Temple of Sojiwan Revive Back

A Buddhist temple located in the Village of Kebondalem Kidul, Klaten, Central Java. This temple has long been undergoing refurbishment, as stated by the Center for Preservation of Archaeological Heritage (BP3) of Central Java.

Previous research has been done about this temple, since the time of the Dutch East Indies about the year 1813, even BP3 believe there are still some temples buried in the trench area Sojiwan Temple.

As found by a team of BP3, some time ago they found some parts of the temple like the stupa and stairs, which are all separated in several places, including houses buried in the yard.

According to several inscriptions that are stored at the National Museum of the Republic of Indonesia in Jakarta, approximately Sojiwan Temple built between 842 and 850 AD, roughly at the same time with the Temple of Plaosan.

This temple is not big as the Prambanan Temple that was nearby but it is also worth to visit because it has a different shape and character, it can be regarded as the fifth largest Buddhist temple in the region.

After a long experience in the restoration process, including when affected by tectonic earthquake in 2006, so it takes patience to get back into a more solid shape.

The restoration itself has involved various experts from different disciplines and the UNESCO world body, and from the date of December 14, 2011, this temple open for tourist visits as an interesting temple destination.

Indeed, after the restoration of the temple, not many people know the uniqueness of this temple, one of the uniqueness is on located at the foot of the temple. There are 15 reliefs and each has a story that supposedly originated from the story of ancient India.

Relief is referred to as the "Jataka", a Buddhist religious teaching in those days, the whole story is engraved on every foot of the temple makes us look back, it turns out these old stories become relevant in this time present.

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(Source BP3, Kompas /Images A Yuniarso, YogyaPlat and wikipedia)

Obama's presence in Bali become a Charm for the US Travelers

The presence of Barack Obama in the framework of the 19th ASEAN Summit in Nusa Dua Bali on November 17-19, 2011 last week seem to have an impact for the visit of tourists from the United States to the Island of the Gods, Bali.

Implementation of the ASEAN Summit which was attended by the U.S. President Barack Obama is bringing a positive image for tourism in Bali. Some of the hotelier says it is seeing the level of tourist arrivals in recent months, he could increase confidence and a major influence on US tourists visiting for a vacation to Bali.

Of course this is welcomed by the hospitality, provide fresh air for tourism, especially Bali, because it is directly provide security and comfort during the holidays there.

Indeed, the arrival of tourists not only from the United States, for example the arrival of tourists from Asia Pacific countries, such as Australia, China, Japan, Malaysia, Taiwan, South Korea, and Singapore.

Ease of air transportation of the region is one of the Asia-Pacific high society who came on holiday. In addition, tourists from Britain and France was considered a potential presence in Bali, but sometimes constrained about the air traffic factor.

Bali more exciting to the direction of tourism development, especially spiritual tourism, involving tourists reviewing Temple (Hindu temple), or visit the caves as did by the Yogi in the past. Tourists is really enjoy the Pura (temple) environment in Bali.

It is interesting to imagine how love blossomed beautifully, when a pair of lovers from Europe drink the holy water that flows in a sacred Temple of Batukaru communities in the region.

They enjoy travel experiences like this, happy to watch the whole series of rituals that take place in the temple compound.

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(Source Ant, Kompas, Bali Tourism /Images Asih A Susantyo, Veronica Saver)

Looking for Wild Nature and Ancient Culture in Jambi

A province in the middle of the island of Sumatra and has named the provincial capital city of Jambi is located on the east coast in the central part of Sumatra Island.

Interesting region with the Malay culture that is still firmly attached within the population there. What is interesting when we arrived in this region?

Jambi has at least two things that could be an attraction to tourists when visiting Jambi, namely the wild and cultural attractions. Call it the Mount Kerinci or the Batanghari River which divides the city of Jambi into two parts, one side of the north and one south.

There was also potential for historical tourism which is still in development and continue to experience restoration, which is the site of the temple complex is located at Muarojambi in Muaro Sebo, City of Jambi District.

There is another idol island has beautiful natural scenery, Geopark National Park that is still in the middle of the studies as well as a myriad of other unique places.

A city which is also the name of the province, Jambi, interesting place to visit with many interesting historical sites with the legend, the city comfortable and safe after Bali, it is appropriate to visit for free from the chaotic situation.

Geopark became one tourist attraction in this region, nature of the fossil remains of flora and fauna of the old sea 250-290 million years ago in the state is still intact and is second to none in the world, especially in geology palaentology. There is also many legends of the past in this area, pent became hereditary since the ancestors of the Malays as well as traces of cultural sites with the charm of Muarojambi Buddhist belief in the kingdom of Srivijaya.

Many mysteries and unique characteristics are not revealed wide and into a tourist attraction for the tourists who love the trail of ancient history tour in the region.

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(Source ANT, Department of Culture and Tourism /Images Dok Budpar, Jambi Tourism)

Sambal, Prepare to Burn Your Tongue!

It's no accident when the famous travel guides site, Lonely Planet says that Sambal (Hot chilli sauce) is one kind of the spice that are best able to burn your tongue!

At the dinner table are a variety of foods, then you think to take a spoon and tried to make a sauce that could burn the tongue, as rendang which is known as one of the world's finest food, sauce also can not be eaten, but complement our food.

Sambal became a friends of food, when we're eating fish or meat, and it can make us feel like we were on the oven. Surprisingly, for those who have tried will become addicted and less complete when no sauce on the table.

According to the wikipedia site, sambal is a chili-based sauce which is normally used as a condiment. Sambals are popular in Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, the southern Philippines and Sri Lanka, as well as in the Netherlands and in Suriname through Javanese influence. Sambal is a Javanese origin loan-word (sauce) of Indonesian.

Typically made from a variety of chili peppers and is sometimes a substitute for fresh chilis. It can be extremely spicy for the uninitiated. Some ready-made sambals are available at exotic food markets or gourmet departments in supermarkets in many countries.

Lonely Planet site make a list of foods in the world that can burn our tongues, as follows:

1. Bhut Jolokia, India.
2. Thai Yam, Thailand.
3. Sambal (hot chili), Indonesia.
4. Phaal, India.
5. Hot Pot Sichuan, China.
6. Peruvian Cau Cau, Peru.
7. Jamaican Jerk, Jamaica.
8. Habanero Salsa Yucatán, Mexico.
9. West African Pepper Soup, Africa.
10. Vindaloo, India.

Spicy food is tempting flavors, food is much more enjoyable when equipped with this ingredient as a complement to any meal. Fried chicken, grilled fish to vegetables can be added with spicy seasoning to taste its spicy.

Spicy and feels tasty and happy, come on!

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(Various sources /Images bumbudapur, petitchef)

Cheap Accommodation in Singapore?

Trips to some countries would be enjoyable, especially when we know what to do there. Travel to Singapore no longer a luxury, anyone can travel cheaply and easily.

Overseas travel to show tourist activities is no longer simply an additional activity, but has become a major requirement that done routinely.

Many things can be done while on this island country, but it would be a hassle when we want to find a cheap lodging, especially if the trip lasts for a long time. Is there any way out?

Indeed there are many lodgings with different kinds and types, star hotels, hostels, backpacker's inn, guest houses, to apartments spread in several key areas such as areas of Little India, Bugis, Katong, Orchard, Chinatown, Katong/Geylang, and western regions.

Hotel certainly convenient, but quite expensive and require a good plans order to finance the trip, there is an alternative staying in a hostel with low prices, with prices ranging from 12 to 50 Singapore dollars.

Available rooms consisting of single beds to dorm-bed (such as dormitories) with a capacity of up to 20 people. The services provided from a private air-conditioned rooms with bathroom inside or share rooms that are only using the AC or fan, with a separate bathroom outside.

What if we are traveling with the entire family or a gang with friends, often staying in hostels is less convenient. The solution is available, although the room and the bed is not as good as the hotel was an unoccupied apartment and left empty by their owners.

These apartments are located in a strategic area, close to the mall, and also traversed by public transport. Unlike the hotel or other lodging, apartment is a converted residence as a place of accommodation, especially for tourists who are not too concerned with services such as in a typical hotel.

Apartments have facilities like an inn, such as air-conditioned rooms, hot or cold water, kitchen, laundry, dining room, living room, and "sharing" bathroom, so that we can manage their own apartment.

Most rental apartments is the usual residence is modified in such a way as resembling an inn and run by a manager assisted by an aide with a fairly cheap rents, between 70 and 180 Singapore dollars.

Where we can find an apartment like this? Try to visit the Lucky Plaza Apartment in Orchard Road, a favorite because of its location near the MRT Station and shopping places in a very famous Orchard Road.

In addition to apartments in Orchard and surrounding areas there are still other alternatives, namely a rental house at once, not only per room, each 3-4 rooms, complete with living room, kitchen and yard.

Several other locations can be found rental apartments daily, like in the Chinatown area, as well as some other areas there is an ordinary house, condo, or apartment.

There is always the best way to enjoy travel, certainly by conducting a survey first.

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(Various sources of E Witanto, A Kumastuty, B Sulis, Kompas /Images Nadia Yuli)

Banua Wuhu, The Extreme Burning Diving Place!

Diving enthusiasts would really like a choice location of the diving spot, they have recognized diving spot well. White sand, clear sea water, coral reefs and colorful fish is the location that most places for a vacation and diving.

When the Raja Ampat become one of the favorite places of divers and the most ideal location in the current marine tourism with scenic beauty that is second to none anywhere else, then do not always feel satisfied when've never tried dive sites in Banua Wuhu.

It is located around the islands of Sangihe, North Sulawesi. An extreme region because of the volcano under the sea, strange flavor dive sites for divers, when entering the area of depth.

Banua Wuhu, so the local people call the mountain and located only 300 meters from the southwest side of the island of Mahengetang. Point of discharge crater of the mountain is marked by bubbles in the rocks at a depth of 8 meters.

While in the other dive sites, divers found the clear water with temperatures cold enough and even the water is clean enough and safe to drink, then Banua Wuhu in very different circumstances, the average water temperature at depths reaching 37-38 degrees Celsius.

In a number of holes, out of hot water which seems capable of making their bare hands blistered when to try to reach into it. If not careful the heat of the bubble can cause burns. Sometimes divers can also listen to the roar of the volcano.

This really be a breathtaking dives experience, divers must have a high vigilance in order to enter the area of a certain depth.

Not only Raja Ampat are able to make a charm with a sail on the sidelines of the small islands, there is a sensation when the ship carrying the slip between the small islands, the area was rich with Mahengetang island of marine life, enjoy also the beauty of coral colonies that is so dense and healthy lay at a depth of 10 to 20 meters.

Local people have a ceremony of traditional beliefs, “Tulude ritual”, which held annually in late January, the ceremony is to invite the attention of the entire population.

Local residents discovered a two-way tunnel under the sea through and two weeks before the ritual ceremony, a traditional elders (‘Tetua Adat’) will dive with a white plate of gold into the hallway as an offering to Banua Wuhu gods not wrath.

Ancient traditions are still maintained there adds to the uniqueness of the Banua Wuhu diving area.

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(Source District of Sangihe /Images District of Sangihe, Ocean Rover Cruises)

Mount Bromo, Deadly but Fascinating

Many of the enchanting mountain in the world, tourists like to see for themselves directly with a blend of stunning mountains of this.

Mount Bromo is an active volcano that attracts tourists because of its status as the active volcano. The name of the mountain is derived from Sanskrit/Old Javanese: Brahma, one of the main Hindu Gods.

This mountain erupted regularly every 30 years, most recently in 2010, the atmosphere surrounding the mountains is very charming, with the type of sub-montane ecosystems, montane and sub-Alphin with large trees and hundreds of years old.

In this area can be found uniqueness of marine sand covering 5.250 hectares, is located at an altitude of ± 2100 meters above sea level and is a conservation area and wildlife and rare plants to meet regional areas.

The air was so cold, the temperature can reach 0-3 degrees Celsius in the morning dawn, preparing for winter clothing accessories, hats, gloves, socks, scarves to overcome them. Travelers will not pass the chance watch the morning sunrise, beautiful among the clouds that covered the top of the mountain.

The place is ideal watch the sunrise on Mount Pananjakan around the region, the highest mountain there. Path is the way to Mount Pananjakan field is heavy, we must pass through desert-like area that can make getting lost.

Arriving at the summit, the beautiful scenery while enjoying coffee or tea and a fire to warm the body while waiting for the sunrise. Do not worry when we were at the top, there are various kinds of souvenir shops and a coffee shop accompanied by a friendly native Hindu Tengger tribe.

Pray for clear skies, watch the sun circle in the first place only as small as matchsticks, slowly enlarge and eventually form a complete circle and shed light so that we can see the view of the mountains in this region.

Dazzling and deadly, but always missed.

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(Source Ministry of Forestry, A Barto /Images BromoTour, Angga)

Cheap Traveling? Whether It Can Be Done?

Often in a holiday season we confused where the place for traveling, while money saving getting depleted. Traveling should not depend on it, enjoying the weekend with a comfortable and happy days.

Leisure travel activities is not an easy task, tourism is very important for a person's physical and spiritual needs. The bustle of daily routine work for a whole week, so the tours on the weekends can be a way out to make the mind and body relax again.

Not having to spend a lot of money and travel long distances from their homes. Try more careful with everything around us, cheap trips with the family. Some ideas and tips on traveling with a low cost can be done immediately.

The museum. Museums are generally more of a cultural and educational attractions, ideal for families. Do not be surprised if you find a museum with a low cost. Why do not travel there?

Look for the museum which was some distance from the dwelling house, so there are elements of the adventures. For example take the train, inter-city bus or visit the museum's of the old town.

Zoo or the City Parks. This can be a fun choice, spend time in the park closest to home. Visiting the zoo is a great experience, because there you will find shady trees, a resort with a natural atmosphere.

Do not forget to bring some specific equipment or perhaps a fascinating book reading. Enjoy a snack while reading under a shady tree. For a while all the equipment associated with the busy work is not taken, such as laptops or other electronic equipment. Turn off for a while the phone or cellular phone. The zoo has offered enchanting atmosphere with the family, get big family around the zoo and ended a picnic and eat together.

Sightseeing and shopping in traditional markets. If we had been accustomed to go shopping to the modern market, supermarkets, why don't choose for this time only the traditional markets? We'll get a lot of surprise there! Don't bring a lot of money to spend, ie only the money for transportation to and from your home, as well as a little extra money for shopping.

Why? Because, this is where we met many interesting things. We must be able to buy goods that are of interest at reasonable cost. Prove that we are able to bargain with the sellers, a thing which can not be found in the modern market. Skills will be tested bargain when shopping in traditional markets.

Reflexology. Go to a spa must have been fun, but the cost is often an unpleasant wallet. What if the places to try traditional reflexology? Come into the place of traditional reflexology very cheaply priced under 4 USD.

Please note, choose a place that has been recommended. In addition, some massage places not only massaging the hands and feet, but also the body overall.

Water attractions. Of course this gives the sensation of calm and pleasant. Many of the beaches that can be addressed in your city, swimming in the sea has always been a joyous activity, although we often do. If it were not in the house near the beach, what if the public swimming pool. When visiting the Waterpark require expensive, do not worry. Public pools may be an option to play around the water without spending too much money. And do not forget to consider the places for fishing, it also can soothe the heart with the family.

Use public transportation. Surely the saving in travel costs, choose a tourist attraction close to home.

Had sights somewhat away from home, make sure, ease of access to transportation and not too much need to keep changing public transport.

Bringing lunch from home. Do this, families and children are also enjoying this. Besides being more efficient, the kids also liked her cooking. If you want more practical can also bring your own mineral water from home.

Travel equipment, umbrellas and medicine. Weather should be a consideration, carrying umbrellas and other equipment needed. Depart in the morning can be a consideration when the weather is still sunny.

Aspirin and balm or eucalyptus oil is also necessary to facilitate rather than buy at the store on the way, with the family would need to prepare for all the fun run.

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(Source kadek, Kompas /Images matanews, Irfan Saleh)

Come and Taste the Spicy of "Green Chillies Duck"

The place was not too big but it gives its own unique flavor with a few ornaments here and there, with some photos of the food menu picture. Attractive to first-time visitors who come to the restaurant Bebek Goreng Echo Asli Kartasuro, do not be surprised if encounter the duck stuffed in a few locations in this restaurant, as the name suggests, is not it?

For tourists visiting the capital city of Jakarta should be able to try to taste this resto, green chilies duck (bebek cabai hijau). Its location next to the city, at Jalan Tanjung Duren, towards the close junction ‘kopro market’, a restaurant located on the left side of the road and the visitors are always crowded. What kind of food is green chillies duck?

When the waiter come to ask the desired menu order, so many variations of the menu is available there, such as kriyuk duck (without bone), kremes duck and of course the green chilli duck.

Do not hesitate to try the duck in accordance with the promotion that have been delivered of friends who've tried it, so bite the duck meat, it feels very soft, pieces of duck meat here is not too large, more pervasive marinade sauce and a sprinkling of green on the duck to make more favors.

Duck was quite tasty. As for the green sauce is not too spicy, give some additional hot spicy, more and feel good. Yummy...

Do not forget to try chilli sauce, available in three types in three different places. The color red means ‘hot spicy’, orange means medium, and the green is terasi chilli paste.

Still want to try the kremes duck? When the stomach is still have space of and not full, the kremes duck are also very tasty, the duck meat was given a sprinkling of kremes which sounds “kriuk-kriuk”. Pieces of duck meat here is not too large, the meat is quite tender.

Ducks were processed correctly to be very tasty, especially food recipes menu are found by the restaurant owner's family had once lived in Solo, Central Java, some kind of a special culinary riches.

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(Source H Abbas /Images H Abbas, kulinerenak)

Uganda, Travel Destination in 2012?

A landlocked country in East Africa, Uganda is also known as the "Pearl of Africa" which is bordered by several other African countries such as Kenya in the east, the South Sudan and Tanzania to the south and the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the west and on the southwest by Rwanda.

Beautiful country with some of the area south of Lake Victoria can be found, which is also bordered by Kenya and Tanzania.

Uganda is a source of water for which empties into the Nile River in Egypt is considered the experts as a very interesting and amazing. Choice of experts is based on the topic of conversation, fascination, the value of travel, and other special factors.

Countries which are upstream of the Nile River, the longest river in Africa, the world had abandoned by the tourists following the civil war. But now, Uganda is relatively stable politically with a fabulous wealth of wildlife and incredible natural scenery.

Certainly not a coincidence that the famous travel guide website, Lonely Planet, choosing Uganda, east African countries in this hemisphere, as the country with the most attractive tourist destination in 2012, with many of the benefits contained in the mainland Uganda, travel to the region would also have a an unforgettable trip.

If it has been in this country, do not forget to make themselves try their typical food that consists of traditional cooking with English, Arab, Asian and especially Indian influences. A starchy filler with a sauce of beans or meat, to several-course meals served in upper-class homes and high-end restaurants. Chapati, an Asian flatbread, is also part of Ugandan cuisine.

The main meal is served on a sauce or stew of groundnuts, beans or meat. The starch traditionally comes from ugali (maize meal) or matoke (boiled egg and mashed green banana), in the South, or an ugali made from millet in the North. Don’t forget to mix the taste of Cassava, yam and African sweet potato are also eaten; the more affluent include white potatoes and rice in their diets.

The beautiful ‘pearl country’, worth to visit!

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(Source Lonely Planet, wikipedia /Images dancingperfectly, nilestownship)

Kora-kora Race Festival in Ternate

Ternate in North Maluku apparently did not want to miss giving tours passion in their area of tourism, exotic islands area with the sea and beautiful beaches atmosphere.

Kora-kora Festival will take place 27-28 November 2011, as an effort to pass on maritime spirit in the area, before the festival has always attracted tourists to see for theirself what kind of festival going on.

Kora-kora is a traditional boat of North Maluku people once used as the transport ship for the imperial troops of Sultanate of Ternate who will fight to an area, but in today's kora-kora is used as a distinctive and unique means of transportation in the region of North Maluku.

This festival is filled with lively as other events, such as the kora-kora boat parade involving the public residents there, then the local cultural attractions, and its peak is a traditional culinary feast in the former seat of government of the Sultanate.

Ternate traditional culinary gohu will be served, among others, a kind of fish food from raw materials blended with various spices typical of Ternate. In addition also served with gurakan water, a kind of drink made ​​from coconut milk, palm sugar, ginger and walnuts.

Tourists from other countries have come before in this region, and they have heard about the events that took place, given the area previously known as the Moluccas superbly historical tourist area, with numerous ancient relics, such as a dozen forts of Portuguese, Dutch and Spanish heritage of the Sultanate of Ternate and a number of coastal attractions, such as the beach of Sulamadaha.

Ternate is already preparing for all, including a scheduled air transport to the city of Ternate with the best hotel facilities there.

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(Source ANT /Images S Ferdinan, Sogi)

Cheap Trips Locations in Singapore

Singapore is one of the popular tourist destination, but there are costs that need to be paid for it. A number of the price that must be provided certainly big enough.

We certainly can already imagine the tourist attractions in this island country, name it like Universal Studios, Singapore Flyer, Singapore Zoo, Night Safari, Jurong Bird Park, Science Centre and other places of interest such as the Marina Bay Sands, or feel the pulse of Formula 1 car racing .

If you were asked, whether there are other tourist attractions there are cheap and even free? Of course there is, let us see one by one.

Kampung Arab (Arab Street/Kampong Glam). Can be achieved with the available transportation, bus or MRT, located at North Bridge Road. This area lies Sultan Mosque and the Malay Heritage Centre.

China Town. Located in the Upper Pickering Street, Cantonment Road, New Bridge Road and South Bridge Road. Try to visit the stunning temples such as the Thian Hock Keng Temple, Sri Mariamman Temple, Smith Street Wet Market, and Food Street.

Little India. Located along Serangoon Road. Interesting places to visit is the Masjid Abdul Gafoor, Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, Tekka Marked and Little India Arcade.

Katong. Look around the East Coast Road and Joo Chiat Road, here can be found where the delicious culinary, as found in Geylang Serai, malay food, and we can see along the east coast seafood cuisine in the region.

City Hall and the Padang. Not far from the area between Connaught Drive and St. Andrew's Road. There is a large field where the historic founding of Singapore.

Raffles Hotel. Is the first hotel in Singapore with its typical colonial building design, we can see the Museum with a history ranging from the formation of the Raffles hotel up to the works of international fashion designers.

Raffles Landing Site. Locations where the Governor of Singapore Sir Stamford Raffles first landed on this island. Overlooking the Singapore River, there is a replica statue of Raffles, which is white. 500 meters from the Victoria Concert Hall there is the original statue made of bronze black..

We are still able to meet elsewhere in here, such as Clarke Quay, Masjid Omar Kampong Malacca, Tan Si Chong Su Temple, Esplanade, Merlion Statue, Singapore Sailing on the River and Empress Place (Asian Civilisations Museum).

Esplanade/Merlion Park. If you love photography, come to this place, is opposite the Fullerton Hotel, Merlion Park, One Fullerton.

Bideford Junction Crosswalk. Not difficult to see, because it is located in Orchard area, between Paragon, Park Hotel at Orchard, Meritus Mandarin Hotel and Ngee Ann City.

There's charm in this area, because every day starting at 19:30, every 30 minutes at Bideford Junction traffic will stop for one minute. At that time, there will be four dazzling lighting scenarios, namely "Singapore Garden City", "Walk On Water", "Aurora (Light of the North Pole)" and "Heaven Tonight Starred".

Haw Par Villa. Located at Pasir Panjang Road, the park contains sculptures and dioramas about Chinese culture. See also Laughing Buddha statue, the Goddess of Mercy, and the Ten Courts of Hell. Very interesting!

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(Various sources B Sulis, IW Suryawan, T Samirin /Images Veronica Saver)

The Magic Enchantment of Aurora Borealis in Lapland

Little things can become something beautiful, such a roaring avalanche of snow dust falling from the sky and pine trees. Avalanche is only natural because of the sensitivity of the echoes of motor ski or human laughter when walking through the woods.

Small things can be great and happy witnessing the natural phenomenon in Lapland, Finland, in the Arctic Circle. Staring at the elegance and grandeur dancing of northern lights glowing green or Aurora Borealis.

It was fiery burn and whip dark night in the middle of Lapland snow fields. Aurora Borealis certainly beautiful and definitely not be something minor.

Aurora Borealis or Northern Lights is created due to friction with Earth's magnetic field is electrically charged particles from the solar wind at high atmospheric levels such as the ionosphere and thermosfer. This phenomenon only occurs in the northern end of the earth such as the Arctic, Northern Europe and North America.

While the light occurs only in areas south of the Antarctic or South Pole. In Lapland, the appearance of the Aurora Borealis can be too often that is up to 200 times a year. Local residents enjoyed since the days of their childhood and be a wonderful opportunity in life.

Like the rainbow, the Aurora Borealis has a variety of color gradation. Starting from reddish orange, violet blue, to emerald green. So bewitched the human imagination like a waving or belts flares before finally being swallowed by the black night.

Something true in the land of Lapland, the Sammi considers taboo to whistle at the Aurora Borealis that they fear and respect. In Finland, known as the Aurora Borealis "Revontulet" or Fox Pole who sprinted to the north and with his tail sweeping the snow into the air into the Aurora Borealis.

Aurora Borealis is often appeared in Lapland. But it takes luck to get a fairly clear night sky and contemplate the patience looked up the sky.

Although many people managed to reach the North Pole, they become disappointed and failed to come face to face with the Aurora Borealis. Always hoping against hope, and had to wait last night in Lapland can finally breathe relieved to see the Aurora Borealis.

Sometimes appearances can last for hours through the night until dawn, sometimes only a few minutes. People can not be below freezing overnight exposure to the cold Arctic wind waiting for the opportunity to met with the Aurora Borealis.

Emerald green belt electric prod danced with slow tempo. How long miles and flames on a black canvas sky. Polar wind symphony accompaniment buzzing with the quietness of the night and cries of interludes man who choked due admiration.

This is the largest natural art installations of all time. All senses are deployed to gobble up this incredible scenery. Anyone would be happy with a big smile on his face, it is difficult to explain the sensation of enchanted Aurora Borealis. Unlike the fanfare of fireworks or serenitas rainbow.

There are different with the Aurora, there is something magical and could possibly lead to psychedelic effects. Like a lost paradise at the end of the north, while the beauty of the Aurora Borealis make anyone amazed and see the world from a different perspective, new and daring.

Aurora looked at while trying to find answers to life.

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(Source I Ferica, Kompas /Image I Ferica)

Paris Hilton Loves Bali

Actually, she was scheduled to come to Indonesia in late September 2010 to inaugurate her own stores, "Paris Hilton Handbags and Accessories", in Grand Indonesia Mall, Jakarta.

This is related to the problem of her visit to several Asian countries, following the rejection of the Japanese immigration authorities who forbade her to enter the country, after being found guilty by the Court in Las Vegas, USA, on a cocaine possession case.

This time she had felt no longer have the burden, her friend in Bali, Indonesia, Rob Peetom invited her attendance at the inauguration Hair Spa in Seminyak, Kuta, Bali. Bali is well known with the unique characteristic places of its spa...

Rob Peetoom has been known previously to the wonderful world of hair care, like his HairSpa in Netherlands, became the target model of the world for hair care, which says on its website that the make-up and beauty treatments are important factors that determine women's personal aura. This is the key to success of his 14 salons in the Netherlands.

Paris Hilton seems to enjoy a true presence in Bali since yesterday, Wednesday, November 9, 2011, "I've traveled to some of the most beautiful places on Earth, but #Bali is one of the most incredible places I've ever been. Love it! #YES!," she wrote in her twitter account @ParisHilton.

Paris Hilton came along with friend model Cheyenne Tozzi, a player in the movie "X-Men" on opening a salon and followed by a private party together with the relations and Rob in the evening, the Metis Restaurant, Seminyak which is not far from the location of the Rob Peetoom's salon.

This Sunday she will return to the America after enjoying the beauty of the island of Bali and wrote it to 5 millions more of her follower on twitter, "Wow! Love the hotel I'm staying at here in #Bali. Absolutely incredible, a total of paradise right on the beach. So beautiful! Loves it! #YES!"

Maybe next time she can pay a visit to the island of Komodo, would she be surprised!

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(Various sources /Images @ParisHilton twitter account)

Komodo Island At Last!

Komodo Island with its exclusive residents, ancient creatures that survive until this century, Komodo finally established as one of the seven wonders of the world, from the results released in the site www.new7wonders.com, Saturday, November 12, 2011, Komodo noted among six other winners .

Before the poll closed, Friday, November 11, 2011 at 11:11:11 GMT, Komodo dragons have been included in the top 10 candidates and then tally the votes via the website, other than that there were six other wonders of the world, namely the Amazon, Halong Bay, Iguazu Falls, Jeju Island, Puerto Princesa Underground River, and Table Mountain.

New7Wonders Foundation said, the results of this calculation can still be changed in line with the factual computation is underway, including the calculation of voting via sms in each country that has not been completed.

The composition of the seven winners in N7W site is not based on rankings, but in alphabetical order, so it is not specified which of the seven wonders of the world who obtained the highest score.

The official announcement of the winner of The New 7 Wonders of The World Nature will be conducted in early 2012 in an official ceremony, the current process of validation and verification of an independent party on the results of voting either through the website or sms underway, and still waiting.

Come on Make Your Day, Komodo!

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(Source N7W, Kompas /Image S Darmawan)

When the Plane Delay

You're getting ready to leave and waiting for boarding aircraft, suddenly there came an announcement that said the plane was delayed its departure, immediately jumped out and you become mad!

What should you do in a situation like that?

1. Calm your heart for a while. Immediately take a deep breath and wait until your anger subsides and start thinking what to do next. Of course you want to immediately see the flight crew and scolded them, but maybe there is something about technical malfunction or interruption of the weather on the way later.
2. Immediately looking for flight information. Contact officer or flight crew to find updated information delays, or waiting in the departure lounge to ensure all the latest information on flight schedules.
3. Looking for something to do. For example greet other passengers who also got a similar problem, take a short walk to see the scenery around the airport or finding a book or buy the magazine.
4. Contact a friend or someone. Immediately do this to inform your airline delay information, It can soothe the heart and change the mood.
5. Take a rest or sleep. Yes, this is also the best way, maybe you just wake up early and when you sleep at night is less because the night before you are busy preparing for departure. Do not forget to tell your friend or some other passengers or the flight attendant, to wake you up.
6. Around the airport and look for the facilities available. Of course this is an interesting experience, just maybe there is a massage facilities, spa or restaurant and other entertainment venues. This is definitely exciting!
7. Try the possibility of other airlines. Perhaps there are compensating airlines, offering vouchers for hotel stays or free flights or flight replacement with a transit route. (Discuss with the airline crew politely that you are paying customers and that you deserve to receive payment for less services)
8. Prepare the possibility for a refund. If the flight is canceled, you should immediately talk about the return flight costs. You have to actively fight this case and negotiate some kind of adequate compensation.

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(Various sources IW Suryawan, VW Virdhani, Kompas /Images IW Suryawan)

Paddycab, American "Becak" in Orlando, USA

For Indonesian people who visited or travel to the United States would be surprised to see a similar means of transport of 'becak' (pedicab or rickshaw) as in their country. True, there are becak in the city of Orlando, but they call it Paddycab.

Although the becak transport in Indonesia is difficult to find in big cities, but in small towns might still be found.

Of course, the tourist will wonder, what kind this means of transportation? Paddycab made of mountain bikes types that given a two-wheeled iron frame connection at the rear. Order was given back seat for passengers. There paddycab which has one seat for two passengers, but there is also designed two lines for four passengers.

Paddycab operating in the area of International Drive, Orlando. This regions filled with hotel locations and hawker centers in the that tourists town. In that area there are also the Orange County Convention Centre which is a meeting place, exhibitions, and other activities are almost never empty throughout the year.

Maybe for tourists who had visited the city of Singapore also get to see a pedicab or rickshaw transport, which operates around the area of Orchard Road, so we should not be surprised if paddycab is also provided for the tourists who visit this city. Pedicab also can be found in other Asian cities for tourism purposes only.

Tourists who are interested in using the services of paddycab can see around the area, at least 20 paddycab available there, even though they will compete with taxis, buses, or other public transportation. At night, there are more paddycab because of transportation for short distances is very rare, so they take the role of transport for short distances at a rate of about USD 5 - 20 per passenger.

Of course this will atracts the tourists who visit this city.

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(Source S Rangkuti, Kompas /Images J Handogo)

The Exciting New 7 Wonders of Nature

Indeed there are those question the existence of the New 7 Wonders Foundation based in Switzerland, they are clearly visible on the web site, but the address in the real world is difficult to find. The Foundation established by Heidi Webber opens the Seven Wonders of the World Nature contest in 2007.

Previously, the Foundation is also holding a Seven Man-Made Wonders of Nature contest, both natural and man made, the voting was conducted via the internet.

World leaders apparently did not want to question of all the controversy about this foundations, they actually engage actively promote the uniqueness of the area of tourism in their country.

Leaders of the world that their natural territory entered as one of 28 finalists selection of New7Wonders of Nature following the survey and encourage their citizens to participate. The 28 finalists in New7wonder of Nature, such as the Komodo National Park - habitat blackguard dragons (Varanus komodoensis), located in West Manggarai, Flores, NTT will compete among others, the Dead Sea (Israel, Jordan, Palestine), the Amazon River (Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, French Guiana, Guyana, Suriname, and Venezuela), Bu Tinah Island (United Arab Emirates), Black Forest (Germany), Grand Canyon (USA), and Jeita Grotto (Lebanon).

In the previous week even seen in October 15, 2011, the President of Peru Ollanta Humala poised to give voice to the Amazon River region, one of 28 finalists. Then on October 20, President of Poland Bronislaw Komorowski with two of the country's former president, Lech Walesa and Aleksander Kwasniewski, in Warsaw voted for the finalists of their country, Masurian Lake District.

On October 21, the Middle East media reported, Lebanese President Michel Sleiman was visiting the Jeita Grotto, voted for the cave along nearly 9 miles, he invited the Lebanese at home and abroad to choose the site in the selection of New 7 Wonders of Nature.

Sheikh Mohammad bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Prime Minister of UAE and ruler of Dubai has also selected tourist sites Bu Tinah Island to become the New7Wonders of Nature, as reported by Gulf Daily News on November 1, the last, a replica of the island was made by the Environment Agency-Abu Dhabi in Abu Dhabi Corniche.

The Israeli daily Jerusalem Post, writes about Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, June 26, chose the Dead Sea as one of the New7Wonders of Nature. He was accompanied by several ministers.

Tourism has always been hunted everywhere by the tourists all over the world, no matter how magical that place.

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(Sources N7W site, Kompas /Images N7W, A Rachdian, S Darmawan)

Goodbye Cidomo, Gili Trawangan Miss You!

In the afternoon before the evening, the “party” atmosphere on Gili Meno and Gili Air, party all the night alternately show in some places in the area of three small islands (the locals call it gili), tourists from various countries enliven some of the cafés there. Party, party and party, an exotic island in the night time...

Gili Trawangan which covers 340 hectares is one of three small islands of North Lombok, besides Gili Air which covers 150 ha and Gili Meno which also reaches around 150 ha.

Tourists enjoy the natural atmosphere of the three “gili’s”, including when their learning to ride a horse around the island or riding an Cidomo (abbreviations from ‘cikar dokar mobil’), almost all corners of the tourist area in the tourist area of Gili Trawangan and surrounding areas (including the island of Lombok) are often found this traditional transportation in this area.

If the Cidomo passing by, inevitably other motor vehicle that was behind them should slow their speed. Cidomo, which inhibits the flow of traffic crowded during the peak hours in the morning and afternoon.

"Cikar because the use of carts (gerobak), carts (dokar) for as wagon pulled by horsepower, and car (or mobil) because their wear tires. That’s why its become Cidomo if abbreviated," said one local resident's there.

The arrival of tourists a variety of countries have invited the attention of many circles about this typical vehicle, tourists and animal communities protesting the treatment of Cidomo’s horses that used in the tourist area of Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno and Gili Air.

The horses who worked as a towing Cidomo life miserable, no place of protection from the sun during working hours and no vet who will handle the horses if sick, and no blacksmith who makes horse shoes on the island, and only provide salted water to drink horse.

Animal torture was considered to reduce their charms, attractions and beautiful natural scenery there, local governments respond to the protest, the Regent of North Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara, Djohan Sjamsu will replace the means of Cidomo transportation used for tourists when they come for the beauty of nature around Gili Trawangan with the "golf car" or a car that is usually used on the golf course.

The uniqueness of this tourist area slightly reduced, but the tourists prefer natural atmosphere presented there. That is enough!

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(Various sources ANT, F Benjamin, Kompas /Images F Benjamin, M Kretyawan)

Corpse Flower Blooming Again in Bengkulu

Good news for fans of the giant plants that have special smell, the scents like dead meat, so if you're not ready with that smells, please immediately should avoid, because the flowers bloom again in Bengkulu, Indonesia, on Thursday, October 3, 2011.

Fans of Corpse Flower or Carrion Flower (Amorphophallus titanum Becc.) can enjoy the scents of its typical smells at Rajolelo Forest Park, Bengkulu. A chance for fans of the corpse flowers to present at the location, because this flower has not bloom properly.

About 165 centimeters tall flower is just beginning to bloom, petals not open properly. Sting of bad smell is usually found in Carrion Flowers and don’t even smelt. There are still approximately one week before the flowers bloom perfectly.

Flowers are flexible and can grow in a variety of geographical conditions, so scattered in various places around the world, especially in the botanical garden owned by cultivators or specialists. In the United States, the flowers has always attracted the attention of many visitors, although visitors should prepare themselves to "enjoy the smell".

With flowers that grow in the form of a giant, large and high achieving 2-3 meters, the flowers bloom only 3-4 years, with two phases in the life alternately, the vegetative phase and generative phase. In the vegetative phase the leaves and stems appear fictitious to 6 m high, after several years, this vegetative organs wither and dormant tubers.

Often people mistakenly thought and can not distinguish between dead flowers with Rafflesia arnoldii Flower, probably because people have to know that Rafflesia Flower as the largest and then skewed to the size of the Corpse Flower that is also a giant flower.

When ready to scent it smells let’s immediately to the location, the blooming Corpse Flower is one of the Amorphophallus tubers planted on June 25, 2011 and, thus informed by Wance Ramli, Head of the Rajolelo Forest Park Bengkulu.

25 tubers are planted and about six of them have been and are blooming into flowers, the management of Rajolelo Forest Park hopes that the arrival of the rainy season will make the corpse flowers can grow. These flowers need moist environments to grow well.

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(Source N Budoyo, Rajolelo Forest Park Bengkulu, Kompas /Images N Budoyo and wiki)

Sade Village, The Woven Cloth Village

Located in Pujut district, Central Lombok, the island of Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara, about 30 kilometers from the capital city, Mataram. Not too hard to to find the location of this village because it is right on the edge of Praya-Kuta Road, Lombok. On the outside of the village there is a big signboard that read “Sade Village”.

Some tourists seen passing by in the village looking for something, apparently they are interested in the traditions and tribal life in that village, Sasak tribe villages. A lot of surprises for the tourists when entering the homes of indigenous people, why?

They were surprised to learn Sasak tribe floors cleaned with buffalo dung, of course, when using the mindset of modern life it is very surprising. But it is the norm for them, Sade village of Sasak tribe which inhabited there seems to have realized the importance of tourism to their lives.

Their village won national awards as a tourist village that is able to implement tourism awareness movement, given the community activities associated directly or indirectly with the tourism business and is able to create benefits for the welfare of society.

One of the unique village of Sade is a community that has the expertise to weave and create other handmade creations, tourists love the unique pattern of woven cloth made by the natives, in a month receive around 5000-7000 visitors who come to the village producing this weaving.

"We are afraid to worry if the tourists do not want to buy the homemade woven fabric," said Fadilah a native of the village.

When you see the creation of indigenous woven Sasak tribe, they do not have to worry about, besides the local and Indonesian government's tourism promotion, the tourists can also understand if the quality of woven fabric of the village of Sade is unique and looks exciting.

A good woven cloth will certainly be future buyers by itself.

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(Source R Firhadi, Kompas, ANT /Images D Sadili)

Spiritual Tourism in Island of Bali, Can it be Performed?

The growing needs of the majority of tourists from America and Europe that enjoy a trip with spiritual travel, this makes the travel actors on the island of Bali interested in developing a model of spiritual tourism.

Travellers from the United States is very interested in spiritual tourism on the Island of Bali and they jointly participating in the meditation, spiritual tours, even though their understanding is not intended to encourage tourists to pray at pretending.

What is a spiritual tourism? A picture is sometimes the sense is often wrong but meant more to offer to tourists to enjoy the atmosphere of tranquility, both physical and mental, tourists can enjoy the spiritual aura when following spiritual tourism.

A tourist area in Taman Ujung Sukasada, Karangasem be one of spiritual attraction with a new concept to attract tourists, foreign tourists that coming to the District of Karangasem is high enough, so it is important to develop the concept of spiritual tourism than rather discuss about tourist infrastructure, such as cruise pier, but in fact not finished and can not be operated.

Meanwhile, I Wayan Aksara, Marketing Manager of Puri Ageng Blahbatuh said that the Island of Bali is still attractive for tourist destination with a still life of spiritual aura of the Hindus sacred temple, as well as support the pura as a driver of art and culture.

"In the process, of course, its follow the rules in each area without injuring the meaning of the temple itself," he said.

Spiritual Tourism is not an indiscriminate tourism model, because the spiritual tourism are usually preferred by particular people and not from ordinary people, so it needs to involve spiritual leaders to unite for a discussion with the concept of spiritual tourism itself.

Bali has the ability with their natural beauty, culture and art as well as a very conducive atmosphere of religious, subsequently the preparation of spiritual tourism infrastructure it must be nicely packaged and in particular, too, so its presence is really hit and will bring peace.

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(Source ANT, IW Suryawan /Images IW Suryawan)

5000 Sheep Passing Through Madrid

The story of the uniqueness of Spain was never stopped, after a village that was given painted in blue in the course of making of “The Smurfs" The Movie in Juzcar Village in Spain, which is very popular among tourists when visiting this village.

Then a little walkway to cross the between the falls at the hydroelectric power plants at Chorro Falls and Gaitanejo Falls, to provide for the transport of materials, and for the inspection and maintenance of the channel, then known as El Caminito del Rey.

Interesting news from Spain, on Sunday, October 30, 2011, when the shepherds herding their thousands sheep into the streets in downtown of Madrid, in the past is called transhumance movements involving around one million animals, mainly sheep and cattle.

Transhumance is an ancient tradition in which a shepherd's head pay 25 Maravedis, coins were first printed in the 11th century, to be able to use the pedestrian path through the city using the grazing rights to the existing route before Madrid's grown from a rural hamlet to a town highway as it is today. While the Shepherds Lamb Board has been formed since the year 1273.

The leader board of Spanish shepherd, Jesus Garzon, says the herders have the right to use the path along the 125,000 miles for seasonal migration from highland pastures in summer to winter grazing in the warmer areas in winter.

The town development of the Madrid is currently making the city split in two by the presence of Puerta del Sol, the town square in Madrid, making some lines that have been used since 800 years ago was blocked since 1372, making travel routes are in the middle of two north-south routes.

The Spanish shepherds want the rights, migration and herding sheep that threatened by the expansion of settlements and man-made borders does not make cessation the traffic when they crossed grazing paths in the fall.

The sheep crossing is certainly the became an attractive spectacle for tourists when visiting Spain, especially if the schedule regularly at certain seasons of the year.Very interesting!

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(Source Telegraph.co.uk /Images Hannah)