The Journey September - October 2016

No.5 / vol.5/SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2016 / FREE

GUNUNG KAWI SELONG BELANAK BEACH RINCA ISLAND Baluran National Park MAP of BALI • LOMBOK •THE THREE GILIS

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18 14 24

22 32 28 38

36

46 58

56

50

Contents

//SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2016

09Indonesia Map 11-14Legian/Sanur/Bali,

Lombok/3 Gili Map/Ubud/ Senggigi Map

14Mollucan & Cloves 18Weekuri Lake 22Pangandaran Beach 24Kedung Kayang Waterfall 28Baluran 31Jaja Laklak 32Gunung Kawi Temple 36Galungan & Kuningan

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38Night Diving : Padang Bai 44Perama CSR 46Selong Belanak Beach 50Bayan Beleq Mosque 56Rinca Island 58Ngada Tribe 62Travel Gadgets 64Travel Tips

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editorial //Joyful Traveling is the best way to escape all the hustle and bustle, traveling is what bring joy to people. As you find a tranquil place that brings peace to mind.

One such as Weekuri Lake in Sumba Island Lombok, a hidden gem waiting to be find.

Then off to the Sulawesi Island, the Moluccas and their precious treasure the cloves.

Don’t miss the information about an ancient beauty of Gunung Kawi Temple. Join us on a exciting experience on the land of the dragon, the Rinca Island in Flores. Get more info on the beauty of Selong Belanak Beach in Lombok and lots of other information to accompany you during your trip.

We would also wish you a happy Galungan and Kuningan, may all be blessed and joyful.

ON THE COVER Location Gunung Kawi Temple Bali Photographer www.vilondo.com

Selamat Hari Raya Galungan & Kuningan! Now let’s get ready for the Journey.

Fredrick Edward Editor in chief

CONSULTANTS EDITOR IN CHIEF Gde Perama Yogja Fredrick Edward Dedy Perama Artha GRAPHIC DESIGNER MARKETING Edo, Dhani Dewi, Linda, Erni CONTACT sales@thejourneymagz.com info@thejourneymagz.com www.thejourneymagz.com PUBLISH MONTHLY BY JL. Legian No.39 , Kuta, Bali, Indonesia Tel: 0361 - 750801, 750817, 751875 Fax: 0361 - 751170 / 750812 www.peramadeltadesign.com

PRINTED BY Design & Printing

Bali

TelpTel: : +62085100749356 361 874 9356 Hp/ :081236013839 +62 812 3601 3839

shac_printing@yahoo.com shac_printing@yahoo.com

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Mission Statement Warmest greetings from The Journey Magazine, A bimonthly English-language free Indonesian tourism magazine.

As a travel magazine, our main purpose is to introduce various tourism sights in this vast beautiful archipelago. we aim to be a cooperation and integrated promotion media for all tourism component in the spirit of brotherhood.

All because we want the travellers get a proper and right information about Indonesia tourism for free.

ANOTEFROMUS

Enjoy your stay in Indonesia and hopefully we could be your friend and assistant on your Journey.

IF YOU have finished reading this magazine, please do not throw this magazine. YOU COULD..

PASS IT TO YOUR FRIENDS some information here could be useful for your travel friends OR YOU COULD..

PLACE IT BACK to the place where you find it, it might be useful to others THANK YOU VERY MUCH. 7

thejourneymagz.com September / October 2016

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Philipines

South China Sea

Pacific ocean

Sabang Aceh Bukit Lawang

Brunei

Malaysia

Lake Toba

Padang

Sumatra

Malaysia

1

Singapore

Nias Island

Jambi

Derawan Island Bunaken national park

Kalimantan (Borneo)

Pontianak

Bangka Belitung

Palembang

Gorontalo Samarinda

Ternate

Manado

Maluku

4

Togian Islands

Palu Balikpapan

Raja Ampat

Sulawesi

Sorong

Mollucan Page 18 Tanjung Puting

Indian Ocean

2

Riau Islands

Medan

Banjarmasin

Jayapura

Ambon

Tana Toraja

Kendari

Papua

Ambon

Bengkulu

Java Sea

Lampung

Map Of Indonesia

Krakatoa

Kedung Kayang Page 24

Jakarta

Java Borobudur

Jogjakarta

Pangandaran Page 22

Makasar

Madura

Surabaya

Mnt Bromo

Bali

Baluran Page 29

5

Selong Bealank Beach Page 46 Bayan Beleq Mosque Page 46 Komodo Island

Wakatobi national park

Rinca Island Page 54 Ngada Tribe Page 58

Lombok Labuan Bajo Sumbawa

Gunung Kawi Page 32 Night Dive : Padang Bai Page 38

Sumba

Waingapu

Flores

3

Mnt Kelimutu

Kupang

Papua New Guinea

Banda Sea

Arafura Sea

Timor Leste

Timor

Merauke

Timor Sea

Weekuri Lake Page 18

Australia

Mesmerizing Indonesian Archipelago

I

Capital and largest city Jakarta 6°10.5′S 106°49.7′E Official languages Bahasa Indonesian Government Unitary presidential constitutional republic • President : Joko Widodo • Vice-President : Jusuf Kalla Area • Land 1,904,569 km2 (15th) 735,358 sq mi • Water (%) 4.85 Population • 2015 estimate 255,461,700

ndonesia is a huge archipelago consisting of thousands

fall into two main groups: the Molluccas to the northeast, and

of islands that stretch from the westernmost point of

the lesser Sunda chain east of Bali. Bali is a unique island,

Sabang to the easternmost point of Merauke. From

which for a number of reasons can be put into a class of its

Miangas island the northmost to Rote island the

own.

southmost, it spread to more than 17.508 islands with over 1 million km2 making Indonesia a massive sand box to explore.

of visitors to Indonesia. Visiting Indonesia means seeing and

This huge archipelago is endowed with a beauty of diverse

experienceing the unique diverse cultural and astonishing

cultures and nature with distinctive flora and fauna.

natural beauties that this country has to offer and explore.

The favourable condition have attracted a great number

There are eight major islands or island groups in this enormous chain. The largest landmasses consist of Sumatra, Java, Kalimantan (Borneo), Sulawesi (Celebes) and Irian Jaya (the western half of Papua New Guinea). The smaller islands

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*On the map above we applied a regional divider,

based on the efficiency to plan a journey across the archipelago

The Travel Chart 1

1

LAKE TOBA

BUKIT TINGGI

Recommended Stay

Recommended Stay

North Sumatra

3N/4D - 4N/5D ... N/... D

1

West Sumatra

3N/4D - 4N/5D ... N/... D

With Perama travel chart which is design based on efficiency to plan a journey across the archipelago and to optimize your travel experience in 28 days or more on your choice (Custom Tailored Tour) with Full Fun, Science, Save Time & Money

2

JAKARTA

KALIMANTAN

Recommended Stay

Recommended Stay

1D - 1N/2D 2N/3D - ... N/... D

3N/4D - 4N/5D ... N/... D

4

4

BUNAKEN

AMBON

Recommended Stay

Recommended Stay

West Sulawesi

Maluku

2N/3D - 3N/4D ... N/... D

2N/3D - 3N/4D ... N/... D

REGION 1 / West Indonesia

Sumatra, The Second biggest island in Indonesia also home to several fascinating tourism sights such as the Lake Toba in North Sumatra and Bukit tinggi in West Sumatra. West Java, With Bandung as the capital city West Java, the region had a lot to over such as the Tangkuban Perahu Crater Lake. Jakarta, as the National Capital City several historical sites can be found in the city.

REGION 2 / Middle Indonesia

Yogyakarta, the soul Java, it is the cultural capital of

1

2

2

BANDUNG

YOGYAKARTA

Mnt.BROMO

Recommended Stay

Recommended Stay

Recommended Stay

North Sumatra

1N/2D - 3N/4D ... N/... D

Central Java



BALI

East Java Java

1D - 1N/2D ... N/... D

Recommended Stay

1N/2D - 2N/3D ... N/... D

2N/3D - 3N/4D ... N/... D

3

Recommended Stay

2N/3D - 3N/4D 4N/5D - ... N/... D

2N/3D - 3N/4D ... N/... D

3

LOMBOK

Recommended Stay

Recommended Stay

6 7

PAPUA

Recommended Stay

24

Mnt.RINJANI 1N/2D - 3N/4D 4N/5D

4

TORAJA

Sotuh Sulawesi

Days

Explore Lesser Sunda!

Days 1 2 3 4 5

4

23 22 21 20 19

3N/4D - 4N/5D 5N/6D

18 17

SUMBAWA BESAR

8

14 16

BIMA

9

Java with it famous Sultan’s Keraton. Central Java, Home to the magnificent Borobudur and Prambanan Temple. Kalimantan, the second biggest island in the world is also serve as a sanctuary to the indigenous Orang Utan.

13 15

10 11

KOMODO & RINCA Isl.

12 11

12 13

LABUAN BAJO

10 9

14 15 16 17

18 19 20 21

Flores

SUMBA ISL. NTT

SABU ISL. ROTE ISL. NTT

How Easy It Is To Explore the largest Archipelago Country in the world ?

22 23 Days

RUTENG BAJAWA

8 7

Flores

ENDE MAUMERE LEMBATA ALOR Flores

E L A

6 5 4 3

REGION 3 / Lesser Sunda + REGION 5 / Bali Bali, The face of Indonesia tourism the exotic small island with wonderful culture and nature. Lombok,

once an emerging sight, now famous three Gilis and Mount Rinjani. Sumbawa, mostly known as the home to the marvellous Mount Tambora, but Sumbawa still had plenty hidden gems. Flores & The Komodo Dragon, the icon of Indonesia tourism, the only place on the face of the earth to see the living fossil and other intersting place such as Mount Kelimutu and many more. NTT/Kupang, the capital of Nusa Tenggara Timur Province, Mostly known for its Sabu and Rote Island which is famous among world class surfers.

REGION 4 / East Indonesia

Sulawesi, home to one of the world’s best marine park, the Bunaken and the unique tradition of Toraja.

Maluku, mostly known for its Ambon island and its exotic culture and nature. Papua, an island with magnificent nature and exotic culture, also home to the highest mountain in Indonesia, Mount Jaya Wijaya.

PROGRAM

2 1 Days

KUPANG NTT

“

To the Next Desitna

By Flight

By Sailing Boat / Ship

IT’S TIME TO ADVENTURE !

”

0361 751875 | info@peramatour.com

Overland by Bus

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The Haven

Horizon

Horizon Tunes Seminyak

Bery Biz

Ts Suites Bali Dewa Bharata

Puri Naga

B Hotel McDonald

O-ce-n

Grand Kuta Hotel & Residence

Kusnadi Hotel

Jayakarta

Best Western Premier Atanaya

Ketupat

Ramda Resort Niksoma Sari Beach Inn Puriraja

Poco Loco Amaris Hotel Swiss Bell Inn Legian

Melasti Bali Sani

Fontana

Lokha Three TheLegian Brothers

Bali Padma

Amaris The Sunest

Bali Mandira

Ibis Style Sunset Residence

Coffe Corner

Legian Beach Hotel

Neo

Monochrome Alam Kulkul A TThe Stone Etnik Prosurf Harmony TThe Kuta Mamas Playa P Body & Soul

Sun Island

Legend

The One Kayun Downtown Monument

J4

Kuta Seaview

Kuta Bex Mercure

Shops

Ina Kuta

Surfer Girl

Harper Paradiso Beach Inn Perama

Hard rock Hotel & Cafe

Facilites / Services

Harris River

SKy Garden

Roso Vivo

Restaurant / Bar

Bali Bakery

Tanaya

Fourteen Beach Roses Resort Beach Walk Sheraton Bali Bounty

McDonald

Highlights

Bedbunkers Euporia Central Park

The Akmani

Hotels

Holiday Inn Express

Pepito

Kayun

Istana

KUTA LEGIAN

Gosyen

Grand Mas

Magani

Pullman

GILI MENO Spazio

KFC

Kuta Square

Park Regis Bali Kuta Resort The Kana

Santika

Made

Gelael KFC

Holiday Inn Express

Kuta Paradiso

Ma Joly

Grand Mas

Febris Eden Grand Wiz The Vira Ibis

Palm Beach

Lippo Mall

Best Western Resort

Prime Bizz

Green Garden Aston Kuta J Botique Holiday Inn Resort

Circis Water Park Park 23 Aston Pepito

Fave

R a i

Joger Harris

N g u r a h

Santika Beach Ramada Bintang Bali

Waterboom Bali Rani

P a s s

Discovery Mall Kartika Plaza Sun Island Bali Dynasty Green Garden

The Flora

Bakung Sari

Hawaii

Hawaii Souvenir

B y

Bali Garden

Ramayana Stadium Cafe The Station

a n J a l

Karti Inn Melasti Beach

Quest

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Hotel Puri Dalem

Watering Hole 1 Perama

KFC

ah

ngtu

Jl. Ha

Jl. Sanur

Sanur Paradise Police

Jl. Da na uB rat an

Inna Grand Bali Beach

Taman Sari Sanur Indah

Bilok

Rani

Jl. Danau Buyan

Jl. Segara Ayu

Post Office

Segara Village

Jl. I

nta ran

Jl. Tukad

Sindu GH Jl. Sindu

Jl. Danau Tondano

Baruna Beach Inn Inna Shindu Beach

Abian Srama

La Taverna La Taverna Respatih Gazebo

Yulia 1 Daydee HS

Jl. Danau Ta

Pavilion

mblingan

Hotels Restaurant / Bar

Jl. By Pass Ngurah Raih

Legend

Sanur Paradise Suite Flash Back

The Griya Sanur

Irama Tanjung Sari Gili Cat Besakih Griya Santrian Villa Santi Werdha Pura Langhawa Beach

Swiss Bel

Jl. Pantai

Ramayana Hardisk Mall Oasis Lagoon

Shops

Gustaf GH

Facilites / Services

Batu Jimbar

Parigata Resort

Highlights

Parigata

SANUR

Penida View

Jl. Kesari

Bali Hyatt Bali Emerald

Puri Gopa Abian Hs Cafe Loca

Jl. Pen gemb a

k

Jl. Sri Kesari

ri sa ta

er M Jl.

Semawang Beach Puri Santrian

Abian Kokoro Jl. Mertasari

Sun House

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Sativa Sanur Cottage

Suda Mala

thejourneymagz.com September / October 2016

Waka Maya Mercure Sanur

Sanur Beach

Coral Beach

Desa Dunia Beda

Eden Cottages Wayang Trawangan Oasis

Paul’s Last Resort

Bugi Beach Danima Resort

Luce d'Alma Resort & Spa

GILI AIR

Shack 58

Balenta

Blue Coral

Sunset Palm Resort Kelapa Villas

Sunset Gecko

Coral Beach 2

Aston Sunset Beach Coconut Garden Resort Les Villas Ottalia

Zoraya Pavillion

Five Elements Resort

Vila Joglo

Orong Village Abi Fantastik

Mangga Segar Village Karma Reosrt

Kai’s Beach House

Sasak Cafe

Soul Villas

Nautilus Meno Dream Resort Tao Kombo

Two Brother Bungalow

GILI TRAWANGAN

Warung Sasak Turtle Beach

Rust Bungalow

Vila Cinta

Dream Dive Hotel Vila Ombak

The Beach Club

Pink Coco

Bird Park Perama Tour

The Trawangan

Kaluku Gili Air Escape

Island View

Marina Srikandi

Ko-Ko-Mo

Bambu Cottages

Mangkung

Rose Bungalow

Sama Sama Kayu Cafe

The Exile

AliBaba Bungalows

Grand Sunset

Villa Sayang

Viking B&R DSM Dive

Teak Resort

Gili Air Hotel

Puri Air Beach Resort

Nemo Mojo

Viking B&R Horizontal

Highlights

Sandy Beach

Turtle Conservation

Ombak Sunset

Shops Facilites / Services

Bintang

Gili Meno Eco Hostle

Diana Bungalow

Kelapa Kecil

Restaurant / Bar

Pelangi

Gili Tibo

Mahamaya Resort

Vamana Resort Vila Almarik blu d'amare Resort Laguna

Voodo Lounge

Hotels

Legend

Made’s Warung

Jambuluwuk Oceano Resort Gili Escobar

Bel Air

Taman Senang Lucy’s Salabose

Gazebo Kontiki

Lucky’s Safari

GILI MENO

Scallywags The Water Front 7SEAS Cottages

Villa Karang

Gili Air Lagoon

Perama Tour Erni Counter

Sunset

Sunrise The Beach Club

Menjangan Is. West Bali National Park

Gilimanuk To Java

Singaraja Pemuteran

Lovina Beach Gitgit Waterfall

Mt. Kelakan

Mt. Sanglang Mt. Musi Mt. Merbuk

BALI

Besakih Temple

Bedugul Pupuan

Pengelipuran

Tampak Siring

Jatiluwih

Gunung Kawi Temple

Bangli

Tegallalang Alas Kedaton

Tabanan Mangupura Ubung

Tanah Lot Temple

Legend

Petitenget

Public Ferry Fastboat Highlights

Seminyak Legian Kuta Ngurah Rai International Airport Jimbaran Uluwatu Temple

Amlapura

Sidemen

Sangeh

Medewi Beach

Amed

Ubud

Goa Gajah

Padang Bai

Sukawati

Gili Air Is.

Tanjung

Malimbu Viewpoint

Pusuk

LOMBOK

Batu Bolong Temple

Lingsar Temple

Ampenan Mataram

Gua Lawah Temple

Batubulan

Loyok Narmada Mantang

Cakranegara Kediri

Kopang

Nusa Dua

Badung Strait

Penida Is.

Gili Naggu Bangko Bangko

Sekotong

Labuan Lombok To Sumbawa & Flores

Pringgabaya

Pringgasela

Suranadi

Aikmel

Lendang Nangka Masbagik

Selong Labuan Aji

Banyumulek Lembongan Is.

Serangan Is. Ceningan Is. Benoa Harbor Tanjung Benoa

Sapit

Tetebatu

Senggigi

Candidasa

Denpasar Sanur

Sembalun Lawang

Lemor

Bangsal Taman Ujung

Sambelia

Segara Anak Lake

Mt. Rinjani

Tenganan

Klungkung

Gianyar

Taman Ayun Temple

Gili Meno Is. Gili Trawangan Is.

Gili Sulat

Sugian

Sendang Gile & Tie Kelep Waterfall

Senaru

Gondang

Gili Lawang

Bayan

Segenter

Mt. Agung

Ulun Danu Beratan Temple & Lake

Munduk Waterfall

Mt. Mesehe Negara

Mt. Batur

Kintamani

Banjar Hotspring

Praya

Lembar

Lombok International Airport

Rambitan Selong Belanak Mawun

Sade

Sengkol

Keruak

Ekas

Kuta Kuta Beach

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Ubud Sari Health Resort

ar i

Ibu Oka

R a y a

Polo

Jl.Mo

nkey

Pandawa Cassete Delta Mart

BPD

Bali Budha Tulmak Dragonfly Milano

Ubud Village

Shape Wangi - Wangi Asterisk Warung Yamato

Sisi/Nanan Panen

Cafe Wayan

Fores t

Jl. Jero Gadung ai)

Gede R (Jl.Cok

o s e k a n P e n g

Legend

Cafe Lombi Swiss Bakery

a Jl.Suk m

nkey Jl.Mo

Jl.Hanoman

Biyukung Suite & Spa

Barandi

J l . R a y a

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Restaurant / Bar

Santosa Villas

Square Restaurant

Lombok Property & Villas

Perama Suckling Duck Ubud Raya Kakiang Bakery

Happy Cafe

Dream Divers Laroz Cafe Jl.Pantai Senggigi

Papaya Cafe

Senggigig Jaya Abadi

Sendok Bar & Guest House Meat Mart

Darmari

Perama

Lina Cottages

Ray

Sunshine

Puri Garden

Graha Beach

Graha Beach

Flava Lounge Artini Cottages 3 Kagemusha

Pizza Bagus

Agung Raka

Asmara Restaurant g i g i

g i g i n g S e

Pundi Pundi

Warung Enak Tegal Sari Panorama

Bumbu Cafe

a a y . R J l

Padi Prada

Highlights

Puri Bunga Beach Cottages

g

Ubud Permai Cafe Tegal

Hotels

Lotus Bayview Family Guest House

Shops Facilites / Services

Kebun Villas & Resort

n

Artini 1

UBUD

Tourism Police

Papa Besar Cafe

Warung Laba-Laba

Champlung Sari

Coffee Copper

Sheraton Resort

Artini2

Ubud Inn

Monkey Forest

Mogi

Hotels Restaurant / Bar

SENGGIGI

Puri Saron

Sea Shore

e

Lotus Lane

Medical Centre

Jazz Cafe

S

Green House Villa Rasa Sayang

Villa Campi Sorga Svarga Resort

a J l . R a y

Lamak

Pertiwi Resort

Jl. Raya Ubud

Ganeshaa Oka Kartini Book SHop

Ibu Rai Batan Waru

Bodyworks

Jl.Bisma

Puri Mas Spa Resort Dream Estate Park

Nomad

Jl.Raya Peliata n

Beji Lan e

Fores t

Okawati’s

Verve Villas Qunci Villas Qunci Pool Villas Puri Mas Beach

U b u d

Ubud Market

Jl.Jem bawan

Honeymoon Guest House

Ary’s Warung

man

Cafe Des Arties

Puri Saren Ubud

Taman Wisata Alam Kerandangan Nature Reserve

Legend

J l .

Jl.Han o

Casa Luna

Windy Beach Resort Holiday Resort

S e n g g i g i

Jl.Tirta Tawar

Jl. Sr

Terazo Bumbu Bali

l . R a y a

Ryoshi Mumbul’s Lotus

Jl.Sa nda t

i wid

weta Jl. Su

Museum Puri Lukisan

J

Jl.Kaje ng

Living Asia

Agung Rai Fine Art

the

Mollucan & cloves Between Culture, Ritual and Life

Cafe Alberto Cafe Arma

The Beach Club

Arma Resort

Arma Museum

Shops Facilites / Services Highlights

thejourneymagz.com September / October 2016

Barwa Gallery Museum Rudana

The Chandi

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photos courtesy of Fabiola Lawalata

M

aluku won’t be given the name of “spice island” if clove and nutmeg were not produce, and the dutch colonialist may never set their foot on Indonesia if we don’t have booth of the spices that once worth as gold, it one the reason why the dutch colonial settle here and undermine the natural resources.

I am so gratetful when I arrived in Ambon when the people is harvesting the cloves, on the road the traffic moves slowly, the road side is filled with mats filled with cloves still on drying process. I didn’t see anyone complaining about it, although it distrupt the traffic but because it is already a ritual then it is understandable.

During my 5 days stay in Ambon, I choose to stay in my relative’s house in Hitve besar village, about 20 minutes from Pattimura airport, a simple house but with asthonising scenery, located right in front of Hative bay with the central Ambon city can be seen in the opposite side, the sun rise and set on the same bay. And during 6 PM, the Ambon city beautifully shine by the setting sun.

Every morning I watch Oma (Grandma) Tuhuleruw who lives in Hative Besar village drying bags of hers clove flowers. After the cloves dried out for weeks under the sun, then the cloves can be sold to market.

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thejourneymagz.com September / October 2016

preserving and “caring the growth of Clove plant “

Sometimes the cloves is beeing kept longer until the price is a bit higher, but it’s a different story when she need some cash, then she will have to sell it no matter what is the price.

The widow of the village chief divide the cloves fairly among her grandchildren, they are then obligated to clean it and do the drying ritual. These routines done with joyful here because the more cloves they have, the more money they are going to have later. While other kids with their ages playing happily in the mall, these boys enjoying harvesting and drying cloves. There are no measurements for a happiness.

Maluku’s cloves had a high quality because cloves grow well in hot climate with evenly rain, also with optimal temperature between 22-30 Celcius degree (68-73.5 Farenheit). A wind to strong could damage the plant, so does a long drought, it fits well with Maluku geographic.

Cloves, these legendary spices still hold an important economical role until these days, even though it price per kilo is concerning and fluctuate, still the people of Maluku faithfully planting, preserving and caring the growth of Clove plant that they have been kept for generations. log on to www.jalan2liburan.com for more interesting stories from Fabiola Lawalata.

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Weekuri lake paradise lost

Sumba Island - East Nusa Tenggara 18

thejourneymagz.com September / October 2016

photos courtesy of Baktiar Sontani

A

fter several years of working and exploring a few places in East Nusa Tenggara, The Weekuri Lake is one place I heard in recent years. Though the lake is located not more than 500 meters from the beach Watu Mandorak, which I have visited a few years earlier. The information I have is that this Lake just widely known in recent years, even heard that access to this location is not even known by the general public. I did not even manage to get a story about the lakes, That means even the near by resident of Kodi village in Sumba Barat Daya (Southwest Sumba) didn’t even know about the mysterious beauty.

It takes about 2 hour drive from Tambulaka to reach the Weekuri Lake is not as easy as if traveling in Java or Bali. In addition to road infrastructure as one of the obstacles, roads signs to the lake is also inadequate to guide travelers to the location. Fortunately most hotel manager can provide simple guidelines to reach it.

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thejourneymagz.com September / October 2016

photos courtesy of Baktiar Sontani

Standing on the rock that separates the lake’s with the Indian Ocean, I could hear the sound of water breaking through the rocks beneath me every time a big wave hit the reef. On the left side where coral rocks did not seem to converge, I tried to peek to find out what happened from the voices. It turns out there are coral under the small cracks that allow the entry of sea water into the lake, especially in times of high tide.

Now the stack of corals is making the lake looking more exotic. A lakes with salt water and with no waves is a heaven on earth to who every craving for tranquility.

I’m enjoying all this beauty and eventually felt relaxed, I let my eyes closed for while enjoying the sound of nature. I wonder where the heat of the scorching sun, since only the blue sky I could seen.

Could not bear to see the fun of several kids having while the swim. But I forgot to bring a swimming trunks, yet still desperate to get into the lake, I just took of my jacket and start to dip into the refreshing water.

The calm water of the lake serve as if a lullaby to me, I can fall asleep and float around without a fear of drowning. It difficult to put words describing the joy and sensation I had on this calm lake, I

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“

heaven on earth to whom every craving for tranquility

“

must admit that my friend’s provocative story about the heavenly fell on this place was true, it just lack of the angels.

I try to teach several of the local kids how to float on water, they seems to don’t know that the salt water makes us easier to float around. But they apparently find it difficult to communicate with stranger, or maybe is likeier about languange barrier. This brief fun interraction adds a memory to this visit.

It was a scorching day, but the trees around the lake provide some shady. I spoke to one of the official, they mention about several development being plan, that includes a resting place and a stairs will be built to provide easiness to the visitors to reach the lake side.I try to give them a suggestion if they decide to build a resting place it needs to be kept natural. So it won’t “contaminate” this beautiful Lake, the Weekuri Lake, the paradise lost of Sumba.

A writer / photographer who likes traveling to new places. By spending more time working in various areas in Indonesia, gives him opportunity to visit and explore places. log on to awalnya.blogspot.co.id for more interesting stories from Baktiar Sontani.

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photos courtesy of Michiel1972

west

java

n a r a d n pangabeach S l pear

of

mall mainland peninsula with a national park with beaches and stunning scenery to rival the beaches of Bali on the south coast of Java. Pangandaran is one of Java’s best-kept secrets as far as international tourists are concerned, but has been extremely popular with locals for a long, long time.

A small fishing town, it possesses one of Java’s finest beaches and Pangandaran Nature Reserve teems with wild buffalo, barking deer and monkeys. The people are very friendly, this combined with the idealize surroundings make this a great place to spend a few days relaxing island-style. Pangandaran is halfway between Bandung and Yogya, about 5 hours by bus from Bandung and 8 hours from Jakarta.

This is the second beach resort area on the Indian Ocean after Pelabuhan Ratu. The site is 223 from Bandung and 400km from Jakarta. The trip by car or bus is recommendable because the road conditions are good. However, if we prefer to take the train, get into Bandung-Yogyakarta Express train and get off at the Banjar railroad station about 4 hours later. From here it will be another 50 km by bus to Pangandaran.

The beach is called Penanjung, where most of the cottages and

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photos courtesy of Azwari Nugraha

photos courtesy of Bambang Suryobroto

photos courtesy of Angga Kusuma

hotels are located, however, of modest ratings. Nothing luxurious should be expected. Pangandaran is especially of interest to nature lovers, as there is a wildlife reserve in the vicinity where wild birds and other indigenous animals live about freely to be enjoyed by visitors. In Pangandaran visitors will like fine white beaches, blue ocean and fine seafood. Twelve kilometers before arriving at Pangandaran visitors will see a huge rock on the beach, which is called Karang Nini.

Another place of special interest for nature lovers is a forest Conservation Park, close to the camping ground, which has basic facilities suitable for the younger set. Somewhat further out, west of Pangandaran, driving 23 km on the way to Parigi, lays Batu Hiu, meaning Shark’s Rock, a coastal rock that has the shark shape.

Budiman Kertawijaya ; a young spirited travel enthusiast, alway choose to explore the beauty of Indonesia on his office holiday time

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photos photos courtesy courtesy of Firsta of Firsta Yunida Yunida

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gem of central java

Kedung KAYANG waterfall T

hrongs “Oh wow! This is so freaking cool! We can see it from the top and the bottom!” That was the first thing out of my mouth when I visited this waterfall. The pretty Kedung Kayang Waterfall is totally forgotten by tourist who visit Yogyakarta. The highlight for most tourists who come out from Yogyakarta and visit Magelang will obviously be Borobudur. The journey from Yogyakarta to Borobudur is the same distance as the journey to this waterfall.

Borobudur is more to the west of Magelang, meanwhile this waterfall is located in the east of Magelang. So what is so special about this waterfall that made me suggest to you not to miss it?

First, as I said at the beginning, Kedung Kayang waterfall is very unique, you can enjoy the view of this waterfall from many different angles. From the entrance you can clearly see the sign of two choices of point a view. I decided to turn left and enjoy the waterfall and the view from the top. Later on, after I satisfied myself with the view from the top I would walk down to enjoy the view from the bottom.

Second, this waterfall is located inside the National Park of Mount Merapi. What does that mean? It means that you can get a very great view of this big waterfall with Mount Merapi in the background.

The stones and the plants around the waterfall area are very nicely organized. Even though I know that they wouldn’t pay any gardener to do this.

Third, this tourism spot is a great way to spend the day if you want to visit something pretty, but have a limited budget. Rp. 4,000

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“ “

a very great view of this big waterfall with Mount Merapi in the background.

photos courtesy of Firsta Yunida

($1 = Rp. 10,000) for the entrance fee made this place somewhat there on Sunday and I am sure that you will have your own private waterfall if you go there on weekdays.

Fourth, this place is easy to find. Rent a motorbike and you can reach Kedung Kayang waterfall in around an hour from Yogyakarta.

The waterfall is located close to Ketep watch tower, where you can see the view of Mount Merapi and Mount Merbabu. Look at the map on your phone and from Magelang, just carry on straight through Boyolali – Mungkid road. It probably takes around 25 minutes driving and you will get there.

I hope I gave you enough reasons to visit the Kedung Kayang waterfall in the future. Let me give you an idea how to spend a day out of Yogyakarta. Start your day by chasing the sunrise in Punthuk Setumbu hill and explore Borobudur area. Grab a Kupat Tahu for your lunch and end it with visiting this lovely waterfall. That’s a great way to spend the day isn’t it?

Check out Firsta Yunida’s website on www.discoveryourindonesia.com for more stories on her travel around Indonesia.

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EASTJAVA

BALURAN NATIONAL PARK THEAFRICAVANJAVA

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photos courtesy of johan wildlife

B

aluran National Park or also better known by his nickname , Africa Van Java is a nature conservation area which has original ecosystem , managed by the zoning system which is utilized for research , science , education, aquaculture , tourism and recreation .

Located in Situbondo Regency, East Java, Indonesia. It has a relatively dry climate and mainly consists of savanna (40%), as well as lowland forests, mangrove forests and hills, with Mount Baluran (1,247m) as its highest peak Baluran National Park is situated at the north-eastern extremity of Java, close to the islands of Bali and Madura. The park is bordered by the Madura Strait to the north, the Bali Strait to the east, the river Bajulmati (Wonorejo village) to the west and the river Klokoran (Sumberanyar village) to the south. The park is a rough circle, with the extinct volcano, Baluran, at its centre. Its total area is 25,000 ha.

In 1928 a Dutch hunter named AH. Loedeboer layover in Baluran.

He is the owner of the plantation concession area in Labuan Peacock and Mount Masigit. With his background in forestry, he realizes that baluran region has an important role to protect wildlife and vegetation are numerous in the area Two years later, the Director of the Bogor Botanical Gardens KW. Dammerman, suggested the need for a review of baluran as a protected forest sanctuary, but with no decision made until a few years after independence of Indonesia on 1962 Baluran is set as a wildlife reserve. Then 2 decades later, on March 6th 1980 Baluran is officially declared as a National Park, a safe haven for all of its inhabitants.

The Park is divided into several zones. The zones include the core zone, wilderness zone, a zone of intensive use, special use zones, and rehabilitation zones. Baluran National Park has about 444

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“

TheAfrica vanJavaistruly anexotic tourismsight

“

species of plants. Some of them are plants that are able to adapt and thrive in very dry conditions, the plants still looks green and lush even though it grows in very dry soil. This making the Park looks cool and shady despite being a savanna.

The savanna is the main highlight for the visitors, with its breathtaking scenery. The savanna overlaying most of the area with the baluran Mountain serve as its background, a view that sets mood to an adventure mood.

The area is home to several exotic animals such as wild pigs, deer, peacocks, wild chicken, some species of monkeys and also bulls as the protected animals in the area.

Don’t miss the chance to observe hundreds species of birds such as hornbills, peacocks and bulbuls, also wonderful tropical forest vegetation, the park is a heaven for many species of trees, plants and flowers.Forest and Safari activities in the wild life is not all travelers can find here, a beautiful white beach known as the Bama Beach can be easily found with the Park area.

The Africa van Java is truly an exotic tourism sights worthy to be on visit list, an experience the amazing Baluran National Park.

Dewi Supartini ;a travel enthusiast, had been traveling since child with her family. She also working in one of travel agency in Bali.

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JAJA LAKLAK sweet taste of Bali

F

ood is one thing every traveler want to try on their visit and Bali had a lot to offer. One interesting Balinese traditional snack is locally know as Jaja Laklak, jaja is Balinese word for snacks. It is said to be originated from Tabanan regency in North Bali, but easily found in any area. From street side food fendor to high flying hotel restaurant, serve this traditional delicacy.

Shaped like a mini-pancakes, Jaja Laklak is made from mixed of rice flour and coconut milk. The batter later on processed on a centimeter wide Dutch-style, metal poffertjes pan. The cake later seasoned with grated coconut and a sweet finishing touch with a pour the Balinese palm sugar syrup.

A burnt taste on the outskirt of the cake add a unique taste.

Sometimes the Jaja Laklak is also served with fruit slice, the most common is using jackfruit, but If you don’t like jackfruit banana slice would also do well. Fresh taste from fruit combine with savory taste of the cake gives an amazing taste.

Size doesn’t matter when I come to taste, these small cakes and its mouth-watering syrup served with a cup of Balinese coffee really gives you a sensational taste, a sweet taste of Jaja Laklak, a sweet taste of Bali.

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G U N K A T E M t h e

I

a N c i e

t’s almost evening when we get on our car and leave the Ubud Palace. The idea was to go back home to Denpasar because we were already exhausted from our visits to the Monkey forest, Tegalalang and Ubud the whole day. But on the way, my guide, who is also my cousin, had the idea to stop by at his friends‘ house in Tampaksiring, Gianyar. Me and my other cousin, who was also joining the trip, agreed to take on the detour.

Soon we would find our car entering a small lane in some village.

We have seen some unique, well preserved Balinese houses along the way. Old Pelinggih (Balinese Hindu worship tower) is still standing in front of the houses, ready to deliver villagers’ prayers.

The mossy ornaments in the main temple of the village signify the

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photos courtesy of Fahmi Anhar

U N G W I P L E

n t

b e a u t y

age of the temple. This is Banjar Penaka, located in Gianyar regency which is about 40 Km from Denpasar.

The car stops at a beautiful house. A young girl, wearing a traditional Balinese sarong, greets us. It turns out that this is the house of my cousins’ friend. The name of the young girl is Nyoman Widanti. Once we are welcomed to enter the house, the smell of incense caught our attention as we notice some offerings, placed on the floor. We were told that it is the time for evening prayers.

After a short chat, Widanti invites us to walk to the other side of her village. About 300 meters form her house, a gate with the text “PURA GUNUNG KAWI” (Gunung Kawi Temple) written on it, is the sign that we are entering a holy place. A guard gives us a sarong to

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wear before we enter this holy place. To get to Gunung Kawi Temple, we have to follow steps along a rice field. The steps looked like as if there were made of spitted lime hills and the field had towering rock walls on each side. She told us that 315 steps need to be climbed to get to the main temple.

The sound of water drops start to echo as we pass a rock gate with a Pelinggih (a Balinese Hindu worship tower)to its side. This is a place to get blessed with holy waters before entering the temple. The Pakerisan River flows, splitting the Gunung Kawi temple complex into two sides; the West and the east. Widanti said that Pakerisan River is one of the sacred rivers in Bali. Once I set my sight on the temple, I was gasped. Gunung Kawi temple is so different from what I have imagined. Unlike other temples I have seen in Bali, Gunung Kawi temple is a temple complex with 10 rock-cut candi (shrines) carved into the cliff face. They stand in 7-metre-high (23 ft) sheltered niches, cut into the sheer sandstone cliff face. Several water springs and serene fishponds surround the place. This complex is one of the pre-historic sites in Gianyar regency.

With Widanti as our Guide, we did a tour around the temple.

She explained us about how a ceremony is done in the temple. We eventually met the temple priest and after a short chat, we were

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gives you a deep feeling of peace given a rare chance to enter an area that is known as the restricted area. The area is considered to be the holiest part of the Gunung Kawi Temple. A small complex between some unroofed structures has been carved from andesite to form chambers to perform ascetic.

This part of the temple was the outset of the Gunung Kawi temple hundreds years ago.

Then she took us to a small hill behind the Gunung Kawi temple.

The route we took was slippery and steep but what we got at the end made it worth the effort. We were facing a natural pond and water spring with a Pelinggih build in the middle of it where people could place their offerings. You could actual feel a strong mystical aura in this place.

The tranquility and surroundings of the entire Gunung Kawi temple gives you a deep feeling of peace and makes it a memorable journey.

log on to www.fahmianhar.com for more interesting stories from Fahmi Anhar.

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a triumphant day

galungaN & KUNINGAN I f you are happen to be in Bali on September 2016 then you have a chance to experience a unique cultural event, the Galungan & Kuningan. The Galungan will be held on September 7th 2016 and then followed ten days later with the Kuningan on September 17th 2016.

Galungan derive from a Sanskrit word meaning a war or a fight. It symbolizing a fight between the force of good (Dharma) against the force of evil (Adharma), so the Galungan were held to celebrate the triumphant of good and a gratitude to God for its grace upon earth.

During these times one thing that you will notice all around Bali is the presence of what is known as the Penjor along the street sides.

The purpose of placing the Penjor is that it is serve as a media to express the Balinese Hindu’s their gratitude to the Ida Sang Hyang Widhi Wasa (God) for His blessing. The Penjor itself are made of curved bamboo pole decorated with coconut leaves with an offering at the base, which consist of various kinds of goods that were given

by God. The penjor would decorate the house front since a day before the Galungan known as the penampahan day, the day to prepare everything and it stays there until the Kuningan day.

During the Galungan day, the Balinese Hindu will pray together

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in house temple in the morning and later in the afternoon continues together with the village people to pray in the main village temple.

The next day is known as the Manis Galungan, it time for people to gather with family and feast for the triumph of the force of Good.

Ten days after the Galungan, another celebration known as the Kuningan day is held. It know as the day when Gods descend to earth. Like how it was named, Kuningan is identical to yellow color as it is a symbol of wisdom. It reminds Balinese Hindus to be wise at every moment. Every single problem should be solved wisely. People will feast on Yellow rice that was made by mixing rice and turmeric as a symbol of human gratitude to God for everything is life. The ceremony have to be held before noon, because it is believe that after noon the Gods will ascend to heaven.

Make sure to mark this unique cultural event on your trip calendar and be a part of unforgettable experience.

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photo courtesy of Rudo Hvizdos

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Night diving

inpadang bai

& Why you should not miss it

S

cuba diving in general is an exciting day activity. You get to explore a totally different world underwater and see the many beautiful creatures up close. Scuba diving at night on the other hand brings a whole new level of excitement into the game.

One of the best diving locations to try out this thrilling activity is definitely Padangbai in Bali.

Even if you know a particular dive site like the back of hand by the day, almost everything changes after the sun goes down. One can witness all kinds of nocturnal activities and transformations in the underwater animal kingdom. The diurnal creatures go to sleep in the holes and other hiding spots and make way for the nocturnal ones to own the night and the dive site. Diving at night opens the doors to see all sorts of animals, and the underwater darkness is actually not frightening at all. On the contrary, the absence of daylight gives way to a totally different perspective underwater - in a good way, of course. The light from your torch helps you see the mesmerizing and endless spectrum of colors the fish, nudibranchs and other critters actually have. It also helps you spot the tiniest of the underwater inhabitants because you are focusing your eyes only on the small circle of light.

Squid, octopuses or cuttlefish stop their camouflage activities and wander around the reef to look for a meal. A beam of your dive light triggers their defensive response and you can see them change colors to match the background. They can do this much better and faster than a chameleon. Coral polyps are also waiting for their prey.

Various crabs wander around too hoping for a tasty dinner. Fancy a meeting with a shark? Your wish may come true on a night dive too.

Although it is not uncommon for divers to encounter sharks during day dives, some of them are more active at night, while other shark species can be observed from a close distance as they rest under the corals or in the reef holes.

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“

a whole new level of excitement

“

Some scuba divers tend to be a bit scared prior to their first night dive as they are not sure what to expect. They often think that the diving torch will only enlighten a short distance right in front of them and that scary monsters will appear suddenly and randomly right in front of their face. Boo! Don’t worry, scaredy-cats, it’s not like that at all. The dive torches are powerful enough to allow you to see several meters ahead. Actually even if you and your buddies turn the flashlights off completely, you will still be able to see each other’s silhouettes.

Bioluminescence is another magical thing you can experience during a night dive, when you turn off your torch for a short moment and wave your arm around to disturb the otherwise invisible plankton.

All types of diving activities need to be properly organized and planned, and the same goes for night diving. Choose a reliable dive operator for your night dive and you will have an unforgettable experience to log in your diving logbook.

Brona Kekenakova; followed her heart which led her from Slovakia to Bali; she currently works as the marketing manager for a dive resort

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Amazing Diving Relaxed Atmosphere Superb Accommodation

Contact: info@okdiversbali.com +62 811 3858821 www.okdiversbali.com

CERTIFICATE of EXCELLENCE 2015 Winner

You will find us right next to the Gili fast boats port in Padangbai.

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6

INDONESIAN musical instrumen

6 Sapeh

a traditional lute of many of the Orang Ulu or “upriver people�, who live in the longhouses that line the rivers of Central Borneo. Sapes are carved from a single bole of wood, with many modern instruments reaching over a metre in length.

5

Kendang

a two-headed drum Kendang is one of the primary instruments used in the Gamelan ensembles. It is constructed in a variety of ways by different ethnic groups.

4

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Kulintang

a modern term for an ancient instrumental form of music composed on a row of small, horizontally-laid gongs that function melodically, accompanied by larger, suspended gongs and drums. As part of the larger gong-chime culture of Indonesia, kulintang music ensembles have been playing for many centuries.

thejourneymagz.com September / October 2016

3

Gambang

a xylophone-like instrument used among peoples of Indonesia, with wooden bars as opposed to the metallic ones of the more typical metallophones in a gamelan, a traditional musical ensemble from Indonesia.

2

Sasando

a harp-like traditional music string instrument native of Rote Island of East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia. The name ”sasando” is derived from Rote dialect ”sasandu” means “vibrating” or “sounded instrument”. It is believed that the sasando has already been known to the Rote people since the 7th century.

1

Angklung

a musical instrument made of two bamboo tubes attached to a bamboo frame. The tubes are carved to have a resonant pitch when struck and are tuned to octaves. The base of the frame is held in one hand, whilst the other hand strikes the instrument. This causes a repeating note to sound.

Each of three or more performers in an angklung ensemble play just one note or more, but altogether complete melodies are produced. It is originated from Indonesia and has been played by the Sundanese for many centuries.

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CENTER

TO TAKE and TO GIVE

DEVELOP & RISEN www.peramacenter.org

T

wenty Percent (20%) of Perama Tour & Travel profit is allocated for social project under the management of Perama Center as an Non Govement Organization. The corporate universal concept that has become the Club’s main concern is increasing the flow of tourist customers and develop tourist destinations.

To realize the mission, Perama working hand in hand with 4 main stakeholders – government, businessman, society, and tourist to maintain and develop some social project in the spirit of Gotong Royong, a truly Indonesian philosophy.

Hand-in-hand with the local community, several other area in Indonesia are now still being developed to become a unique community developed tourism sights.

All the programs is being carry on the Lesser Sunda area, specially East Lombok, Sumbawa Coastal, and Flores island with motto BISA (we can; (Bersih) Clean, (Indah) Beautiful, (Sehat) Healty, (Aman) Safe) and SAPA ( greet; (Senyum) Smile, (Akrab) Familiar, (Pelayanan) Good service, (Antusias) Enthusiasm).

In Kampung Padak, East Lombok building a community library and with the regular tour program, Perama also involving customers to be involved with the studying children in the library.

While In Lendang Nangka also in Lombok, together with the local people developing what used to be simple homestay and transform

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into a nature and culture park with traditional touch as an effort to add an attraction factor to the area.

In Bangi Regency, Bali. Perama also encouraging the community in Apuan village to join hand-in-hand to develop its natural treasures, the Tibumana Waterfall. It’s surrounding is still natural and that is what Perama and the community trying to develop.

The latest program currently being develop is again in Suranadi, Lombok. This rural area is only known because of the Hindu’s temple, but aside from that tourism potential is yet to be develop in this area.

Here Perama also establishing a compound that will be consist of education center, health facilities, a retirement house and a park that will be available for everyone. All in effort to support the Suranadi in becoming favorable a tourism sight in Lombok. Thus in long term would benefit the entire community, and risen the welfare of the region.

As mention earlier, the main concept of Perama is increasing the flow of tourist customers and develop a sustainable tourism destinations. By joining Perama Tour program, customer actually have participated in maintaining the social project through Perama Center as it corporate social responsibilities. To Develop and Risen every aspect of our beloved country, Indonesia.

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photo courtesy of Cader Abdul

Selong Belanak Beach East Lombok

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S

elong Belanak Beach is one of the several beach in the South Coast of Lombok which directly borders with the Indian Ocean. Thus making this region has a fairly high waves and stable enough to support the surfing sport.

Selong Belanak beach can be reached in approximately 1.5 hours from the airport, or 2.5 hours from Lembar Harbour. There is no public transportation to the location of this beach, alternatively travels can be a taxi and rental services that could cost between Rp.250.000 to 300.000 a day (that would be excluding petrol and driver).

Selong Belanak beach is surrounded by hills and flanked by several equally beautiful white sandy beaches. The coastal area is relatively quiet, making it ideal for those who crave tranquility, escaping from daily routines, listening to the waves and birdsong, and pamper yourself with a swim or surf.

The morning breeze blows hard across the beaches, waves tumbling one after another, the sun started to rise.

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“ “

ideal for those who crave tranquility

photo courtesy of Cader Abdul

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You get the feeling of quiet rural with not a lot of activities, some villagers helped fishermen returning fishing. Some carrying buckets, some picking the fish in nets.

From a distance, a herd of buffalo start coming from behind of the hills. With someone wearing a round hat made of cane leading the heard. He holds bamboo stick in both hands to control the herd as they march by the beach, yet another unique and exotic view.

With flocks of birds chirping, flying to and fro, and hopping from one twigs to another. The Groaning sound the buffalo and the cheerful sound of several children running around, adds an extra sensation to the atmosphere of Selong Belanak Beach.

I saw several tourists who stays near by the beach enjoying the atmosphere of the beach while sunbathing or swimming. I came this early also to enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of Selong Belanak Beach.

A few years ago, this hilly region has only two colors. Green and brown. green when the rainy season, and brown during the dry season. Now, some lodging and Resort is set on a hilltop and coastal areas. This places offers a heavenly scenery, we can see the white sandy beach area from the top of the hill or watch the sunset from the room with a cup of warm coffee But of course there is always a more economically friendlier way (Minus Bed and coffee). Visitor can try to go up to one of the hilltop on east side of the beach.

I’ve tried it a year ago, passing through creeks, through bushes, even passing by the herd. Upon reaching the top of the hill, the view if worth the effort. Beautiful landscape of the Selong Belanak Beach After spending sometimes admiring this marvelous God’s creation, I realize that I need to head down before noon, before the high tide.

It’s just a short relatively easy trekking trip, so no need for “professional” hiking equipment. Just watch out to some of these points; you need to be extra careful because some of the bushes is thorny and also watch your step for some land mines (buffalo droppings) is scatter around the area.

After enjoying the landscape from the hill, I then continue to hang around on beach. I saw a surfer guide teaching some tourists to surf As the sun began to rise, the heat mixes with the sea breeze and the Gili Anakewok which is at the other side of the beach looks astonishing and the Tomang Omang dan Serangan Beach seen from afar. This natural beauty is calling dip into the water and enjoy the beauty of Selong Belanak Beach, Lombok.

log on to caderabdul.wordpress.com for more interesting stories from Cader Abdul.

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photo courtesy of Torbenbrinker

Bayan

Beleq mosque 50

Lombok

thejourneymagz.com September / October 2016

I

t is known that the Islamic religion began to spread to Lombok in 16th century. When Lombok King (based in the Gulf of Lombok) accept Islam as the main religion of the empire, the Islamic empire expanded to the entire territory of neighboring Pejanggik, Parwa, Sarwadadi, Bayan, chock, and Sasak.

Later one the follower of Sunan Kalijaga (Suna, a Javanese term for an Islamic “Saint�) Sunan Pengging, come to Lombok in 1640 to preach about the Islamic religion. He then settle in Bayan village.

The Bayan village with an area of 8,700 ha of a hilly area with the background on the southern foot of Mount Rinjani. Here, there are important relics that can be used as evidence and study materials about the early days of the development of Islam in Lombok Island, namely Masjid Bayan Beleq. This ancient mosque building site is 80 km north of Mataram city.

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photo courtesy of rinkaapsari.blogspot.com

a “resembling unity among people “

photo courtesy of beautifulmosque.com

Upon entering the Mosque area, a few dozen meters in the middle of the tree shades, a small hut sits on a hilltop measuring 10 x 10 meters. Construction with an overlap roof made of straw, decorated on the top with a crown ornaments that have the characteristic of a mosque in early period of the development of Islam in Indonesia.

Inside the mosque there is also a wooden drum that hung on a pole roof of the mosque and tomb beleq (mausoleum) of one of the first Muslim missionaries in the region, namely Abdul Rozak Gaus.

There are two small huts around the area containing the tombs of several religious leaders who helped build and develop the mosque.

The entire construction in held by the main four pillar, taken from four surrounding village. The southeastern is from the Bilok Petung village in east Lombok, the Northeastern pillar form the Terengan Village, the Northwestern is from Senaru Village, and the southwestern pillar is from Sukadanan Village. As if it is resembling a unity among people to worship the all might God.

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photo courtesy of picsfab.com

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LA ND

OF

T H E

D R AG O N

Rinca ISLAND R

inca Island is part of the Lesser Sunda chain of islands and forms part of UNESCO World Heritage sites the Komodo National Park with other islands, Komodo Island and Padar, Gili Motang and 25 smaller ones. Located just off the western tip of Flores, about 2 hours sail from the nearest town of Labuan Bajo, the capital city of West Manggarai.

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Rinca Island is one of only a very few places to spot Komodo dragons in the wild and is often overlooked by tourists on their way to the more-popular Komodo Island. It is more likely to spot komodo dragons in their natural habitat on Rinca Island where there is less impact from tourism.

The Island it selves occupies only 123 square miles and aside from a tiny fishing village, the island is completely undeveloped. Miserably hot and dry, Rinca is also a home for other exotic and dangerous wildlife such as wild pigs, buffalos and various kinds of birds.

Although never a guarantee, the chances of spotting dragons in the wild are much better on Rinca than on Komodo Island, due to the more natural environment the Komodo Dragons are forced to wander around in search for food. With an addition of a little luck you may find only yourself and a park ranger - armed only with a stick wandering the bush in search of komodo dragons.

As mention above, the environment in Rinca is more natural and that makes a visit to witness the living fossil here is far more exciting.

An unforgettable journey to land of the dragon.

Jonathan Wiguna ; A traveler and a freelance writer based in Bali. Any chance to get out of the office, he will be out to explore Indonesia

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one of only a very few places to spot Komodo dragons in the wild

“

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photo courtesy of net

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THE NGADA TRIBEof

BenaVillage flores

T

he heart of Flores is host to some of the most vivid and extraordinary cultures found in Indonesia. One of these interesting cultures is that of the Ngada Tribe, which have found a rare synergy between Catholicism and their ancestral beliefs. The tribe is mainly settled around legendary Mount Inerie and Bajawa, the districts capital.

The tribe is separated in clans, and one of the unique aspects of their culture is that they determine their clan belonging by the maternal line of the women. So If a woman bears children, they are automatically members of her clan. Also land-rights, possessions and residences are passed on by the mother. The villagers are very friendly and are happy to teach visitors about their culture. They do not speak English, and the elders usually do not even speak Indonesian, which makes it very interactive.

In any particular Ngada village there are several clans living and they each have a pair of shrines in the centre of the village. These shrines represent Ngadu, meaning Man and Bhaga, meaning woman, which are build to honor their ancestors.

The Ngada only use the Hebu tree to make the shrines, and requires several rituals and ceremonies. First, they must perform a ritual involving the sacrifice of animals to their ancestors. Then the tree is taken out of the ground, with root and all. Followed by covering the entire tree with blankets to tame the tree. The tree is now allowed into the village where it is tattooed and made ready to be turned into a Ngadu. This is only one of many unique traditions of the rich culture of the Ngada. In every Ngada villages there is a

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“ their continue authentic way of living “

megalithic structure where the village elders convene and make decisions that influence their relation with the supernatural.

The Ngada live in traditional houses of impressive architectural design with thatched roofs. The roofs are made of a special grass, that has become very expensive over the years, and forced the locals to make the roofs thinner. In 1995, UNESCO acknowledged the importance of the Ngada’s heritage and put the villages on the tentative list and also collected funds to help the villagers pay for the expensive roofs and for village walkways to continue their authentic way of living. Some of the village women make and sell Ikat, a hand woven fabric which takes a long time to produce.

Bena and Wogo are the most popular villages to visit, which both give a great display of the Ngada culture and tradition. There are no guides at the villages, but in the regions capital Bajawa it is possible to hire guides.

The Ngada villages are one of the most interesting places to visit in Flores as the villages breathe ancient culture and tradition, and are a must-see on your journey through Flores.

Timo Jurgens ; Studying tourism management at Stenden University.

Spent some time doing internship in Bali.

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an interesting town to explore.

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Travel Gadgets

Samsung Gear 360

Capture essence of life as it unfolds its secret around you with the Samsung Gear 360 Spherical Camera. The front and rear shooters capture the surroundings horizontally and vertically, in 180 degrees and complete 360 degrees field of view. With the bright F2.0 lens, a 3820 x 1920 pixels high resolution video with 25.9 MP. The 360 Samsung Gear gives you captivating perspective on the world. source : www.samsung.com

Wacaco Minipresso

For serious caffeine addicts, having your morning fix on the go is an essential, not a luxury. Compatible with any Caffitaly capsules, this adorable mini machine will make your morning espresso on the go. source :www.wacaco.com

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Mini Mobilephone Fan

As if your SmartPhone doesn’t do enough already - now it can cool you off, too! Plug this fan attachment right into your Phone charging port for instant relief. Powerful yet soft blades with quiet operation ready to deliver you a refreshing breeze anytime, anywhere you need it. source : www.urbanoutfitters.com

JBL Pulse 2

Elevate your music experience to another dimension with the JBL Pulse 2, a portable Bluetooth speaker that offers sensational sound with an interactive light show. The splashproof design enables the Pulse 2 to light up any stage or show with high-quality stereo sound for up to 10 hours of playtime, thanks to its built-in 6000mAh rechargeable Li-ion battery. source : www.motorola.com

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The Do‘s & Don’ts

Indonesia has several traditions and customs and it is best if you know them before hand. Some of them are:

though hand shaking is deemed appropriate Do’s 1. Even between men and women, bear in mind that a number

of moslem women prefer to introduce themselves to men by nodding their head, smiling and clasping their hands without any physical contact.

2. Traditionally, when you greet someone, both hands are used when shaking, without grasping 3. Be sure to smile when you meet people you know.

Javanese people appreciate a ‘polite smile’.

4. Bending down a bit when passing a group of older people is considered polite.

5. In Indonesia, when you address some one, it would considered more polite if you use these specific terms before mentioning the name : Bapak (Pak) for Mr, Ibu (Bu) for Mrs, Mas for young man, and Mbak for Miss/ young woman.

6. Shoes must be taken off before entering a house or place of worship like mosque.

7. Usually drink are offered to guests. It is polite to accept 8. When eating, receiving or giving something, always use your right hand.

9. Right index finger should not be used to point a place, items or people. Use the right hand thumb and fold the remaining fingers to be more polite.

Don’ts 1. Don’t wear non-sleeve shirts, T-shirts, short pants, and

sandals in offices.

2. Don’t put your hands on your hips during conversation with Indonesians since this is considered impolite/ insulting.

3. Don’t demonstrate affection in public.

4. Don’t do impolite things in sacred places.

5. Don’t put your feet up on tables or chairs, or use them to point with.

6. Don’t be angry when someone on the same sex holds your hands or walks arm to arm, it’s the Indonesian way of showing a friendly relationship.

7. Don’t hesitate to reject the merchants trying to sell things to you. You might refuse by saying “saya tidak perlu.” (I don’t need it) or just said “tidak” (No).

8. Don’t be offended when people ask you personal questions. It’s just the way they show friendliness and you don’t have to answer the question if you don’t want to.

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Money Changing

When you decide to do money change do not get fooled by a HIGH rate or a big no commission sign.

Sometimes if they put a high rate they will eventually asked for also a high commission at the end or the worst is they trick you, the common knwo trick is by using a small change (20’s or 10’s) to confuse you and count it really fast and the trick is while they were counting some slips back behind the counter - and they’re as good as any magician.

Make sure the place itself at least look legit, a Commercial banks are always safest or Second best are registered money changers in sole-purpose shops or booths. If you find a good one it best to return.

Somepoints to remember :

Always ask first if they charge commission against the posted rate.

Always ask if they discount bills smaller than $100, and by how much.

Never let any changers count out your money and then take it back to check after it’s counted.

Don’t hand over your money – unless it’s the big registered exchange – until they count out theirs in front of you.

Banknotes Two Thousand Rupiah

Grey

Five Thousand Rupiah

Ten Thousand Rupiah

remeber to notice the zeros

Twenty Thousand Rupiah

Green

Brownish

Fifty Thousand Rupiah

Blue

Purple

One Hundred Thousand Rupiah Red

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Common Indonesian Words Good Morning Good day Good afternoon Good evening Goodbye Goodbye Please Please open the door Please Please come in Thank you It’s nothing Yes No/not I’m sorry Excuse me Welcome How are you?

I’m fine What’s your name?

My name is …

I’m from …

Straight on Turn left Turn right

selamat pagi selamat siang selamat siang selamat malam selamat tinggal selamat jalan tolong tolong buka pintu silahkan silahkan masuk terima kasih kembali/sama sama ya tidak/Bukan maaf permisi selamat datang apa kabar? kabar baik siapa nama anda nama saya… saya dari ... terus belok kiri belok kanan

See You On the Next Edition WITH MORE INFO ON INDONESIA TOURISM

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