A good friend of mine spoke me into doing a series of Top 10 articles on South East Asia. I’ve been fortunate to go to almost all of the countries in the region now, so maybe a series of articles like this could be useful to someone out there. The first article will be on my Top 10 Islands in the region.
Indonesia
The Lesser Sundas: Lombok to Flores by boat
Catching a boat between these 2 islands is a super way of exploring the Lesser Sunda’s which are sometimes overlooked as a result of their difficult location. Would I do it again? Yes. Would I do it differently? Yes. Here’s why.
Kawah Ijen – such high hopes but the weather destroyed them!
The Ijen Plateau is home to a massive volcanic crater, complete with blue burning sulphur fires at night and a turquoise lake. It has all the critical ingredients to make the 1am wake up and hike worthwhile.
Gunung Bromo and the Sand Sea – massive Wow moment!
Mount Bromo is an active volcano in East Java – it is set within some of the most otherworldly landscapes I’ve seen. Technically, the vast area below the crater is called the Sand Sea (what a cool name) but it looks more like the landscape from an alien movie. Getting here wasn’t all fun and games though!
Yogakarta and Dieng – temples, craters and logistical headaches
I’ll be honest, the past week has frustrated me from a logistical point of view. I was guilty of seeing Java as an island, thus relatively easy to get around. I was so wrong. Java is not linear and the logistics are a pain in the arse. Nonetheless, I had a decent time in Yogyakarta and Dieng, with one or 2 other hurdles along the way…
Pangandaran – a hidden gem
Pangandaran is on the map as it’s where people come to learn how to surf. I’m not a surfer but came here to explore its natural charm and left today feeling completely fulfilled. From canyons, jungles, valleys, black sand beaches and abandoned shores, I love this place.
Jakarta – Sh1t.Hole.
Jakarta – that city that you’re warned about. Cautioned to get in and out as quickly as possible. Warned to watch out for pickpockets. Warned about the traffic, the pollution, the water. I took this all on board but wanted to see this place anyway. The advice was warranted…
Dinks in Transit 