Kuala Lumpur Tourism

Located in the heart of Southeast Asia, Malaysia is divided into Peninsular or West Malaysia and East Malaysia. The capital city of Kuala Lumpur lies central to the West Coast of Peninsular Malaysia. It all began in mid 19th century when industrialists came to settle along the confluence of the Klang and Gombak rivers. Today, it is the best instance of the cultural heritage that is unique to this land which offers a whole new experience to its visitors.


Kuala Lumpur is the capital city of Malaysia, and thus, the main international gateway of Malaysia as well. When the Federation of Malay a gained its independence in 1957, Kuala Lumpur was declared the Federal capital. In 1972, it achieved city status. At the same time, it also remained as the capital of the state of Selangor, a status it attained in 1887. However, on the 1st of February 1974, it was officially declared a Federal Territory which also marked the end of Selangor's jurisdiction over Kuala Lumpur.

Clean and beautiful, with treelined streets, parks and public flower gardens, Kuala Lumpur transforms into a veritable wonderland of lights at night, earning its name 'Garden City of Lights'. Kuala Lumpur's strategic location in the region has made it an important international centre for trade, business and commercial activities. The city is served by a comprehensive and modern transportation system. More than 40 foreign airlines fly in from various parts of the globe through the Kuala Lumpur International Airport at Sepang, an hour's drive south of Kuala Lumpur. Railway lines and roads radiate from the city providing swift access to other parts of the country. A commuter train service has been introduced to connect the city to neighbouring towns. The city's public transportation has been further augmented by the Light Rail Transit (LRT). Kuala Lumpur is also served by the country's largest seaport, Port Klang.

For the formalities, every person entering Malaysia must possess a valid international visa or a similar travel document. Foreign nationals who require a passport must apply and obtain it in advance at the Malaysian Representative Office prior to entering the country. The types of visa that are issued by the Malaysian Government are: Single Entry Visa, Multiple Entry Visa and Transit Visa. Also, you need to fulfill customs requirements and health regulations.

KL is adept at reconciling the old with the new, the vintage with the contemporary. From the charm of the mature to the potpourri of the present, Kuala Lumpur has observed a colonial façade as well as the ambience of modernity. The structure of the Sultan Abdul Samad building blends most intimately with the tall freestanding wonder of the Petronas Twin Towers. Surely, there is more to the countenance and feature of KL than what merely shows.

Tourism Attractions in Kuala Lumpur

Petronas Twin Tower (KLCC)

The 88-storey Petronas Twin Towers was designed by Cesar Pelli and Associates and currently houses Petronas Corporate Headquarters. It is currently the 2nd most tallest building in the world after Taipei 101 in Taiwan. The Twin Towers symbolises strength and grace using geometric principles typified in Islamic architecture. It is located at the former Selangor Turf Club, a 100-acre site in the heart of Kuala Lumpur's Golden Triangle.

Petaling Street

Petaling Steet is a famous market in Chinatown, and it's a place that never sleeps. It is a great place for locals to get some goods at bargain prices and certainly an eye-opening experience for tourists. Looking for cheap clothes, fabrics, souvenirs, electronic items, watches, CDs and more? Then Petaling Street is the place for you. It is easy getting to Petaling Street as numerous bus companies service the area.

Dataran Merdeka (Independence Square)

Dataran Merdeka (Independence Square) is appropriately named because it was at this place on August 30, 1957 at midnight, the Malayan flag was hoisted for the first time in the country's history upon gaining independence from the British rule. The flag raising ceremony was held at the very spot where the 100-metre high flagpole now stands.



The best part about this gamma world city is that it has maintained equilibrium between its own culture and modernization. Literally Kuala Lumpur is speckled with offbeat skyscrapers and avant-garde shopping malls. Still it has no shortage of old quaint shop houses which strike a chord of its past. On one hand where you see the world's tallest twin building of the Petronas Twin Towers, you can find its rich Craft Complex on the other hand. Moreover, Kuala Lumpur is acclaimed to be only city in the world which has dense forests in its precincts.

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Batur and Kintamani, Bali

A mountain village, Batur is north of Penelokan on the western rim of the crater, with no distinguishable border separating it from Kintamani. The newcomer on the ridge, Batur until 1926 was a prosperous village located at the foot of Gunung Batur. In 1917, the volcano erupted and buried most of the village in lava. This cataclysm took the lives of 1,000 people, destroying 65,000 homes and 2,500 temples. Miraculously, the molten lava stopped short at the gateway of Batur’s village temple.

Kintamani Village

Kintamani is a cool, fresh retreat, bring warm clothes, as it’s cold at night (1,500 meters above sea level). The fog comes rolling into Kintamani early, transforming it into a ghost town of howling ‘anjing’, so you’d best settle in before nightfall. The coldest months are July and August, lots of rain from October to March. Get up early to watch a superb sunrise.

There are fewer annoying locals and you’re treated with slightly more respect. Still, Kintamani has more barking dogs per square meter than any other place on Bali. There’s a busy market every third morning along the highway in the north part of town, right in front of Losmen Miranda.

The temples of the area look out over the crater. People come from all over the island to pray here, especially during ‘odalan’. A grand old ‘gong gde’, one of only three on Bali, plays for the ceremony.

Trunyan

Bali’s best-known The Bali Aga, is the island’s oldest inhabitant, aboriginals who lived here long before the Majapahit invasion in the 14th century. Legend has it the village was established on the spot where an ancient ‘taru menyan’ tree stood-thus the town’s name. It is said that in ancient times the lake goddess Dewi Danu was lured down from heaven by the lovely scent of this tree.

Today Trunyan is a real tourist trap, and you may not get to experience much more than villagers clamoring for money. Still, the setting is spectacular-green mountain backdrop and deep blue lake, mist-shrouded Gunung Batur rising up dramatically on the other side.
Culturally and ethnically outside the mainstream, Trunyan provides evidence of how Bali’s earliest people lived.

Pura Pancering Jagat

Trunyan’s old temple, Pura Pancering Jagat (”Temple of the Navel of the World”), stands under a massive banyan tree. Unusual architecture abounds in this austere ‘pura’-a fossilized relic of aboriginal Balinese society.

The Kuburan, the Bali Aga prefer exposing their dead in the open air rather than cremating them. Valuable land cannot be given over to the burial of the dead. After complicated rituals, the naked body is first wrapped in white cloth, then placed in a shallow pit, protected from scavengers by a triangular bamboo fence and roof. Those who have committed suicide or who have died of horrible disfiguring diseases are buried.

Accommodations

Most ‘losmen’ are located on the main street, Jalan Pasar Kintamani, each offering cold, cubicle-like, damp-smelling rooms. This environment is somewhat alleviated by a crackling log fire at night-order the wood earlier in the day. Kintamani’s best budget hotel is small, friendly, family-run Losmen Miranda with six rooms in the upper end of town. Services include free baggage storage, hot water at no charge, and a log fire. This clean, well-kept hotel and its good food are excellent value. Nothing glamorous but no bugs in the bed, and bars on the windows.

Food

There are ‘warung makanan’ up from Puri Astina in the market. Losmen Miranda has a pretty good fully Westernized 28-item breakfast and dinner menu, including fried noodles, veggie omelets, black rice pudding, and vegetables, eggs, and sauce. Miranda claims to have the best pancakes on Bali-banana inside, coconut on top.

Getting Away

From Kintamani to Penelokan by ‘bemo’, to Singaraja by bus (1.5 hours) and to Denpasar by bus (1.5 hours). The Denpasar-Singaraja bus passes in front of Losmen Miranda. For Gunung Batur, it’s possible to start your climb from Kintamani at 0600 and return by 1200. Expert local guides, available through the hotels, will lead you down the old bridle path that drops steeply from the lip of the outer crater, then climbs up and over the rim of the inner crater before descending into the innermost crater.

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OLD PHUKET - THE TIN LEGACY

Old Phuket Town dates back to the tin mining days of a century ago, when Chinese immigrants sought to make their fortunes from this precious ore.

For millions of international visitors, Phuket is an island paradise, wrapping sun, sand and sea into a glamorous package that attracts them back again and again. However, 150 or so years ago, the island attracted visitors of a different sort – Chinese migrants seeking to make their fortunes from Phuket’s lucrative tin mining industry.

Many were from the Fujian area of China, bringing with them their Hokkien culture and language; others were from nearby Penang, as well as traders from Malaysia, India and the Straits Settlements. Together they forged Phuket Town, channelling tin, goods and money through the port in Tongkah Bay in ever growing amounts.

Some gained mine concessions, making fortunes and establishing family dynasties on the island. They built huge mansions, similar to the colonial properties in Penang, and wore European clothes. Others set up trading companies and shops-cum-homes along Thalang Road, Old Phuket’s main commercial centre, and adjacent streets.

Today, tin mining has virtually ceased due to low tin prices and high extraction costs. In its place, the descendents of the tin pioneers have, like alchemists of old, transmuted cheap metal into gold – tourism gold. Degraded tin mines have been turned into lucrative attractions – the luxury resorts of Phuket Laguna, Blue Canyon Golf Club, Phuket Country Club and Phuket Boat Lagoon have all been built on top of mined-out land.

And the shophouses and mansions that line the roads of Old Phuket Town have become a fascinating tableau of discovery for travellers wanting to learn more about the heritage and culture of the early tin pioneers.

Preservation Push
Local interest in the heritage of the old town came to a head in 1992, when the government passed the new Environment Act that designated Old Phuket as a conservation area, covering 8 roads – Dibuk, Thalang, Phangnga, Phuket, Rasada, Ranong, Yaowarat, and Krabi – and two lanes – Soi Romanee and Soi Soon Uthit. The act set limits on building work, and encouraged restoration and local participation in promoting this heritage area.

Good cooperation between the local government and residents helped launch the Old Phuket Town Festival in 1998, highlighting the renaissance of Thalang Road and showcasing the baba lifestyle (see: Who are the Babasω), costume, food and architecture. The growth of this annual festival plus the recent move of the Tourism Authority of Thailand Region 4 into brand new offices on Thalang Road, inspiringly designed as a Sino-Colonial mansion in a bright orange coat, gives the TAT new ammunition to encourage tourists to discover the cultural allure of Old Phuket.

Old Town Preservation
Please click to view

Image © Serendipity Designs Co., Ltd.

The Old Town Trail
Surprisingly, no travel agency yet offers walking tours of the Old Town, particularly as there are so many interesting places to admire, shop and eat.

Don’t be discouraged! Art & Culture magazine’s Phuket Town Treasure Map provides a walking trail of the Old Town, identifying historic buildings, shops, restaurants and other interesting places for a do-it-yourself tour of discovery. It’s just a two-kilometre walk to cover all the roads of the Old Town, according to the map, which offers snippets of insightful information about what makes Old Phuket such a fascinating place to visit. Get a copy at the TAT Phuket Office and ask for directions.

Where to Beginω

Old Chartered Bank building
Image© TAT
The map’s walking trail begins at the corner of Phangnga and Phuket Roads in front of the police station with its clock tower. Opposite is the old Chartered Bank building, the first foreign bank to open in Phuket in the early 1900s. With the tin industry in its heyday, the bank expected to handle large amounts of international currency and insisted on having a police station nearby for security. As the bank building is no longer used, the Thai Treasury Department has donated it to the Phuket Municipality for the creation of a museum celebrating the culture of old Phuket.

Thavorn Hotel
Images © TAT

Follow the trail round into Rasada Road, and before going any further, make a detour into the old Thavorn Hotel. It was built in the early 1960s by tin magnate Tilok Thavornwongwongse, who was encouraged by the then prime minister, Field Marshal Sarit Thanarat, to diversify from tin into tourism. Unfortunately for Tilok, his timing was off. It was so difficult to get to the island in those days that tourists were few and far between. According to a note Tilok framed in the lobby, the hotel suffered severe losses for more than ten years. The only bright spot was the elevator, the first of its kind in Phuket, attracting visitors from around the island for their first ever ride up and down the floors. The elevator is still in service, as well as a magnificent staircase. There are also loads of old photographs and memorabilia of bygone ages in a wonderful small museum in the lobby (entrance 30 baht).

Thalang Road
If you have time to see everything, follow the map route, stopping to enjoy the distinctive architecture, sample some tasty food, make merit at a Chinese shrine or whatever else takes your fancy. Alternatively, decide what you would like to see and go straight there.

Whatever your choice, make sure you walk along Thalang Road, the centerpiece of the Old Town with its Sino-European facades and arched walkway along both sides of the vibrant thoroughfare.

Three types of shophouse have been identified – Chinese, neo classic and art deco, all in various stages of aging (occasionally, read delapidation). Admire those that have been lovingly renovated, such as the House of Beautiful Images on the corner of Soi Romanee or the China Inn Cafe.

On your journey, sample sticky pancakes at Aroon’s or sweetmeats at Wilai’s. Check out the richly coloured batiks of the Indian merchants. Breathe in the heady aromatic aroma of Chinese herbs at Nguan Choon Tong, the city’s oldest herbal shop. Outside an official sign classifies a neo classic arch with doric columns. Enquire about prices at the friendly Thalang Guesthouse, or browse around Sin & Lee, the first supermarket in Phuket opened over 50 years ago for wealthy miners to buy imported food and other products. If you have money to spend, visit Sin Yoo Chang, one of the best names in Phuket for old jewellery.

Nguan Choon Tong
Sin & Lee
Sin Yoo Chang

Images © TAT

Browse and learn, stop and buy; you are guaranteed an interesting walk along Thalang Road.

Accommodation
There is plenty of good hotel accommodation in Phuket City for those who intend to spend more time shopping and exploring the Old Town Trail. To experience living in the Old Town, the following are interesting suggestions:

Images © TAT

On-On Hotel, Phangnga Road, Tel: 076 211154
The oldest hotel in town, opened in 1929, has grown into a rambling maze of inexpensive rooms (170-400 baht a night, no service charge). Still a popular meeting place for budget travellers. In 2000, it featured in the movie The Beach, purportedly as a guesthouse in Bangkok’s Khao San Road.

Thalang Guesthouse, Thalang Road
Friendly, family-run guesthouse with 13 rooms in an old shophouse along Thalang Road. More rooms are available in a nearby house. Prices range from 350-450 baht for rooms, inclusive of breakfast. Air-conditioning is available for an additional 100 baht.
Web site: www.thalangguesthouse.com

Phuket Backpacker Hostel, Ranong Road
Inexpensive, fairly new hostel located directly opposite the Thai Airways offices and next to the Old Town’s fresh market. It is clean, comfortable and friendly with 12 small rooms plus dormitory beds. Prices range from 180 baht to 800 baht for a single room with air-conditioning, inclusive of tea and toast in the morning. A communal lounge offers free television, videos and internet, with a small garden at back to relax.
Web site: www.phuketbackpacker.com

Images © TAT

Sino House Hotel, Montri Road
Charming Chinese-style hotel with an attractive lobby and large spacious rooms, for travellers and long-stay guests. Located across from Seng Ho, the oldest bookstore in Phuket. Prices begin at 1,500 baht per room, inclusive of breakfast delivered in-room. The hotel also operates a small coffee house and the Raintree Spa.
Web site: www.sinohousephuket.com

Images © TAT

The Taste, Rasada Road
Formerly known as the XVI, The Taste turned two adjoining shophouses into an unusual guesthouse with a trendy reputation. There are 12 rooms, of three types, in an open plan design that makes generous use of curtains and indirect lighting. Prices start at 1,500 baht plus breakfast in the green season, rising to 1,700 baht during the high season. There is a cocktail bar on the ground floor.
Web site: www.thetastephuket.com

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It’s Time to Angkor Wat, Cambodia

Angkor is one of the most important archaeological sites in South-East Asia. Angkor Archaeological Park contains the magnificent remains of the different capitals of the Khmer Empire, from the 9th to the 15th century. They include the famous Temple of Angkor Wat and, at Angkor Thom, the Bayon Temple with its countless sculptural decorations. (File From UNESCO)

But even UNESCO has inscript it was the World Herigate side and set up a wide-ranging programme to safeguard this symbolic site and its surroundings，They couldn’t stop the bad harmage of weathering. Angkor Wat culture is disappearing under our eyes.

Since the 1990s, Angkor Wat has seen a resumption of conservation efforts and a massive increase in tourism. The temple is part of the Angkor World Heritage Site, established in 1992, which has provided some funding and has encouraged the Cambodian government to protect the site.^[40] The German Apsara Conservation Project (GACP) is working to protect the devatas and other bas-reliefs which decorate the temple from damage. The organisation's survey found that around 20% of the devatas were in very poor condition, mainly because of natural erosion and deterioration of the stone but in part also due to earlier restoration efforts.^[41] Other work involves the repair of collapsed sections of the structure, and prevention of further collapse: the west facade of the upper level, for example, has been buttressed by scaffolding since 2002,^[42] while a Japanese team completed restoration of the north library of the outer enclosure in 2005.^[43] World Monuments Fund began work on the Churning of the Sea of Milk Gallery in 2008.

Angkor Wat has become a major tourist destination. In 2004 and 2005, government figures suggest that, respectively, 561,000 and 677,000 foreign visitors arrived in Siem Reap province, approximately 50% of all foreign tourists in Cambodia for both years.^[44] The influx of tourists has so far caused relatively little damage, other than some graffiti; ropes and wooden steps have been introduced to protect the bas-reliefs and floors, respectively. Tourism has also provided some additional funds for maintenance—as of 2000 approximately 28% of ticket revenues across the whole Angkor site was spent on the temples—although most work is carried out by foreign government-sponsored teams rather than by the Cambodian authorities.

Where to stay ?

It’s warm sunny season in December and January at Siem Reap where Angkor Wat sit. And you can find great hostel rate at HotelsCombined，just 28$ one night for a four Star hotel in City center, And you can also find low to 2.1 $ per night’s hostel bed at HostelWorld, And a beautiful small hotel offer breakfast, fruit and bicycle total only 6$ a day!

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Nanggroe Aceh Darussalam, Indonesia

Banda Aceh is suffered an immense loss of life during the tsunami of December 26, 2004. Over 100,000 residents lost their live in a matter or minutes as the huge tidal wave swept ashore. Many heart-wrenching and poignant reminders of that day still remain. They range from a huge generator ship that now become a monument that was lifted several kilometers inland from its seaside berth to crush a rom of family houses and their inhabitants and a smaller ship which landed atop another house and ironically served as a means for the survival and resque of 57 people, to a myriad of battered landscapes, shattered buildings, and mass gravesites. Visitors are awestruck at the devastion, but inspired by the recovery process. They marvel at the stories of the survivors, and they revel at their determination to rebuild their lives.


Tourist Office

Jl. Tengku Cik Kuta Karang No. 3, Banda Aceh. Phone. (0651) 23692, 26206, 21108 Fax. 3723
http://www.aceh.net

Getting there

Only forty-five minutes from Medan and two and half hours from Jakarta, with Singapore and Kuala Lumpur via Medan even closer than Jakarta

Tourism Events

Aceh Cultural week is held on Aug 2008 in Banda Aceh and perform dances such as Tari Seudati (Seudati Dance).

Places of Interest

Weh Island

Weh Island often referred to by the name of its capital, Sabang, is the western most island of the Indonesian archipelago. It is situated at the mouth of the Malacca Strait a sea passage for many yachts and cruise ships only 18 miles away, one hour by ferry, from Ulee-Lheue harbor in Banda Aceh. Diving in Pulau Weh is a well-established recreational activity with dive masters and dive instructors ready to offer a variety of dives to sites like the fabled Sea Garden in Pulau Rubiah.

Alas River

Alas River flows into the Indian Ocean; this river has exceptional rapids that attract whitewater rafting enthusiasts for all over the world.


Gunung Leuser

Hiking to the peak of Gunung Leuser (3,404 meters) take about 10-14 days. The small village of Angasan is a suitable starting point. Angasan is located several hours walk west of Blang Kejeren. Most hikers spend the night in Angasan and start their trek in the morning. The first five days go
Baiturrahman Mosque
through virgin rain forest where rare primates can often be seen.

Baiturrahman Mosque

Baiturrahman Mosque is a masterpiece of Islamic architecture and ornamentation is the main feature of Banda Aceh. It has five onion-shaped domes, two towering minarattes, expansive white walls, and pillars with beautiful design

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Bunaken National Park, North Sulawesi

A flat island about 15 km from Manado, with a friendly people. The coral reefs off Bunaken island shouldn't be missed while you are in Manado. These magnificent virgin reefs are still relatively unspoiled. The drop-off walls at Liang cove is not only rare in the world, with caves, gullies and caverns, harboring an immense wealth of marine life. Spectacular formation of reefs begin with flat at about 5 m depth. These plunge downward to form underwater vertical crevices with often reach depth on several hundred meters. On these beautiful reefs, a wonderful collection of marine life thrives.


The Bunaken reef is a chain of over 40 five star dive spots. The Marine Park is spectacular with the greatest concentration of tropical fish, coral species and world famous wall diving.
Clear, warm waters (sea temperatures usually range between 27-30 degrees C), light currents and calm seas allow easy access to the underwater attraction awaiting visitors to the five-islands of the Bunaken-Manado Tua National Marine Park which sits directly offshore of Manado. Bunaken is the standout favorite, with the highest density of schooling fish and the greatest probability to see larger species such as turtles, sharks, and napoleon wrasse. There are enough sites here to keep any diver happy for over a week without going elsewhere.

The Dive Sites :
Most diving takes place near Bunaken and Manado Tua, because of their many excellent sites. The following is representative of the diving in the area.

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Lekuan Walls (I, II, III)
This long wall on Bunaken is divided into three sites: Lekuan I, II and III. Together they represent the park's best. Steep walls are marked with deep crevices, sea fans and giant sponges. The shallows are filled with fishes. The wall, often protected from stronger currents, is frequented by bumphead parrotfish, turtles, and Napoleon wrasses.
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Mandolin
Mandolin has a knockout reef crest and a wall that attracts thousands of fishes like schooling fusiliers, surgeonfish, unicornfish, and bannerfish. They are acclimated to divers and are easily approachable.
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Bunaken Timor
There are strong currents and lots of fishes on this long wall. The shallow reef isn't as spectacular as some but there are turtles, sharks, eagle rays, and other big fishes in the blue. Overhangs and small caves mark the wall.
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Tanjung Kopi
Tanjung Kopi is a nice wall with a small school of barracuda and lots of sweetlips. Visibility in the shallows is not terrific but the numbers of fishes make up for it. Nudibranches and fire gobies are easy to spot here.
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Siladen Island
Siladen has a beautiful wall of soft corals that bloom when the current is running. The shallows are nice with lots of fishes and schooling snappers.
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Muka Gereja
Muka Gereja is a pretty site with thousands of fishes in the shallows and deeper canyons that lead to the wall.
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Barracuda Point
Barracuda Point, on northwest Montehage, is one of the furthest sites. A school of giant barracuda are regulars along with jacks and tuna.
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Manado Wreck
This 60m (200ft) long German merchant ship sank near Molas Beach in 1942. It sits upright with the bow at 23m (78ft). The ship is split near amidships back to the stern, exposing the wheelhouse and cargo holds. Dives finish up on a nearby shallow reef. Expect 10-15m (30-50ft) visibility.

Getting There

Bunaken Island is easily reached from Manado by motorized outrigger boat start from Manado harbor, Molas, Kalasey and Tasik Ria beaches. The public boats from Manado to Bunaken are leaving daily around 2 p.m (depending on tide), except Sundays, from Pasar Jengki near Manado harbor. Back from Bunaken to Manado usually early in the morning, around 7-8 a.m

Where to Stay

On the island you have the choice amongst a number of homestays, with rates starting at
Rp. 40 000 per day and person including full board. Some of the dive operations on Bunaken are offering more up-market accommodation, and even running water.

Moving Around

You can explore the land on foot. And you can use a boat to move from one dive sites to another sites.

Dining Guide

There are several of restaurants and cafes throughout Manado and the islands. Try their specialties: seafood, bubur manado and food made of coconuts!

Souvenir Tips

Sea-related products, such as items made of seashells, corals, etc

Other Things to See or Do

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Diving, swimming, and snorkeling.
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Walking around on the beach.
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Sampling the tempting seafood cuisine.
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Ornithologists and amateur bird-watchers might find visiting Tangkoko Dua Sudara Nature Reserve entertaining.

Travel Tips

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Entrance tags and tickets can be purchased through marine tourism operators based in Manado and in the Bunaken National Park, or can be purchased from one of three ticket counters in Bunaken and Liang villages on Bunaken Island and on Siladen Island;
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You should be aware that during the absolute peak season months July and August it usually gets VERY busy. Many of the better resorts and dive operators will not be able to accept walk-ins during that time since they are fully booked. Better make a reservation before;
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Try to hire equipment from larger firms as these tend to be more reliable, but remember the responsibility of checking the equipment is ultimately yours.

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Komodo National Park, Indonesia

Komodo National Park lies in the Wallacea Region of Indonesia, identified by WWF and Conservation International as a global conservation priority area. The Park is located between the islands of Sumbawa and Flores at the border of the Nusa Tenggara Timur (NTT) and Nusa Tenggara Barat (NTP) provinces. It includes three major islands, Komodo, Rinca and Padar, and numerous smaller islands together totaling 603 km2 of land. The total size of Komodo National Park is presently 1,817 km2. Proposed extensions of 25 km2 of land (Banta Island) and 479 km2 of marine waters would bring the total surface area up to 2,321 km2. (Click on the map to enlarge - 70kB)


Komodo National Park was established in 1980 and was declared a World Heritage Site and a Man and Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 1986. The park was initially established to conserve the unique Komodo dragon (Varanus komodoensis), first discovered by the scientific world in 1911 by J.K.H. Van Steyn. Since then conservation goals have expanded to protecting its entire biodiversity, both marine and terrestrial.

The majority of the people in and around the Park are fishermen originally from Bima (Sumbawa), Manggarai, South Flores, and South Sulawesi. Those from South Sulawesi are from the Suku Bajau or Bugis ethnic groups. The Suku Bajau were originally nomadic and moved from location to location in the region of Sulawesi, Nusa Tenggara and Maluku, to make their livelihoods. Descendents of the original people of Komodo, the Ata Modo, still live in Komodo, but there are no pure blood people left and their culture and language is slowly being integrated with the recent migrants.

Little is known of the early history of the Komodo islanders. They were subjects of the Sultanate of Bima, although the island’s remoteness from Bima meant its affairs were probably little troubled by the Sultanate other than by occasional demand for tribute.

There are presently almost 4,000 inhabitants living within the park spread out over four settlements (Komodo, Rinca, Kerora, and Papagaran). All villages existed prior to 1980 before the area was declared a national park. In 1928 there were only 30 people living in Komodo Village, and approximately 250 people on Rinca Island in 1930. The population increased rapidly, and by 1999, there were 281 families numbering 1,169 people on Komodo, meaning that the local population had increased exponentially. Komodo Village has had the highest population increase of the villages within the Park, mostly due to migration by people from Sape, Manggarai, Madura, and South Sulawesi. The number of buildings in Kampung Komodo has increased rapidly from 30 houses in 1958, to 194 houses in 1994, and 270 houses in 2000. Papagaran village is similar in size, with 258 families totaling 1,078 people. As of 1999, Rinca’s population was 835, and Kerora's population was 185 people. The total population currently living in the Park is 3,267 people, while 16,816 people live in the area immediately surrounding the Park.

The average level of education in the villages of Komodo National Park is grade four of elementary school. There is an elementary school located in each of the villages, but new students are not recruited each year. On average, each village has four classes and four teachers. Most of the children from the small islands in the Kecamatan Komodo (Komodo, Rinca, Kerora, Papagaran, Mesa) do not finish elementary school. Less than 10% of those which do graduate from elementary school will continue to high school since the major economic opportunity (fishing) does not require further education. Children must be sent to Labuan Bajo to attend high school, but this is rarely done in fishermen’s families.

Most of the villages located in and around the Park have few fresh water facilities available, if any, particularly during the dry season. Water quality declines during this time period and many people become ill. Malaria and diarrhea are rampant in the area. On Mesa island, with a population of around 1,500 people, there is no fresh water available. Fresh water is brought by boat in jerrycans from Labuan Bajo. Each family needs an average of Rp 100,000.- per month to buy fresh water (2000). Almost every village has a local medical facility with staff, and at least a paramedic. The quality of medical care facilities is low.

Traditional Customs: Traditional communities in Komodo, Flores and Sumbawa have been subjected to outside influences and the influence of traditional customs is dwindling. Television, radio, and increased mobility have all played a part in accelerating the rate of change. There has been a steady influx of migrants into the area. At the moment nearly all villages consist of more than one ethnic group.

Religion: The majority of fishermen living in the villages in the vicinity of the Park are Muslims. Hajis have a strong influence in the dynamics of community development. Fishermen hailing from South Sulawesi (Bajau, Bugis) and Bima are mostly Moslems. The community from Manggarai are mostly Christians.

Anthropology and Language: There are several cultural sites within the Park, particularly on Komodo Island. These sites are not well documented, however, and there are many questions concerning the history of human inhabitance on the island. Outside the Park, in Warloka village on Flores, there is a Chinese trading post remnant of some interest. Archeological finds from this site have been looted in the recent past. Most communities in and around the Park can speak Bahasa Indonesia. Bajo language is the language used for daily communication in most communities.


Topography: The topography is varied, with slopes from 0 – 80%. There is little flat ground, and that is generally located near the beach. The altitude varies from sea level to 735 m above sea level. The highest peak is Gunung Satalibo on Komodo Island.

Geology: The islands in Komodo National Park are volcanic in origin. The area is at the juncture of two continental plates: Sahul and Sunda. The friction of these two plates has led to large volcanic eruptions and caused the up-thrusting of coral reefs. Although there are no active volcanoes in the park, tremors from Gili Banta (last eruption 1957) and Gunung Sangeang Api (last eruption 1996) are common. West Komodo probably formed during the Jurasic era approximately 130 million years ago. East Komodo, Rinca, and Padar probably formed approximately 49 million years ago during the Eocene era.

Climate: Komodo National Park has little or no rainfall for approximately 8 months of the year, and is strongly impacted by monsoonal rains. High humidity levels year round are only found in the quasi-cloud forests on mountain tops and ridges. Temperatures generally range from 170C to 340C, with an average humidity level of 36%. From November through March the wind is from the west and causes large waves that hit the entire length of Komodo island’s west beach. From April through October the wind is dry and large waves hit the south beaches of Rinca and Komodo islands.


The terrestrial ecosystems are strongly affected by the climate: a lengthy dry season with high temperatures and low rainfall, and seasonal monsoon rains. The Park is situated in a transition zone between Australian and Asian flora and fauna. Terrestrial ecosystems include open grass-woodland savanna, tropical deciduous (monsoon) forest, and quasi cloud forest.

Due to the dry climate, terrestrial plant species richness is relatively low. The majority of terrestrial species are xerophytic and have specific adaptations to help them obtain and retain water. Past fires have selected for species that are fire-adapted, such as some grass species and shrubs. Terrestrial plants found in Komodo National Park include grasses, shrubs, orchids, and trees. Important food tree species for the local fauna include Jatropha curkas, Zizyphus sp., Opuntia sp., Tamarindus indicus, Borassus flabellifer, Sterculia foetida, Ficus sp., Cicus sp., ‘Kedongdong hutan’ (Saruga floribunda), and ‘Kesambi’ (Schleichera oleosa).


The terrestrial fauna is of rather poor diversity in comparison to the marine fauna. The number of terrestrial animal species found in the Park is not high, but the area is important from a conservation perspective as some species are endemic.. Many of the mammals are Asiatic in origin (e.g., deer, pig, macaques, civet). Several of the reptiles and birds are Australian in origin. These include the orange-footed scrubfowl, the lesser sulpher-crested cockatoo and the nosy friarbird.

Reptiles: The most famous of Komodo National Park's reptiles is the Komodo Dragon (Varanus komodoensis). It is among the world's largest reptiles and can reach 3 meters or more in length and weigh over 70kg. To find out more about this fascinating creature click here.

Other than the Komodo Dragon twelve terrestrial snake species are found on the island. including the cobra (Naja naja sputatrix), Russel’s pit viper (Vipera russeli), and the green tree vipers (Trimeresurus albolabris). Lizards include 9 skink species (Scinidae), geckos (Gekkonidae), limbless lizards (Dibamidae), and, of course, the monitor lizards (Varanidae). Frogs include the Asian Bullfrog (Kaloula baleata), Oreophyne jeffersoniana and Oreophyne darewskyi. They are typically found at higher, moister altitudes.

Mammals: Mammals include the Timor deer (Cervus timorensis), the main prey of the Komodo dragon, horses (Equus sp.), water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis), wild boar (Sus scrofa vittatus), long-tailed macaques (Macaca fascicularis), palm civets (Paradoxurus hermaphroditus lehmanni), the endemic Rinca rat (Rattus rintjanus), and fruit bats. One can also find goats, dogs and domestic cats.

Birds: One of the main bird species is the orange-footed scrub fowl (Megapodius reinwardti), a ground dwelling bird. In areas of savanna, 27 species were observed. Geopelia striata and Streptopelia chinensis were the most common species. In mixed deciduous habitat, 28 bird species were observed, and Philemon buceroides, Ducula aenea, and Zosterops chloris were the most common.


The marine area constitutes 67% of the Park. The open waters in the Park are between 100 and 200 m deep. The straits between Rinca and Flores and between Padar and Rinca, are relatively shallow (30 to 70 m deep), with strong tidal currents. The combination of strong currents, coral reefs and islets make navigation around the islands in Komodo National Park difficult and dangerous. Sheltered deep anchorage is available at the bay of Loh Liang on Komodo’s east coast, the South East coast of Padar, and the bays of Loh Kima and Loh Dasami on Rinca.

In the North of the Park water temperature ranges between 25 – 29°C. In the middle, the temperature ranges between 24 and 28°C. The temperatures are lowest in the South, ranging from 22 – 28°C. Water salinity is about 34 ppt and the water is quite clear, although the waters closer to the islands are relatively more turbid.


Indonesia is the only equatorial region in the world where there is an exchange of marine flora and fauna between the Indian and Pacific oceans. Passages in Nusa Tenggara (formerly the Lesser Sunda Islands) between the Sunda and Sahul shelves allow movement between the Pacific and Indian oceans. The three main ecosystems in Komodo National Park are seagrass beds, coral reefs, and mangrove forests. The Park is probably a regular cetacean migration route.


The three major coastal marine plants are algae, seagrasses and mangrove trees. Algae are primitive plants, which do not have true roots, leaves or stems. An important reef-building algae is the red coralline algae, which actually secretes a hard limestone skeleton that can encrust and cement dead coral together. Seagrasses are modern plants that produce flowers, fruits and seeds for reproduction. As their name suggests, they generally look like large blades of grass growing underwater in sand near the shore. Thallasia sp. and Zastera spp. are the common species found in the Park. Mangroves trees can live in salty soil or water, and are found throughout the Park. An assessment of mangrove resources identified at least 19 species of true mangroves and several more species of mangrove associates within the Park's borders.


Komodo National Park includes one of the world's richest marine environments. It consists of forams, cnidaria (includes over 260 species of reef building coral), sponges (70 species), ascidians, marine worms, mollusks, echinoderms, crustaceans, cartilaginous and bony fishes (over 1,000 species), marine reptiles, and marine mammals (dolphins, whales, and dugongs). Some notable species with high commercial value include sea cucumbers (Holothuria), Napoleon wrasse (Cheilinus undulatus), and groupers.


While most visitors enter Komodo National Park (KNP) through the gateway cities of Labuan Bajo in the west of Flores or Bima in eastern Sumbawa, the departure point for your trip is actually Denpasar, Bali.

How to get there ?

By Air:
Indonesia Air Transport (IAT)
Depart : Everyday
DPS - LBJ : 10.00 – 11.30
LBJ - DPS : 12.00 – 13.30

Price:
Y CLASS : IDR 751.000
H CLASS : IDR 696.000
Q CLASS : IDR 641.000 (NON REFUND TICKET)

Trans Nusa Airlines (TGN)
Depart : Everyday
DPS – LBJ : 10.00 – 11.50 & 13.00 – 14.20
LBJ – DPS VIA BMU (BIMA) : 12.05 - 12.35
BMU-DPS : 12.50 – 13.45
LBJ – DPS : 14.35 – 15.15

Price
Y CLASS : IDR 761.000
L CLASS : IDR 651.000
M CLASS : IDR 541.000

By Land:
The gateway cities of Labuan Bajo and Bima are connected to Denpasar, Bali by overland buses.

By Sea (ferry):
Travel time: approximately 36 hours
The gateway cities of Labuan Bajo and Bima are also connected to Denpasar, Bali by inter-island ferry.

Contact the Indonesia Sea Transportation Company (PELNI) at Jalan Raya Kuta No. 299, Tuban - Bali (Tel: 0361 - 763 963) to reserve a seat on the KM. Tilong Kabila, which departs Benoa Port, Bali bound for Bima and Labuan Bajo

Benoa-Bima-Labuan Bajo
Fortnightly (every two weeks) on Saturdays: 09.00-20.00 (next day).
One-way ticket (as of 10/6/06) from Rp. 143,000.00 - Rp. 435,000.00

Labuan Bajo-Bima-Benoa
Fortnightly (every two weeks) on Thursdays: 08.00-11.00 (next day).
One-way ticket (as of 10/6/06) from Rp. 143,000.00 - Rp. 435,000.00
Note: the ferry schedule and ticket prices may change with or without prior notice

By Sea (live-aboard):
Komodo National Park is serviced by a wide range of live-aboard boats, with return packages to Komodo National Park from a variety of departure points, including Bali, Lombok, Bima and Labuan Bajo
Prices (as of 10/6/06) are ranging from USD 230.00 - USD 295.00 / person / night.

From Gateway Cities to Komodo National Park (KNP)
You can easily organize a shared boat charter by local boat from either ports at Labuan Bajo or Bima (Sape) to the two major points of access in the Park: Loh Liang (on Komodo Island) or Loh Buaya (on Rinca Island)
Charter price (as of 10/6/06) - excluding meals, KNP entrance fee etc:
Labuan Bajo: KNP: Rp. 750,000 - 1,500,000 per boat / day
Bima (Sape): KNP: Rp. 1,500.000 - 2,000.000 per boat / day
"Note: the charter prices may change with or without prior notice"

For more information please contact:
=]

Komodo Marine National Park Office
Jl. Kasimo Labuan Bajo
West Flores, East Nusa Tenggara 86445
Ph. +62 385 41004 Fax. +62 385 41006
e-mail: tnkomodo@indosat.org

PT Putri Naga Komodo
Bali: Jl. Pengembak No.2 Sanur 80228, Bali T: +62 381 780 2408 F: +62 361 747 4398
Labuan Bajo: Gg.Masjid, Kampung Cempa. Labuan Bajo, 86554 West Manggarai. East Nusa Tenggara. T: +62 385 41448 F: +62 385 41225
E-mail: info@putrikomodo.com Website: www.komodonationalpark.org / www.gokomodo.org

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Thailand Culture

It is immensely useful to know about the culture of any country that you are planning to visit. Having the right information about the ways of the local people can prevent misunderstandings and will also enrich your whole travel experience.


Here's a brief list of things to know -

1. The Thai King Bhumibol Adulyadej and the Royal Family hold a deservedly high and revered position in the country. You will do well to respect this popular public sentiment. You can get into serious trouble for poking fun or disparaging them.

2. Show respect to Buddhist monks. They also command a great deal of respect in Thai society. Women should step aside to make way for passing monks and avoid any accidental contact.

3. Buddhism, especially Theravada Buddhism, is the main and government supported religion of Thailand. Other religions followed are Hinduism, Christianity and Islam.

4. The Thai language is derived from Khmer, Sanskrit, Pali, Malay and Chinese. English is widely spoken nowadays, but it'll be great if you make an effort to learn a few simple phrases. Like 'Sawadee khrap/ka' for 'hello/goodbye'; 'Sabaai dee mai khrap/ka' for 'how are you?'; and 'Sabaai dee khrap/ka' for 'I'm fine, thank you'.

5. One Thai custom you'll encounter frequently is the Wai. This is similar to the Indian Namaste gesture. You put your palms together at chest level and bow your head. The Wai is used in greeting, in farewell or in acknowledgment.

6. Thai people place a great emphasis on family life and respecting parents, elders and seniors. Seniority, by the way, is determined more by social standing and work denomination than by age, and brings with it certain obligations like paying for the whole group when dining out.

7. Many Thai people have nicknames in addition to their formal Chinese/Sanskrit-derived and often long, complicated given names. The nickname may be a shortening of the given name or can be the word for a color, fruit, flower, animal, etc.

8. Displays of public affection between friends are not uncommon; such displays between lovers are usually less common and less appreciated, but globalization is changing all that, especially in the case of the young generation growing up on American soaps and the Internet.

9. Thais dislike conflicts and loud, angry public arguments. You are likely to be more respected if you stay calm, don't point left and right, don't wave your arms about like wind-mills and avoid all excessive behavior.

10. Traditional Buddhist marriages are divided into a Buddhist ceremony and a non-Buddhist ceremony. The groom is required to give dowry, known as Sin Sodt, to the bride's family.

11. Thai funerals usually last for a week, during which many prayers are recited and crying is not encouraged.

12. Dress modestly in clothes that cover your shoulders and upper legs. Especially when visiting temples.

13. Remove shoes when entering someone's house or a temple. Try not to step on the threshold when entering or departing.

14. It is considered rude to touch anyone on the head or to touch them with your feet. It is also considered offensive to sit with your feet pointing at someone.

15. Early Thai literature was influenced by Indian Literature. The Indian epic Ramayana was written into a Thai version by the Thai Kings Rama I and Rama II.

16. There are three categories of Thai dance - Khon, Lakhon and Likay. The Khon dance is the one you see on many tourist brochures, with elaborate dance moves and dancers wearing masks, gilded head-dresses and jeweled costumes. Music and dialogs are performed in the background by off-stage performers. Khon was originally a dance for the Royal Courts. The Likay dance, which is considered unsophisticated in comparison, was performed in public for the common folks and has satirical, political and comedic overtones.

17. Thailand is famous for its shadow puppet plays, Nang Yai and Nang Thalung. These plays are mainly performed in the southern part of the country, and are accompanied by music and comedic dialogs.

18. Traditional Thai music is a blending of different cultural influences, mainly Indian, Khmer and Chinese.

19. Thai cuisine, which is world famous for its blend of sweet, spicy hot, sour and salty tastes, is mainly eaten with a fork and a spoon; chopsticks are used only for certain foods. When dining with friends or in a restaurant, use your right hand to pass things and leave a little food on your plate when you finish eating. This shows you have good manners and have had enough to eat.

20. Two important Thai holidays are the Thai New Year is called Songkran, which is celebrated on 13-15 April, and Loy Krathong, which is celebrated on the full-moon day of the twelfth month of the Thai lunar calendar, which usually falls in mid-November.

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Orchard Road, Singapore - The Shoppers Paradise

Experience the best of Singapore at Orchard Road. Enjoy this beautiful cosmopolitan destination, filled with amazing shopping malls, entertainment facilities and much more
The Orchard Road in Singapore is truly a shopper’s paradise with a multitude of shops containing an exclusive range of items. Before commercial development prompted the huge influx of buildings the area was abundant with plantations and orchards and this resulted in the name Orchard Street.


During the 1860’s the road was occupied by many bungalows and private houses and towards the early 20th century the road was noted for its serene and elegant environment with many dazzling mansions. At present this venue has become a favorite destination among both locals and tourists for its diverse collection of shops, boutiques and restaurants. This central shopping area provides an unparalleled experience for everyone as most of the shopping malls have almost everything under one roof. It excels in terms of quality and quantity and never leaves shoppers disappointed.

The largest shopping mall in Orchard Road is Ngee Ann City which comprises upscale boutiques such as Louis Vuittion and Vacheron Constantin as well as Southeast Asia’s biggest bookstore, Books Kinokuniya. Wisma Atria is an excellent venue for the whole family as it is equipped with an aquarium and a massive food court with the capacity of 900 seats. Other malls include Pinoy Palace, Wheelock Place, The Paragon, Tang Plaza, Forum the Shopping Mall and Orchard Point. Many distinctive local dishes as well as French, American and Swiss cuisine are available at the array of restaurants at Orchard Road. Visitors can enjoy their favorite meals at this diverse range of restaurants which include Maison de Fontaine, Song of India, Mezza 9, Les Amis and Canele Patisserie Chocalaterie.

Orchard Road is also home to many graceful Singapore hotels such as the Orchard Hotel Singapore which consists of a range of elegant accommodation facilities as well as award winning cafes and restaurants. On the northern side of Orchard road is the Botanic Gardens and next to Emerald Hill you will find Cold Storage which is the oldest corporate establishment in the vicinity.

A trip to Singapore is not complete without a shopping interlude. Orchard road excels as the prime destination for a one of a kind shopping experience and Orchard Hotel Singapore is ideal to lounge in after an overwhelming day of shopping.

Naveen Marasinghe is an e-marketing executive at eMarketingEye(Private) Ltd. eMarketingeEye is an search engine marketing agency offering integrated Internet marketing solutions, specializing in serving the online travel and hospitality industry.

By Naveen Marasinghe

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Genting Highland, Malaysia

Genting, the Las Vegas of Malaysia, is one of the most popular mountain resorts of Southeast Asia. This state of the art entertainment village, built on the Genting hilltop, is a much sought after tourist destination. In addition, Genting has the advantage of the proximity to the capital city, Kuala Lumpur, which helps to make it a popular convention center. Genting is thus a self compliant destination, which can amuse people of any category, including bachelors, family, women or kids.


Genting, the Las Vegas of Malaysia, is one of the most popular mountain resorts of Southeast Asia. This state of the art entertainment village, built on the Genting hilltop, is a much sought after tourist destination. In addition, Genting has the advantage of the proximity to the capital city, Kuala Lumpur, which helps to make it a popular convention center. Genting is thus a self compliant destination, which can amuse people of any category, including bachelors, family, women or kids.
Geographically, Genting highland is a mountain peak of Titiwangsa Mountains, located in Malaysia. It is situated at an altitude of 2000 meters above sea level. Genting features lush green forest in its valley, the characteristic feature of equatorial region. The soothing temperature, which ranges between 16 to 23 degrees, provides a natural feel of air conditioning. The climate is usually cold and refreshing, often clouded and misty. The view from the highlands offers a memorable experience of enchantment. The serenity of the highland attracts the native crowd, which offers them a refreshing breath that they lack in the dusty city.

Genting, only 50 km from the Kula Lumpur city, offers a hill riding experience, while getting there. The steep hill side makes Genting a permanent spot for the national cycling competition. Besides the competition, Genting is a popular venue for several other conventions and meetings. The historic shrines in the highland, Chin Swee Caves Temple and the Mosque, increase its importance as a pilgrimage spot. Cradle Rock, IAB Security Point, Sempah welcome arch, highland farms-vegetable, daylily and mushroom, and nursery are some of the other attractions of Genting highlands.

As an entertainment destination, Genting satisfies every need of a pleasure seeker. The supreme attraction of Genting is its famous casinos, the only legal casinos in Malaysia. The casinos feature all the popular gambling games and in addition, some of the Chinese games. The casinos attract a large crowd to the highlands. Theme parks are another popular attraction of the entertainment village, which include an outdoor theme park and an indoor one. The theme parks provide unique experience of snow villages and haunted adventures, and feature separate rides in different categories such as thriller family and children. For cyber addicts, Genting offer the most modern cyber games in its cyber parks.

Getting to Genting is very easy, since rental taxis to charter helicopters are available for transportation. According to the budget, the travelers can choose rental car, taxis, express bus, limousine coaches, shuttle services, or charter helicopter. Sky way cable car offers a unique picnic ride, while getting to Genting. A number of hotels are available in highlands, which offer comfortable accommodation and delicious cuisine. The large shopping malls offer an opportunity to grab any thing that the visitors wish for.

In a nutshell, Genting is a complete picturesque mountain tourist destination, which feature casino, theme parks, hotels, restaurants and shopping malls.

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Beach Life in Bali is Pure Fun in The Sun, Indonesia

Explore tropical destinations.. A little paradise island - Bali, Indonesia - the popular destination for beachcombers in search of sun, sand and surf. Let's GO..
As the temperature gets chillier in many Northern Hemisphere countries, tropical destinations around South East Asia region seem all the more attractive. Among the top destinations, a little paradise Island located in Island Country, Indonesia like Bali will always be a decent choice for many tourists from around the world. With their bona fide friendly nature and ingenious for hospitality, the Balinese make the island an even more popular destination to beachcombers in search of sun, sand and surf.

Bali also has a variety of beach options to suit every kind of traveler. Let’s say if you’re one of the surfing addicts you will love to experience some extraordinary and differences from here. There are the popular surf spots of Kuta and Legian, the luxurious and private shores of Nusa Dua, the chic and romantic Seminyak beach and the beautifully serene locale of Sanur.

Says seasoned traveler Ganesh Manickavasagar, Director of D’Casting Company, "Bali is one of those locations where you really feel an affinity with the environment. The picturesque beaches, charming people and traditional culture combine together to create a unique experience that really is unmatched by other tropical destinations."

With its clean break waves and lengthy golden shore, Kuta town – a former fishing village - has been a favourite among surfers since the 1970s. These days, the area is something of a tourist Mecca, offering a prime nightlife and entertainment scene in addition to its vast array of beach activities and hotels. Since it was one of the first towns on Bali to see substantial tourist development, the area with long sandy beach is also brimming with shopping options, with everything from branded luxury clothes and accessories to bohemian beach wear.

The Kuta town and surrounding suburbs are suitable for all types of tourists including seasoned solo surfers, young groups of friends, couples and families. It is an epicenter for surf, sun and fun – but not necessarily peace and quiet. For this year’s summer high season, Agoda.com has hot deals around Kuta beach and the suburbs of Legian at Santika Beach Hotel, The Rani Hotel and Spa, Discovery Kartika Plaza Hotel and Legian Beach Hotel.

Bali is my favorite holiday spot. I’m from Sydney, Australia and love surfing back home but Bali has a different, more laid back feel. I love the food, the people and Balinese culture. Also, you cannot get a beach massage Balinese style at such a cheap price back home; they’re sublime!" says frequent Bali traveler and customer service manager, Natalie Brooks.

Not far from Kuta town is the trendy Seminyak beach. Quickly earning a reputation for being a sleek, boutique hotspot, Seminyak has a first-rate swimming beach and a number of designer accommodation and fine dining options. Agoda recommendations include the Resor Seminyak Resort & Spa, Pelangi Bali Hotel, the opulent Oberoi Hotel or a little nice hotel like Vira Bali Hotel.

The luxurious beach cove of Nusa Dua is a favorite among those traveling to Bali, because of its calm, tranquil atmosphere and inviting turquoise waters. It is a perfect place for romancing honeymooners but also for those with a passion for underwater life – there are good diving and snorkeling spots to be found in this area. Agoda has special discounts at Nikko Resort & Spa, Melia Benoa Hotel and Nusa Dua Resort & Spa, all known for their splendid outdoor landscaping, Balinese architecture and high levels of service.

Closer to Denpasar, the quiet beach of Sanur is a pleasant alternative to the highly developed and more popular beach spots of Bali. Everything at Sanur moves at a leisurely pace, and guests can experience a more traditional Bali, with local fishermen bringing in their catch of the day and the soothing sounds of the nearby temple, offering a unique atmosphere. Agoda has special hotel rates at Sanur Beach Hotel, Mercure Sanur Hotel and Sri Phala Resort and Villas.

That won’t be all from enough reasons why this little Island calls Bali is placed right in the heart of many tourists especially among beachcombers who keep visiting their favorite times after times, years after years. More Travel Reviews & Information around Asia and South East Asia region or Asia Hotel Reservations at great deal – Please visit Agoda.com

By Pete Prinyaroje

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Jurong Bird Park, Singapore

If you are looking for a quick break from the hustle and bustle of the Singapore urban lifestyle, visit the Jurong BirdPark where 9,000 colourful birds of 600 species will amaze you with their variety, shapes and sizes.

The newly revamped BirdPark offers a range of new and exciting exhibits and facilities which are truly breathtaking and worth your while. Make sure you pay a visit to the 2007 ASEANTA winner for Best ASEAN New Tourist Attraction - The African Wetlands. This African-themed exhibit with African huts and a body of water, houses endangered birds like the Shoebill, the African Crowned Crane, the Saddle-Billed Stork and more.

The newly revamped Birds n Buddies Show now includes bird-inspired characters as buddies to the largest collection of live birds in a show performance. Created by a Las Vegas Show producer, the costumes with intricate sequins and decorative beads plus the interactive birds and audience acts have made the show more endearing to its loyal flock of fans.

Whether you hop into a special tour, go behind-the scenes, feed Lories in the Lory Loft, catch the Birds of Prey Show, learn to Be-a-Falconer or get into the Panorail to catch a bird’s eye view of the whole park, there’s no doubt that the BirdPark is an enchanting paradise of birds and colours.

From the Penguin Parade in a re-created Antarctic setting to the Southeast Asian Birds Aviary featuring a walk-in aviary with simulated tropical thunderstorms, the birds enjoy an environment designed to be as natural to their original habitat as possible. The Waterfall Aviary is a firm favourite, home to 1,500 free-flying African birds. So is the Riverine, a new simulated natural freshwater river habitat featuring over 20 species of ducks, fish and turtles.

At two bird shows, you can watch flamingos, macaws, hornbills, cocktatoos and even hawks in action! Or start the day in style – by having breakfast with a star-studded bird cast!

To view the park from all angles, start by boarding the modern panorail system, followed by a walking tour.

Winner of the Tourism Awards 1999, 2000 & 2003.
Tourism Host of the Year.

Open
9.00 am - 6.00 pm (daily)

Admission Ticket
SGD 18 adult, SGD 9 child (3-12 years)

Park Hoppers
SGD 45 adult, SGD 22.50 child - for Jurong BirdPark and Singapore Zoo and Night Safari

Location
2 Jurong Hill Singapore 628925

Tel
(65) 6265 0022

Fax
(65) 6261 1869

Show Times (weather permitting)
Fuji World of Hawks - 10.00 am
All Star Bird Show - 11.00 am, 3.00 pm (daily)
King of the Skies Show - 4.00 pm

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Borubudur Temple, Indonesia

Borobudur is a Buddhist ruin in central Java, Indonesia, about 40km (25 miles) northwest of the city of Yogyakarta. It is one of the most famous Buddhist ruins in the world and Indonesia's single most visited tourist attraction.

Borobudur is located on an elevated plain, called Kedu Plain, between the Progo river, the twin volcanoes of Sundoro-Sumbing and the twin volcanoes of Merbabu-Merapi, of which Merapi is one of the most active volcanoes in Indonesia. It is the biggest of the three Buddhist ruins in the area, which includes Pawon and Mendut, and is aligned in one straight line. Although there is no documented proof, according to a folk tale, there once was a paved brick road that ran from Borobudur to Mendut, with walls on both sides.

Borobudur is built to encase a hillock that is 265m above sea level. According to archaeologists, it is also 15m above the floor of a dried out ancient lake. Borobudur is believed to have been built on the lake shore, or may have even been an island on the lake. W.O.J. Nieuwenkamp, a Dutch artist and scholar of Hindu and Buddhist architecture, theorised in 1931 that Kedu Plain was once a lake, and Borobudur represented a lotus flower that floated on the lake. His theory found support among geologists who discovered clay sediments near Borobudur.

There is no written record to show who constructed Borobudur or why, but based on its carved reliefs, scholars believe that Borobudur was constructed around 800 AD. That corresponds to the peak of the Sailendra dynasty of Central Java. (The name Sailendra, meaning "lord of the mountain", was given by historians rather than actual, and was chosen to relate it to sailaraja, meaning "king of the mountain", used by the kings of Funan, from whom the dynasty was said to be descended. The Sailendra dynasty existed at the same time as the Srivijaya dynasty, and there is likely to be intermarriages between the rulers of these two powers.)

Borobudur is built to illustrate the Buddhist mandala, or cosmos. It consists of three sections: the base, the square platforms and the circular platforms.

Construction of Borobudur was estimated to have taken 75 years, and the completion was believed to be in 825 AD, during the reign of the Srivijayan Maharaja Samaratunga. It was around the same period that the Hindu temples of Prambanan was constructed. The Sailendra Dynasty collapsed in 832 AD when Prince Rakai Pikatan of the Hindu Sanjaya Dynasty conquered the Sailendra kingdom, and took Princess Pramodhawardhani, daughter of the Sailendra King Samaratunga, as his wife. Members of the Sailendra household that managed to escape took the Sailendra prince Balaputra into the forest and raised him in secret. In 850 AD Prince Balaputra mounted an unsuccessful attempt at regaining the through but was defeated. He escaped to Sumatra where he took the throne of the Srivijaya kingdom with little opposition. With the demise of the Sailendra Dynasty, the Sanjaya dynasty established a Hindu kingdom credited for building the Prambanan Temples, also near Yogyakarta.

By the time Stamford Raffles - the founder of Singapore - rediscovered Borobudur in 1814, the ruins have already been abandoned for centuries. It is not known when the massive ruins was abandoned, and why. Among the theories put forward includes a massive volcanic eruption in AD 1006, that resulted in the inhabitants of Kedu Plains moving east to Brantas valley. Another speculation is that Borobudur was abandoned as the population converted to Hinduism and then to Islam.

To say that Raffles rediscovered Borobudur is not entirely true, because he did not set foot to look for it himself. The few sentences of instructions issued by Raffles was all the world needed to credit him with the rediscovery. Upon hearing about this marvellous ruins deep in the jungles near the village of Bumisegoro, Raffles sent a Dutch engineer by the name of H.C. Cornellius to investigate. It was Cornellious who employed 200 workmen and over a period of two months, set forth to clear the vegetation and earth, to reveal the buried ruins. He found that the structure was unstable, so he did not unearth all the galleries. He did report back his findings to Raffles.

The Anglo-Dutch Treaty of 1824 saw the delineation of the Malay archipelogo between British Malaya and Dutch East Indies. It resulted in the British administrators leaving Java. The Dutch administrator of the Kedu region, named Hartmann, continued the escavation of Borobudur that was begun by Cornellius. In 1835 Borobudur was fully unearth for the first time in many centuries. Subsequent wave of Dutch engineers further documented Borobudur.

The earliest attempt to preserve Borobudur began in 1885, when Yzerman, the chairman of the Archaeological Society of Yogyakarta, discovered the hidden base of Borobudur. The discovery garnered public attention to the monument, leading to the Dutch government take steps to safeguard it. A commission was set up to access the monument. In 1907-1911, restoration was carried out according to the principles of anastylosis. It was headed by Theodor van Erp, the Dutch army engineer officer. The grounds around the monument was escavated to look for missing buddha statues and head. The circular platforms and their stupas were dismantled and restored them. By the time the restoration work was completed, Borobudur looked better than it had centuries earlier. But it was shortlived.

Within 15 years, the gallery walls start to sag. There were signs of new cracks and general deterioration. Due to limited budget, van Erp had concentrated on cosmetic restoration and had not put in place a proper drainage system. Now alkali salts and calcium hydroxide from the concrete used in the reconstruction leeched through the stones and hastened their erosion. A more thorough restoration is needed, and fast.

In late 1960's, the Indonesian government sought help from the international community to restore Borobudur. In 1973 a restoration master plan was put in place. Between 1975 and 1982, the Indonesia government, with help from Unesco, dismantled the whole monument, cleaned all 1,460 panels, put in place a drainage system and reassembled Borobudur. The monumental project rivalled the restoration of Abu Simbel. Around 600 people were involved in the project, and it cost US$6,901,243. Upon completion of the restoration work, Unesco inscribed Borobudur in 1991 as a World Heritage Site.

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