Turismo Indonesia

Monument of Governor Suryo

2009-02-10T09:10:00.001+07:00

Statue Monument of Governor Suryo is the respect presentation to the first East Java Governor who had killed caused of PKI rebellion in Madiun 1948. This monument located in accurate Apsari Park Complex Gubernur Suryo Street in front of Grahadi State Building.

Under that statue, there is Speech inscription at November 9th 1945 on 23.00 Pm in Nirom Broadcast, Embong Malang Street Surabaya (Nowadays is JW Marriott Hotel), that written: "Repeatedly we have told that our position is better fallen to pieces than colonized again. Also now in face ultimatum of English, we will hold firmly this position. We still refuse the ultimatum”.

It had declared on 10 November 1979 by Governor of the Chief of Region I of East Java Soenandar Prijosoedarmo. This monument had built by the chief of Region II of East Java Drs. Moenadji Widjaja initiative and the participation of Surabaya public.
Around this monument, applied as place of youngster gathering from various hobby clubs like motor devotee, car, etc, in the weekend. So invite the foods and drink merchants to take apart in it.

Recall Event of Madiun
Madiun event (Madiun Affairs) be a hardness conflict that happened in East Java in September - December 1948. This event had started with a proclamation of Soviet State of Republic Indonesia on 18 Septembers 1948 in Madiun by Muso, a whip Communist Indonesia with supported also by The Minister of Defense at that time, Amir Sjarifuddin.
At the same time there were abduction event of the elite figure in Madiun, also civil figure, government military and also religion figures. There were still controversies about this event. A number of people feel that PKI had masterminding this event but actually this event had engineering by New Era government (and some of Old Era perpetrators).

Help bargain from Dutch
In the early of Madiun conflict, Dutch government pretense offer a help to put to rout the rebellion, but the bargain clearly refused by republic government of Indonesia. The head of Indonesia military even consider, Dutch would soon exploit the situation to do total attack to armed strength of the Republic of Indonesia. Of course the left group that include Amir Syarifuddin Harahap, had built the strength to face the Government RI, what alleged have tended to stand up for AS.

Background
After the proclamation of Indonesia independence by 17 Augusts 1945, emerge various organizations constructing their cadres, including left factions and Socialist faction. Besides merged into Pesindo (Indonesia Socialist Young Man), Indonesia Socialist Organization (PSI), there is also other left batches, for example Newsgroup Pecked, that initiative by Dayno, who live in Patuk, Yogyakarta. The follower of this newsgroup is not only from civil class like DN. Aidit, Syam Kamaruzzaman, but then also from military class and even some brigade commandants, for example Colonel Joko Suyono, Lieutenant Colonel Sudiarto (Brigade Commandant III, Division III), Lieutenant Colonel Soeharto (Brigade Commandant X, Division III. Then also become Commandant Wehrkreis III, and become President RI), Lieutenant Colonel Dahlan, Captain Suparjo, Captain Abdul Latief and Captain Untung Samsuri

In May 1948 with Suripno, the Indonesia agent in Praha, Musso, return from Moskow, Rusia. Date of 11 Augusts, Musso arrive at Yogyakarta and soon occupy again position of the leader in Indonesia Communist Organization. Many socialist politicians and troop commander had joint forces with Musso, such as; Mr. Amir Sjarifuddin Harahap, dr. Setiajid, newsgroup Patuk, etc.
The actions of each other kidnap and kill taking its rise, and each party expressed, that other party was starting the action.
Many heroic TNI, heroic police, religion leader, religious marionettes in Madiun and its surroundings had kidnapped and murdered.
Date of 10 Septembers 1948, East Java Governor RM Ario Soerjo (RM Suryo) car and 2 cars of heroic police were interdicted by the follower of PKI in Ngawi. To the third people had murdered and their dead body thrown in forest.
And so do dr. Muwardi from left faction, kidnapped and murdered. The accusation is thrown, that other party had doing the action.

Among who become the victim is Colonel Marhadi which his name is now immortalized with a Monument that stand in the middle of plaza Madiun city and name of main road in Madiun city.

Bisnis Pulsa Eranet | Kenali dan Kunjungi Objek Wisata di Pandeglang | Mencari Blogpreneur Sejati | Oes Tsetnoc

Joko Dolog Statue

2009-02-09T08:52:00.005+07:00

Joko Dolog can be found on Taman Aspari Street. This statue is a Buddhist statue. It is said to have been made in the year 1289 in honor of the funeral of King Kertanagara, who was the last king of Singosari. It is believed to have been carried to Surabaya about 300 years ago. The statue can be found directly in front of the mansion of the governor of East Java, and the aroma of incense remains in the air as it is still a popular pilgrimage site.

A stone image of the Buddha Akshobya, curiously matching the description of the ‘"missing statue" at Candi Jawi, can be found today in a small secluded park in Surabaya. Known locally as Joko Dolog, the statue displays a lengthy Sanskrit inscription, carved neatly around its base. When it was translated for the first time early this century, the inscription was found to reveal important historical information dating from the period immediately prior to the founding of Majapahit. Translated in the year 1289 by a Buddhist scribe named Nada, the contents are roughly as follows

It is said that many years ago, the sage Mpu Bharada divided the land of Java into the kingdoms of Janggala and Panjalu (Kediri), with the purpose of settling a dispute between two brothers over succession. The division was created magically, by means of holy water sprinkled out of a jar from the sky. However, during the reign of Sri Wishnuwardhana the country was reunited to the joy and benefit of all. The ruler, of whom the statue is said to be a portrait, was Wishnuwardhana’s son, Kertanagara, who commissioned the image as a symbol of this unification.

The information contained in the Joko Dolog inscription is especially interesting because it appears to establish the authenticity of certain historical figures and events, previously known only from ancient Javanese literature. The story of the division of Java by the sage Mpu Bharada is of course well known, and refers to the reign of King Airlangga in the 11th century. On the other hand, by giving Wishnuwardhana the credit for having reunited the country, the inscription has cast some doubt upon the reliability of traditional literary sources. This is true in regards to the story of Ken Angrok and Ken Dedes, which has been dismissed by some as complete fabrication.

Yet, since the 1975 discovery of a number of inscribed copper sheets originating from the region of Kediri, new light has been shed on the early years of the Singosari period. Known as the inscription of Mula Malurung, issued by King Kertanagara in 1255, it mentions the names of Wishnuwardhana, Tohjaya, as well as a number of other kings who have previously been unknown to historians. Finally, and most interestingly, the Mula Malurung inscription appears to suggest the existence of Ken Angrok, thus at least confirming a historical basis for a story which was regarded almost entirely as a myth.

Enjoyable Ambarawa

2009-02-08T09:46:00.007+07:00

Ambarawa is located in Central Java, Indonesia. It’s about 30 Km south of the Provincial Capital Semarang and 75 Km nort of Yogyakarta (7° 15' 28" South and 110° 24' 19" East) . It’s on the main road between Semarang to Yogyakarta. In Javanese Language, 'Amba' means wide and 'Rawa' means swamp, so Ambarawa means Wide Swamp. It's refers to Lake Rawa Pening.

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There are several tourist spots in Ambarawa such Lake Rawa Pening, Train Museum Ambarawa a.k.a Koening Willem I Spoorweg, Losari Coffee Plantation Resort, Bandungan flower market, Candi Gedung Songo at the hills of Gunung Ungaran, and Fort Willem II.

Lake Rawa Pening. Rawa Pening lake is a good object for those who like photography.
Rawa Pening in The Morning (http://www.trekearth.com/gallery/Asia/Indonesia/photo805729.htm)
Sunrise comes out from the other side of the lake and can be seen a simple daily activity from the locals, like fishermen are sailing on their boats early morning before the sunrise to catch the fish. The hills where visitors can see the sunrise named as Bukit Cinta (Love Hills in English).

Reflection at Rawa Pening (http://www.trekearth.com/gallery/Asia/Indonesia/Java/Jawa_Tengah/Ambarawa/photo628909.htm)
Train Museum Ambarawa (formerly named Koening Willem I – open in 1873). The Museum has a collection of old locomotives. The collection in the Ambarawa Museum comprises: Mountain Rail for Tourism, Old telephone, Old Morse telegraph equipments,Old tables, chairs and cupboards, Old bells and signal equipments, 21 locomotives. Visitors can charter the 9 kilometers Ambarawa-Bedono rack-track tourism train with mostly 6% gradient. The train is driven by a steam engine loco which use teak wood as fuel. Local snacks will be served during the tour. Here can be found old steam locomotives and carriages which remains memories nowadays.
Railway Museum, Ambarawa
The return trip for the train with the capacity of 90 passengers costs Rp 1,500,000.Motor Lorry for the 5 kilometers Ambarawa-Jambu track is also available for a relatively cheaper fare. For More information you can contact Kantor Daerah Operasi IV PT Kereta Api Indonesia (Indonesian Railway Company, Region IV Office) Jalan Thamrin no. 3, Semarang. Phone 024 - 354 5382 or Museum Kereta Api Ambarawa (Ambarawa Railway Museum)Jalan Setasiun no. 1, Ambarawa. Phone 0298 - 91035.

http://www.central-java-tourism.com/en/home.php
Losari Coffee Plantation Resort, (http://www.losari.info) at Bedono Station, the train will take you to Losari Coffee Plantation-Resort and Spa. The resort has plenty hectares of coffee plantation. They also plant herb plants in their plantation. Enjoy your lunch while observing the landscape surrounding and enjoying the view of five mountains in its verandah. Stay overnight in this Javanese architectural tranquil resort.
Losari Coffee Plantation Resort, Ambarawa (www.losari.info)
Bandungan flower market. It's lies on the edge of Ungaran Mountain at height of 900 m above sea level about 7 km from Ambarawa City, Bandungan Village of Ambarawa Subdistrict. A very nice place to visit, cool, fresh and very close to nature mountainous atmosphere. Horsen touring to view the flowers, vegetables and herb plantation. A traditional market ready to offer various local merchandises, very delicious bean cake (tofu) and fresh bean milk. Hotels, villas, bungalows, open air rest-place, restaurants, fruit market are available here. Bandungan Hill resort with suberp freshair. Visiting the market can be a very enlighr tening experience with friendly faces. At the top of this hill there are many residences as well as resorts.
Woman selling food for breakfast at Pasar Bandungan, Central Java - Indonesia
Few kilometres away, you can visit the vegetation farms on the gradients of the hills, nicely terraced, one can even find tobacco leaves. Bandungan is also the main production area for cut flowers in Central Java. Bandungan produces cut flowers of aster, roses, tagetes, gerbera, dahlia, gladiolus, chrysanthemum, carnation, lily and amaryllis.

Early morning at Flower Market Bandungan, Central Java - Indonesia
Candi Gedung Songo, means nine building (temple). It's the eighth century Hindu temples of Gedung Songo scattered along the foothills around Gunung Ungaran. The nine temples are quite simple in their architecture, but the setting offers a superb view of Lake Rawa Pening and the surrounding mountains. Lies 5 km from Bandungan (appr. 15 minutes drive) toward the foot-hills of Ungaran Mountain ,at the height of 1,300-1,500 m above sea level. The Gedong Songo group of nine Hindu temples which was built in the middle of the 9th century,songo means nine. Visitors can enjoy the fresh air with mountain view including many more attraction here such as camping ground,hot water bathing, horse ride and hotel.
Kedung Songo Temple
Fort Willem II. It is built by the Dutch. Between 1942-1946 the Japanese used it as a camp for the Dutch men, women and children. Now, the Indonesian military use it, and there is also a military prison for men inside a part of the big building. Another part is still used as houses, some families live here. There is a big gate around it. You have to go to the backside if you want to see the inside and talk to the guards first.
Fort Willem II, Ambarawa

Ambarawa is easily accessible from either Yogyakarta (about 2 hours by car, or 3 hours by bus) or Semarang. The roads are paved and smooth — except for the one linking Ambarawa to the complex, which is steep and rather narrow. A variety of accommodation and transportation are available.

For visitor from Jakarta, Capital City of Indonesia, they can take airplane to Semarang , by train or by Bus. If you use airplane, there are a lot of airplane company that can be choose, Garuda Indonesia, Mandala, Batavia, Sriwijaya, and Lion. If they like to travel by lain, they can use executive class train like Argo Muria, Argo Sindoro, Argo Bromo Anggrek, and Sembrani or very VIP Bus like Raya Bus Company, Kramat Jati Bus Company, and Nusantara Bus Company.

Travel agents in Semarang, Solo or Yogyakarta will be able to organise private transport (car or minibus) to get you there (travel times will be about 1 hour, 2 hours or 2½ hours respectively). Long distance buses between Yogyakarta and Semarang go through the town - if you get off opposite the military museum south of the town centre, it is 5/10 minutes walk down the hill to the museum. Coming by bus from Solo, you need to get down at the small bus station at Bawen at the major road junction north of Ambarawa and transfer to a Yogyakarta bus or one of the small local buses.

The bus from Semarang to Ambarawa (40 km) takes one hour. Yogyakarta to Ambarawa (90 km) via Magelang requires about three hours. Ambarawa is a good embarkation point for Wonosobo and the Dieng Plateau. Six to eight buses a day connect Ambarawa-Wonosobo-Purwokerto, or you can take a bus heading for Yogyakarta until Secang, then transfer to a bus to Wonosobo. In all, the Ambarawa-Wonosobo route takes about two hours.

There are small local hotels in Ambarawa whose rates range from Rp 200,000 for a single to Rp 900,000 for a three-bedroom villa. The rates may increase 30 percent over weekends and public holidays, but visitors are recommended to travel up to the nearby hill resort of Bandungan (there are regular minibuses taking just 10 minutes for those without their own transport) where there is accommodation to suit every pocket and good restaurants. However, try to avoid Bandungan at weekends (and school holidays, particularly in June/early July) when it gets very crowded with Indonesian tourists. During the week and out of season it is almost deserted except for local people attending the large fruit, vegetable and flower markets.

Here some of recomended hotel that you can use:

Hotel Nugraha Wisata. Bandungan. Phone (0298) 711150/711501-Fax. (0298) 711499. email : rsv_nw@nugraha-hotel.com.website: www.nugraha-wisata.nugraha-hotel.com
Novotel Semarang Hotel. Jl. Pemuda 123, Semarang. Phone (024)3563000
Losari Coffee Plantation Resort and Spa: Jln. Losari-Kragan, Magelang, www.losari.info, Tel: +62298-596333

The conventional time to visit Ambarawa is during the drier season which runs between May and September. As stated above it is best to avoid weekends and the school holidays. The best time is usually mid-week from mid-July through to the end of September. Even during the rainy season, it does not rain continuously! So, let's Enjoy Ambarawa!!!

Tana Toraja : Land of The Heavenly Kings

2008-12-26T23:24:00.000+07:00

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.

Unforgettable Borneo!

2008-12-25T23:10:00.000+07:00

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.

Black Duck, Surabaya, Indonesia

2008-12-23T11:30:00.001+07:00

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?

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

Borobudur Temple, Indonesia

2008-12-22T01:26:00.001+07:00

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.

Makassar - South Sulawesi

2008-12-21T05:50:00.001+07:00

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.

Bunaken Island, North Sulawesi

2008-12-19T05:47:00.000+07:00

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…

Hotels in Palembang, South Sumatera

2008-12-18T05:44:00.000+07:00

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.

Hotels on Semarang, Central Java

2008-12-17T05:41:00.002+07:00

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!!!

Trans Jogja - Yogyakarta, Central Java

2008-12-16T05:38:00.003+07:00

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.

Bali Kuta Apartment - Kuta, Bali

2008-12-15T05:32:00.000+07:00

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.

How Much to Have a Dining in Indonesia?

2008-12-14T05:27:00.000+07:00

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.

Yogyakarta Shopping Centres

2008-12-13T05:23:00.000+07:00

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.

Horta Dolls

2008-12-10T22:55:00.000+07:00

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

Taman Mini Indonesia Indah, Jakarta

2008-12-09T14:39:00.000+07:00

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.

Malioboro Street , Yogyakarta

2008-12-08T14:44:00.000+07:00

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.

Braga Street, Bandung, West Java

2008-12-07T14:42:00.002+07:00

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.

Semawis, Semarang, Central Java

2008-12-06T14:34:00.002+07:00

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.

Tahu Pong Gajah Mada, Semarang, Central Java

2008-12-05T14:25:00.000+07:00

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.

Layur Mosque, Kampung Melayu, Semarang, Central Java

2008-12-04T14:21:00.002+07:00

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.

Katedral Randusari Church, Semarang, Central Java

2008-12-03T14:18:00.000+07:00

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.

Bandung, West Java

2008-12-02T08:57:00.000+07:00

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.

Srigunting Park, Semarang, Central Java

2008-12-01T14:06:00.000+07:00

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

Gedung Sate, Bandung, West Java

2008-11-26T08:42:00.001+07:00

Gedung Sate Bandung is the first building using reinforced concrete construction, is also building institutions of governance Dutch Colonial Center. Gedung Sate called, because the roof ornament shaped puncture sate. Now the building was the center pemerintahah Governor of West Java. Designed and built in the 1920s, by the architect J. Gerber.

Building on the north, there is a field Gasibu Monument and the People's Struggle. Gasibu Area and the People's Struggle Monument will be visible very crowded on Sundays, because in the two locations near this always be a place of exercise in the morning. Besides being used as sports facilities, both locations are also often used as places of music, art and cultural activities.

From Semarang with Bandeng Presto

2008-11-23T22:59:00.004+07:00

This is a delicious and ready to eat dish from Semarang, Capital City of Central Java, Bandeng (Milk Fish) Presto. Bandeng Presto is a smoked milk fish which cooked with pressure cooker. The cooking method is similar to steaming. This process make the fish become literally tender to the bones and those bones can be eaten.

This Bandeng, a large toothless silver fish that lives in warm parts of the Pacific and Indian oceans and related to the herring and the salmon, is commonly used in Indonesian cuisine. Presto is come from Italian language "quickly", but in this case, it refer to the pressure cooker brand "presto" – the first pressure cooker penetrated the market in Indonesia.

It is readily prepared by deep frying or bake it in the oven and serve hot/warm. There is no additional ingredients needed. A vacuum packed smoked milk fish can be kept for 6 months - 1 year in the cool place without reducing the freshness and nutrition.

Bandeng Presto How-To

Ingredients

1 kg (or 3) fresh milkfishes, remove gills and stomach part
1 tablespoon tapai yeast (read below), grounded
2 tablespoon salt
3 tablespoon tamarind water
10 bay leaves
10 cm galangal (see: opor ayam), sliced and pounded
2 1/2 litre water

Grounded spices

14 cloves red onion
7 cloves garlic
4 cm ginger
4 cm turmeric
1 teaspoon salt

Grounded spices

150 g big red chili peppers, boiled
10 small green chili peppers, boiled
8 cloves red onion, boiled
4 cloves garlic, boiled
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon terasi (shrimp paste), fried

Other ingredients

Banana leaves for wrapping as needed
Egg's white or flavoured flour as needed

Method

Slice the stomach part of the fishes. Clean them up using water and let them dry.
Smear the fishes with tapai yeast, salt, and tamarind water. Leave them for about 1 hour.
Smear the fishes with grounded spices evenly.
Put bay leaves and slices of galangal on top of the fishes.
Wrap with banana leaves so that the fishes are easy to lift from the pressure cooker.
Pour 1 litre water into the pressure cooker. Put a sieve on top of the cooker
Arrange the wrapped fishes ontop of the sieve.
Cook until the cooker hissed, 30-50 minutes depending on the type of pressure cooker you use.
Let the cooker cool with open lid.
Pour water again and cook until the water is no more.
Take out the fishes and let them dry.

Method for chili sauce

1. Heat vegetable oil.
2. Sautee grounded spices until the sauce smells good.
3. Put into plate and let it cool.

Serving

1. Smear the fishes with egg's white or flavoured flour.
2. Fry until brown.
3. Serve with chili sauce.

Lumpia : Don't leave Semarang Without It!

2008-11-23T22:58:00.001+07:00

After several time living in Semarang, now I really love this Semarang’s food. The term lumpia derives from lunpia, lun-pián, in the Hokkien dialect of Chinese. The recipe of Lumpia was brought by the Chinese immigrants from the Fujian province of China to Southeast Asia and became popular where they settled in Indonesia, esspecially in Semarang, the capital city of Central Java.

There are some generic name for this delicous food. Popiah in Chinese, Spring roll in Ducth, Lumpiang in Shanghai, Lumpia Hubad and Turon (Banana lumpia) in Philippine.

Lumpia Semarang is filled with bamboo shoots, dried shrimp (ebi), chicken and/or prawn. It is served with lumpia sauce that is made from dried shrimp (optional), coconut sugar, chillies, water, white pepper, tapioca starch and water and can be served in either fried or unfried condition (basah or wet).

This is a recipe to make Lumpia Semarang.

Ingredients:

3 carrots (thinly sliced like match sticks)
1 pack bamboo shoot (thinly sliced)
3 eggs (scrambled and chopped)
3 green onions (thinly sliced)
1 lb ground chicken
1 onion (chopped)
3 cloves garlic (chopped)
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
Black pepper and salt to taste
1 pack spring roll wrapper
Chili sauce
Enough oil for frying

Preparation:

Stir fry onion until translucent then add garlic.
Add chicken, soy sauce, oyster sauce, salt and pepper.
Cook until chicken is cooked.
Add the vegetables and cooked for about 5 min, then add scrambled eggs
Cool the filling
Put one tablespoon onto a wrapper, wrap, then deep fry

Serve with chili sauce (Tks to original-indonesian-recipe.blogspot.com for photograph and recipe)

So, don’t leave Semarang without it!

Botanical Garden, Bogor, West Java

2008-11-23T22:57:00.002+07:00

The Bogor Botanical Gardens are located 60 km south of the capital of Jakarta in Bogor, Indonesia. The botanical gardens are situated in the city center of Bogor and adjoin the Istana Bogor (Presidential Palace). The gardens cover more than 80 hectares and are said to be the inspiration of Sir Stamford Raffles who was governor of Java from 1811-1816.

The extensive grounds of the presidential palace were converted into the gardens by the German-born Dutch botanist, Professor Casper George Carl Reinwardt. The gardens officially opened in 1817 as 's Lands Plantentuin ('National Botanical Garden') and were used to research and develop plants and seeds from other parts of the Indonesian archipelago for cultivation during the 19th century. This is a tradition that continues today and contributes to the garden's reputation as a major center for botanical research.

The Bogor Botanic Garden, Indonesia's first and foremost botanical garden, is 87 hectares of beautifully kept trees, plants flowers, lawns and ponds within a busy expanding city of 300,000 people. It is also a world famous institution for research and conservation that has developed over many years and is continuing to do so. The garden is an important part of Bogor city providing not only employment but a large recreational area for local residents, visitors from Jakarta and many passing tourists.

These four gardens have internationally important collections of plants, and while Bogor has plants from all over the world, Cibodas is notable as having a collection of plants found in cool, high altitude environments, with Purwodadi having many plants dependent upon more seasonal climate of East Java, and the high altitude garden in Bali with a large collection of conifers and Indonesian montane species.

Today the garden contains more than 15,000 species of trees and plants located among streams and lotus ponds. There are 400 types of exceptional palms to be found along the extensive lawns and avenues, helping the gardens create a refuge for more than 50 different varieties of birds and for groups of bats roosting high in the trees. The bats can be easily detected by the noise they make while competing for space under the canopies. The orchid houses contain some 3000 varieties.

Amusement Park in Bogor, West Java

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Bogor is a city in West Java with a population of approximately 800,000 people in the CBD area and 2,000,000 in suburban area, bringing a total of 3 million population. It was the capital of Indonesia during the British occupation under Stamford Raffles and was used as the capital by the Dutch during the dry season, then known as Buitenzorg (meaning "beyond worry").

Bogor boasts a presidential palace, a deer park and a botanical garden in the town centre. It is home to the Institut Pertanian Bogor (or Bogor Institute of Agriculture) and CIFOR, the Center for International Forestry Research.

Bogor is on a main road from Jakarta to Bandung, over the Puncak pass. To the south of the city are large tea plantations. During colonial times the Bogor area developed as a centre for plantations. Apart from the tea (Mount Mas), there were coffee plantations at nearby Sukabumi and later vast rubber plantations that stretched from Bogor as far as Citereup and Bukit Sentul.

The suburban area of Bogor is part of the Bogor Regency, while the urban is the Bogor City. Currently Bogor bears the nickname "the Rain City" (Kota Hujan), suggesting that it is very wet and nearly always rains even during the dry season.

Botanical Garden (Kebun Raya Bogor), Bogor's pride and joy, the extensive Botanical Gardens were founded in 1811 as a private garden of the Governor-General's summer residence by Sir Stamford Raffles, who also went on to found Singapore. However, it was Casper Reinwardt who adopted the gardens for more scientific use, with Johannes Elias Teysmann continuing in his footsteps. Today, the gardens stretch out over 87 hectares, parts carefully manicured like the palace gardens they are, parts seeming like wild jungle at first glance (if not for the tags detailing where every tree and plant comes from), with lakes, two rivers and hilly trails. If you're lucky, you may be able to spot a blooming giant arum (Amorphophallus titanum), the world's tallest inflorescence (flower cluster) which can reach an astounding 2.5 meters — but, alas, smells like rotting meat. Open from 8 AM to 5 PM daily, although (despite the size!) they can get crowded on Sundays. Entry is Rp 5,500 for people, Rp 10,000 for cars, which can also drive around on main roads and are a bit of a nuisance.

Presidential Palace (Istana Bogor), in the northwest corners of the Botanical Gardens. Originally the summer residence of the Governor-General of Java, now one of the Indonesian president's summer escapes and noted for the 250 tame deer grazing in its grounds. The palace grounds can be visited from within the Gardens, but tours in the palace require 5 days advance notification — however, the Bogor TIC may be able to squeeze you in at short notice if there's a tour going on.

Orchid Garden (Rumah Anggrek), in the northeast corner of the Botanical Gardens. Large greenhouse housing orchids of all shapes and sizes, with two separate halls so there's always something blooming. Entry Rp 2000, separately charged.

Jakarta: Diversity Blends Beautifully

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Jakarta, the capital city of Indonesia, offers endless surprises. As one of the dynamic city in the world, it has many facets waiting to unfold: the history, the people, the culture and the nature. Its metropolitan outlook goes in harmony with the traditional and diversity resulted from its multicultural lives. These make the city more vibrant. Visitors will never really know Jakarta until they experience it personally.

With more than 10 million people living in Jakarta, the city is indeed the heart of business and entertainment in Indonesia. It always welcomes its visitors with hospitable services. A wide range of accommodation, from modest to luxurious, is available for the visitors to choose.

Visitor should explore the city and discover the unique and exciting experience offered by its abundant attractions. No matter how short their visit is, setting up a special tour to Jakartas museums, parks, cultural preservations, and traditional markets will make their stay memorable.

For shoppers, Jakarta grants each and every one of their shopping wishes. Modern shopping centers spread all over the city. While for delightful culinary voyage, Jakarta will gratify their appetite with an assortment of local and international cuisine. Food hunters should savor the exotic local flavor or even their hometowns specialties. To top it all, Jakartas night life offers great music, dancing, cocktails and party scenes that will make their stay an unforgettable experience.

For golf lovers it would not be difficult to find places of their passion. Many world-class golf courses have been developed in incomparable settings in and around Jakarta. The green grass, the trees, the calm lake and comfortable atmosphere would accompany their golfing experience in Jakarta.

Visitors, with their families, would find Jakarta a worthy destination to pamper the members of the family with fun. There are various attractive, joyful attractions and places to go. The choices are wide. They could create fun moment with magnificent history tour, natural trails tour, ethnic tour, arts, culture tour and also fun tour.

For the visitor seeking to discover the history of Jakarta or even the history of Indonesia, they could take a journey into the past through the citys most acclaimed museums and old buildings such as: Park of Memorial Stones (Museum Taman Prasasti), National Museum (Museum Nasional), Jakarta History Museum (Museum Fatahillah), Jakarta Fine Arts Museum (Balai Seni Rupa), the Maritime Museum (Museum Bahari), Sunda Kelapa Harbor (Pelabuhan Sunda Kelapa).

For the natural trail lovers, the Ragunan Zoo (Kebun Binatang Ragunan) is a must-see attraction. The zoo is a huge park hosting more than 3,000 animals. Its 135 hectare green and cool parkland is perfect for enjoying nature. There is also the Orchid Garden (Taman Anggrek) in Taman Mini Indonesia Indah complex. In this two hectares landscape, more than 150 types of blooming orchids are grown. Further to the south of Jakarta, nature lovers can roam the Fruit Garden (Taman Buah) in Mekarsari Cibubur, the Bogor Botanic Garden (Kebun Raya Bogor), the Cibodas Botanic Garden, the Puncak, the Pangrango National Park, the Halimun National Park, the Flowers Gardens (Taman Bunga) in Cipanas. While to the west of Jakarta, is the protected sanctuary enclave of the Badui Tribe " the only small Hindu tribe which strictly maintains their old way of living till date, the Krakatau Mountain, and the Ujung Kulon National Park.

For lovers of arts, culture and ethnicity, Jakarta has art venues, galleries, bookstores, flea market, ethnic communities and souvenirs. You should not miss the magnificent cultural performances at the Jakarta Cultural Center (Gedung Kesenian Jakarta), and also Ismail Marzuki Park (Taman Ismail Marzuki " the activities center of young Indonesian artists.

For fun lovers, the options are endless. The Ancol Dreamland Park (Taman Impian Jaya Ancol) is Jakartas largest recreational park. A day tour in this park might not be enough for a total pleasurable experience. In this park, the visitor could visit the Fantasy Land (Dunia Fantasi) " Indonesias version of Disneyland, animal show at the Oceanic Park, stroll around the big marine aquarium at the Sea World, have fun at the Water Park, enjoy art exhibition and talk with art communities at Art Galleries and others.

For children to learn with fun about the stars in the sky one can visit the Planetarium at Taman Ismail Marzuki complex.

Another must-see place in Jakarta is the Beautiful Indonesia Park (Taman Mini Indonesia Indah/TMII). TMII is an educational and recreational park. In this park, visitor can enjoy the traditional houses from all provinces of Indonesia; the Museum Indonesia which houses Indonesian contemporary arts, crafts and traditional customs; the orchid garden; the bird park; the biggest fresh water aquarium; many other museums including the Museum Purna Bhakti Pertiwi which houses all souvenirs received by the former Indonesian President Suharto from heads of states/governments from all over the world during his tenure as the president; the magnificent Keong Mas Imax Theater and many other attraction.

As a dynamic city, Jakarta keeps growing and developing, and with it comes newer attractions.

Beyond Jakarta

For those tourists seeking a holiday at a tranquil destination, there are lots of places beyond Jakarta.

North of Jakarta
Kepulauan Seribu (Thousands Islands). What many people may not know is that within the greater Jakarta area there is a much smaller archipelagic chain of paradise island called Kepulauan Seribu or Seribu (Thousands) Islands.

While the Seribu Island epithet sounds romantic, in realty there are actually closer to three hundred islands in the chain. In terms of natural beauty and exclusivity these are some of the finest islands in the region, offering all the classic elements of balmy tropical holiday, white sandy beaches, and all the marine and aquatic diversions to keep you as active, or inactive, as you like. Its only natural that due to their close proximity to Jakarta, these islands have become a prime weekend playground for the city dwellers. Access to these islands is easy.

West of Jakarta
After an hours drive, or 80 km away, one can see the enchanting panorama of Banten. An ancient trading port, Banten is noted for its historic buildings. Great Banten Mosque, for instance, was built by Sultan Maulana Yusuf in 1559. The Palace of Sorosowana is located adjacent to the mosque.

Going further westward you will reach Anyer and Caritas beaches which has cottages, apartments, condominiums and five-star hotels. Anyer and Carita offer sandy beaches and colorful coral reefs. At Karangbolong Beach, still within the area of Anyer, there is a magnificent coral reef with a big hole in its center. It was formed when the Karakatau Mountain exploded in 1883. There are several shady areas along the Karangbolong beach where one can relax and enjoy the view. Karakatau Mountain and its offspring mountain locally named Gunung Anak Karakatau are among the recommended places to visit. Typical activities on the island are trekking and snorkeling, diving and fishing in its clear waters.

From Carita, visitors can continue southward to the national park of Ujung Kulon, which was declared by UNESCO as a Natural World Heritage Site in 1993. Covering 120,551 hectares, the park is home of the one-horned rhino (Rhinoceros Sondaicus), an extremely rare animal of which only 60 survive in their natural habitat. Package tours are available from Jakarta, Carita and Labuan. Offering eco-tourism experience, Ujung Kulon is synonymous with white sand and beautiful scenery.

South of Jakarta
By taking a short trip from the blare and traffic of Jakarta, tourist can find a retreat offering fresh climate, green scenery and accommodations. At 1,450 meters high, Puncak (the Peak) is a choice place to visit from Jakarta. With invigorating temperature of 20-22 degrees Celsius, the area offers attractions such as leisurely walks along tracks that snake on mountain slopes covered with tea plantations.

Another interesting place is Telaga Warna (Colored Lake) in Gunung Mas tea estate. Its water surface changes color due to refraction of light. Going further east, one reaches the village of Cisarua, with small waterfalls, scenic picnic spots, eateries and trails.

Nearby is the Taman Safari Indonesia which is home for more than 2,300 animals of 230 species from almost the entire world. In the park, herbivorous animals such as deer, giraffe and zebra as well as carnivores such as tiger, lion etc. roam freely and visitors must stay in their vehicles during a tour of the area.

East of Jakarta
Bandung is easily reached from Jakarta by train, road or air. Trains are preferable means of land transportation for visitors who dont want to miss out witnessing breathtaking sceneries along the trip. Known in colonials time as the Paris van Java, Bandung is studded with shops offering variety of accessories. In a city encircled by mountainous area, you can do many leisure activities. For those with interest in historical street " such as Braga, Taman Sari, Banceuy, Lembong and Asia Africa " the city offers 100 historical edifices, each with Dutch architecture.

Other must-see attractions include Dago Tea House, Geological Museum and Art Deco, which offers a sweeping view of the city, the surrounding valley and mountains. Another attraction well worth a visit is Tangkuban Perahu, Indonesias, if not the worlds, only drive-up volcano. Lembang is another place to visit if you would like to see, enjoy feel fresh air and scent of fresh various vegetables from its farming.

Away from Jakarta
In terms of tourism, Indonesia is the most varied destination anywhere. Out of Jakarta and its surroundings, visitor may continue their visit to many other attractive and favorite tourism destinations such Yogyakarta and Solo or Surakarta " Yogyakartas neighboring city " which is well-established as the center for Javanese arts and culture. Surabaya, capital of East Java, is the departure point to visit the magnificent Mount Bromo volcano, a spectacular site at dawn. Lampung, located on the southernmost tip of Sumatra, where the area abounds with national parklands, sandy coastline and offshore islands.

North Sumatra, showcases the refreshing Lake Toba, one of the largest and deepest inland bodies of water in Asia. West Sumatra is endowed with dramatic seascapes, canyons, lakes and abundant forest and is home to the proud Minangkabau people. Bali, recognized as one of the worlds most alluring.