Togean islands : Dive the largest coral reefs in Indonesia

One more dive sites that brings your complacent while diving in it. Overlooking in the bottom of the sea , could make the admiration and satisfaction for the audience. This place could become a strong attraction for the divers around the world. Not only that, the islands are located in this place also offers spiritual relaxation through the natural beauty of every beach. With the edge along the white sand beaches and clean water between the turquoise waves , capable of removing all the fatigue that often we face in the midst of the hustle and bustle of big cities. Located on the Gulf of Tomini, Central Sulawesi, the Togean island is a pearl hidden in Indonesia archipelago.

Togean Islands National Park is an island group located in the transition zone of Wallace and Weber lines, and a cluster of small islands across the central Gulf of Tomini, this region extends about 102.7 km, with a land area of approximately 755.4 km2, consisting of approximately 66 large and small islands, where island Unauna, Batudaka, Togean, Talatakoh, Waleakodi and Waleabahi become its biggest islands.

These islands, has the largest coral reef in Indonesia (132,000 hectares), with marine biodiversity which includes 3 types of coral reefs. Togean Islands is the only place in Indonesia which is the most important part of coral reef ecosystems of the 'coral triangle' which covers an area of Indonesia, Filipinos, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, Japan and Australia.

When you visit Island Retreat, you will find one of the last untouched places in the world. Within twenty to forty minutes from the Retreat, you will find the three major reef formations - fringing reef, barrier reef, and atoll. It is rare to come across all 3 formations in one place. The Togian Islands are known for this uniqueness. Here you find all kinds of reefs, from a large barrier reef stretching from one end to the other of the archipelago in the north and smaller fringing reefs as well as a few atolls. The reefs and large coastal mangrove areas are habitat and breeding areas for the hawksbill turtle, the green turtle and the dugong. On land there are also interesting animals to see like many rare birds (hornbills, parrots) and other animals. With luck you might even see the endemic Togian Hawk-owl (Ninox burhani).

There are over three hundred species of coral, some may even be unclassified, and a wonderful diversity of life and color in the underwater universe. Six new species of corals are also found in the Banggai Islands Togean and each one species of the genus Acropora, Porites, Leptoseris, Echinophyllia and 2 species of the genus Galaxea. Reef fish species recorded 596 fish species belonging to 62 Familia. Type Paracheilinus togeanensis and Ecsenius allegedly sp is endemic only to be found in the Islands Togean.

One of the best in Togean are the ruins of B 24 Allied bombers in World War II. Located 16 km northeast of the island Kadidiri, traveled 1.5 hours by boat. This aircraft crashed due to engine failure on the way back to base at Morotai, after a bombing mission. Eleven crew survived and left the plane with a length of 17 meters and 22 meters wide lying at a depth of 14-22 meters, not far from the beach.



How to get there

1. Flight with Lion Air or Sriwijaya air , every day from Jakarta and Surabaya to Gorontalo, followed by public ferry which departs every hour of 10 pm and arrived at 11 am . Instead of Togean leaves at 4 pm and 6 am tomorrow arrives in Gorontalo. Another option to charter a boat from Marisa, with a choice of departure time is flexible.

2. Alternatives could be through Palu (Central Sulawesi) followed approximately 7 hours journey by road - 375 miles - through Poso toward Ampana. Then proceed with the ship around 4 hours to Wakai.

3. If you took a route from Napier, (South Sulawesi), can be achieved within the 14-hour bus trip through Rantepao (Tana Toraja) to Ampana followed by the ship.

When the boat ride, there are things you should look. The Boat from Gorontalo only sailed every Wednesday, while the boat sailed from Ampana every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday. Both of Ampana or Gorontalo, sail boats starting at 10 am. By knowing the schedule departure of the boat, you can specify the time and the bow of your tour.

Where to stay

Black Marlin Diving
The dive resort accommodates divers and non divers alike in 15 exclusive and stylish bungalows just a few steps from the ocean. A mosquito net is mounted on every bed. A hammock is available on the terrace where you can hang out in the evening, relax and enjoy the panoramic sunset view with a cool drink in your hand. All rooms and bungalows are clean and equipped with western style toilets. Please keep in mind that Kadidiri is a remote island, away from big towns and cities, so shopping possibilities are limited. Everything used on Kadidiri, including water, has to be carried to the island by boat.

Walea Dive resort
The Walea Dive Resort is situated in a private area on the island of Waleabahi, in the centre of the Protected Area. It is small and exclusive with only 14 recently enlarged and renovated bungalows that look directly out onto the sea. Located right on the equator and protected by the large Gulf of Tomini, it is always summer here thanks to the microclimate which keeps the monsoon rains at bay.


Kadidiri Paradise Resort
For those with higher budgets, this is the nicest resort in the Togeans. The posh bungalows have decks with a view and the grounds are meticulously maintained. The dive center is top-notch.


 

Free ebook : Sa'dan Toraja society (South Sulawesi)

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Sa'dan Toraja sociaty (South Sulawesi )

Of Indonesia’s thousands of islands, Sulawesi is among the largest. Unusually complex in its seismic history, its geology, and its biology, it is also culturally diverse. Much as its mysterious shape, its vast central forests and its unique flora and fauna may have excited the imagination of outsiders, large parts of it remained unknown to Europeans until the late nineteenth century. Even its name remains something of an enigma. Although the famously seafaring Bugis of South Sulawesi were undoubtedly acquainted with the hole island, they appear not to have given it a single name, but instead referred to its different parts by the names of kingdoms or the peoples residing in each region. The Portuguese traveller Tomé Pires, in his Suma Oriental (1512-15), mentioned the ‘islands of Macaçar’ (Pelras 1977:228), and was also the first European to use the term ‘Celebes’ in writing, though that name was not used in reference to the whole island until several decades later.

Presented By : Roxana Waterson
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10 Best Indonesia diving spots

Indonesia, known as the island nation, has more than 17,000 islands spread throughout the country. The beach and the sea became the dominant region you can visit. Many of the natural beauty that is still not much explored by most people of the world. as are dive sites are very impressive, good for the world of photography, as well as nature conservation, or just enjoy the beauty beneath the sea. Here are some dive sites with underwater scenery is very admirable for you to explore. Be the first to dive the experience and rare underwater scenery.

Banda neira

The islands are remote but very beautiful. Banda Islands are one of the destinations of Indonesia's most popular for divers, both expert and novice divers. All can dive from the shallow lagoon between Bandaneira and Gunung Api to the vertical walls of Hatta Island. With colorful coral reefs, warm waters and exotic marine life. Banda is a paradise for divers , from around the world to explore the most remote dive sites , and very natural in the world for its beautiful corals and marine life. The Banda Sea in three years ago was elected to World Heritage Area for underwater paradise in Indonesia
The uniqueness : Some rare fish in the world can still be encountered in these area, such as Napoleon fish, as well as Mandarin fish


Bunaken Marine National Park

Bunaken Marine National Park is one of the most beautiful marine park in the world, famous for its coral formations are very beautiful and spacious. This marine park habitats in more than 3000 species of fish that need to be guarded from extinction as lolosi yellow tail fish (Lutjanus kasmira), fish gusumi horse (hippocampus and horses), goropa (ephinephelus spilotoceps), white oci (seriola rivoliana) and many others as well have a diversity of aquatic organisms are rare species such as dolphins, sea cow, dugong-dugong and also have various kinds of ornamental fish are very beautiful.
The uniqueness : Colorfull coral reefs gardens, mostly for underwater photographer.


Derawan

Derawan beach is much cleaner and very beautiful underwater scenery, there are many diverse ornamental fish. No wonder if this island could be ranked as a top three world-class dive destination and make this island as an island of dreams for the divers.Derawan Island has to total land surface of 40,000 hectares and is nature reserve with beautiful scenery and beaches.
The uniqueness : Colorfull coral reefs gardens , mostly for underwater photographer.


Kakaban

This island ranks as the third highest world-class dive destination and make this island a dream island for divers. Kakaban located in Derawan Islands, District Derawan, Berau regency, East Kalimantan. Kakaban is one of the islands of the archipelago group Derawan nominated as a World Heritage Area. As an atoll which has the brackish water lagoon in it, Kakaban rare. Because, in this world , there are only two known to have similar conditions, namely Kakaban and the island of Palau in Micronesia, located 1,000 kilometers from the Philippines.
The uniqueness : Jellyfish without the stings.


Komodo National Park

Komodo National Park has some of the most exhilarating scuba diving in Indonesia. It’s a region swept by strong currents and cold upswellings, created by the convergence of the warmer Flores Sea and the cooler Selat Sumba (Sumba Strait) – conditions that create rich plankton soup and an astonishing diversity of marine life. Mantas and whales are drawn here to feed on the plankton during their migration from the Indian Ocean to the South China Sea, while dolphins are also common in the waters between Komodo and Flores.
The uniqueness : Colorfull coral reefs gardens .


Lembeh straits

No wonder that so many foreign tourists in droves to Lembeh to dive in this strait. The waters is famous for fascinating diversity of invertebrates, especially from echinoderms group. The uniqueness and beauty, colorful flora and fauna, as well as charm, will surely make you fall in love with the Lembeh Strait. With over 180 species of fish already listed in just one small area in the bay, this is the world's finest diving destination for anyone with a serious interest in marine creatures, and already attracts marine biologists, photographers and authors.
The uniqueness : Colorfull nudibranchs.


Raja ampat

Raja Ampat Islands is one of the 10 best diving waters around the world.Raja Ampat Islands are in the triangle coral reefs of the world, so not surprisingly, this region is rich with coral reefs and fish species are unique and rare. Raja Ampat, like an unpolished gem, and once to this place, forever , you will never forget its beauty. Of the hundreds of species of coral reef, seven species of which are new findings to science, and has never been found in other areas.
The uniqueness : New species of coral reefs was found here.



Sangalaki

This islands, is a attractive dive destination as it is known for the large manta rays that come here to feed their plankton. The Manta 's show mostly up at the north part of Sangalaki Islands, and come from all directions. The Manta's are often seen at the surface waterline, and even when snorkeling the Manta's can be easy seen. Sangalaki and it's surrounding reefs are protected as an Indonesian Marine Park. Without the destructive effects of explosives and cyanide fishing, Sangalaki has remained a pristine example of an untouched tropical marine ecosystem. In a world where every resort claims to be situated in a "divers paradise", Sangalaki truly deserves the honor .
The uniqueness : Huge manta rays


Selayar

Selayar Island is famous for its underwater beauty and wealth. Selayar District itself has a coral reef with an area of about 1 million hectares or 50% of the total area Selayar District. The unique barrier and fringe reefs allow for exploration, as well as the challenge of steep walled drop-offs. Many divers say the diving environment is more beautiful than Bunaken National Park in Northern Sulawesi, which enjoys developed tourism and is promoted successfully to the world. Selayar on the other hand is a gem of unspoilt beauty, pristine nature and clear waters; a secret find on planet earth.
The uniqueness : Colorfull coral reefs gardens.


Wakatobi

This national park has 25 pieces of coral reef with a circumference of the coast of the islands along the 600 km. More than 112 coral species from 13 families. In addition to diving and snorkeling, you can also enjoy the attractions of dolphins with Dolphin Watching or see panoramic sunrise and sunset at Hoga, one of the best panoramic view of sunset and sunrise. An expanse of deep blue sea. White sands. Crystal clear water. Pristine coral reefs. Stunning underwater scenery. These are the images that define the richness and the beauty of the Wakatobi Islands in Southeast Sulawesi, which have become a new paradise for sea lovers and divers.
The uniqueness : Colorfull coral reefs gardens .

World traveling : Who scared ? (Tips)

TweetRealize the dream to traveling around the world is a dream that can become a reality. Although not all countries can we explore, the journey to a strange place we have never visited, can provide the experiences and challenges that can make us become more insightful, fun and form ourselves independently.

But, to embody all about itself that is not easy. Preparations are mature should take precedence to support our comfort and safety for exploring new worlds. For that, there are a few tips that you can make your ambitions a benchmark to start traveling the world with a safe and comfortable.

1. Budget Plan

For many travelers , the big problem is determining how to prepare for the budget trip . Probably also will take one year or more to collect. One solution to this situation is the vacation as a volunteer. When I became a volunteer, you will usually get a variety of other supporting facilities.

2. Preparing to face the worst challenges

If you really want to travel around the world, there will be many things to be sacrificed, one of them work. This may also be challenges from their families or have concerns about how you're doing during the trip. If it is determined in the liver was made, you may have to make a breakthrough so that desire can be realized, although they had to leave work. Regarding communications, the development of technology lets you stay connected despite the distance apart.

3. Know your limits

Sometimes people feel overwhelmed by thinking they have to do everything at once and give up everything if you plan to travel around the world. If deemed not enough you should not force it. There are possible ways you can apply by collecting time off and taken at a time so you have plenty of time for a vacation though not necessarily around the world. For a more planned way, you also can book a travel package that specializes in small groups. Early on, you can start looking website in cyberspace.

4. Planning on returning

Back to the workforce after a long vacation would not be as easy as imagined, not to mention if you have already removed the old job and it certainly will not be easy. So, during the trip you can keep track of what work will you want to look after the holidays. But if you still want to be in the same company, you might consider looking for ways to get things done while on holiday. this might get you talking with your boss.

Whatever the case, all options remain on your hands. The following suggestions may be taken into consideration before you will make an ambitious journey.

Nikoi island : Riau’s best-kept secret

The private island is owned by a small group of expatriate owners who’d spent decades working in the region. The vacation spots in the vicinity fell short of their expectations. Bintan and Batam’s resort selections offered mostly mass tourist hysteria, and the very idea of a ‘resort’ was synonymous with uniform mediocrity and packaged tourists. They accidentally discovered the island of Nikoi on a boat trip from Bintan, and the rest is history: building up the the island’s slowly and sensibly, there are a mere six houses on the island at the moment, and plans in the pipeline for just nine more.

Nikoi is a 15 hectare private island 8km off the east coast of Bintan, Indonesia. Located less than 85km from Singapore, traveling time from Tanah Merah ferry terminal is approximately two and a half hours .It is ringed with white sandy beaches and coral reefs of spectacular color and diversity and a coastline studded with magnificent white granite boulders that seemingly defy gravity. Rising to a height of 30m, the island also boasts a rain forest where colossal trees, including native Banyan trees, provide a sanctuary to a diverse population of local birds. Nature is the recurrent theme on the island.



Nikoi Island is so unspoilt , you feel you've rented the whole thing for yourself. The only buildings on the island are the resort's 15 beautiful Indonesian beach houses, each with a stunning seafront location and perfect sunset view. Affordable and far from pretentious, the resort has 2 pools, affable staff and eco-friendly principles (solar-powered hot water, sustainable buildings, sea turtle conservation).

The clientèle are honeymooners, young couples or families whose kids can enjoy treasure hunts, pirate adventures and nature trails. The chalets are purely made of wood, with not an inch of concrete, and some original tree-barks used as pillars & foundation. The openness of the rooms to nature is immediately striking, and in some way, leads to an openness of thoughts too. You can let your doors remain open at night, with the waves soothing your every dream. You'll not be short of things to do - snorkelling, island hopping, fishing, sailing, beachcombing, wildlife spotting - or just reclining on a daybed, cocktail in hand. This resort has a great views out to the sea from each hut. The hut itself is truly a great feature in itself. Nikoi is a small island that caters up to 30 guests with personalised service and a relaxing atmosphere.

Beaches are beautiful and almost always secluded and devoid of guests. A great place to relax and have some peace and quiet. it's a special place and truly peaceful - only this small resort is on this island - no shops, other visitors, etc. Amazing! If you have ever dreamed of living on a private island...go to Nikoi, now!

What to do



Serious relaxation. Water sports such as swimming, sailing, snorkeling, diving (reefs and wrecks), kayaking, windsurfing, stand-up paddle boarding. Fishing, nature discovery and island hopping. Massages. Special “theme weeks” for mid-week guests and corporate groups, like yoga, fitness, photography, team building, cooking, sculpture and painting.

Rock climbing, mountain biking, trekking. There are some exciting trails for walkers or mountain bikers to explore on Bintan and neighbouring islands. Beach volleyball, boule, Capture the Flag, etc.

Nikoi provides a wonderful environment for children of all ages to play in and explore. With smooth granite boulders to climb, jungle vines to swing on, white sandy beaches to comb, and stunning reefs to snorkel there is something for everyone. Pirate treasure hunts, local craft workshops, rock pool discovery. Our staff are always on hand to help entertain or keep an eye on your children. There is even a dress-up box filled with pirate and mermaid costumes.

Best Time to Travel:

Singapore’s climate is warm and humid with temperatures between 31 and 23 °C. Rain falls throughout the year, with more consistent rain during the monsoon season from November to January. Showers are usually sudden and heavy, but also brief and refreshing.

How to get there

From Jakarta

There are daily flights from Jakarta to Bintan on Sriwijaya Air. From the airport on Bintan it is a half hour car journey to Kawal and then a half hour boat trip to Nikoi.

From Singapore

Overall journey time from Singapore’s Tanah Merah ferry terminal to Nikoi island is approximately two and a half hours. Ferry from Singapore to Bintan Resorts (one hour) , Taxi across Bintan from ferry terminal to jetty (one hour), Launch from jetty to Nikoi (half hour). or you can use Luxury Charter Yacht with 9 guests on board. If you are flying into Changi Airport, luxury charter yacht can pick you up from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal, saving you the travel time into the marina in the city centre. The yacht travel time to Batam is also significantly reduced

Ranu Kumbolo : Travel to amazing scenery on Mahameru's lake

Tweet "From the height at the edge of the forest slopes Mahameru, ranu Kumbolo slowly appear like a giant water droplets, falling from the sky and enlarged in front of them. The water lake looks shiny buffeted by sunlight, causing tiny shards of light that floats above the surface. In the distance appear hills of pine and fir line the edge surface of the bowl like a giant green, which keeps the lake in peace. Reflection shadow pines seem obvious on the surface of water. White clouds and blue sky mirrored in the lake's surface, making the sky as moved and fused with the surface of the water. Ripples of water moving gently in the wind on the lake's surface like a soft smile, welcomed their arrival." 5cm (5 centimeters) @ novels by Donny Dhirgantoro.

On the slopes of Mount Semeru, which is the active volcano that lies at an altitude of 3,676 meters above sea level, there is a lake that has spectacular views and the exotic,(Lake) Ranu Kumbolo. Ranu Kumbolo is a lake in a very exotic lake located at an altitude of 2400 masl with an area of approximately 14 hectares take possession of very captivating charm, anyone who ever want to come here would have been returned to the lake Ranu Kumbolo, nothing wrong if the lake is called the paradise of semeru. The Whispering Savannah, you'll find yourself like in the middle of nowhere while enjoying all of the greeneries. It requires more struggle, and it is not a light trip if you want to enjoy the beauty of this lake, because the travel distance is 9.5 km length to the field and that is also not smooth to be defeated by foot for about 4 hours. As long as you do this trip, you will be presented with the chasms that seemed horrified but it gives a certain thrill for him. Do not forget if there are 3 posts every 1-2 hours of rest on your path. After passing the last outpost and hike about a half hour, if you are lucky because the view not shrouded in fog, Ranu Kumbolo can be seen!

Ranu which means lake and Kumbolo means gather, the lake for a place to gather. This can be seen that in Ranu Kumbolo used as a gathering place for hikers to rest or spend the night before continuing the climb to the summit of Mount Semeru or Mahameru. In the western part of the lake, there is a towering hill. This hill is part of the ascent route to the summit, the slope of not less than 45 degrees and a slight uphill route but long. There are interesting here, In front of the kumbolo lake, there is a 45 degree ramp, and it has a nickname "Rise of Love" . It takes extra energy to get through this hill without stopping especially while lifting heavy burden we carry, when you reach the end of the ascent of love we feel the tiredness disappear because the silent beauty of Ranu Kumbolo fog shrouded in the distance will spoil up your spirit.

On the next trip after the rise of love ramp , you will spoiled by green savanna with 100 ha size called as Oro-oro Ombo , with slope overgrown by pine trees, surrounded by hills and mountain with an amazing scenery. Behind Gunung Kepolo, the spouting smoke and summit of Mt Semeru is visible. For those who like to travel a challenging tour, panoramic sights (Lake) Ranu Kumbolo is one of the outstanding option. You should also bring thick clothes and supplies adequate food supplies because the air temperature is very cold there.

How to get there

To get there, you have led to the city of Surabaya in advance or immediately flew to the city of Malang. Many airlines that led to this city. From Surabaya, the journey can be continued by bus to the city of Malang (Rp 18 000), arrived at the bus terminal arjosari Malang, proceed with the renting public transportation to desaTumpang (Rp 50000/trip) , after that, we proceed to hire a jeep to Ranu pane (450000/trip).

Amid the trip while riding in a jeep, we will stop at the office of Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park to take care of some climbing permit, for domestic tourists will be charged a fee of Rp 7000 / person, while for foreign nationals Rp 25,000 / person.

Tips

*travel by group is more cheaper to save cost on jeep
*preparing and duplicate your ID card regarding to climbing permit.
*Inadequate your supplies in the Tumpang village, because after that , it would be quite difficult to find a store in the village Ranupane.
*This is a hiking trip , better to bring the tent and sleeping bag.
*It's recomended to hire a guide or porter in Ranupane if you aren't unexperience in hiking adventure

Free ebook : Master guide for underwater digital photography

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Master guide for underwater digital photography
You will find that when a chapter refers specifically to digital camera problems and techniques, it will be illustrated using only digital camera images. The rest of the images in the book have either been taken digitally or introduced to the digital world via the scanner. We just selected images that we felt best illustrated our point.Welcome to the fascinating world of digital underwater photography!
Presented By : JACK and SUE DRAFAHL
File size : 4Mb

Safety tips when arriving in the airport of another country

TweetAFTER being in a plane within hours to a vacation to another country, you arrived at the airport in the country. Of course your feelings are very pleased to arrive at your destination safely without any interruption. But most people, when you arrive at the airport in the country of destination, usually becoming vigilant to things around that can make the holidays being worst . Especially if there are strangers who approach you and impress the super-friendly and offer assistance. To stay alert, note the following:

1. Before traveling to another country, find as much information as possible about your destination, mainly in every airport on through your destination, There is alot information you can search on internet.

2. If possible, get a complete map of the airport vehicle, so you know where to move after taking a suitcase in the baggage claim. An easy way, follow the steps that the majority of passengers of a plane with you.

3. If possible, it is recommended to rent a vehicle from the airport or from hotels, especially in some countries.

4. Use a variety of reasons to avoid a taxi service offers a look back and forth in the surrounding airports. It is recommended to choose a taxi service that has long queues. Usually, taxi service like this is official and available near the airport lobby. Never use a taxi that seems just takes you round and round aimlessly. Try to make an offer when you see a row of taxis at the airport.

5. Prepare a small amount of money in your pants or shirt pocket to pay for unexpected expenses, like to buy drinks or pay for the airport administration. Also make sure you have some local currency so you do not need to the money changer at the airport. Spend money in large quantities in the country were clearly not at all safe and appropriate. Keep purse and valuables safely on your property in a locked bag.

6. If you do not find any info related to the airport where you land, ask the airport information to ask for help and guidance on how to reach your destination.

7. Use local languages for simple things, eg thank or say hello. It gives the impression that you already know about the country being visited.

10 Best Waterviews in the World

TweetThe landscape beauty of waterviews, certainly very interesting for everyone to visit. It was quiet with beautiful scenery while driving along on the water really gives the atmosphere relaxed and soothing. For those of you who love this atmosphere, some places in the world is able to provide an experience that can arouse your passions in respect nature. Are you interested to visit it? Here are 10 best waters in the world, as quoted from page nationalgeographic.com.

1. Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, Zambia

Rumble and fog always came when the water began to fall from the Zambezi River into the gorge as high as 328 feet (100 meters) down. Victoria is one of the largest waterfalls in the world that lies between the countries of Zambia and Zimbabwe, Africa. The best time to visit is when water volume is not high and the flow of rushing water. Also avoid traveling in the rainy season (from mid-November through April).

2. Canal Venice, Italy

Venice became a mainstay of popular water attractions in Italy. Various canals and gondolas (water boat) to create the most romantic atmosphere in this world. During this trip you will easily see the Grand Canal, Palazzo ancient buildings and the Rialto Bridge from the top gondola. Venice is a city built on water. Often the city is also referred to as a floating city with 150 water channel that connects nearly 700 small islands in the vicinity.

3. Great Barrier Reef, Australia

Great Barrier Reef is the largest reef system in the world that occupies an area of 344,400 square kilometers of sea coral. In this place at least has found more than 2,900 different types of reefs and 900 islands. Because of its beauty, the Great Barrier Reef has been designated a World Heritage site in the land of the kangaroo. More than 10,000 species, including 1,500 species of fish and 200 species of birds, living in this region. Hundreds of thousands of visitors often come to the Great Barrier Reef for diving, snorkeling and boating every tahunnya.Great Barrier Reef located off the coast of Queensland, or more precisely in northeastern Australia.

4. Li River, China

The flow of the river at this place is so quiet and well bypassed by boat raft made of bamboo. Landscape in the waters of Li is very charming, especially when the fog fell and blanketed several parts of the river and surrounding mountain peaks. During a trip on the Li River, a variety of interesting activities is easily seen from the boat. Starting from the beauty of the terraced rice fields (terraces) up to a buffalo cart being pulled in the middle of rice fields. Li River in Guilin and Yangshuo between the towns along the 51 miles (83 kilometers).

5. Lake Baikal, Russia

"Galapagos of Russia" or nickname for Lake Baikal is one of the richest environments in the world's most rare for the life of freshwater fauna. In winter, Baikal freezes into ice and liquid from the heat again. Lake in southeastern Siberia. This is the largest lake, the deepest and oldest (25 million years) in the world. The natural beauty of Lake Baikal can you see from the top of Barguzin Mountains

6. Lake Como, Italy

Thousands of years ago the lake was formed by a glacier that carved peaks and valleys of the Alps to the Lombard region (48 miles) north of Milan, Italy. Includes the waters of Lake Como area of 146 square kilometers between Careno and Argegno. In addition to a large lake in the country of Italy, Como has long been known as a "mirror of Venus", which means that this lake has a calm blue water and surrounded by many luxurious villas, ancient mountains and rural areas.

7. Suez Canal, Egypt

These waters had been made of the colonial British Empire (1859-1869) as the most effective liaison between the Mediterranean Sea with the Red Sea sepanjang160 kilometers. Maybe if no place is, everyone who sailed from Italy to Singapore must pass through the territory in southern Africa in time and a longer distance. But for now, you can sail through the Suez Canal in Egypt, surrounded by the dry and barren.

8. Bora-Bora, South Pacific

The beauty of the island of Bora-Bora in the South Pacific this could be the best in the world. This is a tropical blue lagoon surrounded by coral reefs and volcanoes. Usually people choose waters in Bora-bora as a place for snorkeling and diving or relax on white sand beaches.

9. River Nile, Egypt

Unlike the Suez, the Nile is better known as the longest river in the world. Nile River flows along the 6650 km or 4132 miles and splitting some countries, like Egypt, Ethiopia, Zaire, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi and Sudan. Area of land along the Nile River basin is also to be fertile, so that locals are able to farm and get a good livelihood.

10. Dead Sea, Israel

It looks dead sea in Israel and Jordan this. Even the Dead Sea also occupies the lowest on earth (with a coastline of about 400 meters) below sea level. Uniquely, if you soak in this place will not drown. The reason is the content of salt in the Dead Sea is very high and the water that flows into the Dead Sea evaporates into the air leaving a lot of minerals.

Lovina beach : Enjoying sunrise with dolphin attraction

The famous Indonesian island of Bali has been a popular destination for beach lovers for more than four decades. Bali is a large island with beach scenes of all shapes and sizes to choose from. And the best Beach in north coast of Bali's which have an unique attraction for the tourist is Lovina beach. The beaches of Lovina are characterized by its rural nature and its unique, dark colored sand of volcanic origin with calm sea water containing a variety of sea coral and tropical fishes , with tranquil waters that are clean, but look black because of the sand base. It is still a pleasant and attractive beach.

Lovina beach is officially located in Kalibukbuk area and covering some countryside like Pemaron, Tukad Mungga, Anturan and Kalibukbuk countryside. Kalibugbug countryside it self is located in Buleleng sub district, meanwhile the Kaliasem and Temukus countryside are located in Banjar sub district where it both of them are belong to Buleleng regency. The eastern countryside is called Pemaron about 5 Km west of Singaraja, and the western countryside is Temukus about 12 Km west of Singaraja.

The most interesting part of this coast, and may become its own advantages compared to other Lovina area is attraction of wild dolphins in the middle of the waters of Lovina beach . Acrobatic Dolphins are known to be very friendly with humans, giving the impression an unforgettable experience for visitors Lovina beach tour. Imagine, visitors will be presented with style and the funny behavior of a set of Dolphin , directly in the middle of the sea. Lovina area itself is inhabited by hundreds of dolphins which are always ready to entertaining the tourists who come to see and saw the cute, adorable and fantastic dolphins action.

However, there is a condition. To see the various attractions that shown by the Dolphins, travelers must go to sea very early, around 06.00. This is because the Dolphins are just emerging in the area of Lovina beach between the hours of 6 to 8 am only. The quiet and solitude were amazing. The sea around was smooth to breath taking. The light in the sky and the reflections of light of the water seemed to merge at an unknown point on the horizon. Slowly more colors filled the skies as the sun rose behind the volcanic mountains.

This was one of those special moments in time when you can appreciate the natural beauty that the world has to offer….. and you were pleased to be taking the time to enjoy every moment of it. The sunrise was beautiful out on the water as the moon faded in the distance and the sun began to dance off the ripples made by fisher boat and the slight water movement from a slight wind. And at that time, dozens of Dolphins will naturally show attraction was its ability to entertain the many tourists who come.

All tourists can watch the dolphins by rent a fishing boat that was widely available. There are many ships and boats lined up along this Bali beach coast. That boats usually used to take tourists to see the dolphins attractions.With a ship or boat, the tourists will delivered into the dolphins area. This wild dolphins attraction lasted about 1 hour. It’s interesting because this attraction can only be seen at Lovina beach Bali. Usually after seeing the dolphins, tourists will invited to visit the coral reefs location by the ship owner or the travel guide. Tourists can see the coral reefs and various kinds of interesting fish from the boat. Providing food to the fish such as bread also can be done.

How to get there

Domestic tourists who travel by air should be arrive at the only airport in Bali: Ngurah Rai Airport. Ngurah Rai Airport and Lovina Beach is like from the southern tip to the northern tip of Bali. The distance can be more than 120 km. It can take up to almost three hours to get there. The best recommendation to really enjoy Lovina Beach is a minimum stay overnight in this area.

You can easily get to Lovina by bus from all parts of Bali, but it is a long ride from the East or South. Getting your own car with or without a driver ( Unrecommended !!) is a much easier way to get to the North. Again it is much easier to hire a driver and car for any longer journey. You can travel from Kuta in less than 3hrs and from the airport or Sanur in about 2.30hrs. You will travel through (Pura Ulun Danau) Bedugul and could go the pretty way through Munduk if you are not in a hurry. So you could stop to take in the temple, lakes and rice paddies on your trip and make a day of it.

Where to stay

1. Lovina Beach Hotel

Lovina Beach Hotel was founded by the late Anak Agung Pandji Tisna (1908-1978). It was in 1953, when Pandji Tisna started to build the first guest-house on the beach of Kampung Baru, original name of the beach. He named the small hotel "Lovina". The location of the hotel is truly convenience. This hotel served Balinese, Indonesian and Western cuisine, adjoins the swimming pool with peaceful atmosphere.

Address : Lovina Beach
Bali 81151 - INDONESIA
Phone : 62-362-41005
Fax : 62-362-41473

2. Gardenview Cottages

Gardenview Cottages located in Nyuh Kuning Village in the outskirts of Ubud are the closest cottages to the town of Lovina. They are conveniently located only 45 minutes from the Ngurah Rai International Airport in the serene central highlands of Bali. The Gardenview is surrounded by outdoor attractions that draw people from all over the world, including volcanoes, beaches and ancient temples. Gardenview even offers multiple tours of nearby attractions starting at $40. Guests staying at Gardenview can choose between single bedrooms, double or a three bedroom Deluxe Bungalow. Both packages include a complimentary breakfast. Other amenities of the hotel include a swimming pool and laundry service.

Gardenview Cottages
Jl. Nyuh Kuning, Nyuh Kuning Village
Ubud 80571, Indonesia
0-36-197-4055

3. Ananda Cottages and Hotel

Down the street from the Gardenview, in the small village of Jalan Campuhan, is the Ananda Cottages and Hotel. The cottages are nestled in the thick jungle that is home to variety of wildlife including monkeys.Because of its natural surroundings, people flock to Ananda to stay amongst the jungle inhabitants.The cottages are also able to accommodate parties both small and large with their single rooms and their spacious Villa Suites.The grounds also have two indoor/outdoor spaces specific for group events and weddings.The Anadda offers extensive spa and body treatment packages that include massage theory, Tropical Fruit Facial, and a Balinese Relaxing Massage.

Ananda Cottages and Hotel
Jalan Campuhan
Ubud, Indonesia
0-36-197-5376

Tips

1. In February or March no snorkeling or dolphin trips are offered due to heavy rain and dirty water.
2. It's recommend to rent the boat on the previous evening so you able to bid and select the best one from may various boat at there
3. When you buy your ticket for the boat , give the vendor your room number and someone will wake you with a knock on your door 15 minutes before the predawn departure for the 30- to 60-minute trip to dolphin territory

Important Addresses and Handy Phone numbers
-The Post Office is located on Jalan Raya Lovina between the villages of Kalikbukbuk and Temukus.
-The Prodiac Clinic (0362-24516)) can be found in Singaraja on Jalan RA Kartini no.12.
-The Singaraja Hospital is located on Jalan Ngurah Rai no.30 and can be contacted on 0362-22573.
-The Tourist Office in Lovina beach Bali is set up at Jalan Raya Lovina next to the traffic lights when you enter Kalikbukbuk and they are housed in the same building as the Police Station (0362-22510).