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Friday, December 26, 2008

Tana Toraja : Land of The Heavenly Kings

The road from Makassar or Ujung Pandand to Toraja runs along the coast for about 130 km's and then hits the mountains. After the entrance to Tana Toraja you enter a majestic landscape with giant gray, granites and stones and blue mountains at a distance after passing the market village of Mebali. They form a sharp contrast with the lively green of the fertile, rain-fed terraces and the rusty read of the tropical laterite soil. This is Tana Toraja, one of the most splendid areas in Indonesia.
Tana Toraja has a specific and unique funeral ceremony which is called Rambu Solo. In Tana Toraja, dead body is not buried, but it is put in Tongkonan for several times, even can be more than ten years until the family have enough money to held the ceremony. After ceremony, the dead body is brought to the cave or to the wall of the mountain. The skulls show us that the dead body is not buried but just put on stone or ground, or put in the hole.The funeral festival season begins when the last rice has been harvested, usually in late June or July, and lasts through to September.


By Air
Directly from Hasanuddin airport, Makassar or Ujung Pandang, proceed to TANA TORAJA (twice a week on tuesday and friday) through the airport of Rantetayo, near Makle, 24 km south of Rantepao and there is a bus service to town.

By Land
Buses to Rantepao from Ujung Pandang leave daily from Ujung Pandang. The journey takes 8 hours and includes a meal stop. Tickets should be bought in town but coaches actually leave from DAYA bus terminal, 20 minutes out of town by bemo. Coaches typically leave in the morning ( 7 am ), noon ( 1 pm ) and at night ( 7 pm).
Several companies in Rantepao run buses back to Ujung Pandang with the departure time and prices. The number of buses each day depends on the number of passengers.
Tourist who wants to stay in the heart of the city has many choices since there is lot of hotels available. Or if you had an adventurous soul, you can sleep in villages on the way.

Bemo is the best way to get to know the locals, besides chartered vehicles (minibuses and Jeeps) with or without driver. While you are in the village you can take a walk to move around.Exploring the market; You should not to be missed going to the traditional market. Here you can get the top end of Toraja coffee beans [like Robusta and Arabica]. And several local veggies, fruits Tamarella or Terong Belanda and gold fish [ikan mas].
Visit Batu Tumonga Plateu; It means stone that facing to the sky. From here can be seen many volcanic stones comes up in between padi fields. And, several giant stones became cave graveyard. The views is pretty awesome. The huge of Tana Toraja [Toraja land] looks so lush and greenery. Like a patchwork in gradation hue of green color
Palawa is an excellent village to visit a Tongkonan, or a burial place still swarming with celebrations and festivals.
Take a side trip from Rantepao to Kete, a traditional village with excellent handicraft shops. Behind the village on a hillside is a grave site with lifesize statues guarding over old coffins
Most of the times, you can't eat at these locations; however more warung and restaurants appear along the road. You can also bring your own foods and drinks.There is a souvenirs shop where you can buy everything specific from Tana Toraja. There are clothes, bags, wallets and other handicrafts.Visitor are expected to adhere to local dress customs and to bring a token present, such as cigarettes or coffee whenever entered Tongkonan.As roads are not always paved, it is necessary to use a jeep or walk, even when the weather is good (between May and October).
Beware with your head whenever going inside to Tongkonan, The Torajan traditional house.
Enrekang, Makale and Toraja Higland are surrounded by astonishing volcanic rocky cliffs. Do not miss it , just stop and take picture for awhile and you will not regret.

Thursday, December 25, 2008

Unforgettable Borneo!

Kinabatangan Wildlife Safari (Sabah Tourism Award Winner 2007 – best tour package):

Experience the best of Borneo’s unique wildlife on this captivating three day, two night tour. Travel to Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre to witness Orang Utan feeding. Journey onward along the Kinabatangan river to the multi international award winning Sukau Rainforest Lodge.

Built in traditional Malaysian architectural style, this unique lodge features 20 rooms, a lounge, gift shop, education centre, Hornbill Boardwalk with elephant passes, three wildlife viewing decks, an enclosed garden, the riverside Melapi restaurant, an open sun-deck and jetty. Sukau Rainforest Lodge also features numerous environment conservation measures.

During your stay at Sukau, you will be taken on three river cruises and one walk through the jungle, upon which you will have the opportunity to see abundant primate, bird and other wildlife species. A night cruise to spot nocturnal species is also available. At the end of your journey enjoy a short tour of Sandakan town’s highlights.

North Borneo Cultural Safari:

On this fascinating two day, one night tour, become immersed in Rungus culture, the most traditional culture existing in Sabah. Stay overnight in a “Binatang” (Rungus longhouse), where you will be treated to traditional-style meals and a colourful Rungus cultural performance.

During your journey you will also travel to the ‘Tip of Borneo’, where the South China and Sulu Seas meet, stopping at a nearby beach en-route. You may also choose to cycle through scenic villages and farms to another Rungus longhouse. Finally, you will have the chance to test your skill at rubber tapping at a local rubber plantation.

Kinabalu Park Safari:

Return to nature on this refreshing two day, one night tour. Take a scenic drive through the paddy-fields and Dusun villages, over the ridges of the Crocker Range to the foothills of Mt. Kinabalu. At Kinabalu Park World Heritage site, visit the Education Centre and Mountain Garden to see various native species.

Take a guided walk along a mountain trail to observe Montane forest. Journey to Poring, a region set amongst tropical lowland rainforest, where you can explore a jungle trail leading up to the treetop canopy walkways, suspended 41 meters above the forest floor. Visit Kipungit Waterfall and soak in hot sulphur pools before proceeding to Kundasang Memorial Park to discover Sabah’s WWII history.

Tuesday, December 23, 2008

Black Duck, Surabaya, Indonesia

It’s been a while I haven’t gone back to my hometown, this article makes me drolling… I miss the “sambel” (means chilli) and the food there… Please let me know if anybody can cook this for me?

Gambar
Bebek Ireng Suroboyo Cak Baz located di Jl. Tendean, Jakarta Selatan

Monday, December 22, 2008

Borobudur Temple, Indonesia

In the 19th century, Dutch occupiers of Indonesia found a massive ancient ruin deep in the jungles of Java. What they discovered was the complex of Borobudur, a gigantic structure built with nearly 2 million cubic feet (55,000 m³) of stones. The temple has nearly 2,700 relief panels and 504 Buddha statues.

Until today, no one knows for sure when and why it was built, nor the reason for its complete abandonment hundreds of years ago. Some scholars believe that Borobudur is actually a giant textbook of Buddhism, as its bas reliefs tell the story of the life of Buddha and the principles of his teachings. To “read,” a pilgrim must make his way through nine platforms and walk a distance of over 2 miles.





Sunday, December 21, 2008

Makassar - South Sulawesi



Do you know Makassar? Makassar is the capital city of South Sulawesi Province, and the largest city on Sulawesi Island. From 1971 to 1999, the city was formally named Ujung Pandang, after a precolonial fort in the city, and the two names are often used interchangeably. It total large of area is 175.77 km² and has population of 1.25 million.




The city is southern Sulawesi’s primary port, with regular domestic and international shipping connections. It is nationally famous as an important port of call for the pinisi boats, sailing ships which are among the last in use for regular long-distance trade. Makassar has the famous Airport in Sulawesi Area, namely is Hasanuddin International Airport. And if you want to go shop? The main shopping centers are here, MTC karebosi makassar, Panakkukang Mal, and Panakkukang Trade Center. I hope you will be happy visit to makassar. Thank you.

Friday, December 19, 2008

Bunaken Island, North Sulawesi



Have you ever heard about Bunaken Park Island in the Manado city, Sulawesi Island, Indonesia? Actually, I have not had to go to BUNAKEN because I don’t have a time which the other reason is my residing now is too far to reach the bunaken location. So, please read below the little information that I have taken from the reliable source. At least this little information can make you know about Bunaken Island and park. But, I apologize because this information is not myself experience but from the other source.




Bunaken island is a whole 8.08 km ² in the Bay of Manado, which is located on the northern island of Sulawesi, Indonesia. This island is part of the city of Manado, the provincial capital of North Sulawesi, Indonesia. Around the island of Bunaken, there are Bunaken marine park, which is part of the National Marine Park Manado Tua.

This Park sea marine biodiversity has one of the highest in the world. Scuba diving attracts many visitors to the island. Overall Bunaken marine park covers 75,265 hectares wide area with the five islands in it, namely, the island of Manado Tua, Bunaken Island, Island Siladen, following several Mantehage Island, the island’s children, and Naen Island. Although the area covering 75,265 hectares, location, diving (diving), only limited in each of the five coastal circumnavigate the island.

Bunaken marine park has 20 point dive (Dive spots) vary with depth of up to 1,344 meters. From 20 point dive it, the 12 point dive in them located around Bunaken Island. Twelve point dive this is the most frequently visited by divers and lovers scenic beauty under the sea.

Most of the 12 point dive in Bunaken Island line from the southeast to the northwest of the island. In this region there are great underwater Walls, which is also called Good Night Walls, or the walls of the giant coral standing vertical and vaulted to the top. This wall of coral also become a source of food for fish in the waters around Bunaken Island.



Only that? Yes, because my source only tell that. But, I have added some photos about Bunaken Island and park, enjoy it…

Thursday, December 18, 2008

Hotels in Palembang, South Sumatera



Welcome to Palembang city, Indonesia. This city is very suitable for you that would like to have an leisure journey while you’re doing your business from this city too. Palembang has some tourism attraction place which you can explore this city when you’re in this city with your small room in your hotel that you reserved. And, if so, what is some hotels that you can book at this city? Below some famous hotels that available at this city. Only that I know as the best hotels.



Novotel Hotel Palembang:
This is as the luxurious hotel in Palembang city. Located at the heart of the city, and nearer to the modern lifestyle shopping center, Palembang Trade Center. The facilities are large, with 2 restaurants and 4 bars serve a wide choice of Indonesian, Western and Chinese cuisine plus varied locations to relax with a drink.

Horison Hotel Palembang:
This is a four stars hotel located at the heart of palembang city. Adjacent to the most modern shopping mall, Palembang Square, with the largest anchor tenant is Carrefour Hypermarket. This hotel is very suitable for you all that want to feel the leisure and while you’re doing a business from your room. Large facilities are here: convention center, 144 rooms including suites,
24 hours Malabar Coffee Shop, Golden Dragon Restaurant, Putri Lounge, Health Club, Spa & Sauna, Swimming Pool, City shuttle service, and many more.

Aston International Hotel Palembang:
Hotels, Resorts, And Residences. Aston International Hotel Palembang located at Jalan Pom Ix- compleks Palembang Square Mall. Would you like to have a good room reserved close to the most modern shopping center in Palembang? Also use this hotel facilities so you will get full satisfied when are in this hotel like: beauty salon, billiard room, children’s pool, lobby store, poolside bar, garden lounge, swimming pool, fitness center, and travel services. Only 20 minutes from Palembang international airport. Check more detail from the main official website above.

Sanjaya Hotel Palembang:
This is as four stars hotel in Palembang city, and you should check the hotel facilities directly from the above link, thank you.


Wednesday, December 17, 2008

Hotels on Semarang, Central Java



Do you like Semarang? A capital city in Central Java? This city located at most northern in central java island, has a international airport Ahmad Yani and a harbour Tanjung Mas. As the city which located in the plain, Semarang like Jakarta and Surabaya, go moves to be a business city and convention center city. If you haven’t read about Semarang city yet, let you read previously.

Because of the typical of this city moves like that, for business city and convention business center in Central Java, so, the most suitable for this city, you should know some hotels whether high stars or not because who knows, you’re in Semarang city once time, for your business needs, who knows. So, these below some hotels that are in this city, Semarang.

Ciputra Hotel Semarang:
This is a five stars hotel in the heart of Semarang, exact location at Simpang Lima region which as the famous region in this city. Filled with 200 luxurious rooms, you can reach there only 15 minutes from Semarang’s international airport, right in the middle of the city’s thriving business district, shopping area and industrial zone. Location also near with the top famous shopping center in Semarang, Mall Ciputra. There, you can shopping whatever you want to buy, moreover if you are a shopaholic.

Horison Hotel Semarang:
This is big hotel, with four stars, located at Jl. Kh Ahmad Dahlan No. 2, Simpang Lima, Semarang 50241, Jawa Tengah - Indonesia. Very comfortable hotel each room, with international facilities standard hotel like: restaurant, laundry, conference hall, meeting room, and many more.




Santika Premier Hotel Semarang: and Santika Hotel Semarang: Very luxurious hotel for pleasure and business needs. With the international facilities like: restaurant and bar, live music, coffee shop, Cable TV, Internet Access, business centre, and many more. Further information click the link to main website hotel above.

Novotel Hotel Semarang:
This hotel is located in the busy Jalan Pemuda precinct of Semarang. This 4 star hotel offers facilities ideally suited to those on business trips or on holiday. Just 5 minutes from the Simpang Lima shopping area, with easy access to the airport. The famous hotel at Semarang city, from accor Company which as the one of bigger company for hotel and accommodation in worldwide.

Patra Hotel Semarang:
Very convenient hotel, with luxurious appearance. This hotel fulfilled with luxurious standard four stars hotel like: Bar, Restaurant, gift shop, travel agent, meeting rooms, ball room, business center, and many more. Located at Jl. Sisingamangaraja Candi Baru - Semarang 50252.


Those information only any hotels that are in Semarang city, because of that, the information very little and limited. But, if you want to search others hotel yourself, you can do it from major search engine like google or yahoo, and finding the hotel that you want. So, I’m sorry, the information is only little, not too many…I feel. Good luck!!!

Tuesday, December 16, 2008

Trans Jogja - Yogyakarta, Central Java



Would you like to know more deep about Yogyakarta? No problem, after I have read much for others articles about Yogyakarta travel, vacation, and hotel, now is the time to write for Yogyakarta Public Transportation - Trans Jogja. The transportation addopt with busway concept- Jakarta public transportation. But the different with busway in Jakarta is Trans Jogja has not special way for run. But, no problem, Yogyakarta still have many free space on each the street don’t like in Jakarta, which the street is very crowded with so many vehicles and even the padestrians included with vehicles.



Reading this blog is not same if when you’re trying it yourself. You will feel the different atmosphere than you only read the content. So, I only remember you, if you have time to travel to yogyakarta, don’t forget, you can try to be the passanger in Trans Jogja Bus. What about the route? For it purpose, you can read directly to the Trans Jogja main official website and then you can explore more information about this transportation.


Monday, December 15, 2008

Bali Kuta Apartment - Kuta, Bali



Now, I’m informing you a great news about Apartment in Bali Island. Before it, I has ever discussed about the Bali apartment too in this post. But, now is different than the older, The Kuta Town House Apartment. It’s more modern, multilevel floor and of course comfortable and luxurious. And, what about the location? Wow..in the heart of Kuta Bali. Below, i have taken some great qoutes from the original site, like this:

Nestled between Poppies Lane 1 and 2 in the heart of Kuta, with both International & Indonesian Style Restaurants, Kuta Beach, Kuta Square, and Jl Legian with its great night life, just minutes walk away, our fully serviced apartments are waiting for you or your family’s next holiday Displaying an architecture artfully immersed in both Asian and European styles, Kuta Townhouses offers luxury apartment style accommodation, both self contained and serviced, at an affordable price.




I think you should know too about the kuta town house apartment facilities:
Restaurant, Sports Bar, Bar & Café
Parking, 24 Hour Security, Taxi on Call
Two swimming Pools (One a 25 Mt Lap Pool)
Free Wireless Internet In Apartments, Restaurant and bars.
Australian Television Channels in all apartments, Restaurant and bars.
Two Lifts
Gymnasium
In house massage

And, one again the great news for you, when you are thinking the great investment opportunity in Indonesia, especially with having great property prospectly in Bali island, Investment & Ownership
Kuta Town Houses Also offers Apartment Ownership for Investment or limitless owner stays (52 weeks per year). Click the investment section on the navigation bar for information on Kuta Town Houses and other Resort Projects we have in Process. Are you interested with this opportunity?

Okay, I can’t tell too long in this post because I’m not the owner of this apartment, so you should read more information about how to book, the price / rates, check availability, online reservation, and many more directly to the main official website of kuta Town House Apartment. I just take some photos to here so that you can enjoy the its atmosphere.

Sunday, December 14, 2008

How Much to Have a Dining in Indonesia?



I think, this information is so informative if I publish here, at this blog. Because in my mind, I really believe everyone especially foreign tourists that want to go to Indonesia would like to know, how expensive the daily living cost in Indonesia. Okay, the first thing that you should know, you have to know your price in Indonesia most major currency, Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). When I write this post, 1 USD approximately same with 12.200 rupiah. So, I will continue it in IDR. Because I’m now living in Yogyakarta region, I will tell more daily life in this city, although I also know daily cost living in other cities such as Jakarta, Bandung, and many more.



My question is looks enough great I to hear, “How Much Price Will You Spend When You Have Dining in Indonesia?” Dining in my means is not only have dinner but I will tell also how much price will you spend (1 person) to eat daily food which most Indonesian people eat it. For you know, usually most people in Indonesia eat 3 times in a day, breakfast in the morning, lunch, and dinner. I assume you are like most Indonesian people, not go to restaurant for eat, do it yourself in your kitchen. For breakfast needs, usually they eat only for light food such as: fried rice, fried noodle, toast, bread and drink milk. The average cost to buy and eat those (I assume you only eat one kinds of food and drink milk) is 3000-5000 rupiah to eat fried rice or fried noodle and 2000-3000 rupiah to drink milk. That’s the cost will you spend if you are living in big cities in Indonesia such as Jakarta, Bandung, Yogyakarta and Surabaya. Next to lunch.

For lunch, they (Indonesian people) usually cook: rice, vegetables and meat. (meat in this means is chicken, meat, meat ball, fish, egg, Tahu and Tempe) additionally is fruit and drinking water. The cost is like this: rice is 1000 rupiah, and plus 2 kinds of meats (one egg, and one piece of chicken is 7000-10.000 rupiah) and 2 kinds of vegetables (spinach and vegetable soup is 5000-7500 rupiah). and the price for one bottle of milk is 2000-3000 rupiah. How much total price? Between 15.000 - 20.000 rupiah for just average lunch. What is it so expensive or instead of too cheap? Give your assessment.

The last one is for dinner. I assume you eat like Indonesian people eat for dinner, one cup of rice, 2 kinds of vegetables like chicken soup and corn soup, and 2 kinds of meat, like fried chicken and fried meat. The cost is: one rice is 1000 rupiah, 2 kinds of vegetables that I mentioned above is 5000-10.000 rupiah, and 2 kinds of vegetables is 10.000-20.000 rupiah. The total cost in approx 15.000 to 30.000 rupiah for just average dinner. Could you total the costs that from breakfast till dinner in Indonesia? I assume it as the average food which most people eat daily in some big cities in Indonesia. A price range from 40.000 to 70.000 per day just for eat per person, is it so expensive for you? What about in your country or county? Share this if you have time, thanks.

Saturday, December 13, 2008

Yogyakarta Shopping Centres



Actually, I would like tell to you all the daily life in Yogyakarta City for almost most range of people age, teenager, collegian, and most public people (adult people). They daily activity, routine, and habitual. As well as I know, most people in Yogyakarta City dominate by teenager and collegian students. They parents decide to send their children school at Yogyakarta City. And as everyone know but it’s sometimes considered as a secret, their parents routine transfer they some monthly money / cost for daily cost in living at Yogyakarta city. I hope you can catch my means, sorry my English is not good. The cost range is relative, usually one students get 750.000 to 1.500.000 Indonesian rupiahs.



Next to the main target. at the weekends, young people / students at Yogyakarta City like go to shopping centres in this city, such as Plaza Ambarrukmo, Galeria Mall, Saphir Square, Malioboro Mall, and Jogjatronik Mall. I start discuss from the first, Plaza Ambarrukmo. This mall is specialists in provide some luxurious brand name of fashion, jewelry, kids toys, sport warehouse, and cinema. Also there are lots of small resto (it called as food court) which you will be able to find it in the most upper ground of this mall. This is the biggest mall in Yogyakarta until now. The second is Galeria Mall. This mall has brought the old and elegant concept suit for family shopping experience. The mall is not big but it has a medium range and volume inside. From outside, you will see this mall is small and has quiet luxurious lamps in night day. Specialist in sells good many brand name of fashion, supermarket, home appliance, food court, and entertainment centre.

Next to Saphir Square, this mall looks quiet big and elegant. Was built in 2006 and till now has many shops inside. Filled with most destination for family and children entertainment, you can find bowling centre here, cozy cafe, elegant food court, and other entertainment centre such as snow ice at the second floor and billiard lounge. The next is Malioboro Mall, is the old mall in the heart of Yogyakarta City. Inside the mall looks not too big but has many elegant and modern shops. Many luxurious brand names of fashion are here also additionally with big choice of food court, from Mc Donald to Excelso Cafe and from modern Gramedia Bookstore to modern Supermarket, Hero in the lower ground. There are family and students when weekend crowd this shopping mall. And finally is the Jogjatronik Mall, special as the electronic, technology, and computer and gadget mall. Sometimes, there are some show held here for electronic and technology local trade show / exhibition. I hope, you will be more knowledge about Yogyakarta daily life and shopping centres after read my this article, thank has read this post.

Wednesday, December 10, 2008

Horta Dolls

If you look at the shape of this dolls, it look as usual doll, however, actually it made by sawdust and grass seed and named "Horta". The name horta is taken from the word "horticulture".




This kind of doll will grow golf-grass on it's kin. The founder of horta are seven students of Bogor Institute of Agriculture (IPB) majoring in horticulture, under the guidance of Dr.Ir. Ni Made Armini Wiendy, MS. It's packed in interesting form such as frogs and turtles. This doll can be a learning medium for children. They can learn how to take a responsibility and concern about the plant. With simple maintenance, such as flush, fertilize, weed, pest, and place in the sun, Horta doll can survive up to three months.

Want to buy it for you or your children? go to bonekahorta.blogspot.com or visit their store in Jl. No Bateng. 12, Kampus Darmaga Dalam, IPB, Bogor.Telp. 62- 0251 - 2156112 (flexi) Email : boneka_horta@yahoo.com

Tuesday, December 9, 2008

Taman Mini Indonesia Indah, Jakarta



Now, i would like to talk about the attraction place in Jakarta City. Namely is Taman Mini Indonesia Indah (TMII) which is in this place, you can see and explore all about Indonesia from culture, art, atmosphere, religion, lifestly, tourism, and many more.

Taman Mini Indonesia Indah (TMII) is an area of cultural tourism in Jakarta. Located on the coordinates of 6 ° 18′6 .8 “LS, 106 ° 53′47 .2″ BT, in the middle of TMII, there are a lake that tell how so large the Indonesian archipelago in the small shape. Or, in other means, Taman Mini Indonesia Indah as Beautiful Indonesia Miniature Park was built to be the showcase of Indonesia. You can see whatever you want about Indonesia, you will find many Indonesia natural & cultural richness such as unique replication of traditional houses (pavilion) from all around Indonesia. I think, this park can represent your want in knowing about Indonesia only go to the smaller place than you go exploring the Indonesia in the real. It’s so match if you do not have enough time to explore Indonesia.



In this park, or usually it called TMII, there are various parks, which shows the beauty of flora and fauna of Indonesia such as orchid garden, jasmine gardens, ponds, freshwater aquarium and bird parks. Also there are some museum which is devoted to the history of sport, culture and technology such as the Museum of Indonesia, Museum Pusaka, Museum of Transportation, and The Center for Science and Technology / Pusat Peragaan IPTEK. In Indonesia, almost every tribe has a shape and building in different color, not even one tribe rarely have more than one type of traditional buildings. Building or traditional architecture, which they always followed by environmental and cultural owned. In TMII, illustration, are realized through the Regional Platform, which represents tribes in the nation’s 26 provinces of Indonesia.

There are some information about this park that you can find at this site, or you can go directly into the official website of Taman Mini Indonesia Indah.

Monday, December 8, 2008

Malioboro Street , Yogyakarta





The little information about Malioboro Street, Yogyakarta. Jalan Malioboro (Malioboro Street) is a major shopping street in Yogyakarta, Indonesia; the name is also used more generally for the neighborhood around the street. It runs north from the Yogyakarta kraton (palace) towards the roads that lead to either Surakarta to the east, or Magelang to the north, as well as Mount Merapi. The street is the centre of Yogyakarta’s largest tourist district; many hotels and restaurants are located nearby. There are the famous shopping center exact in the middle of malioboro street, The malioboro Mal. Has 4 floors and very complete tenant in it. To have lunch, you can enter to McDonald Restaurant, Kopi luwak for have coffee, and read the complete books at Gramedia Book Store at the lower ground floor. And we now talking about outside the mal.




Sidewalks on both sides of the street are crowded with small stalls selling a variety of goods. In the evening several open-air streetside restaurants, called lesehan, operate along the street. Less obvious to the tourist, but more for the local population, side streets, lanes and structures that lead on to Malioboro are as important as the street itself. The street was for many years two-way, but by the 1980s had become one way only, from the railway line (where it starts) to the south - to Beringharjo markets, where it ends. The largest, oldest Dutch era hotel, Hotel Garuda, is located on the street’s northern end, on the eastern side adjacent to the railway line.

The little history for it: For many years in the 1980s and later, a cigarette advertisement was placed on the first building south of the railway line - or effectively the last building on Malioboro, which advertised Marlboro cigarettes, no doubt appealing to locals and foreigners who would see a pun with name of the street with a foreign product being advertised.

It does not reach the walls or grounds of the Yogyakarta palace, as Malioboro ceases in name adjacent to the very large market Beringharjo (on the eastern side as well). From this point the street changes name and has on the western side the former Governors residence, and on the eastern side the old Dutch Fort Vredenburg.

Simple and easy to be understood.

Sunday, December 7, 2008

Braga Street, Bandung, West Java




Do you know Bandung City? This is a cool city with beautiful natural panorama. Now, i will ask you a simple question, “which Street in Bandung that can give the different touch than others street?” I’m not residing in Bandung but I can answer your question, at least Braga Street can give you the different atmosphere when you are in Bandung. The road with lenght approx 600 metres filled with buildings in the ancient Europe era. The road is not too long, only 600-800 metres along its. And, like in others strategic region in Indonesia such as Malioboro in Yogyakarta and Menteng in Jakarta, Braga street also filled with some modern building like Braga Citywalk shopping centre and Aston Bandung Hotel and Residence. plus Apartment with modern concept in this area, but I forget the name of its, sorry.

But, the transportation if you would like to travel to there is quiet difficult, you should rent a car or taxi so that you can feel more comfortable as long as you are exploring this street and area. Book an room in Aston Hotel Bandung or Rent apartment there so that you will have more time to enjoy your vacation as long as you are in Bandung.

Saturday, December 6, 2008

Semawis, Semarang, Central Java



For areas with culinary tourism, Semarang has a must visit culinary area. This culinary area is known as SEMAWIS (Semarang Untuk Pariwisata). Semawis has been in operation since July 15, 2005 and is open Friday-Sunday. It is located on Gang Warung, Chinatown area which is closed for motor vehicles in the evenings. We can easily find various kinds of unique food from Semarang once we enter the precinct.
Semawis is not too big, and can be explored on foot for around 20-30 minutes, but it is packed with various kinds of food such as “pisang planet” or “lumpia”. Because it is located in the middle of the Chinatown, Semawis is surrounded by old exotic buildings that enhance the ambience.
How to get there
To reach Semawis, the easiest way is via Simpang Lima. From Simpang Lima with motor vehicles through Jalan Gajah Mada and on Depok intersection (Bata Shoe shop), we can turn right and Semawis will be at the end of the street after the grant and colorful Chinatown gate.
Culinary delights
For the goodies, there are light to main course meals, such as “pisang planet” up to steam boat. For Moslems, we recommend you to always check with the vendor each time you want to try something, because in Semawis there is also non-halal food for Moslems, but don’t you worry because there are food items that are halal for Moslems.
For non Moslems, the Chinatown can be a culinary haven because of the variety of food offered, from pork satay to “nasi campur ala Jakarta”. For the desert, visitors can enjoy various ice treats from “Es Marem”, “Es Puter Cong Lik” kiosks or the famous “es cao” on the corner of Gang Lombok.

Friday, December 5, 2008

Tahu Pong Gajah Mada, Semarang, Central Java



I'm not really know taufu pong wether the original city of Semarang? Because it is sof famous in Semarang, so I assume the food is one of the typical city of Semarang. I called out pong? Because in the middle is empty (kopong or pong). In Semarang there may be some places that sell out pong, but according to me the most popular is in Jl. Gajah Mada.

How to Serve
Taufu pong on Jl. Gajah Mada presented with the gimbal (fried shrimp chips) with mayonnaise and garlic petis presented separately. And also equipped with a pickle mentimun.

Taufu pong at gajahm mada is presented with a large amount portion, so I recommended to eat 1 portions for two at a time, because I could not handle it for my self, hehe.

Thursday, December 4, 2008

Layur Mosque, Kampung Melayu, Semarang, Central Java




Layur Mosque, one of the old mosque in Semarang, which is still standing firmly on the road Layur Kampung Melayu. The location is quite easy to reach, from the direction of the market point play Venus follow the directions to the post office or the direction of the station Tawang, from the railway in front of Layur Road, Mosque Layur tower is visible amid the high-pitched. , Called the Kampung Melayu in the year 1743 because most of the people who inhabit the area are those race Melayu.Pada period in this village there is a place for the landing ships and boats that carry merchandise, so it is not surprising that there is a section called the Malay Dara . The location is very strategic to invite people stayed in there, too. Note that people of Arabic and placed the village.


Seen from outside, the mosque Layur save many of the past history of the region around the mosque and Semarang in general. In terms of buildings, including mosques Layur one of the unique mosque, the mosque is surrounded by high walls with towers are typical of the Middle East in the future, in addition to the entrance. The main mosque building itself with the Javanese style roof of the mosque row three, ornaments, jewelry wall looks unique and beautiful. Floor of the building made such big house and can only be achieved with a ladder on the side of the face. The foundation stone of a bear wood frame structure. The mosque is seen from the style of architecture is a conglomeration of three cultures, namely Java, Malay and Arabic with a touch of beauty by the author.

Although age has been eaten, but the mosque is still solid and still used by people around to worship. Until now the mosque is still treated by local mosque foundation as an effort to conserve the history and pride as the old mosque Semarang. In a comprehensive mosque Layur still like the original first made, there are only a few improvements such as replacement of roof tiles and adding space to the right side of the mosque complex.

Wednesday, December 3, 2008

Katedral Randusari Church, Semarang, Central Java


The building is located in the area of Tugu Muda, precisely on time. Soetomo said. Currently, the building consists of the Cathedral, and building schools (Bernadus elementary and junior Dominico Savio). A cathedral church in indukplants area diocese Agung Semarang, Central Java. The building is included in the category of protected historic buildings in the city of Semarang

The building is the Cathedral of the building with a symmetrical facade of the single-oriented architecture in the west. Complex of buildings designed quadrilateral with three entrances, each located in the West, South and North.


As is generally the Catholic Church was built before the Vatican Council II, the seating layout stretching to the back of the church. The foundation of the building made of stone wall with the structure of the system and shoulder room are free of columns. Some walls coated natural stone, until almost half a high building.

Construction is limasan mejemuk roof, which closed with tile. On top of the tower there limasan coated with the metal plate. There penebalan on the parapet wall and form. Teritisan quite wide. There is a veranda on the part of each Entrance. Dinaungi by this porch roof, which is the main building, and is not supported by columns or console. Entrance doors have a double-leaf form with a panel of thick wood. Lighting can be entered directly into the building.

At the Cathedral of the original location to be used as Dienst Voor Volks Gezeondheid or Health in the Dutch colonial era. In the year 1926 the land was then purchased by a church administrator. Since it is revamped office building into a Catholic church. Building and then be the position where the bishop.

Design building designed by Dutch architect J.Th.Van Oyen assisted konstruktor Kleiverde. Year 1937 was held restoration and expansion Cathedral, as stated in the letter of Bishop of Batavia on 20 December 1937 to Pater PC which serves as a temporary Kerk en-Armbestuur.

On August 9, Central Java inaugurated in 1940 as the Apostolic vikarist under the command of mgr. A. Soegijopranoto, S.J. as the first primate in Indonesia. Church has an official name of the Virgin Mary Queen of Santa Rosario then developed into the Holy Church Cathedral.

To achieve this Randusari Church cathedral is quite easy (see the map). If you know less Semarang, you can use the city transportation / microbus and city buses that pass through any area of Tugu Muda. When you depart from the Simpang Lima area of increased numbers please majors Karang Ayu - Penggaron, stop at the red light area of Tugu Muda. Church is located in the South Tugu Muda area.


Tuesday, December 2, 2008

Bandung, West Java



Bandung is the capital of West Java province in Indonesia, and the country's fourth largest city. Located 768 m (2,520 ft) above sea level, Bandung has relatively year-around cooler temperature than most other Indonesian cities. The city lies on a river basin and surrounded by volcanic mountains. This topology provides the city with a good natural defense system, which was the primary reason of Dutch East Indies government's plan to move the colony capital from Batavia to Bandung.



The Dutch colonials first opened tea plantations around the mountains in the eighteenth century, followed by a road construction connecting the plantation area to the capital (180 km or 112 miles to the northwest). The European inhabitants of the city demanded the establishment of a municipality (gemeente), which was granted in 1906 and Bandung gradually developed itself into a resort city for the plantation owners. Luxurious hotels, restaurants, cafes and European boutiques were opened of which the city was dubbed as Parijs van Java.

After Indonesian independence, the city experienced a rapid development and urbanization that has transformed Bandung from idyllic town into a dense 15,000 people/km² metropolitan area, a living space for over 2 million people. Natural resources have been exploited excessively, particularly in the conversions of protected upland area into highland villa and real estates. Although the city has encountered many problems, ranging from waste disposal, floods to chaotic traffic system, Bandung however still has its charm to attract people flocking into the city, either as weekend travellers or living in.

Monday, December 1, 2008

Srigunting Park, Semarang, Central Java



Srigunting Park is a landmark Old City. In the Netherlands, Park Srigunting concrete parade plein built to stage the parade has become open space. This park is the only park located in the old city, located in the Park Road Srigunting Letjen Suprapto no. 32, Old City area, Ratchaburi. This garden enclosed by Marba building in the south, building on the southwest Jiwasraya, Blenduk Church in the west and Kerta Commerce Building in the east.

In antiquity as a function of the park where the parade line training soldiers Netherlands. Blenduk in front of the church is a building that functioned as well as balaikota (Jiwasraya Building). This concept is almost the same with the concept of Javanese culture. Namely unity between the kingdom as the central government, the wave - a wave open area, and the mosque as a religious center.



The form of a garden square with each side along the 39 meters. Outdoor garden paths form a cross in the center space, with light 4 of 12 m as a center. Axis garden is a point firmly circulation of 4 side.

Srigunting Park has experienced several renovations, including the 2001 and 2004. In 2001, inventor Park Srigunting returned to the recreational functions. Srigunting park has been converted into an open space (open space). Previous where the park is passive. After the arrangement to be made active park, the park was created hilly trim back.

In 2004, Park Srigunting experienced perenovasian again. In this perenovasian, built in the entrance of each side, so there are four entrance. At the meeting entrance is located in the center or middle of the park, established a pole lamp lighting the four-fork. In the diagonal antarsudut in the park was built Plasa that can be used for people to play, travel or other activities