Komodo
Since my previous visit to Flores and Komodo Island, many remarkable changes have taken place. Over the course of ten years, the small town of Labuan Bajo has undergone significant development, now boasting an international hospital, numerous dive centers, a wide array of hotels and restaurants, and an impressive airport.
The diving in Komodo remains as awe-inspiring as I remembered. Expect to encounter stunning coral formations, frequent sightings of sharks, majestic manta rays, and captivating schools of fish. It's important to note that Komodo is primarily geared towards experienced divers, as the currents can be incredibly strong, particularly in North Komodo at sites such as Cauldron, Crystal Rock, and Castle Rock. Divers should exercise caution and feel comfortable navigating challenging conditions.
In terms of diving options, I wholeheartedly recommend choosing a liveaboard experience over day trips. Having personally tried both, I found that liveaboards offer several advantages. First and foremost, liveaboards allow you to be the first divers on the sites, ensuring an uninterrupted and immersive experience. Additionally, liveaboards offer flexibility in adapting to changing conditions, such as selecting alternate dive sites if currents prove too strong. On the other hand, day trips often result in crowded dive sites, as multiple groups arrive simultaneously.
In conclusion, I highly recommend Komodo as an affordable alternative to Raja Ampat. It offers a wealth of underwater wonders and provides a remarkable diving experience. To fully appreciate the destination, I recommend allocating at least five days on land as well. This will allow you to explore the captivating landmarks and natural beauty that Flores Island has to offer.
