Place
Flores is Indonesia’s wild, unpolished gem, a rugged island where emerald hills meet pristine beaches. Far from Bali’s crowds, it’s got a raw beauty with volcanic lakes, sleepy villages, and tales of Komodo dragons. Think empty shores, coral reefs, and a vibe that’s equal parts adventure and peace. Perfect for those chasing off-the-grid magic, Flores feels like a secret you’re lucky to know.

How to Get There
From Bali, catch a flight to Labuan Bajo, Flores’ main hub, about 1.5 hours, tickets €40-80. Flights leave daily, book early for deals. From Labuan Bajo, rent a scooter for €5-10/day to explore nearby, roads are bumpy so ride careful. Buses or shared vans to inland spots like Bajawa or Ruteng cost €5-10, but they’re slow, think 4-6 hours. Boats to Komodo National Park run from Labuan Bajo, €20-30 for day trips. Walking’s fine in towns, just watch for uneven paths.

Where to Eat
Flores’ food is simple but hits the spot. In Labuan Bajo, grab fresh grilled fish or spicy chicken sate at a waterfront warung, €3-6 a plate. Craving something cozy? Find a cafe with bamboo vibes serving nasi goreng and coconut water, around €2-4. Night markets dish out bakso (meatball soup) or fried bananas for €1-2, cheap and tasty. For coffee, hit a shack with sea views, their kopi susu’s a steal at €1. Inland, try local rice dishes with chili sauce in Ruteng, expect €3-5.

What to See
Start with Komodo National Park, home of the legendary Komodo dragons. Guided tours cost €30-50, including hikes and snorkeling in pink-sand beaches. Kelimutu’s tri-colored volcanic lakes are a must, €1 entry, best at sunrise for misty views. Hit Wae Rebo, a traditional village with cone-shaped houses, about €10 for a guide and trek. For beaches, Koka Beach near Maumere is untouched, free, and perfect for a dip. In Labuan Bajo, climb Gili Lawa for insane island views, no cost but a sweaty hike. Don’t miss snorkeling at Manta Point, boat trips €15, if you’re lucky you’ll spot rays.

Flores is raw, real, and full of stories. Grab this stamp, chase its dragons, and let the island’s wild heart pull you in