padar island

Out of all the pleasant surprises we encountered while cruising the Indonesian ocean, Padar Island was definitely a highlight. And even though it's a very prestigious location, I didn't know it by name, so when I saw it on our itinerary I didn't realize what we were about to see. In fact, it wasn't until I got to the viewpoint that it fully sunk in where I was. The night before we anchored the boat about an hour away, so the following day, in order to beat the crowds, we raised anchor before sunrise and ended up being among the first people there. And, as usual, the early wake-up was completely worth it. It is such an incredible place! And this photo is honestly just a small glimpse into the vast beauty of this spot. Some places that I've visited I can sort of check off the list and move on to the next place, happy to have seen it, but without the need to return. Padar Island is one I'm definitely leaving on the list and can't wait to see again.  
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"On earth there is no heaven, but there are pieces of it."
-Jules Renard