Discover Hidden Gems: Lay Low in Komodo, Southern Hemisphere August Escape
August in Komodo is simply perfect for unwinding. For someone with a less-than-stellar sense of geography, I was pleasantly surprised to realize upon landing that I had crossed into the Southern Hemisphere, which explained the delightfully cool weather. With temperatures hovering in the 20s during the morning and evening, lounging on a beach chair or by the pool while savoring the gentle breeze feels like the ultimate way to while away the hours [Cute R].
✈️ Transportation: The only downside is the long journey from Wuhan to Guangzhou, then to Bali, and finally to Komodo. All those transfers can be quite exhausting [Facepalm R]. Additionally, getting around the island can be a bit of a hassle; Grab is only available for motorbikes, and a taxi ride anywhere starts at 50 RMB.
🚢 Itinerary: I booked the Ohana one-day tour through Xiaohongshu, and it was a fantastic choice. The boat is brand new, and the captain prioritizes safety, constantly reminding everyone of the importance of staying safe and even providing lifebuoys for beginners. This tour is ideal for friends who aren’t strong swimmers but love the water.
We were incredibly lucky to spot 7-8 Komodo dragons and 3-4 giant manta rays, making the day truly unforgettable 💗. P.S: In August, Padar Mountain may look a bit bare, but it’s still stunning, and the pink sand beach is genuinely pink, perfect for some Instagram-worthy photos!
I also booked the Ayana sunset cruise, which is a bit pricier than other half-day tours, but it includes meals and features a resident DJ where you can order a variety of cocktails. The romantic atmosphere is top-notch, earning it full marks 💗.
🏨 Accommodation: Over six days, I stayed at three different places.
1. Meruorah: I chose this place for its convenience to the sea, as many people recommended it on Xiaohongshu. However, I would personally avoid it. The only positive is that the lobby looks nice.
1⃣️ Poor service: After getting off the taxi, my luggage was left unattended, and no one seemed to care.
There was a staff member at the front desk who was clearly free but made me wait in line. When I finally approached the desk, I had to wait again until someone who could speak Chinese helped me check in. They claimed they were fully booked and placed me in a room on the 2nd floor, right next to the elevator, with terrible soundproofing and constant noise.
2⃣️ Noise: I specifically booked a sea view room, but the sound from the mosque, although a bit quieter, was still noticeable. The nightly performances and the early morning boat sounds added to the disturbance, making it a challenge for light sleepers.
3⃣️ The biggest issue: The hot water was almost non-existent!
Since I was staying at this hotel for a one-day tour, coming back late and leaving early, I didn’t have the energy to request a fix. I had to make do with cold showers for two days, nearly catching a cold…
2. Ayana Komodo: I spent the last few days unwinding at Ayana, a decision made after my initial plans to book one of the offshore hotels fell through. Despite not having the best snorkeling spots, Ayana shines with its impeccable service and top-notch facilities. There’s a wide array of fun activities to choose from (though most come with a fee), making it an ideal spot for relaxation and rejuvenation.
PS: For those eyeing the offshore hotels, if you find them fully booked two months ahead, keep an eye out about a month before your trip; they often release additional rooms.
3. Bali Ambassador Hotel: As a transit hotel, I highly recommend it. It offers a comfortable and convenient stay, perfect for a quick stopover.
🍴 Dining:
1. Seafood Street: A must-try for seafood lovers! The steamed lobsters and prawns are absolutely delicious, though the dining environment is quite basic. For a better experience, consider taking your meal to go.
2. Taman Laut: This place is a feast for the eyes with its stunning cliffside views, but the food, unfortunately, falls short.
The Indonesian cuisine here is just mediocre, so it’s more about the ambiance than the taste.
3. Chill & Grill: An absolute gem! Both the grilled shrimp and steak are mouthwateringly good, especially the grilled shrimp – it’s a must-order! Don’t miss out on this culinary delight.
