Gili Meno Eco Hostel

It’s a little farther from the boat landing than some places, which made it quieter. Friendly staff and working Wi-Fi made for a pleasant stay, and the showers had low pressure but were perfectly adequate. The beds are in small cabins, some raised up to the tree line. A few have a lovely ocean view right from bed. Recommended.

The staff made me feel welcome and part of the community straight away. I found the stay relaxed and down to earth, and it helped me recharge after the rush of travelling. Just know that it’s very eco, including the showers and bathrooms, and sometimes there’s no electricity, which also means no cold drinks. If you’re okay with that, you’ll have a great time.

The bar area is cozy, with hammocks, beanbags, evening lights and reasonably priced drinks. Breakfast is included, a couple of pancakes with chocolate sauce and banana, plus coffee or tea. For sleeping, you can pick a shared bunk room or a more private room for two, either at ground level or in the stilt houses. The walls are bamboo and sarongs. Bedding comes with sheets, a towel and mosquito net, though some nets have small holes. Showers are cold water only, but you get used to them, and the toilets are compost based. It’s an affordable eco hostel that does a good job of combining sustainability with a comfortable guest stay.

You can get a sense of Indonesian daily life here, and it felt like a great, authentic experience to me. The place is open and natural, with the beach just a short hop away. It suits you if you’re happy to walk barefoot, get a bit dirty and do without some comforts. If you’d rather spend your time on Wi-Fi than with other people, or don’t like stepping outside your comfort zone, one of the resorts down the road may suit you better.