Plataran Komodo Resort & Spa

At the risk of stating the obvious, there’s a lot more to Indonesia than just Bali. But a little farther eastward in the Lesser Sundas is the island of Flores, on whose western edge, just across the strait from the islands that comprise the rest of Komodo National Park — yes, that Komodo, of dragon fame — is Plataran Komodo Resort & Spa.

Even aside from the park, it’s a phenomenal location for a resort. Waecicu Beach is perfectly picturesque, and its oceanfront villas look out over the islands that rise dramatically out of the waters of the Flores Sea. Even the most basic villas are more than luxurious enough, and as you ascend the scale they quickly cross over into extravagance, adding private gardens, outdoor bathrooms, even private pools.

There’s a spa, a pool, and three restaurants: Xanadu, an open-air restaurant and bar, Atlantis on the Rock, perfectly placed for the ideal sunset view, and the Atlantis Beach Club, a short ride away on Pantai Pede beach. It’s just about enough to entice you to hole up at Plataran for the duration of your stay.

But to come this far — and this close to Komodo National Park — without getting out and about would be to miss the point entirely. Plataran can arrange an island cruise, a snorkeling or diving expedition, a swim in a saltwater cave pool, or a trip to see the famous Komodo dragons on nearby Rinca Island. You won’t get that in Bali, that’s for sure.