Lombok's most popular tourist destination, the Gili Islands started off as a backpacker. This is still true but times are changing and there are now a rash of glamour options on the islands, especially Gili Trawangan. The islands are a popular destination for Western tourists looking for a remote island experience. Each island has several small resorts, usually consisting of a small collection of huts for tourists, and a restaurant. Most local inhabitants live in the hilly interior of the island. Automobiles and motorized traffic are prohibited on the islands by local ordinance, so the preferred method of transportation is bicycle or the horse-drawn carriage called a cidomo. Diving in and around the Gilis is also popular, although the prices are fairly high due to local cartel activities. The name "Gili Islands" is a bit of a misnomer, because Gili simply means "small island" in Sasak.Gili Islands with white sand beaches are without a doubt better than anywhere on Bali or Lombok. There are increasing numbers of westerners living on the Gilis and operating businesses from dive companies to resorts and there is a strong environmental focus here as the reefs have ben damaged in the past. While once people came to dive, snorkel and party, a more upmarket tourist is showing up now and while it is still all about the beach, there are many more options to wine and dine or hang out and meet new friends. From west to east, the islands are:
* Gili Trawangan (sometimes Trewangan) or just Gili T is the most developed with plenty of backpacker options, one swanky resort and increasing numbers of villas. There are no dogs on the island but according to one local, there are more cats here than people.
* Gili Meno, the smallest and quietest, low-key with some simple places to stay.
* Gili Air, closest to the mainland and with the largest local population.