Best Vacation Places Around the World

KUTA BEACH - BALI

noreply@blogger.com (The Guide) — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 04:29:00 +0000

Kuta Beach bustles with tourists vendors and locals. It's the most popular beach in Bali and the island's number one party zone.

Rapid development and an influx of visitors hasn't kept the surfers away and Kuta still remains one of Bali's best surfing beaches and a great place to enjoy the beach life.

While the surfers are still part of the Kuta scene, it's the shopping, nightlife and party vibes that attracts thousands of visitors. There's a huge choice of accommodation, restaurants and entertainment; so if you want to be within walking distance of a cool beach lifestyle by day and party by night - this is place.

WHERE TO STAY IN KUTA BEACH

Over the years Kuta development has spread out - almost absorbing the neighbouring villages of Legian and Tuban which now provide a quieter alternative to Kuta central.

New hotel developments, guest houses and resorts fill every available space, yet almost all amenities are within walking distance or a short taxi ride. Seminyak, once a quiet local village, on the fringes of Kuta, has now become the smart sophisticated end, with fine dining and numerous local lifestyle shops.

THE BEACH

Relax.. on Bali's longest public beach. Hang out, sunbathe, eat, drink, play a game of volleyball or a challenge beach football match. Meet locals and other visitors and watch a stunning sunset over a perfect sundowner. Kuta basically offers 5 kilometres of hotels, bars, Internet cafes, juice bars, surf shops, restaurants, travel agencies and mini-marts. It can be (depending on the time of day and which end of the beach you prefer) busy and vibrant or totally chilled out.

WHAT TO DO IN KUTA BEACH

Around the end of Jalan Double Six, about 15 minutes from Kuta centre is Dreamland Beach. Lots of afternoon action and ball games, with plenty of drinks stands to make new (girl) friends. No shortage of bars and places to eat with some excellent places to chill and drink like Zanzibar and Blue Ocean.

Surfing! Bring your own board or rent one from the guys on the beach. Prices vary but average around 30,000rp per hour. If you haven't surfed before its the perfect place to learn. You can get a boat ride out to the outer reef breaks of Tuban or surf mellow beach breaks in front of the Hard Rock Hotel.

KUTA BEACH NIGHT LIFE

uta's nightlife now extends about 7 kilometres (4 miles) north from the original village of Kuta and includes Legian, Seminyak stretching to Basangkasa. Kuta is entertainment central which means music clubs, open-air pubs, karaoke bars, very noisy discos and drag shows. It's a lively party scene to say the least and the kind of place where being single and alone - male or female is no problem whatsoever.

Kuta has a huge selection of restaurants serving both local and a wide variety of foreign cuisines.

SHOPPING IN KUTA

Shopping! Forget your Gucci's and Prada. Bali has its own designers producing one-off pieces for fashion clothing and lifestyle goods. Lots of individuality here at often reasonable prices. You'll end up with a treasure trove of interesting, fascinating and irresistible buys. Excellent for unusual clothes, jewellry, household and lifestyle items. Kuta's main street has renowned shopping, in mostly small locally owned shops. Individual styles, excellent craftsmanship and low prices.

GETTING AROUND KUTA BEACH

Kuta and neighbouring Legian and Seminyak are easy to walk around. Often you'll find yourself browsing the shops at one of town and before you realise it, you're already at the other end! Failing that it's easy and relatively cheap to take taxis. Negotiate first.

Source: http://www.bali-indonesia.com

Image Source: www.makemytrip.com, www.flickr.com/photos/83129051@N00/2146615596/

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CANGGU - BALI

noreply@blogger.com (The Guide) — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 03:10:00 +0000

Canggu is a district north of Seminyak that lies midway between Seminyak and Tanah Lot. It is a largely rural area that is starts a few kilometers inland and borders on the western coast of Bali.

It has dark or black sand beaches which are not particularly good for swimming but do offer some renowned surfing spots.

The area is popular place, being roughly 25 mins drive from Seminyak, with many local expatriates and many villas owned by overseas nationals are located here as well. Much of the area features quietly undulating terrain with the rice paddies that categorize much of central Bali.

To the south lies Umalas or kerobokan and to the north lies Tanah Lot.

HOW TO REACH CANGGU

Taxis are hard to find in this area and most travel tends to be by private car or motorcycle.

WHAT TO SEE AND DO AT CANGGU

The nearby Nirwana Bali Golf Course at the Le Meriden Hotel, was designed by Greg Norman, and was voted the number 1 golf course in Asia; it is situated beside the dramatic, waved-lashed sea temple of Tanah Lot just to the north.

Horse riding - Umalas offers the Umalas stables, formally named the 'Umalas Equestrian Centre’

Various activities are offered at the Canggu Club www.cangguclub.com/- Bali's first country club.

The Hotel Tugu is located on Canggu beach with the good waves for surfing. The hotel is a living museum of priceless antiques and rare cultural artifacts, and it also offers the attractions of fine dining together with the facilities of a delightful spa.

WHERE TO STAY AT CANGGU

There are a variety of small hotels and bungalow collections in this area. The most prevalent form of travel accommodation is private villas.

Private Villas

Semarapura Villa, Cemagi, Canggu www.semarapuravilla.com. New to the market after an extensive renovation in 2008, the 5 bedroom Villa Semarapura is an expansive luxury beachfront villa, located between Canggu and Tanah Lot, 40 minutes from Seminyak on Bali’s southwest coast. This private Bali rental villa is comprised of a series of pavilions, swimming pool and ornamental ponds, leisurely spread throughout an expansive 5000 square metres (one acre and a quarter) of rolling lawns. Fully staffed and ideal for events.

Villa Mako, Canggu www.villamako.com. A peaceful 3-bedroom retreat, complete with swimming pool and large garden, located in a quiet traditional village above a small river valley. The single-storey villa is neo-colonial in style, similar to the Dutch guesthouses of the Javanese and Malay hill stations, characterised by louvre shutters, old teak doors, and spectacular high wooden ceilings built of seasoned timbers. The eclectic interiors reflect the travels and passions of the owners, introducing Balinese and Javanese antiques, combined with a bold use of colour to create a very personal atmosphere. The villa is fully staffed and has a private swimming pool. Prices vary from US$370-490++ per night(depending on season).

Niloufar Villa, Canggu www.niloufar-villa.com. Luxury private villa built in 2007, it blends its exceptional location with outstanding facilities, service and privacy. Embracing the trend of ‘Destination’ villas, the property has been designed to contain as many features and amenities as possible, complemented by top levels of service, intended to ensure that guests feel no need to go out for top quality dining and entertainment. The villa boasts a 17 x 5 meter swimming pool and a fully equipped gym. The meandering Buwit River borders the villa’s expansive gardens; the property is surrounded by nature and blessed with beautiful views and riverside trails. Managed by BHM www.BHMvillas.com. Five bedrooms, private pool and garden - fully staffed (private cook, maids, etc). Prices vary from US$700-1000++ depending on season.

Simona Oasis and Spa, Canggu www.simona-oasis.com. This spectacular 5-bedroom villa with its own 1000m2 private spa rests upon a venerated spurs of land fed by a holy spring at the confluence of two rivers and is located among the ricefields, walking distance from the beach. Fully staffed, and car and driver included within.

Umah Di Beji, Berawa, Canggu www.umahdibeji.com. Accessed via its own 150 metre driveway and bridge, the five bedroom Umah di Beji enjoys a most secluded location amongst the paddy (rice) fields. The fully staffed villa itself is set in a picturesque location, with gardens forming a natural amphitheater. Various buildings, all with traditional Balinese alang-alang (thatched) roofs, frame the gardens and house the five king-sized suites. The mature garden and numerous water features range down towards the dramatic, lava rock private swimming pool. Prices vary from US$800-1250++ depending on season.

The Beji Private Villa, Berawa, Canggu www.villabeji.com. Built in 2007, this magnificent six-bedroom villa is bordered by rice terraces and a river, within walking distance of Berawa Beach. The property, ideal for families and suitable for disabled guests, is comprised of ten single-storey pavilions, together with one double-storey building, a 27-metre swimming pool and a series of ornamental ponds, leisurely spread throughout lush, expansive gardens. The contemporary style is restful with a fresh cool décor and modern furnishings. Recreational facilities at the villa include a tennis court and a gym. The Beji is also perfect for weddings and parties and is adjacent to its sister villa Umah di Beji www.umahdibeji.com. Prices vary from US$1100-1650++ depending on season.

Puri Bawana Estate, Canggu www.PuriBawana.com. Opened to the market in 2008, the splendid 5-bedroom Puri Bawana Estate, complete with 30-metre swimming pool, rests upon almost 2 acres of land (7000m2) surrounded by emerald rice fields, within walking distance of the beach at the fishing village of Canggu on Bali’s southwest coast. The Estate is resourcefully integrated into the natural terraced contours of a hill. Its luxury villa is comprised of a series of thatched pavilions, housing a remarkable open living pavilion, an elevated dining pavilion, an entertainment Room, two kitchens and five bedrooms, completed by additional smaller bedroom suitable for kids or a nanny. Fully staffed and serviced by BHM www.BHMVillas.com, the Estate also boasts a membership at the Canggu Club www.cangguclub.comwhich means its guests enjoy access to the numerous sporting and social facilities featured at the country club. Prices start from USD650++ a night, and vary depending on season.

Villa Emerald River, Berawa, Canggu www.hotcangguvillas.com. The 4 Bedrooms Vacation Villa of 620 m2 is composed of 3 different 2 storey buildings linked on the second floor by a large terrace from where guests can admire a magnificent sea view especially for the sunset. The large manicured garden features an amazing 100 m2 lava stone swimming pool surrounding the buildings dedicated to the bedrooms. Prices starting from US$450++.

Source: iguide.travel
Image Source: blog.baliwww.com, http://www.flickr.com/photos/66086592@N00/247295878/

BEDUGUL - BALI

noreply@blogger.com (The Guide) — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 02:30:00 +0000

Bedugul is an area in the central mountains of Bali. Bedugul Area is composed of 3 lakes (Bratan, Buyan and Tamblingan) and one main town (Candikuning).

HOW TO REACH BEDUGUL

Bedugul is located 48 km north of Denpasar, on the main road from South Bali to the North Coast (Lovina and Singaraja).

WHAT TO SEE AND DO AT BEDUGUL

The most visited places of Bedugul are:

Ulun Danu Temple on Lake Bratan. Unique Temple on a small island on the lake.

The Bedugul Botanical Gardens (Kebun Raya Eka Karya) with trees collection and Bali Treetop Adventure Park.

The Traditional Market of Candikuning.

The Bali Handara Kosaido Golf and Country Club.

Bali Treetop Adventure Park, Bedugul Botanical Gardens, Tel.: (62)(361) 8520680. The park includes six main circuits that stretch from tree to tree, as well as nets, Tarzan Jumps, and bridges. Each run also features "Flying Fox" zip-lines of up to 160 meters, providing heart-pounding thrills to guests as they fly through the air. Two circuits are designed for young children from 4 years old.

Bali Handara Kosaido Golf and Country Club. At an alitude of 1.142 meters above the sea level and surrounded by green mountains, crater lakes and ancient forest, the course is considered as one of the greatest golf course in the world.

Water sports on lake Bratan. Parasailing, speedboat, jetski.

Trekking in the mountains. Departure from the Lake Bratan or from Bedugul Botanical Gardens

Soaking in Angseri hot springs. Angseri lies about 20km to the south. From the main market head directly south. It is well sign-posted.

WHERE TO STAY AT BEDUGUL

Many small and affordable guesthouses in Bedugul.

Pacung Indah Hotel, 10 kilometers before Bedugul. 8 bungalows with panoramic views.

Bali Handara Kosaido Golf and Country Club. Up market hotel in the golf course.

Source: www.wikitravel.org
Image Source: www.flickr.com/photos/ronni_photo/174915027/

ULUWATU - BALI

noreply@blogger.com (The Guide) — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 01:15:00 +0000

Uluwatu proper is a small village on the west coast, south of Jimbaran, but for most visitors it refers only to the famous temple of the same name, several kilometers further south. Many people also use it to refer to the area south of Jimbaran. The entire area is also called the Bukit Peninsula or just The Bukit, while Pecatu (peh-CHA-tuh) refers to a small village inland.

HOW TO REACH ULUWATU

A taxi from Kuta to Uluwatu takes about 30 minutes up and down winding roads and will cost about Rp 50,000 one-way. As it can be difficult to find transport, get the driver to wait for you for the trip back (figure on Rp 10,000/hour). Joining a tour can be cheaper way of getting to Uluwatu.

If you are riding a rented motorcycle from Kuta, be aware that you need an IDR (International Driving Permit). Police perform frequent checks for driving licenses on the road between Kuta and Uluwatu, especially targetting foreigners. If you can not present the necessary paperwork you will be faced with a fine anywhere from Rp20,000 to Rp300,000.

WHAT TO SEE AND DO AT ULUWATU

Uluwatu Temple (Pura Uluwatu) is one of Bali's six directional temples and Uluwatu's only site of significance. Though a small temple was claimed to have existed, the structure was significantly expanded by a Javanese sage, Empu Kuturan in the 11th Century. Another sage from East Java, Dang Hyang Nirartha is credited for constructing the padmasana shrines and is claimed to have attained Moksha here. More remarkable than the temple itself is its location, perched on a steep cliff 70 meters above the roaring ocean waves. There are more steep headlands on either side, and sunsets over Uluwatu are a sight to behold.

Entrance fee is Rp 3,000. As usual, you need to be properly dressed to enter and sarongs and sashes can be rented at the entrance. Guides, once famously mercenary, hassle visitors less than they used to, although they will offer to "protect" you from the monkeys, for a tip of course. Note that while you are free to walk around the temple grounds, the central courts can only be entered during special rituals.

The temple is inhabited by large number of monkeys, who are extremely adept at snatching visitors' belonging, including bags, cameras and eyeglasses. Keep a very close grip on all your belongings and stow away your eyeglasses if at all possible. If you do have something taken, the monkeys can usually be induced to exchange it for some fruit. Needless to say, rewarding the monkeys like this only encourages them to steal more. Locals and even the temple priests will be happy to do the job for you, naturally in exchange for a tip (Rp 10,000 - 50,000).

There is also a very scenic Uluwatu cave with rock formations leading into a beach close to the temple. This is a popular spot for surfers.

Surfing — Uluwatu is a well known destination among surfing enthusiasts. Most of the surf spots are only suitable for advanced or experts.

Kecak dance (aka "monkey dance") performances are held at the temple daily between 6pm and 7pm. Tickets for the visually spectacular if rather unoriginal show (it was invented in the 1930s) performed for tourists cost Rp 50,000.

WHERE TO STAY AT ULUWATU

Uluwatu started life as a surfer's haven. Small bungalows close to surf points where the only options for a long time. Now the area has sprouted an impressive collection of expensive villas and resorts as well. Beware false advertising though: only the most expensive "villas" are completely private and self-contained, while most share at least some facilities (eg. pool) and the cheapest ones are just clusters of bungalows.

Hotels

Blue Point Bay Villas, ☎ +62-361-769888. Small resort with villa accommodation. Two pools, restaurant, spa. US$230-680.

Bulgari Resort, Jalan Goa Lempeh, Banjar Dinas Kangin, ☎ +62-361-8471000. Clifftop superluxury resort every bit as stylish as you'd expect from a boutique hotel run by a fashion label. Plunge pool, private elevator to the beach, excellent restaurants, and a price tag to match. US$1400.

Tanah at Ulus, Uluwatu (South west in Badung Regency, near Uluwatu Temple), ☎ +61359856898 (villa@tanahatulus.com). Tanah at Ulus Family house is brand new with inground pool, 3 bedrooms, air conditioning and with a single-booking policy for complete privacy. US$120 nightly: US$700 weekly.

Private Villas

All the villas listed below are standalone and feature private entrances, accommodation and their own swimming pools.

The Istana, Uluwatu. 5 bedroom clifftop luxury private overlooking the famous Uluwatu search break. Featured in DestinAsian Magazine's top 10 villas in Asia on two occasions, the villa has been written up in such publications as W Magazine and the New York Times. Managed by BHM - which operates some of the top villas on the island. Sleeps up to 10 people, two private pools and extensive gardens - fully staffed (private cook, maids, etc). Prices vary from US$1500-2500 per night depending on season.

Villa Indah Manis, Uluwatu. Six bedroom private luxury villa . Managed by BHM. Fully staffed and serviced, this villa sleeps up to 12 people, features two private pools and has a pool table and dedicated private spa. Prices vary from US$600-950 per night depending on season.

Villa Moonlight, Uluwatu. Private luxury villa featuring 4 (four) bedrooms and ocean view. Located just above Uluwatu surf beach and its world famous break. Built in 2008 to the highest standards of architecture and decor.

Villa Pemutih (villa pemutih uluwatu).

Source: www.wikitravel.org
Image Source:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/colloidfarl/58924772/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/danielcheong/495618162/

AMED - BALI

noreply@blogger.com (The Guide) — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 01:31:00 +0000

Amed is the most recent tourist development area in Bali. It was only in 2000 that tarmac was laid on the roads, telephone lines were installed in 2003, and it took until 2007 for a bridge to be built over a section of the road that regularly washed away during the rainy season. To this day, phone lines are so limited in the area that most hotels only have one landline each, so it is wise to bring a mobile phone (cellphone) when visiting if you need to stay in touch with the outside world. Local Indonesian SIM cards can be purchased in thousands of places around Bali. There is also a public telephone office in the centre of Amed and a couple of internet cafes (the connection speed is V-E-R-Y slow, though).

English is widely spoken in all the hotels, restaurants and shops.

HOW TO REACH AMED

Amed is located on the north east coast of Bali, about 2.5 hours drive from Kuta. But if you stay overnight at Tulamben, it will take approximately 20 Minutes drive to the south of Tulamben.

The easiest way into Amed is by hiring your own transport and driver. Beware that Amed is stretched out over ten kilometers so make sure that transport to your hotel is included in the price.

WHAT TO SEE AND DO IN AMED

Most people come to Amed as a getaway, including expats from other parts of the island. It's a favourite honeymoon destination for tourists and is also popular with divers and snorkelers. Sailing trips in small Balinese sail boats can be arranged, and day trips to local places of interest such as the Water Gardens of Tirta Gangga and Bali's most sacred temple, Besakih, high on the slopes of Mount Agung.

Lempuyang Temple, half hour drive from Amed. One of the eight most sacred temples on the island. Park in the car park and walk up the steps to the temple. The lower temple is always open but the upper temple (at the top of the dragon staircases) is often locked, so it is best to go with a Balinese driver who will usually be able to arrange for the temple priest to open it up for you. It's situated high up a mountain and there are magnificent sunset views at dusk.

For entertainment, a local live band performs at Double One Restaurant once a week and there are sometimes free Balinese dance performances in some of the restaurants. A local Gong & Genjek group performs about once a month in the Bali Mandala room at Dancing Dragon Cottages.

Snorkeling -- Amed has some fine snorkeling within meters of the coast. A reef follows the majority of the coastline. Due to the limited number of visitors to the area, the sea life is healthy and abundant.

Condor Sailing, Phone/Fax: +62 363 23462, email: info@ameddivecenter.com. Enjoy Nature, Go with the Wind on a 18 m traditional sailing boat for sailing, diving, fishing, exploration, dolphin watching, snorkeling, or just swimming and relaxing.

DIVE SITE

There are two dive sites outside Jumeluk bay, Amed Reef and Amed Wall and both of which can be done as a shore or boat dive. The boat is a traditional fishing boat ( Jukung ) which is a small outrigger with the max capacity of 3 divers.

Jumeluk bay is suitable both for novice and experienced divers. The condition is easy, very rarely any wave action at the surface and the visibility is usually 15 to 30m.

AMED REEF
Located at the left side of the bay and by Jukung ( small outrigger ) it will take approximately 10 minutes with the depth ranging from 12-22 meters. You will find much different kinds of sponges, gorgonian, and marine life including everything from gobies, shrimp, to school of barracuda and blue spotted ray. Many different kinds of reef fish such as parrotfish, angelfish, surgeonfish, and moray eel.

If we go little bit deeper to 30 meters , you will see some sleeping white tip sharks on the sandy bottom.

Should there be any current, which is usually very rare and flows to the south, this will make for a relaxing drift dive.

AMED WALL
This dive site is located on the right side of the bay which takes approximately 5 minutes by Jukung. The depth ranges from 10 – 35 meters and although the wall itself is a relative small part of the dive, here you can usually find white tip reef shark, napoleon wrasse, school of batfish, and some big trevally.

Once you pass the wall you will find a deep slope which is rich in corals and very interesting. If you turn right towards shallower water, you will see big bommies on the sand, and the bommies are richly covered with gorgonians.

WHERE TO STAY AT AMED

There is a wide range of hotels in the area, with rooms ranging from $20 - $200 per night. Most of them have been built by westerners in partnership with Balinese people and have brought a welcome increase in employment to the area. Everyone knows everyone so there is a real feeling of village community, but the hotels are well spaced out so you feel that you have your own private space there. There are no TVs in most of the hotel rooms, so bring a good book to read or better still, spend your time getting to know the locals. The pace of life is very slow and relaxed in Amed, the people are friendly, and they have time!

Apa Kabar Villas is a small and quiet collection of ocean front bungalows (sleep four) and Balinese villas (sleep six) surrounded by lush gardens. They also have a lovely restaurant, swimming pool, and some nice coral for snorkeling right off of their beach.

Dancing Dragon Cottages, Amed, Bali, Indonesia, ☎ 0363 23521 (info@dancingdragoncottages.com, fax: 0363 23521). checkin: 3.00pm; checkout: 12 noon. Feng shui boutique hotel. Air-conditioned thatched cottages with ocean views, 100-person conference center, pool, restaurant, bar. From $48.

Villa Sinar Cinta, a traditionally built seaside villa with privacy and excellent service. It is the perfect place for maximally eight persons. Also with its large swimmingpool of 15 x 3 meters.

Hotel Uyah Amed, Phone/Fax: +62 363 23462, (email: hoteluyah@naturebali.com). We have implemented and maintain an environmental management system to reduce the consumption of natural resources and to prevent pollution by waste separation, energy and water - saving installations and programs. We try to communicate our environmental goals to the local community and our guest s in order to be in harmony with this beautiful environment.

Eka Purnama Cottages and Restaurant phone="+62 (0)828 372 264" "mailto:ekaamed@gmail.com" "http://www.eka-purnama.com" Eka Purnama is a family run, budget hotel located in Amed on the Eastern most tip of Bali, an area renowned for its traditional Balinese fishing communities, superb diving, snorkeling and outstanding natural beauty. All the comfortable cottages overlook the sea and are a short step away from the beach. The reasonably priced cottages are comfortable with a double bed and single bed, a ceiling fan, wardrobes and a spacious bathroom with shower and a western toilet.

Villa Flamboyant, ☎ +62 828 372 2636 or +43 676 400 3869 (hatala@utanet.at), [10]. "http://www.balivillaflamboyant.com" VILLA FLAMBOYANT is a private villa of 500m2 wide, located right at the sea. On the upper floor there are 4 exclusives dobble bedrooms with there own bathrooms. From the terrace you have a lovely outstanding few to the mountains, the 3000m2 garden and over the ocean. Downstairs there is a big living room optical divided by one step from the dining room about 400m2 wide suroundet by a generous terrace and in front of the living room is a big swimming pool with about 60m2 In the morning you can see the sun rising out of the ocean and many fisher boots out on the sea. The staff is friendly, helpful and used to treat guests the special way of feeling at home and giving everyone a polite individual attention.

Source: www.wikitravel.org, www.prodivebali.com
Image Source: www.asiarooms.com, www.blog.baliwww.com, www.divesitedirectory.co.uk

TULAMBEN BAY - BALI

noreply@blogger.com (The Guide) — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 01:55:00 +0000

Tulamben is now one of the most famous diving areas in Bali and attracts divers from all over the world, Here, is where you can hear the news about conditions in the different parts of the island or exceptional events, like the sighting of a whale shark or mola and here is where you are likely to meet internationally recognized underwater photographers and writers.

It is Tulamben bay which just like the rest of Bali, is situated in the world's richest marine biogeographic zone with more than 2500 different species of fish and 700 corals.

Situated on the north east coast, the bay receives very plankton rich water from the major ocean current that moves from the Pacific to the Indian Ocean or vice versa. The wreck, rocky wall and sand slopes provide a wide variety of physical habitats. All of these factors, combined together will explain why the Tulamben bay contains an incredible diversification of the underwater ecosystem.

HOW TO REACH TULAMBEN BAY

Tulamben bay is located in North East Coast of Bali, approximately 2.5 hours drive from Kuta.

WHAT TO SEE AND DO IN TULAMBEN BAY

Diving! Here's some of the diving sites in Tulamben Bay:

The Liberty Wreck

Its a lovely dive site, and recognized as one of the world best and easiest wreck dives. The wreck is very popular for photographers as it is totally encrusted in anemones, gorgonians and corals. Perhaps the magic comes from Tulamben's black sand which provides an excellent colour contrast for the incredible variety of marine life.

It's quite difficult to list what you will see on this dive because you will come across just about everything in any Indo-Pacific reef guide book. From the minute angel fish, nudibranches, pipefish, goby through to the areas of garden eels, huge schools of silver fish called big eyed trevally, sweet lips, batfish, butterfly fish, then add invertebrates, the hard coral, black corals, sponges with crinoids, sea fans, make this variety unique and amazing.

Current is rarely present and at most it will be mild. Visibility is usually 20 - 30 meters.

The wreck is great for night dives, particularly if the moon is full, you may see Spanish dancer, flashlight fish, or sleeping parrotfish. You will notice the different behaviour of marine life, compare to the daytime. Where else on this planet can you make such as easy, relaxing, perhaps romantic and varied night dive.

THE DROP - OFF

The basic structure of the drop off is a spur of volcanic rock leading out from the rise on which the temple sits. It is an old lava flow from mount Agung. It is located at the opposite end of the bay from the wreck.

The dive starts off on a steep sandy slope with nudibrances, flounder, shrimp ( be careful with your fins ) at 10 meters. There are big sponges with many varieties of shrimp, lionfish, and continuing to the right, the slope develops into a reef with very impressive topography, and becoming a vertical wall from 15 meters and descending to below 60 meters. Here you will find a sea fan, almost 2 meters across, at a depth of 28 meters, which is probably the crown jewel of the drop off - inhabited by pigmy Seahorses.

THE CORAL GARDEN

Just in the front of Tulamben resort, ( where we usually have our delicious lunch ) in 5- 12 meters of water is a delightfully rich little patch reef, which is dominated by croporid, hard coral, including some large table and fire corals, interspersed with anemones as well as sponges.

Though only less than 200 meters long, this reef also supports a diverse fish population, snapper, angelfish, wrasse, parrotfish, black tip shark, and millions of common reef fish. Also you can see some rarities, like blue ribbon eels (the juveniles are black) frogfish and unusual scorpion fish and even the rare ghost pipe fish.

BATU KELEBIT

Just around the corner from Tulamben bay, 15 minutes by Jukung ( traditional Balinese fishing boat ), At this beautiful site, Batu kelebit there are two large underwater boulders lying just off shore from a point marked by a jagged crest of lava. The dive site is dramatic and consists of steep ridges encrusted with an incredible diversity of hard corals, sea fans, fire coral and sponges and between the ridges separated by valleys of bright white sand. On this dive site not only the colour of the sand differs from Tulamben bay, also the species of even the most common reef fishes are different too!

In fish and invertebrate life, Batu Kelebit is perhaps even richer than Tulamben bay. Because of the steepness of the site combined with the structure of the ridges and plankton rich water, you will have more chance to see big pelagic including dog tooth tuna, mantas, schools of barracuda and you will always see the reef white tip sharks at Batu Kelebit.

Because Batu Kelebit receives deep off shore water, the visibility will be excellent and the temperature a little cold. Current in here usually tends to northwest, however the ridges here provide excellent protection, so it doesn't create any problem at all.

WHERE TO STAY AT TULAMBEN BAY

Bali Mandira Hotel and Spa

Legian Beach Hotel

Source: www.prodivebali.com

PRAMBANAN TEMPLE - WEST JAVA

noreply@blogger.com (The Guide) — Tue, 17 Mar 2009 00:32:00 +0000

Prambanan is a collection of massive Hindu temples (candi) built by the 10th century Mataram Kingdom, rulers of central Java and defeaters of the Sailendra Dynasty. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, in most any other country constructions on the scale of Prambanan would be quickly designated as a national symbol, but in Indonesia they are somewhat overshadowed by the even more awe-inspiring bulk of Borobudur just next door. The two sites are quite different in style though, with Prambanan being a collection of sharp, jagged pyramids instead of the vast horizontal bulk of Borobudur, and both are well worth a visit.

Please note that those in charge of selling tickets to Prambanan practice race-based discriminatory pricing, with anyone who appears foreign being charged more than ten times the price of anyone who appears to be a local.

HOW TO REACH PRAMBANAN TEMPLE

The nearest major city is Yogyakarta, 17 kilometers away. Solo is also within easy striking distance.

By plane

Yogyakarta's airport is just ten kilometers from Prambanan. A taxi direct to the site should cost about Rp 20,000.

By bus

There are regular buses from Yogyakarta's Umbulharjo bus station (30 minutes, Rp 4000), as well as a wide variety of tour agency-operated minibuses shuttling directly to Yogya's backpacker haunts. Local buses to/from Solo are also easy to find (90 minutes, Rp 10,000).

TransJogja, Yogyakarta's newest bus service, also serves a direct route to Prambanan. The bus is air-conditioned and it costs Rp 3000 per person for a ride (as of 2008), regardless of the distance. Ask the attendant at TransJogja's bus stop for further details.

WHAT TO SEE IN PRAMBANAN TEMPLE

The main site of Prambanan contains four temples scattered about a large, landscaped park. The complex is open daily from 6 AM to 6 PM and entry costs a fixed US$10 (US$6 student), try to get there early to beat the heat. Guides can be hired at the ticket office, costs you Rp50.000

Candi Lara Jonggrang, or simply Candi Prambanan, is the largest and most-visited of the temples ju st to the left of the entrance. While there were 232 temples originally built, most have long since crumbled and the main remaining attractions are the six temples of the central court, richly decorated with carved reliefs. Three of them, known as the Trisakti ("three sacred places"), are particularly important:
- Candi Siva, dedicated to Shiva the Destroyer, is the largest of the six, rising to a height of 45 meters. There are fine reliefs of the Ramayana in its forecourt and four chambers with statues. The largest chamber, to the east, contains a statue of Shiva himself, while the south has the sage Agastya, the west his son Ganesh (the elephant-headed) and the north his wife Durga. Durga is also known as Lara Jonggrang ("Slender Virgin"), a legendary beautiful princess turned to stone (see box).
- Candi Brahma, to the south, continues the story of the Ramayana and has a statue of Brahma the Creator inside.
- Candi Vishnu, to the north, tells the story of Vishnu's avatar Krishna and has a statue of Vishnu the Preserver inside.
- Opposite the three large temples are three smaller temples originally dedicated to the vehicles of the gods. Only the statue of Nandi, Shiva's bull, has survived.

North of Lara Jonggrang is a poorly displayed museum laid out in a series of small houses connected by walkways. Explanations are minimal, but entry is free so you might as well take a look.
- Prambanan Audio Visual, inside the museum grounds, is the park's term for screenings of a bizarre movie entitled "Cosmic Harmony", which seems to spend as much time lambasting the "industrial world" in general (and Jakarta in particular) as explaining the Prambanan site. Still, it makes for a fairly entertaining half-hour break and Rp 2,000 is not too bad a price to pay for the air-con. The film is available in several languages.

Candi Lumbung and Candi Bubrah, two Buddhist temples, are located several hundred meters further north. They lie in ruins and are fenced off.

Candi Sewu, a large Buddhist temple complex meaning "one thousand temples", is one kilometer north of the entrance gate and contains a large central temple surrounded by a cluster of smaller ones. The sheer size of the recently renovated and intricately decorated central temple is impressive, but the statue niches are all empty. Entrance from the east side only.

There are also several temples and historical sites outside the park.

Kraton Ratu Boko, 3 km south of Prambanan, is a ruined palace or temple of uncertain origin, located on a hilltop 200 meters above the Prambanan plain (which makes for good pictures if and only if you have a good zoom lens). Only some building foundations remain and it's difficult to make any sense of the site. Now incorporated into the Borobudur Park Authority, entry to Ratu Boko is a separately charged US$10, which seems very steep for what you get.

WHERE TO STAY AT PRAMBANAN TEMPLE

The neighboring village of Prambanan has a few simple losmen if you want to spend the night, but most visitors daytrip from Yogyakarta or Solo.

Source: www.wikitravel.org
Image Source: www.indonesia.cz, antobilang.tumblr.com

NUSA LEMBONGAN - BALI

noreply@blogger.com (The Guide) — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 00:41:00 +0000

Nusa Lembongan, a small island between Bali and Nusa Penida in the Badung Strait, is the perfect location for a holiday hideaway, with few visitors and pristine unspoilt beaches. Overlooking Sanghiang Bay with its clear sapphire-blue waters, the Nusa Lembongan Resort offers a panoramic view of eastern Bali and the majestic silhouette of Mount Agung.

Nusa Lembongan is a pristine tropical island, its highest point is 50 meters above sea level. Lembongan has an average rainfall of approximately 1000 mm per year. Little temperature variation from 30 degrees Celsius occurs between the only two seasons this island experiences being the wet and the dry. The wet season is from December to February and the dry is from March to November. As it has only three months of rainfall, this island is dry for the remainder of the year. Little cultivation occurs, as almost 2/3 of the island is infertile. Seeding is normally done on the wet season and only corn, cassava and peanuts are farmed. Also found on the island are cashew nuts, mangoes and coconut. Fresh water is limited and most of the supply is derived from wells up to 60 meters deep.

HOW TO REACH NUSA LEMBONGAN

Take a taxi from Kuta to Sanur beach near the Grand Bali Beach Hotel and proceed with one of the following:

Public boats, depart daily from Sanur beach public wharf (near the Grand Inna Bali Beach Hotel). They can be a bit sketchy at times and usually very crowded. No same day return. IDR 70,000 one-way. The ride across is approximately 90 minutes. The sea can be rough.

Perama, www.pera matour.com a local transfers-only operator for the budget traveler, without same day return, IDR 100,000 one way, and has a network of connecting bus-links from around Bali. Boat departures daily at 10.30am. The ride across is approximately 90 minutes. The office of Perama Sanur can be found at friendly Warung Pojok in Jalan Hang Tua. Daily Perama buses depart from here to Ubud, Kuta, the airport, Padangbai (for Lombok) and now also Amed.

The Tanis Lembongan Express, +62 361 7432344, mobile:+62 081338737344, Fax: +62 361 240070, mailto:sales@tanisvillas.com, www.tanisvillas.com. A faster journey to Mushroom Bay of Lembongan Island crossing the Badung strait by speed boat. It takes 25-35 minutes from Sanur Beach near Grand Bali Beach hotel, return transfer USD 39.00/person and One way USD 27.00/person include: Hotel pick you up and return transfers speed boat. The boat schedule departure Sanur beach near grand Bali Beach at 09.00, 2.30 and 16.00, Departure Lembongan Island at 08.30, 13.00 and 15.30. Enter the heaven of Paradise at Lembongan Island, the complete experience of exploring Bali. Services are fishing trips, transfer only, surfing safari trip and day cruise include:lunch, return hotels transfers and activities.Special charters min 2 person and max 18 persons can be arranged.

Scoot Fast Boat, www.scootcruise.com leaves from Sanur too. It operates fast comfortable boats which take you to either Mushroom Bay or Jungutbatu for US$37.00 return. The tickets can be bought from the Scoot offices next to Dunkin' Donuts, by the Paradise Beach Hotel, or on the beach near the departure point. It takes 30-40 minutes and is probably the most modern scheduled passenger ferry on the route.

Island Explorer Cruises, +62 361728088 (email: sales@bali-activities.com), www.bali-activities.com. Transfer only or day cruise incl lunch & activities, super fast boats or leisurely sailing yacht to island. Departs Benoa at 9am yacht or 10.30AM fast boat. Does pick up from hotels.

WHAT TO SEE AND DO IN NUSA LEMBONGAN

This is a nice place to walk. A rocky coastal paths links nearly all the guest houses and hotels. Most trips will take you less than two hours. Bicycles can be rented at most places, and the mainly flat roads are quite well surfaced. Motorbikes are also available but may be unnecessary given the short distances involved. You can cross to the small island of Ceningan via a scenic suspension bridge.

Other Activities:

World Diving www.world-diving.com. The island's first full PADI 5 Star Dive Centre, located at Pondok Baruna guesthouse in Jungutbatu. All courses are offered from Discover Scuba Diver through to Assistant Instructor. This is the only dive school in Lembongan with a purpose built training pool.
Bali Lembongan Scuba www.balilembonganscuba.com. The island's first full PADI dive school, located at in Jungutbatu.
Bali Diving Academy Lembongan, www.scubali.com. Also situated on-site at Bungalo No7.
Beachcombing
Surfing www.baliwavehunter.com
Snorkeling
Tour the "Underground House".
Rent a bike or scooter and cruise around the small island.
Hiking
Take a tour through the mangroves in a sampan-style boat.
Big Fish Diving www.bigfishdiving.com Big Fish on Jungutbatu Beach offers daily diving, PADI courses, tour group scheduling & Manta / Mola specials. Professional, knowledgeable, fun - take a look at our website for more details today!
Sunset Beach - the sunsets are fantastic from Mainski Lembongan resort. sit by the pool or in the bar an enjoy an icy cold beer or one of thier fabulous cocktails.

WHERE TO STAY IN NUSA LEMBONGAN

Budget

Bungalo No7, www.bungalo-no7.com has clean fan cooled rooms (70,000 - 150,000) around a lovely garden right on the beach.

Mainski Lembongan Resort, email="sales@mainski-lembongan-resort.com" Jungut Batu Beach (In Front of Shipwrecks surf break), ☎ +6236624481, mobile Bruce (Wayan)on 08123619493 go to http://www.mainski-lembongan-resort.com

Mid Range

Dream Beach Huts, south coast of Lembongan Island,+62 81 338 737344" http://www.dreambeachlembongan.com.

Coconuts Beach Resort, +62 361728088 (www.bali-activities.com) well established traditional ocean front resort aircon or fan villas, ensuite bathrooms, hot water, 2 pools, restaurant, bar, internet, Cable.

Splurge

Batu Karang Lembongan Resort and Day Spa, info@batukaranglembongan.com +6236624880, www.batukaranglembongan.com 5 Star Boutique Resort, complete with facilities including Restaurant, Bar, Day Spa, 25m 2 lane lap pool, 9m by 9m swim up pool bar, 9m by 9m infinity edge pool, Steam room, Gymnasium, Day Lounge, Wedding pavilion, Conference facility and probably Lembongans best views.

Source: http://iguide.travel, www.nusalembonganresort.com
Image Source: www.nusalembonganresort.com, www. kayuaya.com

KARIMUNJAWA ISLAND - CENTRAL JAVA

noreply@blogger.com (The Guide) — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 00:24:00 +0000

Karimunjawa is a chain of 27 islands north of Semarang, off the coast of Central Java, Indonesia.

Designated as a national marine park. Karimunjawa consists of many small islands, like Karimunjawa island, Kemujan island, Menjangan Besar island, and Menjangan kecil island.

We can find various kinds sea animal, like turtle, shark, fishes, in karimunjawa waters territory. In the land, especially in Karimunjawa island and Kemujan island, we can finds many kinds of bird, deer, and even snake.

HOW TO REACH KARIMUNJAWA ISLAND

There are chartered plane from Semarang that flies from Semarang to Dewandaru Airport in Kemujan island. There also a regular ferry that sail from Tanjung Emas port in Semarang and Jepara port to Karimunjawa island.

WHAT TO SEE AND DO IN KARIMUNJAWA ISLAND

Besides the beautiful beaches, many resorts in Karimunjawa, such as Kura-kura resort, provides diving activities. There are many interesting spots, like Taka Panyawangan and Gosong cemara, to dive in the Karimunjawa water. We can also go hiking around the island to find many places around the island that gives a beautiful panorama.

In karimunjawa and Kemujan island, we can rent car or motorcyle to go around the island. To go to the other island, we can use local boat or motorboat. Note: Be sure that you've booked the car before you arrived in the Karimunjawa. Because there still small amound of cars there. To make it easier, you can call your travel agent to arrange it.

WHERE TO STAY IN KARIMUNJAWA ISLAND

There are various kinds of accommodation there, from the four star hotels to homestay. There are also camping sites there.

Moderate

Melati hotel
Blue Lagoon hotel
Dewandaru hotel

Splurge

Kura- kura resort, located in Menyawakan island. It's a high class hotel with scuba facilities.

Nirwana resort, located in Karimunjawa island. It's a luxury hotel that provides by a lot of facilities.

Source: www.wikitravel.org
Image Source: tiacers.blogspot.com

PUNCAK - WEST JAVA

noreply@blogger.com (The Guide) — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 00:06:00 +0000

Puncak, literally translates to Peak, is a weekend getaway that has beautiful view of tea plantation. Located about 100 KM South of Jakarta, West Java, Indonesia. Puncak swarms with hotels and mountain resorts.

HOW TO REACH PUNCAK

Two to three hour drive from Jakarta. Take the Jagorawi toll road to Puncak. Usually heavy inbound traffic on long weekends.

WHAT TO SEE AND DO IN PUNCAK

Taman Bunga Nusantara (Indonesian Flower Garden), Jl. Cipanas. Public park, with flower gardens from around the world, maze, giant clock and a tower. It has been created over 23 hectares with flora from around the world that will grow well in tropical Puncak. There is also a leisure park called Alam Imajinasi for the whole family, but especially children, to enjoy that exists over 7 hectares adjoining the gardens. For an additional Rp 5,000 you can travel around the gardens on the dotto train. Price: entrance fee Rp. 15,000.

Taman Safari Indonesia, Jl. Raya Puncak No.601, Cisarua, 16750, ☎ +62 251 250 000 (safari@tamansafari.com, fax: +62 251 250 000). Zoo, with car safari trail that allows cars and tourist buses to see and/or feed elephants, zebras, goats, hippos and more, hiking trails, petting zoo. Buy carrots from the many vendors by the side of the road leading up to the zoo before your get there to feed to the animals. Inside the zoo there are more animals to see, shows to view such as the 'Wild-Wild West' the Lion show and the Sea-Lion Show. Ride the elephants and ponies. Rides and restaurants/food outlets. The cheapest souvenir shop you will ever find with good quality souvenirs. It is one of the biggest zoo in Indonesia. It also has accommodation in the form of caravans, traditional house or lodge. available at website.

Wisata Agro Gunung Mas Tea Plantation, (On the main road on the way up to Puncak.). See how tea is processed - get to the plantation early to see the factory actually in operation. Sit in the cafe and enjoy a cup of tea before walking or driving around the tracks to view the tea growing with the mountains as a backdrop. Watch out for locals offering pony rides. Rp. 6,000; Factory tour Rp. 7,500; Guide for tour Rp. 40,000 for a group up to 15.

WHERE TO STAY AT PUNCAK

Hotel Surya Indah, Jl. Gadog II / 45, Cipanas, Cianjur, Jawa Barat, Indonesia, ☎ (62)(0263) 512871, 513151 (reservation@hotelsuryagroup.com, fax: (62)(0263) 512872). Hotel Surya Indah is an exclusive resort establishment in the city of Cipanas at the foot of Mount Gede about 100 kilometers from Jakarta. The hotel is equipped with villas, acres of lush tropical gardens, fishing pool, swimming pool, children playgrounds, tennis court, fitness center, sauna and massage service, coffee shop, restaurant and meeting rooms for up to 200 people.

Bukit Indah, Jl.Raya Ciloto No. 116 Puncak-Cianjur-Jawa Barat 43255 Indonesia (on), ☎ (62)(0263) 512903 (reservation@bukitindah-puncak.com, fax: (62)(0263) 513262). The hotel is equipped with swimming pool, children playground, tennis court, restaurant. The menu in the restaurant is simple but good. standard room Rp. 325 000 per night.

Puncak Pass Resort, Jl. Raya Puncak (the highest point in Puncak area), ☎ (62)(0263) 512503 (ppr@puncakpassresort.com, fax: (62)(0263) 512180). Puncak Pass Resort has been established since 1928. Spread over 5 hectares, you can stay in a variety of accommodation - hotel rooms or bungalows. There is a swimming pool, jogging track and children's playground, and you can play volleyball or football. From Rp. 500 000 incl. breakfast.

Novus Resort and Spa, Jl. Sindanglaya Raya No.180 Cipanas. Located on mountain area overlooking mount Gede and Mount Pangrango. Covers four hectares on the top of the hill in the midst of supreme panoramic hinterland.

Source: www.wikitravel.org
Image Source: www.tamansafari.com , metro.vivanews.com

LOVINA BEACH - BALI

noreply@blogger.com (The Guide) — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 00:06:00 +0000

Lovina Beach is a long narrow strech of black volcano sand on the north shore of Bali. Virtually empty most of the year, Lovina, like most of Bali, fills up with tourists from all over the world in August. It is a nice break from the bustle of Kuta.

HOW TO REACH LOVINA BEACH

By Bus

Perama offers transportation all around Bali to all mayor tourist destinations. They use small mini buses without air conditioning and the prices are reasonable. Prices and timetables can be found on their website.

Bemo’s are the public transport buses. They are extremely cheap, however you need have some patience and Bemo’s can be crowded. They are a challenge for the experienced traveler.

By Car

You can hire a car and drive up from the South. Far better, given the relative costs and the roads/driving in Bali, hire a driver and car. You can travel from Kuta in less than 3hrs and from the airport or Sanur in about 2.30hrs. You will travel through (Pura Ulun Danau) Bedugul and could go the pretty way through Munduk if you are not in a hurry. So you could stop to take in the temple, lakes and rice paddies on your trip and make a day of it.

WHAT TO SEE AND DO IN LOVINA BEACH

Expect to be offered dolphin sighting trips every other minute. These trips leave each morning and have very mixed reviews as the boats tend to outnumber the dolphins, but it can still be an enjoyable ride. Prices are fixed by a dolphin cartel, they are around 50.000 (4 euro)

Air Panas/ Banjar Hot Springs — Located west of Lovina, Air Panas is an enchanting hot springs with stone carved mouths gushing water among a lush garden setting. A nominal entrance fee is charged.

Snorkeling and scuba diving trips leave from Kalibukbuk for Deer Island and other north shore dive spots. There are several dive operators based out of Lovina that operate daily dive trips to Menjanan Island, Tulamben and Amed, as well as night dives from the local shore. Spice Divers are based out of Lovina and offer day trips to all of the dive spots on the northern shore. Guides are available in a variety of languages and multi-day discounts are available.

Cockfights are held around Lovina. You will see around Lovina many older people training the cocks, just ask them to bring you to a fight.

Spa

Lovina is lucky to have several spa facilities. While a little more low key than the spas to the south, the service is excellent and the prices, being much less than the opulent spas in the south, are an excellent value and well worth it.

Agung's Spa. Offers body scrubs, facials, massage, etc. It is also the nicest spa facility in Lovina, though by Balinese standards it is much smaller and basic than what you would find elsewhere on the island.

Bali Samadhi Spa (Tel. 081 338 558 260) — in Lovina offers a variety of massages. One is called Rebalancing Massage a very nice mixture between therapeutic and well-being massage. Mandi Lulur scrubs are available including the yogurt mask.

Diving

Lovina Dive, Jalan Raya Banyualit, ☎ +628123842415

WHERE TO SLEEP AT LOVINA BEACH

Budget

Ulam Segara, +62.361.8528521. 5-room "luxury homestay", 5 min drive from Lovina. Pool, ocean views, mosquito nets.

Suma was a cheap and clean hostel, however it's renovated and lost it's backpackers mentality. It’s still a good place to stay, with a nice swimming pool and location. Around $10.

Sanders is situated in central Lovina just next to the beach side. Rooms are clean and prices are around 50.000 (4 euro) for 2 persons, no hot water. It’s one of the best backpackers places in town.

Gede Homestay Bungalow, right at the beach, 2 kilometer of the Lovina center. The rooms are clean and prices are around 7 euro for 2 persons, the rooms have airco and hot water. It is a small family run homestay with a good restaurant and nice seats in front of the bungalows.

Elsa II A small but excellent new option in Kalibukbuk! Near the "Angsoka", in the middle of the village. Opened in 06/2008 offer you nice rooms, hotwater in private bathrooms, with fan or aircon, breakfast included from 70.000 Rp. a night.

Rini Hotel, central Lovina. Opened 1989.

Mid-range

Rambutan Beach Cottages,Tel: +62 362 41388. A fine family hotel near the beach at Kalibukbuk (the center of Lovina). It has two pools and a pleasant restaurant with a mix of excellent local and western food. This hotel has superb rooms and gardens and many amenities for children. It is suitable for families and couples alike. The owners and staff are extremely helpful and friendly and the hotel offers all the services you will need on your holiday. Room prices per night from the budget $15 per double up to luxury villas from $85 to $155.

Bali Paradise Hotel, ☎ +62-362-41432. Ocean and mountain view, huge swimming pool, huge rooms available. USD $50+.

Aditya Beach Resort, Tel: +62.361.8528521, or +62.81337536464. Room prices per night from the budget $35 - $52

Splurge

Villa Santhi — A private luxury home available for weekly rentals starting at 1000 Euro / week.
Villa Insulinde — A private villa with personel for weekly rentals starting at 650 Euro / week.

Source: www.wikitravel.org
Image Sources:
www.balihotelbeaches.com
www.inabeach.com
www.bali1.com

BINTAN RESORTS - RIAU ISLANDS

noreply@blogger.com (The Guide) — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 10:26:00 +0000

Bintan Resorts, also known as Lagoi, is the northern part of the Indonesian island of Bintan.

Bintan Resorts is a colony of Singapore in all but name, full of expensive resorts and manicured lawns. Very much a family-oriented resort, there is little to do here but laze by the beach, golf and maybe dabble in water sports. The area is separated from the rest of Bintan by barbed wire, checkpoints and armed guards.

HOW TO REACH BINTAN RESORTS

While Bintan has a small domestic airport, virtually all travelers arrive by boat from Singapore.

Bintan Resort Ferries has 5-7 departures daily from Singapore's Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal to Bandar Bentan Telani at the western tip of the Resorts. You can obtain an Indonesian visa on arrival here. The trip takes 45 minutes and costs S$47.20/33.10 one-way return peak (Fri-Sun), S$36.20/25.10 off-peak; note that it's often cheaper to buy a package tour with lodging included.

WHAT TO SEE AND DO IN BINTAN RESORTS

As a destination, Bintan Resorts is rather artificial and the water is a mite murky (especially in winter). Still, the beaches are much better than anything in Singapore and most of the resorts are built to a high standard.

However, do not solely devote your entire vacation to the beach. Visit the town areas of Bintan especially Tanjung Pinang to savor a taste of the local lifestyle and enjoy cheap shopping and tasty local fare.

Golf is popular, with several excellent golf courses charging much lower prices than in neighboring Singapore. Water sports of all sorts are also popular, although the scuba diving here is lackluster due to the poor visibility.

Note that during the northeast monsoon (November until March), there is usually quite a bit of wave action on the beach. This is good for surfing and body boarding, but not good for most anything else.

Spas are increasing in number and quality in Pasar Oleh Oleh, with prices a little below that in Singapore.

WHERE TO STAY AT BINTAN RESORTS

Budget

Shady Shacks on the east side of Bintan is a small, family-run collection of wooden huts on the beach. Good value for money but extremely basic - just a mattress and mosquito net in each room, although there is an adjoining bathroom with cold-water showers and a manually flushed toilet. Perfect if you want a back to basics, away from everything break.

Midrange

* Nirwana Beach Club (formerly Mana Mana). Tel. +65-6339-8878, [6]. The cheapest digs in town, the chalets (beachside huts) here can fit three, offer air-con and attached bathroom, and go for S$100/74 peak/off-peak. The resort has no pool, but the beach is pretty good and this is the local hub for watersports like surfing and boating. Hosts loud beach parties on Fri/Sat only.

Splurge

Bintan Resorts is chock full of luxury resorts.

* Banyan Tree Bintan. Tel. +62-770-693-100, [7]. The most opulent option, all accommodation here is in private villas, with jacuzzi-equipped villas going for US$350++ and pool-equipped villas for a whopping US$750++ and up (discounted rates, not rack). The kind of place for a once-in-a-lifetime honeymoon.

* Bintan Lagoon Resort. Tel. +62-770-691-388, [8]. Big villas available as well as well-equipped hotel rooms. The hotel owns two golf-courses, 2 swimming-pools and Alang Alang Sea Sports centre. This offers nearly every water sport excluding wind surfing.

Sources: www.wikitravel.org
Image Sources: www.realdestination.com

TANA TORAJA - SOUTH SULAWESI

noreply@blogger.com (The Guide) — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 00:25:00 +0000

The land of the Toraja people, many notionally Christian but most in practice animist, is above all famed for their spectacular (and rather gruesome) burial rites. After a person's death, the body is kept — often for several years — while money is saved to pay for the actual funeral ceremony, known as tomate. During the festival, which may last up to a week, ritual dances and buffalo fights are held, and buffaloes and pigs are slaughtered to ferry the soul of the deceased to the afterlife (puya). The deceased is then finally buried either in a small cave, often with a tau-tau effigy placed in front, inside a hollow tree or even left exposed to the elements in a bamboo frame hanging from a cliff.

Prime funeral season is after the harvest in July to October.

HOW TO REACH TANA TORAJA

By plane

The only airport in Tana Toraja is in Rantepao, which was closed for several years for upgrading. The airport reopened in late 2005 and Dirgantara Air Service (DAS) now operates flights three times weekly, on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, departing from Makassar at 10 AM (30 min, Rp. 250,000 one way). Note that the tiny airport can only handle turboprops and has no navigation gear, so flights are often delayed or cancelled in bad weather.

By bus

Tana Toraja is a solid 300-km, 8-10 hour drive from Makassar. The cost is 80,000 Rupiah on an air-conditioned bus from Makassar to Rantepao. There is usually a morning or an overnight bus. Frequent mikrolets/bemos leave from Makassar to the bus terminal and take about 40 minutes.

By taxi or charted vehicle

A chartered car usually costs about 700,000 Rupiah one-way from Makassar. It is possible to find one for a few hundred thousand less if you can coordinate with someone who is driving in that direction. If you plan on staying for a few days and would like the return trip as well, a driver with car should cost about 400,000 Rupiah per day.

WHAT TO SEE IN TANA TORAJA

Most hotels will put pressure to hire a local guide for 150,000+ Rp a day. Although it can be expensive if you are on a budget, a guide can provide a lot of insight into the local practices and customs.

It is still possible to visit most of the famous sites and funerals on your own, although information can be hard to find from most hotel operators. Tora Tora Primitive Art Gallery has a very friendly English-speaking owner who provides free maps of the area. It is located on the main street in Rantepao.

There are many walks (1-3hrs) that pass by many different types of gravesites, including the most popular sites. Most can be reached by short bemo rides from Rantepao and do not require guides.

Source: www.wikitravel.org
Image Source: www.weltrekordreise.ch

BUKITTINGGI - WEST SUMATRA

noreply@blogger.com (The Guide) — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 00:05:00 +0000

Bukittinggi is a city in West Sumatra. Bukittinggi (Indonesian for "high hill") is one of the larger cities in West Sumatra, Indonesia, with a population of over 91,000 people and an area of 25.24 km². It is situated in the Minangkabau highlands, 90 km by road from the West Sumatran capital city of Padang. It is located at 0°18′20″S 100°22′9″E / 0.30556°S 100.36917°E / -0.30556; 100.36917, near the volcanoes Mount Singgalang (inactive) and Mount Marapi (still active). At 930 m above sea level, the city has a cool climate with temperatures between 16.1°-24.9°C

There are some interesting legends surrounding the foundation and naming of “High Hill” Bukittinggi. The city has its origins in five villages which served as the basis for a marketplace. The city was known as Fort de Kock during colonial times in reference to the Dutch outpost established here in 1825 during the Padri War. The fort was founded by Captain Bauer at the top of Jirek hill and later named after the then Lieutenant Governor-General of the Dutch East Indies, Hendrik Merkus de Kock. The first road connecting the region with the west coast was built between 1833 and 1841 via the Anai Gorge, easing troop movements, cutting the costs of transportation and providing an economic stimulus for the agricultural economy. In 1856 a teacher-training college (Kweekschool) was founded in the city, the first in Sumatra, as part of a policy to provide educational opportunities to the indigenous population. A rail line connecting the city with Payakumbuh and Padang was constructed between 1891 and 1894. During the Japanese occupation of Indonesia in World War II, the city was the headquarters for the Japanese 25th Army, the force which occupied Sumatra. The headquarters was moved to the city in April 1943 from Singapore, and remained until the Japanese surrender in August 1945.

HOW TO REACH BUKITTINGGI

Bukittinggi is located about 2 hours north-east by road from the international airport. The only way to get there is by car. But all the roads are good and smooth.

by chartered minivan

Known by the locals as "Travel" is cheapest way to get there. The approximate price is about IDR 25,000/person for one way. The vehicle is a Honda Odyssey 2.4 minivan with a capacity of 7 seats. Keep in mind that the bus driver usually waits until the chair occupation is about 75%. Once the car is "full", the minivan will depart and take the passengers to their destination.

by bus

DAMRI is the bus operator that goes to Padang (price $Rp 17.500) from there you can continue to Bukittinggi by minivan ("travel")for the price $Rp 15,000. Not recommended for those who don't want to stop at Padang.

by taxi

At BIM(Bandara International Minangkabau)-International Airport of Padang, there's an official desk where you can order a taxi. The trip price is fixed and you can't bargain. This is the better and faster way of getting a taxi. A taxi trip to Bukittinggi is $Rp 185,000. You pay 50% of the cost to the driver when getting in and the other 50% at arrival(January 2006). Recommended for small groups up to 4 people.

WHAT TO SEE IN BUKITTINGGI

In town

Bukittinggi is a small town, so these places are within walking distance with each other (15-30 minute walk).

Sianok Canyon (Ngarai Sianok) and the Japanese Caves (Lubang Japang), a network of underground bunkers and tunnels built by the Japanese during World War II. There is a two-story observation tower that overlooks the Sianok Canyon. Ticket price: Rp4,000 (Oct 2007). During dusk you can observe megabats flying from the gorges to the forest in order to feed from the fruits on the trees. This is also a good place to get in contact with guides for tours such as to Lake Maninjau (see below) or jungle/hiking trips through the Canyon.
Fort de Kock. A fort built by the Dutch (nothing is left, only a water reservoir is on top of the hill) and Bundo Kanduang Park. The park includes a replica Rumah Gadang (traditional house), used as a museum of Minangkabau culture (many curiosities, such as stuffed animals with two heads and six legs, model houses and traditional dresses, foreign currencies... entrance Fee an extra Rp 1000 [Oct 2007]), and a zoo with a few very sad Orang Utans, a few expired species which are still rotting in their cages, two obese bears - not exactly a example in modern animal keeping. The Dutch hilltop outpost Fort de Kock is connected to the zoo by the Limpapeh pedestrian overpass. Ticket price: Rp8,000 (Oct 2007), camera Rp100,000 (June 2008).
House of Bung Hatta (the first Vice President of Indonesia).
Clock Tower (Jam Gadang)

Around town=== There are two tours that hotels and tour agencies try to push, a tour to Minangkabau and another tour to Maninjau.

The Minangkabau tour will visit these places in east area of Bukittinggi:

The King's palace in Pagaruyung
Balimbing village with old century traditional house that is more than 350 years old
Handcraft in Pandai Sikek
Traditional coffee toasters

The Maninjau Tour will visit places in west area of Bukittinggi:

Lake Maninjau
Puncak Lawang, a place where you can see a panoramic of Lake Maninjau
The "44 turns", forty-four numbered(!) hairpin bends up the mountain from where you can see a panoramic of lake Maninjau.

Each tour requires at least 6 hours and usually held from 9AM to 3PM (including a stop at some restaurants). In 2006, the price is ranging from Rp 100,000/pp to Rp 160,000/pp or Rp 450,000/car for up to 6 people. Hire a car is highly recommended if you're in a group of more than 4 people. Car's price includes driver, fuel, entry ticket, and parking fee. Tips aren't compulsory, lunch invitation is more than enough. For your note, most of the places require ticket and will charge a parking fee. One tour will require about Rp 40,000 only for parking and ticket entry. Another option is hiring a car and arranging with the driver to visit the places in Minangkabau and Lake Maninjau. If you are alone, it is also possible to find guides in the Sianok Canyon park who will take you to Lake Maninjau with a motorbike (ask for Parta e.g., no fixed price, he will take what you give him). In any case, depart earlier, as the tour will take all day.

The budget option to Maninjau is to take the bus (or minibus) from the bus station (get there from the Bemo station near the market) to Maninjau (35km, 2hrs by bus, 1h by minibus). Unfortunately, a tourist racket has been set up so you won't get the ticket for the Rp 6000 (Oct 2007) the locals pay. Expect to pay at least Rp.10000 (Oct. 2007). Have the right change ready; don't expect to get any from the conductor. To get back, either try to catch a minibus (Rp 10000) or a big bus (Rp 15000-20000). The big buses you have to catch in the same direction you came, since the narrow road is a one-way for lorries.

The budget option to Minangkabau is to take the Batu Sangkar public bus for Rp. 7000 (Oct 2007) and hire a motorbike (Rp. 15000 return) from there (or walk the remaining 5km) to Pagaruyung. Minibuses and buses back to Bukittingi leave from the bus terminal or may be flagged down anywhere.

The Harau Valley is a pretty gorge about an hour east of Bukittinggi comprising a valley floor of rice paddy hemmed in by shear limestone(?) cliffs. There are several waterfalls with pools (both natural and constructed) for bathing, and you can go rock climbing on the cliffs. Overnight accommodation is available at the pleasant Echo Homestay, ☎ +62 752 77 50306 (unreliable). Rp. 300,000. , which is unlikely to have many guests except on weekends. Harau is reached via Payakumbuh. Another telephone no. mobile of Pak Adek is +628126730609

If you are interested in visiting the equator, you can take a bus to Bonjol where there is a monument marking the equator built over the main road, good for photo opportunities if you are keen to stand in both hemispheres simultaneously. There's also a museum on the site which houses a few artefacts of little interest - mainly coins and banknotes. Catch the bus from the Aur Kuning bus station, minibuses depart fairly frequently. Expect to pay Rp. 10 000 as a tourist. To get back there is a bus which comes from the opposite direction (or northern hemisphere) at 5 o'clock, or alternatively you can wait at the small roadside cafe right next to the monument where locals will help you flag down a bemo which is destined for Bukittinggi (its quite difficult for non-locals to distinguish between a service bemo and a someones car, but the locals seem to know what is what.)

SOMETHING NEW!

There is the Galang Karsa Karya (the GKK). The tour organizer. They offering something different, an exploration journey to defeat the Bukittinggi's land. Taste the truly satisfaction by learning in nature, among bushes, when riding on the unsmooth wet land or when you are covered by mud or even when you get stuck in swampland. Get close to their land in a simple detail while standing on the green open field. Grateful for a day in the open air.They packages are trekking, bicycle trekking, heavy motorcycle trekking, bamboo kayakking, rafting, rock climbing, camping and paragliding. contact them at Galang Karsa Karya (the GKK). Jl. Bagindo Azischan No. 7c, Bukittinggi - 26116, West Sumatera email : masbengky@yahoo.co.id +628 16 1145796

WHERE TO STAY AT BUKITTINGGI

The top hotels in the city are the The Hills Bukittinggi (formerly the Novotel Coralia) and Pusako Hotel. Although The Hills Bukittinggi is comfortable place to stay especially for tourists from the West, the cost is at least Rp 750,000 for a night; in comparison there are many small hotels around Fort de Kock that are around Rp 120,000 that are quite nice.

Small budget hotels are easy to find. Many locals offer accommodation which are like family-owned hotels that provide a "feel at home" atmosphere. The prices span from Rp 40,000 - Rp 200,000 per room without air-conditioning. Breakfast is included. There are no lifts in these small hotels, so be prepared if your room is on the upper floors. Room cleaning is not provided everyday in some cases, so don't hesitate to ask the hotel manager if you want a daily cleaning service.

The Hills Bukittinggi Hotel, Jl. Laras Datuk Bandaro, ☎ +62 752 35000 (fax: 62 752 23800). There are 98 rooms available in this hotel with a notable blend of Moorish and Minangkabau architectural styles. The hotel is located in the city centre, right next to the city's landmark - the Jam Gadang Clocktower.
Hotel Pusako, Jl. Sukarno Hatta 7, ☎ +62 751 22111. From US$54.
Hotel Royal Denai, Jl. Dr Rivai 26. From US$36.
Hotel Grand Malino, Jl. Panorama. From US$25.
Hotel Cindua Mato, Jl. Cindur Mato 96 (across the street from the Zoo), ☎ +62 752 21346 (fax: +62 752 22808). Around 10 rooms. No hot water. Rp65,000.
Hotel Orchid, Jl Teuku Umar, doubles from RP75,000 (2008), clean and bright in a quiet street, near the mosque.
Hotel Asean, Jl Teuku Umar, singles from RP60,000.
d'enam Hotel, Jl Yos Sudarso No. 4, double with toilet RP50,000, toilet outside RP40,000, dorm RP30,000 (prices 2008); located on top of a hill close to the mosque and the clocktower, friendly and helpful staff, telp. (0752) 32240.
Hotel Tigo Balai, Jl A. Yamin. smallish rooms but reasonably clean and nice staff. RP30,000.
Hotel Munri, Jl A. Yamin (north end). Quite pretty well-lit rooms, nice clean building. Rooms with two beds: Rp40,000

Source: www.wikitravel.org
Image Source: National Geographic

BERASTAGI - NORTH SUMATRA

noreply@blogger.com (The Guide) — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 00:10:00 +0000

HOW TO REACH BERASTAGI

It is recommended that you know someone with a car in Medan, the closest biggest city in North Sumatra with an airport, because public transport to Brastagi is quite bad, often people squeeze inside a bus and some even sit on top of the roof of the bus. You could get a taxi straight there from the airport (many touts will approach you)with normal price 350000 rp/person. Use your negotiation skill to get the price down to 250000 rp/person. You can also go to Pinang Baris bus station in Medan 10k west of city centre or to Simpang Kuala where you can get a local bus for around 25000 Rp/person (Jul 07). From Polonia airport to Pinang Baris or Simpang Kuala, you can use local minivan 'Sudaco'(rarely)for a 2000-3000 rp. If you don't have enough time to wait for the 'Sudaco', you can use 'Becak Mesin' which is available just outside the airport to go to Pringgan. Pringgan is the easiest place to get 'Sudaco' to Pinang Baris, Simpang Kuala or any other places in Medan. The common price for 'Becak Mesin' from airport to Pringgan is 10000 rp/trip. Bus to Berastagi takes about 2 hours. The common bus names are Borneo, Sutra, and Sinabung Jaya. The fare is 10000 rp/person (September 2008). There are busses und both directions all around the clock. (After 9pm only the minivan-Style busses).

WHAT TO SEE AND DO IN BERASTAGI

Sibayak, Sinabung mountains, Sipiso-piso Falls, Traditional Karonese House at Lingga Village, Lake Toba (Tongging).

A climb of Gunung Sibayak is a must. A guide is not required and would probably take away from the experience. Catch a bus to the bus terminal at the bottom of the mountain. If short on time you could get dropped off up higher as the lower part is road and not as scenic. Ask your hotel which bus (some leave from the flower market). The walk starts off by ascending sharply and really doesn't stop climbing until you reach the 2000m summit. It is a tough walk and water and snacks are a must, but those with a basic level of fitness should be able to complete this with rests along the way. Three hours from start to summit. The road is paved the entire way up and it is impossible to get lost on the way up.

The crater of Gunung Sibayak is filled with rocks that tourists have inevitably made into all sorts of shapes and words. From here, a good way to descend the mountain is to head off over the far side of the crater (3 o clock) down some very slippery surfaces. Beware though, there are some who have ended up getting seriously lost. In particular, avoid the trail that heads behind the antenna hill; you want to be heading down the opposite direction. Be extra cautious in foggy weather. Alternatively walk back the same way you came and about 45 minutes from the summit a road veers off to the right. This will bring you to Semangat Gunung, the hot springs village. From here, transport back to Berastagi is as easy as jumping on the first bus seen, last one around 6pm. Watching the sun set over the volcano you just climbed from the roof of the bus is magic.

You can also go to Gunung Sinabung, the easiest way is to take a minibus to Danau Kawar (a lake at the foot of the volcano) and then hike up (you should ask for directions as the beginning is not obvious). After the initial pass through the farms the path is impossible to miss (although the usual stories about lost/dead tourists exist and are listed at the tourist information office in BerAstagi), so no guide should be necessary. Good views from the top and excellent walk through the jungle (the walk up to Sibayak is not quite so pleasant).

WHERE TO STAY AT BERASTAGI

Hotel Sibayak (Wisma Sibayak) is located on the Southern end of the main street near a giant cabbage sculpture and is quite suitably located. There are two classes of rooms and even the premium rooms are very basic. Toilets are operated by bucket and shower is using the same bucket. As the altitude of Berastagi is approximately 1300m, it can sometimes be very uncomfortable to shower with the cold water. The staff will be happy to boil a bucket of water for you for about Rp.5000. Deluxe rooms Rp.50000. This hotel option will be suitable for all but the most fussy traveller.

CitiHoliday Stoomvaart, Hotel by CitiInn Group (www.citi-hotel.com) is located at the historic site of Djakarta Lloyd resort house, dated from 1922. An old dutch colonial resort. It is nestled on top of a small hill. Nice view and breezy. Located next to old Bukit Kubu park. The hotel is excellent for budget traveller. Room rate is only Rp 200,000 (about 22 USD) per night for weekends & holidays. More discount for weekdays, though the place is deserted so the restaurant is closed then. In the weekend the opposite, lots of people and very noisy.

Source: www.wikitravel.org

KERINCI SEBLAT NATIONAL PARK - JAMBI

noreply@blogger.com (The Guide) — Tue, 03 Mar 2009 00:41:00 +0000

One of the largest National Parks in Indonesia, the park protects a large area of forest ranging from mountains to lower elevation forests. However as throughout the archipelago much illegal logging and hunting continues within the park's borders.

The park is dominated by the Barisan mountains, including Mount Kerinci, at 3805m the highest mountain in Sumatra. The mountain is volcanic with a jungle terrain.

As of 2007, visitors are allowed to climb Mount Kerinci from the village of Kersik Tuo, but are not allowed to go further than 1km from the crater due to black smog seen.

Kerinici is most famous amongst bird-watchers as the best place to see most of Sumatran endemic bird species including the Schneiders Pitta and Sumatran Cochoa, both considered extinct for much of the 20th century.

HOW TO REACH KERINCI SEBLAT NATIONAL PARK

Most visitors arrive from Padang's Minangkabau International Airport. You may want to call your hotel or homestay in advance to arrange for personal transport (you can hire a car, van, or bus) for your trip, as it is a 6 hour drive away from the town.

It is also possible to take public transport, although the ride may be uncomfortable as public buses may not have space if you are carrying a bulky backpack or luggage.

You should prepare or bring a photocopy of your passport, which is to be given to the authorities. It is also possible to get a photocopy made at the village of Kersik Tuo. The price for entry as of May, 2008 is 10 to 20,000 Rupiah per person, or about USD 1 or 2.

WHAT TO SEE IN KERINCI SEBLAT NATIONAL PARK

There are tea plantations, which you may tour after getting permission from the locals. You can go sightseeing around the town, but mainly most people prefer to go trekking to see more of the nature reserve.

The park is also popular for trekkers with a number of routes available. Some highly recommended treks include Lake Gunung Tujuh- a crater lake in Mount Tujuh; and the popular trek up to either Camp 2 or 3 of Mount Kerinci. It is also possible to trek to the summit. A trek to the summit usually takes 2 days and 1 night, including the descent, although the more adventurous claim it can be made in a single day, beginning around 5am.

Another beautiful spot in Kerinci Seblat National Park:

- Telun Berasap Waterfall

WHERE TO STAY IN KERINCI SEBLAT NATIONAL PARK

The best places to stay are the village of Kersik Tuo or the town of Sungai Penuh, both reached by public transport from Padang.

Homestay Pak Subandi - Tel: (0748)357009. Pak Subandi can arrange for a guide to bring you up the volcano, or for normal trekking. The address is Jalan Raya Muara Labuh, Sungai Penuh, Desa Kersik Tua.

Camping

It is more advisable to camp with a guide, as there have been rare cases of people who disappeared while attempting to climb Kerinci alone. You can ask your local accommodation to arrange for a guide for you. A highly recommended guide is Pak Ahmad, with around 30 years of experience bringing people up the volcano. He can be contacted through Homestay Pak Subandi.

The homestays also provide equipment rental, and your guide, or porters if you choose to hire any, will bring his own (basic) equipment and tent.

The basic fee for a guide is about 100,000 Rupiah / day.

Source: www.wikitravel.org

KOMODO NATIONAL PARK - KOMODO ISLAND

noreply@blogger.com (The Guide) — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 00:01:00 +0000

Komodo National Park lies in the Wallacea Region of Indonesia, identified by WWF and Conservation International as a global conservation priority area, and is located in the center of the Indonesian archipelago, between the islands of Sumbawa and Flores. 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 more than 1,800 km2. As well as being home to the Komodo Dragon, also known as the Komodo Monitor, or Ora (to Indonesians), the park provides refuge for many other notable terrestrial species. Moreover, the Park includes one of the richest marine environments.

HOW TO REACH KOMODO NATIONAL PARK

The ferry service between the cities of Sape on the eastern tip of Sumbawa and Labuanbajo on Flores drops of passengers on Komodo once or twice every week. There is no port on the island, so passengers are unloaded onto small vessels which ferry's them into the islands only village - note that it's not all departures that has this service, so check beforehand. Bima, a short drive from Sape, has an airstrip with flights to Denpasar.

Travellers coming in from Sape to the west (those travelling overland through Sumbawa and also those arriving at Bima airport) should note that the once-daily ferries from Sape can be suspended indefinitely due to bad weather, so if you want to be sure of your travel arrangements, flying to Labuanbajo is a much safer bet. (If you get stranded at Sape, the best Bima airport will be able to offer is a flight back to Denpasar on Bali.)

WHAT TO SEE IN KOMODO NATIONAL PARK

The main reasons to travel to Komodo National Park are the Komodo Dragons, the superb beaches and the unspoilt corals.

Unless really interested in fauna, traveling to Komodo just for lizard-sightseeing may be too time and money consuming.

HOW TO STAY SAFE IN KOMODO NATIONAL PARK

The Komodo Dragon has a history of attacking humans. Beware of getting too close, and if you are visiting via the park's office (which you should), ask for a guide and stick close to him. Do not wander off or do anything without his consent. Komodos may approach the guest rest area during annual feeding time, but in this time, find a building (which are usually elevated) and stay clear from the railings. Komodos can and will jump to obtain food if necessary. Park rangers are usually present at these events and will deflect any Komodos trying to get in (which they can do).

You may be given a large pole with a split on the end, forming a "Y" shape. This can be used as a walking pole or for moving things on your path - however, if wild animals threaten, it can be used as a last form of defense (despite being hardly useful against komodos). Overall, try keeping a watchful eye and steer clear of any wildlife.

Komodos are extremely dangerous if close enough. They can run faster than humans (and accelerate very quickly), so best not approach if necessary. Jumping into water (as Komodos are often found near the beach too) doesn't help either, as they can swim faster than humans, can dive, and can also swim against strong currents (in fact, sometimes Komodos are found on neighboring islands, suspected of swimming there). Although their saliva is falsely believed to be poisonous, it is laden with harmful bacteria and will require medical treatment (which is usually not immediately possible ), and their jaws can mean instant death. It may also charge at its victims. It's tail is equally deadly and may be swung dangerously, knocking victims off their feet.

Younger Komodos may live in trees. While not as dangerous as their parents, they can still jump off suddenly and cause panic. Snakes, monitor lizards, and other animals are also present and may cause minor problems.

Saltwater Crocodiles are not present on Komodo Island but they may be present on the surrounding islands and in the ocean. Any area with estuaries and river mouths should permit extra caution as, although they are technically not present on Komodo, the islands ARE within the species natural range. It was once believed by Indonesian natives that monitor lizards (including the Komodo dragon) were capable of warning humans of a crocodile's presence.

Source: www.wikitravel.org

GRAJAGAN BEACH (G-LAND) - EAST JAVA

noreply@blogger.com (The Guide) — Thu, 26 Feb 2009 00:20:00 +0000

G-Land is an internationally renowned surfbreak situated on the Bay of Grajagan, East Java, about half a day by road from the popular tourist destinations of Bali.

G-Land was first surfed in 1972 by Bob Laverty and Bill Boyum. Bob saw the break from the window of a flight he was on from Bali. When you see G-Land from this perspective, it is easy to see why Bob put together an expedition to find this amazing wave shortly after sighting it from the plane. Bill Boyum went along for the ride and they traveled from South Bali to G-Land on fat-wheeled Suzuki 80 motorcycles. The surf was great on their first trip. Three days of surfing bliss ended with sun-burnt eyeballs and the discovery of one of the planet's best lefts.

SURFING IN G-LAND

A very long, world-class, barreling left hand reef/point break breaks along the east side of Grajagan Bay. It has long been considered one of the world's best left hand waves. The correct name of the point upon which the main wave breaks is "Plengkung". The wave becomes shallower and more critical the further down the point one rides the wave. It is one of the most consistently rideable waves in the world in season, with offshore winds and often plentiful swell between the months of, roughly, mid April to mid October.

The G-Land surf break has been divided up into several sections. The first, at the top of the point, is called "Kongs", which breaks up to several hundred metres in length, and can hold quite large sizes (from about 2 to 12 feet+, Hawaiian scale). It is not usually a barrel, nor genuinely world-class, but more a series of takeoff zones with some long wall sections, although it can also barrel on occasions. This section picks up a lot of swell, and is rarely less than 3 feet, and can be a saviour when the rest of the point is too small. This wave can sometimes link up with the next section called "Moneytrees". Moneytrees works from about 2 to 10 feet (Hawaiian scale, or about 4 to 20 feet wave faces), usually breaking over several hundred metres, and is a long, testing, barreling, world-class wave. The barrels become more critical the lower the tide and the larger the swell. Moneytrees may also occasionally link up with the next section called "Speedies", with an outside takeoff section between the two called "Launching Pads". "Launching Pads" can catch the surfer offguard, as it can break a significant way out to sea in larger swells. "Speedies" is the heaviest wave at G-Land, but can be a perfect, very round barrel for several hundred metres, rideable from about 2 to 8 feet+ (Hawaiian scale). It usually needs larger swells, and low tide can be very dangerous. Most severe injuries at G-Land have occurred at "Speedies".

It is not common to ride a wave more than about 300-400 metres at G-Land, even though the section of the point where rideable waves break is considerably longer (over 1km long), because the waves usually don't link up with each other.

There are a few other, smaller waves further down and within the bay, which include "Chickens", "20/20", "Tiger Tracks" and a few unnamed others. These waves generally only work on larger swells, but are surprisingly good alternatives when the main point is big. All of these waves can barrel in the right conditions, which generally require higher tides. There is also some right hand waves on the other side of the peninsula at G-Land, but which are fickle, requiring large swells, and no wind or off-season winds.

Another right hand wave is situated about a one hour or more drive, and boat, west of G-Land, which has been featured in Indonesian surf magazines, and dubbed as "Reverse G". It is apparently a quality, long, right hand wave (the 'reverse' of G-Land) but which is very difficult to get to, requiring some boat access, and furthermore only works in off-season winds (about October to April).

HOW TO REACH G-LAND

- By Bus/van from Bali (around 7-8 hours)
- By Speedboat from Bali (around 2 hours and cost around US$ 125 per person)*

*ref.: www.g-land.com

Source: www.wikitravel.org
Image source: www.my-indonesia.info

CARSTENSZ PYRAMID - JAYAWIJAYA MOUNTAIN - PAPUA

noreply@blogger.com (The Guide) — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 00:33:00 +0000

Carstensz Pyramid, called Puncak Jaya by some, and Puncak Jaya Kesuma or only Jaya Kesuma by others, is located to the west of the central highland called Jayawijaya and Sudirman Mountains. It is the tallest mountain in Australia and Oceania. Technically this means that Carstensz Pyramid is the tallest mountain between America and the Himalayas.

Carstensz Pyramid is the highest mountain in Australia and Oceania. It is the eight summit in the Seven summits project (7 summits on 7 tallest mounatins on 7 Continets). Carstensz Pyramid is situated in west Papua (now named Papua province Indonesia). This Indonesian Province was called Irian Jaya till 2005. It lies in New Guinea, which is the world’s second largest island.

Height:

4884 m
(16023 ft)

Coordinates:

S 04°04.733
E 137°09.572

Locality:

New Guinea
west Papua

CLIMATE

The climate of the Carstensz Pyramid, and its nearest surroundings, are quite diverse. During the day the temperature rises from 12°C (53, 6 F), up to 37°C (98, 6°F). At night the temperature near the Base Camp decreases to k –8°C (17, 6°F). The temperature on the summit of the Carstensz Pyramid might decrease even to below –10°C (14°F). Usually it rains for several hours during the day.

HOW TO REACH CARSTENSZ PYRAMID

The first option is a several days long trekking from the north (from Illaga) via the New Zealand Pass, or from a different airport near the Carstensz Pyramid. The second alternative is a flight with a helicopter directly to the camp in Zebra Whal (3800 m, 12467 ft). The trip via Freeport of Indonesia is not possible anymore, because the management of the company refused to issue permits to climbers for passing the mine.

There are several travel agencies in the world, which organize the climbing of the Carstensz pyramid with the support of helicopters. From time to time, one of the individuals tries to organize a trekking expedition.

WHAT TO SEE AROUND CARSTENSZ PYRAMID

Trekking in the Carstensz Pyramid surroundings, is some of the most beautiful in the whole world. To say the truth, we don’t know of a more beautiful place. There are tropical forests, snow covered summits, endless forests of gigantic ferns, jagged walls, alpine massive, pure rivers, sky-blue lakes, and lovely white glaciers.

You can also see:

- Gigantic ferns and Kembalo Plato

- The lake scenery

- The Snow Mountains and the New Zealand Pass

- Carstensz Pyramid (Puncak Jaya) and the Descent to the Lake Valley

CLIMBING PERMITS

For climbing the Carstensz Pyramid, you need many permits from Jakarta, the capital of Indonesia, and several other permits from Jayapura, the capital of Papua province of Indonesia. Getting any of the permits is very tough. It is necessary to get a permit from BAIS – Indonesian secret police (similar to the U.S. FBI or Russian KGB), from the army, from the ministry of foreign affairs, from the ministry of tourism, from federal police, and many more. From similar authorities, it is necessary to get provincial permits in Jayapura. These permits are issued based on permits from Jakarta. Without a permit from Jakarta, you won’t get a permit from Jayapura. On the other hand, authorities in Jayapura are not obliged to issue you a permit even if you already have one from Jakarta.

Source: www.carstenszpapua.com

MOUNT RINJANI - LOMBOK

noreply@blogger.com (The Guide) — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 00:13:00 +0000

At 3,726 m, Rinjani is the second highest volcano in Indonesia, second only to Java's Mount Semeru.
Rinjani is best climbed during the April-November dry season. It's possible to climb during the rainy season as well, but tours are often cancelled at short notice if storms develop.

HOW TO REACH MOUNT RINJANI

Climbing all or part of Rinjani is very popular among visitors to Lombok. Very few attempt independent travel, as all guesthouses and travel agents on the island can arrange trips, including camping equipment, porters, food and other necessary supplies and logistics.

Most visitors arrive via the village of Senaru (600m), on the northern side of the mountain and thus closer to the main resort area of Senggigi. The other possible entry point is Sembalun Lawang (1150m), on the eastern side, which is closer to the summit.

Entry to the park costs Rp. 150,000 per person.

WHAT TO SEE IN MOUNT RINJANI

Segara Anak Lake, in the crater
Aik Kalak hot springs, at the crater rim

Within the park the only way to get around is to hike. Porters can be arranged to carry your supplies.

Most visitors only opt for the hike to the lower crater rim (~2600m), about 7 hours one way from Senaru, which can be done fairly comfortably overnight. Going down from the crater rim to the lake (~2000 m) will generally require spending two nights, while going up to the summit will require at least two nights. Many operators offer three or four night hikes covering the lot.

WHERE TO STAY AT MOUNT RINJANI

There is no lodging in the park itself, but some simple hotels can be found in Senaru.

Pondok Indah Hotel
Pondok Senaru
Rinjani Trekking Lodges

Camping is possible at designated rest shelter areas along the trail and on the crater rim.

Source: www.wikitravel.org

MOUNT SEMERU - EAST JAVA

noreply@blogger.com (The Guide) — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 00:43:00 +0000

Also referred to as Mahameru ("Great Mountain"), Mt. Semeru is a stratovolcano in the Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park, in the province of East Java. Semeru is one of Indonesia's most active volcanoes. What stands out most about this mountain is the fact that it erupts periodically (and very reliably so). Every 20 minutes or so, the volcano belches out a huge cloud of steam and smoke, sometimes interspersed with ash and stones. The scenery on the way is beautiful (the erupting volcano, the mountain savannah, the lake), and the views from the top are spectacular. You see the vast Sandsea caldera with other volcanoes, among them Bromo and Batok, and the sea. Semeru is a must for all mountaineers, hikers and nature lovers who happen to be in Indonesia. If you are flying from Denpasar to Surabaya, you can see Semeru, and you may see a horizontal chain of clouds stretching away from the peak. These clouds all have the same distance to each other due to the volcano's periodic activity. Many people climb this mountain, tourists and Indonesians alike.

HOW TO REACH SEMERU

Most visitors will arrive via Indonesia's major gateway airports Denpasar (Bali) or Jakarta. The closest domestic airport is inSurabaya, about 3 hours' drive away. Now there are flights from Jakarta to Malang.

The starting point of the hike is the village of Ranupane. You can get there either via Malang and Tumpang or via Pasuruan/Probolinggo, Sukapura, Ngadisari, and Cemoro Lawang (see Mount Bromo for details on these).

You can take a microbus from Malang to Tumpang, and then a 4WD vehicle from Tumpang to Ranupane. But the latter of the above-mentioned routes is the more interesting because it leads across the 9-km-wide Sand Sea caldera and passes Bromo, a post-caldera cinder cone. A dirt road leads across the flat bottom of the caldera, up to Jemplang on its southern rim, and on to Ranupane. You have take a 4WD vehicle (unless you prefer to walk).

Source: www.wikitravel.org

LAKE TOBA - NORTH SUMATRA

noreply@blogger.com (The Guide) — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 03:19:00 +0000

Lake Toba is an immense volcanic lake covering area 1707 sq km (bigger than Singapore) with an island in the center. Formed by a gigantic volcanic eruption some 70,000 years ago, it is probably the largest resurgent caldera on Earth. Some studies say it might have been associated with causing previous ice age/climate change.

The island in the middle - Pulau Samosir - was joined to the caldera wall by a narrow isthmus, which was cut through to enable boats to pass; a road bridge crosses the cutting. You get a ferry from Parapat to Pulau Samosir Island, they run every 1-2 hours, the last one at 6:00 pm (Rp 7000). Self proclaimed 'Tourist Hunters' may befriend you on the boat but are harmless and often helpful to find things, arrangements etc (Bintang can fix you up with anything). Tuk Tuk is the main town to stay on Samosir.

HOW TO GET TO LAKE TOBA

The main town is Parapat, about 4 hours by car from Medan (4-6 hours by public bus). Public Bus fee is 22,000 IDR. A scheduled and shared 7 passenger minivan costs 60,000 IDR and can be arranged by most hotels in Medan (Feb 08).

In reality you need to plan an 8 to 10 hour journey from Medan to Samosir Island, which is where the real tourism is. Parapat is a nice little town with reasonable hotels/guest houses, good food options and so on. However its on the island itself that you get the real feeling of Danau Toba. The car ferry terminal is almost impossible to find, even with local help, or perhaps because of it. The ferry leaves according to a schedule that is hammered to the ticket office wall, or whenever the ferry is full, or whenever the ferry captain feels like leaving! Dont bother asking the staff any questions, if they do bother to reply it will be wrong anyway. Stay close to you car, and push on at first opportunity.

The ferry ride over is fantastic, just truly peaceful, apart from the car radios playing, the ladies selling peanuts, aqua, mee or pretty much anything else. Some spoke excellent English which was a little surprising. Landing at the other end of the one hour ferry journey is daunting, but again, behave like everyone else in Indonesia and just push, ever so politely, but firmly and eventually you will get off the ferry and onto the main road.

The road signs are pretty much useless, as is asking the locals for directions, why is it so hard? Anyway if you are going to Tuk Tuk keep going, even though it may seem to be taking forever and you have been stuck in the Kijang for 8 hours with 10 other people, but you will get there and the hosts will be wonderful.

Do not, I repeat, do not try to drive out of Samosir Island by going up and over the top to the land bridge. The road is very bad and even my Indonesian relatives eventually gave up, took my advice and turned around (perilously) and headed back to the ferry.

Raja Taxi +62 (0)617 366-555 operates a shared cab service leaving from Medan airport at scheduled times that costs 75,000 IDR per person (Dec 08). Alternatively, you can book the whole taxi, a Toyota Avanza which seats seven, for 450,000 IDR.

Another great way to get to Lake Toba is by train. Two or three trains leave each day in that direction and you want to get off either at PT Siantar or Tebing Tinggi (note: the train stops at one or the other). The train is a wonderful way to travel. Once you are in your seat and have a stream of buskers, food vendors and friendly local passing by you will know why this is often the best way to travel overland. From Siantar (1 hour Taxi) or T Tinggi (2 hour Taxi) you will need to hire a taxi or a bus for road transport to Parapat.

WHAT TO SEE IN LAKE TOBA

There are hot springs on the western side of the island just across the causeway from Pangururan. The water is hot. Locals usually use their hands to get some water out of the pool, standing in the pool is possible, but you probably won't be able to swim. The fee to enter to the surroundings is Rp. 2'000. The pools are free, there's some special foreigner pool for Rp 5'000.

Samosir - Many Big Statues as Cemeteries for Batak people ancestors
Samosir, Simanindo - Batak Museum with traditional dance performed twice daily
Samosir, Ambarita - Stone chairs used for judgement and executions
Just on the other side of Samosir, near Pangururan are hot springs
From Tuk tuk you can see a waterfall up the mountain behind you. It's a great walk with a rewarding fresh swim!

WHERE TO STAY

Tabo Cottages is the most luxurious accommodation on the island. Prices start at around Rp.120,000 per night and climb up from there. The rooms are very clean and quite modern by Sumateran standards. Internet is available from the family's computer for a nominal rate and the western-styled food served in the restaurant is very good.
There are numerous hotels and guest houses, mainly in Tuk tuk but with a few scattered in other small towns around the island.
Hotel Carolina is a nice place with 49 rooms set in a lush tropical garden. It has a good restaurant with a verandah overlooking the lake. Staff is very helpful. Prices start with a bargain of Rp.20.000 for small Batak style cottages up the hill with cold water only and go up to Rp.100.000 for the luxury rooms on the lake shore which come with hot water, a bath tub and a fridge. Rates subject to a 10% tax. Good access to the lake for swimming with a pontoon to relax. The Hotel can organise trips, rents out motorbikes, has an internet parlour and even offers free WiFi, though the speed can be very slow. carolina@indosat.co.in, phone 0625 451210/41520. Ask the ferry boat from Parapat to drop you at the hotel jetty.
Liberta Homestay is a good budget choice for 35000Rp/night+. It has quiet private cabins on the lake. Friendly owner Mr Moon will sing, cook, and go out of his way for you.
Bagus Bay is a lovely place next to the lake. A dark wood and bamboo bar/restaurant give the place a particularly relaxed feel. The rooms are basic and range between 25000 and 50000 rupiah. Good food and cold beer at a reasonable price.
Samosir Cottages accommodates many of the travellers who arrive late in Parapat, as there is usually a representative to ship them to the cottages. This is not a bad thing, however - the place is large, with a big variety in the price of rooms (Rp 30,000 and upwards). The waterfront is clean, and the restaurant is large and serves good food.
Christina Guesthouse is a small relaxing place with lovely scenery and good swimming. Rooms are clean and located in several houses (e.g. traditional Batak-houses). Prices per night from Rp. 25000 upwards. Internet & Skype are available for reasonable price. Western- and Indonesian style food is served in the restaurant. Guesthouse manager Juan gives gladly general tourist information and good tips about Sumatra.
Romlan is a small guesthouse with about 15 rooms and includes two batak cottages (40,000 per night) and traditional rooms in a single and two storey building (about 60,000 per night). The rooms are super clean and very comfortable with attached bathroom and nice furniture. All rooms have direct lake view and the swimming area is good for swimming and relaxing. Also great local and indonesian food including some german meals. Highly recommended. Ask the boat to stop at the private dock.
Mas Cottages. Mas Cottages is closer to the ancient ceremonial stone chairs than downtown Tuk-Tuk. It is a quiet sanctuary from the rest of the world with a variety of accomodation options all directly on the lake including VIP suites and traditional Batak houses. Safety and security are unparalled at Mas Cottages. Prices are a bit higher for this secluded location at 60-70,000 rps.

Source: www.wikitravel.org

MOUNT BROMO - EAST JAVA

noreply@blogger.com (The Guide) — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 03:58:00 +0000

Bromo isn't the highest mountain in Java — that honor goes to nearby Mount Semeru at 3,676m — but it's probably the most famous one. Bromo is in fact only one of many peaks inside the massive Tengger Caldera, but it's easily recognized as the entire top has been blown off and the crater inside constantly belches white sulphurous smoke. The inside of the caldera, aptly dubbed the Laut Pasir (Sea of Sand) is coated with fine volcanic sand and the overall effect is unsettlingly unearthly, especially when compared to the lush green valleys all around the caldera.

The major access point is Cemoro Lawang at the northeast edge, but there are also trails from Tosari (northwest) and Ngadas (west). The village of Ngadisari, on the road from Probolinggo about 5.5 km before Cemoro Lawang, marks the entrance to the national park. Both Cemoro Lawang and Ngadisari are rather picturesque, with brightly-painted houses and flower beds outside.

HOW TO REACH MOUNT BROMO

By plane

The nearest major airport is in Surabaya, three to four hours away by car (and more by bus).

By bus

The nearest larger town is Probolinggo, on the north coast of Java. It's about one hour from Probolinggo to Ngadisari and another half hour all the way to Cemoro Lawang, and it's (just) possible to visit on a day trip, although most visitors prefer to climb overnight and see the sunrise.

To go there, take a 'Damri' shuttle bus from the Juanda International Airport in Surabaya, to go to the Bungurasih bus terminal(terminal Purabaya). Then, take an express Patas air-conditioned bus for a 2-3 hours ride from Surabaya to Probolinggo.

WHAT TO SEE IN MOUNT BROMO

When timing any activities in the area, bear in mind that sunset is soon after 5 PM and sunrise is correspondingly early at around 5:30 AM. This means you'll usually need to get up by 3:30 AM or so to get there in time for dawn.

Mount Batok (2440m) is a brown volcanic cone at the north center of the caldera. Unlike the other nearby peaks it is no longer active and actually has some vegetation growing on it, mostly the local cemara tree that somehow manages to survive even on volcanic ash.

Mount Bromo, edges tinged with white sulphur and always bubbling, is the main sight. To reach it on foot, pick the left fork at Cemoro Lawang's solitary crossing, then head down the ramp into the caldera and then across the caldera to the Hindu temple at the foot of the mountain. From the temple a steep path of 250 steps leads to the edge of the crater and a precarious meter-wide ledge from where to gaze into the volcano. Beware of local jeep-hirers, who often try to persuade tourists the journey to the mountain is not walking distance (in order to hire them jeeps, or horses). The walk from the tourist centre to the top of the mountain should take no longer than 1.5 hours by foot, and is about 3km.

Mount Penanjakan (2770m), located just north of the caldera, is a mountaintop viewpoint accessible by paved road from Tosari and hence popular with jeeps and even tour buses. Most of the crowd comes to see the dawn at 5 AM, and you'll likely have the large concrete observation post to yourself if you arrive later in the day.

Viewpoint #2, along the trail from Cemoro Lawang to Mt. Penanjakan, is an excellent way to get a stunning view of the caldera (see pictures above) without the crowds. To reach it, head west from Cemoro Lawang (past Cemero Indah) for 6 km, past farms and fields. The paved road eventually turns into a twisty mountain trail that ends with a flight of stairs on the right, and the viewpoint (with concrete shelter) is at the top. Allow 1.5 hours for the climb up at a steady pace, and bring along a torch if attempting this at night.
- From here, you can continue onto Mt. Penanjakan by following the trail upward, after which the trail merges onto the paved road to the viewpoint (total time about 60 minutes one way). If planning to return the same way, mark the spot where the trail emerges onto the road (if you pass a stone lantern on the way down, you've gone too far!), and note that descending on this section can get slippery due to loose sand and rocks.

WHERE TO STAY

There are plenty of accommodation options around the mountain. Facilities at Cemoro Lawang side of the caldera are rather basic, but there are good hotels in Sukapura and Probolinggo

Java Banana Bromo, Wonotoro, tel. +62-335-541193. A cozy boutique hotel with the beautiful landscape of Bromo. It's a lodge, cafe, and gallery. Room rates start from IDR 650,000 (Jan 2009).
Bromo Cottages, Tosari, tel. +62-31-515253. Despite the name, it's actually an upmarket hotel. Net rates from US$47 for a double.
Cemoro Indah, Cemoro Lawang +62-335-541019. It has a nice view of Mount Bromo and provide hot water. You can sit down in its restaurant and view the Mount Bromo directly. An ecomomy room is 75,000rp.
Lava View Lodge, Cemoro Lawang, tel. +62-335-541009. The most upmarket option in Cemoro Lawang, located at the caldera edge some 500m west of the village and price is more up then other hotel
Yoschi's, Ngadisari, tel. +62-335-541018. Cozy guesthouse done up to look like a Balinese temple. Note that the cheapest rooms here don't have hot water.
Cafe Lava, Cemoro Lawang. This is the best budget option at 120,000 for an economy room.

Source: www.wikitravel.org

SENGGIGI BEACH - LOMBOK

noreply@blogger.com (The Guide) — Wed, 18 Feb 2009 02:47:00 +0000

Senggigi is the main tourist strip of Lombok, stretched out along nearly 10 kilometers of beachfront just to the north of the capital Mataram.

Senggigi can be broadly divided into three parts: northern Mangsit Beach, central Senggigi and the southern stretch near Batu Bolong, with headlands separating the three. Mangsit has quiet resorts and very little other development, while nightlife and other restaurants are concentrated in Senggigi and the Batu Bolong area.

That said, Lombok's post-2000 misfortunes hit Senggigi hard, with many developments halted and a businesses closed and boarded up. Things are starting to improve again, with a few new villas going up, shops re-opening and attracting more tourist who seek the solitude and unspoiled scenery of Lombok. Senggigi is the place to find hotels/resorts with manicured grounds and swimming pools - often a short distance from the beach. Senggigi is not a typical tourist resort town where a day can be spent shopping and socializing at the local bars and restaurants (such as found in Bali). Most visitors use Senggigi as a home base and take day trips to the waterfalls, the Gili Islands, or just exploring the still authentic villages, temples, and jungle habitat found within a couple hours drive.

HOW TO GET TO SENGGIGI

Senggigi is about 15-20 minutes north of Mataram and its airport. Taxis charge around Rp 30,000 for the trip, while bemos will cover the distance for under Rp 5,000.

If you are frugal or intrepid and take the slow ferry from Bali, it's best to arrange transport in advance from the ferry dock to Senggigi, since the dock on the Lombok side is in a remote spot several kilometers south of Mataram. Travel agents on Bali offer transport from any point in southern Bali to Seggigi, including the ferry ticket, for about Rp 140,000.

WHAT TO SEE IN SENGGIGI

Pura Batu Bolong, 2 km south of Senggigi. Small Hindu temple located in a scenic spot at a cape overlooking Senggigi beach, named after a rock (batu) with a hole (bolong). At the tip is an empty chair representing Brahma, the god of creation. Free entry, but you'll have to loan a sash (Rp5,000 a throw) from one of the urchins if you don't have one already. Sunsets seen from here can be very impressive.
Senggigi Beach. A spit of sand stretching out from central Senggigi, this is Senggigi's raison d'etre but, by Indonesian standards, it's not all that spectacular. The beach is a little dirty, the hawkers are a nuisance and the Senggigi Beach Resort has grabbed most of the land. Some local surfers brave the smallish waves.

Senggigi is a popular launch point for other activities on Lombok. Without the hassle of Mataram, you can visit several other locations and come back to the same hotel each night. Tour operators can arrange these trips for you at around Rp. 300,000 for the day for a private car and driver or cheaper if you go with a group.

Popular excursions that can be done in a day trip include:

Village visits, including weaving villages and other handicraft-producers
Waterfall visits

Source: www.wikitravel.org

UJUNG KULON NATIONAL PARK - BANTEN

noreply@blogger.com (The Guide) — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 10:52:00 +0000

The national park is located in the extreme south-western tip of Java on the Sunda shelf, includes the Ujung Kulon peninsula and several offshore islands and encompasses the natural reserve of Krakatoa. It is Indonesia's first national park and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992 for containing the largest remaining lowland rain forest in Java. In addition to its natural beauty and geological interest – particularly for the study of inland volcanoes – it contains the largest remaining area of lowland rain forests in the Java plain. The mainland part of Ujung Kulon was formerly farmland until it was devastated and depopulated by the 1883 eruption of Krakatoa after which it returned to its original forested state.

The most precious of all the animals in the parks is the Java one-horned rhinoceros, the rarest large animal on earth. It is also one of only two homes of the critically endangered Javan Rhinoceros. A population of fifty to sixty live in Ujung Kulon, a smaller population of possibly 10 or less, live in Cat Tien National Park, Vietnam.

Once found across much of south east Asia, the first accounts of the Java rhino date back to China’s T’ang dynasty (A.D. 618-906) when Java was noted as a source for rhino horns. In Java during the 1700’s rhinos were so numerous and damaging to the agricultural plantations that the government paid a bounty for every rhino killed, bagging five hundred within two years.

Ujung Kulon’s rhino population is now estimated at around fifty individuals and they were believed to be the last remaining Javan rhino in the world until a small population was recently discovered in Vietnam. However, these are so few in numbers that their viability is unlikely and so Ujung Kulon remains the last home of this magnificent pachyderm. In appearance the Javan rhino is closest to the Indian rhino, both having a single-horn and skin folds or plates but there are distinct differences between their neck plates and skin textures.

The Javan rhino also has a long prehensile upper lip which extends below the lower allowing it to grasp foliage. The body shape of the Javan rhino is designed to push aside the undergrowth and only the male Javan rhino has a prominent horn while the female has a lump similar to a halved coconut. Earlier this cenntury Javan rhinos were measures as being over 170 cm. At the shoulders, more than 3 metres in length and 2,200 kg. In body weight but a recent photographic survey indicates that the largest rhino in Ujung Kulon may be around 150 cm. in height. Rhinos range over a maximum distance of 15 to 20 kilometres a day in the densely forested lowlands of the Ujung Kulon Peninsula and to the east of its isthmus.

They are most mobile at nights, like wallowing in mud pools and sometimes venture onto beaches and grazing grounds. Although actual sightings of rhinos are rare, their prrints and droppings are often found on the trails, sometimes unnervingly fresh. Javan rhinos are believed to be capable of running as fast as a person and so advice to visitors, should they happen to come across one, is to climb the nearest tree and take a photo - in that order.

HOW TO GET TO UJUNG KULON

The easiest way to get in is by purchase a tour from a resort in Anyer. The price will be around Rupiah 1.5 million - 3.0 million depend on the length of stay. As like many other places in the world, the price will go down if the number of the people join the tour increase. It will take around 3-4 hours from Anyer to Peucang Island where all the accommodation and also national park office concentrate here.

The cheapest way to get here is by public transport. The journey can start from Kalideres bus station in the West Jakarta. The bus is a green color bus with direction to Labuan. The cost is around Rp 25000 one way. It takes 3 hours to arrive in Labuan from Kalideres bus station. From Labuan, the journey will continue to Sumur or directly to Taman Jaya the last point before Ujung Kulon National Park. In Labuan, a lot of touts telling you there is no bus to Sumur or Taman Jaya. They offer ojek (motorcyle transport) for the transport and off course more expensive than the bus. There are buses to Sumur every hour, but only one bus go directly to Taman Jaya every day. The bus to Taman Jaya leaves at noon around 12.00 AM, so it is better to leave Kalideres in the morning around 7.00 or 8.00 AM. The bus to Taman Jaya is not parking in the bus station. It usually park outside the bus station around 20 meters on the left side of the bus station. The bus will leave after full with the passengers. The bus fee to Sumur is Rupiah 25000 (USD 2.8) and to Taman Jaya Rp 40000 (USD 4.5). It will not easy drive. Most the road along 98 km is in bad condition. The journey to Sumur takes 3 hours and to Taman Jaya 4 hours. If you cannot manage go to Taman jaya, the trips suppose to be continued by Ojek from Sumur. The cost will around Rp 30000-40000 (USD 3.5-4.5) depend on negotiation.

Actually, there are also options to get a tour in Sumur and Labuan, but most of the local budget traveler will be heading to Taman Jaya to get the cheapest option to travel to the Ujung Kulon National Park. In Taman Jaya, there is a famous local people even in Sumur and Labuan named Pak Komar. He organizes transport (boat) and trip to Ujung Kulon. The price for the boat is Rp 1000,000 (USD 105) for one way. It is better to organize a trip here. Take a trip for 3-4 days with boat in Ujung Kulon. If you are lucky to have more than 10 persons,the price will not higher than Rupiah 1000,000 (USD 105) for 3-4 days trip. The price will include guide, food (local offcourse), park entry fee, accommodation in Peucang Island and boat. There is also organized jungle trekking from Taman Jaya to Ujung Kulon for 4 days to 1 week. All the price are negotiable and cheaper.

WHAT TO DO IN UJUNG KULON

Canoeing. Canoeing at Cigenter River where usually one horn Jave Rhino seen is an interesting experience, but the rhino is hardly to see. The rhino is easier to see on dry season from April to October. You can see also some snakes hanging on the tree and swamp crocodile. You will be guided by the ranger on your canoeing journey. It takes around 45 to 1 hour exploring the river by canoe.
Snorkeling and Diving. There are some spots for the snorkeling and diving but don't expect much because most of the reef is damage.
Jungle Trekking. If you want to have jungle trekking, it is better to arrange it from Taman Jaya. Pak Komar, the owner of Sunda Guesthouse can arrange it for you depend on how long you will explore the jungle. The jungle trekking will start from Taman jaya and end up at Peucang Island (crossing by boat from mainland to Peucang Island. The price includes the guide and food.

Source: www.wikitravel.org