Saturday, July 28, 2012

Traditional Villages : Back to Basic in Baduy

Back to Basic in Baduy

Back to Basic in BaduyImagine a peaceful place, surrounded by verdant atmosphere. Sound of nature the rustle of the wind amidst the bamboo leaves, the chirping of the birds, the faint rush of the river. Baduy village, located in the hills of Kendeng mountain, about 75 kilometers southward from Rangkasbitung, West Java, is the perfect place to people who want to taste a bit of serenity seldom found in big cities. Those with a taste of adventure might find trekking to Baduy village both interesting and stimulating.


You can stay at traditional homes in Baduy, in Cicakal Village. The houses are built of woven bamboos with ijuk leaves. These houses might last for up to 25 years (in one condition: the roof should be changed once per 5 years). Baduy people don't believe in technology, so don't expect electrical goods here.

There are no restaurants in Baduy, so please bring your own food. Sometimes you can ask the locals to share their meals with you. Traditional cloths (mostly blue) woven by Baduy women. You'll be able to explore the lush forest and natural sceneries (for Baduy people never disrupt the nature). You?re welcome to take pictures as long as you haven't entered Baduy Dalam (Inner Baduy) area. People in Outer Baduy are more tolerant with signs of technology.





Rent a car. The car will stop at Ciboleger Village.

  1. From Tanah Abang, Central Jakarta, take a train to Merak via Rangkasbitung. It will take about 1.5 hours. From Rangkasbitung, use a public transportation (called ELF by locals) to Ciboleger. The trip will take approximately 2.5 hours. The sight of The Farmer?s Family statues in Ciboleger will greet you, bidding you welcome. Follow the footpaths?on foot, enjoy the natural landscape around you. You'll then pass through Gajeboh Village. Here you can see Baduy women weaving clothes. Proceed by crossing Ciujung River, the widest river in Baduy area. The sight of the bridge made of bamboos tied to one another (no nails are involved!) might deter you from moving onward, but no need to fear! The bridge is strong despite of its crudeness. You'll then enter Cicakal Village. Here you can rest and spend the night. The journey on foot from Ciboleger to Cicakal will take about 2 hours.
  2. Alternatively, to enter Inner Baduy Village, you can use Koranji line then pass through Kroya Market. Every week, Baduy people visit this market to exchange their farming goods with whatever they need. From this place they'll move on to Cikapol Village.

Friday, July 27, 2012

Nusatenggara Culinair

Nusatenggara Culinair


Ginger Flavored Chicken, Flores

http://recipes.wuzzle.org/index.php/62/1588

Ginger-Flavored-Chicken
Description
Ingredients

5 Large Shallot -- sliced
3 Cloves Garlic -- sliced
2 Inch Ginger Root -- sliced

1 Teaspoon Salt
1 Teaspoon Sugar
1 Teaspoon Turmeric

3 Cups Coconut Milk
1 Inch Galangal -- finely chopped
1 Teaspoon Lemon Grass
3 Pounds Chicken -- cut into 12 pieces
2 Tablespoons Tamarind Paste -- dissolved in
1/4 Cup Water

Directions In food processor, blend shallots, garlic, ginger, salt, sugar and turmeric to form a paste. In saucepan, bring coconut milk to a boil and paste, galangal, lemon grass and chicken. Cook for 20 minutes. Add tamarind liquid and cook the mixture over low heat for 15 minutes. Serve warm with rice.
Serves 6


Sawu Island, Grilled Fish In Coconut Sauce

http://recipes.wuzzle.org/index.php/62/1589

Grilled-Fish-In-Coconut-Sauce
Description
Ingredients

1 Teaspoon Salt
1 Cup Water
2 Pounds Fish Fillet -- sea bass, snapper
3 Large Shallot -- sliced
2 Cloves Garlic -- sliced
3 Teaspoons Crushed Red Pepper
1/2 Teaspoon Turmeric
1/3 Inch Ginger Root
1 Teaspoon Ground Coriander
1 1/2 Cups Coconut Milk
1 Tablespoon Brown Sugar
1 Inch Galangal -- finely chopped
1 Teaspoon Lemon Grass

2 Tablespoons Tamarind Paste -- dissolved in
1/4 Cup Water

Directions Dissolve salt in water. Make 3 slashes in fish and soak in salted water for 15 minutes. Drain. In food processor, blend shallots, garlic, red pepper, turmeric, ginger, and coriander to form a paste. Mix this with coconut milk, brown sugar, galangal, lemon grass and tamarind liquid. In a saucepan, bring the mixture to a boil and cook over moderate heat for 10 minutes or until about half of the liquid is evaporated. Dip fish in coconut sauce and grill under a broiler for 10 minutes on each side, basting generously. Serve with rice.
Serves 6


Sumbawa, Sepat Banang, Fish Dish

http://recipes.wuzzle.org/index.php/62/1611

Sepat-Banang
Description
Ingredients

4 Large Chicken Breast
1 Lime Lime Juice
1 Pinch Salt
2 Cups Chicken Broth
1 Can Tomatoes -- Chopped
1 Bunch Scallion -- Chopped
5 Large Almonds
1 Medium Jalapeno
1 Teaspoon Pepper
1 Teaspoon Salt
4 Tablespoons Chicken Broth

Directions Rub chicken with salt and lime juice. Allow to marinate for at least 1 hour. Place almonds, jalapeno, pepper, salt and 4 tablespoons chicken broth in a blender. Blend to a paste. Transfer to a frying pan and simmer for 5 minutes. Add scallions and tomatoes. Simmer for 10 minutes. Meanwhile in another pan, bring the broth to a boil and add chicken. Simmer for 10 minutes. Remove chicken and shred. Add to tomato mixture and simmer for 10 minutes. If the tomatoes don't have enough liquid add broth as needed to make a sauce. Serve over rice.
Serves 1

Lifestyle : Cuisine

Cuisine

Cuisine

When it comes to Indonesian food, diversity is definitely what's on offer. From spicy meat curries to deep fried banana to drinks of iced coconut and jelly – cuisine in Indonesia is remarkably varied.

Visitors here will find the food to be a blend of strong flavors always accompanied by nasi or rice. There is a saying in Indonesia that a meal without nasi is not really a meal and this is a philosophy that Indonesians live by, eating nasi goreng for breakfast, and more nasi for lunch and dinner.

But cities and luxury hotels do offer world class international fine dining experiences from Western dishes to Indonesian haute cuisine, or diners simply enjoy delicious freshly caught seafood served on the beach.

Bandung Culinary Guide

Bandung Culinary Guide

Many people visit Bandung, the capital of West Java province, to pamper their taste buds. You'll be amazed with what Bandung has to offer. From various food sold on street vendors to haute cuisine, every visitor will be able to find something to...

read more >>

Location: Java » West Java » Kota Bandung


Boulevard Area

Boulevard Area

In the evenings, the Boulevard Area is a center where you find Manado’s best food. It is also an icon of the city of Manado, capital of the province of North Sulawesi. This was previously only a center where small vendors and street cafes...

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Location: Sulawesi » North Sulawesi » Manado City


Jakarta Street Food Scene

Jakarta Street Food Scene

Living in a country that has endless variety of food and drinks, Indonesians do eat out, but the majority does not go to restaurants. The local food scene relies heavily on street food. Indonesians savour the delicious meals offered by ubiquitous...

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Location: Java » DKI Jakarta


Jakarta: Dining Experience in Metropolitan City

Jakarta: Dining Experience in Metropolitan City

Jakarta today offers an excellent variety of sophisticated fine dining restaurants located in many parts of this sprawling metropolitan city. The best Indonesian cuisine and international restaurants are found in unique surroundings as they are...

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Location: Java » DKI Jakarta


West Java Specialties

West Java Specialties

Many people visit Bandung, the capital of West Java province, to pamper their taste buds. You'll be amazed with what Bandung has to offer. From various food sold on street vendors to haute cuisine, every visitor will be able to find something to...

read more >>

Location: Java » West Java » Kota Bandung


Yogyakarta's Dining Guide

Yogyakarta's Dining Guide

Yogyakarta is truly a unique city. Ruled by a king (sultan) whose lineage can be traced to centuries, this city offers plenty cultural and historical heritage. Here you can eat lesehan style without chairs. The rather sweet cuisine of Yogyakarta...

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Location: Java » DI Yogyakarta » Kota Yogyakarta

Lifestyle : Shopping

Shopping

Shopping

If shopping is your passion, then go no further than the major metropolitan cities of Indonesia. With high end labels from around the world, many of Indonesia’s malls can rival Europe and American with their collections. The malls of Jakarta, Indonesia’s bustling capital, vary from those with high end designers to the chaotic crowds of local markets where anyone can pick up a bargain. If fashion is not your style, try shopping at a traditional market where you can test your bahasa bartering on local produce, handicrafts or antiques. Sample the tropical fruit or take in the sights of traditional bamboo furniture for sale. For those who like to browse, it will be impossible to resist the temptation to wander the streets and look at all the traditional wares on offer, from beautiful batik materials to shiny pieces of hand crafted silver jewellery.

Solo Surakarta

Solo Surakarta

Famous as a city that is fiercely proud of its Javanese traditions, the regal city of Solo or Surakarta is known throughout Indonesia as a strong upholder of Javanese culture. A visit here is a chance to connect with and take in the sights and...

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Location: Java » Central Java » Kota Surakarta


Bandung Factory Outlets Galore For Apparel and Leatherware

Bandung Factory Outlets Galore For Apparel and Leatherware

Home to Indonesia’s many textile factories, the city of Bandung offers a large number of factory outlets where Jakarta shoppers regularly flock to, to find the latest trendy apparel at reasonable prices. Those planning to travel to cool...

read more >>

Location: Java » West Java » Kota Bandung


Bargains Galore at Bukittinggi’s Pasar Aur Kuning and Pasar Atas

Bargains Galore at Bukittinggi’s Pasar Aur Kuning and Pasar Atas

West Sumatra is famed for its exquisite handicrafts producing rich gold and silver “songket” cloths on handwoven red, sky blue, royal yellow or deep green cloths, elegant embroidered pieces used at elaborate traditional weddings,...

read more >>

Location: Sumatra » West Sumatra


Batam

Batam

When one looks out from Singapore’s high towers across the Straits onto the Indonesian islands, there the islands of Batam and Bintan appear very inviting, basking in the sun. Lying less than one hour by fast ferry from Singapore, the...

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Location: Sumatra » Riau Archipelago » Kota Batam


Jakarta Shopping Extravaganza

Jakarta Shopping Extravaganza

Whether you're a serious spender or half-hearted shopper, there's sure to be something for everyone in Jakarta, the country’s shopping capital. The wide variety of things that you can buy in Jakarta is mind boggling from the best of...

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Location: Java » DKI Jakarta » Jakarta Selatan


Kota Gede

Kota Gede

Kota Gede was the original site where Panembahan Senopati, founder of the new Mataram kingdom established his palace in 1575. The new Mataram kingdom claims direct descent from the ancient Mataram rulers who built the mighty Borobudur and Prambanan...

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Location: Java » DI Yogyakarta » Kota Yogyakarta

Nagoya Superblock Area

Nagoya Superblock Area

If you like shopping, you should visit the shopping complex at Nagoya Super Block in Batam, Kepulauan Riau province. It offers products in several modern shopping malls within one compound. In this pedestrian area, there are 450 kiosks and 170...

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Location: Sumatra » Riau Archipelago » Kota Batam


Pasar Baru Trade Center: Shopping with the Art of Bargaining

Pasar Baru Trade Center: Shopping with the Art of Bargaining

If branded fashions and exclusive factory outlets are not for you, then Bandung still has something up its shopping’s sleeves. Located just a short walk from Bandung’s Central Train Station, Pasar Baru Trade Center (PBTC) offers...

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Location: Java » West Java » Kota Bandung


Shop Till You Drop in Malioboro

Shop Till You Drop in Malioboro

Malioboro is the most famous street in Yogyakarta. Located in the heart of Yogya, this is the city’s main street, and was once the ceremonial avenue for the Sultan to pass through on his way to and from the Keraton. During such occasions...

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Location: Java » DI Yogyakarta » Kota Yogyakarta


Toko Merah

Toko Merah

Toko Merah or the Red Shop is one of the oldest buildings and best preserved in present day Old Batavia. Recently restored by its present owners the PT Perusahaan Perdagangan Indonesia (PT.PPI) - a conglomeration of state-owned enterprises for Trade,...

read more >>

Location: Java » DKI Jakarta » Jakarta Barat


West Java Specialties

West Java Specialties

Many people visit Bandung, the capital of West Java province, to pamper their taste buds. You'll be amazed with what Bandung has to offer. From various food sold on street vendors to haute cuisine, every visitor will be able to find something to...

read more >>

Location: Java » West Java » Kota Bandung


Wood Carving Center in Palembang

Wood Carving Center in Palembang

The wood carving center in Palembang is located on Faqih Jalaluddin Street, near the Palembang Grand Mosque. Dozens of showrooms, which are also used to give finishing touches to wood carvings, are available in this city center. Palembang wood...

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Location: Sumatra » South Sumatra » Kota Palembang


Tuesday, July 24, 2012

Sulawesi Culinair

Gorontalo, Binte Biluhuta, Milu Siram, Corn Soup

Milu-Siram-Gorontalo


Anybody remember the folk song of binte bilihuta? It’s not only a song title, binte biluhuta is a corn soup from Gorontalo.

Gorontalo province is known as the largest corn producer in Indonesia. Beside as an export commodity, sweet corns are main ingredients in the Gorontalo signature food, Binte Biluhuta. In addition to corns, this dish is also used other main ingredients, such as cakalang (known as skipjack tunas), tenggiri (king fish mackerels) and shrimps. Binte biluhuta or milu siram is a soup base dish that has very unique flavour. Sweetness from the corns, sourness from bilimbi and lime, hot from chilies. If you desire to complete the taste with bitterness, you may add chopped papaya leaves. The dish is very suitable during the cold weather, especially for those who are catching the flu.

You may wonder why I made this whilst it’s summer now. Don’t you think it will be too hot to enjoy this. Winnipeg’s weather is entering the fall. Some days are hot and the other days are gloomy, rain and cold. I chose making this soup in the gloomy weather since I still have had fresh corns.

In the local language, binte or milu means corn, biluhuta mean flush or pour. I guess, I can translate binte biluhuta as corn soup.

Gorontalo is located on the northern part of Sulawesi island and was established in December 2000 after splitting from North Sulawesi province. No wonder if this dish uses cakalang and lemon basils which are popular in Manadonese food as well.

Again, I said I’m lucky enough, surround by the Filipino community. I can find frozen cakalang at Asian stores. You got to know the science names in order to find fish names in other languages. Through this fishbase list, I found the Tagalog’s name for cakalang. Thou many Indonesian sources stated that cakalang has a bigger size than tongkol (another variety of tuna which is very popular in the west part of Indonesia), cakalangs in Winnipeg are sold in big and small sizes.


Binte Biluhuta – Milu Siram
- Gorontalo Corn Soup –
recipe by Hayatinufus Tobing, modified and translated by me

Ingredients:

  • 425 g sweet corn kernels
  • 300 g cakalang*
  • 200 g peeled small or medium size shrimps
  • 100 g frozen grated coconut
  • 1 L water
  • 4 shallots (8 shallots for smaller size), thinly sliced
  • 10 bilimbi, sliced
  • 25 lemon basils
  • 4 key limes

Spices to be ground:

  • 3 long red cayenne pepper
  • 5 bird eyes chilies (add more if you are able to handle spicy food)
  • seasalt

Directions:
For Broiled Cakalang:
1. Clean and rinse off the cakalang under running water.
2. Drizzle 2 key limes over and rub with salt. Set aside for 15 minutes.
3. Broil each side for 2 minutes at high. Cool down and shred the meat by hand.

For Binte Biluhuta:
1. In a pot, add water, corns and ground spices until the corn cooked.
2. Add grated coconut, shallots and bilimbi. Cook for the next 15 minutes.
3. Add shrimp and cakalang shredded; simmer for the next 5 minutes. Drizzle 2 key limes and add lemon basil. Stir and remove from the heat. Ready to serve.

Cook’s Note:
* Feel free to substitute for cans of skipjack tuna if you can’t find fresh/frozen cakalang (skipjack tuna)


Makasar, Coto Makasar


Coto-Makasar


Coto Makassar Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 300 g beef sandung lumur
  • 750 g beef innards (intestines, tripes, livers, kidneys, lungs)
  • 2000 cc stock
  • 2 tbsp coriander, fried without oil
  • 1 tsp peres jinten (caraway seed/cumin)
  • 5 cloves garlic
  • 5 grains kemiri (fruits of candlenut)
  • 3 tbsp cooking oil
  • 4 stalks serai (lemongrass/citronella), crushed
  • 4 citrus leaves
  • 2 tbsp salt
  • Pepper
  • 3 tbsp peanuts, fried and grinded
  • 2 stalks leeks, slice thickly
  • 2 stalks celeries, slice thickly

Sambal Tauco:

  • 4 tbsp tauco (fermented bean paste used as condiment)
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 5 chilies
  • 2 tbsp cooking oil

Complements:

  • 2 calamondins
  • Fried onion

Directions:

  1. Boil beef until it is well-done, separate between well-done beef and the stock. Add water in stock until it reaches 200cc. Boil beef innards until it is well-done, take them out and drain. Cut beef and innards beef into small pieces.
  2. Boil stock while coriander, cumin, pepper, garlic, and kemiri are grinded. Heat cooking oil and cook grinded seasoning in some oil until it is fragrant.
  3. Put seasoning into boiled stock. Add serai, citrus leaves, and salt.
  4. Put beef and innards beef in. Add grinded fried peanuts, stir until it boils. Add leeks and celeries.
  5. Sambal tauco: Grind tauco, garlic, and chilies. Sauté at higher temperature, take them out, and drained.
  6. Serve it when it is still hot in a bowl gather with the complements and sambal tauco. Adding ketupat is preferred.

Makassar, Durian Tarts


Makassar-Durian-Tarts


This sweet treat has two slightly different name in bahasa Indonesia, Duri Duriang or Duri Durian which literally translated to English as Durian Thorns. I’d rather translate to Durian Tarts than Durian Thorns.

I was quite surprised when I found some Indonesian fellows on my Facebook didn’t know what duri duriang is. This tart is popular among the South Sulawesi people while the Java people is more acquainted with Nastar. Nastar is another traditional tart that is mostly served during Eid as well. The different, nastar is filled with pineapple while Duri Duriang is filled with durian.

When I was making the filling for duri duriang, it really reminds me of dodol. It is a toffee-like food delicacy popular in Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines. I recalled vividly when I was a kid I used to have them during Eid ul-Fitr and Eid ul-Adha. Also, it’s kinda a gift for someone else when we go away out of town. When one visit a city or town that has dodol speciality, he/she will bring some home and give away for relatives, friends, neighbours, and/or coworkers.

The making process flavoured my whole house with durian, including my hair and body. Due to the rush process (very late night, the day before the Eid prayer in the morning) and my big scissor (too big to shape little tiny pastry), I failed to shape the thorns properly. Nevertheless, the taste was good if you like durian.

This recipe was adapted from The Best of Indonesian Desserts cookbook by Yasa Boga team. You may also find the same recipe in Periplus Mini Cookbooks: Indonesian Cakes & Desserts, by William Wongso & Hayatinufus A. L. Tobing. Hayatinufus Tobing is also the person behind the Yasa Boga team. No wonder, I found the same exact measurements for this recipe.

Ingredients:
For the filling:
• 300 g durian flesh, pitted
• 75 g coconut sugar or palm sugar
• 25 g (2 tbsps) caster sugar (I reduced to 1 tbsp)*
* It depends how sweet your durian flesh is

For the tart pastry:
• 200 g butters
• 20 g (3 tbsp) caster sugar
• 2 egg yolks
• 1 tbsp water
• 300 g unbleached flour
• 1 egg yolk, beaten, for brushing

Methods:
1. To make the filling, place durian and both lots of sugar in a small, heavy-based saucepan. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly to prevent the base from burring, until mixture becomes thick and sticky, about 25 minutes. Transfer filling into a shallow plate and set aside to cool completely.

2. To make the pastry, beat butter and sugar together in a mixing bowl until creamy. Add the yolks and continue beating until light and fluffy. Stir in the flour with a metal spoon or spatula, adding a few drops of water if the mixture looks crumbly.

Assembling:
1. Before you shape the filling onto little balls. The filling is sticky, so you need to flour your hands real well first. Divide the cooled filling up by 1 tsp and place those smaller portions onto a well-floured plate; set aside

2. Divide the pastry dough up by 1 tbsp and roll into a ball. To each, form a well in the centre and place one portion of the filling inside. Carefully pinch the dough to enclose the filling; shape the filled pastry into an oval/olive-like shape. Repeat the same to the remainder till all has been used up. Form a well in the center and place a teaspoon of filing.

3. Arrange filled pastrices 2 cm ( ¾ in) apart on a lightly buttered baking tray. In this case, I layered the baking pan with parchment paper, so I don’t need to grease the pan.

4. Preheat an over to 350 F (180 C)

5. Make shallow cuts into around each piece of pastry so it resembles thorns of durian. Lightly brush pastries with egg yolk and bake in the preheated over for 15 to 17 minutes or until pastries are crisp and very lightly browned. Set aside to cool before storing in a airtight container.


Makassar, Es Pallu Butung, Iced Banana

/

Makassar-Es-Pallu-Butung


Es Pallu Butung
- Indonesian Banana Ice Dessert (Makasar) -
recipe by yasaboga and kak Yaty, modified by me

Ingredients:

  • 50 g rice flour
  • 400 mL coconut milk
  • 200 mL water
  • 3 pandan leaves
  • 70 g granulated sugar
  • ¼ tsp vanilla
  • ¼ tsp seasalt
  • 8 ripe raja or kepok (marketed as saba bananas in Canada), steamed, peeled and cut into pieces.
  • red colour syrup
  • ice cubes


Directions:
1. Combine coconut milk and water.

2. Dilute rice flour with part of the coconut milk mixture.

3. Shred 1 1/2 pandan leaves and grind the rest.

4. In a saucepan, warm up the remaining coconut milk with shredded pandan leaves. Take 1/2 cup of the warm coconut milk and mix with ground pandan leaves. Squeeze the mixture to get pandan juice. Pour pandan juice in the saucepan back. Add sugar, vanilla and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil.

5. Pour the rice flour mixture into coconut milk mixture and stir well.

6. To serve: pour rice flour porridge onto bananas, then drizzle red syrup over and add ice cubes.

Nature And Ecotourism : Hiking, Trekking, and Ecotours

Hiking, Trekking, and Ecotours

Hiking, Trekking, and Ecotours

Satisfy your craving for outdoor adventure with a trip into some of Indonesia's rugged and untamed nature.

From trekking in the jungle and seeing orang utans play in the wild to climbing volcanic peaks of Bromo or Kelimutu, there is no end to the amount of outdoor adventures you can have in Indonesia. Using an eco-tour to explore some of the most remote destinations will ensure that your visit conserves nature rather than exploits these beautiful destinations.

Come to Indonesia to embrace the great outdoors and some of nature's most impressive wonders that you will surely never forget.

Komodo National Park

Komodo National Park

Real dragons spurt no fire, have no need to fly and cast no magic spells. And still, one look from them might render you speechless. These komodos, the real life dragons, are a sight indeed. Gigantic, the lizard-like creatures are about two or three...

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Location: The Nusa Tenggara Islands » East Nusa Tenggara » Kab. Manggarai Barat


BANTIMURUNG Bulusaraung National Park: Roaring Waterfall, Kingdom of Butterflies

BANTIMURUNG Bulusaraung National Park: Roaring Waterfall, Kingdom of Butterflies

In 1857, leading British naturalist, Alfred Russell Wallace discovered wonders beyond his imagination as he travelled into the interior of South Sulawesi, Indonesia. He found himself surrounded by thousands of enchanting butterflies of various sizes...

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Location: Sulawesi » South Sulawesi » Kab. Maros


Batang Palupuh

Batang Palupuh

Batang Palupuh is a refuge for the giant flowers Rafflesia Arnoldi, blooming only once a year in November. A guide can be obtained from the office at the reserve.

read more >>

Location: Sumatra » West Sumatra » Kota Bukittinggi


Baturaden

Baturaden

Baturraden. Central Java’s most outstanding resort, approximately 14 kms north of Purwokerto, an administrative town in the southern of Java island. It is occupies a fine site on the slopes of Mount Slamet, 650 m above sea level, feel the coolness...

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Location: Java » Central Java » Kab. Banyumas


Beautiful Pangandaran Beach facing the Indian Ocean

Beautiful Pangandaran Beach facing the Indian Ocean

Pangandaran is one of West Java’s best kept-secrets as far as international tourists are concerned. Located on a peninsula on the south coast of West Java, about 91 Km from the town of Ciamis, Pangandaran offers uniquely black and white sand,...

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Location: Java » West Java » Kab. Ciamis


Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park

Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park

The Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park covers a massive area of 800 square kilometres in the centre of East Java. For anyone with an interest in volcanoes, a visit to the park is a must. This is the largest volcanic region in the province. Visit the...

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Location: Java » East Java » Kota Probolinggo

Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park: Home of the Sumatran Tigers

Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park: Home of the Sumatran Tigers

Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park (BBSNP) – or the South Bukit Barisan National Park - spans over three of Sumatra’s provinces. They are: Lampung, South Sumatra and Bengkulu. Along with Mount Leuser and Kerinci Seblat, the combined...

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Location: Sumatra » Lampung » Kab. Lampung Barat


Bukit Lawang : Sanctuary for the Sumatran Orangutan

Bukit Lawang : Sanctuary for the Sumatran Orangutan

Discover the Sumatran jungle and have an outdoor adventure with orangutans to keep you company at the jungle village of Bukit Lawang. Literally meaning "door to the hills", Bukit Lawang is a small village situated at the south of the Mount Leuseur...

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Location: Sumatra » North Sumatra » Kab. Langkat


Dieng Plateau

Dieng Plateau

The name ‘dieng’ which literally translates as ‘abode of the Gods’ says all you need to know about this collection small ancient temples set in the remarkable volcanic landscape of the Dieng Plateau. The misty location,...

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Location: Java » Central Java » Kab. Wonosobo


Flower City of Tomohon

Flower City of Tomohon

Tomohon is a hill resort located some 22 kilometers east of Manado, the capital city of North Sulawesi province. Tomohon consists of 35 villages in five sub-districts, namely West, East, Central, South and North Tomohon.Its land contour, cool...

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Location: Sulawesi » North Sulawesi


Gunung Gede-Pangrango National Park

Gunung Gede-Pangrango National Park

Because of its easy access, the Mount Gede-Pangrango National Park with its spectacular panorama is a favourite site with visitors. Located in the province of West Java this Park encompasses the peaks of Mt. Gede, Mt. Pangrango. Around...

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Location: Java » West Java » Kab. Sukabumi, Kab. Cianjur


Gunung Halimun Salak National Park

Gunung Halimun Salak National Park

Established in 1992, Gunung Halimun Salak National Park (GHSNP) is the largest remaining primary lowland forest in Java, home to 23 mammal species, at least two of which are endemic and endangered (the Javan gibbon and the grizzled langur). The...

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Location: Java » West Java » Kab. Bogor, Kab. Sukabumi

Hunting for Salak Pondoh in Sleman

Salak is one of Indonesia's traditional fruits. Covered with brownish-black scales, the flesh tends to be ivory in color. Salak pondoh is the sweetest variety. The flesh is firm and succulent. The taste is unique yet addictive. Visiting salak...

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Location: Java » DI Yogyakarta » Kab. Sleman


Ijen Crater

Ijen Crater

Ijen plateau or known as "Kawah Ijen" is highly recommended to mountain buffs and hikers. The Plateau was at one time a huge active crater, 134 sq km in area. Today, Ijen is a quiet but active volcano, and the landscape is dominated by the volcanic...

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Location: Java » East Java » Kab. Bondowoso


In The Thick of The Jungle at Tangkahan Village

In The Thick of The Jungle at Tangkahan Village

Often referred to as the hidden paradise of Sumatra, Tangkahan’s lush jungle and topography makes it a marvelous tourist spot that remains largely undiscovered. This village in the incredible Gunung Leuser National Park is located on the...

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Location: Sumatra » North Sumatra » Kab. Langkat


Kaliurang Resort: A Mountain Retreat

Kaliurang Resort: A Mountain Retreat

If you want to take a break from crowds and cities and immerse yourself in some natural beauty, then Kaliurang resort may be the place for you. Lying on the southern slopes of the majestic Mt Merapi, the quiet highland resort of Kaliurang is a...

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Location: Java » DI Yogyakarta


KARIMUNJAWA: Marine Adventure in the Java Sea

KARIMUNJAWA: Marine Adventure in the Java Sea

Travelers to Central Java do not need to go far to enjoy marine life, above and below the sea. The Karimunjawa archipelago, located in the Java Sea, north of the capital city of Semarang, has everything to offer divers and backpackers who enjoy...

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Location: Java » Central Java » Kab. Jepara


Kayan Mentarang National Park

Kayan Mentarang National Park

Kayan Mentarang National Park is the biggest uniformity of primary and secondary forest, which covers 1,360,500 hectare, and still remains in Kalimantan and in the Southeast Asia. It is located in Bulungan, East Kalimantan, Indonesia, with humid...

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Location: Kalimantan » East Kalimantan » Kab. Malinau

Nature and Ecotourism : Adventure

Adventure

Adventure

Kayaking, treking, surfing, rock climbing ... these are only some of the many exhilarating adventures that are on offer in Indonesia. From white water rafting down the rapids of the Maiting River in Sulawesi to climbing the peaks of one of the world’s most famous volcanos at Krakatau, Indonesia has enough thrilling adventures to keep any adrenaline junkie busy. Discover a whole new world of excitement as you climb active volcanos and take in the awe-inspiring views. For those who are flexible enough to get in tight spaces and don’t mind the dark, explore the caves of Java where you will see some unique rock formations that are sure to make your jaw drop. As you make your way around the country, surf some of the world’s biggest swells in North Sumatra or hike the high snowcapped peaks of the mountains of Papua. For hikers who don’t mind a bit of rough travel, get off the beaten track in the jungle in Kalimantan where you will meet the Dayak people, search for wildlife and get up close and personal with wild orang utans. Come to Indonesia and you will get an unfrogettable experience of excitement, adventure and fun.


Lake Singkarak

Lake Singkarak

The majestic Lake Singkarak (Danau Singkarak) is an enormous crater lake set within a dramatic volcanic landscape. Spread over two districts; Solok and Tanah Datar, the lake is a massive 1000 hectares. It is the widest lake in Sumatra and the second...

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Location: Sumatra » West Sumatra


AMBARAWA:  Experience Rural Java’s Traditional Life

AMBARAWA: Experience Rural Java’s Traditional Life

The hinterland of Semarang, capital of the province of Central Java is lush green: a beautiful scenic landscape of rising volcanoes, green valleys and fertile rice fields. Cruise lines call on Semarang to allow passengers to visit the...

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Location: Java » Central Java » Kab. Semarang


Batu Cermin Cave

Batu Cermin Cave

Batu Cermin, or Mirror Rock, is actually a tunnel or cave in a dark stone hills of Labuan Bajo, West Manggarai, Flores, East Nusa Tenggara. Sunshine comes in through a hole in the tunnel and then bounces on the stone walls that again reflect small...

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Location: The Nusa Tenggara Islands » East Nusa Tenggara » Kab. Flores Timur


BATU:  Vacation City in East Java’s Mountains, dubbed “Klein Switzerland”

BATU: Vacation City in East Java’s Mountains, dubbed “Klein Switzerland”

Fresh green apples, cool mountain air, stunning natural beauty, and a whole lot of fun, are among the many appealing features associated with the pleasant town of Batu in East Java. Located about 15 Km west of the city of Malang or approximately 100...

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Location: Java » East Java » Kota Batu


Berastagi: Fresh Fruits and Vegetables, and Bustling markets

Berastagi: Fresh Fruits and Vegetables, and Bustling markets

The picturesque town of Berastagi in the beautiful Karo highlands, is 70 kms from Medan on the way to Lake Toba. Situated at an altitude of 1300m, the town has a cool climate, ranging between 17 to 20 degrees Centigrade, making a refreshing break...

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Location: Sumatra » North Sumatra » Kota Medan


Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park: Home of the Sumatran Tigers

Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park: Home of the Sumatran Tigers

Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park (BBSNP) – or the South Bukit Barisan National Park - spans over three of Sumatra’s provinces. They are: Lampung, South Sumatra and Bengkulu. Along with Mount Leuser and Kerinci Seblat, the combined...

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Location: Sumatra » Lampung » Kab. Lampung Barat

Bung Hatta Forest Reserve

Bung Hatta Forest Reserve

For botanist enthusiasts, the Bung Hatta Forest Reserve is a delight, filled with rare plants and exotic flowers. Known in the past as the Setya Mulya Botanic Garden, this botanical garden is home to a variety of unique tropical plants and animal...

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Location: Sumatra » West Sumatra


Camp Leakey: Renowned Orangutan Research and Rehabilition Center

Camp Leakey: Renowned Orangutan Research and Rehabilition Center

Established in 1971 by Dr. Biruté Galdikas and Rod Brindamour, Camp Leakey in the Tanjung Puting National Park in Central Kalimantan is the oldest orangutan Research and Conservation Center in the world. The name was taken to honor...

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Location: Kalimantan » Central Kalimantan


Carita Beach: for great Family Holidays

Carita Beach: for great Family Holidays

A vast stretch of white sandy beach decorated with rows of sheltering trees and the magnificent view of the Krakatau volcano on the horizon, that is what awaits at Carita Beach. Situated pleasantly on the shoreline facing the Sunda Straits at the...

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Location: Java » Banten » Kab. Pandeglang


Carstensz Pyramid

Carstensz Pyramid

Heinrich Harrer, famed author of the book Seven Years in Tibet, had always been fascinated by the Jayawijaya Peak in Papua. And so, some 12 years after returning from Tibet in 1950, Heinrich Harrer together with three friends, Temple, Kippax and...

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Location: Papua » Papua


Derawan Archipelago

Derawan Archipelago

The Derawan islands must be everyone’s dream of the perfect tropical paradise: warm, isolated islands with soft white sand beaches fringed with waving palm trees, pristine seas that change color from green to deep blue, and an amazing...

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Location: Kalimantan » East Kalimantan » Kab. Berau


Eat, Pray, Love and Escape in Ubud

Eat, Pray, Love and Escape in Ubud

Follow in the footsteps of Elizabeth Gillbert and journey to Ubud where just like her you can experience this place of wonder and beauty. Elizabeth Gilbert’s best selling memoir Eat Pray Love tells the story of her experience over one year...

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Location: Bali » Bali » Kab. Gianyar

Goa Putri

Goa Putri

Goa Putri is a leading tourist destination in South Sumatra province. It is located 230 kilometers from Palembang, or 35 kilometers from Baturaja, the capital city of Ogan Komering Ulu (OKU). This cave is located about one kilometer soth of Sumatra...

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Location: Sumatra » South Sumatra » Kab. Muara Enim


Kakaban Island

Kakaban Island

Indonesia is a fascinating country in every sense of the word. Rich in culture, natural beauty and biodiversity. Home to the weird, the wacky and the wonderful. And just when you think you’ve seen it all, think again. Kakaban...

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Location: Kalimantan » East Kalimantan » Kab. Berau


Kaliurang Resort: A Mountain Retreat

Kaliurang Resort: A Mountain Retreat

If you want to take a break from crowds and cities and immerse yourself in some natural beauty, then Kaliurang resort may be the place for you. Lying on the southern slopes of the majestic Mt Merapi, the quiet highland resort of Kaliurang is a...

read more >>

Location: Java » DI Yogyakarta


Kamaka Lake

Kamaka Lake

Kamaka Lake is located in Lomira village, also known as Kamaka village, in Triton Bay, Kaimana, West Papua province. This lake is about 30 kilometers long, stretching out from Kamaka village to Saria village and it is about 1 kilometer wide. By the...

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Location: Papua » West Papua » Kab. Fak - Fak


Lake Ranau

Lake Ranau

Lake Ranau is the second largest lake on Sumatra. It was formed by a major earthquake and vulcanic eruption. A big river which previously flowed at the foot of the vulcanic mountain then filled the ravine. Various types of plants incuding bushes...

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Location: Sumatra » Lampung » Kab. Lampung Barat


Lake Tondano

Lake Tondano

Lake Tondano is a famous tourist destination in the province of North Sulawesi. It is located 600 meters above sea level and covers an area of 4,278 hectares (or about 10,571 acres). This lake is situated by the village of Remboken, some 3 kilometers...

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Location: Sulawesi » North Sulawesi » Kab. Minahasa


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