the journey march - april 2016

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KOMODO ISLAND guwang canyon IJEN CRATER sukarara village No.2 / vol.5/MARCH-APRIL 2016 / FREE

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The Journey Magazine Free Bimonthly tourism magazine with information about all Indonesia's cultural and tourism attraction. Bringing the readers the information need or even providing options. Not just that, The Journey also provide travel tips. and a news about what is trending among the travelers. The Journey is a prefect chose to accompany travelers on their unforgettable journey.

TRANSCRIPT

Page 1: The Journey March - April 2016

thejourneymagz.comMarch / April 2016

1

KOMODO ISLANDguwang canyon

IJEN CRATERsukarara village

No.2 / vol.5/MARCH-APRIL 2016 / FREE

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36

50

24

16

2840

58

20

4662

34

09Indonesia Map

12Bukit Lawang

16Bunaken

20Kawah Putih

24Jomblang

28Ijen Crater

32Soto Ayam

34Nyepi 36Guwang Canyon

40Padang Bai

43Perama CSR

46The Three GIlis

50Sukarara

5610 Reason why you should visit timor

58Komodo Island

62Kelor Island

70Travel Gadgets

72Travel Tips

Contents//MAR-APR 2016

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editorial //ReflectionMarch is a month of festive in Bali, as Balinese Hindu celebrate New year in a celebration known as Nyepi or the silence day. Instead of big celebration, they taken a day to reflect previous year and prepare for a better new year. The Ogoh-ogoh festival is an interesting ceremony held on the eve. All this ceremony certainly will add something special during your visit.

We also have information about the land of the dragon in Komodo Island. A hidden gem in Bali, the Guwang Canyon. Get more info about the magical Ijen Crater in East Java and travel experience in Sukara Village Lombok.

Also lots of other information to accompany you during your trip. Let’s get ready for the Journey.

We would like to wish you a peaceful Nyepi Day. Peace in heart, peace on earth.

Fredrick Edward Editor in chief

PUBLISH MONTHLY BY

JL. Legian No.39 , Kuta, Bali, Indonesia

Tel: 0361 - 750801, 750817, 751875Fax: 0361 - 751170 / 750812

www.peramadeltadesign.com

Design & Printing

BaliTelp : +62 361 874 9356 Hp : +62 812 3601 3839

[email protected]

PRINTED BY

ON THE COVER

LocationKomodo Dragon

Flores

PhotographerEka Suendra Putra

CONSULTANTSGde Perama Yogja

Dedy Perama Artha

EDITOR IN CHIEFFredrick Edward

GRAPHIC DESIGNEREdo, Dhani

MARKETINGDewi, Linda, Erni

[email protected]@thejourneymagz.com

www.thejourneymagz.com

Tel: 085100749356 / [email protected]

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Mission Statement

IF YOU have finished reading this magazine, please do not throw this magazine. YOU COULD..

PLACE IT BACK to the place where you find it, it might be useful to others THANK YOU VERY MUCH.

PASS IT TO YOUR FRIENDS some information here could be useful for your travel friends OR YOU COULD..

Warmest greetings from The Journey Magazine,

A bimonthly English-language free Indonesian tourism magazine.

As a travel magazine, our main purpose is to introduce various tourism sights in this vast beautiful archipelago.

we aim to be a cooperation and integrated promotion media for all tourism component in the spirit of brotherhood.

All because we want the travellers get a proper and right information about Indonesia tourism for free.

Enjoy your stay in Indonesia and hopefully we could be your friend and assistant on your Journey.

ANO

TEFR

OMU

S

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Pacific ocean

Indian Ocean

South China Sea

Kalimantan(Borneo)Sumatra

1

2

35

4

Java

Sulawesi

LombokBali

Sumbawa

Flores

Timor

Maluku

Papua

BangkaBelitung

Malaysia

MalAYsia

Singapore

Brunei

Philipines

PapuaNewGuinea

Australia

Timor Leste

Madura

Sumba

Ambon

Aceh

MedanBukit Lawang

Nias Island

Padang

Java Sea Banda Sea

Timor Sea

Arafura Sea

Lampung

Bengkulu

Palembang

Jambi

Jakarta

Jogjakarta SurabayaBorobudur

Mnt Bromo

Labuan Bajo

KomodoIsland

Mnt Kelimutu

KupangWaingapu

Lake Toba

Tanjung Puting

Pontianak

Banjarmasin

Balikpapan

Samarinda

Tana Toraja

Makasar

Kendari

Palu

Togian Islands

GorontaloManado

Bunakennational park

Wakatobinational park

Ambon

Ternate

Raja Ampat Sorong

Jayapura

Merauke

Sabang

Riau Islands

Krakatoa

Mesmerizing Indonesian Archipelago

Map Of Indonesia

Indonesia is a huge archipelago consisting of thousands of islands that stretch from the westernmost point of Sabang to the easternmost point of Merauke. From Miangas island the northmost to Rote island the

southmost, it spread to more than 17.508 islands with over 1 million km2 making Indonesia a massive sand box to explore. This huge archipelago is endowed with a beauty of diverse cultures and nature with distinctive flora and fauna.

There are eight major islands or island groups in this enormous chain. The largest landmasses consist of Sumatra, Java, Kalimantan (Borneo), Sulawesi (Celebes) and Irian Jaya (the western half of Papua New Guinea). The smaller islands

fall into two main groups: the Molluccas to the northeast, and the lesser Sunda chain east of Bali. Bali is a unique island, which for a number of reasons can be put into a class of its own.

The favourable condition have attracted a great number of visitors to Indonesia. Visiting Indonesia means seeing and experienceing the unique diverse cultural and astonishing natural beauties that this country has to offer and explore. *On the map above we applied a regional divider, based on the efficiency to plan a journey across the archipelago

Capital and largest city Jakarta6°10.5′S 106°49.7′EOfficial languages Bahasa Indonesian Government Unitary presidential constitutional republic • President : Joko Widodo • Vice-President : Jusuf Kalla Area • Land 1,904,569 km2 (15th) 735,358 sq mi • Water (%) 4.85Population • 2015 estimate 255,461,700

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Bukit LawangPage 12

Derawan Island

BunakenPage 16

Kawah Putih Page 20

Jomblang CavePage 24

Padang BaiPage 40

Sukarara VillagePage 50 Komodo Island

Page 62

Kelor Island Page 58

Guwang CanyonPage 36

The Three Gilis Page 46

Ijen Crater Page 28

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The Travel ChartWith Perama travel chart which is design based on efficiency to plan a journey across the archipelago and to optimize your travel experience in 28 days or more on your choice (Custom Tailored Tour) with Full Fun, Science, Save Time & Money

REGION 1 / West IndonesiaSumatra, The Second biggest island in Indonesia also home to several fascinating tourism sights such as the Lake Toba in North Sumatra and Bukit tinggi in West Sumatra. West Java, With Bandung as the capital city West Java, the region had a lot to over such as the Tangkuban Perahu Crater Lake. Jakarta, as the National Capital City several historical sites can be found in the city.

REGION 2 / Middle IndonesiaYogyakarta, the soul Java, it is the cultural capital of Java with it famous Sultan’s Keraton. Central Java, Home to the magnificent Borobudur and Prambanan Temple. Kalimantan, the second biggest island in the world is also serve as a sanctuary to the indigenous Orang Utan.

REGION 3 / Lesser Sunda + REGION 5 / BaliBali, The face of Indonesia tourism the exotic small island with wonderful culture and nature. Lombok, once an emerging sight, now famous three Gilis and Mount Rinjani. Sumbawa, mostly known as the home to the marvellous Mount Tambora, but Sumbawa still had plenty hidden gems. Flores & The Komodo Dragon, the icon of Indonesia tourism, the only place on the face of the earth to see the living fossil and other intersting place such as Mount Kelimutu and many more. NTT/Kupang, the capital of Nusa Tenggara Timur Province, Mostly known for its Sabu and Rote Island which is famous among world class surfers.

REGION 4 / East IndonesiaSulawesi, home to one of the world’s best marine park, the Bunaken and the unique tradition of Toraja. Maluku, mostly known for its Ambon island and its exotic culture and nature. Papua, an island with magnificent nature and exotic culture, also home to the highest mountain in Indonesia, Mount Jaya Wijaya.

“ ”

PROGRAM

IT’S TIME TO ADVENTURE !

0361 751875|[email protected]

March / April 201610

To the Next Desitna

34

6

10

14151617

18192021

2223

Days

Days

21

6543

1211 11

12 1013 9

87

187 17

24

2 222120

5 19

8 16149 1513

DaysDays

Explore Lesser Sunda!

By Flight Overland by BusBy Sailing Boat / Ship

3N/4D - 4N/5D... N/... D

E

LA

1 23

1LAKE TOBANorth Sumatra

Recommended Stay

1N/2D - 3N/4D... N/... D

1BANDUNGNorth Sumatra

Recommended Stay1D - 1N/2D

... N/... D

2YOGYAKARTACentral Java

Recommended Stay1N/2D - 2N/3D

... N/... D

2Mnt.BROMOEast Java Java

Recommended Stay2N/3D - 3N/4D

... N/... D

BALIRecommended Stay

3N/4D - 4N/5D... N/... D

1BUKIT TINGGIWest Sumatra

Recommended Stay1D - 1N/2D

2N/3D - ... N/... D

1JAKARTA

Recommended Stay3N/4D - 4N/5D

... N/... D

2KALIMANTAN

Recommended Stay2N/3D - 3N/4D

... N/... D

4BUNAKENWest Sulawesi

Recommended Stay

2N/3D - 3N/4D4N/5D - ... N/... D

4TORAJASotuh Sulawesi

Recommended Stay

3N/4D - 4N/5D5N/6D

3LOMBOK

SUMBAWA BESAR

BIMA

LABUAN BAJOFlores

KUPANGNTT

SUMBA ISL.NTT

SABU ISL.ROTE ISL.

NTT

RUTENGBAJAWA

Flores

ENDEMAUMERELEMBATA

ALORFlores

KOMODO & RINCA Isl.

Recommended Stay1N/2D - 3N/4D

4N/5D

3Mnt.RINJANIRecommended Stay

2N/3D - 3N/4D... N/... D

4PAPUARecommended Stay

2N/3D - 3N/4D... N/... D

4AMBONMaluku

Recommended Stay

How Easy It Is To Explore the largest Archipelago Country in the world ?

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BUKITLAWANG

The Forgotten Gem of North

Sumatra

photos courtesy of Greg Hume

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There are two places in Indonesia where you can find orangutans in their natural habitat. The first one is in Tanjung Puting in Kalimantan. The second spot to see orangutan is

Gunung Leuser National Park, over a million hectares rainforest in Aceh and North Sumatra. Bukit Lawang is its main gate in the east.

Located around 86 kilometres northwest of Medan, most local visitors prefer to do a day-trip. I recommend you to stay for a night or two because there are more to see than only a river. Bukit Lawang stood on the bank of Bahorok River, a stream that flows in the District of Langkat. Some wooden bridges hung between the banks, allowing visitors to take a photo of the river at length. Lust jungle are on the each side of the river, covering the area with green blankets.

Orangutan rehabilitation centre was built in Bukit Lawang in 1973 – currently is out of operation. The prime purpose of the centre is to conserve the decreasing number of orangutan due to illegal hunting, trading, as well as deforestation. Orangutan trekking is still the main draw of the tourist.

Sumatran orangutans are smaller in size than their Borneo cousins. They have lighter hair and longer beard. They are also relatively rarer with only around 5,000 species left in the world. Although I assure you that you will be pleased to meet dan feed them it is important to be a responsible observer.

Bukit Lawang can be overcrowded during weekends and school holidays. If you are by coincidence arriving during these times, you may want to steer clear from the day-trippers by doing a jungle hike. Many people prefer a day jungle hiking that lasts for 4-5 hours. It is suitable for all ages even those with limited fitness. Eventhough the trekking is short, chances are you will meet one or two orangutans.

During my North Sumatran adventure, I chose this kind of trip due to limited time. A local guide accompanied my partner and I crossing the rainforest, jumping off some streams when finally we encountered an orangutan. It was hanging from one tree to another. Suddenly, a great orangutan appeared, very close to us. Our guide told us to stay away. Luckily, she stood still so we can take a few pictures of her.

We continued our journey stepping the path between bushes. Birds were cheerfully chirping between the sound of leaves. A brief visit to a bat cave was a part of the package. Passing a small coffee plantation, we were heading back to the village.

If you are the adventurous type, you may choose the 2 to 5 days jungle trekking to your satisfaction. In this case, you have bigger chance to encounter other wild species, such as Sumatran tigers, Sumatran rhinoceros, white-handed gibbons, pigtail macaques, and other exotic animals. You will be spend the nights in the tent, savouring the sound of crickets in the deep of Sumatran tropical forest.

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where you can really enjoy

natural lifestyle

Bukit Lawang offers more than meeting orang-utans. It is a suitable place for a solo traveller, where you can really enjoy natural lifestyle, away from your routine. A couple may enjoy the serenity of the surroundings. There are also so much to do for families travelling with young children.

River tubing is one of the most popular activities in Bahorok River. Commonly, the current is not very strong it is safe for both

log on to Backpackology.me for more interesting stories from Olenka Priyadarsani

adults and children. A more extreme activity is white water rafting and kayaking. The guide may take you upstream to Landak River, about 30 minutes walk, as it is more quiet and comfortable for small groups.

Most of accommodations washed away during the big floods. Ten years on, there variety of lodgings in the area. Some stay close to the main road, mainly standard hotels with basic amenities. Some stand closer to nature, require the guests to walk 5 to 10 minutes along the river and uphill. I chose the later and I did not regret it at all.

My lodging, called Jungle Inn, was built on the side of a cliff. In fact, it was one of the most unique accommodations I have ever stayed in. Our room has three wooden walls, and a huge rock on one side. It is THAT close to nature! All room have different shape, following the contour of the cliff.

When I was out in balcony, a small stream was running just in front of it. A lush greenery in the background, away from the crowd. Lying on a hammock with a cup of Sumatran coffee. This is what I call holiday!

Like most part of Sumatra, access to Bukit Lawang is not extremely well. Most of the route would be paved road although some parts are damaged. You can catch the bus from Pinang Baris terminal, a few kilometres from the city center of Medan. The bus will pass the town of Binjai and a lot of palm oil plantation.

If you have extra cash to splurge, you may want to hire a car. This way, it will take less time to get to Bukit Lawang. You can also combine the trip with a visit to Tangkahan, a hidden paradise on the bank of Kualsa Buluh River.

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photos courtesy of Olenka Priyadarsani

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photos courtesy of Ilse Reijs

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Underwater ParadiseBunakenAs an archipelago nation with 54,716 KM of coastline, the

second longest in the world. Indonesia offers a amazing beach and ocean to enjoy and when talking about the most

paradisaical shore in Indonesia, The Bunaken National Marine Park situated in the North of the Sulawesi Island has to be mentioned. Not only rich with marine lives, it is also mesmerizing for its water so clear it is truly transparent.

The Bunaken National Marine Park was formally established in 1991 and is among the first of Indonesia’s growing system of marine parks, currently there are three Marine National Parks in Indonesia, Karimun Java in East Java, Wakatobi in South Sulawesi and Bunaken in North sulawesi. The park covers a total surface area of 89,065 hectares, 97% of which is overlain by sparkling clear, warm tropical water. The remaining 3% of the park is land, including the five islands of Bunaken, Manado Tua, Mantehage, Nain and Siladen. Although each of these islands has a special character, it is the aquatic ecosystem that attracts most naturalists.

The park was established because of the marine bio-diversity it supports, because it is a migratory route for protected animals and because it is of high economic value for fisheries and tourism. There are over 20,000 residents in the area who depend on the natural resources of the park. The fear was that if the area was uncontrolled then over-fishing, destructive fishing practices and unchecked pollution would ruin the marine habitat which would be to the detriment of everyone concerned.

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Moreover, the park has an exclusive bathymetry – the direct drop of the coastal area into the continental shelf. If you dive in this area or in any other 24 diving sites in Bunaken, you can see more than 70% of the fish species in the Western Pacific (almost 2500). In addition, a vast number of rare and endangered species of animals like coelacanths, dugongs, whales, dolphins and turtles live here. Also, here you can find 7 of the 8 species of giant clams, registered worldwide.

The rich diversity of the biological scenery in The Bunaken National Marine Park is explained by the presence of the continuous and strong oceanic currents. The northeasterly currents that cross the water surface of the park, along with the gyros, complementary to the lunar cycles form a natural trap for the larvas.

Form it beautiful shore to marvelous underwater live, Bunaken offers you an unforgettable experience of Indonesia’s wondrous tourism.

““

unforgettableexperience of Indonesia’s wondrous tourism

Dewi Supartini ;a travel enthusiast, had been traveling since child

with her family. She also working in one of travel

agency in Bali.

photos courtesy of Fabio Achilli

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A total solar eclipse will take place on March 9, 2016. A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between Earth and the Sun, thereby totally or partly obscuring the image of the

Sun for a viewer on Earth. A total solar eclipse occurs when the Moon’s apparent diameter is larger than the Sun’s, blocking all direct sunlight, turning day into darkness. Totality occurs in a narrow path across Earth’s surface, with the partial solar eclipse visible over a surrounding region thousands of kilometers wide. It will be visible across an area of Pacific Ocean, beginning in Indonesia, and ending in the northern Pacific Ocean.

Palembang, Bangka and Belitung (Sumatra), Palang Karaya, Sampit and Balikpapan (Kalimantan), Luwuk, Poso and Palu (Sulawesi) and Ternate, Tidore and Halmahera (Maluku) is the only large cities we are able to experience a total eclipse. While other parts of Indonesia would only get a partial eclipse.

In Bali it would be more interesting, because the solar eclipses would occur during the Nyepi day.

The Western Indonesia stared at 06.20 AM (Western Indonesian Time), while Middle Indonesia at 07.25 AM (Middle Indonesia Time) and The Eastern Part 08.35 AM (Eastern Indonesia TIme).

So if you happen to be Indonesia, be sure to look up sky on 9th March 2016. And experience the natural phenomenon in this beautiful country.

SOLAR

2016ECLIPSE

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The southern part of Bandung unveil a dramatic

landscape of mountains and tea plantations around It. With Tropical forests and misty hills

surround this charming beautiful Crater Lake, The Kawah Putih or The White Crater.

KAWAH PUTIHTHE WHITE CRATER

photos courtesy of Crisco 1492

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White crater located at the top Mount Patuha, approximately 50 kilometers from Bandung, West Java Province. Mount Patuha erupted in the 10th century, the crater is now a lake of white sulfur.

The White crater was first documented in 1837 by Franz Wilhelm Junghun, a German botanist who do a lot of research in Indonesia. Later In 1987, this sights then opened for public.

Visiting the White crater is like being in another world, Pale white color dominate the area and it gives a hypnotizing atmosphere to visitors. On a sunny day, color of the lake is so striking, but its cloudy, caldera is shrouded in mist. Cold temperatures and a several row of trees at an altitude of 2,500 m above sea level ads to the magical atmosphere.

The folklore believed it was a gathering place for the spirits of the ancestors and there are actually several ancestral tombs of local people that can be seen in the white crater.

But overall aside from all mystical stuffs, Kawah Putih is one tourism sight in West Java worth be place on your to go-list.

is like being in another world“

photos courtesy of Crisco 1492

Alinda Hartarini ; Young travel lover. Her

passion to explore all over Indonesia

and experience its beauties.

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JOMBLANGAN AMAZING

CAVING ADVENTURE

photos courtesy of Firsta Yunida

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I felt like I should be holding my breath. The view around me was amazing. The cave was huge. The roof of Grubug cave was 80 meters or more above

our heads. Sunshine was flooding in through the hole in the roof of the cave. My friend posed on a rock, a dark silhouette against the light.

Jomblang cave (and Grubug cave) is one of the natural highlights of Yogyakarta. The caves are located in Semanu, Gunung Kidul Regency. It’s a 90-minute drive from the center of Yogyakarta and the perfect day trip from the city. Let me tell you a bit more about the cave and exactly what you can expect if you visit Jomblang cave yourself.

Jomblang cave isn’t really a cave, it’s part of a cave system that covers the whole of Gunung Kidul. The caves were formed over thousands were formed by rainwater and underground rivers that eroded the karst rock (a bit like the famous underground caves in the Yucatan, Mexico).

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The actual cave (or the bit that the tourists see) is made up of three parts. The first is a large huge sinkhole

that was formed by the roof of the cave collapsing. The second part of the cave is a long tunnel and the final part is Grubug cave, the central cave.

If you want to go to Jomblang cave you need to set off early from Yogyakarta. The best way to get there is by renting a private car. You need to leave Yogyakarta at around 7:30 in the morning, because you need to be at Jomblang cave by 9:00-9:30 (and it’s good to get there early because only 25 people a day are allowed to visit).

It’s super easy to get to Jomblang cave. The roads all the way to Jomblang cave are really good. Well, most of the way. The last part of the journey is a bit bumpy. The last 200 meters is literally dirt with rock and no tarmac. You wouldn’t believe that there would be something called “Jomblang Resort” at the end of the road.

It’s hard to put into words just how big the sinkhole is. The hole is easily 25 meters in diameter and drops 60 meters straight down. It must have been formed hundreds of years ago, because there’s a forest at the bottom of the sinkhole.

You need to be lowered on a rope to get to the bottom of the sinkhole. It’s perfectly safe. You have to get strapped up in all the proper safety equipment before they even let you near the edge of

photos courtesy of Firsta Yunida

The view around me was amazing

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Check out Firsta Yunida’s website on

www.discoveryourindonesia.com for more stories on

her travel around Indonesia.

the sinkhole. Still, I have to say I felt nervous stepping off the edge into thin air 60 meters above the forest floor.

Once you have reached the forest at the bottom of the sinkhole you need to wait around for the rest of the group to join you. As soon as everybody is at the bottom you follow the trail to the tunnel.

The entrance to the main tunnel linking Jomblang cave and Grubug cave is at least 7 meters wide and 5 meters high. The tunnel itself is 250 meters long. At the start you don’t need the torch, but in the middle it becomes pitch black. It’s also muddy and the rocks are slippery.

The word amazing is used a lot. As you turn the final corner of the tunnel you start to see the rays of sunlight pouring through the roof of Grubug cave. The view is amazing (trust me, ‘amazing’ is the right word)!

After you taking in the view, the second thing you notice is just how large Grubug cave is. You could probably easily fit a cathedral, large mosque or the first five floors of a skyscraper in the cave. The space is just that big. This is really one of the highlights of Yogyakarta.

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Kawah Ijen located in Banyuwangi, East Java, Indonesia. It’s a one-kilometer wide of acid lake that has beautifully-danger turqoise coloured water.

Together with 12 friends of mine, we ride motorbikes to get to this majestic place. First tips, if you want to visit Kawah Ijen with motorbike I suggest don’t use matic motorbike because the road is going up and up, and you may run out of gas in the middle of nowhere before you can reach the Paltuding.

We park our motorbikes at stall near the entrance, then we start to trekking from Paltuding to the Pos Bundar, the place that we use for setting up the tents. After 2 hours walk finally we arrive at pos bundar, we start to set up the tents and cooked Cup Noodles (Hiker’s must bring supplies). After dinner, we all get rest early because at 2 AM, we will walk to the crater.

‘2AM’ we’re get ready to hike, it takes about 1 hour walk to the crater. The track from Pos Bundar to the crater is ‘easier’ than track from Paltuding, Paltuding to Pos Bundar is more exhausting. Second Tips, I suggest you set up a tent and sleep overnight at pos bundar, because if you track all the way from Paltuding to the crater you’ll be too exhausted and spend more time. Finally we arrive at the crater rim, many people already here it was so crowded due to natioanl

IJEN CRATER

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The FirstEncounter

IJEN CRATER

photos courtesy of Haryadi Wijaya

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log on to exploreparadise.blogspot.com

for more interesting stories from I Nyoman Haryadi Wijaya

holiday. It’s about 3AM but it’s still dark, then we walk down into the crater to see the famous ‘Blue Fire’ and the Sulfur miners works. Here your adrenaline be pumped,

the way down into the crater was very steep and rocky, be sure to bring headlight or flashlight. I put a big respect to the Sulfur Miner, everyday they go up and down (Paltuding-Crater) carrying about 75kg sulfur which just rewarded IDR 55.000,-. ‘Their life as rough as the rocky path to the crater, but they are as tough as the mountain’ Respect!.

After ‘walk like grandma’ down, finally we can saw the magical Blue Fire live in front of our Eyes, but we can’t stay long enough because sometimes the wind change and blow the smoke toward us and it’s happen a few times. . I think is not enough explore Ijen just one day, next time I’ll come again and stay a little longer. Well this just my First Encounter.

saw the magical Blue Fire

live in front of our Eyes

photos courtesy of Haryadi Wijaya

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SOTOAYAM

Tasting the Indonesian food is so much fun. Indonesia is not only rich for its tradition, tribes, and cultures, but it also rich in culinary. This time we will talk about cuisine that famous from

East Java but well known all over Indonesia, soto.From the taste, the color, and the ingredient, soto is believed

not originally an Indonesian food. The historians suggest it was influenced by foreign culinary tradition. It is a mixture of Chinese, Indian, and native Indonesian cuisine. But this delicious food has known for years and developed in so many varians.

Basically soto is mainly composed of broth, meat, and vegetables. But there are some addition dish such as stewed quail eggs or chicken eegs, fried chicken giblets, shredded fried chicken, crisp fried potato, fried tempeh, hot chili sauce, topped with fried shallot. You may complete the flavor with a slice of lemon squeeze and sweet soy sauce.

Soto usually named based on their chief ingredients or the origin town which developed their regional version of soto. Soto is omnipresent in Indonesia and considered as comfort food. It is available in many open –air eateries, small stall in street corners, fine dining restaurants, and luxurious stars hotel. So, do not miss the chance to taste it while your visit in Indonesia. Selamat Makan!

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photo courtesy of Gunkarta

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Knows as the Day of silence, is an annual event that observed to celebrate Balinese New Year. On March 9, 2016 is the next Nyepi Day in Bali. It observed annually from 06.00 A.M.

until 06.00 A.M. the following morning. It’s a 24 hours prohibition, were all restaurants, stores, and

businesses throughout the island are closed, including the international airport of Ngurah Rai. The only exceptions granted are for emergency vehicles carrying those with life–threatening conditions.

Although Nyepi is primarily a Hindu holiday, but non Hindu residents of Bali observe the day of silence as well, event tourists are not exempt.

For the Balinese Hindu people is a day reserved for self–reflection or self-introspection to decide on values, eg humanity, love, patience, kindness, and all of other good things that should kept forever. On Nyepi day the is world expected to be clean and starts as new.

There are 4 main restrictions called Catur Brata Penyepian on this day, which are “amati geni”, no lighting fires; “amati karya”, no working; “amati lelanguan”, no entertainment; and “amati lelungan”, no travelling. The Hindus will also doing a 24 hours fasting on this day. They stay at home with families doing meditation and try avoiding any kind of noise.

Folklore states if the island remains quite and dark throughout

photos courtesy of Viault

a Dayof silenceNyepi

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Nyepi, it will fool any lurking demons into thinking that no one is home on the island and they should visit elsewhere. It means good luck and peace for the Balinese New Year.

Not only the Nyepi day in interesting, a few days before and after also have interesting ceremony occure.

The Tawur Kesanga or the Bhuta Yadnya Ritual is performed in order to vanquish the negative elements and create balance with God, Mankind, and nature. All village in Bali hold a large exorcism ceremony at the main village cross roads, the meeting place of demon, else know as the Ogoh-ogoh festival. It was held on the eve of Nyepi day. The Ogoh-ogoh is a puppet or demonic statue, made of bamboo and other materials, in the form of mythological beings, mostly demons named Bhuta Kala (Bhuta : eternal energy, Kala : eternal time). It is considered a symbol of modes of nature that form the malicious characters of living beings.

The ogoh–ogoh are made by the group of artist or youth found in Banjar in each village. It will be carried around the village to bewilder the evil spirit so they go away and finally burnt into ashes as a way of exorcising evil.

So, being in Bali during this time, it is a very unique cultural experience and celebrate this marvelous festivals and most honored annual tradition of Balinese Hinduism to bring good luck and peace in our lives and one you will never forget.

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As the main tourism attraction in Indonesia, Bali is known several iconic sight such as the Kuta Beach, Tanah Lot Temple, Tamblingan Lake and several other sights. Being

labeled as Iconic thus making the sights locked with visitor during holiday seasons. But look closely because there are hidden gems throughout the island waiting to be discovered. One such as the hidden canyon of Guwang.

Located in Guwang village just 5 minutes away from one of the iconic shopping sight, the Sukawati Art Market in Gianyar regency. Best describe as one of the island’s great natural wonders,

Some might think that commercialism and over-exploitation have

GuwangThe hidden Gems

canyon

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fully taken over the island, but keeps Bali revealing a new attraction for both the residents and visitors to the island start to emerge in several places in southern area.

Gazing down upon its beauty form the entrance is possible. But, the best way to mesmerize this wonders is from the river below that flows through its majestic walls.

Visitors able to reach the riverbank through a steep steps, down here a springs with its water believed to be a holy water by the villagers. With calm and clear water some local villagers use it as a place to bathe.

Prepare for a little adventure to reach the canyon, walk through

photos courtesy of Putradanahitawww.danahita.web.id

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the ankle-deep river and climb several big rock formations. But once you’ve reached the canyon, you’ll know it’s all worth.

Get ready to be astonished by the natural surroundings. Try to visit the canyon around noon, as the sun reflects beautifully on the river and creates a more dramatic scenery of the canyon.

With all those amazing scenery, Guwang Canyon is truly a hidden treasure waiting to be explored and it won’t stay secret for long, it’s time for a journey.

G et ready to b e astonish by surroundings.“

photos courtesy of Kholishul Aziz

Alinda Hartarini ; Young travel lover. Her

passion to explore all over Indonesia

and experience its beauties.

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the Magical diving in

PADANG BAIS

cuba diving is one of the must-do activities you should not miss while on your vacation in Bali. The Island of Gods, as Bali is often referred to, offers some of Indonesia’s best and

most beautiful diving and snorkeling locations. One of the top spots is Padangbai (or Padang Bai), a small harbor town on the central east coast of Bali.

Mostly known to young tourists for being the port for the Gilli Island’s fast boats, Pandangbai can be a real jewel for those who stop long enough to realize the small village’s hidden charm. Just over an hour from the Bali airport it is easily reached with the many taxi services or private cars available from the buzzing south.

Scuba diving and snorkeling is the reason many tourist are in no rush to leave this small bay, and they are quite right to do so. The dive sites around Padangbai are in an amazingly healthy shape. They are rich with plenty of colorful corals and a diverse marine fauna. Turtles, white tip reef sharks, stingrays and a huge variety of reef fish are the common inhabitants of these clear blue waters.

One of the many advantages of scuba diving in Padangbai is that the dive sites are diverse with different levels of expertise. So there is literally something for everyone. The most popular dive sites include Bias Tugal, Jepun, Silayukti Point, Drop off, Padangbai Jetty and more. Many of them are excellent for underwater macro photography.

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photo courtesy of Petr Horak

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rich with plenty of colorful corals and a diverse marine fauna

Only a 15-minute boat ride away you can get ready for a very special rendez-vous with the magical oceanic sun fish – Mola Mola. These graceful giants usually live too deep for the divers to encounter them. However every year from August to October, when the water temperature changes due to the currents, Mola Molas come to shallower depths and bless the divers by their presence. Occasionally the Mola Molas can be seen even outside the season as well nonetheless these events are rare and all the more special.

There are several dive centers located directly in Padangbai. As however scuba diving requires skilled guides and quality equipment, be sure to choose a reputable scuba diving operator to ensure a great diving experience.

Brona Kekenakova; followed her heart which

led her from Slovakia to Bali; she currently

works as the marketing manager for a dive resort

photos courtesy of Rudo Hvizdos

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Relaxed Atmosphere

Amazing Diving

Superb Accommodation

CERTIFICATEEXCELLENCE

of

2015 Winner

Contact:[email protected]+62 811 3858821www.okdiversbali.com

You will find us rightnext to the Gili fast

boats port in Padangbai.

OK_inzercia_100x100 24/12/15 09:34 Page 1

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To fulfill the need of a well prepared human resource that is ready to face the tourism business, Perama Center - a social organization that deals with improving human resource

quality, ability and encouraging every parties involved to improve and expand their business to achieve a brighter future.

Perama Center in its activity is fully supported and financed by Perama Travel Club (20% of nett income). The main mission of Perama Center is to improve internal or external human resource’s quality and ability, also developing tourism destination. Perama Center will establish a forum such as non-governmental organization, training facilities or even a college. The output of Perama Center program is expected to become a survival person, ready to face the tight competition in globalization era either working in Perama or outside.

With a cooperation with tourism vocational school, the SMKN 2 from Bangli Regency in Northern Bali and a full support by Perama Education Center, Perama Center held an internship and class room. The internship program is held at Perama Tour & Travel head office in Kuta. By joining this program it is expected that the participant would be aware of the working situation and understanding every aspect tourism business. The students also getting a class room by Perama Education center such as English class, Tourism business, and also self-development.

EDUCATION CENTERCENTERwww.peramacenter.org

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EDUCATIONFOR A

BRIGHTERFUTURE

corporate social responsibility

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Another vocational School, is located in Sumbawa Island. The SMK 1 Alas Maritime Vocational School. Perama Center had donated engines to be used in the engineering class and also providing professionals to assist the teachers. With the marine fleets Perama had, Perama education center also gives a chance for the students to had an internship program and a Basic Survial Training, so the student would had hands-on working experience.

The whole program were held as a corporate social responsibility from Perama Travel Club through Perama Center to educate a well prepared human resource who are able to compete and offer an optimal service in every aspect tourism and helping them to achive a better brighter future.

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Off the North-West coast of Lombok there are three islands known as the Gilis. These three drops in the ocean have been bringing tourists in for decades; but, surprisingly, there are times when

you wouldn`t even know they are on the tourist radar!The three islands (all within sight of the mainland) each have

their own unique identity, each attracting a different sort of traveller looking for that perfect spot. The islands feature in many guidebooks, but as they have grown over the past few years. Something that has not changed however, is the laid-back charm each of them possesses; due, no doubt, to the fact that no motorised transport is allowed only ponies (the cidomo) and bicycles. This in turn, keeps the Gilis wonderfully quiet and peaceful.

Starting with the largest, Gili Trawangan. With a well-established bar, hotel and scuba diving scene, there is an option for just about every budget and style. From laid-back bungalows steps away from the beach, to hotels with an amazing record and attention to detail that rivals the best that nearby Bali has to offer.

The same goes for its bars and food; from its nightly food market on the beach front provides fantastic quality in an unpretentious setting to A bunch of high-end eateries can easily found in the island. ‘Party Island` is the tag to describe Trawangan; With nightly live music and sets by international DJs, the island does not disappoint on the party scene but.

The smallest island of the three, Gili Meno, was originally the heart of tourism on the Gilis many years ago. But, after a drop in visitor numbers in the late nineties, Meno stayed almost abandoned for many years. Now, tourists have returned and enjoy Meno`s `Robinson Crusoe` feel the sleeping and eating options are more limited but, in place of this, the island boasts the Gilis` best beaches. With it’s soft golden sand and clear turquoise waters.

photos courtesy of MIdori

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THE

THREE GILIS

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A new luxury hotel on the island is catering to growing demand and the island has actually gained a reputation as something of a `honeymooners` destination. The parties are at a minimum here and wandering barefoot, hand-in-hand with a loved one around Gili Meno is something visitors never forget!

The third island, Gili Air, is closest to the mainland and has the largest indigenous populace. It is on this island that tourists can find all the amenities of Trawangan, with all the quiet of Gili Meno coupled with a thriving community of Sasak people that live on the island regardless of tourist numbers.

This is not to say that Gili Air is without its tourist indulgences. A growing number of people are turning to Gili Air to escape the `crowds` of Gili Trawangan.

The diving scene is well-established and all three Gili Islands have gained a reputation as THE place to train and gain your diving certification. An island-wide price agreement has meant that standards are kept very high, equipment well-maintained and diving groups small this is something that ALL dive operators offer and, because of the price agreement, customers need not endure endless sales-pitches. One can just talk to everyone and go with the dive shop that gives the best feeling! The quality of tuition is still just as high, but due to lower running costs, diving prices and courses are

photos courtesy of Will Kew photos courtesy of Kok Leng Yeo

photos courtesy of Kandoi.sid

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photos courtesy of Davenbelle

actually significantly cheaper on Gili Air making it an even more appealing choice.

The snorkelling around the Gili islands is also a big draw. With the water temperature rarely dropping below a scorching 28 Celsius, experiencing the aquatic world has never been more pleasurable. Each of the islands has a turtle sanctuary, so sightings of Green Turtles, and even the endangered Hawksbill Turtle, are common for snorkelers. In fact, many experts agree that the Gilis are actually the best place in South East Asia to see these graceful creatures. That isn’t bad for three miniscule coral-fringed islands.

If anyone needed any further persuasion, the other activities on the islands range from horseback riding, Balinese massage, authentic yoga retreats, home-made icecream, some great surf-breaks, as well as the close proximity to Lombok which in itself offers a month-worth of adventures. In fact, travellers who visit the three islands often bemoan the fact that their visa lasts only a meagre 30 days on the Gilis, it is easy to spend that time and more!

the laid-backcharm each of

them possesses

"

"

Dewi Supartini ;a travel enthusiast, had been traveling since child

with her family. She also working in one of travel

agency in Bali.

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LEARNTRADITIONAL WEAVING AT

VILLAGE LOMBOK

On my visit to Lombok Island, we visit a lot of tourism sights. We’re not just visiting the famous Gili Trawangan, but we also visit several Cultural Villages and my favorite one is

Sukarara Village. Other village is also interesting, but what makes the village that located in Jonggat District, Middle Lombok Regency different from other village is the interaction to learn about traditional weaving.

As soon as we arrive in Sukarara Village, we’re already astonish by the beautiful traditional structure of the Sasak Tribe known as the Bali. Not far from the Bali we saw four women weaving wearing a traditional Sasak dress. As they smile to greet us then they offer us to try the traditional weaving. Without hesitation we jump to try, we wouldn’t miss this rare opportunities.

To be honest, I am not a patient girl who is good at handcrafting thus making me nervous at first try, but I remain calm and keep on trying while listening to the instruction. Stomping the weaving roll and keep placing the yarn accordingly to the color is the two main key of traditional weaving. Sounds easy, but with lack of patience and thorough it will ruin the weaving results. I even have try it twice to get it right.

For your information, according to local tradition in Sukarara Village, the women are allowed to married if she is already good at weaving. Even, when they are about to get marriage, the women have to make a one own-made weaving for her husband. But the women of Sukarara Village had learn weaving since they were teenager. Not just to continue the tradition but to provide additional income.

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photo courtesy of Josefine Yaputri

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its unique wonderful

culture is also a reason to visit

Lombok

“Besides trying to weave, visitors can also buy various beautiful

traditional weaving, from a small scarf would cost only around fifty thousand rupiah to a larger weave that could cost millions.

As if this interactive traditional weaving class is not enough, I bought some several weave as a souvenir. This visit to the Sukarara Village reminds me that the cultural diversity of Indonesia is so charming. Lombok Island had so many beautiful natural tourism sight, but nature is not the only thing Lombok had to offer, its unique wonderful culture is also a reason to visit Lombok.

photo courtesy of Josefine Yaputri

Josefine Yaputri ; A female Aries who loves learning language, enjoys folk music, and falls in love with sun and its flower. She believes in women empowerment and education.

Feels greatly content when she is near the sea and the beach. Check out her travel stories on senjamoktika.com

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I simply call it Instammy (from the word ‘Instagrammable’). And the landscape of Timor is truly photogenic. The arid land, the

deep blue sky, the rolling hills, the rock formations, the bare trees (our local companions even said ‘We wonder why these Jakartans seem so excited to see the drying trees’), the hors-

es-the cows-the goats-the pigs, etc. It’s like you should make a stop in every 10 meters because you can’t resist of taking some

Instammy pictures.

10ReasonsExplore Timor

why you should

East Nusa Tenggara Province in Indonesia consists of three largest islands: Flores, Sumba, and Timor. Kupang, the capital of the province is located at Timor Island. I once

visited Kupang before and some misfortune events had led me to a promise ‘I know I’ll be back one day’. And the universe had my promise answered.

This 10 reason-list is not a justification, it simply represents where I’ve been to and what captured my attention most. Here’s why you should explore Timor. Enjoy!

Surreal landscape

1

photos courtesy of Taufan Gioi

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From the colorful stone beach of Kolbano to the shifting desert dunes of Oetune. Even the sea have all shades of blue: azure, cerulean, turquoise, sapphire, ultramarine, you name it. I think

it’s the best time to replay the 90’s song I love most: I Love the Blue of Indonesia.

Fatumnasi is a traditional village lies in the heart of South Central Timor with an average altitude of 1,000 m above sea level. The journey to Fatumnasi is the adventure itself. If you like to watch The Lord of The Rings the movie, then this is for you. The view along the way is magnificent yet thrilling. The old forest of Eukaliptus erophila and Usnea barbata creating a sense of middle earth. Hope there won’t be any Orcs hunting you down to Bola Palelo, Fatukolen, or Bonsai Forest. Once you manage to meet Mateos Anin (Fatumnasi’s leader), then you know you’re a survivor

Semau Island to name one. Located only 20 miles off the harbor of Kupang, you’ll get to see the otherside of a laid-back island life. It’s not completely isolated, but it feels like you are in an anonymous island. On top of that (based on my interest), there are many, I say many, many secluded beaches for yourself to enjoy.

A haven for the beach lovers

The middle earth called Fatumnasi

The adventure awaits

2

4

3

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Who would have thought that underneath the rock formation of Bolok (near Kupang), there is a cave with crystal-clear water to swim in. It’s known as Crystal Cave, only popular among travelers, but not many locals know this place. Some believe that the water system is connected to the sea, that’s why the water is a little bit salty.

I really wouldn’t mind spending all day at the very laid-back beach of Tablolong, do nothing while wait-ing for the sunset. A small family of local seaweed farmer can be your good companion as well. The city of Kupang also has many spots to enjoy sunset view, such as Subasuka, Lasiana, and my fave from the infinity pool of Hotel On The Rock

The rich culture life of East Nusa Tenggara has created the colorful ikat weaving as well. Every region has its

own pattern. The patterns are describing mythical figure, plants, animals, and also abstract motives which

shows a deep appreciation of the power of nature.

Expect the unexpected

Majestic Sunsets

The colorful ikat weaving

5

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photos courtesy of Taufan Gioi

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Se’i is a traditional sliced smoked meat that is thicker than common bacon. This dish is easily found in restaurants and warungs in Timor. If you don’t eat red meat, please

come to Kampung Solor Night Market in Kupang Old City. Fresh seafood is ready to be served for you.

The locals simply call it ‘Sepe trees’. You should come around November-December when all these flowers blooming and creating such a stunning spring (or even autumn) in the middle of arid land of Timor. Truly a unique beauty, especially for the romantic ones.

Do I need to say more?

Because of se’i andfresh seafood

The queen of flameDelonix regia

Because love is everywhere

9

10

8

Taufan Gio ; A beach person who enjoys nature, culture, and human interest. At first he thought that traveling is to find new people in new places. But eventually he’s come to realization

that some travel to find one true self. See more of his writing & photography at disgiovery.com

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Komodo island is part of the Lesser Sunda chain of islands and forms part of the Komodo National Park with other islands, Rinca and Padar, Gili Motang and 25 smaller ones,

with a total area of 1,733 km² (603 km² of it land). The national park was founded in 1980 in order to protect the Komodo dragon later it was dedicated to protecting other species, including marine species. In 1991 the national park was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Mostly known as Varanus komodoensis, also known as the Komodo monitor a member of the monitor lizard family (Varanidae), it is the largest living species of lizard, growing to a maximum of length 3 meters (9.8 ft) in rare cases and weighing up to around 70 kilograms (150 lb).

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A JOURNEYTO THE LAND

OF THELAND OFDRAGON

Referred to by the residents as the ora, for centuries a local tradition required feeding the dragons by leaving deer parts aAncient taboos also strictly forbid harming the komodos, because the local legend said that the komodo and men share the same ancestry. Which is one of the main reasons that they had survived until now.

Today less than 2.500 komodo inhabit the surrounding Komodo National Park, with 1.300 in the Komodo island, 1.100 in the Rinca island while others in Gili montang. But sadly it was speculated that there are no more komodo ever find on the Padar island, Between the 1980s and the 1990s, there were quite a number of komodo dragons in Padar Island . But many illegal hunters deliberately burned the forest, causing a smaller space for these animals to live and the fire could have even killed them.

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Many tourists travel half way around the world to see the “living fossil” itself. There are many ways to reach Komodo island, either take an adventurous boat sail from Lombok, along the coast of Sumbawa until the Komodo islands which could take about 3 days trip or one and a half hour flight to Flores (Labuan Bajo) from Bali and then take a chartered boat from Labuan bajo to the island, which takes about two hours sail.

Upon Arrival at coast of the island, you’ll be greet by the breathtaking scenery surrounding the islands, clear blue ocean, warm beaches sand, island cover with savanna. Loh Niang or the Niang bay is the access to the island, the park entrance is just a few metes from the harbor, after settling all the administration a Ranger will explain all the rules during the trekking around the island.

At the ranger station you will notice the Ranger will armed with a 2 meter length Y-shaped forked stick to keep the komodo away just in case they got to close to the pack, it works by pointing the v-shaped tip toward the komodo, noted that running away is also one of the desperate option, they will still chase but eventually ran out of stamina quickly due to their low stamina is on of their weak point. But, with an average acceleration speed of 37 miles per hour, you wouldn’t dare to race them. Just stay close to the ranger and the pack at all time and follow all their instruction. If you have decided to go to some place that called “the land of the dragon” you wouldn’t expect a cute cuddly creatures would you ?

In the Komodo island there are two trekking trip to chose, the short

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track or long track. There is one spot that both route visit, It’s a mud hole located in small valley with shady surrounding where sometimes a buffalo or a deer come for a drink. We’ll be able to view this from the top, so it will be a safe, if you’re lucky you’ll get to see a pack of komodo dragons feasting on a water buffalo. Komodo dragon huting tactic is known as “the lurk n’ lurch” method. Well camouflaged and motionless, along game paths used by animals going to waterholes. When the prey is inrange the Komodo ambushes it.

During the trekking in the wood it is very rarely to find a komodo, they would prefer an open space than wandering around the woods. Along the track the landscape, flora and other fauna were amazing, all the hills and valley makes the scenery a memorable one. the Vegetation on Komodo Island mostly are the palm tree and the other fauna that inhabits the island such as deer, buffalo, and tropical birds makes the small island a small piece of Eden.

For a small island, Komodo island offers a lot, so many that you wouldn’t forget that once you visit and set your foot on this island, then you can say to others that you have been to Land that time forgot, the land of the giant lizard, the land of the dragon.

Jonathan Wiguna ; A traveler and a freelance writer based

in Bali. Any chance to get out of the office, he will be out to

explore Indonesia

For a small island, Komodo island offers a lot

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photos courtesy of Leonard Anthony

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kelorISLANDT

he ship ropes is off the harbor Bollard, with two boat crew and an elder man who seems to be only seen around lunch or dinner time to serve us a restaurant class food. It’s up to these

men we will depend our life during our three days live on board.10 minutes after we leave the harbor, none of us is not astonish by

the beauty of Flores coastal line. A calm sea with little hills emerging in the middle of the sea had become our camera lenses favorite target.

About an hour trip form Labuan Bajo, we set ashore at the Kelor Isalnd, sloping beach shore with white sand and high hills in the middle of the island tempting to be hiked. We’re haven’t even set our foot at the shore, yet we have been mesmerize by Kelor island’s crystal clear water.

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Leonard Anthony ; An entrepreneur who love to do weekend getaway and a blogger

( www.cool4myeyes.com ) who want to venture out and share travel stories of

Indonesia tourism sights.

The hills is not too high and we decide to reach to top before enjoying the beach. Do not expect any stairs, a simple path is the only thing you get to conquer the around 30 minutes trekking through a more than 40 degree tilt.But all the hard work will be paid off with an amazing view from the top of kelor hills. The breathtaking scenery of clean beach coastline bordering with a group smaller islands.

Before we leave Kelor Island, we had a cool-down after the “workout” to reach the hill top. The crystal clear blue water is cool enough and takes to enjoy the beauty of Kelor Island Underwater. With just two meters deep the marine life is quite divers. We also manage to capture the picture of the famous “Nemo” or the clown fish, a coral parrot fish also greet us with their small bites.

The call of the ship crew, is calling us to get off the beautiful Kelor Island. Once we get on board, delicious lunch had been served on the table by mysterious elderly man we mention above.

This had been a great adventure to set sail around the islands of Flores.

photos courtesy of Leonard Anthony

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Travel Gadgets

These days, smartphones are the digital hub of most traveler’s toolkits. But their inherent lack of storage often means having to decide in advance which songs, videos, and photos to take on the road. Eggcyte’s Egg alleviates this problem by creating a sort of cloud service that you can carry with you. The pint-sized unit acts as a personal, encrypted media bank that connects directly to your smartphone to easily access your entire media collection from anywhere in the world. What’s more: it doubles as a Wi-Fi hotspot with the capability to privately and securely share your files with friends and family.source : www.eggcyte.com

THE EGG

While most backup batteries practice the “bigger is better” mantra, ThinkGeek’s LithiumCard promises just enough juice for those emergency power situations. The card is thin enough (the thickness of five credit cards) to slip in a wallet with enough power for roughly a 50% charge on an iPhone 5S. As a bonus, the card features an ultra-durable aluminum chassis with a sturdy Kevlar cable.source : www.thinkgeek.com

LITHIUMCARD – HYPERCHARGER

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Plantronics has long been the headphone company for travelers and their latest BackBeat SENSE up the ante even further. The list of high-tech features is lengthy but two, in particular, stand out for road warriors. Bluetooth wireless functionality means fewer cables cluttering your pack and a jaw-dropping 18-hour battery life can keep your head bobbing all the way from New York to Sydney. Plus, the understated design is sleek.source : www.plantronics.com

Whether raising your game with versatile SLR you can use pretty much anywhere, the EOS 80D is the Camera. features an impressive 45-point all cross-type AF system that provides high-speed, highly precise AF in virtually any kind of light. A powerful 24.2 Megapixel CMOS sensor and Dual Pixel CMOS AF for Live View shooting. Complementing the EOS 80D’s advanced operation are built-in wireless connectivity and Full HD 60p movies and easy sharing. Merging power, precision and operability, the EOS 80D is a dynamic SLR camera for anyone ready to realize their creative vision. source : www.canon.com

PLANTRONICS BACKBEAT SENSE HEADPHONES

CANON EOS 80D

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Indonesia has several traditions and customs and it is best if you know them before hand. Some of them are:

Even though hand shaking is deemed appropriate between men and women, bear in mind that a number of moslem women prefer to introduce themselves to men by nodding their head, smiling and clasping their hands without any physical contact.Traditionally, when you greet someone, both hands are used when shaking, without graspingBe sure to smile when you meet people you know. Javanese people appreciate a ‘polite smile’.Bending down a bit when passing a group of older people is considered polite.In Indonesia, when you address some one, it would considered more polite if you use these specific terms before mentioning the name : Bapak (Pak) for Mr, Ibu (Bu) for Mrs, Mas for young man, and Mbak for Miss/ young woman.Shoes must be taken off before entering a house or place of worship like mosque.Usually drink are offered to guests. It is polite to acceptWhen eating, receiving or giving something, always use your right hand. Right index finger should not be used to point a place, items or people. Use the right hand thumb and fold the remaining fingers to be more polite.

Don’t wear non-sleeve shirts, T-shirts, short pants, and sandals in offices.Don’t put your hands on your hips during conversation with Indonesians since this is considered impolite/insulting.Don’t demonstrate affection in public.Don’t do impolite things in sacred places.Don’t put your feet up on tables or chairs, or use them to point with.Don’t be angry when someone on the same sex holds your hands or walks arm to arm, it’s the Indonesian way of showing a friendly relationship.Don’t hesitate to reject the merchants trying to sell things to you. You might refuse by saying “saya tidak perlu.” (I don’t need it) or just said “tidak” (No).Don’t be offended when people ask you personal questions. It’s just the way they show friendliness and you don’t have to answer the question if you don’t want to.

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Do’s

Don’ts

The Do‘s & Don’ts

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When you decide to do money change do not get fooled by a HIGH rate or a big no commission sign.

Sometimes if they put a high rate they will eventually asked for also a high commission at the end or the worst is they trick you, the common knwo trick is by using a small change (20’s or 10’s) to confuse you and count it really fast and the trick is while they were counting some slips back behind the counter - and they’re as good as any magician.

Make sure the place itself at least look legit, a Commercial banks are always safest or Second best are registered money changers in sole-purpose shops or booths. If you find a good one it best to return.

Money Changing

Banknotes

Always ask first if they charge commission against the posted rate. Always ask if they discount bills smaller than $100, and by how much. Never let any changers count out your money and then take it back to check after it’s counted. Don’t hand over your money – unless it’s the big registered exchange – until they count out theirs in front of you.

Somepoints to remember :

Two Thousand Rupiah

Five Thousand Rupiah

Ten Thousand Rupiah

remeber to notice the zeros

Twenty Thousand Rupiah

Fifty Thousand Rupiah

One Hundred Thousand Rupiah

Grey Green

Blue

Red

Brownish

Purple

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Good MorningGood dayGood afternoonGood eveningGoodbyeGoodbyePleasePlease open the doorPleasePlease come in Thank you It’s nothing Yes No/not I’m sorry Excuse me Welcome How are you? I’m fine What’s your name? My name is … I’m from … Straight on Turn left Turn right

selamat pagiselamat siangselamat siangselamat malamselamat tinggalselamat jalantolong tolong buka pintusilahkansilahkan masukterima kasihkembali/sama samayatidak/Bukanmaafpermisiselamat datangapa kabar?kabar baiksiapa nama andanama saya…saya dari ...terusbelok kiribelok kanan

WITH MORE INFO ON INDONESIA TOURISM

See You On the Next Edition

Common Indonesian Words

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