The Gili Islands consist of three small islands; Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno and Gili Air, located off the north west coast of Lombok. Gili Trawangan is the largest Island, has the most accommodation options, bars and places to eat, but it's also known for its party scene. Gilli Meno is smallest and least developed island and Gilli Air which is closest to the mainland is perhaps my pick and is known as the happy medium for tourists.

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​There are no cars, no mini buses and no mopeds on the islands, and so the only way to get around is by walking, by bicycle and in pony carts known as Cidomos, which is kind of nice. But, you need to be a bit organised if you want to holiday here with littlies and bring the essentials with you because there is no ducking off to the shops to get nappies, formula, baby panadol, etc. on the island.

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You will need to work out the best way for your family to get to and from the islands, being either via boat from Bali (Sanur, Amed or Padangbai) or a super short flight to Mataram from Denpasar and then a much shorter boat trip. Its worth checking the boat company’s safety credentials and ask about weather conditions and how that affects the boat trip at different times of year. Don’t worry, many families travel to this part of Indonesia. Check out the Gili Island site. Ask about life jackets for littlies too.