If you’re spending some time in the beautiful Gili Islands, why not make your stay even more meaningful by learning a bit of the local language?
Learning Indonesian in Gili is not only fun — it also helps you connect with local people, understand the culture, and make your travel experience richer.
Why Learn Indonesian?
Bahasa Indonesia is one of the easiest Asian languages to learn. The grammar is simple, and the pronunciation is straightforward. With just a few lessons, you can start having basic conversations like ordering food, renting a bike, or chatting with locals on the beach.
Here are some examples of useful phrases:
- Selamat pagi! — Good morning!
- Berapa harganya? — How much is it?
- Saya suka Gili! — I love Gili!
- Terima kasih — Thank you
Even a few words can make locals smile and open doors to genuine friendships.
Where to Learn Indonesian in Gili
On Gili Air, you’ll find several private tutors and language schools offering Indonesian lessons for foreigners. Many classes are flexible — you can study in the morning before snorkeling or in the afternoon after work. Some teachers even offer lessons in cafés or by the beach!
Popular options include:
- Private tutors — Perfect if you want a flexible schedule and personalized lessons.
- Group classes — Great for meeting other travelers and practicing conversation together.
- Online lessons — Continue learning even after you leave the island.
Learning with Locals
The best way to improve your Indonesian is to practice every day. Try speaking with locals in markets, cafés, or while renting a bike. Don’t worry about mistakes — Indonesians are friendly and happy to help you learn.
You can also join local activities such as cooking classes, volunteering, or simply hanging out with islanders. Language and culture always go hand in hand.
Make Your Stay More Meaningful
Learning Indonesian in Gili is not just about words — it’s about connection. You’ll discover the warmth of Indonesian culture, the meaning behind local expressions, and a new sense of belonging.
So, while you enjoy the turquoise water and white sand, take the chance to say “Selamat datang di Gili” — and mean it from the heart.