Journal Journeys: Tanimbar Islands
Feb 15th, 2010 by wwftravel
© Scott Bickell
Tour lecturer Kim Jane Saunders traveled to the Tanimbar Islands during a 2007 expedition. Here’s how she describes these stunning Indonesian islands.
“The turquoise blue waters that surround coconut fringed white coral beaches and atolls in this area envelop a wondrous array of marine life. Yamdena is one of the major islands in the Tanimbar group and the village of Sangliat Dol contains impressive megalithic remains. A monumental steep staircase leads to a natar, a stone boat shaped altar in the middle of the village square where all important events take place and sacrifices were once held. The ship symbolism represents the maritime past of the ancestors, and despite converting to Christianity the local community maintains many of their traditions, minus the headhunting.
“A truly warm and very colorful Indonesian welcome awaited us at Tanimbar. The local school children had been given the day off and greeted our arrival with melodious singing and dancing. Helping hands guided many to the hilltop village where we were officially welcomed with betel nut and other specially prepared local delicacies.”
Visit the Tanimbar Islands during WWF’’s Papua New Guinea to Bali expedition aboard the Clipper Odyssey, December 2-20, 2010.
© Zegrahm Expeditions. Reprinted with permission.
