Special Promotion: Complimentary sunset horseback riding for 2 adults during your stay at NiHi Sumba when booking with me. Only for the first 20 bookings! Please send your name, number of travellers, travel dates, length of stay and budget to booking@madelinelu.com.

When my family and I first decided to vacation at NiHi Sumba, I'll admit, we were a tad bit unsure. Two teenagers and their ever-adventurous parents jetting off to a remote island in Indonesia? It sounded like the plot of an exciting novel. Yet, our experiences surpassed any fictional tale.

Arrival: First Impressions

As our plane touched down at the Tambolaka Airport, the natural beauty of Sumba was evident. The vast expanse of greenery was a visual treat, and the air felt different - fresher and more invigorating. The excitement was palpable among us, a family of four with two buzzing teenagers eager to explore.

A representative from NiHi Sumba with a Safari style open jeep awaited our arrival, greeting us with warm smiles and refreshing fresh coconut water. The drive from the airport to the resort was nothing short of picturesque. Traditional Sumbanese villages with their iconic peaked roofs, children waving as we passed by, and the shimmering coastline in the distance gave us a teaser of what lay ahead.

Tree House Style Accommodation: Nestled Among Nature

Upon our arrival at NiHi Sumba, we were led to our unique accommodation - a stunning tree house style villa called Mamole Tree House. Perched high among the treetops, it provided breathtaking views of the ocean and the lush landscape.

Mamole Tree House is a harmonious blend of traditional Sumbanese architecture and luxury. The wooden interiors, the gentle sway of the hanging bridge connecting our three-bedroom villa, and the chirping of the birds right outside our window transported us into a world of its own. It was a dreamlike setting, making us feel both at home and in the heart of nature.

A Spa Safari: Journey of Rejuvenation

The highlight of our trip was the NiHi Sumba Spa Safari. Starting at dawn, we embarked on a trek through lush landscapes, passing by local villages and being greeted by the heartwarming smiles of the Sumbanese people.

To those who are curious, "Spa Safari” is unique spa concept developed at NiHi Sumba. It is an immersive experience where one gets to indulge in spa treatments while being surrounded by nature, often involving a journey or trek through scenic spots. At NiHi Sumba, the Spa Safari led us to a secluded bay. Here, amidst the tranquil sounds of waves and gentle breezes, we indulged in holistic treatments in the open spa hut. The therapists, with their expert hands, made sure we felt rejuvenated and relaxed. It was six hours of pure pleasure. Breakfast and Lunch were also provided at the Spa, with a breathtaking view to the ocean. The overall experience was a beautiful blend of nature, luxury, and well-being.

Swimming with the Wild Horses

The day began with the sun painting the horizon in hues of orange and pink. We headed to the pristine beaches, and to our amazement, a group of majestic wild horses trotted alongside the shores. Our team captain (personal butler) informed us about the unique experience of swimming with these creatures. With a mix of exhilaration and nervousness, we ventured into the water.

The sensation was like no other. Floating in the crystal-clear water with wild horses gently swimming around us was therapeutic. The teenagers, initially hesitant, soon became one with the waves, laughing and splashing around. This was nature, raw and real, and we were right in the middle of it.

Catching Waves: Surfing at NiHi Sumba

Post our morning rendezvous with the horses, it was time for some adrenaline rush. NiHi Sumba is renowned for its surfing experience. Though none of us were professionals, we couldn't resist the allure of the waves. With the guidance of expert instructors, we found ourselves balancing on the boards, riding the mighty waves of the Indian Ocean. The teenagers, with their innate agility, were up and catching waves in no time.

Sumba Foundation: More Than Just a Vacation

NiHi Sumba is not just about luxury and leisure; it's deeply intertwined with the ethos of the island. We learned about the Sumba Foundation, an initiative that works towards improving the lives of the local people. They focus on health, education, and water projects. The Sumba Foundation fit the bill, aiming to uplift the community.

Our family visited a local school that teaches kids English after school, which is part of the foundation's work. The smiles on the children's faces and the gratitude of the community members made our vacation feel purposeful.

Sumbanese Culinary Delight

NiHi Sumba prides itself on offering a culinary experience that tantalizes the senses. The resort’s primary restaurant served a blend of international cuisines with a twist of local Sumbanese flavors, using local ingredients and methods unique to this region.

One memorable evening was the Omakase at the Sushi Restaurant Kaboku. "Omakase" is a Japanese phrase that means "I'll leave it up to you," typically referring to a chef's choice sushi experience where the chef presents a series of plates, from appetizers to dessert, according to the freshest ingredients available that day. Set against the backdrop of the Indian Ocean, we were treated to an intimate sushi dining experience, curated by a master sushi chef. Each dish was a masterpiece, with the freshest seafood artfully paired with traditional sushi rice and accompaniments. From the delicate sashimi cuts to innovative sushi rolls, every bite was a revelation. It was a delightful fusion of Japanese precision and the bounty of Sumba’s waters.

Our overall culinary journey at the resort was unforgettable. From the breakfast spreads laden with tropical fruits and Indonesian delicacies to the beach barbecue nights, every meal was an exploration of flavors. The teenagers, with their adventurous palates, also indulged in local delicacies like spicy Sumbanese sambal and grilled skewers.

Turtle Release: An Unforgettable Encounter with Nature

One of the most heartwarming experiences of our stay at NiHi Sumba was the turtle release program. On a pristine evening, we gathered at the shoreline, where tiny sea turtles were making their way out of nests. These turtles, having been protected from predators by the resort’s conservation program, were ready to start their journey into the vast ocean.

Watching these baby turtles taking their first tentative steps towards the water was a moment of pure wonder. The sight of these tiny beings, with the vast ocean ahead, was a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of conservation. Our teenagers, usually engrossed in their gadgets, were completely captivated, reflecting on the larger lessons of nature and our role in preserving it.

Decadence at the Chocolate Factory

No vacation is complete without indulging in some delicacies. Nestled within the resort was NiHi’s very own chocolate factory. We embarked on a sensory journey, tasting a variety of handcrafted chocolates. From dark, intense bars to creamy, melt-in-the-mouth truffles, it was a chocoholic's dream come true. What made it special was the connection to the island, with every cocoa bean sourced locally.

Fishing: A Lesson in Patience

On our final day, we decided to embrace the age-old tradition of fishing. Armed with fishing rods, baits, and a bucket full of enthusiasm, we sailed into the deeper waters. And while it required immense patience, the joy of catching our first fish was unparalleled. With the help from the staff, we were able to catch several fish. The biggest catch was handed to the kitchen on our return. They cooked our catch over an open flame and served us for our lunch. And it was delicious!

To wrap up, our journey at NiHi Sumba was more than just a holiday. It was about bonding with nature, understanding the local community, and indulging in simple yet profound joys. It was a narrative of adventure, luxury, purpose, and togetherness that we, as a family of four, will cherish forever.