Tourism Visit Place in The World

Places Tourism In Philippines

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 4 Dec 2012 13:12:00 +0700

Philippines is an exotic tourist destination in Southeast Asia, and offers some interesting places in the world. Philippine state has an overall area of 300,000 square kilomter, and consists of 7,107 islands (7108 at low tide) are dazzling. The country is famous for its beautiful islands, beaches and stunning volcanoes, as well as wildlife and exotic dive sites. Luzon, Visayas and Midanao is a major island groups in the country. The main island of Luzon is located in the most northern Philippines, as well as being the largest island there. The island is adorned by views of mountains, lakes, caves and islands and beautiful white sandy beaches. Manila, the capital of the Philippines located on the east coast of the island of Luzon. Manila was established in 1571, on the ruins of Muslim settlement. In this city, there Banyat very interesting sights, such as Intramuros, Rizal Park, Malacanang Palace, Fort Santiago, Malate and Ermita, Japanese Garden, Museo Pambata, Bahay Tsinoy, Archdiocesan Museum of Manila, Palcio del Gobernator, as well as several attractions Another interesting. Intramuros (Walled City) is a famous walled city built in the Spanish colonial period. At this resort, you will be treated to the castle, churches, monasteries, homes, schools and other government buildings are still a Spanish style. The oldest area of the city is protected by a few large wall that is still strong, despite the fighting in World War II never happened here. Here also are San Agustin Church and Manila Cathedral located on 2072 square kilometers (800 square miles) from the port and the ruins of Fort Santiago. In the district of Binondo, outside of Intramuros and Chinatown, there are plenty of shops and restaurants. Rizal Park or Luneta also called, is a park dedicated to Dr. Jose Rizal, the national hero of the Philippines. There, tourists can enjoy the show and sounds depicting impressivelight execution Philippines by the Spanish hero. The park is also often used as a concert venue and a variety of social events, political meetings and religious, as well as a children's playground. Malacanang palace is one of the most historic in the Philippine infrastructure. This place is the official residence of the chief executive is the highest in the country since yahun 1863. Located next to the Pasig River, it was a summer lodge for governor Spain during the early 1800s. Some parts of the palace was used as a museum and opened to the public. Another type is the famous Philippine shores. White Beach, Boracay Island is one of the most beautiful tropical beaches in the world. Alona Beach in Panglao which populerl famous for its exotic beaches. Cebu, Panglao, Pamilacan in Bohol Balicasang and is also famous as a popular diving spot in the Philippines and enchanting. 10 Wonders of the Philippines

is worth Login Vacation Agenda FOR any small country, like the Philippines, the tourism industry potentially bring in foreign exchange. Moreover, the country has some wonderful destinations and marine features that should be enjoyed. Here are some simple magic that you can encounter when traveling to the Philippines, as quoted Journeyetc: Boracay Boracay white sand beaches along four kilometers has become a popular small island in the Philippines, maybe even the whole Asia. Many travelers testified no one can beat the smoothness of the white sand here. This small island is also famous among surfers. What makes this island popular among tourists is the accessibility. The place is very close to the island of Panay, which means that travelers can enjoy direct flights to the Big Island and a short boat trip to Boracay. Taal Volcano Taal Volcano is the largest island in the world who are in the middle of a lake, which is also an island. Currently, Taal Volcano is one of the most beautiful scenery this country. If we dig deep into the history, Taal Volcano has actually killed more than 5,000 people mountain erupted. Taal Lake, which surrounds the volcano, is home to the endemic fish of the Philippines. The lake is also known to contain high sulfate. Banaue 'rice terraces' If you admire the pyramids of Egypt and the Taj Mahal makes you want to cry, you do not have to feel lost when in the Philippine rice terraces. Fiilpina not only spectacular with giant monuments, but a tourist attraction located in Central Luzon is also the largest man-made structure in the world that are not made of hard labor. This rice field 'carved' out of the hills by the Ifugao community, and has been for more than 3,000 years ago. To this day, this place continues to be a source of livelihood for many people in this area. Sulu Sea: Tubbataha reefs Unknown to many people, there are coral reefs in the Philippines that could rival the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. The coral reef is located in the middle of the Sulu Sea and consists of two coral islands that are home to more than 400 species of fish and 300 species of coral. Because it is so far from civilization, this is one of the most well-maintained parks at sea country. Not surprisingly, the park was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993. Bohol: Chocolate hills Bohol is not only known for its beautiful beaches. The place is also home to the brown mountains in the Philippines. There are more than 1,200 hills, covering more than 50 square kilometers of land. It is a limestone hill with an almost perfect cone shape. Many scientists who have studied it believe that these hills are man-made. However, there is no clear evidence about the origins of these hills to be made as beautiful as it was until now. Mayon volcano Some say that Mount Mayon is a gift from God to the Philippines. Although beautiful, we must note that this is one of the most deadly volcano in the world because it erupted more than 50 times since 1600 and killed 77 people in 1993. Puerto Princessa: underground river For most people, the fact that the underground river is one of the UNESCO World Heritage Site is enough to make them want to go there. If you need more convincing, this destination has been voted New7 Wonders of Nature. Puerto Princessa Subterranean River to be the longest in the world, reaching 8.2 kilometers. Unfortunately, only 2 kilometers that can be accessed by the public. However, you can enjoy the scenery while cruising on the banks of this river, which is also surrounded by a national park that made the trip really enjoyable. You can see many native island species, including parrots, monkeys, and lizards. El Nido in Palawan El Nido in Palawan is an island, one of the three most popular destinations for tourists, along with Coron and Puerto Princessa. El Nido is included in the list of world's top tourist destinations. Its proximity to the dive Coron is also a distinct advantage. Coron is known for making scuba diving accident in this area so attractive. El Nido is also home to archaeological treasures which proves that there are people who inhabit the island of 22,000 years ago. Batanes Province of Batanes is the northernmost part of the Philippines. It is also the smallest province in the north, and is located between Luzon and Taiwan. Tourists want to go here because of the cold weather and its rich culture. Virtually no crime was reported on the island, so you can very safely traveled in this place. Mall of Asia While this is not an island or destination for tourists to spend their entire vacation, Mall of Asia, as the name suggests, one of the largest malls in Asia. Predicate is only surpassed by two big malls in China. The mall is even much larger than the Mall of America, and 10 percent larger than the West Edmonton Mall. Mall of Asia has four buildings linked by air routes open.

Iquazu, Brazil; Venturing, Fall 2 States

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 4 Dec 2012 12:33:00 +0700

Naipi and Taroba. The lovers down the river with a look of fear. Behind him, the water rippling rapids while the form of a snake god Mboi pursue them. Ruler of the world was full of anger, because the bachelor Taroba carry off her offerings, daughter of the chief Naipi Igobi. God Mboi chase continued until a hole in the bottom of the river. Formed a raging waterfall. The boat carrying the youth entered the crater waterfalls, and not come out again. Once, Naipi turned into stone and Tarobi into a palm tree. Stone and palm until now in tongue splitting waterfall cliff Iquazu, on the border of Argentina and Brazil. Caingangue ancient Indian legend became myth underlying the formation of this Iquazu waterfall. Iquazu is one of the three famous waterfalls in the world, although they are not the biggest or the tallest waterfall in the world. The waterfall is comparable awesomeness and beauty of the panorama with the Niagara River (border of the United States and Canada) and Victoria are located in the Zambezi River, between Zambia and Zimbabwe. Iquazu waterfall is a spectacular natural phenomenon and the most beautiful. Both in terms of Argentina, especially from Brazil will be more beautiful and a broader view. Although to visit Iquazu have to travel far, because it was behind the hemisphere. Indeed, precisely Iquazu located in South America, not far from the border point three: Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay. The phrase, the water will fall into the cesspool seems true for this Iquazu. According to geological records, hundreds of thousands of years ago, in this place transform tectonic friction that creates a giant gorge or canyon. This makes the fault that causes the riverbed height difference, causing birth Iquazu waterfall. Iquazu name comes from the Guarani Indian language which means "big water". In Iquazu, forming a horseshoe-shaped canyon. Looking over the Garganta del Diablo or Devil's Throat. The largest volume of water falls from a height of about 90 feet, which forms a crater at the bottom of the river. Ferris is often seen in this place, as well as full of spray mist. Iquazu streamflow average of 1800 cubic meters / sec. Peak canyon cliffs along 3.5 kilometers is not flat, there are a lot of bumps rocks and trees, the tongue falls disjointed, not just form a waterfall, but a waterfall about 275 pieces with different heights between 40 and 80 meter. There is also a cascading waterfall. Seeing natural phenomena, a very impressive sight unmatched. Not surprisingly, thousands of travelers come every day just to see and capture the grandeur of nature through millions of photos. In 1986, tourism Iquazu registered by UNESCO as a natural heritage (heritage) to all Mankind. This waterfall is in the middle of the woods. On both sides of Argentina and Brazil do maintenance environment, with built in national parks that preserve the ecological whole flora and fauna. A variety of wild animals and various birds flying, especially a variety of colorful parrots. Dozens of animal species included in the list of animals that are conserved. This is an added value for the world tour. In the park, various infrastructure built for the travelers, available lanes for bus tours. Meanwhile, on the Argentine side there is a small railroad track for tourists, so visitors do not need to walk around and enjoy thousands of acres of national parks. Iquazu near the waterfall, there are old hotels are very luxurious. On the Argentine side there Iquazu Resort Hotel Sheraton Internacional, while on the Brazil's Iguacu Cataratas Hotel Tropical. Each is located very close to the falls, from both the hotel's majestic waterfalls can be seen Iquazu. From the hotel page can go straight to the promenade, promenade sort of "catwalk", constructed of concrete and steel winding story follows the edge of the cliff. Some jutted into the river, along approximately 1.5 kilometers. Visitors can get closer again to see more beautiful scenery.

Monument building Arc de Triomphe france

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 3 Dec 2012 16:31:00 +0700

Monument

Monument building Arc de Triomphe is one of the famous places in Paris. The monument is located in the middle of Place Charles de Gaulle, at the western end of the Champs Elysees. Arc de Triomphe monument to the French is to commemorate and honor those who fought and died in the morning the French role in the French Revolution and the Napoleonic Wars. Under this monument there is the tomb of the unknown soldier from World War I. The building of this monument at the center of the meeting of 12 space (junction with 12 roads). Is a lively area of Paris. Advice writer if you are traveling to Paris and stay there, take a hotel near the Arc de Triomphe monument, as the location where the crowds here, close to shopping centers, premier market, cafes restaurants, and various entertainment venues such as theaters or show an attraction . Arc de Triomphe monument surrounded by a large circular road, if we want to that location we should not cross the street feeling so alone (pretty much a traffic cop there). You must use the underpass to get there (as well as underground street if we wanted to ride the train / train). If you stop by the monument you can also climb up to the floor above, from the top you can see a bit of the city sights of paris, see 12 meeting of roads. This location is also often used as a place where there is a parade or a parade passing by. A place to take pictures. Near the Arc de Triomphe monument there are also local tour tour bus stop. So it is not wrong if this location is really the center of the hustle of the city of Paris.

GERUPUK Beach NTB

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 3 Dec 2012 15:20:00 +0700

Indonesia is known to have a beach with waves that spoil the surfer. One of these is beach Gerupuk, NTB. The rolls are ready to create the sensation of exciting waves surfing! Tourism Indonesia Gerupuk Beach is on the east coast of Kuta Beach, Lombok. This beach has a natural landscape that is not less interesting to the famous beaches in Indonesia. Tourism Indonesia In addition, the Coast Gerupuk

also known as the favorite surfing spot local and foreign tourists. The waves at this beach as there was no letup spoil the surfer. Tourism Indonesia Interestingly, Gerupuk beach has waves with different levels. Travelers will be escorted by a guide to surfing the desired spot by boat. Tourism Indonesia For those who are beginners, it is advisable to come to Turtle Point. This place is a spot which is used for tourists who are just learning to surf. Tourism Indonesia Initially it's hard to stand on a surfboard. However, the exciting sensation when you can get to conquer the waves. Guaranteed, you will be hooked and want to repeat it several times. Tourism Indonesia Satisfied surfing, are sure to be tired. You can rest under the trees while enjoying views of the beach. Ordering food or a drink while enjoying the sunset seemed to be tired of your repellent. Tourism Indonesia

Bolihutuo Beach from Gorontalo Indonesian

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 4 Oct 2011 21:21:00 +0700

If someday you come to the province of Gorontalo, don’t forget to visit Bolihutuo Beach, located in the District Boalemo, approximately 120 km west from the city of Gorontalo. Of course, in the city of Gorontalo there is many tourist attraction, available such as Ria Beach. However Bolihutuo suitable as a place for tourist to get away from all the hurly-burly appearance busy urban areas. Boalemo City distances are less than 100 kilometers from Gorontalo, you can go there by using private vehicles or public vehicles with a fee Rp 15,000 per person. The city is located at the edge point Cross Sulawesi.

During the trip, we will be showed natural scenery of the cool, green valleys and hills marked with a flourish of coconut trees, exactly as the song lyric of Appeal that the Coconut Island. Along the way, we can also stop at several places to buy souvenirs such as bananas, Gorontalo food specialties such as ilabulo (meat, chicken skin and fat that is cooked with sago starch), binte biluhuta (corn soup is delicious ) And dodol.

Sticky rice or maize can be enjoyed in Paguyaman, near transmigration area. Corn cob, which has a smaller than normal maize, but the taste is very special, soft and tasty.

Boalemo remaking the city is the capital district, which then split into the district after a stand separate from Gorontalo, North Sulawesi province to be withdrawn. This small town is still decorated by trees that turn with the tranquility and hospitality typical of the population.

There, we have three hotels are simple enough clean and adequate, the hotel Pratama, which charge Rp 25,000 per person, and some rooms have air-conditioned. The hotel is located outside the city, about three kilometers before the Boalemo. Then there is Hotel Indraloka the two tariffs Rp 25,000 and available approximately 20 rooms. A cottage, which is owned by the district government and can be rented by the public with the notice, located in the coastal Bolihutuo.

There are six restaurants that is large enough that we can meet the AZ, which provides a menu of goat meat specialties such as gulai, curry, sate, and others. There again the RM Cairo providing typical Middle Eastern cuisine, and three special seafood restaurant located in the coastal Boalemo. Grilled fish that we can enjoy dabu-dabu, the sliced onion, chili and tomatoes are soaked in coconut oil is hot, cast-changing appetite.

There are special here. Napoleon fish are worth hundreds of thousands per kilogram in Jakarta, here when the season arrived, and there are fishermen who successfully perceives. But it worth only Rp 25,000 per kilo. In addition Boalemo is located at the edge of Tomini Bay is also popular with flying fish (bolihutuo).

According to local fishermen, fish from various corners of the sea in the country, like to come to Tomini Bay, which is to lay their eggs. A fisherman from origin Marissa says, he had to catch tuna, which has been ‘peneng’ that the fish have been caught in the Thousand Islands, in the Bay of Jakarta. He release the fish back, because he believes that the fish is an object of scientific research.

Tilamuto valley is located approximately five kilometers north of the capital. There is a villa a complex, which consists of meeting rooms, room and loom-loom. Remember that in the valley and at the end of letter U-shaped corners quite interesting. It offers natural quiet villa in the mountains. Not far from the complex earth camp with complete facilities including public bathrooms, toilets, and the place of worship.

We can see around that place some sugar from the tree palm sugar. Visitors can see how the process of making sugar, the start of boiling to the printing and packing with palm leaves that are typical areas of Gorontalo. In the park we can play with some deer are kept deliberately left free and loose.

Five kilometers from the place where there is Ayuhulalo waterfall, which is being developed by one Pemkab Boalemo as a leading tourist destination. This cool region is located at the height of approximately 200 m above sea level. Local residents believe this waterfall is more beautiful from Bantimurung in South Sulawesi. True or not we should decide by themself.

NARMADA PARK NUSA TENGGARA BARAT INDONESIA

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 9 Apr 2011 22:19:00 +0700

The name Narmada was taken from Sanskrit word and was built by King Anak Agung Gede Karang Asem and located about 10 kilometers from the capital city of Mataram. He built it because he was too old to get up to Mount Rinjani peak to do praying. He made the miniature of this high peak in the form of park with temple inside it. Nowadays the park becomes a tourist destination both for local and foreigner.

This attraction lays some 10 km east of Cakra Negara on the main east to west Lombok highway. Replica of the land and crater lake at the peak of Mt Rinjani are seen within the park. It is believed that when the former ruler of Mataram, king anak Agung gede Karang asem who used to climb the top of Mt. Rnjani became too old to continue his pilgrimage to make offering into the Segara Anak lake, he built a replica of the lake on lower land for him to be able to continue his sacred rituals.

Is there anything special in the park?
Yes it is, the water in one of the temple inside the park is believed by local having the power of making people looks younger. They call it as “Air Awet Muda” or juvenile water. You may splash your face with the water and also drink it. A Hindu priest guarded the temple where inside it there is juvenile water. The temple looks very small in the middle of a large park. The entrance is enough only for one person. When you get inside you do pray in according to your believe and after that the priest will give you the water which is already powered by “mantra” or chanting word. If you wish to you can donate here to give more respect to the priest and the God reside in the temple. You can bring the water to hotel and drink it for the rest day in Lombok. The water is rich of mineral in according to one of research doing by a local institution.

MaHaRaNi CaVe, CLaSS InTeRNaTioNaL CaVe

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 6 Apr 2011 18:14:00 +0700

Maharani Cave, is located in Tanjung Kodok sea tourism area, Paciran district Lamongan regency, about 200 m from Tanjung Kodok gateway fringe the roadway to east. About 50 m in the south of the street, there is stone that its soil is tire to form the bank that has downwards. Here, some labourers had mine the coral soil, phosphate material and dolomite fertilizer that had sold out of Paciran region. On this area, is a countryside road, which is the footpath, and every day passed by non irrigated dry field farmers, the stone mineworker workers, also once in a while is crowded passed the boy scouts who performing a camp around the area.

This Maharani Cave found by 4 labourers who being led by Mr. Sugeng. This cave had found on 6 Augusts 1992. The name of this cave had selected by the situation of the beautiful cave like a palace from a beautiful queen. Before the invention, one of the members, had dream, she had met with a beautiful woman who had a beautiful as the property of a queen that called Maharani. The queen seems to be a head time door of the cave that had found. The name of this empress has specified by the fact of this cave condition. In platform of the cave named Paseban Maharani, there is stone which has crown form, the property of a queen, which named “Selo Mahkota Maharani”. This beautiful cave room also alike an empire palace of subterranean that is full of graven pillar and roof.

The situation of the nature cave of Maharani Palace is stay at 200 m from Java seashore residing in Tanjung Kodok area, Paciran district, Lamongan regency. This cave is easily to visit and fluent to obtain the transportation towards to the location.

Togian Island Indonesia

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 6 Apr 2011 04:04:00 +0700

Togian islands is located in the Gorontalo, dives specificity is certainly the beauty and the diversity of the underwater sceneries their offer.

It is the only place in the world where barrier reefs, atolls, and fringing reefs are found together. Most of the islands is still covered by dense tropical forest, human settlements and tourism are still very limited.

The reefs and coastal areas provide habitat and breeding areas for hawksbill turtle, the green turtle and the dugong. Togian forests and skies are filled with exotic creatures such as the Togian Macaque, the babirusa, the Sulawesi Hornbill, and hanging parrots.

Raja Ampat Diving "PAPUA"

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 6 Apr 2011 03:19:00 +0700

Raja Ampat is located in the Province of West Papua. If we want to visit the Raja Ampat is the nearest airport is the new town of Sorong followed by speed boat about 1.5 hours.
Raja ampat is natural beauty which indicated its position as the richest marine biodiversity in the world oceans. Islands are still very original is so amazing let alone the sea at this island is very famous for its wealth which according to the survey and research institutions of international marine ecosystem here that there are 537 species of coral that is already represented 75% of the world now not to mention the discovery of 828 species of fish from a number of 1074 estimated spread this Raja Ampat island.
The beautiful beaches on the edge looking will be greeted by a bunch of fish jumping dolphin dolphins that high in the side of your boat speed . What a life experience that will not be forgotten, woow amazing.

LoViNa BEACH in BALI INDONESIA

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 3 Apr 2011 20:09:00 +0700

Lovina is located in Kalibukbuk, Buleleng sub district in north Bali. The eastern countryside is called Pemaron about 5 Km west of Singaraja, and the western countryside is Temukus about 12 Km west of Singaraja.

It is well known as an excellent site for sunset watching, snorkeling, and diving. Darkly beautiful, Lovina offers quiet and calm, the sea with its dolphin and is popular Asian tourists and those avoiding the hustle and bustle of the southern beaches.

One of the interesting moment in Lovina is dolphin watching tour. Hundreds of dolphins can be seen in the morning time around 1 km offshore. We can see the dolphin attractions in this place like jumping.

Borneo island - South Kalimantan

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 23 Apr 2009 13:16:00 +0700

South Kalimantan Province is located in Kalimantan Island. South Kalimantan is a province of Indonesia. It is one of four Indonesian provinces in Kalimantan - the Indonesian part of the island of Borneo. The provincial capital is Banjarmasin. The province has a population of 2.97 million (2000 census).
There are 11 regencies in South Kalimantan: Banjar, Tanah Bumbu, Kotabaru, Tanah Laut, Barito Kuala, Tapin, Hulu Sungai Selatan, Hulu Sungai Tengah, Hulu Sungai Utara, Balangan, and Tabalong. This province has an administrative city, Banjarbaru.

Banjarmasin city is the capital of South Kalimantan have face in five dimensions that is; Government Town, Port Town, Commerce Town, Industrial Town and Tourism town. This town is located in tip of south as the gateway of South Kalimantan, occupy lowland which swamps, and stay between 3150 - 3220 south latitudes and between 114 320 - 114 380 east longitudes.

Riparian life is initial individuality from the growth of this town with it river transportation, beside its land transportation that starting rapidly grow.
The existence of Flora and Fauna in swamps lowland along the length of the river flowing downstream to go upstream and ridge life is a journey corridor of tourism preoccupying.
Floating Market, which is the only one in Indonesia and other world, is unique culture value.

Banjarmasin city, as Tourism town, has big enough potency. National tourism is pledge sector in the economic activity, to enlarge foreign exchange, to extend and smooth down opportunity to try and employment, push development of area, introduce nature and cultural and to have fatherland love.

The Bogor Botanical Gardens: Bogor, West Java

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 4 Apr 2009 04:16:00 +0700

When it comes to any form of horticulture then I am there. I am what you call a keen gardener. Yeah I know, sounds crazy for a guy but it’s this passion I have for beauty in the floral world of Indonesia. There are numerous botanical gardens in Indonesia including an excellent one at Candikunung on the island of Bali.

The ultimate in botanical gardens, however, had to be the Bogor Botanical Gardens located 60 km south of the capital of Jakarta in Bogor. Covering more than 80 hectares, it adjoin the Istana Bogor or Presidential Palace.

The Gardens are also a major centre for botanical research. The garden contains more than 15,000 species of trees and plants, 400 types of palms as well as orchid houses that contain some 3000 varieties. Put these together with flowing streams and lotus ponds and you have a botanical garden worthy to match any other in the world.

Recently, expat resident of Jakarta Simon Marcus Gower wrote this small article about the splendour of the Bogor Botanical Gardens:

It is often said that when things are practically on our doorstep, we can have a tendency to overlook them and not truly appreciate them for what they are.

This is perhaps true of the excellent Bogor Botanical Gardens, which is close to Jakarta and so perhaps not as fully appreciated as it should be.

For example, acquaintances have cited how they see the gardens as not much more than a kind of “major traffic island in the center of Bogor”, because of the way in which Bogor’s traffic congestion circumvents it.

Others can be complainants and dismissive of the great gardens because of “the masses of people” that visit on weekends or national holidays. But even when the “masses” do enter the gardens, the sheer size of this splendor in the center of the city still means that quiet and secluded parts can be found.

The gardens’ size is impressive too. Though roads encircle the park, at 87 hectares the Bogor Botanical Gardens is unquestionably the predominant and preeminent feature of the city.

But how did this wonderful place come to be, and why are we still able to appreciate them nearly 200 years after they were first established?

The first question can lead to some debate, as some will credit Sir Stamford Raffles as providing the inspiration and the instructions to begin the gardens. More widely credited as the “founding father of the gardens” is German botanist Professor Reinwardt.

There is now a stone monument within the gardens that identifies Reinwardt as its founder. Its plaque indicates that in 1817 at the behest of then Dutch governor-general Van de Capellan, Reinwardt was commissioned to establish the gardens. Along with colleagues from England’s Kew Gardens, Reinwardt began the green, landscaped expanse that we see today.

The gardens is indeed a tribute to the vision of those men: Its avenues of palm trees provide stunning vistas; its collections of exotic plants create labyrinthine intrigue; the matured, skyscraping trees are a spectacular sight; and botanical wonders assail the eye throughout.

The design of the gardens seems to combine the manicured and ordered seriousness of formal gardens with the more chaotic and free areas of almost overgrown wilderness. The latter surrounds the relatively small portion of the gardens known as the Dutch Cemetery.

Here, hidden in a secluded part of the gardens, sit some 42 graves dating back to Indonesia’s colonial past. Sheltering these graves are massive bamboos that crowd around in a seemingly disordered manner.

The presence of the bamboo, however, creates a remarkably — and appropriately — peaceful corner. The graves are remarkable too, in both their ages and those that they commemorate. In fact, some even predate the gardens.

Among those marked here in their final resting place are Dutch governor-generals and the biologists who worked in the gardens. There is even a relatively recent grave: that of Dutch botanist Professor Kostermans, who requested that he be buried among “the plants and environment that he loved”, which was duly carried out in 1994.

Not too far from the Dutch Cemetery is another commemoration of a European resident of the archipelago. This monument to the memory of Olivia Raffles, the wife of Sir Stamford Raffles, is a delicate, domed and colonnaded dedication to an evidently beloved wife.

The inscription of the monument tells much of the love that was felt, as well as the age in which it was written: “Thou who ne’er my constant heart one monument hath forgot, tho’ fate severe has bid us part yet still — forget me not”.

These are perhaps some of the more romanticized and artistic aspects of the gardens, but it also possesses commercial and scientific aspects that add to its significance, both historically and presently.

The Bogor Botanical Gardens achieved world renown for the research conducted within its premises, notably on the local cash crops of coffee, tea and rubber — not to mention tobacco. In conducting such activities, the gardens was significant in helping to develop and to realize the success of the country’s plantations.

Its plants and trees also highlights the great significance of the gardens. With an estimated collection of more than 15,000 species of plants and trees, including some 400 different types of palm and an greenhouse containing thousands of orchid varieties, the gardens’ collection is nothing short of extensive and impressive.

The range and variety of things to see in the Bogor Botanical Gardens can make for an excellent day trip. From huge trees with spectacular buttress roots firmly holding them in the ground, to broad, sweeping lawns, and from avenues of trees to lakes, ponds, streams and a river running through its center, there is much to take in.

While simple bridges allow for views onto a river strewn with rocks and boulders, it is the red suspension bridge that offers the most excitement: people crossing it bounce along as its suspension cables swing and take up the strain.

Any visit to the Bogor Botanical Gardens will mean a direct and enjoyable encounter with natural splendor. The gardens represent simultaneously a better side to the colonial past as well as the natural tropical wonders that are to be found within the Indonesian archipelago and beyond.

The modest entrance fee allows for a good day out and the possibility of contributing to the maintenance of this natural treasure trove of Indonesia — said to be among the best gardens in the world.

The Thousand Islands Djakarta City

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 15 Feb 2009 19:03:00 +0700

Having lived in Jakarta for nearly five years now I had always known of the Thousand Islands, but had never visited them - mainly because like so many attractions in Indonesia you often come away disappointed, thinking ‘ well it would be great if only they had done it right ‘. I did not want to be disappointed by something that should be a potentially fantastic experience.

But recently I had the chance to accompany a group of journalists, travel agents and a few people with dubious cover stories on a special introductory trip to nine islands in two days, organized by the Jakarta Tourism Department as part of the ‘ Enjoy Jakarta ‘ Islands and Marine program. This was my big chance to discover if the Thousand Islands lived up to expectations or not.

Day 1. 8.00am. Ancol Marina. North Jakarta.

Our sleek, air-conditioned, three outboard engined speed boat is ready to race us across the waves to the islands, of which the nearest is only 20 minutes away from the coast. We, however are heading a little further to Rambut ‘Hair’ Island, which is a special conservation area famous for the roosts of many types of sea bird.

However, when we reach the open sea, rather than cutting through the waves like a knife through butter, our water chariot seems to spend more time under the water as the waves pound the side windows like a tempest totally obscuring the sun-drenched view outside. I am surprised not to see fish flattened against the glass like bugs on a car windscreen. Is this a boat or a submarine ? It is an exciting start and hopefully the first of many stories to come.

As the waters calm nearing Rambut Island and the boat pulls alongside the jetty, flocks of sea birds can be seen circling overhead.

After a short walk through the only ‘real’ tropical forest in the islands, along a path badly maintained due to the earth moving excavations of the local monitor lizards, we reach the observation tower.

20 meters up a rusting ladder covered with creepers and vines, you really get a sense of adventure as the sweat pours off you due to the humidity. The view is awesome and worth the climb. A 360-degree panorama of high rise living, bird-style. Herons, egrets and storks swoop in for precarious landings without any air traffic control sending nesting material crashing to the ground. Some of the trees seem to be laden with large brown seed pods which, as you look closer, unfurl like the eggs in the film ‘ Alien ‘ to reveal wings and the almost dog-like faces of the local fruit bat gang. Those guys who roam the ‘open 24 hours ‘ fruit tree supermarkets in the forest canopy. You can easily spend hours watching the family life of birds, just like David Attenborough does in those wonderful BBC nature programs.

From here you realize the complexity of the eco-system in action with everything from the distant coral reefs, mangroves and forests dependent on each other to sustain life. And as one baby bird falls from the safety of the nearby nest, you realize how delicate the balance between life and death is, especially when the guide tells me only to tread on the supporting ( still rusting ) metal supports and not on the creaky wood floor of the tower because I, too, could follow the bird to the same fate.

The journey back to the boat is like stepping back in time, passing trees encrusted with layers of yellow fungus under dappled rays of sun light filtered through the canopy above. Your senses become heightened in an environment like this as every sound and movement offers a potential encounter with nature. Seed pods and branches frequently land like bombs due to the activities of the birds above, and other more dangerous liquid bombs can descend as if laser-guided. Anyway according to tradition it’s supposed to be good luck, but make sure you wear a hat to avoid a bad hair day.

One noise is different though- a snapping of branches accompanied by surreal hissing.

Moving into the undergrowth I come face to face with two six-foot-long monitor lizards almost standing vertical in a tussle for supremacy. Their power was obvious as they come crashing to the floor before chasing each other into the impenetrable jungle. It reminds me of ‘ The Lost World ‘ when Ray Harryhausen would put rubber horns on small lizards and film them on miniature sets as if they were dinosaurs. But these are real, living dinosaurs.

Somewhat more subdued is the python curled up in the hollow fork of a tree, fast asleep after a delicious meal of ‘KFE’, or Kentucky Fried Egret. At least 12-feet-long, his brother and sisters are lurking somewhere on the island ready for their meals, but they never attack humans. Supposedly, they are more scared of us than we are of them.

Next stop, Putri Island or Princess Island.

A small resort island offers excellent diving and snorkeling in crystal clear waters before you retire to the traditionally decorated cottages looking out towards the sea and other picturesque islands. Here you don’t need to go to the fish, they come in the form of a series of large tanks around the reception area and restaurant. In fact you can enjoy a delicious sea food lunch while watching the live versions of what you are eating swim by.

Of particular interest is the Undersea Aquarium, consisting of an underwater walkway through an enclosed area of sea with turtles, sharks and coral-dwelling fish, which will delight the young and old alike. And, yes, if you look hard enough, you can find Nemo the clown fish hiding in the soft corals. However, in such a rich maritime environment, you do tend to wonder why there are not more fish on view and more information to help educate those who come to see without getting wet.

But even close to shore and around the jetty you will be surprised at the shoals of beautiful blue, red and zebra striped fish that seem eager to meet you. There is something very relaxing about watching such delicate creatures just going about their daily lives.

After the calm of reef-protected waters our good ship continues further north, resuming its disguise as a submarine in the choppy waters, which is enjoyed by all on board (and better than any ride at Dunia Fantasy!).

But as we reach Pantara and Sepa Islands, and the Puleu Seribu Resort Hotel and Sepa Cottages, respectively, the seas calm, turning azure blue and as clear as the best-filtered, bottled water.

Both islands offer cottage style accommodation with beautiful views of the surrounding islands and plenty of opportunity to experience the marine environment.

Due to their strategic location in the center of the ‘ Pulau Seribu ‘ Marine Park, there is easy access to the wonders of the sea and on Sepa Island I had my first ‘ Hawksbill ‘ turtle experience. Here they collect the eggs and incubate them in special pens until hatching, then after careful nurturing release them to the sea. These ancient creatures seem so helpless when young and need as much help from all of us to conserve the species. I am full of praise for the small team who care so much for these threatened creatures.

More pleasure will come from the turtles tomorrow, but for now a relaxing nights stay at the Matahari Island Resort awaits.

Sitting on a wooden jetty with the cool breeze, gentle lapping waters and refreshingly clean air, make the perfect end to the first day of our tour. Who would have thought that you can come to one of Asia’s largest capital cities and with only a short boat ride away, watch the sun sink into the Java Sea after experiencing so many different ecological and recreational adventures.

Kaliage Kecil Island

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 21 Jan 2009 05:17:00 +0700

Jakarta has long been the gateway to the thousands of magnificent islands that make up the vast archipelago of Indonesia. The majority of tourists stop briefly in the city, if at all, before heading to the famous shores of Bali, Lombok or Sulawesi for their piece of paradise. The city, chiefly, has the reputation of being a business destination and not a place where you would want to spend your hard earned holiday. It may come as a surprise to learn that the area of "Greater Jakarta" includes a collection of islands that, in terms of natural beauty and exclusivity, are amongst the finest in the region. White sandy beaches, lazy hanging palms and clear waters, alive with a thousand varieties of tropical fish, are not a long air trip away but practically within swimming distance of South East Asia’s most vivacious metropolis.

The boat is fully equipped with fitted galley facilities, including a microwave and two freezers, a dining area, an outdoor barbeque and four cabins which can comfortably sleep eight guests. On deck there is plenty of room to enjoy the sunlight or take a siesta on the large mattresses to the front and rear of the captain’s cabin.

Arriving on Kaliage Kecil in the morning is like discovering a modern day treasure island. Sparkling sand, emerald water and thick tropical vegetation greet you as you motor ashore. You are met by what looks like a clever replica of a classic Javanese house, hidden in the trees. On entry you realise that this is no replica but a beautifully carved original wooden house from Central Java dating back to the eighteenth century. This magnificent structure originally belonged to a religious teacher in the small town of Demak, but in 1996 there were plans to pull it down in order to build a mosque. The island’s owner, an avid antique collector, heard about its impending fate and immediately bought it and then painstakingly took it apart. It was then transported to Jakarta and brought to the island where the same craftsmen restored it to its glory. From where it stands, sheltered in the trees, you could be forgiven for thinking it has been on the island for eternity and not less than two years. The interior is like stepping into a antique gallery. The owner has been collecting antiques and historical artifacts for over 25 years on extensive travels around the globe and these treasures are spread over the island. A set of chairs were discovered at a trance dance in Central Java, chests used for storing rice in Magelang now house the linen, and chairs, previously owned by Dutch plantation managers, are now arranged on the beach for sunset cocktails. Four poster beds with hanging mosquito nets add to the feeling of being on a romantic safari at the turn of the last century.

Apart from the main house, the rest of the island’s design is the result of the genius of renowned landscaper and architect Made Wijaya. Hidden in the jungle at the end of winding sandy paths you discover a beautiful natural bamboo and rattan villa, an outdoor bathroom shaped like an African kraal and a raised rice barn which also serves as a cool bed in the trees. Made is also responsible for the kitchen and dining area which tends to act as the centre of activity at extended meal times. The decoration is a charming mix of maritime paraphernalia, antiques and Indonesian artifacts. Raffles style lamps hang above the comfortable seating while Balinese cow bells sway in the fresh sea breeze.

The fantastic meals prepared by the chef are one of the high points of the trip. Breakfast includes fresh croissants, yoghurt and fruit, with sausages, eggs and grilled tomatoes for those who prefer a fuller start to the day. Lunch and dinner consist of a buffet of international and local cuisine which tempt even the strict dieter to eat until truly full before retiring to a hammock for an extended siesta.

If the fresh air gives you a burst of energy, there are plenty of water orientated activities to keep you busy. Apart from swimming, you can water ski, canoe and snorkel or take a round trip of the neighbouring islands in the dinghy. Diving equipment is not provided but expeditions can easily be organised if you are qualified and have your own gear. The easiest thing to do however is just lie back, relax and enjoy the silence and peace of your own private island.

The most impressive part of the island package is also the most important, the service provided. As soon as you step aboard the yacht you are placed in the hands of a first class professional crew who successfully tend to your every need on land and sea until you arrive back in Jakarta. The standards of service attained are not a result of a recent hospitality course but through a relationship with the boat and island which has grown over the past fifteen years. The head cook has been with the boat since 1983, the captain since 1988 and this ensures that everybody knows exactly what they are doing, from guiding the boat in darkness to serving perfect gin and tonics at sun down. On the island everything is continually scrupulously cleaned, beds are made, meals prepared without you being disturbed or noticing any activity. As you leave the island after a large Sunday lunch, the crew is magically already on board, fully prepared for departure.

Sikuai Island from West Sumatra,Indonesia

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 11:31:00 +0700

Sikuai Island, is a small secluded island located in Padang, West Sumatera. An enjoyable 15 minute speedboat ride from Muara Bay (Dermaga Wisata Bahari) would take you to this beautiful island. As soon as you arrive on this island, you will see a white and soft sandy beach and gentle waves with crystal clear water decorating the whole island.

Get in touch with the nature by exploring the whole island on foot or by beach bike. A nice connecting bridge as well as a cement pedestrian walk is provided for you to make the exploration more fun. A combination of views like white sand, light blue ocean water, green coconut trees, big rocks, colorful wild flowers, all different kinds of wild trees and curious monkeys will certainly entertain your eyes and fill your heart with amusement.

Snorkeling is a must activity to do here. Many different kinds of tropical fishes such as blue trigger fish, Picasso trigger fish, angel fish, dog puffer fish and trumpet fish are easily found. When you are lucky (like me) you would even see a spotted eagle ray!! Amazing, isn’t it?

Enjoy sunset and sunrise at Sunset Plaza which is located on the top of the island. Breathtaking scenery will accompany your hiking activity to reach Sunset Plaza. Take pleasure in the swimming pool while you enjoy the sunset and sunrise views. Beside that, from this point you would be able to see Teluk Bayur Bay and small, beautiful islands nearby like Snake Island and Cubadak Island.

Indulge yourself on this private island. Sleeping in a comfortable bungalow and listening to the soft, soothing sound of the surf for your lullaby will complete your stay on this beautiful island.

Hawaii Beach

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 05:34:00 +0700

Are you in the process of planning a family vacation to Hawaii? If you are, congratulations. In all honesty, you are likely giving your child or children the experience of a lifetime. Many families are now lucky if they even get to take a yearly family vacation and many more find themselves staying closer to home, but you are giving your child the opportunity to experience the beauty, land, and culture of Hawaii! As fun as the initial excitement will be, you will soon need to start making your travel arrangements.

When it comes to vacationing in Hawaii, you will find that you have a number of different options, especially where your overnight accommodations are concerned. If you are like many other travelers, you may wish to stay along the beach. Hawaii beach accommodations are highly sought after, but there is an important point that you must first take into consideration. That point is your children. There are a number of pros and cons to booking a stay at a beachfront rental while on a family vacation. A few of those pros and cons, as well as a few helpful tips are highlighted below for your convenience.

One of the many pros or plus sides to booking a stay at a Hawaii beach accommodation, like a Hawaii beach house, is the experience that you and your family will get. As previously stated, many families are lucky if they are able to take a family vacation each year, let alone stay along the coast of Hawaii. Regardless of the age of your child or children, they will likely be mesmerized with the view they are provided with. In fact, it is, literally, a picture perfect memory that will likely stay with them for years to come. As a parent, there is nothing better than providing your children with the experience of a lifetime.

Your options are another one of the many pros or plus sides to staying along the beach for your next trip to Hawaii. What many individuals do not realize is that Hawaii beach accommodations come in a number of different formats. Of course, you can book a stay at a Hawaii beachfront vacation resort or a beachfront hotel, but those are not your only options. Private beachfront vacation rentals are also available and they come in the form of condos, villas, cottages, and apartment rentals. When deciding where you would like to stay, keep the size of your family in mind. Vacation villas, cottages, and other private home rentals are ideal for large family vacations or even just small families seeking privacy.

Although there are a number of pros or plus sides to booking a stay at a Hawaii beach accommodation, it is also important to examine the cons or the downsides to doing so. With family vacations, one of those downsides can be safety. With that in mind, donвЂ™t automatically write off Hawaii beach accommodations, as there are a number of important factors that you will first want to take into consideration. For example, if your child or children are teenagers, they are more able to wander around your rental property unattended without putting themselves in a dangerous situation, as opposed to younger children, like toddlers and preschoolers. Distance to the ocean should also be examined. Many private rental owners have their homes positioned a safe distance away from the water and many even install privacy or safety fences, reducing the danger for younger children.

Should you decide to book a stay at a Hawaii beach accommodation, like a Hawaii beachfront cottage, be sure to keep an eye on your children at all times. This is particularly important if your children are young in age. Regardless of age, be sure to establish ground rooms, concerning the water or leaving the rental home in general unattended. If safety is a large concern of yours, consider booking a stay at a Hawaii vacation rental that simply provides you with an ocean view, as opposed to a beachfront rental.

As you can see, there are more pros than cons to staying along the beach for your next family vacation. In all honesty, use your best judgment and you will see that you and your family, regardless of your childrenвЂ™s age, can safely vacation right along the beach.

senggigi beach of lombok island indonesia

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 23:13:00 +0700

Senggigi is the most developed area for tourists on Lombok. You can find a variety of restaurants, bars, discotheques, travel agents, photo processors, money changers, souvenir shop and a range of accommodations starting from budget guest house to 5 star hotels. Restaurants and small cafes line the colorful main beach road. Swimming off the beach is safe.

Most visitors to Lombok usually start their stay at Senggigi, Lombok's most famous resort area. Private villas, boutique hotels giving more options to the visitors of Lombok,The town of Senggigi spreads out along nearly 10 kilometers of coastal road. This road continues north to Bangsal, port for the Gili Islands. Along the way be in store for winding turns, steep hills, and a fantastic scenery of the coast.
There are plenty of activities you can do to complete your holiday. Sightseeing or touring organized by reputable local tour operators is the best option to discover what Lombok has to offer. Renting a car or motor cycle is also good alternative to get around, either self-driving, or with a driver so you can relax and enjoy the view. Car rental in Lombok is more expensive than Bali. Tip driver pocket money for meals if you stop for lunch or diner. If you are pleased with service, tip the driver or local guide at the end. If you collide with anything, or it collides with you, you are responsible for all costs.
Senggigi Post Office located on the main street of Senggigi, opposite from Pamour Art & Antique shop. Health Centre or Puskesmas located near Hotel Puri Saron. Drugstore or Apotik available next to the gate of Intan Lombok Hotel. Dentist available at Meninting Puskesmas 10 minutes drive from Senggigi towards direction to the airport.

Money changers are available almost in every corner of Senggigi. Double count your money before leaving the money changers to get the accurate amount. Hotel reception also change foreign money with lower rates.

Varkala Beach

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 12:39:00 +0700

Varkala is the only place in southern Kerala where one can find cliffs adjacent to the Arabian sea. These tertiary sedimentary formation cliffs are a unique geological feature in the otherwise flat Kerala coast, and is known among geologists as Varkala Formation and a geological monument as declared by the Geological survey of India. There are numerous water spouts and spas on the sides of these cliffs.

A famous beach resort, Varkala is also famous for its 3,500 year old Janardanaswamy temple, which is an important Vaishnavaite shrine in India and is referred to as Dakshin Kashi (Benares of the south). The temple is located close to the Papanasam beach, which is considered to have holy waters which wash away sins, and is also an important Ayurveda treatment centre. The temple has an ancient bell removed from a shipwreck, donated by the captain of the Dutch vessel which sank near Varkala without causing any casualties.

Another major landmark in Varkala is the Sivagiri Mutt, established by the great social reformer Sree Narayana Guru. The hill-top mausoleum of Sree Narayana Guru is one of the most famous monuments in Kerala. The adjacent hills house the East-West University of Brahmavidya and Sree Narayana Gurukulam.

Another important feature of Varkala is the now dilapidated Varkala Tunnel, part of the TS Canal, which was an important waterway during pre-independence times.

Varkala is a well-known Tourist destination. The town has excellent telecommunication facilities, an average-rated water supply system, fire station, several post offices and police station. The town boasts of government-run modern medicine, ayurveda,and nature cure hospital in addition over 10 private hospitals, clinics and some dental clinics. The government-run nature cure hospital is also functioning near the Papanasam cliff.

The District Ayurvedic Hospital is also located in Varkala.

Varkala is the second most important railhead in the district of Thiruvananthapuram, after the Thiruvananthapuram Central Station. Varkala is an important hub for neighbouring places like Attingal, Kadakkavur, Edava, Kallambalam , Kappil, Parippally, and Kilimanoor.

Varkala now has a high literacy rate af above 90%.

Anyer Beach of Banten Indonesia

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 25 Oct 2008 00:33:00 +0700

Anyer is a town in West Java, Indonesia, fifteen kilometres south of Merak. It is home of a forty metre lighthouse built by Queen Wilhelmina of Holland in 1885 as a memorial for the townspeople killed by the eruption of Krakatau, which destroyed the town.^[1] The original lighthouse was destroyed by a tsunami created by the eruption of Krakatua. It is thought that a large coral rock was picked up by the 30m wave, impacting the lighthouse causing its collapse. After the wave had subsided the lighthouse keeper, whose wife and child were killed, patrolled the beach with a lantern warning shipping of the hazards. The foundations of the original lighthouse can still be seen.

It is also the starting point of the Great Post Road, built by the Dutch in the nineteenth century, which ran 1,000 kilometres to the eastern tip of Java. Off the coast of Anyer is the island Pulau Sangeang, an unihabited island with vast areas of untouched jungle. The area is also known for coral formations swarming with tropical fish.

Anyer Beaches and resorts are very popular tourism destination located in the west coast of Banten, facing directly to the famous Krakatoa volcano in the middle of Sunda strait.

Good hotels and resorts are scaterred along the white sandy beaches. Since the beaches there facing to the west, hotels in Anyer offer good places to enjoy sunset scenery. Not only for vacations, many hotels in Anyer also well known as good places to conduct MICE ( Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Events) activities. More than that, hotels and resorts in Anyer also offer you a posibility to see the Baby Naughty Krakatoa spew out its small eruptive fire.

Pangandaran Beach Of West Java Indonesia

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 17:56:00 +0700

Pangandaran Beach is one of tourism object at Kabupaten Ciamis, Provinsi Jawa Barat.This Beach is on Java South sea and noted at visit Indonesia the year 2008. In consequence, local government through Dinas Pariwisata and Budaya, always corrects and complements various area support facilities at Pangandaran beach Visitor can enjoy nature panorama of Pangandaran Beach which is beautiful and extent of white sand gradient of its fascinating coast. Two hills flanking Pangandaran Beach makes sea wind and wave ripples is relatively small, so visitor are able to do various activities, like swimming, boating encircles the peninsula, fishing, relaxing along the beach, or only enjoy the natural beauty from hotel, which spreading all over the area. Visitor can also watch sunset and sunrise from the same place. For visitor who wish to dive, in this area there is marine park with various beautiful flora and fauna.. The road around this coast has paved. All Facilities are accessible with motorbike or bicycle. When night arrives, visitor will remain comfortable resided in Pangandaran Beach, because the area has been equipped with adequate illuminator. Every weekend, West Java folk art usually performed. In certain months its performed by various event, like intention of fisherman sea Pangandaran in March, nyiar lumar in June, international kite festival (Pangandaran International Kite Festival) in July, decorative boat carnival in August, fishing competition in September, cross country vacation and off road event in October, and celebration party of new year in December. Location Pangandaran beach is located in Kecamatan Pangandaran, Sub-Province Ciamis, Province Jawa Barat, Indonesia. Access From Bandung, visitor can use route Bandung – Tasikmalaya - Pangandaran. Ithe distance around 236 kilometer. Besides with bus, visitor can entrain until station Banjar. From Banjar, journey is continued with bus until Pangandaran. From Yogyakarta, visitor can apply route Yogyakarta - Cilacap - Banjar - Pangandaran. the distance around 385 kilometer. Besides with bus, visitor can entrain until station Banjar. From Banjar, journey is continued with bus until Pangandaran. Accomodation and Facility In Pangandaran Beach area, there are various supporting facilities, like safe and wide parking bays, hotel with various types, team SAR, camping ground, guide, and tourism information center. Despitefully, in the area there are other facility, like bank, ATM, money changer, restaurant, booth eats, theater, place of rent of bicycle and tire, ski jet propulsion, telephone-shop, voucher refill, the sailing, and present centre and handicraft outlet.

Guci Hot Water Spring of Central Java Indonesia

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 01:06:00 +0700

It is about 19 kilometres away from Tegal southward. Guci is a mountain resort at the height of 1,050 metres above sea level with the temperature ranging from 12.8_ to 21.9_. The main point of interest is the hot water spring. You can take a bath in either indoor and outdoor bathing place or the swimming pool. The water contains chemical compound such as zinc, sulphure, iodine. Therefore, it can cure various kinds of skin deceases. The Guci Hot Water Spring is also provided with facilities to meet the tourists requirement such as hotel, restaurants, conference room, children play ground, camping site, parking lot, etc. Rembul Village Bojong Tegal Regency. Just as natural and outdoor Spa, you may enjoy the lukewarm and spring water and the sound of singing bird to get rid your tentions.

Karimun Jawa Island from Central java Indonesia

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 18 Oct 2008 22:24:00 +0700

Karimunjawa is an archipelago of 69 islands in the Java Sea, Indonesia, 420 kilometres west of Jepara. The islands' name means 'a stone's throw from Java' in Javanese. The main island is also known as Karimun. Apart from the main island, Karimon, two of the larger islands are Kemujen and Parang. The island of Bawean lies east of this group, as part of Gresik District, West Java Province. The Karimunjawa islands are administered as an Indonesian sub district with five (5) villages (Karimun, Kamagin, Kemujan, Digimon, and Parang) administratively part of Jepara district (kabutops) of Central Java province. Apart from use as a pirate base, the islands are believed to have been uninhabited until a penal settlement was established during the British occupation of Java in the early seventeenth century. The settlement was abandoned by the Dutch during the Java War (1825-1830), but the former convicts remained as settlers. Cotton plantations set up during the convict period became a major source of income, as did goldsmithing. We can find various kinds sea animal, like turtle, shark, fishes, in karimunjawa waters territory. In the land, especially in Karimunjawa island and Kemujan island, we can finds many kinds of bird, deer, and even snake. In karimunjawa and Kemujan island, we can rent car or motorcyle to go around the island. To go to the other island, we can use local boat or motorboat. Note: Be sure that you've booked the car before you arrived in the Karimunjawa. Because there still small amound of cars there. To make it easier, you can call your travel agent to arrange it. Alcoholic beverages are served in the hotels, and Bintang (Indonesian beer) can be purchased at some 'warungs.' Bottled water is a must and can be bought readily. At meals, seasonal fresh fruit juice is a treat (mango, orange, avocado). Surrounded by seas, Karimunjawa provides lots of sea food. Fresh fish and prawns are staples in the island diet. Restaurants are located within hotels. Other eateries, or 'warungs', provide decent cheap food like fried rice, fish, or an assortment of veggies. Be flexible and you'll do fine. There are various kinds of accommodation there, from the four star hotels to homestay. There are also camping sites there

Lawang sewu Great Building of Central Java Indonesia

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 11:41:00 +0700

A short distance from Simpang Lima is a one of the landmarks of Semarang, the old Dutch administrative building said to have 1,000 doors.

I think that number is a little high although there are a lot. The place is not used these days for any specific purpose and when Ika and showed up we simply talked to the man in the little hut at the entrance. I said I wanted to go in and he said the price of admission would be anything we wanted to donate. I gave 5,000rp.

The fellow took around and showed us the deserted corridors, stained glass windows and separate rooms. After the Dutch took off during WWII the building was occupied by Javanese fighters trying to make a stand against the invading Japanese.

I asked who was victorious and was told the Javenese were.….of course.

The guide showed us a metal cross-beam that had been split by a Japanese shell. On the ground floor of the building the Indonesian fighters had written inspiring thoughts on the walls such as We must stay strong, We must be smart.

Our tour of the building took about 20 minutes and it was cool to see a relic of another time. The building itself was built in 1863 making it 100 years younger than me. Man that makes me feel old!

gedong songo temple of central java indonesia

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 00:52:00 +0700

Central Java is rich with the cultural heritage of Hindu, Buddhist and Islamic historical eras.

The famous Buddhist temples — or candi — of Borobudur, Mendut and Pawon, and the Hindu temple Prambanan are a few of the numerous cultural influences that spread through the province.

Aside from these famed temples are other, lesser-known temples such as Sewu, Kraton Boko, Sambi Sari, Sari, Kalasan and Plaosan.

Some of these temples are located on a mountain slope or on a plateau: the Dieng temples on Dieng Plateau, the Sukuh and Cetho temples on Mount Lawu, and the Gedong Sanga temples on Mt. Ungaran.

If you are both a culture and nature lover, then the Gedong Sanga temples might be an ideal choice for an outing.

The Candi Gedong Sanga complex is located at Candi village of Ambarawa district in Semarang regency, 25 kilometers from Ungaran or 45 km from Semarang, the provincial capital.

The complex is easily accessible from either Yogyakarta (about 2 hours by car, or 3 hours by bus) or Semarang. The roads are paved and smooth — except for the one linking Ambarawa to the complex, which is steep and rather narrow.

Near the complex is a traditional market, Pasar Bandungan, and on market days the street might become congested, so drivers must be alert — from Pasar Bandungan, it is still 4 km to the temples.

The Gedong Sanga temple complex, discovered by Sir Stamford Raffles in 1804, was built during the 9th-century Syailendra Dynasty. The temples are situated at about 1,200 meters above sea level and are scattered within a pine forest.

The local temperature ranges between 19-27 degrees Centigrade. A number of sulfur springs exist inside the complex, where simple bathing facilities are available — at a small fee — for those wanting to bathe or wade in the hot water. It is said the sulfur hot springs can cure minor dermatological ailments.

Facing south from the slope of Mt. Ungaran are Rawa Pening Lake, Mt. Merbabu and Mt. Merapi, while to the west are Mt. Sumbing and Mt. Sindoro.

A complete trip through the complex is roughly a 2-km hike. The journey, which ascends and descends through groves of pine trees, ravines and sulfur springs, surely requires a good deal of energy.

Luckily, horses are available for rent at the entrance to the complex. Be sure to get a fair price: approximately Rp 50,000 per horse. When the deal is made, just climb on to the horse and enjoy the panorama while its owner guides the way, rein in hand. Visitors may dismount during the trip to observe the temples at their leisure.

A variety of accommodation are available along the ascending road to the temple complex, at some 3 km from the temples.

Among them are the Amanda, Gaya and Rawa Pening hotels, whose rates range from Rp 200,000 for a single to Rp 900,000 for a three-bedroom villa. The rates may increase 30 percent over weekends and public holidays.

The Candi Gedong Sanga complex consists of five clusters of temples, simply called Temples I, II, III, IV and V.
Temple I, at 1,260 meters above sea level, only has one complete temple left. Temple II, some 300 meters away from Temple I, has one complete temple, named Temple IIA; the other, Temple IIB, is in ruins.

Temple III, at 1,298 meters above sea level and about 100 meters from Temple II, consists of three complete temples. Temple IV is slightly higher at 1,300 meters and 200 meters across a ravine from Temple III, consists of two sub-clusters.
The northern sub-cluster comprises four structures, the southern, nine structures — only one of these are whole.
Temple V, located still higher at 1,310 meters and 507 meters from Temple I, consists of two sub-clusters. The first sub-cluster holds three temples in a row, with the middle one intact; the other sub-cluster comprises three ruins.

Legend has it that Queen Simha of the Kalingga Kingdom was in power when the Gedong Sanga complex was built. She was known for her fair and respectable reign.

The Queen taught her people to worship Sang Hyang Widi, the Powerful God, and in order to accomplish this, she ordered that a temple devoted to Sang Hyang Widi be built.

According to the belief, human beings must be able to control their desires to live a peaceful life. The desires were said to come from the nine orifices of the body, called Babahan Hawa Sanga in Javanese. The erection of the Candi Gedong Sanga could be thus considered a symbol of controlling these origins of desire.

Gili Trawangan island of Indonesia

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 13:33:00 +0700

There is no place which no people never visited than Gili Trawangan, because it’s likely a journey towards heaven. The landscape of Gili Trawangan, either undersea or surface, is very beautiful. The local inhabitants take care the originality of the island lying at west of Lombok. Therefore motorcycles are prohibited in this area. Along the sandy pathway shifted the resident area to the beach, we only see footsteps, bicycle wheel, or delman. Restaurant, shop souvenir, diving facilities, ten of cheap relative inn are spread over alongside this pathway. Afterwards, you may try to see the natural beauty of undersea landscape, and also two smaller other islands around Gili Trawangan, that is Gili Air and Gili Meno, which blue cobble that cannot be compared to Caribean sea and only be find in these places. In these places many of turtles can swim anywhere and without fear of divers.