Rado Tours

Garuda Indonesia to fly to Taipei, Haneda and New Delhi early 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 04:11:00 +0000

Garuda Indonesia plans to launch its Jakarta-Tapei (Taiwan), Jakarta- Haneda (Japan), and Bali-New Delhi (India) through Singapore starting February 2012 with the arrival of Garuda’s new Boeing 737-800NG aircrafts, said the airline’s CEO Emirsyah Satar. Additionally, the Jakarta-Kuala Lumpur flights will be increased from twice to three times daily

Domestically, Garuda will add frequencies on the Jakarta-Batam route three times to four times daily.

In 2012 Emirsyah said, Garuda will receive 20 new aircrafts of the G737-800NG type, two A330-200s, five sub-100 seaters, and nine A320 aircrafts for its subsidiary LCC Citilink. The sub-100 planes will be stationed at several hubs, such as in Makassar, Medan and Denpasar, Bali.

From Makassar these will serve the Makassar- Singapore route, as well as to Ternate, Balikpapan-Yogyakarta, Surabaya and Ambon. While from Medan, the aircrafts will serve the Medan-Penang route, Medan to Batam, Palembang and Surabaya.

Until September 2011 Garuda carried 15.5 million passengers, and Emirsyah is, therefore, confident that total number of passengers carried this year will surpass 17 million.

For 2012, Garuda targets 22 million passengers, up 29% from this year spurred on by the arrival of its new aircrafts.

During January-November 2011 the airline succeeded in increasing its load factor by 5.51% to 75.27%.

During this period Garuda also succeeded in increasing its domestic passengers market share by 5% to 28.3%, up from 23.7% the same period last year.

With the arrival of the new aircrafts Garuda Group fleet will have a total 108 planes, comprising 88 planes for Garuda and 20 operated by Citilink at an average age of 5.8 years planes.

Manado ready to host ASEAN Tourism Forum ATF 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 03:58:00 +0000

The city of Manado, capital of the province North Sulawesi - famous for its friendly people, fantastic diving and wonderful food, - is set to welcome the hundreds of government and private sector delegates and participants to the ASEAN Tourism Forum – ATF 2012.

To be held at the Golden Kawanua Convention Center from 10^th to 15^th January 2012, ATF is the first in the series of annual events in the global tourism industry agenda.

ATF brings together Tourism ministers from all 10 ASEAN countries and senior government officials, and has as important adjunct the annual ASEAN Travex, the BtoB forum bringing global tourism business to the entire ASEAN region.

Carrying the theme: ASEAN Tourism for Global Community of Nations, the opening ceremony will take place on Thursday, 12 January 2012, at the Novotel Manado Convention Center, to be officiated by Indonesia’s Minister for Tourism and Creative Economy, DR. Mari Elka Pangestu.

Days earlier, ASEAN senior officials will have convened their meetings, and on 10^th. January a special dialogue meeting of all ASEAN NTOs (National Tourism Organizations) will be held with representatives from China, Japan, Korea, India and Russia.

ASEAN Ministers are scheduled to meet on 11^th and 12 January, while the ASEAN Tourism Conference will be on Friday, 13 January.

The TRAVEX itself takes place at the Golden Kawanua Convention Center, occupying 7,000 square meters of exhibition space, to accommodate the 450 seller booths. Organizers tell us that almost all booths are taken up.

To date TTG informs that that there are already 970 registered buyers, 400 of whom are hosted, while other buyers come on their own account.

Booth set-up and registration starts from 11 January, while actual business meetings will start from 13^th. January.

In 2009 all ASEAN countries together registered total tourist arrivals of 65.68 million tourists, of whom 31.69 million came from within the ASEAN region itself and 33.98 million from outside the ASEAN region.

In the first 7 months of 2011, arrivals grew significantly, totaling 73.67 million total tourist arrivals to ASEAN, comprising 34.8 million tourists from the ASEAN countries themselves and 38.8 million international tourists from outside the South East Asian region.

The Golden Kawanua Convention Center has comprehensive facilities including hotel and restaurants, located only some 15 minutes from the Airport.

Internationally, Manado is served by SilkAir from Singapore, while many domestic flights serve Manado by Garuda Indonesia, Batavia Air, Lion Air and many more, from Jakarta, Bali and Makassar.

For detailed information please click: www.atfindonesia.com

Sianjur Mula Mula in Samosir Island

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 03:29:00 +0000

Sianjur Mula-Mula is a small district on the island that has many samosir-situ historical sites such as:

Mount Pusuk Buhit in trust as a child of the Toba volcanic eruption in thousands of years ago which has formed a lake that is now known as Lake Toba and also a place of origin of the Batak tribe.

Aek Boras is a Teacher springs Tatea Moon who is the son of the king of Batak

Sipitu Dai Aek, water sources can be streamed into seven channels and has seven flavors and can be believed to cure various diseases.

Sawan Stone, Stone of the lime-flavored water

Tulas Pulo, a small island in the middle of Lake Toba

Object History Tours

Parhusipan Stone, a meeting place Si Boru Pareme

Pangururan Village in Samosir Island

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 02:46:00 +0000

Pangururan Naidoo is the district capital of North Sumatra. Pangururan consists of several villages such as Parbaba, Sialanguan, Sinabulan, Lumbansuhi and so forth. Lumbansuhi village has a beautiful natural ambience and pretty much visited by foreign tourists.

To achieve Pangururan of Parapat takes approximately two hours. The beauty of nature is still beautiful are:

Hot Water Baths, just 3 KM from the City Pangururan

Object History Tours

Tano Ponggol Canal, the canal that separates the island of Sumatra Island Samosir made by the Dutch Colonial and still functioning.

Persanggarahan, Dutch colonial heritage buildings which are currently used as office and residence of Acting Regent Naidoo, located in the City Pangururan.

Statue of Liberty Malau, A memorial of a warrior armed struggle 45 of Samosir Island helped the Republic of Indonesia's independence.

Tourism Arts and Culture

Open Stage, building an open stage in the middle of the City Pangururan as art and cultural attractions.

Weaving Ulos Batak community, community groups who work on traditional looms in the village of Batak ulos Lumban Suhi-suhi within + 4 km from the City Pangururan.

Simanindo Village - Samosir Island

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 01:50:00 +0000

Simanindo Village - Samosir Island

Object History Tours
Tomb of King Sidabutar, located in Tomok, tomb made of stone carved whole without linkage to a resort area Tomok King Sidabutar entrepreneur in those days.

Parsidangan stone, located in the village Siallagan is arranged in such a stone in the reign of King Siallagan to prosecute and execute the criminals.

Museum Huta Bolon, where the ancient artifacts of the Batak

Tourism Arts and Culture

Performing Sigale-gale, was in Tomok is folk art sculptures are made in such form that can be danced to traditional music gondang

Art Building, the building of cultural and artistic attractions, located in Tuktuk Siadong

Object Nature Tourism
Marhosa stone, was in sigarantung, village Parmonangan benafas stone is a natural phenomenon or can exhale air

Marlakkop Goa, in the village of Tanjung

Stone fences and Bottean, in Lontung

Ambarita beach, where bathing and fishing

Aek Natonang, dsa tanjungan located in a lake on the lake and is planned as an area covering 105 ha Forest Tourism.

Pulo Tao, a restaurant and camping ground located in the Coastal Village Simanindo.

Tuktuk Siadong, shaped area promontory peninsula is strategically so that now a center of tourist activities (central tourism district), met by the hotel and restaurant businesses as well as painter and engraver.

Beta International Kite hill, a special area in Tuktuk Siadong have ditabalkan by Mr. North Sumatra Governor. T. Rizal Nurdin in August 2004 to the location of the International kite game

Indonesian Haute Couture with a classic Keroncong twist

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 01:38:00 +0000

Taking place at the Ritz Carlton Pacific Place, Jakarta on Tuesday, 13 December 2011, Harper’s Bazaar Indonesia staged the “Langgam Tiga Hati” or The Song of the Three Hearts, a special fashion show wrapped in exquisite style, steeped in Indonesian culture and uniquely accompanied by Indonesia’s classic Keroncong music melodies.

The fashion show itself was inspired by a popular Keroncong song entitled “Langgam Tiga Biola” or The Song of the Three Violins which tells the story of the three founding fathers of Indonesia: Soekarno, Hatta, and Sjahrir.

The event featured masterpieces of three of Indonesia’s distinguished fashion designers: Eddy Betty who is renowned for his kebaya dresses and batik lines; Ghea Panggabean who uses highlights of Indonesian traditional motifs and patterns; and Obin Komara who constantly explores Indonesian traditional fabrics in her design labeled BINhouse.

The three prominent Indonesian fashion figures presented a total of 80 collections of apparels strong in Indonesian culture yet modernly fashionable.

Ghea brought along 20 of her fresh and trendy collections that combined traditional elements and oriental influences from China. Elaborating several ethnical weaving and colorful archipelagic motives, her collection was divided into three sections: Chinese peranakan embroidery, Chinese ceramic motives, and evening gowns. Obin Komara and the Bin House explored the suit cutting on kebaya and featured tripping and stretching techniques on embroidery which were also enhanced by the textures and characters of the fabrics used. Eddy Betty’s collection wrapped up the show by featuring ready to wear batik collection which radiated fun and joy. With daring style clashing concepts, the mix- but- doesn’t- match style truly dazzled the audience. In the closing sequence, Eddy presented the evening gown collection inspired by Elizabeth Taylor, in a winter nuance complete with elegant and stylish fur ornaments

In this special mixture of traditional and contemporary fashion show, collaborating fashion and music, the vibrant yet soothing folk music of Keroncong was chosen as background that brought the elegant ambience to the show. The captivating music was brought by Indonesia’s famous composer Erwin Gutawa as music director, who with the Erwin Gutawa Ensemble presented keroncong in the grand form of an orchestra. The Musical performance also featured the young cast of Laskar Pelangi the Musical: Christoffer Nelwan, Kanya, Hilmi Faturrahman and Sheila Hasto who commenced the show, renowned pop singers Bunga Citra Lestari and Sammy Simorangkir, and also the legendary Keroncong singer, Sundari Soekotjo.

Keroncong is an authentic Indonesian music style that uniquely combines vibrant background rhythm (mainly highlighted with ukulele’s sounds) with calm and often slower singing style. Although initially influenced by European music brought by the Portuguese, the music that mainly collaborates a flute, a violin, a guitar, a pair of ukuleles, a cello in pizzicato style, string bass also in pizzicato, and a female or male singer, has deep roots in Indonesian culture and history.

Source: detikcom, female.kompas.com, kapanlagi/vemale.com

Nias

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 05:57:00 +0000

Nias is one of a district in North Sumatra which is located on the island of Nias with its capital Gunungsitoli. The trip to Nias can travel by road or air as the capital of Medan North Sumatra province.
The uniqueness of life and civilization of Nias tribe in interest by foreign tourists to further explore or investigate the origin and civilization of the tribe of Nias. Stunning natural beauty and still many relics - relics of historic centuries old and even thousands of years can be seen today.

Nias has a culture that is still the preserve and obey the Nias people like rock and dance jump where the culture war that is much in the interest by local and foreign tourists who visited the island of Nias.

Lagundri is a district in Nias beach which has an attraction for surfers the world to visit with beautiful beaches and rolling waves are high which is a surfers paradise. And and diving (diving), plus the beauty of the beaches in the Hinako Islands (Asu Island and Pulau Bawa), Sirombu.

The traditional house, with its megalith sites in the village can be seen Onolimbu (Sirombu), Village Hiligoe (Mandrehe), and in Onowaembo Idanoi.

Now Easier Access for International Yachts to enter Indonesian Waters

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 13:26:00 +0000

Yachts entering Indonesia’s waters will now have easier access to enter Indonesian waters since the issuance of Presidential Regulations no.79, Year 2011 concerning Visits of International Yachts to Indonesia.

“The Regulations are aimed to provide easier access for international yachts visiting Indonesia” said Edy Putra Irawadi , Coordinating Deputy for Trade and Industry of the Coordinating Ministry for the Economy in Jakarta, 9 December 2011, as reported by antaranews. Irawadi further stated that these regulations act as fundamental law that guarantees the ease for international yachts to enter Indonesia’s archipelagic waters.

The publication of the regulations is also expected to boost investments, particularly in tourism and all its supporting industries.

This year, there are already as many as 400 yachts that entered Indonesian waters, Edy Putra added, while the target for next year is 1000 yachts calling at all 18 sea port entrances in Indonesia,which is is expected to double in the year 2013.

“For marine tourism, we don’t need many incentives, ease of access is what is needed” said Edy.

Edy further illustrated that with the issuance of these Presidential Regulations, the gate to Indonesia’s marine paradise are now open even wider for every international yacht.” There are already many investors who have shown interests, including those from Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, New Zealand, Australia, and Finland. They are interested to invest in ports, operations, and events” added Edy Putra Irawadi.

Meanwhile, owner of Marina Batavia by the Sunda Kelapa harbour in Jakarta, Ari Bastaman welcomed the new regulations, saying that investments in Marinas are prospective long-term investments. “We have been investing in the development of critical land around Sunda Kelapa areas since 2001, with total investments to IDR 60 Billion. At the moment, Marina Batavia has the capacity to accommodate 130 yachts”, said Ari Bastaman.

In future, Marina Batavia plans to expand its capacity to 300 yachts since yachting business is becoming even more prospective following the enactment of President’s Regulations no.79, Year 2011, concerning The Visit of International Yachts to Indonesia.

Indonesia Tourism Award 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 13:19:00 +0000

Raja Ampat, along with its Waisai Beach in the fabulous archipelago in West Papua at the tip of the Birdshead peninsula, were awarded Most Favorite New Destination in the Indonesia Tourism Award 2011, the highest appreciation towards the tourism industry and destinations handed annually by the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy in cooperation with SWA Magazine and MetroTV.

The third Indonesia Tourism Award 2011 was held at a special ceremony at the Grand Studio of Metrotv on 8 December, attended by Minister for Tourism and Creative Economy, DR. Mari Elka Pangestu, Deputy Minister Sapta Nirwandar, CEO of SWA, Kemal Effendi Gani , governors, mayors, CEO’s of tourism companies from throughout Indonesia.

Second and third most favorite New Destination fell on Tanah Lot in Bali and the Jatim Park in East Java.

Special Mention was given to the towns of Sawahlunto in West Sumatra and the Province of Bangka Belitung.

Favorite Town and District giving the Best Services were awarded to Malang (East Java), Denpasar (Bali) and Tana Toraja (South Sulawesi). While Best organized Provinces in Tourism Award went to Bali, Jakarta and Yogyakarta.

Favorite Full Service Airline Award was Garuda Indonesia, with Favorite Low Cost Carrier, Sriwijaya Air. Favorite Tour Operator went to Panorama Tour, Favorite Taxi to Putra, Most Favorite Spa Award went to Javana Spa and Favorite Golf Course Award the Royale Jakarta.

Most Favorite 5-star Hotel went to Hotel Mulia Senayan in Jakarta, Most favorite 4-star award to Santika Premiere, Jakarta, and 3-star Award to the Aroma’s in Kuta, Bali.

Bandar Jakarta Seafood Restaurant was awarded Most Favorite Restaurant, with Plaza Senayan in Jakarta Most Favorite Mall. The Paris van Java in Bandung received Most Favorite Mall Outside Jakarta award.

In her speech, Minister Mari Pangestu said that tourists must feel safe and happy from their arrival to a destination until their return to their respective home country. For this reason, both the tourism industry as well as local governments play a most important role in providing the best services to tourists.

The Indonesia Tourism Awards are the result of a long process that include a survey in 25 cities/districts selected from its level of Gross Regional Domestic Product contribution in tourism, and through focus group discussions (FGD)held by SWA Magazine. The survey was participated by 1.500 tourists, comprising 1.350 Indonesian and 150 international tourists. A number of categories also involved 100 respondents from executives and professionals. In each city, the number of respondents reached between 60 to 90 tourists. To complement survey results, a panel of judges, professionals and experienced in the field of tourism, was asked to determine the winners of some categories.

ITA 2011 is aimed to encourage tourism officials in cities, districts and provincial levels, and tourism stakeholders such as: airlines, hotels, restaurants, travel agents, to improve their efforts and creativity in providing the best services to tourists, both national and international. With the acknowledgment towards the efforts of regional leaders and tourism stakeholders, it is hoped that the tourism industry in Indonesia will flourish. If tourists’ destinations can grow more diverse and attractive, complemented with the increasing quality of services, then the opportunities to attract tourists in a larger scale will grow significantly.

Source: Press release www.budpar.go.id,ultimoparadiso

Indonesia targets 8 million international arrivals in 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 10 Dec 2011 04:54:00 +0000

Indonesia remains confident that the targeted arrivals in 2012 of 8 million international tourists to the country, - or an expected increase of between 4% to 6.6% over 2011 - will be achieved, said Minister for Tourism and Creative Economy, Mari Elka Pangestu at theTourism Conference held on 5th December in Jakarta.

Between January through October this year Indonesia recorded 6.27 million visitors up 8.47% over the same period last year. With November and December being the usual peak travel months, Indonesia is expected to reach the target of between 7.5 million to 7.7 million tourists in 2011.
Based on the 6.27 million arrivals recorded from January to October, the global crises had minimal impact on Indonesia’s inbound tourism, which looks on course to reach its target of 7.7 million arrivals for the year, said Minister Mari Pangestu.
To ensure the above targets, and aware of the financial crisis and economic slowdown now ongoing in Europe and the US, Indonesia will refocus its marketing activities to markets like Australia, China, India, Russia, the ASEAN countries, Taiwan, South Korea and the Middle East
Additionally, giving his keynote address at the Conference, Coordinating Minister for the Economy, Hatta Rajasa pointed out that tourism has been a resilient sector during the global economic crisis in 2008/2009.
“The economic crisis resulted in the contraction of world tourism by 30 per cent, but at that time international arrivals to Indonesia was up by 0.3 per cent. That is why the national government is giving so much attention to this sector,” he explained.
Meanwhile, the island of Bali alone received 2.320 million visitors in the first 10 months of the year, an increase of 9.9% year on year, and is therefore set to receive 2.7 million visitors by the end of year, the highest number the island has ever welcomed.
Jakarta received 1.6 million, an increase of 4.05%, followed by Batam with 931,019 international arrivals, up 14.66%, reports www.budpar.go.id

Danau Toba Party 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 08:46:00 +0000

Chairman Bull 2011, John Hugo Silalahi great musicians invited leaders from North Sumatra, Dakka Hutagalung to join the Bull this year. The invitation was delivered on the socialization PDT in Jakarta, which coincided with a art show event in order to pay tribute to composer itu-19/11/2011 senior from North Sumatra.According to John Hugo, inviting Dakka Hutagalung is a very wise choice considering the Dakka is the composer and songwriter Batak very productive and very representative of North Sumatra.

Dakka has written over 400 songs. Many artists became famous with his songs. Until now, the songs are still sung Dakka many people from lapo wine, coffee shops until the music hall in luxury hotels. Host Call song, Didia Rokkapi and many more other tracks.

John hugo who was accompanied by Nurlisa Ginting as general secretary, purposely designing this annual feast to collaborate party culture, tourism and party games that carry the messages to keep the wisdom of local culture and environment of Lake Toba.

In turn is expected the party to be held on December 27 to 30 this will keep reminding the world about Lake Toba, as one of the tourist destinations of outstanding natural. The largest volcanic lake in this world not only has beautiful scenery, but also a sublime cultural richness.

This annual party will involve hundreds of thousands of performers and organizers from around the district town of Medan and Lake Toba diseputaran. This party is fully supported by the regional government of North Sumatra and the whole range of governmental urban districts across North Sumatea.

Among the dozens of activities, Bull this time were surprised by the appearance of Solu Bolon plan - a big boat, a kind of dragon boat -. Something that has long disappeared from Lake Toba. This time the boat craftsmen skills are challenged to be able to return to the community Solu Bolon Lake Toba.

Chairman Solu Bolon hope that PDT can be used as sports people, including the university as ordered Plt Gubsu, Billy Nugroho Pujo hearings in the office at Gubsu some time ago.

PDT socialization in Sultan Hotel Jakarta gets standing ovation. Recorded hundreds of sumut origin living in Jakarta took time to look at promotion booths PDT is also distributing food in the form of a typical field Bika Ambon and Bolu roll. "Feeling dikappung bah ..." Dakka Hutagalung joked during a typical dish tasted it, he asserted, "I must come to Disneyland!"

UNESCO recognizes Aceh’s

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 03:35:00 +0000

The Saman dance from Aceh has joined batik, wayang, and angklung as Indonesian’s contribution to UNESCO’s list of intangible world heritage as announced in Bali Thursday, 24 November 2011.

The Saman Dance was included in the list under the category of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding. The decision to include Aceh’s Saman dance was reached at UNESCO’S 6th Session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage held in Nusa Dua, Bali, from November 22 to 29, 2011.

According to a government spokesman for cultural affairs, Suyud Winarno, one reason the dance is in need of protection is that it is increasingly rarely performed by men, despite being traditionally a performance exclusively danced by males.

"At the session, the Saman dance from Gayo Lues and environs in Aceh province was officially included in UNESCO`s List of intangible Cultural Heritage in urgent need of Safeguarding," said I Gusti Ngurah Putra, Head of Information and Public Communication of the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy, as reported in antaranews.com.

The Saman dance dates back to the 13th century, when it was conceived by Sheikh Saman, a Gayo ethnic elder of Aceh, to convey religious messages. The dance features an odd number of performers, male (usually young men), sitting or kneeling in a row. They wear traditional costumes with Gayo embroidery depicting natural and moral symbols. A trainer stands in the middle singing songs with messages of development, religion, advice, culture, satire, humor and romance, while the dancers engage in a complex percussion rhythm and movements of hands clapping, pats on chest, and thigh slaps. The movements are so harmoniously synchronized and often vigorous, that would leave spectators in awe.

Mari Elka Pangestu, Minister for Tourism and Creative Economy, said that world recognition of the dance will have far-reaching economic benefits for the country, mainly through increased tourism. She also added that in addition to its value to the tourism industry, formal recognition of the dance could also foster a thriving traditional art industry in Indonesia. Meanwhile, Agung Laksono, Coordinating Minister for People’s Welfare, stated that efforts to conserve the dance will not end with its inclusion in the list, stressing that this was just the first step towards nurturing and promoting the dance.

Earlier this week, Indonesia's Minister for Education and Culture Mohammad Nuh announced that the Indonesian government will contribute id="mce_marker"0 million to support UNESCO's activities, saying that the organization was experiencing difficult times. Irina Bokova , Director-General of UNESCO expressed her gratitude for this significant and timely contribution, affirming that it would support UNESCO's core activities, including the preservation of heritage, capacity building and improving the quality of education. A substantial part of the funding will be used for programs to support Indonesia and the ASEAN region.

Over 500 representatives from 69 countries, international NGOs, cultural experts, and the media are currently participating in the meeting in Bali . The Sixth Session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage was officially opened by Coordinating Minister for People`s Welfare Agung Laksono in the presence of UNESCO Director General Irina Bokova, Education and Culture Minister Muhammad Nuh, Tourism and Creative Economy Minister Mari Elka Pangestu, and UNESCO`s Assistant Director General for Culture Francesco Bandarin.

Source:antaranews.com , thejakartaglobe.com, unesco.org media sevices.

Indonesia has 40.8 million Facebook users

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 03:34:00 +0000

Indonesia has 40.8 million Facebook accounts, second only to the USA with 155.98 million users, said Minister for Tourism and Creative Economy, Mari Elka Pangestu last Saturday, 26 November.

Minister Mari Pangestu stated this in her speech on the occasion of conferring degrees to the first batch of graduates of the Multimedia Nusantara University in Tangerang, Banten near Jakarta, reported Kompas daily.

After Indonesia, most Facebook users are India (38 million) England (30.48), Turkey (30.47 million), Brazil (30.4 million), Mexico (30.1 million) the Philippines (26.7 million) France (23.2 million) and Germany (21.6 million).

Additionally, Indonesia counts 6.2 million Twitter accounts, or 2.6% of total population, third only after Japan with 16.1 million users, and India with 6.4 million.

Furthermore, cell phone users in this country have soared rapidly. When in 2002 there were only 11.7 million users, by 2007 this number already increased to 81.9 million and in 2011, more than 246.1 million cell phones are today in use.

While smartphones, combining internet with cell phones, are also very popular. It is foreseen that by 2013, Indonesia will become the 4^th largest user of smartphones after China, India and the United States.

Developing multi-media content and games are part of Indonesia's priority creative industries.

Two giant Rafflesia flowers

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 03:26:00 +0000

Two of the rare and endemic flowers of Indonesia, the Rafflesia arnoldii, have reached full bloom at the Taba Penanjung Nature Sanctuary in Central Bengkulu District, Bengkulu province. The giant flowers are located in an area about 100 meters from the main road connecting the town of Bengkulu with Kepahiang district on the island of Sumatra.

The two flowers bloomed at the same time and are located only 15 meters from each other, stated Anggi, a local resident who is said to have found the blooming flowers. "We found three flowers within a radius of 20 meters, but one has withered, and the remaining two are now in full bloom," he added.

A week earlier, a blooming Rafflesia arnoldii was also found in the Bukit Daun Nature Reserve in the Kepahiang District.

Coordinator for the Tebat Monok Rare Flowers Devoted Group (Kelompok Peduli Puspa Langka), Holidin, said that this year there are already 13 flowers found blooming within the forest area. Currently, there are approximately six flowers expected to bloom near the first two. “We estimate that there will at least be one more flower that will reach full bloom this week” he added.

Holidin also mentioned that the Bukit Daun and Taba Penanjung I and II Nature Reserves are endemic habitat of the Rafflesia arnoldii Flower. However, just as other forests, it faces the threat of deforestation, where illegal farming activities are turning the forest into coffee fields. Holidin hopes that the government will take more serious actions to protect and preserve the forest of Sumatra, especially in Bengkulu , since the very existence of the exotic and rare Rafflesia arnoldii flowers depend on them.

Rafflesia arnoldiii is a member of the genus Rafflesia which is noted for producing the largest individual flower on earth, spreading a strong stench of decaying flesh - the latter point earning it the nickname of "corpse flower". Rafflesia arnoldii is one of the three national flowers in Indonesia that are officially recognized as national "rare flowers" in Presidential Decree No. 4 of 1993, the other two being the small white, sweet smelling jasmine and the resplendent white moon orchid.

The flower was first “discovered” by British Governor General Sir Stamford Raffles, to whom the rafflesia owes its name.

Source: antaranews.com, Wikipedia

Regular Charter Flights

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 08:55:00 +0000

The opening of the new Lombok International Airport has started to boost the tourism industry of Lombok Island with the arrival of around 150 Russian tourists via Nordwind Airline charter flight on Wednesday, November 16^th, 2011.

The arrival is the first of a series of charter flights organized by Pegas Touristik in Russia and handled by Go Vacation Indonesia (GVI) , a travel agent based in Bali, that will bring passengers from Russia directly to Lombok on an Airbus 767-300ER with a capacity of 304 seats, starting November 2011 to May 2012.

Go Vacation Indonesia executive manager, for product and contracting, Marika Gloeckler, said: “These are direct flights from Novosibirsk/Russia to Lombok on a regular basis, with a rotation of 13 nights back to back, to the island up to May 2012.” Gloeckler added that there could be a second charter program from another city in Russia.

Up to May 2012, 4000 Russian tourists are estimated to visit Lombok. This number is expected to increase in years to come. Putu Arya, representative for GVI stated that there will be groups of tourists coming in the 284 seated charter flights each month.”Initialy we introduced the Bali-Lombok package tours, but then many tourists preferred to go straight to Lombok without Bali” he added.

GVI mainly provides accommodation packages for the Russian tourists, while tour packages are optional. A number of tour packages offered to the tourists include a visit to the Gili Islands, the Mandalika resort package, trips to handicrafts centers, and much more.

Meanwhile, the Lombok-Moscow axis is estimated to grow as a blooming economic line. Not only tourists, business developers from Russia are also arriving at tourist destinations in West Nusa Tenggar Province. About 18 Russian investors have visited Lombok earlier this week. The trip was a response to officials of West Nusa Tenggara Province visiting Russia earlier. “The Russian businessmen visited some of the tourism destinations in West Nusa Tenggara, this is a form of introduction to West Nusa Tenggara Tourism potentials” said Bayu Winindiya, head of the West Nusa Tenggara Investment Board (BPM).

Source: www.ttgasia.com , www.lombokpost.co.id

Old and New 2011 in Soechi Hotel Medan

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 08:11:00 +0000

OLD & NEW PACKAGE
"one night in vegas

Room Packages Rp. 1.000.000,-net

Rate include:

-One night in Superior Room (Check in-out 31 Dec 2011 - 1 Jan 2012)
-Breakfast for 2 person
-Gala Dinner Old & New party for 2 person
-Late check out until 15.00 pm

GALA DINNER : Rp.350.000,-net/pax

BALI named

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 05 Oct 2011 16:24:00 +0000

The Fabled Indonesian island of Bali once again received worldwide spotlight as BBC Travel named Bali as one of the world’s best islands on its slideshow feature issued on Wednesday, November 30^th, 2011.

“Lapped by the warm waters of the Indian Ocean, Bali is but one of 17,500 islands in the Indonesian archipelago; yet even among its colorful neighbors — and even after decades of tourism development — it stands alone in its lushness and incomparable beauty” is the description written next to the beautiful pictures of sunrise over a mountain horizon overlooking lush rice fields which perfectly illustrates the magical beauty of Bali.

In 2009, Travel & Leisure Magazine also awarded Bali the World’s Best Island in 2009, while the Lonely Planet’s Best of Travel 2010 ranked Bali second only among the world’s Top Regions.

Also known as the Land of the Gods, Bali appeals through its sheer natural beauty of looming volcanoes and lush terraced rice fields that exude peace and serenity. Bali enchants with its dramatic dances and colorful ceremonies, its arts and crafts, to its luxurious beach resorts and exciting night life. This exotic island also has much to offer, from inspirational spirituality to fine dining and meeting experiences, from world class surfing and diving to exhilarating treks in the wild, and the authentic culture that decorates the daily life of its charming people.

Joining Bali in the list of world’s five best islands are: Santorini island in Greece, Cape Breton in Canada, Boracay in the Philippines, and the Great Barrier Reef in Australia.

Source: www.bbc.com/travel , travel.okezone.com

About North Sumatera

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 05 Dec 2010 09:29:00 +0000

North Sumatra is a province located on the island of Sumatra, Indonesia. This province is a multi-ethnic region that is inhabited by many tribes.

Geografis
North Sumatra Province is located at 1 ° - 4 ° north latitude and 98 ° - 100 ° east longitude, land area of North Sumatra Province 71,680 km ².

North Sumatra can basically be divided into:
     * East Coast
     * Bukit Barisan Mountains.
     * West Coast.
     * Islands of Nias.

East coast is a region in the province of the fastest growing because of the infrastructure requirements are relatively more complete than any other region. Eastern coastal region is also a relatively densely populated than other areas of concentration.

In the middle area of the province lined Bukit Barisan Mountains. In these mountains there are several plateaus which are pockets of population concentration. But the most dense residential population in the eastern region of this province. The area around Lake Toba and Samosir Island is also home to residents who depend on this lake.

Commonly known as the west coast Tapanuli area.

Boundaries

Northen	province of Aceh and the Strait of Malacca
Southern	province of Riau, West Sumatra Province, Indonesia and the Ocean
Western	province of Aceh and Indian Ocean Indonesia
Eastern	Strait of Malacca

There are 419 islands in the North Sumatra propisi. Outer islands is the island Simuk (Nias island), and the idols in Strait island of Sumatra (Malacca).

Nias Islands consists of the main island of Nias island and other small islands around it. Nias Island lies off the west coast in the Indian Ocean coast. Government center is located in Mount Sitoli.

Batu Islands consist of 51 islands with four large islands: Sibuasi, Pini, Tanahbala, Tanahmasa. Central government on the island Sibuasi Pulautelo. Stone islands located in the southeastern islands of Nias.

Other islands in North Sumatra: Imanna, tubs, Bawa, Hamutaia, Batumakalele, Lego, Period, Bau, Simaleh, Makole, Jake, and Sigata, Wunga.

In North Sumatra, there are currently two national parks, namely Gunung Leuser National Park and Batang Gadis National Park. According to Minister of Forestry, No. 44 of 2005, forest area in North Sumatra currently 3,742,120 hectares (ha). Which consists of the Area Reserves / Natural Areas Preservation area of 477,070 ha, 1,297,330 ha of protected forest, limited production forest 879,270 ha, 1,035,690 ha of Permanent Production Forests and Forest Production which can be converted area of 52,760 ha.

But this figure is a de jure nature only. Because de facto, there is no forest area again. Happens a lot of damage due to encroachment and illegal logging. So far, it's been over 206 000 ha of forests in Sumatra has undergone a change in function. Has turned into plantations, transmigration. Of the area, a total of 163,000 ha to 42,900 ha of plantation area and for transmigration areas.

Government
Government center is located in North Sumatra city of Medan. Previously, North Sumatra province of Sumatra belong to the moment Indonesia became independent in 1945. In 1950. North Sumatra Province was formed covering most of Aceh. In 1956, Aceh was separated into the Autonomous Region of North Sumatra Province.

North Sumatra is divided to 25 districts, 8 cities (former municipality), 325 sub-districts and 5456 villages / village.

Population
North Sumatra province is the fourth largest population in Indonesia after West Java, East Java and Central Java. According to the results of a complete enumeration of Census of Population (SP) in 1990 the population of North Sumatra on October 31, 1990 (Census Day) amounted to 10.81 million people, and in 2002, the population of North Sumatra is as busy as 11.85 million people. Population density of North Sumatra in 1990 was 143 inhabitants per km ² and in 2002 increased to 165 people per km ², while the increased levels of population growth of North Sumatra during the period 1990-2000 is 1.20 percent per year.

Labor Force Participation levels (LFPR) of North Sumatra each year is not fixed. In 2000 LFPR in this area amounting to 57.34 per cent, in 2001 rose to 57.70 percent, in 2002 rose again to 69.45 percent.

And the last based on the results of Population Census 2010 census, the population of North Sumatra province reached 12,985,075 people,

Tribe
North Sumatra is a multi-ethnic province with Batak, Nias, and the Malays as the indigenous people of this region. Eastern seaboard of North Sumatra, is generally inhabited by the Malays. West coast of Barus until Christmas, many people living Minangkabau. The central region around Lake Toba, many Batak tribe who inhabited by mostly Christian. Nias island tribe in the west. Since the opening of the tobacco plantations in East Sumatra, Dutch East Indies colonial government brought many contract laborers employed on the plantation. Immigrants are mostly from ethnic Javanese and Chinese. Distribution center tribes in North Sumatra, as follows:

   1. Malay Deli: East Coast, especially in the district of Deli Serdang, Serdang Bedagai, and Langkat
   2. Karo Batak Tribe: Karo Regency
   3. Toba Batak tribes: North Tapanuli, Humbang Hasundutan, Toba Samosir
   4. Batak tribe Mandailing: Mandailing Natal
   5. Batak tribe Angkola: South Tapanuli and ^ Back to top
   6. Batak tribe Simalungun: District Simalungun
   7. Batak tribe Pakpak: Dairi and West Pakpak
   8. Interest Nias: Nias Island
   9. Minangkabau tribe: the city of Medan, Coal District, West Coast
  10. Interest Aceh: Medan
  11. Javanese: East & West Coasts
  12. Ethnic Chinese: the Urban East & West coast.

Language
Basically, a language widely used is Indonesian. Said the majority ethnic Malays Deli Indonesian because the proximity of the Malay language with the Indonesian language. Eastern coastal areas are like Bedagai Serdang, Dodek Base, Coal, Asahan, and Tanjung Balai, wearing Malay Dialect "O" as well as in Labuhan Stone with little difference in range. In the district of Langkat still use Malay Dialects "E" is often also called the language of the Maya-maya. There are still many descendants of Javanese contract (Jadel - Java Deli) that tells the Java language.

In urban areas, the ethnic Chinese Hokkien language prevalent in addition to telling the Indonesian language. In the mountains, said tribal Batak Batak language, divided into four dialects (Silindung-Samosir-Humbang-Toba). Nias language spoken by the tribes in Nias Island of Nias. While the West Coast people, such as Sibolga, Central Tapanuli, and Mandailing Natal using Minangkabau

Religion
The main religion in North Sumatra are:

Islam: mainly embraced by ethnic Malays, Coastal, Minangkabau, Javanese, Acehnese, Mandailing Batak tribe, some Batak Karo, Simalungun and Pakpak
Christian (Protestant and Catholic): mainly embraced by tribal Batak Karo, Toba, Simalungun, Pakpak, Mandailing and Nias
Hindu: mainly embraced by ethnic Tamils in the urban
Buddha: primarily embraced by the tribe urban Peranakan
Confucius: especially embraced by the tribe urban Peranakan
Parmalim: embraced by most of the Batak tribe based in the High Huta
Animism: there is still embraced by the Batak tribe, namely the belief Pelebegu Parhabonaron and the like

Architecture
In the field of art that stands out is the traditional house architecture which is a blend of the art of carving and sculpture and art crafts. Architecture of traditional houses found in various forms ornamen.Pada general form of building custom homes in Batak indigenous group represents "standing buffalo". This is more clearly by decorating the top of the roof with a buffalo head.

The traditional house of Batak tribes named Ruma Batak. Standing tall and stately, and still mostly found in Samosir.

Karo traditional house looks great and is higher compared to other traditional house. The roof made of palm fiber and is usually coupled with the roofs of the smaller triangular-called "come-come on home" and "tersek". With soaring roof layered Karo's house has a distinctive shape compared with other traditional houses that have only one layer of roofing in North Sumatra.

Form of custom homes in the area Simalungun quite attractive. Complex custom homes in the village of Ancient Causeway consists of several buildings that house Bolon, Bolon hall, drying, abstinence hall needs and mortar.

Mandailing typical building that stands out is the so-called "Bagas Tower" (home Namora Natoras) and "Sopo Godang" (hall customary deliberation).

Coastal Sibolga custom home look more stately and more beautiful than any other custom home. This custom home is still standing strong in the National House lawn Sibolga.

Dance
Traditional dance repertory includes various types. There are magical, in the form of sacred dance, and there is entertainment which is just a form of dance profane. In addition to traditional dance that is part of traditional ceremonies, sacred dances are usually danced by plaintive-datu. Including this type of dance is a dance teacher and dance tungkat. Datu menarikannya waving a magic wand called Single Panaluan.

Profane dance social dance is usually young people who danced at the party happy. Tortor there who danced at the wedding. Usually danced by the audience, including the bride and also the young people. This youth dance, for example morah-morah, parakut, sipajok, plate-plate and kebangkiung often. Dance magic dance tortor nasiaran eg, single tortor panaluan. Magical dance is usually performed with a full kekhusukan.

In addition there are also dances Batak Malay dances like Serampang XII.

Crafting
In addition to architecture, weaving an interesting craft of Batak tribe. Examples of this are woven songket cloth and ulos. Ulos a traditional Batak cloth that is used in marriage ceremonies, death, founded the house, art, etc.. Ulos fabric made from cotton yarn or jute. Ulos color is usually black, white, and red that has a specific meaning. Meanwhile, other colors are symbolic of the variation of life.

At any rate Pakpak woven known as topical. Oles base color is usually brown or black and white.

At Karo tribe there is woven known as UIs. UIS is usually a basic color dark blue and red.

At Coastal tribes are known by the name woven songket Barus. Usually the base color of this craft is Dark Red or Yellow Gold.

Food typical
Typical food in Northern Sumatra is very varied, depending on the area. Saksang and pig roast is very familiar to those who carry out the party as well as home cooking.

Suppose such areas Pakpak Dairi, Pelleng is a typical food with a very spicy flavor.

In the land itself is dengke naniarsik Batak which is a fish that digulai without using coconut. For flavor, Batak land is a paradise for food lovers too hot and spicy coconut milk. PASITUAK NATONGGI or money to buy the sweet sap is a very intimate there, illustrate how close Tuak or juice with their lives.