Tanjung Puting : Orangutans, the only non-human great ape found in Asia .

Tracing the evolution of Darwin's footsteps, then you will be confronted with a creature called as part of the evolution, ORANGUTAN (say oh-oo-RANG-tan). Orangutans are the only non-human great ape found in Asia, and were once widespread throughout most of the south east of the continent, and even as far as southern China. Today, two species of orangutan exist, on the island of Borneo, which is shared between Indonesia, Malaysia and Brunei-Darussalam, and the wholly Indonesian island of Sumatra. Considered endangered in Borneo, where most recent estimates put the population at around 6.000. The name Orangutan means "man of the forest" in Malay. Orangutans can grow up to five feet tall, but males are usually 4 feet tall and females are 3 feet. They have an arm span of 8 feet when full grown. The adult male orangutan can weigh up to 220 lbs. and an adult female can weigh up to 110 lbs. They are heavily built and their arms are very long and lanky, but their legs are short and weak.

Orangutan Family

The earliest-known primates date from about 70 million years ago (Macdonald, 1985). The greater apes (family Pongidae, gorillas, chimpanzees, bonobos, and orangutans) split off from the lesser apes (family Hylobatidae, gibbons and siamangs) 20 million years ago. There are 2 different types of adult male orangutan: "flanged" & "unflanged". Flanged males have a long coat of dark hair on the back, a facial disk, flanges and a throat sac used for “long calls". The unflanged male looks like an adult female. Both reproduce and an unflanged male can change to a flanged male for reasons that are not yet fully understood.

Orangutans are the only primate in which this biological phenomenon occurs. Some scientists think that these two groups of orangutans are different subspecies (a subdivision of a species), others think that they are not. Since these two groups of orangutans have been geographically separated for a long time, they are now physically distinct from each other. They are not different species since they are genetically similar enough to interbreed.

Orangutan Classification

CLASSIFICATION
Orangutans belong to the:
Kingdom Animalia (all animals)
Phylum Chordata
Subphylum Vertebrata (animals with backbones)
Class Mammalia (warm-blooded animals with fur and mammary glands)
Order Primates (which includes 11 families, which include lemurs, monkeys, marmosets, lesser apes, great apes, and humans)
Family Pongidae (the great apes, including gorillas, chimpanzees, bonobos, and orangutans)
Genus Pongo (gorillas and orangutans)
Species pygmaeus
Subspecies (perhaps a subspecies) P. p. pygmaeus (with a round face and dark red hair; found in Borneo)
Subspecies (perhaps a subspecies) P. p. abelii (with a narrow face and paler hair; found in Sumatra)


If you want to see and learn about orangutans closer you can visit Tanjung Puting National Park, Central Kalimantan. Located in the peninsula on the south coast of the world's third largest tropical rain forest of Borneo, in Indonesian province of Central Kalimantan, the park consist of 300.040 hectares (741,100 acres).

Started as a game reserve for the protection of orangutans in 1936 and 1937, it was upgraded to a National Park in 1982. It is the only protected area in South East Asia with vast tract of wetlands, lowland, mature tropical heath and swamp Forests with large rookeries that provide breeding grounds for a wide population of waterfowl. The needs of Orangutans and other primates are also available in the park, such as the 400 species of trees which van be consumed by them.

The national park managed into 3 zonation system, namely Nucleus Zone, Buffer or Supporting zone and the last one, is the Utilization zone. The most inner part of the park, where the most animals are (usually) or the very inique and rare plants are availble, never allowed to be entered by the visitors, unless they gain special permit for research or alike.

This zone also called as nucleus zone. The only people who allowed to enter the site will be the researchers, national park authorities, or alike. No other common peoples allowed to enter the site. The nucleus zone usually coveres the most inner part of the reserve.

Secondly is the BUFFER ZONE. It is separating the nucleus zone from the other untilization zone. This place also called as the "shock" absorber between the utilization zone and the nucelus zone. Here we can make some visit through the available path only, with an obligation to be accompanied by the national park ranger. Certain and strick regulation for visitors to walk or trekking is applied. The buffer zone usually encircle the nucleus zone.

The last one is the Utilization zone. This zone is the site for the visitors, here the accommodation, the park office, the ranger house, visitors centre and other related infrastructers are available. This can be the site for the park warf, or car park for the park ranger and else. This utilization zone usually covers a tiny part of a national park, and usually lies on the edge of a park, or just on the road side, or else. Here, we can make a visit with some permit regulation. This utilization zone is the main base camp for the visitors to enter and to stay on.

CAMP LEAKEY

Located about 30 minutes to the right from the branch of Sekonyer river. Camp Leakey is in the Tanjung Puting National Park in southern Borneo, and was set up in 1971 by Louis Leakey to support research activities in Tanjung Puting Wildlife Reserve. Louis Leakey was both teacher and mentor for three young primatologists who would go on to become well known in their field and beyond. Jane Goodall and Dian Fossey were two, who went on to become known worldwide for their work with chimpanzees and gorillas respectively. The third, Birute Galdikas went on to become the leading Authority on orangutans and remains so to this day as president of the Orangutan Foundation International.

Camp Leakey also functions as orangutans rehabilitation center. The Camp and surrounding area is designated as a special utility zone. Over the years, the camp has served the research efforts of several scientist and students. Tourist will be able to walk on certain trails of the trail system without disturbing the research activities. On the way to Camp Leakey (on Sekonyer Simpang Kanan river), you may occasionally see crocodiles and the false gavials.

Orangutans quick facts

-.Orangutans’ arms stretch out longer than their bodies – up to 8 ft. from fingertip to fingertip in the case of very large males.

-.When on the ground, orangutans walk on all fours, using their palms or fists. Unlike the African apes, orangutans are not morphologically built to be knuckle-walkers.

-.From the age of thirteen years (usually in captivity) past the age of thirty, males may develop flanges and large size.

-.When males are fighting, they charge each other, grapple, and bite each other’s heads and cheekpads. They sometimes look like Sumo wrestlers.

-.For the first few years of his/her life, a young orangutan holds tight to his/her mother’s body as she moves through the forest canopy.

-.Like humans, orangutans have opposible thumbs. Their big toes are also opposible. Unlike humans, approximately one third of all orangutans do not have nails on their big toes.

-.Orangutans have tremendous strength, which enables them to brachiate and hang upside-down from branches for long periods of time to retrieve fruit and eat young leaves.

-.Although in the wild, females usually give birth to their first offspring when they are 15-16 years of age, in captivity females as young as eight years old have given birth. Likewise male orangutans in captivity as young as eight years old have fathered offspring

How to get there

Arrive at Pangkalan Bun, West Kotawaringin, visitors can go directly to Kumai Port to cross over to Tanjung Putting. If you have a long time, a minimum of two days one night, you may prefer kelotok boat with a capacity of 10 people with rate Rp 400,000 to Rp 1 000.000 per day. For a short visit, can use fast boats (speedboats) with a capacity of three passengers. The fee was around Rp 500,000 each way. The trip is only about an hour.

Travel Tips

-. If you want to visit the Tanjung Putting area that has more than 400,000 acres, It's recommend to planned better. If you want to make it as easy trip, you can use the services of tour operators.

-. If you leave early from Kumai, better stop by first to Camp Pondok Tanggui. At 09.00, there are attractions to the orangutan feeding.
-. Do not bring flashy stuff and hanging as it will greatly attract the attention orangutans.

-. Do not tries to swim in the River Sekonyer, because it is inhabited by large-bodied estuarine crocodile (Crocodylus porosus) and crocodiles sinyulong (Tomistoma schlegelii) are almost extinct.

-. It is recommended to avoid giving food / beverage or any objects to the orangutans because they can change their behavior.

-. Use long-sleeved shirt to avoid insect bites.

-. make sure the camera with a full battery condition and enough memory card so they can maximize every moment that you would not get elsewhere.

-. If you want to find a souvenir, can stop by the village Sei Sekonyer to find shirts or statues orangutans of Borneo and other typical souvenirs.

5 Attractive places for Night Year's Eve

5 Attractive places for Night Year's Eve ; New Year’s is upon us, the last big party of the year and the first big party of 2012 .  Enjoying New Year's Eve in interesting places that will adds the atmosphere and spirit of a higher quality of life upon entering the new year. When it comes to celebrate the night between the old year and the new one, there is nothing more wrong than watching a movie from your home armchair with a huge bag of popcorn at hand waiting for 12 o’clock to come. Fireworks, boisterous atmosphere of trumpets and shouted seconds before the new year, is the beautiful moments, moreover at the Special place with the Special people near you. Now it's time for you to plan the best place at the turn of the new year arrives. If you love traveling a lot and dream of an unusual but fun New Year’s Eve party here are a few destinations you may consider.

1.Corral de la Morería
Described as holding the best flamenco dancers on the globe Corral de la Morería on the top of the 1000 places you must visit according to Times Magazine. A cabaret opened in 1956, brought famous dancers like Isabel Pantoja and Antonio Gades and in the spectators, some of the greatest personalities of the world, JFK, R. Reagan, Sinatra, Marlon Brando and Enest Hemingway.The New Year party held here will create a perfect memory

2. Moulin Rouge
Maybe the most intriguing place for a night in Paris celebrates 120 years of existence. Still amazing with its original cabaret shows, Moulin Rouge promises a sophisticated party very far from the ones we saw in the movies. On the menu there is foie gras, lamb and vacherin glace but also the finest champagne and the exquisite show of Doris Girls. It will bring you a memorable party.

3. Bungalow 8 London Party
The New Year party in Bungalow 8 will bring the entire extravagance specific to this location originated from New Cork. The European Charm of the club is created by the Indian architect Mahdaviis, creator of the many exclusivist clubs. A subscription to the club allow you to participate at the most fabulous events the New Year party being one of them.

4. JOURS DEFÊTE Grand Palais
In the middle of the fantastic Grand Palais between the December 18th and January 1st, 11 am and midnight, you can enjoy a magical display of lights and an amazing show displayed in the largest fair in the world, holding all the attractions an adrenalin junkie can wish. Here the New Year party will gather a large crowd of people in bad need of a party, who will have the privilege to enjoy the best music and the best light shows in Europe.

5. Sin City
The Sin City that never sleeps is partying every minute and it sure can handle organizing the largest and most fabulous party for the New Year 2010. There are so many clubs and hotels, bars and casinos that is almost impossible not to have a good time. The street traffic will be stopped and the fireworks promise to have a grandeur beyond imagination. There will be confetti, wine tasting, rock concerts and light and sound performance.

Feel the tough of hiking on Ciremai Mountain (3,078 m)

Ciremai mountain is located in the region of kuningan west Java, has its own characteristics compared with other mountains in java island. This mountain is far away from the other mountains and situated close to the java sea. The first Highest mountain in west Java area, has a cone-shaped mountain contours, with a hole large crater at the top. To climb this mountain Ciremai, Its require enough tough of physical and mentally. This is caused by a long route, and track which continues to climb. Coupled with the conditions of the mountain that has no springs, make us have to prepare the water needs from the point of beginning ascent. All the needs we have to prepare for the ascent to the appropriate. so we can feel the convenience of hiking. The height of this mountain about 3078 meters above sea level, with start climbing at an altitude of about 700 meters.

Walking 700 m westwards to gedung naskah from the hotel , we will reach linggarjati village hall where we will fine many guides who will leads us to the mountain. If we walk from this place towards the mountain , we will come across a pine woods and find a place called cibunar , where the path is bifurcation . In this place we can put up a tent, obtain water . We should turn left , where the path will lead us to the Mt. Ceremai. Afterward, we will come across a tropical forest , in the middle of which we can find a place called linggak (now called pengasinan), a plain that we can put up a tent and take a rest to stay overnight .

It takes about 5 hours to reach pengasinan from linggarjati and other 2 or 3 hours to reach the peak (crater rim), through grassly hill . Climbing down about 1 or 2 hourr right side from the peak , we will find a small sulfur crater . Walking around the crater rim leisurely for about two and half hours, we can enjoy the panoramic view of majalengka , bandung , north java sea , and other place . It takes 4 or 5 hours to return to linggarjati. The best time to climb this mountain is in the early morning about 5:00 or 6:00 a.m . And turn to linggarjati next day about 2:00 or 3:00 a.m.

To reach these mountain , we may travel by bus from cirebon going to kuningan and get off at cilimus . From cilimus we can travel by mini bus to linggarjati . To climb the mountain , we should obtain a letter of permission from kuningan's forest authority (PERHUTANI) and formerly from the police station of kuningan after receiving the letter , the village headman of linggarjati will give us the permission by return to go on further . We may stay overnight in linggarjati hotel .

An adventurer is quite interesting for those of you of course, but if you do not wish to climb to the summit of Mount Ciremai, you can travel to tourist attractions around Linggarjati. There still are some tourist attractions you can visit to spend your vacation time.

Enjoy the beauty of Mount Gede-Pangrango

The natural beauty of the mountains was never out to speak about. If you're traveling in Indonesia, do not miss to enjoy the beauty of Mount Gede Pangrango with a variety of very beautiful natural scenery. Feel the cool air in Suryakencana, or feel the freshness of mountain water of cibereum waterfalls . This mountains are situated in West Java, Indonesia. It evolved from already existing conservation areas, such as Cibodas Nature Reserve, Cimungkat Nature Reseve, Situgunung Recreational Park and Mount Gede Pangrango Nature Reserve, and has been the site of important biological and conservation research over the last century. In 1977 UNESCO declared it part of the World Network of Biosphere Reserves.

Mount Gede is a favourite place for hiking and camping. Almost every weekend, adventurers often come to this place in order to conquest the summit of mount Gede, at a height of 2,958 above sea level. From the summit, we can see the summit of Mount Pangrango which looks like a triangle. Both are with the Mount Gede Pangrango National Park system. Visitors usually enter the park by one of the four gates of the park: the Cibodas, Gunung Putri, and Selabintana gates, all give access to the peaks; the Situ Gunung gate gives entrance to a lake area set aside mainly for family-style recreation. Cibodas gate is the most popular entrance gate and is the site of the park's headquarters.

To enter the park , we have to walk trough the Botanical Garden gate and come to the Guard House where we have to register our identity for personal security . Behind the guard house is the way to climb the mountains . On the way up , we come across a beautiful tropical forest . And we also can visit the waterfalls of Cibereum . It has a beautiful place and view . Walking about 4 hours , we will reach 'pos KANDANG BADAK' hut . On the way we will find two or three huts , spring and hot spring . In this place , we may enjoy taking a dip in that hot spring. We can stay overnight in pos KANDANG BADAK where cold water is also available . It is bifurcated path uphill from pos kandang badak ; the right one going towards Mt. Pangrango , and the left one going towards Mt.gede.

To reach the peak of Mt. Pangrango , we have to climb for 2 or 3 hours walking through natural forest at 1000 m high. The peak of Mt. Pangrango is located in a thick and moldy forest , from where no view is visible . It is very different if we climb to the peak of Mt. Gede . Climbing another 2 hours , we will reach the peak of Mt. Gede , we can enjoy a broad view of a scenic panorama and an exotic scene of the big wall Kaldera . Mt. Gede has three living crater. Climbing down the peak westward , we will find the field of javanese 'edelweis' flower , called as 'Lembah Surya Kencana '. In the south of the field there is a hut where we can take a rest . At the highest peak of Mt. Gede we can enjoy the panoramic view towards jakarta , cianjur and other places . If we climb down to the north , we can reach cipanas, or to the south is sukabumi. It takes about 3-4 hours to reach of any of these places.

From Jakarta, the area is two hours drive, usually via Cibodas Botanical Gardens, the most common routes leading to these mountains . From Bogor or Cianjur , we can travel by bus going towards Cipanas and get off at the entrance of Cibodas , approximately 2 km away from the west of Cipanas . From that bus stop , we can go towards the gate of Cibodas Botanical Garden by mini bus . We can obtain a permission of climbing from Mt. Gede Pangrango national park authority office beside the Cibodas Botanical Garden . Which is on the right side of the gate. Guides are also available here . For notify is we must bookmark first to make this permission minimal one week before we go to climb . We can obtain guide map of these national park from Wisma Cinta Alam . Enjoy the great adventure of Mount Gede national park ...happy holiday :)

Pendet dance : The mythical of Balinese dance

The beauty of the island of Bali is no doubt, the various elements of the beauty are formed in a single-entity has been created from this island. One of them is Pendet dance. A dance that symbolizes a welcoming of descent of the gods into the world. Before I Wayan Rindi (a dance choreographer) made ​​several changes, pendet dance was held in the temple for Hindu religious ceremonies. Sources of inspiration Pendet birth is a sacred Odalan ceremony in the temple ritual called mamendet or mendet. The procession takes place after the priest proclaimed mendet adored mantras and after-theater staging mask Sidakarya philosophically legitimize sacred religious ceremonies. Almost every large to the small temple in Bali is accompanied with mamendet activity. In some large temples like Pura Besakih which located at the foot of Mount Agung, usually in particular showing a ritual mamendet with Pendet dance.

This dance was among the oldest dance where the dancers dance like which consists of four girls which are sacred (virgin). This dance requires specialized skills, such as the gestures and content, should be graceful, certain expressions while dancing, and eye movements. Currently pendet dance can be danced by everyone, men and women, adults and girls. In the year 1950 two artists from Denpasar sumertha village named I Wayan Rindi and Ni Kt Reneng successfully transformed this dance into propane dance (dance entertainment) and switch to tap dance welcoming distinguished guests. Pendet was first introduced to the world at the International in 1960 when Indonesia hosted the asian games organizers in Jakarta. From here Pendet became famous to the outside world and became a cultural tourist attraction in Bali.

Pendet many uses so-called seledet eye movements, hand gestures, head movement, shoulder movement, and footwork. One dance called agem attitude, the attitude of both legs with a tenuous grasp on the position of the hand bent. Characteristic of this dance is the movement which preceded the laying flowers with offerings movement while seated.

Pendet usually sung in groups or in pairs by young ladies, and more dynamic than Rejang dance. Published after Rejang dance in the courtyard temple and usually facing toward to the sacred. The dancers wearing stylized Balinese kebaya which usually yellow tank top with Bali gold leaf motif. Then added a piece of cloth (Kamen) that is wrapped around the waist to come down to the ankles. Then on a piece of cloth wrapped around the waist or ambed. The dancers also styled hair and piled neatly on the back. Some loose hair decorated with some Cambodia flowers .

Pendet accompanied by Balinese gamelan instrument. Balinese gamelan different devices with Javanese gamelan instruments. Balinese gamelan instruments, among others: tarompong, reyong, bende, kempul, gongs, drums wadu, petuk, drums lanang, cengceng, jublag, jagong, gangsa, reckless, magnolia, and gongs kebyar. Gamelan is usually done while sitting cross-legged man, and musical instruments played by being hit with a special hitter.

The combination of motion Pendet dance with music accompaniment gives a very different feel. The rhythm of music that has a fast tempo with a full impression of cheerful yet magical elements, making the atmosphere around feels different. Moreover for you to watch this dance up close and live. Surely this will make your holiday is very memorable. Visit Bali with an abundance of beauty ... happy vacation:)

Green Canyon : Travel with sensation of adventure in Pangandaran

Do you like to travel with sensation of river adventure? if your answer is yes, let's try to visiting Green Canyon which is located in Pangandaran, West Java. Green Canyon Nature tourism is most favored place by tourists lovers of trekking, canoeing, or a challenging of adrenaline tour. The green canyon names is taken from the name of the Grand Canyon in United States. This place is a cave with a bunch of greenish crystal clear waters with decorates by stalactite and stalagmite that is hidden behind the rocky cliffs - perhaps that's why these place called Green Canyon. Locals used to call this area as Cukang Taneuh. The nickname of Cukang Taneuh arises because in the middle of the river there is a bridge from the soil, 3 feet wide with a length of 40 meters. This tourist attraction located in the Village Kertayasa, Cijulang District , and located along the Cijulang river - about 31 km from Pangandaran.

Green Canyon is became very famous, because the panorama of the river is very beautiful. The beauty of Green Canyon will always be welcome for any travelers once you enter the gates of these attractions. The river is so special, because it has a very admirable canyon  lengthwise area and divide  of its physical structure. Those people who visiting green canyon would be stunned by the beauty of the panoramas of the river which flows along Cijulang.  The tourists usually also take advantage of the cave rocks to jump into crystal clear water. You can enjoy the incredible natural scenery along the left and right sides of the river while boating.

To go to the cave of  Green Canyon, go to the docks and buy tickets from Pier Ciseuruh. If you traveling on holiday, you certainly have to wait for several hours for the boat to turn up to the cave. Tourist boats  is operated  and owned by local people, but they still regulated by the government on their district. One boat can carry up to five passengers with a rental price of Rp 75,000. If you want to swim in the bat cave, you can tell the boat crew to wait, surely with more added fee. They will ask a full day for Rp 100,000  , but surely you will not spend your time along day there. Bargaining, maybe you can get Rp 80,000 in the holiday season and Rp 50,000 while it is empty of visitors. Each boat is always providing  life jackets for the passengers, so if you are not a good swimmer, do not be too worried.

To get to the first point, we must go through a fairly quiet flow of the river for nearly 15 minutes. After passing through the 'corridor' of the river, then we will meet with a place that force us to get off from the boat. In these places, we will see a row of rocks with very beautiful ornate stunning by stalactites and stalagmites. The rock also forcing us to not continue the boat journey, because the course of the river was blocked by the rocks in  the river which is look like terraced steps.

After you got out of the boat, you will be challenged to be able to see the true beauty of the Green Canyon, while is: you have to swim upstream to get to the river. foreign tourists keen to swim down the river with a depth of 10 meters to the upstream. When swimming down the river, tourists will be accompanied by a row of rocky cliffs adorned with stalactites and stalagmites. Fabulous! Those who did it were definitely not be disappointed, we will also be treated by beautiful views of waterfalls Palatar after swimming. You can also do body rafting around Bat Cave. This activity is managed by the boat crew  in cooperation with the younger local village . Tell your crew that you want to do body rafting and they will take you to the place. Time it takes about 3-4 hours and of course with an additional cost

There are no accommodations around Green Canyon. The closest hotels are in Riverside Panireman river mouth leading to Batu Karas beach, about 15 minutes from Green Canyon. If you are interested in visiting Green Canyon, you can follow some tips below when visiting the Green canyon in Pangandaran

first,
When you decide to come to Green Canyon, you must be prepared to travel a considerable distance to travel time is 8 hours from Jakarta. Leave at night especially if you use public transport. By using public transportation, you can depart from Terminal Pangandaran majors to rural transportation terminals Cijulang with a relatively low cost. Hire a public vehicle if you come in a group.

second,
Green Canyon should be visited during the dry season. Because of the dry season, water colors green and quieter. Very pretty for you make the images object.

third,
If you want to try to wade through the rapids of the river downstream from the height of the cliff and jumped in the Green Canyon, prepare your energy. Do not forget to wear a bathing suit. Body rafting charged Rp 30,000 - to Rp 40,000. You need to prepare a change of clothes after the body rafting

fourth,
For lodging, it is advisable to seek lodgings in Pangandaran Beach. Because in addition to more choices, the price provided is more varied than in the Green Canyon.

fifth,
Bring a waterproof camera for traveling ,because the Green Canyon highly correlated with water. If there is no, you try to be careful with your belongings such as cameras and mobile phones, not to fall.

sixth,
Do not forget to bring food and drinks because there is only food accommodations in the main entrance. And use comfortable shoes for slippery rocks in the Green Canyon.

Grand Canyon Vacation Packages

Buya sabe : Indonesia's woven cloth from Sulawesi

Indonesia is famous for its diversity of cultures, stretching from Sabang to Merauke. The results of the existing culture is certainly not least in number. If you know the name of batik, ulos, songket, kebaya, that was the result of culture of the country of Indonesia that already known. Have various unique patterns and colors in each works. This time we will introduce you, one more result of culture that is created from the land of sulawesi and that is called woven cloth buya sabe. You can make this woven cloth with silk raw material originally from Sulawesi as a very unique souvenir for you to bringing home.

This woven cloth can be found in Donggala , located approximately 34 miles northeast of Palu. From Palu to the City of Donggala, trip can be reached by using a four-wheeled vehicle with a travel time of about 4.5 hours. Travelers can use public transport from the terminal Donggala to go to the places where craftsmen centers buya sabe woven cloth spread across several areas, including along the Limboro, Salu Bomba, Tosale, Towale and Kolakola. The villages were located to the west of the City of Donggala.

Buya sabe woven cloth is produced traditionally , because the process to make this cloth is traditionally done with equipment that is also traditional. There was less than 100 weavers in every day work. Interestingly, not only middle-aged women aged 50-60 years who became weavers, but also to teenage girls aged 12-20 years. No wonder, if every home residents have at least one loom. In fact, there is one house that has three units of weaving equipment. One of the buya sabe centers located in the Village Limboro. That's what causes the buya sabe weaving tradition is continued sustainable. .

Making Buya sabe weaving is almost the same as making-weaving looms in other areas. Both of the process of yarn dyeing to weaving. Patterns and motifs that are very diverse. In short, there are six types of patterns woven Donggala, namely: garusu (Tembe Donggala), Buya Bomba, Buya sabe , a combination of Bomba and sabe. Among these patterns, Buya sabe Bomba the most difficult, until the execution takes one to two months. Unlike the other patterns that it only takes one to two weeks. Donggala woven cloth pattern also has a very unique and rare, because of his age reaching 200 years. woven cloth commonly known as palaekat can only be found at the residence of the descendants of the kings of Palu.

Kinds and patterns of Buya sabe woven cloth

The difficulties in in the making of woven was also assessed at a great price. Any cloth can be sold up to Rp 600,000, - for the cheapest price of Rp 150,000 and Rp 1,000,000 the most expensive. Because made with hands and require special skills, moreover process was that slow. For this Donggala woven cloth manufacture depends on the size of the cloth it usually takes the most a quick 1-2 weeks to a month. woven cloth made of silk also can not arbitrarily be washed because the rigid texture and slightly rough. Simply by soaking in water alone and should not be a washing machine or brushed.

The fame of this woven cloth is famous all over the country and craftsmen often follow fashion festivals or exhibitions. It also makes it easy for the craftsmen that previously had to go to Palu to sell , are now only waiting for the merchants of the Palu that will buy their woven cloth. If you are interested to see directly, even tried your own weaving with the women of this Donggala just come to the village of Towale because they will be happy to welcome for tourists.

Ramayana Ballet : Enjoy the amazing dance performance at Prambanan temple

If you are currently or about to visit Jogjakarta, you should never missed a show that regularly held at Prambanan temple area. This temple area is filled with very interesting fairy tales for you to know. The fairy tale that available here, is packaged in the form of dance which very different, distinctive, unique and can be the entertainment that can make your vacation very memorable.The show is known as the Ramayana Ballet, a dance performance that takes the story of Rama and Sinta from the Ramayana story. Ramayana is a beautiful legend carved on the walls of the temple of Shiva, one of the temples at Prambanan temple complex. If you visit the temple and walk clockwise, you will find the Ramayana story line through the existing reliefs.

Ramayana Ballet is the performing arts which beautiful, amazing and hard to compare. Performance is able to unite various Javanese arts such as dance, drama and music on one stage and one momentum to present the story of Ramayana, Valmiki's legendary epic written in Sanskrit. The whole story is presented in a series of dance movements performed by the beautiful dancers accompanied by gamelan music. You are invited to actually dissolve in the story and observe every movement of the dancers to know the story. No dialogue is spoken from the dancers, the only speakers are sinden depicting the storyline through the songs in the Java language with a distinctive voice.

Ramayana is an epic tale of a royal Alengkadiraja background. An adventure of Rama and Sinta in the forest Dandaka be the beginning of the story. continued with the abduction of Sinta by Ravana through trickery that is quite unique. Ravana sends incarnation golden deer to entice Sinta. When Rama hunting, Sinta went to follow the golden deer which is the incarnation from followers of Ravana, until finally Sinta lost. This situation is exploited by Ravana to kidnap Sinta. Rama felt lost, and trying to get Sinta back at his side. The battle for the battle between Rama with Ravana is became a very interesting for you to watch until the show was over.

You also can find not only dance, but also scenes of interest such as fireball game acrobatics with the agility by dancers. A charming fire ball game can be found when Hanuman that initially going to burnt alive instead successfully burn Ravana's kingdom Alengkadiraja. While the stunt could be found when the followers of Hanuman fought with Ravana. The game was about to flame when Shinta burn itself is also interesting to watch.

You will not be disappointed with this excellent performance because not only dance and music are being prepared. Lighting is prepared in such a way that not only the rays that dumb, but is able to describe certain events in the story. So did the makeup on each dancer, not only beautify but also able to describe the character played by character so the audience can easily recognize even though there was no dialogue.

To enjoy this show you can make reservations at Prambanan Theatre, Jalan Raya Yogya - Solo Km 16 Prambanan, Yogyakarta 55571, Indonesia. Phone: +62 274 496408, Fax: +62 274 496 408. And for the cost of the show you have to spend money of 250,000 rupiah ( VIP and special in open Stage ), Special: 175 000 rupiah, First class: 150 000 rupiah, Second Class: 75 000 rupiah, while for domestic students Tickets 20,000 rupiah, - entourage of at least 30 students (to include a letter from school).

Ramayana Ballet was shown at night (only every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday), supported more than 200 dancers and professional musicians. There are 2 stage used for performances, an outdoor stage with a background of Prambanan and the second one is indoor of Tri Murti House. The indoor performances are carried out if rainy season. The show begins at 19:30 precisely. Existing facilities around the theater is the Prambanan Garden Resto restaurant, souvenir shop, food and beverages.

For you who choose to watch in Purawisata, the facilities available precisely spelled out more fully than at Prambanan Temple Complex. This is because Purawisata located in the center of the city of Yogyakarta. If you have pay entrance fee , then you will also get dinner facilities at Jimbaran Resto, see gamelan performances during dinner, a visit to the backstage, and photos with dancers after the show. Happy holidays:)

8 Tips for cheaper vacation

Coming to school holidays or the end of the year, the national newspapers are usually filled with ads Cheap Tour Packages. Tour packages was packed to attract both domestic and holidays overseas. The price also varies depending on time, the aircraft used, the selected hotel. Well, if you have vacation plans and still have problems deciding who will be selected Tour Package, it's good to see briefly concise tips to choose Package Tour Offers.

1. Choose an experienced Travel Agency at your vacation destination. Usually the major travel or travel that specialize in your vacation destination or travel agent your usual subscription, thus helping you to minimize unexpected costs that can enlarge your budget during vacation.

2. Read carefully summary of the trip (itinerary) are offered. Information that should be observed are tourist attraction be visited, length of trip, the facilities included in the package (meals, transportation, entrance fee).

3. Restrictions foods. You should know the food served in a package tour. This is important especially for those who have certain dietary restrictions.

4. Schedule of departure. As is known a package will usually be opened if the Tour participant reaches a certain minimum amount. Certainty is a very important departure for your holiday in accordance with the time you allocate.

5. The errangements of document. For the purpose of a particular country tours abroad, you are obliged to take care of visa requests. Ask if the travel agent can assist the maintenance of this document and how much it cost.

6.Tour Guide and Tour Leader. Ask if they exist in the package. Tour Leader will accompany you from the airport of departure to return. While the tour guide will guide you during visiting tourist objects. It is better to ask also the language used by tour guides.

7. The costs are not included in the tour package. These costs are usually the cost of documents, personal expenses, tips for tour leader and driver. Verify whether the airport tax is included in the package.

8. Tour cancellation, it is important to note from the beginning. If you are forced to cancel the participation of the tour, what are its consequences, how much is the cost that can be returned.

If there is still something unclear, do not hesitate to ask directly to the travel agent. Once you determine which package is selected, prepare all other purposes. With good preparation, will avoid the difficulties and unexpected costs during the holidays. Happy vacation.

Kelimutu Lake: The miracle with three different water color

If you are familiar to travel into the lake and mountains area, surely you will be familiar with greenish-black water lakes , but not for three lake in the mountain of Kelimutu in Flores. The lake is located at an altitude of 1690 meters above sea level, located in the village of Pemo, District Flores, Ende, Flores Island, East Nusa Tenggara Province (NTT). Kelimutu Lake consists with three different lakes and the distance of each other are not so far. Each lake has its own uniqueness, especially from the color of lake water. The first lake named Tiwu Ata Mbupu, the second lake with called Muri Koo Fai Tiwu Nuwa and the third lake called Tiwu Ata Polo .

The first and second lake is located very close together, while the third lake is located about 1.5 km in the west. The third broad lake was approximately 1.051 million square meters with a volume of 1292 million cubic meters of water. Boundary between of the lake with is a narrow stone wall prone to landslides. The wall is very steep with a 70-degree angle. The Wall height of the lake ranging from 50 to 150 meters.

The color of water from three lakes are different from each other and constantly changing from time to time, especially color of the water Tiwu Nuwa Muri (twelve times change within twenty-five years). A few years ago they were white, turquoise and red. In November 2009 they were black, turquoise and coca-cola coloured. In July 2010 the smallest ,Tiwu Ata Mbupu, was clear bottle green, Tiwu Nuwa Muri Koo Fai , the largest, was turquoise from the copper below, Tiwu Ata Polo was moss green. The lakes change colour suddenly. In addition to Kelimutu volcanic activity caused by, discoloration is allegedly due to the refraction of sunlight, the water micro-biota, the dissolved chemicals, and due to the reflection color of the walls and bottom of the lake.

Like the Eastern customs, especially in Indonesia which could not be separated from the legend, Flores community also has a legend with this lake. The people of Flores believes , that Mae was a god in charge of organizing life in the afterlife. The spirits of those who died, one by one will sit on the lakes based on the charitable devotion during life. Because of this custom and belief, the names of the lake is part has a meaning, as in the name of the first lakes Mbupu Tiwu Ata lakes has a meaning as the souls of the people, while for the second lakes Nuwa Muri Koo Fai Tiwu meant as a lakes spirits of young people and the third lake Ata Polo Tiwu means lakes spirits of the soothsayers.

The natural wonders of Kelimutu Lake, providing exceptional charms. In addition to these three lakes, at Kelimutu is also has arboretum, mini forest which have an area of 4.5 hectares, where the growth of various types of trees that represent the potential biodiversity of the Kelimutu National Park. There are various types of flora whose number 78 Flora, 2 (two) of them are endemic species of Uta Onga Flores (Begonia kelimutuensis) and Turuwara (Rhondodenron renschianum) and three types of mammals, namely rats lawo (Rattushainaldi), Deke (Papagomys armandvillei), Wawi ndua (Susheureni). At the time of the flowering season between May to August this area is like a flower garden of Eden because it will give a red color on the edge lakes. There is also a type of bird species endemic to Kelimutu, Gerugiwa (Monarcha sp), endemic bird whose voice is very melodious and often called bird of the soul, because it seldom appeared and difficult to find. With the noisy chirping birds Meandering is what always welcomes your arrival in Flores each daybreak, a chirp with 11 different voices.

How to reach the location:

Using aircraft, arrived at the airport H. Aroeboesman Kupang, the journey continues to Ende for about 40 minutes or Bima-Ende for about 90 minutes. Furthermore, from into nearby village of Ende Village Koanara about 93 km (± 3 hours). Then from the Village Koanara- Koposili Village- Manakuko Village-Summit of Kelimutu Lake with walk about 2.5 hours.

Or travel at the start of the town of Maumere, Sikka regency, East Nusa Tenggara Province, it took about 3 hours with a rented car with road conditions are not too good, twisting, across ravines and cliffs. We will meet with the village closest to the crater of Mount Kelimutu called Kampung Moni. The village is located in the Village Koanara, District Wolowaru, Ende within 13 miles of Kelimutu Lake. From Moni only takes about 45 minutes to reach the lip of Lake Kelimutu


Travel tips to Kelimutu

Accommodation.
Moni only offer simplicity that may be suitable for backpackers. The bungalow here is far from luxurious. If you want to stay somewhere more comfortable, Maumere is the right choice because it is only 4 hours. In Ende also be an option because there is a comfortable hotel. There are several hotels to choose from, like Flores Crater Lakes Ecolodge, Watugana Bungalow, Star Lodge, Hotel Arwanti, Hotel Flores Sare, or Sao Ria Tour. Most of the hotels in the village of Moni-facility hot water, but some are not. The price is varied, ranging from Rp 150,000 to Rp 300,000.


Transportation.
Kelimutu located in the village Koanara, Wolowaru District, about 66 kilometers from the town of Ende and 83 kilometers from Maumere. Moni is the closest town, situated at the foot of Mount Kelimutu. This small town is a gateway to Kelimutu Lake. The distance between Moni and Flores is about 15 kilometers. You can use a motorcycle taxi, car or public transportation to bring to the parking area prior to the summit of Mount of Kelimutu. There are buses to the Ende from Maumere than which through Moni. Local people call it a bus or car wooden cabbage. From there, you should be shooting went about 15 miles to the location of the lake. Every day, available flights from Denpasar and Kupang to Maumere.

Culinary.
There are only a few restaurants in Moni. Available in local market stalls Moni. If you want to climb into Kelimutu Lake, you do not need to bring food, because the journey can be taken for about 1 hour. However, if you want to explore the national park, you must bring your own food, especially drinking water. Seller ginger tea is available at its peak, where tourists enjoy a charming view of the sunset.

Shopping.
Local souvenirs are available in the parking lot. You can find a the cloth belt, woven cloth typical of Flores. Every district in Flores has his motives respectively. Here are some stores that sell the cloth belt, various crafts, and antiques.

Best time.
Kelimutu usually shrouded in fog. You are better to visit in the early morning at around 3:30 in order to watch the sunrise charming atmosphere. This is the best atmosphere to watch the scenery Kelimutu Lake. The best time to visit Kelimutu Lake is in July and August. Please book your hotel two months before your visit.

Borobudur , myth and beauty

No other monument in the world accomplices what Borobudur does. Borobudur was built on a small hill in Kedu Basin, a rich and fertile valley surrounded by spectacular volcanoes. To the east lie Merapi and Merbabu and to the north lies Sumbing and Sindoro. The unusual jagged Menoreh Hills encircle the temple to the South and West. The temple is also located near the meeting place of two rivers, the Elo and the Progo. These rivers are believed to be symbolic of the Gangga and Yamuna, the two rivers feeding the Indus valley in India. The location was most likely chosen for its central location and expansive views. Borobudur lies directly south of Tidar Hill, a small knob on the valley floor which according to myth place nailed the island of Java .

We get senses of the grandness from the landscape when we climb to the final terrace of the monument which opens up into 360 degree view of the magnificent valley. This feeling of freedom and openness evokes the sense of spiritual release that occurs in Buddhist philosophy when someone enters the Arupadhatu, the sphere of enlightenment which is manifested on the final terrace of the monument.

This famous Buddhist temple, dating from the 8th and 9th centuries, is located in central Java. It was built in three tiers: a pyramidal base with five concentric square terraces, the trunk of a cone with three circular platforms and, at the top, a monumental stupa. The walls and balustrades are decorated with fine low reliefs, covering a total surface area of 2,500 m2. No other monument in the world accomplices what Borobudur does, either in term of the sheer scale on which stone panels have been carved to tell the stories about Buddhism, in the more subjective way in which these stories, man of them highly abstract, have been represented which such great artistry.

We know now that the 1.460 narrative panels on Borobudur were created to illustrate five Buddhist scriptures. Although the relief still poses many fascinating problem, scholars have solved the principal mysteries regarding the text which they are based. Various factors made it difficult to identify the stories told in the relief. Artists often depicted the same persons or objects differently in different panels, even in adjacent ones.

They also avoid showing conflicts, violence or suffering – precisely the scenes that are easier to identify. The lowest level has 160 relief’s depicting the law of cause and effect; the middle level contains various stories of Buddha’s life from the Jataka Tales; the highest level has no relief’s or decoration whatsoever has a balcony, square and shape with round walls. around the circular platforms are 72 openwork stupas, each containing a statue of the Buddha. The monument was restored with UNESCO's help in the 1970s. source: www.borobudurpark.co.id

Travel tips to Borobudur temple

Always use a tour guide
The best thing you can do to visit bororbudur is using the services of a tour guide. Tour guides at the Borobudur temple is more knowing the ins and outs at Borobudur temple, ranging from history to myth that you may have never heard before. Distinctive style and unique submission of any tour guide, will certainly make your trip more interesting and meaningful.

Visiting in a group
Borobudur temple area manager will arrange a visit by a group consisting of at least 30 people. Each group will be accompanied by the officer who will direct the traffic lane during the Borobudur Temple. To regulate the movement of tourists who visit in large amounts, there are two paths excursions, ie the yellow line and green line. It is made to avoid the buildup of tourists in one place.

Dress
To enter the Borobudur temple area, you are required to dress a polite and courteous. We recommend that you use comfortable cotton clothing. Avoid to use of shoes or sandals with high heels. Use Sandals or comfortable shoes for walking. If you come in the morning, there is a good idea to bring a jacket, the air around the temple of Borobudur will feel very cold when morning. For each adult visitor shall use batik sarong that has been provided. When finished exploring the temple of Borobudur, do not forget to return the sarong.

Time to visit
Borobudur temple area opening hours starting from 6 am till 5 pm. We recommend that you come in June, July, or August. Because, in these months tend to be sunny weather. However, Borobudur is always beautiful at any time visit

Visiting rules
-. Avoid to climb, occupying the stupa, or doodling body temple.
-. Avoid to bring food when you get around Borobudur temple, brought the a sharp weapon, musical instruments, as well as animals.
-. Do not throw your garbage everywhere, especially in the area Borobudur temple.

Comply with any rules that exist in the area of Borobudur temple, is the highest award of any traveler to this temple of Borobudur. This is because the age of the rocks at the Borobudur Temple is very old and has been slowly eroded so that your participation during a visit in the area is very large in an effort to preserve the existence of this very famous temple.