Lombokvibes.com, North Lombok – Gili Air has once again captured the spotlight on the international tourism stage. This small island nestled between Lombok and Bali has been named one of the seven best places to visit in Southeast Asia in 2025 by Travel+Leisure magazine.
In an article titled “The 7 Best Places to Visit in Southeast Asia in 2025,” written by Acacia Gabriel and published in early August, Gili Air ranks sixth and is praised as the best destination for relaxation.
The island’s main appeal lies in its peaceful atmosphere, free from motorized vehicles, natural white-sand beaches, and a growing number of wellness facilities.
For travelers seeking tranquility, Gili Air offers a soul-soothing experience. Popular wellness venues such as Flowers and Fire Yoga Garden, H2O Yoga and Meditation Center, and Lovely Spa have become top choices for visitors looking to harmonize body and mind while enjoying sweeping views of the blue sea.
Moreover, Gili Air provides easy access to nearby Gili Meno, home to “The Nest” underwater art installation by Jason deCaires Taylor, one of the most iconic snorkeling and freediving spots in the region. Around Turtle Point, visitors have the chance to swim alongside sea turtles in their natural habitat, further cementing Gili Air’s status as a world-class relaxation destination.
The island also offers a warm, welcoming local community and a tight-knit atmosphere. Eco-friendly accommodations, beachfront cafés serving healthy meals, and serene sunset views often persuade travelers to extend their stay beyond the original plan.
As part of the Gili Islands, Gili Air stands out for its balance between tourist amenities and laid-back island life, making it ideal for solo travelers, couples, and those seeking a private retreat.
Meanwhile, Amed, located on the eastern coast of Bali in Abang, Karangasem, also made the list as a top destination for diving and snorkeling. Though not as widely known as Bali’s southern beaches, Amed has long been favored among divers for its iconic sites such as the Japanese Shipwreck and Jemeluk Bay, which is teeming with colorful coral reefs.
From Amed, travelers can also visit sacred landmarks such as Pura Lempuyang, famously known as the Gates of Heaven. For dramatic sunset views, Lahangan Sweet and Sunset Point are favorite spots, offering breathtaking backdrops of Mount Agung.
Travel+Leisure’s 7 Best Places to Visit in Southeast Asia in 2025
Here is the complete list of the seven best destinations in Southeast Asia according to Travel+Leisure:
- Khao Sok National Park, Thailand – perfect for wildlife enthusiasts
- Cao Bang, Vietnam – ideal for off-the-beaten-path experiences
- Siargao, Philippines – top surfing destination
- Luang Prabang, Laos – for Buddhist heritage and cultural exploration
- Amed, Bali – best for diving and snorkeling
- Gili Air, Lombok – Southeast Asia’s top relaxation destination
- Penang, Malaysia – a haven of history and culture
Gili Festival 2025 to Showcase Local Culture in Style
Gili Festival 2025 is set to return with a more vibrant and special atmosphere. More than just an ordinary event, this year’s edition has been included in the Ministry of Tourism’s Kharisma Event Nusantara (KEN) calendar — bringing national attention to this exotic island in North Lombok.
The festival will highlight the richness of local culture, including the sacred ritual of Mandi Safar or Rebo Bontong, a traditional coastal ceremony believed to ward off misfortune. However, visitors can expect a more modern and visually engaging presentation — fresh, trendy, and made for today’s social media audience.
The North Lombok Tourism Office has partnered with the Regional Tourism Promotion Board to enhance the event’s promotion and presentation.
Ali Zulkarnaen, Secretary of the Tourism Office, emphasized the importance of thorough preparation due to the event’s inclusion in the national calendar.
“This festival is now under the spotlight at the national level, so we must prepare everything carefully. The role of BPPD is essential to ensure the event is attractive to tourists,” said Ali.
Harun Zaenudin, Chairman of the BPPD, stated that his team is ready to be actively involved on the ground, coordinating with local villages, business players, and the surrounding community.
“We’ll first request the draft event plan from Dispar. Then we’ll review it to see if there’s anything we can add to boost its market appeal. Our goal is for this event to be a success and to deliver a real impact,” Harun concluded.
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