7 Awesome Things to Do in Flores, Indonesia

Dragons cradle, home of the largest living lizard, a nearly fictive island with the beach of blushing pink shaded seashore, with locals protecting and sharing an experience of traditional norms of their local tribe. A humble place of raw beauty kept untouched, this is the blooming tropical paradise of Flores lying in the province of East Nusatenggara. Together, let us explore more about Flores as it reveals the spellbinding grandeur of its place, people, and traditions.

Check out some of the cool and cheap tours you could do in Flores.

7 Awesome Things to do in Flores, Indonesia

1. Witness the Caci Traditional Dance in Melo Village

Why is it one of the best things to do in Flores, Indonesia?

Caci Dance is a traditional performance of Manggarai, an ethnic group in the western part of Flores. An artistic whip fight dance performed with energetic twists and turns which at the same time represents philosophical values of sacrifice, sport, and solidarity among the group. Caci dancers wear distinctive and sacred costumes in their performance such as the whip, hood, their own Manggaraian sarong, bells, buffalo hair, and more. Dance has been a traditional performance being preserved and pass down to the younger generation of the tribe. Witnessing the actual performance of the local tribe is a simple way to understand the cultural identity of the people. Truly, this is one of the best things to do in Flores, Indonesia

2. Organic Foodie Experience in Melo Village

Why is it one of the best things to do in Flores, Indonesia?

By far, this is the most noteworthy food experience in my entire trip to Indonesia. The panoramic view of the island has an added factor to this experience. Lunch has been prepared right after the Caci dance performance and just by merely looking at our meal, it sure does look palate friendly and oh so yummy. The delightful freshness of each dish captured my own high standard of a perfect gourmet experience. No need for garnish whatsoever, from the prawns cooked with perfect savory up to the tastiest fried duck, every single meal was a delight on my palate. If given a chance to go back to Flores, I would definitely visit Melo village again and ask about their way of cooking. This experience is definitely a certified best thing to do in Flores, Indonesia.

3. Coffee break after lunch

Why is it one of the best things to do in Flores, Indonesia?

Full loaded after that wonderful feast of authentic food, it’s definitely a perfect time for a coffee break to loosen up a bit. Chitchat with folks, kissed by the crisp air of the mountain, and a cup of organic coffee made by the locals, is such a lovely way to spend the day. The coffee is so good that I brought them to the Philippines! You might also want to try their sopi, a traditional palm liquor, that keeps you warm like coffee but make sure to drink moderately. Drinks to keep you warm, overlooking the island of Flores, for sure this is one of the best things to do in Flores, Indonesia.

If you plan to further explore Flores, homestays and tours are absolutely available. For further info, please contact Sanggar Riang Tana Tiwa Liang Ndara, Kristoforus Nison: +62 852 3950 3379, or Stef Hasima: +63 821 4563 3638

4. Volunteer in Taman Bacaan Pelangi

Why is it one of the best things to do in Flores, Indonesia?

Tama Bacaan Pelangi or Rainbow Reading Gardens is a nonprofit organization providing children of remote areas in Eastern Indonesia access to good books. We were very fortunate to get an opportunity to take part in their volunteering activity, headed by the very inspiring founder of the said organization, Miss Nila Tanzil.

Children were gathered and all lined up in the open field as we approach the school area. Precious smiles, waving hands, and a feeling of excitement and wonder can be seen on their cute little faces. We were divided into groups and tasked to tell something or anything about ourselves. It’s a really fun activity, though I’m really shy speaking in front of a crowd, but to impart something in the minds of these little children on how reality works for a grown-up, it’s a great feeling. There’s even a question and answer portion right after each introduction, finding it amusing how these kids get curious about life, our profession, and even our age (haha!). No doubt, a day spent with the kids in Rainbow Reading Gardens is definitely one of the best things to do in Flores, Indonesia!

For further info (on how to get involved/donate books) please contact [email protected] or check out their Twitter and Facebook accounts @pelangibook and www.facebook.com/pelangibook

You may also visit their website kach.howe@gtravelgurus.com

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