Climbing an active volcano.

15th+16th Jan 2020

Today, I flew to Flores (East Nusa Tenggara), to the city of Maumere. In the morning, I talked to Albert, a Dutchman, who had the same plan. I left my big luggage here at the hostel in Bali. So, I only carried hand luggage with me to the island.

Actually, I had planned exactly how the days here in Flores should go. Upon arrival, I explored Maumere. However, there was a 'sister' celebrating her birthday at the hostel. The majority of the island is Catholic, which can easily be seen from the many churches and cathedrals in every small village. They shine in various colors. I have never been so fascinated by churches and cathedrals before. Everyone on this island is brother and sister to each other, not really, but as a sign of community.

Anyway, I had something to eat and a beer first, followed by 15% alcoholic wine and then 40%. It was a lot of fun, but my original plan was no longer feasible. No matter.

In the evening, I went to a restaurant. The funny thing is that Albert, the Dutchman from Bali, saw me and also came to the restaurant. We made plans for the next day, after we went to the birthday party again.

Next day: Together with Albert, we went to Mount Egon, an still active volcano. It was quite steep and exhausting at some point, but it was totally worth it. The view and seeing the steam for the first time on a volcano, indescribable. Then, we rented a scooter for the next few days. The plan was to drive from Maumere in the east to Labuan Bajo in the west. In the evening, we had dinner at the food market.