Tuesday, May 13, 2008

AUSTRALIA

When planning a trip to Australia, one should keep in mind that the seasons of Australia are opposite to those in the Northern Hemisphere. The warmest month is February, while the coldest is July.The Outback, a popular tourist destination, is a desert.
Australia is also known for its "bush," or trees and wilderness. To go hiking in Australia is to "bushwalk." Though a car is necessary to get around on one's own in the desert or bush areas of Australia, in most major cities of the continent, a car is not necessary. If one does choose to rent a car, however, driving is on the left side of the road.

One of the most popular tourist arrival spots on the continent is Sydney, and some of the tours available in and around Sydney from sightseeing-tours.net include the following:

1) Blue Mountains and Australian Wildlife - 9 hours in duration, from 46 pounds per person
2) Sydney Dinner Cruise - 2 1/2 hours in duration, from 42 pounds per person
3) Best of Sydney - 6 hours duration, from 71 pounds per person
4) Hunter Valley Wineries - 10 hours duration, from 58 pounds per person
5) Taronga Zoo including Sky Safari - at leisure, from 11 pounds per person
6) City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Tour of Sydney and Bondi - 24-hour ticket, from 13 pounds per person
7) Harbour Highlights Cruise - 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 hours duration, from 9 pounds per person
8) Sydney in a Day - 8 1/2 hours duration, from 44 pounds per person
9) Jenolan Caves and Blue Mountains - 10 hours duration, from 51 pounds per person10) Outback Snapshot - 3 days, 2 nights duration, 601 pounds per person

Another popular Australian tourist attraction might be Perth. Some tours in Perth include the following:
1) Perth Sightseeing Pass - leisure, 39 pounds per person
2) Rottnest Island Relax-Away - 2 days, 1 night duration, from 124 pounds per person
3) Perth's Famous Wine Cruise - 7 hours duration, from 50 pounds per person
4) Pinnacles, Kalbarri, Monkey Mia and Ningaloo Reef - 5 days, 4 nights duration, from 447 pounds per person
5) Aboriginal Heritage Tour - 3 hours duration, from 23 pounds per person

Some of the highlights of an Australian vacation might include trips to the Atherton Tablelands, Monkey Mia, Ayers Rock, or Cape York. The Atherton Tablelands in Queensland is an hour's drive from Cairns. It is a virtual mountain getaway and sites in the area include Millstream Falls, Australia's widest waterfall, and the Hypipamee National Park. The Atherton Tablelands are known for having postcard-like towns and villages.

One can visit the dolphins at Monkey Mia in Western Australia. Though a tour of this is mentioned above, a little more detail can be given here. Tourists to the area can stay at the Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort, which offers beachfront garden villas and overlooks the Dolphin Beach. Ayers Rock, also known by its Aboriginal name Uluru, is considered one of the wonders of the world and is located in Kata Tjuta National Park. At certain times of the day and at certain temperatures, this rock has been known to change color, from blue to red.

Ayers Rock is one of Australia's most popular tourist attractions. Run by the Aboriginal people, the area abounds with local culture.

Cape York, at the northeastern corner of Australia, contains some of the most rugged terrain in Australia and for that reason is a popular four-wheeler attraction.Cape York has very few inhabitants, and is one of the few wilderness areas that remain in Australia. Tourists might also want to try Bush Tucker, or native Australian foods. These include Quandongs (like a peach), Wattle Seeds (from the Wattle Bush), Witchetty or Witjuti Grubs (found in stems, trunks, and roots), Kakadu Plums (sweet plums), Bunya Bunya Nuts (like macadamia nuts), and Goanna (native lizard).

SWITZERLAND


The capital city, Bern, has several attractions to its credit. One can visit the Museum of Fine Arts or the Historical Museum, the gothic Bern Cathedral for a complete cultural experience. For a spectacular view of Switzerland, visit the Jungfrau region. Lying south of Interlaken, it provides a breathtaking view of the three mountains of Jungfrau, Monch and Eiger. Visit Chateau de Chillon in Montreux, one of the most visited historical buildings of Switzerland.Skiing is a major attraction in Switzerland. Zermatt is one of the best ski resorts in Switzerland, which boasts of one of the most famous peaks in the Alps—the Matterhorn. Discover the third largest city of Switzerland—Geneva. Located on the shore of Lake Geneva, it is credited with the world’s tallest fountain, finest museums, exceptional restaurants and a thriving art scene. Switzerland has beautiful wildlife which can be witnessed in the Swiss national Park in Zernez. -->

GERMANY

Berlin is a city of landmarks like the Reichstag, or the German Parliament Building, the Berlin Wall and Checkpoint Charlie. The Soviet War Memorial is a must-see. Apart from history, the capital also offers a zoo, housing 13,000 diverse species.
Step into fairyland with a trip to the Neuschwanstein Castle. The castle was commissioned by King Ludwig in 1869 and had thousands of workers working on it for 16 years, completing only two-thirds of the castle.
In spite of being depressing, a trip to the concentration camp of Dachau is extremely informative about the horrors of the Holocaust.
A visit to the city of Cologne on the banks of river Rhine is probably most famous for producing eau de cologne and for its enchanting thirteenth century Cathedral. The Black Forest of Germany has been the inspiration for numerous fairy tales and is a favourite with hikers and cross-country skiers. For a taste of the romantic Germany, visit the city of Heidelberg.

MEDAN

:) Medan is our home town. The city where we were born, grown,we learnt and met our soulmate.. So many beautiful things happened to us in this lovely city.

There were not so many places u can visit here, is it right evi?
Our favourite hang out place is Sun Plaza, since it was the most luxurious mall in this city,
Karaoke Keluarga; which is our da jie's working place and one more PMCI. Not a hang out place but more to a "have to come place" because PMCI is our college.

PMCI left so much memories to my university's year.
I may say I'm not so satisfied with this college since it is too far from my expectation of how professional this college should be but it is more to the special personal I met here.

Well, well, well.. It's time for me to do the posting now.. hahahaha <-- EVI's here.. :p Wat the.. Let's see, Nov.. What have you said about our lovely college? hahahaha How dare you.. You haven't graduate yet, remember? How if they look at this, then give you the penalty for saying this? hahahahaha... Just kidding.. We all know that our college is not that 小气. How do you say 小气 in English, anyway? @.@ I think, whenever and whatever we done, we always need dajie to do such thing for us.. hahahaha.. Dajie, help me for the translation and grammar here.. I am confusing.. @.@ Then, nov.. you miss something le.. Where is the icon of our lovely city, the becak?? hahahahaha.. and I think we need the pic of sun plaza also here.. Well, let me do this.. *searching for becak for a while* Ahaaaa.. I've found one..




JRRrrreeeeeennnnggggg.. The becak is here, "where should I take you to, ma'm?
hohohohoho... (psstt.. it won't cost u too expensive.. :p)


*searching for Sun Plaza*


*tring tring*


I've found the night view of it. Let me show you, why it become the most luxurious plaza in Medan.. Take a look at its adorable design of building.. WoOoowW..!!!



From what I've heard, the design of the building was based on the shape of a ship, it is "kapal induk" --> someone tell me, what is "kapal induk" in English? bleh.. Dajie, again.. we need you.. T.T

Uummm.. Do I post too much? hauhauhauhauhahaha..
Well, let cindi do the rest..
Yah, I mean.. This blog consist of four of us, which is Novi, Cindi, Vishera and Evi.
Whereby, Novi have done the post and I have done too much, hahaha..
Cindi, you should take part too.. :p

For Vishera, I don't think she will be able to since we know that she is a good housewife, staying at home all day long, most of the time, taking care of her baby, or...
.. handling her stock of accessories and cosmetics? hahahaha.. the MLM business supported by Novi.

I've talked too much now.. hahahaha..

Cya in the next posting ~
Tereng...
I'm coming.. still Novi here, since Cindi is still busy with her meeting and Visherra is still taking care of her baby..
Well, I think this blog should include one of missing member which is " Da jie ", the oldest in our gang. Whohaha..
Okay, I would clarify, you are not a person who have talked too much, but write too much evi..
but well, your posting make this posting more colourful.. Post more, laugh more...
I'm now thinking of new title of our post, evi... loading..now....
Error....
See u later, i should go back to work..
This is Medan, we should have one post with Hokkien Ua.. Haha.. It would be more interesting. Do you agree?
Oops, Evi, u should put the pics of Karaoke Keluarga,too, do something for our Da jie.. Haha..
Bye..

CANADA


Owing to its rich history and culture, Canada offers a wide range of cultural and geographical attractions. The mighty Rocky Mountains, the historic Montreal and the fishing villages of Canada are worth a visit. While in Canada, be sure not to miss the roar of water at the Niagara Falls.
Visit the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve to see falcons, razorbills and the orange-beaked puffin. Quebec, Canada’s largest province is a centre of creative energy with its displays in art, music, literature, dance, painting and sculpture. Quebec also houses several important historical sites and 27 national parks.
Toronto, one of the world’s largest cities, is home to great music and an exciting night life. Home to Parliament Hill and the Prime Minister of Canada, Ottawa is a major hub of political activity

PUERTO RICO

From beautiful beaches to a wide variety of rain forests, Puerto Rico is home to several attractions and opportunities. Visit the El Yunque National Rain Forest, the only rain forest in the US, for an exciting nature trip. Rio Camuy Cave Park, a million-year-old cave is home to several sinkholes and natural limestone rocks.
Puerto Rico is an ideal vacation spot for those with an inclination towards ancient architecture and history. The San Felipe del Morro and San Cristóbal Fortresses, the La Fortaleza or Santa Catalina Palace and the Hacienda Buena Vista are worth a visit.
While vacationing in Puerto Rico, be sure to visit the Arecibo Observatory, which houses the largest telescope in the world. Visit the Gilligan’s Island, Playa Boquerón, and Playa Cerro Gordo for some of Puerto Rico’s best beaches.
Visit the Pool Palace for an exciting night life experience

SINGAPORE


Make your way to Arab Street, Little India and China Town. These quarters are rich in the local cuisine and arts and handicraft. During times of festivity, these areas are lit up and vibrant with street performances and celebrations. Also make your way to the quite Changi Village, experience the laid back life here. Explore the city’s colonial past at Padang. With old Victorian buildings standing tall between manicured green lawns, it reminds you of an era long goneNature and wildlife is at the core of any visit to Singapore. Excellent sights include a stop by the Singapore River, the Jurong Bird Park and the Sentosa Island. You’ll also find camping and trekking sites around the country. For the glitz and glamour of Singapore head to Orchard Road, spend the day shopping till you drop at some of the most desired brands in business. For a night of hip entertainment make your way to the popular Holland Village. -->

INDIA




India has many attractions that are truly breathtaking. Its premier attraction is the world-famous Taj Mahal in Agra. This extravagant Mughal mausoleum is the ultimate symbol of love. Other attractions in Agra include the red sandstone Agra Fort and Akbar’s Mausoleum.
Lined with sandy beaches, beautiful Portuguese churches and a laidback lifestyle, Goa is a tourist hotspot. The backwaters of Kerala are known for its tranquillity.

The Gateway of India is the most popular landmark in Mumbai, India’s commercial capital. Home to the Hindi film industry or ‘Bollywood’, the city is known for its fast-paced lifestyle.

The Khajuraho Temples in Madhya Pradesh are known for their sheer size and beauty as well as the erotic sculptures.

The Ganges River is sacred to the Hindus. According to traditional belief, a dip in this majestic river can wipe-out all sins. The holy town of Varanasi is a pilgrimage centre dotted with temples and bathing ghats.

ENGLAND

London, being the capital and the largest city of England, has many attractions. England is home to some of the most famous tourists spot like Trafalgar Square, Westminster Abbey, the Buckingham Palace, the Big Ben and the Tower of London. The picturesque locations of England are known for being the inspiration behind many great works of literature like the Lake District of England. It is a beautiful region and inspired many of Wordsworth’s work.
For some pre-historic experience, visit the Stonehenge, the most important ancient monument of Europe. Roman Baths and Pump room in Bath, from the eighteenth century is a must visit site. Visit the home of Shakespeare in Stratford-upon-Avon. It has other things such as the Teddy Bear Museum and the Stratford Brass Rubbing Centre. Any trip to England would be incomplete without visiting the Windsor Castle. It is one of the homes of the Queen, and has been used for about 900 years now.

KOREA


Seoul is incredibly full of different attractions.One of the most popular areas for visitors to explore is Insa-dong, filled with antique shops, art galleries, traditional teahouses, restaurants and bookshops.Mount Namsan, the mountain that stands sentinel in the centre of Seoul, is a popular recreational feature in the city. On the summit there are several attractions to enjoy, including the Maritime Aquarium, botanical gardens, fountains and the charming Seoul Tower.The Chongmyo Shrine, built in the early 15th century by the founder of the Chosun Dynasty (Tae-jo).In December 1995, the Chongmyo Shrine was designated a World Cultural Heritage site by UNESCO.The Children’s Grand Park is one of the largest children's parks in Asia. It includes a zoo, a botanical garden, an amusement park, outdoor concert stages and physical training facilities.Other great attractions of Seoul include the Kyongbokkung Palace, the Toksugung Palace, the Changdokkung Palace and it's Secret Garden, the 63 Building with IMAX theatre and aquarium, the night market at Dong-Dae Moon, the Achasanseong Fortress and the Thirteenth-century watchtower Dongshipjagak.Lotte World, Seoul Dream Land and Everland are popular amusement parks located nearby Seoul city.

ITALY

Venice in Italy is one of the most unique places in the world. With an enchanting architecture and mesmerising atmosphere, you are bound to fall in love with Venice. Then, there is the ruined site of Pompeii, which gives an insight into the style of living of the ancient Romans, houses with frescoes, temples and one of the biggest theatres of Roman Architecture. One of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, is located here in Italy. A trip to Ravenna gives an opportunity to enjoy the beauty of Byzantine Architecture or unique mosaics.
The Island of Capri is offers a peaceful getaway for all its visitors. The capital city of Rome has a variety of places that must be visited like the Colosseum, the Pantheon, and the Roman Forum.
The sun-kissed island of Sicily
was a favourite target for all invaders who have left their mark on the island in the forms of Greek temples, Roman ruins, Norman castles, and Byzantine domes. -->

PARIS,FRANCE

First visits to Paris can be daunting: nearly every square inch of the city seems to be seeping with history and beauty. All of it is worth seeing and exploring, but there are some Paris tourist attractions that simply shouldn't be missed. Here are ten of the best Paris sights and attractions, chosen for their mass popularity, historical importance, or sheer aesthetic appeal. If you want to experience Paris' most essential attractions, this guide will help you pinpoint what to see and do first

Top Paris Tourist Attractions:

To learn the Louvre in and out, you might need a lifetime. Still, one has to start somewhere. The site of the world's largest and most diverse collection of pre-20th century painting, sculpture, and decorative objects, The Louvre is definitely one of Paris' best attractions. Not forgetting the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo, bask in the works of Vermeer, Caravaggio, Rembrandt, and countless other masters. The palace itself is testament to a rich history spanning from the medieval period to the present


2. Notre Dame Cathedral
No first trip to e
Paris is complete without a visit to this marvel of gothic architecture. One of the most singular and beautiful cathedrals of Europe, Notre Dame Cathedral's dramatic towers, spire, stained glass and statuary are guaranteed to take your breath away. Witness firsthand the spot that was once the heartbeat of medieval Paris, and that took over 100 years of hard labor to complete. Climbing the North tower to see Paris from the hunchback Quasimodo's vantage is essential, too. You'll soon understand why Notre Dame is one of Paris' top attractions.

3. Musée d'Orsay
Renoir, Bal au Moulin de la Gallette, 1876. Public domain.
Walk over the bridge from the Louvre to the Musée d'Orsay-- and see the bridge between classical and modern art. Housing the world's most important collection of impressionist and post-impressionist painting, the Musée d'Orsay's light, airy rooms whir you through three floors of modern wonders, from Degas' ethereal dancers to Monet's water lilies, all the way to Gaugin's leafy jungles. Major works by Van Gogh, Delacroix, Manet, and others await you, too.

4. The Sorbonne and the Latin Quarter
The Sorbonne University is the historic soul of the Latin Quarter, where higher learning has flourished for centuries. Founded in 1257 for a small group of theology students, the Sorbonne is one of Europe's oldest universities. It has hosted countless great thinkers, including philosophers René Descartes, Jean-Paul Sartre, and Simone de Beauvoir. Enjoy a drink on the café terrace in front of the college before exploring the winding little streets of the Latin Quarter behind it.

5. Eiffel Tower
More than any other landmark, the Eiffel Tower has come to represent an elegant and contemporary Paris. The iron tower, which was built for the 1889 World Exposition by Gustave Eiffel, was wildly unpopular with Parisians when it was unveiled, and was nearly torn down. It has since attracted over 220 million visitors, and it would be hard to imagine Paris now without it. The tower crowns the Paris night sky with its festive light, and glitters up a storm every hour. Cliché? Maybe. But essential.

6. Arc de Triomphe and the Champs-Elysées
The 164-foot Arc de Triomphe commissioned by Emperor Napoléon I does exactly what it was made to do: evoke sheer military power and triumph. It was built in an age when leaders erected monuments in their own honor, and scaled to their egos. The arch's beautiful sculptures and reliefs commemorate Napoléon's generals and soldiers. Visit the Arc de Triomphe to begin or culminate a walk down the equally grandiose Avenue des Champs-Elysées. You can't help but feel grand yourself.

7. Centre Georges Pompidou and the "Beaubourg" Neighborhood
Parisians consider the Centre Georges Pompidou to be the cultural pulse of the city. This modern art museum and cultural center, located in the neighborhood affectionately dubbed Beaubourg by locals, opened in 1977 to honor president Georges Pompidou. The Center's signature skeletal design, which evokes bones and blood vessels, is either loved or reviled-- no in-betweens. If wacky design isn't your cup of tea, the permanent collection at the National Museum of Modern Art is a must and features works by Modigliani and Matisse. Rooftop views of the city are also in order.

8. Sacre Coeur and Montmartre
With its unmistakeable white dome, the Sacre Coeur sits at the highest point of Paris on the Montmartre knoll, or butte. This basilica, which was consecrated in 1909, is best-known for its garish gold mosaic interiors and for its dramatic terrace, from which you can expect sweeping views of Paris on a clear day. Take the funicular up with a metro ticket and stop off at Sacre Coeur before exploring the winding, village-like streets of Montmartre. And after expending all your energy climbing Montmartre's formidable hills and stairs, consider a traditional Parisian cabaret at the legendary Moulin Rouge.

9. Père Lachaise Cemetery
Paris counts within its walls many of the world's most poetic cemeteries-- but Père Lachaise outdoes them all. Countless famous figures are buried here: the most popular being The Doors lead singer Jim Morrison, whose tomb is kept constant vigil by fans. The French playwright Molière, Oscar Wilde, Edith Piaf, and Richard Wright are a few others. On a sunny day, climbing to the cemetery's summit and looking down on the lavishly designed crypts can be surprisingly joyful.

10. Boat Tour of the Seine River
Seeing some of Paris' most beautiful sites glide past as you drift down the Seine river is an unforgettable and essential experience. Companies such as Bateaux Parisiens offer 1-hour tours of the Seine year-round for about 10 Euros. You can hop on near Notre Dame or the Eiffel Tower. Go at night to enjoy the shimmering play of light on the water, and dress warmly-- the wind from off the Seine can be chilly.
(www.goparis.about.com)

JAPAN


If you are planning to visit Japan, below you'll find some fun and exciting Japan Tourist Attractions.

1. Lake Tazawa

Explore this beauty crater lake by paddle boat, rowboat or pleasure cruiser; you can pick any of these up in front of the Tazawako Lodge on the northeast shore. Sights worth seeing around the lake include Gozanoishi Shrine (north shore), with its striking red gate, and Katamae Mountain Forest (western shore), which has a spectacular lookout point.


2. Kakunodate

This historic town is about 40 minutes from the Nyuto area by car. Follow signs to the samurai district, which consists of 12 house museums in several blocks. Bukeyashiki Street has the headlining houses, including the terrific Aoyagi Samurai Manor. Stop at Satoku Garden (26 Higashi-katsurakucho) for Kakunodate’s other specialty: boxes and trays made from cherry bark, as well as silk scarves dyed with cherry-blossom petals. (From late April to early May, the town holds its renowned cherry-blossom festival.) Get lunch at Sakura Tei (18 Yokomachi; entrees $10 to $18), which serves excellent parent-and-child udon chicken and egg over noodles.


to be continued.....

Honeymoon (Greece)


Your honeymoon in Greece is one of the most memorable experiences of your life. Great honeymoons require careful planning and lots of imagination. Share your dreams with us, we will deliver an impressive specially tailored itinerary for you and the love of your life. Planning for this special occasion requires more than simply reserving a room. Allow us to arrange your event, and through our unique partnerships, we'll get all the amenities for you that you can't get on your own!

Aphrodite, the goddess of Love and Beauty
Let it be known the place that celebrated her.
For your Greece honeymoon, visit vibrant Athens and the romantic Greek islands. Enjoy romantic sunsets in the Greek islands, evening strolls by the sea, relax in your hotel spa, have dinner under the candle light and enjoy the amazing view of the Aegean sea and the volcano of Santorini.
All these and more in the Greece honeymoon package of your dreams

Honeymoon (Bali Spa III)



Bali is also an ultimate spa destination. With a vast range of exotic tropical ingredients to spice up your spa experience, ...


I recommend u these two spa centres :

1. Natural Spa Relaxation Centre
Jl. Danau Tamblingan No. 23 Sanur Bali - Indonesia

Natural Spa Relaxation Centre only 25 minutes drive from Ngurah Rai International Airport, 5 minutes to the capital city - Denpasar and a few minutes walk from shops in Sanur.




2. Kawas Spa
Jl. By pass Ngurah Rai No 82 Kedonganan, Denpasar 80362 - Bali Indonesia

Kawas Spa is available as its outlets located in few hotels below :

* Inna Putri Bali Hotel - Nusa Dua

* Melia Benoa - Nusa Dua

* Swiss-BelHotel Bay View - Nusa Dua

* Ramayana - Kuta

* Kuta Beach club - Kuta

* Bali Rani Hotel - Kuta

* Diwangkara Holiday Villa - Sanur

Honeymoon (Bali II)



The village of woodcarvers, Mas is still the house of Bali's old masters. A number of art galleries exhibit some of their best works. Mas is also known for its masks.

Menjangan Island
Located on Terima Bay, off the northwest tip of Bali, Menjangan Island offers beautiful scenery. The water surrounding it is known for beautiful coral reefs and its wealth of tropical fish.
Part of the Bukut Peninsula in southern Bali, Nusa Dua has some of the most beautiful and luxurious hotels on this planet, gracefully integrating the beauty of the white beaches and clear water into the landscape of the hotels. Ronald Reagan stayed here when he visited Bali. The beaches of Nusa Dua allow you to gently surf along the northern side of the peninsula. If you care for bigger waves, the southern part of the peninsula can give you a challenge.
PeliatanLocated between Ubud and Mas, Peliatan is the center of traditional music and dance of Bali.
The ten acres of nutmeg trees in the Sangeh forest are considered sacred. Two temples stand in the middle of the forest, and another at the edge. Monkeys heavily inhabit this forest, and are also held sacred. They will come to you when you visit the temples. Make sure you protect your handbags, etc as the monkeys will steal them.
Palm-lined beach, curving from the Grand Bali Beach Hotel to the south and facing the Indian Ocean towards the east, Sanur is an excellent place to see the sun rise in the morning. I suspect this is where Nehru experienced Bali to utter "Bali is the morning of the world." Offshore reefs protect the beach agains the waves, and makes it popular for windsurfing, boating, and other watersports.Sanur is only a short distance from Denpasar, with public transportation readily available. It is one of the first areas where one can find good hotels, restaurants, shops, and other tourist facilities.
Pura Tirta Empul is the temple of Tampak Siring, built around a sacred spring. The temple and its two bathing places have been used by the Balinese for over 1000 years for good health and prosperity; the spring water has curative powers. Regular purification ceremonies take place here. Additionally, the people of Tampak Siring produce artistic bone and ivory carvings.
One of Bali's most important sea temples, Tanah Lot temple is built atop a huge rock, surrounded by the sea. Build in the 16th century, Tanah Lot's rituals include paying of homage to the guardian spirits of the sea. Poisonous sea snakes found in the little caves at the base of the rocky island are believed to guard the temple from evil spirits and intruders.
The village of Tenganan maintains its ancient pre-Hindu customs through a strong code of nonfraternization with outsiders, helped by the protection of its surrounding walls. Unique offering ritual dances and gladiator-like battles between youths take place. Tenganan develops a unique technique of weaving, called the 'double ikat.' The people believe in the magical power of the fabric.
Trunyan is an ancient village in Bali, inhabited by people who call themselves "Bali Aga" or old Bali. They live in ways that are much different from other Balinese. In Trunyan, the temple Puser Jagat (Navel of the Universe) has an unusual architecture and stands under a massive banyan tree. Instead of cremating their corpses, the Bali Aga simply place them under this banyan tree. The odor of death is mysteriously masked by a special arboreal fragrance emitted by the banyan tree.
Ubud is the art center of Bali, which maybe a hard concept to understand, given the artistic nature of the entire living in Bali. But the Raja of Ubud, historically, strongly encouraged artistic development, especially in painting. Ubud's Museum "Puri Lukisan" houses a permanent collection of Balinese paintings, dating from the turn of the century. Dutchborn Hans Snel and American Atonio Blanco, among other internationally prominent artists, had both called Ubud their home. The Neka Museum is another excellent museum, with marvelous collections of traditional Balinese paintings by local artists as well as foreign artists who lived in Bali.Ubud today expands to other arts. You should not be surprised to run into a foreigner who happens to be living in Ubud, meditating or soul searching for his next book or poetry collection. Most hotels in Ubud are small, homely hotels and homestays that will provide you with a room that faces the ricefields with bird sonatas togently wake you in the morning.

Yeh Saneh
Few people know of this idyllic spot a little further east on the coastal road. A few meters from the splash of the surf is a cool freshwater spring around which a large pool and gardens have been built.
WHooa... I can't wait to visit you, wat an amazing island..

Honeymoon ( Bali )

Bali is one of welknown honeymoon destination in Asia, located in Indonesia. Unique, Romantic, Religious and friendly.

These are some places of interest in Bali :


Bali houses Pura Kehen, Bali's second largest temple. The temple has three courtyards connected by steps, and is decorated with carvings and statues. A large banyan tree shades the lowest and second courtyards.
Batubulan

Batubulan is home to a number of stone carvers. Divinities and demons carved from sandstone (Paras) decorate (and protect) houses and temples along the road that takes you from Denpasar. Batubulan also has excellent dance and theatrical performances.
Bedugul

The mountain resort of Bedugul is well known for its golf course and Ulun Danu, a temple which seems to rise out of the lake to present itself beautifully. Boats, water skiing, and parasailing are among the many watersports available in this area.
Besakih

The sanctuary of Besakih on the slopes of Gunung Agung (Mount Holy) is over a thousand years old and is known as the Mother Temple of Bali, the biggest and holiest of all Balinese temples. Steps rise through split gates to the main courtyard where the Trinity shrines, dedicated to Shiva, Brahma, and Wishnu, are wrapped in cloth and decorated with flower offerings. Around them, stand eighteen separate sanctuaries, belonging to different regencies and castes.
Celuk

Celuk is noted for silver and gold jewelry works. Their works are extremely meticulous and detailed.
Denpasar

The capital city of the Province of Bali, Denpasar houses government offices, banks, and many other offices. Yet it manages to retain its Balinese personality while its temples still mantain their presence and influence. Pura Jagatnatha, a temple dedicated to the Sang Hyang Widi (Supreme God), has been converted into a Musuem. The status of a turtle and two dragons in the temple signify the foundation of the world. The Pura's architecture resembles that of a Balinese palace. It houses a fine variety of early and modern art.Sanggraha Kriya Hasta is a government-supervised art center, home to a wide variety of handicraft and works of art. Werdi Budaya presents a yearly art festival between June and July, with performances, exhibitions, art contest, and other artistic activities.
Goa Gajah

Dating back to the 11th century, Goa Gajah is a cave temple believed to be built as a monastery. Two statues flank a demon head over the entrance, and a statue of Ganesha (Elephant) sits inside the cave. Further excavations have uncovered a bathing place with six statues of nymphs holding water spouts.
Goa Lawah

Nine kilometers from Klungkung is Goa Lawah (Bat Cave). Thousands of bats make the roof of the cave their homes. Its entrances are guarded by a temple believed to be found by a sage nine centuries ago.
Kintamani

The villages of Kintamani and Penelokan give a view of the active Mount Batur and its lake. Seven miles in diameter and sixty feet deep, the caldera of Batur is pretty impressive. From Penelokan, a road lead to Kediasan on the shores of the lake where boats can be rented to cross over to Trunyan.
Klungkung

The Javanese Hindu Kingdom in Bali, where Balinese royalty draws its blood line, sat in Klungkung. It is the oldest kingdom on the island, and its Raja the most exalted.The ceiling of Kertha Gosa (Royal Court of Justice), built in the 18th century, displays one of Bali's masterpieces. Much like Michelangelo's The Creation on the Sistine Chapel, the murals portray the punishment of hell and the rewards of heaven, elaborated in thousands of panels of wayang style. The floating pavillion, garden, and lotus ponds are a reminder of the former glory of this kingdom.
Kuta

Once a lonely little village on the road from Denpasar to Bukit Peninsula, Kuta is now the tourist mecca of Bali, popular mainly among the young and adventurous. Coconut trees line the sand beach as far as the eyes can see towards the north stopped by the runway of Denpasar's airport far in the west.The Sunset in Kuta is most breathtaking. Accommodations in Kuta range from a modest homestay for a few dollars a night to luxurious, five-star, international hotels costing several hundred to several thousand dollars a night. The street of Legian, situated directly behind the row of hotels that face the beach, is lined with shops of all varieties. You can find any Balinese handicrafts here, from the least expensive to the most exquisite; or unique stores such as the leather store staffed by two young Balinese men that will perfectly sculpt for you a leather jacket. (They are all extremely talented artists, remember?) At night, Kuta is alive with night life. Western influences create discotheques, dance clubs, and pubs. Gastronomical demands inspire a multitude of restaurants, serving traditional Indonesian and Balinese food to various ethnic meals from Japan, Switzerland, etc. As if these were not enough, various Balinese dance performances are staged in Kuta every night. One of the best Kecak performances is to be found in Kuta.

Monday, May 12, 2008

Honey Moon Destination (Hawaii)


Each couple dreams of a romantic, exotic, unforgetable honeymoon, hmmm...

Even we are not going for honeymoon in this short time, but i think this topic is quite interesting.. May be we can give some good suggestions for our friends, relatives or x-boy friends? ^^
For your information, Hawaii is America's No. 1 honeymoon destination. Find out what makes Hawaii so appealing to couples — whether they're planning a Hawaii honeymoon, Hawaii wedding, or a Hawaii romantic getaway.




There are so many reasons why Hawaii turns up as No. 1 on the list of top destinations for honeymooners year after year. For one thing, once you get outside crowded, touristy Waikiki, it's absolutely beautiful.
The air is filled with the fragrance of exotic tropical flowers, such as plumeria. Thick banyan trees gracefully drop their branches to the ground, and grow upwards from there. The water is a pristine turquoise blue. The beaches are immaculate, and uncrowded.
And you can try out just about any water sport you ever imagined. After all, surfing began here.
The food is great, too. You can get just nearly anything you like, but preferred local delicacies come from the sea. Fresh mahi-mahi and opakapaka plucked from the Pacific Ocean and garnished with Hawaiian macadamia nuts are heavenly. Maui onions are sweet as can be. And the island's kettle-cooked potato chips are so salty and crunchy, they redefine the meaning of sinfully good. (www.honeymoons.about.com)

Sunway Lagoon, Kuala Lumpur

Have a chance to visit Sunway? Wait no more ! Head down to the coolest, newest, most happening place in town the Sunway Lagoon!
Sunway Lagoon is strategically located in the township of Bandar Sunway in Petaling Jaya. Spanning 80 acres, the Lagoon draws fun seekers from all over with its reputation as a fascinating land of fun and excitement.

Sunway Lagoon is separated into 3 major themed lands, each boasting their own exciting attractions. Find entertainment, adventure and excitement all in place. A place where you will bring back more than just memories.Sunway Lagoon, being part of Malaysia's first fully-integrated themed resort - Sunway Lagoon Resort, offers visitors the conveniece of a 5-star hotel, a grand shopping mall right next door and other ultra-modern facilities.

Here i post the pics of Water of Africa, Wild Wild West, World of Adventure, Voodo Adventure River, Surf Beach. What else? Check more at www.sunwaylagoon.com

Malaysia


Are u going to visit Malaysia? Then, i will say you are lucky, friends...

Malaysia has been known as with its warm tropical climate, beautiful sandy beaches and bustling cities with great value shopping, it is one of the few places in the world where your visit can easily combine city, beach and jungle in one amazing easily arranged trip.
Malaysia is the perfect holiday destination for any time of the year.The tropical islands of Penang and Langkawi in the Andaman Ocean are a magnet for holiday makers and offer some of the best accommodation available in Malaysia.

Check my next post to see exotic tourist destinations at Malaysia.. :)