Vamana Resort

Buildings at this resort were crafted of bamboo, straw, and stone, helping to create a casual island look that sets the right relaxed tone for a stay here. The spacious open-air lobby has several wicker seating areas where guests can hang out to use the free Wi-Fi, read books from the shelf, watch TV, or just relax in the laid-back setting. A bar is adjacent to the reception desk, and guests are welcomed on arrival with a cold drink. The atmosphere is peaceful and quiet, especially attractive to couples, but it also draws families, groups, and individuals looking for an affordable and tranquil island getaway. 

This resort is nestled in 42 hectares of beachfront tropical gardens, about a 10-minute walk from Gili T's ferry jetty. It's surrounded by other hotels and restaurants. Most guests arrive on the island by speed boat from Bali or Lombok. The trip takes about 20 minutes from Lombok, and about a 90 minutes from Bali. Transportation on the island is only by foot, horse and cart, or bicycle; motorized vehicles are not allowed. The island is so small, guests can explore all of it in about an hour and a half by horse-drawn cart or bicycle. 

The resort offers pleasantly modern rooms and suites with bright Balinese touches, like lotus-relief lamps, that add a dash of character. Colorful modern art hangs on white walls, and red bed runners, pillows, and upholstered headboards accent white linens. Furniture comes in dark wood tones, and closet doors have bamboo accents that create a subtle tropical look. More bamboo is used to create walls on the terraces, which are furnished with bamboo chairs and tables. All rooms and suites come with flat-screen TVs, kettles for tea and coffee, and air-conditioning, but Wi-Fi is disappointingly not available in rooms (it is free in the reception area). Bathrooms are modern, with above-counter sinks and stall showers plus separate toilet cubicles. Hairdryers and toiletries are provided, as is hot water. Suites are larger and have sitting areas with sofas. 

This resort offers all of the basics needed for a relaxing island vacation, although it lacks a spa and fitness facilities. The open-air restaurant and bar is right on the beach, with sand underneath and a bamboo roof overhead. A free breakfast is served here each morning, with cold items and selections such as pancakes and eggs cooked to order. Room service is available. The outdoor pool is sandwiched between the hotel's buildings, but it's long enough for swimming laps and is surrounded by nice tropical greenery for ambience. There are no poolside lounge chairs, but a couple of tables with chairs provide seating. Cushioned lounge chairs and umbrellas are provided on the beautiful sandy beach, which is a great place to relax and watch the passing boats. In addition to the umbrellas, the trees provide shade, as does the restaurant roof. Snorkeling also is available on the beach, but snorkelers should be aware that there is coral in the water. Free Wi-Fi is provided in the reception area.