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There are so many incredible islands in Asia, but the continent’s tried and tested holiday destination has long been Bali, Indonesia’s shining tourist star.
Bali is one of those destinations that gets people going!
Some love it, some hate it, but it’s hard to be ‘meh’ about it.
Far from it Eat pray love Portrayal, this beach icon has undergone many changes over the years and continues to do so, while annoying both locals and tourists who can’t seem to find a common ground.and how to share the treasures of this magical paradise.
Sure, there are still some great places to visit in Bali, but you can often find as many complaints as compliments from Bali’s seemingly endless vacationers these days.
But what if there is a more idyllic place without the Bali chaos on another Indonesian island?
There is. That would be the emerging island Sumbaboastful lavish resorts and pristine tranquility.
Discover the pristine island From Sumba
The amazing island of Sumba offers visitors pristine coastlines, lush forests and tranquil resorts waiting to be explored.
Doesn’t sound like Bali anymore, does it?
This contributes to the fact that local islanders proudly display their heritage through music, dance and art, which is also not taken for granted like Bali’s many annoying fist-pumping beachgoers.
Here in Sumba you will find pure tranquility among vibrant blue water beaches and lagoons and soft white sand that you can have all to yourself, unlike Bali where sharing is not always insignificant.
Swim in lagoons, sunbathe on white sand or snorkel above coral reefs in Indonesia’s new paradise.
One category that Sumba beats hands down is surfing, simply because you don’t have to share the beautiful waters with anyone else.
Sumba is easily accessible from both Jakarta and Bali, so you can compare Indonesian beach getaways for your own comparison.
But here’s a spoiler alert: Sumba will most likely become your new favorite island with so much more authenticity and open space.
To find out for yourself, book a flight with Wings Air or NAM Air for the fastest arrivals. There are ferries that serve Sumba, but they are slow burning.
Travel tip: Weekuri Lagoon is one of the most beautiful places on the island. The mixture faces both sea and lake water and ensures perfect swimming conditions all year round.
Find the exit from your Bali Beach Club and discover the lavish resorts of Sumba!
One of your best options for a luxurious beach stay is fabulous Nihi Sumba, home to 27 lavish villas and the unique experience of horses running free on the beach.
This in itself is Sumba’s claim to fame as a ‘tourist destination’, but there are more to come, including the recent addition of Cap Karoso.
This new beachfront boutique hotel even has an organic farm, backed by Michelin-starred culinary creations, including savory Sumba staples like Mie Goreng.
Not to mention a ‘Beach club‘ are in themselves much more relaxing than what you typically find in Bali these days as there are more and more tourists looking for less crowdsand best of all, you don’t have to be a resort guest to visit.
While it’s hard to pass up such luxurious digs, Sumba isn’t just a lush island ready to suck up your bank balance.
Although, reports of the A-listers making Sumba their new extravagant holiday destination, such as Ed Sheeran, David Beckham and even Oprah, certainly appeal to the temptation.
The island is certainly making a name for itself as a premium alternative to Bali, but don’t think this is the kind of place where you’ll park your butt on the beach all week – there’s so much to explore beyond the beach villas!
Waterfalls, beaches and enormous culture: What to do in Sumba
There is plenty to do and see when visiting Sumba, from exploring natural wonders to learning about the daily life and customs of traditional villages.
Starting with the latter, tourists can book a tour where they hop to villages to support the textile culture of the Sumbanese communities, also known as Kain Tenun.
Here you’ll move from village to village, eating, laughing and learning about deep-rooted traditions, while enjoying breathtaking landscapes and incomparable events, such as the Pasola Festivalin which the tribal wars of the past on the island are simulated.
In addition to the island’s immense culture, there are also countless natural wonders to enjoy, from postcard-worthy beaches to waterfalls.
The most sought after waterfall is Lapopulocated in the western regency of Sumba and completely safe for swimming.
The best beach to visit is Mandorak, where the otherworldly blue waters feed the aforementioned Weekuri Lagoon.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
The opinions expressed here are solely those of the author, and not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included in the post.
