After what felt like a frenetic few days in Java – Flores comes as a bit of welcome respite. Flores is one of the Lesser Sunda Islands, a group of islands in the eastern half of Indonesia – and touted to be the next big thing! As we arrive our driver tells us that there is a lot of development underway – and the evidence is clear with structural skeletons of very large resort hotels clearly visible on the horizon. We feel fortunate to be arriving slightly ahead of the curve – not a big fan of large resorts – and no doubt it will have a significant impact on the island.
For most, Flores is the gateway to the Komodo islands – with Labuan Bajo serving as the main port from which to explore the archipelago. Whilst there are plenty of activities to be had on the island – the vast majority are water based and the overland excursions require a minimum of a full days travel.
Fortunately, our plan in Flores is to do very little. Staying at the Plataran eco-resort we have no plans other than to swim, snorkel, kayak and paddle board (it’s a tough life). The resort is super relaxing, and with modest occupancy it feels like we are almost on our own island.
With the sea going out a long way around midday it’s the perfect opportunity to teach myself to paddle board with the reward of paddling over shallow reefs once successful. Think Jenn is somewhat disappointed that I don’t fall in!
The glass bottom kayaks are also a nice way to see the reef – and whilst the snorkelling is not spectacular, it is good fun.
Food is very good, staff are lovely and it’s a an easy place from which to watch the world go by. There are also tiny Sunbirds that are annoyingly difficult to photograph (doesn’t stop me trying) – imagine humming birds, but even more skittish.
We are due to leave in the morning for a three night cruise around the Komodo islands. Promises to be an interesting few days – not least because we are sharing a 27 meter traditional Indonesian Phinsi sailing boat with 12 other people! Having never spent a night on a boat, and with no idea who our travelling companions will be – it promises to be fun!
Excited about seeing the Komodo dragons (hopefully) and the scenery promises to be pretty stunning too!
Farewell internet for a few days! Glad that the result of the second test will be decided before we board – come on England!
Also home to Homo floresiensis
Good knowledge – I’m impressed – I had to look that up!