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Komodo Island one of the New7Wonders of Nature

2012-06-19T20:09:00.004-07:00

Komodo Island, home of the Komodo dragon, the largest lizard on earth, has been confirmed officially as one of the New7Wonders of Nature.

Zurich/Switzerland: Komodo Island has been confirmed officially as one of the New7Wonders of Nature. Making the announcement, Bernard Weber, Founder-President of New7Wonders, congratulated the people of Indonesia and the fans of Komodo Island in the world for so enthusiastically backing this Finalist in the global voting campaign.

“The success of Komodo Island, the home of the Komodo dragon, is an inspiring example of what can be done to safeguard terrestrial and marine life forms that are extremely vulnerable to changes in climate and the impact of human development,” said Bernard Weber. “By voting for it in such large numbers, the supporters of Komodo Island everywhere have expressed pride in their natural heritage, which is part of the great mosaic that is the world.”

“We are happy and proud of this announcement that Komodo is now confirmed,” said Komodo Island campaign leader Emmy Hafild. “We are now preparing and planning for the Official Inauguration events in Jakarta and on Komodo Island, whose dates will be announced in the coming weeks.”

New7Wonders will work with the Indonesian authorities and Komodo supporters to evolve a sustainable development strategy that balances the needs of the Komodo habitat and its people with the vital task of defending the park’s ecological integrity. The concept of sustainable tourism will be one of the main agenda themes at the first-ever New7Wonders of Nature Congress in Igauzu, Argentina, on 27 May.

In alphabetical order, the confirmed and provisional New7Wonders of Nature are: Amazon, Ha Long Bay, Iguazu Falls, Jeju Island, Komodo Island, Puerto Princesa Underground River and Table Mountain.

KOMODO NATIONAL PARK

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.

Today, the PKA Balai Taman Nasional Komodo and PT. Putri Naga Komodo are working together to protect the Park's vast resources. Our goals are to protect the Park's biodiversity (both marine and terrestrial) and the breeding stocks of commercial fishes for replenishment of surrounding fishing grounds. The main challenge is to reduce both threats to the resources and conflicts between incompatible activities. Both parties have a long term commitment to protecting the marine biodiversity of Komodo National Park.

Source : http://news.n7w.com, www.komodonationalpark.org,

Bali Islands - The Island of Paradise

2012-04-03T02:01:00.001-07:00

Bali Islands is one of the thousands islands constructing the Indonesian Archipelago that has long been famous as a leading tourist destination in South Pacific or even in the world for its exotic and vibrant art and culture, natural beauties and the hospitality of the people. Bali islands covers an extent of 5,632.86 square kilometers consisted of mountain range stretches from the West tip to the East.

Hinduism is adhered by almost 95% of its population of more than 3 millions people, specifically blended with Buddhism and the Ancestor's worship. It is made inseparable from everyday life and no opportunity is missed to worship Gods in an unending series of ceremony stretches from birth up to after death

The Conducive environment in Bali islands is supported by the Balinese philosophy of life, called "Tri Hita Karana". Tri Hita Karana dictates that happines can only be achieved if there are hamonious relationship between human and Gods; between human and their community; and between human and nature (its surronding). This philosophy has become a way of life among the Balinese, and is practiced in their daily life.

Bali Islands has such a mild and agreeable climate the wholeYear round, with average temperature of the day in coastal areas varies from about 28C (82F) during May-July to abut 30C (86F) in March-October, while the most pleasant weather is between May-September.

Bali Islands has already had a reputation of its interesting and selected routes with a wide range of choices of destination.

Nusa Du

Nusa Dua (Bali Islands) is an exclusive resort area featuring pristine beaches and majestic palms overlooking a turquoise sea. This purpose-built development is a peaceful enclave where families can relax and enjoy a tropical paradise and the Balinese hospitality, all without having to venture far from their luxurious rooms. The Bali Golf and Country Club is only a few steps away and the International Airport is a mere 20-minute drive from Nusa Dua.

Ubud

Ubud (Bali Islands) is a remarkable town inthe middle of the island of Bali. For more than a century, it has been the island's preeminent centre for fine arts, dance and music.While it once was a haven for scruffy backpackers, cosmic seekers, artists and bohemians, Ubud is now a hot spot for literati, glitterati, art collectors and connoisseurs. Famous names walk its busy sidewalks everyday.

Sanur

Sanur (Bali Islands) is traditionally a fishing village and has managed to keep that lazy-town feeling. This really makes Sanur a unique area and unlike most other beach areas in Bali, Sanur has stayed largely in local hands.

Tanah Lot

Tanah Lot bali (Bali Islands), Located in Tabanan, just across the boundary of Badung regency, Tanah Lot is the most well-known and photographed temple. The temple is built on a small promontory, which is only accessible by foot at low tide. Take a scarf and dress with respect.

Menjangan Island

Menjangan Island (Bali Islands) popular diving site in Bali due to it's fine and preserved corals and rich equatic animal, turquoise clear water, and very calm sea. Every divers coming to Bali with the emphasize on diving program in Bali will put Menjangan and Tulamben sites as the priority sites. Menjangan island is unpopulated, but there is an old temple, supposed to originated from 14th century named " Pura Giri Kencana." During the expedition of Majapahit kingdom of Java in 1343 AD, it is believed that a boat was wrecked with their relics are still on sea bed. It is believed to have the magic influence.

Nusa Lembongan

Nusa Lembongan (Bali Islands) is situated 12 miles south east of bali. It is one hour travelling time by boat from Benoa Harbour. This pear shaped island is around 4km long and 2km wide. It is surrounded by a beautiful fringing reef and the waters are renowned for their abundance of life and great surf breaks.

Candidasa (bali Islands) is most often compared to Kuta as Kuta was some 15 years ago. The comparison has some merit - Candidasa is a small village with few inhabitants on the beach with a several - mostly inexpensive hotels that cater to more adventurous tourists looking for a more laid back atmosphere.

BALI named one of the “World’s Best Islands” by BBC Travel

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

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

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

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

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

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

Explore The Beauty Of Lake Toba, North Sumatera - Indonesia.

2012-03-25T22:30:00.000-07:00

This time I will invited you to Lake Toba, this is a volcanic lake with a length of 100 kilometers and 30 kilometers wide, located in North Sumatra Province, Indonesia. This lake is the largest lake in Indonesia and Southeast Asia. This vast lake has a uniqueness that does not exist in other lakes, in the middle of this lake there is a volcanic island called the Samosir Island. There is something unusual on a lake, because in general the island is only found in the ocean.

Lake Toba Sunset Scenery

Lake Toba has long been an important tourist destination in North Sumatra. In addition to facet beautiful natural scenery, Toba Batak culture was interesting for the exploration of domestic and foreign tourists. The lake is located in the District Naidoo, Tobasa, Simalungun, Karo, Dairi, North Tapanuli and Humbahas District, can be reached by private or public transportation from the city of Medan, North Sumatra provincial capital. With long takes about 5-6 hours by car.

Batak Toba Village at Samosir Island

Toba lake views from the seacoast town of Parapat is the most fascinating, at least that's the impression I felt as an opportunity to visit the proudest sights for the people of northern Sumatra. Ok, what can we do but enjoy the view there? Do not worry, this unique lake has a variety of natural bid to do something there. Fishing is a favorite there, in the vast lake is a wide range of fish consumption you can make the target fishing to be enjoyed later on the lake. If you are a water sport lovers, there is also provided water ski and speed boat you can rent. prices range from Rp 75,000 - Rp 300,000. Don’t worry, the price is still negotiable. For those of you who like the traditional souvenir, there is also available a traditional souvenir market, these souvenir made self by Batak Toba people.

Kano sport at Toba Lake

The island in the middle of Lake Toba is the Samosir island, can use the speed boat and tour boat of Lake Toba. To use the tour boat is charged about Rp 7,000, the price is very skewed to the beauty is priceless.
Samosir island scenery of the waters that lay Toba and cliffs bordering the edge of Lake Toba. At Samosir Island you can do fishing, water sports, cycling around the small islands, as well as watching the original area of public art Batak Toba. Interested to visit it? This is recommended destination for you all the time to visit Wonderful Destination in western Indonesia due the beauty of the landscape.

Raja Ampat - Marine Tourism Exotic charm of Papua, Indonesia

2012-03-13T22:50:00.000-07:00

Raja Ampat is a fraction of sorong regency cince 2003. district has a population of 31 thousand inhabitants, has 610 islands (only 35 island are inhabitants) with an area of about 46.000 km2, but only 6.000 km2 of land, 40.000 km2 in the sea. The islands are unspoiled and beautiful sea is still making tourist hooked.

The archipelago is located in northwestern New Guinea bird's head, with about 1500 small islands and atoll and 4 of the main island, namely Misol, Salawati, Bantata and Waigeo. This then makes the Raja Ampat's largest marine park in Indonesia. This region had been the target of poachers of fish and corals by spreading cyanide bomb. However, there are still many people who attempt to protect the marine wealth of the region that could be saved. Coral reefs in the sea Raja Ampat considered comprehensive in the world. Of the world's 537 coral species, 75 percent were in these waters. Also found 1104 species of fish, 669 species of molluscs (soft animals), and 537 species of coral animals. Excellent!

The World Bank in collaboration with global environmental institutions set Raja Ampat as one of the regions in East Indonesia Coral Reef Rehabilitation assistance and Management Program (Coremap) II, since 2005. In Raja Ampat, this program covers 17 villages and involve the local population. Fishermen are also trained to cultivate grouper and seaweed. Especially for those of you who are not interested in diving activities, a stretch of blue sea that refract the beauty of the sky, emitting a sprinkling of white sand sparkle like pearls, can be enjoyed. In addition, there is still a group of islands are charming and unique flora and fauna such as red paradise, paradise Wilson, maleo Waigeo, various parrots and parrot, possum Waigeo, as well as various types of orchids. Diving on the island of Papua Mansuar is one of the leading resorts in the region. Foreign tourists diving enthusiasts at home for days or even a month in Raja Ampat to enjoy the beauty that was there and stay at Papua Diving.

Every year the resort is visited at least 600 special tourist who spent an average of two weeks. Lodging is very simple, just walls and a roof of woven palm leaves that cost a minimum of 75 euro or Rp 900,000 a night. If you want to dive must pay 30 euros, or about USD 360 000 was diving at a particular location. Most tourists come from Europe. Kri Island, Waigeo, and Misool also prepared resort for visitors.

On the island there Misool Eco Resort, which is constructed by applying the principles of strict nature conservation. There is an agreement with indigenous people around the region to maintain an integrated ecosystem called the "No Take Zone" which prohibits any taking of marine exploitation, ranging from hunting shells, turtle eggs, shark's fin to just go fishing. In the extreme, even in this eco resort forbids the use of antiseptics for the waste exhaust feared would kill the coral reef ecosystem around it.

Some resorts set the price is relatively expensive because it presents a complete facility. Travelers with limited costs can also take advantage of government-owned resort is a lot cheaper in the Waisai, the capital of Raja Ampat. You have to fly first to the airport Domne Eduard Osok, Sorong, Papua, and then directly to the location of speed boat with a capacity of about 10 people at a rate of Rp 3.2 million each way. It takes about 3-4 hours to reach the Raja Ampat Islands in particular to Mansuar. To get around the island is desired, we can hire a speedboat capacity of 10 people at a price of USD 3-5 million per 8 hours, depending on our ability to bid. We can also take a tour package to visit the village to see the typical local plants and animals such as birds of Paradise.

To go to the Raja Ampat, each person must pay an entrance fee of Rp 250,000 for domestic tourists, and $ 500,000 for the tourists from abroad. A round pin that serves as the identity of this we will receive, after paying the fee. Uniquely, this pin is valid for one year, from January 1 to December 31. So if in one year we were back and forth visiting Raja Ampat, just need to pay an entrance fee only once. Of course, the pin was not lost and we must wear as identification.

source: Yahoo! Travel, etc.