Love Island Travel

The Javanese can tell you that the island of Madura - just 30 minutes by ferry from Surabaya - is hot and dry and the Madurese are rough and angry. They may even say that there is nothing to do there. It is not their idea of ​​a place to go, but for the visitor who can put aside stereotypes, it offers a very different but rewarding experience.

Madura, you might think, is just a small Java, but in fact it has a culture and a language all its own distinct; incredible, given its proximity to Java and small. Just 0 km long by 30 km north to south

The island has had a difficult relationship in the past with its big neighbor. In 1624, the Javanese Sultan Agung conquered the island and added to the Empire Mataram, which at that time ruled over much of central and eastern Java. But in 1672, Prince Madurese Trunojoyo had rid the island of Javanese and it took several years and the VOC (Dutch East India Company) to put the recalcitrant island down. In 1705, the Dutch had control over the eastern half and in 1743 it was under full Dutch control. Not a particularly fertile island to operate, it is, however, a source of colonial troops and the main lucrative salt supplier for the Dutch colony. Today it is a simple Java province, but the distinctions are clear even now that it is related to Java by the Suramadu 5 km long bridge.The busiest access is by ferry crossings and go day and night and are full of Madurese living in Java. Commercial travelers with their vans are the other passengers made the most supplies come from Java. Women, more traditionally dressed as their Javanese counterparts remained with their colorful sarongs and kelambi - blouses. They adorn their bodies in gold jewelry; their true faces purposes prove their reputation for beauty.

On the Madura side of the ferry docks in the port of Kamal, but there is little to keep us here and we motor in Bangkalan, famous for its bullfights held in August and September. It has a museum and a reasonable hotel. It is here that we can drive east on the main road of Sampang and Pamekasan, or as recommended, continue north on the road to the north coast less well known, but much more beautiful in the city the most interesting of Madura, Sumenep.A brief stop at Arosbaya, half an hour north of Bangkalan, is very rewarding. In the 15 ^e and 16 ^e centuries it was the center of power and the Madurese Royal Air Mata cemetery is a peaceful place to stroll. Here are the remains of the royal line Cakraningrat and tombs are much revered. Ratu The grave of (Queen) Ibu 1569 attracts pilgrims from all over Indonesia and is still surrounded by the faithful, saying their prayers.

Toroan waterfall near Ketapang

Madura, while arid in places, has a beautiful coastline and the nearest beaches bathing is Siring Kemuning another 30 km on. Vast and austere enough, it is a popular picnic spot Sunday with the locals. Like all the beaches of Madura, it is free of the effluent and the sand is fine and golden.

In Klampis we reach the top of our ascent of the north and turn east along what is a good but narrow road along the north coast. Estuaries teeming with colorful wooden boats moored inside safe from the Java Sea. Fishing is the main occupation here, although lime is also extracted, and Pasean, ships beautifully wrought wood are being turned out a design unchanged for centuries. Close by the waterfall Air Terjun Toroan well worth a stop to see a waterfall of the river in the Java Sea.

In Pasongsongan, halfway Sumenep, there are spectacular bays, which deserve wider reputation as bathing areas. The water is cool, fine sand is overhung by trees that provide plenty of shade and the locals, while curious tourists keep their distance from sun which is rare.

A few kilometers on, beach Slopeng offers a place better known bathing, well set up for the visitors with an array of warung seafood and Kelapa muda (coconut drink), and a platform covered observation for those who want to relax and enjoy the sea view. This area of ​​Madura is most fertile and green gradations are superb. It is just beyond here Ambunten we take the southeast road to Sumenep, only 24 km. Or we can venture eastward to Lombang beach, considered Madura best - a vast expanse of sand topped with unique Cemara udang firs and the safest pool island.Sumenep shows much pride civil; clean streets, shops painted in yellow regulation and the only city in Indonesia where becak must bear the lights in the form of oil lamps. Everywhere can be reached on foot or becak less painful, and tourists attract many, but never so polite interest. 18 ^e century gateway to the Jamik mosque dominates the main street. This impressive facade has Chinese and European baroque influences, while behind the mosque, with its roof on three levels, like most Javanese.

Jamik Masjid, Sumenep

In front of the town square is Sumenep of keraton (palace). The dates of the 1763 flag and paneled ceiling is hung with dozens of Dutch bulbs that many an antique collector would love to have. A museum exhibits inside the gifts given by European dignitaries over the centuries, including a 19 ^{he service dinner} century, with the Sultan image in the center of each plate in the latest technology Photo lights of the day. Take a short walk behind the Keraton we can see decaying Dutch period houses, once homes for the extended family and the Sultan prosperous Dutch. Cry for restoration, their colonnaded verandas always give a great sense of grandeur.

Just 2km from the city, the royal cemetery of Asta Tinggi is well worth a detour. Located on a hill with a beautiful view of the city, its 18 ^e century facade is very European and tombs and mausoleums here are highly revered by locals.

It is possible to drive 30 minutes to Kalianget, the old salt city, and take a boat to the nearby island, Puteran. These can be rented at the dock. The island is untouched by modernity, is picturesque and very friendly. It is rare that tourists get the here.A weekend was spent at a stone's throw from the bustle of Surabaya, but in a more tranquil world

Province :. East Java

How to get :. Take the ferry from the port of Tanjung Perak Surabaya, or Suramadu bridge

Where to stay: Bangkalan: Ningrat Hotel, Jl KH Moh Holil 113.

Tel: (031) 3095388; 3095507. Sumenep Hotel C1, Jalan Sultan Abdurrahman.. Tel: (0328) 674368.

“The son shall not bear the iniquity of the father "- Bible :. Ezekiel 6:20 p.m.

When I was 17 to mid-sixties London, I was in school studying for my GCE a levels before going to college. I knew my father, a civil servant, elected labor and his father have voted Conservative, the familiar left-right political divide, but I would not that voting for four years.

has that age in 1965 Bedjo Unjtung did not, and would not be the occasion until 1982. His father was a popular school teacher and member of the Persatuan Guru Republik Indonesia (Indonesian Teachers Union Republic), which was marked by the Suharto military as a leftist organization because it had supported the policies of Sukarno.

as with Pramoedya Ananta Toer, in early October 1965 his father was arrested, moved to the island of Nusakambangan, then exiled to Buru island without trial until his release in 1979. He was imprisoned, and that some 15,000 others.

Bedjo knew that the army was looking for supporters of Sukarno, the first president, who, with their families, they classified as left wing.

However, he said, "Politically and ideologically I knew nothing. My duty was just study. "

Yet he was aware too widespread abductions, disappearances and mass executions, with farmers and labor activists and their families who are detained and the massive destruction of villages.

from 1965 until 1970 Bedjo avoided military sleeping in parks or on sidewalks, and during the day "survived by walking around Jakarta selling newspapers."

"October 24, 1970, I was captured by military intelligence officers in Jakarta and spent the following year in the Kalong interrogation camp. I was interrogated and tortured using electric shock. My two index fingers were connected by wire to a machine. Oh, it was so painful. It was like being hit, kicked, without interruption.

"There were hundreds of political prisoners in small barracks. Enough space for two people held twenty. The toilet was also used to hold detainees. I could not sleep sometimes because" it was hard to breathe.

"the door was closed, with only a small hole for water or food. I malnourished; the small ration of rice, dirty rice was full of sand and stones. At least five prisoners died in the camp; two people attempted suicide by hanging and two by diving into the deep well. They did this because they could not endure the torture in the [sic ] hell.

"There is still much to say about the transition to the Salemba prison and then in Tangerang forced labor camp. There, because the army did not provide food to inmates, I eat rats, snakes, crackers, snails, poisonous weeds to survive. "

Upon release, former political prisoners were banned from applying for jobs in government sectors, and their cards identity had a special code 'AND', standing for 'Eks Tapol' (tapol is an abbreviation of Tahanan politik Indonesian word for "political prisoner").

in 07, the Supreme Court accepted a petition from victims groups for a judicial review to prohibit the Presidential Decree No. 28 Year 1975, which authorized the discriminative code. the court ordered President SBY to withdraw the decree on the grounds that it was unconstitutional. However, there is now a "special issue" to differentiate between regular rakyat and former political prisoners.

Employment opportunities are rare, Bedjo freelance, teaching private students in mathematics, music and English.

survivors 1965 anti-communist purge, Rosikin (left), Bedjo Untung (center) and Mudjayin

"I studied these subjects when I was in prison. I collected paper waste such as cake packaging to write words of someone who knew English. I also studied music with a guitar that I was in the jail using wood waste.

"Most of my students were children, adolescents and sometimes adults They came from Indonesians and expatriates [ sic ] -.. Well do Every day I was riding nearly a hundred kilometers of Jakarta on my little bike with a guitar on my back.

"But in May 1998, with mass riots, anti-race and Jakarta feelings combustion, most expats have left and I lost my students. Fortunately, some Indonesian students continue, but not so much. My wife is a professor of government with a steady paycheck, so I still live simply. "

Most of the time is now past Bedjo with Yayasan Penelitian Korban Pembunuhan 1965/1966 (Indonesian Institute for the study of 1965/1966 Massacre). YPKP65 was founded April 7, 1999 by the former political prisoners as Pramoedya Ananta Toer, the novelist, who was also exiled to Buru, Ibu Sulami general secretary Indonesian Women Movement (Gerwani) and Raid Hasan, author of struggles of a Muslim communist.

"It is purely a non-profit institution, sometimes I have to contribute what I have to work for the victims. I am not paid but have dedicated my life and soul of humankind ".

YPKP65 at least 0 branches with 2,000 volunteers throughout Indonesia. The number may increase as the investigation has not reached all areas. It is estimated that somewhere between 80,000 and 0,000 survivors still alive, all remain stigmatized.

Two years Komnas HAM (Indonesia's Human Rights Commission) published a report which took three years to compile due to the ongoing intimidation of witnesses and a lack of cooperation from the army and bureaucracy. Their conclusion is that the state-sponsored purge that followed failed coup in 1965 met all the criteria for a flagrant violation of human rights, and that government officials were involved in the systematic and widespread murder and torture of members of the Indonesian Communist Party (PKI) and countless other civilians with political ties with the group.

President SBY has ordered the Attorney General's Office (AGO) to monitor the results. Komnas HAM also called for the creation of a Truth and Reconciliation Commission (Komisi Kebenaran dan Rekonsiliasi - KKR). However, the 04 Act which would establish a not adopted because none of the members have been appointed. Then in 06, the Constitutional Court annulled the law on the petition of civil rights groups who feared that the legislation was so flawed that it would become a vehicle to grant amnesty without necessarily find the truth or compensate the injured party.

There are a number of NGOs seeking both clarity and compensation for violations of human rights committed during Suharto Orde Baru (New Order). These include the victim Solidarity Network for Justice (JSKK) KontraS (the Commission for the Disappeared and Victims of Violence), and Justice for Munir, Amnesty International.

Bedjo said, "YPKP65 can not work alone. We must work together with individuals and groups who have the same vision and mission, which is to promote and strengthen human rights and democracy. "

Maybe now there is renewed hope with a new president committed to changing the nation's state of mind? On 10 December last year, the International Day of Human Rights was the first time an Indonesian president and his ministers attended ceremonies and discussed issues.

"My sense of relief is just a drop of dew in the desert. I have to accept the reality that the firm Jokowi is always surrounded by the parties that supported the New Order regime and behind the screen there are a few generals who were involved in violations of human rights.

"But I remain optimistic that it can take action because civil society, victims of human rights, and marginalized people who voted for him still demand that its promise to respect human rights. "

However, s 'there is no action, Bedjo said YPKP65 intend to take the case to the International Tribunal of the people who met in the Hague in November 2015.

"in international alliance if the state does not have the capacity and the will to carry out the case, international law will take over. "

Whatever their politics were he fifty years ago, people have suffered, and suffering is transmitted across generations. It is definitely time for a resolution to that; no one seek retribution. The recognition by the state that a great wrong has been done will surely ease the burden on victims, perpetrators and their offspring.

There is a special feeling that invokes Borneo. There's really no other experience that approximates the cruise on a quiet river in Central Kalimantan surrounded by lush tropical jungle and watching the rehabilitated orangutans frolicking in nature reserves.

Inspired by the virtually untapped tourism potential of Central Kalimantan, two British ladies, Gaye Thavisin and Lorna Dowson-Collins, converted traditional Kalimantan boat known as a rangkan in the boat comfortable cruise, we now know that the Rahai'i Pangun. Their company provided the first jungle cruise the Rangoon river in Palangkaraya, Central Kalimantan.

Ecotourism is at the heart of Kalimantan Tourist destinations. This social enterprise is a way to protect the environment and the creation of alternative livelihoods in the region. With this river cruise, they are able to demonstrate that business can be a way to support the development problems by showing there is a different value for the forest, while supporting the locals.

Our journey aboard Rahai i Pangun started at 08:30 when we were taken to our local hotel in Palangkaraya brought by car to the river port. Here you can see how the river is a source of life for so many lives along the river bed; motor boats through from top to bottom of its waters, the locals fish, swim and find their livelihoods here.

Stepping aboard Rahai'i Pangun, you feel instantly rejuvenated. It is a floating wonder with five bedrooms, an outdoor dining area and a lounge with a large observation deck. All rooms are air conditioned with bathroom, and although not five star luxury, the rooms are very comfortable.

The ship left the port at 9am and we started the cruise upstream on the Rangoon River. The first half hour and we passed through villages and fishing boats with friendly people waving to us. Then the forest engulfs us and after a few hours we reached the island of Kaja, a sanctuary of 25 hectares where the rehabilitated orangutans live, still fed by the guards who watch over them on the opposite side of the river. The views of three fur, oranges friends hanging in the trees was breathtaking - but there were many more meetings orangutan to follow over the next two days

As have continued upstream, the sites and sounds. rich fauna of the forest, with hornbills flying above, was a sensory delight.

But every now and then we would spend an illegal gold miner, working on gold-mobile screening units along the river, expelling smoke and loud noise of their engines. Our guide told us the water of the river is brown because of these illegal miners, stirring silt along the river. "I'll take you where the river is tomorrow black - which is the actual color of the river," he said

A delicious lunch was served on the boat before we stopped at Kanarakan -. Dayak traditional village. The children welcomed us with curiosity and we were given a traditional Dayak welcome ritual to cleanse our minds, ensuring that no harm will not come to us when we visited their village. I have to admit, I fell in love with the children, and walked through the village with a string of girls holding my hands over the length of the tour.

Sampling betel in Kanarakan Village

guest in one of the houses of the villagers to enjoy the local coffee, it was clear that this social enterprise provides local first and foremost. After each visit, the local representative is given received, the winner and a livelihood to welcome and entertain tourists. Ecotourism at its best.

One of the highlights of visiting this village was sampled betel nut, equivalent to the area to coca leaves in South America. The taste is bitter and bad, but suddenly you get rivals that of coffee. It is no wonder villagers chew the nut throughout the day, causing the gums and blackened teeth.

After some very insightful hours spent in the village, we returned to the boat and a delicious dinner was served, we continued upstream. The food is on board definitely a highlight of the weekend - fresh and locally sourced, with the ability to respond to different dietary needs

The next morning, we left on smaller boats 7am on an island surrounded by black water. . Cruising through thick, dense jungle on either side, we felt reassured that there was still hope in the world. With these canoe-like boats, we were able to get much closer orangutans on the island of Kaja, this time spotting seven in total; relaxation, grooming and playing with each other, quite unconscious of our curious eyes.

After lunch, return to the Rahai'i Pangun, we fell into a sweet nap on the deck on the comfortable sofas to the sound of the gentle breeze blowing through the leaves of the jungle. Feeling rejuvenated, we hopped on another, larger boat with a canopy and cushions - any initiative "villagers. - At Bapalas island, another reserve, where 10 orangutans were suspended on

Bapalas Island is a 14- hectare national park is home to about 25 rehabilitated orangutans. one in particular caught my attention, whose name is Kesi. She was missing a hand. It turns out she was rescued from a planting palm oil, where the director of the planting his mutilated.

the Rahai'i Pangun

50 percent of the orangutans saved in the region are on the palm oil plantations, lost when demand in these areas as they continue to encroach on natural habitats of the orangutan. plantation workers are often afraid of the creatures that they consider harmful and order their staff to kill on sight.

Borneo Orangutan Survival Foundation (BOS) work hard in the area to rescue and rehabilitate these beautiful animals. Their sanctuary in Palangkaraya has a capacity of 500, currently over capacity with 0. The rehabilitated orangutans live on or Bapalas Kaja island until they are ready to be taken individually by helicopter to Bukit Petikap in North Kalimantan , a region where the ancient forest is still intact and they will hopefully find a home forever

seeing these magnificent animals in the wild, although rehabilitated and protected by guards, is both a show full of hope and with a poignant reminder -. our ongoing development threatens their survival. Participation in a sustainable social and environmental business as tourist destination Kalimantan is a responsible way to see the orangutans up close, while giving the population and ensure the traditional crops in the region are preserved for generations to follow .

-

In short

Country: Indonesia

province central Kalimantan

Capital: Palangkaraya

population 2,368,654 (2014)

House 153,564.5 km ²

Directions: daily flights Garuda Indonesia Palangkaraya. To catch the river cruise with Kalimantan Tourism Destinations, you can fly in on a Friday night or take the first flight with Garuda on Saturday morning, which takes you in at 7:30

What to bring: long pants, jumper, sun block, hat, insect repellent, camera, a good book

Cycling adventures through kampung, rainforest and sandy beaches with ( 'Biwa') cycling group of the International Association of Women Balikpapan.

In 1974, the Terracotta Warriors were found in Xi'an, China, American author Stephen King published his first novel, Carrie and in the city of Balikpapan, Indonesia, a group of transplanted spouses of Huffco Petroleum Corporation formed an organization to better serve their East Kalimantan adopted ( 'Kal -Tim') community.

10 years later, the club of women Huffco expanded its members and became the club VICO women. Another decade later, in 1994, this group of ladies altruistic became the Association of Women Expat Balikpapan, but, realizing that nickname was a bit exclusive and somewhat against the spirit of intent, the organization changed its name to the international Association of women Balikpapan (BIWA) in 1998.

Regardless of when BIWA officially became Biwa, one thing has remained constant: the level of community engagement facilitates BIWA. The alignment of long term BIWA Balikpapan supported projects include three orphanages, a school needs promotion, a home for the elderly, bi-annual Community Dental days and various other businesses meeting unmet needs. In addition, BIWA is where the ladies from all walks of life can enjoy a sense of community and receive valuable information about life in Balikpapan.

Today this association, made up of 15 council members work hard and about 100 local and international women from 28 countries, bustles with activity. From the teaching of English to orphans or socialize with older people, attend local art classes, bowling leagues, book clubs and tee times-off, BIWA has all the answers. The annual membership fee back in the heart and soul of the organization: orphanages, schools and institutions with special needs that depend on the support onBIWA

All this is fine - fantastic even - but in my book ,. I confess prey to the charms of BIWA for another reason altogether: cycling. Specifically, mixing urban cycling and off-road bike this informal group of BIWA, Balikpapan Biking Babes (BBB) ​​has to offer. This may seem trivial, but first listen to me - it will not take long - because the bike inBalikpapancan be described in three short words:

So. A lot. Fun.

And while it is true thatBalikpapanis a cycling paradise that remains largely unknown, making the group theBIWAcycling such a special experience is the interaction between the people who might otherwise never crossed paths. No matter where you are, what faith or politics that you respect, or even what language you speak. All you need to share the camaraderie is show with a mountain bike, a helmet and a sense of adventure.

What is it?

While BBB is often called a cycling club, technically it is not a club at all. There are no matching shirts, no exclusive parties; there is not even a membership fee. While BIWA fact help promote, organize and support the cycling group is open to everyone. Currently, the group rides are executed on a basis from week to week, with the predetermined destination a few days in advance via the e-mail or SMS group chain. The number of participants vary each week and, with few weeks to see as little as three cyclists while others have nine or more.

Each week, the bike path is different, but the trip takes about two hours. Because rides often start several remote locations outside of the city proper, most participants arrive at the point of meeting vehicle, and then their driver picking up at the end. For those who wish to join but do not have transportation, carpooling is often possible when arranged in advance.

How does it work?

Every Wednesday morning at 08:30, BBB encounter somewhere around Balikpapan for a walk of about two hours. From there, the prodigious local guide, Pak Yayan (which is a champion cyclist in Indonesia, by the way, regularly winning first place in the national cycling competitions for his age group), led the group through all kinds of terrain and circumstances we would never otherwise put together in a logical sequence of thought. For example, BBB could start indescribable dirt parking lot just outside a housing complex, and less than an hour, cyclists will have passed through shady bamboo forest trails, paved roads past views of the sea and long rickety bridges covering for counters on mangrove. Take last week for example, when the race started at an old ferry terminal offSamarinda Road, and 30 minutes later, a short pause followed within a tofu factory where an extremely hospitable employee provided a demonstration improvised tofu-making process!

all that comes next is almost always an unexpected pleasure, and throughout the experiment, cyclists are greeted with joyous greetings of "Hello, sir," high five and laughing vertigo children. While this is undeniably fun, add that it is also much work.Balikpapanis a hilly town, so even with 15 minutes of Tofu-round break, climbing the hills provides an incredible workout, whatever the road or the speed of travel.

and for those who are reluctant to take because of their level of personal jurisdiction, fret no more. Cyclists of all levels participate, from beginners on up, and if all else fails, get off and push his bike up the hill is always an option. Better yet, Pak Yayan is great miracle solution to on-the-spot equipment must go through - a fact comforting when his flat tire in the middle of the forest

In summary, the cyclist group BIWA is all! discover the amazing wonders of Balikpapan, explore the villages and fish farms, plantations and jungle tapioca tanks. It is about climbing that hill you never thought you'd be able to go up and meet the friendliest people on the planet who do not seem to mind one jot a troop of women sweaty happen to be cycling in the aisle narrow concrete that more or less serves as their porch. He is trying a new sentence as Bahasa make friends, stopping for photos and learning of soft shell crab farms or how arak , if required. The cycling group BIWA is many things - exercise included -. But perhaps the best thing about BBB is that it is not about how good you are on a bike

How to join the fun?

Just let someone in the group know that you would come, or if this is not an option, simply contact BIWA to the email address below. It should also be noted that BBB is not exclusive to women; it happens to work in this way that most spouses / partners Balikpapanon dependent visas are women, but men are certainly welcome to come too.

What to do?

cycling in Balikpapan is hot and hilly, so a mountain bike or at least a hybrid is required for the types of rides BBB fact. In addition to the bike, bring a helmet, gloves, sunglasses, cell phone, some cash, at least one liter of water (water is generally easy to buy in kiosks should we need more), sports shoes and cycling clothing. For pants, padded cycling shorts / pants or tights work best. Also, be sure to carry a heavy sunscreen. Last but not least, do not forget your camera, as photographed along the way is half the fun

So who is in

Contact :? Info @ b-iwa .com or visit www.b-iwa.com

Divers dig magic world class underwater reef Bunaken. Biodiversity is unmatched, but even experienced divers need 24 hours of decompression before flying out. Many wonders are above the water line in the countryside surrounding the capital of North Sulawesi province, Manado.

The city itself hosts a public museum - filled with traditional costumes, weapons, ceramics and the history of independence - and a wide range of hotels and restaurants. Still, nothing can beat the high three volcanoes provide views of the old town and sapphire sea. Only one hour drive from the dock, peripheral villages in cooler climates offer diversions from kit of wooden houses in a Buddhist temple in fresh fish dinners on the lake, and of course, filled markets local products. The warm, welcoming the Minahasa people create an inviting place to get lost or become detached and persist longer.

Vihara Buddhayana statues

outside of Manado, a green landscape awaits. Dotted neat, half-timbered houses and walled gardens, the campaign has a European feel. Despite the many churches left by the colonial influences, there is a great respect for all beliefs. Head south to Vihara Buddhayana in Kakaskasen, where a sculpture of scarlet flame and a seven-storey pagoda overlooking the complex. The climb rewards with spectacular views, and as we realize quickly, volcanoes are visible from almost all places. The front door of the temple is dotted with Buddhist statues and golden teachings.

Later, stop for a picnic Kali Waterfall for fun in nature before continuing south to Tomohon. Known locally as the City of Flowers, the village is in the saddle between Mount Lokon and Mount Mahawu. None of these sleep sister volcano has been active since the late 1700s, but the previous activity throughout the region covered with fertile soil.

view Highlands Tour du Mont Mahawu through Tomohon Lokon Mount

fruits and vegetables in abundance provide self-sufficiency by turning the emphasis on spices, such as cloves, nutmeg and vanilla. Arabica coffee, which grows in these mountainous conditions, was introduced by the Spaniards and brews a cup of fragrant morning. A ride in a bendi , a horse decked trap vibrant colors and tassels, making for a fun tour of the streets of the flower and historic Sacred Heart Church. Then it's time for a steep, short walk to a nice perch above it all. Look down on the Mahawu Tomohon Mount Rim 180 meters wide crater. From there, the view of Mount Lokon, symbol of the Highlands, is looming on the horizon.

near Woloan boasts a main street of wooden houses where the Minahasa are known. Single and multi-stage houses raised - to counter the rain -. Boast many details, such as porches or symmetrical stairs, so if the devil between, there will be two ways out

The home kits are not samples, but available for sale, after which they are concealed, transported by truck and rebuilt on site. Go ahead and negotiate with a manufacturer.

From there, along the rice fields outside Rurukan en route to Lake Tondano. The vast lake, nearly 4300 hectares, is to the east of Mount Tondano and surrounded by hills. Many fisheries along the shore, some with attached restaurants. A fish dinner can not be cooler, and a freshwater intake is touted to be softer than their salty sea parents.

Lake Tondano

Alternatively the Linow lake is a small colored crater filled with water. Small vents punctuate the crater wall, emitting hot gas and fluid. The chemical mixture wobbling causes the lake to fluctuate from red to green or blue. Watch your foot, whatever the aspect of the concrete-like waterfront.

Pulutan offers the opportunity to buy pottery. The cottage industry uses self-made, simple equipment to shape the clay by hand. A native pot used to cook a stew slowly over a wood fire, could be a useful reminder of the emerald hills.

Not for the faint of heart, Bukit Kasih, or Hill of Love, rises with a 1,000- step stairway with balustrades. Kawangkoan near the monument represents the five religions in Indonesia, but the corrosive characteristics of sulfur left the place less enjoyable.

Fill a feedback loop in Manado, stop at Gardenia Country Inn. The station can provide a one night stay, and the restaurant, supplied by lush gardens, can provide a sample of the local cuisine. Minahasa enjoy their dishes liberal chili, so be warned. The bubur , or porridge, is a favorite. A grand-son of Sam Ratulangi, who was a hero of the independence and local educator and where the international airport is named, is the owner of the establishment. Leonard's wife, Bernadette, is an amateur cook and gardener, and the restaurant has become an outlet for her passions.

If the days allow, Travel Manado is Batuangus Tangkoko Nature Reserve. The park covers 8,700 hectares and three mountains. the conservation of the rainforest began in 1919, but habitat destruction and hunting still threaten many species. You can see a variety of wildlife, including tarsiers; a tiny primate native; Couscous, the Sulawesi bear; and birds, such macaques and hornbills. Rafting, trekking, dolphin and numerous outdoor adventures tours are also available

The Minahasa word derives from the local language, meaning "become", but diversity -. sparkling seas to the pan rim of the volcano - each is unique wonder to see

Highlights :. Minahasa Highlands

province North Sulawesi

Capital Manado

province population 2,270,596 (2010 census)

Indonesian Airlines: Garuda, Lion Air and Batik

What to do: Vihara Buddhayana, Mount Mahawu volcano rim and foot, Tomohon, Woloan wooden houses, the lake Tondano Gardenia restaurant or restaurant local cuisine

What to bring: A sense of adventure and awe , good walking shoes and money to buy pottery

Where to stay: Gardenia Country Inn - www.gardeniacountryinn.com and Highland Resort & Spa - www.highlandresort.ing

Most Jakarta is abreast of new developments and expanding suburbs, but look north and you'll find Kota Tua or "Old Town" which was where the original city of Batavia began hundreds of years. Until recently, little or no work had been done to restore the old buildings in this area, and many were left in ruins. In 2013, PT Pembangunan Kota Tua was launched by a consortium of eight companies and started the restoration work so far have renovated the Fatahillah Museum and Post Office. Local media reported that the Ahok governor is unhappy with the work done so far, with only two buildings have been restored.

We meet Luki Santoso, the site manager of PT Pembangunan Kota Tua in charge of reconstruction projects that take place to transform Kota Tua in a UNESCO World Heritage site, namely the difficulties that they meet and when the plans for the completion of the building will Tjipta Niaga.

Luki Santoso (right) with one of its architects.

Pak Luki, how did you get involved in this career path?

I'm quite a recent addition to PT Pembangunan Kota Tua, who joined the team as director of the site in November. I am currently in charge of all construction phases of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kota Tua in North Jakarta.

Can you share a bit about the history of Kota Tua with us?

I'm not the best historian, but I'll try! Kota Tua was the first city that was built by the East India Company (VOC) when Jan Pieterszoon Coen was the Governor General. In 1619, the Dutch were able to regain control of the city that had been taken over by the British when they were temporarily left in shipping, but a fire destroyed much of the city. Coen rebuilt the fort and the city, and in 1621 he renamed the city Batavia, capital of the Dutch East Indies.

PT Pembangunan Kota Tua was launched in late 2013 by a consortium of eight companies. Can you share with us who are the founders and that the common vision?

This is Jababeka, Intiland, Agung Pomodoro earth, PT Pembangunan Jaya, Plaza Indonesia, Mr. Setyo Dharmono (DDI), and Lin Chi Wei (LCW). Kota Tua as a tourist destination will be united with the buffer zone of Pulau Seribu (Thousand Islands), which means having a tourist destination and business district will be achieved. The vision is to create history as the soul of the city.

The original plans from 2013 were revitalize Fatahillah Museum, and make the post office Fatahillah a reception center and a museum of contemporary art. Have these plans been achieved?
I am pleased to say that these plans were achieved. When I was engaged in office Fatahillah Museum Fatahillah and Post, the museum of contemporary art was already in operation.

Renovations taking place inside the building Tjipta Niaga

What specific project you are the manager of this moment?

we are working on the restoration of the block Tjipta Niaga, the building next to the Café Batavia, which was built in 1912 and was originally the name of the insurance office Koloniale of Zee Brand Assurantie. I'm in charge of the implementation of construction planning and cooperate with the contractor and consultant as part of the construction management team.

What work site manager entail?

To ensure that all phases of construction work on the calendar! I also have to take care of cost control and cooperation with the project manager and project manager.

What are the challenges you face with old buildings in Jakarta?

We face all kinds of challenges. For example, the construction methods, research, and try to think like the original architects of the buildings that lived hundreds of years ago.

What technical skills should I possess to restore the buildings hundreds of years old?

we have enough behind 'flight hours' us. Skills and experience necessary to remove a revitalization project of this nature includes architectural and structural experiment support chemical and mechanical equipment - power tools and equipment knowledge. We must also have an understanding of history, urban planning, laws, government policies, budgets, and, of course, health and safety at work. This is very important for the safety of all our workers.

Why do you think preserving the history of the city is so important?

We have a slogan: history is still in gestation. I believe that a city without history is a soulless.

What challenges do local residents are faced with your revitalization?

Sometimes it can take many years for the results to come. Everyone has their own expectations, but once completed, the old city will promote a great community for many generations to come. People want to do the best environment for their son, daughters, parents or grandparents to live, to achieve a good quality of life. We work hard to socialize the developments in the local community so that they understand our plans and how they will be received in the future.

to renovations taking place on the façade of the building Tjipta Niaga in Kota Tua

When the due date your target for the revitalization project?

block that I work on, which is called Tjipta Niaga, is scheduled for completion at the end of this year or the last in 2017. the building to be restored following is the Kolff & Co . Building G., who was formerly a publishing house and the first book shop in old Batavia.

from a commercial point of view, the opportunities are there investment in Kota Tua and why would you invite potential investors to look at this area in more detail?

this area has the potential to be a wonderful heritage site. It connects Kota Tua as a national tourist destination and a world heritage site. potential businesses might be restaurants, cafes, offices, travel agencies, and even shopping for cultural products.

What is your personal vision for Kota Tua?

I would like to see this block is fully pedestrianized for everyone.

Thank you, Pak Luki. To contact, please email: lukisantoso99@gmail.com

Let’s face, "Eat Pray Love" Julia Roberts was just too glib to get the old heart racing. Airbrush, one-dimensional view of spiritual nirvana depicting Bali as a great menopausal, beauty salon come yoga center, run under the boots of dictatorship Oprah Winfrey and her Shrieking henchmen. No, this film would have resulted in a much more appropriate conclusion for these troubled times, in my opinion, if Italy and India were followed by a trip to take in the post-modern Jakarta, urban anxiety.

Feel good times can be thin on the ground, but at least it does not feel as if you are trapped in a huge album honeymoon least the bride and groom. So, people forget jetting across to Bali the next time you get a short break. Stay here and explore some of the most eye-opening backwaters Jakarta instead. I defy you. Yes, this is the city that never sleeps people, so let's get down to business with some suggestions Leftfield are we going?

Setu Babakan

A pension least known of the city, Setu Babakan sports a cultural village Betawi and a large lake, and can be found around four or five kilometers southeast of Ragunan Zoo in south Jakarta, Depok on the way. He reportedly two and half million ethnic Betawi residents in the Indonesian capital, and they have a culture, language, music, food and traditions all their own. The Betawi are also often seen as rather rudimentary in comparison with the Javanese allegedly refined. The most famous son of Betawi, now is probably current governor of Jakarta and the amateur enthusiast budding mustache, Fauzi Bowo.

In all cases, the experience of the lake down to Setu Babakan is, on balance, almost more bucolic bubonic it, and there are a lot of good warungs market advantage, which are mainly full of loving couples seeking a respite from the urban pressure cooker to. Later in the evening, the guys in the corner crank up the dangdut music and SWIG concoctions to the formidable research plastic bottles, mixed with Red Bull, local grog and maybe even a little Pertamax more for good measure.

fishermen also dot the shores of Lake though, because the lake is fed by the turbid waters of the Ciliwung River, it surely can not catch much there. There is also a Betawi Cultural Village to see who puts on regular musical and theatrical performances, as well as ethnic Silat martial arts demonstrations. Visitors to Setu Babakan can also take a pedal boat on the lake. So go and weigh "Anker" in people Bintang Bay. Disneyland is not, but Setu Babakan made for some pleasant hours nonetheless. A Betawi Disneyland but now there's a thought. Imagine a roller coaster ride with Bluebird taxis loop the loop, or a Ferris wheel with gondolas for bajajs. I can see it now.

Jakarta Planetarium

Many of you know maybe Taman Ismail Marzuki, commonly known as TIM, a theater complex frequented by the thespian fraternity of the city in the Cikini area. huge new building Jakarta Theatre complex is currently big waves. Less well known, however, is the fact that the complex also contains a planetarium, which is well worth a visit if you have a few hours to kill. The planetarium runs four shows a day on weekends and admission is cheap.

Planetariums are now old technology of course, but they still have the power to amaze and inspire, and to fill the Reclining stargazer with cosmic fear. During a recent visit, I was offered a great show in Bahasa Indonesia mind, by an MC who seemed to have some serious comic pretensions. The public was informed that Pegasus, the mythical half-man / half horse constellation, did not have to wear trousers because his lower half was not human. I also learned that Saturn's rings are made up of pieces of rock the size of Metro Mini bus, although probably they are not orange and move in a more predictable manner. Go and see what is out there people, the kids will love.

Real Jakarta Tours

If you're feeling particularly brave, then you can book yourself on a real turn Jakarta and see how the other half (65 percent and actually) lives . Takers can choose from a number of breaks in slums, including facing the less than pristine waters down the Ciliwung to meet slum residents whose lives are blighted by floods, using the river as a room bathroom, washing machine and toilet. Alternatively, you can visit the salubrious neighborhood Gabur, a crowded area full of poor and warm tofu and tempeh and cramped "factories", and check the subclass Jakarta firsthand. There are also trips to the crowded fish market in Kota. tourism disaster has come to much criticism and actual disaster tourism Tours Jakarta could in a sense be regarded as the lives of these people may be a perpetual disaster. Property Tours Jakarta donate half of the $ 50 fee they collect to the charitable foundation Interkultur. Do charity in this context will really allow these poor communities so? If you are interested, then take a look :. Www.jakartahiddentour.wordpress.com

Marina Batavia Cruise

Head to the battered warehouses and dilapidated docks of Sunda Kelapa and have a walk around , enjoy the historic atmosphere while being frightened by the ghosts of the colonial era of yesteryear. Then head to the bright Marina Batavia, a multi-storey building built recently designed by the previous governor of Jakarta, Sutiyoso. The Marina building houses a billiard room, karaoke lounges and a restaurant. If you see yourself as a salty sea dog yet, so why not take in a Quicksilver Sunda Kelapa Fun Cruise, or a dinner cruise Quicksilver Sunda Kelapa.

The Fun Cruise runs from 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., and involves a luxury catamaran sailing around the Bay of Jakarta, while offering cruisers the opportunity to take in the pungent, if not actually sinus buckling air Jakarta Bay. There is also a huge buffet lunch to enjoy. The dinner cruise is from 18:30 until 9:00 p.m. ET features live music, a dance show and even a magic show. The cruise makes for a cool evening and you will be swept Jakarta Bay for several kilometers in the lap of luxury. For more information, point your browser to the address :. Http://bataviaaa.blogspot.com/2011/05/quick-silver.html

Good luck chaps, it's a jungle out there