Tag Archives: banda-neira

The Banda Islands: From tragedy to tranquil tourist attraction

Nusantara Travel Services Posted on by

The buildings lining its flower-filled streets comprise some fine examples of gracious, old colonial architecture, many now crumbling under the pitiless tropical sun. On a plateau above Banda Neira is the pentagonal-shaped Fort Belgica. Built in the 1620s, this massive fortress has survived numerous earthquakes, yet is in fairly good condition. Climb up to one of the towers for a sweeping view of Banda Neira, the sleepy harbor, nutmeg groves and looming volcano that erupted as recently as 1988. There are a lot of things to see in Banda Neira for those looking to step back into the past, when … Continue reading →

Banda Islands: Portal into another world

Nusantara Travel Services Posted on by

There is a lot to see in the Banda Islands, a place that can bring any visitor back into the past. The sky is a grey wash. Dark clouds hang low and ragged over a silver sea. Wind whips up white caps ahead of a storm, and sheets of rain are drawn like curtains across the water, smudging the line between sea and sky. Beneath the water, coral gardens cover the steep slopes and walls. Pink fan corals wave in the currents, blue-tipped staghorn, pale pink barrel sponge, blue coral, plate coral, patches of branching fire, brain coral, feather stars; … Continue reading →