Sulawesi island would be a paradise tourist destinations in Indonesia. There are so many beautiful and impressive attractions that we can visit on the island of Sulawesi. One of the most famous tourist attraction in southern Sulawesi province is Bantimurung waterfalls. Why Bantimurung tourist attraction is so popular ? If you've seen and heard information about Niagara Falls that was so well known in New york United States, thus Bantimurung Waterfalls, had little in common with Niagara Falls. But Bantimurung waterfalls just only have a width of 20 meters with a height of about 15 meters, with a discharge volume of water that quite a lot.
Bantimurung Waterfalls is located in Maros regency, Bantimurung District. With an area of ± 118 ha, Bantimurung consists of limestone rock which forms by steep hills on either side of the river Bantimurung. Bantimurung Waterfalls has water passage in form by wide rocky, bumpy, smooth and beautiful. Unlike most other waterfalls that create a trench in the water at crash site, then Bantimurung Waterfalls which 15 meters height does not create trench.
Other than because essentially form by hard rock area, as well as the contours of a sloping rock waterfall serves as a propagation, thereby reducing the power of hit Bantimurung Waterfalls. Under the waterfall flowthere was a bathing place of ground limestone and covered with a layer of hard minerals from the water flow for hundreds of years.
The depth of water inside natural pool of Bantimurung waterfalls is between the ankles to the waist. Bantimurung Waterfalls is a very popular with visitors to feel the crystal clear waterfall massage from. It is certainly spoil every tourist who comes to immediately soak enjoy the beautiful panorama around the waterfall. Besides having a waterfall, this tourist area is also habitat for many species of rare butterflies, so this place is dubbed as the "Kingdom of Butterfly".
Stone Caves and Cave of Dreams are also being the major attractions for visitors to Bantimurung. Because in there, we can explore those caves get a very unusual experience, inside cave we can see various kinds of stone reliefs formed by dripping water hanging on the ceiling of the cave that looks beautiful with crystal collection.
For the adventure-minded tourists, you can enjoy rafting sports inside this tourist area. the route taken is from the bottom of the waterfall to a suspension bridge which is located within Bantimurung, with notes ; the manager will provide rafting when the water conditions were great able to bring inflatable boats for rafting.
How to get there
1. From the center of Makassar, the location can be achieved using a motor, car or bicycle. ± distance takes 1-1 1/2 hours. If the rent of public transport, the cost of about Rp. 10,000-Rp. 15,000 / person. 2. If you come from Sultan Hasanuddin airport, tourist locations can be reached about 30-45 minutes by bike, car or public transport. Transportation costs incurred when using public transport, around Rp. 6,000 - Rp. 7500 / person 3. If you're in Center City Maros, tourist sites can be reached about 15-30 minutes by car or motorcycle (40 km / h).
Travel Tips
1. The best time to visit here is during the morning so as not to hot. Always wear sunblock with a hat are also prepared. 2. Admission price of Bantimurung National Parks: Rp 10,000 3. Beverage prices an average of 1.5 times more expensive than the normal price.
Raja Ampat is the Islands District and have the best coral reef areas in Indonesia. According to research, approximately 500 types of coral reefs and more than 540 species of hard corals (75% from total species in the world), stored more than 1000 species of reef fish, 700 species of molluscs, as well as the highest record for gonodactyloid stomatopod crustaceans. New seven species of coral reef was founded, spread from another hundreds of coral reefs and never been found in other areas. The waters of Raja Ampat Islands is one of the 10 best diving site around the world.
The archipelago of Raja Ampat consists of four small islands, namely Waigeo , Batanta, Salawati and Misool. The Raja Ampat region have been preserved for thousands years ago and preserved so many variety of marine life. The beaches also had pristine waters that you can't find in other area. Raja Ampat is very famous among divers and be one of the best triangle coral reefs around the world, so this is not surprisingly, if this region is rich with coral reefs and species of fish were so unique and rare. Raja Ampat is like an unpolished gem, and once you come to this place, forever , you will never forget its beauty.
How to get there ?
Transportation modes to Raja Ampat currently is not much as another tourist objects in Indonesia. Unlike the island of Bali which provides flights with dozen times to various major cities in Indonesia and abroad, or the famous city of Manado Bunaken Marine Park which provides more than ten flights connecting Manado and Jakarta. The most popular route to Raja Ampat is through the town of Sorong, one of the largest cities in the West Papua provinces. You can begin your journey from Jakarta to Sorong using aircraft for approximately seven hours of travel after some transit in Makassar.
Trip to Sorong can be reached from several major cities in Indonesia and some other cities in southeast Asia such as Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, and Davao in Philippines. Several airlines providing flights between Jakarta and Sorong, but they require to transite through Makassar or Manado. The airlines include Lion Air, Merpati Nusantara Airlines, and Garuda Indonesia. Ticket prices ranged from Rp 1.200.000 valid until Rp 3.500.000 depending on class selection and availability of tickets. Meanwhile, foreign airlines serving flights to Sorong, which is also do some transit in Manado, among others, Silk Air and Cebu Pacific Air with ticket prices ranging from $ 450 in numbers.
From Sorong city you have to continue your trip towards to Waisai, the capital of Raja Ampat. This trip can be done by using a fast boat that can be rented at the rates of about Rp 2.000.000 per vessel per trip. In one trip, the vessel may contain more than ten people. Travel time takes about one and a half hours to reach Waisai. From Waisai, tourists can choose to stay on the island or hire small boats to get to the other islands..
What to see ?
In this place , there are so much activities to fully your days with an exotic panoramas and sea views , such as : -Spectacular diving and snorkling -Sensational kayaking in the shallow bays, especially in the mangrove forests -Slow afternoon cruise with one of the tenders - get up-close-and-personal with the stunning land scenery -Bird spotting - find the illusive Bird of Paradise from the water. -Fishing - unexplored fly-fishing for bonefish or deep water trolling for marlin and sailfish . -Dive in Wreck diving in the area is superb as well. The wrecks here haven't been plundered as in Truk Lagoon, PNG, the Solomons, Vanuatu and other well-known wreck diving areas. Most of these WWII wrecks were not seen by humans again until the day and therefore completely intact. Over 50 years of marine life growing on and around them has turned them in beautiful gardens. By special arrangement, Papua Diving can schedule to dive wrecks in the Manokwari area (on the east side of the bird's head). Although there are plenty of wrecks all around the area, the wrecks in Manokwari are in shallow, clear water with plenty of coral growth and sea life surrounding them. For further information about diving site , please visit this link .
Where to stay ?
1. Misool eco resort this is the naturalist resort with modern facility , built from reclaimed tropical hardwood. Misool Eco Resort offers two levels of accommodation. Eight Water of Cottages are located in the North Lagoon, built on stilts over the water. They're just steps from the Dive Centre and restaurant. Stairs lead from your private veranda down into the placid lagoon, and the House Reef is about 100 fin-kicks away. aAnd also have one deluxe villa, Villa Tabisasu, located on the eastern edge of the North Lagoon. info : www.misoolecoresort.com
2.Kri eco resort and Sorido bay resort The western style look resort (sorido), Western style comforts in a traditional Papuan setting. Located on a beautiful deep lagoon and white sand beach on Kri Island, the dive resort is central to the most spectacular dive sites in the Raja Ampat. Kri Eco Resort is an Indonesian style resort and currently has 6 over-water guest bungalows. Most of the buildings contain two rooms and at least one sitting area. info : www.papua-diving.com
3. Raja Ampat Dive Lodge Raja Ampat Dive Lodge is located at the heart of the most spectacular diving in northern Raja Ampat. Mere minutes from the famous Manta aggregation sites and the fish-filled dives at the western edge of the Dampier Strait, our intimate lodge is the prefect place to experience the most bio-diverse reefs in the world info : www.rajaampat-liveaboard.com
Tips
Accommodation. Currently in Saonek Monde being built three resorts on the island of Batbitiem Nyandebabo, Waiwo, and South Waigeo. During unfinished, you can stay at several places below. First is Sorido Bay Resort is famous for its coral reefs. Then there is the Kri Eco Resort, a traditional resort built on the water. Another option is to camp on the island or a house boat that provided a lot of travel agents.Although Raja Ampat is not very crowded, but there are already hotels and rented houses in Saonek, Mansuar, and islands Yenwaupnor.
Transportation. If you are flying from Jakarta it will take 7 hour flight to Sorong and stopped in Manado. You can also dive in Bali tour and fly from there. Sorong like any other big city. You can get almost everything here. Although, the price is more expensive because its a remote location. Only the tourists who buy package from travel agencies are ussually the most audience in Raja Ampat maritime tourism. You do not need advanced diving dive tour to follow this, because the travel agent providing tours for non professional divers or trained divers. There are 8 airlines open up the flight schedule. Several national and foreign airlines provided flights from Jakarta or Bali to Sorong connected with aviation in Makassar or Manado.
Getting around. Usually, many divers would join the tours and stay at the resort for divers while visiting Raja Ampat Islands. To access the dive sites, you can contact the travel agency that can be found in Sorong. Some travel agents also offer options such as boat tour around Raja Ampat, or diving in Raja Ampat. From Sorong, there are two types of boats, long boat and speed boat. Using a speed boat can carry 15 passengers with travel time 1 hour 40 minutes, cost price of 2 million rupiah. While the long boat carrying 10 passengers and takes about 2-3 hours, the cost price of 1.2 million rupiah. Please be aware that prices may change at any time. You can rent a small boat if you want to explore this island more freely. The islands at Raja Ampat has 4 major islands, is mountainous and hundreds of small islands around it which you can explore.In addition, this region also had a lot of coral, which is a beautiful natural phenomenon. There are a variety of unique fauna as bald paradise, paradise red, maleo Waigeo, rat-rat. For this type of flora then you can see orchids, palms, and many others. Try to do activities of trekking around the island to discover the hidden beauty such as waterfalls and ancient caves.
Culinary. Food provided by the diving operators, ranging from international to traditional food menu is made directly by the local community. Usually available a variety of seafood. Try you taste the fish soup which is a typical food of yellow island.
Shopping. Many divers say that the best souvenirs from the Raja Ampat is the story of your experience when visiting the Raja Ampat. Surely this is a good places catch a lot of photograph to shows. However, you can buy statue of Asmat tribe as souvenirs , the traditional cloth, flute, or traditional drum. The goods are usually sold in souvenir shops in various cities in Papua. This trick will lighten your burden for too much stuff of souvenirs from Raja Ampat. You can also buy handicrafts woven in Arborek if you have more leisure when visited the village in Raja Ampat.
Best time. October or November is a good time to visit Raja Ampat because the sea would be so calm and perfect to get some videos or photograph. Every year, Raja Ampat is typically held maritime festival, held between the months of May or October.
Equipment. Bring your underwater camera. Use your skills for underwater photography , meanwhile for taking underwater pictures is not easy, but also a regret if it passed. Also bring sun block anyway, sunscreen, hats, and shirts which are comfortable for beach weather. Should also prepare insect repellent and anti malarial drugs.
For people of Indonesia, especially people who live in the province of Central Java, Tawangmangu name is not foreign anymore on their ear. An area that is very popular because of the waterfall. Tawangmangu located on Lawu mountainside , Central Java. Has a height of 1300 meters above sea level. This region is the mountainous region which is pretty cool and cold temperate. Has a distance of about 40 km from the city of Solo, can be reached by land vehicles for one hour from the city of Surakarta (Solo). This place has become a sightseeing spot since Dutch colonial times. Object of the main tourist destinations in Tawangmangu is Grojogan Sewu waterfall (height 81 m).
Tawangmangu located in the surrounded area by lush mountain forests and hills. However, this small town has been known up to the foreigner from other countries as tourist region iwhichis suitable to be used as a vacationing option. Tawangmangu morning atmosphere is very beautiful and exotic. Typical of cold air from the mountains and the mist that enveloped the mountain peaks provide an aura of its own beauty. Take a stroll while enjoying the beautiful rice fields, see the activities of residents in the morning, or explore the markets are very effective to relieve tired of the daily grind. Tawangmangu also popular with the production of vegetables and fresh fruits. The fields were planted with cabbage, carrots, radishes, strawberries, and various other crops extends everywhere.
To enter this Grojogan sewu tourist area, you will be charged Rp8000, - per person (prices may change at any time). Ticket prices are cheap enough to enjoy the incredible natural scenery here. Distance from the entrance to the waterfall where the purchase of tickets were still quite far away. On the right and left side, there are growth lush vegetation such as pine, Kaliandra, resins, and many other plants. As for the fauna, the forest is a place to live for the long-tailed monkeys, squirrels, and various species of birds. While on the move, the monkeys will not hesitate to greet visitors, especially with food. To Reach the location of the waterfall, visitors must descended the stairs within 500 meters.
The number of steps that you need to pass more or less totaled 200 steps. Be careful if you come after the rainfall, because the steps to the waterfall is quite slippery. Once you reach the last stairs, you will pass through the rocky path, in the middle - between waterfall and stairs, there stood a bridge. This bridge is the best spot to see the beautiful of waterfall Grojogan sewu . In addition to seeing the waterfalls, the Park Grojogan Sewu there is also a swimming pool, some outbound games such as flying fox, mini rafting and others.
How to get there Visitors can use a private vehicle or public transportation (bus) to the location of these attractions. The distance between Solo - Tawangmangu approximately 42 km uphill and the road conditions are not too wide, while the distance between Yogya - Solo approximately 65km, where the condition of the road is wide with a more dense traffic.
If you want to use public transport, visitors can ride by bus from Terminal Tirtonadi Solo - Tawangmangu. The route followed by Solo-Karanganyar-Karangpandan-Tawangmangu. The journey from Solo to the site can be taken for about a half hour. Arriving at the terminal Tawangmangu, visitors who use the public bus have to walk along approximately one kilometer to reach the location of attractions. Or you can also take public transportation called L300.
Travel tips 1. Prepare a map of Solo and the surrounding areas to avoid getting lost. You can utilize google map or google earth. 2. Be careful of the monkeys at the entrance, these monkeys are very interested in food, although hidden in a bag. 3. To enjoy the atmosphere of peace and quiet, you should come when not in Indonesia national holiday , because when holiday, the number of visitors are very much. 4. prepare for an replacement outfit. the air around the waterfall can make your clothes getting wet.
Kakaban located inDerawan Islands, District Derawan, Berau regency, East Kalimantan. Kakaban is one of the islands of the archipelago group Derawan nominated as a World Heritage Area. Kakaban attract foreign tourists with some of its uniqueness, the uniqueness in Kakaban is the lake on the island, Lake Kakaban.Kakaban Lake, is a lake of sea water were trapped in Kakaban, coupled with water from the soil and rain water from 2 million years ago. Lake Kakaban a prehistoric lake that is the time of transition Holosin. The extent of approximately 5 km², walled cliffs as high as 50 meters, which resulted in sea water is trapped no longer to get out, so it becomes a lake.
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. Thus Kakaban is the only island in Indonesia which has a lake in the middle. This island ranks as the third highest world-class dive destination and make this island a dream island for divers.
The specialty of this lake is Kakaban jellyfish with four unique species of jellyfish. Located just 25 minutes from the island of Sangalaki, dip in the lake area of 5 km2, try to swim (and even contact) with a jellyfish without the sting! This unique species exist only in two places in the world. In the Palau Islands, Philippines. And here, in Kakaban! Snorkeling with the jellyfish do not sting will provide an unforgettable experience throughout your life!. The world has known some point dive diving around Kakaban, namely Barracuda Point, The Drift, Cabbage Patch, The Wall, Blue Light Cave, The Plateau, Rainbow Run, Diver's Delight and The North Face. Variations of the various types of dive sites are very interesting for experienced divers.
Kakaban Jellyfish Lake, the jellyfish are unique because no sting. Unlike the other jellyfish commonly found in the sea that have the ability to spout venom, on a jellyfish sting glands in the lake Kakaban (nematosit) has been reduced so it no longer harmful to humans. Four species of jellyfish found in the lake Kakaban are the moon jellyfish (Aurelia aurita), spotted jellyfish (Mastigias papua), the box jellyfish (Tripedalia cystophora), and upside down jellyfish (Cassiopea ornata).
Moon jellyfish (Aurelia aurita). This Jellyfish are known in English as the moon jelly is a type of jellyfish Kakaban which has the largest in size, between 50-40 cm. The Body shape is like a bowl of slightly transparent white with clover leaf motif at the end hood.
Spotted jellyfish (Mastigias papua). This jellyfish are also known as a lagoon spotted jelly, it has a size between 10-20 cm. And they are most numerous in Lake Kakaban. A unique, jellyfish lake Kakaban spots have a different character with a jellyfish spotted in general. In addition to the pattern of spots on his body that began to fade, which turns reddish color hood, even the tentacles are experiencing downsizing. Nematosit (sting glands) in the spotted jellyfish reduced to very small so it loses its ability to sting.
Box jellyfish (Tripedalia cystophora). Is the smallest jellyfish measuring about 0.7 to 1 cm. Although small, in the open sea habitat, box jellyfish become the one of the jellyfish sting with can be so deadly . But as the spotted jellyfish caught in the lake of Kakaban, has lost the ability to sting off lethal, because it has some reduction in nematosit gland .
upside-down jellyfish (Cassiopea ornata). It was the less unique and even a trade mark of Kakaban. This type of jellyfish swimming upside down with the tentacles at the top. Upside down jellyfish symbiosis with zooxanthella (a type of algae) attached at the bottom of the hood and the tentacles of jellyfish. To be able zooxanthella photosynthesize and produce food, upside-down jellyfish (Cassiopea ornata) goes inversely with the tentacles at the top and hood at the bottom.
How to get there
If you are from Jakarta, just looking for cheap tickets jkt-bpp-Tarakan (estimated 1.7 million PP) or can directly jkt-bpp-ticket to Berau Berau but can only be purchased at Aberdeen Airport, there is no online ordering (estimate 2, 4 million PP).
From Tarakan - Derawan - Tarakan (you can rent a speed boat because it was 3 hours so it was rather expensive rent of about 3 million for max 6 people) If it falls in Berau you have to travel to Tanjung Batu about 3 hours with a rented car (800-1 million cost of PP).
From Tanjung Batu to Derawan using Speedboat 20 minutes (cost 400 thousand PP) In Derawan many lodging choices, ranging from 50 thousand a night, 250 thousand to 400 thousand a night a night (cottages), located on the seafront location can direct fishing from the front room or swim together turtles there.
Tips
* Choose a route Jakarta-Balikpapan-Berau/TanjungBatu-Pulau Derawan.
* Choose a Flight Promo , the tickets are cheap so booked in advance.
* Speedboat selected who have the complete safety of equipment.
* Choose a lodging houses and close to the Cottage facilities.
* Prepare your own dive equipment so that each time could swim so much as enjoying the scenery of coral reefs and colorful fish.
* Take a trip as a family and groups that are lighter in financing Speedboad (Calculated per Speedboad with contents 5-40 people).
* Prepare Camera and Handycam that can stand in the water.
* Prepare an additional budget for diving when we used to dive deeper than 20-40 meters above sea level.
To compelete my post series about interesting tourist destination before we entering to Ubud Bali (the venue for BaliSpirit Festival 2012). This post will inform you where to get some traditional Balinese wood masks and sculpture crafts with good quality. The Bali wood masks and sculpture crafts center was located in the village mas, Gianyar, Bali. This Mas village located for approximately 20km from Denpasar city and 6 km before Ubud. Mas village communities have dynamics live oriented such as the other villages attractions major in Bali. They do some transformation from an agrarian society and continues to craft maker community until service sellers and souvenir trade. Mas village is a tourist village located in the the art network villages which is so mutually supportive and complementary of the surrounding villages.
Along the road in Mas village, it was developed some of the art shop that serves as the marketing and the production of statues and even accommodate the workforce as a carver, sculptor and engraver. The village is characterized in the art of carving wood sculptures that promote synergy characteristic humanism and naturalism. Statues of deities resembling coin lined up to have a very high artistic value. The results of these crafts can be found at any art shop that lined the road when entering the village of Mas.
The Strength from attraction of statues and masks which made by sculptors in the village mas is at the end of the result that looks very smooth on each sculpture and masks that have been so. Mask models that was sales in here leads to a form that is often used to any mask dance performances in Bali. Such as the barong dance, masks are used so realistic, so that adds to the perfection of the show. In addition to crafting a mask, the crafts of Mas village also makes some sculptures were coated with kepeng (pis perforated). Statues of deities resembling kepeng lined up to have a very high artistic value. The results of these crafts can be found at any art shop that lined the road when entering the village of Mas. If you are a collector of traditional statues and masks, then the village mas is the perfect place for you to complete the collection of Balinese statues and masks.
At the end for this series "road trip to Ubud" , we hope this information can help you to guide to the other tourist destination near ubud, Bali. More over if you had a plan to attend the Bali Spirit Festival which held in the end days of next march 2012. Happy reading and enjoy your road trip to Ubud 2012.
Bunaken Marine National Park had an area of 75,265 hectares with five islands as a major, namely Pulau Bunaken, Manado Tua Island, Siladen Island, Island Mantehage and the last is Naen Island. Although this five islands marine park are closed together, only the most famous Bunaken Island as a dive sites. Bunaken Island area is in the Gulf part of Manado city , provincial capital of North Sulawesi. Bunaken Marine National Park is one of the most beautiful marine park in the world, famous for its coral formations which are very beautiful and spacious. This marine park have habitats of fish in more than 3000 species that need to be guarded from extinction such as lolosi yellow tail fish (Lutjanus kasmira), fish gusumi horse (hippocampus and horses), goropa (ephinephelus spilotoceps), white oci (seriola rivoliana) and many others.
How to get there ?
The simply and easiest way to get there is by an airplane . From any direction you just have to go to Manado city at North Sulawesi island in Indonesia . Landing at Sam Ratulangi International airport then go to Manado harbor (MARINA ). Bunaken National Park can be reached through the port of Manado, Marina Nusantara Diving Centre (NDC) in the District of Molas and Marina Blue loud. From the Port of Galway using a motorboat to the island can be reached Siladen 20 minutes, 30 minutes Bunaken Island, the island Montehage 50 minutes and 60 minutes Nain island. Blue Banter Marina with a yacht that is available to the tourist area on the island of Bunaken be taken within 10-15 minutes, while the NDC to the port on the island of Bunaken dive sites by using speed boat taken within 20 minutes.
There a lot of boats in the harbor , and you can charter the boat to Bunaken.The Price is the range of Rp 350 000 until Rp 750.000. For speed boat itspublic boat who also just once a day of departure from Manado to Bunaken price for this trasportation is more cheaper and count per person Rp 25.000 per person. But for the return offorced to tomorrow morning at 7 AM for departures only once daily. All visitors to the Bunaken National Park (divers and non divers) are required to pay the entrance fee, according to Government Regulation No. North Sulawesi. 9 / 2002. The entrance fee for foreigners is Rp 50 000 for a daily ticket (approximately U.S. $ 6), or Rp 150,000 (approximately U.S. $ 17) to get the tag (badge) signed a waterproof plastic which is valid for one calendar year.
What to see ?
With snorkeling, simply by floating on the sea, you seemed to be under the sea. Why? Because, he's just being on the surface you may feeling comfort at the sea water below. Can clearly be seen a sight such a world-class marine park. Coral reefs that grow naturally into a habitat for the ornamental fish that you can enjoy just by looking over it. You are like hypnotized and are willing to linger to enjoy the underwater life of Bunaken. And with Scuba Diving, you can explore and may participate with a clear taste sensation of life under the sea there. One of a variety of fish is an angel fish that have nests in their own territory. This type of fish form the group consisting of one male and several females. Interestingly, this fish is born as females when adult males changed. Another uniqueness of this fish is capable of making a tap in the water. Maybe that's because of its uniqueness, make it known as an angel. Amazing is not it? You can observe objects clearly under the sea was much closer and more alive. Remove your stress and enjoy the beauty of Bunaken marine. Visit this linkfor further information about diving sites in Bunaken island
Where to stay ?
There are so many hotels and inns in Manado with so many different charge for one night . i found this while googling , may be it can help you to find hotels while you are traveling to bunaken .
*. Bastianos Dive Resort, ☎ +62 431 3325678 (info@bastianos.com), Full service dive resort.
*.Bunaken Cha Cha Nature Resort, ☎ +62 813 56930370, On the eastern side of Bunaken; 10 cottages all with en-suite bathrooms (hot water showers), large balconies, all superior cottages are equipped with A/C. Private white sand beach, "House Reef" with floating pontoon for snorkelers, massage treatments available. Restaurant above the beach, Wifi throughout the resort, PADI Dive Center. Skype: bunakenchacha. Packages start from US$75 per person/per night ; Accommodation & Dive Packages from US$165 per person/per night..
*.Bunaken SeaGarden Resort, (Pangalisang beach), ☎ +6281244738802, On a beautiful location at Pangalisang Beach, a small and cosy resort with spacious cottages built in a traditional style. All cottages have nice veranda and modern style bathrooms. Right in front of the resort you wil find the Bunaken Timur Reef. The high tide creates a long natural swimming pool along the resort and at low tide a shady and sandy beach appears. From €15 inclusive all meals, coffee, tea and water.
*.Bunaken Village Resort, Located along the Pangalisang beach on the east coast of Bunaken. 8 cottages, restaurant, dive shop, beach bar, and swimming pool around a nicely landscaped small garden. Rooms €25-28, 2 boat dives €45.
*.Cicak Senang Resort (Happy Gecko), Liang Beach, ☎ +62 852 5665 0099 (cicak.senang@gmail.com), Five wooden bungalows on a hillside with spacious bathroom and a beautiful view. Breezy beachside restaurant and bar. Good snorkeling right in front of the resort. Snorkeling tours and dolphinwatching tours are offered. The owner Jerry is a Bunaken original who knows a lot about the island and he is happy to show you around. Families with children welcome. Rp 250,000 per person per night fullboard.
*.Froggies Divers, A high quality dive operator with comfortable bungalows and excellent food.
*.Living Colours, ☎ +62 812 4306063,. Diver-oriented resort run by the shop of the same name. The bungalows are spacious and clean. Rooms €35/person including three excellent meals.
*.Lorenso's Bungalows,. 5 min down the coast from Living Colours, offering cheaper but more basic bungalows at Rp 125,000- 250,000 per person
*.Panorama Resort. Cheapest room is 135,000 Rp. The rooms for 150,000 Rp have a nice view on the sea but are quite basic. The food is very good, but you have to buy your own drinking water. Tea and coffee are only available at mealtimes and if you ask for it. Staff here tends to be quite rude. The beach on this side of the island is not very nice and the corals are mostly dead.
*.Two Fish Divers, ☎ +62 811 432805, Small and friendly PADI Gold Palm IDC Resort based on Bunaken Island. Cottages are basic but comfortable, and are right in front of the mangroves. The food is reliable, if monotonous. Vegetarians are usually offered fresh grilled fish in place of meat dishes. Offers fun dives for experienced and inexperienced divers, with small groups of 2-4 divers per dive guide. Also offers a full range of PADI dive courses from Open Water Course through to Instructor. Rooms from €12 to €25 per person..
For hotels in Manado hotel with affordable prices ranging from Rp 150.000 until Rp 200.00
H. Central 0431.851234. H. Celebes 0431.870425. Losmen Unique Inn 0431.864987. H. Regina 0431.850090. H. Emerald 0431.844944.
For medium range hotels from the price of Rp 250.000 until Rp 350.000
H. GranCentral 0431.878888 . H. Sahid Kawanua 0431.867777. H. New Queen 0431.855551. H. Wisata 0431.860908. H. Formosa 0431.854555.
For the 3-4 star hotels with prices upwards of Rp 400.000.
H. Quality 0431.8883888. H. Ritzy 0431.855555. H. GranPuri 0431.822888.
Where to eat and shop ?
If you're traveling to Manado, North Sulawesi , do not forget to visit the local souvenir center Wanea, Mercifull Building, which is open for 24 hours. At the center of this gift, you can shop while enjoying the music typical of the area.Thousands of souvenirs you can find in here is like, typical food and beverage North Sulawesi, a variety of fabrics and clothing. Not only that, various knick-knacks are also unique handicrafts here.Every day, local and foreign tourists have never stopped coming and shopping at this place. You also can order a typical traditional house of Minahasa miniature, with affordable prices . Sineleyan restaurants in Tomohon. This place can be your outlet to satisfy culinary desires. As the name suggests, the menu presents Sineleyan lot of fish, sea water and fresh water. Processed according to a typical course of Manado
Tips on the go
1. The best season to visit the Bunaken Marine National Park is in May to August
2. For your comfort and your spouse during the Bunaken, book accommodation and dive package in advance. For lodging, currently widely available in the beach resort island of Bunaken. These resorts are equipped with support facilities that support your comfort such as clean water, electricity, bathroom and western style toilet, a comfortable mattress and mosquito net and fan, wireless internet connection, as well as bars and restaurants open. Bastiano's, Bunaken Village, Cha Cha, Daniel's Homestay, Panorama, Scubana Dive Cottage, Seabreeze Resort, and Two Fish are the names of the diving resorts spread across two point dive at Bunaken Island, Beach and Coastal Pangalisang Liang.
3. Prepared your cash money for additional purpose.
After traveling from Batubulan village which is famous for stone sculptures handicrafts, and villages Celuk with gold and silver craft, the next trip is we will stopping by on sukawati village. The village is famous for the market which have sold every wares in quite cheap price. This market is situated in Sukawati village, approximately 1 hour drive from the city of Denpasar. In the past, Sukawati was the capital of a kingdom in Bali, but this time Sukawati is one of the center of manufactures and sales of the most famous traditional Balinese craft items. This market is better known as Art Market Sukawati. Sukawati art market, is the most appropriate place for those of you who like to hunt traditional Balinese souvenirs, so do not be surprised if this market gets the title as a shopping paradise island of Bali.
What makes this Sukawati Art Market must to visit?
CHEAP PRICES !Of course this requires a little from your ingenuity to bid on items that you want to buy. Sukawati market is a traditional market, so do not hesitate to haggle prices to create an agreement between you and the merchant. Sukawati market is also not devoid of tourists. They used to buy groceries, because the price offered is cheap. In addition, the merchants were friendly!
Although Sukawati hawking souvenirs or by-the sort of sandals, necklaces, key chains, paintings, hats and such, but this one seems the market is better known as a place to buy all kinds of Balinese garments. Starting from the typical Balinese shirts, pants Bali, Balinese sarongs, negligee, nightgowns and other Balinese casual clothes.
About the price depends on the persistence and your ability to bid. For goods in Sukawati all negotiable. So there is no benchmark price is right. But in general the price offered is quite affordable. Especially if you buy in bulk. Small tips for those who want to shop at this place, which came in the morning at 8 am to 10 noon. Because it is reportedly the best time to get a cheap price because traders just observe prayer. And they believe the goods are sold in the morning will continue in the next hour. Interesting to haggle on yours craft items on Sukawati art market ?
Several shopping tips on sukawati art market
1. Make a list of who and what items would you give a gift. This is important because it will prevent you from 'hungry eyes' when you saw a lot of good stuff and cheap offer here. 2. No less important, have a maximum budget that you will spend. Because in every experience, regardless of the amount of your money, would be exhausted, if we are not good at self-control. Remember there are still a lot of tourist destinations in Bali. 3. Do not ever hesitate to shop around first, so its important to get the goods in accordance with your shopping list. 4. Examine before buying, if you want to buy clothes, check whether the strong seams, right size, and color when buying clothes, make sure the color does not fade. 5. And most importantly, do not hesitate to haggle. After spending a couple of times, the average asking price could be reduced by 40% -60%, of course, it is strongly influenced by to skills in the bargain.
After passing by the village of Batubulan, to get to Ubud, we will pass the Celuk village. Celuk village is located in the district sukawati within 10km from the city of Denpasar. Celuk village could become a haven of considerable interest, especially for those of you who like to see and buy jewelry made from gold and silver. Gold and silver handicrafts are produced in Celuk villages have a high-grade quality and able to produce in large quantities. Various types and creations of jewelry , both as an export commodity and souvenirs, manufactured in the village such as rings, bracelets, necklaces, earrings, studs, Bross and various other types of jewelry.
As a tourist village, Celuk can be visited every day for a closer look to the worker who are creating the gold and silver jewelry with high quality. Celuk tourist village is becoming known as a silvers mith area since 1976. According to information from some villagers in Celuk, at that time, there were only 3 silver craftsmen in the village. They are making jewelry from silver, which then place it in front of the house. When the development of tourism began to be felt in Bali and many tourists who flock to the island, eventually emerging new silver craftsmen which follow the three steps of the craftsmen.
Entering Celuk village on either side of the road, there are so many lined art shop. Almost all display and sell silver and gold. Various models and forms neatly displayed in glass display case, making it easier for visitors to choose and see the variety and creativity of gold and silver in the village. The gold and silvers craft exhibition space are big enough, you can find in some shops along the main highway, and this room is usually crowded by tourists group. If you are interested, do not be awkward to go and see the jewelry. For happily, art shop keeper will let us go and see for the crafts that they display.
Art shop keeper was usually dressed in mild traditional uniform, but some are dressed in uniforms from each art shop. The shelves display U-shaped followed the shape of the room. Craft items organized by categories whether it be jewelry, utensils, or ornaments. On the shelves of jewelry, rings will be on display together or side by side with the earrings, brooches, bracelets, pendants, chains, and similar. Glasses will be display on near the kettle, dishes, order desk, spoons, and forks. While fan, miniature motorcycles, gadang home miniature, giant lock, tricycles, and other displays will be next to each other. Tourists are also allowed to visit the workshop of making silver and gold handycrafts. You can see up close how the gold and silver were processed into handicrafts that have a high quality value. Here you can also order jewelery to suit your taste if given samples or sketches.
In general craft items on display, they have been attached by label of the price, but visitors who intend to buy can make an offer. Prospective buyers may bid to get the price as they wish. Sometimes, the buyer managed to get the craft items that they want at half of the price from price tag. If you are interested in buying jewelry souvenir in form of gold or silver , its better to stop by the Celuk village first.
Tips for buying jewelry in Celuk village
1. To facilitate the bidding process and obtain the appropriate price according to you, you'd better bring a friend or relative who can speak Balinese. 2. Before deciding to buy jewelry here, watch and carefully for the jewelry in advance, whether it is in conformity with the design you want? Do not hesitate to ask and look more closely at the jewelry you want to buy. 3. According to some sellers in the shop, they do not like the tourists who talk too much but not buying the goods. So it's better for you to fully looking at to the jewelry you want to buy. 4. If you make an offer, try to bid in the rupiah and bargain up to half price , if you're lucky, you can buy jewelry at half price.
Bali Spirit Festival 2012 will be held in Bali, exactly in the Ubud area. Common route taken to get to Ubud is through Denpasar city, a city which is the provincial capital of Bali. From Denpasar to Ubud, there are some interesting places you can visit during Road trip to Ubud. The journey from Denpasar to Ubud usually through out area named Batubulan, Celuk, Sukawati, Batuan, Mas, and a few other places. This route is commonly used by tourists who are looking for trinkets and souvenirs of Bali. In this post, we will provide information about the region of Batubulan. What makes the region of Batubulan should to visit? If you ever hear about terracotta army in the land of China, with hundreds of troops, lined up and stretching complete with armor and horse-drawn carriage. All of it is statue, that looked entirely made of stone. And the region of Batubulan is the center of famous stone craft in Bali (although not as terracotta figurines earlier). Hundreds of statues of various shapes and types, displayed along the road from the Batubulan village to Silakarang . Batubulan is located approximately 10 miles from the city of Denpasar and 17 km from the city of Gianyar. Batubulan village adjacent to the Celuk village and Singapadu and have similarities in terms of art, such as: the art of dance, sculpture and a variety of percussion enticing.
Stone carving is actually the main mark of Batubulan village since very long time ago which is around 1970s. The first sculpture, just like wooden carving use the main object were various myth such as the epic of Ramayana, Mahabharata, and others. Until now actually most of their sculptures are still using this traditional ethnic figures, very few new designs or creation. Only the enrichement of materials are found to be bearing more type of figures. In this area, visitors can see up close how the statue was made, even if you are interested, you can buy them as souvenirs. Batubulan stone sculpture are made of from material called "paras", A kind of porous volcanic rock that has a soft texture and light. Yet the variation of stone carving is considered has been experincing a great developement in the choice of materials, not only natural stone, but also created from cement and concrete.
The resulting sculptures are very diverse. ranging from statue of humans, animals, boats, and many others. Finely carved on stone, is a hallmark which well known from the maker of statue in this region. Almost all statue which used as a gate keeper on every temple in Bali, was the result of statue maker in the region of Batubulan. Come to a temple which is located 200 meters to the east of the highway. This temple called Pura Paseh. This temple decoration is unique and different from pretending that exist in Bali in general. Pura paseh combines elements of Hindu and non Hindu culture.
If you are lucky and comes at the right time, you can see some of art performance organized by a few souvenir shops around the region Batubulan. Usually they show dance Barong and Rangda. The show usually done in collaboration with tour organizers. As a tourism object and stone carving business area, Batubulan village is visited by tourist of foreign countries and domestic since in the morning time until evening time. At 09:00-10:30 am daily, Barong Dance is held while at 18:00-19:00 pm, the Kecak Dance or Bali Night performances are executed.
Be prepared while you are visiting Bali at the end of next March. Because in Bali, exactly in Ubud region, there will be held a festival that is feasible for you to attend. The festival named is BaliSpirit FESTIVAL. Bali Spirit Festival is an annual celebration of yoga, dance and music. Bali Spirit Festival is always eagerly anticipated by fans, as recognized by most of the visitors that this festivity had a lot of inspiration. Do not be surprised if tickets are sold, although expensive is always sold out, even well before the festival was held. The festival has experienced success since it first opened in 2008. It is recognized is exceptional in terms of organization, networking and coordination.
The BaliSpirit Festival is indeed a celebration of the richness of culture, the sanctity of the environment and harmony between people of all nations. Balispirit Festival more than just a vibrant and uplifting festival of yoga, dance, and music. It celebrates connecting sacred world music and dance from many cultures and traditions with yoga and universal spiritual practices. The BaliSpirit Festival is becoming a model for presenting inspirational, sacred performing arts with healthy lifestyle education and cooperative, peaceful community action which awakens and nourishes each individual’s potential for positive change within, leading to positive change in our homes, in our communities, and around the world.
Bali is internationally recognized as a unique center of healing energy, arts & culture. Spectacular spas, tropical resorts, holistic practitioners and artists from around the world make Bali the world's leading destination for yoga & spiritual retreats, artist workshops, yoga vacation, deep healing & serious relaxation. This festival brings a variety of art activities such as unique series of concerts features and knits together the distinctive traditional rhythms of Africa, Indonesia and Australia with the contemporary music of the rest of the world.
The BaliSpirit Festival takes place at two of the most stunning venues in Ubud: Purnati Centre for the Arts and Arma Resort and Museum.
1. Purnati Center for the Arts, Batuan Just 15 minutes south of Ubud. The majestic daytime Festival grounds of Purnati contain sprawling green lawns, a large swimming pool, 5 workshop spaces and 3 healing bungalows. At the base of the property and near a holy temple, there is a blessed river flowing through.
2. Agung Rai Museum of Art (ARMA) – Jln Pengoseken, Ubud. Located on the South end of Ubud Center, ARMA is a 15 minutes walking distance from central Ubud and every transport driver in town knows its location, so it is easy to find.
Bali spirit festival will be held on March 28th until April 1st, 2012. For more info, please visit his official website at http://www.balispiritfestival.com
If you want to find another alternative tourist attractions beside the island of Bali. You may visit the island of Sulawesi as your destination. Sulawesi is one major islands in Indonesia. Wakatobi, Selayar and Takabonerate, is one of many small and beautiful islands around large Sulawesi island. Sulawesi is an island that holds group of very beautiful little islands, you can visit as a place to perform various beaches and diving activities. This time, we will invite you to look at one small island in Sulawesi located in the southern city of Makassar. The island is known as Samalona island.
Administratively, the island is located in the Makassar Strait, or rather on the southwest coast of South Sulawesi and the western entrance Wajo districts with a distance of about 2 km. Samalona island can be seen clearly from the Citadel Fort Rotterdam in the Keling - Makassar with a distance of only about 500 meters from the edge of the cliff fortress Fort Rotterdam. Samalona island is a coral archipelago with a circular area 2.34 acres. with a diameter of not more than 100 m2 with a height of land about 3 meters above sea level. The island has white sand with its cool air and the green line of trees and lush.
The main attraction on this island is diving and snorkeling. The clearly blue ocean water expanse with golden sand circled around these small island, the water was very clear to be able to compel every traveler who came to this remote island willing to swim or dive among the colorful fish. There were seven ships belonging to some countries directly involved in World War 2. Various types of cargo ships either, warships or submarines were sunk in the waters around the Samalona island. This makes some diving spot were so mysterious and beautiful. In addition, you can also enjoying sunset or sunrise time on the island. To reach the island of Samalona is not difficult, the tourists can rent / charter a boat from a population of around Losari Napier City. Boat rental prices between Rp 350 - 500 thousand depending on the negotiations, with a capacity of 10 people mileage required approximately 45 minutes.
Samalona island does have a stunning beauty, and is perfect for Cast Away holiday concept, because although the location of the island is pretty close to Makassar city, but its provide another setting that's so quiet away from technology, it could be the main attraction for tourists who are fed up of activities and want to be alone in a remote island. Natural beauty and friendly people at the island of Samalona make the travelers do not forget to visit one of Indonesia's wealth of nations.
Travel Tips
1. Lodging prices between Rp 300,000 - Rp 500,000 for each day, before deciding, it is better, for you to check the condition of existing facilities. 2. One set of rents snorkeling equipment is more than Rp 30.000 until Rp 50.000 . Consider for the feasibility of the tools you will use. 3. If you want to see sunrise and sunset, went to the island during the day and returned to Makassar on the next day, and avoid to come in the rainy season. 4. On this island there is no fresh water unless you want to buy with expensive price, bring enough drinking water, adjust the length of your stay time on the island. 5. Bring mosquito repellent lotion.
