Slow Gili Air, Gili Air, Gili Islands - Explore & Book
"If you're looking for a chilled-out, desert-island experience, the Gili Islands between Bali and Lombok are as idyllic as they come. Three tiny islets fringed by coconut palms and turquoise waters, the archipelago is an easy fast boat from Bali, yet offers a totally different experience from the mainland. Car-free Gili Air, our favourite, is particularly special. Many people plan on just passing through, only to find themselves spending much longer here. Slow Gili Air's owner Julie is one such traveller. Having spent 6 years globe-trotting as a dive instructor, something kept pulling her back to the island's friendly community, and eventually she decided to stay and build something beautiful for her fellow travellers. A few years later, architect-designed Slow is fast earning a reputation as the Gili Air’s most fabulous hideaway. Just 10 enchanting one and two-bedroom villas wait beyond the antique Javanese reception, all housing original art and indulgent luxuries. The antithesis of an impersonal resort, everything at Slow Gili Air is designed to work with the local community. Staff are from the island, villas display photography of local tradesmen constructing the resort, even the beach towels can be bought to help support a local children’s initiative. There’s creativity at every turn, and beyond that there’s pure luxury, too. We loved morning swims in our plunge pool, delicious breakfasts on our terrace, and relaxing Balinese massages in the beautiful spa. Our days soon fell into an easy rhythm of snorkelling from nearby beaches, then sunset cocktails and suppers by the sea. Pure island bliss. Highs Perfect for an easygoing holiday, be it romantic, family or with a friend. The villas are all very private with plunge pools, huge gardens and kitchenettes Tucked away on a quiet part of the island, but a 5-minute walk or bike ride from white sand beaches and chilled bars and restaurants You're made to feel like a welcome friend as much as a valued guest Excellent spa treatments, yoga and pilates classes Gili Air is seriously cool and laid back with no cars and less crowds than nearby Bali Lows Service isn't quite 5-star, but the team are very willing and Gili Air is all about a slower pace of life No on-site restaurant, but breakfast is brought daily to your villa and you can order light meals (from fresh grilled fish to pizza) and Indonesian barbecues to your villa Staff spoke limited English during our visit, but Slow provides lessons and assure us most of the staff now speak good English Expensive for this area (but so worth it)" - Melissa Burfitt
