Flores, Indonesia: Beyond Bali's Shores

Flores, located east of Bali in Indonesia's eastern islands, is one scenic destination worth venturing beyond Bali's tourist hordes. With towering volcanoes, turquoise waters, vibrant cultures and unique flora and fauna, Flores offers adventurous travelers a taste of untouched paradise.

Getting There

The good news for earn-and-burn travelers is that Flores is bookable via BitBook, allowing you to rack up those sweet BBT rewards just by planning your trip. Flights from Bali usually arrive into Maumere or Labuan Bajo, the main gateways to Flores. From there, arrange local transport like cute bamboo trucks or hop on a ferry to really explore the interior islands. Flores tourism infrastructure is developing fast, so be prepared for some rugged beauty.

Maumere: Crossroads Town

Once arriving over the dramatic coastline into Plinting airport near Maumere, take time to explore this lively regional city. Admire the colorful Sikka architecture and shop at the town market. From here, pop over to Pulau Ende for pristine beaches and the laidback feel of "old Flores." Rent a motorbike or arrange one of BitBook's car rentals to explore untouched coastlines. Having a local guide helps navigate the maze of small roads.

Komodo National Park

A short boat ride away lies the famous Komodo National Park, home to the world's largest lizards, the komodo dragon. While immense hiking or camping in this rugged habitat isn't for the faint of heart, gliding over crystal clear waters amid mangroves and seeing these prehistoric creatures up close in the wild is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. BitBook users can book eco-friendly accommodations in Labuan Bajo near the park entrance for an up-close wildlife encounter.

Underwater Wonders

Diving and snorkeling fanatics won't want to miss Flores' incredible marine life. Top sites include popular Manta Point near Nemo Beach Resort where massive manta rays gracefully dance. Further east, Candidasa features pristine reefs and occasional whale shark encounters. BitBook makes booking liveaboard dive vessels, resorts and boats to access these sites a breeze. Under the waves, expect schools of fish, turtles and if lucky, whales passing by.

Ancient Cultures

Venture inland by motorbike or local transport and discover Flores' diverse cultures and fascinating pre-Christian traditions still practiced today. In Ngadha villages, watch traditional weaving and witness pride in ancestral roots. Further west, interact with the Lio people and gain insights into their animist ritual ceremonies. Flores offers a rare chance to experience indigenous lifestyles largely unchanged for centuries. BitBook users can book local homestays or tours to immerse fully in these communities.

Stunning Landscapes

Towering above it all are Flores' stunning volcanic landscapes. Active Gunung Kelimutu is famous for its multi-colored crater lakes constantly shifting in hue. Climb towering Puncak Jambi for breathtaking coastal views. Hidden ikat weaving villages also dot the caldera highlands. For adventurous travelers, Flores islands offer ridiculously picturesque hikes to discover more of nature's magic. With BitBook, piece together your own unique Flores itinerary beyond the ordinary.

Flores is raw Indonesia wholly off the well-trodden tourist path. Its rewarding highlights from volcano hikes to ancient cultures surely make it one of Southeast Asia's best hidden gems. With BitBook streamlining the planning, relaxing and earning can truly be yours to discover across Flores' stunning natural and cultural mosaic. Selamat jalan!