Oct 29, 2007

Nias Island - Best Surfers in the World to Lagundri Beach

Nias Island lies about 125 km of west Sumatra Island on the Indian Ocean. It is part of North Sumatra Province. The water surround the island is great for sea activities, such as surfing and scuba diving. The people also have curious culture, which will enrich visitor's heart. The island has some prehistoric remains, which built on megalithic Stone Age, and considered came from the oldest megalithic culture in Indonesia.

Nias Island Best Surfers in the World to Lagundri Beach

The local call their land as Tano Niha or "land of the People", while the people calls them selves as Ono Noha. Ethnically, the Niasers are involved in to the Ptoto-Malay ethnic who once ever get with the Asian Proto-mongoloid world. Niasers speak a kind of language related to Malagasy. Because of the similarity in languages, custom, body size of the Niasers with the Bataks on Sumatra mainland, it is possible that the Niasers have derived from the Bataks.

Surfers will call this island "Paradise on Earth". Together with its beautiful white sandy beach, Lagundri Bay challenge surfers with spectacular waves. In the high season, the waves told to be as high as 3.5 meters. The waves of Sorake Beach on Lagundri Bay have ranked to be within the best ten waves of the world. It is true if some surfers referred of Sorake Beach waves as "the most notorious right-band reef breaks". There are events held for surfers, including the World Professionals Qualifying Series. Surfers are better being ready when your heart cannot leave this island after a visit.

Enormous breakers pummel of Nias Island attracting the best surfers in the world to Lagundri Beach. The unforgiving power attacking the shore seems to have bred the same qualities in the people, whose militaristic culture has fascinated anthropologists for decades. This island lies off West Sumatra in the Indian Ocean. Bawomataluo and Hilisimae villages are curious places to visit, where visitors can see performances of traditional war dances and thrilling high- jump sports, i.e. people making dangerous leaps over 2 meter-high stones. Typical scenes are dancers clad in traditional costumes with bird feathers on their heads, a hall for the Chief-of Tribe built on wooden logs with stone chairs weighing up to 18 tons. There are daily flights from Medan to Nias Island.

To reach this place, there is weekly ship from Jakarta (the capital city of Indonesia) to Gunung Sitoli; There are Ferries from Sibolga to Gunung Sitoli, Teluk Dalam, or Lahewa every day; Before the crisis hit Indonesia, there is daily flight from Medan to Gunung Sitoli, however it is less frequent nowadays. Gunung Sitoli is the capital city of Nias and it is the center of administration and business affairs of regency. There are several travel agencies hotels, public busses and rental cars to support tourism here. There are also some government and private banks available.

Geographically
Nias Island lies on 10 30' north latitude and 970 98' east longitudes. It covers of 5,625 km2 areas, which is mostly lowland area of ± 800 m above sea level.

Population
It is the biggest in a group of islands on Sumatra side that is part of North Sumatra province. This area consists of 131 islands and Nias Island is the biggest. The population in this area is about 639,675 people (including Malay, Batak, and Chinese). Nias has a very unique culture and nature, which is far different from other areas in North Sumatra. This is because of its separate and remote location from the rest of Sumatra.

Toba Lake - The Famous History of Volcano Eruption

World famous is the crater Toba Lake in the Batak highlands; approximately five hours drive from Medan. Toba Lake is the largest lake in South East Asia and also one of the most spectacular, surrounded by tall mountains and with the large island of Samosir in the middle. If we descend from the mountain we see the lake glittering in all its beauty. The Dutch writer Rudy Kousbroek even called Toba Lake, 'the most beautiful place on earth'. Most visitors stay on the peninsula of Tuk Tuk on Samosir, named after the linguist Herman Neubronner van der Tuuk. In general people stay several days on Samosir to discover the island, to visit traditional Batak villages, to swim in the lake and go to the hot springs in Pangururan.

Toba Lake Panorama Beauty in North Sumatra

The centerpiece of North Sumatra, Lake Toba's bracing climate and magnificent panoramas clear the mind and soothe the soul. For decades a magnet from regional and foreign visitors alike, Toba has developed into a full-featured highland resort while retaining the rustic charm and relaxed ambiance that define Toba's attraction. Formed by a stupendous prehistoric volcanic explosion, the 100 km long lake is the largest in Southeast Asia and one of the deepest and the highest in the world. The drama of that cataclysmic birth persist in 500 meter cliffs dropping into the blue-green waters, surrounded by steep, pine covered sloped, the climate is fresh and pleasant, with just enough rain to support the lush vegetation.

Toba Lake is a 100kms x 30kms volcanic lake in North Sumatra, Indonesia. Toba Lake has become one of the main tourist attractions for a long time in North Sumatra apart from Bukit Lawang and Nias, visited by both domestic and foreign tourist.

The Origin of Toba Lake
It is estimated that Toba Lake was formed during a volcanic eruption about 73.000-75.000 years ago and which was the most recent super volcano eruption. Bill Rose and Craig Chesner from Michigan Technological University estimated that volcanic materials that were spewed out the mountain totaling 2800km3, with 800km3 ignimbrites rock and 2000km3 volcanic ash that is estimated was blown (wind) to the west for 2 weeks. This incident caused mass death (destruction) and to several species also causes extinction. According to some DNA proof, this eruption also shrinks the humankind population to around thousands back then.

After this eruption, a caldera was formed that was filled by water afterwards and now known as Toba Lake. The pressure from the dormant magma, which has not yet erupted, caused Samosir Island to emerge. The region that now known as Samosir Island originally was a peninsula that attached to the Sumatran mainland. In this peninsula the Netherlands built the water canal 10 m width.

For the first time visitors, going through Medan-Parapat route seeing a lake as big as that made Samosir appear like an amazing grand island. However, the island perspective will certainly faded with the increase in Toba plateau visitor, Nias and the other places in the south, through Medan-Berastagi route. Samosir occupied a central geographical position in the Toba plateau region. With the declaration of the Toba Samosir Regency (the inhabitants 302.000 lives, the area with wide of 3.440 km including the lake) it finally ascend from only a shadow into a Regency. Moreover, the width of Samosir Island exceed Singapore (647 km), in fact Toba Lake almost twice bigger than Singapore. The Samosir image in tourism books as the backpackers location must be changed because this historic place must restore the greatness of its past.

Legend of Toba Lake
Once upon a time, lived a young orphan farmer in the northern part of the Sumatran Island. This area was very dry. The young man lived from farming and fishing. One day he went fishing, he already fishing for half of the day but still not getting any fish yet. So he returned home for the day turns to night, but when he nearly left he saw a big beautiful golden fish, he then caught the fish and brought it home. He intended to cook the fish right away but watched the beauty of this fish he then cancelled his intention. He chose to keep it as pet, and then he placed it in a big pond and feed it. On the next day, like usual, he went to his farm, and on the noon he comeback home, to have lunch. But when he arrived in his house he was very startled for the meal had prepared to be eaten. He then fears that the fish might be stolen, and then hastily he ran to the back of his house.

However, the fish was still in place, for a long time he thinks, “Who cooks those meals”, but because his is very hungry, he ate those meals. But this incident continued to occur again repeatedly, every time he came home for lunch, the meals are prepared on the table. Then one day this young man made a strategy to find out who cooks those meals, the next day he then began to commence his strategy, he then hide around the trees close to his house. He was waiting for a long time, but the smoke in his kitchen still has not been seen, and when he then intended to return home, he began to see the smoke in the kitchen.

"Hey woman, who are you, and where are you came from?” the woman began to drop tears, and then the young man saw his fish was no longer in the pond. He asked the woman, “hey woman, where is the fish in that pond?” the Woman cried intensely, but this young man continued to ask and finally the woman answers, “I was the fish that was caught by you”. The young man then startled, but because he felt that he had hurt the feelings this woman, then he said, “Hey woman, did you want to become my wife??” the Woman then startled, he stay quiet, then the young man said “Why are you silent??” Then the woman said, “I wanted to become your wife. But with one condition.” ”What is the condition?” the young man quickly asked, the woman then said, “In the future if our child was born and grew, never even once you said that he/she was anakni Dekke (child of a fish) ”. The young man then agreed to that condition and swore he will never say it.

Then they were married and granted a child. When the child was 6 years old, this child turn to be very naughty. Then one day the mother told her child to deliver meals to his father field, the child then went to deliver rice to his father. But in the middle of the trip, this child was felt hungry, then the child opened food package for his father, and ate the food. After finished eating, the child then wrapped it back and continued the trip to his father's field. On arrival the child gave the food package to the father, the father was very happy, the father then sat and immediately opened the food package that was sent by his wife to be carried by his child. But he was very startled when he opened the package there is only bones remained. The father then asked his child “Hay my child, why there are only bones left in this package??” And the child answers,” In my trip I felt hungry, so I ate the food.” Listened to that the father was very angry, he then slap his child and said, "Botul maho anakni dekke (Why you child of a fish),". The child is then ran home crying and ask to his mother “Mak, Olo do na in dokkon amangi, botul do au anakni dekke? (Mother, is it true what father said, that I am a child from a fish?) ” Heard his child's words his mother was startled. While dropping tears and saying in her heart, “My husband has violated his swore, and now I must return to my place.” Then the sky was suddenly become dark followed with lightning, thunder, storm, and rain. The child and the mother disappeared, from their footprint emerged a spring that flowed water as swiftly as possible. Until this area was turned into a lake, that was named as “Tuba Lake” the lake without mercy, but because of the bataks was difficult to say “Tuba”, then this lake was mentioned as

TOBA LAKE.
According to the local Citizen, the mother return as a huge fish (the lake guardian), and until today no one is able to measure the depth of this lake. Many tourists that tried to dive into the lake but never return. The lake depth in the book is only estimation not as a fact.

Oct 25, 2007

Bitung and Lembeh Strait

Bitung isn't really a major tourist attraction of North Sulawesi. The city is wide spread out and rather unattractive. However, it will be your entry or exit point to North Sulawesi if you arrive or leave by PELNI ship. There are also local ferries to other destinations, like Ternate in North Molucca. If your ferry leaves early in the morning you might want to spend the night there; buses from Manado are sometimes overcrowded or difficult to get shortly before the departure of a large ferry.

bitung
Lembeh Strait

The adjacent island of Lembeh protects Bitung's natural harbour; the strait in between has gained a reputation of being the world's No. 1 place for divers interested in odd and rare macro fauna. While most of Manado's dive resorts and liveaboard operations arrange regular diving tours to Lembeh Strait the Kungkungan Bay Resort (KBR) for years has been the only dive resort in the Bitung/Lembeh area. After a serious decline in the quality of its operations in recent years the resort and dive center management in January 2004 has been taken over by the Eco Divers, one of North Sulawesi best dive operators. Since then prices at KBR have come down to a very reasonable level, a swimming pool and spa have been built and the dive center been stocked with new equipment. The new management seems to be on the way to making KBR what it once used to be: a mekka for the world's underwater photographers.

Within the last two years more resorts have been built: Sulawesi Dive Quest (branch of the Bunaken operation) offers some simple beach accommodation on Lembeh Island.

The former dive center at Benteng Resort has moved its operations to the island as well: Divers Lodge Lembeh.

The Lembeh Resort has very nice and luxurious accommodation at rates similar to KBR's. The diving is handled by MUREX, one of Manado's pioneer dive centers. Lembeh Resort also offers NITROX.

The Pulisan Jungle Beach Resort is a bit further away but also does regular diving tours to Lembeh, as does the Gangga Island Resort.

Some operators are also offering liveaboard trips to Lembeh. In my understanding a liveaboard is something for divers who want to explore remote areas, where they meet no other divers. With the good selection of budget and more upmarket dive resorts at Lembeh it doesn't seem to make sense to me to do a relatively expensive liveaboard trip to Lembeh when you can stay much more comfortably at one of these resorts.

Bunaken National Marine Park

The Bunaken National Marine Park was formally established in 1991 and is among the first of Indonesia's growing system of marine parks. The park covers a total surface area of 89,065 hectares, 97% of which is overlain by sparkling clear, warm tropical water. The remaining 3% of the park is terrestrial, including the five islands of Bunaken, Manado Tua, Mantehage, Nain and Siladen. Although each of these islands has a special character, it is the aquatic ecosystem that attracts most naturalists.

bunaken snorkeling
Bunaken National Marine Park

The waters of Bunaken National Marine Park are extremely deep (1566 m in Manado Bay), clear (up to 35-40 m visibility), refreshing in temperature (27-29 C) and harbor some of the highest levels of biodiversity in the world. Pick any of group of interest - corals, fish, echinoderms or sponges - and the number of families, genera or species is bound to be astonishingly high. For example, 7 of the 8 species of giant clams that occur in the world, occur in Bunaken. The park has around 70 genera of corals; compare this to a mere 10 in Hawaii. Although the exact number of fish species is unknown, it may be slightly higher than in the Philippines, where 2,500 species, or nearly 70% of all fish species known to the Indo-western Pacific, are found.

Oceanic currents may explain, in part, why Bunaken National Marine Park is such a treasure trove of biodiversity. Northeasternly currents generally sweep through the park but abundant counter currents and gyros related to lunar cycles are believed to be a trap for free swimming larvae. This is particularly true on the south side of the crescent-shaped Bunaken Island, lying in the heart of the park. A snorkler or diver in the vicinity of Lekuan or Fukui may spot over 33 species of butterfly fish and numerous types of groupers, damsels, wrasses and gobies. The gobies, smallish fish with bulging eyes and modified fins that allow them to attach to hard surfaces, are the most diverse but least known group of fish in the park.

Biologists believe that the abundance of hard corals is crucial in maintaining the high levels of diversity in the park. Hard corals are the architects of the reefs, without them, numerous marine organisms would be homeless and hungry. Many species of fish are closely associated with particular types of corals (folious, branching, massives, etc.) for shelter and egg-laying. Others, like the enormous Bumphead Parrotfish, Balbometopon muricatum, are "coralivores" and depend on hard corals for their sustenance. Bony mouth parts fused into an impressive "beak" allow these gregarious fish to crunch corals like roasted peanuts.

Some 20,000 people live on the natural resources of Bunaken National Marine Park. Although there are inevitable conflicts between resource protection and use by people, the Indonesian government is taking a fairly unusual and pragmatic approach to park management. The idea is to promote wise resource use while preventing overexploitation. Local communities, government officials, dive resort operators, local nature groups, tourists and scientists have played an active role in developing exclusive zones for diving, wood collection, fishing and other forms of utilization. If successful, Bunaken Marine Park will stand as an important example of how Sulawesi, and the rest of Indonesia, can work to protect its natural resources.

Accommodation and Transportation
On the island you have the choice amongst a number of homestays, with rates starting at around Rp. 50 000 per day and person incl. fullboard. If you only go for the cheapest option don't complain afterwards if the water in your bathroom doesn't get filled up regularly, or food isn't quite as nice as you had hoped for. Life in North Sulawesi in general isn't as cheap as in other regions of Indonesia, and most things on Bunaken have to be brought in from Manado. Depending on the season even fish can be pretty expensive. Better think twice before you try to bargain down prices which are already cheap; for the locals it could mean the difference between being able to eat 3 or only 2 meals a day, or buying school books for the children or not.

Some of the dive operations on Bunaken are offering more upmarket accommodation with running water ((Living Colours) and even hot showers (Cha Cha Nature Resort).

Some guesthouses ("homestays") on Bunaken:
Pangalisang Beach: Lorenso's Homestay
Liang Beach: Panorama, Nelson's, Papa Boa
There are a lot more...

Bunaken's much smaller neighbour Siladen only offers few accommodations. Most popular among budget travelers seems to be Martha's Homestay.

The most upmarket resort within the boundaries of the Bunaken National Park is Siladen Resort & Spa which started operations in 2003. The eco-friendly luxury boutique resort places high emphasis on the protection of the Marine Park and the environment.

The public boats from Manado to Bunaken are leaving daily around 2 p.m (depending on tide), except Sundays, from Pasar Jengki near Manado harbour. Back from Bunaken to Manado usually early in the morning, around 7-8 a.m. Even on Sundays there might be boats, just go to the harbour and ask people there. To charter a boat is about Rp. 150,000 - 200,000 OW. If you want to go to Siladen it is better to inquire first at the harbour, but usually there are several boats as well. The fare to Siladen is also Rp. 15 000.

Oct 22, 2007

Hindu Epic Ramayana Ballet at Prambanan Temples

The Prambanan Temples form the largest temple complex on the Indonesian island of Java. Constructed around AD 900, the compound was deserted soon after it was completed, possibly due to the eruption of nearby Mount Merapi. The temples were restored in 1953 and now form one of the world’s great Hindu shrines. There are 224 temples in total, but the site is dominated by the imposing figures of the three main temples: the Brahma Temple, the Vishnu Temple and the Shiva Temple. From May to October, the Ramayana Ballet, a traditional Indonesian dance based on the Hindu epic, is performed at the open-air theatre.

Ramayana Ballet a traditional Indonesian dance performed at Prambanan Temple
Ramayana Ballet

How to reach to Prambanan Temples:
Air: Adi Sucipto Airport (Yogyakarta), Jakarta Soekarno-Hatta Airport.
Road: Coach: Services from Yogyakarta.
Car: Signposted Central Java, Yogyakarta, then Prambanan (from Jakarta).

Borobudur Temple The Greatest Monuments in the World

The Borobodur Temple complex is one of the greatest monuments in the world. It is of uncertain age, but thought to have been built between the end of the seventh and beginning of the eighth century A.D. For about a century and a half it was the spiritual centre of Buddhism in Java, then it was lost until its rediscovery in the eighteenth century.

The structure, composed of 55,000 square meters of lava-rock is erected on a hill in the form of a stepped-pyramid of six rectangular storeys, three circular terraces and a central stupa forming the summit. The whole structure is in the form of a lotus, the sacred flower of Buddha.

Borobodur Temple complex is one of the greatest monuments in the world
Borobodur Temple

For each direction there are ninety-two Dhyani Buddha statues and 1,460 relief scenes in the Borobodur Temple. The lowest level has 160 reliefs depicting cause and effect; the middle level contains various stories of the Buddha's life from the Jataka Tales; the highest level has no reliefs or decorations whatsoever but has a balcony, square in shape with round walls: a circle without beginning or end. Here is the place of the ninety-two Vajrasattvas or Dhyani Buddhas tucked into small stupas. Each of these statues has a mudra (hand gesture) indicating one of the five directions: east, with the mudra of calling the earth to witness; south, with the hand position of blessing; west, with the gesture of meditation; north, the mudra of fearlessness; and the centre with the gesture of teaching.

Besides being the highest symbol of Buddhism, the Borobodur stupa is also a replica of the universe. It symbolises the micro-cosmos, which is divided into three levels, in which man's world of desire is influenced by negative impulses; the middle level, the world in which man has control of his negative impulses and uses his positive impulses; the highest level, in which the world of man is no longer bounded by physical and worldly ancient desire.

It is devotional practice to circumambulate around the galleries and terraces always turning to the left and keeping the edifice to the right while either chanting or meditating. In total, Borobodur Temple represents the ten levels of a Bodhisattva's life which he or she must develop to become a Buddha or an awakened one.

Oct 6, 2007

What and Where is Bali ?

Bali is part of the Indonesian archipelago of 18,500 islands and lies approximately 8°C south of the equator. The overwhelming majority of the inhabitants of Bali are Hindu, (Well in actual fact a mixture of Hinduism, Buddhism and Animism) one of the reasons the island has remained an oasis of calm in the turbulent times since the fall of the autocratic Suharto dictatorship in 1999.

Because Bali is blessed by nature with a short, hot wet season and a longer, cooler, dry season tourists flock here year round, with more choosing to arrive in the dry season - which nowadays stretches from April to late November. The busiest period is during the European holiday of August, which is also the coolest month.

why Bali so become popular and special perfect holiday tourist destination
Bali Map

As A Holiday Destination

Bali, the perfect holiday destination for all ages, offers something for everyone.

Bali Flights
The primary gateway to Indonesia is the Sukarno-Hatta International Airport of Jakarta (also known as Cengkareng CKG), but there are increasingly more international airlines that offer direct flights to Bali.

Regions And Attractions
Find information on Bali's major regions, main centres, attractions and places to visit.

Bali Photo Gallery
More pictures of this wonderful paradise.

Bali Rice PaddiesDon't Pack too Much
Bali is a Shoppers' Paradise so travel light or you will face an overweight baggage problem on your return!

Humidity is always high so pack light, natural fibres to stay cool. In Southern Bali you can buy almost anything you need in the way of toiletries and suntan products in local convenience stores, supermarkets and Matahari department stores.

Money
The Indonesian currency is the Rupiah and you will become a millionaire the day you arrive. Once you have got your head around all the extra zeros it's fairly easy to work out the prices in your own currency.

Bring travellers cheques or US $100 but be aware of the following: Notes must be the new ones with no tears or markings and many moneychangers are there to cheat you.

Never change money where the moneychanger is operating a booth inside another shop. The rate is usually higher and you may be short changed by sleight of hand. Use establishments which are moneychangers only and count your money before you leave.

The best rate is obtained from ATM machines. These are now everywhere and they don't try to rip you off either! However - the local machines do not automatically spit your card out with money and receipt so it is very easy to leave your card inside the machine. You must wait until the screen asks "Do you want another Transaction - Yes or No". Press no and out pops your card. Why this is, nobody seems to know but 100s of cards must be lost daily. You have been warned!

Bali TransportGetting Around
Taxis in the south are plentiful and cheap but make sure the driver turns on the meter. If he refuses and tries to set a price, get out and take another taxi. Usually the act of opening the door or demanding he let you out is sufficient for him to see the error of his ways.

For longer trips you can negotiate for a minivan or Bemo but for two or three people a taxi is often the most comfortable and coolest choice. Bargain directly with a newish looking taxi and you will be surprised how cheap a 6-8 hour booking can be especially if you offer to top up his tank.

Local buses are the cheapest way of getting about but they are hot and often overcrowded with people who could do with a shower. They also have the charming habit of stopping with no indication or attempt to move off the road so there is always the worry of a rear-ender from the following tailgater.

Bali TransportSelf Drive
Providing you a valid International Drivers Licence you may rent a car or motorbike. Both are cheap by international standards but there are a couple of points you should be aware of. Road conditions are dangerous! Indonesians do not sit for a licence, they buy it!

Accordingly driving skills are low. Nobody knows let alone obeys traffic rules and indications of turns and sudden stops are rarely given. Indonesians drive on the leftish side of the road, normally with one wheel over the centre line, and larger or older vehicles have right of way. I.e. Trucks and buses have right of way over cars, a beat-up Datsun has right of way over a BMW, and cars over motorbikes and cycles.

The roads around the southern tourist areas are busy but even the wonderful country roads have pitfalls such as dogs, children, chickens, loads of sand and the quaint habit of villagers sitting on the road for a chat.

In the event of an accident, as a visitor you will be accorded the courtesy of being at fault, no matter what the circumstances and you will be required to pay for any damage to either vehicle. As 100% concentration is required the driver doesn't see much of the scenery, so it is probably best to hire a car and driver, especially if your aim is a stress-free holiday!

Medical
Bali is a Third World island and medical services are not to the standard of Western countries. So be wise and arrange travel insurance with your ticket. There are two good clinics at the Kuta roundabout who can provide treatment, refer you to the best local specialist or hospital, or if necessary arrange vaccination. These are the Australian B.I.M.C and the International S.O.S.

Shopping
Bali is a veritable Shoppers' Paradise, once again the centre being the Kuta area. For clothing (other than the t-shirt and shorts variety) start at Kuta Square which boasts a well stocked Matahari department store and lots of designer outlets such as Amarni, Polo and Calvin Klein at much cheaper prices than at home.

The trend over the last few years is for air-conditioned shops with fixed prices including the major surfing labels, but there are still plenty of small street front places offering a dazzling array of merchandise from gaudy woodcarvings to cheap holiday clothing to something you will fall in love with. Spend some time poking around - it takes time to spot the gems amid the junk, but believe me there are gems for everyone to find.

Sterling silver jewellery is a good buy - go to silver shops and you will be offered stylish, genuine sterling silver at very cheap prices - don't go to the so called Silversmiths if you happen to take a tour. The guide collects a 30% commission and the styling is generally atrocious.

Shoes, both men's and women's, handbags, men's business shirts, travel goods, CDs and surfwear should also be on your list.

Bali Resorts Made to order clothing in both fabric and leather is another great buy. Bring your favourite jacket or suit and have it copied by a tailor or leather shop. Good quality at a very reasonable price.

Because labour is so cheap labour-intensive clothing is great value. Anything embroided, beaded or sequined is fantastically priced. So load up with party-wear!

For sarongs, take a taxi to Jalan 66 (double six) and wander towards the beach, purchasing from the numerous wholesalers as you go. (You don't get "business price" for one or two items but prices are cheap. Go late morning so you can enjoy lunch at one of the beachside cafes on "Sunset Boulevard" or later in the day in time for a cocktail as the sun drops in the Indian Ocean and another tropical evening begins.

There are some really stylish boutiques in Seminyak that are definately worth a look -it's cooler in the late afternoon, and then to Kura Kura Bar for a well earned drink.

Bali ResortsLately some great homeware shops have opened and arts and crafts abound. Fakes - watches, sunglasses, perfumes and clothing - are everywhere. Whatever you feel about fakes, the watches go, the sunnies look cool, the clothing wears and the perfume smells like its namesake for around two minutes. Don't buy the perfume except for someone you detest.

The newish shopping centre in the Gallerea complex by the Kuta roundabout on the Sanur bypass is a stylish addition. While not fully occupied by any means it's breezy, peaceful and boasts a Matahuri store and supermarket, hairstyling, books, CD's, fabric, homeware, restaurants etc, plus a Planet Hollywood.

Having sung the praise of Kuta, good shopping is also to be had at Nusa Dua and Sanur but without the depth or variety.
Where is Bali?

The island of Bali is part of the Republic of Indonesia and is located 8 to 9 degrees south of the equator between Java in the West and Lombok and the rest of the Lesser Sunda Islands (Sumbawa, Flores, Sumba and Timor) in the East. Flying time to Jakarta is about 1.5 hours, to Singapore and Perth (Australia) 2.5 and 3 hours, and to Hong Kong about 4 hours.

Bali Volcanoes Geography
The island of Bali has an area of only 5,632 square kilometers (2,175 square miles) and measures just 55 miles (90 kilometers) along the north-south axis and less than about 90 miles (140 kilometers) from East to West. Because of this it's no problem to explore the island on day tours. You can go wherever you want on the island and return to your hotel or villa in the evening.

Located only two kilometers east of Java, Bali's climate, flora and fauna are quite similar to its much larger neighbour. The island is famous for its beautiful landscape. A chain of six volcanoes, between 1,350 meters and 3,014 meters high, stretches from west to east. There are lush tropical forests, pristine crater lakes, fast flowing rivers and deep ravines, picturesque rice terraces, and fertile vegetable and fruit gardens.

The beaches in the South consist of white sand, beaches in other parts of the island are covered with grey or black volcanic sand.

Bali Waterfall Flora
The wide variety of tropical plants is surprising. You'll see huge banyan trees in villages and temple grounds, tamarind trees in the North, clove trees in the highlands, acacia trees, flame trees, and mangroves in the South. Bali has grow a dozen species of coconut palms, and even more varieties of bamboo.

There are flowers, flowers everywhere. You'll see (and smell the fragrance of) hibiscus, bougainvilleas, jasmine, and water lilies. Magnolia, frangipani, and a variety of orchids are found in many front yards and gardens, along roads, and in temple grounds. Flowers are also used as decorations in temples, on statues, as offerings for the gods, and during prayers. Dancers wear blossoms in their crowns, and even the flower behind the ear of your waitress seems natural in Bali.

Bali Fauna Fauna
Elephants and tigers died out in Bali early last century. Wildlife, however, includes various species of monkeys, civets, barking deer and mouse deer, and 300 species of birds including wild fowl, dollar birds, blue kingfishers, sea eagles, sandpipers, white herons and egrets, cuckoos, wood swallows, sparrows, and starlings. You can watch schools of dolphins near Lovina, Candi Dasa, and Padangbai. Divers will see many colourful coral fish and small reef fish, moray eels, and plankton eating whale sharks as well as crustaceans, sponges, and colourful coral along the east coast and around Menjangan island near Gilimanuk.

Bali LakesClimate
You can expect pleasant day temperatures between 20 to 33 degrees Celsius or 68 to 93 degrees Fahrenheit year-round. From December to March, the west monsoon can bring heavy showers and high humidity, but usually days are sunny and the rains start during the night and pass quickly. From June to September the humidity is low, and it can be quite cool in the evenings. During this time of the year you'll have hardly any rain in the coastal areas.

Even when it rains in most parts of Bali, you can often enjoy sunny days on the "Bukit", the hill south of Jimbaran Beach. On the other hand, in Ubud and the mountains you must expect cloudy skies and showers throughout the year (this is why the international weather reports for "Denpasar" or "Bali" mention showers and rain storms during all times of the year). In higher regions such as in Bedugul or Kintamani you'll also need either a sweater or jacket after the sun sets.

Population
Bali's population has grown to over 3 million people, the overwhelming majority of which are Hindus. However, the number of Muslims is steadily increasing through immigrants from Java, Lombok and other areas of Indonesia seeking work in Bali.

Most people live in the coastal areas in the South. The island's largest town and administrative centre is fast - growing Denpasar, with a population of over 370,000. The villages between the town of Ubud and Denpasar, Kuta (including Jimbaran, Tuban, and Legian, Seminyak, Basangkasa, etc), Sanur, and Nusa Dua are spreading rapidly in all directions, and before long the whole area from Ubud in the North to Sanur in the East, Berawa/Canggu in the West, and Nusa Dua in the South will be urbanised.

Bali Culture Economy
This southern part of Bali is where most jobs are to be found, either in the hotel and tourist industry, the textile and garment industry, and in many small scale and home industries producing handicrafts and souvenirs. Textiles, garments, and handicrafts have become the backbone of Bali's economy, providing 300,000 jobs, and exports have been increasing by around 15% per year to US$400 million in 1998. Textiles and garments contribute about 45%, and wood products including statues, furniture and other handicrafts 22% to the province's total income from exports. Silver work is ranked third (4.65%) with 5,000 workers employed. Main buyers are the US and Europe with 38% each, and Japan with 9%.

Important agricultural products besides rice are tea, coffee, tobacco, cacao, copra, vanilla, soy beans, chillies, fruit, and vegetables (there are now even vineyards near the northwest coast). Bali's fishing industry and seaweed farming provide other important exports.

The new free-trade regulations will create some problems for Bali's exporters as they do not allow the employment of children. Most children here work for their parents, and this is part of the process of acquiring professional skills and a kind of informal education which has been very important in Balinese society for centuries.

Bali Culture What makes Bali so special?
There is the combination of the friendly people, the natural attractions, the great variety of things to see and do, the year-round pleasant climate, and the absence of security problems. And then there is Bali's special "magic", which is difficult to explain.

As soon as you step off the plane you might sense the difference. In the villages you'll notice the quietness and wisdom in old people's faces, and the interest and respect in the young. Old men sit at the road side caressing their fighting cocks. Beautifully dressed women walk proudly through rice fields and forests carrying offerings on their heads to the next temple. There is the smell of flowers, and in the distance you hear the sound of gamelan music.

Gods and spirits have been an important part of Bali's daily life for hundreds of years. Gunung Agung - Bali's holy mountain - is internationally regarded as one of the eight "Chakra" points of the world. This may be more than an coincidence. Watch out, the moment you feel the magic of this island, you're addicted for the rest of your life.

Oct 3, 2007

The Story of Mount Kelud Eruption

Mount Kelud tourism area is about 40 km, 45 Minutes from Kediri is located on the border of three regions namely Kediri, Blitar and Malang. Kelud is a volcano. Breezes of fresh air and charming scenery make this area interesting for ecotourism, adventuring, and health purposes. Here we can enjoy the shady cool plantation, an area for rock climbing, jogging, cross country, and camping ground, a channel to the crater through the mountain, sulfur lake down the mountain volcanology information service, and entertainment performances on weekends / holidays.

Kelud Mountain before eruption

Kelud mountain, an active volcano in East Java Province is known to have the power of the massive eruption. Mount Kelud also classified as an active volcano type A with an explosive eruption. Just only in 2007 Mount Kelud was recorded effusive, just formed only a lava dome. Throughout its history, Kelud had erupted several times, in 1586, 1919, 1951, 1966, 1990, 2007, the last in 2014.

Before Kelud last erupted in 2007, Mount kelud have a crater at the summit. The crater lake can store a lot of water. In the Dutch colonial era there are fears there will be a lot of victims currently Mount Kelud erupted as a result of the amount of water within the crater. In 1902 the Dutch government to build a tunnel system to reduce the amount of water in the crater.

Tunnel which has successfully reduced water from the crater and then broken, eventually in 1923 the Dutch government made ​​7 tunnel again to reduce the amount of water in the crater. After the eruption of 2007, Mount Kelud crater containing the water disappears and is replaced by a lava dome.

Oct 2, 2007

G-Land Jungle Surf Camp Accommodation Package

G-Land Jungle Surf Camp is set amongst a National Park called "Alas Purwo" and is open March to November and located just off the beach line, directly in front of the famous section of reef known as Speedies. With a bungalow style accommodation which is strongly constructed to facilitate the unique lifestyle of most adventurers who love being in the jungle and nature and to provide as much natural element as possible inside the room. Accommodation is in free standing thatched bungalows sleeping for 2 adults and equipped with double or 2 single beds with mosquito nets, bed side light, small table inside the room, cool fan, private balcony, comfortable terrace seat, table, water dispenser and board racks.

G-Land Jungle Surf Camp

There are three (3) categories of accommodation package available namely Kong, Money Trees, and Speedies. There is a separate amenities block with flush toilets and fresh water showers in all bath-room. The central relaxation house features a bar with cold beer, and soft drinks like coke. A dining room, leather lounge plus a 36 inch TV with surround sound stereo system to enjoy the latest movies and most prominent channels transmitted by satellite dish. This area also has 2 large pool tables fuss-ball, tennis table, and many more.

A zodiac boat will take surfers swiftly to the breaks or line-up at high-tide. At low tide you can even walk across the reef and paddle. Other non-surfing activities include fishing, snorkeling, sun-bathing, beach combing, snorkeling, diving, volley ball, jungle trekking, and bicycling. Rental gears for fishing and bicycling are also available.

THE MEALS are a highlight of guest's visit to G-Land Jungle Surf Camp. All meals are included in the package price as well as beers per day, soft drinks, fresh juices and mineral water. The daily menu is a good mix of western and Indonesian dishes and very substantial to revitalize your energy. Our chefs have good experience in working on a varied of tasty recipe to assure an intriguing dishes served to the guests. Our resident manager and friendly Indonesian staffs and crews will ensure every comfort of the guests are met and to make their stay at "Jungle Surf Camp" is considerably memorable and you will long to return again to experience the awesome attraction of G-Land.

MASSAGE is also catered when the guest need this service.

LAUNDRY is also available and just what the guests might need when they are staying for longer time and our house keeping staff will take care of your dirty apparels at ease.

SAFE DEPOSIT BOXES are provided and highly advisable to keep all valuable things or properties in a safe place while surfing or when the guest leaves the camp for a while.

SURF GUIDE.
Aussie surf-guide has anything you need in understanding and recognizing this unique spot, the best section for surfing, the perfect time, etc. Besides his own mother language, English, they could speak and understanding Indonesian pretty well and often helping out to bridge and intermediate between the guest and the staffs/crews.

SURF DOCTOR. Our doctor comes from many different parts of the world e.g. Australia, USA, New Zealand, South Africa, Brazil, Germany, and so forth always prepare with comprehensive expertise and skills in surgery, and good stocks of medical supplies to ensure your safety in our top priority at all times.

Volcanic Cone of Ijen Crater

The volcanic cone of Ijen dominates the landscape at the eastern end of Java. Crater of Ijen is filled by a spectacular turquoise blue lake, its surface streaked in wind-blown patterns of yellow sulphur.

Ijen carter is the world's largest highly acidic lake and is the site of a labor-intensive sulfur mining operation in which sulfur-laden baskets are hand-carried from the crater floor.

Crater of Ijen is filled by a spectacular turquoise blue lake

Many other post-caldera cones and craters are located within the caldera or along its rim. The largest concentration of post-caldera cones forms an E-W-trending zone across the southern side of the caldera. Coffee plantations cover much of the Ijen caldera floor, and tourists are drawn to its waterfalls, hot springs, and dramatic volcanic scenery.

Oct 1, 2007

KYA - KYA SURABAYA

Kya-kya it's a China Town That Turns Into a Spacious Outdoor Eating Place at Night.

Kya-kya Kembang Jepun is in shooping center, Kembang Jepun Street that is the center of eastern Indonesia trade and economy. In the night, this place turns into center of local foods, national, even international. Local foods like lontong balap, empek-empek Palembang, Nasi Padang and also Chinese foods and European - American foods.

kya kya china town

It presents the warm situation feeling of dinner recreation by providing unlimited food and beverage with the typical food / beverage of the local area ( cookery Tionghoa, the middle east cookery, Indonesia cookery) even invite the youngsters victuals; included of Snack, ( burger, pizza, etc) and traditional snack ( Surabaya and area).

To glorious this situation of night, it presents small entertainment amusement podium (light music) both traditional music and also modern music ( tionghoa, arab, jawa) even contemporary (poem etc) or which known by the public ( dangdut, gambus, etc) or which appreciative ( jazz etc), without bother the possibility of the performing of spiritual event (at night in religious days). It also provides promotion space of trade or hold an artistic exhibition or exhibition of trade / small-scale craft.

Submarine Monument Tourist Destination in Surabaya

Monkasel (Monumen Kapal Selam), the original KRI Pasopati 410 submarine next to the Surabaya Plaza shopping center. It is 76.6 meters long and 6.3 meters wide. It was moved from Ujung to this location on July 1st, 1995, after the museum was officially opened by Arief Kushariadi, the Naval Commander of the Republic of Indonesia on June 27, 1998.

KRI. Pasopati with 410 side number belongs to SS type whiskey class built in Vladivostok Russia in 1952. It has been with Indonesia Navy since 29 January 1962 and carried out dutief to destroy enemy line, to be surveillance and acts as silent raids. KRI. Pasopati bought ctivelly for independence and national supremacy in the past. It was the front line during Trikora Operation, gave psicological presure so that west Irian could be gain back and other important operation.

KRI Pasopati 410

The following month, on July 5, 1998, it was opened to the public as a marine tourist destination. Boats and a diorama also complete the monument, which also functions as a museum. The visitors who want to travel by boat along the Kalimas River to view the monument can launch from ‘"Prestasi Park" behind the Grahadi Governor Mansion.

Monkasel is equipped with a multimedia building which presents a program in recognition of the Indonesian Navy. Monkasel is open from Monday through Friday from 0830-2200 WIB. To receive more information please contact 031-5490410. The following facilities are provided: parking, a canteen, a stage, and an amusement area for children. It is easily reached by public transportation.