6 Days on Gili: When the Plan Falls Apart… And Magic Begins 🌩️ 📍 #Gili
I came to Gili with a plan. Left with something better. No cars, no scooters — just bicycles, horse carts, cats everywhere and an ocean so blue it looked edited. Originally, I planned for 6 days full of excursions, sunsets, markets, and good food. But nature had other ideas: a sudden storm, unexpected rain, and zero chance of surfing or biking around. Instead of panic — I chose trust in the island. And you know what? This became one of the most unforgettable trips I've ever had.
🚩 Sightseeing Route
Arrival by ferry from Dombok, greeted by ocean breeze and curious island cats 🐾 Check-in at Bale Sasak Bungalow – a peaceful hideaway in traditional Sasak style
Day 1: Island vibes, coffee at Rabbit Jumps Club, sunset by the pool
Day 2: Snorkeling adventure to the Three Islands – turtles, coral, crystal clear waters
Day 3: Storm warning 😳 – instead of plans, I read books, drank tea, and watched rain dance on the ocean
Day 4: Sunset session at Coco Café near Aston Hotel – golden hour magic
Day 5: Night market near the port – fresh seafood, local spices, live music, laughter
Day 6: Morning meditation, sunrise gratitude, goodbye to island life
🏖️ Must-Visit Attractions
🐢 Snorkeling on the 3 Islands – swim with sea turtles, explore coral reefs
🐱 Cats of Gili – they own the island now. And we're okay with that
🌅 Sunset at Coco Café near Aston Hotel – one of the best views on the island
🧗♀️ Rabbit Jumps Club – cliff diving into infinity pools, adrenaline meets island chill
🌿 Zero Cars, Zero Scooters – pure eco-paradise, where life moves slower and kinder
▌ 🚇 Transportation
🐴 Horse Carts (Cidomo) – the only way to move between beaches and bungalows 🚲 Bicycles – rent one and ride along white sand paths ⛵ Ferry/Boat – between Lombok and Gili, and between the islands 👣 Walking barefoot – because sometimes the best way is no rush at all
📷 Photo Spots
🐠 Underwater photo with turtles – must-have memory
🚲 Selfie with bike & ocean background – simple but iconic
🌅 Golden hour at Coco Café – especially if you're wearing white
🐱 Cat portraits – they'll pose like pros
🌧️ Rainy day at Bale Sasak – beauty doesn't wait for perfect weather
🍜 Local Cuisine
Food here is simple, fresh, and deeply Indonesian:
🥘 Grilled fish with sambal – daily ritual 🍚 Nasi Campur / Nusantara bowls – mix of rice, veggies, meat, and love
🦐 Seafood at the night market – straight from the boat
🥤 Fresh coconut water / dragon fruit smoothie – daily fuel
☕ Coffee at local warungs – strong, sweet, and soul-warming
💡 Tips
🛎️ Book accommodation early — high season fills up fast