Remember a while back y’all when I touched on the Free Papua Movement? While I ain’t one to push no political agendas, I did find it mighty interestin’ durin’ my research on the West Papuan tribes that a couple called The Lani Singers be livin’ under asylum somewhere in Great Britain ‘cause they were activists for the movement. It ain’t a new thang, it be happenin’ for decades in many of the world’s poorer countries. Well, y’all – ‘nough ‘bout that. I’m gonna shelve the Tribes for a while, seein’ as I don’t want ya all gettin’ bored on me. There always be time to revisit the subject again.

I have written many pieces about Sorong, thinkin’ it be the capital of West Papua because it be the largest city in the area, but y’all, I be wrong! Yeah, y’all can gasp in mock horror…LOL

Turns out Manokwari be the place, and by golly, it be another place that must be on any ‘Visit West Papua’ vacation itinerary. There are beautiful beaches, mountains, places t’ eat (‘n boy, don’t I love that?), ‘n even an archeological site called Tapurarang.

Now, I ain’t gonna lie, I’m not big on the idea of ancient artefacts (maybe because I be a kinda relic myself) ‘n such, but I totally get why some people go bananas ‘bout it. I mean, if I got a free vacation to Egypt, hell, of course I’d be goin’, but if I’m payin’ my own way, then I wanna spend time enjoyin’ local food, lazin’ on white (or even pink) beaches, ‘n immersin’ myself in the local way of life. I think that be why I’m so caught up with trekkin’ through the jungle to meet at least one of the West Papuan tribes.

So, let’s talk ‘bout some of the epic beaches in Manokwari, like Maruni Beach. What is it about white sand that makes a place feel extra special, huh?

Maruni Beach be an excellent spot for photo ops, so be sure your battery is fully charged. Like some of the other beaches I ‘ave written ‘bout before, Maruni also has white sands. With the Indonesian government doin’ their thang, ‘n updatin’ the infrastructure, gettin’ to the beach ain’t gonna be too difficult, but y’all, it might be better to rent a motorcycle rather than a car because a car ride will take longer. There also be ATM’s available to draw some cash if ya gonna need it, or money changers if ya wanna change US Dollars for local currency.

I reckon it be a good idea to spend at least two days in the area, because there be other attractions close by to see, like places of worship, ‘n culinary tours. From what I have been readin’ there be accommodation options that cater to every kinda budget, ‘n that’s what Where to Next be all about – vacation inspiration for every budget.

I ain’t sure what spot in West Papua I’m gonna be discussin’ next week, but y’all can betcha it’s gonna be pretty and awesome.

‘Til next week, do what y’all need to, to stay safe ‘n happy. Have a great weekend!

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Author: JS

Travel Vlogger, Journalist,