Rendezvous @Melaka

By Prima Widi Hatmi

Saya mau tamasya, berkeliling-keliling kota, hendak melihat-lihat, keramaian yang ada...
Saya panggil supir becak, kereta tak berkuda, becak-becak... coba bawa saya...

I would like sightseeing, drove around town, going to see, the crowds are there...
I called my rickshaw driver, was riding the train, rickshaw, rickshaw... I try to take it...

That's the piece of kindergarten-school songs that I could remember. Rickshaw (becak in locals) that was singing, because it is equipped with a tape recorder also loudspeakers. In addition to singing, tricycle-rickshaws (becak) were also dressed up with various series of plastic flowers wrapped around their body. That's the unique transportation to get around the old historic city of Melaka, an UNESCO-protected city. In this city there is a historical legacy that is deemed worthy of world heritage to be protected its existence.

Historically, Melaka is the city that once mastered by the three countries, namely Portuguese, Dutch and British. Until now in Melaka visible the characteristics heritage building of that three countries, all seemed well maintained and tidy. Pedicab rickshaw-dressed and ready to take the travelers sing to get around the old city of Melaka. No less interesting when driving around town walking, because it is in the old town is worth a lot of objects preserved, so that we intermittently stopped to take pictures.

In 1511 the Portuguese and their troops landed in Melaka and in the same year officially became a Portuguese colony. Melaka is a land base to explore the Portuguese to the east, among others, to Batavia. So do not be surprised if in Jakarta and several regions in Indonesia there are also traces of the relics of the Portuguese. In 1641 the Dutch took over Portuguese in Melaka and power until 1795. During the Dutch colony the Red Building complex was built. Melaka in 1824 officially became the British colony with the colony exchange in Bengkulu, Sumatra. After the British no longer in power, the city became part of Malaysia.

Red Building set a world heritage, because this building is the oldest building built by the Dutch in Southeast Asia. The building was built in 1650 and according to history of early color is red. In front there is a red building complex with the European-style gardens, complete with statues and fountains Europe characterized. This park complex was built in 1904. Not far from the field of red buildings, there are the remains of St Paul's church was built in 1521 by the Portuguese.

Grave markers around the church of St. Paul can be found also in the courtyard of the Church of Zion, Jakarta is also a legacy of the Portuguese church.

Another interesting thing is the Cheng Ho Museum in Jalan Hang Jebat. Admiral Cheng Ho was a nomad who lived at the time of the Ming Dynasty in China. At the time of wandering down to Melaka, he founded the temple, which is still preserved and protected as the oldest temple.

An interesting thing in the old city Melaka is a boat trip down the river. For a moment imagine Kali Besar in Jakarta. With the down times in Melaka, a view historic buildings lined up on either side. Very different are the times (canal) in Melaka is clean, odorless and should become a tourist attraction, just feel ala Melaka Gondola.

Night tourism in Melaka is no less interesting, in addition to a variety of tempting culinary offer, a time to visit the shops at Jonker Street and Jalan Hang Jebat in Chinatown, believe it can satisfy the curiosity and souvenir hunting.

June 19, 2011

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Prima Widi Hatmi - Jakarta /Images Jacobus Advelino)

Baliem Valley Festival become more exciting!

Often seen from photographs that are uploaded on social media sites are sent by some friends describe their journeys to various places in the world, always invite admiration. They were able to go traveling so far, but apparently there is an area that is overlooked.

Papua region in eastern Indonesia, as if the area is considered to be so vague, no. Seeing the potential that exists there, it even looks and tourists from America, Australia and Europe like this region, thanks to promotion via the internet and travel agents in various countries.

Besides the charm that can not be doubted in the tourist area of ​​Raja Ampat is widely recognized by the sport diving enthusiasts, there are many top events in the region. For example, the new ending is Sentani Lake Festival, and now that will be held in early August, exactly on December 8 to 11 August 2012.

Baliem Valley Festival is a unique celebration of the Dani tribe, Papua, held in the foothills of Mountains Jayawijaya called the Baliem Valley. Festival as an example it is better known in other parts of the world, Europe for example. Travel agents from Europe include this event in their travel agenda as one of the festival is worth selling to the public tours.

Travelers have the unique offerings of local attractions in the form of war dance, traditional dances about nature, traditional songs, and do not forget the uniqueness of local handicrafts. If you've visited other parts of the world, but that this would not be found in other parts of the world.

Natural charm than the Raja Ampat region can also be seen in this valley, mountain ranges, lakes, rivers, white sand, and most importantly 'eternal snow' which comes from the mountains of Jayawijaya.

Baliem valley may be difficult to gain access to it, but when looking at the frequency of flights from Jakarta, all possible, as soon as you arrive at Wamena Airport, all possible to achieve the goal. Likewise, accommodation, other than a resort that has been built in several locations that facilitate tourists. There is also a homestay with an atmosphere typical of the Baliem Valley.

If you like adventure, it's here!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Source MPPI, travelKompas, Ministry of Tourism and the Creative Economy /Images Daniel Rattu)

Is it safe travel to a foreign countries?

Frequent cases of pickpocketing of tourists who were walking in a tourist destination, there is a habit that must be considered in travelers not to bring money in cash and a large amount.

Pickpockets continue to roam in the countries of the popular tourist destination, not necessarily a popular tourist destination and tourists feel safe in all respects. Looks like the pickpockets in these countries already know the habits of tourists keep the cash and carry in their purse.

When you are photographed with a fun, forgetting someone is targeting your bag. Several other locations need to watch out for example in restaurants, then the bag is placed under/on the floor when going to pay at the cashier, but for a moment and buum... Bags are flying move, gone!

Some tips from a website travel can be a guide.

1. The crime rate. Get to know the specifics of a destination country, crime rates and terms associated with it. Avoid a particular region for tourists, because the area is usually always exist in any country, even though developed countries.
2. Learn a tourist destination. The evil of what usually happens in the country. Avoid dubious places, such as dark alleys and slums. Note also the crime in some countries is often more due to the influence of alcohol.
3. Emergency numbers. Keep police numbers, embassy of the country. If necessary to report to the embassy. Who can be contacted and others.
4. Habits of local communities. Learn about their culture, customs different from the local population. OK sign with thumb it means not polite in Greece. Trouble is not that a problem?
5. Clothing worn. Whether the area could receive a person uses a minimal clothing? Likewise, do not be too fancy!
6. Inconspicuous appearance. Avoid expensive jewelry. No need to also give the impression you are a tourist, accessories, bags, camera use only when necessary.
7. Avoid excessive friendliness. In the countries of destination, it could be misinterpreted friendliness. Especially for female tourists, there will be a tremendous misunderstanding there! Talk politely and taste, without the need to tell all about you, including a place to stay.
8. Distribute important documents. Important to avoid extreme situations. Credit cards, money, identity cards and passports in different places, to avoid the situation you are robbed, you still have a supply of cash. Photocopy of passport or passport scan in a private e-mail.
9. Transportation. Travelers who arrive at the Soekarno-Hatta Airport has been given the message to use a taxi, for example "Bluebird Taxi". Similarly, when you into another country, look at vehicles and transportation equipment are recommended. Recommendations can be asked at the hotel, carefully and note the taxi number and driver name. Similarly, choose a seat near the bus driver while riding the bus and choose a crowded carriage on the train.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Source A Purwanto, N General, G Karyo, travelKompas /Images Nina Helena)

Sir Paul McCartney at London Olympics 2012 Opening

Don't carry the world upon your shoulders
For well you know that it's a fool who plays it cool
By making his world a little colder
Na na na na na na na na na

That's the piece of lyric chorus song "Hey Jude" by Sir Paul McCartney at the Olympics 2012 Opening event, Friday, July 27, 2012 at London times. A single from 1968, sung over 40 years ago when closing the opening in front of about 80,000 thousand spectators and athletes as well as official present at the Olympic Stadium.

Perhaps the spectacular atmosphere at the opening ceremony that make the audience is not aware, if Sir Paul had forgotten a few pieces of the lyrics of the song, he realized it had forgotten the lyrics, but continued to sing.

Actually at that time he wanted to start over, but again the audience whistles sound makes it even more excitement, the audience does not matter. They're all excited!

To his surprise, an error in the Olympics, "Hey audience. Listen, welcome to the UK. I just wanted to stop the song, a little while. We'll start it again," he said citing an interview in Shortlist magazine.

Despite this, the entire series of events took place the great opening, Oscar-winning director, Danny Boyle, English-style opening ceremony featuring the elegant show, but full of humor. Especially during the opening scenes of the scenario script by Queen Elizabeth II, who was picked up by James Bond actor Daniel Craig, the audience stunned when they jumped out from a helicopter using the parachutes.

A dazzling sequence of events, Britain from the agriculture era in the 18th century turned to the Industrial Revolution in the 19th century, up to modern times decorated with pop and rock songs that entertaining. The Rolling Stones, The Beatles, David Bowie, Pink Floyd and so on, the audience completely satisfied.

London is really a tourist destination today, even the average rate per room hotel in the city of London showed a decrease of the average room rate of 160 pounds per night in early July 2012, down from an average of 202 pounds at the beginning of June 2012. One reason is a new hotel that opened in London this month.

London Olympic 2012 has continued until August, tourist sports fans would have the option to drop them there today.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Source D Joko, lipsusKompas, YouTube, list.co.uk /Images buzznow, D Joko)

Sail Morotai began in the late of July 2012

Port city of Darwin will be crowded of an sailboats event located precisely in the Strait of Darwin, Australia on July 28, 2012, will be widely seen sailboat traffic at that time.

A passion that invites other participants from 16 countries for a route in East Nusa Tenggara, with a stop in 11 anchoring point in the region of Flores, Sumba, Timor, Alor to be visited from July 31 to 16 September 2012 by the end of the anchoring point of Labuan Bajo, the capital of West Manggarai.

Similarly, the news was released by the Department of Tourism and the Creative Economy NTT, Abraham Klakik in Kupang on Wednesday, "Anchoring points are part of the incoming line A and line B is the anchoring point such as Pier Ba'a in Rote Ndao district, anchoring point East Sumba dock, between 5 to 8 August 2012 in Rote Ndao," he said.

Routes taken by Sail Morotai will recall the beauty of nautical charm in eastern Indonesia, through the port of destination cities, and the end of the journey on the island of Morotai, Northern Maluku as the host Sail 2012.

Morotai Island as the peak travel, gives special aura as theirs natural scenery, the sea and beaches, rich with the unique local cuisine, local traditions, it must be difference with a similar event, while also Sail Morotai related to the history of World War II, including foreign tourists who come from New Zealand, Australia, Japan, America and other countries.

Although this event is not yet known, but the northern islands of Halmahera is already familiar to the surfing lovers, the Sopi waves is the best on the coast of the island rather than other waves on the beaches of Bali, Nias, and Morja, Morotai. November to December is the favored surfing season, they will come there. Sure.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Source Dinas Pariwisata dan Ekonomi Kreatif, travelKompas /Images Sail Morotai 2012 Pages, Darwin Sailing Club Pages)

Chicken Satay Blora is not always from Blora

Typical cuisine and easily found in Indonesia, various types of satay with chicken meat as the basic materials, even if you're lucky to see other types of meat such as goat/lamb, skewers of lizards satay or other meat-based ingredients that are certainly more expensive seasoning blend along with a tempting tastes and flavors.

Not necessarily the way to try to find a commonly known satay, Chicken Satay Blora. Blora show where the origin of the seller of the Blora, Central Java. The menu is then developed in such a way that other sellers try with a new flavor.

Chicken Satay Blora made of chicken meat is cut into small pieces, prick stick with grilled skewers directly in front of the customer, complete with a typical rig satay. Long wooden chairs to eat satay, so if you want to add can order directly from the bridge of satay.

The marinade, humm... Given a smear of soy sauce using garlic seasoning, brown sugar and coriander. When grilled over hot coals rather than just the smell of charred onion and sugar to spread but also the unique scent of coriander.

To look directly at the menu making, you'll get the usual complement skewers served on a piece of teak leaves is the peanut sauce, soy sauce, fried onion, raw onion and chili pepper. then immediately mixed with peanut sauce seasoning, and broil is ready to be applied to the sauce.

It was certainly tasty, slightly sweet and spicy collided with chicken meat resilience. If not satisfied immediately add the yellow gravy sauce, there is a difference you shake the sensation on the tongue. Sauce made from coconut milk diluted with savory garlic is also delicious.

Still not satisfied? No need to rush, yellow gravy sauce poured into the rice cake or rice, and flavored skewers are inserted into the mouth, bite right away, the sensation of the tongue getting crazy!

Some of the following places can be recommended.

Sate Blora
Jln Balai Pustaka Timur Rawamangun
Jakarta Timur

Sate Blora Cirebon
Jl. Pesanggrahan 24
Jakarta Barat

Pondok Sate Blora 'Remaja'
Jl. Panglima Polim Raya No. 62
Jakarta Selatan

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Sources Shinta Handini, N Kartika, detikFood /Images Shinta Handini)

Hello Kitty Beauty Spa in Dubai: a spa with a pink color

Haaa... The spa with the pink color? Someone will go there? A spa in Dubai offers to its visitors and tourists an unique home spa.

When looking at the color and Hello Kitty character, no doubt who's become the market segment, of young women generally. True, as quoted from the CNNGo site, their market share is the "Queens" or upper-class mothers who want to get a luxurious spa services along with their daughters, they are called by the nickname "Princess". Calls that are smart enough for guests.

Leatrice Eisman, a color consultant and author of More Alive With Color, giving the meaning of the pink color, which is love, compassion, tenderness and femininity. Implies something soft and soothing, but less excited and make energy weakens. Hopefully visitors even more excited after having completed treatment, of course!

Hello Kitty Spa a spa where the first character of Hello Kitty in the Middle East, established in about a month ago and is located in Jumeirah, Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Guests were greeted by a receptionist in white and pink in a room with a classic touch of the feminine, as well as the additional charm of 'true Parisian glamor settings', as written in their website.

Visitors will receive optimal service, massages, manicures and pedicures, facials, hair and make-up with a package of care-cure Kitty hand massages are priced US$8 for children, while for adults priced at US$11.

Are you interested in the pink color?

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Source CNNGo, lifescript, travelKompas /Images Hello Kitty Beauty Spa)

The Studio: budget hotels in Seminyak Bali

Seminyak is known for targeting a specific market segment, luxury villas scattered in there. What if you have a limited budget but really want to be there for a few days? Come to find first, there must be something that can be found, of course.

True, there you can see The Studio Hotel which soon could be an option. Although the need to venture a little, but it can be picked up by the hotel for a low cost. Great isn't it?

So do not worry nowhere to be found, located at Jalan Kunti, Seminyak with suite rooms type rates starting price of Rp 450,000 equipped with furnished living room complete with table and sofa.

Some of the facilities with the family will be fun, because facility provided free of charge extra bed for children under the age of 12. Please be sure to enjoy it when the kids came along, there is a swimming pool and leisure place. Interior design in the neat and pretty as can generally be found in various places in Seminyak or Bali.

In addition you will get a facility that should be required, air conditioning, television, DVD and even can make unlimited internet connection.

Although its location is somewhat far from certain places that might want to visit in the area of ​​Seminyak, is not a big deal right? There is the way out, available to rent or lease the motor vehicle, when going around in the tourist area.

Staying at this hotel can give a certain impression, calm and pleasant with a thick atmosphere of Bali. Travelers will require an atmosphere like that, right?

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

The Studio

Jl Kunti II Gg Nuansa 11, Seminyak
Ph. 62 361 747 2665/738099
Reservation 62 361 285 204
Fax 62 361 285 914
E-mail info@ellorasvillasbali.com

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Source Ni Luh M Pertiwi-travelKompas, WR Soetikna, Tomin Wijaya /Images The Studio Seminyak)

Philippine Airlines flights to Bali

Bali remains a favorite destination for day trips for the Filipino, so the news contents of a portal on the internet. Of course, these opportunities will not be passed by the state airline.

Citing news from the kompas.com site, July 24, 2012, the Philippine Airlines has opened the route twice a week, Wednesday and Saturday with the route from Manila to Denpasar. While the reverse route Denpasar-Manila are also available twice a week, ie Thursday and Sunday.

Eligible for joy of course for the airline passengers, hopes to travel to the neighboring countries to the south, especially Bali, the natural charm and unique culture that will not disappoint.

Filipino tourists are not significant but the tendency to increase from year to year, based on Ministry of Tourism and the Creative Economy of Indonesia, in 2011 there were 50.493 tourists from the Philippines.

Philippina is an archipelagic country with a tourist attraction that is not less unique, nature, mountains, beaches, culinary and cultural uniqueness. In many ways this country has unexpected similarities that may reminds them of the nature and culture in Bali.

Even for some Bali local residents familiar soon when they see the tourists from the Philippines, which does look like so quickly established familiarity during their visits to the sights.

If they had known of Bali, was incorrect when it introduced the attractions on the island opposite the island of Lombok who will enchant them also.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Source kompas.com /Images Rakhmad Hidayat-MPPI, Philippine Airlines)

Linekers Ibiza welcomes Mario Balotelli

Do you remember his great action on the Euro 2012 soccer matches in Poland-Ukraine last month ago? What do you think about his ability with the ball?

No one doubts, especially if you are the soccer fans who saw the match on Friday, June 26, 2012, in Warsaw, Poland. Italy threw Germany through acrobatic stunts of Mario Balotelli, Italy 2-0 Germany. Happy days for Italian’s soccer in memory of the semi-final match.

Currently, he wants to forget all the things related to soccer, to undergo a summer vacation with his latest girlfriend, Vanessa Lawrens. He visited Saint-Tropez, France, and the journey still continues to a small island covering an area of 571.6 square km, Ibiza Island, 79 miles off the coast of the city of Valencia in Spain.

The island of Ibiza has been known for a long time in the world for tourism, even attached to the night life there and the accompanying music from noon until the nighttime. Who does not know? Balotelli liked the atmosphere there!

A beach bar in Ibiza, Linekers, reminiscent of the former name of the famous soccer player from England. Indeed, the owner is the brother of Gary Lineker. The club is frequented by a number of British soccer players, like Joe Hart, Andy Carroll and Michael Carrick.

Of course Linekers is one of the busiest bar in San Antonio. A lively night life there, the services of top DJs, Grant Collins and Sam Dungate play all the latest house and Ibiza anthems. Sport coverage throughout the summer, day and nighttime parties and large terrace to sit and enjoy that famous Ibiza sunset.

No wonder then if Balotelli feel the desire to visit Linekers, along with 20 other friends, he held a big party. It's a great promotion for the club, Balotelli as the magnet, especially when considering his prowess on the soccer field.

Bar owner, Wayne Lineker said that his presence became so great that night. He really spent a lot of money, it's beyond belief!

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

Linekers Bar
Avenguda Dr Fleming 12
San Antonio
San Antonio 07 820
Telephone 0034 971 34 76 48

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Source Linekers Sports Bar site, travelKompas /Images Linekers Ibiza Pages)

Bali Bike Daily 2012: Cycling, enjoying nature and win the race!

Anyone who likes to ride with a decent distance away on an exotic island? Ah, this is certainly interesting, isn't it? An event called Bali Bike Kompas Daily 2012 is intended to arouse the local community and the general public as participants.

When you see far enough mileage, it's natural if only long-distance cycling enthusiasts participating. There is enthusiasm from the general public, of course, their participation was limited to 'fun' without much effort just participated in all the routes offered by the organizers, and that's fine.

Despite the response from the public, the organizers of this bicycle cruising, the Kompas daily mass media limit the participants maximum 100 people.

The route as far as 300km over three days, starting on September 14 to 16, the route is divided into three days starting from Nusa Dua > Bypas Benoa > Bypas Sanur > Jl. Batubulan > Campuhan Ubud > Goa Gajah > Jl. Gianyar > Semarapura > Museum Kertagosa > Jl. Padangbai until the Candidasa as far as 102 km.

Then on the second day the route a distance of 62 km from Candidasa > Amlapura > Bebandem > Muncan > Rendang > Menanga > Abang Batudinding until Kintamani and the last day on September 16 (122 km), from the Candidasa continue to Bukit Penulisan > Catur > Jembatan Tukad Bangkung > Bedugul > Baturiti > Taman Ayun > Mengwi and ends at Bentara Budaya Bali Ketewel, Gianyar.

Route that would deplete the physical endurance of participants, but when you see the route, soon came to the heart, the participants will be pampered with the natural scenery of Bali, the exciting experience and entertaining, hard to find elsewhere.

Emission-free traveling well in line with the mission of the organizers as well as cycling in the outdoor area.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Source natgeo, bali-bike kompas, travelKompas /Images Sonny Wisaksono, bali-bike.kompas)

TouristPads treat the tourists who come to Singapore

A company that leases the gadget named TouristPad since Wednesday, July 18, 2012 providing a service that can spoil the tourists who come to Singapore. Who would not like?

Tourists who understand the ins and outs of internet connection will certainly not miss this opportunity, just imagine if a tourist using the internet service of the country of origin, then the bill will rise sharply exposed the roaming connection.

Meanwhile, with the service they can surf TouristPads and unlimited data access, especially the service of this company is an iPad tablet with 3G facility and Wi-Fi application is also equipped with local travel attractions in Singapore, Singapore+Travel Apps.

When you access their site on the website address in touristpads.com, there is described the cost of just 30 Singapore dollars per day and a security deposit of 800 Singapore dollars for the loan. Another case is described in detail in there.

What is the procedure?

1. Send an e-mail. Rental period, date & time of collection, pick-up location.
2. See the e-mail Reply. A confirmation email will be sent within 24 hours.
3. Delivery. They deliver the TouristPad, charger, cable and Apple iPad Smart Case to your chosen location. Payment is collected on the spot. Do Provide them a legal form of ID for verification purposes as you will be asked to sign a simple rental contract for a hold amount of S$800 on your credit card. This amount will not be deducted as long as the TouristPad is returned to us in good condition.
4. Return. Once the TouristPad is returned to us at your chosen location, the hold amount will be lifted Immediately.

Services company that was founded by the dynamic trio of entrepreneurs in Singapore are really want to spoil tourists. In keeping with their motto of its founding, traveling and technology were made for each other.

Technology rightfully so, will the more easily be found that will make tourists like their choice in the destination country.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Source touristpads /Images touristpads, J Mudas)

The Hobbit flying from Middle-earth, New Zealand

Follow-up movie fans of The Lord of The Rings will be satisfied with the steps taken by the airline Air New Zealand, especially for the laying and travelers who will fly over the UK and U.S. routes to and from Wellington, New Zealand.

The news spread in various media including virtual media, including websites CCNGo, travelKompas and others, because airlines are binding for two-year partnership with movie studios New Line Cinema and Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer to promote the carrier and upcoming films The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey and The Hobbit: There and Back Again.

Do not be surprised if you see the flight attendants in Hobbit-themed uniforms on the Boeing 777 aircraft equipped with the in-flight safety video, in addition to the carrier's current set of funny in-flight videos, you will see them complete with ornaments ears pointed like a character hobbit. Funny for sure!

The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey itself will air the first time take place in Wellington, the capital of New Zealand, on 28 November 2012, New Zealand has been home to "Middle-earth", the creation of British author, JRR Tolkien, which serve as the background story of the film made ​​by director Peter Jackson.

General Manager Marketing and Communications, Mike Tod is very enthusiastic welcome, the carrier was very thrilled at the prospect of a huge number of international visitors traveling to Wellington for the movie itself, "Air New Zealand will raise this to be a real miracle for passengers," Tod said.

Great strategy of airlines of New Zealand because this movie gives a real contribution and appointed the country as one of the world's tourist destinations are worth a visit since 2011.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Source ithehobbitmovie, CNNGo, travelKompas /Images Air New Zealand, The HobbitMovie)

Two missing American divers found in the Sepi Bay

Actually this is an attractive option for them when choosing the blue water of Sepi Bay, Sekotong, West Lombok, located at the south area of West Lombok district with the potential to offer the charm of coastal marine, pearl charm contained in its waters, various kinds of ornamental fish and the green mountains behind it.

Collection of small islands called the "gili" by local residents, a stretch of white sand beach on Gili Nanggu, Gili Tangkong, Gili Sudak and Gili Kedis that make you tempted to immediately plunge into the azure waters there. Take a look at a long coastline on the beach of Sekotong bring the beauty of white sand and clear sea water, graded.

If you're lucky particular time of the season on the beaches of gili will be found many fishermen fishing on the beach, they do not have to go down deep into the ocean. Everything looks so virgin and a sense of inner quiet, just quiet sound waves slammed the coastline.

Joseph Summer and Lisa Summer are diving sports fans, they have long been obsessed with exploring the waters around the coasts of the island of Lombok. The journey is far from their country and one day they met a tour guide, Pi'i. And this weekend they chose Sekotong coastal waters, given the choice dive spots in the area there are very exotic, though sometimes under water currents often change suddenly unexpected.

The situation is not favorable to them, the underwater current can not be controlled, on Saturday, July 21, 2012 around 9 am local time they were missing. Local residents immediately reported this incident to the head of the village.

Mataram SAR Agency who obtained the report on Saturday at 13 pm noon local time immediately conduct a search through the sea and land route using the rubber boats and combing beaches around the Sepi Bay. The search continued until Sunday afternoon by Basarnas' helicopter.

Sunday afternoon, finally the pair of divers from the United States is found in safe condition, lying limp helpless in the settlement of fishermen in the Bay of Mekaki, Sekotong. Mataram SAR Agency is currently trying to evacuate them to a nearby hospital or local government Community Health Centers (Puskesmas) in West Lombok.

Mataram SAR Chief Operating Agency, citing news from kompas.com, Sunday, July 22, 2012 said, "When we find them in local resident's house, it turns out they were in a limp helplessness state, so it must be evacuated to the hospital," he said.

They can survive, although the location is quite difficult to reach and far from the city of Gerung, West Lombok, pick-up process as soon as possible. A thrilling experience.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Sources West Lombok Distrik, A Latif Apriaman-KompasTV-Regional Kompas, Frank Benjamin from Lombok /Images idepp's blog, Frank Benjamin-Lombok, West Lombok District website)

TripIndex help tourists to use their money

Does that exist in the tourist mind who will travel to a destination country? Of course need careful planning for it, including the budget available in addition to other things that would need to be considered, in order to be a comfortable trip. Sure.

Recently on June 13 a world-renowned travel site, TripAdvisor announced TripIndex 2012 via their website. The news was worthy of scrutiny by many tourists who conduct their activities in the cities of destination, try to learn the contents about the things that they made.

TripIndex conduct cost comparisons to enjoy a night for two people in 48 cities in the world tour. Budget to be crucial for the tourists, while with the TripIndex later the tourists can weigh anything they will get with their own costs.

What TripIndex do? As quoted from the travelKompas site, TripIndex count (in dollars) based on the total cost of staying one night in a four star hotel, cocktails, dinner, appetizers and main form with a bottle of wine and the cost of round-trip transportation by taxi (two trips to the distance each about 3.2 km). Accurately calculated the cost per period June 1 to August 31, 2012.

Travelers soon learn the town anywhere in the world that has a category where the city is expensive and also the cheap category.

For example, we can certainly see Hanoi, Vietnam offers the most affordable TripIndex cost to spend the night with a total cost of 141.12 dollars compare to London that has TripIndex cost more than triple tops the list as most expensive city at a cost of 518.01 dollars.

Hotels as a primary consideration, with the average cost is the most affordable hotel in Bangkok 81.13 U.S. dollars per night. While hotels in Jakarta, including the most expensive in the eighth position with a cost of 124.24 U.S. dollars per night.

Southeast Asia dominates the low-cost cities such as Hanoi, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur and Jakarta. Most expensive cities in Europe, such as London's most expensive, followed by Oslo, Zurich, Paris, Stockholm, Moscow and Copenhagen.

A journey, wherever necessary purpose of planning. Cost, the best time, set schedules, accommodations, transportation, local culture, cuisine, language and a lot of factors into consideration. Enjoying it is certainly another issue.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Sources TripAdvisor, travelKompas /Images Wetty Sjahran)

Related sources:
1. The complete TripIndex list can be found at http://cdn.tripadvisor.com/pdfs/TripIndex_Summer_2012_US.pdf

The Traditional Satay Pizza

If you like pizza, of course you will try the taste of the contents of various types of pizza, such as carbonara pizza with beef, cheese, sausage, chicken and seafood, and others. True fans of pizza will try all the pizza before it has a special option.

Now what happens if you mix the contents together with the satay? Satay is known as a typical food in Indonesia, once tried you will like, especially when flavored skewers the right, whether the seasoning mixture of soy sauce or peanut sauce, it's always delicious.

Satay can be made from basic ingredients are generally chicken or goat meat, but then this idea a try many pizza fans home as a hobby.

Domino's Pizza saw a niche of the pizza fans like this type of pizza, they develop the new pizza variant, The Traditional Satay Pizza.

Satay was originated from Indonesia, available virtually anywhere in Indonesia, even in parts of its popularity to other countries in the world. Bids sensation typical satay peanut sauce, combined with a sprinkling of mozzarella cheese and toppings of onion, green pepper, red pepper and BBQ Chicken. No doubt!

An interesting innovation and daring of Domino's Pizza of course related to the month of Ramadan, at a price of about Rp65 thousand. When you want to try it can be found at various outlets of them.

Perhaps you are near just one of their outlets, such as one in the pizza shop at the mall that is spread over the Senayan area, South Jakarta? Hear it alone can imagine what this feels like a new menu, it would be nice!

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Source H Pratiwi-femaleKompas, Domino's Pizza website /Images Domino's Pizza)

Thailand focus on medical tourism

Despite Thailand is known as one of the interesting world tourist destination with many unique options for them, Thailand's tourism agency tries a new focus, a medical tourism and other types of herbal and traditional medicine.

Interesting choice considering the types of tours like this are also developed in neighboring countries, like Indonesia. Tourist visits to the specific needs of this increased sharply compared with previous years.

As quoted from asiaone and healthKompas site, the officials of health department of Thailand, Somchai Pinyopornpanich said tourist arrivals soared to 2.2 million visits in 2011 compared to previous years which only account for less than 2 million.

According to them there are also other types of tourists with special needs, such as foreigners who are living in Thailand, tourists who take advantage of their visit to take medication, and tourists who deliberately to seek treatment. Types of services provided range from orthopedics, cardiac surgery, plastic surgery, and dental care.

Likewise, if you see the tourists' home countries with special needs, such as from Japan, the United States, Britain, Middle East, and Australia. This is not a viable opportunity ignored. Thailand has started, as well as Indonesia are easily found where similar treatment around the area of ​​Ubud, Bali or in Jakarta and Bandung also in Indonesia.

Government of Thailand can be very alert to opportunities in tourist arrivals, of an idea like this can be a hallmark of tourism in the countries of Southeast Asia, and do not always sell the beach or perhaps a unique culinary. There is always a new breakthrough.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Source asiaone, healthKompas /Images RumahSpaBali)

River Tourism at Martapura

No doubt when you venture down the river with a lot of splitting apart the southern island of Borneo, specifically centered around the city of Banjarmasin or also known as the "Land of Banjar". The city does have a number of rivers in excess of the cities in the world, such as Bangkok, Venice, Amsterdam and Sydney.

River tourism is interesting in trying to trace the natural beauty and diversity of the river - the river and could be one of tourist destinations, shopping can be a variety of primary needs, rafting and so forth. According to the records can be found about 104 large and small rivers and 74 streams which are still functioning properly.

The city will be very beautiful and interesting if you are an adventurer, down the river by river. Excess of this city is a natural floating market presence that does not exist elsewhere, such as Lok Baintan Floating Market is located on the River Martapura, Banjar regency.

In addition you can see floating villages that grow naturally, the activity of river-based industries, settlements along the river, and the various cultures that are all related to the river a lure for a river cruise. Many unexpected things that make you impressed by the uniqueness of the river.

Banjarmasin which has an area of approximately 72 square kilometers of territory drained nearly all the large and small rivers. Large rivers such as Barito River and Martapura River.

Visitor attraction to the floating market is of course that was before the crowds during hours 7-9 hours in the morning, the atmosphere is still traditional! Merchants selling to the traditional boats (jukung). Various agricultural and plantation on the river has to offer.

Feel the sensation in the middle of the merchants, fruit, vegetables, clothes sold on the boats. This unique transaction with the merchants is when you take part in a boat that can be rented. Market moving with the flow of the river, so that the boat is always unstable constantly changing position. Interesting and unique!

----------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Sources H Zainudin-oaseKompas, M Hidayat /Images Richard S Pelupessy)

Borobudur at sunrise

Apparently witnessed a rare opportunity to see the sunrise in the hundreds of Buddhist stupa in the moments before the morning to be one special moment for anyone who gets a chance visit to the Borobudur Temple.

Do not miss the moment, let alone the opportunity occurs when the temple has not been enlivened by visitors. Well-known American actor, Richard Gere, when he received an invitation to attend this temple at the midyear of 2011, he also chose the moment of sunrise on the agenda was a visit to this great temple.

CNNGo.com site has recently issued a "27 sights that will remind you how incredible Earth is", the moment of Borobudur at sunrise became one of their choice.

Who wouldn't want to get this opportunity? If you have this opportunity, take a chance! For the tourists who stay in villages in the neighborhood around the temple area is of course allowed to enter the temple complex before opening hours, tickets available to see in the morning when the sun will rise at a cost of Rp 220.000 and Rp 320.000 for the foreign tourists.

A friend who has a hobby of photography certainly will not miss this opportunity. Wahid Ar and some other friends at the end of December 2011 has provide their time for this opportunity, several photos were taken when the object was, they were satisfied with such a special and beautiful moments.

Priceless heritage of the ancestors of from the past, they set off at around 3:40 am from Yogyakarta. Arriving at about 5:00, then see the temple guard and immediately rose to the top.

Rare moment had arrived and all is so impressive to welcome the morning sun from behind the Buddhist stupas which give a sense of mystery, for them and anyone who wants to, of course!

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Source Wahid Ar, F-travelKompas Prawitasari, CNNGo.com /Images Wahid Ar and friends)

Santika Hotel Nusa Dua Bali

Santika Indonesia Hotels & Resorts adds another line of their hotel, this time Santika Siligita Hotel, Nusa Dua, Bali, yesterday, July 17. As said by the CEO Kompas Gramedia Agung Adiprasetyo, Santika an unexpected journey that began at the Santika Bandung founded in 1981 and two hotels in Kuta, Bali.

The long journey for them given the seriousness of the Indonesian government in developing their tourism, hotel groups are challenged to meet the service for the arrival of foreign tourists and domestic.

Three-star hotel is located not far from the Nusa Dua complex, to support the APEC International Conference 2013 event in Nusa Dua Convention Center, Bali.

Facilities available with 153 rooms, consisting of nine sweetroom, 36 deluxe rooms and 108 superior rooms. The price start from Rp 1 million to Rp 2.8 million. However, during the month of July 19 promotion until August 31, priced from Rp 580,000.

They are serious to play a role in providing accommodation services to tourists visiting the country. As quoted from the travelKompas site, currently has seven hotels are under the management of Kompas Gramedia, including The Samaya Seminyak, The Samaya Ubud, and The Kayana Seminyak.

Goes to Bali, Nusa Dua, the resort where we went although it was designed specifically for the exclusive market as well. Indeed, many options to stay, after arriving on the island, is always the option to taste.

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

Hotel Santika Siligita Nusa Dua - Bali

Jalan Pintas Siligita 3A Banjar Peminge Nusa Dua
Bali - Indonesia
Phone: (62-361) 8465 777
Fax: (62-361) 8465 888
Email : siligita.bali@santika.com

------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Various sources A Sulistyowati, Ni Kadek R Riyanti /Images Santika Hotel)

Tourism Indonesia Mart & Expo (TIME) 2012 in Lampung

Lampung is located in the southern part of Sumatra island was chosen to host TIME 2012 (Tourism Indonesia Mart & Expo) event this year's on 9-12 October 2012 held at Graha Wangsa of Bandar Lampung, will be the main attraction for these periodic event participants, especially the area has not been widely known.

TIME that has lasted a total of 18 times is a tourism event in Indonesia that carries the concept of "business to business" in which the event brought together business people and tourism industry supporters in Indonesia (seller) to promote various products and services in domestic tourism to business of foreign tourist (buyer).

The event was recorded in the international calendar travel mart together with ITB Berlin, WTM London, Arabian Travel Mart (ATM), and the PATA Travel Mart, which last year was held in Lampung has been successfully attended by 77 buyers from 27 countries including the Netherlands, India, United States States, Korea, and Singapore.

A variety of sellers that are present include the hospitality industry, resort & spa, Tourism Promotion Board, travel agents, adventure, airline, and others. Of course this event is a challenge for local governments to prepare the infrastructure from time to time and even now there are 17 flights to and from the capital Jakarta every day.

This event attracted the attention of tourists, of course, seen the increasing number of tourist arrivals, especially lately tourists from Australia dominated the visit.

Are Lampung ready? Of course, some tourist sites, especially the surfing tourist destination on Setia Cape, as well as a unique destination in the area of ​​the Krakatoa volcano, Way Kambas Elephant breeding places and exotic beaches of Kiluan Gulf. Who wouldn't be tempted?

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Source Ant, travelKompas, TIME /Images TIME 2012)

Sawinggrai village where Paradise bird dancing

A friend who had just returned from her travels in Europe said that as far as she goes always comes to mind on a place in the eastern part of Indonesia. Where is it?

A village located at the head of Papua's Bird, Sawinggrai Village. The village is located in District Mansa Meos, Raja Ampat, West Papua. Islands are situated at the region presents the natural beauty of the sea and the white sand.

The problem often felt something awkward tourists headed to this region, do not worry! Is it too far and expensive? Such as information obtained from a reliable travel sites, recently three years the Raja Ampat regency government has prepared a five-village tourism in Raja Ampat. Tourists can try from Waisai, the capital city of Raja Ampat, the trip took about 2-4 hours, depending on the type of boat or rent a fast boat/speedboat from the Port of Mina Usaha, Sorong.

Accommodation? Of course provided a homestay or rental houses from the locals can be hired cheaply around USD53 per person. Built on the sea around the dock with two indoor rooms and a large room like a living room and a wicker chair with a simple bed in each homestay thatched roof.

Indeed, when speaking area of ​​Raja Ampat, always be sure, most of the marine tourism lovers ever dreamed of a trip to Raja Ampat. Are there any other charm?

Sure there is, first of all village of Sawinggrai comfortable and peaceful for a moment take us away from the confines of daily routine, watch the agility of a bird of paradise who became the mascot of Papua, dancing in their natural habitat.

Look at the beauty of dance of a paradise bird, Cenderawasih Bird. Mascot village are red cenderawasih (Paradisaea rubra) and there are still other types, the split rattan cenderawasih (Cicinnurus magfinicus), a small paradise (Paradisaea minor), and the big paradise (Paradisaea apoda).

If you took time to spend the night, there are many unique tourist charm, feed the fish or do snorkeling on the beach or enjoying the local cuisine with recipes typical of fish, squid, shrimp and other seafood are processed in such a way.

Want to try something else? There! Typical local culinary preparations, the sago palm is burned in a mold, experience seemed to be in a remote place and bring us drift away with the sea breeze blowing on the sidelines waving palm trees. Humm...

----------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Various sources of Helena Nina, M Paath Djojonegoro-Jakarta Don Bosco, I Rastika-travelKompas /Images wikipedia, Meiske Paath Djojonegoro)