The Komodo Islands: Diving & Visit the Dragon

The islands of the Komodo Dragon: Rinca & Komodo Islands are part of the complex of 175 islands (about 90% unhabitant), situated 200 nautical miles east of Bali, between the islands of Flores and Sumbawa. Both above and below the sea Komodo represents a unique range of geological and biological diversity. On shore it is an amazing museum diorama of the Mesozoic era dry tundra and reptilian supremacy. Komodo's symbol of international fame its dragons, the world's largest living lizard.

In the sea it's vibrant color and exotic life will enchant divers and snorkelers alike as endless schools of fish ride the waterways rushing up from deep sea vents, below them the seabed is covered with a thick carpet of florescent corals and marine invertebrates, an underwater photographers paradise.

The waters that surround the island are turbulent and teeming with unparalled marine life. A marine reserve has recently been established and this reserve is largely undocumented and remains unexplored. Komodo National Park was established in 1980. It was declared as a Man and Biosphere Reserve and a World Heritage Site in 1986. KNP includes three major islands - Komodo, Rinca and Padar and numerous smaller islands together totaling 41,000 ha of land contains 132,000 ha of marine waters.

The corals in Komodo National park are pristine, with Mantas, sharks, turtles, dolphins, dugong, many pelagics, to the tiny pygmy seahorses, nudibranchs, frog fish, you name it we've got it. The sites vary from gentle easy coral slopes to heart pounding adrenalin rides, from the warm waters of the Flores Sea in the north to the chillier waters down south in the Indian Ocean, the underwater terrain is so varied with sheer cliff walls, pinnacles, sandy flat bottoms, underwater plateaus, slopes, caves, swim-throughs, channels, all with varying colours, sizes and types of coral both hard and soft.

DIVE SITES:

Bidadari Island

Angel Steps, huge towers of stone, encrusted with hard and soft corals, covered in nudibranchs, small caves and overhangs make this a very interesting and beautiful site, Dusky sharks, humphead parrot fish are among the bigger creatures we see here. Cathedral Coral, a gentle slope covered with table corals of every colour and schooling fish, a towering spire of coral with a small cave at it's base is the home to some huge lobsters.

Sabolon

*Sabolon kecil a slope on the east side of this tiny island, with two underwater mounds at the southern end with fields of garden eels and sea pens, schools of round bat fish are often seen coming quite close for some nice photography.

*Sabolon Besar steep slopes off the southern and western sides of the bigger island, fabulous coral coverage and a good chance of spotting Scorpion leaf fish.

*Sebayur kecil walls and slopes of every kind of coral you can imagine, wide variety of marine life to be seen at this site, mantas often seen.

*Tatawa Besar slope with soft coral garden changing to hard coral along the slope, lots of shoaling fish, rainbow runners, fuseliers and often turtles and black tip sharks.

*Tatawa Kecil (current city) as the name implies, this site is washed by very strong currents, which is why this site is among the many world class sites in the Komodo National Park, schools of pelagic fish patrol the waters, best dived at slack tide.

Batu Bolong
A little further west from current city a small rock outcrop with a hole through it is the surface mark of another world class site, only to be dived at slack tide or with a current not long from stopping or starting to run, these giant slabs of rock which disappear into the depths are an amazing sight to see, covered with every form of marine life and patrolled by giant trevally, Napoleon Wrasse, sharks and turtles with schools of barracuda sweeping in to check out the divers.

Diving the Komodo National Park provides some fantastic conditions:

*WATER TEMPERATURE: 20 - 28 Degrees Celsius (68-85 F) , cooler water is experienced on the southern sites. Full 3mm wetsuit & hood is recommended. More active people will prefer a sports suit in northern sites.

*VISIBILITY: 10 - 50M year round. Traditionally clearer water on northern sites.CURRENT: Komodo experiences a strong tidal flow. Not all sites are affected by current. Drift diving is excellent, however during spring tides some sites are impossible to dive. Particular attention is placed on diving the correct sites at the most suitable time to ensure optimum conditions, in accordance with the preferences of the group.

*NIGHT DIVING: The night diving in Komodo is breathtaking. The sheer beauty, color and diversity of life makes it a must see for all divers.

*WALLS: There are numerous walls to choose from. Both drift and static wall dives are offered.

*CANYONS: Huge chasms drop thousands of meters, fringed by extraordinary coral gardens.

*CRITTERS: Found in all locations, however we do offer special sites for encountering unusual marine species.

*OTHERS: Seamounts, fringing reefs, gutters, muck, and sandy locations are also found in the archipelago.


Getting There
By daily flights from: Bali - Labuan Bajo/Komodo Airport - Bali (each 1.5 hours)

Where To Stay
You can contact the above tour operators for more information. You can also plan to stay in Bali, and spend a whole day for visiting Komodo Island.


Moving Around
On foot. If you join a tour, the tour will see to everything? including the transportation.

Dining Guide
Traditional restaurants and small cafes.

Souvenir Tips
Wooden carving resembling komodo and other animals.

Other Things to See or Do

*Fishing

*Snorkeling in Komodo has one of the world's most famous snorkel sites (Pink Beach)

*Dragon walks

*Nature walks

*Hiking

*Beach-combing.


Travel Tips

*Guide Book : Diving Indonesia (a guide to the world's greatest diving), Periplus Action Guide, Kal Muller.

* More Information about Diving in Komodo Islands you can contact: Adventure Indonesia, Jakarta Office-Wisma 31 Kemang, 3rd Floor, Jl Raya Kemang 31, Jakarta 12730. Phone: 62-21-7182250, 7182256, Fax: 62-21-7180438.

Berastagi

Berastagi, a tourist town, is another lovely town located in Karo highlands. The town is known for its plantations and various kinds of flowers, vegetables and fruit, most famous which is Marquisa passion fruit. It's 66 km southwest of Medan and is 4.594 feet above sea level. There is a pleasant colonial-style hotel with a golf course. Other new hotels can also be found. From Gundaling Hill a clear view of Mt. Sibayak and Mt. Sinabung volcanoes can be seen.

From this city, the visitors will enjoy charming scenery to the active mountainside, which are Sibayak Mountain and Sinabung Mountain. To climb Sibayak Mountain require at least 3 hours trip and we could enjoy pretty scenery in these mountains or 3 to 4 hours trip in the forest to see the nature wealth inside, for both the flora and the fauna around this forest.
The atmosphere of green nature from the reflection of the trees from the slope of Rangkap Sibayak Mountain (well known as Sibayak mountain) made the Berastagi city had flooded by tourists. The hill line along with the agricultural field, are always ready to refresh its visitor's eyes. Berastagi which rich with agro-industries became the appropriate choice for recreation spot other than Toba Lake and Samosir Island, which has become a trademark of North Sumatra.

Berastagi has the strategic location to become the stopping place, not just because several tourist attractions are easy to be accessed from here, but also the hotels are well provided. Hotels can be easily found with varying price, by offering the design typical to the locals. However the visitor still have the choice to choose the hotels and villas that historically were the legacy of colonial period.

Sibayak and Sinabung Mountain.
Berastagi to Sibayak Mountain distance are only 7 Km, this is why the hikers choose this City, as the closest alternative to reach the mountain peak (2.094 meters from sea level). With the currently available infrastructure, the vehicles could reach close to the mountain peak that was known with its beauty nature. On the Peak of Sibayak Mountain, we could see a sulfuric crater lake with wide around 200 x 200 meters, with temperature 119.6 Celsius and the temperature of surrounding air is 21 Celsius. The other scenery of Sibayak mountain peak is Sinabung mountain peak (2.451 meters from sea level), located in the west.

Lau Debuk-Debuk
Not just that, near Berastagi, on the side of Sibayak mountain peak we could find Lau Debuk-Debuk Hot Water Springs. Located in Daulu and Semangat Gunung village, this hot water springs flowed with the temperature of 35 Celsius emerged through the lava cracks in the volcano slope that afterwards was accommodated in the bathing place ponds. The climbers usually use this hot water reservoir to release their fatigue from the trip. Now, there are also an electrical generator (power plant) on the hot spring upstream that had the temperature above 150 ° Celsius. The visitors could see a power plant, which produces electricity from geothermal vapors.

Gundaling Hill
Berastagi also had Gundaling Hill which located only 3 Km from Berastagi. This hill offered a beautiful garden that was suitable as a spot to relax or to do some sports. From the hill peak, we could enjoy Mount Sibayak and Mount Sinabung panorama.

Tongging
Tongging was located 112 km from Medan City. This area is located near to Sipiso-piso Waterfall with 360-foot height. From this place, we could enjoy picturesque scenery of Toba Lake. In the intersection of Merek we could turn to Sipiso-piso in Mount Tandukbenua slope (1.947 m. from sea level). The surrounding panorama indeed is very much enchanting. From the balcony of the two leveled guesthouse that was located in the south of this plateau, the visitor could see the calm and beautiful nature of Toba Lake.

Kuta Sidewalk Festival August 16-18, 2008. a Rama of Celebration of Independence day

Visitors to Bali in mid-August will have the chance to celebrate Indonesia's Independence day (August 17th) during a three-day street festival - Kuta Sidewalk Festival August 16-18, 2008.

A collaborative effort among Kuta area businesses, the event will feature:

● Sidewalk sales

● Traditional culture presentations

● Balinese Art

● Live music and live DJ

● Sexy Dancers

● Food Bazaar

● Games

● Bartender contests

● Cooking Competitions

Festivities will be centered along Kartika Plaza Street in South Kuta.

To learn more about the event, participation and sponsorships contact:

● Rama Restaurant telephone ++62-(0)361-763100

● Ni Luh Ekawati telephone ++62-(0)81337925024

● Rurisea telephone ++62-(0)81805688369.

Exciting Line Up for Commonwealth Tennis Classic, September 7-14, 2008 at Nusa Dua, Bali

The Commonwealth Bank Tennis Classic will once again feature a rich collection of tennis talent, with many exciting new names joining the familiar faces who make the premier tennis event of South-East Asia an essential stop on the Sony Ericsson WTA Tour.

The tournament, to be held at the Grand Hyatt Resort, Nusa Dua, Bali between 7th and 14th September, includes many of the pacesetters of 2008. As well as many players who have earned titles this year, there are several who have claimed stunning upsets at the highest level, including headline-grabbing victories at the Grand Slams held in Melbourne, Paris and London.

Meet the players coming to Bali in September:

DANIELA HANTUCHOVA

Daniela Hantuchova quickly bounced back from an opening round defeat in her first visit to the Commonwealth Bank Tennis Classic in 2006 by reaching the final in 2007, eventually succumbing in three exciting sets to former champion Lindsay Davenport. She also teamed up with Davenport to reach the semi-finals of the doubles.

Her achievements in Bali last year served as a launch pad for one of the most successful periods of Daniela's career. She immediately moved on to Kolkata where she reached the semi-finals, and a week after that she reached the final in Luxembourg before losing in three tight sets to current world number one Ana Ivanovic. A month later she claimed the third title of her career by beating Patty Schnyder in Linz.

This year saw Daniela reach a new career milestone when she reached her first Grand Slam semi-final, at the Australian Open. Unfortunately, a stress fracture in her right heel ruined her clay court season and kept her out of the game for nearly three months, until she made a welcome return at Wimbledon.

FRANCESCA SCHIAVONE

Francesca Schiavone has only played at the Commonwealth Bank Tennis Classic once before. One of the game's greatest entertainers, the charismatic Italian made it all the way to the final during her Bali debut in 2005 before conceding the final to world number two Lindsay Davenport. She also teamed up with fellow Italian Flavia Pennetta in doubles, and they stretched the world number two pairing of Cara Black and Liezel Huber all the way in their quarter-final, eventually losing 10-7 in the third set match tiebreak.

Francesca's energy and determination has long made her a crowd favorite wherever she plays, and her skills helped take Italy to the Fed Cup title in 2006 by beating a Belgian team that included Justine Henin. The following year, Italy reached the final again, this time losing to Russia in Moscow. Much to her regret, both those marches to the Fed Cup finals kept Schiavone from competing in Bali as the events were played in the same week. But now she is free to once again demonstrate her skills to her many fans in Bali.

The highlight for Schiavone this season was her stunning upset of world number one Justine Henin in Dubai, the first-ever defeat for the Belgian in her five years of playing the event. And she made headlines in doubles too, reaching the French Open final with Australian partner Casey Dellacqua.

PATTY SCHNYDER

When Patty Schnyder works out her schedule for the year, the first tournament she puts in her diary is the Commonwealth Bank Tennis Classic. And it is a measure of the appeal of the biggest Sony Ericsson WTA Tour event in South-East Asia that she returned in 2006 after experiencing such a disappointing end to her challenge the previous year. It was then that she reached the semi-finals, only to retire with illness after reaching a third set against Francesca Schiavone.

Usually, such an episode would result in a player avoiding that tournament in the future because of its bad memories. But the good far outweighed the bad for the Swiss left-hander, and she couldn't wait to return to Bali. The following year she was back and she made the semi-finals again before losing to Marion Bartoli. Now she is returning for a fourth bid for the title, keen to make up for her surprise second round exit in 2007.

Since she was last in Bali, Patty has enjoyed consistent success, closing out the 2007 season by reaching the quarter-finals in Luxembourg and the final of Linz, and in 2008 going all the way to the final in Bangalore as well as reaching the semi-finals at Australia's Gold Coast and the quarter-finals of Antwerp, Charleston, Rome and - most impressively - the French Open.

LI NA

China's Li Na certainly made an impact on her previous trip to Bali, reaching the semi-finals of the Commonwealth Bank Tennis Classic in 2005 before bowing out to eventual champion Lindsay Davenport. Since then she has got married, and is coached by her husband, Jiang Shan.

This season started particularly well for her, as in the first week of the year she claimed her second career singles title by beating three top-20 opponents on her way to winning the Gold Coast event in Australia. In February she reached the semi-finals in Antwerp, and then the week after in Doha she defeated two top-6 opponents, Anna Chakvetadze and Jelena Jankovic, to reach another semi-final.

Then disaster struck, as the following week she had to withdraw from Dubai with a right knee injury that eventually required surgery and kept her off of the Sony Ericsson WTA Tour for nearly five months before she was able to return at Eastbourne.

PENG SHUAI

Peng Shuai has been listening to the talk in the locker room as her fellow players talked about the great time they've enjoyed at the Commonwealth Bank Tennis Classic, and now she has booked her first trip to Bali to experience one of the most popular stops on the Sony Ericsson WTA Tour for herself.

And she is likely to make quite an impact. She has been ranked as high as 31 in the world in singles, and after first representing China in the Fed Cup in 2001 she has been a regular member of the team since 2006. That same year she finished as runner-up to Nicole Vaidisova in Strasbourg, and last year she reached the semi-finals of both Pattaya and Beijing.

She has enjoyed even greater success in doubles, rising to the top 20 and claiming a rare victory over Wimbledon champions Serena and Venus Williams in Bangalore on her way to the title there with Tiantian Sun, and the pair followed up that triumph by overcoming Australian Open winners Alona and Kateryna Bondarenko in Miami.

FLAVIA PENNETTA

Italy's Flavia Pennetta is making a welcome return to Bali after an absence of two years, when representing her country in the Fed Cup final and then a leg injury kept her away in 2006 and 2007 respectively.

Before that, Flavia had really begun to make her mark on the tournament following her opening round loss upon her Bali debut in 2003. The next year she reached the second round, and in 2005 she made it to the quarter-finals before losing the tightest of matches to fellow Italian Francesca Schiavone, going down 7-5 in the third set. Maybe this year she can go yet another step and reach the semis, or even better. Flavia also has a good doubles record in Bali, reaching the quarter-finals in 2003 and the semi-finals in 2005.

This season she has been in great form as she reached the semi-finals in Hobart in January, before claiming her fifth career title in Vina Del Mar in February and then her sixth title at Acapulco in March. She reached another semi-final, at Palermo, in July. But, best of all, she claimed a sensational straight-sets upset over Venus Williams in the third round of the French Open.

TAMARINE TANASUGARN

Tamarine Tanasugarn is making her fifth visit to Bali, with her most successful runs so far coming in 2001 and 2003 when she reached the quarter-finals. Both times she fell to the eventual champion, in 2001 to Angelique Widjaja and in 2003 to Elena Dementieva. She has also excelled in doubles, winning the title in 2001 and reaching the semi-finals in 2003.

This year has also been successful for Tamarine. She reached the quarter-finals in Pattaya, qualified for Doha where she beat former world number one Amelie Mauresmo to reach the third round, and then she won a satellite event in Japan and reached the final of another.

But it was during the grass court season that Tammy really made headlines, qualifying at s'Hertogenbosch and going on to win her second career title with victory over world number nine Dinara Safina in the final. Then she became the first Thai to reach the Wimbledon quarter-finals when she earned a sensational victory over world number three Jelena Jankovic. Beginning the grass court season ranked 85, by the time she fell to defending champion and then 2008 winner Venus Williams at Wimbledon she had climbed all the way up to 37, her best ranking since January 2004.

ZHENG JIE

Zheng Jie is no stranger to the Commonwealth Bank Tennis Classic, as this will be her third visit to Bali. Her first came in 2003 when she qualified and beat Flavia Pennetta to reach the second round, where she lost to Tamarine Tanasugarn. Then in 2005 Pennetta drew revenge, beating Jie in three close sets in their second round meeting. That year was still a success, however, as she went on to reach the doubles final with partner Yan Zi.

A year ago Jie was in despair after an ankle injury kept her out of tennis for the entire second half of the season. But she bounced back strongly in January, especially in doubles when she reached the Gold Coast final with Zi. Next week the pair won Sydney and then they reached the semi-finals of the Australian Open with a win over the Williams sisters. Another final, in Dubai, was followed by yet another at Indian Wells.

But her success was not limited to doubles, as at Wimbledon she attracted worldwide attention by beating top seed and world number one Ana Ivanovic before going on to become the first player from China ever to reach the semi-finals of any Grand Slam.

ALLA KUDRYAVTSEVA

Very few people knew the name of Alla Kudryavtseva before she showed up at Wimbledon this year, despite her reaching the Memphis quarter-finals as well as qualifying and reaching the second round of both Hobart and Indian Wells. But then the Moscow-born, Miami-based 20-year old stunned the tennis world by defeating one of the tournament favorites, Maria Sharapova, in straight sets in the second round. She went on to reach round four, before being stopped by an in-form Nadia Petrova.

Her goal, according to her biography in the Sony Ericsson WTA Tour media guide, is to be memorable. And she certainly achieved that, not only with her victory over the former Wimbledon and US Open champion and the current holder of the Australian Open title, but with her assertion that one of the motivating forces behind her win was that she didn't like Sharapova's outfit.

Touched by Bali's Dancing Fingers - Bali's Jari Menari Spa Spotlighted by TIME Magazine (Asia).

Bali’s Jari Menari Spa (Dancing Fingers) has received some well-deserved publicity in a recent edition of TIME Magazine (ASIA).

In an article entitled "Nice Touch" by Cynthia Rosenfeld, the interesting life-journey of American Susan Stein who began teaching her Balinese gardener and security staff how to give massages to her house guests is briefly retold. From these humble beginnings Susan's now runs one of Bali's best spas, while traveling the globe from Morocco to Bermuda to Italy with her team sharing their massage expertise.

NORTH SUMATRA

North Sumatra is one of Indonesia's last surfing frontiers. "North Sumatra" consists of 5 islands or island groups: Hinako Islands, Nias, Telos and 2 other obscure island groups to the north. North Sumatra receives similar swell to Mentawais and enjoys its peak swell season from May to September. Despite Indonesia's reputation for hollow lefts, in North Sumatra right-handers are slightly more prevalent. While Lagundri Bay at Nias has been surfed for decades, it is the more obscure rights like Bawa (a Sunset-like right bowl that holds up to 15 feet) and Treasure Island (a long, hollow, mechanical right peeling for 200 meters) that have attracted the attention of late. Throw a mix of hollow and bowl lefthanders into the picture like Asu, Afulu, the Machine, and many more obscure rights and lefts.

In contrast to the small island of Bali, North Sumatra province is large with one of the biggest lakes in the world, Toba Lake, at its navel. The continuous mountain of Bukit Barisan, which extends from Aceh at the tip of Sumatra island to Lampung at the bottom of the island, guards the province on the west side, providing home for thick, tropical jungles and lush vegetations. As you go down the western mountains towards the beaches of the east, mountain streams, strong rivers, and gorgeous waterfalls will accompany you.

Along the length of this province crosses Bukit Barisan Mountains with peaks of numerous volcanoes. The land has thick virgin forests, lush vegetation, rice fields, mountain streams, rivers, waterfalls and sandy beaches. It has a rich flora and fauna. An abundance of birds, butterflies, buffaloes, deer, mouse deer, orangutans and many other export commodities make North Sumatra one of the richest provinces in Indonesia, as it produces more than 30 % of Indonesia's exports. The province offers the visitors, especially nature lovers, beautiful tropical panoramas, terraced rice fields, blue mountains, jungle covered hills, white sandy beaches, music, dance and folk arts.
Relative to Bali, North Sumatra has very heterogeneous ethnic groups, and thus, cultures. The people of the eastern coasts, also known as the Malays (Melayu) have markedly different traditions and culture from Batak highlanders who live around Toba Lake and Samosir Island. Further south, the Mandailings and Angkolas, and Nias Island, have yet more flavors of traditions and culture. Besides them, there are several ethnic groups who live in Medan and other towns of North Sumatra. Its largest groups are Chinese and Indian, who being naturalized Indonesian citizens. Other Indonesian tribes like Acehnese, Minangkabau, Javanese, etc also live in many parts here. Each of the mentioned tribes as well as the ethnic groups has its own dialect, religion, beliefs, traditional customs, etc. Arts and cultures make this region, a paradise for social scientists. Among the ancient Indonesian cultures, which can be seen at Samosir Island, are the centuries old tombs of Batak Toba kings and a stone-table with its benches, where the Siallagan chiefs formerly held meetings.

Geographically
North Sumatra province has 70,787 sq km width. Geographically, it is located between 1o and 4o North Latitude and between 98o and 100o East Longitude. The area is Borders with:

* North side: the special territory of Aceh
* South side: West Sumatra Province and Riau Province
* West side: Indian Ocean
* East side: Malacca Strait

Administratively
North Sumatra Province is divided among 11 regencies, 6 municipals, and 3 administrative towns with Medan as its capital city.

Geology
Composed of coastal areas, lowlands, plateaus, and mountains.
Humidity: Varies between 79% and 96%.
Climate
As one of Indonesia islands, North Sumatra has rainfall of 1,100-3,400 mm per year. It temperature is range between 18o C and 34o C.

Demography
Historically, North Sumatra Province has a migration flow of population either from other provinces because of the existence of heavy plantation in this province or migration to other areas for studying and expanding business. Since population mobility is high, there are multi ethnics on the community. In 1994, the population density of North Sumatra Province reached 157 people per Km2. Compared to the average national population growth (2.144% per year), this province was on the lower level with 1.53% per year. The projection population composition in 1997 can be seen on the following table.

Feasting on Bali, the Isle of The Gods

Like the food of other regions in Indonesia, Balinese food is rice as the central dish served with small portions of spicy, pungent vegetables, fish or meat and served almost always with sambal or chili paste. Bali is a few of the regions in Indonesia whose majority of its people are non Muslims, thus babi guling or roasted suckling pig is a specialty, as is bebek betutu, smoked stuffed duck wrapped in bamboo leaves.

In Jimbaran area, for instance, you can sample seafood dishes while sitting on the beach. Visit this place in the evening, the cool atmosphere and caressing breeze will make your dining experience remarkable.

You might want to try these:

KEBAB PALACE
Jl.Kartika Plaza Kuta Center, Kuta - Bali

AYAM BAKAR WONG SOLO
Jl.Raya Kuta no.87, Kuta - Bali
Jl. Merdeka no.18, Denpasar - Bali

RAJA'S BALINESE RESTAURANT
Nusa Dua Beach Hotel&Spa, Nusa Dua - Bali

ANIKA BALINESE COOKING
Jl.Elang No.3, Tuban, Kuta - Bali

DEPOT LA TANSA
Jl.Diponegoro No. 240 A, Sanglah, Denpasar - Bali

BATUR INDAH
Panelokan Kintamani, Bangli

BENGAWAN SOLO & BAR
Jalan Imam Bonjol 386, Denpasar

CAFE DAHANDE
Jalan Raya Seminyak, Kuta

PUALAN INT'L RESTAURANT
Jalan Sanur Beach 37, Sanur

ULAM
Jalan Pantai Mengiat, Nusa Dua

PLAZA BALI SEAFOOD
Jalan By Pass Ngurah Rai, Kuta

BUNGA KELAPA RESTAURANT
Alam Kul Kul
Jl.Pantai Kuta, Legian - Bali

SELERA KURING
Jl.Sunset Road (Dewi Sri) No.88, Seminyak, Kuta - Bali

For Moslem tourists, don't worry or afraid that you cannot get 'halal' food in Bali, because there are also many food stalls and food center that are safe to be consumed by Moslem believers. Start from green beans, ketupat tahu (rice boiled in a rhombus shaped packet plaited young coconut leaves mixed with tofu), bakso (meatball), satay, rujak (spicy mixed fruit), satay lilit (usually fish twisted on a stick), pepes (burned/steamed wrapped fish), ikan bakar (roasted fish), and many others. These kind of food are very suitable to be served with pelecing kangkung (a hot spicy leafy vegetable), and hot sambal. Various kinds of traditional snacks are also tempting to be tested such as bubuh injin, laklak, jaja uli and many others.

The safest tips to choose restaurant, certainly is asking the restaurant officers. Must be noticed for Moslem believers that most restaurant in the hotels serve international menu which are often unavoidable using pork.

Indonesia Diving, Raja Ampat Island "The incredible reef and fish"

No doubt about it, the Raja Ampat is definitely the richest place for fish, that I have ever been. Dr G.R.Allen

" I was like a five-year-old, seeing a reef for the very first time. I was awestruck, held by the incredible power of this richest reef. We must, with all available resources, preserve the beauty of Raja Ampat. This may be the last frontier. Michael Aw

"I love the people, I love the diving, It's super!! I've never been for a second time to the same dive destination but now
I'm thinking about going back for the third time!! Should I say more?" Peter van Dalen
(Taken from www.iriandive.com)

Raja Ampat Island is the most western district of the Indonesian province of Papua. Raja Ampat consists of an area surrounding four major island off the western coast of Birds Head Panisula of New Guinea Island. The western half of which is Indonesia and the eastern half, Papua New Guinea. The province was called Irian Jaya, and its a cluster of over 1500 small Islands.

Raja Ampat is the most bio-diverse location in the world more than 3000 species of fishes and over 300 species of corals have been identified here, in a single one and half hour dive you can identified more than 282 fish species and more than 400 species. Till this very day the area is virtually unexplored and unknown due to its size. This area as there are still many remnants of WW II.

The Roughest seas and decreased visibility in the Raja Ampat area are from mid-June until the end of August. During the rest of the year, the sea is mostly very smooth whit good visibility.

Dive sites in Raja Ampat Island:

*Kri Island: Kri has several sites and Cape Kri is one of the fishiest. The fish numbers and variety are truly amazing. The site is current dependent. Generally it's a steep slope with beautiful coral growth, lots of reef and schooling fishes, including the giant Queensland Grouper.

*Sardine Reef: Sardine Reef has really giant clams at 10m (33ft) but it's all about non-stop fishes here. There's a resident school of bumphead parrotfish in the shallows, colorful soft corals and plenty of critters.

*Kaboei Bay Rock Islands: The bay is a labyrinth of rock islands. Visibility isn't great but this is a great place for macro and finding odd nudibranches, mollusks and the pictured dragonet. Bat caves and skeletons are found on some of the islands.

*The Passage: This is a drift dive through a narrow channel near Waigeo. Look for archerfish among the mangroves, orange cup corals, seahorses, and percula clownfish.

*Fam Island: Several sites near Fam have stunning coral growth. Sponges and soft corals add color and fishes keep it going. Sites include walls, sloping reefs, and muddy bays.

*Misool: Misool is awash in fish life and huge sea fans. Caverns and boulders mark several sites. The schooling fishes seem endless and pygmy seahorses live in less than 10m (33ft). Some sites are current dependent.

At a Glance Irian Diving

*Reef type: Vertical walls, Lagoon channels, caves, platform reefs, etc.

*Access: By boat from base camps.

*Visibility: Very good, 20-45 meters.

*Current: Moderate, excellent for drift diving.

*Coral: Excellent " abundant & divers.

*Fish: Variety & abundance guaranteed.

*Highlights: Snorkeling with dolphins near the Wai base camp (5m); White-tip sharks under P47B wing; finding new wrecks untouched/complete.


It is easiest to fly through to Sorong via Jakarta or via Singapore. Merpati, Pelita and Lion/Wings Airlines operate daily flights from Jakarta to Sorong (with stopovers in Ujung Pandang/Makassar and/or Manado), whereas Silk Air operates regularly from Singapore to Manado. Daily flights to and from Sorong by Airlines Merpati, Lion/Wings or Pelita.

Raja Ampat Island have several accommodations whit traditional design, and there many boat you can rent for a stay. If you using dive operator they will arrange for your base came.

Raja Ampat islands have a very diverse topography with steep mountain shores and deserted white sand beaches. Explore the land on foot. Use a boat to move from one dive site to another dive site.


There are several restaurants and cafes throughout Sorong. Try their specialties: traditional irian foods!

There are many traditional souvenirs made from wood.


You can visit gorgeous waterfalls, ancient burial sites, bat caves and stunning waterways breathtaking limestone landscapes and Manta ray spotting and bird watching.


*To enter Papua itself, you need a surat jalan (Travel Permit) which is issued by the local police. Please bring: 3 Passport Photos, 3 Copies of the photo page of your passport and 3 Copies of the passport page with the Indonesian Visa.

*Guide Book : Diving Indonesia (a guide to the world's greatest diving), Periplus Action Guide, Kal Muller.

*More Information about Irian Jaya Dive, contact: Sorong, Indonesia Office: Papua Diving. Phone: +62 (411) 401 660, Fax: +62 (951) 325 274.

Mt. Bromo & Semeru, A Spectacular Volcanic Landscape in East Java

The Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park covers some 800 square kilometers in the centre of East Java. It is the largest volcanic region in the province and there stands Mt. Semeru, which rises 3676 meters above sea level. At its northern end is the spectacular Tengger Caldera, Java's largest, with its 10 km barren desert-like sea of sand. Within the caldera rise the deeply fissured volcanic cones of Batok and Bromo, the latter is still active with a cavernous crater from which smoke blows skyward. Temperatures at the top of mount Bromo range about 5 to 18 degrees Celcius . To the south is a rolling upland plateau dissected by valleys and dotted with several small scenic lakes, extending to the foot of Mount Semeru, a towering grey forest-skirted cone dominating the southern landscape.

Tengger sandy area has been protected since 1919, and its believed to be the only conservation area in Indonesia, even probably in the world possessing a unique ocean and sand at the attitude about 2000 m above sea level. There are several mountains inside the calderas namely: Mt Watangan (2,661 m asl)., Mt Batok (2,470 m asl), Mt Kursi (2,581 asl), Mt Watangan (2,661 m asl), and Mt Widadaren (2,650 m asl).

On the fourteenth day of the Month Kasada, the inhabitants of Tengger Mountain range gather at the rim of Mount Bromo's active crater to present annual offerings of rice, fruit, vegetables, flowers, live stock and other local produce to the God of the Mountain, as adherents of religion combining elements of Hinduism and Mahayana Buddhism the Tenggerese ask for blessing from the supreme God, Sang Hyang Widi Wasa. This ceremony called Kesodo Ceremony.

While the Great Mountain or Semeru offer a wonderful place to 3 days hike. Serenity of small lakes and large meadows, a three hours struggling through loose screw to the peak and breathtaking views from peak Semeru explodes every half hour and sends billowing smoke upwards. These gases and belching lava make Semeru dangerous " stay well away from the vent. The fine scenery and bracing climate, easy access and reasonably visitor-oriented facilities make this one of the most popular reserves in Java.


Bromo Tengger Semeru can be reached by private and public vehicle. There are four gates to access the place, Probolinggo, Wonokitri, Ngadas and Lumajang. Probolinggo approach is the easiest and by fat the most popular route, especially if you go by public bus, Wonokitri is the closes and the easiest one if you go by private vehicle from Surabaya (5 hours journey). To get closer to Mt. Bromo you must rent 4x4 vehicles (there are many 4x4 vehicles rental there).

There are a few options that you can choose to stay. You can stay at The Bromo Guest House which is located at Ngadisari that lies 3 km from the crater rim. Or you can choose other hotels at Cemoro Lawang because it this situated at the crater rim.

Walking on the sea of sand and stepping up on the 249 steps to rim is worth to try. Enjoying the unique crater in crater, watching the dawn at Bromo is the main attractions in the area.

Its kindly hard to find some food at night, because mostly of warung are closed after 7.30 pm. If youre in Wonokitri area, theres some warung in Tosari market, which still open at 7-9 pm.

There are many souvenir shops around Mount Bromo viewpoints who are selling T-shirts, scarf that are made from wool and others. There are also street hawkers who are selling these things too at the caldera area.

You can moving around on foot and normally it will takes 2 hours, or you can ride a horse or even rent a jeep (for this two, you are suggested to ask first and make a negotiation)

*
Necessities for the trip include a torch, warm clothing, comfortable trekking shoes, and glove as a protection against the freezing temperature which hovers between zero to five degrees Celsius (33 to 41 degrees Fahrenheit).
*
If you buy or rent something please Bargain.
*
Sunrise starts at 5.00 am till 6.00 am (If werent cloudy), so you may leave from your hotel or guesthouse at 3 am or even less than that.
*
Before start trekking, hiking or climbing, be sure that you already eat, or you can bring some food and drink from your places of stay.
*
Otherwise, you can buy some food and drink on the nearest markets for your supply before you start your activities on mountain.
*
If youre come in the right time, you may possible to watch the annual ceremony of Kesodo.

Travel TipsMoving AroundSouvenir TipsDining GuideOther Things to See or DoWhere to StayGetting There

INDONESIA Street Food

Living in a country that has endless variety of food and drinks, Indonesians do eat out, but the majority does not go to restaurants. The local food scene relies heavily on street food. Indonesians savour the delicious meals offered by ubiquitous street vendors day and night for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Living in a country that has endless variety of food and drinks, Indonesians do eat out, but the majority do not go to restaurants. The local food scene relies heavily on street food. Indonesians savour the delicious meals offered by ubiquitous street vendors day and night for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Street food is a quick meal sold by a vendor with a push cart, basket, at a stall, or possibly at a store where customers can see the preparation of food clearly. It provides a close connection between the customer and the street food, unlike having a plate of food in a restaurant.

The types of food offered vary from a simple fried tofu to a much more complicated dish like gudeg (raw jackfruit cooked in a Javanese traditional way that originated from Yogyakarta). In big cities like Jakarta, Surabaya, Bandung, Semarang and Medan, the street vendors offer many a traditional food from various regions in the archipelago. But in smaller cities, they are usually of the local cuisine.

The most commonly found street food is bakso or meatballs that are usually served in a bowl, like soup, with noodles, bean curds (tofu), eggs, and/or fried meat.

Another popular soup-like street food is soto. It is mainly comprised of broth and vegetables. The meats most commonly used are beef and chicken, but there are also sotos with mutton and pork. It is usually accompanied by rice or compressed rice. Sotos are differentiated by the ingredients in them, such as soto ayam (chicken) and soto kambing (mutton).

There are many sotos in Indonesia, as different regions and ethnicities have their own ways of preparing the cuisine, such as soto Madura (from East Java), soto Betawi (from Jakarta), soto Padang (from West Sumatra), so to Bandung (from West Java), soto Banjar (from South Kalimantan), and coto Makassar (from South Sulawesi).

The other popular delicacy often sold by street vendors is satay. It is a dish consisting of chunks or slices of dice-sized meat (chicken, goat, lamb, beef, pork, or fish) on bamboo skewers, which are grilled over a wood or charcoal fire, then served with various spicy seasonings, mostly made of ground nuts. Satay may have originated in Java or Sumatra, but is very popular outside Indonesia too. Similar to soto bakso and soto, there are many types of satay from sate Madura to Padang, sate Iilit, sate susu, kulit, sate Ponorogo and many more.

Nasi goreng (steamed rice stir-fried with eggs, meatballs, chicken/beef/shrimp, assorted vegetables and often with sweet soy sauce seasoning) is also very popular along with nasi rawon (rice served with dark beef soup) originally from East Java. The dark colour comes from the meaty seeds of kluwak nuts. Usually served with uncooked mung bean sprouts and salty duck eggs, pecel (a mixture of vegetables and traditional crackers with spicy peanut paste). Madiun and Blitar in East Java are popular for their pecel and gado-gado (a mixture of vegetables, crackers and rice with peanut flavoured sauce). The taste is sweet in Eastern Java and salty in Western Java.

Basking on Beautiful Borobudur

One of the 7 wonders in the ancient world, Borobudur is located near Magelang. Borobudur, a Hindu Buddhist temple, was built in the 9th century. This temple has Gupta architecture of India's influence.

Constructed on a hill about 46 meters high, Borobudur has about 55,000 m3 or stones. Borobudur is design symbolizes the structure of the universe. This design influences temples in Angkor, Cambodia. This temple was found in 1815, under volcanic ash. About 41 kilometers northward from Jogjakarta, Borobudur offers spectacular sight in this modern world.


Getting There

Borobudur is only 1 hour away by car from Jogjakarta. You can either join a tour or rent a car to this spot.


Where to Stay

Inns and hotels in Jogjakarta.


Moving Around

You'll explore this site on foot. Climb this magnificent temple and marvel at various carvings on the stone around you.


Dining Guide

You can bring your own food or buy them around this site.



Souvenir Tips

Souvenirs related to Borobudur can be bought in Jogjakarta. You can buy silver Borobudur's miniature (silver plated ones are also available), keychains, and many more. T-Shirts and postcards with an overview of Borobudur are popular as keepsakes.



Other Things to See or Do

Marvel at the magnificent view. For better understanding of this temple, you can join a tour or hire a licensed tour guide here. Climb the temple to reach the top, where you can see an vacant space signifying emptiness as completion. There's a superstition saying that if you climb this temple with one wish deep in mind, try touching Buddha's figure inside the stupa, which is bell-like in structure. If you're able to touch the Buddha, your wish will come true. Take note of the stone carvings. There are many stories in these stones.


Travel Tips

*Dress lightly and comfortably.
*Hire a licensed tour guide, so you'll get better information.
*Wear a hat or an umbrella. Bring along a raincoat, just in case.

BALI BIRD PARK

Find yourself at the Bali Bird Park to witness the largest and finest collection of Indonesian birds in the world plus fantastic birds from Africa & South America.

Encompassing two hectares of botanical landscape, the park provides sanctuary to almost 1000 birds of 250 different species.

Our innovative approach towards the display of rare and tropical birds has progressed from traditional exhibits to that of showcasing mixed species in their natural habitats & in large walk in Aviaries and free range throughout the park.

The park accommodates an amazing display of flora with more then 2000 tropical plants including 50 varieties of palms alone and attracting numerous butterflies.

Incorporating a breeding, research and veterinary facility within the complex, the park has a high success rate in the captive reproduction of exotic birds such as the Bird. of Paradise and Hornbill.

Join us for an adventure that has no boundaries as we take you on a journey across the Indonesian archipelago, Latin America and South Africa.

The park is divided into regions that recreate the natural habitats of our birds, complete with indigenous plant life and traditional artefacts for authenticity.

Experience the original Jungle birds of Bali and encounter the world's rarest bird, the Bali Starling.

Discover the exotic birds of Papua and one of the most comprehensive collections of Bird of Paradise in the whole world.

Travel to Far East Indonesia, home to an amazing array of birds as well as the extraordinary Komodo Dragon, a giant carnivorous lizard which is a direct descendant of the dinosaur and rarely seen in captivity.

See the fantastic Javan Hawk and Serpent Eagles - & listen to the sweet sounds of Java's song birds echoing through the foliage.

Visit the deep jungle and misty mountain ranges of Sumatra for rare and strange endemic birds.

Venture to other tropical continents to view our collection of South American exotics such as the Scarlet Macaw and Toucan, witness the Congo Grey Parrot and other birds of the African Savannah.

See Cassowaries, Cranes, Storks & Pelicans and many more birds as they wander freely living and breeding uninhibited throughout the park.

Stroll within the boundaries of our giant walk-through aviaries that replicate the natural eco-systems of the Bali Jungle and Papuan Rainforest.

Pathways and bridges are carved through the dense foliage where only filtered sunlight manages to penetrate the canopy of greenery overhead.

Several vantage points have been strategically positioned to catch glimpses of free flying birds as they follow their survival instincts of foraging for food, nesting and mating.

These protected enclosures safeguard rare species from outside predators, whilst still exposing them to the various aspects of living in the wild.

Within 2 hectare of Balinese landscape and a free range birds, Bali Bird Park is a popular place for :

*arranged a special program for family gatherings
*corporate program
*group arrangements
*student group special education
*other creative competition such as photo shooting
*painting
*drawing or
*annual gathering

Bali Bird Park plays a key role in protecting and conserving Indonesia’s endangered wildlife.
The Park have successfully bred many species, including the rare Pesquet’s Parrot and numerous Bali Starlings. We accommodate more than 40 species of protected Indonesian birds in the park, a growing number of which are now breeding successfully under the care of our staff.

The staff are proud of their new additions some of which can be seen in their incubators through the observation windows of the laboratory & nursery building.

Bali Bird Park - Jl. Serma Cok Ngurah Gambir
Singapadu, Batubulan - Gianyar - Bali
Telephone: 62 361 299352
Fax: 62 361 299614

Introduction to West Papua

West Papua forms the western half of the large island widely known as New Guinea. Administratively part of Indonesia, West Papua is officially known as Irian Jaya.

To experience West Papua is to embark on a voyage into one of humanity's deepest mysteries. This far-away and little known island lies like a curled infant in the lap of Mother Nature.

West Papua is home to the most ethnologically primitive cultures on Earth. No less than 25% of the world's languages are spoken here and obviously you will find a vast display of tribes and tribal customs. These are people largely unaffected by the strictures of the modern world as we know it; a race adapted to daily life solely through their basic survival elements.

The land of the Papuans is home to an incredibly diverse, rich and unique flora and fauna. No less than 85% of the island is covered by rainforest, much if it primary and untouched by man. Other prevailing ecosystems include steamy mangrove forest and savannah right through to alpine highlands with snow-capped mountains. Wildlife abounds and includes some of the most interesting creatures known to man. This also holds true with the magical beauty of West Papua's coastal underwater world, which hosts some truly amazing coral reefs.

Our singular appreciation and understanding of this island not only allows you the opportunity to visit and appreciate this most primitive of lands, but we also present you with the opportunity to experience and explore a completely unique human reality which can deepen your own sense of being and purpose. Root cultures such as those found in Papua hold an appreciation of deep earth secrets that can be shared only through direct experience. These are humans intrinsically interwoven with the natural fabric of their environment.

Many parts of West Papua still remain largely unexplored by peering, inquisitive western eyes and minds. For example, it has only been around 60 years since the outside world fell upon the tribes that inhabit the Baliem Valley in West Papua. The Korowai tribes were only discovered 25 years ago and other areas remain completely unexplored.

There remains a tremendous gap between those of us raised in western society and the most primitive people still alive on earth. If you are an individual who enjoys the exploration of this mysterious human condition you would certainly find a visit to West Papua immensely rewarding. Equally, if you simply enjoy and appreciate environments totally different from your own, then West Papua is surely for you

Baliem Valley - Papua

Once you read or give it a deeper study to Danis way of life, dont be surprise that you may find your eye lifting or forehead wrinkling. Why? Because the Dani is uniquely amazing.

The Dani men and women sleep separately in different honai (Danis traditional house). The men sleep grouped in one honai, while the women and children slumber in another honai. As descended from their ancestor, sex is taboo for the women after giving birth, for 2 or 5 years, as the result the Dani generated healthier kids since the women focus on babysitting the kids during the most important phase of growth. This situation makes the men vulnerable to polygamy, its a true fact of life that the Dani men are allowed to have more than 1 wife or as many as he can afford. A man should give 4-5 pigs to the girls parent he wants to marry. For Dani men, his social status are initiated by the number of wives and pigs he has.

Another remarkable custom of Dani is that women will amputate their finger when their relatives die, hence doesnt be surprise when you see women with missing finger.

To enhance the quality of your experience in Baliem Valley, guide is essential since there are no clear maps or signage initiated for visitor. The guide will help to lead the track, communicate with the local people and in advance, the guide will inform the tourist about local dos and donts.


Flying might be the only way to access the Baliem Valley through Wamena. Here are some alternatives on carrier from Jayapura to Wamena: (For further info, ask the officers at Sentani Airport Information Center).

*Trigana Air Services provide daily flights into and out of Wamena. Spot the Trigana Air Service Offices at Sentani Airport terminal and Wamena Airport terminal.
*MAF
* AMA
*Yajasi
*Manunggal Air
*Hercules carrier provide by Indonesian army (TNI)

To access Baliem Valley, you can rent car or public bus from Wamena.


For those who are adventurer and cultural observer in heart, stay and mingle with the Baliem Valley people is possible, just make sure your guide booked it before your visit. Go Show? Affordable.

If the first alternative is way too extreme, you can stay at hotels at Wamena:

*Wamena Hotel at Jl. Homhom 61
*Srikandi Hotel at Jl. Irian 16
*Pondok Wisata Putri Dani at Jl. Irian 40
*Nayak Hotel at Jl. Gatot Subroto 63
*Hotel Syah Rial Makmur at Jl. Gatot Subroto 45
*Hotel Anggrek at Jalan Ambon 1
*Baliem Pilamo Hotel at Jalan Trikora
*Baliem Valley Resort (3 star resort), www.baliem-valley-resort.de


Would you mind if we say ON FOOT? Healthy foot and fit body? Absolutely. Through trekking, you can witness traditional ceremonies, traditional markets and the people of Dani.


There is no restaurant inside the Baliem- Valley, a guide could bargain the Dani people to provide simple meals. Its stoutly advised, that the visitor bring their own meals and snack during the trekking. Meals and snacks can be found in grocery store at Wamena


*Souvenir can be easily found on the valley and buy the crafts directly from the Dani people.
*Stone blade is a major favorite for the tourist
*Sekan: rattan bracelate
*Noken: made from trees bark
*Head and arm necklace
*Jogal: grass skirt
*And other head decorations


*The captivating Baliem Fiesta is held on August around 10 - 17 August every year. The festival performs traditional dances, pig races, ancestral fighting and races. Today, Baliem Fiesta is one of the main reasons why tourists visit Papua. Its a magical Fiesta says most of the tourist.
*Join the large and busy local market at Sinatma.
*Spotting mummies at Kurulu Village.

*Guide is needed to explore the valley
*Dont forget to bring the copy of your Surat Keterangan Jalan
*Best time to visit is between March and August
*If you travel during the rainy season, be prepared with cold weather equipment
*Ask your guide about Dos and Donts in the Baliem Valley

Foreigner must obtain a travel permit letter or known as Surat Keterangan Jalan to get the access into the interior part of Papua. You can obtain the Surat Keterangan Jalan at main town police station such as Jayapura, Merauka, Timika, Biak, Nabire, Monokwari and other main city. The permit of lasts will depend on your request, from 1 week until 1 month or even longer. Please prepare copies of your passport, recent photograph and list of places you wish to visit. Its easy to get the Surat Keterangan Jalan, because the officers are friendly and helpful.

Tangkuban Perahu Volcano Crater

Tangkuban perahu is an active volcano, it is located 25 - 30 kilometers north of Bandung direction of Lembang. Mt. Tangkuban Perahu is an appealing destination that is fond to visit. The name translates roughly to "overturning of (a) boat" or "overturned boat" in Sundanese, referring to the local legend of its creation. The huge crater is an astonishing view and we could explore the crater around two hours. The sulphur fumes still emit from the crater though it is not particularly active.

Where to stay
There are numerous hotels covering every budget case around Bandung city. But if you have the intensity to stay longer near Tangkuban Perahu, there are numerous hotels in Lembang (North Of Bandung) and experience the ambience of country side whilst breathing a clear air which is hard to persue in the city.

Dining Guide
Restaurants and warungs are scattered around Tangkuban Perahu. But if you want to experience a different vibe there are various eating places around Lembang.

What to do
• Sight seeing
• Trekking
• Photographing
• Hiking to the edge of the crater to view the hot water springs up-close,
• Boiled some eggs cooked on its hot surface of the hot springs

Tips
• Not everyone could stand with the fumes of the sulphurs, handkerchief are suggested to cover your nose and mouth
• Do not hesitate to resist the sellers offered if you are not interested.
• It is suggested that you bring a jacket/sweater to avoid cold temperature
• Try to go early as possible because around noon the mist start to roll in through the trees

IJEN PLATEAU : Known for its Sulphur Mining

Ijen is actually a complex of stratovolcanoes near Banyuwangi in East of Java. Kawah Ijen (Ijen Crater) is the center of attraction, which contains a nearly 1 km wide, turquoise-colored, acid crater lake.
Kawah Ijen is also the site of a labor-intensive sulfur mining operation in which sulfur-laden baskets are hand-carried from the crater floor. The weight of the sulfur stones carried by the labor shoulder can reached up to 80 kg. Coffee, cocoa, clove and rubber plantation surrounding the area of the Ijen Crater, which was established by Dutch colonial government is still run very well and can be visited. A trip to Ijen Crater starts from Bondowoso or Banyuwangi where many tourist information and facilities are available.

How to Get There:
Ijen Plateau is usually accessed from the town of Bondowoso and Banyuwangi. Pos Paltuding, the starting point for the hike to Kawah Ijen, is 64 km from Bondowoso. The starting point can also be reached from Banyuwangi with 4WD vehicles.

Photo by Patmawinata
The Best Season to Visit:
April to October every year.

Contact:
Global Adventure
Jl. Harinjing 102
Kediri – Jawa Timur
Ph. (0354) 391163,
Fax. (0354) 394312
Mobile: 081334684918,
085649629900
Email: globaladventure@indo.net.id
www.globaladventureindonesia.com

GUNUNG RINJANI NATIONAL PARK : One of the Best Treks in Southeast Asia

Gunung Rinjani National Park covers an area of 41,330 hectares on the northern part of Lombok. The peak of Gunung Rinjani reaching up to 3,726m dominates the landscape.

Gunung Rinjani National Park offers the beauty of the volcano, the Segara Anakan Crater Lake and the challenge of climbing the mountain. There are also guided village tours which provides a glimpse of local culture and the opportunity to meet the locals.

How to Get There :
Senaru and Sembalun Lawang Villages are The two starting points for excursions into the park as well as for climbing Mount Rinjani. Senaru Village can be reached within three hours drive to the north from Mataram, while Sembalun Lawang Village is approximately a four hours drive to the east of Mataram.

The Best Season to Visit :
August to December every year.

Contact :
Gunung Rinjani National Park Office
Jl. Erlangga 88, Mataram
Lombok - Nusa Tenggara Barat
Ph. (0370) 627764
Email: tngr@indo.net.id

BALI, a Global Gorgeous Sanctuary

In today's world where fast-paced western materialistic society and worried thinking tends to dominate, there remains a haven. This haven is a temple of our "global" village, which has been protected and preserved for hundreds of years. This "sanctuary" is Bali.

The Balinese continue to protect and maintain the sanctity of this island of Gods and Goddesses. Whatever madness and terror is besieging humanity around the world, it is important to know that we all have a place, a retreat where the majority of the Balinese population sacrifice a tremendous amount of time and energy in "holding this sacred space".

Bali remains our protected temple, which allows us the possibility of relaxing and releasing the materialistic mind, and entering the inner chambers of your own heart. The beauty and artistry is obvious. The fluidity and humor of the people delight the senses. Drop down a little deeper and you feel a new burst of creativity awakening in your own life, a taste of pure soul consciousness. The opportunity to drink deeply of the elixir of this culture will always be defended and protected by the Balinese. They have provided the space and style to fit all persuasions and the Balinese have more than ever demonstrated their ability to be gracious hosts to a global clientele.

Naturally, Bali is a global safe haven to such a beautiful landscape and vivid culture. It is not surprising the island is filled with inspired artists and performers. Its culture is a unique combination of spirituality, religion, tradition and art. It seems that almost every Balinese is a devoted artist, spending 'free time' applying skills and images which have been passed down from generation to generation and grasped from a very young age. Expressed through beautiful and intricate paintings, extraordinary carvings, superb weaving, and even in rice decorations that cover the myriad shrines found in public areas, in paddy fields or in homes, the island is alive with art and religious homage. Many tourist attractions have a religious origin.

When you come to Bali, free your mind for a time, study, observe and tune in and you will be re-inspired, your creativity opened, and brought to a place of peace within your own being.

INACRAFT 2008 - The Biggest and The Most Complete Exhibition of Gift and Houseware

INACRAFT to be held on April 23-27, 2008, attain the age of ten years. In spite of annual event, it has many experiences and improvement for the future to be full of challenges.

From the first INACRAFT in April 1999 through the ninth, INACRAFT has indicated its own acteristics a right showcase for promoting handicraft products for entrepreneur/ exporter/ craft men from Indonesia and handicraft producing countries within Asia. Moreover, INACRAFT has been well known by domestic and overseas buyers as an exhibition to be necessarily visited to find high quality and favorite handicraft product. The 10th Jakarta International Handicraft Trade Fair (INACRAFT 200) will be held on:
• Date : April 23 - 27, 2008 Opening Hours : 10.00 am - 09.00 pm
• Exhibition Hall : Hall A & B, Lobby A & B, Cendrawasih Hall, Plenary Hall, Assembly Hall & Main Lobby Balai Sidang Jakarta Convention Center, Jakarta - Indonesia
• Hall Area : ± 24.080 M2 (gross)
• Focused Products : Indonesian Handicraft (Gifts, House wares & Fashion Product)

Exhibited Products
• Gift Item
Ballpoint & Wooden box, Candy jar, Woven blanket throw, Key accessories, Lighter box, Jewelry box, Small photo frame, Cigarette box, Aromatherapy, Stationery item, etc.
• House wares, Home & Garden Decorative
Artificial flower, dried flowers, ceramic flowers vase, candle holder, lighting lamp, wood carving, ornament, craft silver, table cover embroidery, cushion cover, place mate, embroidery bed cover, Wooden furniture, rattan furniture, fiber furniture, coconut furniture, bamboo furniture, garden furniture, A kitchen wares, basket wares, table wares, bathroom wares, carpet, painting, candle, glass item, natural stone, pottery, bird house & accessories, umbrella, wind chime, doormat, garden ornament, plan terrace set, self watering hanging planter, garden bridge, garden statue, etc
• Toys & Game
Wooden toys, soft toys, game board, inflatable toys, toys box, footballs, jigsaw puzzles, education games, etc
• Jewelry
Gold jewelry, silver jewelry, pearl jewelry, shell jewelry, precious stones, etc
• Batik
Painting batik, Printing batik, Stamped batik, Silk, etc
• Fashion Garment & Embroidery
Fashion embroidery garment, Moslem dress, Indonesian ikats, Indonesian songket, Indonesian ulos, Hand oven fabric, etc

Product Zoning
• Main Lobby & Plenary Hall : Gifts & House wares, Toys & Games, Miscellaneous Crafts
• Hall A : Fashion, Embroidery, Batik, Jewelry & Accessories
• Assembly Hall 3 : International Hall/ Export Hall
• Hall B & Lobby B : Dinas, Pemkab & Pemda, Dekranas and Dekranasda
• Lobby A : Sponsorship

Supported
• National Agency for Export Development, Ministry of Trade of the Republic of Indonesia
• Ministry of Industry of the Republic of Indonesia
• Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the Republic of Indonesia
• State Ministry for Cooperatives and Small and Medium Enterprises of the Republic of Indonesia
• State Ministry for State Owned Company of the Republic of Indonesia
• Asean handicraft Promotion and Development Association (AHPADA)
• Indonesia Exhibition Companies Association (IECA)

MRA Bali International Triathlon

(Balidiscovery) Indonesia's MRA Group has signed on as the main naming sponsors of the Bali International Triathlon set for Sunday, June 29, 2008.

The three-year agreement between Bali International Triathlon (USA) and MRA (Mugi Rekso Abadi Group) means that the more than 34 companies operated by the Indonesian group have entered into a marketing alliance that will showcase their wide range of products via the popular international sporting competition held on Bali's Jimbaran Bay.

The MRA Group

Among MRA's diversified areas of business are:

Media Division

• Cosmopolitan Magazine • Spice Magazine • Cosmo Girl Magazine • Harpers Bazaar • Good Housekeeping • Auto Car • Trax • Bali & Beyond Magazine • FHM • IP Entertainment (Impresarios and Artist Agents) • Men's Fitness Magazine (To be Launched in 2008)

Broadcast Division

• Hard Rock FM • Trax FM Radio • Cosmopolitan FM Radio • I-Radio FM • Media Network Indonesia

Retail & Lifestyle

• Bulgari Jewelry • Bang and Olufsen • Vision Home Entertainment

Food & Beverage Division

• Hard Rock Café • Haagen Dazs Ice Cream

Automotive Division

• Ferrari Maserati • Harley Davidson

Hotel & Property Division

• Bulgari Hotels & Resorts (Indonesia)

MRA Bali International Triathlon

Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay will serve as "race central" for the MRA Bali International Triathlon on June 29, 2008. The Olympic distance event is the only international-caliber triathlon held in Bali.

Jimbaran lies on the western side of Bali's narrow southern isthmus, located on a sweeping bay that curves from the southern side of the airport to the bushy headland that borders the Four Seasons Resort. The event is comprised of a 1.5-kilometre swim in the warm waters of the bay, a 40-kilometre bike ride from the edge of Jimbaran Bay through hilly paved roads to Nusa Dua looping back to Jimbaran, and a 10-kilometre mostly-flat run on paved roads through Jimbaran and Kedonganan villages ending with a beach finish at the Four Seasons Resort Jimbaran Bay.

In its inaugural year, the event attracted more than 150 athletes from 16 countries. This year, athlete participation is slated to increase significantly with the event also expected to attract a large number of spectators to watch the race and partake in the music and festivities at "race central." On Saturday, June 28th, the day before the race, the Four Seasons Resort will be the meeting venue for the athlete briefings. In the evening, this setting on the Indian Ocean will be the venue for the athletes' high carbohydrate Pre-Race Dinner, designed and prepared exclusively for the occasion by the Four Seasons' world-acclaimed chefs.

To welcome the athletes, The Four Seasons has dedicated all of their 7 elegant Private Estates to providing housing for the participants and their families. Located along the beach and just steps away from the start and finish lines, the Private Estates have been specially priced for race participants.

Official Hotels

The Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bali and Intercontinental Bali Resort are serving as the official hotel partners for the MRA Bali International Triathlon.

A Truly Balinese Event

Spiritualism dominates every aspect of daily life on the Hindu island of Bali with the MRA Bali International Triathlon also includes a bike blessing Prayasita ceremony in addition to a Majaya Jaya ceremony to bless and ensure the spiritual protection of all the participants and to neutralize any demonic forces. A Pemangku priest will conduct the ceremonies, using special offerings including fruit, yellow coconut juice, grains of rice, sandalwood powder and young coconut leaves tied with white thread and Chinese coins. Further adding to the special character of the event, Balinese musicians and sarong-clad race marshals will be stationed along the race course to guard and entertain the racers as they pass through traditional villages.

Gorontalo, the Pieces of Paradise on the Equator

Hidden Paradise on the Equator. There are just so many things that make Gorontalo perfect for holiday, the beauty of its nature, the culture and not forget to mention, the friendly people. General information about Gorontalo, stated at North Sulawesi. Mountains, hills, shore line are the main characteristic of Gorontalo and it makes the island perfect for marine tourism.

Most of diving site take you just a few minute from town, Diving in Gorontalo mean diving within the richness of biodiversity, health and unique coral and reef

Lot of beautiful place could be found here, Tomini Bay famous for under water habitat and undefined creatures. There is several number of unsettled small islands. Tomini Bay is a heaven for divers, because the geographic position of Tomini Bay itself, which is crossed by the equator line, has naturally presented various kinds of sea creature inside.

Desa Olele or Olele Village is well known as the wild diving spot among world class diver. Olele beach is a gate to underwater paradise. The amazing beauty of underwater life on this area has been recognize and proofed by the enthusiasm of the divers who come to Olele beach. The divers called Olele as Traffic Jam dive spot.

In Tomini Bay and Olele Beach, you can find some or maybe the most amazing and diver creature such as:

• Lumba-Lumba hidung botol (torsiops trancatus)
• Giant Reef (Petrosia Sp.)
• Angkutan Kota (City Transport " small car) also available
• School of Gobi Fish (Bryaninops erythrops)
• Salvador Dali reef (Petrosia lignose)
• Kipas Laut Biru (Acanthogorgia Sp.). There are only 3 acanthogorgia Sp. In Gorontalo
• Anemon Koralimorf (Discosoma Sp.)
• Nemo
• Ikan Behang (plectorhinchus chaetodonoides), some people call it cha-cha fish caused they dance and swim around the coral.
• Blenni (Escenius Caeruliventris)
• Cardinal Fish, damsel, platax pinnatus, scorpaenopsis, oxycephala, goropa fish, butterfly fish, pusillus, cockatoo fish, Randal fish, parapterois hetururus, Bothus Sp " half face fish, frog fish, celebes
• Not forget to mention that Gorontalo is the Kingdom of Nudibrancia
• Seahorse and pigmy seahorse
• There are just too many creatures to be named in Gorontalo, Just come, wear your suit and experience the Pieces of Paradise on the Equator.

In your spare time, go cruise with the fisherman and catch/fishing your own fishes.

Getting There

Jallaludin airport is the entrance for the visitors who use the airplane service (located approximately 15 km from the town of Gorontalo)
Flight from Sukarno Hatta Air Port-Jakarta " Jallaludin Air Port, Gorontalo (Filght served every day, please check the exact schedule to your airline services)
For visitors who use sea service, Gorontalo has 3 harbors, Anggrek Harbor, Kwandang Harbor and Crossing Harbor

Where to Stay

During your diving, you can stay at Gorontalo Resor
If you stay within the town, these hotels might be fit your requirements:

• Quality Hotel Gorontalo
  Jl. A. Yani Kota Gorontalo
  Phone: (0435) 822222, Fax (+62435) 821111, www.choicehotelsindonesia.co.id
• Saronde Hotel
  Walanda Marmis Street
  Phone: (0435) 824144
• Yulia Hotel
  Ahmad Yani Street
  Phone: (0435) 828395
• Wisata Hotel
  23 Januari Street
  Phone: (0435) 821736
• City Hotel
  Basuki Rahmat Street
  Phone: (0435) 822437
• Krawang City Hotel
  Basuki Rahmat Street
  Phone: (0435) 822437
• Citra Hotel
  Merdeka Street
  Phone: (0435) 821249
• Melati Hotel
  Gajah Mada Street
  Phone: (0435) 821853
• Wisata Leato Hotel
  Leato Street
  Phone: (0435) 824144
• Sumber Ria
  Budi Utomo Street
  Phone: (0435) 23888
• Budi Utomo Hotel
  Budi Utomo Street
  Phone: (0435) 821564
• Mutiara Hotel
  Andalas Street
  Phone: (0435) 825778
• Imam Bonjol Hotel
  Imam Bonjol Street
  Phone: (0435) 826240

Moving Around

• Within the town, Trans Sulawesi is a land acces that connected the province in Sulawesi
• Mini bus
  To access the diving spot you can use rented car/bike, then take a boat toward your spot preferences
• For those who use dive companys services, they'll arrange your activities (transport, meals, lodging) the moment you arrived at Gorontalo
• Take a ride with Bentor, support by motor bike machine, for one or two passenger only. Dont worry with the rain, cause Bentor installed with veil

Dining Guide

Within the city, its easy to find any kind of food you want to have for your meal, international menu and traditional menu are available. Make your order, and youll find your meal rich in spices.
Seafood lover will be pleased here
Perkedel ikan nike (nike fish). Mashed nike fish mix with flour and spices, then fried
Pepes Ikan Nike. Fresh nike fish mixed with certain spices, wrapped with banana leaf then baked or some prefer it grilled.

Souvenir Tips

Kerawang: one of Gorontalos traditional cloth materials, which made by hand (man cloth and woman cloth for all ages). Althought Kerawang made by hand but is doesnt look like a hand made at all. Its a Must to buy and make sure its on your list
Ornaments of intricate carved wood are common in all the district

Other Things to See or Do

• Wreck of Japanese Cargo, Tjendrawasih Ship
• Sail with the fisherman
• Sentinels: Best of the Best in Diving
• Fishing
  Potanga Pool with natural cool and fresh water-directly comes from the mountain spring
• Otanaha Castle was the protection and defense of the Kings of Gorontalo
• White sand of Leato
• Limboto Lake
• Ayuhulalo Waterfall
• Boalemo Beach
• Bolihutuo Beach
• Bajos Tribe Village

Travel Tips

The best diving season runs from November to April
You can experienced the encounter with dolphin (torsiops truncates) around February to April

Tourist Office:
Jl. Diponegoro No. 1
Gorontalo 96115 Phone:
(0435) 821763 Fax: (0401)