By: Alex Albert
Being the capital, Jakarta is one of the designated tourist destinations of Indonesia. This city serves as the gateway to most of the other cities of interest in the country. It is easily accessible by all the modern means of transportation including by air, sea, rail and road. The Soekarno-Hatta international airport is the largest and most modern airport in the country in terms of technology and services. Besides, the city is well-linked with other places like Java, Sumatra and Bali through rail and road services. This wonderful city, placed in the northern coast of west Java, is a conglomeration of diverse ethnic groups of people. The architecture of this city is influenced to a large extent by various outside invasions. So, you can see some of the old world architectural structures here that have been well preserved. One such interesting monument is the Old Batavia, which has been restored to approximately its original state.
Other interesting structures like Old Portuguese Church and warehouse have been rehabilitated into living museums for people to see. Other buildings like the old Supreme Court have been re-established as a fine arts museum and the old Town Hall has become the Jakarta Museum, displaying such rare items as Indonesia's old historical documents and Dutch period furniture and a hundreds of years old tower clock. With the influx of tourists in the recent times, the city has introduced various facilities for the visitors. One such facility is the introduction of different categories of new hotels in Jakarta including luxury hotels, premium hotel, and various cheap hotels as well. Besides, the city has also included different fine restaurants, exciting nightlife and modern shopping centers for the comfort and recreation of tourists.
There are various attractions that must be viewed during your stay at Jakarta. Amongst the several attractions, Taman Mini Indonesia Indah, the island resorts in the Pula Seribu, various houses of worship, museums comprising many architectural forms of arts and traditions and the restored colonial period buildings are regarded highly by tourists. Besides, saving the past heritage, this city has nicely included modernity as well and the skyscrapers in the center of the city nicely depict this blend. Jakarta is the industrial, political and cultural center of Indonesia and the home to many of the country's finest educational institutes and cultural organizations. The cultural richness of this city along with its vibrantly growing economy is significantly contributing towards its importance as a tremendously growing city in Asia and the world as a whole.
There are various modern luxury hotels and budget hotels in Jakarta catering every year to the discriminating visitors in the city. Most of these hotels are scattered in the Central Jakarta, North Jakarta, South Jakarta and West Jakarta regions. Park Lane Hotel, Ciputra Hotel, JW Marriott, Dharmawangsa Hotel, Intercontinental Midplaza, Shangri-la and Mulia Senayan are amongst a few luxury hotels in Jakarta. Jakarta also houses hotels of world famous groups that provide quality of comfort and great hospitality for the travelers. Four Seasons, Intercontinental, JW Marriott, Le Meridien, Ritz-Carlton, Shangri-la, Sheraton etc. are some of the well-known hotel groups that provide world-class hotels in Jakarta.
Article Source: http://www.articlecat.com
Log on to www.asiarooms.com for all other details on Jakarta Hotels and to get a complete guide on Jakarta as a destination. So, don’t waste time! Reserve your hotel now and book the best hotel deal with Asiarooms.
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Jakarta - the threshold of the travel trove of Indonesia
By: Alex Albert
Article Source: http://www.articlecat.com
Looking for a better deal on Jakarta hotels? AsiaRooms is your best online partner with which you will get a lucrative deal on the hotel of your choice.
Without exploring the capital city of Jakarta, your trip to Indonesia wouldn’t get completeness. As the eleventh largest city, fifth largest metropolitan area and the ninth most densely populated city in the world, Jakarta holds a special importance in the travel map of the country. Generally, the city is considered as a starting or ending point for tourists. The city is located on the northwestern coast of Java Island, at the mouth of the Ciliwung River. The northern portion is a plain land, while the southern parts are mainly a hilly area. Mainly, the city enjoys a tropical climate, which causes a hot and humid weather throughout the year.
Jakarta is well-connected by plane, train, bus and boat with the rest of the country as well as other countries. Soekarno Hatta International Airport in Jakarta has connected the city with various countries as well as other cities in Indonesia. Besides, trains, buses and boats are other means to explore the country of Indonesia from here.
With the existence of many foreign as well as domestic immigrants, Jakarta has been enriched with a cosmopolitan flavor and a diversified culture. Be it languages, cuisines or customs- varieties are seen everywhere. The city boasts a number of performance centers and the Senayan center is one amongst them. While traveling in the city, travelers will also experience traditional music as well as wayang and gamelan performances.
The city of Jakarta boasts of a number of worth-seeing places. Some of them are like Jakarta Old Town, Taman Mini Indonesia Indah, Museum Nasional, Pasar Baru, Monas, Museum Sasmita Loka and Museum Adam Malik. With a number of shopping malls, markets, shopping centers and duty free shops, shopping has become a most-enticing-activity to the travelers here. Though the city is not overloaded with discos and clubs, but a handful of nightclubs, bars and pubs are there, where your nights would be vibrant and exhilarating.
Nevertheless, when it comes to accommodation option in the city, a wide range of hotels in Jakarta won’t disappoint any traveler here. The city has housed all kinds of hotels ranging from luxury accommodation to budget hotels. All main areas like Central, North, South and West Jakarta bestow guests with manifold accommodation options. The city takes pride of its luxury hotels possessed by renowned hotel groups like Hilton, Intercontinental, JW Marriott, Meridien, Shangri-La, Sofitel, Sheraton, Crowne Plaza and Mercure.
At the same time, Jakarta also features several budget hotels providing accommodation as well as necessary amenities at a reasonable rate. Thus, it can be said that the city has catered to all options for both luxury and budget vacationers. Choose a Hotels in Jakarta that meets your needs and budget and enjoy your days in the capital of Indonesia.
Finally, we would highlight on the hotel reservation process. Since, these days, online hotel booking has become very famous; hence, making reservation of a hotel has become easier. This online process is completely secure and authentic with which you can book any hotels in Jakarta in a less period of time.
Article Source: http://www.articlecat.com
Looking for a better deal on Jakarta hotels? AsiaRooms is your best online partner with which you will get a lucrative deal on the hotel of your choice.
Indonesia A La Carte Special
By: Roberto Bell
Comprised of seventeen thousand islands, Indonesia is a sure smorgasbord surprise. Wide-eyed guests could simply marvel at the wondrous beauty before their eyes but have to settle for a few courses in order to enjoy each trip to the largest archipelago of the world.
Here is a sampling of the extensively diverse Indonesian travel menu.
Sumatra
Sitting on the equator, Indonesia’s largest province is covered with tropical rainforests which is home to a rich collection of flora and fauna ecosystem. The island boasts of several reservation areas including Mount Leuser National Park, home of the endangered Sumatra Orang-utan and Berbak Wildlife Reserve which accommodates the largest tiger population in Indonesia.
Bali
Its serene panorama, both on land and underwater, simply fills the senses with the beauty of nature and the wonders it offers to man. Aside from the breathtaking beaches, Bali also takes pride of Bali Barat National park, home of a number of bird species declared as among the rarest and most beautiful in the world.
Borobudur Temple
Located on a hilltop in Central Java, Borobudur Temple is one of the world’s most celebrated Buddhist temples. Dated back to the 9th century A.D., the temple was discovered in 1984 under thick forest foliage. After a successful restoration, the temple showed panels carved in stone that tells of the life of Buddha and the tenets of Buddhism.
Komodo National Park
By the name alone, it obviously is world-famous Komodo dragon’s only home on earth. It is one of the oldest and rarest reptile specie that has survived several earth eras. The largest reptile, growing up to three meters or more, is actually a monitor lizard that hunts and scavenges around the barren lands of Komodo Island.
Bromo-Tengger National Park
Bromo-Tenger was already a buzzling community long before the concept of Indonesia was conceived. It is located in Mount Semeru where thousands of Hindus flock for annual pilgrimage in honor of the god that looks after the mystical place which is composed of volcanoes covered by thick forests. Most of these volcanoes are still active lead by the notorious Semeru volcano that records an eruption every eight minutes.
Bunaken Marine Park
With marine biodiversity comparable to the Great Barrier Reef of Australia, Bunaken Marine Park is a heavenly refuge for avid divers and snorkelers. Both amateur and pro underwater explorers will surely be mesmerized by the rich collection of colorful corals and reefs that are homes to an equally rich assembly of fish and marine animal species.
Article Source: http://www.articlecat.com
For accommodation in Indonesia please visit: Indonesia Hotels. For other options: LondonHotelsGuide.me.uk | DublinHotels.me.uk
Comprised of seventeen thousand islands, Indonesia is a sure smorgasbord surprise. Wide-eyed guests could simply marvel at the wondrous beauty before their eyes but have to settle for a few courses in order to enjoy each trip to the largest archipelago of the world.
Here is a sampling of the extensively diverse Indonesian travel menu.
Sumatra
Sitting on the equator, Indonesia’s largest province is covered with tropical rainforests which is home to a rich collection of flora and fauna ecosystem. The island boasts of several reservation areas including Mount Leuser National Park, home of the endangered Sumatra Orang-utan and Berbak Wildlife Reserve which accommodates the largest tiger population in Indonesia.
Bali
Its serene panorama, both on land and underwater, simply fills the senses with the beauty of nature and the wonders it offers to man. Aside from the breathtaking beaches, Bali also takes pride of Bali Barat National park, home of a number of bird species declared as among the rarest and most beautiful in the world.
Borobudur Temple
Located on a hilltop in Central Java, Borobudur Temple is one of the world’s most celebrated Buddhist temples. Dated back to the 9th century A.D., the temple was discovered in 1984 under thick forest foliage. After a successful restoration, the temple showed panels carved in stone that tells of the life of Buddha and the tenets of Buddhism.
Komodo National Park
By the name alone, it obviously is world-famous Komodo dragon’s only home on earth. It is one of the oldest and rarest reptile specie that has survived several earth eras. The largest reptile, growing up to three meters or more, is actually a monitor lizard that hunts and scavenges around the barren lands of Komodo Island.
Bromo-Tengger National Park
Bromo-Tenger was already a buzzling community long before the concept of Indonesia was conceived. It is located in Mount Semeru where thousands of Hindus flock for annual pilgrimage in honor of the god that looks after the mystical place which is composed of volcanoes covered by thick forests. Most of these volcanoes are still active lead by the notorious Semeru volcano that records an eruption every eight minutes.
Bunaken Marine Park
With marine biodiversity comparable to the Great Barrier Reef of Australia, Bunaken Marine Park is a heavenly refuge for avid divers and snorkelers. Both amateur and pro underwater explorers will surely be mesmerized by the rich collection of colorful corals and reefs that are homes to an equally rich assembly of fish and marine animal species.
Article Source: http://www.articlecat.com
For accommodation in Indonesia please visit: Indonesia Hotels. For other options: LondonHotelsGuide.me.uk | DublinHotels.me.uk
25 Things You Did Not Know You Could do in Bali
By: Joanna M Lawson
As they say, "one trip to Bali is never enough". Vast, seemingly endless beaches, beautiful tropical landscapes, the fascinating culture, amazingly hospitable people and shopping for local crafts continue to attract repeat visitors to Bali, time and time again.
However, as I have been discovering in my recent trips, there is more to this tropical paradise than meets the eye.
Today you can also add to my list above, the attraction of a myriad of activities catering to both the action oriented holiday maker and the more staid.
Here is a starter list of 25 new things you may want to try when you are next in Bali:
1) Bird Park
You don't need to be a bird watcher to enjoy this colourful park. Take a morning off, and discover the beauty of an array of tropical birds Bali has to offer. Even better, arrive later in the afternoon, and enjoy some amazing sun-set melodies. A great choice for enthusiasts and families. (located at Taman Burung - open 08:00 - 18:00 daily)
2) Cruising
Pick a boat of your choice, and head for the high seas! Nowadays Bali has a great selection of safe boats to choose from. Go for a fun filled family outing or go more adventurous with some of the latest cutting edge crafts which deliver the speed. (Bali Hai Cruises, Sea Safari Cruises, Bounty Cruises)
3) Dance Performances
Be enthralled by unique Balinese dances! Try to catch one of each of: Kecak, Legong and Fire Dances, at least. There are dozens of different troupes to choose from, each with their own following. Keep in mind, shows in hotels and tourist restaurants offer vanilla flavour, and sometimes mechanical re-creations of the real thing. Head out to some of the villages, and you will be handsomely rewarded with the authentic fare.
4) Designer Shopping
No, I am not talking about the "fake originals" that litter the streets of many other Asian locations. In the recent years, Bali has attracted some of the most talented original designers, and artists from around the world (both the East and the West). This coupled with the inherent artistic capabilities of the Balinese, means that Bali today enjoys a large number of original designer shops. You can find anything from post-modern lighting installations, to Imperial Chinese style sideboards, and from original water fountain designs to some of the best jewelry designed and manufactured anywhere in the world.
5) Diving
Put your PADI license to use, or if you are a diving newbie, just do it, and get your PADI certificate in Bali! A range of dive organizers for the experienced, and dive schools for the new comers are available to choose from. Some offer PADI "Youth Scuba" courses for ages 5+.
6) Dolphin Watching
Enjoy these all-time favourites in their natural habitat. They are at their best first thing in the morning. Also, the soft hues of the sun-rise provide amazing colours for the photography enthusiasts. However, you will need to plan ahead for this one, since Lovina is in the North of the island, and you will more than likely be staying in a hotel or a rental villa in the south.
7) Fishing
Go after that marlin or try your hand at yellow fin tuna! Most boats provide full tackle, bait and a running commentary, a friendly, giggly banter which makes the day out that much more enjoyable. (fishing boats from Benoa Harbour or Sanur)
8) Elephant Safari Park
Arguably, one of the best in South East Asia! Great location and landscaped gardens. Don't forget to do the elephant safari ride.
9) Jet Skiing
Re-create those favourite Baywatch moments! Due to their environmental impact, only available at some selected beaches across the island. (available at Grand Hyatt Nusa Dua).
10) Go-Karting
Only for those who get withdrawal symptoms from being away from the hustle and bustle of big-city life! All the noise, thrills and danger of the real thing! Choice of single or double carts.
11) Golfing
A number of 18 hole courses are available across Bali. As you would expect, each more beautiful than the other. Relax on an easy course, or challenge yourself to one of the more demanding courses designed by professionals. Either way, don't miss the spectacular views over the Indian Ocean or one of Bali's great volcanoes. Most courses in Bali are to international standards, and many offer clubhouses and recreational facilities for the rest of the family.
12) Helicopter Tours
Go on, splash out for that once in a life-time experience! Spectacular views over Bali even Lombok. Take in the gentle rice terraces from the best vantage point, or get up close and personal with a volcano! Not cheap, but certainly an experience never to forget. (Air Bali)
13) Horse Riding
Enjoy one of the equestrian centres at your doorstep! Selection of horses, with courses for the beginners. Wonderful escorted tours through the rice terraces and tide permitting down the beach. (Umalas or Saba Bay Stables)
14) Kite Boarding
Some great wind and lift, as well as the equipment for rental is available at Nusa Dua beaches. But make sure you have a great story lined up for your insurance company! Keep in mind, this really is an Extreme Sport.
15) Monkey Watching
Experience mischievous macaques in full action! Also, some good restaurants and eateries nearby. However, be careful of your cameras, glasses and the like! (The Sacred Monkey Forest - Ubud)
16) Mountain Cycling
If you like cycling, why not enjoy a leisurely cycle with views of the Batur volcano! Lots to see, lots to learn, all on two wheels with an experienced guide. (Bali Adventure Tours)
17) Paragliding
Throw yourself off the sheer cliff faces of Uluwatu into the Indian Ocean! As a beginner you can enjoy great tandem jumps with well qualified professionals with great safety records.
18) Slingshot (Reverse Bungee)
Defy gravity Bali style, with some spectacular 50m views! (That is, if you remember to open your eyes!) Not for the faint-hearted. Organisers follow international safety standards.
19) Surfing
If you've come with your board you'll know where to go! If you are keen to learn, there are many schools to choose from, just head for the beach! Whilst Kuta is a good all rounder, Uluwatu, Padang-Padang, and Balangan can provide some great tubes to test the more experienced. (some offer surfing lessons for ages 5+, so the whole family can enjoy surfing all together)
20) Temple Ceremonies
Few visitors to Bali realise that in most instances you will be welcomed to attend local ceremonies as an observer. The great thing is, there is a temple ceremony every single day of the year in Bali, just ask around to find the nearest one during your stay. If you are lucky enough, you may be able to catch one of the Full Moon or Dark Moon ceremonies which attract devotees from far a field and are some of the most colourful events on the island. Please remember that a sensible dress code, and polite/respectful behaviour are essential for continued hospitality towards foreign guests. (Also, please note that women are not allowed in the temples during their menstrual period.)
21) Tennis
Choose from one of many open or some covered courts! Whilst most better tennis courts are located at major hotels, you can use these facilities on a pay-per-use basis. Many will provide a partner to match your skills.
22) Wake Boarding (or Knee Boarding)
Have a go at that double flip, or just learn to stand up! Whilst most beaches are more suitable for surfing, you can enjoy wakeboarding at the Condrad Bali Resort, and surrounds.
23) Waterbom Park
Water slides and rides galore, both kids and adults will have a blast! World class park, with well trained staff. Go early to make the most of your day! (open 09:00 18:00 daily)
24) Wind Surfing
Maximise the almost continuous winds found in Nusa Dua or Sanur. You can rent a board, and head out, or take one of the courses designed for beginners.
25) White Water Rafting
A thrilling experience through 8 kilometers of rapids! (believe it or not, still suitable for ages 5+) Organisers follow international safety standards. (Bali Adventure Tours)
Like me, if you manage to fit in five of these activities into your schedule, every time you visit Bali, you will still want to come back for more. Because, at the end of the day, it is the people of Bali, with their welcoming smiles, and willingness to help, which will make mere adventures into even more precious memories.
One final thought. If you are attempting something new, or slightly dangerous, please make sure to check that you are fit/suitable enough for the adventure ahead, and that the organisers have the necessary experience/safety record so as not to spoil your wonderful Bali adventure.
Many happy returns to the Island of the Gods!
Article Source: http://www.articlecat.com
Joanna M Lawson is an independent travel writer based in SE Asia and splits her time between London and Bali. Ms Lawson is not directly affiliated with Bali Villa Rental - Mia Villa. To reuse this article you are required to link to the site above.
As they say, "one trip to Bali is never enough". Vast, seemingly endless beaches, beautiful tropical landscapes, the fascinating culture, amazingly hospitable people and shopping for local crafts continue to attract repeat visitors to Bali, time and time again.
However, as I have been discovering in my recent trips, there is more to this tropical paradise than meets the eye.
Today you can also add to my list above, the attraction of a myriad of activities catering to both the action oriented holiday maker and the more staid.
Here is a starter list of 25 new things you may want to try when you are next in Bali:
1) Bird Park
You don't need to be a bird watcher to enjoy this colourful park. Take a morning off, and discover the beauty of an array of tropical birds Bali has to offer. Even better, arrive later in the afternoon, and enjoy some amazing sun-set melodies. A great choice for enthusiasts and families. (located at Taman Burung - open 08:00 - 18:00 daily)
2) Cruising
Pick a boat of your choice, and head for the high seas! Nowadays Bali has a great selection of safe boats to choose from. Go for a fun filled family outing or go more adventurous with some of the latest cutting edge crafts which deliver the speed. (Bali Hai Cruises, Sea Safari Cruises, Bounty Cruises)
3) Dance Performances
Be enthralled by unique Balinese dances! Try to catch one of each of: Kecak, Legong and Fire Dances, at least. There are dozens of different troupes to choose from, each with their own following. Keep in mind, shows in hotels and tourist restaurants offer vanilla flavour, and sometimes mechanical re-creations of the real thing. Head out to some of the villages, and you will be handsomely rewarded with the authentic fare.
4) Designer Shopping
No, I am not talking about the "fake originals" that litter the streets of many other Asian locations. In the recent years, Bali has attracted some of the most talented original designers, and artists from around the world (both the East and the West). This coupled with the inherent artistic capabilities of the Balinese, means that Bali today enjoys a large number of original designer shops. You can find anything from post-modern lighting installations, to Imperial Chinese style sideboards, and from original water fountain designs to some of the best jewelry designed and manufactured anywhere in the world.
5) Diving
Put your PADI license to use, or if you are a diving newbie, just do it, and get your PADI certificate in Bali! A range of dive organizers for the experienced, and dive schools for the new comers are available to choose from. Some offer PADI "Youth Scuba" courses for ages 5+.
6) Dolphin Watching
Enjoy these all-time favourites in their natural habitat. They are at their best first thing in the morning. Also, the soft hues of the sun-rise provide amazing colours for the photography enthusiasts. However, you will need to plan ahead for this one, since Lovina is in the North of the island, and you will more than likely be staying in a hotel or a rental villa in the south.
7) Fishing
Go after that marlin or try your hand at yellow fin tuna! Most boats provide full tackle, bait and a running commentary, a friendly, giggly banter which makes the day out that much more enjoyable. (fishing boats from Benoa Harbour or Sanur)
8) Elephant Safari Park
Arguably, one of the best in South East Asia! Great location and landscaped gardens. Don't forget to do the elephant safari ride.
9) Jet Skiing
Re-create those favourite Baywatch moments! Due to their environmental impact, only available at some selected beaches across the island. (available at Grand Hyatt Nusa Dua).
10) Go-Karting
Only for those who get withdrawal symptoms from being away from the hustle and bustle of big-city life! All the noise, thrills and danger of the real thing! Choice of single or double carts.
11) Golfing
A number of 18 hole courses are available across Bali. As you would expect, each more beautiful than the other. Relax on an easy course, or challenge yourself to one of the more demanding courses designed by professionals. Either way, don't miss the spectacular views over the Indian Ocean or one of Bali's great volcanoes. Most courses in Bali are to international standards, and many offer clubhouses and recreational facilities for the rest of the family.
12) Helicopter Tours
Go on, splash out for that once in a life-time experience! Spectacular views over Bali even Lombok. Take in the gentle rice terraces from the best vantage point, or get up close and personal with a volcano! Not cheap, but certainly an experience never to forget. (Air Bali)
13) Horse Riding
Enjoy one of the equestrian centres at your doorstep! Selection of horses, with courses for the beginners. Wonderful escorted tours through the rice terraces and tide permitting down the beach. (Umalas or Saba Bay Stables)
14) Kite Boarding
Some great wind and lift, as well as the equipment for rental is available at Nusa Dua beaches. But make sure you have a great story lined up for your insurance company! Keep in mind, this really is an Extreme Sport.
15) Monkey Watching
Experience mischievous macaques in full action! Also, some good restaurants and eateries nearby. However, be careful of your cameras, glasses and the like! (The Sacred Monkey Forest - Ubud)
16) Mountain Cycling
If you like cycling, why not enjoy a leisurely cycle with views of the Batur volcano! Lots to see, lots to learn, all on two wheels with an experienced guide. (Bali Adventure Tours)
17) Paragliding
Throw yourself off the sheer cliff faces of Uluwatu into the Indian Ocean! As a beginner you can enjoy great tandem jumps with well qualified professionals with great safety records.
18) Slingshot (Reverse Bungee)
Defy gravity Bali style, with some spectacular 50m views! (That is, if you remember to open your eyes!) Not for the faint-hearted. Organisers follow international safety standards.
19) Surfing
If you've come with your board you'll know where to go! If you are keen to learn, there are many schools to choose from, just head for the beach! Whilst Kuta is a good all rounder, Uluwatu, Padang-Padang, and Balangan can provide some great tubes to test the more experienced. (some offer surfing lessons for ages 5+, so the whole family can enjoy surfing all together)
20) Temple Ceremonies
Few visitors to Bali realise that in most instances you will be welcomed to attend local ceremonies as an observer. The great thing is, there is a temple ceremony every single day of the year in Bali, just ask around to find the nearest one during your stay. If you are lucky enough, you may be able to catch one of the Full Moon or Dark Moon ceremonies which attract devotees from far a field and are some of the most colourful events on the island. Please remember that a sensible dress code, and polite/respectful behaviour are essential for continued hospitality towards foreign guests. (Also, please note that women are not allowed in the temples during their menstrual period.)
21) Tennis
Choose from one of many open or some covered courts! Whilst most better tennis courts are located at major hotels, you can use these facilities on a pay-per-use basis. Many will provide a partner to match your skills.
22) Wake Boarding (or Knee Boarding)
Have a go at that double flip, or just learn to stand up! Whilst most beaches are more suitable for surfing, you can enjoy wakeboarding at the Condrad Bali Resort, and surrounds.
23) Waterbom Park
Water slides and rides galore, both kids and adults will have a blast! World class park, with well trained staff. Go early to make the most of your day! (open 09:00 18:00 daily)
24) Wind Surfing
Maximise the almost continuous winds found in Nusa Dua or Sanur. You can rent a board, and head out, or take one of the courses designed for beginners.
25) White Water Rafting
A thrilling experience through 8 kilometers of rapids! (believe it or not, still suitable for ages 5+) Organisers follow international safety standards. (Bali Adventure Tours)
Like me, if you manage to fit in five of these activities into your schedule, every time you visit Bali, you will still want to come back for more. Because, at the end of the day, it is the people of Bali, with their welcoming smiles, and willingness to help, which will make mere adventures into even more precious memories.
One final thought. If you are attempting something new, or slightly dangerous, please make sure to check that you are fit/suitable enough for the adventure ahead, and that the organisers have the necessary experience/safety record so as not to spoil your wonderful Bali adventure.
Many happy returns to the Island of the Gods!
Article Source: http://www.articlecat.com
Joanna M Lawson is an independent travel writer based in SE Asia and splits her time between London and Bali. Ms Lawson is not directly affiliated with Bali Villa Rental - Mia Villa. To reuse this article you are required to link to the site above.
All About Bali Teak Furniture + Beautiful Discount Teak Patio Furniture
By: Andrew Manifield
Article Source: http://www.articlecat.com
Having spent months of research on different subjects, for independant companies, Andrew Manifield has decided to publish his articles on many subjects at his own website, visit to learn more.
www.qualified-publishing.co.uk/teak-furniture
Shopping for Bali teak furniture is quite exciting. Teak furniture is very durable and long lasting. It is beautiful and made to last a lifetime. You will find that there are many styles and pieces of teak furniture from Bali, that are available.
Bali teak furniture comes from teak wood that has been planted and harvested on tree farms. The process from planting to harvesting takes about 50 years. This wood is a natural hardwood that does not splinter or rot. It resists water naturally and has a high oil content. Over time it turns a beautiful silver gray patina if left outdoors. You can always add little teak oil to enhance the honey glow of the wood . Indoors the wood has a nice aromatic smell which lasts for years.
Many pieces are available in Bali teak furniture. Choose from outdoor furniture such as chaise loungers, table and chair sets, bars, and benches. Indoors, the furniture might include desks, tables, occasional tables, bedroom sets and more. You can have your furniture custom made from finely skilled craftsman in Bali. These people take such pride in their work and it is becoming quite a tourist attraction. Detailed carving in the wood adds such character and charm to the piece. Many pieces can be manufactured to suit your needs. You can also purchase cushions to add to the style and comfort of your teak furniture.
Shopping for Bali teak furniture is a fun experience. You can find it at many fine garden shops and fine furniture shops. Many pieces can be ordered to suit your taste. Browse online to search out companies and compare prices. Don't forget to read the feedback that most customers leave about the company and service. This is very helpful when deciding where to purchase. Ask about shipping and handling prices. Some companies will not accept returns so check carefully before buying.
Whatever you choose, Bali teak furniture will be yours for a lifetime. You can take pride in having and choosing the best quality furniture around. It may cost a little more, initially but because it lasts a lifetime, you will be making an economic purchase. Enjoy your teak furniture with your family and friends. They will be amazed at your taste in furniture and design.
Are you looking for discount teak patio furniture? You can find teak patio furniture online easily. Browse the web and search companies that sell teak furniture. Be sure to read the feedback the customers leave on each company. Ask about shipping and handling costs also.
Fine furniture stores also carry discount teak patio furniture. You can usually find a great sale during the summer holidays, such as Memorial Day and Fourth of July also Labor Day sales. End of summer clearance sales are also a great time to shop for teak furniture. You can find great prices as well as beautiful patio furniture.
Did you know that discount teak patio furniture comes from Southeast Asia? Primarily in Indonesia where the wood is harvested from tree farms. It takes 50 years to take the wood from planting to harvesting. Teak furniture is handmade where the people take pride in their work and the craftsmanship is superb. This is becoming quite a tourist attraction. Teak wood is eco-friendly and more energy efficient than metal or plastic.
Teak ages very nicely and is smooth to the touch making it a perfect wood for your discount teak patio furniture. Also there are many styles to choose from in discount teak patio furniture. Choose from chaise loungers, table and chair sets, Adirondacks, and reclining loungers. Don't forget the cushions for your chairs. There are many different patterns and colors to choose from . Make it fit your decor and personality.
Discount teak patio furniture can be left outside for years to come. It is long lasting and durable. Over time it turns a silvery gray patina. Use a little teak oil and bring back the honey shine of the wood. Teak is perfect for outdoors because it does not splinter or rot.
Perfect for the patio, comfortable and beautiful all at the same time. What more can you ask for? You will be happy to know you are getting superior value as well as handsome furniture. You can't go wrong with beautiful discount teak patio furniture. Shop with confidence knowing you are buying a quality product.
Article Source: http://www.articlecat.com
Having spent months of research on different subjects, for independant companies, Andrew Manifield has decided to publish his articles on many subjects at his own website, visit to learn more.
www.qualified-publishing.co.uk/teak-furniture
Bali Dream Hotels and Villas
By: Roberto Bell
One of the tropical destinations of choice in Asia was and is Bali the tiny island in Indonesia. Charming with its originality of culture and the kind friendliness of its people this tropical island attracts visitors from around the globe looking for that special dream vacation. This current year we see travellers from the emerging economies of China and India contribute to the ever increasing arrival numbers in Bali. The latest wave of visitors are looking increasingly for that special touch in hotels to spend the resting hours while staying on the island. The upper end of their interest are villa style accommodations located either within Bali hotels or several dedicated luxury villas.
The resulting building boom in Bali resorts is especially visible in form of small to tiny hotels that sometimes consist of as few as 5 or as many as 50 private villas, many of them with their own private pools. Seclusion in that environment gives privacy and peace of mind and truly reflects and provides a different experience than just having a typical hotel room. Hotel rooms are usually located in a building of long alleys of rooms, villas are very individually placed and structured.
Interesting developments of the last few years are the Downtown Villas with just 9 luxury villas, The Elysian with 26 villas in that same stylish pool concept that thinks of pools as part of the "indoor experience" while actually it's more that your living room is partly in the tropical open air environment. Then there is also the Sentosa Private Villas and Spa with 32 elegantly appointed villas that even consist of 5 bedroom villas located also in the heart of the Balinese 'villa center' of Seminyak. This beach attracts everyone that is 'hip' or are willing to become so for a while.
Other worthwhile objects of interest are the Jamahal Private Resort & Spa and the Gangsa, both with just 10 or 11 villas that offer the finer things in life such as spa treatments and gourmet kitchens. The new contemporary Bali style of architecture is often a very stylish mixture of authentic local concepts and their materials, colors and tones with the best that western influence and comfort has to offer. The resulting concept is never less than stunning and instantly likeable and convincing.
That trend set in Bali was and still is leading world wide in development by bringing true natural ambiente and modern high-tech appliances together, and put design touches and art on top of that. It's very much a modern utopia that actually became reality here on the island. Why anybody would want to save money on a special trip like that and stay instead in a hotel that also could resemble any other hotel located in NYC, London or Amsterdam style wise is beyond excuse. You really would miss one of the best opportunities in life to see something completely different than most people ever are able to find in a city.
Of course there is one major point that can trouble the fun even before it starts: Many Bali Villas have such a low quantity of rooms that they basically cannot afford to accept reservations without commitment by people that change plans later on in the year. So full pre-payment even several months before arrival is generally required to secure any of these villas. This and tough cancellation policies makes it a bit uneasy to accept in people's changing plans and schedules.
Easier terms have the established villas and villa resorts that also accept last-minute bookings without any problems. Some of these are the Bagus Jati, one of the most interesting villa resorts in Ubud the center of cultural Bali. Or also the Elysian if it has to be 'the beach' location. How did all that local villa development come to life? It all started basically with The Oberoi Bali in Legian, that secured a big space directly on the beach ahead of the mainstream and generously layed out its gardens with private Villas and luxury Lanais. Right next to all the in-restaurants and its beach folks that are around until late clubbing through the night.
Secluded in the southern Jimbaran tip is the Ritz Carlton Bali that defined the essence of a dream vacation in style in actual reality. Not only fantastic villas on cliffs also some more affordable deluxe rooms and suites that set a standard that many Bali hotels try to recreate since then. This resort is still the original in the 'Ritz experience' however and shows every willing student of style and life how original Bali style natural luxury should and indeed can look like.
Article Source: http://www.articlecat.com
Dave Waldheim is editor of the Bali hotels and Bali travel information website where you can find articles of local and expat writers that actually live there, view previews of some of the leading Bali hotels in every price category, reserve a room online or search for another provider in the Bali Search Engine at Bali Search Engine The search engine for Bali and everything Balinese.
Villas in Bali
By: Kadek Sudarsana
A villa is basically a house where a family can spend their time together. In Bali however, a villa is a breath of nature for the family, for first time honeymooners, or individuals who want to re-encounter the self being. Most villas in Bali take personal privacy into account, and this is at harmony with nature. The detailed concept of their respective architectures can be various, but privacy and luxury play an important role in the basic concept of many villas.
Luxurious, sometimes superbly luxurious, the architecture of many villas in Bali is breathing in the rhythm of space that plays on the silence of the surrounds and fits effortlessly and discreetly into the small community.
In recent years the island of the Gods has become the site for many villas, or a cluster of villas in Bali referred sometimes as a boutique resort. The beginning of the new super luxury trend began at the end of the 1980's, precisely with the opening of the Amandari, perched on the edge of Ubud's Sayan Gorge. The mind behind the resort was renowned Australian architect Peter Muller along with owner Adrian Zecher.
Hotels of that era were built with many rooms. Villas, however, have different approach. It is not simply how many hotel rooms you have, but how wonderful they are. Luxury, too, is not only determined by expensive materials for many of these resorts often use the simplest of local materials.
The detail of concepts of boutique resorts and villas in Bali have developed since the days of Muller and Zecher, who has initiated the rejuvenation of the Balinese traditional village living within their architecture design. "Nowadays, modern touches are an important component in the design of villas in Bali," said Popo Danes, a reputable Balinese architect who has designed a plenty of villas in some of Bali's more remote locations. As a result, according to Popo, the sense of simplicity is becoming stronger.
Initially, simple village living has been blended with a luxurious urban lifestyle. Nowadays, however, the sensation of simplicity has built the luxurious atmosphere. Details of architecture of many villas in Bali have beautifully combined the traditional and modern elements and features.
There is one feature almost always seen: Balinese traditional gate angkul-angkul, which usually gives access to Balinese compounds in many places of the island, has been utilized to strengthen the traditional senses of the villa building.
The presence of angkul-angkul has given a particular atmosphere of village living in many villas in Bali. Almost all villa designers' in Bali, seemingly, consider angkul-angkul as a standard feature for Balinese designed villa. However, the popularity of angkul-angkul has expanded beyond the boundaries of the island. In Jakarta as well as in many places in Java, including in Jogyakarta and in Surabaya, angkul-angkul has gained a particular place in villa design, it is often applied to give access to many private villas even luxurious residences. Perhaps it is to remind them of Bali, to bring about the nuances of Balinese harmony of living.
Once you pass the villa's angkul-angkul, a serene garden awaits you. A garden is apparently another 'compulsory zone of beauty' for Bali-based villa designers. With lines of colorful flowering plants or decorative leaves, tropical gardens bring nature into the villas, each of which with their own details according to the sense of their respective landscape designer. The garden is not merely decorating the villa; it is so much important for the image that some villas in Bali use it as a marketing tool and promote the property as a 'garden villa'.
Adjacent to the garden, often under the shadow of a frangipani tree, often lays the swimming pool. Private pools have been another luxurious trend in villa design. Nowadays, it seems that a villa in Bali is not a 'real' villa without a private pool. It can be a small swimming pool or even a plunge pool where you guests spend time relaxing and basking under the sun.
The garden and the pool sometimes (not sometimes, often!) are perfected with a spectacular backdrop of green rice fields, of mountainside, of river flow or beachfront: according to the blessing of the beauty of the villa's location. This is Bali, where the stunning panorama of nature has long become an important element of beauty.
A villa, by this very definition must be small and limited. Above all, it should have its own recognizable flavor and character. The only similarity between many villas in Bali is the level of luxury and excellence.
If you have the money and want to really relax and enjoy yourself while visiting Bali, make sure that you reward yourself by staying in one or more of the world's best resorts.
All Bali Villas.com features a great selection of luxury private villas in Bali for honeymoon, ultimate holiday or vacation.
Author Bio
Kadek Sudarsana
Villas in Bali
A villa is basically a house where a family can spend their time together. In Bali however, a villa is a breath of nature for the family, for first time honeymooners, or individuals who want to re-encounter the self being. Most villas in Bali take personal privacy into account, and this is at harmony with nature. The detailed concept of their respective architectures can be various, but privacy and luxury play an important role in the basic concept of many villas.
Luxurious, sometimes superbly luxurious, the architecture of many villas in Bali is breathing in the rhythm of space that plays on the silence of the surrounds and fits effortlessly and discreetly into the small community.
In recent years the island of the Gods has become the site for many villas, or a cluster of villas in Bali referred sometimes as a boutique resort. The beginning of the new super luxury trend began at the end of the 1980's, precisely with the opening of the Amandari, perched on the edge of Ubud's Sayan Gorge. The mind behind the resort was renowned Australian architect Peter Muller along with owner Adrian Zecher.
Hotels of that era were built with many rooms. Villas, however, have different approach. It is not simply how many hotel rooms you have, but how wonderful they are. Luxury, too, is not only determined by expensive materials for many of these resorts often use the simplest of local materials.
The detail of concepts of boutique resorts and villas in Bali have developed since the days of Muller and Zecher, who has initiated the rejuvenation of the Balinese traditional village living within their architecture design. "Nowadays, modern touches are an important component in the design of villas in Bali," said Popo Danes, a reputable Balinese architect who has designed a plenty of villas in some of Bali's more remote locations. As a result, according to Popo, the sense of simplicity is becoming stronger.
Initially, simple village living has been blended with a luxurious urban lifestyle. Nowadays, however, the sensation of simplicity has built the luxurious atmosphere. Details of architecture of many villas in Bali have beautifully combined the traditional and modern elements and features.
There is one feature almost always seen: Balinese traditional gate angkul-angkul, which usually gives access to Balinese compounds in many places of the island, has been utilized to strengthen the traditional senses of the villa building.
The presence of angkul-angkul has given a particular atmosphere of village living in many villas in Bali. Almost all villa designers' in Bali, seemingly, consider angkul-angkul as a standard feature for Balinese designed villa. However, the popularity of angkul-angkul has expanded beyond the boundaries of the island. In Jakarta as well as in many places in Java, including in Jogyakarta and in Surabaya, angkul-angkul has gained a particular place in villa design, it is often applied to give access to many private villas even luxurious residences. Perhaps it is to remind them of Bali, to bring about the nuances of Balinese harmony of living.
Once you pass the villa's angkul-angkul, a serene garden awaits you. A garden is apparently another 'compulsory zone of beauty' for Bali-based villa designers. With lines of colorful flowering plants or decorative leaves, tropical gardens bring nature into the villas, each of which with their own details according to the sense of their respective landscape designer. The garden is not merely decorating the villa; it is so much important for the image that some villas in Bali use it as a marketing tool and promote the property as a 'garden villa'.
Adjacent to the garden, often under the shadow of a frangipani tree, often lays the swimming pool. Private pools have been another luxurious trend in villa design. Nowadays, it seems that a villa in Bali is not a 'real' villa without a private pool. It can be a small swimming pool or even a plunge pool where you guests spend time relaxing and basking under the sun.
The garden and the pool sometimes (not sometimes, often!) are perfected with a spectacular backdrop of green rice fields, of mountainside, of river flow or beachfront: according to the blessing of the beauty of the villa's location. This is Bali, where the stunning panorama of nature has long become an important element of beauty.
A villa, by this very definition must be small and limited. Above all, it should have its own recognizable flavor and character. The only similarity between many villas in Bali is the level of luxury and excellence.
If you have the money and want to really relax and enjoy yourself while visiting Bali, make sure that you reward yourself by staying in one or more of the world's best resorts.
All Bali Villas.com features a great selection of luxury private villas in Bali for honeymoon, ultimate holiday or vacation.
Author Bio
Kadek Sudarsana
Villas in Bali
Article Source: http://www.ArticleGeek.com - Free Website Content
The Breath of Villas in Bali
By: Kadek Sudarsana
A villa is basically a house where a family can spend their time together. In Bali however, a villa is a breath of nature for the family, for first time honeymooners, or individuals who want to re-encounter the self being. Most villas in Bali take personal privacy into account, and this is at harmony with nature. The detailed concept of their respective architectures can be various, but privacy and luxury play an important role in the basic concept of many villas.
Luxurious, sometimes superbly luxurious, the architecture of many villas in Bali is breathing in the rhythm of space that plays on the silence of the surrounds and fits effortlessly and discreetly into the small community.
In recent years the island of the Gods has become the site for many villas, or a cluster of villas referred sometimes as a boutique resort. The beginning of the new super luxury trend began at the end of the 1980's, precisely with the opening of the Amandari, perched on the edge of Ubud's Sayan Gorge. The mind behind the resort was renowned Australian architect Peter Muller along with owner Adrian Zecher.
Hotels of that era were built with many rooms. Villas, however, have different approach. It is not simply how many hotel rooms you have, but how wonderful they are. Luxury, too, is not only determined by expensive materials for many of these resorts often use the simplest of local materials.Â
The detail of concepts of boutique resorts and villas have developed since the days of Muller and Zecher, who has initiated the rejuvenation of the Balinese traditional village living within their architecture design. "Nowadays, modern touches are an important component in the design of villas in Bali," said Popo Danes, a reputable Balinese architect who has designed a plenty of villas in some of Bali's more remote locations.
As a result, according to Popo, the sense of simplicity is becoming stronger.
Initially, simple village living has been blended with a luxurious urban lifestyle. Nowadays, however, the sensation of simplicity has built the luxurious atmosphere. Details of architecture of many Balinese villas have beautifully combined the traditional and modern elements and features.
There is one feature almost always seen: Balinese traditional gate angkul-angkul , which usually gives access to Balinese compounds in many places of the island, has been utilized to strengthen the traditional senses of the villa building.
The presence of angkul-angkul has given a particular atmosphere of village living in many villa resorts. Almost all villa designers' in Bali, seemingly, consider angkul-angkul as a standard feature for Balinese designed villa. However, the popularity of angkul-angkul has expanded beyond the boundaries of the island. In Jakarta as well as in many places in Java, including in Jogyakarta and in Surabaya, angkul-angkul has gained a particular place in villa design, it is often applied to give access to many private villas even luxurious residences. Perhaps it is to remind them of Bali, to bring about the nuances of Balinese harmony of living.
Once you pass the villa's angkul-angkul, a serene garden awaits you. A garden is apparently another 'compulsory zone of beauty' for Bali-based villa designers. With lines of colorful flowering plants or decorative leaves, tropical gardens bring nature into the villas, each of which with their own details according to the sense of their respective landscape designer. The garden is not merely decorating the villa; it is so much important for the image that some villas in Bali use it as a marketing tool and promote the property as a 'garden villa'.
Adjacent to the garden, often under the shadow of a frangipani tree, often lays the swimming pool. Private pools have been another luxurious trend in villa design. Nowadays, it seems that a villa is not a 'real' villa without a private pool. It can be a small swimming pool or even a plunge pool where you guests spend time relaxing and basking under the sun.
The garden and the pool sometimes (not sometimes, often!) are perfected with a spectacular backdrop of green rice fields, of mountainside, of river flow or beachfront: according to the blessing of the beauty of the villa's location. This is Bali, where the stunning panorama of nature has long become an important element of beauty.
A villa, by this very definition must be small and limited. Above all, it should have its own recognizable flavor and character. The only similarity between many villas in Bali is the level of luxury and excellence.
If you have the money and want to really relax and enjoy yourself while visiting Bali, make sure that you reward yourself by staying in one or more of the world's best resorts.
Kadek Sudarsana
www.allbalivillas.com
Author Bio
www.allbalivillas.com
Kadek Sudarsana is the Managing Director of Natan Bali, an internet based company which creates and manages websites that are all directly related to hospitality services in Bali.
A villa is basically a house where a family can spend their time together. In Bali however, a villa is a breath of nature for the family, for first time honeymooners, or individuals who want to re-encounter the self being. Most villas in Bali take personal privacy into account, and this is at harmony with nature. The detailed concept of their respective architectures can be various, but privacy and luxury play an important role in the basic concept of many villas.
Luxurious, sometimes superbly luxurious, the architecture of many villas in Bali is breathing in the rhythm of space that plays on the silence of the surrounds and fits effortlessly and discreetly into the small community.
In recent years the island of the Gods has become the site for many villas, or a cluster of villas referred sometimes as a boutique resort. The beginning of the new super luxury trend began at the end of the 1980's, precisely with the opening of the Amandari, perched on the edge of Ubud's Sayan Gorge. The mind behind the resort was renowned Australian architect Peter Muller along with owner Adrian Zecher.
Hotels of that era were built with many rooms. Villas, however, have different approach. It is not simply how many hotel rooms you have, but how wonderful they are. Luxury, too, is not only determined by expensive materials for many of these resorts often use the simplest of local materials.Â
The detail of concepts of boutique resorts and villas have developed since the days of Muller and Zecher, who has initiated the rejuvenation of the Balinese traditional village living within their architecture design. "Nowadays, modern touches are an important component in the design of villas in Bali," said Popo Danes, a reputable Balinese architect who has designed a plenty of villas in some of Bali's more remote locations.
As a result, according to Popo, the sense of simplicity is becoming stronger.
Initially, simple village living has been blended with a luxurious urban lifestyle. Nowadays, however, the sensation of simplicity has built the luxurious atmosphere. Details of architecture of many Balinese villas have beautifully combined the traditional and modern elements and features.
There is one feature almost always seen: Balinese traditional gate angkul-angkul , which usually gives access to Balinese compounds in many places of the island, has been utilized to strengthen the traditional senses of the villa building.
The presence of angkul-angkul has given a particular atmosphere of village living in many villa resorts. Almost all villa designers' in Bali, seemingly, consider angkul-angkul as a standard feature for Balinese designed villa. However, the popularity of angkul-angkul has expanded beyond the boundaries of the island. In Jakarta as well as in many places in Java, including in Jogyakarta and in Surabaya, angkul-angkul has gained a particular place in villa design, it is often applied to give access to many private villas even luxurious residences. Perhaps it is to remind them of Bali, to bring about the nuances of Balinese harmony of living.
Once you pass the villa's angkul-angkul, a serene garden awaits you. A garden is apparently another 'compulsory zone of beauty' for Bali-based villa designers. With lines of colorful flowering plants or decorative leaves, tropical gardens bring nature into the villas, each of which with their own details according to the sense of their respective landscape designer. The garden is not merely decorating the villa; it is so much important for the image that some villas in Bali use it as a marketing tool and promote the property as a 'garden villa'.
Adjacent to the garden, often under the shadow of a frangipani tree, often lays the swimming pool. Private pools have been another luxurious trend in villa design. Nowadays, it seems that a villa is not a 'real' villa without a private pool. It can be a small swimming pool or even a plunge pool where you guests spend time relaxing and basking under the sun.
The garden and the pool sometimes (not sometimes, often!) are perfected with a spectacular backdrop of green rice fields, of mountainside, of river flow or beachfront: according to the blessing of the beauty of the villa's location. This is Bali, where the stunning panorama of nature has long become an important element of beauty.
A villa, by this very definition must be small and limited. Above all, it should have its own recognizable flavor and character. The only similarity between many villas in Bali is the level of luxury and excellence.
If you have the money and want to really relax and enjoy yourself while visiting Bali, make sure that you reward yourself by staying in one or more of the world's best resorts.
Kadek Sudarsana
www.allbalivillas.com
Author Bio
www.allbalivillas.com
Kadek Sudarsana is the Managing Director of Natan Bali, an internet based company which creates and manages websites that are all directly related to hospitality services in Bali.
Article Source: http://www.ArticleGeek.com
Advantages of Staying in a Private Villa in Bali
By: Kadek Sudarsana
For less than the cost of staying at a good hotel in Bali you can now enjoy the luxury of a beautiful private Bali villa with air-conditioned bedrooms and tropical bathrooms to dream about, spacious living and dining areas and spacious terraces, a lush tropical garden with your own private swimming pool, and well-trained butler to take care of everything around the clock.
In addition to modern amenities, any villa you rent will reflect Balinese lifestyle throughout: floors and walls are made from local wood and natural stone, high roofs cover airy living and dining areas, and large garden bathrooms are full of flowers and plants. And you'll appreciate the comfort and informality you can only experience in a private home.
Instead of staying in hotel rooms (bed, two chairs, dressing table, TV set and telephone, wardrobe, small bathroom), your family will enjoy this truly Balinese experience. And you have much more space, more informality, more privacy, and more personal service than even the best hotel can provide.
You can have delicious local meals or any special diet prepared by your own cook and have them served whenever and wherever you like - in your dining room, living area, at the poolside, in your bedroom, or even in the bathroom.
Most important of all, you will really experience Bali while staying at a private villa. You're not isolated from the island and its people by a hotel environment. You're participating - and living in a Balinese atmosphere, surrounded by a relaxed, elegant and informal setting, with well trained and very friendly staff caring for your every need.
There's nothing better than this! It will be a vacation you won't forget.
Kadek Sudarsana
www.allbalivillas.com
Author Bio
www.allbalivillas.com
Kadek Sudarsana is the Managing Director of Natan Bali, an internet based company which creates and manages websites that are all directly related to hospitality services in Bali.
For less than the cost of staying at a good hotel in Bali you can now enjoy the luxury of a beautiful private Bali villa with air-conditioned bedrooms and tropical bathrooms to dream about, spacious living and dining areas and spacious terraces, a lush tropical garden with your own private swimming pool, and well-trained butler to take care of everything around the clock.
In addition to modern amenities, any villa you rent will reflect Balinese lifestyle throughout: floors and walls are made from local wood and natural stone, high roofs cover airy living and dining areas, and large garden bathrooms are full of flowers and plants. And you'll appreciate the comfort and informality you can only experience in a private home.
Instead of staying in hotel rooms (bed, two chairs, dressing table, TV set and telephone, wardrobe, small bathroom), your family will enjoy this truly Balinese experience. And you have much more space, more informality, more privacy, and more personal service than even the best hotel can provide.
You can have delicious local meals or any special diet prepared by your own cook and have them served whenever and wherever you like - in your dining room, living area, at the poolside, in your bedroom, or even in the bathroom.
Most important of all, you will really experience Bali while staying at a private villa. You're not isolated from the island and its people by a hotel environment. You're participating - and living in a Balinese atmosphere, surrounded by a relaxed, elegant and informal setting, with well trained and very friendly staff caring for your every need.
There's nothing better than this! It will be a vacation you won't forget.
Kadek Sudarsana
www.allbalivillas.com
Author Bio
www.allbalivillas.com
Kadek Sudarsana is the Managing Director of Natan Bali, an internet based company which creates and manages websites that are all directly related to hospitality services in Bali.
Article Source: http://www.ArticleGeek.com - Free Website Content
My Best Business Travel Tips
By Thomas Zoellner
Business travel has actually increased considerably in the last ten years as companies are able to sell more readily to markets all around the world; the Internet has ensured that even tiny companies can have a customer base that is truly global! It is business travelers though who are feeling the strain with increasing stress and fatigue levels. With that in mind, this business travel tips article highlights some useful information that could make your business journeys more pleasurable.
Sometimes for instance, baggage goes missing; that is an unfortunate fact of travel and whilst it is distressing enough on a family holiday, on a business trip it can be disastrous. An easy remedy to this is to pack as much as possible that you absolutely must have for you meeting, in your hand luggage.
This means that even if your main luggage is lost your trip does not have to be wasted; your meeting can still take place despite any inconvenience that has been caused. Regular travelers know that the main business travel tip when packing is to keep things simple by only including exactly what you need for the journey and that way you won't go far wrong if luggage goes missing.
If you only take enough business clothes for the trip and then all that is left is some casual wear for the evenings, just two pairs of shoes; one casual pair, and one pair for business should be enough. The remaining items to pack will be toilet essentials and any other work related documents that aren't important.
A clever business travel tip, to reduce the size of bag you require, is too roll your clothes up instead of folding them; apart for taking up less space they are not so creased when they are unpacked. The last thing you want on a business trip is having clothes laundered because something was split on them, this can easily be avoided by wearing dark clothes which are able to absorb stains more easily.
Of course if you are working to a tight schedule and the inevitable delay happens then you want to know you can attend a meeting at a moments notice and the way to freshen up is by using those hand and face wipes that come in travel packs. Cell phones and other related equipment normally have good battery life but don't forget to take a charger if you are going to be somewhere for more than a few days.
As it is possible to carry out work while you fly, by making the best use of this time you will be able to spend some time relaxing in the evening and perhaps a little site seeing. These tips make sure that no matter what happens when you travel on business you will be able to continue with your plans and will not be left wondering what to do next.
Business trips do not have to be boring and stressful if you apply the business travel tips in this article as they will allow you the opportunity to enjoy your free time even more.
Many informations and videos about traveling and vacations are also available at Thomas Zoellners website http://www.travel-vacations-adventures.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Thomas_Zoellner
Reserving Your Summer Vacation - What Are Your Choices
By Jack Shaark
The summer vacation time of year is here with multitudes of lovers and families planning to take a summer vacation. Summer vacations are extremely popular and sought after so much, that you're probably planning one too. That's why I'm guessing that you're reading this article. By the time you're ready to start planning a summer vacation, there's a large number of directions that you can go in when booking your reservations.
Prior to planning your summer vacation reservations, you'll need to pick out a summer vacation spot/destination. Without a spot/destination in your head, it's impracticable to book any first-choice reservations. While picking out a summer vacation spot/destination, it's crucial that you conceive some important components. These components ought to let in whether you're going with kids, the kids' ages, and the expenses of travel. Remembering these components help allow you to pick out the summer vacation spot/destination that will better accommodate your needs.
After you've picked out a summer vacation destination, you can start to booking some reserves. If they are willing to spend more money, most people would prefer to enact the services of a professional travel agent. Regrettably, these professional services don't come cheap. If you're curious about preparing a summer vacation on a budget, you might prefer to book your own reservations. Within some very easy steps, you could quite easily book your reservations over the internet. Your reservations should let in hotel accommodations, and travel fittings as well.
In order to get reservations at a popular vacation destination at a cheaper price, you might prefer to check out the services you can get over the internet from travel websites. These sites incline to give price reductions on well-known hotels, air fare, and eating houses all over the world. The sole down side to applying these internet services, is that they'll usually only center around well-known summer vacation destinations. Whenever you're anticipating a vacation at an obscure resort hotel, you might not be able to use these services.
Whether you decide to use these online internet travel websites, or a professional travel agent I urge you to take the advantageous steps. Predicting to stay at rooms in the most popular summer vacation destinations can show to be an extremely expensive error that might just possibly ruin your vacation. Don't make that mistake; make your reservations with enough time and through the right online company. If you are interested in taking a vacation at one of the hottest spots around, I highly recommend looking into a vacation package that will let you pay monthly for it, without any fees or interest.
All in all, I hope this article helps you better prepare and plan to go on a wonderful summer vacation. There is a website which I use whenever planning a vacation that lets me worry about other things than just the price, because they let me break the expensive trip down into a series of interest free payments, making it easier on my wallet and my mind. It's nice to have the ability to be able to spend money without having to worry so much about it. If you're interested in the site I'm referring to, click on the link below, and I think you'll like how it works to make vacations much more affordable.
Here is a link to the company I promised you. Go ahead and check 'em out for the free 30 days to see what they have to offer, after all, it is completely risk free. The link is http://www.AffordYourVacation.com
The Player's Vacation Club is the premier online travel financing website around. They have deals for as low as only $0.60 per day to some of the hottest international destinations in the world.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jack_Shaark
Holiday Plans - Plan Your Holidays In Advance
By Venkatesh Iyer
Nowadays, Travel & Sight Seeing have become extremely popular. There are more people who are traveling very frequently. So the main point to think about travel is the time of year when one wish to travel, may be the tentative planning of the trip. The other most important thing to consider is planning the budget for the trip. By doing all this planning, one tend to chalk out their Holiday Plans very correctly.
With advance of science, internet has become the easy source for booking & buying travel. Lot of people browse the Net and look for good deals and affordable accommodation. It would be quite ideal to do some research and find the best and affordable tour operators or travel agency or travel websites. There are many tour agents or travel websites, where one can book tickets and also book accommodation, hotels, cars, cruise, all at one place. After this, one has to look out for passports/visas which have to be carried during travel. Making prior arrangements for all these, would be the right thing. It would be also good if one does an Insurance Cover.
With holidays around the corner, there is nothing stressful like booking of tickets. So it is better to book tickets in advance. The basic idea of booking tickets in advance is that you might get some concessional rates and there is a choice of date as well as flight. There are many airline carriers which offer discounts during night travel. They have empty seats on their flights at midnight and hence they offer very cheap rates. So this is a way of saving money if one plan their holidays in advance.
The best way is to go for a travel package. This will enable one to save money. Also there are airlines which offer discounts for last minute travelers. Getting an accommodation during the holiday time is quite stressful and accommodation of our choice is a big thing.
Once booking of tickets and accommodation have been done, the other important thing to be borne in mind, is the basic thing to be taken care of, during travel. Carrying less luggage will give more comfort. According to the climatic conditions, one has to plan their clothing. Holiday Plans play a very crucial part.
Planning everything in advance will reduce the stress and also make travel pleasant and memorable one.
Venkatesh Iyer, is quite fond of traveling and has been doing Online Advertising. For more information, tips and resources on holiday plans, visit: Plan Your Holidays
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Venkatesh_Iyer
The World Is A Beautiful Place, Go Explore It
By Raisa Raima
Our monotonous works do not allow us to think beyond the box and go wild with our own weird way of imagination. This actually puts us in a dilemma as in what to do and how to do. Is there a better way to get out of this monotonous life? Well, for those who are still confused and are thinking about different ways to break the shackles of their drowning lives, probably, holiday packages are some of the best options.
When was the last time you went out with your friends and family? Do you still recall those precious moments you spent with your loved ones? The answer is quiet simple, the holiday brings out the best within us. It sets us free from any type of worldly tensions and allows us to enjoy our life in a full-fledged way.
So, before the boring life gets over you, pamper yourself along with your family with any of the holiday vacations. There are numerous benefits of these small yet meaningful holidays. Even the researchers have shown that the best from a man comes after a happy and eventful break from his daily work.
If you happen to manage a holiday vacation for yourself then you can benefit from numerous websites that can give you a clear idea about the prospective destinations. These websites give valuable information that will help you to manage your holidays in a better manner. In fact, most of the travel agencies, tour operators, and travel agents take help from these websites to offer cheap holiday packages to their customers.
The tourism industry could be seen growing at a fast pace. This is the result of the growing market competition, emergence of new tourist market players and the urge to offer products and services to the customers at reduced prices.
There are so many unexplored destinations that can interest you. These destinations ensure that you spend quality time with your family away from the hassles of the life. There are places like Goa, Kerala, Seychelles and Zurich to name a few. If you have low budget and still want to break free from your monotonous life then some of the websites also offer holiday packages as per your requirements.
Don't wait, just grab the opportunity and go for your dream holiday vacation.
The author is a specialist in retail writing. Her writing skills reflect the outcome of years of exposure to the retail industry. Working with retail giants as a consultant has enriched her knowledge base and her passion for writing got fire. She can be read regularly on RetailsDirect.com. For details please visit: Acer laptops
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Raisa_Raima
Same Day Passport
By Chris Mccann
Thinks have changed a lot in the travel industry in the last 10 years with the growing popularity of the Internet. When was the last time you called your "travel agent"? You don't have a travel agent? Yeah, me neither. Now you just jump on a handful of travel websites like Orbitz, Hotwire, Expedia, or Travelocity to name a few, and book all your travel needs. You get your airline tickets, your hotel accommodations, and your rental car in one convenient location.
What about if you are leaving the country though and need a passport? Well things have changed in getting passports as well. Yes you can still go through the old-school government channels and get your passport in 1-3 months for your upcoming trip. But what if you need your passport expedited the same day? You need your passport rushed to you right away. Even if your trip isn't for a few weeks or even a month out, do you really want to leave it up to chance and in the hands of our government to get you your passport on time?
Just like booking all your other travel needs, there is a better way to get an emergency passport. There are a number of very helpful websites that expedite your passport and even get you a same day passport in case of real emergency.
Here's how it works. You still pay the regular government fees for your passport, but on top of that you pay these companies who specialize in expediting passports and visa a fee to make it happen fast for you. This fee varies depending of how soon you need your passport. Obviously you pay a higher price for an expedited passport that is the same day or over-nighted to you than you would for one that is rushed in 1 week or 2 weeks.
The fees are very reasonable and affordable. If you are in a jam, there is not much else you can do. I for one am glad to pay the extra fees with the assurance that I will have my passport in time for my trip. Especially if you've already paid for airfare and hotel up front, you can't miss your trip because of a passport problem.
The Internet once again has given us a great new benefit in the travel industry. We can get our air, hotel, car rental, and now passports all taken care of just with a few clicks of the mouse.
Chris McCann is the founder of http://www.shop4coolstuff.com/passport.html He is a successful entrepreneur who enjoys helping others with their travel needs
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Chris_Mccann
Budget Travel - Season and Destination are most important
By: Neelima Reddy
Selecting the season and destination are the two key things for travel. They also have a huge impact on the cost of your vacation. Don’t ignore the importance of considering these two factors.
Your budget level mainly depends on the season and the time of the year. Some vacation destinations will be very cheap at some times of the year.
If you want to travel to a popular destination in peak times, you never find it cheap. For instance, planning to stay at luxurious hotel in a party city on New Year’s Eve is not expected to exist as budget holiday, while travel to an established summer resort over New Year’s may be extremely a different story.
The most important thing that you need to realize is that low seasons cost low for a reason. A typical example of this is hurricane season in the Florida and Caribbean. Other low seasons that vary include – very hot regions such as Egypt in summer months, excess heat makes the holiday less enjoyable.
Summer resorts are usually very quiet in low season. This can be the best for recoil, but once it comes to a violent nightlife you may be disappointed.
Travel destinations for the specific season at a low cost:
Winter:
Winter is very interesting time of the year for travelling. Before Christmas, most of the people are trying to do final shopping trips. So, after the festival, most individuals are dealing with the bills of credit cards so that, holidays on far off beaches are often incredibly cheap during the winter period.
Asia is a great destination for winter months. Probably the flight costs will decrease and they offer various discounts. In Asia weather varies greatly in winter season. The climate in Asia is surrounded by snow in just one minute and then suddenly you will see glorious sunshine. These conditions make lot of visitors cancel their trips. Hence there are some exceptional bargains for those who want to take the risk.
Shoulder season:
This season is a perfect time to travel for those individuals who want to get a glad medium among low and peak seasons. Recognizing where is in shoulder season when you like travelling or when your preferred destination is in shoulder season can save you hundred of dollars.
Take a glance at guided books. Even they don’t tell you when the shoulder season is, just they inform you when low and peak seasons are. The time in between is referred to as shoulder season.
The best travel destinations in shoulder season are Caribbean in late spring and Europe in the fall.
Fall:
Fall is the best season to travel to Europe. You will find flight tickets for many Europe popular destinations at a cheaper cost. From October onwards you will get tickets at low cost. Temperature is also perfectly pleasant until the mid of November. So, take a trip yourself for fall in Europe.
Summer:
It is very hard to find discount in summer. Americans, Europeans, and Japanese are all on the move. This is a peak time for weddings, thus honeymoon destinations are also in great deal of demand.
In early summer days, i.e. in between June and July, you will get a good deal for Caribbean destinations. It is better to book before Europeans begin to flood during the school holidays at the end of July.
Also, the period between June and September is a good option. Safari holidays are good choice for this period. During the summer months, you will get the flight deals at a reasonable cost in Southeast Asia. But, during this period the climate will be very hot. So, it is better to avoid this destination during summer season.
Finally, you knew which season is best for travelling to the specific destinations. You can choose the destination depending on the season and at a reasonable cost. Visit Travelers Zone
Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com
About the Author:
Selecting the season and destination are the two key things for travel. They also have a huge impact on the cost of your vacation. Don’t ignore the importance of considering these two factors.
Your budget level mainly depends on the season and the time of the year. Some vacation destinations will be very cheap at some times of the year.
If you want to travel to a popular destination in peak times, you never find it cheap. For instance, planning to stay at luxurious hotel in a party city on New Year’s Eve is not expected to exist as budget holiday, while travel to an established summer resort over New Year’s may be extremely a different story.
The most important thing that you need to realize is that low seasons cost low for a reason. A typical example of this is hurricane season in the Florida and Caribbean. Other low seasons that vary include – very hot regions such as Egypt in summer months, excess heat makes the holiday less enjoyable.
Summer resorts are usually very quiet in low season. This can be the best for recoil, but once it comes to a violent nightlife you may be disappointed.
Travel destinations for the specific season at a low cost:
Winter:
Winter is very interesting time of the year for travelling. Before Christmas, most of the people are trying to do final shopping trips. So, after the festival, most individuals are dealing with the bills of credit cards so that, holidays on far off beaches are often incredibly cheap during the winter period.
Asia is a great destination for winter months. Probably the flight costs will decrease and they offer various discounts. In Asia weather varies greatly in winter season. The climate in Asia is surrounded by snow in just one minute and then suddenly you will see glorious sunshine. These conditions make lot of visitors cancel their trips. Hence there are some exceptional bargains for those who want to take the risk.
Shoulder season:
This season is a perfect time to travel for those individuals who want to get a glad medium among low and peak seasons. Recognizing where is in shoulder season when you like travelling or when your preferred destination is in shoulder season can save you hundred of dollars.
Take a glance at guided books. Even they don’t tell you when the shoulder season is, just they inform you when low and peak seasons are. The time in between is referred to as shoulder season.
The best travel destinations in shoulder season are Caribbean in late spring and Europe in the fall.
Fall:
Fall is the best season to travel to Europe. You will find flight tickets for many Europe popular destinations at a cheaper cost. From October onwards you will get tickets at low cost. Temperature is also perfectly pleasant until the mid of November. So, take a trip yourself for fall in Europe.
Summer:
It is very hard to find discount in summer. Americans, Europeans, and Japanese are all on the move. This is a peak time for weddings, thus honeymoon destinations are also in great deal of demand.
In early summer days, i.e. in between June and July, you will get a good deal for Caribbean destinations. It is better to book before Europeans begin to flood during the school holidays at the end of July.
Also, the period between June and September is a good option. Safari holidays are good choice for this period. During the summer months, you will get the flight deals at a reasonable cost in Southeast Asia. But, during this period the climate will be very hot. So, it is better to avoid this destination during summer season.
Finally, you knew which season is best for travelling to the specific destinations. You can choose the destination depending on the season and at a reasonable cost. Visit Travelers Zone
Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com
About the Author:
About the Author:
The Travelers blog helps you learn everything you need to know about traveling. Know more about making your travel experience into wonderful experience. Visit http://www.thetravelerszone.com
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Bali Travel Guide and Review - Part 1
By: Dave Waldheim
Bali Introduction: The Geography
Bali is a small volcanic island covering around 5000 square kilometers, just south of the equator. Central Bali is dominated by the island's major volcanic peaks, from which the land steadily descends all the way down to sea level on the northern and eastern coasts; the southern Bali peninsula is largely flat. There are four major volcanoes in Bali, the highest being Mt Agung at 3124m. Agung erupted violently in 1963 and although many people died in the eruption it has since been a blessing to the Balinese in providing some of the richest soil in Indonesia. The next four highest mountains are no longer alive but the smaller Mt Batur (1717m) is one of the most active volcanoes in the region, puffing regular clouds of ash into the air. Bali, being such a small island, has little space to create rivers of any notable size. Rather it is riddled with small creeks that are channeled into the intricate irrigation system that feeds Balinese rice paddies. Nevertheless, some major rivers do flow, namely the Sungai Pakrisan ("Kris River"), the Sungai Petanu ("Cursed River") and the Ayung, Bali's longest river.
Bali Introduction : The History
Many years ago Bali was divided into eight Hindu kingdoms. These small kingdoms were powerful but prone to fighting each other, which weakened their resistance to foreign invasion. As early as the sixth century, Javanese kings conquered parts of Bali although Balinese princes often continued to rule as puppets with Javanese sovereignty pulling their strings. Nevertheless power continued to bounce between various kingdoms of Bali and Java. As links with Java strengthened, Javanese script, sculpture and temples began to appear on the island. Late in the tenth century, ties between the islands were solidified with the marital union of a Balinese Prince and a Javanese Princess. The Javanese Majapahit kingdom conquered Bali in the thirteenth century by vanquishing the semi-demonic king of Bali at the time, 'Dalem Bedulu', and attempting to eradicate the 'vile' Balinese princes and their 'barbaric' customs. Ironically, the supreme Majapahit ruler gave a Balinese the position of 'King of Bali', a position that gained little respect from the majority of Balinese who continued to refuse to recognize Javanese sovereignty. The Majapahit presence in Bali turned out to be short and turbulent and during the ensuing centuries, much of the unique Balinese Hindu culture and traditions that we see in Bali today were created. This was possibly a result of a community determined to protect their individuality and not be overcome by imported Javanese culture.
Contact with the west began when a Dutch fleet stumbled across Bali in 1597 and felt they had found 'paradise'. Many of the crew refused to return home but stories of a magical place leaked back to their homeland. With Dutch royalty eager to establish relations, Dutch ships bearing gifts for the Balinese kings were dispatched. However, from a trading perspective, Bali had little to offer so the opportunity to develop international relations was restricted at first. Originally, its primary export was slaves but as the world slave trade was curtailed, the Balinese Kings turned to other commodities such as coconut oil, thereby putting Bali in a position to enter the world trading market.
Dutch interest in the Indonesian islands changed into the seventeenth century and the merchant ships gave way to war ships. The Dutch had overcome many Javanese kingdoms through ancient principles of divide and conquer and the same approach was taken in Bali. As the Balinese continued to resist, the Dutch became more and more aggressive. Stories of their barbaric tactics were not received well in their homeland and protests led them to complete their invasion more tactfully. Surprisingly, once the Dutch secured control, they protected the island from outside influences and encouraged them to maintain much of their culture and traditions. Grateful of this as we are today, their reasons were not purely benevolent: they considered the Balinese controllable with their peaceful religion but were wary should that religion change to a more fundamental variety.
World War 2 brought a new era as Japanese armies took over from the Dutch. The Japanese presence in Bali was short lived and they left without a trace as they lost the war. The Dutch tried to return to the Indonesian islands, but their desperate attempts to regain power in the colony were condemned all over the world. Together with the rest of the Dutch East Indies archipelago, Bali was handed over to a new independent Indonesian government that emerged in 1949. Bali had finally lost its liberty and fell to its destiny of economic and political dependence on neighboring Java.
Bali Introduction : The Population
Bali is bursting, with an estimated population of over three million people. Through the controversial transmigration program, Balinese communities have developed in the outer regions of Indonesia such as Sumatra and Sulawesi, in order to relieve the islands' already stretched natural resources.
to be continued.....
Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com
About the Author:
Bali Travel Guide is a comprehensive guide to the island of Bali, a collaboration by Jenifer Bird and Dave Waldheim. A complete Bali introduction with travel tips and reviews of all major bali resorts and bali hotels such as the Conrad Bali. You can collect the parts of this travel guide here from this website or download it as a complete ebook with maps and fotos at the Bali videos website.
Bali Introduction: The Geography
Bali is a small volcanic island covering around 5000 square kilometers, just south of the equator. Central Bali is dominated by the island's major volcanic peaks, from which the land steadily descends all the way down to sea level on the northern and eastern coasts; the southern Bali peninsula is largely flat. There are four major volcanoes in Bali, the highest being Mt Agung at 3124m. Agung erupted violently in 1963 and although many people died in the eruption it has since been a blessing to the Balinese in providing some of the richest soil in Indonesia. The next four highest mountains are no longer alive but the smaller Mt Batur (1717m) is one of the most active volcanoes in the region, puffing regular clouds of ash into the air. Bali, being such a small island, has little space to create rivers of any notable size. Rather it is riddled with small creeks that are channeled into the intricate irrigation system that feeds Balinese rice paddies. Nevertheless, some major rivers do flow, namely the Sungai Pakrisan ("Kris River"), the Sungai Petanu ("Cursed River") and the Ayung, Bali's longest river.
Bali Introduction : The History
Many years ago Bali was divided into eight Hindu kingdoms. These small kingdoms were powerful but prone to fighting each other, which weakened their resistance to foreign invasion. As early as the sixth century, Javanese kings conquered parts of Bali although Balinese princes often continued to rule as puppets with Javanese sovereignty pulling their strings. Nevertheless power continued to bounce between various kingdoms of Bali and Java. As links with Java strengthened, Javanese script, sculpture and temples began to appear on the island. Late in the tenth century, ties between the islands were solidified with the marital union of a Balinese Prince and a Javanese Princess. The Javanese Majapahit kingdom conquered Bali in the thirteenth century by vanquishing the semi-demonic king of Bali at the time, 'Dalem Bedulu', and attempting to eradicate the 'vile' Balinese princes and their 'barbaric' customs. Ironically, the supreme Majapahit ruler gave a Balinese the position of 'King of Bali', a position that gained little respect from the majority of Balinese who continued to refuse to recognize Javanese sovereignty. The Majapahit presence in Bali turned out to be short and turbulent and during the ensuing centuries, much of the unique Balinese Hindu culture and traditions that we see in Bali today were created. This was possibly a result of a community determined to protect their individuality and not be overcome by imported Javanese culture.
Contact with the west began when a Dutch fleet stumbled across Bali in 1597 and felt they had found 'paradise'. Many of the crew refused to return home but stories of a magical place leaked back to their homeland. With Dutch royalty eager to establish relations, Dutch ships bearing gifts for the Balinese kings were dispatched. However, from a trading perspective, Bali had little to offer so the opportunity to develop international relations was restricted at first. Originally, its primary export was slaves but as the world slave trade was curtailed, the Balinese Kings turned to other commodities such as coconut oil, thereby putting Bali in a position to enter the world trading market.
Dutch interest in the Indonesian islands changed into the seventeenth century and the merchant ships gave way to war ships. The Dutch had overcome many Javanese kingdoms through ancient principles of divide and conquer and the same approach was taken in Bali. As the Balinese continued to resist, the Dutch became more and more aggressive. Stories of their barbaric tactics were not received well in their homeland and protests led them to complete their invasion more tactfully. Surprisingly, once the Dutch secured control, they protected the island from outside influences and encouraged them to maintain much of their culture and traditions. Grateful of this as we are today, their reasons were not purely benevolent: they considered the Balinese controllable with their peaceful religion but were wary should that religion change to a more fundamental variety.
World War 2 brought a new era as Japanese armies took over from the Dutch. The Japanese presence in Bali was short lived and they left without a trace as they lost the war. The Dutch tried to return to the Indonesian islands, but their desperate attempts to regain power in the colony were condemned all over the world. Together with the rest of the Dutch East Indies archipelago, Bali was handed over to a new independent Indonesian government that emerged in 1949. Bali had finally lost its liberty and fell to its destiny of economic and political dependence on neighboring Java.
Bali Introduction : The Population
Bali is bursting, with an estimated population of over three million people. Through the controversial transmigration program, Balinese communities have developed in the outer regions of Indonesia such as Sumatra and Sulawesi, in order to relieve the islands' already stretched natural resources.
to be continued.....
Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com
About the Author:
Bali Travel Guide is a comprehensive guide to the island of Bali, a collaboration by Jenifer Bird and Dave Waldheim. A complete Bali introduction with travel tips and reviews of all major bali resorts and bali hotels such as the Conrad Bali. You can collect the parts of this travel guide here from this website or download it as a complete ebook with maps and fotos at the Bali videos website.
Monday, May 19, 2008
Airplane Seat Maps
14th May 2008
Author: Naresh Shah
Many people that fly for pleasure or for business purposes have to seat in an airplane for 2-3 hours or sometimes even more, depending on the trip that they make, and during the flight seating in an uncomfortable place in the airplane can be a really pain for them. This is happening very often due the lack of details that each airline is publishing about their airplanes or because people that fly don’t consult an aircraft seat map before they book a ticket.
Airplane seat maps can be really handy for frequent or even for occasionally fliers and help them to choose their seat in the airplane even before they buy their tickets. Knowing the place where you seat before going aboard is very good because on almost all seating charts you can find all the details of a specific seat from extra legroom to missing windows or any other details.
Seat maps published by airlines
Most of the airlines publish the seats configurations for their airplanes but the quality of those seat maps is some times questionable and some of the details and information about seats are confusable. Usually airlines don’t publish seat maps for all of their airplanes, they do it only for the major airplanes and for the ones flying on frequent routes.
Seat maps published by specialized websites
In additions to those published seat maps which can be found on airlines websites there are some other sites that publish aircraft seat maps for almost all the commercial airplanes that are flying these days. Seat maps that can be found on these sites usually have more details and on some websites you can found comments from other passengers with ups and downs about each particular airplane seat.
Reading and understanding a seat map it’s a very simple job but people should be carefully on the design of each seat map because is different from website to website or from airplane to airplane, so reading the legend will help understanding the seat arrangements and the meaning of each symbol from the seat map, in this way mistakes can be avoided and passengers can make the best decision for their flight.
Choosing your seat is important as choosing an airline or an airplane to fly with, some people prefer to fly only if they seat is near a window or some people like to fly in their own cabin and the requests and conditions of each passenger could go on. Consulting a seat map before going aboard can bring only benefits and can show to the passengers more details about the airplane comparing with the details and information about each airplane or flight that airlines are publishing.
The bottom line is that airplane seat maps which can be found very easy on the web can help people choosing the best seat that will satisfy the all demands for them. Finding the right seat with the help of aircraft seat maps can improve very much the flight conditions and things can be better when fliers read other people’s reviews of seats and airplanes because bad seats or bad flights can be avoided.
SeatMaestro – Airplane Seat Maps, SeatMaestro – Airline Lists
Author: Naresh Shah
Many people that fly for pleasure or for business purposes have to seat in an airplane for 2-3 hours or sometimes even more, depending on the trip that they make, and during the flight seating in an uncomfortable place in the airplane can be a really pain for them. This is happening very often due the lack of details that each airline is publishing about their airplanes or because people that fly don’t consult an aircraft seat map before they book a ticket.
Airplane seat maps can be really handy for frequent or even for occasionally fliers and help them to choose their seat in the airplane even before they buy their tickets. Knowing the place where you seat before going aboard is very good because on almost all seating charts you can find all the details of a specific seat from extra legroom to missing windows or any other details.
Seat maps published by airlines
Most of the airlines publish the seats configurations for their airplanes but the quality of those seat maps is some times questionable and some of the details and information about seats are confusable. Usually airlines don’t publish seat maps for all of their airplanes, they do it only for the major airplanes and for the ones flying on frequent routes.
Seat maps published by specialized websites
In additions to those published seat maps which can be found on airlines websites there are some other sites that publish aircraft seat maps for almost all the commercial airplanes that are flying these days. Seat maps that can be found on these sites usually have more details and on some websites you can found comments from other passengers with ups and downs about each particular airplane seat.
Reading and understanding a seat map it’s a very simple job but people should be carefully on the design of each seat map because is different from website to website or from airplane to airplane, so reading the legend will help understanding the seat arrangements and the meaning of each symbol from the seat map, in this way mistakes can be avoided and passengers can make the best decision for their flight.
Choosing your seat is important as choosing an airline or an airplane to fly with, some people prefer to fly only if they seat is near a window or some people like to fly in their own cabin and the requests and conditions of each passenger could go on. Consulting a seat map before going aboard can bring only benefits and can show to the passengers more details about the airplane comparing with the details and information about each airplane or flight that airlines are publishing.
The bottom line is that airplane seat maps which can be found very easy on the web can help people choosing the best seat that will satisfy the all demands for them. Finding the right seat with the help of aircraft seat maps can improve very much the flight conditions and things can be better when fliers read other people’s reviews of seats and airplanes because bad seats or bad flights can be avoided.
SeatMaestro – Airplane Seat Maps, SeatMaestro – Airline Lists
This article is free for republishing
Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_536675_29.html
Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_536675_29.html
Gathering Travel Information for Your Trip
15th May 2008
If you're a budget traveler who must carry or drag your luggage through airports, subway systems and city streets, then you'll want to travel as lightly as you can. One area where you can really cut down on both the size and the weight of what you carry on a trip, plus make yourself less of a target for street criminals, is when it comes to packing travel information.
Before your trip, by all means, read all of the guidebooks about your intended destination that you can get your hands on. Use them to help you plan your itinerary and to choose your personal must-see sites for each city or region that you plan to travel to. Read them, but don't take them with you on your trip. They can be extremely heavy and bulky and amount to dead weight. In addition, sitting in a big city park or on a subway train reading a travel guidebook to that city marks you as a pigeon ripe for the plucking. You may as well wear a big hat that says, "Tourist."
I use two alternative means of carrying critical trip information with me. First of all, as I read travel guidebooks, I take old fashioned handwritten notes: from particularly interesting bits of historical information, to the opening hours of shops and banks, to key foreign language phrases. I take notes on each city or town, including specific monuments or buildings that I know I'll want to see due to my personal taste in art and architecture, not just going by what the guidebooks say that everyone should see. This way a few pages of lightweight handwritten notes allow me to distill key bits of information without adding to the weight of my luggage.
I know that as I arrive in each town I can pick up a brochure that will include a town map and the opening hours for each site of interest. This single brochure can stay right in my pocket where it can easily be consulted as needed while I'm sightseeing, yet stay discretely out of sight the rest of the time. If I'm in Prague, for instance, one slim combination map and brochure in my pocket is more easily consulted than a big guidebook, plus it sure beats traipsing around Prague carrying a heavy travel guidebook that covers all of Europe.
Today, with the advent of Internet, trip planning has become easier than ever. Although there are many bogus travel sites on the net that are nothing but come-ons for overpriced hotels, there are also many good ones. I particularly like going directly to the official websites of each monument, city, region or country that I want to learn about. It can be a time-consuming process, but there's a treasure trove of travel information, plus maps and photos, to be found. Via books and the net I can learn about the major tourist attractions of each place, as well as find details about the quirkier sites or the downright odd ones that might be of interest to me.
I can gather up train schedules for each leg of my journey, historical information, up-to-date prices, and opening days and hours for each historical site and museum, and plenty more. Patience during the planning stages of a big trip can save infinite time and inconvenience during the trip. Anyway, learning about places you've always dreamt of seeing is part of the fun.
Online I can seek out low cost hotels and chart them on city maps to determine which ones seem the most conveniently located in relation to historic town centers, and I can then book rooms via email. If I were to print out every single Internet page that is of interest to me, though, I'd soon end up with a mass of papers as heavy as those inadvisable-to-lug-around traditional bulky travel guidebooks. Much of each printout page would amount to wasted blank space or irrelevant banner ads and link lists, as well, so this is what I do: I create a blank text document and each bit of information that I'll want to have with me during a trip gets copied and pasted onto this one document. On it I can list a variety of train schedules, hotel contact information and sightseeing information. I can freely combine bits of information gleaned from many different sources so that, for example, all of the bits of information about a particular castle are together in one subsection of my text document.
When I'm done gathering all my information I can eliminate any duplication of information and reduce the size of the text font on the document before printing it out. That way I wind up with just a few sheets of paper that are tightly packed with relevant information. I can even print on both sides of each sheet of paper to further reduce the total number of pages. I can organize the text document anyway I like, with hotel confirmation emails all on one sheet, or all train schedules on a single sheet, or travel phrases all together or, if I've accumulated lots of details about historical sites to be visited, I can create separate printouts for each city or country.
That way, as I visit each locale, I only need to carry that one page of information around with me during my stay there - one piece of paper that can be folded up and carried in my pocket for easy consulation or to supplement a travel brochure that I picked up locally. From Internet I can also print out a map for each town on my route, so that I'll be able to find my way from a train station to a prebooked lodging even if I can't immediately get my hands on a more detailed local map when I first arrive in a new town.
It is possible to have with you all the travel information and transportation schedules that you'll need during your trip, yet not let it add to the burden that you must carry around as you travel from place to place. A handful of condensed printouts in lieu of a big fat guidebook is one more means of traveling well prepared even though you're traveling light. You can have your cake and eat it, too, so Bon Appetit !
Visit Barbara Freedman De Vito's shop for T-Shirts, Magnets, Mugs, and Other Gifts and clothing with travel photos and many other subjects.
This article is free for republishing
Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_538502_29.html
Barbara has spent years as a children's librarian, teacher, professional storyteller, puppeteer, author and artist.
http://babybirdproductions.com
Author: Barbara Freedman-De Vito
If you're a budget traveler who must carry or drag your luggage through airports, subway systems and city streets, then you'll want to travel as lightly as you can. One area where you can really cut down on both the size and the weight of what you carry on a trip, plus make yourself less of a target for street criminals, is when it comes to packing travel information.
Before your trip, by all means, read all of the guidebooks about your intended destination that you can get your hands on. Use them to help you plan your itinerary and to choose your personal must-see sites for each city or region that you plan to travel to. Read them, but don't take them with you on your trip. They can be extremely heavy and bulky and amount to dead weight. In addition, sitting in a big city park or on a subway train reading a travel guidebook to that city marks you as a pigeon ripe for the plucking. You may as well wear a big hat that says, "Tourist."
I use two alternative means of carrying critical trip information with me. First of all, as I read travel guidebooks, I take old fashioned handwritten notes: from particularly interesting bits of historical information, to the opening hours of shops and banks, to key foreign language phrases. I take notes on each city or town, including specific monuments or buildings that I know I'll want to see due to my personal taste in art and architecture, not just going by what the guidebooks say that everyone should see. This way a few pages of lightweight handwritten notes allow me to distill key bits of information without adding to the weight of my luggage.
I know that as I arrive in each town I can pick up a brochure that will include a town map and the opening hours for each site of interest. This single brochure can stay right in my pocket where it can easily be consulted as needed while I'm sightseeing, yet stay discretely out of sight the rest of the time. If I'm in Prague, for instance, one slim combination map and brochure in my pocket is more easily consulted than a big guidebook, plus it sure beats traipsing around Prague carrying a heavy travel guidebook that covers all of Europe.
Today, with the advent of Internet, trip planning has become easier than ever. Although there are many bogus travel sites on the net that are nothing but come-ons for overpriced hotels, there are also many good ones. I particularly like going directly to the official websites of each monument, city, region or country that I want to learn about. It can be a time-consuming process, but there's a treasure trove of travel information, plus maps and photos, to be found. Via books and the net I can learn about the major tourist attractions of each place, as well as find details about the quirkier sites or the downright odd ones that might be of interest to me.
I can gather up train schedules for each leg of my journey, historical information, up-to-date prices, and opening days and hours for each historical site and museum, and plenty more. Patience during the planning stages of a big trip can save infinite time and inconvenience during the trip. Anyway, learning about places you've always dreamt of seeing is part of the fun.
Online I can seek out low cost hotels and chart them on city maps to determine which ones seem the most conveniently located in relation to historic town centers, and I can then book rooms via email. If I were to print out every single Internet page that is of interest to me, though, I'd soon end up with a mass of papers as heavy as those inadvisable-to-lug-around traditional bulky travel guidebooks. Much of each printout page would amount to wasted blank space or irrelevant banner ads and link lists, as well, so this is what I do: I create a blank text document and each bit of information that I'll want to have with me during a trip gets copied and pasted onto this one document. On it I can list a variety of train schedules, hotel contact information and sightseeing information. I can freely combine bits of information gleaned from many different sources so that, for example, all of the bits of information about a particular castle are together in one subsection of my text document.
When I'm done gathering all my information I can eliminate any duplication of information and reduce the size of the text font on the document before printing it out. That way I wind up with just a few sheets of paper that are tightly packed with relevant information. I can even print on both sides of each sheet of paper to further reduce the total number of pages. I can organize the text document anyway I like, with hotel confirmation emails all on one sheet, or all train schedules on a single sheet, or travel phrases all together or, if I've accumulated lots of details about historical sites to be visited, I can create separate printouts for each city or country.
That way, as I visit each locale, I only need to carry that one page of information around with me during my stay there - one piece of paper that can be folded up and carried in my pocket for easy consulation or to supplement a travel brochure that I picked up locally. From Internet I can also print out a map for each town on my route, so that I'll be able to find my way from a train station to a prebooked lodging even if I can't immediately get my hands on a more detailed local map when I first arrive in a new town.
It is possible to have with you all the travel information and transportation schedules that you'll need during your trip, yet not let it add to the burden that you must carry around as you travel from place to place. A handful of condensed printouts in lieu of a big fat guidebook is one more means of traveling well prepared even though you're traveling light. You can have your cake and eat it, too, so Bon Appetit !
Visit Barbara Freedman De Vito's shop for T-Shirts, Magnets, Mugs, and Other Gifts and clothing with travel photos and many other subjects.
This article is free for republishing
Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_538502_29.html
Barbara has spent years as a children's librarian, teacher, professional storyteller, puppeteer, author and artist.
http://babybirdproductions.com
Thursday, May 15, 2008
Borobudur Temple, one of the seven magnificent
Borobudur Temple
The temple which is one of seven magnificent of the world was built by King Syailendra in 7th Century A.D. Borobudur temple is located in Borobudur village, near Magelang. You can reach this place about one hour from Yogyakarta. The word Borobudur comes from "Bara" and "Budur". Bara/Vihara means temple place and Budur or Beduhur means above or hill. So Borobudur can be translated into temple place that is located on a hill. The height of temple building is 15 m above buildings surround it. Borobudur temple is budhis temple, the height reach 34,5 m. The temple building has unique shape, like pyramid. There are 504 budha statues and 72 stupas. On the temple wall, there are reliefs describe story. If we see Borobudur temple froom above, Borobudur temple adopt lotus flower shape. Borobudur temple is tourism object that tourist like to go. The biggest yearly event is holy day three holy Waisak, where budhis meet to remember the birth of Sidharta Gautama. This occasion is held on May. In surrounding temple park, there are a lot of kiosk and seller of many souvenir of shirt, bronze gift and handycraft wood.
The temple which is one of seven magnificent of the world was built by King Syailendra in 7th Century A.D. Borobudur temple is located in Borobudur village, near Magelang. You can reach this place about one hour from Yogyakarta. The word Borobudur comes from "Bara" and "Budur". Bara/Vihara means temple place and Budur or Beduhur means above or hill. So Borobudur can be translated into temple place that is located on a hill. The height of temple building is 15 m above buildings surround it. Borobudur temple is budhis temple, the height reach 34,5 m. The temple building has unique shape, like pyramid. There are 504 budha statues and 72 stupas. On the temple wall, there are reliefs describe story. If we see Borobudur temple froom above, Borobudur temple adopt lotus flower shape. Borobudur temple is tourism object that tourist like to go. The biggest yearly event is holy day three holy Waisak, where budhis meet to remember the birth of Sidharta Gautama. This occasion is held on May. In surrounding temple park, there are a lot of kiosk and seller of many souvenir of shirt, bronze gift and handycraft wood.
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