Travel Guide to Beautiful Indonesia

Wakatobi Dive Resort - Heaven for Diving

2011-05-12T14:25:00.000+07:00

Wakatobi Dive Resort is a destination that caters to divers and nature-lovers looking for world-class diving far from crowds and commercialism -- off the beaten path.

Intimate and eco-friendly"

Our intimate, eco-friendly resort is located in the Wakatobi archipelago in remote Southeast Sulawesi, Indonesia where we are the only fully licence dive tourism operator. The resort itself is situated on a small island locally called Onemobaa. Our island is beside Tomia Island, one of four major islands covering an area of 821 sq. km. The beautiful resort is built directly at the seaside, with all bungalows spaced along our exquisite beach.

Our Location

Wakatobi Dive Resort is located in Southeast Sulawesi, Indonesia which is in Southeast Asia. Access from Europe or the US is easy with many airlines offering flights to one of the major cities in Asia and on to Denpasar, Bali which is the gateway (and most amazingly beautiful stopover on the way) to Wakatobi.

Boat DivingBecause of our very fortunate location there's a wide range of superb dive sites within reach of ourdive boats. We have more than 40 sites that we regularly dive, all accessible by a normally short boat ride. Boat rides range from 10 minutes up to a maximum of an hour away for a few of the furthest away sites. Most are within minutes from the resort.
Prior to each scheduled dive boat departure, there will be a briefing at the resort by your guide. A sketch of the dive objective is displayed, the likely conditions discussed, and a dive plan rehearsed. Known marine inhabitants and their locations are explained, along with specific advice for photographers. On arrival at the dive site, your guide will enter first. If conditions are as expected, the "pool is open". Otherwise, your guide will amend the dive plan before opening give the OK to enter the water. Boat dives always have trained guides to locate and point out marine life and/or assist divers as needed.
Snacks are served between consecutive boat dives, as well as liquid refreshments such as tea, hot chocolate, and water. Dry fresh towels are also available. For safety purposes, all divers are encouraged to remain well hydrated.

Shore DivingOur "signature dish". This is what has made Wakatobi the number one choice among not only resort divers but also liveaboard lovers. World's best shore diving. Simply get your gear and step right out on the beach, get in the water, flip your fins a few times and enjoy some of the most amazing reef life you will ever see. The house reef top is so prolific that many photographers find themselves out of film* before they have even reached the drop-off (located approx. 80 yards in front of the Resort proper).
Here on the house reef you can spend hour upon hour throughout your stay. Sometimes you will enter from the beach, other times from the ladder at the jetty. Most dives will be in a slight current meaning that you will drift at various speeds along the reef while exploring it's beauty. You can enter and exit the water right in front of the resort at high and medium tide while at low tide you will need to use the jetty or the canyon "second gully" at the corner of the island. Due to our location next to this unique island corner canyon you can shore dive at any tide!
When getting in the water in front of the resort you will first gently drift over an area completely covered in lush sea grass. This is a superb macro site with tons of wondrous critters. Then, as you get about two thirds out on the reef flat you'll start to see the corals..and lots of 'em. The outer part of the house reef is completely covered with lush coral, both soft and hard. Enjoy!
You can dive the amazing house reef in buddy teams beginning at 06.00 a.m.

Taxi Boat DivingOur house reef is more than three (3) miles long. We offer a service that allows you to explore dive sites on the house reef normally not accessible from the resort. Due to the house reef being so expansive this adds several sites for you to enjoy. Simply let one of our dive guides know that you and a buddy (or a group of up to 6 divers) wish to go out with a tender boat and they will help you get your gear on board. Then, as the boat glides out over the reef you fine tune your gear and get ready for the dive. Once over the site you will do a back roll to enter the water. The dive location will be chosen so that the current will bring you back to the resort. After a perfect, impression-intensive dive, you can then exit the water at the end of our jetty (or on any part of the beach) where our attentive local staff will be standing by to carry cameras and dive gear
Sometimes the predominant current will change and you may not be able to get all the way back to the resort without surfacing. No worries ... our tender boats follow you as you make your dive and after surfacing, you can simply give a wave and one our taxi boats will pick you up and return you to the beach in front of the resort.
Beach dives and taxi boat dives accompanied by guides upon availability. Taxi boat service is available from 06.00 a.m. until 5.30 p.m.

Night Diving

Night diving at Wakatobi is fantastic!. One or two night dives (depending on length of the trip and weather) will be offered from the boats. You can dive any night on the house reef in front of the resort (unguided). Simply gear up in the diver preparation area and walk-in off the beach.
Night dives should be finished at the latest by 10.00 p.m. but special arrangements can be made to dive at other hours.
Solo diving at night is not allowed due to security reasons.

Komodo Island - World Heritage Site

2010-08-27T10:15:00.000+07:00

Komodo National Park is located in the center of the Indonesian archipelago, between the islands of Sumbawa and Flores. Established in 1980, initially the main purpose of the Park was to conserve the unique Komodo dragon (Varanus komodoensis) and its habitat. However, over the years, the goals for the Park have expanded to protecting its entire biodiversity, both terrestrial and marine. In 1986, the Park was declared a World Heritage Site and a Man and Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO, both indications of the Park's biological importance.

Komodo National Park includes three major islands: Komodo, Rinca and Padar, as well as numerous smaller islands creating a total surface area (marine and land) of 1817km (proposed extensions would bring the total surface area up to 2,321km²). As well as being home to the Komodo dragon, the Park provides refuge for many other notable terrestrial species such as the orange-footed scrub fowl, an endemic rat, and the Timor deer.
Moreover, the Park includes one of the richest marine environments including coral reefs, mangroves, seagrass beds, seamounts, and semi-enclosed bays. These habitats harbor more than 1,000 species of fish, some 260 species of reef-building coral, and 70 species of sponges. Dugong, sharks, manta rays, at least 14 species of whales, dolphins, and sea turtles also make Komodo National Park their home.

Threats to terrestrial biodiversity include the increasing pressure on forest cover and water resources as the local human population has increased 800% over the past 60 years. In addition, the Timor deer population, the preferred prey source for the endangered Komodo dragon, is still being poached. Destructive fishing practices such as dynamite-, cyanide, and compressor fishing severely threaten the Park's marine resources by destroying both the habitat (coral reefs) and the resource itself (fish and invertebrate stocks). The present situation in the Park is characterized by reduced but continuing destructive fishing practices primarily by immigrant fishers, and high pressure on demersal stocks like lobsters, shellfish, groupers and napoleon wrasse. Pollution inputs, ranging from raw sewage to chemicals, are increasing and may pose a major threat in the future.

HOW TO GO THERE

While most visitors enter Komodo National Park (KNP) through the gateway cities of Labuan Bajo in the west of Flores or Bima in eastern Sumbawa, the departure point for your trip is actually Denpasar, Bali.

By Air:

Indonesia Air Transport (IAT)
Depart	:	Everyday
DPS - LBJ	:	10.00 – 11.30
LBJ - DPS	:	12.00 – 13.30

Price:
Y CLASS	:	IDR 751.000
H CLASS	:	IDR 696.000
Q CLASS	:	IDR 641.000 (NON REFUND TICKET)

Trans Nusa Airlines (TGN)
Depart	:	Everyday
DPS – LBJ	:	10.00 – 11.50 & 13.00 – 14.20
LBJ – DPS VIA BMU (BIMA)	:	12.05 - 12.35
BMU-DPS	:	12.50 – 13.45
LBJ – DPS	:	14.35 – 15.15

Price
Y CLASS	:	IDR 761.000
L CLASS	:	IDR 651.000
M CLASS	:	IDR 541.000

By Land:

The gateway cities of Labuan Bajo and Bima are connected to Denpasar, Bali by overland buses.

By Sea (ferry):

Travel time: approximately 36 hours

The gateway cities of Labuan Bajo and Bima are also connected to Denpasar, Bali by inter-island ferry.

Contact the Indonesia Sea Transportation Company (PELNI) at Jalan Raya Kuta No. 299, Tuban - Bali (Tel: 0361 - 763 963) to reserve a seat on the KM. Tilong Kabila, which departs Benoa Port, Bali bound for Bima and Labuan Bajo

Benoa-Bima-Labuan Bajo
Fortnightly (every two weeks) on Saturdays: 09.00-20.00 (next day).
One-way ticket (as of 10/6/06) from Rp. 143,000.00 - Rp. 435,000.00

Labuan Bajo-Bima-Benoa
Fortnightly (every two weeks) on Thursdays: 08.00-11.00 (next day).
One-way ticket (as of 10/6/06) from Rp. 143,000.00 - Rp. 435,000.00

Note: the ferry schedule and ticket prices may change with or without prior notice

By Sea (live-aboard):

Komodo National Park is serviced by a wide range of live-aboard boats, with return packages to Komodo National Park from a variety of departure points, including Bali, Lombok, Bima and Labuan Bajo

Prices (as of 10/6/06) are ranging from USD 230.00 - USD 295.00 / person / night.

From Gateway Cities to Komodo National Park (KNP)

You can easily organize a shared boat charter by local boat from either ports at Labuan Bajo or Bima (Sape) to the two major points of access in the Park: Loh Liang (on Komodo Island) or Loh Buaya (on Rinca Island)

Charter price (as of 10/6/06) - excluding meals, KNP entrance fee etc:
Labuan Bajo: KNP: Rp. 750,000 - 1,500,000 per boat / day
Bima (Sape): KNP: Rp. 1,500.000 - 2,000.000 per boat / day

Note: the charter prices may change with or without prior notice

Lombok Island - Everything you Need to Know about Lombok Island

2010-08-27T10:01:00.000+07:00

Lombok is the most popular destination in Nusa Tenaggara – a province in South Central Indonesia. Visitors head here for both underwater and on-land exploration. Situated east of Bali, it can be accessed by plane or boat. The island consists of virginal sandy beaches and a hilly terrain, fringed by mesmerizing azure shores, making it a favourite destination for trekking, surfing and beach lounging.

Lombok is paradise mixed with a dash of adventure and a hint of exoticism, blessed with majestic waterfalls and a volcano – Mount Rijani. ‘Unspoiled Bali’, would be an apt description.

Ultimately, Lombok is a place to chill. Popular with honeymooners, it offers a subdued alternative to the more mainstream Bali, while not compromising on beauty or comfort, just cost – it’s decidedly cheaper. Complete with quiet bays, white and grey sand beaches, a tranquil village style and half a dozen small islands, it retains an undiscovered tropical charm.

Magnet in Lombok

Prepare to be dazzled by the extreme natural beauty of the island of Lombok. Virginal beaches meet with a majestic mountainous terrain; a fusion of man-made and natural beauty awaits you. Due to the lack of development on the island, the majority of the sights here are natural wonders, The Gili islands offer a taste of deserted tropical living, where horse-drawn carts provide an ecologically and friendly alternative to motorbikes and cars. The premier visual attraction of Lombok is Mount Rinjani, an active volcano that towers over the island's fertile plains.
Quaint villages producing intricate crafts with handicraft methods passed down by generations, pepper the island, while the main form of architecture can be found in the temples and mosques that serve the two religions on the island - Islam and Hinduism.

Gili Islands

It is easy to see why Lombok's most popular tourist destination is the Gili islands. Meaning ‘Small Island’, this cluster of three islands has escaped the trappings of modern life, with their undeveloped, pristine sandy beaches and lush tropical vegetation. No cars or motorbikes are on the islands, instead the sounds of the rolling waves and reggae tunes greet your ears. Horse-drawn carts replace automobiles and motorbikes as the main form of transport.
Gili Trawangan is the most developed, Gili Meno the smallest and quietest, while Gili Air is the closest to the mainland with the largest population. Each island offers pretty much the same in the way of activities; world class surfing, diving and snorkeling and some tropical island lounging. Accessing the islands is easily done from the mainland, by catching one of the regular shuttle boats.

Mount Rinjani

In many respects Mount Rinjani is what separates Lombak from her sister Indonesian islands. The chance to visit a volcano is one that should not be missed. The second highest volcanic peak in Indonesia, it is part of the ‘Ring of fire’ and is considered a sacred place on Lombok. The highlands near the volcano are undeveloped and forested, while the lowlands are highly cultivated with fertile soil where rice, tobacco, cotton and soya beans are produced.
Protected by National Park status, visitors can attempt the three-day Rinjani Trek route from Senaru to the crater rim (Plawangan), down to the stunning crater lake then on to Sembalun Lawang. This is considered one of the best and most challenging treks in Southeast Asia.

Tanjung Lunar

On this long, meandering black beach, inhabited by mainly fishermen Buginese migrants from South Sulawesi, you can experience Indonesia’s old-world charm and observe the simplicity of the fishermen’s life. Popular with surfers, it is set on the Southeastern coast of this island. A visit to this port will be an enjoyable experience. At low tide the locals take to the beach to collect shells while the fishermen go about their day-to-day business.

Kuta Beach

Not to be confused with Bali’s Kuta Beach, this is Lombok's very own surfer's paradise with virginal white sand and turquoise waters, fringed by a hilly terrain.
This is the best-known place on the south coast, relatively lively and atmospheric; the area is one held in deep affection by its returning visitors and instantly wins over the hearts of the first-timers.
A 90-minute drive from Senggigi, Kuta is a great daytrip opportunity, one that should be enjoyed by all visitors.

Sukarara

15 minutes south of Mataram is the little settlement of Sukarara- Lombok’s capital. Famous for its unique handicrafts, in particular its hand-woven textiles, it is incredibly beautiful and the small village portrays the quaint lifestyle of the islanders. Each area of Indonesia has a unique style of batik and, true to plan, this island's main attraction is indeed its textile production.
Take a trip and witness the production of this art form and the extent of the work and overriding quality belonging to each item produced. The whole experience is completed by the incredible views of the surrounding mountains and looming volcanic backdrop.

Pura Lingsar

Pura Lingsar is a sea temple situated at the far north end of the beach at Ampenan, Mataram. Built in 1714, Pura Lingsar is a spiritual center for both Balinese Hinduism and the Wektu Telu religion, with temple buildings dedicated to both faiths.
You can feed hard-boiled eggs (available for sale outside) to holy eels in an enclosed pond dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The best time to visit the temple is December.

Narmada Park

Home to the famous 'Youth Fountain', thought to rejuvenate a person’s appearance, Narmada Park is situated 10 km east of Mataram, and is modeled on the basis of Mount Rinjani's pinnacle.
Known as the resting place of the King of Lombok, this park has a Hindu temple and a small pond replicating in miniature the Crater Lake at Gunung Riniani. The Balinese Pujawali festival takes place here every year.

Mantaram

The capital city of Lombok is comprised of four towns, Ampenan, Mataram, Cakranegara (Cakra) and Sweta. It is the hub of government administration. For art exhibitions, puppet shows or theatre be sure to head to the Mataram main square, which is about as busy as the whole island gets. Ampenan has the Negeri Nusa Tenggara Barat museum, which gives a good overview of the culture of Lombok.

Komodo Island

Situated between Sumbawa and Flores, the Komodo Island is quite barren – a fact which makes the giant lizard, stand out all the more. These monitor lizards are indigenous to the region and grow up to three metres long (making them the world's largest living lizard).
Feeding on goats and deer, the people live in the fishing villages supplement their income by breeding goats for tourists to feed the lizards, an interesting experience to say the least. The nature reserve is easiest reached by ferry from Flores.

Sanur Beach - Beach Paradise in Bali

2010-08-27T09:57:00.000+07:00

Sunrise at Sanur Beach

Sanur is one of Bali's biggest traditional villages but it's also one of the most established tourist areas. Fine hotels, restaurants and modern entertainment venues compliment traditional village activities like drama and dance, so it's a good place to enjoy the delights of a tropical island and gain a real appreciation of Balinese culture and local life.

Gallery :

Sanur beach is like a giant saltwater pool, only with a reef bed instead of a tiled bottom. Its warm 25° - 32° C temperature and calmer water makes the beach suitable for children and families. Adjacent to the beach, stands the Inna Beach Hotel – a war-compensation hotel built by the Government of Japan in 1963, next to the sacred Ratu Ayu Singgi temple where an eerie spirit is believed to reside. The hotel itself has experienced several accidental fires – some say caused by the fact that its 11 levels exceed the height of coconut trees, which according to Balinese Hinduism is the maximum permissible height.

Swimming

Swimming is the prime water activity in Sanur. The lower tide, clean and cool water are some of the reasons you might choose to swim in Sanur over Kuta or any other beach in this island, not to mention its smaller crowds and safer waves. Swimming in Sanur is safe for minors as well as for adults. Aside from Sanur Beach, southern Sanur’s Sindhu beach is also the site of an excellent salt water lagoon.

Snorkeling in Sanur Beach

For snorkeling, Sanur is the second best site on the island. To find the best spots you could rent a dinghy and reach places further away than the immediate vicinity of the beach, although to be safe perhaps it’s a good idea to sign up for a snorkeling package at your hotel or with a diving provider. Snorkeling in Sanur is better during the high tide: as the level gets higher the underwater life animates naturally.

Diving in Sanur Beach

As it has cooler water than Kuta, Sanur makes the best home for hundreds of species of fish, not to mention the various types of sea urchins, crustaceans, and coral reefs. Sanur can be your starting point to discover Bali’s treasures below the surface.
Bali International Diving Professionals have identified 12 diving sites that divers of every level can enjoy, including minors from the age of eight and disabled individuals. All official providers and instructors are P.A.D.I. Certified, so don’t hesitate to explore the spectacular underwater panorama.

Surfing in Sanur Beach

Sanur doesn’t have as much to offer as other parts of Bali, but it does own one surf spot that can be compared to the Bukit’s. Keramas Beach was discovered soon after rumours began circulating from local fishermen about the opposing twin swells reaching the reef break. Shortly after, a number of the world’s most famous surfers went to confirm the existence of the newly discovered break.
Another premier break is located a few kilometres north from Keramas Beach. Bangsal Beach has also become a surfing venue for the world series. To surf in Sanur you have to use a boat (or face a long paddle) to cover the half kilometre distance between the shore and the curly barrels.

Kite Surfing

The relatively new type of water sport could be more aptly called kite boarding since it uses a wakeboard instead of a surfboard. As evidenced by its name, kite surfing incorporates parasailing, wakeboarding, and waterskiing. Although more tricky to perform, kite surfing is similar to wakeboarding and waterskiing, except is uses a large kite to tow the wakeboard instead of a boat.
If you’re accustomed to either of the two better-known disciplines, this sport is definitely an upgrade but for those who are not, a professional instructor will gladly give you a short course. This challenge requires constant practice to gain balance and control.

Windsurfing in Sanur Beach

Windsurfing happens to be more popular in Sanur than surfing. Its steady wind and constant currents create conditions perfectly suited to a combination of speed and manoeuvres. For professionals, the wind at Serangan Island is always a few knots stronger than elsewhere and the reef breaks make ramp waves for better stunts.
The sport itself combines rules and aspects of both sailing and surfing but to steer a sail attached to a surfboard requires some serious skills. Sanur’s waters are always suitable but the dry season serves you the best.

Cruise and Underwater Cruise

What better way to enjoy the ocean than to sail on it? Sanur, Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida are the premier sailing points in Bali. The basic and most common route is to depart from Sanur, stopover on a pontoon at Lembongan bay for water pastimes and a village outing, and return to Sanur’s Benoa harbour by dusk.
The floating dock is set up to be a one-stop water activity and entertainment station, consisting of slides, a swimming pool, an underwater viewing chamber, glass bottom boat, banana boat, canoe and snorkelling equipment, and providing an international buffet accompanied by sounds from the live band. There are lots of travel agent offer special package for cruising and underwater cruise like scoot, quicksilver cruise and bounty cruise.

Marine Walk

As exciting as its name suggests, the marine walk is a new treat for underwater activity enthusiasts in Sanur. The idea is very simple: participants put on a scuba helmet connected to an air tank, step down a ladder and just walk across the sea floor normally. This method is actually adapted from the oldest diving practice of mankind whereby weightier equipment and a manual compressor for air supplies were used.
You don’t need to be a good swimmer nor an experienced diver to feel the excitement of an underwater stroll. It’s a totally safe activity, even for children of age nine and upwards – you don’t even have to remove your glasses or contact lenses because the helmet is impermeable. For safety matters participants can only dive five to eight metres below for fifteen minutes at a time to avoid decompression sickness. This exciting activity is provided by Bali Marine Walk and Sea Walker.

Kite Flying

Sanur’s shoreline is more than enough for kite hobbyists, but for die-hard fans the annual Bali Kite Festival at Padang Galak beach should not be missed. This three-day event covers Padang Galak with animal figures, giant fish, birds, and other traditional-shaped kites. It creates an artificial screen, which the sun can shine through, showing a vibrant and colourful animal-shaped cloud.
Balinese traditional kites are very big: with an average diameter of six to eight metres it takes a team of more than twenty people to fly it. In 2008, teams from 12 countries took part in this festival including Indonesia, Australia, Russia, Taiwan, New Zealand, The Philippines, Malaysia, Germany, The USA, Japan, India, and China – between them there were more than 700 kites. The festival usually takes place in July and it has been held since 1978, so don’t miss this 31st year.

Golf

Due to its smaller countryside acreage than Kuta or Nusa Dua, golf courses in Sanur don’t have more than 9 holes. The Grand Bali Beach Hotel’s own Bali Beach Golf Course is the only international-standard golf course in Sanur. Located in the heart of Sanur, Bali Beach Golf Course gives an extra challenge with its smaller range packed with shady pines and hibiscus trees.
The Club is also equipped with a restaurant and bar, professional store, private lockers, ATM facilities, conference room, and business lounge. This course is an ideal one for those who are on a tight schedule. To improve your swing only, Udayana Golf Driving Range is the best place.

Prambanan, the Most Beautiful Hindu Temple in the World

2010-08-23T13:09:00.000+07:00

Built in the 10th century, this is the largest temple compound dedicated to Shiva in Indonesia. Rising above the centre of the last of these concentric squares are three temples decorated with reliefs illustrating the epic of the Ramayana, dedicated to the three great Hindu divinities (Shiva, Vishnu and Brahma) and three temples dedicated to the animals who serve them.

Prambanan temple is extraordinarily beautiful building constructed in the tenth century during the reigns of two kings namely Rakai Pikatan and Rakai Balitung. Soaring up to 47 meters (5 meters higher than Borobudur temple), the foundation of this temple has fulfilled the desire of the founder to show Hindu triumph in Java Island. This temple is located 17 kilometers from the city center, among an area that now functions as beautiful park.

There is a legend that Javanese people always tell about this temple. As the story tells, there was a man named Bandung Bondowoso who loved Roro Jonggrang. To refuse his love, Jonggrang asked Bondowoso to make her a temple with 1,000 statues only in one-night time. The request was nearly fulfilled when Jonggrang asked the villagers to pound rice and to set a fire in order to look like morning had broken. Feeling to be cheated, Bondowoso who only completed 999 statues cursed Jonggrang to be the thousandth statue.

Prambanan temple has three main temples in the primary yard, namely Vishnu, Brahma, and Shiva temples. Those three temples are symbols of Trimurti in Hindu belief. All of them face to the east. Each main temple has accompanying temple facing to the west, namely Nandini for Shiva, Angsa for Brahma, and Garuda for Vishnu. Besides, there are 2 flank temples, 4 kelir temples and 4 corner temples. In the second area, there are 224 temples.

Entering Shiva temple, the highest temple and is located in the middle, you will find four rooms. One main room contains Shiva statue, while the other three rooms contain the statues of Durga (Shiva's wife), Agastya (Shiva's teacher), and Ganesha (Shiva's son). Durga statue is said to be the statue of Roro Jonggrang in the above legend.
In Vishnu temple, to the north of Shiva temple, you will find only one room with Vishnu statue in it. In Brahma temple, to the south of Shiva temple, you find only room as well with Brahma statue in it.

Quite attractive accompanying temple is Garuda temple that is located close to Vishnu temple. This temple keeps a story of half-bird human being named Garuda. Garuda is a mystical bird in Hindu mythology. The figure is of golden body, white face, red wings, with the beak and wings similar to eagle's. It is assumed that the figure is Hindu adaptation of Bennu (means 'rises' or 'shines') that is associated with the god of the Sun or Re in Old Egypt mythology or Phoenix in Old Greek mythology. Garuda succeeded in saving his mother from the curse of Aruna (Garuda's handicapped brother) by stealing Tirta Amerta (the sacred water of the gods).

Its ability to save her mother made many people admire it to the present time and it is used for various purposes. Indonesia uses the bird as the symbol of the country. Other country using the same symbol is Thailand, with the same reason but different form adaptation and appearance. In Thailand, Garuda is known as Krut or Pha Krut.
Prambanan also has panels of relief describing the story of Ramayana. Experts say that the relief is similar to the story of Ramayana that is told orally from generation to generation. Another interesting relief is Kalpataru tree that - in Hindu - the tree is considered tree of life, eternity and environment harmony. In Prambanan, relief of Kalpataru tree is described as flanking a lion. The presence of this tree makes experts consider that Javanese society in the ninth century had wisdom to manage its environment.

Just like Garuda, Kalpataru tree is also used for various purposes. In Indonesia, Kalpataru is used as the logo of Indonesian Environment Institution. Some intellectuals in Bali even develop "Tri Hita Karana" concept for environment conservation by seeing Kalpataru relief in this temple. This tree of life is also seen in the gunungan (the puppet used as an opening of traditional puppet show or wayang kulit). This proves that relief panels in Prambanan have been widely known throughout the world.

If you see the relief in detail, you will see many birds on them; they are real birds as we can see on the earth right now. Relief panels of such birds are so natural that biologists can identify their genus. One of them is the relief of the Yellow-Crest Parrot (Cacatua sulphurea) that cites unanswered question. The reason is that the bird only exists in Masakambing Island, an island in the middle of Java Sea. Then, did the bird exist in Yogyakarta? No body has succeeded in revealing the mystery.

You can discover many more things in Prambanan. You can see relief of Wiracarita Ramayana based on oral tradition. If you feel tired of enjoying the relief, you can take a rest in the beautiful garden in the complex. Since 18 September 2006, you can enter zone 1 area of Prambanan temple. The damage caused by the earthquake on 27 May 2006 is being reconstructed. Please come and enjoy Prambanan temple.
Text: Yunanto Wiji Utomo

Hotel(s) near PRAMBANAN:

POERI DEVATA RESORT HOTEL

Tour operator(s) to PRAMBANAN:

Dieng Plateu - Volcanic Complex Tourism

2010-08-16T15:42:00.000+07:00

This is another place worth visiting in Central Java, situated around 2000 m above sea level and 100 km from Borobudur. This area northwest of Yogyakarta is in the volcanic mountains and over 2,000 meters elevation. The name "Dieng" means "abode of the gods." There the visitor can find restarted temples build around year 800, colorful lakes and steaming ones.

Dieng Plateau lies between the borders of three districts, namely Pekalongan Regency, Wonosobo regency, and Banjarnegara district, Central Java Province , Indonesia . For those of you who love the sights in the mountains, there is no harm in visiting this plateau. The famous plains Plateau Dieng is situated at an altitude of 21:00 m above sea level. This place offers the natural beauty and the cold mountains.

Dieng Plateau form broad plains surrounded by mountains, including Mount destruction, Mount Juranggrawah, Mount Pangamun-Amun, Mount Sipandu, and several other Mt. No wonder if the air temperature in this region ranges between 15 ° -10 ° Celsius. In fact, if you visit during the dry season temperatures can reach 5 ° Celsius.

Plateau Dieng area has several attractions that you can visit, where they are adjacent to each other. In addition to natural attractions such as lakes and craters, you can also visit historical sights such as temples. Once entering the main gate in the Dieng plateau, you will be greeted by a temple complex called Pandava temple. This complex contains five temples, the temple Semar, Arjuna, Heroine, Sembadra, and Puntadewa. The temples are scattered in this area patterned Hindu.

Object of the famous natural attractions here are the colors and Telaga Telaga Pengilon. Both lake nearby. Pond Named Colors for this lake reflecting various colors. The sulfur content in it reflects the color green, whereas red algae are based reflective pond water crystal clear red and blue lake that emerged from the reflection of sun shades. The name itself means lake Telaga Pengilon mirror. The water in this lake is very clear and can reflect objects in its surroundings.

In the area attractions and Telaga Telaga Color Pengilon there are also several caves. One of them is the Cave of Semar. Length of approximately 4 m with stone walls, and is usually used to meditate. Semar Cave In addition, there are several other caves, Cave and Cave Wells Jaran. Inside the cave there is a wellspring Wells called "Tirta Prawitasari".

Besides lakes and caves, in Dieng area Plateau there are also several craters. Craters are formed from the eruption of the mountains that surround this place. One of them is Crater Sikidang. This crater ejects hot water and mud and foul smell coming out from the sulfur content in it (the sulfur content in the crater is still in its early stages is safe for visitors). Around this place there are many holes that emits hot water mixed with sulfur, so you should be careful when walking. In addition Sikidang crater, there is also a crater Candradimuka and crater Sileri, which was situated not far from the crater Sikidang.

Plateau Dieng tourism in the region there is a spring known as source Serayu headwaters, with a Tuk Bimalukar. According to the trust of the population, the water that comes from Tuk Bimalukar can cause young.

After satisfied visit natural and historical attractions, you can also watch movies a duration of approximately 20 minutes in the Dieng Plateau Theater. The location of this theater on the hillside Sikendil, approximately 300 m from Lake Colors. Here you will witness several events that have occurred in the area of Dieng Plateau, one of which is the event Crater Sinila tragedy in 1979 that killed hundreds of people of Dieng. Facilities provided by the manager of tourism Plateau Dieng is valuable to you who are interested in the history of Dieng.

But for you who still want to visit places that are not far from Plateau Dieng area, try to visit the Tambi tea plantation. In this place, you can not only look at the green carpet of tea plants, but can also enjoy a dish of tea produced from the plantations.

Facilities that you can use in the tourist area of Dieng Plateau are praying for our visitors who will be prayer pilgrimage. There is also a market where selling souvenirs and typical food products Dieng, such as vegetables, fruit, carica (the fruit is grown only in the Dieng plateau, smaller form of papaya, it is usually processed into sweets and fungi typical Dieng). The Market is provided by the manager to treat the visitors who want to shop.

Access to the Dieng Plateau easier if taken from Wonosobo city, because the road can be traversed by vehicle. But if you plan to bring a private vehicle, do not forget to make sure that your vehicle is in good condition. This is caused by road terrain to be traversed fairly winding and uphill. Not infrequently in the right or left edge of the road adjacent to the abyss. But if you want to ride public transportation, you can depart from Wonosobo city terminal and covered the distance of about 30 km with a travel time of 45 minutes -1 hour.

Location

Sipiso-piso Waterfall

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Sipiso-Piso is located about 24 km to the north Kabanjahe toward Lake Toba, is a famous waterfall with a height of about 360 feet before flowing into Lake Toba. This area has beautiful scenery, such as Tao Silalahi who was nearby and is located in the northern part of Lake Toba.

It’s not difficult at all to find this gorgeous waterfall. It lies between Parapat and Berastagi, two most visited tourism resorts in North Sumatera. Visitors starting from Parapat will need around two and half hours to get to this waterfall which is half way to get to Berastagi, the fruit paradise in North Sumatera. And it takes only less than five minutes from the road to get into the resort. Yet contribution from visitors is highly demanded to get into this tourism resort that is an average of five thousand rupiahs per person.

Near the waterfall, the local government has built such kind of comforting places for visitors and tired travelers. They can just sit and enjoy the spectacular sparkling fall of Sipiso-piso or go shopping around for some distinctive souvenirs. One may find pleasure going down to the very lowest fall of the water. Yet, he must be aware of how tiring it will be to climb up, back to the surface for he must climb up the hundreds of stairs he has passed going down before.

This lovely waterfall is one most loved treasure in North Sumatera. Its fame is even more complete for its very attachment to Lake Toba. One will always be able to enjoy the beauty of Lake Toba when looking at Sipiso-piso waterfall. Its water flows to the Lake passes a small village named Tongging and reaches part of the huge Lake Toba known as Tao Silalahi.

sipiso piso waterwall

Maybe its not the most beautiful or the largest waterfall in the world but its worthed to visit. Your can see in the picture at the right side, the cheerful of the visitor that came to sipiso-piso waterfall. See you there

Sibandang Island - Lake Toba - North Sumatera

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Aside from Samosir Island, Toba Lake also has Sibandang Island with area width of 1,194 ha. 2,551 people who count on cattle breeding, fishing and farming as their earning occupy the island. The island is also well known as producer of mangoes.

Sibandang Island is nearby Muara. On Indonesia Independence Day Celebration, the people always hold an event called Marluga Solu (Traditional Boat Competition) and Swimming Competition from Muara to Sibandang Island

Sibandang Island is well known as mango island. It is named so not for its mango like shape but after its plantation. The society commonly owns a wide mango field. They are living on farming mango. Should you feel like eating mango you are more than welcome to enjoy Sibandang’s sweet mangos.
Sibandang island can be openly seen from Sipincur or Huta Ginjang; two high hills around Sibandang island. Its charm obviously sprinkles with the clear lake viewed from the two aforementioned hills.

While now visitors can go into the island by boat or ships, the government might have been thinking of building hang gliders from Huta Ginjang to this seems isolated but interesting island. Then people won’t rely only on just farming and fishing but tourism and trade as well. Consequently people’s economic status can be raised to prosperous society.

As area residing in lakeside of Toba, Sibandang Island is not as noisy as Parapat, Balige, and also Porsea. Sibandang Island more calm compared wirh other towns which still reside around of Toba Lake. If you are interested to visit Sibandang Island, there are two alternative land ways, which can be gone through, that are :

• First route passing Bakara

If we moving from Medan , the first route can we reach from Medan - Berastagi - Merek - Sumbul - Tele - Dolok Sanggul - Bakara and gone through Muara. Distance between Muara and Bakara is about 12 Km. From Muara, we can across to Sibandang Island with boat, which about 900 meter from Muara. Tourist can use reguler ship from Muara to Sibandang Island, or rent a boat if we want to visit it.

• Second route passing Balige
The second road can we reach from Medan - Parapat - Porsea - Balige gone through to Siborong-borong. On the way to Siborong-borong, there is a branch three (Muara branch) joint Balige - Siborong-borong - Muara, about 14 Km from Balige. From this branch, we can continue to Muara with distance about 21 Km, and across to Sibandang Island. Tourist can use reguler ship from Muara to Sibandang Island, or rent a boat to reach it.

SAIL Banda - Paradise for diving and Snorkling , Maluku

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Banda Islands consists of ten volcanic islands scattered on the Banda Sea, ± 140 km south of the island of Seram and 2000 km east of Java. Islands 180 km ² area is included in the Maluku province. Largest city, Bandanaira, located on the island of the same name. Approximately 15,000 people live in these islands.

Until the mid-19th century, the Banda Islands were the only source of nutmeg spice. The islands are popular for scuba diving enthusiasts and snorkeling.kepulauan banda becomes, the venue for the event 'SAIL BANDA 2010'

MAP of SAIL BANDA 2010

SCENERY of BANDA

UNDERWATER

TRAVEL AGENT

Ambon Dive Centre
Jl. Pantai Namalatu Latuhalat
Phone: (0911) 55685
Fax : (0911) 54199

Ansiko
Jl. Amananlite No.1
Latuhalat, Ambon
Phone: (0911)51988
Fax : (0911)42024

Daya Patal
Jl. Said Perintah SK 11/27
Ambon
Phone: ((0911) 53344
Fax : (0911) 53287

Nanusa
Jl. Rijali No.53 Ambon
Phone: (0911) 535S7
Fax : (0911)52593

Netral Jaya
Jl. Diponegoro No.76 Ambon
Phone: (0911) 53363
Fax : (0911) 42021
Telex: 73218

Pesona Wisata Marina
Jl. Wim Rawaru, Ambon
Phone: (0911) 43473

Sumber Budi
Jl. Mardika II/16, Ambon
Phone: (0911) 53205
Fax : (0911)53205

Tujuh Jaya Travel Agent
Jl. Kopra 6/142-143, Ambon
Phone : (0911) 52342
Fax : (0911)52690

Pedoman Pratama Travel
Jl. Dr. Sutomo 3/1-65 Ambon
Phone: (0911) 51703
Fax : (0911) 54761

Natrabu
Jl. Anthony Rhebok No.27
Ambon
Phone: (0911) 43938
Fax : (0911) 43959

Novita Sari
Jl. Rijali No.1 Batu Merah,
Ambon
Phone: (0911)41866

Kisar Island & Lucipara Island - SAIL BANDA 2010

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Kisar Island

Island Blend will be one of the Banda sail helder. Outer islands of Indonesia, located in the Straits of Wetar and bordered by the country of Timor Leste. Island Blend is a part of South West Southeast Maluku regency, province of Maluku. The island is located northeast of the island of Timor with coordinates 8 ° 6 '10 "latitude, 127 ° 8' 36" BT.

Lucipara Island

Lucipara archipelago of seven islands has not occupied, in addition to its spacious white sand for turtle nesting habitat, there is also a wonderful panoramic view of the sea because of the beauty of the colorful coral (sponge).
The conditions are very beautiful and has not affected the development activities so it is suitable for diving tours (diving), fishing, sun bathing or adventure tourism.

Kuta Beach Nightlife - What to do at night

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Nightlife

The nightlife scene in Kuta usually starts late – around 23:00 to midnight with bars and pubs offering different atmospheres and types of entertainment. Some clubs and bars showcase live bands, DJs, sexy dancers and ‘fashion shows’. Price wise, compared to the nightlife places in Seminyak, partying the night away in Kuta is way cheaper.

Hard Rock Café

Facing the famous Kuta Beach is the time-honoured catalyst of the resort, the Hard Rock Café. Set on two floors, with nightly live bands that regularly change every three months, this place is full of younger crowds, especially during the weekend. Every two months Hard Rock invites a well-known Indonesian singer or band to play live. Hard Rock Café serves up burgers, fries and colas in large portions.
Location: Kuta Beach Street
Price Range: pricey

Kama Sutra

Kama Sutra is a feast for the senses: scent, taste, sight and sound. This is a restaurant, club and a lounge with Indian and Mediterranean design in the outer areas where all the youngsters gather. Kama Sutra hosts live bands, DJs and features some of Bali’s best live performances by famous Indonesian figures.
Location: Kuta Beach Street
Price Range: affordable

The Wave

The Wave is a three-in-one club housing The Coffee Bar (an al-fresco café and beach bar), Sailfin (a fine-dining restaurant), The Club (a long bar and a discotheque) and a beachfront shopping arcade. The Wave sits majestically on the shores of Kuta Beach and offers mesmerizing and spectacular views of the Indian Ocean and the famous Kuta surf. Characterized by its striking architecture with International cuisine and drinks, and accentuated by great music, The Wave is a place not to be missed during your visit on the island.
Location: Kuta Beach Street
Price Range: pricey

Ocean Beach Club

The Ocean Beach Club is a beachfront venue where you can catch the sunset from the open wood deck or lounge pool side on one of the cosy day beds. With DJ's and a lively later atmosphere.
Location: Kuta Beach Street
Price Range: affordable

Ocean 27 Sundeck Lounge & Restaurant

Ocean 27 is a sundeck and restaurant offering a beach dining experience, luscious food, great sunset views, refreshing cocktails and a wide selection of wines and champagnes from all over the world, as well as imported beers. As the night approaches, be prepared to party into the wee hours with well-known local and foreign DJs dishing out tunes from chill out to house.
Location: Discovery Esplanade
Price Range: pricey

Sky Garden

Located in the heart of Kuta, ESC’s rooftop Sky Garden Lounge has been a popular destination for local, expat and tourist guests since its opening. This open-air lounge is known for its unique concoctions such as the '14 day' infused martinis. Set in comfy seating with an intimate 'garden' atmosphere, funky dancers are accompanied by International DJs spinning their stuff seven days a week. Recently, Sky Garden bought two floors of the adjacent My Room Club and re-designed it to be their new Sky Garden Lounge. Get their daily promos starting at 6pm and special Sunday offer – a girls’ night-out where all girls are offered free drinks!
Location: Legian Street
Price Range: affordable

M Bar Go

M Bar Go is one of the fancy hip hop clubs in Kuta, dedicated to a younger clientele. Every Friday and Saturday night the place is full. Watch out for their beach couture fashion show every Thursday and their hot salsa nights.
Location: Legian Street
Price Range: affordable

Musro

Musro Bali is the only live cabaret show venue in the area where all the dancers are professionally trained. Spanish choreographer Raphael Gomez provides the expert knowledge needed to produce such a high quality show. You can enjoy their various spectacular performances with extravagant costumes every night for only IDR 100,000 per person. Before the show begins, a live band plays on stage and DJs will perform to fill the air with their selection of R&B, Rock and Club Hits before the real show starts.
Location: Discovery Kartika Plaza Hotel
Price Range: affordable

Vi Ai Pi

Vi Ai Pi is a newcomer to the nightlife scene in Kuta. It is styled on the Balinese form fused with modern European design, embracing the natural elements of green and open space. Their dinner menu carries Eastern and Western infusion flavours at their best. Look out for the events calendar, which will be peppered with well-known DJs and sexy dancers.
Location: Legian Street
Price Range: pricey

Planet Hollywood

Planet Hollywood first came to Bali in 2001 and it comprises five different rooms; an adventure room - designed with an Egyptian theme, the whirlpool bar - an island bar with a four-metre whirlpool dropping from the ceiling, a submarine, a hill area and the sky garden – where you can see a large maple tree and a diorama of New York’s skyline, giving the effect of dining in Central Park. Try their popular international specialties of fajitas, Hollywood burger and turkey club sandwich. A live band plays every Wednesday-Saturday starting at 20:00.
Location: Kuta
Price Range: affordable

Hulu Bar

Do you want to enjoy your dinner in a different way? Here, you can enjoy your meal whilst watching an Indonesian style cabaret drag show. The place is popular due to the fun entertainment, good service and friendly atmosphere. The shows are free and a wide selection of beverages is offered at a reasonable price. It draws mixed crowds: straight, gay, families, locals, expats and tourists all come to enjoy the show. Two shows commence at 10 pm and 11.15 pm from Thursday to Sunday.
Location: Bali Beach Shack Legian
Price Range: affordable

Gracie Kelly’s Irish Pub

Gracie Kelly’s was the first original Irish Pub in Bali and serves a la carte dinner daily from 11 am until late. Located in Bali Dynasty Hotel, their specialties are Irish Stew, Beef and Guinness Pie, Dublin Coddle, Hot Sticky Pudding and other traditional wholesome food served from Gracie’s kitchen. You’ll be impressed by their large selection of local and international beers and traditional Irish pub grub. Try their real ales from Storm Brewery, a local micro-brewery in Bali. Live entertainment from their resident Irish band starts at 8 pm to help you swing your night away.
Location: Kartika Plaza Street Kuta
Price Range: pricey

Kuta Beach - Sunset and Surfer's Paradise

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Kuta, located in southern Bali, Once it was a sleepy fishing village half a century ago, but it has slowly expanded since the 1960s after its long sandy beach was discovered by travellers from Asia and wandering surfers from nearby Australia.

Nowadays Kuta is quite busy and packed with varied accommodation from four-star hotels to budget hostels. Cheap bars and clubs make it a party centre, while local and international restaurants offer great dining.

Kuta also offers shopping aplenty, from the chic beachfront ‘Discovery Shopping Mall’ and Kuta Square to the souvenir shops lining Jalan Kartika Plaza, Jalan Pantai Kuta and up to Legian and Seminyak – all within easy walking distance.

Kuta has its own beauty and attractions and remains one of Indonesia’s major tourist destinations; particularly during the peak season from July to August and the holiday season for Christmas and New Year: at these times Kuta will be fully booked by a local younger crowd, Asian travellers and Australian teenagers who are intent on enjoying an affordable vacation in Bali.

Kuta in addition to being the Sunset Site Number One, with its daily spectacular sunsets, it is also the centre of night life activities in Southern Bali and a shopping mecca, with its lines of shops, boutiques, and galleries. Restaurants line up the streets as well as the Bachfront,Hotels, ranging from a small, inexpensive homestay to a luxurious resort, will ready accomodate you.

Kuta is very short drive away from the airport, and transportation is readily available to take you from and to Kuta to and from anywhere else in Bali.

Kuta from the air

Sunset at Kuta

Kuta at glance

Teluk Kiluan , Virgin White Beach and Dolphin Dance, Lampung

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Kiluan Bay located in District Kelumbayan, Tanggamus, South Lampung. The distance is approximately 80 kilometers from the main town of Bandar Lampung

With white sand and clear water, high wave make Teluk Kiluan become Tourist's magnet for snorkling, sun bathing, surfing and there is also special attraction which is dolphin dance

There is also preservation place for green turtle, and also there is heaven in Teluk Kiluan

Gallery:

Virgin White Beach

Dolphin Dance

Teluk Kiluan, Beach

The Wave

Road to Teluk Kiluan

What You Need To Know in Bali

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Passports and Visas

Bali Visa. Important change to Indonesia's Visa Policy for Tourists.
Please read carefully as there have been changes to Indonesia visa policy.
[ updated January 26th 2010 ]

Countries that do not require a Visa to enter Bali.
Brunei Darussalam
Chile
Hongkong Special Administrative Region,
Macao Special Administrative Region,
Malaysia
Morocco
Peru
Philippines
Singapore
Thailand
Vietnam

Countries that require and are eligible for Visa-On Arrivals
Prices
US$25 for a stay of up to 30 days
30 day visa can now be extended.
7 day visas NO longer available.
[ updated January 26th 2010 ]

Algeria
Arab Emirates
Argentina
Australia
Austria
Bahrain
Belgium
Brazil
Bulgaria
Cambodia
Canada
China
Cyprus
Czech Republic
Denmark
Egypt
Estonia
Fiji
Finland
France
Germany
Greece
Hungary
Iceland
India
Iran
Ireland
Italy
Japan ( processed on plane)
Kuwait
Laos
Latvia
Libya
Liechtenstein
Lithuania
Luxembourg
Maldives
Malta
Mexico
Monaco
Netherlands
New Zealand
Norway
Oman
Panama
Poland
Portugal
Qatar
Romania
Russia
Saudi Arabia
Slovakia
Slovenia
South Africa
South Korea
Spain
Suriname
Sweden
Switzerland
Taiwan
Tunisia
United Kingdom
United States America

It is important to also note the following:

The Visa on Arrival is non-extendable and cannot be converted into a different visa.

The Visa purchasing system will take approximately 3-5 minutes per applicant.

There are 6 payment counters, a bank and a money changer set up to process payments.

Once you have paid for and received your visa you will need to proceed to Immigration where your visa will be processed.

Citizens of countries not on the visa on arrival or visa free lists will be required to apply for a visa before entering Indonesia.
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry into Indonesia, and you must have proof of onward passage (either return or through tickets). If you cannot fulfill both of these requirements, you may not be allowed to enter the country.

Currency

The Rupiah. Notes 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000, 50,000, 100,000. Coins 50, 100, 500, 1000.

Bali Time

Bali Time Zone is GMT + 8 hours.

Accommodation

As you can imagine there's an enormous variety of accommodation available in Bali. It varies from magnificent five star resorts to simple jungle cabins, depending on the location and your holiday budget. Check out these great selections.

Credit Cards

Major credit cards are acceptable in most hotels along with American dollar traveler's cheques.

Electricity

Most hotels use 220 volts, 50 cycles and a round, two-pronged slim plug. Bathroom shaver plugs usually have a transformer switch. We suggest taking an adaptor for your appliance.

Getting Around

You will find a range of chauffeur driven limousines, self-drive cars, taxis and hotel courtesy cars. Many taxis are not metered so it's wise to negotiate the fare before you climb aboard. Bemos are a unique form of transport. They are a mini-van masquerading as a communal bus. You simply hail the driver and negotiate the fare that suits you both. Motorcycles can also be hired in many places but special care should be exercised at all times as road and traffic conditions can be somewhat hazardous in certain locations. Traveling around Bali is made all the easier because everywhere you go you'll find friendly people only too happy to give you advice and directions on how to get where you want to go.

Driver's License

If you wish to hire a car you must be over 18 years of age and posses an International Driver's License or license from ASEAN countries.

Clothing

Light, airy, casual clothes are the most practical and you'll find natural fibers like cotton or linen are the most comfortable in Bali's often humid conditions. Waist sashes should be worn when visiting temples.

Useful Numbers in Bali

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Taximake sure the metre is switched on and flag up is 5,000Rp to start.
- Taksi Praja : 289191, 289090
- Taksi Bali : 701111
Medical
- AEA International (Medical Evac) Jl. Hayam Wuruk 40, Denpasar. Tel : 228996
- Bali International Medical Center Jl Bypass Ngurah Rai 100X Denpasar. Tel : 761263
- Rumah Sakit Dharma Husada (Hospital) Jl. Panglima Sudirman No.50, Denpasar. Tel : 227560
- Kuta Clinic : Jl. Raya Kuta No.100X, Kuta. Tel : 753268
- Nusa Dua Clinic : Jl. Pramata No. 81A, Nusa Dua. Tel : 771324
- Rumah Sakit Umum Sanglah (Hospital) : Jl. Diponegoro, Denpasar. Tel : 227911
Emergency Numbers
- Ambulance : 118
- Fire : 113
- Police : 110
- Search & Rescue : 51111
- Red Cross : 26465
Operator Assisted Calls
- Within Indonesia : 100
- International : 101
Directory Information
- Bali : 108
- Indonesia : 106
Credit Card Enquiries
- American Express :
  - Grand Bali Beach Hotel, Sanur. Tel : 288511 ext. 111
- Mastercard :
  - Bank Central Asia, Jl. Cokroaminoto, Denpasar. Tel : 222652
- Visa Card :
  - Bank Duta, Jl. Hayam Wuruk 165, Denpasar. Tel : 226578

The most beautiful Hindu temple in the world, Borobudur

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welcome to Java home to 3 (three) UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Sites, Borobudur as oldest ancient monument and the largest Buddhist temple in the world, Prambanan as the tallest and most beautiful Hindu temple in the world, as well as the Sangiran Early Man Site

LOCATION:Candi Borobudur is located some 45 minutes northeast of Yogyakarta. It sits on a hill in the town of Muntilan in the Magelang District. Almost all travel agents in Yogyakarta offer the day-trip excursion to this temple, usually combined with Candi Mendut, Candi Pawon and Candi Prambanan.

I paid Rp60.000 (USD6.00) for the round-trip journey with a travel agent in Jalan Malioboro in downtown Yogyakarta, which includes 3 stops at Pawon, Mendut and a silver-making centre.

The entrance fee for foreigners is Rp95.000 (USD11) or Rp9.000 for Indonesian residents.
DESCRIPTION:
This world-famous temple is located in a small hill of Kedu Basin. It overlooks 4 different volcanoes, namely Mt. Merbabu (3,142m), Mt. Sumbing (3,371m), Mt. Merapi (2,911m) and Mt. Sundoro (3,1366m), as well as the spectacular jagged peaks of Menoreh Hills that rise as high as 1,022m. To me, it goes without saying that the geographical setting was meticulously chosen for this much-acclaimed UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Candi Borobudur was modeled after the Buddhist cosmology of Kamandhatu (the phenomenal world of desires), Rupadhatu (the transitional world from the present corporeal being), and Arupadhatu (the divine sphere of perfection and enlightenment).

If you could not immediately distinguish the cosmology model that was incorporated into Borobudur's architecture, you are not alone. It took me sometime to differentiate the dizzying sky-reaching steps and floor levels. Basically, Kamandhatu is the rectangular wall that juts out of the temple's foot. It signifies the present world that is visible to our naked eyes. Rupadhatu is the 4-storey terraced corridors which are decorated with statues, stone carvings and wall reliefs. This is the transitional world epitomised by Rupadhatu, at which the soul arrives from the present world into this intricate maze in anticipation of reaching the divine state. Finally, a devout soul shall reach Arupadhatu in the state of enlightenment. The top section of the temple, filled with stupas, including a colossal one which probably signifies the "God", represents Arupadhatu.

According to historical data, the building of Candi Borobudur exemplified a tremendous labourious precision - some 55,000m³ of andesit stones were brought in from the Progo River, a few kilometres away. The temple was built during the age of Syailendra Dynasty (or Sailendra, which means Kings of the Mountains) in the early 8th century. Its construction was overseen by a number of different rulers of the dynasty. Upon completion, Borobudur was used for meditations and religious rituals by Vajrayana sect of the Tantric School of Buddhism.

Borobudur is a combination of the word "Bara" and "Budur". "Bara", from the Sanskrit word "Vihara", which means a complex of temples and monastery (coincidentally, there is a word "biara" in Malay which implies the same connotation although rarely being used except in classical literature). Meanwhile, the word budur is from the Balinese term "Beduhur", which means "up high". Thus, Borobudur means a monastery or a complex of temples perched on a hill.

Despite its colossal grandeur, Candi Borobudur was abandoned after the eventual decline of Syailendra Dynasty, as it was the case with other great archeological marvels of the world. At the information centre, there are old photos on display showing its deplorable state when it was first re-discovered in early 1800s (much to my amazement when seeing how it looks like today). Since then, there were two major restoration initiatives undertaken by various parties:

1907 - 1911
Under the guidance of a Dutchman, Theodore van Erp, Candi Borobudur was somewhat restored, although the perilous threat of structural disintegration was still eminent due to the sinking soil structure and general erosion.

1973 - 1983
The Indonesian government and UNESCO embarked a multi million dollars project that resulted in the present being of Candi Borobudur. Advanced engineering methods including subterranean boring to regulate water seepage, installation of underground water conduits, massive underlying steel beams for supports, as well as patching up the broken parts. On 23rd February 1983, the restored Candi Borobudur along with the adjoining Taman Wisata (Archeological Park) was unveiled by President Soeharto.

BALI WEDDINGS - Everything You Need to Know About Getting Married in Bali

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MARRIAGE LAWS, LICENSES AND CERTIFICATES

Bali is part of the Republic of Indonesia and is subject to Indonesian Laws. Every couple considering getting married in Bali must comply with these Laws.

In accordance with Law No. 1 of 1974 concerning marriages in Indonesia (Article 2 (1): "a marriage is legitimate if it has been performed according to the laws of the respective religious beliefs of the parties concerned."

All couples who marry in Indonesia must declare a religion. Agnosticism and Atheism are not recognized. The Civil Registry Office can record marriages of persons of Islam, Hindu, Buddhist, Christian-Protestant and Christian-Catholic faiths. Marriage partners must have the same religion, otherwise one partner must make a written declaration of change of religion.

The Religious Marriage under Islam is performed by the Office of Religious Affairs (Kantor Urusan Agama) in a ceremony at a mosque, the home, a restaurant, or any other place chosen by the couple and is legal immediately after the ceremony.

A Christian, Hindu or Buddhist marriage is usually performed first in a church or temple ceremony. After the religious ceremony, every non-Islamic marriage must be recorded with the Civil Registry (Kantor Catatan Sipil). Without the registration by the Civil Registry these marriages are not legal. Recording by Civil Registry officials can be performed directly at the religious ceremony for an additional fee.

Persons of non-Islamic faith are required to file with the Civil Registry Office in the Regency where they are staying first a 'Notice of Intention to Marry' as well as a 'Letter of No Impediment' obtained from their consular representatives.

The following countries have Consuls or Consular Representatives in Bali. The telephone and fax numbers must be prefixed with 62-361 when calling from abroad.

Australia (Consulate, also representing Canada, New Zealand, U.K. and other Commonwealth countries in emergencies), Jalan Prof. Moh. Yamin 4, Renon, Denpasar, Tel. 235-092/3, Fax 231-990;
France (consular Agency), Jalan Bypass Ngurah Rai No. 35, Sanur, Tel. 285-485, Fax 285-485; Germany (Honorary Consulate), Jalan Pantai Karang 17, Sanur, Tel. 288-535, 288-826, Fax 288-826;
Italy (Honorary Vice Consulate), Jalan Bypass Ngurah Rai, Jimbaran, Tel. 701-005, Fax 701-005;
Japan (Consulate), Jalan Raya Puputan, Renon, Denpasar, Tel. 234-808, Fax 231-308;
Mexico (Honorary Consulate), Jalan Moch. Yamin 1A, Renon, Denpasar, Tel. 223-266, Fax 231-740;
Netherlands (Consulaar Agency), Jalan Raya Kuta 99, Kuta, Tel. 751-517, Fax 752-777;
Norway & Denmark (Honorary Consulate), Kawasan Bukit Permai, Jimbaran, Tel. 701-070, Fax 701-074;
Spain (Honorary Consulate, currently vacant);
Sweden & Finland (Honorary Consulate), Jalan Segara Ayu, Sanur, Tel. 288-407, Fax 287-242;
Switzerland & Austria (Consular Agency), Jalan Pura Bagus Teruna, Legian, Tel. 751-735, Fax 754-457;
U.S.A. (Consular Agency), Jalan Hayam Wuruk 188, Denpasar, Tel. 233-605, Fax 222-426.

For the Notice of Intention to Marry you have to submit the following documents for both partners to the Civil Registry Office (show the original and present a photocopy):

Certificate of the religious marriage;
Passport for foreign citizens, or KTP (Identity card) for Indonesian citizens;
Certified birth certificate;
Certified divorce decree (absolute) or death certificates regarding the termination of all previous marriages;
Four 4x6 cm photos, both partners side by side;
Foreign citizens
"Letter of No Impediment to Marriage" issued by your Consular Representative for Bali or Indonesia;
Indonesian citizens:
Never married: letter Surat Keterangan Belum Kawin from Kepala Desa or Lurah (mayor);
Men aged 18-21 and women aged 16-21: parental letter of consent, signed across the meterai/tax stamp Rupiah 2,000.

. Before the marriage, you and your fiance(e) also may wish to file with the Civil Registry a prenuptial Property Agreement (Surat Pernyataan Harta) which must be signed before a local Notary Public. This contract is necessary if you wish to hold property separately during the marriage. In the absence of such a document, Indonesian marriage law assumes joint ownership of property, and subsequent property acquisitions by the Indonesian partner will be regulated according to the laws restricting foreign property ownership.

Two witnesses over the age of 18 are required. They must show the originals and present photocopies of their passports if they are foreign citizens or KTP (identity cards) if they are Indonesian citizens. Civil Registry employees can act as witnesses.

The Civil Registry office has a Mandatory Waiting Period of 10 working days from the date of filing. This waiting period may be waived for tourists presenting a guest registration form (Form A).
Islamic Marriage Certificates (Buku Nikah) issued by the Office of Religious Affairs (Kantor Urusan Agama) are legally valid in Indonesia and do not require registration with any other agency if you are going to live in Indonesia. However, if you might move somewhere else in the future (and who knows?), get a marriage certificate issued by the Civil Registry and an officially certified translation right away (see below).

All other Marriage Certificates will be issued by the Civil Registry usually on the same or next day. A sworn English translation of the marriage certificate should be obtained for use abroad. It is not necessary for the marriage certificate or translation to be registered by your Consular Agency. However, to have the sworn translation of the marriage certificate verified or a special translation made by the Consulate of your home country or the Consulate of your country of residence might prove useful.

WEDDING ARRANGEMENTS

Balivillas.com offers a FREE Wedding Ceremony if you book one of the more luxurious villas for 7 days or more. We will also assist with villa decoration, catering & party service and transportation. Please visit baliweddingplanners.com, our associated Wedding Co-ordinator, for additional Bali wedding arrangements such as more elaborate ceremonies, handling of legal formalities, rental of bridal dresses, hair styling, make-up, flowers, dancers & musicians, photo & video shooting etc.

Special Bali Honeymoon Accommodation
No matter if you want to stay at a romantic private villa, a resort on the beach or a secluded hotel, Balivillas.com can arrange just the right honeymoon accommodation to meet your needs and make your honeymoon truly special and memorable.

BALINESE DANCE & DRAMA

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Balinese Dances

Most Balinese dance performances are held in the evenings, however, you can also see some Barong Dance performances in the morning.

If you prefer to watch one of these Balinese dance performances in a hotel after a sumptuous dinner buffet, the OBEROI is recommended because of the beautiful beach front setting. For those who do not wish to have dinner here, there is a US$10/person fee to enjoy the dances; Classical Dance on Tuesdays and Ramayana Dance on Thursdays, starting from 8:30 p.m.
Bali Dance Festival offers daily dance performance during buffet at US$25 per person. The restaurant opens at 7:00pm for dinner and on 8:00pm the performance starts. For further information and booking, please call 703-060.

If you have rented a villa, you can contact our local Service Center at 703-060 to arrange a private Balinese dance performance in your garden at any time convenient for you. 40 to 60 dancers and musicians in beautiful costumes will perform the Balinese dances of your choice and be afterwards available to explain anything you might wish to know.

	Barong Dance: This Balinese dance is about a contest between the opposing forces of chaos and destruction ("Rangda") and order (the "Barong"). Performances in Suwung and Kesiman (suburbs of Denpasar), and in Batubulan daily from 9:00 or 9:30 a.m.; in Banjar Abasan, Singapadu, daily from 9:30 a.m., and at Puri Saren in Ubud, Friday from 6:30 p.m.
	Legong Dance: A highly stylized, extremely difficult dance performed by young girls. Choreographed to the finest details, and no improvisation allowed. Performances at the Peliatan Stage, Friday from 6:30 p.m., at Pura Dalem, Puri Peliatan, Saturday from 6:30 p.m., at Pura Peliatan in Ubud, Sunday from 7:30 p.m., and at Puri Saren, Ubud, Monday from 7:30 p.m.
	Kecak Dance: A ritual dance created in the early 1930's for the movie "Island of the Demons" by the German painter and intellectual Walter Spies who combined the chorus of the "Sanghyang" trance dance with a story from the "Ramayana" legend. Very impressive with its circular chorus of sometimes over 100 bare chested male singers. Performances are held at the Arts Center, Denpasar, daily from 6:30 p.m., and in Banjar Tegal, Ubud, Sunday from 6:00 p.m.
	Fire Dance: The Fire Dance is an exorcist dance against spirit possession. Girls in trance dance barefoot among glowing coals. Performances in Bona Kangin, Gianyar, Friday. Monday and Wednesday from 6:30 p.m. In Bonasari, Gianyar, Friday, Monday and Wednesday from 7:00 p.m., and in Batubulan, daily from 6:30 p.m.
	Ramayana Dance: There are occasional performances of this Balinese dance Nusa Dua Beach Hotel & Spa. This cultural dinner show is available on Tuesdays from 8:00 p.m at Rp. 240,000 + 21% tax and service charges per person.

If you are seriously interested in Balinese dance and music, you should contact the YAYASAN POLOS SENI (Foundation for Pure Art) in Peliatan near Ubud. They offer dance and music lessons at reasonable prices (see under "Balinese Dance & Music Classes" at Popular Bali Activities).

Wayang Kulit, Traditional Drama & Other Performances

Wayang Kulit: In the Indonesian shadow puppet play, beautifully painted and gilded leather puppets are used although only the shadows are visible to the audience. The stories come from the spirit world and are full of symbolism and myth. A highly skilled puppeteer controls hundreds of puppets, speaks with a different voice for each character, and controls the musicians. Plays go on for several hours. Performances can be seen at Oka Kartini, Tebesaya, Peliatan, Ubud, on Saturdays from 8:00 p.m.

Balinese Temple Festivals, Drama, Other Performances: See the "Bali Post" daily newspaper and the Friday edition of the English language "Jakarta Post" for details.

Driving & Water Sport Reference in Bali

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Diving & Water Sports

Other Activities

THE MOST POPULAR BALI TOURS

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	Kintamani Volcano Tour: The first stop is often in the village of Batubulan to watch a performance of the Barong and Kris Dance. Afterwards you visit the villages of Celuk (silver jewelry) and Mas (wood carving) to see Balinese artisans at work. Ubud, Bali's cultural center, has grown to a busy town with numerous Balinese art galleries and shops. A scenic drive over small roads overlooking beautiful rice terraces brings you to the mountain village of Kintamani (about 5,000 feet above the sea) which offers spectacular views of Lake Batur and the volcano. You can cross the crater lake below the still active Mount Batur and visit the "Bali Aga" village of Trunyan. Return through traditional villages with stops in Tampaksiring to visit the temple of Tirta Empul, and to visit the Elephant Cave "Goa Gajah", a hermitage from the 11th. century used by both Buddhists and Hindus.
	The "Mother Temple" and East Bali Tour: Drive to Besakih through various villages visiting on the way a weaving factory, see the famous painted ceiling at the old "Palace of Justice" in Klungkung, and visit the school of painting in Kamasan. The "Mother Temple" in Besakih is Bali's most holy and Indonesia's biggest Hindu temple. It was build in the 11th. Century in an altitude of 1,000 meters (3,000 feet) on the slopes of Mount Agung. You pass picturesque rice terraces on the way to the walled "Bali Aga" village of Tenganan, and continue to Candi Dasa on the East coast. On the way back it's recommended to stop at the famous Bat Cave "Goa Lawah" with thousands of bats hanging from the walls.
	Bedugul Tour: After a stop in Sangeh to visit its holy forest inhabited by wild monkeys, drive up into the mountains to Lake Bratan (1,200 meters above sea level) and the picturesque water temple Ulun Danu. Visit the busy flower, fruit and spice market in Candikuning where most of Bali's vegetables come from. Drive back through small country roads, villages and rice fields, with a stop in an artisan village specializing in gold threaded textiles (Ikat) worn during important ceremonies.
	North Bali Tour: Drive the scenic road via Pupuan through the mountains to Bali's North coast. You'll enjoy beautiful views of picturesque rice terraces, and large plantations growing vanilla, chocolate, coffee, cloves, and even wine grapes. Near the village of Banjar is a popular hot spring where you can take a bath in the natural pond. After a lunch on the black beach in Lovina you pass the old capital of Singaraja on the way to Git Git, famous for its multi-tier water fall. Return over back roads to see the unspoiled Bali. (This tour can be combined with the visit to Bedugul.)
	Monkey Forest & Tanah Lot Tour: Visit the royal Taman Ayun temple in Mengwi (built in 1624), the holy monkey forest near Sangeh, and famous Tanah Lot. This picturesque Balinese temple was built in the 16th. Century on a huge rock 100 yards off Bali's West coast and is surrounded by the sea during high tides. Spectacular sight, however, spoiled by thousands of tourists visiting every day during sunset. To avoid these, enjoy the view from the lobby of the nearby Le Meridien Nirvana Resort.
	Handicraft Villages & Ubud Tour: Visit the artisan villages of Batubulan (stone carving), Celuk (silver & gold jewelry), Mas (wood carving), and Pengosekan (painting). Stop at the "Bali Art Market" in Sukawati to bargain for all kinds of handicrafts and textiles. Already in the 1930s Ubud had been made famous around the world as Bali's cultural center by the German intellectual Walter Spies, the Dutch painter Rudolf Bonnet and other foreign artists who'd made it their home. Today Ubud is a fast growing town with numerous art galleries and shops offering paintings, wood carvings, textiles, and all kinds of souvenirs. Don't miss the MUSEUM PURI LUKISAN in the center of Ubud, the NEKA MUSEUM in Campuhan, the NEKA GALLERY in Ubud, the AGUNG RAI GALLERY in Peliatan, and the AGUNG RAI MUSEUM in Pengosekan to see the difference between creative art and more commercial products. Problem is that when you see their "Permanent Collections" at many "Galleries" you've seen real art, and when you return to their show rooms you don't like any of the very commercial products any more. The SENIWATI GALLERY - ART BY WOMEN, founded in 1991 by Mary Northmore (the very personable wife of famous painter Abdul Azis) to help Balinese women to be accepted as artists, is a place you should not miss whatever you do. The main purpose of this Bali art gallery is to expose the long understated brilliance of independent women artists resident in Bali, and to motivate, train, and encourage young Balinese girls with obvious creative gifts. Visit also the BLUE MOON STUDIO and GALLERY, founded in 1994 with an emphasis on exhibiting contemporary artists. The LOTUS CAFE is perhaps the most popular meeting point in town and has become kind of an institution, and MURNI'S as well as the BRIDGE CAFE offer tasty snacks and full meals in very pleasant surroundings and at reasonable prices. For other interesting restaurants please visit Restaurants in Ubud. The various Balinese dance and Wayang Kulit performances (see below) in Ubud and in nearby villages are worth spending the early evening there.

Boat Tours in Bali

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Here are our reference site to Bali Boat Tours :

Art & Museums In Bali

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Here list of Art & Museums in Bali...

Art & Museums

What You Can See & Do in Bali, Indonesia

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Bali's natural attractions include miles of sandy beaches (many are well-known amongst surfers), picturesque rice terraces, towering active volcanoes over 3,000 meters (10,000 ft.) high, fast flowing rivers, deep ravines, pristine crater lakes, sacred caves, and lush tropical forests full of exotic wildlife.

The island's rich cultural heritage is visible everywhere - in over 20,000 temples and palaces, in many colorful festivals and ceremonies (including tooth filings and cremations), in drama, music, and dance.

You can experience Bali on many different excursions and guided tours by coach, private car or "Big Bike", by boat or by air plane: seeing Bali's beaches and rice terraces, the famous Besakih Temple on the slopes of holy Mount Agung, Lake Batur and it's active volcano, Ubud, Legian, Kuta, Nusa Dua, and the temples of Tanah Lot and Ulu Watu from a helicopter is a really special experience. For helicopter tours and private charters (3 to 6 passengers) please contact the Balivillas.com Service Center at 703-060 as soon as you arrive.

Most full day tours by car (about 8 to 10 hours, min 2 persons) cost about US$45 to US$50 per person, half day tours US$30 to US$35. These prices include a multi-lingual guide and transport in an air-conditioned private car, all entrance fees, but no meals. Which guide and driver you choose can make or break your day: be warned that those who offer very low prices tend to waste your time by showing you hardly any more than those shops which pay them a commission on your purchases.