Seeking some rest and recreation in the hidden corner of Batam

Simon Marcus Gower , The Jakarta Post , Jakarta | Wed, 01/21/2009 2:21 PM | Travel


Let’s start by being brutally honest: At first glance, Batam Island does not really appear a great vacation proposition.
Parts of the island are best described as an eyesore, with highly utilitarian industrial and commercial premises stretching over large swathes of the land.
And let’s be frank about the land itself, too – flat for one thing, with soil – exposed through the island’s numerous excavations – in an unappealing orangey-yellowish color that looks infertile and grubby.
Now we’ve got that out of the way, there is one more thing to add: Better things lie ahead.
As you travel from the island’s Hang Nadim airport to the area known as Nongsa, the industrial and commercial buildings – and that grubby-looking soil – gradually give way to dense thickets of shrubs and low-lying plants.
Keep going. This unkempt shrubbery then gives way to something else – to signs of humanity taming this wilderness and making it into something lovely and fresh. You have arrived at the dreamy vacation area of Nongsa, Nongsa is in the northern coastal region of Batam Island, with attractive inlets and beaches that add up to an idyllic and tranquil setting for some rest and recreation. There are golf courses here for those so interested, but it is much more the coast, the beaches and the resorts along the waterfront that attract visitors.

The resorts at Nongsa range from the pristine and ultramodern to the more traditional and tropical made from timber and bamboo with thatched roofs. Some of the modern architecture is impressive but those who find all that concrete and steel clinical and cold with may prefer the more “traditional” architecture with its natural materials.
Regardless of the style of architecture, the common theme here is the sea and the Strait of Singapore that Nongsa looks out onto. The shores and skyscrapers of Singapore are visible in the distance – no prizes for guessing why Singaporeans account for many of the holidaymakers.
Singapore is but a 45-minute ferry ride away, making it all too easy for those city-dwellers to escape their crowded city-state for the tranquility of Batam’s resort, the ferry dropping them at the very well-constructed and -managed ferry terminal known as Nongsapura.
Thanks to Nongsapura, getting to and from the resorts is easy and comfortable, with ferries setting off at regular intervals to destinations in both Singapore and Malaysia. These speedy ferries deftly negotiate busy waters, weaving around the huge cargo ships and tankers that pass through the strait. Before all that, though, comes the Nongsa River.
The Nongsa River connects the island to the strait. Like much of the rest of Batam Island, it is surrounded by dense vegetation, which lends it a distinctly wild air. Trips upriver to view exotic birds and wild monkeys are possible, although most people find it hard to drag themselves away from the coast.
One of those coastal attractions is Nongsa’s impressive and expansive marina open to private vessels. Otherwise, there are plenty of watery activities to help while away the holidays: fishing, snorkeling, parasailing, water-skiing, jet-skiing and banana boating.
The downside of all these water activities is the water itself – or more particularly the clarity of the water. It is perhaps only to be expected that with this strait being a major marine thoroughfare – dozens of massive ships pass through the Strait and often time clouds of exhaust fumes can be seen belching from their enormous engines – the water is going to be on the murky side of pristine.
The problem of pollution is also evident in the work of the cleaners raking the beaches each morning, burying the less desirable offerings that have been washed up on the shore.
Never mind – there is no need to swim in the sea, as the resorts all have their own swimming pools replete with fountains and waterfalls, and a mix of depths to please everyone from children and the more serious swimmer. Given this, the sea may be better left alone as a backdrop for the resorts.
Otherwise, the environment in Nongsa is generally clean and well kept, creating great benefits for the local wildlife. In the thick lush forests, visitors can see exotic and colorful birds going about their business of foraging and nesting. At night, bats sweep across the sky, gorging themselves on the abundant fruit hanging from the trees.
Nongsa and its resorts may be quite different from the rest of Batam Island, but are created ideally for rest and recreation. The detail in the construction and management of the hotels and resorts means taking a vacation here can be very pleasing and satisfying – regardless of first impressions

http://www.thejakartapost.com/files/images/p25-d_0.jpg

This is pic of Bintan - a resort island, just minutes from Batam Island and Singapore:

http://www.freeimagestoring.com/images/68m9kjmsdjqvi2jfi7b1.jpg (http://www.freeimagestoring.com/)

Pic is taken from Kompas.com

More pics of Sarangan, an interesting tourist destination in Magetan, East Java:

Sarangan Lake, center of the site:

http://www.freeimagestoring.com/images/cvmpg27ojr9ca54p1n6y.jpg (http://www.freeimagestoring.com/)


http://www.freeimagestoring.com/images/dtibrxeyetlaq8gx3w.jpg (http://www.freeimagestoring.com/)


It's nice to go around the lake by boat, feeling the cool weather, nice scenery!!
http://www.freeimagestoring.com/images/lj3d4lcprpqnb70eh18.jpg (http://www.freeimagestoring.com/)


http://www.freeimagestoring.com/images/rgk8notr6zcezyr7p4z.jpg (http://www.freeimagestoring.com/)


View to the mountain, it's a lil bit cold here:

http://www.freeimagestoring.com/images/yoffk5pvoqfg4tz0t4qs.jpg (http://www.freeimagestoring.com/)


http://www.freeimagestoring.com/images/tviwtcxuk05pqjejyya.jpg (http://www.freeimagestoring.com/)

Sarangan Market, place to buy some interseting stuffs, delicious food, etc.
You can also ride a horse here...

http://www.freeimagestoring.com/images/lhy8fnmoq9mc2y5lhpjq.jpg (http://www.freeimagestoring.com/)


http://www.freeimagestoring.com/images/hmsciy2kyy44fa5rtbm.jpg (http://www.freeimagestoring.com/)

More Pics from Mount Bromo Area, a must-visit tourist destination! (I've posted some photos of it before, just check my prev. post)

Feel the charm...

http://www.freeimagestoring.com/images/xoho2gtocg3qceej6r.jpg (http://www.freeimagestoring.com/)


Waiting for sunrise here @ Pananjakan Area - Bromo... It provides spectacular view of sunrise, and you can see it for free!!

http://www.freeimagestoring.com/images/85lsgkaqoyolj9h80d3m.jpg (http://www.freeimagestoring.com/)


and these are some pics of them (some others already posted before, check it out...)

http://www.freeimagestoring.com/images/li63qz8e10snrqqb3y9.jpg (http://www.freeimagestoring.com/)


http://www.freeimagestoring.com/images/kxryy55bs4qcvay4k95v.jpg (http://www.freeimagestoring.com/)


Now let's see the surrounding environment... In this pic below, the tallest mountain in distance is Mount Semeru, of the highest mount in Indonesia. Can you see that lake of sand below? We'll go there later...

http://www.freeimagestoring.com/images/r9j7vai6ty6tyygmz3.jpg (http://www.freeimagestoring.com/)


Here we are at that lake of sand (in Indonesia it's called "Telaga Pasir", means Sand Lake or Lake of Sand). We are on our journey to the top of Mount Bromo. That mount in the background is Mount Bromo:

http://www.freeimagestoring.com/images/qq0qdrnwkmha5hyjuzas.jpg (http://www.freeimagestoring.com/)


Mount Bromo is inhabited by local people, Tenggerese tribe, and most of them are Hindu. That's why we can find a Hindu Temple here:

http://www.freeimagestoring.com/images/1fazraiqyrnw0f15x5m.jpg (http://www.freeimagestoring.com/)


This pic is taken during my journey to the top of Mount Bromo. We can choose either to walk or ride a horse:

http://www.freeimagestoring.com/images/kzxmc1jgzufb54n4ni0z.jpg (http://www.freeimagestoring.com/)


and these pics represent how does it fell when you've arrived at the peak of Mt. Bromo... Those small dots are people!!

http://www.freeimagestoring.com/images/r8njbrkxuj84xrm5lha6.jpg (http://www.freeimagestoring.com/)


http://www.freeimagestoring.com/images/jlmtzybg1q65qty2jufu.jpg (http://www.freeimagestoring.com/)


http://www.freeimagestoring.com/images/3wx64qvo6tqnxckjlmg3.jpg (http://www.freeimagestoring.com/)


Some tourists wanna test their adrenaline by taking pictures at the (very) edge of the mountain top. Thin line between life and death there!!

http://www.freeimagestoring.com/images/05x8z5d4pmnxu0nn9azv.jpg (http://www.freeimagestoring.com/)



The crater... Mount Bromo is an active volcano.

http://www.freeimagestoring.com/images/bew0xv5orj4iu9mbxtg1.jpg (http://www.freeimagestoring.com/)

A Country of Paradise ... ^^

http://img06.picoodle.com/img/img06/3/3/17/samuel89/f_garudapancam_07c2d9b.jpg (http://www.picoodle.com/view.php?img=/3/3/17/samuel89/f_garudapancam_07c2d9b.jpg&srv=img06)

33 Provinces of The Republic of Indonesia


Bali http://img19.picoodle.com/img/img19/3/3/18/samuel89/f_28462329940m_22817cd.jpg (http://www.picoodle.com/view.php?img=/3/3/18/samuel89/f_28462329940m_22817cd.jpg&srv=img19)
Bangka & Belitung Islands
Banten http://img01.picoodle.com/img/img01/3/3/18/samuel89/f_20751986233m_697c7b8.jpg (http://www.picoodle.com/view.php?img=/3/3/18/samuel89/f_20751986233m_697c7b8.jpg&srv=img01)
Bengkulu
Capital of Great Jakarta
Central Borneo
Central Celebes
Central Java http://img06.picoodle.com/img/img06/3/3/18/samuel89/f_8857956451bm_79a0429.jpg (http://www.picoodle.com/view.php?img=/3/3/18/samuel89/f_8857956451bm_79a0429.jpg&srv=img06)
East Borneo
East Java
East Lesser Sundas http://img02.picoodle.com/img/img02/3/3/18/samuel89/f_27950385057m_11461c8.jpg (http://www.picoodle.com/view.php?img=/3/3/18/samuel89/f_27950385057m_11461c8.jpg&srv=img02)
Gorontalo
Jambi
Lampung
Moluccas http://img19.picoodle.com/img/img19/3/3/18/samuel89/f_539270614f1m_3b44a4d.jpg (http://www.picoodle.com/view.php?img=/3/3/18/samuel89/f_539270614f1m_3b44a4d.jpg&srv=img19)
Nanggroe Aceh Darussalam
North Celebes http://img01.picoodle.com/img/img01/3/3/18/samuel89/f_22194084613m_723943f.jpg (http://www.picoodle.com/view.php?img=/3/3/18/samuel89/f_22194084613m_723943f.jpg&srv=img01)
North Moluccas
North Sumatra http://img06.picoodle.com/img/img06/3/3/18/samuel89/f_23902988603m_b207c85.jpg (http://www.picoodle.com/view.php?img=/3/3/18/samuel89/f_23902988603m_b207c85.jpg&srv=img06)
Papua http://img06.picoodle.com/img/img06/3/3/18/samuel89/f_2216140161cm_ca2f422.jpg (http://www.picoodle.com/view.php?img=/3/3/18/samuel89/f_2216140161cm_ca2f422.jpg&srv=img06)
Riau
Riau Islands
South Borneo http://img01.picoodle.com/img/img01/3/3/18/samuel89/f_33328027048m_be82c8f.jpg (http://www.picoodle.com/view.php?img=/3/3/18/samuel89/f_33328027048m_be82c8f.jpg&srv=img01)
South Celebes http://img02.picoodle.com/img/img02/3/3/18/samuel89/f_3220631895dm_ab2b7cc.jpg (http://www.picoodle.com/view.php?img=/3/3/18/samuel89/f_3220631895dm_ab2b7cc.jpg&srv=img02)
South Sumatra
Southeast Celebes
Sultanate of Yogyakarta http://img06.picoodle.com/img/img06/3/3/18/samuel89/f_1333435323fm_164ab38.jpg (http://www.picoodle.com/view.php?img=/3/3/18/samuel89/f_1333435323fm_164ab38.jpg&srv=img06)
West Borneo
West Celebes
West Java
West Lesser Sundas
West Papua
West Sumatra http://img19.picoodle.com/img/img19/3/3/18/samuel89/f_4407322571dm_cfbadb4.jpg (http://www.picoodle.com/view.php?img=/3/3/18/samuel89/f_4407322571dm_cfbadb4.jpg&srv=img19)

Grojogan Sewu Waterfalls, Karanganyar, Solo City

.



.....lagi, Tawangmangu ^^ :

1.
http://img21.imageshack.us/img21/4750/semar.jpg (http://img21.imageshack.us/my.php?image=semar.jpg)

2.
http://img3.imageshack.us/img3/2684/cimg3269.jpg (http://img3.imageshack.us/my.php?image=cimg3269.jpg)

3.
http://img3.imageshack.us/img3/4171/cimg3257.jpg (http://img3.imageshack.us/my.php?image=cimg3257.jpg)

4.
http://img23.imageshack.us/img23/8074/cimg3259.jpg (http://img23.imageshack.us/my.php?image=cimg3259.jpg)





.

With my friends, in our trip.
One of the best snorkeling spot in BALI, unfortunately there was huge waves.

http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v2245/159/116/546451309/n546451309_1302661_8418.jpg

http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v2245/159/116/546451309/n546451309_1302664_9307.jpg

http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v2245/159/116/546451309/n546451309_1302665_9591.jpg

http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v2245/159/116/546451309/n546451309_1302672_4054.jpg

http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v2245/159/116/546451309/n546451309_1302677_5639.jpg

http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v2245/159/116/546451309/n546451309_1302684_7858.jpg

http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v2245/159/116/546451309/n546451309_1302680_6576.jpg

This place juts a few minutes away form Padang Bay Port (Ferry services to Lombok)

This place is good beach for enjoying sun bathing.

http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-sf2p/v653/159/116/546451309/n546451309_989676_9257.jpg

http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v596/159/116/546451309/n546451309_989704_5420.jpg

http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v596/159/116/546451309/n546451309_989705_5958.jpg

Bedugul, 15 minutes away from my office (Pacung)

http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v368/159/116/546451309/n546451309_919451_3621.jpg

http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v368/159/116/546451309/n546451309_919452_4162.jpg

Ground Zero Legian
http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v368/159/116/546451309/n546451309_919453_4715.jpg

http://s03.flagcounter.com/count/xMx9/bg=66CCFF/txt=0000CC/border=000000/columns=8/maxflags=20/viewers=0/labels=0/ (http://s03.flagcounter.com/more/xMx9)


So Beautiful!
Proud to be Indonesian...!

http://img3.imageshack.us/img3/4171/cimg3257.jpg
So Green...!

thx Melvin
FYI, this thread has 1,010 posts and 110,110 views until i post this one
what a beautiful n unique number

Transcendent Bali
A temple visitor finds that an exotic Hindu rite of passage fulfills his wish for cleansing

By Ed Rampell / Special to the Star-Bulletin

POSTED: 01:30 a.m. HST, Apr 12, 2009

(Single Page View) | Return to Paginated View
There are many tropical isles, but what makes Bali unique is its age-old Hindu culture and spirituality. Visitors to the "Morning of the World" can participate in a Melukat, or Balinese karma cleansing ceremony. This purification process, presided over by a pemangku (Hindu priest), seeks ablution for the body and soul and is offered to guests at the private temple of the Four Seasons at Sayan, located near the famed artists' village of Ubud.

BALI HIGH

Hotels
» Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan: (800) 819-5053; www.fourseasons.com/sayan/. For reservations at both of Bali's Four Seasons, email reservation.fsrb@fourseasons.com.
» Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay: (800) 819-5053; www.fourseasons.com/jimbaranbay/
» Parigata Villas Resort: www.parigatahotelsbali.com/?page_id=29.

Getting around
» Panorama Tours: www.panorama-tours.com.



During this rite of passage I'm barefoot and garbed in a Balinese sarong, turban and white shirt. The religious shrine is located off a main road at the expansive resort of rolling hills and rivers, up a long flight of stone steps through the verdant, lush jungle. Is this the path to enlightenment?
An offering of flowers lies before the temple's brick entranceway, flanked by rock statues depicting gods from the Eastern pantheon and palm fronds. A resort staffer explains that the woven leaves of the coconut tree point downward to remind humans of the importance of being, literally, down to earth and humble. Inside the holy place, a 60ish man clad in white from head to toe in a turban, Nehru jacket and sarong sits cross-legged on a plaited pandanus (palm mat) in front of a table laden with fruit and flower offerings to the gods, burning incense and chanting in Balinese or Sanskrit. Black and white checkered umbrellas -- signifying the duality of good and evil, the eternal struggle between the forces of light and darkness -- stand near the temple's intricately carved altar, depicting floral designs, Hindu deities and barongs (magical spirits).

The mustachioed high priest rises, sporting a flower behind his right ear and grains of rice on his forehead, holding in both hands a bowl with a frangipani floating in water. My hands, feet, face and mouth are washed as the pemangku proceeds to chant, bang a mini-gong, sprinkle me with water from the bowl, blow incense smoke toward me and ring a brass bell. I drink some holy water; rice is placed on my forehead. The guru and I face one another, our hands clasped in prayer.

At the conclusion of this exotic ritual, the priest ties a piece of string, benang sidatu, around my wrist to remind me of this soul washing. During this pilgrim's progress in Bali I wear the string until it falls off of its own accord, representing the seeker's quest for balance and harmony. Literally and figuratively, the Melukat ceremony gives visitors a taste of Bali's renowned transcendentalism.

from :http://www.starbulletin.com/travel/20090412_transcendent_bali.html

Fatahillah Square, heart of derelict town

The Jakarta Post | Sat, 04/18/2009 1:44 PM | City

At the heart of the Old Town area, lies Fatahillah Square, a 1.5-hectare plot of land in front of the Jakarta Historical Museum.

In September 2007, the city administration began its Old Town revitalization program by restoring Fatahillah Square, but not much face-lifting has been done since then.
The square is still a hub for people going to the Old Town area. Many only identify the Old Town with the areas nearby the square, discounting Sunda Kelapa harbor in North Jakarta and Pekojan area in West Jakarta.
This comes as no surprise, since the square is pretty much the only decent place for people from all walks of life to hang out.
Families, heritage lovers, budding photographers, students and lovers flock to the square especially at the weekend.
Museums around the square, although boasting interesting collections, are less popular than the square itself.
The city administration has tried to coax investors into revitalizing the area by restoring close to 200 rundown yet historical buildings. However bad traffic, smelly rivers and a number of seedy spots in Old Town have deterred big money from coming there.
But the flock that does come to the square shows the Old Town has not lost its charm.

http://www.thejakartapost.com/files/images/P19-b.img_assist_custom.JPG
Tree for kids: A visitor sits his two kids on a tree branch in front of Fatahillah Square so they can play with other children. (JP/PJ Leo)
http://www.thejakartapost.com/files/images/p19-c_12.jpg
Steal the game: A group of children play soccer in Fatahillah Square. Many children take advantage of the square to play sports, due to lack of open-air playgrounds in the city. (JP/PJ Leo)

some pics seems like taken from another planet, so beautiful :)

When my friends went there, unfortunately i have resigned from my office in Bali.

http://photos-c.ll.facebook.com/photos-ll-snc1/v2658/250/66/1018191785/n1018191785_30363698_2656305.jpg

http://photos-a.ll.facebook.com/photos-ll-snc1/v2658/250/66/1018191785/n1018191785_30363704_2325735.jpg

http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v2743/248/90/1510329626/n1510329626_265507_8135610.jpg

http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v2743/248/90/1510329626/n1510329626_265480_3475498.jpg

http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v2743/248/90/1510329626/n1510329626_265484_2861789.jpg

http://photos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v2743/248/90/1510329626/n1510329626_265503_953932.jpg

http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v2743/248/90/1510329626/n1510329626_265482_8040217.jpg

http://i697.photobucket.com/albums/vv333/galih_galih/sdoriCov.jpg

Telaga Sarawandori, Papua's hidden paradise

http://i697.photobucket.com/albums/vv333/galih_galih/sdori1.jpg


http://i697.photobucket.com/albums/vv333/galih_galih/sdori2.jpg


http://i697.photobucket.com/albums/vv333/galih_galih/sdori3.jpg


http://i697.photobucket.com/albums/vv333/galih_galih/sdori4.jpg


http://i697.photobucket.com/albums/vv333/galih_galih/sdori9.jpg


http://i697.photobucket.com/albums/vv333/galih_galih/sdori7.jpg


http://i697.photobucket.com/albums/vv333/galih_galih/sdori5.jpg


http://i697.photobucket.com/albums/vv333/galih_galih/sdori10.jpg


http://i697.photobucket.com/albums/vv333/galih_galih/sdori12.jpg


http://i697.photobucket.com/albums/vv333/galih_galih/sdori13.jpg


http://i697.photobucket.com/albums/vv333/galih_galih/sdori14.jpg


http://i697.photobucket.com/albums/vv333/galih_galih/sdori15.jpg
Telaga Sarawandori, Yapen Waropen, Papua


Indonesia memang luar biasa kekayaan alamnya. Anda tidak akan pernah membayangkan keindahan seperti apa yang dapat Anda nikmati bila menikmati telaga yang begitu bening dan mempesona seperti Telaga Sarawandori. Telaga berwarna biru dengan panorama yang sangat indah ini terletak di desa Sarawandori, sekitar 5 km dari kota Serui, ibukota kabupaten Yapen, Papua. Di sini dibangun sebuah objek wisata yang ramai dikunjungi oleh masyarakat kota Serui pada hari Minggu dan hari-hari libur lainnya. Selain sebagai objek wisata juga tersedia rumah-rumah untuk tempat istirahat melepas lelah sambil bermalam. Obyek wisata ini dikelola oleh Dinas Pariwisata Kabupaten Yapen Waropen di Serui. Jauh dari keramaian dan masih amat alami, akan membuat liburan Anda tidak akan terlupakan.





taken from kaskus
thanks to : goolah_galih

Club Med,Bali Pics by just.whatever (http://www.flickr.com/photos/11390205@N02/)

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3306/3475709804_336d1e5254.jpg?v=0
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3341/3474899331_cc5c9f6385.jpg?v=0
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3356/3475712492_5c21d486aa.jpg?v=0

Cultural Event 2009@ Solo City


June
http://img14.imageshack.us/img14/4254/008juni.jpg


July
http://img14.imageshack.us/img14/4097/009juli.jpg (http://img14.imageshack.us/my.php?image=009juli.jpg)

http://img14.imageshack.us/img14/2020/010juli.jpg (http://img14.imageshack.us/my.php?image=010juli.jpg)

http://img13.imageshack.us/img13/7532/011juli.jpg (http://img13.imageshack.us/my.php?image=011juli.jpg)

http://img13.imageshack.us/img13/5572/012juli.jpg (http://img13.imageshack.us/my.php?image=012juli.jpg)

everyday
http://img22.imageshack.us/img22/876/agendarutin.jpg

http://img340.imageshack.us/img340/5515/25an.jpg

Cultural Events 2009 @ Solo City few Months ago (be there next year)

http://img14.imageshack.us/img14/5697/001cover.jpg (http://img14.imageshack.us/my.php?image=001cover.jpg)

January^^
http://img14.imageshack.us/img14/3246/002januari.jpg (http://img14.imageshack.us/my.php?image=002januari.jpg)

http://img14.imageshack.us/img14/1601/003januari.jpg (http://img14.imageshack.us/my.php?image=003januari.jpg)

http://img14.imageshack.us/img14/3355/004januari.jpg (http://img14.imageshack.us/my.php?image=004januari.jpg)

March^^
http://img14.imageshack.us/img14/7365/005maret.jpg (http://img14.imageshack.us/my.php?image=005maret.jpg)

http://img14.imageshack.us/img14/322/006maret.jpg (http://img14.imageshack.us/my.php?image=006maret.jpg)

April^^
http://img14.imageshack.us/img14/6017/007april.jpg (http://img14.imageshack.us/my.php?image=007april.jpg)

More Pics
Masjid Nurzikrillah
Sungai Lareh, Lubuk Minturun, Kota Padang
http://wikimapia.org/#lat=-0.8547186&lon=100.3967518&z=18&l=0&m=a&v=2


http://img13.imageshack.us/img13/4080/dscn3469d.jpg (http://img13.imageshack.us/my.php?image=dscn3469d.jpg)

Senoa Island, Natuna
http://76.162.50.176/all/2008-08/sattahjr27822.jpg

Beautiful Indoneasia!





world peace

Sailing Tourism in Indonesia
Sailing Events Form Part of Five-Month-Long Regatta Stopping in Bali September 30 – October 4, 2009.

(4/26/2009) Radar Bali reports that Indonesia's Department of the Ocean and Fisheries have invited at least 10 countries to participate in 3 events intended to focus world attention on Indonesia's vast ocean resources.

The program, supported by the Indonesian government, is part of three ocean-centered events which include two international conferences scheduled to be held in Indonesia in 2009 and a five-month long sailing event.

The World Ocean Conference will be held in Manado, North Sulawesi May 11-15 and will host 121 countries discussing problems confronting the world's oceans. Running concurrently in Manado will be a meeting of the Coral Triangle Initiative, comprised of member representatives from Indonesia, the Philippines, Solomon Island, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea (PNG), and Timor Leste, with the United States and Australia as observers.

Sail Indonesian – Sail Bunaken August 12-20, 2009

The August sailing regatta set to take place August 12-20, 2008 will see participation by visiting yachtsmen from 10 nations as well as tall ship visits and visiting war ships from friendly nations.

Organizers are targeting participation by 100 yachts that will be hosted to a range of activities including a food festival, official dinners hosted by the President of the Republic and the Governor of North Sulawesi, an organized sailing regatta around Manado and a fireworks display.

Sail Indonesia 18 July – 25 October 2009

A 5-month sailing course from Darwin to Belitung will also be held as part of Visit Indonesian Year 2009. Foreign yachts are welcomed to join the entire voyage visiting at lest 18 Indonesian ports of call or to only join a portion of the route visiting much of Eastern Indonesia.

The fleet will call on Bali September 30 – October 4, 2009.

Lombok Pics by: Alexandre Chabot-Leclerc (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alexchabot/)

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3613/3488418820_75296ea6d8.jpg?v=0
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3562/3487597561_1ca213eb33.jpg?v=0
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3641/3487596595_5026c415a9.jpg?v=0

WEST SUMATRA TRIP BY NOFRINS

Monkey in Sianok Valley

http://img28.picoodle.com/img/img28/2/5/4/samuel89/f_AMonkeyinSim_80cf349.jpg (http://www.picoodle.com/view.php?img=/2/5/4/samuel89/f_AMonkeyinSim_80cf349.jpg&srv=img28)

Air Manis Beach, Padang

http://img28.picoodle.com/img/img28/2/5/4/samuel89/f_AirManisBeam_d4f96d4.jpg (http://www.picoodle.com/view.php?img=/2/5/4/samuel89/f_AirManisBeam_d4f96d4.jpg&srv=img28)

Jam Gadang, Bukittinggi

http://img28.picoodle.com/img/img28/2/5/4/samuel89/f_BendiandJamm_5383776.jpg (http://www.picoodle.com/view.php?img=/2/5/4/samuel89/f_BendiandJamm_5383776.jpg&srv=img28)

Lake Di Atas

http://img28.picoodle.com/img/img28/2/5/4/samuel89/f_LakeDiatasim_c431f0c.jpg (http://www.picoodle.com/view.php?img=/2/5/4/samuel89/f_LakeDiatasim_c431f0c.jpg&srv=img28)

Lake Maninjau

http://img28.picoodle.com/img/img28/2/5/4/samuel89/f_LakeManinjam_9c54deb.jpg (http://www.picoodle.com/view.php?img=/2/5/4/samuel89/f_LakeManinjam_9c54deb.jpg&srv=img28)

Harau Valley

http://img28.picoodle.com/img/img28/2/5/4/samuel89/f_NaturesGrapm_192cacd.jpg (http://www.picoodle.com/view.php?img=/2/5/4/samuel89/f_NaturesGrapm_192cacd.jpg&srv=img28)

Sikuai Island

http://img28.picoodle.com/img/img28/2/5/4/samuel89/f_SikuaiIslanm_a4932a1.jpg (http://www.picoodle.com/view.php?img=/2/5/4/samuel89/f_SikuaiIslanm_a4932a1.jpg&srv=img28)

Real and nature.. not just an imitation.... Good Indonesia!!!

Prigi Beach, Trenggalek, East Java

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3152/2624514342_06560feecd.jpg?v=0

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3202/2624514338_fc91283360.jpg?v=0

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3056/2624514344_281c03fa27.jpg?v=0

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3230/2624514348_8ff4382028.jpg?v=0

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3062/2624514350_d050af5551.jpg?v=0

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3021/2624514356_4f36d9ac83.jpg?v=0

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3007/2624531596_c2e841f2df.jpg?v=0

Beach in Jogjakarta:

By: .vania (flickr)
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3291/3510369065_9478035de0.jpg?v=0

-edited-

Bira Beach, Bulukumba, South Sulawesi

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3262/2866158014_116d39c5a2_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3077/2790000121_5da1acb889_b.jpg

local resorts

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3099/2789992997_c13a33efaa_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3453/3234212934_f1e089de64_b.jpg

I love this thread! :banana:

Spa Village Resort Tembok, Bali makes UK Tatler Spa Guide’s '101 Best Spas In The World' for the second consecutive year
Kuala Lumpur, May 12, 2009

http://www.ytlcommunity.com/common/showimage.asp?imgid=108058

Spa Village Resort Tembok, Bali

Spa Village Resort Tembok, Bali has recently been listed in the UK Tatler Spa Guide 2009 - 'The 101 Best Spas In The World'. This is the second consecutive year that the Resort has been included in this prestigious guide.

Now in its third year, the Tatler Spa Guide compiles the 101 best spas worldwide as chosen by the Tatler editorial team and leading spa and travel specialists. Tatler’s Spa Guide researches "the top spas that really work", and has be come a hallmark for the discerning traveller. The Guide covers the new, the grand, the environmentally focussed, the chic and the family-friendly spas throughout the world as well as the most exciting and well-loved destinations.

In the guide, Spa Village Resort Tembok, Bali is listed under ‘Natural Wonders’ and is described as “utterly unpretentious and authentic, but with a crack team of know-how therapists and deliciously inventive food…everything in the spa is 100 per cent natural while still being wowingly effective”.

Resort Manager Chik Lai Ping said being listed in the Tatler Spa Guide for the second year running is a great honour and an inspiration to both the management and staff. “The Spa Village philosophy is to honour the healing culture of the region. At Spa Village Resort Tembok, Bali, we aim to provide an insight into age-old Balinese traditions, blending the therapeutic properties of natural local ingredients and the healing practices of the area within a relaxing and reclusive environment dedicated to recovery and self-discovery. We are delighted to be included in the Tatler’s 101 Best Spas in the World”

Situated on Bali’s exotic north-east coast, the Resort’s luxurious accommodation of 27 Kamar rooms, two exclusive suites and two stunning private villas, combines the intricately carved timber and soft silken fabrics of traditional Balinese culture with every modern comfort.

At Spa Village Resort Tembok, Bali guests are able to venture on a voyage of self-discovery with the traditional therapies of Bali. Every aspect of the spa resort reflects one of four Discovery Paths; Balance, Creativity, Vigour and the Spa Village Academy, all immersed in the healing traditions of Balinese culture. This quiet sanctuary seeks not only to restore body and mind but also to replenish the soul. Each Discovery Path enhances a specific focus with a symphony of treatments, activities and cuisine created to work collectively. An exploration of your very being, Spa Village Resort Tembok, Bali combines diverse yet complementary elements to craft a unique lifestyle experience.

Outdoor living at Spa Village Resort Tembok Bali centres on the magnificent midnight blue infinity pool, overlooking the rolling surf and surrounded by “Bale” pavilions. The dining experience is equally as dramatic thanks to the unique outdoor setting of the Wantilan restaurant, sitting directly above the beach. A healthy Balinese menu complemented by the freshest of squeezed juices completes the rejuvenating experience of Spa Village Resort Tembok Bali.

Spa Village Resort Tembok, Bali

Spa Village Resort Tembok, Bali is YTL Hotels’ first luxury spa resort. As with the other Spa Villages in Pangkor Laut, Cameron Highlands, Tanjong Jara, Malacca and Kuala Lumpur at Spa Village Resort Tembok, Bali each experience embodies the plot of paradise on which it is set. In this 31-room spa resort, the gentle spirituality of Bali and its rich culture infuses every encounter, and the secret power of the elements is unveiled by healing lore as old as the land itself

Spa Village Resort Tembok, Bali is a YTL Luxury Spa Resort.
YTL Hotels

YTL Hotels is the hospitality arm of one of Malaysia’s most dynamic conglomerates, YTL Corporation Berhad. The company owns and manages a stellar collection of internationally renowned, award-winning resorts, hotels and spas. The properties within the portfolio represent the finest in luxury hospitality wherever they may be situated. Within the portfolio, there are no two properties that are alike; the culture and character of its region infuses the very spirit of each property where traditions are embraced, colours absorbed, stunning scenery folded into every encounter. This is the essence of YTL Hotels and every property that bears its name, where our philosophy is that we don’t just build properties, we craft experiences.

Source: http://www.ytlcommunity.com/commnews/shownews.asp?newsid=45914

thx for sharing, Nazrey!

05/14/09 16:18
Bali again wins best Asia-Pacific Island Award



Jakarta (ANTARA News) - Bali has again received an award as The Best Island in Asia Pacific 2009 from the Hong Kong-based DestinAsia Magazine.

"Bali has been honored as The Best Island in Asia Pacific 2009 by DestinAsia Magazine in Hong Kong," Culture and Tourism Ministry`s director for promotion facilities Esthy Reko Astuty said here on Thursday.

She said Bali won the honor through a vote for DestinAsian Readers` Choice Awards in a survey which sought readers` opinions on their favorite destinations, hotels, and airlines in the Asia-Pacific region and announced every February.

According to her, readers in Asia Pacific were asked to nominate a winner in each category and provide a short explanation on the reasons for their choice.

"Bali has been chosen four times consecutively as the Best Island in Asia Pacific by DestinAsia Magazine since 2006," she said.

DestinAsia Magazine is a travel magazine published and marketed in Hong Kong, Singapore, Thailand, India, Malaysia, Australia, Taiwan and several Middle Eastern countries.

Astuty said with the award Bali must improve the quality of its tourism as main destination to maintain the image as the best island and being the best destination in Asia Pacific.

"Having been named The Best Island in Asia Pacific region for four consecutive years, Bali proves to be still a `primadona` (a woman who is considered excellent) of tourism destinations in the Asia Pacific region," she said.

According to Bali Tourism Office records, Bali has received at least 25 awards from various international magazines and countries since 1998. Most of the awards were given to Bali for its unique destination and natural beauty found nowhere else in the world.

Not long ago, Bali also received an award as The Best Spa of the World from Senses Wellnes Magazine.
(*)

For those who has plans to Jakarta in the upcoming week:


Local culinary delights rule at festival

The Jakarta Post , Jakarta | Sat, 05/16/2009 2:05 PM | City

http://www.thejakartapost.com/files/images/p20-BB.jpg

Food festival: Visitors enjoy food at the annual Jakarta Fashion and Food Festival in Kelapa Gading, North Jakarta on Friday. (JP/P.J. Leo)

Local culinary delights such a variety of soto (soup) are on the menu at La Piazza open hall, Kelapa Gading, North Jakarta during the 2009 Jakarta Fashion and Food Festival (JFFF) .

The City Tourism and Culture Agency and PT Summarecon Agung Tbk have held the annual festi-val, which will last until May 23, since 2003.

Seven kinds of soto, Chinese-Indonesian food, gado-gado, otak-otak and many other local dishes are on offer at dozens of food stalls and carts, as local food sellers and street vendors from Kelapa Gading area were invited to take part in this festival.

Visitors can also enjoy a wide selection of wine and cheeses from 10 countries until May 17.

Festival goers will experience a unique payment system, consisting of fake old bills they can use to pay for food or beverages in exchange for their real money.

"It's a lot of fun! I had to exchange my Rp 1,000 *less than US$0.1* bill for the fake Rp 1 to be able to buy food and drinks," said Nabila, a 12th-grader from a state high school.

French festival goer Genevieve Hodde said: "I am not quite satisfied with this festival as most of the food provided is from Java. It would have been more interesting if the organizer had provided dishes from across the archipelago."

However, Hodde was happy she could watch the stall chefs cook their dishes.

The festival experience for vendors was a mixed one.

"I am very happy to have been given the opportunity to open my stall here. I have already earned quite a bit since the first day of the festival," said Maman, a snack seller.

"After this festival, I will take my family travelling out of town," he added enthusiastically.

Unlike Maman, a vendor selling otak-otak (fish cake), Iskandar Cahyono said he was disappointed few buyers visited his stall, blaming it on his stall's location.

"I will probably give up if my otak-otak does not sell well until this weekend," he said.

The festival management will not charge him for his stall, but take a 20 percent of his profits instead.

This year, the festival management said it wanted to promote an environmentally friendly lifestyle movement, as indicated in the event's theme, Locafore.

"We don't use styrofoam in this festival," said general manager of PT Summarecon Agung Cut Meutia.

Three different bins are also provided to separate organic, plastic and recyclable waste. (nia)

Kitsch food court at the northern tip of Jakarta

P.J. Leo , The Jakarta Post , Jakarta | Sun, 05/24/2009 10:38 AM | On the Town

http://www.thejakartapost.com/files/images/sp16-b2.jpg
Old cracker jars and bicycles give a kitschy touch to every corner of the food court. JP/P.J. Leo
Kelapa Gading, situated at the northern tip of the city, has grown into a haven for Jakarta culinary lovers, as everything is on offer to anyone in the area. New restaurants and cafes offering specialties are sprouting like mushrooms in the rainy season.

One of them is the Eat and Eat Food Market which boasts culinary delights dating back to the 1950s. This facility is located on Kelapa Gading Mall's third floor. The interior is heavily decorated with Cina Peranakan - referring to descendants of early Chinese immigrants who partially adopted indigenous customs through either acculturation or intermarriage with indigenous communities - touches.

"For two years I've been looking for ideas to make this food court concept. I spent a lot of time visiting *traditional* markets in different places to see what kinds of food were on offer there," the Eat and Eat Food Market founder Iwan Chandra says.

"You'll probably find it hard to get a traditional ongol-ongol cake *cassava-based cake* in a Jakarta caf* or in shopping mall food courts, but here we have this kind of delicacy and it comes with an authentic taste."

"Our food court serves our parents' childhood delicacies, to bring back their memories. So dining out is not only about savoring food, but it's also an adventure in itself, especially if we remember our favorite childhood dishes and cannot find them anywhere else. Eating here will be like finding a treasure if you can find your favorite snack or dish here," Iwan says.

It took six months to collect chairs and doors from old houses around Indonesia to be used inside the food court. The eatery, according to Iwan, has a retro concept, taking people back to the old days.

"It's against the mainstream because now restaurants and caf*s are racing to give customers modern interior designs and Western food. We've gone the other way," he says.

"This old door, for instance, was taken from an old house," Iwan says pointing to a door used as a decorative ornament at one of the food stalls.

The 1950s ambiance is instantly felt upon entering the area that has a total width of 2,350 square meters. Wood and red colors dominate the interior, enriched with ornaments from the past.

http://www.thejakartapost.com/files/images/sp16-a_1.img_assist_custom.jpg
The dining hall of the “Eat and Eat Food “Market” is decorated with ornaments from the past. JP/P.J. Leo
Eat and Eat Food Market is divided into two areas - halal (sanctioned by Islamic Law) and non-halal. There are 35 tenants all together, 15 hawkers and two beverage counters managed by the food court management.

"We are strict with our tenant regulations: Tenants have to comply with a set of cleanliness and hygienic procedures when cooking. All cooking and food preparation must conform to our regulations," says the food court general manager Deni A. Rachman.

Before joining the food court, some tenants and hawkers ran their businesses from the roadside, where cleanliness and hygiene standards are not high on priority lists. Despite the strict regulation, Deni says, there are still 100 potential tenants waiting to join the food court.

The food court, which opened in late 2008, can accommodate 600 diners at once.

"What we want is to have the young and older people dining here, not only to enjoy the food but also to celebrate our roots," Deni says.

DON'T MISS IT

Solo Batik Carnival II


June 26-28, 2009
http://img14.imageshack.us/img14/4254/008juni.jpg

here are some pics of Solo Batik Carnival I
http://cache.daylife.com/imageserve/09SYe4achZdqW/340x.jpg

http://www.nancarrow-webdesk.com/warehouse/storage2/2008-w15/img.187452_t.jpg

http://i1.trekearth.com/photos/50123/batik1.jpg

more on Solo Batik Carnival I

http://images.roorey.multiply.com/image/4/photos/24/500x500/1/13.jpg?et=z4wRlUWIHMltld473hhjnw&nmid=197615875

http://images.roorey.multiply.com/image/1/photos/24/500x500/45/61.jpg?et=jmeJKywjGO0L4cvxlvI%2Bkw&nmid=197615875

http://images.roorey.multiply.com/image/1/photos/24/500x500/44/62.jpg?et=oVgiOYPHs9BrE4sZdzAC7Q&nmid=197615875

HotelTravel.com's Top 10 Reasons to Visit Bali
Tuesday, 2 June 2009



Mention Bali and images of beautiful beaches, stunning landscapes and exotic temples come to mind. The jewel of the Indonesian islands, it draws millions of visitors to its sundrenched shores. HotelTravel.com tours the island and discovers 10 good reasons why Bali is still tops.
HotelTravel.com recently completed a customer poll on Asia's most desirable island destinations and it is not surprising that Bali, Indonesia came out on tops in the region.
HotelTravel.com Chief Communications Officer, Tom Racette, said demand for this alluring Indonesian tropical paradise remained as strong as ever.
According to Mr Racette, Bali's strength as a desirable destination was its diversity. With so much to do and see Bali continues to attract both new and repeat visitors alike.
"Bali defies simple descriptions. Travellers who make the trip are bound to find Bali irresistible. The island's soaring seaside cliffs, green rice-terraced valleys and mystical temples hidden in traditional villages always mesmerise.
"It also remains an excellent value-for-money holiday destination. There are great hotel deals to be found on HotelTravel.com starting at only 23 US dollars, plus scores of good family holiday resorts available for under 100 US dollars a night," he added.
HotelTravel.com's Top Ten Reasons to Visit Bali include some of the best internet hotel deals available:
Asia's Economy Airline Revolution
Bali is one destination that has benefited from Asia's budget airline revolution. While direct flights from several key aviation hubs remain few and deals often tough to come by, Air Asia offers non-stop flights with great fares for on-line bookings. From its Kuala Lumpur hub to Denpasar fares start at RM300 (US$105) return, from Bangkok its 8,615 baht (US$250) and from Singapore S$306 (US$211). In Australia, Jetstar is also offering outstanding value with its Jet Saver fares from Sydney starting from A$559 (US$411) return.*
Like a Rolling Stone
When the Rolling Stone's legendary singer Mick Jagger tied the knot with American Supermodel Jerry Hall - Bali became the world's top wedding destination. Today Bali's wedding industry is much more sophisticated, and romantic hotels in Ubud worthy of consideration include Bali Sprit House & Spa (from US$77), Bagus Jati (from US$157) or the luxury Ubud Hanging Gardens (from US$388). For hotels in Nusa Dua, HotelTravel.com has an exclusive rate at Grand Bali starting at US$66 from now until 14 July.
Learn to count in $$Millions
There's nothing like the thrill when of being a millionaire in any currency. In Bali, with an exchange rate of around 10,000 Indonesian rupiah for one US dollar, travellers only need to change one hundred dollars to join this exclusive club! But don't get too excited, local traders often quote in US dollars for many unique Balinese handicrafts visitors love to take home.
Pay like a Pauper, Live like a Prince
Many people think only the rich and famous visit Bali to stay in exclusive million-dollar pool villas. Check out the HotelTravel.com website and to discover excellent value at hotels in Ubud including Adi Cottage Hotel (from US$26) or Puri Asri Villa and Spa (from US$28). Hotels in Kuta-Legian offer the real rock bottom rates on the island, especially Sinar Bali Hotel (from US$23), Matahari Bungalows (from US$34) and Melasti Beach Bungalows (from US$36).
Swing like Tarzan
Yes, in Bali anyone can swing from trees like Tarzan for a day. At Flying Fox, customers are propelled through the jungle for up to 160 metres at a time attached to wires strung between high points in the forest. There are five different routes to choose from at the Bali Treetop in the Bedugul Botanical Gardens.
A Day Bali Stands Still
Most people are too busy to wondered what it would be like to stop rushing around for one day. But nothing moves on Bali's Nyepi Day, the Balinese New Year. For 24 hours, there is no loud talking, music, noisy motorbikes, cars or even turning on electrical appliances. There are no taxis, the international airport closes down and tourists are told to stay indoors. Mark your calendar: the next Nyepi Day is 16 March 2010.
Enjoy a cuppa of strange brew
Garden Cafe in Sanur sells the world's rarest coffee, 'Kopi Luwak', and it's best to drink the coffee before finding out how this delicacy is created. The truth, believe it or not, is that the coffee beans all pass through the digestive system of the Asian Palm civet, a tree climbing cat. On Bali it costs US$55 for a small pack, well worth the shock value alone.
Chill Out at Ku De Ta
There's nothing quite like Ku De Ta anywhere else in the world. Perched on the edge of the sea along popular Seminyak beach, this beach club is a magnet for the rich, famous and their entourages. There are heaps of popular hotels in Seminyak, including Villa Coco Bali (from US$104), Villa Seminyak Estate & Spa Hotel (from US$155) and the Oberoi Bali (from US$311).
Surf the 'Endless Summer'
Bali has been surf Mecca since the 1960s, and aspiring surfers can sign up at one of many surfing schools on the island. Within a few days student surfers are often 'ripping curl' and 'hanging ten' like a professional. A five-day package starts from around US$120, and there are plenty of boards for hire
Check in, Spa out
Everyone has heard about the legendary health spas in Bali, where staff have perfected the art of pampering and relaxation. Whether covered in mud, bathed in local herbs or massaged with tropical oils, the spas are bound to provide guests with a fresh new outlook on life.

Official website Solo Batik Carnival

www.solobatikcarnival.com

M - E - N - T - A - W - A - I , WEST SUMATRA.


All photos are taken from Wavepark Mentawai Surfing Resort. http://www.wavepark.com/

contact address :
Padang Office:
Jalan Nipah No. 20J
Padang, West Sumatra 25118
Indonesia
PH: 0751 812837
FAX: 0751 812835
CELL: +628126607764, +628126635551

Email:
info@wavepark.com
alice@wavepark.com
christie@ranahminang.net
wavepark@ranahminang.net

New Zealand Residence:
100 Lysnar Rd.
Gisborne, New Zealand
PH: +64 6 868 8164
FAX: +64 868 1624




...off the West Coast of Sumatra in the Mentawai Archipelago - West Sumatra

http://img530.imageshack.us/img530/6097/mentawaisurfresortmap2.jpg (http://img530.imageshack.us/i/mentawaisurfresortmap2.jpg/)


The aerial photograph below is the best tool to show you where things are in relation to each other on the island resort. The island is about 66 acres, to give you some sense of scale.


http://img83.imageshack.us/img83/4351/mentawairesortmap.jpg (http://img83.imageshack.us/i/mentawairesortmap.jpg/)


The Accommodation


http://img523.imageshack.us/img523/9640/n173034195996593533819.jpg (http://img523.imageshack.us/i/n173034195996593533819.jpg/)



http://img269.imageshack.us/img269/4393/n173034195996593472456.jpg (http://img269.imageshack.us/i/n173034195996593472456.jpg/)



http://img523.imageshack.us/img523/6476/n173034195995562676492.jpg (http://img523.imageshack.us/i/n173034195995562676492.jpg/)



and the Actions:


http://img523.imageshack.us/img523/3103/31736558912959917303419.jpg (http://img523.imageshack.us/i/31736558912959917303419.jpg/)



http://img10.imageshack.us/img10/7601/31736558911959917303419.jpg (http://img10.imageshack.us/i/31736558911959917303419.jpg/)



http://img194.imageshack.us/img194/9907/n173034195995584562843.jpg (http://img194.imageshack.us/i/n173034195995584562843.jpg/)



http://img10.imageshack.us/img10/3219/n1730341959911345226056.jpg (http://img10.imageshack.us/i/n1730341959911345226056.jpg/)



http://img10.imageshack.us/img10/2219/n1730341959911345286945.jpg (http://img10.imageshack.us/i/n1730341959911345286945.jpg/)



http://img29.imageshack.us/img29/8286/n1730341959911345185604.jpg (http://img29.imageshack.us/i/n1730341959911345185604.jpg/)



http://img145.imageshack.us/img145/5416/n173034195998827833937.jpg (http://img145.imageshack.us/i/n173034195998827833937.jpg/)



http://img171.imageshack.us/img171/712/n173034195998827762176.jpg (http://img171.imageshack.us/i/n173034195998827762176.jpg/)



http://img32.imageshack.us/img32/7512/31736558914459917303419.jpg (http://img32.imageshack.us/i/31736558914459917303419.jpg/)



And the views:


http://img200.imageshack.us/img200/2294/n1730341959911345205837.jpg (http://img200.imageshack.us/i/n1730341959911345205837.jpg/)



http://img29.imageshack.us/img29/8831/n173034195996593452021.jpg (http://img29.imageshack.us/i/n173034195996593452021.jpg/)



http://img10.imageshack.us/img10/7010/n173034195996593544066.jpg (http://img10.imageshack.us/i/n173034195996593544066.jpg/)




http://img10.imageshack.us/img10/2725/n173034195995584634538.jpg (http://img10.imageshack.us/i/n173034195995584634538.jpg/)


SUPPORT INDONESIAN TOURISM........

Woow... Surfing Paradise!!:okay:

Bunaken Island: A return to the beauty of the deep

Arief Suhardiman , The Jakarta Post , Bunaken, Manado | Sun, 06/14/2009 12:11 PM | Travel


http://www.thejakartapost.com/files/images/sp13-a2.jpg

http://www.thejakartapost.com/files/images/sp13-c2.img_assist_custom.jpg

A Nudibranch, Chromodoris Lochi

^^ always want to go diving there @ Bunaken - Manado, diving paradise!

Travel Postcard: 48 hours in Jakarta for history buffs

Fri Jun 26, 2009 4:40pm IST

By Jennifer Henderson

JAKARTA (Reuters Life!) - Got 48 hours to explore the history of Jakarta? Reuters correspondents with local knowledge help visitors with a penchant for the past enjoy Indonesia's bustling capital.

FRIDAY

6 p.m. - Step back in time to 1800s Indonesia at Bunga Rampai Restaurant, Menteng. Let your tastebuds tingle with some spicy nasi buketan -- pandan-flavored rice, served with meat, shredded omelet and chilli -- as you dine in elegant, white surroundings reminiscent of the Dutch colonial period.

SATURDAY

5 a.m. - Start early to escape the morning rush hour, and head north to Kota or Old Jakarta, the original settlement from which the modern city grew. Ensure you have one-thousand rupiah (10 U.S. cent) notes as most of the museums charge a small fee.

5.30 a.m. - Head to the docks to watch the sunrise over the Javenese sea at Sunda Kelapa. The 500-year-old port, and the village around it, once served as a trading point between the Portuguese and Hindu Kingdom of Pajajaran, it was later used by the Dutch. Tours are available from the tourist hut on the dock.

7 a.m.- For the very adventurous, try to eat at one of the local warungs or food stalls east of the dock.

8 a.m. - Take a bicycle taxi or 'sepeda ontel' to the nearby Pasar Ikan fish market. Even though the auction is long over (it takes place at 3 a.m.), it is still bustling with activity.

9 a.m.- Stroll to the old spice warehouse nearby that is now the Maritime Museum. Typical of many of Jakarta's museums, the buildings are not always in the best of repair and there is little direction for tourists, but this adds to the adventure, as you climb creaky dusty wooden staircases. Climb the harbor watchman tower near the museum for a bird's-eye view, and see the large Dutch East Indies Company logo still visible on buildings.

10 a.m.- Head to Fatahillah square, and the many museums there. The fastest way to beat the traffic is by motorbike taxi (ojek) or a noisy three-wheeled "bajaj."

11 a.m.- Watch a traditional performance at the Wayang Museum, on the site of an old Dutch building on the square. Wayang puppets are an integral part of Indonesian culture and the museum has an extensive collection from across the archipelago.

12 p.m. - Lunch is but a stroll away at the adjacent Batavia Cafe. The old teak wood furniture and sweeping 1920s decor give the cafe a relaxed, breezy atmosphere. The 19th century building was re-opened in 1993.

1 p.m.- Lock yourself in the cramped prison cells at the bottom of the Jakarta History Museum. The museum in the former city hall of Batavia, now Jakarta, is home to grand rooms filled with antique furniture, such as a ceiling-high glass fronted filing cabinet and dining tables once laden with colonial feasts.

2 p.m.- One of the better-kept museums is the Fine Art and Ceramics Museum across the street from Taman Fatahillah.

3.30 p.m.- Discover the hidden Candra Naya, a Chinese mansion enclosed in the shell of an apartment block under construction and which was saved from the developers.

4 p.m.- A short ride away is the National Archives Building. The attractive building houses an interesting array of bric-a-brac from the Dutch and Portuguese periods. The building closes at 4.30, but the garden remains open till 6 p.m.

5.30 p.m.- The oldest Buddhist temple in Jakarta is located in the back streets of Glodok, which is also Jakarta's Chinatown. As you pass through the gates you are greeted by a haze of incense and pleading faces of beggars who sit in the courtyard.

6.30 p.m.- Go to Gajah Mada, that cuts through Glodok, for some authentic Indonesian Chinese cuisine for dinner.

SUNDAY

9 a.m. - Pack your lunch and then head to Monas, the national monument. The towering column, topped by a golden flame, was conceived by Indonesia's first president Sukarno. Take an hour to walk the circumference of the complex before the weather heats up, looking out for statues of national heroes.

10 a.m.- Go to a concealed underground entrance below the base of Monas to visit the museum and also go to the top for views of Jakarta.

12.30 p.m. - Find a shady tree in the grounds of Monas to picnic among the locals.

1 p.m.- For everything Indonesian, go to the nearby National Museum. The building's old and new sections offer a thorough history of Indonesia's people, culture and islands.

2 p.m. - Stroll the manicured, shady lawns of the presidential palace and take in the neo-classical buildings. The palace, occupied first by the Dutch then the Japanese, now hosts state functions and official meetings for the president.

3 p.m.- Follow the call to prayer at the Istiqlal mosque, one of the biggest in Southeast Asia and which was designed by a Christian architect. Ask for a guide to explain the history of the mosque and the customs of Islam.

4 p.m.- For another religious experience, head to Jakarta's 19th century Catholic cathedral across the road.

6 p.m.- Relax after a long day on a padded couch in Lara Djonggrang in Menteng. The atmospheric Indonesian restaurant is filled with antique furniture.

(Editing by Miral Fahmy/Ed Davies)

Mentawai Island!!!!^^

Thousands Hit The Streets to Celebrate Batik, Indonesia’s Cultural Treasure

Thousands of people lined Jalan Slamet Riyadi in the batik capital of the world on Sunday during the 2009 Solo Batik Carnival in Central Java.

Participants decked out in costumes featuring the traditional artwork walked and danced the 10-kilometer route to the delight of those in attendance.

Solo Mayor Joko Widodo said the event had attracted the attention of the world and had helped Dindin Wahyudin, the Indonesian deputy ambassador for Unesco in Paris, convince Unesco to list batik as part of the world’s cultural heritage.

“In every entrance point to Solo — in Adi Soemarmo Airport, Balapan Railway Station and Tirtonadi Bus Station — we display a welcome banner stating that Solo is the ‘Batik Capital’ of the world.”

Trade Minister Mari E Pangestu opened the festival. Wearing a batik costume reminiscent of those worn by the princesses of the Solo palace, she said that the annual carnival would raise Indonesia’s global profile in the creative industries.

“We will never stop hoping people will visit Indonesia,” she said. “Not only coming here as tourists, but also to cooperate in the creative industries. The 2009 Solo Batik Carnival is a special moment to tell the world that batik is truly Indonesian.”

A number of foreign officials were in attendance, including Nico Barito, the honorary consul for the Republic of the Seychelles.

“It is like being in Rio de Janeiro,” he said. “But the costumes and the choreography are unique and that makes the event special.”

Dynand Fariz, who helped develop the event as a concept, said that batik was not always about the fabric. The motifs could also be displayed through masks.

“This event has a ‘mask’ theme,” Dynand said. “We can promote batik and masks as part of our cultural wealth.”

Quintanova Rizqino, the coordinator of the 2009 Solo Batik Carnival Workshop, said that the event raised three mask characters: Panji Mask, Kelana Mask and Gecul Mask.

“Panji Mask tells about Rama and Shinta legend,” said Quinta. “There was also a character known as the Sekartaji Princess. Kelana Mask has a strong yet cruel character. Gecul Mask has a fun and amusing character with brighter colors.”

On Saturday, Quinta said that hundreds of the carnival participants had conducted workshops over the past two months. They also went to several traditional markets, shopping malls and community centers to promote the beauty of batik.

“This is the second Solo Batik Carnival in Solo,” he said. “Last year, the festival was so lively. Thousands came to watch the carnival. Thank God, this year the event is even livelier.”

In addition to the various costumes and masks, the carnival also featured beautiful choreography.

According to Susanto the Chief Committee of 2009 Solo Batik Carnival, all people were welcome to participate in the festivities.

“Some schools wanted their students to participate,” he said.

“That is okay, as long as they have batik as their costume design. Everyone can join the party. Let’s be united — we simply cannot ever let batik be taken over by Malaysia or any other countries.”

People from all over the world attended the carnival.

Gunawan Setiawan, the leader of the Kampung Batik Kauman community in Solo, said that the festival was a positive development for batik and the city. He said that he wanted to see more events in the future.

“Don’t just stop with this event,” he urged.

“We should include batik as our wonderful country’s treasured and extremely important intellectual property. Support the development of batik!”

He said that protecting batik designs would be extremely difficult because so many people made batik.

http://thejakartaglobe.com/media/images/large/20090629001105618.jpg

A participant in the Solo Batik Carnival II sports an elaborate head piece on Sunday. The carnival was a celebration of Indonesian art. (Photo: JG)

^^here's my video on Solo Batik Carnival 2009

n2c0fWjon-A

and some other pictures

http://img33.imageshack.us/img33/8430/cimg5516.jpg
by = gantengscool

http://img81.imageshack.us/img81/6400/sbc2.jpg
by = adpro.indonesia

Saturday July 4, 2009
Batavia beckons
By WAYNE JOHNSON

Colonial Jakarta, a layer-cake of history, brims with white-washed buildings and tales of ancient mariners.

Before Jakarta became a sprawling urban mass of 15 million souls, it was known as Batavia and comprised a small portside town enclosed within thick defensive walls. Although the city has now spread way beyond its original confines, many of the original 17th century merchant houses, warehouses and administrative buildings still cling on amid the urban jungle.

Unlike some of its counterparts in Asia, Jakarta still has many colonial buildings, even though much of it is crumbling from years of neglect. For some, though, this has added to the charm, and it is one of the pleasures of visiting Jakarta to wander around the old town and soak up the atmosphere of yesteryear.

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2009/7/4/lifetravel/f_pg20history.jpg
Visitors can while away the hours at the History Museum and Taman Fatahillah.

The Jakarta administration has now awoken to the fact that they have a potential tourist goldmine on their hands and recently announced plans to spend millions of dollars to renovate and spruce up the area to make it more attractive to visitors.

With this in mind, I embarked on a trip to the Old Town, or Kota, as it is referred to, and saw signs that this initiative is indeed taking hold.

A good place to begin a tour of Kota is at the old docks at Sunda Kelapa.

A battered shed posing as a tourist information centre does not give the impression that it receives lots of visitors, but it can be a good place to find a guide who will take you onto the boats – the Makassar Schooners.

Known as Pinsi, these brightly coloured sailing ships have been used for centuries to transport goods and people around the huge archipelago that is Indonesia.

They make for a good photo opportunity, and the guides at the tourist office will take you scrambling across the warren of decks and masts for a small fee.

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2009/7/4/lifetravel/f_pg20sunda.jpg
Check out the city’s seafaring past at the Sunda Kelapa docks.

Continue with the nautical theme at the old Harbour Master’s tower, complete with aged cannon gazing out to sea and an old dungeon in its basement, a mere five-minute walk away.

Its architecture and commanding position make it an interesting diversion before you continue your walk down the Pasar Ikan to get to the Maritime Museum.

Again, one of the things that struck me was the complete lack of tourists, which will make you a very visible target to people offering to be your guide.

Fronting the Maritime Museum is the last remaining part of what was once the formidable defensive wall that protected Batavia.

If you are feeling agile enough, you might find it interesting to clamber up the narrow stairs and stare down at the bustle of the market below. The museum is based in a 17th century warehouse and contains some interesting ship models and portraits of Dutch governors and Indonesian freedom fighters.

However, the building itself, with its sunny courtyard and numerous rooms, is as much, if not more, interesting than the exhibits within.

After departing the museum, it is time to head to the other main attraction of Kota.

Although within walking distance of the dockside, the path to Taman Fatahillah lacks pedestrian-friendly sidewalks and it can get very hot, so it may be better to take public transport or car.

This large cobblestone square is surrounded by numerous museums, restaurants and streets featuring 18th-century houses.

In recent years, many of the vendors who clogged the square have been moved, and now it is full of groups of Jakartans soaking up the atmosphere or taking a break between visits to the museums.

Running most of the length of the square is the visibly striking white-washed façade of the Jakarta History Museum. The building dates from the 1600s and was originally the Dutch administration’s law courts. Its dungeons imprisoned many of Indonesia’s most famous freedom fighters and its balcony was used as a prime viewing platform for the public executions which used to take place in the square below.

Now, it is a popular focal point for school groups. Its collection consists mainly of furniture and various artifacts dug up in excavations around Jakarta.

In a much smaller building on the opposite side of the square is the Wayang Museum. Wayang are traditional puppets used in performances throughout Indonesia, and this museum contains a large collection from Java and beyond and also puppets from overseas.

The present building dates from the early 20th century but a much older church used to occupy the site.

In this church were buried many of the city’s early Dutch governors, including Jan Pieterszoon Coen, the founder of Batavia who died in 1629. Now, all that remains is a large memorial stone in the museum’s courtyard commemorating where his body used to rest.

If by now you are not suffering museum fatigue, then there is also the Fine Arts Museum, which is separated from the square by a fairly busy road.

This classical-style 19th-century building used to be the Palace of Justice; now it houses paintings by prominent Indonesian artists and a ceramics section with many Chinese porcelain and pottery from the early Javanese kingdoms.

There is another Jakarta institution situated here which attracts numerous visitors.

The Café Batavia, while pricey by Jakarta standards, remains a popular dining venue and has frequently been mentioned in lists of the world’s best bars. Although less busy than in its heyday in the 1990s, it is still worth a visit.

Downstairs sits the heavily upholstered lounge bar, while the upstairs is a bright and airy restaurant complete with period furnishings and walls bedecked with black-and-white photos of political figures and movie stars.

If you really want to end your tour of the old town in style, then stop for their Iranian caviar and vodka special.

However, for those with less money or less expensive tastes, there are plenty of food vendors surrounding the square offering satay, gado gado and other popular Indonesian snacks. All that is left to do is to perch on top of an 18th-century cannon and stuff your face while watching the world pass you by in this unique corner of Jakarta.

Solo Batik Fashion Show 2009

http://img14.imageshack.us/img14/2020/010juli.jpg (http://img14.imageshack.us/my.php?image=010juli.jpg)

http://img194.imageshack.us/img194/2906/sbfg.jpg (http://img194.imageshack.us/i/sbfg.jpg/)

Nice pics!

Wonderful pics :)

^^:banana::banana::banana:Really Nice!



:horse:

Very nice the Solo Batik Fashion Show 2009. Regards.

The MAGIC Has been found!!!

26Nvi2xf-gI

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26Nvi2xf-gI

http://img156.imageshack.us/img156/2122/jogyajuly1620091.jpg

http://img182.imageshack.us/img182/9317/jogyajuly1620092.jpg

http://img233.imageshack.us/img233/9254/jogyajuly1620095.jpg

http://img182.imageshack.us/img182/1092/jogyajuly1620094.jpg

http://img43.imageshack.us/img43/1963/jogyajuly1620096.jpg

http://img91.imageshack.us/img91/4691/jogyajuly1620098.jpg

http://img25.imageshack.us/img25/7862/jogyajuly1720091.jpg

http://img25.imageshack.us/img25/4674/jogyajuly1720092.jpg

http://img4.imageshack.us/img4/2181/jogyajuly1720093.jpg

http://img4.imageshack.us/img4/8751/jogyajuly1720094.jpg

http://img4.imageshack.us/img4/5807/jogyajuly1720095.jpg

http://img4.imageshack.us/img4/5092/jogyajuly1720096.jpg

http://img256.imageshack.us/img256/2600/jogyajuly1720097.jpg

Some pics of Sail Bunaken 2009.
Location: Manado, North Sulawesi

Yacht Rally

http://i891.photobucket.com/albums/ac111/bintangrock/SB34.jpg

Sumber: Manado Post


New Guiness World Record for Independence Day Celebration underwater...

FYI, Manado has one of world's best diving spots...!! :banana:


Foto2 dari Sail Bunaken 2009

http://i891.photobucket.com/albums/ac111/bintangrock/SB35.jpg

http://i891.photobucket.com/albums/ac111/bintangrock/SB28.jpg

http://i891.photobucket.com/albums/ac111/bintangrock/SB29.jpg

http://i891.photobucket.com/albums/ac111/bintangrock/SB31.jpg

http://i891.photobucket.com/albums/ac111/bintangrock/SB32.jpg

http://i891.photobucket.com/albums/ac111/bintangrock/SB33.jpg

http://i891.photobucket.com/albums/ac111/bintangrock/SB30.jpg

http://i891.photobucket.com/albums/ac111/bintangrock/UpacaraBawahLaut130209-4.jpg

http://i891.photobucket.com/albums/ac111/bintangrock/610x__.jpg

http://i891.photobucket.com/albums/ac111/bintangrock/images.jpg

http://i891.photobucket.com/albums/ac111/bintangrock/gladi1.jpg

http://i891.photobucket.com/albums/ac111/bintangrock/selam01.jpg

http://i891.photobucket.com/albums/ac111/bintangrock/selam02.jpg

http://i891.photobucket.com/albums/ac111/bintangrock/610x___.jpg

http://i891.photobucket.com/albums/ac111/bintangrock/gladi2.jpg

http://i891.photobucket.com/albums/ac111/bintangrock/kompas1.jpg

_________________________________________________________________

http://dc161.4shared.com/img/123875735/87f6b635/sail_bunaken_dok2.wmv (http://www.4shared.com/file/123875735/87f6b635/sail_bunaken_dok2.html)

http://img525.imageshack.us/img525/611/jogyajuly1720099.jpg

http://img525.imageshack.us/img525/4387/jogyajuly17200910.jpg

http://img198.imageshack.us/img198/2451/jogyajuly1720098.jpg

http://img39.imageshack.us/img39/5738/balijuly1920093.jpg

http://img257.imageshack.us/img257/549/balijuly1920095.jpg

http://img291.imageshack.us/img291/4866/lembangjuly2520092.jpg

nice:lol:

Those are some great photos.

Indonesia is awesome :yes:

Never bored to see all the pict's here. Very-very beautiful...... awsome.......
I really enjoy them from the 1st page till page 22, and i'll see all to the last page. Great job F-IAN, JAG2 and all members here. Thank you for sharing those beauty pictures, so i can be more proud to be an Indonesian.
I love INDONESIA.....

One of my fav. country... the most liveable paradise.

Parai Beach, Bangka Island

http://img14.imageshack.us/img14/9355/21032008014.jpg

Indonesia = paradise

Nice share , keep it up...

Indonesia is beautiful. I would like to visit this country in future.:okay:

from http://asianyachting.com/news/SandeqRace.htm

The SANDEQ RACE
Indonesia’s nautical event of the year!

http://asianyachting.com/images/SandeqAction.jpg

http://asianyachting.com/images/SandeqsRacing.jpg


2010 Sandeq Race.

Want to do something very interesting and rewarding in your sailing career? Many foreign crews have found that by sponsoring these traditional Indonesian fisher folk not only keeps their magnificent sailing culture alive but also has a very memorable effect ensuring these exciting sailing craft will go down in history.

The annual Sandeq Race is one of the main nautical events in Indonesia, where many sponsorship packages are available, including space on the sails and individual participating boats. Your participation would assure the presence of your organisation in national and international electronic and printed media – with a connotation that differs significantly from ‘normal’ advertising and sponsorship - for a cost of only a fraction of ‘normal’ media rates.

Sean Clifford and James Blacket sponsored and sailed a Sandeq in the 2007 race. Their story is published (below).

Jan 2010 Makassar, South Sulawesi, Indonesia
Vice Governors office in the ancient seafaring capital of Makassar have advised AsianYachting that serious doubts may have existed that the annual race may not be held this year and could we publicise that the century old-traditional sandeq outrigger fishing boat race will be once again starting on July 28th 2010 in Mamuju and end in Makassar on August 7th.

Despite organising annual races in the Mandar area about 300km north of Makassar for the last 11 years - Sandeq Racing is only just coming to the notice of the broader public. In past years allot of these spectacularly fast sailing craft were lying in mothballs as the crews decided to go to Mamuju and Donggala in search of thunas because the flying fish caviar prices are in the cellar this year. Oh! I have often wondered what those flimsy looking things where doing as they quickly whizzed by sometimes well out in rough seas crossing the notoriously dangerous Makassar Straits. Race participants or crew are usually drawn from the local coastal fishing villages along the way.

Coming from a western world full of high tech carbon fibre construction and multi million $$ racing campaigns, It seems ironic that providing a little public awareness and promotion for these simple, traditional bamboo outrigger sailing craft, which are mainly held together with fishing line and jute can produce enough personal pride and cultural dignity in developing a 3rd world community to become the main driving force for sustainable and appropriate development that no multi-billion dollar ‘project’ could bring.

2010 Sandeq Race Schedule

http://asianyachting.com/images/SandeqRace2010Chart.jpg

http://www.songlinecruises.com/sandeqrace2010/New_Folder/race_d2.jpg
from http://www.songlinecruises.com/sandeqrace2010/

2010 Sandeq Race

Wednesday, July 28: participants gather at Mamuju harbour

Thursday, 29 This year the race starts in Mamuju with a parade of the participants and sails down the coast to Deking, Malunda

Friday, 30 Then straight into the eye of the South East Monsoon winds from Deking to Somba

Saturday, 31 Somba - (Big spectacular open water round course along Rangas - Labuang Gonda - Pambusuang - Karama - Rangas) to finish up in Majene.

Sunday, August 1 Triangular course off Majene.

Monday, 2 Restart Majene then across the notorious windy Bay of Polewali

Tuesday, 3 Triangular course set off Polewali. All along the coastal course of the race, local governments will hold cultural festivities and events to entertain competitors and spectators.

Wednesday, 4 The race continues from Polewali onto Ujung Lero and ends up in Pare-Pare.

Thursday, 5 An extended Harbour Race will be set in the Bay of Pare-Pare, right in front of the second largest city in South Sulawesi.

Friday, 6 Departing Pare-Pare after extended festivities the fleet then moves onto Barru.

Saturday, 7 Leaving Barru the boats then continue on to Makassar, finishing in the late afternoon in front of the famous Losari Beach in the heart of Sulawesi's capital city.

Makassar Friendship Challenge In past years a series of events were planned during the reception and as this region is steep in seafaring traditions it is usually celebrated with more boat-racing, exhibitions, music festivals and other events all over the city. Any visiting yacht in Makassar and the participants of the Sandeq Race are invited to run a fun race of some 15nm - who is faster? a Sandeq or a modern day yacht? Be assured, our lean white sandeq racers won't leave you much of a chance – ‘ah, rubbish’, we hear you say…. ok, we’ll give you a little hope: We will invite everybody, yachties and sandeq, to switch some of your crews beforehand! Thus maybe several of the most fearsome sandeq-racers might not be onboard their boats, and the yachts just might perhaps …. .

You can either join the Sandeq Race onboard a escort vessel, or try signing up as a race participant or sponsor one of the sandeq's by contacting the Race Committee.

2010 Sandeq RaceContact the Sandeq Race Committee
Website: http://songlinecruises.com/sandeq.html
Email: khmail@indosat.net.id

http://asianyachting.com/images/ombak1.jpg

http://asianyachting.com/images/Sandeqsailing.jpg
Songline CruisersSongline Cruisers expect to have up to 4 Traditional live aboard Indonesian Pinisi's escorting the traditional fishing boats and following the fleet on the race program for travelers interested in a real cultural experience among Indonesian people that seldom see tourists can be viewed at http://www.songlinecruises.com

This year they are offering a package program where you can join on any of the dates mentioned on a per night basis (2 day/1 night minimum) @ US$90 per day or the complete program for US$720 per person.

More details can be obtained from SongLine Cruises of Indonesia, Jalan Rukun No. 4 RT8 RW 2, Ciganjur, Jakarta Selatan, Indonesia. Phone: +62 (21) 787-5021 HP: +62 (858-80-246-295)
Email: Info@SongLineCruises.com

If you prefer to stay on a traditional fishing boat, you should come to Mandar a day or two before the race starts and make your arrangements with the owner. The committee will assist you in finding a suitable vessel!

Komodo Island
The only place in modern era where u can find walking dinosaur

http://alamendah.files.wordpress.com/2009/07/komodo.jpg

http://i372.photobucket.com/albums/oo165/technolovestyle/pulau-komodo-1.jpg

Don't forget to VOTE Komodo Island National Park as the New 7 Natural Wonder

Fascinating place

heaven on earth_...*_*
About 'Me (https://sites.google.com/site/i3obportfolio/)

MAP
http://i31.tinypic.com/2vcvv3q.jpg

Three Gili Islands

http://i39.tinypic.com/o7rpch.jpg

Three Gili Islands (Gili means small islands) are Natural phenomenon that lies on the north of Lombok Island. Gili Air, Meno, dan Trawangan are the names of those Tiga Gili which have been one of the tourist attractions in Lombok

Long time ago, these islands were prisons. At that time, since the prisons are over-capacity, a King that was leading the kingdom sent 350 Sasak Rebels to these islands. In 1970s, Sulawesi people came to the island and lived there ever since. Finally, these places keep on developing, until now, these places have became three of thousands outstandingly beautiful places in Indonesia.

This is "World's Village" aside Bali. This is the nickname of Tiga Gili Islands or small islands that are located in Gili Indah Village (Indah means Beautiful), Pemenang District, East Lombok, East Nusa Tenggara.

Tiga Gili are also known as Triple Gili, places where people who love it are not only domestic tourists, but also foreigners.

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_CaO5O9dyRB4/S7K7ryy2fiI/AAAAAAAAACs/7sa0DTv8UJ8/s1600/2.jpg

That nickname can be proved by some 5-star hotels that are owned by foreign investor who are team up with the local land owner. Tiga Gili coasts, which are Trawangan, Meno, dan Air, are also dominated by young foreign tourists, who are having their holiday in these islands that are still clean and unpolluted.

The atmosphere of ”World's Village” can be felt in Trawangan. This can be proved by the numbur of diferent tourists' nationality, such as Germany, France, Spain, and Japan. In addition, there are some small groups that consist of Lebanese tourists. However, tourists, who are using English as a language, are still dominating these places

Translated. Credit: http://www.kaskus.us/showthread.php?t=4240216

Gili Trawangan Island
http://i44.tinypic.com/jsybo3.jpg

Gili Meno Island
http://i39.tinypic.com/wvwhox.jpg

Gili Air Island
http://zakiaf.files.wordpress.com/2009/07/6772_102430153467_827988467_1950817_3387817_n5.jpg?w=300&h=225

Other Photos
http://i50.tinypic.com/30lpit3.jpg
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_CaO5O9dyRB4/S7K8O-9knjI/AAAAAAAAAC0/o01HyAkVHdc/s1600/3.jpg
http://lombokgilis.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/nightgili.jpg
http://images.travelpod.com/users/twoelders/se-asia.1212105180.lovely-gili-air.jpg
http://img27.imageshack.us/img27/3299/42779054898146690507546.jpg
http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_hrgYoahz3YE/SblHKqQUdII/AAAAAAAAAKE/x16H0O3wvvA/s400/153540-gili-air-island-great-for-snorkeling-gili-air-indonesia.jpg
http://www.bali4holiday.com/hotel_images/thumb/Gili%20Meno%20Bird%20Park%20Resort.jpg
http://www.bali-hotels.info/images/vila-ombak/xl/hotel_vila_ombak_air_view_front.jpg
http://i43.tinypic.com/2eci0c0.jpg
http://i48.tinypic.com/23l0aaf.jpg
http://images.travelpod.com/users/mande/mai_and_ernie.1164956580.travelpod_-_41.jpg

Hope you guys visit Indonesia soon :) You'll be kindly greeted and welcomed here.

Gold sand
http://picasaweb.google.co.id/newsikuai/SikuaiBeach#5337571980297216946

http://picasaweb.google.co.id/newsikuai/SikuaiBeach#5337573176989252818

swimming pool on the hill
http://picasaweb.google.co.id/newsikuai/SikuaiBeach#5337572227597967042

our cottage
http://picasaweb.google.co.id/newsikuai/OurCottage#5337569085965990482

log on to
http://newsikuai-island.com/

or live streaming sikuai
http://sikuai.viewnetcam.com/CgiStart?page=Single&Language=0

dp *

Get bored with the white? Then I will give you the PINK.

Pink Beach, Komodo Island

http://www.incitoprima.com/images/product/bg/Pink%20Beach,%20Komodo.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2457/3656146517_5d5cfec4ed.jpg

Pink Beach is one of the famous tourist destinations in Komodo National Park featured by the beautiful white sandy beach, amazing underwater life and stunning panorama surrounding area. The sand beach is derived from small red sand spread out the beach area that way this beach is famous called by pink beach or Pantai Merah where the local people mention it. This beautiful beach is just located in a small land with dry hill in back of the beach of it. It owns the beautiful coral with clear seawater that make it as an ideal place for snorkeling in this park.

http://mw2.google.com/mw-panoramio/photos/medium/14867575.jpg

http://www.labuanbajo-flores.com/images/pantai-merah.jpg

http://media-cdn.tripadvisor.com/media/photo-s/01/26/c3/a2/pantai-merah-pink-beach.jpg

Under water view . . .
http://farm1.static.flickr.com/89/235886349_4cd8fb4af3.jpg

Wakatobi, Sulawesi Tenggara/Southeast Sulawesi Province

http://www.dephut.go.id/INFORMASI/TN%20INDO-ENGLISH/image/peta_wakatobi.jpg

Wakatobi is one of the Regencies in South-East Sulawesi having its own vision to realize the only real underwater paradise at the world's coral reef triangle center. This visionary vision has a strong reason that beside as the richest site in coral reef collection and as the most beautiful site, (Operation Wallacea 2006) Wakatobi is also situated geographically at the world's coral reef triangle center with its 942 fish species and 750 coral reef species from total 850 of world's collection comparing to the two world's famous diving center like Caribbean Sea that owes only 50 species and other 300 coral reef species in the Red Sea, Egypt.

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_rku6deQBORg/S9KvBXX89wI/AAAAAAAAOAo/IMQAwKjf9Uw/s400/Wakatobi+2.jpg

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Kol4PQcAlx4/SxSiWBlb3SI/AAAAAAAAAPs/p-MTgWce1QM/s1600/Wakatobi+Dive+Resort+-++Photo+4.jpg

http://www.travelasianplaces.com/images/divingdestination/Wakatobi-Marine-Life.jpg

Beside the underwater beauty, Wakatobi has also other beauty and richness such as white sandy beach, clear sea water, sunset in every islands edge, historical ruins like ancient fortresses and cannon that spread out in the four main islands, old village with its pillar house, traditional waving, blacksmiths, Bajo tribe and various particular dances. This nature and culture heritages put Wakatobi as the world's famous marine tourism objects.

http://i204.photobucket.com/albums/bb88/majaode/onytu/wakatobi2.jpg

http://www.divetrip.com/wakatobi/henrik_aerial02.jpg

Wakatobi is well-known as the Tukang Besi Island in the map and it is the abbreviation of four main islands name which are: WA (Wangi-wangi), KA (Kaledupa), TO (Tomia) and BI (Binongko), covers an area of 1.400.000 hectares and the coral reef places 90.000 hectares from the total area. The island is also famous as the second largest Barrier after the Great Barrier Reef in Australia consists of 39 islands and 7 of them are inhabited with the total population of 100.563, while the rest remain uninhabited.

http://henriaredha.files.wordpress.com/2010/03/wakatobi-3.jpg

Miangas

Miangas is the northern most island of Indonesia. It's located (very) close to Mindanao, The Philippines.

The map from GoogleEarth shows where Miangas is. But there is a mistake, GoogleEarth shows Miangas as the island in the west side (left of the map), while the true Miangas is the one within the red line.
http://geoboundaries.files.wordpress.com/2009/09/miangas.jpg

The Treasure from Forgotten Land

http://jefrihutagalung.files.wordpress.com/2009/11/tumbuhan-di-miangas-kelapa.jpg

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_K7nFaVnY130/SwJQeW6Ey6I/AAAAAAAAANI/i8xkgkhLhP4/s1600/picture_671.jpg

http://jefrihutagalung.files.wordpress.com/2009/11/indahnya-pantai.jpg

http://jefrihutagalung.files.wordpress.com/2009/09/kerang-di-pantai.jpg

http://jefrihutagalung.files.wordpress.com/2009/11/indahnya-pantai-2.jpg

Hope the central government open their eyes. This Island is very potential as tourist attraction.

Banggai Island

http://coralmorphologic.com/b/wp-content/uploads/2008/08/sulawesi1.gif

Banggai Island is the second largest of the Banggai Islands, an archipelago located at the far eastern end of Central Sulawesi, Indonesia. The largest island is Peleng, smaller islands of the group are Bowokan, Labobo, Kebongan, Kotudan, Tropettenando, Timpau, Salue Besar, Salue Kecil, Masepe, and Bangkulu.

http://baltyra.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/banggai.jpg

http://www.wallacea-divecruise.com/gallery/albums/landscapesandpeople/normal_Katini_isl,_Banggai.jpg

http://ic2.pbase.com/v3/70/576970/1/46159657.banggai_isl.jpg

Enough with the beach, now we dive to see the gorgeous park

Ghost Pipe Fish
http://www.wallacea-divecruise.com/gallery/albums/underwatergalleries/BanggaiArchipelago1/normal_GHost_pipe_fish,_banggai.jpg

Banggai Cardinal Fish, endemic species of Banggai Island
http://www.reefbuilders.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/09/cardinal1.jpg

http://www.tonywublog.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/banggai.jpg

Juvenile Banggai
http://www.coral.org/files/images/JuvenileBanggai.jpg

:applause::applause::applause:Wow . . .
I never know a single country can be so rich of beauty like, Indonesia . . .
True Heaven on earth :omg::eek2::eek2::eek2:

:applause::applause::applause:Wow . . .
I never know a single country can be so rich of beauty like, Indonesia . . .
True Heaven on earth :omg::eek2::eek2::eek2:

:banana::banana:

Thanx . . .

Legong Dance from Bali

v=c11F8O6E93E

Legong is a form of Balinese dance. It is a refined dance form characterized by intricate finger movements, complicated footwork, and expressive gestures and facial expressions.

Legong probably originated in the 19th century as royal entertainment. Legend has it that a prince of Sukwati fell ill and had a vivid dream in which two maidens danced to gamelan music. When he recovered, he arranged for such dances to be performed in reality. Others believe that the Legong originated with the sanghyang dedari, a ceremony involving voluntary possession of two little girls by beneficent spirits. Legong is also danced at public festivals. Excerpts from Legong dance dramas are put on for tourists.

http://www.bali-australia-travel.com/photogallery/bali/legong_edfladung.jpghttp://farm4.static.flickr.com/3614/3302520009_b15f0c4109.jpg

Indonesia is one of world's most beautiful and most fascinating countries!

Looking forward to go there. Will be my next trip, I hope have good times overthere.

Looking forward to go there. Will be my next trip, I hope have good times overthere.

Welcome to Indonesia, the land of sincere smiling people

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NFru65ipDRo/SQIT5xw6lEI/AAAAAAAAAgk/B1QO1wHFw-M/s400/senyuman.jpg

I'll try to make list of Top 5 ancient temples in Indonesia

1. Borobudur, Magelang, Central Java

http://stat.k.kidsklik.com/data/photo/2010/05/14/2111325620X310.jpg

http://www.pacamat.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/11/borobudur.jpg

2. Prambanan, Sleman, Yogyakarta

http://www.sentrainfo.com/artikel_files/Prambanan/Prambanan.jpg

http://ngalorngidul.com/img/Prambanan-Temple.jpg


3. Dieng, Wonosobo, Central Java

http://www.banjarmasinpost.co.id/photo/2008/07/706ee90c13f64988561a3ff0bb1e5de9.jpg

http://202.138.226.22/file2/dieng.jpg


4. Sukuh, Karanganyar, Central Java

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/__RQJBAqPvpQ/SS-_175lqNI/AAAAAAAAAA0/ruIFXliQSAw/s320/sukuh.png

http://www.photochris.com/images/Indonesie-Java-Candi-Sukuh-3.jpg


5. Muara Takus, Kampar, Riau

http://219.83.122.194/web/images/stories/candi_muara_takus.jpg

http://i956.photobucket.com/albums/ae45/rizal_rasnur/candimuaratakus3.jpg

another dangereously beautiful :D

http://1.1.1.1/bmi/i684.photobucket.com/albums/vv210/mesinkasir/1e3ed43a.jpg

http://1.1.1.3/bmi/i684.photobucket.com/albums/vv210/mesinkasir/7ec7d4a1.jpg

http://1.1.1.5/bmi/i684.photobucket.com/albums/vv210/mesinkasir/a19db59c.jpg

http://1.1.1.4/bmi/i684.photobucket.com/albums/vv210/mesinkasir/adf5d4bb.jpg

kaksus.us

wow...very nice.

Baluran National Park, Situbondo, East Java Province.
http://i879.photobucket.com/albums/ab352/hernawanwidhi/headerbaluran.jpg
Main Office, Museum and Information Center
http://i879.photobucket.com/albums/ab352/hernawanwidhi/TMBIC0.jpg

http://i879.photobucket.com/albums/ab352/hernawanwidhi/TMBIC1.jpg

http://i879.photobucket.com/albums/ab352/hernawanwidhi/TMBIC2.jpg

http://i879.photobucket.com/albums/ab352/hernawanwidhi/TMBIC3.jpg

Trip from Main Office to Bekol Resort (13 km)

http://i879.photobucket.com/albums/ab352/hernawanwidhi/tmbbekolroad01.jpg

http://i879.photobucket.com/albums/ab352/hernawanwidhi/tmbbekolroad02.jpg

http://i879.photobucket.com/albums/ab352/hernawanwidhi/tmbbekolroad03.jpg

http://i879.photobucket.com/albums/ab352/hernawanwidhi/tmbbekolroad04.jpg

Continued.....
Forest in Baluran National Park, trip to Bekol Resort.
http://i879.photobucket.com/albums/ab352/hernawanwidhi/tmbbekolroad05.jpg

http://i879.photobucket.com/albums/ab352/hernawanwidhi/tmbbekolroad08.jpg
control tower

http://i879.photobucket.com/albums/ab352/hernawanwidhi/tmbbekolroad06.jpg

Continued.....

http://i879.photobucket.com/albums/ab352/hernawanwidhi/tmbbekolroad09.jpg

http://i879.photobucket.com/albums/ab352/hernawanwidhi/tmbbekolroad10.jpg

http://i879.photobucket.com/albums/ab352/hernawanwidhi/tmbbekolroad11.jpg

http://i879.photobucket.com/albums/ab352/hernawanwidhi/tmbbekolroad12.jpg

This is EVERGREEN. Forest in middle Savana.

http://i879.photobucket.com/albums/ab352/hernawanwidhi/tmbbekolroad14.jpg

http://i879.photobucket.com/albums/ab352/hernawanwidhi/tmbbekolroad13.jpg

http://i879.photobucket.com/albums/ab352/hernawanwidhi/tmbbekolroad15.jpg

http://i879.photobucket.com/albums/ab352/hernawanwidhi/tmbbekolroad16.jpg

http://i879.photobucket.com/albums/ab352/hernawanwidhi/tmbbekolroad17.jpg

Continued.....

Savana Plain

http://i879.photobucket.com/albums/ab352/hernawanwidhi/tmbbekolroad18.jpg

http://i879.photobucket.com/albums/ab352/hernawanwidhi/tmbbekolroad19.jpg

http://i879.photobucket.com/albums/ab352/hernawanwidhi/tmbbekolroad20.jpg

Continued.....
Still in Savana Plain
http://i879.photobucket.com/albums/ab352/hernawanwidhi/tmbbekolroad21.jpg

http://i879.photobucket.com/albums/ab352/hernawanwidhi/tmbbekolroad22.jpg

http://i879.photobucket.com/albums/ab352/hernawanwidhi/tmbbekolroad23.jpg

Road to Bekol Resort
http://i879.photobucket.com/albums/ab352/hernawanwidhi/tmbbekolroad24.jpg

http://i879.photobucket.com/albums/ab352/hernawanwidhi/tmbbekolroad25.jpg

http://i879.photobucket.com/albums/ab352/hernawanwidhi/tmbbekolroad26.jpg

Bekol Resort and Control Tower.

http://i879.photobucket.com/albums/ab352/hernawanwidhi/tmbbekol01.jpg

http://i879.photobucket.com/albums/ab352/hernawanwidhi/tmbbekol02.jpg

http://i879.photobucket.com/albums/ab352/hernawanwidhi/tmbbekol03.jpg

http://i879.photobucket.com/albums/ab352/hernawanwidhi/tmbbekol04.jpg

Control Tower in top of hill

http://i879.photobucket.com/albums/ab352/hernawanwidhi/tmbbekol05.jpg
View Resort from top of Control Tower
http://i879.photobucket.com/albums/ab352/hernawanwidhi/tmbbekol06.jpg

View Baluran Mountain from top of Control Tower
http://i879.photobucket.com/albums/ab352/hernawanwidhi/tmbbekol07.jpg

Bekol Resort

http://i879.photobucket.com/albums/ab352/hernawanwidhi/tmbbekol08.jpg
http://i879.photobucket.com/albums/ab352/hernawanwidhi/tmbbekol09.jpg

http://i879.photobucket.com/albums/ab352/hernawanwidhi/tmbbekol10.jpg

View Baluran National Park and Baluran Mountain from top of control tower

http://i879.photobucket.com/albums/ab352/hernawanwidhi/pansavanabaluran6.jpg
http://i879.photobucket.com/albums/ab352/hernawanwidhi/pansavanabaluran1.jpg

http://i879.photobucket.com/albums/ab352/hernawanwidhi/pansavanabaluran2.jpg

View savana plan of Baluran National Park and Baluran Mountain

http://i879.photobucket.com/albums/ab352/hernawanwidhi/pansavanabaluran3.jpg
http://i879.photobucket.com/albums/ab352/hernawanwidhi/pansavanabaluran4.jpg

http://i879.photobucket.com/albums/ab352/hernawanwidhi/pansavanabaluran5.jpg

Just like in Africa:okay:

wow,this is an awesome place to visit.I had plans of going to indonesia
may be my next vacation will be there:-)

I'll try to make list of Top 5 ancient temples in Indonesia

1. Borobudur, Magelang, Central Java

http://stat.k.kidsklik.com/data/photo/2010/05/14/2111325620X310.jpg

http://www.pacamat.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/11/borobudur.jpg

2. Prambanan, Sleman, Yogyakarta

http://www.sentrainfo.com/artikel_files/Prambanan/Prambanan.jpg

http://ngalorngidul.com/img/Prambanan-Temple.jpg


3. Dieng, Wonosobo, Central Java

http://www.banjarmasinpost.co.id/photo/2008/07/706ee90c13f64988561a3ff0bb1e5de9.jpg

http://202.138.226.22/file2/dieng.jpg


4. Sukuh, Karanganyar, Central Java

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/__RQJBAqPvpQ/SS-_175lqNI/AAAAAAAAAA0/ruIFXliQSAw/s320/sukuh.png

http://www.photochris.com/images/Indonesie-Java-Candi-Sukuh-3.jpg


5. Muara Takus, Kampar, Riau

http://219.83.122.194/web/images/stories/candi_muara_takus.jpg

http://i956.photobucket.com/albums/ae45/rizal_rasnur/candimuaratakus3.jpg


Awesome pics.....very beautiful.

I never heard that Muara Takus, is it in Sumatra island?

^^ yes,

Muara Takus Temple | Kampar, Indonesia (http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?p=60881055&highlight=#post60881055)

Nice pictures :)

http://s02.flagcounter.com/count/3Djs/bg=782D7D/txt=F1B8FF/border=CC62CC/columns=1/maxflags=1/viewers=0/labels=0/pageviews=0/ (http://s02.flagcounter.com/more/3Djs) http://2.s03.flagcounter.com/count/0NBu/bg=FFFFFF/txt=FFFFFF/border=FFFFFF/columns=1/maxflags=1/viewers=3/labels=1/ (http://s03.flagcounter.com/more/0NBu) http://2.s02.flagcounter.com/count/3Djs/bg=782D7D/txt=F1B8FF/border=CC62CC/columns=1/maxflags=1/viewers=3/labels=0/pageviews=0/ (http://s02.flagcounter.com/more/3Djs)

I am really amazed by some of these temples! Absolutely stunning!

Top Diving Spot in Indonesia

1. Raja Ampat Archipelago, West Papua

http://d.yimg.com/gg/u/bbb3a44d1011508d1762fac0b9247ad1930a8ff0.jpeg

http://unearthingasia.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/rajaampat10.jpg

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_o9RUGdgkxB8/S8txs1KH6-I/AAAAAAAAAIY/f_xKV6vcgDc/s1600/raja+ampat12.jpg



2. Bunaken Island, North Sulawesi

http://malemminggu.files.wordpress.com/2010/06/bunaken1.jpg

http://www.divenorthsulawesi.com/images/bunaken.jpg

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_hBe7qA5Ggk0/S_OBk7A2w-I/AAAAAAAAAFk/n3x4v_2Jyhg/s1600/bunaken-park.jpg

http://4miexs.files.wordpress.com/2009/08/bunaken.jpg



3. Komodo Island, East Nusa Tenggara

http://www.prlog.org/10165427-dive-komodo-liveaboards.jpg

http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2008/06/06/article-1024701-0183F66C00000578-839_468x353.jpg

http://www.divetrip.com/komodo/komodo10.jpg

Historical and Cultural cities in Indonesia

Yogyakarta, Yogyakarta Special Region
The Special Region of Yogyakarta (Indonesian: Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta, or DIY), on the island of Java is the smallest province of Indonesia (excluding the capital Jakarta). Yogyakarta is the only province in Indonesia that is still governed by that area's pre-colonial monarchy; the Sultan of Yogyakarta serves as the hereditary governor of the province. In Javanese it is pronounced [joɡjaˈkartɔ]. The city of Yogyakarta is the capital of the province.

Yogyakarta Royal Palace
http://monang245.files.wordpress.com/2010/04/keraton.jpg

King and Queen of Yogyakarta
http://www.solopos.com/dokumen/2010/04/TariBedhoyo-1.jpg

Malioboro Street
http://images.realtravel.com/media/lg/0a/06/0a0690f0d7de1d9e594de456d09b02b5.jpg

Tamansari
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_CX4pxFU0ZLA/SxW2kMTErKI/AAAAAAAAABI/Tj2A4QP57YY/s1600/1339301-tamansari_water_castle_by_goldenboy-yogyakarta.jpg

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Denpasar and neighboring cities, Bali
Denpasar (pronounced [dənˈpasar]) (Indonesian: Kota Denpasar) is the capital city of the province of Bali, Indonesia. Denpasar was the capital of the kingdom of Badung. It was conquered by the Dutch during the Dutch intervention in Bali (1906). The royal palace was looted and razed by the Dutch, leaving today's central square "Taman Puputan" in which a statue to the 1906 Puputan can be seen.

Ngurah Rai International Airport
http://www.baliairport.com/images/bali_airport1.jpg

Puputan - Badung Square
http://images.travelpod.com/users/rgreenwell630/1.1233543120.puputan-badung-square.jpg

Tanah Lot
http://mbiru.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/1-tanah-lot.jpg

Besakih Tempel
http://blog.baliwww.com/wp-content/photos/pura_besakih_temple_whitenviro1.jpg

Garuda Wisnu Kencana
http://www.suarmas.com/images/patung_garuda_gwk.jpg

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Tana Toraja, South Sulawesi
Tana Toraja Regency (Torajaland, Land of the Toraja or Tator) is a regency (kabupaten) of South Sulawesi, Indonesia, home of Toraja ethnic group people. The local government seat is in Makale, where the center of Toraja culture is in Rantepao. But now, Tana Toraja has been divided to two regencies that consist of Tana Toraja with capital is Makale and Toraja Utara with capital is Rantepao.

Tana Toraja boundary was determined by the Dutch East Indies government in 1909. In 1926, Tana Toraja was under the administration of Bugis state, Luwu. The regentschap (or regency) status was given on October 8, 1946, the last regency given by the Dutch. Since 1984, Tana Toraja has been named as the second tourist destination after Bali by the Ministry of Tourism, Indonesia. Since then, hundreds of thousands of foreign visitors have visited this regency. In addition, numerous Western anthropologists have come to Tana Toraja to study the indigenous culture and people of Toraja

http://www.turisku.com/wp-content/gallery/tana-toraja/toraja2.jpg

http://ksupointer.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/tana-toraja.jpg

Burial system in Tana Toraja
http://korantoraja.files.wordpress.com/2008/12/15-twk-rambu-solo-human-interest-tamu-59.jpg?w=450&h=298
Rambu Solo, sacred ceremony

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_AhUOwjgGEoM/Sz7MNTukhqI/AAAAAAAAAfM/WRtVfmjLH1I/s400/toraja-cave-balcony.jpg

They put the dead inside the cave.
http://i675.photobucket.com/albums/vv114/jyk1/Makassar/DSCN0517.jpg

Just got back from a three week tour of Java, Bali and Lombok. Amazing country. I visited the top 4 ancient temples posted by Erran among many other things.

yeah
http://vz.iminent.com/vz/5b47460f-0f7b-4587-a278-b9f6c0fe82ed/1/wet.gif (http://en.iminent.com/emoticons/?v=true&parentappid=F0E81AA5-F15D-4E56-9D70-AC37F402FF88&componentid=c38d968e-4aa0-4f63-8b54-f08b6e704f5d&contentuid=5b47460f-0f7b-4587-a278-b9f6c0fe82ed)

http://vz.iminent.com/vz/d0862e86-bdc1-4f4b-89ca-d6fbdc35a7c0/1/wet.gif (http://en.iminent.com/emoticons/?v=true&parentappid=F0E81AA5-F15D-4E56-9D70-AC37F402FF88&componentid=c38d968e-4aa0-4f63-8b54-f08b6e704f5d&contentuid=d0862e86-bdc1-4f4b-89ca-d6fbdc35a7c0)

http://t2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:0LaKK-gNWFPrwM:http://hlasmana.dagdigdug.com/files/2009/06/komodo-dragon.jpg&t=1
Komodo Dragon, Mascot for Asian Australasian Oceanian 2010 Waterski, Wakeboard and Barefoot Games

Indonesia’s very own Komodo dragon, now vying to be amongst the New 7 Wonders of the World, has been chosen as mascot for the Asian Australasian Oceanian (AAO) Waterski, Wakeboard and Barefoot 2010 games to be held at Sunter Lake in Jakarta from 5-10 October, reports Antara.

The games which are training grounds for the Asian Beach Games, offer 15 gold medals, and are participated by 116 atheletes from 17 countries, including Japan, Korea and China, besides Indonesia, said AAO 2010 Committee Chairman, Admiral Didit Herniawan.

Competing Indonesian athletes are Febrianto (Jakarta), Carlos Pengemanan (Bali) and Nadia Sinaga (Riau Islands) for the wakeboard number.

While competing in the Waterski Slalom are Fatdaud Wangka, Ade Hermana and Ummu Toyibatun Solikah. And for the Barefoot number, Sudinsa, Arif Palulu dan Dicky Mario.

Just got back from a three week tour of Java, Bali and Lombok. Amazing country. I visited the top 4 ancient temples posted by Erran among many other things.

Thanx for visiting Indonesia
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4132/5032556133_87ea6beaa3.jpg

Indonesia has the most number of Volcanos on earth . . .
The True Dangerously Beautiful

Mount Bromo, East Java

http://photos.travelblog.org/Photos/21816/224192/f/1735453-Gunung-Bromo-0.jpg

http://photos.travelblog.org/Photos/30528/317452/f/2831259-sunrise-overlooking-Gunung-Bromo-and-Semeru-1.jpg

http://www.smashingapps.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/01/cloudy-bromo.jpg

http://images.travelpod.com/users/billandsarah/asia_07-08.1184234400.1-gunung-bromo-sunrise.jpg

http://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r96/ariwbucket/BromoSunrise02_2115164.jpg



Anak Krakatau (Krakatoa), Sunda Strait, Lampung

http://www.swisseduc.ch/stromboli/perm/krakatau/icons-camp-life/krakatau-camp-life-mf8548.jpg

http://i71.servimg.com/u/f71/13/31/02/99/poto_013.jpg

http://maulanusantara.files.wordpress.com/2008/09/krakatau_e32695.jpg

http://dummidumbwit.files.wordpress.com/2010/04/krakatoa4.jpg

http://www.javaoverlandtours.com/images/pier3.jpg

http://image52.webshots.com/52/2/7/0/451820700SHzXYs_ph.jpg



Rinjani, West Nusa Tenggara

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gS0v37S2CGs/S625Iti2oHI/AAAAAAAAABg/RHtaaVVb3RQ/s1600/mount-rinjani.jpg

http://gumuxranger.web.id/documents/Gunung_Rinjani.jpg

http://rizkyzv.files.wordpress.com/2010/03/rinjani.jpg

http://www.rinjanimountain.com/images/Camp-by-Lake.jpg

http://yusranil.files.wordpress.com/2008/02/segara-anak-rinjani.jpg

http://www.lombok-mataangin.com/images/rinjani7.jpg

What a Beautiful Indonesia.. :cheers:

http://img684.imageshack.us/img684/7260/loveindonesia.jpg (http://img684.imageshack.us/i/loveindonesia.jpg/)
Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us)

BOROBUDUR SUNRISE


http://i1.trekearth.com/photos/15282/borobodur2.jpg


http://images.cdn.fotopedia.com/flickr-2614418635-image.jpg


http://www.pbase.com/howardbanwell/image/78240419.jpg


http://i1.trekearth.com/photos/103696/borobudur_sunrise_hdr.jpg

Candi Prambanan from My Camera :cheers:

http://img837.imageshack.us/img837/8627/prambananz.jpg (http://img837.imageshack.us/i/prambananz.jpg/)

http://img42.imageshack.us/img42/4350/prambananz2.jpg (http://img42.imageshack.us/i/prambananz2.jpg/)

http://img291.imageshack.us/img291/7053/prambananz3.jpg (http://img291.imageshack.us/i/prambananz3.jpg/)

http://img710.imageshack.us/img710/1067/prambananz4.jpg (http://img710.imageshack.us/i/prambananz4.jpg/)
Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us)

http://img149.imageshack.us/img149/3613/bromo.jpg (http://img149.imageshack.us/i/bromo.jpg/)

http://img214.imageshack.us/img214/5561/bromo2.jpg (http://img214.imageshack.us/i/bromo2.jpg/)

http://img163.imageshack.us/img163/9383/img8165a.jpg (http://img163.imageshack.us/i/img8165a.jpg/)

http://img88.imageshack.us/img88/7913/img8185v.jpg (http://img88.imageshack.us/i/img8185v.jpg/)

http://img541.imageshack.us/img541/4261/seagames2011.jpg (http://img541.imageshack.us/i/seagames2011.jpg/)

http://img85.imageshack.us/img85/8122/cobanrondo.jpg (http://img85.imageshack.us/i/cobanrondo.jpg/)

http://img541.imageshack.us/img541/4261/seagames2011.jpg (http://img541.imageshack.us/i/seagames2011.jpg/)

http://img704.imageshack.us/img704/1059/img8228h.jpg (http://img704.imageshack.us/i/img8228h.jpg/)

http://img541.imageshack.us/img541/4261/seagames2011.jpg (http://img541.imageshack.us/i/seagames2011.jpg/)

Good Morning Bromo!!! I have been there twice.

^^ really.... Bromo is always Amazing....
I have some picture of Bromo last time I visited :cheers:

http://img710.imageshack.us/img710/9839/picture002yj.jpg

http://img689.imageshack.us/img689/1042/picture008tz.jpg

http://img222.imageshack.us/img222/2451/picture015gt.jpg

http://img85.imageshack.us/img85/2170/picture025ul.jpg

http://img153.imageshack.us/img153/20/picture022m.jpg

http://img829.imageshack.us/img829/1755/picture030t.jpg

http://img413.imageshack.us/img413/6103/picture036jp.jpg

http://img826.imageshack.us/img826/5661/picture042i.jpg

http://img219.imageshack.us/img219/3095/picture052a.jpg

^^


Fantastic photos,.....thanks for sharing....:cheers1:

Welcome to "Omed-Omedan" Balinese Kissing Festival
Bali, Indonesia

http://img707.imageshack.us/img707/3162/677nu.jpg (http://img707.imageshack.us/i/677nu.jpg/)
The President of Indonesia when opening The Balinese Culture Party 2010

http://img229.imageshack.us/img229/5521/omed1.jpg (http://img229.imageshack.us/i/omed1.jpg/)

http://img830.imageshack.us/img830/3140/img1413edit.jpg (http://img830.imageshack.us/i/img1413edit.jpg/)

http://img529.imageshack.us/img529/4817/img1545edit1.jpg (http://img529.imageshack.us/i/img1545edit1.jpg/)

http://img258.imageshack.us/img258/5363/omed3.jpg (http://img258.imageshack.us/i/omed3.jpg/)

http://img703.imageshack.us/img703/6199/tradisiciuman590x362.jpg (http://img703.imageshack.us/i/tradisiciuman590x362.jpg/)

http://img258.imageshack.us/img258/3982/dsc0180web.jpg (http://img258.imageshack.us/i/dsc0180web.jpg/)
Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us)

It isn't mean that Balinese exploit or exhibit the sex, porn or kissing it. It's part of Balinese ritual tradition, a loyalty and worship to "Ida Sang Hyang Widhi Wasa", The Almighty God.
There are 50 young men and 50 young women of local banjar (village) who decided will followed this traditional ritual. Before it, previously they had to pray at Banjar Kaja Temple led by local priest. It's usually held after Nyepi - a day of silence for Balinese Hindus marking the Saka New Year.

http://img607.imageshack.us/img607/6006/tradisiciumanmassaldiba.jpg (http://img607.imageshack.us/i/tradisiciumanmassaldiba.jpg/)

http://img834.imageshack.us/img834/6199/tradisiciuman590x362.jpg (http://img834.imageshack.us/i/tradisiciuman590x362.jpg/)

http://img585.imageshack.us/img585/466/w8m0bi.jpg (http://img585.imageshack.us/i/w8m0bi.jpg/)

http://img828.imageshack.us/img828/1526/1703201021717296.jpg (http://img828.imageshack.us/i/1703201021717296.jpg/)

http://img191.imageshack.us/img191/9276/1703201021227359.jpg (http://img191.imageshack.us/i/1703201021227359.jpg/)
Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us)

NICE

godsssssss... :bash: i spend my time 7 hours for this thread... what a awesome picture...7hours not bad at all for good experience about my beloved country. anyway..im a new in this thread..im from West Borneo/Indonesia..
sorry my english not to good..maklum lah yee. wkwkw :lol: im just stop in page 32...not much about my pronvice West Borneo/Heart Of Borneo. let me posting some picture about West Borneo Province/Kalimantan barat/Indonesia.

http://img857.imageshack.us/img857/7685/kalbar.gif (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/857/kalbar.gif/)
West Borneo Province/INDONESIA.

http://img542.imageshack.us/img542/9857/burungenggang.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/542/burungenggang.jpg/)
enggang gading Bird..

http://img585.imageshack.us/img585/4267/bekantan2aa.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/585/bekantan2aa.jpg/)

http://img822.imageshack.us/img822/9549/bekantan3.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/822/bekantan3.jpg/)
^^ Bekantan..some people in borneo named it Dutch Monkey. :lol: male monkey has pinky ass and has big nose..

http://img849.imageshack.us/img849/3300/bukirkelamfv0aa.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/849/bukirkelamfv0aa.jpg/)

http://img689.imageshack.us/img689/6835/bukitkelamsintang.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/689/bukitkelamsintang.jpg/)
^^ Kelam Hill..anyone know this is the biggest stone hill in the world ?

http://img542.imageshack.us/img542/3291/461752708387e9826025z.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/542/461752708387e9826025z.jpg/)

http://img705.imageshack.us/img705/9413/461752708387e9826025zaa.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/705/461752708387e9826025zaa.jpg/)
Pontianak city and Kapuas River nite view

http://img856.imageshack.us/img856/4267/bekantan2aa.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/856/bekantan2aa.jpg/)

http://img834.imageshack.us/img834/6426/bukitkelamdarisisisunga.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/834/bukitkelamdarisisisunga.jpg/)
Kapuas river with kelam hill view..

http://img843.imageshack.us/img843/5879/pontianakdibelahsungaik.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/843/pontianakdibelahsungaik.jpg/)

http://img838.imageshack.us/img838/1266/blooogaa.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/838/blooogaa.jpg/)

http://img196.imageshack.us/img196/9461/dscn3911aa.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/196/dscn3911aa.jpg/)

http://img585.imageshack.us/img585/97/dscn3914aaa.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/585/dscn3914aaa.jpg/)

Kapuas River..is the longest river in indonesia... im grow up with this river..so much memory... :(

http://img11.imageshack.us/img11/747/danausentarum.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/11/danausentarum.jpg/)
^^
Sentarum Lake

http://img714.imageshack.us/img714/481/mayakarimataaa.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/714/mayakarimataaa.jpg/)

http://img580.imageshack.us/img580/9568/karimataislandaaa.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/580/karimataislandaaa.jpg/)

http://img26.imageshack.us/img26/5229/kaskuspantai3a1.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/26/kaskuspantai3a1.jpg/)

http://img193.imageshack.us/img193/4495/sunsetdikarimata.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/193/sunsetdikarimata.jpg/)
^^
Karimata Island

http://img829.imageshack.us/img829/5043/kariiimataaa.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/829/kariiimataaa.jpg/)

Maya Beach in Karimata island....where is ahmad dhani ? lol

http://img685.imageshack.us/img685/6259/kaskuspantai1aa.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/685/kaskuspantai1aa.jpg/)

http://img196.imageshack.us/img196/3915/img11012010281531.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/196/img11012010281531.jpg/)

http://img829.imageshack.us/img829/5043/kariiimataaa.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/829/kariiimataaa.jpg/)

Maya Beach in Karimata island....where is ahmad dhani ? lol

http://img685.imageshack.us/img685/6259/kaskuspantai1aa.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/685/kaskuspantai1aa.jpg/)

http://img196.imageshack.us/img196/3915/img11012010281531.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/196/img11012010281531.jpg/)

http://img246.imageshack.us/img246/2959/17010113pj7.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Wayag, Raja Ampat, West Papua, Indonesia.


http://img176.imageshack.us/img176/7982/17010498lt0.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Misool, Raja Ampat, West Papua, Indonesia.

marvelous, really beautiful pics from Indonesia....:cheers:

bagus :)

Ngurbloat Beach, Maluku


http://i42.tinypic.com/20ts7cj.jpg
link (http://evav4ever.wordpress.com/2008/05/27/foto-tempat-wisata-di-evav/)

http://haloindo.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/23ib76g.jpg

http://i40.tinypic.com/30kq8vd.jpg

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gPl6wn8f4mI/TEGmgUX-1NI/AAAAAAAAAC0/PVF92vxig24/s1600/pasir+panjang.jpg
link (http://haloindo.com/indo-investment/ngurbloat-beach.html)

http://i39.tinypic.com/2rwni3c.jpg

http://i43.tinypic.com/4jt8br.jpg

Lake Sentani, Papua


http://farm5.staticflickr.com/4088/5027145620_6d20821456_b.jpg

http://farm5.staticflickr.com/4105/5026956778_996f994546_b.jpg
link (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ignasiusagung/5056939075/in/photostream/)

http://farm2.staticflickr.com/1179/4608844508_52bdbb9350_b.jpg

http://farm2.staticflickr.com/1086/4608233883_417731c6d5_b.jpg

http://farm2.staticflickr.com/1130/4608839026_c34f44fd61_b.jpg
link (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ignasiusagung/5056939075/in/photostream/)

Sunset

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5016/5503204294_41b81ccc20_b.jpg

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5032/5866828532_20b05c153b_b.jpg
link (http://www.flickr.com/photos/53154999@N08/5866828532/)

http://farm5.staticflickr.com/4131/5017809136_08f6beda4e_b.jpg
link (http://www.flickr.com/photos/53977286@N07/5017809136/in/photostream/)

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gPl6wn8f4mI/TEGmgUX-1NI/AAAAAAAAAC0/PVF92vxig24/s1600/pasir+panjang.jpg
link (http://haloindo.com/indo-investment/ngurbloat-beach.html)


that's so beautiful....
http://www.briankaneonline.com/images/so-cute-rageface.png

Baluran National Park, East Java (African savanna-like ecosystem)

http://i40.tinypic.com/25fljbq.jpg
link (http://adithsign.blogspot.com/2011/07/africa-van-java.html)

http://www.javaisbeautiful.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/africa-of-east-java-1024x768.jpg
link (http://www.javaisbeautiful.com/attractions/baluran-the-africa-of-east-java-indonesia.html/attachment/africa-of-east-java)

http://i41.tinypic.com/14jvz0n.jpg
link (http://kotakpermen.wordpress.com/2010/12/28/72/)

http://i44.tinypic.com/2dtp1mr.jpg
link (http://balurannationalpark.web.id/minat-atraksi-wisata-alam/)

http://i42.tinypic.com/2vhyjw6.jpg
link (http://balurannationalpark.web.id/gallery/mamalia/)

Raja Ampat Archipelago

Located off the northwest tip of Bird's Head Peninsula on the island of New Guinea, in Indonesia's West Papua province, Raja Ampat, or the Four Kings, is an archipelago comprising over 1,500 small islands, cays and shoals surrounding the four main islands of Misool, Salawati, Batanta and Waigeo, and the smaller island of Kofiau. Raja Ampat Regency is new regency which separated from Sorong Regency at 2004.[1] It encompasses more than 40,000 km² of land and sea, which also contains Cenderawasih Bay, the largest marine national park in Indonesia. It is a part of the newly named West Papua (province) of Indonesia which was formerly Irian Jaya. The islands are the most northern pieces of land in the Australian continent. The name of Raja Ampat comes from local mythology that tells about a woman who finds seven eggs. Four of the seven eggs hatch and become kings that occupy four of Raja Ampat biggest islands whilst the other three become a ghost, a woman, and a stone.
Wiki (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Raja_Ampat_Islands)

http://i44.tinypic.com/23u4qk6.jpg

Misool, Raja Ampat

http://i727.photobucket.com/albums/ww274/oneped/Misool%20Eco%20Resort/P2104620.jpg

http://i727.photobucket.com/albums/ww274/oneped/Misool%20Eco%20Resort/P3018472.jpg

http://i727.photobucket.com/albums/ww274/oneped/Misool%20Eco%20Resort/P2268070.jpg

http://i727.photobucket.com/albums/ww274/oneped/Misool%20Eco%20Resort/P3059530.jpg

http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6187/6123275818_cb1838299a_b.jpg

link pics (http://www.flickr.com/photos/muchbetteradventures/6123275818/in/photostream/)
link pics (http://s727.photobucket.com/albums/ww274/oneped/Misool%20Eco%20Resort/)

Waigeo, Raja Ampat

The most well known part of these Islands is Wayag.

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7158/6544162563_8c24decd35_b.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7026/6544161097_c23df37a58_b.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7003/6544165259_53bd242316_b.jpg

http://farm2.staticflickr.com/1272/4712020920_1e89988c7e_b.jpg

http://farm5.staticflickr.com/4016/4712020918_e160410353_b.jpg

http://farm5.staticflickr.com/4056/4711951458_aecf697d9c_b.jpg

link pics (http://www.flickr.com/photos/chanryandrewcom/tags/wayag/)
link pics (http://www.flickr.com/photos/p3nnylan3/tags/wayag/)

[CENTER]I'll try to make list of Top 5 ancient temples in Indonesia

4. Sukuh, Karanganyar, Central Java

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/__RQJBAqPvpQ/SS-_175lqNI/AAAAAAAAAA0/ruIFXliQSAw/s320/sukuh.png

http://www.photochris.com/images/Indonesie-Java-Candi-Sukuh-3.jpg

it's amazing how this temple resembles Mayan/Aztec architecture in Central America.. who built this temple? is there any other site of similar architectural styles in Indonesia?

it's amazing how this temple resembles Mayan/Aztec architecture in Central America.. who built this temple? is there any other site of similar architectural styles in Indonesia?

AFAIK, that's the only ancient temple which looks different from other typical temples of ancient Hindu/Buddha civilization in Indonesia.
Sukuh temple was built by Majapahit Empire.

heavenly!!! i spent hours clicking on pages over pages.. :)