Sail Indonesia 2011

Sail Indonesia 2011 seri tendangan off Darwin untuk Yacht Race Ambon dan Rally 2011 yang akan dimulai dari Darwin pada hari Sabtu, tanggal 23 Juli. Reli ini diharapkan mencapai Ambon pada Senin 25 Juli. Darwin-Ambon Yacht Race 2011 adalah salah satu dari tiga hal utama dalam Sail 2011 pelayaran Indonesia melalui kepulauan Indonesia yang meliputi Sail Wakatobi 2011 dan Sail Belitung 2011.

Dalam Yacht Race Darwin-Ambon dan Rally 2011, peserta akan berangkat dari Darwin Harbor, dan memulai perjalanan ke utara 600 mil laut 'ke desa Amahusu di Pelabuhan Ambon.

Akan ada Barbeque gratis pada tanggal 16 Juli untuk semua peserta di Club Pelayaran Darwin dan Hari Informasi dan Briefing Reli pada 19 Juli di Ballroom Holiday Inn Esplanade Arafura, Mitchell Street, Darwin. Hari informasi akan menampilkan pembicara dari Indonesia, Singapura, Malaysia dan Thailand yang akan memberikan jawaban atas pertanyaan setiap peserta mengenai Sail Indonesia 2011 seri.

Sail Indonesia merupakan Reli Berlayar tahunan sekarang dalam tahun kesebelas yang dimulai di Darwin, dan kemudian diadakan setiap tahun di pertengahan Juli. Berangkat dari Darwin akan menjadi awal dari tiga bulan program Sail Indonesia 2011 peristiwa terkait di seluruh Indonesia yang juga mengarah ke Sail Wakatobi-Belitong 2011.

Kunjungan kesempatan ke Ambon di Kepulauan Rempah-Rempah oleh teknisi radio Darwin pada tahun 1976 adalah percikan yang mengarah ke Darwin pertama Yacht Race Ambon akhir tahun itu. Para Yacht Race Darwin-Ambon yacht tertarik enam tahun perdananya. Selama berbulan-bulan setelah itu, percakapan antara yachters kembali didominasi oleh cerita-cerita "berlayar sampanye", perhotelan luar biasa, orang yang ramah yang indah, keindahan pemandangan, keragaman budaya, makanan, dan sekelompok cerita petualangan.

Dimulai Sail Indonesia 2011, Darwin untuk Yacht Race Ambon dan Rally 2011 akan mengambil pelaut dan yachters pada suatu perjalanan mengunjungi ratusan pulau-pulau di kepulauan Indonesia. Sebagai peristiwa penting tersebut, Darwin-Ambon Yacht Race 2011 adalah benar-benar sebuah balapan yang luar biasa yang yachters tidak harus kehilangan.

Festival Seni Surabaya 2011

Sebuah pesta seni yang kehadirannya selalu dinantikan oleh masyarakat Surabaya. Penonton akan dihibur dengan penampilan teater, tarian, musik, pameran seni yang dirangkai dalam penghelatan Festival Seni Surabaya 2011 (FSS).

Sebuah momen tanggal 31 Oktober – 9 November 2011 yang menjadikan Balai Pemuda pusat diadakannya serangkaian acara selama dua minggu nanti. Namun, ada juga pusat-pusat kebudayaan dan ruang publik yang senantiasa ikut berpartisipasi memeriahkan event tahunan ini.

Untuk mengawali rangkaian penampilan seni itu, acara Rabu pagi besok akan dibuka dengan happening art di Trotoar Museum Mpu Tantular, Surabaya. Kemudian sorenya, dilanjutkan dengan long march seni dari depan Monumen Polisi, Jl. Polisi Istimewa, menuju Taman Bungkul, Jl. Raya Darmo, Surabaya.

Launching Festival Seni Surabaya 2011 (FSS)
Tanggal: Rabu, 27 Juli 2011
Tempat: Taman Bungkul
Jam 15.00 Wib

Festival Seni Surabaya 2011 (FSS)
Tanggal: 31 Oktober – 9 November 2011
Balai Pemuda Surabaya
Jl. Pemuda No. 15 Surabaya
Telp: 031-8662918
Email: surabayafestival@gmail.com
Web: http://festivalsenisurabaya.com/
Blog: http://festivalsenisurabaya.blogspot.com/

Sumber: http://www.surabaya.go.id/dinamis/?id=1568

(Surabaya, City Guide)
2011-05-24-089-E-Festival Seni Surabaya 2011

Jawa Timur Park 2

Jawa Timur Park 2 adalah tempat wisata terbaru di kota Wisata Batu, Malang, Jawa Timur. Banyak pengunjung yang mengatakan bahwa berwisata ke Jawa Timur Park serasa tidak sedang berwisata di Indonesia karena rangkaian bangunannya yang megah, mewah, rapih, bersih, modern dan lengkap.

Di dalam Jawa Timur Park 2 terdapat 3 kompleks bangunan megah yang berdiri kokoh dan berarsitektur unik dan bertaraf internasional. Yang pertama, Bangunan Museum Satwa yang berarsitektur Romawi-Yunani yang terkenal akan tiang-tiang besar. Yang kedua, Batu Secret Zoo, sebuah kebun binatang modern 4 lantai plus sebuah giant wheel (bianglala raksasa).Yang ketiga, Hotel Pohon Inn yang merupakan konsep hotel di dalam pohon super raksasa. Kesemuanya berlatar belakang Bukit Panderman.

1. Museum Satwa :

Ingin melihat lebih dekat fosil T-Rex seperti dalam film Night at the Museum atau fosil Mammoth seperti di film Ice Age? Tak perlu jauh-jauh pergi ke luar negeri. Cukup berwisata ke Museum Satwa, Jawa Timur Park 2 yang beralamat di Jl.Oro-oro Ombo 9. Di tempat ini anak-anak bisa menikmati sensasi melihat dari dekat replica hewan karnivora dan gajah purba masa prasejarah tersebut. Selain replika dinosaurus yang telah punah, juga akan dijunpai bermacam hewan-hewan langka yang telah diawetkan dari berbagai penjuru benua mulai dari African Lion, Polar Bear, hingga African Elephant yang merupakan spesies gajah terbesar di dunia.Semua bisa dinikmati beserta diorama-diorama satwa yang dikonsep sedemikian rupa sehingga mirip dengan habitat aslinya. Juga masih akan dilengkapi dengan insectarium, akuarium, pertunjukan Ice Life Show, dan ruang pengetahuan yang menawarkan berbagai hal tak terduga dari dunia satwa. Dengan harga tiket Rp.45.000,- /orang untuk weekedays dan Rp. 50.000,-/orang (untuk weekend) pengunjung dapat menikmati lebih dari 15 fasilitas wisata. Untuk yang menginginkan melihat satwa yang hidup cukup berpindah ke bangunan merah sebelah utara yaitu Batu Secret Zoo.

2. Batu Secret Zoo :

Kebun Binatang yang modern, sangat berbeda dari kebun binatang biasa, lebih menarik, lebih lengkap dan memuaskan anak-anak akan pengetahuan tentang satwa.

Arsitektur kebun binatang ini pun berskala internasional.

Disini kita juga bisa memberi makan puluhan burung Parkit berwarna-warni, rusa, unta dan melihat Harimau Putih yang berukuran cukup besar dan berada di dalam kandang yang dirancang sangat modern.
Bahkan cukup dengan Rp. 10.000 kita bisa memberi makan langsung Singa Afrika atau Harimau putih.
Kandang-kandang binatang disini juga unik di seting sesuai dengan alam habitatnya, jadi satwa tidak lagi terkurung dalam jeruji besi.

Disediakan pula arena bermain anak (playland) dan water park. Tak lupa 4 buah cafe dan mini resto disiapkan bagi pengunjung yang kelaparan.

Rute yang ditempuh kira-kira 4 km untuk berjalan santai, jadi butuh waktu lebih dari 4 jam untuk hanya menikmati di kawasan Secret Zoo. Bagi yang lelah berjalan tak perlu khawatir, terdapat penyewaan e-Bike sejenis mobil golf yang beraneka tariff Rp.100.000,- utk 3 jam.

Satu lagi yang tak boleh terlupakan, sempatkanlah berfoto dengan kingkong seperti di film hollywood Kingkong. Foto kita bakal seolah-olah berada dalam genggaman kingkong raksasa. Penasaran kan! .

O iya, di dalam Batu Secret Zoo anak-anak juga dapat menikmati Fantasy Land (tidak usah membeli tiket lagi)

3. De’ Pohon inn

Hotel yang unik, dengan desain interior dan exteriornya kental dengan nuansa satwa.

Trans Studio Theme Park Bandung`s

TRANS STUDIO THEME PARK, Trans Studio Bandung adalah Indoor Theme Park ke dua di Indonesia setelah Makassar. Trans Studio Bandung lebih spektakuler dan lebih dahsyat dari Trans Studio yang ada di Makassar sehingga menjadikan Trans Studio Bandung tidak hanya terbesar di Indonesia tapi juga terbesar di dunia.

TRANS STUDIO THEME PARK menyajikan 20 wahana permainan dan bermacam bentuk hiburan yang terdapat dalam 3 kawasan dengan tema yang berbeda dan unik. Para pengunjung dapat merasakan bagaimana menjadi seorang bintang di depan kamera serta menjadi orang – orang di belakang layar dari tayangan – tayangan favorit TRANS TV dan TRANS 7,seperti Dunia Lain, Jelajah. Si Bolang, dan masih banyak wahana menarik lainnya.

Tentang Trans Studio Theme Park

Selamat datang di dunia penuh keajaiban khusus diciptakan untuk anda. Membawa mimpi anda menjadi kenyataan.Bertemu langsung dengan karakter – karakter idola anda.Nikmati persembahan 20 wahana kami yang menantang dan mendebarkan dan hiburan dengan gaya Broadway yang terkenal.

Studio Central
The Famous Hollywood! Kawasan Hollywood didepan mata anda. Berjalanlah menyusuri Kawasan ini dan liat siapa artis yang ada di Walk of Fame ? . Anda akan dimanjakan oleh arsitektur-arsitektur Hollywood bergaya 60-an. Anda seolah melangkah di pusat negeri hiburan. Temukan juga Bintang favorit mu seperti Marlyn Monroe

Lost City
Siapkan diri anda untuk berpetualang! Di kawasan ini anda akan menempuh perjalanan yang hebat. Selamatkan Kru Trans TV dalam ekspedisinya, masuki hutan rimba dalam safari track.Semua petualangan menarik akan menjadi bagian dari penjelajahan anda.Explore the Lost City!

Magic Corner

Keajaiban bermula dari sini. Sentuhan Magis yang akan mempesonakan perjalanan anda. Anda akan hanyut dalam sensasi yang ada di sini. Perjalanan yang akan menyihir anda membuat anda begitu yakin apa yang ada didepan mata. Satu –satunya tempat penuh keajaiban,petualangan yang menggembirakan dan menakjubkan.

Ambon : The Original Spice Islands

The tiny islands of Ambon, Banda, Ternate and Tidore - among the thousands of islands in the Moluccas seas,- changed the course of world history from the 15th century onwards. These islands were what triggered the European Age of Exploration.

For in search of the Spice Islands in the Far East, Christopher Columbus sailed west – and discovered America. Vasco da Gama sailed south and discovered the long route around Africa’s Cape of Good Hope in 1498 to finally reach India after a long and perilous voyage. Only later did the Portuguese finally discover the sea route to Banda and Ambon. These small islands in the eastern deep seas of the Indonesian archipelago were for centuries the sole producers of the fragrant nutmeg and mace in the world. At the time these spices fetched their weight in gold in Medieval Europe.

The tiny islands of Ternate and Tidore, further north of Ambon were producers of cloves. Indian and Arab traders would sell cloves in Europe for exorbitant prices, but kept the location of their source a tightly held secret. These are the Moluccas – or Maluku – the original Spice Islands, that are now divided into the two provinces of Maluku and North Maluku.

It is from these islands that the Dutch East India Company first gained their stranglehold on the spice trade in the archipelago, gradually colonizing the Indonesian islands over three centuries, until it came to be called the Dutch East Indies, the present-day Republic of Indonesia.

As the glory days spices passed, the significance of the Moluccas waned. But it is here where the history of European explorations and colonization began.

Fortunately the beauty of that era still remains. Today, the town of Ambon is the capital of Maluku, occupying a small flat area by the beautiful Ambon Bay that is backed by lush green mountains and facing deep crystal clear waters that are alive with colorful coral gardens and untold species of marine creatures.

Although small in size, Ambon island still offers plenty of experiences for adventurous travelers. From exploring the charming Kota Ambon – the main town of the island, to walking up mountains through lush tropical vegetation, there are many undiscovered gems ready for visitors to experience.

The town of Ambon – Kota Ambon – is known as ‘Ambon Manise’ meaning sweet or beautiful Ambon. The name refers to both the beauty of the people here and the beauty of the tropical island location.

As one of the earliest places in Indonesia to be occupied by colonial powers, Ambon has a rich and ancient history. Many of the Ambonese today have mixed European and Ambonese heritage.

Visit here and discover centuries-old fortresses and the literature of local kingdoms which traces the story of the people, from periods of prosperity to escalating and controlled trades, harsh colonialism, a grueling struggle, and finally, to independence.

The island also played an important role in World War II when Ambon was used as a headquarters for the Japanese military. Remnants from the war still remain, both in museums and the open air. Some war artifacts remain silently underwater. Today, these remnants are among the most valued historical sites in Ambon.

Ambon is multicultural and home to various ethnicities including the native Alifuru tribes, the migrating Javanese, Sumatrans, Minahasans, the Butons, the Arabs who came in the 9th century, the Europeans, and the Chinese who first came in the 7th century to share in the commerce of this prosperous spice island. Between 1999-2002 the island was the scene of Christian-Muslim violence however since 2004 the island has maintained a period of ongoing peace.

Makassar : Historic Port for Spices and Sailing Ships

Formerly called Ujung Pandang, the city of Makassar is the largest city in east Indonesia. Capital of South Sulawesi, Makassar enjoys a central location in the Indonesian archipelago and today Makassar is Indonesia’s busy air hub, connecting Sumatra, Java, Bali and Kalimantan in the west with Sulawesi, the Moluccas and Papua in the east.

In fact, ever since the 14th. century Makassar was already known as a thriving sea port where merchant vessels from far away China, India and Cambodia called regularly to trade in silks, tea and porcelain in exchange for cloves, nutmeg and pearls from the Moluccas and gold and forest products from Makassar and its hinterland. And when in the 16th century the Europeans discovered the sailing route to the coveted Spice Islands, the Spanish and Portuguese made Makassar their important entrepot to store valuable spices before shipment to Europe.

Meanwhile, in this southern peninsula of Sulawesi, the Bugis, Makassar and Mandar ethnic groups, known for their seafaring prowess and boat building skills, had already developed powerful kingdoms that encouraged trade, fishery, rice cultivation as well as literature and the arts. The Bugis epic poem I la Galigo is a recognized masterpiece in Bugis literature, as are the graceful dances and bright silk costumes of court dancers with their richly decorated accessories of wide gold bangles, opulent necklaces and tiaras.

In 1667 however, through the Treaty of Bungaya, Dutch merchants succeeded to oust the Portuguese and Spanish from Makasssar to make this port their stronghold, banning other Europeans from trading in Makassar. The Dutch destroyed the fort of Ujung Pandang built by the king of Gowa in 1545, and fortified this into Fort Rotterdam, which today still stands prominently on the waterfront of Makassar, while the king of Gowa was allowed to stay at Fort Somba Opny Makassar aristocrats who refused to be dominated by the Dutch, left the city and settled in Kalimantan , the Riau Islands and present-day Malaysia. The sultans of Selangor and Johore are Bugis descendents as are the sultans of Kutai Kartanegara in east Kalimantan.

Located on the busy trading route along the deep Straits of Makassar, the city of Makassar is a bustling cosmopolitan town with settlement of many races and ethnic groups, of Chinese, Europeans, Javanese, Balinese, Ambon and others, where local and international cargo ships continue to call at its busy port. While at its traditional port of Paotere, Bugis pinisi schooners can be seen lining the quay to unload goods from near and far away islands, and various types of fishing prahus, such as the pantorani, the lepa-lepa and the sandeq unload the day’s catch.

Today Makassar is also a university town, where youth from all over the islands, especially from the eastern archipelagos gather to gain higher education.

And, to provide entertainment for its population and to attract tourists especially from east Indonesia, Makassar now boasts a large theme park called Trans Studio, touted as the third largest indoor theme park in the world. For details see: www.transstudioworld.com
Makassar’s Sultan Hassanuddin airport is today Indonesia’s most modern airport. Makassar has a wonderful esplanade called the Losari Beach, the only place in Indonesia where one can see both a beautiful sunrise as well as a spectacular sunset. The Losari Beach is lined with luxury hotels and in the evenings comes alive with food stalls.

Makassar is the Gateway to East Indonesia, as well as the entry point to an adventurous tour to the Tana Toraja highlands, where awesome mountain scenery and the unique rituals of the Toraja people await.

Makassar's Circle of Tourism Writers, LPP, the travel industry and travel lovers of Makassar have created a new web in conjunction with the Visit Makassar Year 2011 to provide up to date information on this destination. The web is bilingual, in English and Bahasa Indonesia. To open click: www.mymakassar.com.

Kutai National Park

Kutai National Park (KNP) is a lowland tropical forest in East Kalimantan. KNP has an area width of 198,629 hectares. Its bio-diversity and vegetation makes it a great destination for local as well as foreign nature lovers and researchers. Iron-meranti-kapur (Dryobalanops Spp.) woods, mixed dipterocarpaceae, mangroves and kerangsa are types of vegetationAt present, about 900 types of vegetations in the park have been identified. For local students in its surrounding areas e.g., Bontang and Sangatta, KNP is a facility to learn about the nature. Two locations of KNP frequently visited by tourists are Sangkima and Prevab resorts. Visitors are charged with an entry fee of Rp1,500 for local visitors or Rp15,000 for foreign visitors.
s found in KNP.

Sangalaki EAST KALIMANTAN , Underwater Paradise

For those of you who like diving, the beauty and diversity of flora and fauna around Sangalaki Island will attract you to come again and again. This island is located in the Derawan Archipelago, Berau, East Kalimantan. It is one of the best locations for diving and snorkeling in the world, along with Raja Ampat in Papua province.

Blowing winds, clean seawater, soft sands, warm sun, beautiful waves, coconut trees, and beautiful afternoons complete the excitement of your diving.

Sangalaki‘s underwater scenery facinates everyone who sees it. Manta Alfredi (Pari Hantu), which only exists in Derawan, Barracudas, Stingrays, giant squids, and starfish are only part of the underwater paradise of Sangalaki.

Since Manta Alfredi is a very rare animal, many tourists come to Sangalaki to see this very unique animal. This tropical animal looks like a stingray, but both its whiskers work as wings.
Popular diving points in this area include Channel Entrance, Coral Gardens, Town, Sandy Ridge, Manta Run, Sherwood Forest, Manta Parade, Manta Avenue, Ridge, Lighthouse, and The Rockies among others. Sangalaki is also known as an island where turtles lay eggs. You could see this unique process during breeding season close-up

Unlike other diving locations, the management of Sangalaki Island strictly maintains the natural conservation of this island. It is situated between East Kalimantan and Sulawesi. As an example, at night when you don't need any urgent electricity, the management will shut down the electricity on this island. Thus, this island is very quiet and is a favorite place for those of you who like to stay away from busy and noisy cities.

To reach Sangalaki Island, you may take an airplane from Soekarno-Hatta airport in Jakarta to Sepinggan airport (BPN) in Balikpapan. Among airlines flying to Balikpapan are Garuda Indonesia, Airasia, and Lion Air.

From Sepinggan, you may take a Deraya airplane to the capital city of Berau district, Tanjung Redeb. Deraya serves commuter and chartered flights. During this journey, you may see the life of the local community in the Kalimantan hinterlands which are not influenced by modernization.

Upon your arrival in Tanjung Redeb, you have another journey by speed boat along the Segah River to Sangalaki. Seeing the local community living by the river side and happy children playing will bring a smile to you after a long journey. In total, it takes about 8 to 9 hours from Jakarta to Sangalaki. In addition to visiting Sangalaki, you could also visit equally interesting neighbouring islands such as Maratua, Derawan, and Kakaban islands.

Palembang on the Musi River : Heart of ancient Srivijaya

Palembang, the second largest town on Sumatra after Medan, was once the celebrated seat of the rich and powerful Srivijaya kingdom, that for more than three centuries - from the 9th to the 11th century - reigned supreme over the Sumatra seas up to and including the strategic Straits of Malacca. Srivijaya was then known as the wealthy trade hub as well as the center for Buddhist learnings. Monks from China, India and Java used to congregate here to learn and teach the words of Buddha. In AD 671 Chinese chronicles wrote that the famous Chinese Buddhist monk, I Ching sojourned in Palembang for six months on his way to India. I Ching wrote that there were more than 1,000 Buddhist monks in the city and advised Chinese monks to study Sanskrit in Palembang before proceeding to India. While the Srivijaya kings lived inland on shore, his subjects lived along the wide Musi river, manning the powerful fleet and busily trading in gold, spices, silks, ivories and ceramics with foreign merchants who sailed in from China, India and Java. In 1025, however, the king of Chola in South India sent a fleet to Sumatra, destroying the kingdom, marking the end of its golden era. Later, Chinese admiral Cheng Ho, emissary of the Chinese emperor visited Palembang in the 15th century.
Palembang is also known in history as the origin of the Malays whose kings are believed to have descended to earth at Gunung Siguntang, north of Palembang.

Today, not much can be seen from Srivijaya’s golden age, except for evidence of the area’s fine gold and silver songket weaving that persists until today, the fine lacquerware it produces for which Palembang is renowned, and its regal dances and opulent costumes.

Capital of the Province of South Sumatra, Palembang today thrives from coal, mined in its surroundings and from palm oil plantations. Much of the inhabitants still dwell for kilometers along the wide Musi river.
The Musi river has its source deep in the Bukit Barisan mountains, tumbling down to reach the plains where, fed by the converging Ogam and Komering rivers, it then widens into a large river as it reaches Palembang. Its many tributaries and streams that cut through Palembang, has caused this town at times to be called ‘The Venice of the East’.

The Icon of modern Palembang is the Ampera Bridge, which was opened to the public in 1965, spanning this wide river connecting both sides of the city. The view from the Musi river from this vantage point is stunning. Watch the bustling boats at the floating market by the Ampera Bridge, while at sunset the view with the many houses on stilts along both sides of the Musi and the centuries’ old quaint Chinese shop-houses, are memories to be captured on film and not easily forgotten.

North of the Ampera bridge, is the Mesjid Agung or Royal Mosque, built in 1740 by Sultan Badaruddin I, and recently restored to its former glory. This area was once the capital of a Malay Islamic kingdom which came to an end in 1825, when the last Sultan, Ahmad Najamuddin surrendered to the Dutch and was banished to Banda Neira.

But Palembang is not only about history. On New Year’s Eve, tens of disc jockeys gather downtown to deliver brand new energy, while the traditional songket weavers and wood carvers shy away from the loud trendy exposure.

When in Palembang donot forget to try the spicy steamed river fish wrapped in banana leaves, called pindang, or Palembang’s specialty, the favourite dish called pempekdipped in aromatic sweet vinegar sauce.

The Kraton YOGYAKARTA : Palace Fit For A Javanese King

The palace of Yogyakarta, known as the Keraton (also spelled kraton or karaton), is a grand complex that was meticulously planned to reflect the Javanese cosmos. This splendid example of traditional Javanese architecture has no equal. Designed and built in stages, the Keraton was completed in 1790.

This elegant complex of pavilions was constructed entirely on ancient beliefs and each feature of the complex, from the courtyards to the trees, has a special symbolic meaning related to sophisticated Javanese philosophy.

The Keraton is built facing directly north towards the majestic Mt. Merapi with to its south backing the Indian Ocean which is believed to be the abode of Nyi Loro Kidul, the Queen of the South Seas and the mystical consort of the Sultan. Malioboro road was originally used as the ceremonial route, not unlike London’s Pall Mall, and forms a straight line drawn from the Sultan’s palace to the Merapi volcano.

A green square called alun-alun fronting the palace, has a large banyan tree in its center, while behind the palace is another similar square. When a sultan dies, the cortege leaves by the southern gate on its way to the cemetery of kings at Imogiri.

This palace was designed to be more than just a royal residence. It was built to be a focal point of the Sultan’s entire kingdom. Today, the Keraton is a piece of living history and tradition. It continues to be used, both as a home of the Sultan as well as for other important ceremonial and cultural functions of the Yogya court.

The present Sultan Hamengku Buwono X of Yogyakarta retains the title of Sultan although Yogya has become one of the provinces of the Republic of Indonesia. The Sultan of Yogya,is also the governor of the province, and is still considered the cultural head of this region, and is greatly loved by his subjects.

Even with Yogya’s modernization, the Keraton of Yogya continues to be respected by the people of Yogya, steeped as it is in mysticism and philosophy. In the afternoons, after the palace is closed to visitors, women in traditional costume can be seen respectfully sprinkling water and flowers on the pillars, lighting incense to “cleanse” the keraton from evil spirits.

Plengkung Beach / G-Land BANYUWANGI , EAST JAVA

Plengkung is known as one of the best surfing beaches in the world. The word of “G” in “G-Land” derives from Grajagan, the name of the bay where the huge waves were found at the south of the Banyuwangi. It is surrounded by virgin tropical land forest. G lad offers the worlds most demanding surfing sport, and recommended for professional surfers only. May to October is the best time for surfing. No doubt it is a world of surfer paradise. Most surfers start from Bali, take an overland to Banyuwangi and directly to National Park of Alas Purwo, G-Land or cross the Grajagan Bay to Plengkung beach where the waves challenge invite the surfers. However it is not recommended for novices

Accomodation
There are some simple cottages and a jungle camp available by the beach.
Recreational facilities
Plengkung is located on the south coast of Banyuwngi the eastest of Fast Java. The visitor can visit Plengkung overland. To reach Plengkung can be taken in two ways:

* Overland. Banyuwangi-Kalipahit (59km)by bus Kalipahit Pasaranyar (3km) by ojek or rent a car, Pasaranyar-Trianggulasi (12km), Trianggulasi-Pancur-Plengkung/G-Land.
* Overland-sea : Banyuwangi-Benculuk (35km) by bus, Benculuk Grajagan (18km) by bus or public transportation, Grajagan-Plengkung by speedboat,
Both ways toPlengkung are OK, if the visitors choose the second way, they can spend the night at Grajagan and enjoy the view before continue the journey to Plengkung.

Jakarta : Indonesia's National and Business Capital

Capital of the Republic of Indonesia , Jakarta is a huge, sprawling metropolis, home to 9 million people. During the day the number increases with another 2 million as commuters make their way to work in the city, and flock out again in the evenings.

Located on the northern coast of Java, the province of Jakarta has rapidly expanded through the years, absorbing many villages in the process. In fact Jakarta is a conglomeration of villages known as kampungs, now crossed by main roads and super highways. It is small wonder therefore, that you may drive down one wide avenue one minute then suddenly find yourself squeezed into a small street together with scores of cars and motorbikes. The names of these former villages can be detected from their main streets, such as Tanah Abang, Kebon Kacang, Kebon Jeruk, Kampung Melayu, and many more. Together with its many suburbs Jakarta has become a megapolitan city. Therefore, when you visit Jakarta it is best to invest in a good map, or rely on GPS.

Jakarta itself is built on a wide flat delta, intersected by no less than 13 rivers. Fronting the city in the Bay of Jakarta are a large number of tiny islands, known as the Thousand Islands or Pulau Seribu, a tourist resort for snorkeling and swimming. To its south are the majestic volcanoes of Gede and Pangrango, where are cool mountain resorts like Bogor, Puncak, Sukabumi and Bandung.

Capital city of a country with 240 million population, Jakarta is not only the seat of the national government and the provincial government, this city is also Indonesia’s political center. Moreover, Jakarta is also the center and hub of Indonesia’s national finance and trade. It is no wonder, therefore that you will find Jakarta an ever dynamic city, a city that never sleeps.

Solo Surakarta : A City Steeped in History

Famous as a city that is fiercely proud of its Javanese traditions, the regal city of Solo or Surakarta is known throughout Indonesia as a strong upholder of Javanese culture. A visit here is a chance to connect with and take in the sights and sounds of ancient Javanese culture. You’ll need at least a few days to explore the city to wander around and discover all the vibrant old markets, busy street life and ancient buildings.

Historically, Solo has been a centre of power in Central Java. In 1745 the Mataram court was transferred here from Kota Gede, and, since then, the city has built on its reputation as a cultural hub. From Solonese dance, wayang puppetry through to hand-crafted batik Solo remains a city that prides itself on its artistic traditions of elegance and refinement. Today, Solo is part of the province of Central Java.

While you are here pay a visit to the many cultural attractions of the city such as the two keratons or palaces, of the Sunan of Surakarta and the Prince of Mangkunegara. Take a load off your feet and ride a pushcart along the maze of white palace walls.

Absorb yourself in history with a becak ride through the old city.

Known as the city that never sleeps, there is always something going on in Solo. Warung’s operate almost around the clock so there is no danger of going hungry.

With a population of over 550,000 people, Solo is a densely populated city. But while people may live close together there are no high rise buildings, so this city has a community atmosphere that is difficult to find in any other city in Indonesia.

Compared to Java’s other ‘court’ city, Yogyakarta, fewer travelers journey to Solo. Come here and explore the refined and aristocratic Javanese traditions that you won’t find anywhere else.

Kailasa Museum : Tracing The Ancient Javanese Civilization

If you like religious objects, you should visit the Kailasa Dieng Museum. In this museum, you could trace the ancient Javanese Hindu civilization of the 7th and 8th centuries.

The Kailasa Museum is situated in Gedung Arca Compound and belongs to the Central Java Conservation Agency in Dieng, Batur sub-district, Banjarnegara district, Central Java.

Since it is situated within the Dieng area, you could also see a beautiful and cold environment because the Dieng highlands is not only famous for its ancient civilization but also its beautiful and natural scenery.

Dieng was a volcano, which erupted and destroyed its peak. This highland was made of dead cauldrons which filled with water to become a lake. The lake dried and was used for Hindu religious activities.

Historically, Dieng was a ritual site for Hindu followers. Up to the present, 22 ancient Javanese epigraphs tell about Dieng as a center for religious activities. Here, you will be astonished by temples near the Museum.

Some say, the names of these temples were taken from the names of players in Mahabrata stories such as Arjuna, Bima, Setyaki, Gatot Kaca, Dwarawati, Sembadra, Kunti, and Srikandi. In addition to these temples, you could also find loose sculptures near the Dieng temple compound such as Arca Nandi ( a bull), a symbol of Siva and Mahaguru. When entering the museum, you will see Dieng’s antique sculptures. After that, you could climb steps to an information room where you could get as much information as possible, such as the history of Dieng highland and its temples.

Several panels provide information about the life of local inhabitants in the highlands. Some panels also tell about their lifestyle and agriculture, and information about local Mosques and Mushallas, arts, and the Myth of Anak Bajang. Other panels provide more information about the Dieng highlands as a center for Hindu ritual activities and about its temples. Dieng is taken from the word "Di" which means mountain, and "Hyang" which means God. Thus, Dieng means a mountain where Gods live.

The Kailasa Museum is taken from a epigraph. It means a holy mountain. This Museum was officially inaugurated by the Minister of Tourism, Jero Wacik, in 2008. It was built to provide information about the Dieng highlands.

Singosari Temple

Not much remains of the once powerful 13th century East Java kingdom of Singosari. An unfinished temple and two giant statues that once stood guard in front of the palace are the only traces left of this great kingdom.

The kingdom of Singosari was founded in 1222 by a commoner by the name of Ken Arok, who managed to marry the beautiful princess Ken Dedes of Janggala after murdering her husband. Ken Arok later attacked neighbouring Kediri and thus united the two realms that were split by King Airlangga in 1049 as inheritance to his two sons.

Singosari succeeded in developing the rich agricultural hinterland along the Brantas river basin, as well as the lucrative maritime trade along the Java Sea. In 1275 and 1291 king Kartanegara attacked the maritime kingdom of Crivijaya in South Sumatra and gained control over the maritime trade in the Java and Sumatra seas. He was, however, killed by one of his vassals, Jayakatwang in 1293.

In its heyday Singosari was so powerful that the mighty Mongol emperor Kublai Khan deemed it important to send a fleet and a special emissary to the court of Singosari to demand that King Kertanegara personally submit allegiance to the emperor. In reply, Kertanegara cut off one of the ambassador’s ears as a message to Kublai khan that he will do no such thing.

When the Chinese fleet sent by the irate Kublai Khan arrived on Java, unbeknown to them Kartanegara was already dead. Kertanegara’s son in law, Prince Vijaya, at first managed to persuade them to kill Jayakatwang, but then turned around to oust the Chinese fleet from Java.

Hereafter Vijaya founded the powerful Majapahit empire in 1294 whose palace is located to the north of Singosari at Porong. Majapahit’s influence would encompass present day Indonesia and spread even to Malaysia and Thailand.

Much of what we know today about Singosari comes from the 14th century Old Javanese text called the Pararaton (or the book of Kings).

Ijen Crater

Ijen plateau or known as "Kawah Ijen" is highly recommended to mountain buffs and hikers. The Plateau was at one time a huge active crater, 134 sq km in area. Today, Ijen is a quiet but active volcano, and the landscape is dominated by the volcanic cones of Ijen (2,368 asl) and Merapi (2,800 asl) on the northeastern edge of the Plateau, and Raung (3,332 asl) on the southwest corner.

The magnificent turquoise sulfur lake of Kawah Ijen lies at 2148 m above sea level and is surrounded by the volcanos sheer crater walls. The vent is a source of sulfur and collectors work here, making the trek up to the crater and down to the lake every day. Sulfur collectors hike up in the morning and return around 1 pm when the clouds roll in. They carry shoulder basket of pure sulfur from a quarry on the lakes edge under the shadow of the sheer walls of the crater. The mineral at Kawah Ijen is purer and is worth commercial exploitation despite the horrendous labor involved: Javas homegrown sulfur is a natural source of sulfuric acid, in great demand in the oil-refining business and in the production of fertilizers.