Lombok, the next paradise

General Information
Lombok is about three-quarters the size of Bali and is estimated to have, surprisingly, approximately 2.5 million inhabitants making it slightly more densely populated than Bali. As mentioned Lombok is only 70 kilometres from Bali and is separated by the ecologically significant Wallace Line (the Wallace Line is the demarcation line separating Equatorial Asia from Marsupial Australia that marks vast and immediately noticeable changes in the flora and fauna from Bali).

As well, Lombok lies only 8° (375km) south of the equator. As such the weather is tropical. Days are almost universally 12 hours long with sunrise is approximately 6:20 a.m.; sunset at 6:30 p.m. depending on the time of year. The daytime temperature averages between 27° C to 32° C ( 80° F to 90° F) along the western coastal area (the main tourist venue). Average temperature inland is 29° C to 34° C. And if you plan to trek Mt. Rinjani bring a sweater - at 3,726 metres it is Indonesia's second tallest mountain and gets surprisingly cold up there.

Lombok's tropical monsoon climate has two distinct seasons; dry (May to September) and wet (October to March). Monsoon refers to the wind, not the rain. However even in the wet monsoon the rain tends to be short lived and localized. Weather wise May, June are July are generally considered the best months.

Gilli Island
In the local dialect the word Gili means island. As such there are many islands using the word "Gili" that are found off the north, west, east, and south coasts of Lombok. In this exercise we will cover the three Gili Islands off the northwest coast of Lombok that are known as Gili Air, Gili Meno and Gili Trawangan. These are the most popular of all the islands that surround Lombok and have become tourist destinations in their own right.

As there are no natural basins for catching rain water on any of the three islands, fresh water has to be bought in from the mainland for cooking and drinking. Furthermore since no fresh water on the islands swimming pools and showers use salt water - kind of sticky the first day but everyone adjusts after a day or two. Note: a real advantage of the salt water is that the islands are, for the most part, mosquito-free since mosquitos do not breed in salt water.

You will need to take an outrigger from Bangsal Harbour. From Senggigi Beach to Bangsal Harbour takes about 40 minutes by car. There are many small transport companies that promote transport to all the Gili Islands. The posted fare includes transport to take you to Bangsal Harbour and as well as price for a public boat crossing. At the time this was written the total cost was usually Rp. 23,000.-/person. (Rp. 20,000-/person for the ride to Bangsal Habour and Rp. 3,000.-/person for the public boat crossing). For small groups you may be able to negotiate the Rp. 20,000.-/ per person price but not the Rp. 3,000.-/ for the boat which is fixed.

Unfortunately there are no public bemos going directly from Senggigi to Bangsal. Adventurous folks may wish to take a 2.5 hours bemo ride that passes through Ampenan, Gunung Sari and Pemenang before eventually ending up in Bangsal.

All vehicles - cars, buses and public bemos must stop a half kilometer from the harbour. This is an effort to spread the benefits of tourism amongst the cidomo drivers. The "correct" fare to ride the cidomo to the habour is Rp. 1,000.- / person. (Unfortunately the cidomo drivers try to take advantage of the situation and charge whatever they think you will pay). However if you don't have much luggage you can easily walk the remaining 500 metres to the harbour.

When you arrive at the entrance to the habour you will be set upon all manor of people trying to sell you passage to the islands. However the habour master is located in a large building back 100 meters to the left of the entrance. There you can find the current prices for all boats, "scheduled" departure times and other information as you may need.

Bandung the Parijs van Java and the capital city of Asia Africa

Bandung, also known as Parijs van Java, has so many things to offer. From various cuisines to factory outlets and distribution stores (distros), visitors looking for clothes might be overwhelmed with the wide amount of choices. It is said that Bandung is one of the most prominent Meccas for Indonesian people, when it comes to clothes. The streets of Dago (Ir. H. Djuanda, Cipaganti, Riau (R.E.Martadinata), Cihampelas are packed with factory outlets. If you prefer clothes from jeans, choose Cihampelas street. While you're in Bandung, why not visit Cibaduyut street to shop for shoes and bags to brighten your appearance.

Getting There

From Jakarta, you can take a flight to Bandung. Those who are interested in seeing the panorama between Bandung and Jakarta might find riding a train more to their liking. Or you can rent a car to come to this city. It's only takes two or three hours to drive though.



The streets of Dago are easy to locate. From the Bandung's train station or airport, you can book a cab ride to Dago for about Rp25,000. Most cabs use flat rates.

Where to Stay
Plenty of lodgings are available in this city. From youth hostels to five-starred hotels, choose the one that is suitable for you.

Moving Around
Bandung is relatively small, so from one place to another you can use a public transportation or taxi. To make it easier, rent a car. On that way, you can save your energy to shop!

Dining Guide
See Bandung's Dining Guide for details.

Souvenir Tips

Leather shoes, jackets, bags, and goods in Cibaduyut will delight young and old alike. Since Bandung has so many choices of food, why not buy the famous batagor, brownies, molen, and other delicacies for your loved ones

Other Things to See or Do
You can visit the Japanese cave in Dago, amuse yourself in Lembang area, take hot spring water bath in Lembang, visit Tangkuban Parahu also in Lembang, and many more. You can ask the locals or people from travel agents for more information.

Travel Tips

Not all stores accept credit cards, so make sure you have sample amount of cash ready.
Check and recheck before you purchase an item. Some stores have non refundable policy.
Try every item before you buy it, if possible.
Drink and eat before you shop. Shopping with an empty stomach is indeed and unpleasant experience.

visitbandung.net

One day non stop trips to "uniquely" Singapore

Chinatown
To call Chinatown a little China in Singapore would not be an exaggeration. Chinatown has pockets of traditional shop houses where crafts like calligraphy and clog-making are still practised. Traditional atmosphere seems unaffected by the stream of modernity. It is best to tour this part of Singapore city during the Chinese New Year.

Orchard Road
2.5 kilometer Orchard Road is said to be the largest concentration of shopping malls worldwide. The shop-aholics' heaven is lined with effulgent malls linked by air-conditioned underground squeaky clean passages. The road is replete with swanky eateries and luxury hotels.

Parliament House
Oldest government building in Singapore, built in 1827, today houses the Republic's parliament. A bronze elephant which stands right in front of the building was gifted by Siamese King Chulalongkorn in 1871.

Raffles Hotel
Not long ago, Raffles Hotel was the most famous building in Singapore. One of the last great 19th century hotels, it has played host to royalty, world leaders, film stars and other renowned personalities. Called fondly as the Grand Old Lady of the East, it is fully restored to her former glory after a comprehensive $160 million restoration.

Tour the renovated complex which has a shopping arcade with 70 shops, a museum displaying Raffles memorabilia and a theatre presenting a multimedia show on the hotel's glorious past.

Singapore River
Head for the Singapore River if wanting some real fun. Ride on a bumboat enables one to appreciate the transformation of Singapore from an obscure fishing village to a bustling metropolis. Watch beautifully restored warehouses that now host dining and entertainment spots. Contrast these with the Singapore skyline. Admire the grand colonial buildings.

You can tour Boat Quay, Clarke Quay and Robertson Quay, three well-known quays on the banks of Singapore River.

Supreme Court and City Hall
Constructed in 1939, the Supreme Court building shelters Corinthians columns painted by famous Italian artist Cavaliere Rodolfo Nolli. Cheek-by-jowl is the City Hall where Lord Louis Mountbatten signed the document of the capitulation of the Japanese in 1945.

http://singapore.tourism-asia.net

Bhutan, land of Thunder Dragon

BHUTAN: LAND OF THE THUNDER DRAGON

Hidden in the eastern Himalayas between India and Tibet lies the sparsely populated mountain kingdom of Bhutan. Restrictions on the numbers of tourists help to preserve the country's natural assets and a way of life that has remained unchanged for millennium. Visitors will see monasteries perched at the tops of mountain peaks, ancient Buddhist art and sculpture, dense forests and spectacular valleys.

Much of Bhutan remains unexplored. Bhutan is a land filled with snow-capped peaks, glaciers, sparkling lakes, raging rivers, green terraced fields and flower-strewn valleys. The North is dominated by the high peaks of the Himalayas. The inner central region is filled with temperate valleys and the South is where the steamy tropical jungles are found.

Our past trip participants have expressed an overwhelming pleasure from their journey to what is perhaps the world's most exclusive tourist destination - BHUTAN. The Royal Government's policy of environmental preservation has left a country unspoiled and pristine. Its severe restrictions on inbound visitors coupled with the honour of never being colonized has kept ancient lifestyle and traditions intact. The Bhutanese emit an inward and exterior peace that make visitors feel warm and welcome.

TOUR PACKAGES

FESTIVALS & CULTURAL JOURNEYS

SPECIAL NATURE & BOTANICAL PROGRAMS

BIRD WATCHING

TREKKING PACKAGES 3 - 21 DAYS

ACCESS TO BHUTAN

Druk air the National Carrier flies into Paro from Bangkok (four flights a week), Delhi (2 flights a week), Calcutta (3 flights a week), Kathmandu (2 flights a week). We will provide the air tickets on Druk air as well as the arrangements for the necessary Pre-Visa requirements.

PLACES OF INTEREST

PARO:

The airport is located in the city of Paro in Western Bhutan. Paro is home to many of the country's oldest temples. Visits are made to Ta Dzong, a castle-like fortress, Bhutan's national museum located inside an ancient watch tower, Rinpung Dzong built in 1646 and overlooking the Paro Valley, Kyichu Lhakhang - the oldest temple in Bhutan, Paro Dzong and the burnt ruins of Drukyel Dzong - the fortress of the victorious inhabitants of Bhutan. Another impressive site is Taktsang Lhakhang, also known as the tiger's lair clinging to the black rock mountains. Accommodation is at the Hotel Gangtey built on a hillside overlooking the valley.

THIMPU (7,600 feet):

Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan and the seat of the Government is a city rich in traditional architecture. Highlights are the Memorial Chorten where many important paintings and statues are found, Tashichhodzong which houses the offices of the King and the ministers, the weekly market, the handicrafts emporium, the school of the performing arts and Motithang meadow with its vantage point over the Thimphu Valley. Also found here are Changangkha Lhakhang and Simtokha Dzong standing guard over the fertile Thimphu Valley. Accommodation is at the Hotel Motithang built on 20 acres of land in traditional style.

PUNAKHA:

The road to Punakha from Thimphu passes over the Dochu La Pass, which lies at an altitude of 3,050 meters (10,200 feet). Punakha was the capital of Bhutan until 1955. Found here are the Punakha Dzong built in the early 16th century. The fort has many sacred temples on its grounds. Several rivers run through Punakha and the valley is quite fertile with many fruit groves and orchards. The region is one of great beauty, within sight of the snow-capped Himalayan range.

WANGDI PHODRANG:

Of interest is the Wangdi Phodrang Dzong, the seat of one of Bhutan's most powerful Dzongpons perched at the windy junction of two rivers. The pasture lands here support cattle and yak. The area is also known for its art and stonework. Dechen Resort is located on a hill overlooking the area.

TRONGSA:

Trongsa is a town at the border between central and eastern Bhutan. Here we find Tongsa Dzong founded in 1543, a masterpiece of architecture containing a maze of courtyards, passageways, corridors and some 23 smaller temples. Tongsa Dzong was the ancestral home of Bhutan's Royal family. Comfortable Jakar Village Lodge houses overnight guests.

BUMTHANG:

Just east of Tongsa lies the four valleys of the Bumthang district. Here we find temples dating back to the 7th century including the impressive Jambey Lhakhang and Kurje Lakhang. Picturesque villages like Ura provide a glimpse into the lifestyle of the people of central Bhutan. A visit to Ura monastery would be included. Accommodation is at rustic Wangdicholing Lodge.

http://www.toursexplore.com/tour17.html

Bollywood, the city of film

Indian Film industry heavily relies on Film Cities & Studios spread all across India.Mumbai Film Industry mainly serves as a shooting location for Hindi Films , while film cities & studios in South India like Ramoji Film City,MGR Film City,AVM studio are host to south Indian Film shootings.So tour with us the major film cities and studios all over India and get a memorable experince .


We provide customized tour & travel services to our International and Domestic Clients all over India our services Include India Tourism,Beach Tourism,Uttaranchal Tourism,Buddhist Tourism,Bollywood Tourism,Coach and Car Rental coach and car rental services & Hotel Reservations.

The Experience

Outdoor sets: Your Bollywood stuidio guide will drive the tram through extragavant gardens, a mock railway station, hollow apartment facades, and a miniature Indian village set against the backdrop of the green hills of the National Park.
Indoor sets: You will also walk through various interiors including a hospital, a mansion, corporate office, and more used in the filming of actual Bollywood films.

Hot sets: Shooting of feature films and soap operas is constantly ongoing so expect walk within a few feet of more than one 'live' set where you can hear the director shouting commands in Hindi and English. And if the gathered crew shuffle around just a bit, you'll see the Bollywood starlets in action. If they're on break, they don't hesitate to hobnob with the tourists. You gotta love some of the informalities of India.

http://www.bollywoodtourpackage.com

Cyprus, the country "center of sea"

Cyprus tours offers a cheap Cyprus holiday in Paphos with free guided tours of Cyprus. Travel Cyprus with your personal Greek speaking English Cyprus tours guide. Cyprustours gives you first class cheap Cyprus accommodation in a quiet Paphos hillside with spectacular coastal views from Coral Bay to Paphos. Our aim is to make your holiday in Cyprus one to remember.

You can make yourself at home and enjoy the peace and quiet as you laze by the pool enjoying fabulous views. Discover Southern Cyprus at your own pace.

For only £255 per couple per week, Cyprus tours offers a double room for non-smoking guests in our family-run, luxury house (shown as artist's impression) with swimming pool, located in the tranquil hills of Tala village, Paphos (Pafos). Peace and quiet can be found in this wonderful hillside setting. Your room, with private en-suite, is furnished with a wonderfully romantic antique pine four-poster double bed with matching furniture and leads onto the first floor balcony where you can sit and enjoy the breathtaking views.

Tour Cyprus with your own Greek speaking English tour guide. Visit Coral Bay or Lara (Turtle beach) Bay with a wonderful sandy beach, Paphos Harbour with the famous Mosaics and Tombs of the Kings ruins, take a tour of the Troodos mountains with breathtaking views, visit the Kolios Winery and sample their wines and delicious Meze (traditional Cypriot meal). See Kurium and Limassol with a wealth of beaches, fortresses and festivals.

Cyprus has a wonderful history and has many famous archaeological sites and attractions to visit. Let Cyprus tours take you to them as part of your holiday.

Or why not just relax by our pool and enjoy the stunning views to Coral Bay and Paphos.

http://www.cyprustours.co.uk/

Vietnam, The "Mekong" Country

The Vietnam you see today is steeped in ancient rites and traditions that have survived – even thrived – throughout the bumps and scrapes of history.

It’s a place where handmade water puppets spin elaborate tales, singing kites soar overhead, solemn generals strategize in games of human chess that are both elegant and serene, highland markets promise the hope of love to young villagers, and Mekong River markets float.

A passion for beauty flows from poetry and paintings, from palaces and pagodas. It’s a beauty rooted in the past and complimented by the natural surroundings of the present.

Sharp-angled mountains, cloaked in dense foliage, jut from forest and sea. Impossibly long stretches of white sand shimmer under the warm afternoon sun. Lush vegetation masks rivers edge. Immense caves gulp seawater. Ho Chi Minh City is calling out to you. Hanoi is whispering your name. And the beaches are giving you the eye.

In the north, breathtaking scenery in the Sapa Higlands and spectacular seascapes in Halong Bay. In the centre, the World Heritage sites of Hoi An and Hue. In the south, the frenetic city of Ho Chi Minh (formerly Saigon) and the green fields of the Mekong Delta... Vietnam has so much to offer.

Cruise along the Mekong river and bargain at local floating markets. Take a biking holiday through the Sapa Highlands and visit Vietnam's ethnic hilltribes, explore Vietnam's "rice bowl"the Mekong Delta, or chill out on a pristine beach and simply relax.

Let us show you around Vietnam.

Small groups, a choice of accommodation, full or half board transport and knowledgeable guides to give you an insight into this amazing country.

www.visit-mekong.com

Taiwan, a different taste of oriental culture

Taiwan has a very rich traditional Chinese culture. The blending of hakka, Taiwanese, has produced a rich plethora of cultural and social colors. When you are taking a vacation in Taiwan, do not miss the opportunity to taste different Chinese cuisines, such as Zhejiang from China, Hunan, Guangdong, Yunnan, Shanghai, Beijing, Sichuan, and others from China.

Northern Taiwan (Taipei, Keelung) is an area of historic remains in temples, towering mountains, restful lakes, beautiful waterfalls, hot springs and fantastic coastal rock formations. Taipei City is the center of tourism in the northern part of Taiwan Province. Apart from the Yang Ming Mountain and Peitou Picturesque Scenic Spot, the Taipei Park is the biggest and the biggest wood-fenced zoo. There are many other places of historic interest and scenic beauty, such as the Taipei City Gate, the Long Shan Temple, Bao An Palace and Confucian Temple, just to name a few. You can enjoy the Taiwan tours such as Taipei City Tour, Taipei Night Tour, Keelung City Tour, Northern Coast Tour, Yangmingshan National Park Tour, Window of China, or Culture Tour.

The Central Region of Taiwan (Taichung, Sanyi, Changhua) display natural beauty: mountain lakes, roaring rivers and hot springs, emerald forests and craggy ravines. There are tourist centers inside the Taichung city area, like Zhongshan Park, Baojue Temple and Confucian Temple. You can select a trip for Taichung and Sun Moon Lake Tour, Taroko Gorge Gateway Tour, Nantou Tour and Hualien Stone Sculptural Park Tour.

The scenery of the Southern Taiwan (Tainan, Kaohsiung, Kenting) is quite attractive. You will find lakes with beautiful pagodas and beautiful tropical beaches. Each year, Kenting's natural environment draws thousands of tourists from overseas to relax in these ideal weather conditions. The Taiwanese also flock to taste the freshest and finest seafood. Water sports enthusiasts benefit from the large variety of activities, including scuba diving. The best place for scuba diving is the reef between South Bay and Maopitou. There you can find soft corals, and view the vibrant marine life. You can find it attractive for Kenting National Park Tour, Maopitou, Oluanpi, Kaohsiung and Taroko Gorge National Park Tour, Cheng Ching Lake Tour.

In the Eastern Taiwan, Hualien is known as the "City of Marble". It is the favored starting point for tours of nearby Taroko Gorge. There is a temple named as The opulent Temple. It was built almost exclusively of marble showing naturally abundance of the valuable stone. A tourist will enjoy the scenery of Hualien Stone Sculptural Park Tour, Taroko Gorge National Park Tour, Spring Shrine and Swallow Caves Tour.

Traveling around Taiwan is fast and convenient, with frequent air-conditioned buses and trains to most destinations.

www.OrientalTravel.com

Himalaya, short way to the moon!! ^_^

It was due to the powerful movement of the earth that massifs as majestic as the Himalayas were created. The towering ranges that stretch along the northern fringes of the Indian subcontinent exude an appealing charm, having been casting an spell on one and all for centuries. Rising sharply from the Gangetic plain, the mighty Himalayas, with its tropical deciduous forests, an interesting wildlife, snowy peaks and verdant valleys exert an inescapable pull on travellers, vacationers and adventure freaks alike. There are a plethora of adventure options including trekking, mountaineering, skiing, rock climbing, camping and mountain biking among others. River rafting in the Himalayan rivers is yet another adrenaline pumping option. Once in the lap of the Himalayas, tourists and adrenaline junkies will find themselves spoilt for choices.

Advantures in Himalayas
1.Skiing
2.Mountain Biking
3.Camping Tours
4.Jungle Safari
5.River Rafting
6.Mountaineering
7.Himalaya wildlife
8.Himalaya treeking

And there are more tours an package you can get.So enjoy your vacation

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Trip to Beijing, feel the red passion

Beijing, Jing for short, is the nation's political, economic, cultural and educational center as well as China's most important center for international trade and communications. Together with Xian, Luoyang, Kaifeng, Nanjing and Hangzhou, Beijing is one of the six ancient cities in China. It has been the heart and soul of politics and society throughout its long history and consequently there is an unparalleled wealth of discovery to delight and intrigue travelers as they explore Beijing's ancient past and enjoy its exciting modern development.

As the capital of the People's Republic of China, Beijing is located in northern China, close to Tianjin Municipality and partially surrounded by Hebei Province. The city covers an area of more than 16,410 square kilometers (6336 square miles) and has a population of 14.93 million people.

Beijing is a city with four distinct seasons. Its best is late spring and autumn. But autumn is taken as the golden tourist season of the year since there is sometimes in the spring of recent years, a yellow wind. We suggest tourists visit Beijing during the months of May, September, and October when people can enjoy bright sunshine and blue skies. An abundance of international class performances are presented in May. If you like winter, you will have other chances to appreciate another landscape of Beijing. After skiing in Beihai and viewing the snowy sights on West Hill, enjoying the steaming hotpot is the best choice, which is really the fun of tour in Beijing. Please keep warm and remember to bring your down garments and sweaters when you visit Beijing in the winter.

How can one city boast so many phenomenal places? Beijing's long and illustrious history started some 500,000 years ago. It is here that the ancestors of modern Homo sapiens, Peking men, lived in caves. Records show that Beijing has been an inhabited city for more than three thousand years and has endured invasions by warlords and foreign powers, devastating fires, the rise and fall of powerful imperial dynasties and has emerged each time as a strong and vibrant city. For more than 800 years, Beijing was a capital city - from the Yuan Dynasty (1271 - 1368) to the Ming (1368 - 1644) and Qing (1644 - 1911) dynasties. Thirty-four emperors have lived and ruled the nation in Beijing and it has been an important trading city from its earliest days.

Although now Beijing is a modern and fashionable city complete with a full 21st Century vitality, you can experience authentic Beijing life and become acquainted with 'old Beijing' by exploring ts many teahouses, temple fairs, Beijing's Hutong and Courtyard and enjoy the Peking Opera. Add any or all of these to your Beijing tour and you will leave with a feeling of special appreciation in your heart for this ancient city that has truly seen it all and tells its story with matchless grace, charm and vigor.

With the biggest central square in the world - Tian'anmen Square, the Forbidden City that is the largest and best-preserved imperial palace complex, a superbly preserved section of the Great Wall,as well as the largest sacrificial complex in the world - the Temple of Heaven, Beijing attracts both domestic and foreign visitors who all come to wonder at its century-old history and unique cultural relics.

Dwelling too much on the historical past of Beijing may give tourists the false impression that it is little more than an ancient city in style but this is definitely not so! Strolling around Beijing, you'll find it has much in common with any other great metropolis elsewhere in today's world. There are towering skyscrapers; busy shopping malls and an endless stream of traffic that makes the city much the same as others. The most famous and popular commercial circles and commercial pedestrian streets are predominantly located near the Yansha Shopping Mall, Tiananmen and Wangfujing Street, Guomao Shopping Mall, Qianmen Street and Xidan Street, etc. However, although you will find multinational chains with their own brands to offer, nowhere else on earth will you find such a variety of gourmet Chinese restaurants offering the very best of the eight different styles of Chinese cuisine as well as western style dishes. Modern hotels abound, each offering the highest standards of service and convenience.

After a day's Beijing tour, nighttime can hold other surprises for you. These can vary from traditional performances such as the Beijing Opera, acrobatics and martial arts to modern ones ncluding concerts, ballroom dancing, pubs and clubs. Each and every one has its individual enchantment for the tourist. No description of our capital city is complete without mention of the friendly people who throng the streets. Everywhere you will encounter smiling faces and a warm welcome, especially from the children who love to say 'Hello!' All these things add up to truly make your visit a cultural experience of a lifetime.

beijing tour

"Mentawai" islands, surfing vacation in Sumatra, Indonesia

The Mentawai Islands are located approximately 100 miles west of the Sumatran port city of Padang, Sumatra. There's 4 main islands in the chain, with numerous smaller islands surrounding those, many lined up perfectly to snag swells generated by the active Indian Ocean. Things have changed alot since the beginning but there are more options than ever to surfing the Mentawais by boat or land.

Mentawai have the best wave for surf, One of the best wave in the world, not bad if compare than Hawaii, so let's come here...and wave your soul...!!

more info

The Largest religious monument in the world "ANGKOR WAT"

History:

Angkor Wat (or Angkor Vat) is a temple at Angkor, Cambodia, built for King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century as his state temple and capital city. The largest and best-preserved temple at the site, it is the only one to have remained a significant religious centre since its foundation—first Hindu, dedicated to Vishnu, then Buddisht The temple is the epitome of the high classical style of Khmer Architecture. It has become a symbol of Cambodia, appearing on its national flag, and it is the country's prime attraction for visitors.

Angkor Wat combines two basic plans of Khmer temple architecture: the temple mountain and the later galleried temples. It is designed to represent Mount Meru, home of the gods in Hindu Mythology: within a moat and an outer wall 3.6 km (2.2 miles) long are three rectangular galleries, each raised above the next. At the centre of the temple stands a quincunx of towers. Unlike most Angkorian temples, Angkor Wat is oriented to the; scholars are divided as to the significance of this. The temple is admired for the grandeur and harmony of the architecture, its extensive bas-relief and for the numerous devatas adorning its walls.

More hotel and kind of transportation to go to "Angkor Wat", check it:

HOTEL:

Moderate:
HOTEL CAMBODIANA: Quai Karl Marx, near 240 St.
This luxury riverside hotel will open soon and double rooms will cost from US$75 a night.

Inexpensive:
THE CAMBODIANA BUNGALOWS: Quai Karl Marx, near 240 St. Riverside bungalows in the grounds of the Cambodiana Hotel.
The bungalows of the Cambodiana Hotel are already open and cost US$18 per night.

HOTEL MONOROM: corner Achar Mean Blvd and 118 St, Phnom Penh (2.4549, 2.4951).
A single room with air conditioning and a private bathroom costs US$16 per night, and there is also a good restaurant.

HOTEL SAMAKI: corner Achar Mean Blvd and 92 St, Phnom Penh (2.4151).
Air conditioned rooms with private bathrooms are available from US$16 a night, and there is a good restaurant serving French and Cambodian food, plus a swimming pool. There are bungalows behind the hotel costing US$30 a night.

HOTEL SUKHALY: Achar Mean St/126 St, Phnom Penh (2.2403).
Rooms are available from US$12 - 20. There is a restaurant on the ground floor.

THE WHITE HOTEL: 219 Achar Mean Blvd, Phnom Penh (2.2475).
Rooms are available from US$17 per night with air conditioning and hot water.

In Siem Reap:
There is presently only one tourist hotel, but there are plans to restore the Hotel de la Paix - now a government guest house - into a tourist hotel.

Inexpensive:
GRAND HOTEL D'ANGKOR: Siem Reap (15).
Rooms are available for US$26 a night.

Transportation:

SHIPS:
Cambodia has only one sea port, Kompong Som. Tourists are not yet allowed to enter the country this way.

AIR:
To Phnom Penh:
Flights are available to Phnom Penh's Pochentong Airport from Bangkok, Hanoi, Saigon, Vientiane and Moscow (via Bombay). There is an airport tax of US$5 for international flights out of Phnom Penh. The staff at Pochentong Airport rarely speak English or French. Be prepared for problems and delays and make sure you arrive at the airport two or three hours before the flight.

Air Cambodia and Air Vietnam each operate a flight every week, one on Monday and the other on Thursday from Ho Chi Minh city in Vietnam. Air Vietnam flies to Phnom Penh from Hanoi every Wednesday.

Lao Aviation has two flights from Vientiane to Phnom Penh on Wednesdays and Fridays.

Aeroflot flies twice a month from Moscow to Phnom Penh.

From the airport:
Private cars or small buses can be hired from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the Tourist Office. Generally, visitors are met by an official guide from one of these organizations on arrival at the airport.

To Angkor:
Flights are available to the town of Siem Reap, situated a few miles from the Angkor temples, twice a week. They cost US$43 each way. Cambodian Airlines is on Tuoth Samouth Street. For information about tours to Angkor, contact the General Directorate of Tourism on Achar Mean Street in Phnom Penh.

BUSES:
There is a bus service from Saigon to Phnom Penh via Moc Bai which takes between eight and 10 hours, with a wait of up to two hours for the ferry crossing of the Mekong at Neak Long. The bus leaves Saigon from Boi Xe 1A at 155, Nguyen Hue Blvd early each morning. Buses from Phnom Penh to Saigon depart daily at 6am from the corner of 211 St and Ok Nga Sou St (182 St). The border crossing is open from 6:30am to 6pm.

At the moment, visitors are not allowed to travel by bus around Cambodia because of the security problems. They are allowed to take the bus from Saigon to Phnom Penh, but it is not encouraged by the officials. Buses around Phnom Penh can be taken by tourists.

CAR:
To Cambodia:
You can drive to Cambodia from Laos along the National Route 7, from Vietnam via Moc Bai, and from Thailand. Phnom Penh is connected to Siem Reap by road, but be prepared for roads to be in extremely poor condition. A car and driver hired in Ho Chi Minh City or Phnom Penh costs about US$200 - 300 each way.

Around Phnom Penh:
Cars can be hired in Phnom Penh. They cost US$25 per day and around US$150 / $165 outside the capital.

To Angkor:
Visitors need a special permit to travel outside the capital and they are usually accompanied by a government guide.

TRAIN:
There is no train service to Phnom Penh from outside Cambodia and no line which links Phnom Penh with Siem Reap. The existing railway line in Cambodia is extremely dangerous due to the tracks being mined regularly and is not used by foreign visitors.

HELICOPTER:
An expensive but very exciting way to see Angkor is from a helicopter. Helicopters can be chartered for around US$6,000 for a round trip from Phnom Penh to Angkor.

BICYCLE:
Bikes can be hired in Phnom Penh and Angkor and make for efficient easy transport.

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Dubai, the Las Vegas from Arab, ahlan wa sahlan!!

The Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) was started in 1996 by the government to promote retail trade in the city, and has since grown into the foremost shopping event in the world, an annual extravaganza of shopping and entertainment that promotes tourism and attracts millions of people from around the world to Dubai every year.

The city is already known as a shopping paradise, but for a whole month thousands of retail outlets offer further specials, with hotels, travel companies and airlines also extending special discounts to visitors during this period. Besides the shopping malls and souks, one of the most popular shopping spots is the Carpet Oasis, showcasing thousands of exclusive carpets from around the world.
Other events include nightly fireworks, laser/light shows, international fashion shows, street performances, music concerts and many cultural events. Daily raffle draws offer very attractive prizes of money, gold, cars and 4x4s. The festival also coincides with the richest horse race in the world, the Dubai World Cup (US$15,250,000 in prize money).

Another event!!

Skywards Dubai International Jazz Festival

Ten of thousands of jazz lovers flock to see some of the finest international acts in the world performing in a variety of genres including rocket-fuelled funk and bluegrass, pop, blues, rock, reggae, and afro-centric music. The increasing number of fans has helped secure it an award for the Best Festival in the UAE.

Dubai Desert Classic

Part of the European PGA tour, the Dubai Desert Classic takes place at what was the first grass golf course in the Middle East, which was entitled The Desert Miracle in 1988. The tournament attracts prestigious international players to compete for the trophy and US$2.2 million in prize money.

Dubai Rugby Sevens

The Emirates Airline Dubai Rugby Sevens heralds the opening of the IRB Sevens World Series, and features 16 of the best international rugby sevens teams each year. The event has grown rapidly over the last few years and attracts over 70, 000 fans from around the world, drawn by its carnival-like atmosphere, making it one of the most popular events in the Middle East.

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Batavia the capital city of Indonesia, now called Jakarta

Indonesia’s most famous archaeological remains are undoubtedly the bones of “Java Man,” a humanoid ancestor from half a million years ago. Not much is known about this link in the chain of human evolution; the arrival of more modern Indonesians is much more certain. About 3000 years ago, tribes from Vietnam and southern China migrated to these tropical islands. They brought their culture and technology with them, including an Austronesian language, metal tools, rice irrigation techniques, and buffalo sacrifice rituals.

In the first centuries A.D., the islands came under the influence and eventual rule of a powerful Indian empire, and several Buddhist temples were erected on Java. The earliest known settlement at what is now Jakarta, Sunda, was started in the 400s and became a major trading port for the Hindu kingdom. However, during the Middle Ages, Arab traders and merchants began to assert more influence over the region. By the 1500s, Islam had become the major religion of the islands, which remains true today.

After Marco Polo visited the islands in , European influence in Indonesia began to grow as well, and several countries (Portugal, the Netherlands, Spain, Britain) claimed certain islands as colonies in order to facilitate trade. The city was ruled by various European forces until 1942, when Japan took control of it and renamed it Jakarta. After Japan lost World War II, Indonesia declared independence in 1945.

Jakarta now, is different than before. Jakarta is one of big metropolitan city in the world. A lot of culture modern and traditional, public facilities, transportation like busway, and thousand Hotels.

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Jogja Never Ending Asia, the culture city...

Jogjakarta, a little town with its motto "pleasurable hearted" is not only well known as a student's city, but also for its Java's culture richness. Kraton Jogja, which is a Sultan Palace, is an exotic place with traditional Java ambience in the middle of this city's rapid modernization. Kraton Jogja, tourist objects which has captivating lots of tourists both local and foreign countries is really provides a unique, interesting, beautiful, pleasurable and fun atmosphere. Lots of life aspects here in Kraton Jogja that still maintains values of glorious Java's culture from the ancient times, so it's reasonable if this place is called "the never ending Asia".

Going around Jogja for a vacation means there are lots of tourist objects which will be a pity if you miss it. You will have some kinds of tourist objects which are available here based on your interests. You can visit many historical buildings, have a culinary tour, even a tour that will add your experience and knowledge about Jogja's traditional specialty handicraft.

We are looking forward u to come to Jogja city now....

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"Pulau Umang" Resort Hotel, nice resort in tunnel Sunda, Indonesia

-The "Pulau Umang Resort Hotel" view-

"Beyond your imagination", brand image the "Pulau Umang" Resort (Umang Island Resort). Imagine...of staying as Island Resort Villa in 5 hectares private island located just 4 hours away from the bustling city of jakarta,...a luxurious heaven poised between the captivating West Java Sea and the charm of the mountain surroundings.....finished in the finest materials in shooting tones of wooden details with all the modern amenities of a fine hotel.

Imagine....to be able to laze around your own private white sandy beach overlooking the crystal clear sea water close to the beauty of nature with total peace and tranquillity.

The Pulau Umang Resort and Spa can create of your imagination in simplicity into practice.

To know further is to come to Pulau Umang that is beyond your imagination.

Who says imagination is not necessarily better than reality? After all.
"The Pulau Umang Resort and Spa that is proven today was also once an imagination".


More activites in Pulau Umang are Water Sport, jogging track, cross country, kids club, swim pool, garden pool, table tennis, and many more...

And more program are Water Sport, Outbond, Family Outbond, Honeymoon, Corporate Gathering, Corporate Meeting, Family Gathering, Wedding party, and many more...
So, what are you waiting for.... let's go to Indonesia, and stay in "Pulau Umang Resort" Hotel...

"Semarang Pesona Asia", new brand tourism of Semarang harbour city

Semarang, the Beauty of Asia 2007 is an international art and cultural events presenting spectacular collaborative dance and music performances by world class artists and traditional artists from different countries. Semarang, the Beauty of Asia 2007 will also present International Expo and Business Meeting to promote trade, services, and investment, which cover education and health sectors. This event is not only a medium for recreation and shopping, but also serves as an Asian Window to give an added value to the knowledge of Asian civilization and culture.


Semarang city has been proved as the safest city with warm people and high accessibility from all cities. This is the major capital to be a destination of trade, tourism, and investment by Indonesians as well as foreigners who only associate with Jakarta, Yogya, and Bali.

It is now time to enjoy the Asian atmosphere. We are looking forward to seeing you in the grand event, Semarang, the Beauty of Asia 2007.

One of the most fave in Semarang! check this out.....

Replica the beauty Cheng Hou Ship in Semarang River
Semarang is really becoming the Beauty of Asia, when the 2 cultures united in the replica of the landing of admiral Ceng Ho from China, which directly welcomed by the king of Majapahit. The display showed at the official declare of replica admiral Ceng Ho, completed the whole performance during SPA.

This is the hilarity of the official declare of replica ceng ho’s ship. Witnessed by the bright sky , the environment in china town in front of Tay Kak Sie temple became more excited with the arrival of 3 most important official state, they were governor and vice governor of central java and mayor of Semarang..

The replica’s construction considered registered on the MURI (Indonesian guineas book of record) because it become something sensational, despite the permanent construction, the strength of this replica is able to survive for decades, it can be used for art performance.
This replica was being constructed since the day before the 600th anniversary of Ceng ho’s landing in 2005.. with the length 41 Meters and width 12 Meters also height 3 Meters, ht replica represent one third of the size of the original ship of ceng ho. The governor of central java expected that after the official declare of the replica, it will bring positive impact for tourism and enriching the tourism in central java .

The president of Tay Kak Sie foundation, Sindu Dharmali explained that this temple equipped with the most luxurious ornament. The replica will made Semarang tourism more shiny

The performance with nuance of Chinese combine with Javanese dominated the party. The mayor pledge that he will maximize the replica of the ship, with 2 agenda every year

Mt. Bromo, the "sand sea" mountain

Mt. Bromo is without doubt East Java's most well known attraction. The pre-dawn departure and trek across the mountain's 'sand sea' to watch the sun rise at the crater rim has become a daily ritual, joined by visitors from all over the world. Although by no means the highest mountain in the region, Bromo has gained a reputation on account of its fantastic surrounding landscape.

Mount Bromo is a convenient stop for travellers between Bali and Surabaya, and the most popular of all of East Java's travel destinations, this active 2,392-metre- (7,85 foot-) high volcano lies 112 kilometres (70 miles), about three hours, southeast of Surabaya.Enclosed by perpendicular walls 350 metres (1,150 feet) high, Bromo's awesome 2,200-metre- (7,220-foot-) high 'sand sea' caldera has three mountains within it, craters within one huge crater, the Bromo Semeru Massif.

There are also three small crater lakes inside the larger crater, with waterfowl and excellent hiking. The ideal time to visit is in the dry season (April-November) when you have a better chance of seeing a blood-red sunrise in the wet season, you might as well sleep late and stroll across the sand sea during the warmer part of the day, after the heavy fog has blown away. The temperature on top of Bromo is around 5 degree (40 degree); in July, it could drop to 0 degree (32 degree), so dress warmly.

Three times a year, the site is overrun by tourists in February when an annual festival takes place, over Christmas, and during July and August. So plan your visit for another time if you don't like crowds. From Bromo's peak are stunning views of active Gunung Semeru, Java's highest mountain.

Bunaken Marine Park, the one and only beautiful park...

BUNAKEN MARINE PARK
The total area of the bunaken national marine park
is 89 065 ha and includes the five island of Bunaken, Siladen,
Manado Tua, Mantehage and Nain, As well as parts of the coastal area of north Sulawesi
mainlad. There are many dive sites around all the islands and a few sites along the coast of the mainland.(www.bunaken.tk)


Staghorn coral and school of chromis, Bunaken Marine Preserve, Indonesia

What Indonesia's look like?

Unity in Diversity, the national motto of Indonesia, is a term that strikes deep into the heart of this dynamic and attractive Southeast Asian nation. Few places offer such cultural variety and geographical complexity as Indonesia, and no two journeys here are ever alike.

Location, Geography and Climate

Indonesia is composed of seventeen thousand islands that stretch over five thousand miles along the equator. The Malay peninsula and Indochina are situated to the north-west, and the continent of Australia lies due south. Northward lie the Philippines and Micronesia.

The world's largest archipelago, Indonesia's constellation of islands straddles the divide between the Asian and Australian continental plates. As a result, the islands offer a stunning variety of topographies and ecologies Mist-shrouded volcanoes and mountains, unexplored rain forests, thousands of miles of beaches, and endless offshore reefs support a dazzling abundance of wildlife, making Indonesia an ideal destination for adventure and eco-travel.

The great majority of the country's constituent islands are of negligible size, but it does hold--wholly or in part--several islands that are enormous. These include Sumatra, Kalimantan(formerly Borneo, and shared with Malaysia), Sulawesi, and Java. The Indonesian state of Irian Jaya occupies the western half of New Guinea, which is the world's second largest island (behind Greenland). The most populous of the Indonesian islands by far is Java, home to the sprawling capital city of Jakarta. Other notable islands include the exotic, popular resort island of Bali, Lombok, Catholic Flores, and Komodo home of dragons.

There are two discernible seasons in Indonesia: the dry season, which extends from June to October, and the rainy season, which lasts from November to March. Both are hot. The coastal regions, however, are often cool, and in the mountains the air is often chilly.(InterKnowledge Corp.,www.geographia.com/indonesia)

Travel Warning to Indonesia cause is very awsome beautiful :)

TRAVEL WARNING TO INDONESIA

"January 09, 2007

This Travel Warning updates information concerning the security situation in Indonesia and reminds Americans of the risks associated with travel to that country. This Travel Warning supersedes the November 18, 2005, Travel Warning for Indonesia.

Due to the possibility of terrorist attacks directed against American or other Western citizens and interests, the Department of State urges American citizens to evaluate carefully the risks of travel to Indonesia. The October 1, 2005, terrorist attacks in Bali in which suicide bombers killed 20 people and injured more than 100 are a reminder that terrorists remain active in Indonesia. The possibility of future attacks in Bali, Jakarta, or other areas of Indonesia cannot be ruled out...."(United States Department of State Bureau of Consular Affairs, Whasington DC)

Look at with your eyes and deep of your heart, Indonesia is safe to you to visit there. The people with hospitality, greeted with smile, and beautiful view in each places or region that will you visited . Travel warning issued by some countries to advise the citizen to reconsider travel to Indonesia. The land of God, Bali; never ending asia, and city of culture, Jogja; paris van java, Bandung; beautiful Lake Toba; a wild forest of Borneo kalimantan; beautiful and the one and only in a world, marine park, Bunaken Sulawesi; dangerous and so "fear factor" of volcano mountain ,Krakatau, Merapi, Bromo; what else?? many places to visit and create your new and extraordinary experience...in here, yes....in Indonesia

Yes right.., travel warning!! Indonesia is very dangerous awsome beautiful, so to be carefuly if you come to Indonesia, we guarantee you, your eyes will always opened to look at the beautiful view of zamrud in equator....so...what are you waiting for...???bring your bag and paspor and as soon as possible going there....