Flores Day 1 : The Journey Begins

Flores Overland Trip, November 2011

This is my first trip to Eastern Indonesia. It's pretty shameful as I didn't have the gut. People are talking about the beauty of this region. Some part of me overestimate the situation. Is it safe? is it OK? Advise for traveller in doubt (including my self), just go packing and jump to wherever you are dreaming of. The only regret you'll have is you've forgotten to bring your own sheet. Nothing more.

And Flores is as beautiful as it is being told. Though it was a bit of hassle in the beginning. I booked ticket with Batavia Air. Just when I arrived at the airport, I got information this flight is no longer operating since 1st Oct. Damnn!! It is a big madness. The airport guy was very helpful to arrange the refund and find another flight. Thanks God it was exactly 2 seats available with Wings Air at 13.35. Fiuuuu... Relieved!! Maumere here we come!!

Wings Air with propeler

We arrived at Maumere nearly dusk and no chance to explore the city. Our tour guide, Vitalis, brought us straight to the hotel.  Simple resort over looking Waiara Beach: Sea World Club Beach Hotel. Very quiet.  Good matress and clean linen. Simple with quality. 

Cabin at Waiara Beach

How is Maumere looked like? Honestly speaking, I feel a bit scared. I don’t know how Flores people behave. Are they aggressive, unfriendly or after money? Oh.. some bad thinking behind my head. Again, our mind is very capable to overestimate it.

Dinner is served at the hotel restaurant. The are some local guys there and we exchanged a hello. Starting some simple conversation. Ha! They are very friendly, in fact! I asked who run the hotel. They introduced us to the owner. A German that.. goshh.. I forgot his name :p. We had a small talk about his wife who's now terrified because the bubble lamp at the front of their crib is dead. She's afraid of darkness. Sparks of love is there in his eyes. He said he's been living in Maumere for 52 years. He arrived on Catholic mission and that time Flores was still a jungle. People worshipped tree and animal. Sometimes, they sacrifice man or woman as part of God offering. Slowly they converted into Catholic and modernity. He runs the hotel as part of economic development. People gets civilized when they don't have to hunt for food anymore.

He loves Flores and never think to leave as the island has so much to offer. The people are nice, the landscape are gorgeous and interesting cultures are awaiting to be unfolded. I was carried out by his story telling and can't wait to witness it soon.  8 days overland Flores trip.. it's gonna be amazing ;).

Restaurant By The Beach

Silent morning

INFO:
The Hotel link: http://www.sea-world-club.com/