A big boat, a little boat, and a really small horse - 7/15

Yesterday, much of our day was spent getting to our next destination: a small island off of Lombok called Gili Meno. But, I think much of the joy of this experience is the journey itself, not just the destination. We had to take a big boat to an island called Gili T. The trip itself was rather rough, with waves occasionally showering the windshield of the large boat, spilling into the cabin.

Gili T looked like a great backpacker place with small Reggae-type bars along the coast where we ported. While sitting on the beach, I noticed that there was a little commotion on the little road. There was a group of about 8 police officers surrounding a tall Caucasian wearing a large sign around his neck that read: "I am a thief. I steal from people." The police apparently were parading him up and down the main road. I found this to be a rather interesting approach to dealing with crime.

We took a smaller speed boat to the island of Gili Meno. We put the luggage on our back and jumped into the water at the shore and scurried up the beach thick of coral. There were some nice resorts, and maybe a dozen people lounging in chairs gazing at the teal water roll onto the shore.

There are no automobiles on this island. Other than foot, the main means of transportation are little horses that pull little carts or carriages. One of the drivers of the carriages asked where we were staying. We shared that we were staying at the Nautilus bungalows. He informed us that they were on the other side of the island. Although it is only about a 30 minute walk, we opted to jump in the carriage with our luggage. I asked the driver along the way how many people live on the island. He quickly responded: 272.

We arrived at Nautilus which are quant little cottages right by the beach. After unloading, Tonya and I walked around the island some more investigating diving options. We had a fabulous dinner that included grilled grouper and prawns at a restaurant right by where we are staying called, "Marrillas". The food was fabulous, but the setting was equally impressive. Tonya and I sat alone in these little huts (that look like small raised platforms) that are positioned so they are barely within reach reach of the waves.

I learned that the island got electricity about 4 years ago.... An island of 272 people, with gorgeous beaches, friendly people, and, yes even Wifi. This is my kind of place.

Today we are going diving again. 

A view of Gili Meno island from our small boat 

Me in a little carriage with a even littler horse.  

Salt Lake on Meno Island