The beautiful Islet of Angels: Relax

Wanna spend some time in a submarine paradise? Then charter a small catamaran and sail to the Pulau Bidadari (about 3 hours from where? but surely not the one at the Thousand Islands near Jakarta). The clearest and closest snorkeling is found off the white sand beaches here.

Good opportunity to swim and even for a dive! The reef of the coast has a big diversity of inhabitants, among them big tropical fishes. There is nothing else on this beautiful island, so bring water, titbits and refreshments and, sending you a great greeting from this paradise!

That's how RoyJava described the islet that become a hot political debate in recent days. Wish I knew that. Shame on me. Bidadari Island, located off the western coast of Flores in East Nusa Tenggara province, was purchased by a British citizen named Lewan Dosky at least three years ago, newspapers reported late last week.
(I was born in Manggarai Regency at the western tip of Flores Island. I left the island in 1986 without knowing how beautiful the neighbouring islets are.)

Lewan bought the 15-hectare islet from Haji Machmud, a Labuan Bajo resident, at Rp439 million (around US$43,000). But national media seems to be fooled. According to Detik.com, the names are as follows: Ernest Lewandoski and Kathleen Mitcinson. Ernest is the director of PT Reefseekers Kathernet Lestari. The company lease the 45 hectare islet (not 15 hectare) until 2035. So, it was not a buy-sell scheme like all the fuss in the media.
The island has become a key tourist attraction due to the availability of sea parks, which are rich in ornamental fish. Last year, two thousands visitors came to Bidadari.

But that's not the case with politicians and leaders in Jakarta. Jingo Nationalism. National security, etc. I don't want to jump on the wagon of debate. I simply want to share a light moment to enjoy mother nature's beautiful scenery, like the one I display above.
If you have enough time, travel agencies in Bali normally offers the Komodo Tour package with Bidadari Beach for snorkeling, swimming, sun bathing, and relaxation as part of the itinerary.
The famous sightseeing on Komodo dragon in Komodo Island is a must for those who love wild animals. Sometimes you could see the wild horses, buffalo, deer, and wild pig. But keep your eyes open as sometimes the young Komodo dragons are on the trees.
Last but not least, we, Indonesian, should thank Ernest and Kathleen who found the beautiful tourist attraction in one of thousands of ignored islands in the country. I heard, sadly, that one businessman desperately want to takeover the leasing rights from the English couple and he is the major force behind all of these nonsense fuss. Money talks!

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