TimeOut, a renowned global media outlet headquartered in England, recently unveiled its compilation of the most enchanting small towns and villages across the globe. This unveiling occurred on the 4th of March 2024, showcasing a selection of 16 distinctive locales from various nations. Among the esteemed entries, Wae Rebo, nestled in Flores, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), claimed the notable second spot.
In TimeOut’s depiction, Wae Rebo emerges as a picturesque village of unparalleled beauty, captivating visitors with its awe-inspiring landscapes. Accessing this small village entails traversing mountainous terrain and lush forest trails, a journey spanning no less than three hours.
The iconic landmarks of Wae Rebo are the traditional Mbaru Niang houses, adorned with cone-shaped roofs, perched atop the village’s hills. These traditional abodes, scarce in number, are home to only six to eight occupants within each of the seven structures.
Crafted from sturdy timber, these architectural marvels boast roofs intricately woven from indigenous thatch. Notably, this small village claims distinction as one of Indonesia’s loftiest villages, situated at an elevation of 1,200 meters above sea level (masl).
The village’s elevated position engenders a breathtaking phenomenon, with wisps of morning mist enveloping the surrounding hills before gently blanketing the entire hamlet. Visitors to Wae Rebo are warmly received within a designated Mbaru Niang, where they are treated to the region’s signature Flores coffee as a welcoming gesture.
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Those inclined towards immersive experiences are welcome to extend their stay in Wae Rebo, with rudimentary bedding provisions available within the communal Mbaru Niang.
Moreover, the vibrant community of Wae Rebo, predominantly comprised of Minangkabau descendants, observes designated days for expressing gratitude. Notably, the Traditional Penti Ceremony, held annually in November, serves as a heartfelt expression of gratitude for the year’s bountiful harvests.
During these traditional festivities, villagers don traditional attire bedecked with intricate accessories, inviting tourists to partake in the cultural celebration. Prospective visitors are encouraged to align their travel plans with the festive calendar to partake in these enriching cultural experiences.
In addition to Wae Rebo, TimeOut’s illustrious compilation includes a diverse array of villages and towns from around the globe:
- Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany
- Wae Rebo, Indonesia
- Sidi Bou Said, Tunisia
- Carmel-by-the-Sea, United States
- Alberobello, Italy
- Esperance, Australia
- Ogmachi, Japan
- Grindelwald, Switzerland
- Kralendijk, Bonaire
- Stepantsminda, Georgia
- Guatape, Colombia
- Ilulissat, Greenland
- Banff, Canada
- Sapa, Vietnam
- Klaksvik, Faroe Islands
- Ghandruk, Nepal
