School the holidays are both a curse and a blessing for expatriate parents living in Jakarta. First, not all of us can plan a long break from the daily routine and even if we can, then there are the major headaches of advance planning and actually get anywhere in a reasonable time . As always, it seems that all 27.9 million or more residents (at last count in 2010) Jabodetabek (Jakarta Metropolitan large area of Jakarta, Bogor, Depok, Tangerang and Bekasi) are hell bent on the same escapes.
Let the train take the strain ...
Bandung
Perhaps the best route to the scenic value train from Jakarta to Bandung. After leaving the floodplain, it winds through the western mountains of Java to the city which, in much quieter and less crowded times, was known as the Paris of the East. For the best views of rural life in kampungs and fantastic views as the gullies are crossed, reserve seats on the right and going, of course, on the left at the back.
Once in the city choked, having had the foresight to pre-book hotel reservations, you may want to consider hiring a car and driver for the day and head for the hills . Gunung Tangkuban Perahu (meaning upturned boat), about 25 kilometers north of Bandung, is the only volcano in Java reached all the way to the rim drive. First time visitors to a volcano, as your children will be properly impressed, and your wallet will also be happy to receive a broadcast on the souvenir stands.
southwest of Bandung Gunung Ratuha with a lake Kawah Putih which, as its name suggests, is white - or sometimes turquoise. The lake itself is easily accessible by car. Having been there and seen that continue from Ciwidey where you can recall back home 'cool evenings. Note:. If you decide to spend the night in one of many hotels, it may be advisable to wear socks in bed
About two hours from Bandung are the springs Hot Cimanggu with sulphurous water pools constantly replenished. Once you have learned how a lobster might feel it is only 30 minutes drive through the tea plantations of the lake (or Situ) Patengan where you can rent a boat and admire the green carpet of algae covering the area.
Some 50km south of Bandung Garut, a former Dutch mountain resort with a Sundanese atmosphere. Although predominantly Muslim, there are Hindu temples to search, a reminder that West Java has a rich history. energetic families can display on hikes, but perhaps the most interesting activity for younger families are factories that make dodol, sweet sweet made of sticky rice flour and sugar with various flavors, such as - er - durian. Cooked in huge woks over open fires and continuously stirred for a long time with what appears to be rowing boat, it is a fascinating house labor industry.
Cirebon
Another city easily accessible by train and explore for a day or two is Cirebon on the north coast of Java. The train journey itself is a bit boring because it never leaves the flat coastal plain. Cirebon is a combination of two words, "will," meaning water and "Rebon" an indication that this important seaport is famous for its salted fish, fresh shrimp and Petis and terasi (shrimp pasta used as spices). It can be incredibly hot, but Keraton Kasepuhan, the palace of the Sultan of origin is of great interest, especially for collection trucks, as well as the nearby Keraton Kanornan dating back to 1527. Also look for batik workshops ; as in Yogyakarta and Surakarta, batik originally made in Cirebon required the royal seal of approval and distinctive patterns.
Malang
Some may feel that travel overnight by train, which leaves Gajayana Gambir station at 5:30 is not much fun. You can fly, but then you have the additional hassle of all that implies, and you might still have to wend your way to Surabaya.
But if you think of registered hotel expenses and you'll have a full day ahead to explore this historic city - it was founded in the 8th century when it was the seat of government of Kanjuruhan and ancient kingdoms Singhasari. He also began to make sense, if you decide to take a "traditional High Tea" at one of the best in the city center of the world of hotels, the single Tugu (www.tuguhotels.com/malang~~number = plural).
city officially became part of the totality of Javanese Mataram kingdom in the 17th century when the Dutch were the first here. Those who dig history can explore several archaeological sites, including the Buddhist relics of the Majapahit era earlier.
Camping it up.
Camping at Taman Mekarsari
for those who prefer lower for holiday earth and the succession Mekarsari Fruit has a campground. Your children can join the Youth Farmer Club and learn to spread and prune while feeling the fresh air. Sleeping in a tent also has advantages in terms of development in nature, especially if it rains and you stay dry, smiling inwardly.
Similar euphoria can be discovered at the Botanical Garden Cibodas, "gateway" to the -Pangrango Gede National Park. Once booked, and a chosen place to erect tents, porters can be hired to help you set up the tents and surcharge, serve as watchmen and do some shopping, even for beers.
outside pretty relaxed activity of shopping for orchids in the next town, or watch them grow in the botanical gardens well furnished a fairly reasonable 3 km hike can be done in the park a few drops impressive water
to go further, to the top, requires a permit. For more details, including volcanoes are suitable for families to climb, visit the Web site of Gunung Bagging (http://gunungbagging.com).
With the school holidays almost here, I would travel happy "all players or, as will likely happen with my tribe, stay home happy.
Terry Collins co-author of Culture Shock! Jakarta (pub. Marshall Cavendish) and solely responsible for the blog Jakartass.net.
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