Visiting Lombok Island - Guidance Before Visiting Lombok Island

East Nusa Tenggara: Lake Kelimutu

2009-05-02T13:28:00.002+08:00

A. Brief Information

Lake Kelimutu, part of Kelimutu National Park, is situated on the peak of Mount Kelimutu which is at an altitude of 1.631 meters. Kinds of flora that you can find there are Kesambi (Schleichera oleosa), casuarinas tree (Casuarina equisetifoia), and Edelweiss. Moreover, types of fauna living around the lake are deer (Cervus timorensis), pig forest (Sus sp.), red jungle fowl (gallus gallus) and hawk (Elanus sp.).

B. Distinctive Features

There are three backwaters in the lake which tend to turn their colours. For instance, the water in one of those, change from red to bottle green then someday it can be pink and in another backwater, the water turn from bottle green into light green. The last one, the water can change from deep brown into azure.

C. Location

Administratively, Lake Kelimutu is located in three sub-districts, Detsuko, Wolowaru, and Ndona Sub-district. It is in the district of Ende, East Nusa Tenggara Province, Indonesia.

D. Access

Taking air transportation from Kupang, the capital of East Nusa Tenggara Province, to Ende District, it will be approximately 40 minutes to reach the destination. When you have arrived at Ende City, continue the journey by public transportations to Kaonara Village, about 93 km away or 3 hours. Then you must continue the trip to the location by walk for around 2,5 km.

E. Ticket Price

From February 2008 up to now, the entrance ticket of the lake is IDR 3.000. However, on weekend, the entrance ticket will be IDR 5.000.

F. Accommodation and other Facilities

Shelters, wide parking area and lodgements are some supporting facilities around the location. Hopefully it could make your vacation in the location comfortable.

Source:www.wisatamelayu.com

East Nusa Tenggara: Mount Inerie

2009-05-02T13:25:00.002+08:00

A. Brief Information

Mount Inerie, at an altitude of 2.245 meters, had ever erupted in 1882 and 1970 on dry season, during June to August. The west side of the mount‘s slope is dominated by thick forest while the east side of the mount is not converted into farming land. Most of the forest in the area of Mount Inerie are situated at 1.000 – 1.500 meters above the sea level.

B. Distinctive Features

You can see the entire panoramic view of Bajawa City, on the north-west, which is covered with slight mist above the city. On the south of the mount, the blue sea of Sawu lies in the slope of the mount.

There is a myth about a big stone located in the south of the mount. The big stone is believed as a materialization of Jaramasi and his horse. Jaramasi, jara means horse and masi is a name of a man, is assumed as the guardian knight of Mount Inerie.

C. Location

Mount Inerie lies in Bejawa Sub-district, Ngada District, Flores Island, East Nusa Tenggara Province, Indonesia.

D. Access

To reach the destination, you can take air transportation from Kupang to Ende, in Flores Island. Having arrived at Ende City, you can continue the trip to Bajawa for about 61 km away. From Bajawa, go to the location by public transportation to the location, around 15 km southwards.

E. Ticket Price

Free

F. Accommodation and other Facilities

In Bena Village, you can find some inns for you who want to spend more days around the location.

Source:www.wisatamelayu.com

East Nusa Tenggara:More About Komodo Island

2009-05-02T13:20:00.000+08:00

A. Brief Information

In 1908, a unit of Netherlands army reported that they saw a dragon looking like a monster in southern island of East Nusa Tenggara Province. Knowing the news, Lieutenant Steyn van Hens Broek, a functional administrator of the Netherlands, wanted to prove it. Then, he prepared a unit of army whose office was in Flores to sail to that island.

Having arrived there, Lieutenant Steyn and his crew saw giant lizards which length was up to two meters. Steyn could kill one of those giant lizards and brought it to his office in Ende City. Then, this giant lizard was photographed and the picture was brought to Peter A. Ouwens, a director of Zoological Museum and Botanical Garden in Bogor. This was the first documentation of a giant lizard named Komodo. Therefore, in 1910 the Netherlands named the island as Komodo Island.

The result of that photography was published by a national daily newspaper of Netherlands in 1912. This publication made Komodo Island visited by the researchers, missionaries, and tourists. Realizing that Komodo was a special rare animal in 1915, the Netherlands government issued a rule about protection to this animal from hunting and killing.

As the name, Komodo Island is an island which is known as the original habitat of Komodo (Varanus Komodoensis). The local people calls this animal as Ora. Until present day, Komodo still becomes a pride because it becomes a source of income for local people from the tourists who visit the island.

B. Distinctive Features

In this island, tourists can see Komodo which is the biggest lizard species around the world, with length of the body up to 3,13 meters and weight up to 165 kilograms. The tourists also can see several activities of this rare animal, such as the Komodo copulate which always happens between May until August; Komodo which is eating deer, goats, and pigs; and see Komodo which is sun-bathing on the road and on the branches of trees in the morning.

In 1980 the government made Komodo Island as the Komodo National Park to protect Komodo from extinction. Six years later, in 1986, this national park was accepted as the World Inheritance Site by UNESCO. This national park consists of two big islands. They are Rinca Island and Padar Island surrounded by several small islands. The total wide of this national park was 1.817 kilometers square.

C. Location

Komodo Island is an island located in the western area of East Nusa Tenggara Province bordered to the West Nusa Tenggara Province. Administratively, this island is included in the Komodo Sub-district, West Manggarai District, East Nusa Tenggara Province, Indonesia.

D. Access

From Kupang, the capital of East Nusa Tenggara Province, tourists can go by plane to Ende, a city in Flores Island. The journey is continued to Labuhanbajo City for ten hours by minibus. From the city located in the most western area of Flores Island, the journey is continued to Komodo Island by speed boat for about two hours.

E. Ticket Price

The foreign tourists are charged US$ 5 per person for one day, and local tourists were charged IDR 25,000 per person (March 2008).

F. Accommodation and other Facilities

In this island, tourists can find international resorts, several cottages provided by local people, and restaurants as well.

Source:www.wisatamelayu.com

East Nusa Tenggara: Pantar Strait Sea Park

2009-05-02T13:17:00.001+08:00

A. Brief Information

Pantar Strait that is the separation of Alor Island and Bantar Island is only visited by more and less 100 foreign tourists to dive in the sea park in a year. Such amount is just a small, out of target, considering that the enormous potencies on it. When the economic crisis hit Indonesia, there were only 187 divers came to the location and in the next year, noted that only 109 divers come to the location.

Maritime Tourism in Pantar Strait Sea Park offers beautiful scenery under the sea. It lures many divers from all over the world to come for enjoying its panoramic views. Pantar Strait Sea Park encompasses Alor Besar waters, Alor Kecil Waters, Buaya Island, Kepa Island, Ternate Island and Pura Island.

B. Distinctive Features

Around 26 diving spots are found in the location. Those diving spots are: Half Moon Bay; Peter`s Prize; Crocodile Rook; Cave Point; The Edge; Coral Clitts; Baeylon; The Arch; Fallt Line; The Pacth; Nite Delht; Kal`s Dream; The Ball; Trip Top; The Mlai Hall; No Man`s Land; The Chatedral; School`s Ut, and the deepest one is Shark Close. The last one is the most interesting spots regarding there are many tame sharks so you are not necessary to be afraid of them. Gray dolphin, which is regarded as threatened with extinction can be found there.

C. Location

Pantar Strait Sea Park lies in the district of Alor, East Nusa Tenggara Province, Indonesia.

D. Access

You can reach the location by ferryboat from Kupang for about 12 to 13 hours with the direction to Larantuka. The journey then is continued to Kalabahi harbor using wooden boat for approximately an hour. From kelabahi harbor, you can directly enjoy the beauty of Pantar Strait Sea Park.

E. Ticket Price

Free

F. Accommodation and other Facilities

There are many inns, restaurants, guides` services and souvenir peddlers around the destination.

Source:www.wisatamelayu.com

East Nusa Tenggara: Liang Bua Cave

2009-05-02T13:14:00.001+08:00

A. Brief Information

There is an assumption that Liang Bua Cave was shaped about 190.000 years ago. It is based on the result of laboratory research on the sediment at the south corner of the cave. It was shaped since the water stream from a river penetrating the surrounding hills. At the end, after a long run, those rocks shaped the formation of sedimentary rocks.

An archaeological excavation had ever been conducted by National Archaeological Research Centre in cooperation with University of New England in 2001. The result of the excavation was announced on October 28th, 2004 stating that hobbit fossil was discovered in the location. Such discovery then increases the visitors to Liang Bua cave.

B. Distinctive Features

Liang Bua Cave is one of the most important archaeological sites in the world. A fossil of Homo Floresiensis, which is 100 cm tall and 25 kg weight was discovered. It is assumed that the fossil is not taller than a five-years old boy. This fossil, whose the skull is just the same as a lemon fruit, is believed that such species lived about 13.000 years ago, together with giant lizards/ komodo and pigmi elephants.

C. Location

Liang Boa Cave is located in Flores Island, Liang Bua Village, Ruteng Sub-district, in the district of Manggarai, East Nusa Tenggara Province, Indonesia.

D. Access

You can take air transports to reach the destination from Kupang City to Ende City, in Flores Island for about 1,5 hours. Then you must continue the trip to Ruteng City by public transportations for approximately 4 hours. From Ruteng Sub-district to Rampassa Village, the travel can be accessed by public transports or approximately 13 km away.

E. Ticket Price

Free.

F. Accommodation and other Facilities

Around the location, you can find restaurants or inns intended to offer you comfortable visit.

Source:www.wisatamelayu.com

East Nusa Tenggara:Camplong Forest Area

2009-05-02T13:11:00.000+08:00

A. Brief Information

Camplong Forest Area is a forest conservation that is inhabited by various floras and faunas. The area is situated on the slope of Mount Fatuleu in East Nusa Tenggara Province. In the location, you will find a pond and a natural water spring enhancing the fresh atmosphere around this site. Multifarious floras, such as red woods, pines, palms, and eucalyptus, and faunas such as apes, squirrels, cuscus, and birds, are deliberately kept from extinction there. In addition, weekend is the right time to visit the location along with your family or friends.

B. Distinctive Features

Camplong Forest Area is a resident for numerous endemic faunas such as timor deer, olive-shouldered parrots, and black-backed fruit-doves. Besides, this forest area is also preservation for kinds of crocodiles and snakes. Endemic floras like cendana wood (Sanatalun Album) are also available there as well.

To some extent, you likewise will see an artificial cave that was made when Indonesia was under the rule of Japanese colonial government. According to the available data dealing with the history of the cave, Japanese troops used to hide inside the cave when they got retaliatory attack by Indonesian soldiers.

C. Location

Camplong Forest Area can be reached at Soe City, Fatuleu Village, Kupang District, East Nusa Tenggara Province. It is about 46 kilometres from Kupang.

D. Access

You can take public transport leading to Soe City by approximately IDR 7.000 for its cost. However, it will be IDR 100.000 for taking taxi to reach the location.

E. Entrance Ticket

The entrance ticket is IDR 3.000.

F. Accommodation and other Facilities

For accommodation services, you can easily find some lodgements around the location with reasonable prices.

Source:www.wisatamelayu.com

East Nusa Tenggara: Customary Ceremony of Reba

2009-05-02T13:08:00.001+08:00

A. Brief Information

Intended to deliver the admiration and gratitude for their ancestors, the customary ceremony of Reba is conducted by Ngada people. It is also proposed to evaluate the whole aspects of societal being of Ngada people for a year ago. Through this ceremony, people ask for guidance from religious scholars so that they could live better in the next year. The ceremony is usually held on the first month of new year.

It is celebrated by turns in different places every year. The ceremony is started by su‘i uwi that is taken place a day before the celebration. At the night of su‘i uwi day, foods and beverages banquets are offered for the participants until the sun is going to rise. At morning, all of the guests attending to watch the ceremony are offered with geta kau bhagi ngia, mami utu mogo. Kaa si papa vara, ini su papa pinu, kinds of dishes offered for the guests. As the main dishes is cassava, regarding that the local inhabitants exalt cassava as neverending food resources. That is why, Ngada people never lack of foods.

During the ceremony is going on, the dancers acting while holding sau (swords) and tuba (colorful canes decorated with mohair) will offer you with amazing performance from the dancers. The musical instruments that are played during the ceremony are made of coconut shells and gourds. For the resonance cavity, those are made of goat skins. In addition, the pick scrapers for the musical instrument on the ceremony are made of wax-rubbed woven threads.

B. Distinctive Features

The Customary Ceremony of Reba is commonly celebrated in three to four days, starting by Church inculturation mass headed by local priest, before the dances and the overtures called O Uwi are performed. That is a combination of local culture and religion in Ngada District.

Outside of the church, the atmosphere is merrier when every attendant is offered with a glass of local arrack named tua ara. That is the tradition of Ngada local people which is not merely a wonted party where people hanging around laughing every where, but in more specific, it is intended to deliver the happiness (gaja gora) of local people for the coming of new year by maintaining religious nuance.

C. Location

For you who want to watch the ceremony, you can easily find it in every sub-district, in the district of Ngada, Flores Island, East Nusa Tenggara Province, Indonesia.

D. Access

Just take air transpots to reach the destination from Kupang to Ende. Having arrived at Ende City, you can continue the trip to Ngada District for about 61 km away by public transportation.

E. Ticket Price

Free

F. Accommodation and other Facilities

You can find several hotels in Ngada District and some restaurants offering typical foods of Ngada City. Some travel agents are ready 24 hours for you who want to go to other tourism destinations there.

Source:www.wisatamelayu

East Nusa Tenggara: More About Waikabukak, Menipo Island & Semau Island

2009-05-02T12:58:00.002+08:00

Waikabubak

A neat little town in Western Sumba, full of old graves carved in motifs of buffalo-horns, man-heads, horses, nude men or women symbolizing social status or the wealth of the people. Right in the capital city of Waikabubak, we can see the following tombs: Kadung Tana, Watu Karagata, and Bulu Peka Mila. Tarung village, an important ceremonial center, is located on top of a hill, just a half kilometer to the west of Waikabubak. There are several megalithic tombs. The front of many traditional houses are decorated with huge water buffalo horns from the animals sacrificed during rituals of years gone by.

Menipo Island

Menipo Island is not shown in any geographical map. It is only 571 hectares large or 7,328 meters long and 700 meters wide. It is separated from Timor Island by a narrow strait. Menipo Island is part of Enoraen Village, Kuarasi District, in Kupang Regency. This island is occupied by various kinds of animals, such as Timor deer (Cervus Timorensis), wild pigs, turtles, alligators, bats, small birds, pigeons and turtle- doves. It is a popular place for recreation on weekends and holidays. One can go fishing, snorkeling, swimming or surfing.

Semau Island

Thirty minutes by boat from Kupang this island is certainly worth to stay one whole day. No noise and uncrowned is what this island stands for. It is a holiday village for everyone and a good place to relax as it offers a haven for those from the city. The surrounding water is a paradise for snorkeling, swimming, and other water sports.

Barbecue on the beach is desirable. Bamboo cottages are available right on the white sandy beaches. This unattained island paradise is well worth stop over. The surrounding crystal - clear waters offer exceptional snorkeling and swimming. Bamboo bungalows are available right on the white sandy beach, and you can barbeque your freshly-cough dinner while enjoying a spectacular sunset.

Source:www.indonesia-tourism.com

East Nusa Tenggara: More about Maumere,Labuan Bajo & Larantuka

2009-05-02T12:54:00.002+08:00

Maumere

Maumere is a port town on the northeastern coast of Flores and a stop over on the way to Ende or to Larantuka. It is well connected by air with Kupang, Denpasar, and Ujung Pandang, and noted for its good beaches. The bay of Maumere is considered a good diving spot (Flores Marine Resort) as it promises extremely rich marine life. The resort is a paradise for all divers, underwater photographers, and for everyone interested in marine biology.

Ledalero museum at the out skirts of Maumere has an interesting collection of ethnological objects from the region. Visitors are welcome but advance arrangements should be made. Ledalero is also a name of a major catholic Seminary from where many of Flores priests originated.

Labuanbajo

On the west end of Flores is the picturesque little town of Labuanbajo. A little town inhabited by fishermen, lies at the extreme western part of Flores. The town serves as a jumping-off point for the trip to Komodo Island. It is a beautiful area for water skiing, wind surfing, fishing, and many other marine activities. Pede Beach is an ideal place to do all this and from where sunsets are beautifully visible. Labuanbajo (on the western tip of Flores) is a town often used by tourists, from where they can visit Komodo and Rinca. Labuanbajo also attracts scuba divers, as whale sharks inhabit the waters around Labuanbajo. Scuba divers from around the world come here to dive the rich waters between Komodo and Flores, some choosing to stay on expensive liveaboard dive boats. Most of them pick up their passangers at the dock in Labuanbajo, or at the airport and then bring them to the boat.

Larantuka

Larantuka is a neat clean seaport with a beautiful view. Everything is within walking distance except for the pier where the boats leave for Timor (4-5 km from town). Even that is a pleasant walk if we do it early enough before it gets too hot. A little port nestled at the base of a tall hill at the eastern end of Flores, from where Solor, Adonara, and Lembata islands (the small islands near by) are visible across the narrow strait. An Old Portuguese cultural heritage like the Easter Procession is held in this town, and worth seeing. Flores people are very outgoing and friendly. Their bemos are brightly painted with murals on the sides and their radios are blasting the latest tunes. Lots of Catholic churches line the roads with a few mosques sprinkled in. Larantuka is a pleasant little town on the Far East end of Flores. There is a harbor in town and another one a few kilometers away where the ferryboat leaves to Kupang and Rote in West Timor. The boats going to Alor leave from the one in town. There are a number of tuna boats at the docks. They have a big square platform on the bow where fishermen line up with bamboo poles line up flipping hooked tunas.

There are 6 to 8 water jets that spray a steady stream of water on the surface to attract the tunas and then baitfish are tossed in driving the tunas into a feeding frenzy. These are not the big yellow or bluefin tunas but the smaller ones about 2 feet in length. They are often seen for sale by roadside vendors along the road from Maumere. There are some New Orleans style cemetaries along the beach on the way. They are well maintained and very colorful. These people put a lot of work into them.

Source:www.indonesia-tourism.com

East Nusa Tenggara: More About Komodo National Park & Kalimutu

2009-05-02T12:51:00.003+08:00

Komodo National Park

Komodo National Park is located in the center of the Indonesian archipelago, between Sumbawa and Flores islands. 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, UNESCO declared the Park a World Heritage Site and a Man and Biosphere Reserve, 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, sea grass 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.

Kelimutu Lakes

The most famous tourist attraction in Flores is Kelimutu; three colored lakes in Ende district. These colored lakes change colors on a regular basis. The latest colors (late 2004) were said to be turquoise, brown and black. Kelimutu is a small but well-known Indonesian volcano in central Flores Island with three summit crater lakes of varying colors. The western lake, Tiwi Ata Mbupu (Lake of Old People) is commonly blue. Tiwu Nua Muri Kooh Tai (Lake of Young Men and Maidens) and Tiwu Ata Polo (Bewitched, or Enchanted Lake), which share a common crater wall, are commonly green and red-colored, respectively, although lake colors vary periodically. Active upwelling, probably fed by sub aqueous fumaroles, occurs at the two eastern lakes. The scenic lakes are a popular tourist destination and have been the source of minor eruption in historical time. The summit of the compound 1639-m-high Kelimutu volcano is elongated 2 km in a WNW-ESE direction; the older cones of Kelido and Kelibara are located respectively 3 km to the north and 2 km to the south.

Mount Kelimutu

East Nusa Tenggara's natural wonder and one of Indonesia's most mysterious and dramatic sights that can be found on top of this mountain, some 66 kilometers from Ende, or 83 kilometers from Maumere. It has a unique and spectacular view on its three crater lakes with their respective colors. The colors, however, have changed continually since the eruption of Mount Iya in Ende in 1969. The surrounding village are good places serving as bases for visits to Kelimutu, particularly those who wish to have a more leisurely pace and enjoy the views along the road between Ende and Maumere, or spend more time in Kelimutu. Those little villages are also known for their excellent weaving-all hand-made, still using natural dyes.

East Nusa Tenggara : Some Interesting Place

2009-05-02T12:46:00.002+08:00

Komodo National Park
Komodo National Park is located in the center of the Indonesian archipelago, between Sumbawa and Flores islands.

Kelimutu Lakes
The most famous tourist attraction in Flores is Kelimutu; three colored lakes in Ende district. These colored lakes change colors on a regular basis.

Mount Kelimutu
East Nusa Tenggara's natural wonder and one of Indonesia's most mysterious and dramatic sights that can be found on top of this mountain, some 66 kilometers from Ende, or 83 kilometers from Maumere.

Lasiana Beach
An ideal tourist recreation spot, near the capital city where the beach faces westward to watch beautiful sunsets. Lusiana has been chosen as the port for 1996 Around - the World Sailing Competition started in England, and the yearly Darwin - Kupang yacht Race.

Camplong
A lovely community about 45 km from Kupang with regular market days and a natural swimming pool, where traditionally people bathe, do their laundry, and socialize. Camplong is also a forest reserve where some scarce animals, such as deer (Cervus Timorensis), parrots, monkeys, etc. in the reservation, are protected.

Tablolong
Tablolong is a beautiful place, about 23 Km from Kupang, with white sandy beach and crystal water good for water sport recreation. Tablolong is also chosen as the base for Kupang Local Bill fish Fishing Tournament.

Oenesu
Oenesu is the waterfall spot in beautiful natural panorama. It is located on the middle of Kupang and Tablolong.

Soe
A town (110 km from Kupang) noted for its cool weather, beautiful flowers, and good fruits. Soe is, after all, a dull sprawl of wooden and corrugated-tin-roofed houses.

Maumere
Maumere is a port town on the northeastern coast of Flores and a stop over on the way to Ende or to Larantuka.

Ende
This town contains the home in-exile of former and first Indonesian president, Soekarno, while in banishment during the early period of nationalist movements in 1936. The house has been repaired and is today a museum.

Labuanbajo
On the west end of Flores is the picturesque little town of Labuanbajo. A little town inhabited by fishermen, lies at the extreme western part of Flores.

Larantuka
Larantuka is a neat clean seaport with a beautiful view. Everything is within walking distance except for the pier where the boats leave for Timor (4-5 km from town).

Lamalera Whale Hunting
Lamalera on Lembata Island is a whaling village. In May to September make up the whale-hunting season for the people of Lamalera. Using simple traditional tools as small rowboats and the hand thrown harpoons, the hunters sail out to hunt these giant creatures of the sea. The catch is either consumed or sold.

Waikabubak
A neat little town in Western Sumba, full of old graves carved in motifs of buffalo-horns, man-heads, horses, nude men or women symbolizing social status or the wealth of the people.

Anakalang
The village is about 20 km from Waikabubak with its large graveyard (the largest megalithic tombs in Sumba). The tombs are always with unusual carvings. Anakalang is the site of "Purung Takadonga", an important mass marriage festival held every two years, on a date determinate by the full moon.

Menipo Island
Menipo Island is not shown in any geographical map. It is only 571 hectares large or 7,328 meters long and 700 meters wide.

Semau Island
Thirty minutes by boat from Kupang this island is certainly worth to stay one whole day.

East Nusa Tenggara: Some Hotel Address

2009-05-02T12:36:00.003+08:00

East NusaTenggara has several hotels but only a small number with star ratings,
where most of them are one-star hotels

KUPANG
Sasando International Hotel Jl. Kartini No.1 Phone : (0391) 22224 - 8 Telax : 35470 MBSN IA Rooms : 48 Class : * Cendana Hotel Jl. Raya El Tari No. 15 Phone : (0391) 21541 Rooms : 40 Class : * Astiti Hotel Jl. Jend Sudirman No. 146 Phone : (0391) 21810, 31278 Rooms : 40 Class : * Flobamor II Hotel Jl. Jend Sudirman No. 21 Phone : (0391) 21346 Rooms : 38 Class : * Permata Sari Hotel Jl. Jend Sudirman No. 21 Phone : (0391) 21346 Rooms : 17 Class : *	Charvita Hotel Jl. WJ. Lalamentik Phone : (0391) 21221, 22676 Laguna Inn Jl. G. Kelimutu No.25 Phone : (0391)21559 Marina Hotel Jl. A. Yani No.79 Phone : (0391)22566 Maya Hotel Jl.Sumatera No.37 Phone : (0391)32169 Pantai Timor Hotel Jl.Sumatera Phone : (0391)31651 Salunga Hotel Jl. Kakokfua No.20 Phone : (0391)21510 Orchid Garden Hotel Jl. G. Fatuleu Phone : (0391) 32004 SOE Mahkota Plaza Hotel Jl. Soebroto, Soe Phone : 21168
RUTENG	MAUMERE
- KALABAHI Adi Dharma Hotel Jl. R.E. Martadinata, Kalabahi Phone : 21049,21280	Sao Wisata Hotel Jl. Don Thomas No.18, Waiara Phone : 342,555,666 Telex : 46139 BDOOFC IA Rooms : 41 Colss : Permah Sari Hotel** Jl. Sudirman No.1 Phone : 21171,21249

Find out or book a hotel room, please click here

East Nusa Tenggara: Some Restaurant Address

2009-05-02T12:35:00.001+08:00

KUPANG	ATAMBUA
Lima Jaya Raya (Indonesian, Chinese, eupropean) Jl. Sukarno No.15 A - Kupang Istana Garden (Indonesian, Chinese, European) Jl. Timtim, Oesapa - Kupang	Roda Baru (Indonesian) Jl. Jend. Sudirman - Atambua Phone : 73
RUTENG	MAUMERE
Beringin Jaya (Indonesian) Jl. Motangrua - Ruteng Phone : 235	Wuralaran (Indonesian) Jl. Pasar Baru Barat - Maumere Phone : 184
ENDE	BAJAWA
Depot Ende (Indonesian) Jl. Gunung Iya No.6 - Ende Phone : 208

East Nusa Tenggara: Some Artshop Address

2009-05-02T12:31:00.003+08:00

SHOPPING HINTS
Traditional hand-woven cloth, one of the most outstanding traditional handicrafts,besides handicrafts of "lontar" leaves and, sandalwood carvings, the sasando - the traditional musical instruments either in miniature or actual size.

KUPANG
Dharma Bhakti ( woven matirials, sandalwood, carvings, statues various handicrafts made of "lontar" leaves) Jl. Sumba No.32 Phone : (0391)21154- Kupang Lok Binkra Art & Handicraft Centre (Woven materials, carvingshandicrafts, sasando) Jl. Timtim, Oesapa - Kupang Padang Sari (Carvings, handicrafts) Jl. Soeharto Phone : (0391)21538- Kupang	Sinar Baru (woven materials, sandalwood, carvings, handicrafts) Jl. Siliwangi No.94 Phone : (0391) 22556 Kupang Ketita (woven materials) Jl. Hati Mulia No. 41 Phone : (0391)31763 Kupang SOE Bahagia (woven materials, sandalwood carvings, antiques) Jl. Diponegoro No. 72 Phone : 21015 Soe
RUTENG	MAUMERE
Beringin Jaya (Indonesian) Jl. Motangrua - Ruteng Phone : 235	Subur Jaya (woven materials, ivory carvings) Jl. Pasar Baru Timur Phone : 21235 Maumere Karya Baru (woven materials, handicrafts, antiques) Jl. R. Suprapto No. 4 Phone : 21454 Maumere Harapan Jaya (woven materials, ivory carvings) Jl. Pasar Baru Timur Phone : 21227,21240 Maumere
LARANTUKA	BAJAWA
-	-
WAINGAPU	WAIKABUBAK
Mawar (Woven materials, carvings) Jl. Tribrata - Waingapu	Hamid Algadrie Artshop (woven materials, antiques) Waikabubak

East Nusa Tenggara: The History, Art & Culture

2009-05-02T12:15:00.002+08:00

THE HISTORY

Considering its name, actually East Nusa Tenggara archipelago is believed to have been the center of industrial trade and exchange two thousand years ago when Timor island functioned as the source for the original stock of sandalwood trees established in India (or even in China) and there after developed as an important commercial tree. The trees grow in some islands (mostly in Timor Island now and used to be in Sumba) and the quality is still judged superlative.

Now the product is not only used for handicraft, but is also manufactured into sandalwood oil for export commodity for the raw material of perfumes. Centuries ago, ships from all over the world visited these islands in search of spices and sandalwood. The ancient Chinese travel chronicle Hsing Cha Sheng Can mentions that from the 6th to the 9th AD many ships from the Chinese mainland came here to barter ceramics, yarns, and silks for sandalwood. Can Yu Kua wrote in the Chu Fan Shih in 1225, that Timor Island had links with Java as far as the trade of sandalwood was concerned. The evidence of those old trade links with Java is found in Lendo Maja Dance, in Sabu. The evidence of early trading with China provide by the antique Chinese ceramics found in this area.

Pilliot Lamster believes that China had engaged in the sandalwood trade since the early period of Christian era. O. W. Walters similarly believe that China had connections with Timor in the first century of the Christian era. The merchant from India also come to these island to buy sandalwood, bringing horses which they bought in Arabia to be sold to Sumba people. That is ostensibly the reason why there are so many horses in Sumba The Europeans came to East Nusa Tenggara and bought sandalwood oil to treat wound.

In 1520, a Portuguese flotilla led by Alfonso de Abreu and serrao, sailed to Ternate, intending to defeat the Sultan of Ternate and take over his sphere of influence, which stretched from the southern Philippines to Sangihe Talaud, Maluku and Solor Island.

Losing their orientation, they arrived at Solor. They had failed destination, but had discovered East Nusa Tenggara, the source of sandalwood. They set up a trading post in Lamakera, on Solor Island, as a kind transit harbor between Maluku and Malacca.

In 1566, the Portuguese set up a trading post, know as fort Hendricus, where sandalwood was accumulated. During Portuguese period, many names were changed. Nusa Nipa became Flores, and Tanah Wutun, or Tanjung, was renamed Cabo da Flores. Nusa Wuo was changed into Sumba, and Nusa Eda into Rote or Roti, which was presumably the result of a misunderstanding involving a name Rote. Nusa Timu became Tmor. In addition, the Portuguese did their best to convert the people to Roman Catholicism as present on Portuguese ship. By 1597, thousands of people on these islands had been converted to Christianity.

The little town of Kupang knows among students of maritime history. At around the end of the 1 8th century, Kupang was visited by a sloop of the British Ship HMS "Bounty" skippered by Captain Thigh, who has braved the Pacific Ocean after the infamous mutiny. On his arrival at Kupang, Captain Bligh received help of the Dutch, who provided him with a ship to return to England.

In 1592, and inhabitant of Larantuka, of Portuguese origin, whose mother had been ill-treated, asked the Dutch for help to fight the Portuguese. The clutch attacked Fort Hendricus and defeated the Portuguese. The Dutch arrived at East Nusa Tenggara for the first time in the 17th century. In 1613, Apollonius Scotte led a war expedition to

East Nusa Tenggara to fight the Portuguese. War broke out and Solor fell to the Dutch in 1653. Through further victory, the Dutch consolidated their position in Kupang in 1657. Fort Hendricus became the headquarters of Dutch East India Company. Like the Portuguese before them, the Dutch brought their own Lutheran Ministers to the island and became the information center in East Nusa Tenggara.

After that the people live in surroundings of Kupang had converted from Catholicism to Protestantism. The Protestant center was move to Kupang. Meanwhile, the Portuguese moved the seat of their authority to Rote and Sawu islands. More over, many of the other islands were being subjugated and put under Portuguese control. In May to June 1642, the Portuguese were sending their best troops from Larantuka to attack Timor Island. The Portuguese commander; Francisco Fernandez, Ordered his men to kill the entire king in the conquered areas.

In 1739, a new power group, called the black Portuguese or Tropaas, emerged in Timor. Until the middle of the 19th century, it clashes between the areas. The situation continued until 1854, when the Treaty of Timor was signed between the Dutch and Portuguese, dividing Timor into half west to be ruled by the Dutch, and an east by the Portuguese. Larantuka and surrounding areas were ceded to the Dutch, whereas the barren territory of Oekusi was relinquished to the Portuguese.

After Indonesia's independence, it was in the beginning a part of the Provinces of Lesser Sunda Islands, and changed its name to Nusa Tenggara Province not long after that, with the capital in Singaraja, Bali. In 1958 the province of Nusa Tenggara was divided into three provinces; Bali, West Nusa Tenggara, and East Nusa Tenggara Provinces.

ART & CULTURE

East Nusa Tenggara is rich in arts and culture. Everywhere we go to East Nusa Tenggara we will notice the difference. The differences can be in languages (dialects), motif of customs (sarongs), the styles or the architectures of arts, houses and so on. Although the vast majority of Flores in Catholic, many people still follow their old ways, by living in traditional villages and placing food offerings on megalithic stones, and appease their ancestors. In the mountains around Bajawa, the Ngada people still follow the laws laid down by their ancestors. The Ngadanese are divided into set clans that have head chiefs and elders who decide of matters such as land rights, funerals, marriages and other ceremonies.

At Ngadanese rituals three objects form a ceremonial unit:

PEO, a single megalithic stone, is used for communication with the ancestors. These are erected in the center of the village and had not allowed to be moved.
NGADU, an umbrella shaped structure with a thatched roof, is used by the mate clan elders during ceremonial offerings.
BHAGA, a small hut with carvings, used by female clan elder when asking for the ancestors' protection over the newborn children.

Sacred myths that tell the origin of the several Sumbanese clan ancestors, is called Marapu. Mention a ladder from heaven to India then a long journey via Java to Flores. There is a stone bridge connected to Sumba Island. There the Highest Being created the Marapu, in heaven. This Creator cannot be seen or named, but it is known as "Great Mother or Great Father.

This aspect of male and female dualism is still enforcing throughout the social structure and system of gift exchange. This creator gave Marapu the right to govern the Sumbanese; therefore Marapu is the link with the creator.

Sumbanese clans were formerly divided into several independent kingdoms, each with their own clan Marapu, mostly at war with each other and not recognizing a central authority. Since the authority was Marapu, each clan needed its own fortified ceremonial center that also functioned as a village. Every house within the village has its own responsibility, such as deciding over Ceremonies, wars, and harvest. However, only one house, the uma, claims direct decent from a central founder, who first obtained the rights by Marapu, to settle and use the land. The clan houses, with their megalithic tombs, face toward a village square, where the animals' offerings are carried out. Megalithic take other forms, such as offering altars and praying houses. Sacred stones, used as a link between Marapu and the Sumbanese can be found inside and outside the village.

A traditional Sumbanese house is though of as representing a human being; the thatched peaked roof is called "the hair and the head, the four main pillars that stand on the ground and reach the peak are known as "the legs". These houses are social units and also serve as clan temples. The verandah function as the place where the guests are received and their betel nut is exchanged. Betel nut exchanged is an important customs and when offered it represents a western handshake, it is an insult to refuse the offer, although it is not necessary to eat it. The houses are also an important ceremonial center for funerals. Here the corpses are kept, prepared and mourned for a while the burials. Since death is the only way to join Marapu, the funeral is the most important and extravagant ceremony. Megalithic tombs with elaborate carvings symbolized the status of the person who will be erected. A great tomb might weight 30 tons; take 40 men two years to prepare and 1000 men to drag it from the quarry to its site.

The megalithic stones represent the first stone given by the creator to Marapu as compass to find Sumba from India. Since the Sumbanese believe the after world is a mirror of this world, status and wealth must be shown. Therefore his possessions will follow him to the grave and his animals will be sacrificed to honor him. Marriage is another significant ceremony filled with dancing, singing, entertainment and gift exchanged. A favorable marriage will give a rise in political or social status. Agricultural ceremonies and festivals are parts of the yearly traditional calendar. Pasola is one such festival in which colorful, spear throwing men on horseback, stage a mock battle between two teams. This is held to welcome the sea-worms, which foretell the coming harvest. It is held after the full moon in February and March.

The traditional house of Timor looks like a wooden parasol (UME) functioning as a living room and storage house. The village leader rules several houses from a village. This way of living is still available in the area around Mount Mutis, Soe, and Kefamenanu. Here the majority of Atoni people (one of the ethnic groups in Timor) still live traditionally. The Atoni people, according to regent, lived beside mountains that could talk and wander from valley to valley. The great rocks offered protection and guidance. The Atoni up until today will place offering at the foot of these sacred mountains, to ensure the continuing relationship. The Atoni live in behave shaped houses, where high conical roofs slope downward.

Belu people, originally from present day Malaysia, left their settlements in Mollucas, during the 1 4th century to conquer and establish an empire in Timor island. The word Belu, means friend used by Atoni, might explain the relative ease in which the Belunese established them selves. One of the unique features within the Belunese society is the woman's high status. She fully controls everyone, or more, of the four types of marriage she decides to be a part of. Her husband will leave his clan by moving to her house and all their children will follow her lineage.

Traditionally dances, such as Likurai, have always accompanied festivals and ceremonies. The Likurai was danced to welcome the clan warriors up on their return from a victorious battle. The women would be dancing, tapping their drums and swaying their bodies as they circled the battle trophies of heads. Today unmarried women, will dance the Likurai to press young bachelors of visitors on special occasion. The Belunese culture is till very evident around Betun on the east coast of Timor.

Source:www.indonesia-tourism.com

East Nusa Tenggara: About Dana & Rai Jua Islands

2009-05-02T12:11:00.002+08:00

DANA ISLAND

Dana is also called Nieuw Eiland and Hokki, the latter not known to the local people. Dana is a small, uninhabited island, situated thirty kilometers Southwest of Rai Jua. The rocky, south side of the island is exposed to deep ocean swells originating in the Southern Ocean, five thousands kilometers away. Sheep and goats are to be seen on the island. However, Savu and Rai Jua people do not go to Dana, except for the annual ritual ceremony. According to Savunese tradition, no one is allowed to visit Dana for any other purpose.

Savunese believe that when they die, their spirit reside on Dana. They also believe that it is important to respect the space of others in order to maintain harmony in life. Since Dana is considered to be the space for the spirit of their love ones who passed away, it is considered disrespectful for westerners to visit the island. However, cruise ships and surf charters regularly visit Dana, without consultation with the Rai Jua elders, who are responsible for preserving the tradition.

RAI JUA ISLAND

Kolo Uju (Udju) is a village where ritual ceremonies are held. It is located in Lede Unu of Rai Jua District.
Maja well is located in Lede Unu village of Rai Jua district. It is located about 5 km from the subdistrict capital. The well is an archeological remnant of Majapahit Kingdom.
Rai Jua Beach is located I km from the main town. It is a white sandy beach for snorkeling and swimming.

East Nusa Tenggara: About Savu Island

2009-05-02T12:10:00.001+08:00

Savu is dry for large parts of the year, due to hot winds blowing from the Australian continent. Most rain falls during the months from November to March. Between 82% & 94% of all rainfalls during the west monsoon, with little or no rain falling for the months of August to October. The mean annual rainfall for Savu Island is 1019 mm. During the dry season, the islands' streams dry up, so the islanders depend on wells for their water supply. The land is covered for the most part by grassland and palms. Coral reef and sandy beaches fringe the three islands.

Namata

Namata is located in Western Savu. Namata is a traditional village where the ritual ceremonies are frequently held. There are megalithic stones and traditional houses. It is located in the Rai Lolo village, 3 km from the capital city of Heb'a (Seba) in western Savu district. There is a stone carving of a four mast tall ship. Though the writing beneath has faded, villagers say the Portuguese drew it in 1684.

East Nusa Tenggara: About Alor & Lembata Island

2009-05-02T12:02:00.002+08:00

Alor and Lembata Islands are the least visited and are therefore the most unspoiled regions of East Nusa Tenggara (NTT). Trek to the rim of Pantar volcano, visit the traditional whaling village on Lembata or dive the straits of Alor at a dive destination rated by all to be amongst the best in the world.

Alor Island

regency is the least visited and therefore the most unspoiled region of Nusa Tenggara Timur (NTT). Trek to the rim of a volcano on Pantar or dive the straits of Alor and Pantar in a dive destination rated by all to be amongst the best in the world. Ponder on the existence of the Moko drums, which are not found in large numbers anywhere else in Indonesia and can be traced back to the Dongson period in Vietnam around 350 BC and you start to realize that Alor is truly a land lost in time.

Alor diving is known as the best in the world With its smoldering Volcanoes reaching down into crystal clear waters fringed with pristine coral reefs, coconut fringed pure white sandy beaches and traditional villages built half way up mountains, the scenery is as spectacular above as it is below the waterline. Alor Island is so mountainous that it is almost impossible to pass from one side to the other and many of the villages on the island itself can only transport themselves via small wooden ferries. The eight distinct dialects and more than 50 sub-dialects spoken today, testifies to the diversity on Alor.

East Nusa Tenggara: About Rote Island

2009-05-02T11:58:00.002+08:00

Rote Island is a part of Kupang Regency and is the southernmost island of Indonesia. It is located in the west coast of Kupang. This exotic island can be reached only in four hours. From Kupang by inter-island ferry to dive and tour this untouched beautifully rugged land. Spectacular walls and caverns mirror the hills, valleys, and escarpments underwater. The marine life is so varied and profuse that is hard to believe from Fire-fish to Mantas. The architecture of Rote is unique, as is their exquisite ikat weaving. See the people is their traditional lifestyle, which has remained unchanged for centuries.

Rote has many historical relies including fine antique Chinese porcelains, as well as ancient arts and traditions. Many prominent Indonesia nationalist leaders were born here. A popular music instrument Sasando, which is made of palm leaves. According to legend, this island got its name accidentally when a lost Portuguese sailor arrived and asked a farmer where he was. The surprised farmer, who could not speaking Portuguese, introduced himself, "Rote".

Rote just off the southern tip of Timor Island consists of rolling hills, terraced plantations, and acacia palm, savanna and some forests.
The rotinese depend, like the Savunese, on lontar palm for basic survival, but also as the supplement their income with fishing and jewelry making.

Before Indonesia's Independence, Rote, boasted the highest density of kingdom in the East Indies. Even today the island, the Rotenese and their kingdoms are divided, following ancient tradition, into two domains, one known as Sunrise and one as Sunset. A “male” Lord, a “female” Lord and several advisers, representing the clans within that domain, rules the domain. Each clan that possesses ceremonial rights performs it's own rituals during the annual HUS celebration, a traditional New Year festival. At the HUS, Rotenese men wearing their unique hats make offerings to the clan ancestors and the women dance accompanied by sasando, The Rotenese guitar.

Rote is particularly well know for its surfing, each year surfers flock to Namberala to ride the near perfect tubes formed by the shallow reefs and off-shore winds. Accommodation in Namberala includes a traditional beachfront bungalow resort and several home stays. The beach itself is one of the best examples of a palm fringed pure white sandy beach to be found anywhere. Diving in the area is also exceptional due to the large numbers of Manta and Dugong seen there. A boat trip to nearby Dana or Ndao Islands is also recommended.

East Nusa Tenggara: About West Timor

2009-05-02T11:57:00.001+08:00

West Timor is the principal island in terms of population where the capital of the province, Kupang, is located. Kupang is now being developed to be the gate- way to Nusa Tenggara. There are direct flights from /to Darwin-Australia. West Timor is rich in various cultures, beautiful sceneries, and a wonderful nature. Made up of dry, rocky land, isolated communities, rolling cattle land, a variety of styles of architecture, Timor is basically something that possesses its own original characteristics.

West Timor is a political region that comprises the western half of Tomir Island with the exception of Oecussi-Ambeno district (which is politically part of East Timor) and forms a part of Indonesia province of East Nusa Tenggara, (NTT or Nusa TenggaraTimur). West Timor's capital and chief port is Kupang. The land area of West Timor is 15,850 km. During the colonial period it was known as Dutch Timor and was a centre of Dutch loyalists during the Indonesian War of Independence (1945-1949).

Rote Island, the southernmost island of Indonesia, is just to the southwest of West Timor. Three native languages belonging of Carbonic Stock of the Austronesian group of languages are spoken in West Timor, the others in East Timor. These languages are Ndaonese, Rotinese, and Helong.

History

European colonization of Timor started in the 16th century. Although Portuguese claimed the island of Timor in 1520, the Dutch (in Dutch East India Company) settled West Timor in 1640, forcing the Portuguese out to East Timor. The subsequent collapse of the company meant that in 1799 the area returned to official Dutch rule. Finally, in 1914 a treaty between Holland and Portugal that was originally signed in 1859 and modified in 1893 finalized border between East and West Timor.

Japan conquered the island as part of World War II in early 1942. August 17, 1945 saw Indonesian Independence declared, just three days after the Japanese surrender. The Dutch returned but faced a war with republican guerrillas, the eventual outcome of which was the proclamation of Republic of Indonesia in 1950, which made West Timor a part of East Nusa Tenggara.

Demographics

West Timor has approximately 1.6 million inhabitants. The population is mostly of Malay, Papuan or Polynesian extraction, with a tiny ethnic Chinese group. About half of the population belongs to Atoni ethnicity. West Timor's main religions are Catholic (56%), Protestant (35%) and Muslim (8%).

East Nusa Tenggara: About Sumba Island

2009-05-02T11:50:00.004+08:00

Sumba, formerly known as the Sandalwood Island, is known foe its horses and Sumba clothe. Sandalwood was the only known cure for many diseases until penicillin was invented. The Sumbanese traded with the Chinese until the 16th century, after which the Arabs became the most important trading partner until the early 20th century. The island is famous for its arts and handicrafts, particularly the textile "ikat" weaving. Sumba, however, is not for everyone. Neither the food nor accommodations are up to international standards. But if we are willing to make a little effort we can see an authentic, ancient culture with none of the layers of Hinduism or Islam mostly found elsewhere in the country.

The island has a small population and a dry tropical climate. In total Sumba have more hours of sunshine than any other place in Indonesia. The land resembles Southern Africa or Australia, with scattered small villages and herds of cattle and buffalo Sumba is off the beaten track. Transport system and roads are infrequently used. Most hotels in main towns are simple, only catering for the adventurous. However, CNN etc. are available for those wishing to stay in touch with the outside world. Beaches are long and clean. Water is clear and abundant in fish, and there is great surf.

The island is roughly oval in shape. The greatest concentration of those who worship sprits (ancestral and those of the land) is found in West Sumba where two-thirds of the population holds on their traditional belief. It is here where incredible rituals take place, the "pasola" where hundreds of horsemen fling spears at each other. The government allows the ritual to take place, but the spears must be blunt. Although some exist in East Sumba, it is in West Sumba that one can find a greater number of huge megalithic tombs and traditional thatched and peaked huts raise on stilts.

Many traditional activities, all with a part paying homage to the spirits, take place in the month of July through October. These include the building of "adapt" houses and burials when sometimes hundreds of pigs, water buffaloes, horses, and dogs are sacrificed. Other ceremonies include the "pajura" or traditional boxing, the festivals for lunar New Year in October and November, and August 17, Independence Day, horse races and ritual dances.

History Sumba Island

According to an old myth the first humans came down to Sumba on a ladder from heaven and settled on Tanjung Sasar on the north side of the island. Another myth says that Umbu Walu Sasar, one of the two Sumbanese ancestors, was driven away from Java and brought to Sumba by the gods. He also settled on Tanjung Sasar. The other ancestor, Umbu Walu Mandoko, came by boat and settled on the east side. The fact is that the people here are a mix of Malay and Melanese, while the language is related to eastern Sumbawa, western Flores and Sawu. The death and burial ceremonies have significant similarities with Tana Toraja on Sulawesi. Sumba was under control of the mighty Majapahit dynasty from Java in the 14th century. After Majapahit had fall, the island was ruled from Bima on Sumbawa and later Gowa on south Sulawesi. The society was however most influenced by the internal wars, even if there still was mutual economic dependency between the rival kingdoms. Horses, timber, betel nuts, rice, fruit and ikat were heavily traded between the various districts. The Dutch did not find any commercial possibilities here at first and paid little attention to Sumba before they started export of sandalwood in the 18th century. Before the discovery of penicillin sandalwood was the only known cure for venereal diseases, and was an expensive commodity that was exported to Europe, China and Arabic countries in large quantities. The trade was constantly interrupted by internal wars, and in 1906 the Dutch invaded Sumba and placed it under direct military rule. A civilian administration was set up in 1913 where the Dutch ruled through the reigning Sumbanese nobility. The native rulers were not accepted by Indonesia when the republic took control of the island in 1950, but many became government officials and in that way they and their families still have much influence.

West Sumba

The western part of Sumba is green and fertile in the wet season. It has a mixed population with two different languages; many still live in their traditional thatched huts. While East Sumba attracts tourists due to it's lovely ikat-textiles, West Sumba can offer more exotic traditions with unique houses, ceremonies and tombs. A traditional village typically consists of two rows of tall houses, with a square between. In the middle of the square there is a flat stone with another flat stone at the top of it. Here offerings are made to the spiritual forces that protect the city (marapu). Similar stones can be found in the fields where offerings are made in relation to planting and harvesting. On the open square there is often stone slab tombs of important ancestors. In former days the heads of killed enemies would be hung in a dead tree in the village square, called 'andung'. It is common today for tourists to visit some of these villages, preferably with a local guide to avoid any offending behavior. We will often be asked to donate a small amount of money; another custom is to offer betel nuts. It is a big offence to say no if we are offered a betel nut, in former days this was a declaration of war. Just accept it and put it away if we don't like to chew it like the locals.

East Sumba

East Sumba has a different climate, it is more dry and mountainous, and the people here belong to one single ethnical group with one common language. Waingapu, the capital, is located here and is a hub for transport to and from the island. There are some facilities here, but the main attractions are located west and southeast on the island. Some traditional villages are located southeast of Waingapu and can be visited on a daytrip from there.

This region is better known for its "ikat" weaving. Traditionally only members of the highest clans and their personal attendants only used for special ceremonies and ikat. During important funerals the corpse was dressed in the finest textiles to make a good appearance in the afterlife, and piles of extra textiles was often sent with the dead as well. Later the Dutch started to export ikat to Europe and Java, where it quickly became very popular. Other products from here are horses and cattle. Horses are still used for transport on Sumba and are a symbol of high status; the large grass fields in the interior of the island are well suited for horse rising.

The island is famous for its megalithic tombs and war rituals. A well-known ritual is 'pasola' were hundreds of men on horses throw spears at each other. The tips of the spears are cut off, but serious accidents, even deaths, occur frequently. The season to experience this festival is in February to March, it will take place in four different districts to satisfy the gods and bring a good harvest. The exact date and time is depending on the arrival of the small 'Nyale' fish to the coast. The priests will study the fish and from it's behavior predict the outcome of the harvest. When this is done the Pasola festival can begin, the fights will usually start at the beach and then move further inland. Although perhaps 40% of the population of East Sumba follows the 'Merapu' religion as their brothers in the out ward manifestations are not nearly as spectacular of frequent.

Near Waingapu, Kuta Beach is a good place to relax, and further down coast, near Baing (125 km from Waingapu), there is great surfing at Kalala Beach. The waves are best from December to May. Traditional hand-woven cloth, one of the most outstanding traditional handicrafts, besides handicrafts of "lontar" leaves and sandalwood carvings, the sasando - the traditional musical instruments - both in miniature or actual size.

Source:www.indonesia-tourism.com

East Nusa Tenggara: About Flores Island

2009-05-02T11:48:00.001+08:00

Flores, a long island located between Sumbawa and Timor, is strewn with volcanoes in a mountain chain dividing it into several regions with distinctive languages and traditions, scenic beauty, good beaches, and natural wonders. The name is Portuguese for "flower", as the Portuguese were the first Europeans to colonize East Nusa Tenggara.

Occupying a unique position at the junction of the Australian and Asian submarine ridges, between the two distinct fauna regions marked by the Wallace Line, here is one of the world's most dynamic marine environments with nearly every species of coral and tropical fish represented. Predominantly Catholic, there are several examples of its Portuguese cultural heritage like the Easter Procession held in Larantuka, and the royal regalia of the former king in Maumere.

Flores Island, 6,627 sq mi (17,164 sq km), of Indonesia, is one of the Lesser Sunda Islands. Flores is heavily wooded, rugged, and mountainous, rising to 7,872 ft (2,399 m). The inhabitants are predominantly Christian, mainly Roman Catholic; those in the west are chiefly Malayans, and those in the east are Papuans. Corn and coconuts are grown. Ende (1990 pop. 48,966) is the chief town and port.

Among the prehistoric inhabitants of the island were small-proportioned humans (classified as Homo floresiensis in 2004) that may have evolved from Homo erectus and lived on Flores as recently as 13,000 years ago. Some scientists, however, believe that remains are those of micro cephalic modern humans who also suffered from dwarfism. Much later under the rule of Sulawesi princes, Flores came under Dutch influence c.1618. The Dutch gradually gained control of the island, although Portugal held the eastern end until 1851 and the natives were not completely subjugated until 1907.

Flores is one of the Lesser Sunda Islands, an Island arc with an estimated area of 14,300-km_ extending east from Java island of Indonesia. The largest town is Maumere. Flores is located east of Sumbawa and Komodo and west of Lembata and Alor archipelago. To the southeast is Timor. To the south, across the Sumba strait, is Sumba and to the north, beyond Flores Sea, is Sulawesi.

Administration

Flores is part of the East Nusa Tenggara province. The island is split into five regencies (local government districts); from west to east these are: Manggarai, Ngada, Ende, Sikka and Flores Timur.

Geography

Flores has several active and dormant volcanoes, including Egon, Ilimuda, Leroboleng, and Lewotobi.

Flora and fauna

The west coast of Flores is one of the few places, aside from the island of Komodo itself, where the Komodo dragon can be found in the wild. The Flores giant rat is also endemic to the Island. In September 2004, at Liang Bua Cave in western Flores, Paleoanthropologist discovered skeletons of a previously unknown hominid species. Homo floresiensis, affectionately termed hobbits after the small characters in the Lord of the Rings, appear to be miniaturized versions of Homo erectus standing about one meter tall. They may have existed until as recently as 11.000 BC. Local reports of elf people, the Ebu Gogo, or the Orang Pendek of Sumatra, have caused speculation that Flores man may have survived into the historical period, or even to the present. The discovery has been published in the October 28, 2004, issue of Nature magazine. Flores was also a habitat of the extinct Stegodon dwarf elephant until approximately 18,000 years ago.

Culture

There are many languages spoken on the island of Flores, all of them belonging to the Austronesian family. In the centre of the island in the districts of Ngada and Ende there is what is variously called the Central Flores Dialect Chain or the Central Flores Linkage. Within this area there are slight lingistic differences in almost every village. At least six separate languages are identifiable. These are from west to east: Ngada, Nage, Keo, Ende, Lio and Palu'e, which is spoken on the island with the same name of the north coast of Flores. Locals would probably also add So'a and Bajawa to this list, which anthropologists have labeled dialects of Ngadha.

Portuguese traders and missionaries came to Flores in the 16th century, mainly to Larantuka and Sikka. Their influence is still discernible in Sikka's language and culture.

Flores is almost all Catholic and represents one of the "religious borders" created by the Catholic expansion in the Pacific and the spread of Islam from the west across Indonesia. In other places in Indonesia, such as in Maluku and Sulawesi, the divide is more rigid and has been the source of bloody sectarian clashes.

East Nusa Tenggara: About Komodo Island

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A small island of 280 square km, Komodo is located between Sumbawa and Flores islands. It is famous for its giant lizards, considered the last of their kind remaining in the world today, the Komodo dragon. Called "ora" by the local people, Komodo "Dragon" (Varanus Komodoensis) is actually a giant monitor lizard. Growing up to 3 to 4 meters in length, its ancestors roamed the earth up to about half a million years ago. Komodo live on goats, deer, and even the carcasses of its own kind. The only human population on the island is at the fishing village called Komodo who supplement their income-breeding goats, which are used to feed the lizards. The Komodo had protected by the law and although they are considered harmless, it is advisable to keep them at a distance. Komodo Island is now a nature reserve, home to a number of rare bird species, deer, and wild pigs, which are prey to the lizards as well.

To see the lizards in the daytime, baits have to be set in the hinterland where local guides are necessary. The sea surrounding the island offers vistas of sea life, crystal clear waters, and white sandy beaches. The only accommodation available is in simple guesthouses in the fishing village. It is advisable to carry food supplies. The best time to visit the island is between March and June, and between October and December. Komodo is accessible from the sea only. Fly to Labuan Bajo, from where it is about 3-4 hours by boat to the island.

East Nusa Tenggara: About Kupang City

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The provincial capital of East Nusa Tenggara in western Timor has proximately 522.944 inhabitants, making it the largest urban center in the province. It is the center of government, business, trade, and education. 'The only sandalwood oil factory in Indonesia is located in this town. The city is located in West Timor, at 10011'S 123035'E, and has a population of about 450,000.

As the capital of East Nusa Tenggara, the transport and administrative links from Kupang with isolated islands are extensive. The location was an important port and trading point during the Portuguese and Dutch colonial eras. There are ruins and remnant signs of the colonial presence in the city. The city was an important landing and refueling place for early long distance airplane flights between Europe and Australia in the early twentieth century. It was an important location during the conflict in East Timor, for the Indonesian military, as well as the militias. The camps around Kupang were also of significant impact on the city.

Kupang was the final destination of Captain William Bligh (actually he was a lieutenant in the British Royal Navy) who was set adrift in an open boat during the Mutiny on the Bounty.

The Mutiny on the Bounty (1789) took place about 30 nautical miles (56 km) from Tofua. Lt William Bligh navigated the overcrowded 23-foot (7 m) open launch on an epic 41-day voyage first to Tofua and then Kupang City is equipped only with a sextant and a pocket watch -- no charts or compass. He recorded the distance as 3,618 nautical miles (6710 km). He passed through the difficult Torres Strait along the way and landed on June 14. The only casualty of his voyage was a crewman named James Norton who was stoned to death by the natives of Tofua, the first island they tried to land on. First Mate Fletcher Christian who fell in love with a Tahitian native and eventually settled on Pitcairn Island South East of Tahiti, had led the Mutiny.

About East Nusa Tenggara

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East Nusa Tenggara Islands have been shaped by the power and force of an enormous chain of mountains and volcanoes, which begins from the North of Sumatra and stretches east across Java. The province consists of over 550 islands, but is dominated by the three main islands of Flores, Sumba, and Timor. Occupying a unique position at the junction of Australian and Asian submarine ridges marked by the Wallace Line, it is one the world's most dynamic and exotic marine environments with nearly every species of coral and tropical fish represented. The arid landscape of eastern and southeastern Nusa Tenggara is the result of hot, dry winds blasting in from the Australian continent. In fact, in many coastal areas not a drop of rain falls during most of the year.

Flores is a Portuguese name, which means 'flower' and ideally describes the beauty to be found here. This long island between Sumbawa and Timor is crowded with volcanoes and mountains dividing it into several distinct regions with individual languages and traditions. Predominantly Catholic and heavily influenced by the Portuguese, there are many examples of a strong European cultural heritage like eastern procession held in Larantuka, and the royal regalia of the former king in Maumere.

Formerly known as the Sandalwood Island, Sumba is now famous for its horses and an excellent style of ikat cloth. Spirits, both ancestral and natural are worshipped. Although some exist in East Sumba, it is in West Sumba that there are a number of enormous megalithic tombs and traditional thatched and peaked huts raised on stilts. It is here where incredible rituals take place, such as 'Pasola' where hundreds of horsemen fling spreads at each other in an annual ritual. Many traditional ceremonies, all with a component paying homage to the spirits, take place from July to October including the traditional houses and burials when sometimes hundreds of pigs, water buffaloes, horses, and dogs are scarified. Other ceremonies include 'Pajura' or traditional boxing, festivals for the Lunar New Year in October and November, horse races and ritual dances.

GEOGRAPHICALLY
East Nusa Tenggara is one of the four provinces in the Nusa Tenggara (Southeast Islands). Starting from Bali, West Nusa Tenggara, East Nusa Tenggara, and east Timor. It stretch is between 118° and 125° east longitude, and between 1 18° and 125°southern latitude lines, and between 8° and 12 ° southern latitude lines. The territory of East Nusa Tenggara Province comprises 566 islands. The three main islands are Flores, Sumba, and Timor from which come the term FLOBAMOR, which has been familiar as one of the names of East Nusa Tenggara.
Flores is the main volcanic island and has many unique and spectacular attractions, one of these is Mount Kelimutu with its lakes of distinct color variation, has become one of the fabled destinations travelers.
Sumba is the island famous for its arts, handicrafts, particularly the textile weaving, and cultural assets. The other name given to East Nusa Tenggara is "Nusa Cendana" the Sandalwood Island.

GEOLOGICALLY
Geologically, East Nusa Tenggara can be regarded as being divided into two zones: first, the volcanic inner curve formed by the islands Rinca, Komodo, Flores, Alor, Pantar, Adonara, Lembata and Solor, which have fertile soils and second, the out curve with limestone and rock formation, made up of the island Sumba, Sabu, Rote, Semau, and Timor.

DEMOGRAPHY
The total number of NTT inhabitants in 2001 was 3,888.735 - 1,919.644 (49.36%) men and 1,969.091 (50.64%) women. The most populated is Manggarai regency (621,989 people) and Kupang city is the most densely populated (1,517.30 people per square kilometer).

CLIMATE
Due to central highlands and their closeness to Australia, the seasons are irregular. Generally the islands are semi-arid, with a longer dry season lasting from March to November. The wet season lasts from December to March, but can be considerably shorter and small island of Savu. The average rainfall of this region is between 36 - 4,127 mm/year. The temperature is range from 20.3 C to 31.7 C.

TOPOGRAPHY
East Nusa Tenggara is mountainous, and very steep slopes are everywhere besides some not too wide plateaus or uplands. The lowlands are a long the coastal areas only. Despite of the situation, most part of this region is not fertile, since the rainfall varies between 500 mm and 2000 mm a year.
East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) is includes 566 islands. In addition, there are 524 uninhabited islands. It covers an area of about 47,349.9 square kilometers, including 200,000 square kilometers of maritime territory. Roughly 57 percent of the territory is hilly, with cliffs. The lowlands lay generally around the beaches and river mouths.

WIDE AREA
The area of East Nusa Tenggara occupies an area of 49,879.98 square kilometers, and has a population of more than 3,500.000. It is divided into 12 regencies and one municipality. Kupang regency is the largest region (7,178.26 square kilometers) and the smallest region is Kupang city (160.34 km2).

LANGUAGES
There are a lot of languages spoken in East Nusa Tenggara coming from as many different which groups of the population. Bahasa Indonesia is the national language in Malay, written in Roman script and based in European orthography. In all tourist destination areas English is the number one foreign language fairly spoken and written

Source:www.indonesia-tourism.com