Friday, September 29, 2006

Pacitan Tourism

Location: Pacitan, East Java, Indonesia


Teleng Ria Beach

This coast face to Pantai Selatan with extent of white sand along the length of approximately 3 Kms. Distance from Capital of regency to location only 3,5 Kms, and earn is easily reached with various vehicle. Various supporting facilities which have been built other antaara existence of Watch Tower to enjoy south sea wave hiss, Swimming pool and Play At Children, Lodging of Multi Purpose Bonggo Budoyo dann Aareal Encampment, arena Pemancingan, and food typical of Pacitan.
This coast is applied also for Fish Landing-Place (TPI) so that visitor can buy fresh fish.


Srau Beach

Srau Coast reside in district region of Pringkuku, Regency Pacitan, which jaraknyaa approximately 25 Kms towards town west Pacitan earn passed by with common vehicle and person. White sandy coast this hardly suited for activity of fishing rod arena samodra.


Klayar Beach

Coast Klayar reside in district region of Donorojo Regency Pacitan is aparting his(its is more or less 35 Kms towards town west Pacitan. Coastal this white sandy own have an idiosyncrasy that is existence of flute sea that is once in a while whistle among reef gap and blast waved. Despitefully also there is A real natural Water Fountain Indah. This Water“mancur” happened because wave pressure airu sea which menerpa bank hollow rock. Water muncrat which can reach height of 10 metre yield drizzle and sea-water dew being believed having special quality as ageless drug.


Sidomulyo Beach

This coast located in countryside Sidomulyo district of Ngadirajo which distance 50 Kms from Regency Capital City and easy to drive with all vehicle. Coastal with his(its white sand facing to south coast which length 2 Kms.


Goa Gong (Gong Cave)

Goa with stalagtit and stalagmite that is is it is said respected Asian selenium South-east have depth of approximately 256 m, besides having 5 sendang that is Sendang Incantation Rogo, Sendang Panguripan, Sendang Alcove Jiwo, sendang Kamulyan, and sendang Ralung Nisto which kono own?have magical value to heal disease. Beauty of Stalagnit and stalagmite is hardly make surprise immortalized by the name of Selo Cengger Bumi, Spandrel Cello Giri, Selo Citro Cipto Agung, Cello Pakuan Bomo, Cello Adi Citro Buwono, Cello Bantaran Wind and Cello Susuh Wind.

This located goa 30 direction kms of Box west Pacitan precisely countryside bomo district of Punung and earn is easily reached with all types vehicle. Available facility is souvenir, restaurant, Place Of Parking, MCK, Small mosque.


Goa Tabuhan (Tabuhan Cave)

According to public story around, Goa Tabuhan first time found by Kyai Santiko is losing his(its looking after ox but simply the ox to come into goa which many menyimpan water from aereal root diatasnyaSetelah is cleaned [by] Goa taken care of by Raden Bagus Joko Lelono and a putri Raden Ayu Mardilah.

Actually present it a the line of stalagmite at mountain of chalk is ordinary something but its form special with length until seven metre with approximant diameter one metre making differ in from other. It Is Called As Goa Tabuhan because if lapped will yield sound like rhythm gamelan Java. Goa Tabuhan is initialy known as Goa Tapan because since ahead applied by the chevaliers for bertapaSeperti Sanggargenu, Bambang Trigo. Countryside Wareng is recognized caused by legend Banteng Wareng which is descendant of Sultan Yogyakarta. It is told also in the year 1825 happened war Diponegoro, Raden Banteng Wareng to show patriotic soul opposed kompeni with soldier Diponegoro.

This cave located in Desa Wareng, District of Punung approximately 40 kms from downtown Pacitan towards west. The facility like Musholla and souvenir ( Multifarious is stone product /Akik).


Bath of Warm Water

Wellspring which menyimpan still various main special qualities and benefit for health and body fitness. This bath called " Tirto Husodo " now have been built two place of bathing, two swimming pool and place of Penginapan. Accesibility to this relative wisata object easy, reachable with vehicle of wheel four with kondiri road either, more or less 15 Kms from Town Pacitan, precisely in district Arjosari.


Ceremony of Ceprotan

This ceprotan Ceremony have become acara/event is entering calendar Tourism jawa east, this ceremony is activity of tradition of custom in countryside Sekar hereditaryly is the always executed per annum in Dulkangidah (lngkang) day jum'at or senin this activity meant in memory of Legenda fresh Desa public? people that is goddess Sekartaji and Panji Asmorobangun through activity of countryside cleanness. Location ceremony Ceprotan in fresh countryside is district of Donorojo town Pacitan ± 40 Kms towards west.

Supporting Facilities For Tourism Supporter
One of tourism supporter is existence of hotel which refresentatif for comfort of the tourists. Hotel is a real vital supporting facilities in supporting tourism in Pacitan Regency.


-- http://pacitan.eastjava.com --

Tuesday, September 19, 2006

Travel Tips for China

China is a large country at a size of 9,596,960 sq km. China was only partially open to the world from 1980 onwards and has been a communist country for many decades. Although there is much progress in the travel industry and infrastructure of China, there remain areas that need to be improved before it can match the level that most tourist would require. However, much of the fun remain that it is different from the rest of the world. China will be the host nation for the Olympics in Year 2008. Travel facilities and infrastructure will be improving quickly as we approach Year 2008.

China

China is rich in culture and history. Visit the Great Wall of China in Beijing, sip Chinese tea in Xiamen, dance with ethnic tribes in Yunnan, check out 19th Century European buildings in Qingdao - there are just so much to do and see in China!

Below are some travel tips to make your travel in China easier:

Entry Visa

China require entry visa from most countries. Apply at the Chinese consulate or through your travel agent before travelling to China.

Climate

Extremely diverse; tropical in south to sub-arctic in north. Be prepared with the right seasonal clothing.

Foreign Exchange

The unit of currency is known as Renmembi (RMB) or Yuan. Get some Chinese Yuan in your local country before travelling. When in China, exchange foreign currency for local currency in the banks or at the hotel. Banks tend to give slightly better rates than hotels. Take note that some banks close for a noon siesta between 12:00-2:00PM.

Payment facilities

Most better class hotels and shopping centres take Credit Card or Travellers cheques. Smaller hotels and shops take cash only. Once out of the bigger cities, credit card and ATM cards tend to be almost impossible to utilize. Cash is still king in Chinese business and trade. Counterfeit notes are common in China. Check carefully before accepting change, especially if it consists mostly 100RMB notes. You can feel a texture difference where counterfeit notes is concerned.

Understanding of English

Most civil servants, custom officials, police, hotel staff and men in the street do not speak English or at best a smattering of English.

Most signboards and notices will carry both English and Chinese. However, be aware that some translations can be so notorious that one can hardly understand what was it's original Chinese intention.

Do not expect hotels or shops to understand English. Only the very big hotels will have staff that will understand English.

Most young people can understand basic English if you speak slowly.

Social Security

China is generally a safe country. However, hang on tight to your wallet especially in crowded, popular tourist sites in tourist cities such as Beijing and Xian.

These tourist cities also has a lot of touts in the streets touting tourist from currency exchange to jewelleries to female companionships. Avoid at all cost!

Domestic Travel

Bus, train, ferries and domestic flights are quite well developed. Avoid the crowd at the stations and book your tickets through the hotel tour desk or the nearest tour agent. Prices are likely to be competitive and tickets will be delivered to your hotel room. Again, avoid ticket touts who approach you in the streets.

Local buses are cheap (US$0.10 or YS$0.20) and you may want to try out. Taxis are convenient and are available at all hours. Starting fares differ from each city and may be as cheap as US$0.70 in Weihai and US$1.50 in Shenzhen.

Avoid travel in China during peak holiday seasons or book tickets well ahead.

Local Hotels

There is a good choice of hotels in China ranging from one star to the most luxurious 6 stars. Most of the time, the rooms are safe and clean and in my opinion, cheap does not mean bad. There are many websites selling China hotel rooms on the internet. You can also check out the travel counters which are available in most train, bus stations as well as airport. Book ahead if travelling in peak seasons.

Peak Tourist Seasons

Chinese New Year: Date varies but generally late January or early February.

May Day: First two weeks of May

China National Day: Middle two weeks of October

Avoid travelling during these period. Book rooms and travel modes way early if need to travel. Believe me, the crowds during these period of time will be scary. What do you expect when the entire Chinese nation of 8 billion people are on holiday as well!

Chinese Food

Local food is absolutely fabulous. Try as much Chinese food as your wallet or stomach can afford. Restaurants are available everywhere and open to late hours. Most restaurants will have a menu that include photographs of the various dishes. Better yet, simply point at the food that your next door table is having, especially if it looks delicious!

However, avoid street side stalls and drinking directly from the taps if you have delicate stomach.

Telecommunications

Mobile phone coverage in China is good in most locations. Global auto-roaming within China is not a problem.

Internet

There are cyber-cafes everywhere in China, especially in tourist areas. Most are patronised by young people playing online games but you still can check your Hotmail, Yahoo or Gmail. Access may be a bit slow for international websites.

You will need to show your passport as China has tight regulations at Internet Cyber Cafes.

Washroom facilities

One of the worst experience many has with China is the atrocious toilet facilities. Things has improved very much but it may still be a good idea to empty your stomach or bladder at every opportunity in a hotel, restaurant or departmental store. Public toilets and toilets in small shops can be a nose hazard!

* Useful China travel tips *

Try to get a English speaking tour guide at every opportunity you can. China has a rich and wonderful history and culture and without a guide, somehow, the flavour and significance of most tour sites can be lost.

*Sneaky tip: Hang around a group that has a English speaking guide if you cannot afford one! Always ask for a receipt from a taxi driver so that you can complain if you have been cheated or for tracing purposes if you happen to leave your camera behind in the taxi.

Try to take the "namecard" for each hotel that you are staying at as these cards will have a Chinese address and the map of your hotel location. This is useful if you need to seek assistance to find your way back as the English version or pronunciation of a hotel or a street name may be quite different from the Chinese version.

After a tiring day, check out Chinese foot reflexology or Chinese TuiNa (Chinese massage). Wonderful for the body after a hard day and very cheap to boot. Simply look out for shop signs that shows two feet! They are everywhere.

Make friends with the Chinese whenever you can. They love to meet foreigners and will make good tour guides. Just buy a small present as a small token of appreciation.

by Ken Cheong

Wednesday, September 06, 2006

Spring Travel Airport Tips

The Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority is expecting a busy summer season to start with spring travel in April. The Airports Authority is offering advice to area travelers coming to Ronald Reagan Washington National and Washington Dulles International Airports.

"We anticipate a strong spring travel season this year and ask our passengers to arrive early and be patient as we continue improvements at Dulles. At Reagan National, parking will be in high demand at certain times of the week. Planning ahead can make for an easier trip through our airports," says Airports Authority President/CEO James E. Bennett.

The Airports Authority offers these travel tips:

Parking at Reagan National Airport -

Passengers are encouraged to call ahead to check on the status of available parking at Reagan National Airport. Daily parking is most heavily used on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Economy Parking is often full on the weekends. The spring break period during the week of April 4th may fill the parking facilities at Reagan National.

A 24-hour parking information line is staffed to provide current status of available spaces. That number is 703-417-PARK or 703- 417-7275.

Travelers may also want to consider using Metro as an easy alternative to driving and parking at the Airport over this holiday period.

Before You Go to the Ticket Counter -

Airplane list iconMake sure the security screeners can examine your suitcase.
Airplane list icon To avoid lines at the ticket counter, consider using the airline ticket kiosk if you have an e-ticket.
Airplane list icon Be sure to have a boarding pass BEFORE you leave the ticketing area to show at the security-screening checkpoint.
Airplane list iconA government-issued photo identification such as a driver's license or Passport is required of passengers over age 18.

Before You Go to the Security Checkpoint-

Airplane list icon Do NOT pack or bring prohibited items to the airport. Visit www.TSATraveltips.us for a complete list.
Airplane list icon Avoid wearing clothing, jewelry, and accessories that contain metal and may set off the alarm at screening checkpoints. Be prepared to remove your shoes.
Airplane list icon Put cameras and undeveloped film in your carry-on baggage. Checked baggage screening equipment will damage some undeveloped film.
Airplane list icon Carry-on baggage is limited to one carry-on bag plus one personal item. Personal items include laptops, purses, small backpacks, briefcases, or camera cases.
Airplane list icon Place identification tags inside and outside of all of your baggage. Don't forget your laptop computer; be sure to put an i.d. label on the computer and the carrying case. Laptops must be removed from its case to pass through screening.

Arrive early --

Travelers are urged to arrive at the airport at least 1 ½ hours before domestic flights and 2 ½ hours before international flights to allow enough time for ground transportation, parking, luggage check-in and security screening.

Use PAY & GO Dulles International-

Drivers who park at Dulles Airport should take their parking ticket with them and use the Pay & Go machines as they exit the Terminal building. Pay & Go machines are located in the lower level of the Terminal near the east and west exit doors. The machines accept $1, $5, $10 and $20 bills and MasterCard, Visa, American Express, Discover Card and Diners Club credit cards.

Once the ticket is paid at the Pay & Go machine in the Terminal, drivers exit at the Pay & Go lanes with the paid ticket without having to stop at the cashier booth. Free Airport shuttle buses operate between the economy lots to the terminals. For parking information at Dulles, please call 703-572-4500.

Call In Before Check-In-

Call your airline's 800 number or check the website to confirm your flight or to verify security regulations related to checked baggage.

Take Metro

Travelers using National Airport often find Metro a good alternative to driving. The Airports Authority also encourages Dulles passengers to consider taking Metro to the West Falls Church Station and connecting to the Washington Flyer Bus to Dulles.

Try the Washington Flyer or Super Shuttle Service-

Consider using the Washington Flyer express bus service from the Metro West Falls Church Station to Dulles Airport. For information about this service, please call 703- 685-1400 or 1-888-WASHFLY. In addition, Super Shuttle provides door-to-door shared-ride service to the airports. Call 1-800-BLUEVAN. For more information on these services, log onto www.washfly.com.

Travel wisely-- Carry medicine, cash, jewelry and other important valuables with you on the plane. If you leave your car at the airport, remove any valuables. Carry your purse and wallet securely, and keep your luggage and carry-on items in your sight at all times. Under security procedures unattended bags and other items will be confiscated and destroyed.

Monday, September 04, 2006

Bali History

Bali history. There is no trace of the Stone Age in Bali although it's certain that the island was already populated before the Bronze Age commenced there about 300 BC. Nor is much known of Bali during the period when Indian traders brought Hinduism to the Indonesian Archipelago. The earliest records found in Bali, stone inscriptions, date from around the 9th century AD and by that time Bali had already developed many similarities to the island you find today. Rice was grown with the help of a complex irrigation system probably very like that employed now. The Balinese had also already begun to develop the cultural and artistic activities which have made the island so interesting to visitors right down to the present day.

Hindu

Hindu Java began to spread its influence into Bali during the reign of King Airlangga from 1019 to 1042. At this time the courtly Javanese language known as Kawi came into use amongst the royalty of Bali, and the rock-cut memorials seen at Gunung Kawi near Tampaksiring are a clear architectural link between Bali and 11th century Java. After Airlangga's death Bali retained its semi-independent state until Kertanegara became king of the Singasari dynasty in Java two centuries later. Artists, dancers, musicians and actors fled to Bali and the island experienced and explosion of cultural activities. The final great exodus to Bali took place in 1478.

European

Marco Polo, the great explorer, was the first recorded European visitor to Indonesia back in 1292 but the first Europeans to set foot on Bali were Dutch seamen in 1597. Setting a tradition that has prevailed right down to the present day, they fell in love with the island and when Cornelius Houtman, the ship's captain, prepared to set sail, half of his crew refused to come with him.

Dutch

In 1710 the capital of the Gelgel kingdom was shifted to nearby Klungkung but local discontent was growing, lesser rulers were breaking away from Gelgel rule and the Dutch began to move in using the old policy of divide and conquer.

Independence

On 17 August 1945, just after the end of WW II, the Indonesian leader Sukarno proclaimed the nation's independence but it took four years to convince the Dutch that they were not going to get their great colony Back.

Source : http://www.all-bali.com

Bali Island

Bali, a tropical island in the Indonesian archipelago, is so picturesque and immaculate it could almost be a painted backdrop. It has rice paddies tripping down hillsides like giant steps, volcanoes soaring up through the clouds, dense tropical jungle, long sandy beaches, warm blue water, crashing surf and friendly people who don't just have a culture but actually live it. In Bali spirits come out to play in the moonlight, every night is a festival and even a funeral is an opportunity to have a good time.

Bali Island, the perfect holiday destination for all ages offers something for everyone. This tropical paradise has a unique blend of modern tourist facilities combined with wonderful shopping and a rich past and heritage. The Balinese people are proud of having preserved their unique Hindu culture against the advance of Islam, the dominant religion throughout Indonesia. This is still reflected in day to day life and can be seen in the numerous ceremonies, Balinese festivals and magnificent temples and palaces. Some of the best surfing beaches in the world can be found on the western side of the island whilst conversely the eastern side is a wonderful haven for families, with beautiful white sand beaches and gentle seas.

Bali Island is a shopper's paradise particularly for casual and tailored clothing, locally made jewellery, handicrafts, antiques and artifacts. Leather ware is one of the unexpected local bargains with everything from handbags through to tailor made leather jackets and coats, all at unbelievable prices. In fact, prices are so inexpensive, you're sure to need more room in your suitcase! Try bargaining at the street markets of Kuta, Sanur of Nusa Dua or fixed price shopping at a Denpasar department store. Bali has it all.

For those that want to stay wet, Bali Island has world class scuba diving, snorkelling and wonderful day trips out to Nusa Penida for beach sports and coral viewing.
When the sun sets, the choices are still hard to make - a quiet romantic moon lit dinner or watch the spectacular Balinese Fire Dance or Kecak Dance. For those that want to party, Bali Island has it all with bars, discos and nightclubs.
As a truly international destination attracting visitors from all over the world, restaurants in Bali are extremely cosmopolitan yet inexpensive. Experience not only local delicacies like Nasi Goreng and Sate Campur but also Chinese, Malaysian, Japanese, Italian/European Greek, Moroccan and even Mexican cuisine. We must not forget Bali's wonderful seafood - local lobster at such prices that you will want to keep coming back for more.
For those more culturally inclined, Bali can offer the peace and tranquility of Ubud high in the hills; the spectacular Mother Temple at Besakih; the ancient capital of Bali, Singaraja and the floating palace at Ujung near the pretty beach area of Candi Dasa. The Scenery is nothing less than spectacular. Jungle, picturesque hillside rice terraces and the awesome magnificence of Kintamani Volcano.
The more active, wanting a break from the idyllic beaches, can experience wonderful golf courses in the mountains at Bedugul and beachside at Nusa Dua, the thrill of white water rafting or kayaking down the beautiful Ayung River; mountain cycling amid scenery you will never forget and organized rice paddy and jungle treks to see the side of Bali most tourists never encounter.
Bali Island, a truly international destination, offers every standard of accommodation ranging from charming yet modest bungalow style hotels in lush tropical gardens for the budget minded through to arguably amongst the most exclusive and sophisticated hotels in the world!

Source : http://www.all-bali.com

Tips For Family Holiday In Bali

Bali is a perfect place for those who are on holiday with children. Bring all your family to explore the island. You all will love the natural surroundings, and it is definitely easy to find a baby sitter or somebody to take care of your kids.

Kids club are available in major hotels. Many hotels offer family room with children discounts policy which is good optional for family term.

Bali villa is also a good alternative for accommodation, which is now becomes holiday trend in Bali. Mostly one villa consists of more than one bedroom that caters for family.

Range of attractions that are friendly for children can be also easily found in Bali.

Children's attractions in Bali vary from surf, sand and beach activities; cultural activities such as dancing, temple visits, and traditional Balinese life style experiences; adventure activities such as rafting, cycling, horse ride, dolphin/turtle tour elephant rides; and theme parks such as Bali Bird Park, WaterBom Park, Bali Butterfly Park, etc.

Travelling with the family can be hassle- free and loaded with fun. There is no reason you shouldn’t bring the kids and the entire family with you. Here are a few tips you can use for an easy, stress - free travel.

Plan with the entire family

Get each family member’s opinion on which places to go. Kids love it when they get involved. Make a short list of the places they want to visit and get the majority’s preference. Plan simple yet fun activities for the whole family to enjoy.

Distribute tasks

Help each other especially when packing. Give each one a responsibility. You can have your kids check on the first- aid kit, your husband to bring all bulky equipments and you take charge preparing the food. This way, your load can be lessened and everyone would feel the importance of each one’s contribution.

Travel light

Since most of the space of your car would be for people, pack only the essential things you need. If possible you can hire strollers for the kids instead of carrying one. Transfer shampoos, mouthwash and the like in small plastic containers instead of bringing the entire thing. Remember that travelling light doesn’t mean travelling incomplete. Carry all important stuff you need to bring.

Secure your house

Since all of your family members are with you on the trip, you can opt to hire a house sitter. If not, have a neighbour look out for the house for you. Unplug all electrical appliances and be sure to secure all door and windows.

Be safe

Always carry with you a medicine kit for emergencies. This should include aspirins, laxative, insect repellant, bandages, ointments and alcohol. More importantly, bring enough prescription drugs if any of the family members is on medication. Bring enough to last for the entire duration of the trip.

Bring in the fun

Take pictures and videos to document your trip. Take turns in using the camera, this way everyone will get a memorable shot taken. You can take the pictures and put them in a nice travel journal when you get home. This way you can enjoy the fun memories as often as you want.Remember that the entire objective of a family trip is to have fun. Follow the quick tips above and you can head your way to an enjoyable travel in Bali.

About The Author
Dewa Artanadi is the Operation Manager of Bali Suci Tours. For more information about Bali family villas and Bali tours, please visit http://www.balitravelservice.com and http://www.bali-hotels-tours.com.

Friday, September 01, 2006