Now is the perfect time to plan your next travel adventures so you have the perfect escapades when we can all travel again.
Bunaken Island, Sulawesi
Situated off the northern tip of Sulawesi, Bunaken Island is famed for the beautiful biodiversity found in its marine park. Touted as one of the best diving spots in Indonesia, the banana-shaped island is part of the Bunaken National Marine Park, which extends over an area of 890sqm and includes neighbouring islands such as Manado Tua, Mantehage, Nain and Siladen.
Under the ocean’s calm waters, divers and snorkelers are treated to colourful marine life with 70 different types of coral, five species of sea turtle, 70 percent of all fish species that exist in the Indo-Western Pacific Ocean, dugongs and much more. Above the water, Bunaken National Marine Park offers great sights, including the volcanic Manado Tua as a gorgeous backdrop.
Where to Stay
Siladen Resort & Spa is a peaceful boutique dive resort on Siladen Island that offers guests exclusivity and comfort. Located on the western side of the island, staying guests are invited to relax after a dive on its 300-metre white sand beach facing Manado Tua volcano. Fully equipped with the facilities and amenities of a luxury resort, this lodging allows travellers to fully enjoy the surroundings.
Another great option is Kuda Laut Boutique Dive Resort, which is found in the centre of Bunaken National Marine Park. Built in 2017, the boutique resort has beautiful views of Bunaken and the north Sulawesi coast. With only eight cottages and four superior rooms, attentive service is a benefit for every guest.
How to Get There
Manado is easily reachable with daily direct flight from many of the bigger cities in Indonesia, as well as places such as Singapore and Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia. Bunaken National Marine Park is only 60 minutes by boat from Manado. Many resorts in the area can also arrange your trip.
Labuan Bajo, Flores
World-renowned as the location of Komodo National Park and the always inviting pink beaches, Labuan Bajo offers travellers the chance to experience some of the world’s more unusual wonders. On land, the island provides travellers with the most enchanting views through its many undulating hills. Komodo National Park is listed as one of UNESCO’s World Heritage sites and gives visitors the chance to get up close with the world’s oldest animal. Consisting of fascinating wildlife both on land and underwater, the park is surrounded by many small islands, including Rinca and Padar.
More than just a great place to meet the komodos, Labuan Bajo also offers unspoiled beaches and magnificent sunsets, while Padar Island and the Pink Beach are often featured on social media. With an outstanding panorama, it’s no wonder Labuan Bajo is one of Indonesia’s best holiday destinations.
Where to Stay
While there are many lodging choices, our two favourites offer the complete package. AYANA Komodo Resort, Waecicu Beach is the only five-star luxury accommodation and features 13 suites and 192 premium guest rooms that offer breathtaking views of the surroundings. For something more exclusive, AYANA also offers life on board a phinisi with AYANA Lako di’a. With nine comfortable suites, this is an elegant cruising experience that can take in many of the islands around the Komodo area.
Plataran at Komodo is also a great choice. This tropical beachfront paradise is a secluded resort for sun-kissed days of relaxation. Travellers are invited to luxuriate in private villas that blend luxurious comfort with Javanese style, while the resort’s dedicated boat will take guests island hopping to some of the most remote islands for an unforgettable experience.
How to Get There
Labuan Bajo is accessible by air, land and sea. There are daily flights from many Indonesian cities. A flight from Bali takes less than an hour, after which you need to continue by boat to the neighbouring islands.
Sumba, East Nusa Tenggara
Famed for its world-class surfing and unspoiled natural beauty, Sumba is one of Indonesia’s holiday destinations that offers both exclusivity and comfort. Away from the famous black sand beach, the landscape is great for adventure seekers with plenty of jungle, waterfalls, lagoons and savannah. Herds of horses are often found playing on the beach.
Where to Stay
Nihi Sumba has been voted The World’s Best Hotel and offers an exclusive retreat along with exclusivity. A haven for the adventurer and the wanderer, Nihi Sumba consists of 28 uniquely designed villas with private pool, as well as a full range of facilities.
Lelewatu Resort is also another luxury option to truly experience the beauty of Sumba. Located on one of the world’s most picturesque islets, Lelewatu Resort is a sanctuary surrounded by lush rainforest on a magnificent clifftop overlooking the Indian Ocean.
How to Get There
Sumba is accessible by air, land and sea. The easiest way to visit this beautiful island is by taking one of the daily flights that depart from Denpasar to Sumba’s Tambolaka Airport.
