The Komodo Islands
The home of the legendary Komodo Dragon is somewhere most have often heard about but are not really too sure where it is or how to get there. There are 4 rugged islands where this rare creature can be found in Indonesia, 2 of which are visited by tourists: Komodo Island and Rinca Island. We don’t recommend staying on either island as the hotels are very basic, but instead advise that you stay in Labuan Bajo, the town you fly into on Flores Island, or sail around the surrounding phenomenal seascape aboard a private yacht – the latter of which is definitely the most relaxing and luxurious option.
Rest assured that while sightings of this otherworldly animal cannot be guaranteed, they are common on both Komodo and Rinca Islands, and thanks to the dry conditions of these spots, vegetation or flowers do not obstruct views. Monkeys and a vast array of birdlife can also be spotted here. The majority of people travel to these islands to spot the large lizards, but we wholeheartedly recommend exploring the vivid marine life here too, as the snorkelling and diving is some of the best in the world. Protected as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the nutrient-rich Flores Sea brims with a thousand species of fish and over two hundred types of immensely colourful corals as well as dolphins, manta rays and turtles.
Other natural wonders to be witnessed in this far-flung piece of paradise range from pink beaches and sweeping coves to spectacular sunsets and magical stargazing: complete and utter bliss. Choose between a variety of luxury boats: Alexa, Alila Purnama, Mischief, Rascal, Lamima, Dunia Baru, Silolona, and Alila Purnama. For the ultimate experience, Tiger Blue sits at the top of our list - ideal for both a romantic couples getaway or a family adventure holiday.
Features in the following itineraries
To my mind, the greatest reward and luxury of travel is to be able to experience everyday things as if for the first time, to be in a position in which almost nothing is so familiar it is taken for granted.
Bill Bryson