Archive for October 6th, 2006
Referred to as the centrepiece of North Sumatra Lake Toba offers beautiful scenery and a pleasant climate. Lake Toba is the largest lake in South East Asia measuring 100km in length; it is also one of the deepest and highest lakes in the world. The lake was formed after a prehistoric volcanic explosion; today the surrounding landscape is steep and fertile. Lake Toba has the island of Samosir situated in the centre of the lake and a regular ferry is available from the mainland to Samosir. Samosir is home to the hospitable tribe, Toba Batak and is well worth a visit, just to capture the traditions and culture of the tribe.
WHERE TO EAT
High quality hotels can be found on the mainland at Prapat, many of which have restaurants serving European food. Leo’s jazz blues restaurant & cafe (near Elsine GH & Hora’s Homestay) offers video, pizzas & happy hour. Reggae bar (near Samosir & Anju cottages) boast a pool table. Tuk-Tuk and Samosir are littered with small cafes to larger more upscale restaurants. Explore, and you will not be dissapointed!
WHERE TO STAY
Two star hotels and comfortable home stays can be found on the Island of Samosir.
GETTING AROUNG
Lake Toba is approximately 3 hours by road from Medan there is a frequent bus service that runs from Medan to Lake Toba and hired taxis available. If you are in Samosir and wish to go to Lake Toba there is a regular ferry service that will carry passengers and motorcycles. If you so desire there are private speedboats for charter.
ACTIVITIES
Lake Toba is a spectacular experience, it is a walker’s paradise. There are a variety of tours available encompassing Samosir and the surrounding area. The ferry from the mainland to Samosir is a pleasant experience and a trip to Samosir provides an insight into the local Batak culture that resides on the island. If you’re into photography Lake Toba is a good place to go and take some magnificent pictures.
ATTRACTIONS
BATAK CULTURAL CENTER
Lively and exciting dance and music performances are held here every Saturday night for a modest entrance fee; alternatively Prapat hotel has a similar cultural exhibition on their premises for tour groups. The week-long Lake Toba Festival is held annually in June, where alongside the song and dance, is the fascinating canoe race held by competing villages.
source : http://www.asia-planet.net/indonesia/lake-toba.htm
October 6th, 2006
Referred to as the centrepiece of North Sumatra Lake Toba offers beautiful scenery and a pleasant climate. Lake Toba is the largest lake in South East Asia measuring 100km in length; it is also one of the deepest and highest lakes in the world. The lake was formed after a prehistoric volcanic explosion; today the surrounding landscape is steep and fertile. Lake Toba has the island of Samosir situated in the centre of the lake and a regular ferry is available from the mainland to Samosir. Samosir is home to the hospitable tribe, Toba Batak and is well worth a visit, just to capture the traditions and culture of the tribe.
WHERE TO EAT
High quality hotels can be found on the mainland at Prapat, many of which have restaurants serving European food. Leo’s jazz blues restaurant & cafe (near Elsine GH & Hora’s Homestay) offers video, pizzas & happy hour. Reggae bar (near Samosir & Anju cottages) boast a pool table. Tuk-Tuk and Samosir are littered with small cafes to larger more upscale restaurants. Explore, and you will not be dissapointed!
WHERE TO STAY
Two star hotels and comfortable home stays can be found on the Island of Samosir.
GETTING AROUNG
Lake Toba is approximately 3 hours by road from Medan there is a frequent bus service that runs from Medan to Lake Toba and hired taxis available. If you are in Samosir and wish to go to Lake Toba there is a regular ferry service that will carry passengers and motorcycles. If you so desire there are private speedboats for charter.
ACTIVITIES
Lake Toba is a spectacular experience, it is a walker’s paradise. There are a variety of tours available encompassing Samosir and the surrounding area. The ferry from the mainland to Samosir is a pleasant experience and a trip to Samosir provides an insight into the local Batak culture that resides on the island. If you’re into photography Lake Toba is a good place to go and take some magnificent pictures.
ATTRACTIONS
BATAK CULTURAL CENTER
Lively and exciting dance and music performances are held here every Saturday night for a modest entrance fee; alternatively Prapat hotel has a similar cultural exhibition on their premises for tour groups. The week-long Lake Toba Festival is held annually in June, where alongside the song and dance, is the fascinating canoe race held by competing villages.
source : http://www.asia-planet.net/indonesia/lake-toba.htm
October 6th, 2006
Krakatau erupted in 1883, one of the most catastrophic natural events in recorded history. The volcano literally blew itself apart, sending a column of ash and stone 80 km, into the air. Ash fell on Singapore, and the entire region was covered in darkness for two days. The volcanic dust in the atmosphere circled the earth for three years, creating sensational sunsets. At that very instant, Krakatau vanished as if devoured by the sea, causing formidable tidal waves which in turn swept off just about everything alive from the surrounding coastal areas.
However, the disappereance of the gigantic Krakatau also meant the birth of small islands in its place, one of which is called Anak Krakatau or Krakatau’s Child which is at present an extremely active young volcano. From both West Java’s West Coast and from Sumatra’s Lampung Province, this young and very active volcano is clearly visible. It is possible for boats to land on the Eastern Shore of this young volcano, and depending on recent activity, you can climb to the rim of the caldera. A boattrip to Anak Krakatau is worth the adventure.
PLACES TO EAT
Bring along lunch and refreshments, as it is hot and there is no fresh water available on the island - all other supplies for the trip should be brought with you.
WHERE TO STAY
There is no where to stay on Anak Krakatau but there are a variety of places to stay on the mainland, Carita Krakatau Beach, Anyer Beach, Mambruk, Merak Beach are some of the major hotels along the coastal area that are recommended.
GETTING AROUND
To Krakatau. Boats may be chartered to the four uninhabited islands of the anak Krakatau from Labuan port. Arrangements can also be made through the hotels: Carita Krakatau Beach, Anyer Beach, Mambruk, Merak Beach and some other major hotels along the coastal area. As the trip takes four to five hours each way, the weather is hot and there is no fresh water out there. Boats may be chartered to the four uninhabited islands of the Krakatau group from Labuan (Anyer - West Java). The cost depends on the chartered boats, from small fishing craft up to a motorized fiberglass launch that can carry up to 10 people. Arrangement can be made through any hotels or at the port. Most visitors land at the eastern side of Anak Krakatau, climb up to the top of the first ridge for a view into the smoking crater and across to the other three islands. The trip is not recommended during the rainy season, (November to March) when the seas are rough.
ACTIVITIES AND ATTRACTIONS
Most visitors land at the eastern side of Anak Krakatau, climb up to the top of the first ridge for a view into the smoking crater and across to the other three islands. This is a good place for walking and taking photographs.
source : http://www.asia-planet.net/indonesia/krakatau.htm
October 6th, 2006
Famous around the world for the Komodo Dragon and excellent diving, Komodo lies just to the East of Sumbawa. The legendary reputations of Komodo Dragons, coupled with dangerous currents and deep waters around the island, have kept the population and visitors to a minimum. This has helped preserve the island natural flora, fauna and coral formations.
On the strangely foreboding island of Komodo between Flores and Sumbawa is the Jurassic Park of Indonesia, a small island of 280 square km, home to the famous Komodo dragon, a giant monitor lizard over two meters long, the world’s biggest reptile which can reach more than 3m in length and 136 kg, perhaps the only living cousin of the dinosaur. Potential man-eaters, the dragons are extremely dangerous and visitors must be accompanied by a park ranger to the 59,000 hectare park. A special “bite zone”, a fenced enclosure like a terrestrial shark cage allows visitors to safely take pictures of the dragons as they fight, mate and eat in the surrounding forest.
GETTING AROUND
The island of Komodo can now be reached by ferry from Sape on Sumbawa Island, and from Labuanbajo, in Manggarai. Komodo Island is 20 miles away from Labuanbajo. By motorboat, the trip takes three hours, the alternative is to go by ferry from Sape in Sumbawa or take one of the several luxury cruise ships that ply the area or over the Flores mainland via Manggarai Regency by public transport means or by twin Otter aircraft from the little airport of Mutiara.
By Air:
Nusa Tenggara Barat consists of two main islands: Lombok and Sumbawa. On the island of Lombok we find Selaparang Airport, in Mataram City, just 2 kms from the city of Sumbawa Besar, located in the Western region of the island. Also on Sumbawa, but on the eastern side of this long, elongated island, is Salahudin Airport about 10 kms from the city of Bima. Fokker-27 planes can reach Sumbawa Island. It is easy to reach Nusa Tenggara Barat with domestic flights.
By Land:
Nusa Tenggara Barat (NTB) has good internal transportation system, having good public transport within its cities and larger bus services connecting cities. To reach tourism areas and tourist attractions on NTB a variety of public and private transport is available. “Angkutan Kota” and taxis can be used within a city, and even “Cidomo”- traditional horse-drawn carts-and motor boats, in seaside areas, exist. The city of Mataram in Lombok, the provincial capital, holds the main transport terminal, which serves all cities, towns and large villages throughout the entire NTB region. Cidomo horse carts operate wherever you arrange for them to take you - a bit like a taxi.
By Sea:
A regular ferry service exist from Bali to Lombok with 12 crossing a day, every 2 hours, starting at 6.00 am. The journey takes approx. 3.5 - 4 hours and the price varies depending on the quality of the ferry. For those wishing to continue on to Sumbawa, there are 6 departures a day from Khayangan Harbor in Easter Lombok, to Poto Tano Harbor in West Sumbawa. The journey takes about 1.5 hours. Also a ferry runs once a day from Sape Harbor, in far Eastern Sumbawa, to Nusa Tenggara Timur once a day. Ships call at Lembe Harbor in Lombok once fortnightly. Using the following route :
The Kelimutu
Every Monday leaves Lembar for Bima-Waingapu-Ende-Kupang-Kalabahi-Maumere-Ujung Pandang, and return.
The KM Sirimau
Leaves Lembar (Lombok) every Friday and Sunday.
Lembar-Makasar (Ujung Pandang)
Lembar-Surabaya-Sampit-Cirebon-Pontianak-Tanjung Priok.
The Kelimutu also departs Bima (East Sumbawa) once every 2 weeks on a Wednesday.
There are 2 routes :
Bima-Waingapu-Ende-Kupang-Kalabahi-Maumere-Ujung Pandang and return. Bima-Lembaar-Benoa-Banyuwangi. Remarks: Quoted information as above may change without prior notice
ATTRACTIONS AND ACTIVITIES
The Palace of Dalam Loka
Constructed during the reign of Sultan Muhammad Jalaludin lil, the Sultan of Sumbawa kingdom (1883 -1931), in Seketeng village, is an exquisite example of the local traditional architectural style. Mainly using wood for its construction, it is supported by 99 wooden poles, which coincides with the 99 names of God Almighty, according to the local belief.
Bate Gong
A village of coral construction architecture.
Lebuk Tallwang
This extensive lake covered with waterlilies, men fishing incanoes, waterfowls and hawks, is only 3 km from Taliwang which is renowned for its restaurants serving delicious chicken dishes. Marvelous boating and fishing.
Aik lenung - Bate Tereng
The massive sarcophagi with human and crocodile figures carved in love found in this area are believed to be 2000 years old.
Dora Bate
The remains of The Dompu palace which was covered with volcanic dust during Mount Tamboras explosion in 181S. The area is now the government’s archeological site.
Lepadi
The traditional Dompu horse race with small boys as the jockeys, originated from this village.
Bima
The capital town of Bima Regency and also the connecting port of Eastern, Central, and Western Indonesia. A restored former Sultan’s palace containing historical items such as the royal crown.
Maria
The houses of this village are the finest examples of traditional Bima architecture.
Melayu
The sacred graveyard of the kings of Bima. Interesting ornaments on the tombstones.
Donggo Village
Located on a high plateau, this village is the home of the swidden-farmers called the Dou Donggo which literally means mountain people. Many historical remains were found here, including the original East Sumbawa house.
Mayo Island
One hour by boat from Labuhan Badas arid Sumbevva. A game National conservation area, patronage by the British Royal contains many wild and endangered species of birds and other animals. White sandy beaches and not less than 6000 hectares of magical underwater world, filled with abundant and colorful marine life, make this a natural paradise.
Taman Ria Tirta Sari
A sea resort with a recreational park. Bungalows, restaurants, and a fresh water swimming pool are available.
Labuhan Sumbawa
The former port of Sumbawa regency. A sleepy old port, now it is only used by the ferries departing for Moyo island.
Nisa Pudu Island
A nature conservation and recreational area providing a magnificent spot for experiencing the enchanting sunrise of Sumbawa. Accomodation is not available.
Hu’u Beach
Its long uncompromising curling waves give this area its reputation as one of the best spots for surfing in Indonesia.
Sarae Me’e Beach
Wind surfing and pleasant swimming.
Ule Beach
Marvelous sea panorama and Watersports venues.
Gunung Tambora
The highest mountain in Sumbawa. Its eruption in 1815 caused mass destruction throughout the island with the explosion heard as far as Ternate (1400 km), and tremors felt in Surabaya (800 km). The volcanic dust, ejected into the stratosphere creating spectacular orange sunsets around the world.
Kencana Beach
Magnificent view of the adjacent Moyo island and Tanjung Menangis (The Crying Cape), where homestays in Sumbawa architectural style are available.
source : http://www.asia-planet.net/indonesia/komodo.htm
October 6th, 2006
The Kecak dance is one of the most famous of Balinese dances, it is unusual because it has no musical accompaniment like many other Indonesian dances do, the rhythm of the dance is produced by the chanting ‘monkey’ chorus. The chanting noise of “Cak-cak-cak” gave the dance its name Kecak. The 50 man chorus arrange themselves in a ring around a flame, to produce a stage. The men not only provide the rhythm for this dance but also act as the various monkey armies that are featured in the story and as the undulating snake in one of the scenes.
The story line of the dance is taken from the Ramayana epic that tells of the evil King Rahwana using trickery to kidnap Rama’s wife Dewi Sinta, and how with the help of the white monkey army, Rama rescues his wife and defeats the evil Rahwana. The dance however is not a traditional Balinese dance it was developed in the 1930s in the village of Bona specifically for western tastes. If you get the opportunity to go to a Kecak dance go because it is an experience not to be missed.
WHERE TO EAT IN DENPASAR
There are a variety of restuarants in Denpasar offering a good choice of food to suit a variety of tastes at reasonable prices. Restaurant Hong Kong serves a good selection of Chinese and Indonesian dishes but prices are a little on the high side in comparision with other places in the area. Mie 88 with a slightly less extensive menu, is good value for money. Pondok Melati serves good, resonably priced seafood, but the setting is slightly noisy. If your looking for something pedas -spicy, visit Ayam Goreng Taliwang, that serves Lombok style food. Many of the shopping centres in the area have places to eat and there are several fast food places for those fast food addicts, McDonalds at the NDA department store, Wendy’s and Pizza Hut at the Bali Mall and KFC at Matahari’s and there is no shortage of Dunkin Donut outlets in the city.
GETTING AROUND IN DENPASAR
By Air:
Numerous international carriers service Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport either directly or via Jakarta. Domestic airlines operate schedule flights from various cities within Indonesia.
By Land:
Bali is connected to Java by a regular ferry service running between Gilimanuk and Banyuwangi. If you are taking the train or a night bus from Jakarta, Bandung or Yogyakarta, travels first to Surabaya for the connection to Banyuwangi. Buses can be boarded at Banyuwangi or Gilimanuk for the final leg to Denpasar.
By Sea:
The state-run passanger line PELNI operates weekly sailing’s between Bali and Jakarta, Ujung Pandang and Balikpapan. Regular ferries sail between Lombok and Bali.
Taxis
Upon arrival: If your hotel has not arranged transportation from the airport, hire a taxi from the transport counter outside the arrival gate. Fares are listed by destination and must be paid in advance. Metered taxis are also available in Kuta, Sanur, Nusa Dua and Denpasar.
Rent a car
While inexpensive public transportation is available throughout Bali, the best option for travellers looking for comfort and flexibility is car rental. Air-conditioned vehicle’s available include jeeps, family wagons and sedans, and these may be hired with or without a chauffeur. If you choose to drive yourself, a valid international Driving License is required. Temporary driving permits are also available from the Traffic Police Department. Most international road conventions are observed in Bali, though right-of-way tends to go to the larger vehicle and turns are not always signaled. Remember to drive on the left and overtake only on the right; turning left on a red light is allowed only when indicated. Keep both eyes out for the pedestrians, motorcycles, potholes, chickens and stray dogs (and pay special attention to your side-view mirrors). If negotiating Bali’s sometimes hectic and usually harrowing roadways does not appeal to you, then hire a driver with your vehicle. They are inexpensive addition and generally know their way around the island.
For metered taxis, chauffeur-driven, standard and luxury cars, reservations can be made at (361) 701111.
Motorcycle
Seeing Bali by motorcycle is a romantic and carefree option provided you drive very cautiously. Helmets for both drivers and passenger are required by law, as in appropriate license. Motorcycling is not recommended (nor particularly pleasant) in the wet season.
Buses
Bus tours and daily excursions in air-conditioned coach or mini-van are offered at most hotels and travel agencies. Public buses ply routes throughout Bali from Denpasar’s Ubung Terminal.
Bemos and Dokar
Bemos (covered pickups or mini-vans) ply short routes between towns. They are not air-conditioned and can be crowded, but are cheap. Fares vary according to distances, and bargaining is recommended. For a different experience, hop on a traditional dokar. These small horse-drawn carts are still available in Kuta and Denpasar and a short ride costs next to nothing
WHERE TO SEE THE KOCAK DANCE
Bona village Sunday, Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 7:00pm Catur EKA Budi (Art Centre) Denpasar, Daily at 7:00pm. Various Hotels in Bali hold Kecak Dance performances and often deals providing dinner and tickets to the performance are offered at the main hotels in Bali for further information contact:
source : http://www.asia-planet.net/indonesia/kecak-dance.htm
October 6th, 2006
Believed to have been derived from the Sanskrit words “Vihara Buddha Uhr”, (Buddhist Monastery on the Hill). The Borobudur Temple was built in the eighth century by the Cailendra dynasty and is located at Magelang 90-km southeast of Semarang or 42 km Northwest of Yogyakarta. One of the world’s most famous temples, it stand majestically on a hill overlooking lush green fields and distant hills. Borobudur is built of grey andesite stone. It rises in seven terraces, each smaller than the one below it. The top is the Great Stupa, standing 40 meters above the ground. The walls of the Borobudur are sculpted in bas-relief, a total length of six kilometres.
It has been hailed as the largest and most complete ensemble of Buddhist relieves in the world, unsurpassed in artistic merit, and each scene an individual masterpiece. The monument has been completely restored and was officially opened by the President on 23 February 1983. The restoration took eight years to complete, funded by the Government of Indonesia with aid from UNESCO and donations from private citizens and foreign governments. Stone cancer, moss and lichen in danger of collapsing its stone statues and bas-reliefs affected the Borobudur. A large parking area is available not far from the monument, so private cars and buses have to be parked in this area. During the Buddhist festival of Waisak in May, processions start from Mendut temple. Public transportation is available the bus terminal. From that point visitors can hire becaks or horse carts, or walk the rest of the way to the monument
GETTING AROUND
A rental car or taxi up to Borobudur Temple will take around one-hour’s drive 42 kms (26 miles) from Yogyakarta. Many tour-travel or hotels offer transportation to this fabled temple or using min-buses from terminal. Borobudur can also be reached by rental car or taxi or mini-buses from Magelang.
source : http://www.asia-planet.net/indonesia/allabout.htm
October 6th, 2006