopped by for check-ups, not yet ready for sterilisation.
And one thing was impossible to miss: the fluff. This clinic saw a delightful surge of long-haired cats, with recovery spaces filled with the fluffiest of patients—much to everyone’s delight.
A small but meaningful initiative, helping keep Gili’s feline community healthy, one paw at a time.
IG: cats_of_gili
THIS IS THE GILIS!
GETTING THERE
From/to Lombok: There are public outrigger boats from each island direct to Lombok throughout the day starting around 7.00am. A faster (more expensive) option is the hourly speedboat service stopping at all three islands.
GETTING AROUND ON THE ISLANDS
Refreshingly all forms of motorized transport are forbidden on the Gilis. That leaves travel by “Cidomo” horse cart, bicycles or let those feet do the walking. All three islands can be circumnavigated on foot within about two hours. There are numerous bicycle rental kiosks along the beachfront on all three islands—both traditional bikes and increasingly, e-bikes.
ISLAND HOPPING
A scheduled twice a day island hopping service by outrigger boat runs between all three islands in the morning and afternoon, meaning you can visit another island for several hours and return in the late afternoon. A more flexible option is the hourly speedboat service to and from the Lombok mainland which connects Gili Trawangan, Gili Mano and Gili Air throughout the day.
MONEY MATTERS
There are money changers and a wealth of ATM machines situated on each islands’ main beach strip. All accept Mastercard and Visa withdrawals.
POWER
Electricity coverage is 24/7 but power outages are not uncommon. The good news is they are generally brief and many hotels and restaurants have a back up generator. Power outlets use two-pin plugs. International plug adapters are available for sale. Free wi-fi is available at many hotels, guest houses and restaurants.
HEALTH
Each island has health clinics able to treat minor ailments and illness, and you’ll find pharmacies for most over the counter medicines. For dental work or more serious injuries, you’ll need to go to the Lombok mainland.
STAYING SAFE
Even just metres from the shore, currents can be sudden and strong. Know your limits when swimming or snorkeling. Never attempt to swim between the islands.
BE A RESPONSIBLE VISITOR
There are many ways each visitor can do their bit to help keep the Gili Islands as pristine as possible. Conserve water where possible and turn off unnecessary power when leaving your hotel room, such as fan, lights s and air conditioning. Don’t litter streets or the beach —use the trash bins and when shopping, use a reusable bag. There are many ways you can get involved to help keep the Gilis clean, such as weekly beach cleanups where all are welcome.
THE DIRECTORY
EAT
Gili Trawangan
BORA-BORA Sunset Beach Club
+62 811 388 8339
@bora_bora_gilit
Kayu Café
+62 878 6239 1308
@kayucafegili
Pearl Beach Lounge
+62 819 9715 6999
@pearloftrawangan
La Cala
+62 8177 2852 855
@lacalagili
Chappies Bar
+62 812 3788 9378
@mantadivegilit
Gili Sands
+62 823 3945 3707
@gilisandshotel
Pearl Sunset Resort
+62 8113 9009 050
@pearlsunsetresort
Pesona Lounge
+62 8133 8088 963
@pesonaloungetrawangan
Pizzeria Da Marco
+62 818 1827 9613
@pizzeriadamarco24
Rabbit Jump
+62 859 7118 1942
@rabbitjumpgili
The Roast House
+62 8174 9160 04 @giliroasthouse
Gili Air
Flow Gili Air
+62 813 3943 9078
@flowgiliair
Papaya Beach Club
+62 819 0784 7382
@papayagili
Gili Coffee Roasters
+62 859 6034 2360
@gili_coffeeroasters
Kopi Susu
+62 821 4737 1516
@kopisusu_giliair
Pachamama Cafe + Cantina
+62 821 4649 5915
Yanai
+62 853 3829 5422
@yanaigiliair
Poke
+62 822 3667 9253
@poke.gili.air
Sabai Sabai
+62 822 4791 2464
@sabaisabai_giliair
Gili Meno BASK
+62 812 3764 7471
@baskgilimeno
WELLNESS
Gili Trawangan
Azure Spa
+62 823 3910 4881
@azurespagili
YOU SPA
+62 821 4456 7093
@youspaexperience
DIVING
Gili Trawangan
Blue Marlin Dive
+62 877 5936 7889
@bluemarlingilitrawangan
Dive Central
+62 812 2956 9183 @divecentralgili
Lutwala Dive
+62 859 5521 6926 @lutwaladive
Manta Dive
+62 812 3788 9378 @mantadivegilit
Gili Air
Blue Marlin Dive
+62 813 3283 9446
@bluemarlinair
Gili Meno
Blue Marlin Dive
+62 812 3727 0361
@bluemarlinmeno
HEALTH & LEISURE
Gili Trawangan Utopia Catamaran
+62 821 4456 7079 @utopiacatamaran
D’Gilis
+62 812 3610 3613 @degilis. Adventure
Rabbit Jump
+62 859 7118 1942 @rabbitjumpgili
NGO
Gili Trawangan
Gili Eco Trust
+62 813 3960 0553 @giliecotrust
Horses of Gili
+62 878 4332 0545 @horsesofgili
Yayasan LUNI Lombok
+62 812 3949 5308
@luni_lombok
Proyek Penyu @proyekpenyu.gili
Gili Air
Yayasan LUNI Lombok
+62 812 3949 5308
@luni_lombok
ESSENTIAL INFORMATION
EMERGENCY NUMBERS
Ambulance
P: +62 370 623 489
Emergency Call: 119
Fire Brigade
P: +62 370 672 013
Emergency call: 113
Lombok Police
Jl. Gajah Mada No7, Ampenan
P: +62 370 693 110
Emergency Call: 110
Tourist Police Senggigi
Jl. Raya Senggigi km 1
P: +62 370 632 733
CLINICS ON THE GILIS
GILI TRAWANGAN
Hotel Villa Ombak Clinic
Gili Trawangan
P: +62 370 642 336
D’Gilian Clinic Center
P: +62 878 6567 4141
Trawangan Clinic Center
P: +62 819 1745 1861
GILI AIR
Gili Air Clinic Center
P: +62 878 6206 0248
Gili Air Medika
P: +62 819 0747 3113
Blue Island Medical Clinic
(100 metres from the harbour)
P: +62 81 999 705 703
P: +62370 6198097
GILI MENO
Pillar Medika Meno
P: +62 811 3904 2042
Blue Island Medical Clinic
(50 metres from the harbour)
P: +6281999705702
Gili Emergency Medical Service
P: +62 821 4444 5015
HOSPITALS
Siloam Hospitals Mataram
Jl. Majapahit No.10, Mataram
P: +62 370 6001100
Harapan Keluarga
Jl. Ahmad Yani, Selagalas
P: +62 370 617 7000 / 617 7009
Risa Sentra Medika
Jl. Pejanggik No.115, Cakranegara
P: +62 370 625 560
New Mataram Public Hospital
Jl. Bung Karno No.1, Mataram
P: +62 370 645 045
Mataram Public Hospital
Jl. Pejanggik No.6, Mataram
P: +62 370 623 498
Siti Fajar Moslem Hospital
Jl. Panca Warga, Mataram
P: +62 370 623 498
Anthonius Catholic Hospital
Jl. Koperasi, Ampenan
P: +62 370 621 397
Police Hospital
Jl. Langko No.54, Ampenan
P: +62 370 633 701
Army Hospital
Jl. HOS Cokroaminoto No.11, Mataram
P: +62 370 621 420
Central Lombok Public Hospital
Jl. Jen Basuki Rachmat, Praya
P: +62 370 654 007
East Lombok Public Hospital
Jl. Prof M. Yamin No.55, Selong
P: +62 376 216 80
HEALTH CLINICS
Biomedika Clinic
Jl. Bung Karno No.143, Mataram
P: +62 370 645 137
Medika Husada Clinic
Jl. Raya Senggigi
P: +62 370 664 480
Klinik Prodia
Jalan Pejanggik No.107, Mataram
P: +62 370 635 010
Jolie Sourire Dental Care
Epicentrum Mall
P: +62 370 668 1797
PHARMACIES
Guardian Pharmacy
Mataram Mall
Jl. Pejanggik, Mataram
P: +62 370 629 921
Kimia Farma
Jl. Sriwijaya No.295, Mataram
P: +62 370 633 211
Jl. Pejanggik No.48, Mataram
P: +62 370 638 502
Jl. Catur Warga, Mataram
P: +62370 634 774
TAXI
Bluebird Taxis
P: +62 370 627 000
IMMIGRATION OFFICE
Department of Immigration
Jl. Udayana, Mataram
P: +62 370 632 520
POST OFFICES
Central Post Office
Jl. Sriwijaya, Mataram
P: +62 370 632 645
Jl. Langko, Ampenan
P: +62 370 631 642
Jl. Raya Senggigi
P: +62 370 693 711
INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS
Mandalika Intercultural School
Kuta, Lombok
P: +62 813 5357 8345
Nusa Alam
Kompleks Grand Natura,
Jl. Bung Hatta
P: +62 370 647 510
FAST BOATS
Bluewater Express
Gili Trawangan
P: +62 811 380 9555
Gili Air
P: +62 811 380 7555
Bangsal
P: +62 811 380 9555
Einstein Fast Boat
Gili Trawangan
P: +62 82341077750
Gili Air
P: +62 82341077750
Bangsal Office
P: +62 823 4107 7750
Eka Jaya
P: +62 819 1601 9775
Wahana Virendra Fast Boat
P: +62 877 7679 0777
CAR RENTAL COMPANIES
Gilitrans
P: +62 813 1313 7732
FREIGHT/COURIER COMPANIES
JNE Express Gili Air
P: +62 851 7247 4779
PUBLIC UTILITIES
Electricity (PLN)
Jl. Langko No. 25, Ampenan
P: +62 370 632 182
Jl. Raya Sengiggi
P: +62 370 693 535
Water (PDAM)
Jl. Pendidikan No.29, Mataram
P: +62 370 632 510
Jl. Raya Sengiggi
P: +62 370 693 886
CONSULATES IN BALI
Australia (Also consular service for Canada and New Zealand nationals)
