Komodo dragons, ritual dances and local coffee at Indonesia's Ta'aktana resort
May 30, 2024
For a blend of rich wildlife, Indigenous culture, and wholesome coffee experiences, head towards the western coast of Flores, East Nusa Tenggara in Indonesia, where you get to experience all the above from the newly opened luxury hub, Ta’aktana in Labuan Bajo – a Luxury Collection Resort and Spa slated for opening end of this month
The resort Ta’aktana, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Labuan Bajo seamlessly blends modern elegance with genuine local allure, offering guests an immersive encounter that mirrors the essence of the nearby scenery and is designed for comfort, with Suites, Overwater Sea Villas, Family Villas, and 3-bedroom Mansion boasting state-of-the-art facilities and ultra-luxury amenities.
Part of Marriott International, Ta’aktana is an opulent sanctuary that embodies the deep link between tribal heritage and contemporary luxury. It is the perfect base for travellers to explore the vibrant and culturally rich Labuan Bajo through immersive experiences that promise to captivate and rejuvenate while indulging in world-class dining, spa treatments, and uninterrupted views of the ocean from the resort’s exclusive vantage points.
Labuan Bajo, spanning 13.79 square kilometres, is home to the Indigenous Manggarai people with a rich history of cultural exchange and maritime traditions. As the capital of the West Manggarai Regency, one of the eight major administrative divisions of Flores, Labuan Bajo is renowned for its maritime charm and offers an array of unique experiences. These include endemic Komodo Dragons, exotic islands, a rich cultural history, fresh seafood specialities, and one of the world’s few pink beaches. It also boasts the best sunset sports.
Komodo National Park
Komodo National Park is accessible from Labuan Bajo port by boat, with a journey time of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. It encompasses three larger islands: Komodo, Padar, and Rinca. These islands are home to the iconic Komodo dragons and are declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The park is also renowned for its stunning landscapes, including the panoramic Padar Island with its uniquely shaped hills and the clear blue sea views from the top, making it an ideal spot for landscape photography. The best time to visit the island is in the morning and afternoon between April and June.
The exotic Pink Beach of Komodo Island
Near Komodo Island, just 8.8 km away, Pink Beach is reachable within 30 minutes from Loh Liang port by boat. This beach, listed as one of seven pink beaches globally, owes its unique hue to tiny red coral fragments mixed with white sands, creating a striking pink shoreline.
Exploring the vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life through snorkelling and diving is a must-do activity here. Enhance the experience by taking leisurely walks around the island or climbing to the top of Sabana Hill, a unique feature exclusive to Pink Beach. As the beach is uninhabited, access is limited to daytime hours, from morning until evening.
Authentic flavours
Embark on a journey through the authentic flavours and aromas of Labuan Bajo, with a vast selection of Flores Coffee which includes Robusta, Arabica, Juria, Red Caturra, and Yellow Caturra. Each variant boasts a unique taste of two processing methods: machine processing or manual processing, with options for medium, medium-dark, and dark roast profiles.
To freshen up, take a sip of the signature Manggarai coffee, and enjoy the aromatic Arabica with sour and lemon notes, or Robusta which has a neutral flavour and a slight minty sensation. Ta’aktana features an exclusive Coffee Roastery where guests can delve into the world of artisanal coffee.
In the Roastery, skilled artisans roast every batch of coffee with meticulous care. Guests can observe the roasting process firsthand and learn about the various beans harvested from Flores. It’s an opportunity for coffee enthusiasts to explore and enjoy the authentic flavours of Labuan Bajo.
Exploring the cultural mosaic of Labuan Bajo
Labuan Bajo is a haven of cultural richness, showcasing the vibrant tapestry of the Manggarai Tribe, its original inhabitants. Among its cherished treasures is the Caci Dance, a ritual deeply rooted in ancient Manggarai culture. This traditional whip fight, accompanied by rhythmic music and intricate footwork, symbolises harmony and reconciliation, reflecting the unity of the local community.
