Kampung, Komodo. This fishing village of approximately 2,000 is surrounded
by Komodo National Park. It would appear that at least half of the
population consists of young children.
The inhabitants of this village are believed to be descendants of convicts
exiled to the island in the 19th century by the sultans in Sumbawa.
The infrastructure here is limited and the average level of education is
that of a fourth grader. We visited the school in the village and were
entertained by the children. It is only recently that the children have been
required to attend school. Previously, as soon as they were able, they began
helping their families on the fishing boats.
Yes, the dragons sometimes come into the village and dine on the livestock
or their dogs. I caught a picture of a goat that might have a longer life
than some, since he had the sense to perch on a table.
After leaving the village we headed to Pink Beach to cool off at the
beautiful beach. Most of the sand is white, but when the red sand mixes in,
the beach takes on a pink hue.
Then it was time to head back to the ship, which was surrounded by children
from the island.
