travel option

Friday, April 12, 2013

10 Best travel Destination in Indonesia

Lake Toba in Sumatra, Indonesia, is the world's largest volcanic lake, and also one of the best places in Asia to chill out for a few days or longer. There may not be an abundance of things to do at Lake Toba, but the atmosphere is so pleasant that you probably won't even notice! Motorbike or private car is the best way to visit several small sites in one day.
Pulau Samosir, a newly formed island inside the lake, is blessed with great scenery, friendly locals, and a pleasant vibe.

 Bali is one of the world’s most popular island destinations and one which consistently wins travel awards. The varied landscape, rugged coastlines, tropical beaches, lush rice terraces and volcanic hillsides all provide a picturesque backdrop to its colorful, deeply spiritual and unique Hindu culture. The combination of friendly people, a magnificently visual culture infused with spirituality and spectacular beaches with great surfing and diving have made Bali the unrivaled number one tourist attraction in Indonesia.

Borobudur Located 40 km (25 miles) northwest of Yogyakarta on Java, the Borobudur is the one of the most famous Buddhist temple in the world. The Borobudur was built over a period of some 75 years in the 8th and 9th centuries by the kingdom of Sailendra, out of an estimated 2 million blocks of stone. It was abandoned in the 14th century for reasons that still remain a mystery and for centuries lay hidden in the jungle under layers of volcanic ash. Today it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Indonesia.

 The Komodo National Park is a national park located within the Lesser Sunda Islands that includes the three larger islands Komodo, Padar and Rincah, and 26 smaller ones. The park is named after the Komodo Dragon, the world’s largest living reptile that can reach 3 meters or more in length and weigh over 70kg. Although Komodo dragons eat mostly carcass of dead animals, they are formidable predators and will also hunt prey including birds, and mammals. Attacks against humans are very rare.

Gili Islands
Lombok’s most popular tourist destination, the Gili Islands are an archipelago of three small islands: Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno and Gili Air. The islands are very relaxed and laid-back, with countless little beachside cafes still playing reggae and no cars or motorbikes to disturb the peace. Note that the name “Gili Islands” is rather redundant as gili simply means “small island” in Sasak and there are many other islands around the coast of Lombok with Gili in their names.
Activities: Horseback riding, Scuba diving

Torajaland
Torajaland (Tana Toraja) is a highland region of South Sulawesi, home of the Toraja people. Torajans are famous for their massive peaked-roof houses known as tongkonan and spectacular but gruesome funeral rites. After a person’s death, the body is kept – often for several years – until the actual funeral ceremony which can last for several days. The deceased is then finally buried in a small cave or in a hollow tree.
Bunaken

Located at the north of the island of Sulawesi,Bunaken is one of Indonesia’s most famous dive and snorkeling areas. The island is part of the Bunaken Marine Park where you can see more than 70% of all fish species that live in the western Pacific ocean. The best time for diving in Bunaken is between the months of April and November.

Gunung Bromo is an active volcano and part of the Tengger massif, in East Java. At 2,329 meters (7,641 feet) it is not the highest peak of the massif, but it is the most well known. The area is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Indonesia and Java. The top of the volcano has been blown off and the crater inside constantly belches white smoke. It is surrounded by the Sea of Sand of fine volcanic sand. The overall effect is unsettlingly unearthly.

The Baliem Valley in the highlands of Western New Guinea offers a glimpse into what was recently a stone-age world. The valley was not known to the outside world until 1938 when an aerial reconnaissance flight southwards from Hollandia (now Jayapura) discovered a large agricultural population. Wamena is the starting point for most visitors who come nowadays to marvel at the mountain views, roaring rivers, tribal villages and at the tough but sweet spirit of the warm Dani people.

The Tanjung Puting National Park is located on the island of Borneo in the Indonesian province of Central Kalimantan. The park is a popular ecotourism destination, with many local tour companies offering multi-day boat tours to view wildlife and visit the research centers. Wildlife include gibbons, macaques, clouded leopards, sun bears, pythons, crocodiles and – most famously – orangutans. Unfortunately the park is heavily threatened by illegal logging and forest clearing for agricultural uses.

Wednesday, April 10, 2013

Things to Do at Lake Toba, Indonesia



1. Visit an Ancient Batak Village

Perhaps most famous of the things to do at Lake Toba because of the accessibility, the ruins of an ancient Batak village along with stone chairs and head-chopping block can be found in the nearby village of Ambarita.
The stone chairs were used for meetings by the local king, and both a torture stone and chopping block were once used for brutal executions.
Ambarita is located three miles northwest of Tuk-tuk along the main road. The stone chairs are not on the main road, ask in town about how to get there. Hiring a Batak “guide” inside the village is both entertaining and well worth the $1 -- prices are variable -- for learning about the cannibal rituals and Batak culture.

2. Tomb of King Sidabutar

Just three miles southeast of Tuk-tuk in the village of Tomok are more stone remains and ancient tombs. The site is small but interesting, however, you must negotiate a labyrinth of tacky souvenir stalls to visit the site. Find the ruins by taking a right from the main road in Tomok through the narrow alley lined with souvenir stalls.
Most people find the carved man on the front of the largest sarcophagus strangely out of place!

3. Drive Around the Island

Circumnavigating the whole of Pulau Samosir may require a very early start, however, riding along the lake on a motorbike is a very enjoyable way to see everyday village life. Old churches, volcanic scenery, and daily life keep every mile you drive interesting enough to see what's around the next bend.
Overall, the roads are in fairly good condition, however, rough patches and random animal crossings keep things extra exciting. Helmet and international license laws are rarely ever enforced on Pulau Samosir.
A motorbike can be rented for $7 per day; the price includes a full tank of gas which you do not have to replace. Cheaper rates can be negotiated if you take the motorbike for more than one day.

4. Visit the Hot Springs

The hot springs are located on the side of the island opposite Tuk-tuk, outside of Panguruan -- the largest settlement on Pulau Samosir. While the hot springs are interesting to see, the sulfuric smell is noxious and the water is too hot to enjoy.
Skilled motorbike drivers can brave the terrible road higher into the hills to see the source of the hot springs. The views of Lake Toba from above the hot springs is spectacular -- the best place to grab a photo of Lake Toba.

5. Visit the Batak Museum

Located in Simanindo approximately nine miles from Tuk-tuk, an ancient king's traditional house was restored and converted into the Batak Museum. The museum is small, but a must if you are interested in understanding more about the extremely interesting Batak culture; admission is $3.
Traditional dancing is sometimes performed at 10:30 a.m. each morning -- assuming that any tourists have shown up. The dancing done at the museum is far more authentic than the tourist-oriented variety performed in guesthouses.

6. See Traditional Batak Dance and Music

Bagus Bay and Samosir Cottages, two popular guesthouses, regularly have traditional music and Batak dance on Saturday and Wednesday nights around 8 p.m. Like anything else, the number of tourists in attendance determine if the show goes on.
Shows typically begin tame as everyone is still eating, then progress into fun drinking songs and animated performances by very talented locals who play a mixture of modern and ancient instruments.

7. See a Lake Inside of a Lake

Tucked away in the island interior west of Tuk-tuk is Lake Sidihoni. Interestingly, there are very few lakes within lakes in the world.
Getting to Lake Sidihoni is tricky. You must brave the rough road between Ronggumihuta and Partungkoan on motorbike, then hike the slightly obscure path.
If lost, try asking someone “di mana Danau Sidihoni?”

8. Try Fishing

Lake Toba is filled with fish of all sizes that regularly hang around the guesthouse docks and shore walls. Both nets and poles can be purchased at shops around Tuk-tuk. Try fishing in the morning; egg or bread leftover from breakfast makes great bait. Alternatively, fish are also attracted to a flashlight directed at the water which makes them easier to net at night.
Locals may be willing to take you on a proper fishing experience by boat with a little negotiation.

9. See Traditional Weaving

The small village of Buhit is home to weavers of the traditional Batak cloths used in dances and rituals. The cloths are wrapped around the head to keep sun off. Buhit is located north of Tuk-tuk (take a right as you exit the main gate) before you arrive at Panguruan and the hot springs.

Monday, April 8, 2013

Top 10 Tourist Destination in Malaysia



Langkawi, Langkawi District
Sure, the island of Langkawi might be one of the best places in the world to lounge on a beach, but to really enjoy this little bit of paradise, you'll want to get out on the water. Take a mangrove tour, visit some of the 99 islets surrounding the island or go diving among spectacular coral reefs.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Feel the pulse of Malaysia in Kuala Lumpur, its capital and largest city. The famous Petronas Twin Towers, the tallest building in the world, provides a bird's-eye view of the cosmopolitan metropolis and houses a multitude of shops and art galleries. For a look at the city's past, take in the 1910 Moorish-inspired Old Railway Station, the riverside Jamek Mosque and the Sultan Abdul Samad building with its 131-foot clock tower. Malay, Chinese and Indian influences ensure colorful dining experiences.

Kota Kinabalu, Malalysia
Kota Kinabalu on the island of Borneo is the bustling gateway to acclaimed Kinabalu National Park. The park's high point is 13,400-foot Mount Kinabula, Malaysia's tallest peak, a mecca for climbers. Ninety miles away, thrilling jungle trekking and camping await in the Crocker Range National Park


Melaka,Malaysia
This charming city is a UNESCO world heritage site, with a rich trading history and multicultural heritage. Melaka is a rewarding town to explore and is about two hours from Kuala Lumpur.


Kuching, Malaysia
Kuching is a fine choice for an enriching vacation that's as packed with learning as it is leisure. Its many museums and impressive planetarium will enthrall even the tiniest travelers, and a quick climb to the top of the Kuching Civic Center will reward you with jaw-dropping 360-degree views. Grab a snack from a stall on the bustling waterfront, and don't miss the absolutely massive Sunday market, which is an electric experience for shoppers, vendors, and observers

Sandakan, Malaysia
Tropical Sandakan is a paradise for animal lovers. Watch turtles lay eggs at Turtle Islands Park, keep a giggly distance at a crocodile farm or share an impish smile with some of the residents at Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre. The houses on stilts in the fishing village of Buli Sim Sim are perfect for sightseeing and photographing.

Georgetown,Malaysia
The UNESCO World Heritage Site city of Georgetown is one of the largest cities in Malaysia. You'll be absolutely mesmerized by the Queen Victoria Clock tower, a surreal-looking monument to the British monarch. From mansions to mosques, it feels like all of the buildings in Georgetown have their own special, awe-inspiring personalities. This is the ideal walking city for tourists who love to admire man-made beauty.

Ipoh,Malaysia
The British colonial city of Ipoh had humble beginnings, but has blossomed into a beautiful cityscape that marries old-world charm with modern amenities. This is a foodie's city, offering endless street stalls and restaurants all eager to serve up a sample of mouthwatering local fare. Walk it all off on a jaunt through breathtaking limestone caves that seem carved by the capable hands of a higher power.

Kota Bharu, Malaysia
Divers will love Kota Bharu for its interesting offshore opportunities. Explore the underwater wreckage of a Japanese transport ship while you dodge curious sea creatures. Above ground, dodge zealous shoppers at the high-energy Pasar Besar market, housed in an octagonal building that's just as captivating on its own.


Petaling Jaya, Malaysia
Nibble, slurp, and chow your way through Petaling Jaya, a suburb of Kuala Lumpur that offers up endless options for tourists hungry for a taste of local culture. The Wat Chetawan Thai Buddhist temple will offer you spiritual sustenance, while the thumping beats of hip nightlife spots will take you to a higher place.

Top 10 Destinations In Vietnam




Vietnam has still a way to go before being a world-renowned destination. However, it still has its share of activities. These range from stunning Ha Long Bay to beautifully quaint Hoi An to Ho Chi Minh’s mausoleum.

The Cu Chi tunnels represent the sheer grit and ‘can-do’ attitude of the Vietnamese while a visit to the War Remnants Museum brings home the horrible reality of war. On the more positive side, the marvelous Hue Monuments, along with the My Son Sanctuary will awaken your spiritual side. Explore the best of Vietnam.


Halong Bay
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the top tourist attraction in Vietnam. This natural marvel is located along a 75 mile coastline of the Gulf of Tonkin in the northern part of the country and has around 3,000 limestone islands with a fascinating array of formations, similar to those in Krabi, Thailand. Most people cruise around the bay on a traditional junk (wooden boat), often for an overnight trip, which makes the excursion that much more interesting.

Hoi Ann
Another wonderful UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hoi Ann has been an international port since the 16th century. A picturesque town with narrow canals, it’s sometimes called the Venice of Vietnam. A very charming place to explore, it’s famous for its excellent tailors, interesting art galleries and narrow streets full of cafes that serve delicious food.

Cu Chi Tunnels
During the Vietnam War the Vietcong (VC) used this immense network of underground tunnels about 25 miles outside of Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) as a hiding place from the Americans and the South Vietnamese. During the war the tunnels were like small underground towns with things such as kitchens, weapons factories, hospitals, command centers and the like. Tourists are now allowed to explore these elaborate mazes themselves.


Imperial Citadel of Thang Long
The large central sector of the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long in Hanoi was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site just in time for Hanoi’s millennial anniversary in 2010. The ancient site was the political centre of the country for 13 consecutive centuries and served as the capital of Vietnam for eight centuries.
  
Mekong Delta
Located in the southernmost region of country, the Mekong Delta is Vietnam’s breadbasket, producing about half of the country’s rice. Lush and beautiful, it makes for a great boat trip down the Mekong where you’ll pass colorful floating markets such as Cai Be and Cai Rang. Along the way you can see local traders and rice farmers working along the river as they have for generations.

My Son Sanctuary Hoi An 
UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a great sample of the ancient Champa civilization located in the southern part of Vietnam. It was an independent state from around the 2nd to the 17th century, at which time it was occupied by Vietnam.

Complex of Hue MonumentsHue
The Complex of Hue Monuments is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is located in the city of Hue in central Vietnam. Hue was founded as the Vietnam capital city by Gia Long, the first king of the Nguyen Dynasty in 1802. It held this position for nine Nguyen dynasties until 1945.


War Remnants Museum Ho Chi Minh City
 known as the ‘Museum of American War Crimes’ first opened to the public in 1975. It’s a shocking reminder of the long and brutal Vietnam War with many graphic photographs and American military equipment on display. All these weapons were used by America against the Vietnamese.

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park Quang Binh
Phong Nha-Ke Bang is more than a National Park, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Quang Binh Province, north-central Vietnam. The result of earth crust development 464 million years ago it’s the oldest major karst formation in Asia. Phong Nha-Ke Bang Park features a 2,000 sqkm of limestone zone.
 
The Sand Dune of Mui Ne
The Sand Dunes of Mui Ne are the most important tourist attraction apart from the beaches of Mui Ne and Phan Thiet. Some 65 km northeast of Phan Thiet, the massive dunes range in colour from gold to white. There are also red dunes to be found further south, close to Mui Ne.