Hey there! If you’ve been diving in Koh Tao, I’d go to the Gilis. They are on a similar level in terms of diving experience needed and underwater “wow” factor, but very different in terms of the kind of diving and the topside vibe. For example, you’ll see MANY more turtles in Gili. Check them both out and then you can keep going back to your favorite! Here’s a post on the cost of living in Gili Trawangan, for a bit more background.

I’ve done my Advance Open Water certification from Bans (Koh Tao). I am planning to go diving again In March 2018 with a bunch of 10-12 (all certified). Just wondering if going back to Koh Tao makes more sense as compared to the Gilis.

How’s the prices at Gilis like? Which place has a better sea-life diversity between the two?

What would you recommend?

Hey Sue! No filter, but I do put my camera on the underwater setting (Canon has one specifically for diving and free diving!) It adds lots of reds back in. Hope that helps!

I know you use a canon 100, just wondering if you’re using a filter under water when taking the pictures?

Thanks, great blog!

Hey there! Unfortunately I haven’t spent any time diving in Lombok, so I can’t comment on that. However with 40 dives you will be well prepared for the vast majority of the dive sites at Gili Trawangan! Most are very simple, calm and easy drift dives. Enjoy your time underwater!

Hey Aiza, unfortunately I’m not familiar with that hotel. Perhaps ask them for a recommendation? The island is quite small so as long as you’re in the same general direction you’ll be fine!

Thank you in advance

Hey Sarah, unfortunately Gili Trawangan is really small and all the dive sites are more or less an extension of each other. However, I can reassure you that the sharks you’ll see are small and super harmless — they’ll swim in the other direction as soon as they see you!