Guests were abuzz as National Geographic Orion approached the city of Maumere on the Island of Flores, the “island of flowers”.

We were all transported on local buses to the village of Liangawo, the village of the hidden cave, where we were greeted by the gracious locals of the village. Songs, crafts, and dances were on display as guests made their way through a gauntlet of fanfare and happiness. Children waited in anticipation to join the celebration as guests were entertained with performances.

What really enhances a National Geographic-Lindblad Expedition is the appreciation of the connection with local communities and the willingness of our guests to engage.