Gili Treehouse Lombok: Your Dream Indonesian Escape Awaits!
Gili Treehouse Lombok: My Dream Indonesian Escape… or Was It? A Brutally Honest Review!
Alright folks, buckle up! Because I'm about to spill the tea, the es teh, the whole damn Indonesian archipelago's worth of secrets about Gili Treehouse Lombok. They call it "Your Dream Indonesian Escape Awaits!" …and well, let's just say my dream was… a little bit… different than what materialized. But hey, that's life, right? And sometimes, the imperfections make for the best stories.
First things first: Accessibility - or Lack Thereof (RANT INCOMING!)
Okay, let’s get the elephant (or the komodo dragon, if you will) in the room out of the way. This place is NOT built for accessibility. I'm not wheelchair-bound, but I travel with someone who is, and the information provided about "facilities for disabled guests" was… generous, to put it mildly. The word "elevator" exists, which is a good start, but the reality is that the walkways? Not always the smoothest. The beach? Forget it. Seriously, if you require any level of mobility assistance, call ahead, get real specifics, and maybe consider another spot. This is a serious point, and honestly, it was a massive disappointment.
Getting There & Around: A Tropical Tango
So, you’re on Lombok. Great! The airport transfer offered was good, even a little smooth, although the driver seemed a bit… sleepy. (Maybe he’d had a long day, unlike me, who was fresh off a plane and already dreaming of a Bintang!) The car park is free of charge, but navigating the island? Forget Uber or taxis, you are going to be reliant on the hotel's driver or their (expensive) taxi service.
The Rooms: Jungle Chic (Mostly, Sometimes, Maybe?)
The Air conditioning was a lifesaver. Seriously, Indonesian heat is no joke. My room had a private bathroom and a separate shower/bathtub, which felt luxurious after many a hostel experience. Free bottled water was a lovely touch, and I appreciated the coffee/tea maker for my morning caffeine fix.
But, and here’s a but the size of a coconut, the decor…it was rustic. In other words, don’t come expecting pristine perfection. I mean, the blackout curtains were great at keeping out the early morning sun, but they were a bit… wonky. The bed was comfortable enough (extra long, which is a plus for tall folks), but the soundproofing wasn't stellar. I could hear everything from the jungle – the geckos doing their thing, the occasional motorbike roaring past. It added a certain "authenticity," but sometimes, I just wanted some damn silence. And the internet access – wireless in the room was reliable enough, nothing to write home about. It wasn't blazing fast, but I could check my emails and post some insta pics, which is crucial, right?
Dining, Drinking & Snacking: From Bintang to Breakfast – A Mixed Bag
The restaurants at Gili Treehouse are a mix. The Asian cuisine in restaurant was pretty good, especially the Nasi Goreng. But, the Western cuisine in restaurant? Let's just say it wasn't their forte. The breakfast buffet was decent, with a standard selection of fruits, pastries, and hot dishes (Asian breakfast, Western breakfast). The poolside bar was a winner, though! Perfect for a sunset Bintang. The happy hour was, well, happy! Definitely worth taking advantage of. And speaking of happy, the coffee shop was a lifesaver for a dedicated caffeine fiend. The poolside bar was absolutely amazing, perfect for sipping on cocktails in after a long day with my partner!
One truly amazing experience I had was the A la carte in restaurant offering, The staff made me and my partner fell in love with the restaurant, and the food was just exquisite. The presentation was top-notch, and the server was super kind and helpful and recommended us the best food in the restaurant!
Things to Do & Ways to Relax: Paradise Found… Mostly
The swimming pool [outdoor] was gorgeous, although at times, it seemed a bit crowded. There's a gym/fitness center, I think I peeked in once. Not my thing, but hey, props to those who are into working out on vacation! The spa/sauna facilities were nice, but the massage I got was… underwhelming. Not terrible, but not mind-blowing either. The Sauna was okay. The steamroom was a bit, um, steamy.
Cleanliness & Safety: Keeping it Together
The Treehouse had some good points when it comes to cleanliness. The entire staff seemed to really care about the guests and they would always clean the area, as well as provide hand sanitizer and Individualy wrapped food options around the place. Anti-viral cleaning products were definitely used, and from what I could see, they took their hygiene certification seriously. The Rooms sanitized between stays, so there was no problem when it came to the hygiene. Face masks was also encouraged, so you could see the staff wearing their masks everywhere they go.
Services & Conveniences: The Little Things Matter
The concierge were helpful. The daily housekeeping was great! My room was always nice and clean. The luggage storage was also super useful for the day before my departure. The laundry service was efficient. I can get used to this life!
Internet & Tech Stuff: Wi-Fi Woes & Wins
Okay, let’s get real about the internet. Free Wi-Fi in all rooms, technically true. Practically? It was a bit patchy at times. Don't expect to stream Netflix consistently. Good for basic browsing, but not for anything demanding. Wi-fi in public areas was a bit better, but still not perfect. Internet [LAN] wasn't available if you're one of those people who hate wifi and needs LAN cable to fully enjoy your experience.
For the Kids: Family-Friendly? Maybe
While the family/child-friendly aspect is definitely there, the babysitting service wasn't available. The Kids facilities was also very limited.
The Verdict: Worth it?… Maybe?
Look, Gili Treehouse Lombok isn't perfect. It has its quirks, its imperfections, and that accessibility issue is a major downer. But, it does have charm. The location is stunning, the staff are generally friendly and helpful, and the overall vibe is relaxed and laid-back.
So, would I recommend it? Well, that depends. If you're looking for a flawless, ultra-luxurious experience, maybe look elsewhere. If you're looking for authentic Indonesian hospitality, a beautiful setting, and you're willing to embrace a few imperfections, then give it a shot. Just go in with realistic expectations, and you might just have a pretty damn good time.
FINAL THOUGHTS: Pack plenty of insect repellent, embrace the humidity, and prepare for some unforgettable sunsets!
NOW, LET'S TALK ABOUT AN OFFER! (My Own Take)
Tired of the Same Old "Dream Vacations"? Escape to Gili Treehouse Lombok – Imperfectly Perfect!
Are you craving an escape that's more about real life than staged perfection? Then ditch the predictable and dive into the heart of Lombok at Gili Treehouse!
Here's what you get with our special offer (and a dose of honest truth):
- Cozy Bungalows (with wonky curtains, sometimes!). Nestled in the lush landscapes, your room is a comfortable base for your adventures.
- Bintang & Bliss at the Poolside Bar. Sip on your favorite drinks and unwind in the best place in the area.
- Authentic Indonesian Flavors. Savor delicious Asian cuisines, made to impress.
- Sunsets that will make you Forget all your troubles. The beauty that will take your breath away.
Why Book Now?
Because life's too short for boring holidays. Embrace the unexpected, laugh at the imperfections, and create memories that are uniquely you.
Book through [Your Referral Link or Website] and get:
- Special Rate
- Free Breakfast: Because who doesn't love Nasi Goreng?
- A Surprise Gift: A small token from us to you!
Gili Treehouse Lombok: Where your dream Indonesian escape starts… and sometimes, doesn't go quite as planned. But that’s okay!
Book your stay today and get ready for an adventure!
(We're also working on improving the accessibility situation. Your feedback helps!)
Escape to Paradise: Lofthotel am Walensee Awaits
Okay, buckle up, buttercups, because this isn't your perfectly curated Instagram feed. This is the real Gili Treehouse itinerary, the one that almost didn't happen (thanks, dodgy ferry), the one with too much Bintang and not enough sunscreen, and the one that burrowed its way into my heart despite all the sand-in-my-toes chaos.
Gili Treehouse Itinerary: AKA "Praying My Lungs Don't Explode Trekking Up That Damn Hill"
Day 1: The Arrival (and the Great Ferry Fail)
- Morning (Maybe): Arrive in Lombok. The airport? Looks like a slightly upgraded shed. We're talking rustic. But hey, that's part of the charm, right? (Narrator: It wasn't). Taxi to Bangsal Harbour. This is where things get, shall we say, interesting.
- The Ferry Saga: Okay, so the internet said the ferry to Gili Trawangan was "regular and reliable." The internet lied. We endured a sweaty wait, a jostle with luggage that could rival the Hunger Games, and a boat that looked like it had seen better days (and probably sunk a few). Seriously, I swear I saw a chicken onboard. A live chicken. In a basket. On a boat. I'm traumatized.
- Afternoon (Slightly Dazed): Finally, finally, Gili T. Scramble onto the beach and try not to pass out from the heat. I find a horse carriage, like a scene out of a period drama, and bargain it down to a price that doesn't make me weep.
- Late Afternoon/Early Evening (Treehouse Time!): The Gili Treehouse. Wow. It's everything the pictures promised and more. That first moment, that breath-taking view from the balcony… it's the "reason-for-living" kind of moment. I think I teared up a little. The sheer drop from the staircase down to the beach is slightly terrifying though, it's a very real risk. After an initial freak-out (heights aren't my friend), I try to compose myself.
- Evening: Sunset cocktails at the Treehouse bar. I made a friend, a chatty Aussie with sunburn the colour of a particularly aggressive lobster. We drank Bintangs and watched the sun melt into the sea. This. Is. Paradise. (And I may have slightly overindulged. Worth it.)
Day 2: Snorkelling Shenanigans and Sunrise Struggles
- Morning (Attempted): Sunrise. I set my alarm. I swear I did. Didn't wake up. Curse you, Bintang.
- Mid-Morning: Snorkelling trip! I'm a terrible swimmer. Like, a legit floater. But the sea here is so unbelievably clear, the fish so vibrant, I almost forget my inherent fear of the deep. We saw a turtle! An actual, real-life, adorable turtle. I flailed around, nearly swallowed half the ocean, but I got a picture.
- Afternoon (Sunbathing Bliss): After snorkelling, it's back to the beach. I applied sunscreen this time. I promise. Well, kind of. I found a spot with an umbrella and read my book, only to fall asleep. The beach is so beautiful and serene.
- Late Afternoon/Evening (Trekking to the Windmill and Dinner Dilemmas): So, remember that "easy trek" up to the windmill? The one the leaflet promised? Yeah, it's a lie. It's a bloody uphill assault course designed to test your cardio and your faith in humanity. The views at the top are stunning though, honestly, a panoramic sweep of blue so vast and gorgeous you can forgive the sweat. Now the real struggle sets in, dinner. Finding a restaurant is a total gamble: quality and prices vary wildly. We wound up in a place that has a strange aroma. Still, the vibe is laid-back.
Day 3: Island Hopping and Saying Goodbye (Almost)
- Morning (Island Hopping): We hopped onto a boat to Gili Meno. This island is supposed to be the most chill of the three, and it is. I spent an hour lying on the softest sand I've ever felt, watching the waves lap the shore. It was pure, unadulterated bliss. Tried snorkelling again; I'm still a terrible swimmer, but I'm trying!
- Afternoon (Gili Air): Hopped over to Gili Air, the most "local", least developed. We had lunch at Warung with the sand in my feet again. It was the cutest thing.
- Late Afternoon (The Treehouse Farewell): Packing up. This hurts. Saying goodbye to the Treehouse is like saying goodbye to a friend. Every single detail made me feel like I am being pampered. I start feeling that emptiness, and I'd rather enjoy this moment before my departure.
- Evening: Sunset AGAIN. Every sunset in Lombok and the Gilis is unique and a beautiful spectacle.
- Goodbye Dinner: Had a goodbye dinner. Over the dinner, I started thinking about everyday life, all the things I have to do, and the chores. I also started to feel a deep longing to get back to the routine. Well, sometimes it's good to go back home.
Day 4: Departure (and the End of an Era)
- Morning: Ferry back to Bangsal (praying for a better boat this time, fingers crossed, toes crossed, everything-crossed).
- Airport: The Lombok airport, one last time. Reflecting on the chaos, the beauty, the sun, the sand, and the Bintangs, I'm hit by a wave of emotion. This trip, with all its imperfections, was utterly perfect. Do I want to come back? Absolutely.
Final Thoughts:
This trip wasn't perfect. It was messy. It was sweaty. It was occasionally terrifying. But it was real. And in its messiness, in its imperfections… it was beautiful. I'll be back, Gili T. You haven't seen the last of me. And next time? I'm bringing a better boat. And maybe, just maybe, I'll learn to swim.
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Gili Treehouse Lombok: The Truth (and the Mess) Behind the Instagram Pics!
Okay, Spill the Tea: Is the Gili Treehouse REALLY as dreamy as it looks on Instagram?
Ugh, Instagram. The bane of my existence and the reason I *knew* I needed to go to the Treehouse. Honestly? It's…complicated. Yes, the photos are stunning. Yes, the sunrise from the balcony nearly made me cry (in a good way, mostly). But… picture this: you're perched high up, feeling like a majestic bird, ready to conquer the world. Beautiful, right? Then, BAM! The rooster next door starts his dawn chorus. At 5 AM. EVERY. SINGLE. DAY. Ruined my inner peace, it did. But hey, the sunrises kinda make up for it…kinda. Overall? It's dreamy, but with a healthy dose of reality sprinkled on top. Think of it like dating a supermodel: gorgeous, but you gotta deal with the drama.
How do you actually *get* to this paradise-in-the-trees? What's the deal with transportation?
Okay, let's break this down because getting to Gili Trawangan (where the Treehouse is) is an adventure in itself. First, you gotta get to Lombok. Flights are usually the easiest, but you could do a longer ferry from Bali (more budget-friendly, less comfortable, and potentially seasick-inducing. My stomach still hasn't forgiven me for that one!). Once you're on Lombok, it's a taxi (negotiate the price HARD! They love to upcharge tourists), then a fast boat to Gili T. The fast boats are…well, fast. And bumpy. And sometimes feel like they’re trying to become a submarine. They’ll throw you around in the waves, and you'll be hugging the sides because you're certain the whole thing is going to flip. Did I mention I’m not the best boat person? Then, the final leg: getting from the Gili T harbor to the Treehouse. No cars allowed on the island, baby! That means either a horse-drawn cart (cidomos - charming, but a bit… smelly) or walking. Walking is fine if you pack light. I, of course, did not. Lugging my suitcase through the sandy streets under the midday sun was… a choice. A terrible choice. But hey, arriving at the Treehouse? Totally worth it. Just, pack light. Really.
The Treehouse itself – What's it *really* like to live up there? What are the amenities like?
Ah, the Treehouse itself. Pure magic…with a few caveats. You're literally living amongst the leaves. It's incredible! The views are breathtaking. The open-air design is…amazing, unless it's raining. Then, you might get a little wet, but it also feels kind of amazing at the same time. Amenities? Don't go expecting a five-star hotel. Think more… rustic chic. You have a comfy bed (with mosquito netting, thank goodness!), a basic but functional bathroom (the shower pressure is… variable). There's usually a small fridge, and a balcony that's basically the entire reason you booked the place. Wifi? Intermittent. Embrace the digital detox, people! Honestly, I found the lack of constant connectivity… liberating. I actually managed to finish the book I'd been meaning to read for… well, years. Who knew?
Food, Glorious Food! Where do you eat, and is it any good?
The food on Gili T? Delicious! And cheap! You've got options galore. Street food at the night market is a must-do – nasi goreng (fried rice), sate (grilled skewers), and fresh seafood. So. Good. Be a tiny bit careful about food hygiene, though. Some things are better left unexplored (I'm looking at you, questionable mayo). The Treehouse itself doesn’t have a restaurant, but they partner with a place called "The Beach House" which delivers food directly to the treehouse - that was a GODSEND. Eating breakfast in my PJs on the balcony? Pure bliss. They do great smoothies and pancakes. Another favourite was a restaurant called "Casa Vintage Beach". Amazing cocktails and delicious wood-fired pizzas, like something you'd find in a Hollywood movie. Eating here made me forget about the roosters for a few hours.
What's there to *do* on Gili Trawangan beyond the Treehouse? Because, let's face it, you can't just sit on a balcony forever, right?
Okay, so, the Treehouse IS tempting to just…exist in. But, you gotta venture out! Snorkeling is a MUST. The waters around Gili T are crystal clear, the coral reefs are beautiful, and you'll see turtles (guaranteed!). Do it, even if you're, like me, slightly terrified of the ocean depths. It's worth it. Rent a bike and explore the island. It's small, so you can cycle around in an hour or two. Find secret beaches. Watch sunsets. Swim in the ocean. There are yoga classes (which I swear I was going to attend, but… the balcony!), diving courses. There's a party scene too, if you're into that. I’m too old for it now, but I used to love a good beach party… Here’s a tip: Walk the whole island, and find your own little slice of paradise.
The Biggest Disappointment (and One Major Thing I Regretted)
Okay, honesty time. My biggest disappointment? The weather. It rained. A LOT. I went in the "dry season," I swear! The balcony views were still great during the storms, but… clinging to the railing as the wind howled was not exactly the chill, sun-drenched experience I envisioned. Bring a raincoat! And the major regret? Not booking a longer stay. Seriously. I only stayed for four days, and I felt that I was just settling in when it was time to leave. I wish I had a whole week! So, do yourself a favour, and book at least five nights. You'll thank me later. Really.
Would you go back? And why or why not?
Absolutely. Despite the rooster, the rain, the slightly-too-basic bathroom… I would go back in a heartbeat. The Gili Treehouse is magical. It’s a little slice of paradise, a chance to disconnect, to breathe, and to feel…well, truly away from it all. It's not perfect, no. But it's perfectly imperfect. It’s raw, authentic, and unforgettable. And who knows, maybe the rooster would be gone next time. Or maybe i'd finally embrace my inner yogi. Highly unlikely, but a girl can dream, right?
