Going Back to Gili Trawangan

Can you ever really go back to somewhere you loved so much the first time around? This is a question travelers ask themselves all over the world. Gili Trawangan is definitely a place that many visitors fall in love with when they arrive for the first time. But if you have such great memories of the island, will a second, third, or even fourth trip live up to the first? Here are some reasons we think they will.

People Will Remember You

One of the most wonderful things about Indonesian people is their amazing memory for faces and names. You may be walking down the beach and hear someone calling your name. It could turn out to be a beach seller you bought a sarong from last year, a bartender that served you a drink, or a waitress that served you in a restaurant.

Even with thousands of tourists passing through Villa Almarik every year, the staff is brilliant at remembering return guests. This happens all the time in Gili Trawangan and will make you feel like you’ve come home. If you’ve been to Gili T more than once, you’re practically family.

You’ll Instantly Relax

When your boat arrives in Gili Trawangan I guarantee you will immediately feel your body relax. There is something about the island air and laid-back vibe that tells your brain it’s time to let go of all your stresses.

If you’ve been to Gili T before, you will know your way around and not worry at all about all the things you could be doing. You can focus on snorkeling, diving, and hanging out on the beach, preferably with a nice cold beverage.

You May Find Things Have Changed…For the Better

If you haven’t been to the Gilis for a few years you may notice some changes on the beaches. In 2017 the government took some serious measures to clear the beaches for the sea turtles that lay their eggs there. All bars, restaurants, and stalls were cleared from the island’s main beaches. Critically endangered hawksbill and green sea turtles are now using the cleaner, quieter sands to lay their eggs.

On the subject of clean sand, there are now a number of groups working together to keep Gili Trawangan clean. Trash Hero and Gili Eco Trust are the movers and shakers when it comes to beach cleaning and proper trash disposal, but hotels like Villa Almarik are doing their part as well. Implementing sustainable practices like reducing plastic usage in the rooms and restaurant is an important step and one that is noticeable to return guests.

If you’ve been to Gili Trawangan before don’t be hesitant to go again. It has a feeling of coming home that you will settle into almost instantly. The friendliness of the people, familiar paths, and island atmosphere make the transition from ‘real life’ to holiday time almost too easy. So easy in fact, that you may not ever want to leave.

Are you someone who only visits a place once, or do you like to return again and again? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments box below.