Bukittinggi, Clock Tower, and Turis

BUKITTINGGI, KOMPAS.com - First, Bukittingi, West Sumatera (Sumatra), is one of the favorite tourist destinations for foreign tourists (tourists). Many tourists from Europe, mainly from the Netherlands, who visited the United Kingdom.
"Even before too many who settled here and married people. But since the reform, down drastically," said Adriansyah, superintendent Japanese hole in the canyon Sianok to Kompas.com on Wednesday (06/08/2011).
Adriansyah said that security issues be the cause of the decline of foreign tourists visit.
Meanwhile, Mayor Ismet Bukittingi Amzis said the decline occurred not only foreign tourists in Bukittinggi.
"The decline in foreign tourists occurred in all regions. The issue of safety is also seeping into the United Kingdom. Had there issues a bomb, but here is safe," he said when met at the Library of Bung Hatta Kompas.com at dinner after Stage 3 Pariaman-Bukittinggi on the international cycling arena Day Festival 2011.
Ismet said it was mengenjot to the level of foreign tourist arrivals increased by organizing cultural events. For example, continued Ismet, in Kampung China, located at Jalan A Yani has started bustling again.
"There are many cafes, perfect for culinary tourism. Tourists from Europe began to come. But the bustling from Malaysia," he said.
The main icon is the Clock Tower Bukittinggi travel. In addition to the Clock Tower, tourists used to visit the canyon Sianok and Home Birth Bung Hatta.
TDS lasts 6 to 12 June 2011 which combines sport and tourism. TDS 2011 to race seven stages with a total distance of 739.3 km. The route through which is full of unique attractions of each region. In addition, cultural and culinary West Sumatra were also introduced to the participants TDS.
Counties and cities involved, among others, the City Government of Padang, Pariaman city, Padang Pariaman district, Agam District, City of Bukittinggi, Sawahlunto, Solok, Solok, Payakumbuh, Padang Panjang, Tanah Datar, and the District Fifty Cities.
This event has become the official agenda of the annual World Bicycle Racing Organization (Union Cycliste Internationale) in collaboration with the Executive Board of the Institute of Sport Bike Indonesia (PB ISSI), local governments, and the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

Pariaman Rely on Nature, Art and Culture

PARIAMAN, KOMPAS.com - Many areas that rely on nature as a potential tourism. Pariaman District did not just rely on nature, but also arts and culture.
We have also the beach. However, the tourism potential of cultural arts Pariaman.
- Ali Mukhni

"We have also the beaches. However, the tourism potential of arts and culture in Padang Pariaman. Art culture for tourism," said Regent Pariaman, Ali Mukhni to Kompas.com convivial evening at the event after Stage 2 Padang Pariaman, Tuesday (7 / 6 / 2011).

In the event, Ali was awarded builder of culture as art, culture, and tourism areas of the National Culture Institute Indonesia (LKNI).

Chairman LKNI, Totok Sudaryoto said the award is not solely for the regents only. "This is for the community and also to continue to develop arts and culture Pariaman," said Totok.

He added that the award was based on observations from various mass media and information and public input, artists, and cultural.

Totok said several parties had ever awarded, among others, the Mayor of Yogyakarta, Vice Governor of Yogyakarta Sri Paduka Paku Alam IX, Governor of South Kalimantan, South Sumatra Governor, Mayor of Denpasar, Gianyar Regent, Regent Kerinci, Pekanbaru Mayor, and Governor of North Maluku.

One of the unique traditional arts of Regency Dance Plate Pariaman is that dancers dance on the glass. Ali explains the dance only in the Padang Pariaman. Before the dance was not arbitrary, according to Ali, there are certain prayers that offered the Prayer of Solomon.

On the same occasion, Dance Dish with glass shards that had staged in front of audiences. This dance was, continued Ali, is a hereditary tradition. One of the things that kept the authenticity of the dance is a simple dress dancer. Even so, the dance featured the audience was able to invite admiration.

"Art is a rabab other kind of coconut shell fiddle. Ordinary Nagari Alek appeared on the show, a sort of party of the people," he said.

There is also a typical musical instrument Kasa Drum and Dance waves that danced to welcome the guests.

"Dancing Waves built directly from the studio in the district of Padang Pariaman has appeared at the Merdeka Palace, Jakarta in the presence of the President. If Dance Dish with shards of glass a few times a gig in Singapore, there has been very well known," he said.

If there are tourists who want to watch a typical art Pariaman, Ali advised to come to the Department of Culture and Tourism of Padang Pariaman district.

"Then we can show at the hotel where to stay or direct tourists to the area where the studio. There are villages if you want to be shown directly over there. It could also be shown hall government," he explained.

Some art is typical of Pariaman was shown shortly after the announcement of the winner Etape 2. Ali hopes to Pacipic fourth, all participants can stay in Padang Pariaman.

"Now just athletes and some of the committee who stay. Hopefully will all stay in Padang Pariaman, so no more back and forth between the (city) Padang (district) Pariaman," he said.

TDS lasts 6 to 12 June 2011 which combines sport and tourism. TDS 2011 to race seven stages with a total distance of 739.3 km. The route through which is full of unique attractions of each region. In addition, cultural and culinary West Sumatra were also introduced to the participants TDS.

Counties and cities involved, among others, the City Government of Padang, Pariaman city, Padang Pariaman district, Agam District, City of Bukittinggi, Sawahlunto, Solok, Solok, Payakumbuh, Padang Panjang, Tanah Datar, and the District Fifty Cities.

This event has become the official agenda of the annual World Bicycle Racing Organization (Union Cycliste Internationale) organized by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, in collaboration with the Executive Board of the Institute of Sport Bike Indonesia (PB ISSI) and local governments.

Pariaman beach, Casuarina, and Beruk

KOMPAS.com - Pine trees lined up like a beautiful postcard series of European countries. An alien landscape, a blend of azure with pine trees. Unlike in most coastal areas overgrown with palm trees, a few beaches in the City of Pariaman, West Sumatra, even overgrown with pine trees.

Local governments are deliberately planted pine trees on the beaches are. These pine trees began to be planted in the era of the 80s. There are three beaches that are excellent city. Kata Beach, Beach Mirror, and Gandoriah Coast beaches are a favorite of tourists. It took about two hours from Padang to get to these beaches.

The waves are calm location suitable for swimming. Practically no white sand. The color is more directed to the black sand. In the sting when the sun, the sand like crystals. Salt content in the sunlight, shimmering like a jewel. Vines adorn the sand. In addition to pine, the area Pariaman many coconut trees. Therefore, one of the typical attractions Pariaman is "baruak mamanjek karambia". Coconuts are picked by a monkey who is very skilled at climbing and pick coconuts.

Kata beach pine trees grow so thick in the area of ​​Kata Beach. If you pass this coast to coast Mirror, from the vehicle you will see a row of pine trees with sea background. So beautiful as if takes you to another dimension. According to local residents said, compared with the Mirror and Beach Gandoriah Beach, Kata Beach pine trees are relatively young. So there is still much to be found on the beach.

Coast Cypress Mirror Mirror Mini or abbreviated with. In the area of ​​Beach Mirror, pine trees still rule. But the pine trees in this area he was already older than the Kata Beach. As a result some of the pine felled fearing a collapse of time. Some traders selling various foods and beverages in around the beach. Most of the kiosks in the beach sand. In contrast to the kiosk at the beach Gandoriah separated by a road. A few fishing boats moored at Coast Mirror.

Navigate Gandoriah coast trek north from the coast and meet with Coast Gandoriah Cemin. Just like in the Mirror Beach, a few traders stalls lined up facing the beach. Visitors can choose to eat and drink in cafes or on chairs placed in the beach area. Do not forget to enjoy the panorama of the beach while eating a variety of fried snacks. Hawkers offer a variety of snacks will round fried snacks. Call it the shrimp dibalur flour and fried. But unique was the young crab fried flour.

Of the three beaches, visitors can see the islands across the sea. Some of the hands of the island is the Island, Edge Island, Island Kaseik, Anso Island, and Island Gosong. Some are uninhabited island. While the island is inhabited islands Anso famous with a mosque in the center of the island. From Coast Gandoriah, the mosque can be seen even though only a speck. Some locals said during the fasting month and Idul Fitri, Anso crowded island. The presence of the mosque was indeed able to attract people to worship there.

While much coveted Gosong Island fishermen. One is Bustam. He said the island Gosong numerous turtle eggs. Indeed, several such areas in West Sumatra in Padang and Pariaman, a lot of selling of turtle eggs culinary. On the one hand, the food is part of tourism. On the other hand, the concern becomes endangered sea turtles became louder for environmental issues. Spruce-fir on the beaches of Pariaman was planted not without purpose. Environmental issues be the reason. Besides the beauty, function fir trees for reforestation and prevent coastal erosion.

Open Tourism interisland Pariaman

Pariaman, KOMPAS.com - Beach Party Pariaman in Pariaman, West Sumatra, was held to celebrate Eid al-Fitr 1432 AH. This year, to enliven the event the Government Pariaman open inter-island travel services.

"We provide the vessel with a capacity of 30 persons tariff Rp25 thousand per person for day trips to islands in the waters of Pariaman," said Secretary of Culture and Tourism Pariaman Jose Rizal, in Pariaman, Friday (26/08/2011).

In addition to that provided by the City Government Pariaman ship, visitors can also use the services of a fishing boat with the same rate. He explained the ship will take tourists to the island Ansoduo a distance of 1.9 miles of the coast Pariaman.

Place, he said, is a historic island long graves contained therein. Ansoduo island is also a historical site as the location of the first spread of Islam in Pariaman. Usually on the pilgrimage season, many visitors come to the island for a visit to the tomb.

"Tourists can also look into the tombs whose location has been addressed as such by the City Government Pariaman," he said.

On the island there is a pier and Ansoduo resting place of three houses on stilts. Visitors can enjoy tours of the island with white sand beaches and fishing on the rocky island behind it. For safety during travel, he said, his ministry has worked with BPBD Pariaman, Pariaman Police, and Rescue team.

Ansoduo Island can be reached by motorized boats 15 PK for 20 minutes from the beach Gadoriah. The island is the largest island in Pariaman is approximately 3.5 acres with relatively flat topography. In the middle of the island is dominated by forest vegetation with tree species that grow in between coconut aru and more dominant in coastal areas.

In addition Ansoduo Island, off the coast of Pariaman there are also five other islands namely Pulau Bando, Gosong, Tangah, Edge, and Kasiak all of which include the islands of nonurban.

Celebration at Disneyland Hong Kong

SKY Hong Kong was dark when the show films on the walls of the castle began to be held Tinker Bell. The audience sat on the road overlooking a large castle that was built very similar to the picture in the cartoon movie.

The fairy Tinker Bell flies danced on the walls of the castle and the sudden onset of disturbance of the witch. Then, Mickey Mouse came release and filings sprinkled glitter.

As an expression of joy, hundreds of colorful fireworks over the castle and glide to illuminate areas Hong Kong Disneyland. Fireworks new year just like it can be seen from a distance because it reaches a height of 40 meters and lasted for 15 minutes.

The fireworks were held every day as part of the theme of the fifth anniversary of Hong Kong Disneyland, Celebration in the Air or in the Air celebration. Fireworks was held as the closure of all activities in Hong Kong Disneyland every day.

In Disneyland Hong Kong, every day is like a celebration to please visitors. Beginning the day at 06:30 Hong Kong time, all the celebration will be opened with a ribbon-cutting by large randomly selected visitors or special guests who seemed to be "official City of Disneyland".

The procession will be accompanied by a ribbon-cutting two squirrels characters Chip and Dale, or Kiki and Koko in the Indonesian version of Donald Duck comics.

After opening, the visitors are free to enjoy all the performances and the existing vehicle. Two performances are absorbing most of the visitors are worth watching. Both of them is The Festival of the Lion King and Mickey's Philharmagic.

The Festival of the Lion King tells the story of Simba, the young lion who would be king of the jungle but handcuffed by a group of hyenas. The show that combines a lively musical, theatrical action of a compact, captivating vocals, as well as technology and exceptional lighting.

Mickey's four-dimensional performances Philharmagic also required viewing. This show tells about the destructive mischief Donald Mickey's orchestra with a magic wand.

In addition to the three-dimensional images, visitors were entertained with the fourth dimension, namely the taste. Visitors will be buffeted by winds when a tornado stuck Donald, Donald splashed water when soaked in water, and smell the fragrant when Donald in the dining room.

With 3D glasses, Donald felt in front of our eyes and many visitors reached out to attain. The show ended when Donald was thrown into the wall behind the audience and everyone had to stand up turn around to watch it.

In addition to the show, there are some other performances that are not less fun. One of the funny is the Stitch Encounter featuring the character Stitch and dialogue between visitors and Buzz Light year Astro Blasters featuring lots of targets to be shot while riding "spacecraft" that moves.

Some vehicles also have to try because it gives an exciting experience, like the Space Mountain roller coaster or in a dark room, Autopia, or driving a car that has a sort of rail, as well as Dumbo the Flying Elephant Orbitron and the game play.

Do not forget to climb the Jungle River Cruise. Experience on a ship in an artificial lake with a view of a typical Amazon forest is served complete with monkeys and Indians as well as crocodiles and man-made mountain erupted.

At around 15:30, all the characters and Hong Kong Disneyland officials paraded across the Main Street USA or the main roads in the region. All visitors to sit on the roadside to take pictures and say hello to all the Disneyland characters.

Souvenirs and food

If you want a souvenir shop, camera equipment, or food, Main Street USA is the right place. There are a range of official souvenir shops and restaurants along the road.

T-shirts, bags, clothes Cinderella, school equipment, mok, refrigerator magnets, key chains, and various other souvenirs available. Currency Exchange available at City Hall. Rupiah currency is also accepted for exchange.

Cuisines of various countries in several restaurants along the main road. Halal food is also available for Muslim visitors.

In that place there is also a nursery room house equipped with feeding, water heaters, and microwaves to provide food and beverages for infants.

Several officers who wear costumes Disneyland characters lust photographed visitors served. All characters are available, ranging from Mickey and Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Tinker Bell, until Goofy and Pluto.

At home, visitors who stay at Disney's Hollywood Hotel and Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel can ride a free shuttle bus. Visitors who come from outside the area of ​​Disneyland can use the Metro or a fast train with a cheap ticket. (Caesar Alexey)

Hong Kong, Prima Donna Tourists

KOMPAS.com - Who does not know Hong Kong? Hong Kong known for its unique culture and life. With an area of ​​only about 1,000 square kilometers and a population of around 7 million people, Hong Kong became one of the countries with the highest population densities in the world. Land availability is very limited, making the Hong Kong government is very efficient in utilizing the land, so that eventually Hong Kong featuring views of the metropolis that is very distinctive and attractive, no wonder Hong Kong is able to attract many tourists flock to this island nation every year.

Hong Kong handed over to China by the British government in 1997, after nearly 100 years of British rule there. The combination of Western and Eastern cultures the life of the community of Hong Kong in all aspects, it is not surprising because people still preserve Chinese culture and traditions they hold. Hong Kong, the city of islands within 4.5 hours air travel from Jakarta is indeed unique and distinctive appeal of the extraordinary, so it is necessary to enjoy the best possible preparation.

Geographically, Hong Kong is located in the southern plains of China adjacent to the South China Sea. With an area of ​​1104 square kilometers, Hong Kong includes Hong Kong Island or the Island, Kowloon area separated by a strait with the Kowloon Island, Sai Kung, New Territories, Lantau Island and 260 other islands in the vicinity.

Hong Kong's population density is high, ie 6300 people per square kilometer, the highest density located in the Kowloon area. Hong Kong's total population is currently about 7 million inhabitants (95 percent of ethnic Chinese, 5 percent of South Asia such as Filipino, Indonesia, Japan and Europe).

In the north, adjacent to Hong Kong Mainland China (Shenzhen) and on the south by the South China Sea. Hong Kong's population 95 percent are from ethnic Chinese and the rest are foreigners from various countries. The official language used is English, Hokkien and Putonghua. English is widely used in government, international legal and business documents, while in everyday conversation people use more language and Putonghua Hokkien. Although Hong Kong is under the control of the United Kingdom for nearly 100 years, the use of English in everyday conversation is very rarely done, especially by the elderly.

Hong Kong's subtropical climate, with fairly extreme differences in weather, air temperature can be below 10 degrees Celsius in winter and more than 31 degrees Celsius in the summer. Recorded a record minimum temperature of 0 degrees Celsius in January and maximum temperatures of 36 degrees Celsius in August. Ninety percent of the rain falls between April and September. Humidity averages about 75 percent. June to August is the month with the highest temperatures, while December to February is the month with the average lowest temperature.

Rain fell most of the year with the highest rainfall in the summer between June and August. Often between the months of July through September, the Hong Kong hit by a hurricane (Hurricane) is very large, the whole community was warned by typhoon signals, Signal 1: The Cyclone is 800 miles from Hong Kong, Signal 3: Hurricane on the way to Hong Kong, Signal 8: should stay at the hotel, very dangerous hurricane.

Visiting Time

Hong Kong has the +1 hour time difference with GMT or +8 hours to GMT. When visiting Hong can be done throughout the year, although statistically the most traffic between May and September. In the summer (June-September) temperatures can get very hot, while in December-February temperatures can reach the lowest point. But for Indonesia summer is the perfect time to visit, because it coincides with school holidays. In certain months, such as during the New Year, Lunar and Match Rugby hotels raise rates, because the number of visitors increased.

Throughout the year tourists visited Hong Kong from around the world. In 2010 the number of tourists who visit 32 million people, up 5 percent over the previous year. The occupancy rate of hotels throughout Hong Kong reached an average of 85 percent with room rates ranging from 180 Hong Kong dollars for a single room per night. (Budi Sulis)

Hong Kong Vacation Tips

KOMPAS.com - Who does not know Hongkong? Territory once controlled by Britain is renowned for its unique culture and life. With an area of ​​only about 1,000 square kilometers and a population of around 7 million people, Hong Kong became one of the countries with the highest population densities in the world.

Here are some things that must or should be done while you are in Hong Kong:

1. Say hello if you meet someone. Hong Kong residents are accustomed to say the word "hello" at the meeting and said "bye-bye" at the time of parting.

2. No provision of clothing should be worn while in Hong Kong. Wear casual clothing appropriate to the weather and atmosphere.

3. Bring a photocopy of your passport when traveling. The original passport is stored in the storage box hotel.

4. Stand on the right side when using the escalator (the escalator). The left side just to get ahead of people in front of us.

5. FIRST MTR people who will come out and give it enough room before we enter into it.

6. Strictly prohibited smoking in enclosed spaces, including restaurants, malls, MTR, bus, and places with air conditioning. Smoking is also prohibited in open space like the beach, swimming pool, parking vehicles, and escalators.

7. Do not show anger or excessive emotions if the citizens of Hong Kong (such as traders, taxi drivers, waiters, etc.) apply harshly or talked with high tone. That is all style of Hong Kong residents in attitude and speech.

8. Do not bid if the price of goods already contained the words "No Bargain" or "Fixed Price" where we're going shopping, or we will be ignored by the retailer. (Budi Sulis)

Travelling in Hong Kong by Tram

KOMPAS.com - Trams running in city traffic has been serving Hong Kong residents for more than a hundred years, basically since 1904. Tram tour is not only a means, but actually used by Hong Kong residents to travel from one place to another. Tram Hong Kong is one of the interesting attractions to enjoy everyday life of the city, especially the Island are busy, busy, and solid.

Trams such as double-decker bus, but walking on the tracks with a maximum speed of 30 km / h, and only operate in the archipelago alone. Tram path stretches from west to east, divides the city centers so that the crowd becomes a very appropriate means of transport to visit the shopping centers in the archipelago.

Tramway as far as 13 km starting from Kennedy Town in the west to Shau Kei Wan on the northeast coast, through the Happy Valley district of Causeway Bay.

There are six tram lines operated starting at 05.00 am to midnight today, namely: Kennedy Town, Western Market (23 minutes), Kennedy Town, Causeway Bay (55 minutes), Kennedy Town, Happy Valley (60 minutes), Western Market- Shau ​​Kei Wan (58 minutes), Whitty Street, North Point (56 minutes), and Happy Valley-Shau Kei Wan (42 minutes).

Try the route Kennedy-Western Town Market continues to Shau Kei Wan spliced ​​into to get a unique experience with a total time of 80 minutes, visited almost all downtown at the Island with a very cheap rate, which is only two Hong Kong dollars (about USD 2,000) per person and 1 Hong Kong dollars (about USD 1,000) for parents over 65 years and children under 12 years. Payment can use the Octopus Card or coins for cash with fitting. In contrast to other transport, tram payments made at the exit that is located just in front, near the driver.

Tram is very easy, we just waited in the stops, within each 250 meters. Look at the route according to where we are going. Come up from behind and grab an empty seat. Standing inside the tram be allowed, either below or at the top level. If you want to go down, then stand near the front door while preparing payment, using either card or cash. Payment must be fit because there is no refund.

Peak Tram

Types of trams is also still used in Hong Kong, though only for tourism activities, is the Peak Tram or train to the tourist tram The Peak. Peak Tram is a tram pulled by cables along the 1.4 kilometers connecting the region with the Peak Tower Hong Kong center located approximately 150 meters below the summit of Mount Victoria.

Journey as high as 45 degree climb up a hill with amazing views of the north coast of Hong Kong, Victoria Harbour, Kowloon and charming.

Peak Tram was first operated in 1888 was originally a first mechanical means of public transport in Hong Kong and the world's steepest cable car. When first run, the Peak Tram is the only means of transportation to the summit in addition to litter and horse and carriage.

This tram was originally using steam, then converted to use electricity since 1926. Until the 1960s there were two types of tickets, one for the nobility and the other for the servants. The train that we see and use today is the tram riding two first introduced in 1989, with each train with a capacity of 120 passengers (95 seated and 25 standing). But in times of tourist season, only one train is being operated.

The station is located below the terminal (Lower Peak Tram Terminus) is located at St Johns at Garden Road (near the park Hong Kong), while the upper end of the terminal is located in the Peak Tower. There are a few station stops, ie at Kennedy Road, Macdonell Road, May Road and Barker Road. But at the crowded, less likely to rise from the stations, since generally the Peak Tram station is fully charged from the bottom terminal. Peak Tram operates from 07.00 am to midnight every day with intervals of 10 to 15 minutes.

Garden Road, the Peak Tram Lower Terminus, can easily be found by walking toward the tower of Bank of China. Nearest MTR station is Central Station and the Admiralty. From MTR Central Station Exit J2 or exit at Exit K. Exit J2 to Chater Garden, where the Bank of China tower can be seen clearly. Exit K to Statue Square is located opposite the HSBC building, and on the left can be seen the tower of Bank of China.

From Admiralty MTR Station exit at Exit C1 and crossed the bridge over Queensway to Pacific Place. Arriving at Pacific Place, use the escalator on the right that runs beside the shopping center. Road until reaching the highest peak and crossed the road to Hong Kong Park and then follow the instructions of the Hong Kong Park to the Lower Peak Tram Terminus. (Budi Sulis)

Touring the Thousand Temples in Chiang Mai

KOMPAS.com - If you like the weather is cool, Chiang Mai is the perfect place for you! In addition to convenient air, save a million charm of this city that is ready to be explored.

Chiang Mai is a city in Thailand that has the most Buddhist temples. Almost in every corner of this city, you'll easily find a place of Buddhist worship them. Not to mention the culinary riches, cheap shopping centers, as well as the beautiful panorama of Chiang Mai is surrounded by mountains. No doubt, this city is one of the most attractive tourist destinations in northern Thailand.

Chiang Mai is located about 700 kilometers north of Bangkok. Every day there are several trains that serve the majors to Chiang Mai from Hualamphong station, Bangkok. In addition, intercity buses serving the route to Chiang Mai set out with sufficient frequency often. If you want to use the aircraft, Chiang Mai can be reached by direct flights from Bangkok, Phuket, Singapore and Kuala Lumpur.

Compared to Phuket and Pattaya are located in the southern part of Thailand, Chiang Mai is much more appropriately used as a cultural tourist destination with family. The atmosphere was friendly, offering natural beauty and unique culture. Yet somehow, Chiang Mai is not very popular among Asian tourists. This city has long been a favorite destination for backpackers from Europe and North America. But tourists from China and India are usually crowded city of Bangkok, even rarely seen in Chiang Mai.

Chiang Mai history began over 700 years ago when King Mengrai founded the city in 1296 as the capital of the kingdom of Lanna. Areas of Chiang Mai's old town is surrounded by high walls and canals. Currently only a small portion of the city walls are still intact. Old town areas that are within the walls of this store's unique charm most of Chiang Mai.

If we look at a map of the city of Chiang Mai, the old town surrounded by walls in the center of the city. When observed more closely, the center of the city of Chiang Mai is Wat Chedi Luang, which is a Buddhist temple complex which can be described as the zero kilometer Chiang Mai. This fact is very interesting. Chiang Mai city is already classified as metropolitan was pinned in a Buddhist temple. This shows that Buddhism has become part of people's lives attached to Chiang Mai since centuries ago.

The main pagoda at Wat Chedi Luang complex has a height of 85 meters, once the tallest building in Chiang Mai for over 500 years. As a result of the earthquake, this pagoda was collapsing but has now been restored. Unique case of Wat Chedi Luang other is round the sculpture collection stored in one of the buildings in the temple complex. It was a waxwork figure of a monk who had served at Wat Chedi Luang. At first glance, this wax is very similar to the original human. Local people often pray in front of him with various offerings.

Not far from Wat Chedi Luang, the temple complex there are other, no less interesting. Temple or monastery called Wat Pan Thao. Unlike the other temples which are usually dominated by the color of gold, building Thao Wat Pan is made of teak wood, which reveal the original color. The interior of the temple is decorated with Buddha statues and a number of items of ancient pottery.

His name has not been to Chiang Mai if you do not visit Wat Doi Suthep, the temple complex is situated in the hills, about 15 kilometers from downtown Chiang Mai. That said, the temple holds sacred relics of Buddha's bones. Wat Doi Suthep is considered very sacred by Buddhists. Pilgrims who come not only from Thailand, but also from neighboring countries like Burma and Laos.

Although still actively used as a place of prayer, Wat Doi Suthep is open to the public. Not just for Buddhists only. At Wat Doi Suthep, we can see the panoramic view of Chiang Mai from a height. The most interesting sights is the plane taking off or about to land at Chiang Mai Airport. Everything can be seen from the height of the Doi Suthep!

If you have enough time, there is no harm in visiting Bhuping Palace which is the summer palace of the royal family of Thailand. If King Bhumibol and his family was not at the palace, Bhuping Palace opened to the public. If you are lucky enough to come in spring or summer, you can also enjoy the flower gardens of King Bhumibol's large courtyard. This palace complex was built in 1961, so the building is not yet so old. Another unique thing that can be witnessed by visitors is the world's largest bamboo tree. Location bamboo tree is located on the hillside, so it took extra effort to see it.

Who says there's just cheap places to shop in Bangkok? Chiang Mai had a Sunday Market and Night Bazaar which is not less swing with a shopping center in Bangkok. If the visit Sunday Market, you will only see the products of Thai handicrafts. Not imported goods from China as they are commonly found in other places. Since the original item Thailand, the designs are very unique and hard to find elsewhere. Sunday Market in Chiang made the perfect places to shop for souvenirs.

Before leaving Chiang Mai, do not forget to taste the Khao Soi, the typical food of this region. Khao soi is yellow noodles served with spicy curry sauce. As a complement, khao soi is usually eaten with pickles and sea food. Very unique and distinctive flavor. Worth a try! (Hairun Fahrudin)

More information about the trip to Chiang Mai can be found in the book "Backpacking: Thailand" by Hairun Fahrudin, published by PT Elex Media Komputindo. The book is available at all bookstores nearby Scholastic.

Sources: www.easybackpacking.blogspot.com

Protect Whale Sharks in Paradise Bay

MANOKWARI, KOMPAS.com - The whale shark (Rhincodon typus) in the waters Kwatisore, Nabire, Papua, should be preserved to categorize as a protected animal. The government should not be late to anticipate the extinction of whale sharks are seen year round at Paradise Bay National Park.

According to the Head of Central Park Paradise Bay (TNTC) Djati Witjaksono Hadi, whale sharks or so-called star gurano by local communities, including water animals that are only found in the waters of Papua, the Philippines, Australia, and South Africa. Sharks are some times seen in Sabang, and Madura Strait, but not throughout the year.

"These sharks migrate to find a place to eat and lay eggs. However, in the waters Kwatisore, Nabire, for three years we watched, the whale shark is always visible. Unlike in Australia are only visible during the summer," said Djati, Tuesday (9 / 8 / 2011).

Whale sharks are thought to exist since 60 million years ago. He was able to live to 150 years with a length of up to 14 meters. Shark shark nicknamed stupid, because benign and not aggressive, entering childbearing age in the age of 30. Reproduction is relatively slow compared with other fish. TNTC noted, in 2011, there are about 40 whale sharks in the waters of Paradise Bay.

The government needs to increase the protection status of the whale shark. Currently, the protection refers only to the International Union for the Conservation of Nature and Resources that the whale sharks are vulnerable animals.

Government of Indonesia, said Djati, must list the whale shark as a protected species and the inclusion in the Government Regulation No. 7 of 1999 concerning the Preservation of Plants and Animals. "It is currently being discussed at the Directorate General of Forest Protection and Nature Conservation, and waiting for scientific tests LIPI," said Djati.

Whale sharks are the main food of fish and plankton castle. Unlike other sharks that have teeth sharp, sharks have teeth only at the end of the lips smooth. He sucked the sea water and capture small fish intake.

The presence of whale sharks throughout the year is an opportunity for the tourism sector in Papua. In Kwatisore, the sharks are swimming around the fish fishermen's chart. Castle by throwing fish, whale sharks up to the surface water. As in Australia, tourists will have to wait a certain time and whale sharks were herded first so he could watch.

Djati hope people are empowered and enjoy the benefits of whale sharks. Attractions offered to tourists are diving and snorkeling to enjoy the beauty of the whale sharks while feeding. (ENT)

Bangka Belitung Welcomes Seychelles Bids

Pangkalpinang, KOMPAS.com - Department of Culture and Tourism (Disbudpar) Province of Bangka Belitung (Babel), welcomed the initiative of cooperation countries interested in developing the island of Seychelles Islands as an international tourist destination. "We enthusiastically responded to the offer Ambassador to Seychelles because the country has experienced the island to develop tourism respected in the international level," said Head Disbudpar Babel, Yan Megawandi in Pangkalpinang on Wednesday (08/03/2011).
Seychelles is a former French and British colony which has 115 islands in the Indian Ocean or 1,500 kilometers east northeast Africa or Madagascar.

The country gained independence from Britain in 1976 as well as incoming members of the Commonwealth, while the largest population of African ethnicity, France, India and China and has a few natives and in communication in French and English.

Yan said the natural conditions similar to the Seychelles island of Belitung, but tourism in the country today is more advanced because it addressed more seriously. "I have already discussed the offer of cooperation with the Governor of Babylon, Eko Maulana Ali to look directly into the Seychelles and learn what has been done by the government and society to resemble the country's tourism to become a favorite destination of international tourists," he said.

According to Yan, Babylon tourism needs to develop the potential of being a tourist or a honeymoon best honeymoon, as it has done Seychelles to raise public revenue and the area.

He explained that the tourists who come to honeymoon bring more money and will stay longer than ordinary tourists. "When compared to a pair of tourists honeymoon possibilities equals one regular vacationers in terms of pocket money," said Yan.

These opportunities, continued Yan, will be best utilized and tested is applied in Babylon especially on the island of Belitung, Belitung current due to be ready with the availability of facilities and supporting infrastructure required.

"The beauty Kelayang Cape Coast, Cape Sword and the high point on the island of Belitung is very exotic and worthy of international tourist destinations. The availability of supporting facilities such as hotels, culinary tourism and the surrounding communities were ready and aware of Sapta Enchantment," he said.

Meanwhile, the ongoing promotion through print and electronic media has not been able to significantly boost the number of tourists visiting Babylon.

According to Yan, need a new breakthrough in increasing local revenues and the public, especially the actors of tourism as it has done the country of Seychelles.

"We will study the bids submitted Seychelles develop attractive tourism Babylon. We can expect in 2012 from the regional budget funds to conduct a study visit to the country to increase tourism Babel," added Yan Megawandi.

Tips For Fun 'History Travel'

KOMPAS.com - Tourism is one of the alternative history of holidays that are beneficial to you and your family. In every city must have a historic attractions that kept many exciting stories to be known. In addition to reducing the consumptive habits of life, the concept of a tour that also can increase the sense of nationalism to the nation. Here are some tips, so you have a pleasant tour history:

Prepare personal needs. Prior to conducting tours, prepare all the personal needs that can help and facilitate your journey. Such as setting up a camera, small notebook, stationery, and recorder, to all places visited documented. In addition, also prepare a nice hat and clothes to wear.

Berwisatalah with people nearby. In order for tourism to be not boring, invite your closest friends and relatives to share in the tour. Besides being able to fill leisure time, traveling with the people closest to better make your travel comfortable journey.

Choose the right attractions. Determine the sights to your liking. Do not forget also a time to yourself to find out where the historical sights that are held a particular event. Typically, there are several attractions that make the race interesting and provides a souvenir when visiting the place. Things like this, of course, can make your vacation more fun and enjoyable.

Lots of interaction and ask questions. Do not hesitate to ask many questions to things that are not understandable to the host of the tour. Expand all interactions with people around. It is very important to add references to your knowledge.

Documentation. At every point of your trip, do not forget to document important things that you find and capture the best moments during the tour. Make also video footage, interviews, and a few small notes or important points of your visit.

Create a discussion room. After the tour ends your history, it's good for a small discussion with those close to you who also follow the journey. Topics that could be discussed among the impressions of the trip, what interesting things are found, and the conclusion at the end of the discussion.

Travel Tips to Bandar Lampung

KOMPAS.com - Bandar Lampung known as the "City of Elephant" is a beautiful city with the charm of nature and hills that stretches wide. The strategic location and not far from Jakarta to be an alternative choice of vacation destinations you and your family.

Various tourism potential of the city of Lampung is promising, one of nature tourism that can attract the tourists to enjoy a fun trip while on vacation. Here are tips on some interesting natural sights to be explored during a visit to the city of Lampung.

White Sand Beach

Located about 20 km from Bandar Lampung and takes about 30 minutes using public transport or over the course of trans-Sumatra. Entrance fee of Rp 6,000 per person. The ingredients were varied tour, one canoe games. In addition, just 15 minutes by ferry, you can also explore the island which is right in front of Lean White Sand Beach.

Mount Krakatau

Lampung City is a tourist attraction that has worldwide, namely the volcanic mountain that is still active until now. Now, in these locations are equipped with sea travel packages, including Krakatau Volcano Trip package for 10 people at a cost of Rp 3.5 million (all in). In addition, there are also sea island adventure tours (cruise fishing), sea activity (canoeing, snorkeling, diving, and fishing), as well as land and sport activity (volleyball, indoor soccer, biking).

Way Kambas National Park

Is a national park that specifically protect elephants. Way Kambas Lampung is now the mascot. Here you can see the attraction of an intelligent elephant to dance, also ride elephants through forests, swamps, grasslands, and shrubs. Way Kambas National Park can be reached during the two-hour drive from Bandar Lampung.

Bukit Barisan National Park

Stretching from the southern tip of the western part of Lampung Province to the southern province of Bengkulu. It is recommended to visit this site around January to August because the weather in that month were bright enough to explore the forest, swimming, boating down the river, maritime travel, camping, and observing plants, such as the corpse flower.

Seven Falls Curup

Has seven levels of waterfalls in the middle of the forest area with unspoiled natural ecosystems. Located in the village of Marga Jaya, Padang District Queen, Bandar Lampung. In addition to leisure travel, you can enjoy the cool mountain streams of natural waterfalls. Distance from Mount Sugih toward Curup Seven Falls is 32 miles or two hours using four-wheeled vehicles.

Green Valley

Recreation with a natural atmosphere which is located at Jalan Radin IMBA Kesuma Queen, Kampung Suka So, Bandar Lampung. The entry fee is only Rp 8,000 per person. Along the area of ​​30 hectares, you can also have fun enjoying the adventure games, like swimming in the water boom and outbound.

Three Gili Lotim Develop Tourism

Selong, KOMPAS.com - District of East Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara attempt to develop the tourism potential of the three dyke (small islands), namely Gili Kondo, lote and Gili Sambelia Petagan in the District.

Head of Culture and Tourism of East Lombok, H. Selong Gufranuddin on Monday (7/11/2011) said, the development of a tourist attraction three dyke will be done by cooperating with investors from Jakarta, PT Beach Love (PCK). "We've membicakan intensively with investors who will be developing a tourist attraction three dyke. PT PCK has launched an expose about the planned development of tourism," he said.

He said tourism has the potential of the three gili decent for sale. If it really developed will impact on economic development not only for governments, but also for people who are around the area's attractions.

According Gufranuddin, maritime tourism potential is quite attractive with beautiful white sandy beaches, perfect for surfing, diving and nearby there are mangrove forests which will add to the beauty of the sights of three dyke.

"The beauty of the three dyke attractions are not inferior to other existing tourist sites in other districts in NTB. Therefore, these places need to be addressed to attract tourists to visit this area," he said.

Number of dyke in East Lombok, continued Gufranuddin, tens, but that will be developed is currently focused on three dyke attractions in the northern region of East Lombok.

Investors who will invest in three Gili has now started to make corrections attractions in Gili lamp which is the pathway to get to the region "Peterando" or Petagan Gili, Gili lote and Kondo.

"For the first stage, investors will build lodging in Gili Lights. While the region of three dyke would be a tourist attraction that will be visited by domestic and foreign tours," he said.

According Gufranuddin, PT PCK will only build three hotels in the dyke. Sights three dyke just be a place on the tourist recreation while enjoying the beauty that is in the dyke. "Development of three dyke attractions will promote tourism without damaging the environment based on what already exists at that location. Obstacles that we in developing tourism in East Lombok is the limited budget," he said.

Exotic Sunset in Senggigi Beach

KOMPAS.com - the island of Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara (NTB), to say the tourist paradise of nature. In this place, a lot of natural wealth that you can enjoy its beauty from pegununungan, tropical forests, to the exotic beaches are spread out across the island. One is the famous beach of Senggigi Beach, Lombok Barat.

Facing directly towards the sea Straits of Lombok, Senggigi Beach became a center of maritime tourism in the island of Lombok. Waves of the sea is calm and gently sloping coastal region became a fun place to swim while enjoying the view of Mount Agung (Bali) are visible from this place. Come twilight start over, lying on the sand of Senggigi tan while watching the sunset into an unforgettable experience.

Fresh air plus views of the sky that gives color finest blend of blue, orange, white, reddish adds exoticism to this beach. The most suitable place to enjoy the sunset on the beach is a headland near the Senggigi Beach Hotel. There are ladders that can be used for lounging while enjoying the sun began to hide. Malimbu region could also be a place to see sunset at Senggigi from a height.

Can also look for other spots such as behind Santosa Beach Hotel. In this place, tend to be quieter than a cape Senggigi Beach Hotel. Tourists can also see the activities of the fishermen who started his boat parked on the beach. Also provided wooden chairs and a beach volleyball court.

When the afternoon, youngsters Lombok usually begin to arrive from all over to gather and enjoy the view of the sun that sank at around 18:30 pm. At that time, the position of the sun was right in the middle so that its light bounces perfectly across the sea of ​​Senggigi. Accompanied with warm roasted corn, young people of Lombok seems late in the beautiful coastal scenery.

Although somewhat a tourist area that has been growing very rapidly, Senggigi beach is still pretty clean. The view below lautanya also touted still very beautiful. You can do snorkeling activities here.

Not only the views of the beach is the main attraction area of ​​Senggigi, but also entertainment centers are scattered along this coast until the early hours. Starting from the cafe, seafood restaurant, to the karaoke bars will be very easy to meet.

Transportation and Lodging in Senggigi

Senggigi beach is quite convenient because it is a tourist area that has developed in Lombok. In addition, the distance is only about 12 kilometers northwest of Mataram can be reached by car or motorcycle rental. To hire a car and driver charge around Rp 300,000 for an eight-hour trip. As for the motorcycle which is about Rp 100,000. Other means of transportation that can be used to Mataram Senggigi of the Blue Bird or Express taxis that charge could reach Rp 30000-40000.

If you want to use public transport from Mataram, will be very difficult. Because, in the town of Mataram public transport more visible is a taxi or motorcycle taxi. If you still want to use public transport, you can ride a motorcycle taxi to the Ampenan. From there, you can climb bemo (a kind of public transportation) are already available from 0600 with a rate of $ 1,500 to the Senggigi.

If you plan to stay in the area of ​​Senggigi many options that you can live in hotels ranging from five star hotels like Hotel Sheraton Senggigi until jasmine-class hotels and lodgings are widely spread in the region. For class hotels and lodgings jasmine, rates per night which is about Rp 80,000-Rp 150,000 per night.

How to Indulge Yourself while Being in Lombok

KOMPAS.com - Lombok island located in West Nusa Tenggara is almost head-to-head with its neighbour island, Bali, in competition of attracting foreign and domestic tourists. Lombok can be categorized as one of the compelete tourist destinations with its fantastic natural resources starting from Mount Rinjani to exotic and rarely visited beaches including Kuta beach, Aan Cape, as well as the attractive small islets (known as gili).

There are six ways that can be applied by backpackers or non-backpackers to maximize fun of having a vacation in the island.

1. Be well-prepared with itineraries. Spontanities in preparing them sometimes can be more exciting but they are supposed to be the subject to skip if you only have time contraints to have a vacation. Find as much as possible the information of destinations from internet such as accomodations, transportations, distances and durations of visiting one place to the others. Doing them will hinder you from conflict of ideas or spending time on discussing destinations especially if you take the vacation in groups.

One of the sites, www.visitlomboksumbawa.net helps you find the information on festivals usually held in Lombok. As an example, Malena Sapi (cow race) is held this month in West Lombok and Senggigi Festival is held in Batu Layar village, Lobar regency, West Lombok.

2. It takes more money if you have to rent a car compared with taking a public transportation in Lombok such as Bemo (shuttle bus) or Cidomo (horse cart). An 8-hour car rent of Avanza provided with its driver can be charged for local rate at Rp300,000. The service will enable you to reach areas not served by public transportations as bemo or cidomo are rarely found in Mataram and mostly found out of the city.

The car rent also offers a free of charge tour guide service besides a driver. The drivers know very well the tourist attractions mostly visited by tourists or places rarely visited but abundant with spectacular natural resources as they are natives of the local areas. Don't forget to get the fixed rate of the service to prevent you from having arguments when paying the bill after using the service.

3. Extra cash needed. No charges for entering handicraft centers in Banyumulek Village, Sasak tribe traditional village, Sade village, and Lingsar castle. However, there will be boxes of donation placed at several places that need your volunteer contributions of around Rp5,000-10,000 to help develop local villages.

The amount of money will be needed for volunteer payment of local tour guides that are able to tell you in details of stories and histories on local tourist attractions. That's why it's necessary to prepare small changes of Rp5,000-10,000.

4. Drop by the rarely visited places when taking a trip around Lombok Island as there are many unique places to explore besides common places visited by tourists. Thefore it is necessary to leave as early as 7 in the morning to make sure you have enough time to explore the places. During the time, you can take a view of Sasak farmers planting seeds of paddy in the morning mist. The rising sun shining the greeny paddy fields completes the lovely view.

The moment can be taken by photographers who want to get the scenes of farmers planting paddys, male farmers cultivating fields, as well irregular buyers purchasing dry unhusked rice from farmers. You can take time mingling with locals by greeting and introducing yourself to them. Gradually they will find the comfort to share with you about their daily life and activities as Sasak farmers. If lucky, you will be invited by them to have breakfast on the edge of paddy fields by them.

Stop by the open traditional markets located at road sides. There are days, Mondays and Thursdays, in which all traders from the whole regions of Lombok gather at spots such as Sengkol market, Central Lombok.

5. Be ready with sunblocks. Lombok island is well-known for its exotic beaches lying from West Lombok to South Lombok. Senggigi Beach and three gili lie; Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air, lie in West Lombok. While fascinating beaches; Kuta, Tanjung Aan and Mawun beach, lie in South Lombok.

There several kinds of activities that you can do on the beaches such as sunbathing, snorkeling, diving, as well as surfing. Sunblock is compulsory to carry along as scorching sunshine on the beaches can get you sunburn. At least by applying sunblock, you do not have to be bothered thinking about being sunburn and can have more fun doing kinds of activities on the beaches.

6. Be ready to have parties on Gili and Senggigi! Night festivities in the island are minimal, not like the ones in Bali popular with its 24-hour festive life. The center of city looks quiet from sort of activities starting at 10 pm.

However, if you still insist on spending the night life in Lombok, you can head to Senggigi where dozens of cafes, karaoke pubs, as well as seafood restaurants are open till late at night.

Enjoy the beauty of night life if you happen to stay in Gili Trawangan. Tourist will be lured by festivities and music entertainment and they can dance to their hearts' contentment until morning comes. Sabrina Asril

Tips Enjoy Holidays in Lombok indonesia

KOMPAS.com - Tourism island of Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) is now increasingly compete with next-door neighbor, Bali. Lombok is arguably one of the most complete tourist destination because it has lots of stunning natural potentials ranging from Mount Rinjani to the exotic beaches are still "virgin" such as Kuta, Tanjung Aan, until the small islands (dyke) is not less captivating.

For a vacation on the island of Lombok, there are seven ways you can do so that your vacation unforgettable. This method can be done for travelers who are accustomed to backpackers or not.

1. Prepare Itinerary with Matang Spontaneity does sometimes make the holiday more exciting. However, if you only have limited time for vacation, it is advisable to prepare a travel plan (itinerary) to mature. Try to find as much information as possible from the virtual world from a place to stay, transportation equipment, up to a distance and travel time to places you would want to go. Thus, the time you will not be wasted with discussions about the place that will be addressed. Moreover, if you are on vacation as a group, a mature travel plans and agreed in advance to avoid conflicts that could disrupt the holidays.

In preparing a mature travel plans, do not forget to check the agenda of the festival in Lombok when you visit. To find out, look in Lombok tourism agenda www.visitlomboksumbawa.net site. For example, in July 2011, Lombok has a pity if the tourism agenda is passed as Malean Cattle (cow racing) in the West and Lombok Senggigi Festival at Stone Village Display, Lobar District, West Lombok.

2. Car rental Car rental do require travel expenses to be slightly more expensive than using public transportation in Lombok Bemo (public transportation) or Cidomo (sort of gig). However, if you're vacationing in groups then the cost of transportation may be cheaper. To rent a car in Lombok with type Avanza charge to reach Rp 300,000 for eight hours already, including the driver. Cars can also reach the more remote areas than public transport. Because, if you stay in Mataram, bemo and cidomo more rare. Two flagship Lombok's public transport more often found outside the city of Mataram.

Another advantage to renting a car is to get a free bonus tour guides from the driver. Typically, a driver who is a native citizen there already memorized places frequented tourist turuis and other places rarely visited but kept the potential of incredible natural wealth. Do not forget, when renting a car you already have an agreement with the driver about the fare perdebatahn saay penyewaannya to avoid the payment later.

3. Extra Cash Almost all tourist attractions in the area of ​​Lombok is free of charge typical of pottery Banyumulek Village, a traditional Sasak village, the village of Sade, and Pura Lingsar. However, when you enter those places, there is usually a charity box and a large journal book to write down the value of the contribution that you provide. It's good that you contribute can seikhlasnya Rp 5,000 to Rp 10,000. The donation will be used to promote the village.

In addition, to bring you the complete story and history surrounding attractions, you can use a local tour guide native village. Cost of tour guides is also not specified, all seikhlas your heart. Therefore, prepare a small money-money bernominal Rp 5,000 and Rp 10,000, - to give the donations it.

4. Do not waste time and Stop in Unexpected Places When you visit the island of Lombok, is actually a lot of places you can explore attractions in addition to the official who frequently visited by tourists. Therefore, start your day exploring the island since the morning began at 7 am for example. At that hour, along the road in the region and Stone Sukarara Jayi, West Lombok, Sasak tribal farmers grow rice still appear active in the middle of the morning dew began to rise. Sunlight dawn also increased the green expanse of landscape beauty farm.

If you are a lover of photography, do not waste this opportunity to capture the moment. Stop and start to capture the activities of women farmers who were growing rice, farmers are men who were plowing, and akvitas the middlemen who were buying grain from farmers. Begin socializing with the locals, say hello and introduce myself. Gradually, they will begin to tell you about the activities and life as a farmer Sasak. If you're lucky and they feel comfortable, could be a call-eat breakfast together at the edge of the field will glide from these farmers.

You can also make stops at traditional open markets that exist on the roadside. In Lombok, there is market day in which all traders from around the region gathered in Lombok as a single point in the market Sengkol, Central Lombok. Market Day usually falls on a Monday and Thursday.

So do not ever waste your time inside the hotel quiet, beraktivitaslah since morning, socializing with the local community and stop where when you see an interesting activity.

5. Prepare Sunblock One mainstay of the tourism island of Lombok is the exotic beaches are scattered from the start to South Lombok Lombok Barat. In West Lombok Senggigi Beach and there are three famous gili namely Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno and Gili Air. In South Lombok are Kuta Beach, Tanjung Aan, and Coast Mawun. On the beaches, you can perform a variety of activities such as sunbathing, snorkeling, diving, to surfing. Therefore, sun block should always be taken as the heat of the sun coast it can burn your skin. By smearing the body with sunblock, you no longer need a headache thinking about skin burns and can be more menimati play beach anytime.

6. Decently dressed majority of Lombok is Muslim Sasak tribe. They still uphold religious and social norms in society. Although already a tourist destination, but tourists can not be arbitrary in clothes. Clothes that are open only to invite local residents cynical gaze. This indicates that you do not respect the people there. Other applicable rules that prohibited drunkenness in the open. Unwritten rule is more restrictive occurred during Ramadan, when Muslims start fasting.

7. Get ready partying and Senggigi Gili! Evening entertainment on the island of Lombok fairly minimal, unlike Bali's tourism alive for 24 hours. In downtown Mataram, the activities of people began to quiet start at 20.00 pm. However, if you still want to explore the beauty of Lombok in the evening, you can simply slide into the Senggigi Beach. There, dozens of open cafe, karaoke, to flood and sea food restaurants open until the early hours.

If you're staying in Gili Trawangan, sempatkanlah feel the beauty of the night in this small island. Usually, every midnight Gili Trawangan held a party and musical entertainment for the tourists who come. Here, tourists can vent his excitement and danced as they pleased until the morning dawn.

Travel Tips While Fasting

KOMPAS.com - When the month of fasting comes, does not mean you have to sit at home and stop all activities of daily living. In this blessed month, you can still perform a variety of activities as usual and of course still be able to pass the time in the month of fasting with a tour.

Tourism activities for Muslims during the fasting month is a little different when compared to tour on weekdays. This is because you need that extra endurance. Whatever the form of activities while you travel, should be filled with things that are beneficial and do not reduce your reward when fasting. Here are couple of tips that you can do if you want to travel during fasting.

First, at the time of dawn consume foods that have nutritional value and high nutrient. If necessary add a daily multivitamin, so as to undergo a day of fasting you stay fresh and stay through tourism activities with the fit. Do not forget also to get used to reading the prayer time will be traveling out of the house. Prepare your personal well to remain patient and keep emotions away.

Second, prepare all your personal needs for day trips, such as the Koran and mukena. So you can still run the service during the tour. Also provide mineral water in preparation for breaking fast when it was forced to break their fast during the journey.

Third, a time to fill the time by doing a safari holiday of Ramadan, that is by conducting tours to various places that have a religious value to increase your knowledge about Islam. One of them, can perform their prayers in the mosques tarawih you've never visited before.

Fourth, during the course of using private vehicles, the contents of activity by turning the radio to listen to lectures that are available in your vehicle during the trip. Spend all your money to charity and given to people in need during the holiday travel.

Fifth, when the load time of fasting has come, take a moment to break the fast with sweet foods and drinks to boost your energy back. Then do worship first, then later continue your tour.

Because of the Komodo, The access Rises

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - Have you ever opened www.indonesia.travel.com? Indonesia's official tourism site managed by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism recently "the rise" thanks to which they hold Quiz Komodo some time ago. As a result, the number of visitors to the site increased dramatically.

It becomes its own strategies to introduce the richness of attractions in Indonesia. By cost, online media campaign is much smaller than in other forms of media promotion. Apalalagi when compared to the official tourism site neighboring countries.

"The cost of our online promotions far below the television promos, print, and billboards. Because many of which have yet to see the benefits of an online ad or promo that is much more effective. Not only is thrown into the sea such as online promotional landing page should have it. Promo online there's always his landing page. Thus, keterukurannya clear, even knowable demography. Meanwhile, if another medium, such as the size of the TV ratings, "said Electronic Kemenbudpar Kasubdit Promotion, Ratna Suranti, Tuesday (08/02/2011).

Meanwhile, according to Chief Web Editor (Classic) www.indonesia.travel Wuryastuti Sunario familiarly called Tuti, said www.indonesia.travel one means or media promotions beyond print and other media. Because the displayed Indonesia as a whole, of course, the team found several challenges when managing the site.

"Online media is something new. Online should be kept up to date. But Indonesia is not really big. It contained many more yet to be explained a lot. Also there is a desire that many of the photos displayed. With so many photos are more interesting, "he said.

However, further Tuti, within one year it was able to keep complete information about tourism in Indonesia within the site.

"We have long kept the contents. But why not anyone telling you about us. That his outward look, but not into it. Finally we make to make this quiz. It's special because with this quiz, every question people have to go inside to find the answer, "said Tuti.

As a result, Tuti added, there was an increase in the number of visitors. He also said that visitors who go too much longer to read the site and open up more pages.

As an illustration, visitors to the site www.indonesia.travel in 2010 as many as 145,673. Whereas in 2011 in the period January to July, visitors reached 1,190,035. This means an increase in visitors by 716.92 per cent or seven times. Visitors came from Indonesia. Then followed by visitors from the United States, Malaysia, Singapore, and Australia is ranked fifth.

"Online media do not stand alone but aims to bring tourists and thus follow the strategy of Kemenbudpar, namely improve the image of Indonesia abroad, that's for sure. If the domestic embed 'get to know and love your country'. So it is the ultimate goal. Although initially these data we can click this to know it, and visitors so much. But finally a strategy for love Indonesia, "said Tuti.

He says it is based on the comments into www.indonesia.travel when the quiz in progress. At that time, incoming comments in the thousands. Most expressed that they increasingly recognize the diversity of Indonesia through the site.

"What I think great, some say the site is great because it can recognize up to pelosoknya Indonesia, there are diverse cultures, this is what makes them proud as an Indonesian. To shudder when I read the comments, "said Tuti.

According to Tuti, enter any comments that cross age. There are old people who feel the site is suitable for the younger generation so that more and more familiar with Indonesia. Many were from young people who commented that he was getting to know a lot about Indonesian culture and tourism. Most are initially attracted because of the quiz. But many eventually are due to be familiar with the site, eventually over the digging of information not just want to win the quiz.

"That we are a multicultural, if you read on the site, we know well such as the Balinese culture like this, if the Acehnese tradition like this. This is the Pancasila. So like learning Pancasila from this site, but unconsciously. With a variety of traditions that we have lived for centuries, here we are, here I am. So although the example of people of Aceh, but still feel a sense of other areas. Because we are both people of Indonesia, "he explained.

In order for the site is increasingly recognized by many people, Kemenbudpar also promote via facebook and twitter. It also worked with www.expedia.com and www.eturbonews.com, overseas sites relating to tourism.

Thus, not only known in the country, indonesia.travel could also attract foreign readers. This does not rule out the possibility, because indonesia.travel present in the two languages ​​are Indonesian and English. In the near www.indonesia.travel will also cooperate with www.travel.kompas.com so that readers of both sites can get more information about Indonesia tourism.