Communication: Gili Air

Mobile & Internet Access

Local SIM cards are available upon arrival at airports in Bali or Lombok. You need your passport for registration.

Points

Telkomsel generally holds reputation for best coverage.
Passport is a must for SIM card registration.
Wi-Fi is widely available at accommodations and cafes.

Language & Translation

Bahasa Indonesia is the official language. English is widely spoken in tourist areas on Gili Air.

Useful Info

Staff at hotels and restaurants communicate well in English.
Google Translate offline pack is highly useful.
Learning basic Indonesian phrases is appreciated.

Essential Phrases

A few basic Indonesian phrases for smooth interactions.

Greetings & Basics

Hello: "Halo" (HAH-loh)
Thank you: "Terima kasih" (teh-REE-mah KAH-sih)
Yes: "Ya" (yah)

More Helpful Words

Words that may simplify your daily interactions.

Common Needs

Please: "Tolong" (TOH-long)
Excuse me/Sorry: "Permisi" (per-MEE-see)
How much?: "Berapa?" (beh-RAH-pah)

Connectivity & Language Resources

Digital Connections

Airalo: eSIM provider for easy data access.
Solis Wi-Fi: Portable device for reliable internet.
Find local SIM cards on Amazon.
Water: "Air" (ah-EER), Delicious: "Enak" (EH-nak).

Language Learning

Rosetta Stone: Language learning platform for Indonesian.
Good Morning: "Selamat Pagi" (seh-LAH-mat PAH-gee).
Good Night: "Selamat Malam" (seh-LAH-mat MAH-lam).
No formal post office on Gili Air.

Practical Advice

Stay connected with local options, ensuring a seamless experience throughout your Gili Air visit.

Business Hours & Schedules

The island generally operates at a relaxed pace, with flexible timings.

Restaurants & Cafes

Generally open from 7 AM - 10 AM for breakfast, continuously until 9 PM - 11 PM for dinner.

Dive Shops

Typically operate from 8 AM - 6 PM, with boat departures scheduled early morning.

Small Shops

Convenience and souvenir shops usually open from around 9 AM to 9 PM.

Banking & ATMs

Several ATMs are available on Gili Air, mostly clustered near the harbor area.

Good to Know

ATMs dispense Indonesian Rupiah (IDR).
ATMs can occasionally run out of cash.
No full-service banks are located on Gili Air.

Holidays & Seasons

Indonesia observes various national and religious holidays throughout the year.

Things to Note

Businesses may close or have reduced hours.
Transportation can become very busy.
Low season may bring temporary closures for smaller businesses.

Seasonal Operations

Low Season Nov-Feb

Some smaller guesthouses may close.
Reduced tourist numbers.
Check specific opening hours upon arrival.

Peak Seasons

Higher demand for all services.
Book transfers and accommodation in advance.
More lively atmosphere with more events.

Scheduling Tip

Plan your schedule for smooth island life. Consider using Priority Pass for airport lounge access or Compensair for flight disruptions.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

While a tourist island, Gili Air maintains strong local traditions. Your actions reflect on all visitors.

Greetings & Dress

A simple "Halo" or "Selamat Pagi/Siang/Sore/Malam" is polite and appreciated.

Guidelines

A gentle handshake using your right hand.
Smile frequently.
Wear a cover-up when walking through the village area.

Dining & Cultural Sensitivity

Be mindful of local customs, especially at meal times.

Behaviors

Avoid eating and passing food with your left hand.
The head is sacred; avoid touching someone's head.
Keep public displays of affection discreet.

Photography & Privacy

Be aware of people's privacy and comfort levels when taking photos.

Photography Tips

Always ask permission for close-up photos of individuals.
Respect if someone declines to be photographed.
Avoid intrusive photography, especially with children.

Sensitive Topics

Certain topics are best avoided to maintain respect and harmony.

Discussion Points

Avoid discussing sensitive political or religious topics.
Indonesia has very strict drug laws with severe penalties.
Lingsar Temple symbolizes religious harmony.

Important Considerations

Drug Policy

Strict drug laws apply in Indonesia.
Penalties include the death penalty.
No engagement with drugs in any context.

Public Conduct

Keep public displays of affection discreet.
Respect local conservatism.
Solo female travelers exercise standard precautions.

Accessibility Information

Mobility Challenges

Gili Air is not wheelchair-friendly.
Island paths consist of soft sand.
There are no paved roads or sidewalks.

Attractions & Transport

Getting onto soft sand from resorts can be challenging.
Cidomos may present difficulty for boarding.
Boat transfers are not designed for wheelchair accessibility.

Cultural Courtesy

Observe local customs for a respectful visit. Direct communication with accommodations about specific needs is advised.

Essential Information

Important details for navigating Gili Air, staying safe, and enriching your travel.

Business & Banking

Gili Air's rhythm is relaxed, with services available to visitors.

Hours & Access

Restaurants typically operate from 7 AM - 11 PM.
Dive shops open between 8 AM - 6 PM.
ATMs are available near the harbor area.

Holidays & Seasonal Flow

Indonesian holidays can affect service availability and transport efficiency.

Seasonal Notes

National holidays may lead to reduced business hours.
Expect higher demand for transport during holiday periods.
Low season typically brings fewer crowds and lower prices.

Cultural Observance

Engage respectfully with local customs and traditions for a harmonious experience.

Etiquette Essentials

Dress modestly when away from beach areas.
Always use your right hand for greetings and handling food.
Ask for permission before taking close-up photos.

Accessibility Challenges

Gili Air's natural paths and infrastructure present mobility considerations.

Important Points

The island is not wheelchair-friendly due to soft sand.
Sandy paths pose difficulty for walking aids.
Limited specific services for visual or hearing impairments.

Communication