Cultural Tips

Muslim island

Indonesia has the world's largest Muslim population, including the people of Gili Meno. There is a mosque on the island, and because it is very small you can easily hear the prayers sung five times a day. As long as you accept it as part of your travel experience, being in contact with different ways of life, you will get used to it.

Tourist behaviour

People here are used to seeing tourists sunbathing on the beach in only a swimsuit, drinking and partying. Even if tourism is a big part of the economy, it is important to respect the inhabitants, their beliefs and lifestyle, the nature and the animals. Gili Meno is still a quiet island where the locals have lived in the same way for a long time.

If you are interested, we can show you how to make a difference by helping collect trash or supporting the locals who take care of the environment.

Indonesian people

Indonesian people are very friendly. They are raised not to show anger and to solve their problems peacefully, so be like them. Do not get angry when something annoys you: just breathe, explain the problem with polite communication, and everything will be alright. Also remember that not everyone speaks English, so maybe you can find other creative ways to communicate. In general, just use common sense while you are travelling and talking to people.

Some useful words