Villa Almarik

The snorkeling just across from the hotel was a real highlight: plenty of turtles, plus coral and lots of fish if you swim farther from shore. On the property, it was calm and peaceful behind the gates. We chose an upgraded room and were pleased with it. The hotel has beach umbrellas and loungers, and we enjoyed getting massages there too. We often had breakfast at the cafe and sometimes lunch; the food was good, and ordering breakfast à la carte was handy. A pizzeria is supposed to open soon, which I imagine will be tasty. We've been here nearly three weeks, and the kind, responsive staff have made our vacation even better.

I only stopped in briefly for a beer, but paying for it turned into an uncomfortable mess. As I was leaving, I was told for the first time that card payments below 100,000 IDR weren't accepted and that I needed cash. I had none on me, only a card on my phone, and felt caught off guard. They initially said the machine wouldn't take it, but when I explained I truly had no cash, they tried anyway and the payment went through. Customers, especially tourists, should hear about restrictions before ordering. I wouldn't recommend the place to tourists when nearby businesses are clearer about payment and take cards without this kind of hassle.

The beach is right out front, with snorkeling gear for hire and coral, fish, and even turtles to see. If you're a confident swimmer, you probably don't need to book tours. Almarik is also just a 10-minute walk from Port and close to lots of good restaurants. I loved the spacious, clean rooms and firm beds, which were great for a good night's sleep after being active. The staff were lovely, and the cats are adorable. I can see myself making Almarik my regular spot on Gili T. It's a good choice if you want to be away from the noise.

The Premier Rooms are probably the best on Gili T, and the location is hard to beat, right by Turtle Point and away from the busy harbor. There's a nasi padang shop nearby too. The food here is so-so, but fine; I'd eat at the island's various stalls and restaurants.