In Search of Dragons (Indonesia Spring Break Part I)

The island of Komodo has forever been one of those fictitious-sounding place names that are so often thrown around in conversation - like Timbuktu or Sheboygan - that  people don't know if they're actually real or not.  This one takes on an additional mystical feel, as it's associated with the large lizards that share its name.  Regardless, Komodo was one of those imagined places I never dreamed of being able to visit, and I made it my mission to get there when I realized I could!

Located west of the island of Flores in the Indonesian archipelago, Komodo National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, devoted to the conservation of the unique and enormous monitor lizards (Varanus komodoensis) that inhabit it.  Easily growing to lengths of more than 2 meters, these giants can reach speeds of up to 20 km/hr for short distances and are know to hunt small deers that also reside on the island.  For these reasons a guide and permits are required to visit the island.

The only way to get there is by boat and the best jumping off point (and nearest airport) is in the town Labuan Bajo, on the northwestern edge of Flores. Many tour operators run day-trips out of offices along the main road so booking in advance isn't a necessity, especially on a flexible schedule.

On the way to and from the island, stops at Padar Island - with it's unique topography and beaches of three colors - and snorkelling hotspots are beautiful detours on the long over-sea journey.

Pulau Padar with views of the pink beach, black beach,
white beach...and my developing sunburn.

It's alive. I know this because it lurched at the guide shortly after taking this photo.
Thankfully my phone was okay.

As our group was preparing to depart from the beach, this beast demonstrated
the dragons' impressive land speed by chasing after a small group of deer grazing
on the grass near the shore. In situations like this, its not uncommon to size up
your fellow travel companions to ensure you're not the slowest one...