Sumba
Whilst many of the islands in Indonesia have accelerated and changed as the world has, Sumba seems to have carved out a space and timelessness all of its own. It’s a true slow travel destination, and certain to appeal to anyone looking to experience something akin to what Bali might have been like a few decades ago. Visits to traditional community villages are both enlightening and rewarding; breaking the ice is easy, and paves the way to unscripted cultural exchange. Limestone cliffs let you observe the surfer-friendly swell from up above, although booking into a luxury beach retreat on Nihiwatu Beach gives you access to those white sands and Indian Ocean sunsets from an even more exclusive angle.
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Three things to do in Sumba
Kodi villages
It’s a bumpy, unpaved ride west to the villages of the Kodi region. Driving into the village, the unique elements of Kodi culture are immediately apparent. Locals wander by wearing traditional Ikat clothing, some complete with impressive ceremonial swords. A handful of local kids might appear jumping, dancing and skipping alongside your vehicle; travellers are still a novelty here. Then you catch sight of one of the unusually tall, thatched houses alongside the ancestral stone tombs that you’ve heard so much about. The views over the Indian Ocean from this beautiful part of Sumba are stunning, but the opportunities to find out more about the traditions and rituals of Merapu culture are unmatched.
Surfers’ paradise on Nihiwatu Beach
Life’s a pristine, sandy beach in Sumba, and watching surfers ride the wild waves is certain to encourage even the most reticent of land lubbers to dip their toes into the Indian Ocean. Southwest Sumba, especially, is a real hot spot for surfers, but there are plenty of calmer stretches of coast where beginners can try snorkelling, sea kayaking or stand up paddle boarding. One such location that will really appeal to lovers of laid back luxury is the Nihi Sumba, on Nihiwatu Beach, next to Nihiwatu Rua village. This simply stunning private beach retreat encapsulates its tropical surroundings and allows guests to make the most of Sumba’s sumptuous west coast.
A road less travelled
Sumba is one of those rare places that’s still well and truly off the mainstream travel trail. The pace of life is slow – really slow – and although it can be a slightly rough and ready road to the west coast, once you arrive you’ll be treated to a timeless, sleepy, beachside ambience that’s akin to Bali ‘back in the day’. This is an island where you can trek through tropical forests and go horse riding over undulating limestone hills. Also, the birdwatching opportunities in Sumba are brilliant. Untouched areas of forest provide umpteen examples of endemic species, from flycatchers and hornbills to Apricot-breasted Sunbirds. If you’ve not brought your binoculars, borrow a pair as soon as you arrive.
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Inspiring experiences and places to stay…
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The Selective Asia difference
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Bespoke journeys tailored just for you
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Unparalleled local knowledge and expertise
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Award-winning, nose-to-tail service
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Responsible travel
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For us, travel is one of life's great privileges — one that should never be taken for granted. It’s about taking things slow — giving yourself time for thoughtful curiosity. Time to immerse yourself in your destination, get closer to the ground, and feel your way to greater understanding.
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