From Manado to Gili Trawangan: A New Chapter in Paradise | by Priskiliajacob | Sep, 2025
How a sailing trip helped me make the biggest move of my life
Hi, I’m Priskilia 👋 Originally from Manado, I recently made a big move to Gili Trawangan for work even though I didn’t know anyone here. Before moving, I spent time sailing around Indonesia with my partner, exploring different islands, watching sunrises from the boat deck, and sleeping under the stars.
When we arrived in Lombok by boat and visited Gili Air, I just fell in love. The turquoise water, white sand, and relaxed island vibe made me think, “One day, I want to live on one of these Gili islands.” That moment stayed with me, and it inspired me to take the leap and start a new chapter on Gili Trawangan.
Now, life here feels like a mix of work and vacation 🌴 mornings at work, afternoons exploring the island, and evenings enjoying sunsets by the beach. I love writing about travel, lifestyle, and what it’s like to start fresh in a new place.
Moving far from home is never easy. I grew up in Manado, surrounded by family and friends, and suddenly I found myself on Gili Trawangan, an island where i didn’t know a single person. it was a big decision and honestly a little scary. But living here has felt like stepping into a vacation that never really ends.
When I first got the offer to work here, I hesitated. Gili Trawangan sounded beautiful white beaches, clear water, sunsets but it also meant leaving Manado, my family, and everything familiar.
What finally gave me courage was a sailing trip I joined before moving. We spent days on the ocean, stopping at small islands, watching sunrises from the boat deck, and sleeping under the stars. Out there, surrounded by nothing but the sea and sky, I realized how big the world is and how many experiences are waiting if I just take the chance. That trip reminded me that life is meant to be explored, not lived in one comfort zone.
So when the opportunity came, I packed my bags and said yes even though I didn’t know anyone here.
Arriving on Gili T felt like entering another world. No cars, just bicycles and horse carts. The air smelled of the ocean, and everywhere I looked people were walking barefoot and smiling. I remember thinking, “This doesn’t feel like work it feels like a holiday.”
Of course, it wasn’t all easy. At first, I felt lonely and out of place. But slowly I met people, found my favorite warungs, and started to enjoy the rhythm of island life. Work during the day, sunsets on the beach after. Sometimes I still can’t believe this is my everyday routine.
Leaving Manado taught me to be braver. I discovered that even when you move somewhere unknown, you can still find a sense of home. And the best part? That “home” can look like turquoise water, sandy beaches, and nights filled with music by the sea.
For me, Gili Trawangan is more than just where I work it’s a place that reminds me to slow down and enjoy life. If you ever get the chance to visit, I hope you feel even a little of the magic I’ve found here.
