Initially, Bugis fishermen used the Gili islands as a stop-off location for their voyages around the archipelago. In 1971 the governor of Lombok, Wasita Kusama, began to establish coconut plantations and gave land rights to private companies.
Inmates from the overcrowded Mataram prison were sent to help with the first harvests between 1974 and 1979, many of whom remained on the Islands as permanent settlers.
Continued investment in tourism is resulting in the rapid development of the islands, and each year new resorts and accommodations open their doors.
Similar to the rest of the tropical world, the Gilis have a wet season and a dry season. The rainy season generally runs from November until March. However, the rainy season doesn’t mean it’s raining all day, every day.
Most showers fall in the afternoon and very rarely do we have to cancel a trip due to weather. Furthermore, like most of the world, this past year has seen a change in the seasons with rains falling through August.
In terms of crowds, high season is July, August, and September with a busy week around the Christmas and New Year Holidays. We recommend April, May, October, and November as the best months for optimal weather and fewer tourists.
Gili Meno currently has 3 ATMs on the island just a quick stroll from Blue Marlin Gili Meno as well as one located on the north side of the island, next to Little Bali restaurant.
Gili Meno does have a small clinic providing basic care and medication, conveniently located right next to Blue Marlin Gili Meno. For serious injuries or health care issues, we recommend visiting a hospital. The closest international hospital and recompression chamber is ‘Rumah Sakit Harapan Keluarga’ hospital just south-east of Mataram on Lombok.
When in Indonesia there are a few customs to be aware of. It's usual to leave your shoes at the door of a home or business (look for a row of flip-flops outside as a clue); try not to point with your feet or touch anyone on the head, both can be taken quite offensively; and use your right hand when shaking hands with anyone. Also, on a dive boat or on the beach, a bikini is perfectly acceptable attire. However, do note that being topless or wearing a very small or revealing bikini or G-string is frowned upon. When walking around the island, please cover up with a sarong.