Everything and anything about Indonesia
This photo features the vast mountainous skyline of the fabled crater of Mt. Tangkuban Perahu, the only ‘drive-up’ volcano on the island of Java, West Indonesia. Located thirty kilometres north of Bandung, a sleepy city that is situated 768 meters above sea level, this active stratovolcano is considered one of the many off-the-beaten track destinations in Indonesia...
Carved from volcanic sandstone, a compacted combination of ash and dust that contains a mixture of sand and clay, Dvarapala’s are a common island feature in Bali. These fearsome warriors stand guard at the entrance of most Hindu temples and any site of holy significance. The Balinese Dvarapala’s are often made from andesite or volcanic sandstone found...
When local flavours seem over whelming and its time for a change in cuisines, head over to the Bali Catering Company Gourmet Cafe for a taste of something more familiar. Located just outside mainstream Kuta and in the ever growing district of Seminyak, this medium sized cafe is tucked away in the middle of local housing and holiday villas just shy of the coastline...
As 2011 comes to an end, I reflect on the many places that I have travelled to. The one place that constantly comes to mind is the island of Bali. It’s one of those places that has permanently left an imprint in my heart. Though it is an island that has been tainted by extreme commercialization and a never-ending influx of tourists from all corners of the globe, the...
By Rosemarie John – There are times a person feels a need to escape from the confines of the maddening and irritating world of cities and retreat perhaps with a loved one in more tranquil surroundings. Some amongst us enjoy the sounds of the ocean; others like to sit by the grandeur of a cliff top. There are those who experience nirvana when surrounded by dense...
Built in the 11th century, Besakih is the largest and most important temple amongst the local Balinese. With over 22 structures in its complex, the temple sits on the slopes of Mount Agung, a stratovolcano and is home to the Trinity shrines dedicated to the Gods Shiva, Brahma and Vishnu. Surviving the devastating volcanic eruption of the mountain it resides on in...
Here I was on an ancient wonder patiently waiting for the last hour or so for the sun to show itself. Trying to find the best spot to catch this mystical twilight was a very indecisive decision on my part. I was always moving from one spot to another thinking maybe… just maybe… I could get a better shot when the fiery star begins to emerge. Booking a spot is...
By Rosemarie John – A spell-binding performance, the ‘Kecak‘ or in some instances, the Ramayana Monkey Chant combined with a Fire Dance keeps you engaged and asking for more, making a visit to Uluwatu a must when you visit Bali. Staged in an ancient Roman like open-air amphitheatre atop a cliff, the Kecak performance tells a tale and depicts a battle scene from...
By Rosemarie John – If you’re looking for accommodations that are reasonable yet not too dingy in the bustling city of Jakarta, a good option would be Harris Hotel. Located in the residential area of Kelapa Gading, North Jakarta, Harris Hotel is situated adjacent to the entrance of Mall 5 of the Kelapa Gading Mall. Boasting an all out orange themed...
By Rosemarie John – Eclipsed with Frangipani trees everywhere that one would think its indigenous to the Island of the Gods, Bali is known for its hot spots such as Legian, Kuta, Sukawati & Ubud that boasts a variety of shopping experiences for those with a keen eye for the exotic and rustic design. You would find most markets along the beach or a short...