Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Sleeping
RESORT
Nunukan Island Resort $$$
( 0542 594 655;
www.nunukanislandresort.com
; r per person incl full board s/d €127/
190)
This island is surprisingly different from its sister. The resort is built on the
blackened remains of a reef that resembles a razor-sharp lava field. All common areas are
up on stilts, with boardwalks between them, a design that is uniquely attractive. The
private beachfront bungalows are very luxurious, with four-poster platform beds and in-
ventive showers with one-way windows on the sea. The reclining sofa on the large porch
will hold you for hours, particularly when the stars are out. There is also a small spa with
a dipping pool perfectly situated at the base of a long walkway leading to another islet, yet
to be developed. A dive is €32.
RESORT
Nabucco Island Resort $$$
( 0542 593 635;
www.nabuccoislandresort.com
;
r per person incl full board s/d €127/
190; )
When you get off the dock at Nabucco, the sign says 'Welcome to Paradise' and
this charming little island really does fit the bill. Located in the Maratua lagoon, it has in-
teresting views in all directions and well-kept parklike grounds with swaying palms,
boardwalks and white beaches, all of which can be circumnavigated in 10 minutes. The
large, varnished duplex bungalows come with mosquito nets and each one faces the sea,
with shared porches. The Asian fusion food is outstanding. Almost everyone is here for
the diving, but a snorkeller would fit right in. Dives are €41 each, and courses are avail-
able.
PULAU KAKABAN & PULAU SANGALAKI
These two undeveloped islands beyond Maratua are begging for exploration. Pulau
Sangalaki is pretty and unspoiled, all forest and deserted beaches, with a sea-turtle nursery
(
www.turtle-foundation.org
)
open to visitors. Pulau Kakaban is known for its freshwater
lake full of non-stinging jellyfish. Travellers speak highly of the eerie experience of swim-
ming among them.
