East Belitung

Regency of East Belitung with Manggar as the capital town, is still in the land of Belitung island. It becomes a divident area on the autorization of its own government since 2005. Pluralistic – open minded and friendly communities, Tourism exciting objects, situated in the center of Manggar town, this beach has beautiful scenary whit the pines along the beach, whit slope sand and the silent blue sea.

Pura Tirta Empul, Bali

For more than a thousand years, Balinese worshipers have been drawn to Pura Tirta Empul, whose sacred spring is said to have been created by Indra and to have curative properties. The tradition continues almost unchanged at the temple today.

Tirta Empul Picture

History
Legend has it that the sacred spring was created by the god Indra. His forces had been poisoned by Mayadanawa, so he pierced the earth to create a fountain of immortality to revive them.

An inscription dates the founding of a temple at the site to 926 AD. Ever since - for more than a thousand years - the Balinese have come to bathe in the sacred waters for healing and spiritual merit.

What to See
The Tirta Empul Temple includes the traditional Balinese split gate along with shrines to Shiva, Vishnu, Braham, Mt. Batur, and Indra. There is also a large open pavilion in the main courtyard, useful for relaxing in the shade.

But the main attraction here is a long rectangular pool carved of stone, filled with koi and fed by the sacred spring via 12 fountains. Worshippers first make an offering at the temple, then climb into the main pool to bathe and pray. Many collect the holy water in bottles to take home. Nearby there are two smaller pools fed by the spring.

Overlooking the temple on a hill above is a suprisingly modern building: the Government Palace, built in 1954. Originally a residence for Dutch officials, it was later used by former President Soekarno during his frequent trips to Bali.

Pura Tirta Empul is located in the village of Tampak Siring, accessible by public transportation from Ubud. The souvenir stands outside the temple specialize in the local craft, carved bone jewelry.

Pura Besakih - Mount Agung, Bali

The volcanic Mount Agung (Gunung Agung) is holiest mountain on the island of Bali in Indonesia. It is also home to the important Mother Temple of Besakih, the largest and holiest temple in Bali.

History
An active volcano, Mount Agung last erupted in March 1963. The lava flows narrowly missed the Mother Temple of Besakih on the mountain's slopes, which the Balinese regarded as a miraculous sign from the gods.

Built before 1000 AD, Besakih Temple was originally a terraced temple dedicated to the dragon god Besakih who is believed to inhabit the sacred mountain.

  Mount Agung Picture

In the 15th century, Besakih became the state temple of the Geigel-Kiungkung dynasty, whose rulers built several small temples to honor their deified kin. It remains a state temple today, run and funded by the provincial and national governments.

What to See
The great Mount Agung rises to an altitude of 3,148 meters (10,308 feet) in eastern Bali. Perched on its slopes about 1,000 meters (3,000 feet) in altitude is the holy Besakih Temple, Mother Temple of Bali.

Besakih is said to be the only temple where a Hindu of any caste can worship. Surrounding three main temples dedicated to Shiva, Brahma and Vishnu are 18 separate sanctuaries belonging to different regencies and caste groups.

 Pura Besakih

Stairs ascend through a monumental split gate to the courtyard of the main temple, Pura Panataran Agung, where the central shrine dedicated to the Hindu trinity of Shiva, Brahma, and Vishnu is wrapped in cloth and decorated with flower offerings.

Two other important temples further up the slope join with the Pura Panataran Agung to symbolize the Hindu trinity: the Pura Panataran Agung in the center flies white banners for Shiva, Pura Kiduling Kreteg to the right flies red banners for Brahma; and Pura Batu Mddeg, on the left, has black banners for Vishnu.

There are many other temples to explore at Besakih, but many of their inner courtyards are reserved for worship and closed to visitors.

Tip: If not traveling as part of a tour, try to arrive at the temple before 9am, when the tourist buses begin to arrive.

Borobudur, Java

Borobudur, a Buddhist stupa in the Mahayana tradition, is the largest Buddhist monument in the world. Located on the Indonesian island of Java, 40 km (25mi) northwest of Yogyakarta, Borobudur was built around 750 AD. The magnificent temple is a three-dimensional mandala (diagram of the universe) and a visual representation of Buddhist teachings.

 Borobudur Picture 1

History
There is no written record of who built Borobudur or of its intended purpose. The construction time has been estimated by comparison between carved reliefs on the temple's hidden foot and the inscriptions commonly used in royal charters during the eight and ninth centuries. Borobudur was likely founded around 750 AD. This corresponds to the peak of the Sailendra dynasty in central Java (760–830 AD), when it was under the influence of the Srivijayan Empire. The construction has been estimated to have taken 75 years and been completed during the reign of Samaratungga in 825.

For centuries, Borobodur lay hidden under layers of volcanic ash. The reasons behind the desertion of this magnificent monument still remain a mystery. Some scholars believe that famine caused by an eruption of Mount Merapi forced the inhabitants of Central Java to leave their lands behind in search of a new place to live. When people once again inhabited this area, the glory of Borobudur was buried by ash from Mount Merapi.

Borobudur Picture 2

Borobudur was rediscovered in 1814 by Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles who, during his visit in Semarang, received a report indicating the discovery of a hill full of many carved stones. The hill was believed by the local inhabitants to be the site of an ancient monument called budur. Raffles then commissioned a team led by Cornelius to investigate the hill.

It was in 1835 that the site was cleared. Some efforts were made to restore and preserve the colossal monument since then. Unfortunately, in 1896 the Dutch colonial government gave away eight containers of Borobudur stones, including reliefs, statues, stairs and gates, as presents for the King of Siam who was visiting Indonesia.

A restoration program undertaken between 1973 and 1984 returned much of the complex to its former glory, and the site has since become a destination of Buddhist pilgrimage. On January 21, 1985 the temple suffered minor damage due to a bomb attack. In 1991, Borobudur was listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.
What to See

Viewed from above, Borobudur takes the form of a giant mandala, symbolically depicting the path of the bodhisattva from samsara to nirvana, through the story of Sudhana described in the Gandavyuha Sutra, a part of the Avatamsaka Sutra. In total, this massive monument contains over 2 million stone blocks.

Some scholars think that this massive monument is a gigantic textbook of Buddhism to help people to achieve enlightenment. To read this Buddhist textbook in stone requires a walk of more than two miles. The walls of the galleries are adorned with impressive reliefs illustrating the life of Buddha Shakyamuni and the principles of his teaching.

Representing the existence of the universe, Borobudur perfectly reflects the Buddhist cosmology, which divides the universe into three intermingled separate levels. The three levels are Kamadhatu (world of desire), Ruphadatu (world of forms), and Arupadhatu (world of formlessness).

The hidden base of Borobudur was originally the first level, which contains the gallery of Kamadhatu level. It is thought that during construction Borobudur experienced a landfall that threatened the entire building. To prevent the whole monument from collapsing, the Kamadhatu level was closed and made into a new base that holds Borobudur steady.

This level of Kamadhatu pictures the world of passion and the inevitable laws of karma. The first 117 panels show various actions leading to one and the same result, while the other remaining 43 panels demonstrate the many results that follow one single effect. At least 160 relief panels were carved around this level, based on the manuscript of Karmavibhangga. What is left of these can be seen in the Southeast corner of this level.

The reliefs of the Rupadhatu level show the stories based on the manuscripts of Lalitavistara, Jataka-Avadana and Gandavyuha. The Lalitavistara reliefs, consisting of 120 panels, tell us about the life of Siddhartha Gautama Buddha. It starts with the glorious descent of Buddha from the Tushita heaven. Born as Prince Siddhartha, Buddha's childhood was isolated from the outside world's misery. Accidentally witnessing the misery of sickness, decrepitude and death, young Prince Siddharta decided to escape from the worldly life and commencing his search of freedom from suffering. Siddhartha’s long and painful search finally led him to the highest level of enlightenment and made him Buddha, the Enlightened One. This story ends with Buddha’s sermon in the Deer Park near Benares.

The Jataka is a collection of stories about Buddha's previous reincarnation, chains and virtues. According to the Jataka, Buddha was born 504 times before being born as Prince Siddharta, taking on the forms of god, kings, princes, learned men, thieves, slaves, and a gambler. Many times he was born in the forms of animals such as lion, deer, monkey, swan, big turtle, quail, horse, bird and many others. But the Boddhisatva (Buddha-to-be) was distinguished from all other kings, slaves, or animals among whom he lived. The Boddhisatva is always superior and wiser than those around him.

As to the relief of Avadana, the main figure is not the Buddha himself. All the saintly deeds pictured in this part are attributed to other legendary characters. The stories are compiled in Dvijavadana (Glorious Heavenly Acts) and the Avadana Sataka (The Hundred Avadana). The first 20 frames in the lower series of stories on the first gallery depict the Sudhanakumaravana.

The series of reliefs covering the wall of the second gallery is dedicated to Sudhana’s tireless wandering during his search for the highest wisdom. The story is continued on the walls and balustrades of the third and fourth galleries. Most of the 460 panels depict the scenes based on the Mahayana text Gandavyuha, while the concluding scenes are derived from the text of Badracari.

On the last three circular uppermost terraces, 72 stupas circle the huge main stupa that crowns the top of the temple. The circular form represents the eternity without beginning and without end, a superlative, tranquil, and pure state of the formless world. There are no reliefs on the three circular terraces.

All but the largest central stupas on the upper levels contain a (more or less) life-sized statue of the Buddha kneeling, although many of these statues are missing or damaged. There are also many alcoves along the lower levels which contain similar statues but many of these are missing or damaged as well.

Bunaken

Bunaken Island, Indonesia comprises an area of 808 ha. and attractive white sandy beaches. The island called Bunaken is facing of Manado. This island offers one of the most beautiful sea environments of the world. Bunaken Timur is situated right off the east coast of Bunaken Island, which comprises some of the finest site in all Indonesia.

The magnificence of Bunaken Island, Indonesia is lies on the crystal clear water and amazing range of marine life, which includes the dazzling colors and the drop-off walls, caverns and gullies, large caves with hanging masses of coral. The marine life of Bunaken Island, Indonesia also includes an incredible collection of sea life such as; colorful coral fish, crabs, lobsters, transparent and red-striped coral shrimps, giant Napoleon wrasses, anglefishes, turtles, blue ribbon eels, sharks, eagle rays, groupers, tunas, sea snakes, barracudas dolphins and pilot wales, tube sponge, Christmas tree worms, orange and red encrusting sponges etc. that will give you the awesome experience, which is unforgettable.

The visitors who love adventurous sports like diving; Bunaken Island, Indonesia considered as paradise for them. Every Bunaken dive is a memorable experience for the visitors. In this island, you can enjoy blue-water float dives or you would be fascinated to swim with dolphins, sharks, giant turtles and other colorful coral-reef fishes as the Bunaken diving team guides you over vivid, unspoiled coral gardens. The best season to dive in this island is the dry summer season from June to August, when the visibleness of the water is maximum.

Bunaken Underwater Picture

There are various famous sites in Bunaken Island, Indonesia where you can enjoy diving, the activity for which this island is renowned and some of them are:

Celah Celah
Likuan III
Likuan I & II
Kampung
Pangalisan and Bunaken Timur
Sachiko's Point
Mike's Point
Raymond's Point
Tengah
Mandolin Point
Alung Banua
Fukui Point

Puncak Jaya (Carstensz Pyramid)

Puncak Jaya, sometimes called Mount Carstensz or the Carstensz Pyramid, is a mountain in the Sudirman Range, the western central highlands of Papua province, Indonesia. Other names include Nemangkawi in the Amungkal language, Ngga Pulu, Carstensz Toppen and Gunung Sukarno.
At 4,884 metres (16,024 ft) above sea level, Puncak Jaya is the highest mountain in Indonesia, the highest on the island of New Guinea (which comprises the Indonesian Papua provinces plus Papua New Guinea), the highest of Oceania (Australia), and the 5th highest mountain in political Southeast Asia. It is also the highest point between the Himalayas and the Andes, and the highest island peak in the world. Some sources claim Mount Wilhelm, 4,509 m (14,793 ft), as the highest mountain peak in Oceania, on account of Indonesia being part of Asia (Southeast Asia).

History

The highlands surrounding the peak were inhabited before European contact, and the peak was known as Nemangkawi in Amungkal. Puncak Jaya was named "Carstensz Pyramid" after Dutch explorer Jan Carstensz who first sighted the glaciers on the peak of the mountain on a rare clear day in 1623. The sighting went unverified for over two centuries, and Carstensz was ridiculed in Europe when he said he had seen snow near the equator. This name is still used among mountaineers. Although the snowfield of Puncak Jaya was reached as early as 1909 by a Dutch explorer, Hendrik Albert Lorentz with six of his indigenous Dayak Kenyah porters recruited from the Apo Kayan in Borneo, the peak was not climbed until 1962, by an expedition led by the Austrian mountaineer Heinrich Harrer (of Seven Years in Tibet fame) with three friends — Temple, Kippax and Huizenga.

When Indonesia took control of the province in the 1960s, the peak was renamed 'Puntjak Soekarno' (Simplified Indonesian: Puncak Sukarno) or Sukarno Peak, after the first President of Indonesia, later this was changed to Puncak Jaya. Puncak means peak or mountain and Jaya means 'victory', 'victorious' or 'glorious'.

Climbing
The highland area in 2005, with the Grasberg copper mine pit in the foreground. Its summit is at the far end of the central rib.
Puncak Jaya is one of the more demanding climbs in one version of the Seven Summits peak-bagging list. (It is replaced by Mount Kosciuszko in the other version.) It is held to have the highest technical rating, though not the greatest physical demands of that list's ascents. The standard route is up the north face and along the summit ridge, which is all hard rock surface. Despite the large mine, the area is highly inaccessible to hikers and the general public, requiring a 100-km hike from the nearest town with an airport, Timika, to the base camp, which usually takes about four or five days each way.

The mount usually climbed by professional climbers, it needs  complete equipment and the local potter. The route is: Tembagapura or Illaga – Lembah Danau – Danau – Cartetz Peak.

Puncak Jaya Picture

Alternate Name(s) :
Carstensz
Latitude/Longitude (WGS84) :
4° 5' S; 137° 9' E
-4.076859, 137.156262 (Dec Deg)
739391E 9549057N Zone 53 (UTM)
Country :
Indonesia (Highest Point)
State/Province :
Irian Jaya (Highest Point)
Drainage Basins :
Mamberamo
Pacific Ocean
Island :
New Guinea (Highest Point)
Ownership :
Land : Gunung Lorentz
Prominence :
Clean Prominence: 4884 m/16,024 ft
Optimistic Prominence: 4884 m/16,024 ft
Key Col : Ocean 0 m/0 ft
Isolation :
Distance to Higher Peak: 5262.57 km/3270.71 mi
Nearest Higher Neighbor: Yulongxue Shan (NW)

Mount Kerinci

Mount Kerinci (also spelled Kerintji, among several other ways, and referred to as Gunung Kerinci, Gadang, Berapi Kurinci, Kerinchi, Korinci, or Peak of Indrapura as well) is the highest volcano in Indonesia, and the highest peak in Sumatra. It is surrounded by the lush forest of Kerinci Seblat National Park, home to the endangered species of sumatran tiger and sumatran rhinoceros.


Location
It is located in Province of Jambi, the west central part of the island, in the Pegunungan/Bukit Barisan, near the west coast, and is about 130 km (81 mi) south of Padang. It is the most prominent feature of the terrain of Kerinci Seblat National Park, with pine-forested slopes rising 2,400-3,300 metres above the surrounding basin, and a cone 13 km (8 mi) wide and 25 km (16 mi) long at the base, elongated in the north-south direction. At the summit there is a deep 600 m (1,969 ft) wide crater, often partially filled with green-yellow water.

Kerinci is more active than most Indonesian volcanoes, with nearly annual phreatic eruptions. Kerinci last erupted in 2004, and continues to spew clouds of sulphurous smoke, with plumes reaching as high as 1,000 m (3,281 ft) above the summit. While there is farmland in the area, and a tea plantation on its southern slope, Kerinci, being located in an Indonesian national park, and perhaps out of respect for its frequent growlings as well, sits in an area that is sparsely populated by Indonesian population-density standards.

Kerinci can be climbed from the village of Kersik Tuo, 6 or 7 hours away from Padang by car or bus. The climb and descent normally takes 3 days and 2 nights, if you choose to go to the summit. You may also choose to go up only till Camp 2 or 2.5, skipping the summit attempt which is a night climb; and take 2 days and 1 night instead.
As of November 2007, the alert level for Kerinci was raised to Level 2- Orange, due to black smog seen coming out of the crater. But climbing the volcano is still relatively safe and allowed; though you may not climb any further than 1 km to the crater.

Kerinci's terrain consists of thick jungle, it can get muddy and slippery even if there are only mild drizzles, which may occur occasionally even during the dry season. To climb the volcano you need a guide, for there have been rare cases of people disappearing after attempting to trek alone.

Climbing
If you want to reach the peak you can take this track: [Bangko – Sungai penuh - Kersik Tuo (tugu macan)] – R Sepuluh – Pintu Rimbo – Pesanggrahan I – Pesanggrahan II – Pesanggrahan III/ POS I (Base camp I) – POS II (Base camp II) – POS III (Base camp III) – The Peak of Mount Kerinci
From the peak, you can see exotic landscape, and the horizon of Hindia Ocean on the west direction.

  Mount Kerinci Picture

Country: Indonesia 
Subregion Name: Sumatra (Indonesia) 
Volcano Number: 0601-17= 
Volcano Type: Stratovolcano 
Volcano Status: Historical 
Last Known Eruption: 2008 
Summit Elevation: 3800 m 12,467 feet
Latitude: 1.697°S 1°41'50"S 
Longitude: 101.264°E 101°15'52"E

Mount Merapi

Mount Merapi, Gunung Merapi, is a conical volcano located on the border between Central Java and Yogyakarta, Indonesia. It is the most active volcano in Indonesia and has erupted regularly since 1548. It is very close to the city of Yogyakarta, and thousands of people live on the flanks of the volcano, with villages as high as 1700 m above sea level.

Although smoke can be seen emerging from the mountain top at least 300 days a year, several eruptions have caused fatalities. Hot gas from a large explosion killed 64 people on November 22 in 1994, mostly in the town of Muntilan, west of the volcano. Another large eruption occurred in 2006, shortly before the Yogyakarta earthquake. In light of the hazards that Merapi poses to populated areas, it has been designated as one of the Decade Volcanoes.

Merapi is the youngest in a group of volcanoes in southern Java. It is situated at a subduction zone, where the Indo-Australian Plate is sliding beneath the Eurasian Plate. It is one of at least 129 active volcanoes in Indonesia, part of the Pacific Ring of Fire – a section of fault lines stretching from the Western Hemisphere through Japan and South East Asia. Stratigraphic analysis reveals that eruptions in the Merapi area began about 400,000 years ago, and from then until about 10,073 years ago, eruptions were typically effusive, and the outflowing lava emitted was basaltic. Since then, eruptions have become more explosive, with viscous andesitic lavas often generating lava domes. Dome collapse has often generated pyroclastic flows, and larger explosions, which have resulted in eruption columns, have also generated pyroclastic flows through column collapse.

Climbing

You can access the highest peak, named Garuda Peak, passing 3 route:

Track I (north track) : [Surakarta – Boyolali – Selo] – Lencoh – Watu Pecah – Pasar Bubrah - Merapi Peak.

Track II (South track) : [Jogja – Kaliurang – Kinahrejo] – Kendit – Merapi Peak.

Track III (West track) : [Yogyakarta – Muntilan – Babadan] – Klatakan – Merapi Peak.

 Mount Merapi Picture

Country: Indonesia 
Subregion Name: Java (Indonesia) 
Volcano Number: 0603-25= 

Volcano Type: Stratovolcano
Volcano Status: Historical 
Last Known Eruption: 2008 
Summit Elevation: 2968 m 9,737 feet 
Latitude: 7.542°S 7°32'30"S 
Longitude: 110.442°E 110°26'30"E

Mount Rinjani

Mount Rinjani or Gunung Rinjani is an active volcano in Indonesia on the island of Lombok, Administratively the mountain is in the Regency of North Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara (NTB). It rises to 3,726 metres (12,224 ft), making it the second highest volcano in Indonesia, and similar in height to Mount Fuji, the third highest mountain of the Indonesian archipelago and the thirty ninth most prominent peak in the world.
The first historical eruption occurred in September 1847. The most recent eruption of Mount Rinjani was in May 2010 and the most recent significant eruptions occurred during a spate of activity from 1994 to 1995 which resulted in the further development of Gunung Barujari (G.Baru). Historical eruptions at Rinjani dating back to 1847 have been restricted to Barujari cone and the Rombongan dome (in 1944) and consist of moderate explosive activity and occasional lava flows that have entered Segara Anak lake. The eruptive history of Rinjani prior to 1847 is not available as the island of Lombok is in a location that remained very remote to the record keeping of the era.
The 6 km by 8.5 km oval-shaped caldera is filled partially by the crater lake known as Segara Anak ('Child of the Sea') This lake is approximately 2000 metres above sea level and estimated at being around 200 metres deep; the caldera also contains hot springs.
The Rinjani caldera forming eruption is thought to have occurred in the 13th century. Eruption rate, eruption sites, eruptiion type and magma composition have changed during the last 10,000 years before the caldera forming eruption. The eruptions of 1994 and 1995 have presented at Gunung Baru (or 'New Mountain' - approximately 2300 metres above sea level) in the center of this caldera and lava flows from subsequent eruptions have entered the lake. This cone has since been renamed Mount Barujari (or 'New Finger Mountain').
The highlands are forest clad and mostly undeveloped. The lowlands are highly cultivated. Rice, soybeans, coffee, tobacco, cotton, cinnamon, cacao, cloves, cassava, corn, coconuts, copra, bananas and vanilla are the major crops grown in the fertile soils of the island. The slopes are populated by the indigenous Sasak population. There are also some basic tourist related activities established on Rinjani primarily in or about the village of Senaru.
The volcano and the caldera are protected by the Gunung Rinjani National Park established in 1997. Tourism is increasingly popular with trekkers able to visit the rim, make their way into the caldera or even to make the more arduous climb to the highest point; fatalities, however, are not uncommon. In July 2009 the summit route was closed due to volcanic activity at that time and subsequently reopened when the activity decreased. During early 2010 up to and including May 2010 access to Rinjani was at times again restricted due to volcanic activity.
On 3 November 1994, a cold lahar (volcanic mudflow) from the summit area of Rinjani volcano traveled down the Kokok Jenggak River killing thirty people from the village of Aikmel who were caught by surprise when collecting water from the river in the path of the flow.
In connection with the eruption of the cone Gunung Barujari the status for Gunung Rinjani has been raised from Normal (VEI Level 1) to 'be vigilant' (VEI Level 2) since May 2, 2009 . In May 2010 Gunung Rinjani was placed in the standby status by Center for Volcanology & Geological Hazard Mitigation, Indonesia with a recommendation that there be no activity within a radius of 4 km from the eruption at Gunung Barujari.

Rinjani National park
Gunung Rinjani National Park (Taman Nasional Gunung Rinjani) is popular for mountain climbs and trekking and represents an important nature reserve and water catchement area. The park is officially 41,330 hectares within the park boundaries and includes a further 66,000 hectares of protected forest outside. The mountain and its satellites form the Mount Rinjani National Park (Taman Nasional Gunung Rinjani) - officially 41,000 hectares within the park boundaries and a further 66,000 hectares of protected forest outside. In 2008, the Indonesian government proposed to UNESCO that Mount Rinjani be one of the world's official geoparks. If this was approved by UNESCO, Mount Rinjani would become the first such geological park in Indonesia. It has been claimed that the preliminary documentation required for UNESCO registration has not received sufficient support from the Nusa Teggara Barat government offices. Among the requirements to become a geo-park sufficient information must be supplied to show that the location has sufficient and appropriate management, information services, access to educational instruction to facilitate "knowledge-based geotourism", the implementation of a sustainable regional economy, biodiversity conservation, and to have established public access to the park area.
Mount Rinjani has obtained the World Legacy Award from Conservation International and Traveller (2004), and was a finalist for Tourism for Tomorrow Awards (2005 dan 2008) from the World Travel Tourism Council (WTTC).

Climbing

Track I (east track): [Mataram – Aikmel – Semalun Lawang] – Pos Pemantauan (Ground Base camp) – Pos Tengingian (Tengingian Base Camp) – Pos Padabalong (Padabalong Base Camp) – Plawangan Sembalun – Rinjadi Peak

Track II(south track) : [Mataram – Anyar – Senaru] – Pos I (Base Camp I) – Pos II (Base Camp II) – Pos III (Base Camp III) - Plawangan Senaru – Segara Anak Lake – Plawangan Sembalun – Rinjani Peak.

Track III (northeast track) : [Mataram - Bayan – Torean] – Pos I (Base Camp I) – Kokok Putih – Segara Anak Lake – Plawangan – Sembalun- Rinjani Peak.

Mount Rinjani Picture 

Country: Indonesia 
Subregion Name: Lesser Sunda Islands (Indonesia)
Volcano Number: 0604-03= 
Volcano Type: Stratovolcano Volcano  
Status: Historical 
Last Known Eruption: 2004 
Summit Elevation: 3726 m 12,224 feet 
Latitude: 8.42°S 8°25'0"S 
Longitude: 116.47°E 116°28'0"E

Mount Tambora

Mount Tambora (or Tamboro) is an active stratovolcano, also known as a composite volcano, on the island of Sumbawa, Indonesia. Sumbawa is flanked both to the north and south by oceanic crust, and Tambora was formed by the active subduction zone beneath it. This raised Mount Tambora as high as 4,300 m (14,100 ft), making it formerly one of the tallest peaks in the Indonesian archipelago. After a large magma chamber inside the mountain filled over the course of several decades, volcanic activity reached a historic climax in the super-colossal eruption of April 1815.

The 1815 eruption is rated 7 on the Volcanic Explosivity Index, the only such eruption since the Lake Taupo eruption in about 180 AD. With an estimated ejecta volume of 160 cubic kilometers, Tambora's 1815 outburst was the largest volcanic eruption in recorded history. The explosion was heard on Sumatra island (more than 2,000 km (1,200 mi) away). Heavy volcanic ash falls were observed as far away as Borneo, Sulawesi, Java and Maluku islands. Most deaths from the eruption were from starvation and disease, as the eruptive fallout ruined agricultural productivity in the local region. The death toll was at least 71,000 people (the most deadly eruption in recorded history), of whom 11,000–12,000 were killed directly by the eruption; the often-cited figure of 92,000 people killed is believed to be overestimated. The eruption created global climate anomalies that included the phenomenon known as "volcanic winter": 1816 became known as the "Year Without a Summer" because of the effect on North American and European weather. Agricultural crops failed and livestock died in much of the Northern Hemisphere, resulting in the worst famine of the 19th century.
During an excavation in 2004, a team of archaeologists discovered cultural remains buried by the 1815 eruption. They were kept intact beneath the 3 m (9.8 ft) deep pyroclastic deposits. At the site, dubbed the Pompeii of the East, the artifacts were preserved in the positions they had occupied in 1815.

Geographical Setting

Mount Tambora is located on Sumbawa Island, part of the Lesser Sunda Islands. It is a segment of the Sunda Arc, a string of volcanic islands that forms the southern chain of the Indonesian archipelago. Tambora forms its own peninsula on Sumbawa, known as the Sanggar peninsula. At the north of the peninsula is the Flores Sea, and at the south is Saleh Bay, 86 kilometres (53 mi) long and 36 kilometres (22 mi) wide. At the mouth of Saleh Bay there is an islet called Moyo (Indonesian: Pulau Moyo)
Besides its interest for seismologists and volcanologists, who monitor the mountain's activity, Mount Tambora is an area of scientific studies for archaeologists and biologists. The mountain also attracts tourists for hiking and wildlife activities. The two nearest cities are Dompu and Bima. There are three concentrations of villages around the mountain slope. At the east is Sanggar village, to the northwest are Doro Peti and Pesanggrahan villages, and to the west is Calabai village.
There are two ascent routes to reach the caldera. The first route starts from Doro Mboha village southeast of the mountain. This route follows a paved road through a cashew plantation until it reaches 1,150 metres (3,770 ft) above sea level. The end of this route is the southern part of the caldera at 1,950 metres (6,400 ft), reachable by a hiking track. This location is usually used as a base camp to monitor the volcanic activity, because it only takes one hour to reach the caldera. The second route starts from Pancasila village northwest of the mountain. Using the second route, the caldera is accessible only by foot.

Ecosystem

A scientific team led by a Swiss botanist, Heinrich Zollinger, arrived on Sumbawa in 1847. Zollinger's mission was to study the eruption scene and its effects on the local ecosystem. He was the first person to climb to the summit after the eruption. It was still covered by smoke. As Zollinger climbed up, his feet sank several times through a thin surface crust into a warm layer of powder-like sulfur. Some vegetation had re-established itself and a few trees were observed on the lower slope. A Casuarina forest was noted at 2,200–2,550 m (7,200–8,370 ft). Several Imperata cylindrica grasslands were also found.
Rehabitation of the mountain began in 1907. A coffee plantation was started in the 1930s on the northwestern slope of the mountain, in the village of Pekat. A dense rain forest, dominated by the pioneering tree, Duabanga moluccana, had grown at an altitude of 1,000–2,800 m (3,300–9,200 ft). It covers an area up to 80,000 hectares (800 km2). The rain forest was explored by a Dutch team, led by Koster and de Voogd in 1933. From their accounts, they started their journey in a "fairly barren, dry and hot country", and then they entered "a mighty jungle" with "huge, majestic forest giants". At 1,100 metres (3,600 ft), they entered a montane forest. Above 1,800 metres (5,900 ft), they found Dodonaea viscosa dominated by Casuarina trees. On the summit, they found sparse Anaphalis viscida and Wahlenbergia.
In 1896, 56 species of birds were found, including the Crested White-eye. Twelve further species were found in 1981. Several other zoological surveys followed, and found other bird species on the mountain, resulting in over 90 bird species discovered on Mount Tambora. Yellow-crested Cockatoos, Zoothera thrushes, Hill Mynas, Green Junglefowl and Rainbow Lorikeets are hunted for the cagebird trade by the local people. Orange-footed Scrubfowl are hunted for food. This bird exploitation has resulted in a decline in the bird population. The Yellow-crested Cockatoo is nearing extinction on Sumbawa island.
Since 1972, a commercial logging company has been operating in the area, which poses a large threat to the rain forest. The logging company holds a timber-cutting concession for an area of 20,000 hectares (200 km2), or 25% of the total area. Another part of the rain forest is used as a hunting ground. In between the hunting ground and the logging area, there is a designated wildlife reserve where deer, water buffalos, wild pigs, bats, flying foxes, and various species of reptiles and birds can be found.
Country:IndonesiaSubregion Name:Lesser Sunda Islands (Indonesia)Volcano Number:0604-04=Volcano Type:StratovolcanoVolcano Status:HistoricalLast Known Eruption: 1967 ± 20 years Summit Elevation:2850 m 9,350 feetLatitude: 8.25°S 8°15'0"SLongitude:118.00°E118°0'0"E

Country: Indonesia
Subregion Name: Lesser Sunda Islands (Indonesia)
Volcano Number: 0604-04=
Volcano Type: Stratovolcano
Volcano Status: Historical
Last Known Eruption: 1967 ± 20 years 
Summit Elevation: 2850 m 9,350 feet
Latitude: 8.25°S 8°15'0"S
Longitud: 118.00°E118°0'0"E

Mount Merbabu

Mount Merbabu (Indonesian: Gunung Merbabu) is a dormant stratovolcano in Central Java province on the Indonesian island of Java. Loosely translated, Gunung Merbabu could mean 'Mountain of Ash' from the Indonesian word abu. The active volcano Mount Merapi is directly adjacent on its south-east side, while the city of Salatiga is located on its northern foothills. A 1,500m high broad saddle lies between Merbabu and Merapi, the site of the village of Selo and highly fertil farming land.

There are two peaks; Syarif (3,119 m) and Kenteng Songo (3,145 m). Three U-shaped radial valleys extend from the Kenteng Songo summit in northwesterly, northeastly and southeastly directions.
Two known moderate eruptions occurred in 1560 and 1797. The 1797 event was rated 2: Explosive, on the Volcanic Explosivity Index. An unconfirmed eruption may have occurred in 1570.
Geologically recent eruptions originated from a North Northwest-South Southeast fissure system that cut across the summit and fed the large-volume lava flows from Kopeng and Kajor craters on the northern and southern flanks, respectively.

Merbabu can be climbed from several routes originating from the town of Kopeng on the north east sideside, and also from Selo on the southern side. A climb from Kopeng to Kenteng Songo takes between 8 and 10 hours.
An area of 57 km² of the mountain has been declared a national park in 2004.

Merbabu Track 
Track I (south track) : [Salatiga – Kopeng – Takelan] – Pos Pending (Pending Base Camp) – Pos I (Base Camp I) Gumuk – Pos II (Base Camp II) Lempong Sampan – Pos III (Base Camp III) Watu Gubuk - Pos IV (Base Camp IV) Watu Tulis – Pos V (Base Camp V) Helipad – Kenteng Songo Peak

Track II (west track) : [Magelang – Kaponan – Wekas] – Pos I (Base Camp I) – Pos II (Base Camp II) – Pos Helipad (Helipad Base Camp) – Kenteng Songo Peak

Track III (south track) : [Surakarta - Cepogo – Selo] – Tarubatang – Pos I (Base Camp I) Balong – Pos II (Base Camp II) Pentur – Pos III (Base Camp III) – Kenteng Songo Peak

 Mount Merbabu Picture 1

 Mount Merbabu Picture 2

 Mount Merbabu Picture 3

Country: Indonesia 
Subregion Name: Java (Indonesia) 
Volcano Number: 0603-24= Volcano
Type: Stratovolcano 
Volcano Status: Historical 
Last Known Eruption: 1797 
Summit Elevation: 3145 m 10,318 feet 
Latitude: 7.45°S 7°27'0"S 
Longitude: 110.43°E 110°26'0"E

Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay - Bali, Indonesia

An expansive and elegant private Balinese villa awaits you – with separate sleeping, bathing and living pavilions and ocean views from your plunge pool. An Indonesian spa. Dramatic hilltop and oceanside dining. All immersed in the mystique of this spiritual land. Experience the diversity of Bali by pairing your visit with a stay at Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan, an intimate upcountry retreat.

ACCOMMODATIONS
One-Bedroom Villa is a free-standing, thatched-roof villa nestled into the hillside overlooking Jimbaran Bay. One-Bedroom Villas offer over 2,000 square feet (200 square metres) of indoor and outdoor space, privately contained within a walled tropical garden.

LEISURE
Main Pool - With its infinity-edge, the main pool seems to blend with the beautiful bay beyond. Water from the pool cascades over a 7-metre (23-foot) waterfall into the free-form soaking pool below. Hot and cold whirlpools are located nearby. Refreshments and light meals are available to enjoy on the pool deck.

The spirit of The Spa at Four Seasons Resort Bali flows from cool ocean waters, natural spices and flowers and the healing effects of human touch – incorporating ancient Indonesian traditions and rituals.

Fitness Center - The aerobics studio features a sprung floor, TV monitors with VCRs, a video library and a ballet barre. The gym features an array of cardiovascular machines equipped with TV monitors, including three treadmills, two step machines and a semi-recumbent stationary bike, all equipped with TV monitors, as well as a rowing machine. The gym also provides weight machines and free weights.

Tennis - Managed by world renowned Peter Burwash International, the Resort's facilities include two synthetic grass courts which are lit for night play. A professional instructor is available, and equipment and tennis wear can be rented.

Complimentary use of the resort watersports equipment includes hobie cat, catamarans, lasers, paddle skis, snorkelling equipment as well as aqua shoes to protect guests.

Cooking school - The school opens six days a week and it offers four self-contained modules to appeal to the novice and experienced alike. The dedicated school chef in his interaction with a maximum of ten participants imparts the culinary secrets of Asia during each module.

Off-Site: - white water rafting, sailing, cruising, surfing, jet skiing and scuba diving. Trekking, bicycling, parasailing, fishing trips, dolphin watching, horseback riding, hiking.

Bali Golf and Country Club.
Bali Handara Golf Course.
Bali Golf and Country Club.
Nirwana Bali Golf Club.

EXPLORE
Bali Bird Park and Reptile Park
Batubulan village
Batur Temple and Kintamani
Celuk and Singapadu villages
Elephant Safari Park
Goa Gajah Temple, Bedulu village
Gunung Kawi Temple
Mas and Kemenuh villages
Monkey Forest
Tampaksiring and Tirta Empul sacred spring
Tohpati village
Ubud - World famous artistic community
Uluwatu Temple
Waterbom Park

Uma Ubud, Bali, Indonesia

Explore the beautiful countryside surrounding Uma Ubud, stroll through local markets, visit art galleries and artisans’ workshops. With Uma, expect an holistic, cultural adventure, complemented by the core of the COMO Shambhala experience, featuring yoga and Asian-inspired therapies devoted not just to the body but to spiritual wellbeing.

Uma is ecologically aware, respecting the land in which its retreats are located. In design, each hotel reflects local aesthetics, combining indigenous detailing with a serene modernity, keeping the number of rooms deliberately limited. Indeed, Uma offers more than the usual five-star hotel experience, but the opportunity to discover subtle layerings of landscapes and forgotten people. Enjoy this within the calming environment of each hotel's location or by active exploration of the surrounding region.

ACCOMMODATIONS
Shambhala Suite - Located on the southern edge of the resort, has possibly the best infinity-edge pool, and a private treatment area.

Uma Pool Suite - The 3 Uma Pool Suites have infinity-edge pools and uninterrupted views across the valley down to the snaking river. The Uma Suite is similar, but without a pool.

Garden Room - There are 10 Garden Rooms positioned along the northern perimeter, all 53sq metres with a private courtyard.

Terrace Room - The 14 superior Terrace Rooms, located throughout the resort, are each 45sq metres with garden terraces.

LEISURE
COMO Shambhala Retreat at Uma Ubud offers Asian-inspired, holistic therapies, an open air yoga pavilion for group and private practice, meditation bale, reflexology area, steam, sauna, gym, four treatment rooms and an expansive jade green pool.

EXPLORE
The hotel is hidden on the fringe of Ubud, overlooking the Tjampuhan Valley amid fenceless fields carved out of hillsides backed by the curve of coconut palms and banyan trees wrapped in vines.

The river Oos runs below; to one side stands a mountain. This topography concentrates both magic and energy in the whispering grass concealing Uma Ubud.

Expect not to be disturbed by the sound of traffic, but the laughter of villagers in pinks, blues and oranges, picking through the Edenic countryside.

Birds cluster in the highest branches. Light floods the open ground, picking out an orchid among the velvet grasses. At night, dew begins to settle, lifting softly with the wisps of morning cloud.

As with every Uma property, the guest experience only begins with the resort. We provide intelligent access to Bali's cultural activities, including visits to Ubud's temples, galleries and museums, mountain biking, whitewater rafting, guided walks and treks through the wildest regions of Bali's undiscovered hills.

Ubud Hanging Gardens Hotel & Resort - Ubud, Bali, Indonesia

Ubud Hanging Gardens Hotel & Resort is a member of Orient-Express Hotels with 38 Rooms & Suites. The resort is a haven of peace and tranquility set in the heart of the tropical paradise of Bali.

Ubud Hanging Gardens Hotel & Resort has 38 luxury pool villas, each with a heated private infinity plunge pool set high in the rice terraces overlooking the Ayung river.

Maximising the natural setting, the resort of Ubud Hanging Gardens is set high on gravity defining wooden pillars among the steep rice fields of Ubud. Accommodation consists of private villas which hug the curves of the hillsides and surrounding river terraces offering an uninterrupted peaceful view of the ancient Pura Penataran Dalem Segara temple, located on the opposite hillside.

Each villa has a four poster bed, outdoor shower and indoor bathroom facilities, with an individual private infinity pool heated to a minimum of 29°C all year round. The private pool can be reached from the terrace or bale (Balinese relaxation area). With capacity for up to seven people, a private funicular provides easy access to your villa. The view from your private terrace over the infinity pool to the natural paradise of Ubud is breathtaking.

LEISURE
Infinity Pools
Yoga
Golf
Cooking Classes
Painting Classes
Excursions & Activites
Children's Activities

Ayung Spa - Clinging to the riverbank, where the rocks make the water sing and consumed by tropical foliage kissed by morning mists, the Ayung Spa rekindles distant memories of Paradise Lost. Awaken your senses with the heady scents of flowers and spices, and abandon your body to the secular secrets of Balinese well-being.

In pure Balinese style, the Ayung Spa offers three luxurious pavilions dedicated to relaxation and well-being. Each pavilion comprises two large spaces; one with two massage beds and a Balinese sofa, the other with a dressing area and bathroom with a bath that is surrounded by water and looks out onto the river.

The interior and exterior are intimately married to nature, thanks to the use of local materials and the manner in which the pavilions open out onto the majesty of the views whilst retaining their privacy.

The pavilions are linked to each other by Japanese steps surrounded by water and climbing plants clinging to the neighbouring wall, promoting a sensation of fertility.

Pure luxury in a tropical paradise.

EXPLORE
Ubud Hanging Gardens Hotel is a breathtaking property perched on a dramatic mountain ridge overlooking a temple and the Ayung River Valley. It sits 15 minutes drive from the centre of Ubud and 45 minutes from the airport.

Shopping - Shop for textiles, carvings, aromatherapy oils and more in nearby Ubud. Here are details of a selection of our local shops.

Bali Bird Park
Toko Antique - A beautiful and unique collection of antiques and artifacts from around the archipeligo.
Ubud Art Market
Wardani - The best of locally made textiles.
AsiaStyle - A beautiful selection of thoughtfully chosen antiques, ornaments and decorative objects from throughout Asia.

Hotel Tugu Lombok, Indonesia

Hotel Tugu Lombok is located on the pristine, miles and miles of virgin white sand beach of Sire, on the northwest coast of the island.

Hotel Tugu Lombok is located on the pristine, miles and miles of virgin white sand beach of Sire, on the northwest coast of the island. Neighboring this tropical haven is a beautiful 18 hole-golf course and virgin landscapes, traditional thatched roofed huts and empty green fields where local life continues in today's age much the same as it has done for centuries. The Hotel Tugu Lombok land comprises of approximately six hectares of mature palm plantations, facing the open ocean and the sunrise of Mount Rinjani (the second highest mountain of Indonesia and popular amongst adventurous hikers for its breathtaking views).

Carrying the Tugu signature in its mission, style and atmosphere, Hotel Tugu Lombok stands as a monument for the forgotten history, art and romance of ancient kingdoms, where at the same time provides heavenly tropical luxuries like no other resorts do. Hotel Tugu Lombok features hundreds of original, beautiful artworks and antiques painstakingly collected and assembled as a loving testament to the long forgotten, original culture of the isle of Lombok.

Hotel Tugu Bali - Seminyak Beach, Bali, Indonesia

Nestled between the pristine, wave-sung sunset beach of Canggu, the whispering rice fields, the quaint fishermen village, and the adjacent Batu Bolong Temple, one of Bali's most sacred, Hotel Tugu Bali is said to be an experience too surreally beautiful to be true.

As is the case with the creation of the other Tugu properties, Hotel Tugu Bali was built upon a passion for the romantic beauty of the art, history and culture of the islands of Java and Bali. A vast collection of priceless Indonesian antiques and artworks adorned the many faces of the hotel, blending pure tropical luxury with an out-of-the-ordinary ambience.

Spa Village Resort Tembok - Bali, Indonesia

Spa Village Resort Tembok Bali is a place of peacefulness and calm, combining the therapeutic value of it's beautiful location with an ancient and rich cultural heritage. Reflecting the spirituality of ages the environment here is soft and serene.

Dawn rises and an indigo curtain of stars is drawn back from the sky, exposing a dramatic landscape of soaring peaks that sweep down across grassy lowlands to the black volcanic sand that kisses the blue of the Bali sea. You are in Spa Village Resort Tembok Bali, and the day has just begun.

Inspired by the award-winning Spa Village Pangkor Laut, the new Spa Village Resort Tembok Bali embraces the same healing ethos of celebrating the local culture, honouring the ancient remedies of the region and infusing each visit with the essence of the surrounding scenery.

Spa Village Resort Tembok Bali is a place of peacefulness and calm, combining the therapeutic value of it's beautiful location with an ancient and rich cultural heritage. Reflecting the spirituality of ages the environment here is soft and serene; it's people go about their days in a caring manner that brings calm to the harried, and peace to the stressed; here, at Spa Village Resort Tembok Bali it is possible to recapture one's sense of self.

Set in a landscape of great natural beauty the 31-room resort is the ideal environment in which to throw off the cares and stresses of the world and succumb to the pleasures of a range of programs that have been created to restore what life takes from body and soul. At Spa Village Resort Tembok Bali the gentle spirituality of the island weaves through every aspect of each spa treatment, producing a unique immersive experience that is the very essence of the Spa Village philosophy.

The Ritz-Carlton Bali Resort & Spa - Jimbaran, Bali, Indonesia

Traverse a range of dramatic bluffs overlooking the timeless depths of the Indian Ocean. There, you'll discover The Ritz-Carlton Bali Resort & Spa. This breathtaking vantage point calls, inviting you to immerse yourself in the various wonders that lay before you.

Embracing the mystique of Bali, with its bewitching natural beauty, and the inherent grace and hospitality of its people, The Ritz-Carlton, Bali Resort & Spa features: Private, secluded beach location; 368 guest rooms, including 38 new cliff villas with stunning views of the Indian Ocean; 12 restaurants and lounges; State-of-the-art business center and more.

The Ritz-Carlton Bali Resort & Spa now features newly-renovated Club rooms and suites. Guests of The Ritz-Carlton, Bali Resort & Spa Club Level can enjoy 42-inch Plasma TVs, new bathroom amenities, in-room coffee and tea options, new throw pillows, bed runners, bed skirtings and bolsters, new carpets and rugs as well as new sofas and ottomans, night curtains, digital scales and JVD safety boxes. Comprising both air-conditioned and al fresco seating options, the Club Lounge offers five food and beverage menus during the day: breakfast, midday snacks, afternoon tea, cocktails in the evening, and chocolate and cordials after dinner.

A wide array of reading materials, including international news dailies and bestselling novels in a range of languages are available for guests' use. The dedicated Club Level concierge team is available to assist with any needs guests may have, 24 hours a day. Club guests are also entitled to one-time laundry and pressing services of four items per room during their stay, private check-in and check-out at the Club Lounge, unlimited play on the 18-hole golf putting course, and unlimited use of Tennis Pavilion.

ACCOMMODATIONS
36 One and Two-bedroom Villas - Designed in spacious and luxurious Balinese style have unobstructed views of the ocean, private outdoor plunge pools and open-air showers.

Ritz-Carlton Club Rooms and Suites - This enclave within the hotel includes 33 guest rooms and suites and The Ritz-Carlton Suite. The Club's handsomely furnished lounge features five food and beverage presentations daily. Staffed by professional concierge.

Updated January 30, 2008 - The Ritz-Carlton, Bali Resort & Spa opened the Ayana Villa, a three-bedroom villa on the cliffs over Jimbaran Bay. The villa, named after a "place of refuge" in Sanskrit, occupies 3,000 square meters of landscaped gardens in a quiet corner of the resort, affording cliff-top views on the island. The private driveway leading to the 420 square meter villa brings guests to an illuminated, terraced water feature, with fountains that gently flow towards the carved Balinese doors leading into the property. Ayana also makes an entertainment area for up to 200 guests. A traditional Indonesian gazebo perched above the cliffs makes an intimate wedding location. The villa is equally set up as a private sanctuary. In the south-easternmost corner, a separate building houses a double massage room for personalized spa treatments, as well as a steam shower and private gym complete with treadmill and free weights. Private yoga and meditation classes are also available.

A dedicated team of staff includes a 24-hour on-call butler and a personal chef. The impressive contemporary design and majestic views across the lush gardens to the infinity-edged pool and ocean beyond greet you as soon as you enter the central living room. A comfortable lounge area with a 60-inch plasma television and an Ironwood bar featuring dragon hand-carved by a Balinese artisan opens onto a sun-room. Rates start at $8,000 per night.

LEISURE
Private beaches. Freshwater outdoor pool. Whirlpool. Waterslide. Boating, rafting, diving, deep-sea fishing, surfing, snorkeling, bicycling. Lighted tennis courts, spa, fitness center, golf.

Spa and Tennis Pavilion with cardiovascular equipment, massage, steam and sauna, aerobics, lighted tennis courts, body and beauty treatments.

Bali Golf & Country Club on-site.

EXPLORE
• One-hour massage for two, performed in-room or outdoors
• A sail in a jukung --native fishing boat -- along the rugged Bukit coastline to the warm waters beneath clifftop Uluwatu temple and picnic lunch at Kubu Beach, a private cove enveloped by an emerald ravine and rugged cliffs
• An Evening of Romance including a rose petal drawn bath, mood enhancing candlelight, and champagne in a sandalwood-scented room
• Choice of intimate four-course dinners served in a private villa, aglow with hundreds of candles encircling the garden and reflected in the plunge pool or in the private garden pavilion of the Wedding Gazebo, set upon the bluff with panoramic ocean view
• Full-day chauffeur-driven island shopping excursion to discover and purchase the finest of Bali's world renowned art, handicrafts, textiles, jewelry, furnishings, antiques and artifacts
• Intricately woven coconut-leaf baskets, filled with flowers and incense, placed in the couple's room daily as offerings to the gods for a harmonious island sojourn.

The Ritz-Carlton Jakarta

The Ritz-Carlton Jakarta, a 5 Star Luxury Hotel with 278 Rooms & Suites, sets new standards of luxury and guest services in the capital city. Situated in an open area affording beautiful views, the hotel was designed according to the principles of Feng Shui.

Sleek sophistication outside gives way to warm elegance inside, where each guest room and suite offer an oasis of pampering and prestige. Accommodations are among Jarkarta's most spacious, and baths feature floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the city. Luxury amenities such as fine linens, designer bath essentials and a 42-inch plasma screen television enhance each stay.

Highlights:

• The Mega Kuningan district, site of The Ritz-Carlton, Jakarta, is a newly developed commercial area teeming with shopping and entertainment options, lush green spaces and stately residences.
• Baths feature floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the city
• World-class dining from Portovenere (contemporary Italian) to Prime Steak House to Mistere (a sophisticated night club and bar)
• Helicopter pad, Chauffeured limousine service
• The Ritz-Carlton Spa and health club, cascading resort-sized pool

AMENITIES & SERVICES
Chauffeured limousine service, Pre-arrival guest preferences service and in-room guest registration, Helicopter pad, Packing and unpacking services, Suit pressing upon arrival, Shoeshine, babysitting and postal/shipping services, Multi-lingual staff, On-site florist

LEISURE
On-site: Outdoor pool, whirlpool and sauna. Spa and Health Club, Full-service beauty salon. The Ritz-Carlton Spa and health club is an 8,000-square-meter facility complete with 20 treatment rooms, relaxations lounges, a sauna, a steam room, a whirlpool and a cascading resort-sized pool. The Fitness Center features state-of-the-art weight training and cardiovascular equipment. To complete the Spa experience, the Open Garden Cafe offers a menu of health Spa cuisine in a tranquil setting.

Nearby: The Mega Kuningan district, site of The Ritz-Carlton, Jakarta, is a newly developed commercial area teeming with shopping and entertainment options, lush green spaces and stately residences.

EXPLORE
Jogging track (at hotel)
Squash (5 km away)
Tennis (1/2 km away)
Kayaking, mountain biking and river rafting (45 km away)
Several Golf courses and driving ranges (within 15 km)
Balai Seni Rupa, Museum of Fine Arts (5 km way)
Museum Sejarah Kota Jakarta, Jakarta History Museum (4 km away)
Museum Nasional, National Museum (4 km away)
Mesjid Istiqlal, Grand Mosque (5 km away)
Shopping: boutiques, antique market and retail shops (within 4 km)

The Oberoi Lombok, Indonesia

The Oberoi, Lombok, has an intimate ambience, with thatched-roof villas and terraced pavilions dotting 24 acres of tropical gardens.

A hideaway with acres of tropical gardens, shimmering ocean and golden sands along a private beach. Lush rainforests, sparkling blue ocean views and beautiful beaches accompany you as you arrive at this idyllic garden resort.

The villas and pavilions have expansive, shaded terraces to relax in, while you look out at beautiful gardens or beaches. All the vilas and terrace pavilions offer spacious bedrooms and feature local colours, textures and artefacts.

The Oberoi Bali - Seminyak Beach, Bali, Indonesia

A beachside haven that offers a complete Balinese experience, filled with serenity, hospitality and tropical beauty. Discover all that is serene and mystical about Bali at The Oberoi; a wonderfully secluded cluster of luxury villas and lanai set in 15 acres of tropical gardens on Seminyak Beach.

Built in traditional Balinese style, you can relax in truly fabulous settings that celebrate your privacy with charming thatched roof villas, private pools, unique garden bathrooms and exquisite interiors featuring Balinese art. Enjoy heavenly views from the swimming pool that looks out at the ocean.

Open-air massage pavilions at the Oberoi Spa in Bali make for a truly memorable and relaxing experience. The pavilions overlook a pond abloom with golden carp, water lilies and tropical plants. Its widely acclaimed Balinese deep-pressure massage relieves physical tensions and induces relaxation. The Thai, no-oil massage concentrates on the careful application of pressure to distribute energy, release blockage and stretch muscles leaving the body relaxed and energized. A combination of Thai and Western techniques, the Stress Relieving massage loosens muscular tensions, improves body circulation and balances body functions.

The hotel also boasts a destination health spa featuring indigenous treatments and open-air massage parlours. Beauty treatments include: The traditional Javanese mandi lulur treatment, aroma therapy massage, hair cream bath, manicure, hand massage, pedicure, foot massage and reflexology treatment are some of the highlights. The hotel also offers fully equipped saunas, private massage rooms and a gymnasium.

ACCOMMODATIONS
Most of the 74 thatched Lanais and Villas have their own high coral stone walls for privacy. Every Luxury Villa has terrace, garden and a raised pavilion for private dining. Eight of the Villas have the ultimate in privacy – A generously sized private pool. Bedrooms are fully air-conditioned and furnished with teak and Balinese artefacts. Bathrooms are glass-walled and sunken baths look out into private walled courtyard gardens.

Royal Ocean View Villa with Private Pool
Luxury Ocean View Villa with Private pool
Luxury Garden View Villa with Private Pool

LEISURE
Beach
Outdoor swimming pool
Tennis courts
Spa / Fitness center / Gymnasium
Motorbike rental

Golf - Bali Golf and Country Club in the Nusa Dua area.
Bali Handara Golf Course is considered one of the most beautiful golf courses in the world.

EXPLORE
Air Bali Helicopter Ride
Bali on Horseback
Bicycling with Bali Adventure
Catamaran/Windsurfing
Rafting, kayaking or canoeing down the Ayung River
Sailing and cruises
Temples
Native Villages
Antiques Galleries
Art Galleries
Museums
Native Dance performances
Bali Bird Park and Reptile Park
Butterfly Park
Elephant Safari Park
Monkey Forest
Penelokan, Kintamani Volcanoes
Tampaksiring and Tirta Empul sacred spring
Waterbom Park
Wayang Kulit Puppet Performance/Shadow Theatre

Mandarin Oriental, Jakarta, Indonesia

After a multi-million-dollar renovation, Mandarin Oriental, Jakarta has now revealed itself as the most luxurious hotel in the city. 272 spacious rooms and suites, fine new restaurants led by star chefs, the perfect location in the heart of the city’s financial and diplomatic district, and our legendary service make this luxury hotel a destination in its own right. Selamat datang kembali. Welcome back.

Spacious and sophisticated, the design of our 272 rooms and suites reflects modern sensibility and refined taste. Renowned interiors specialists Lim, Teo & Wilkes outfitted each room with a refreshing contemporary look, while including every imaginable comfort and plenty of clever touches, including fantastic workstations and luxurious bathrooms. Each room also features the very latest in technology, from flat-screen TVs and multi-line telephone systems to wireless broadband Internet and iPod connectivity. Still, our guests might get so caught up in the breath-taking views of Jakarta's exciting skyline that they never get around to logging on.

ACCOMMODATIONS
Mandarin Suite
Oriental Suite
Mandarin Welcome Monument
Mandarin Deluxe
Mandarin Superior Room
Deluxe Welcome Monument
Deluxe Room
Superior Room

LEISURE
Located on the 5th floor, our freeform swimming pool is the perfect place to escape the heat and get some exercise. Enjoy great views of the city, cool tropical drinks from the poolside Azure bar, and refreshing cold towels and spray mist provided by our pool attendants.

Maya Ubud Resort & Spa, Bali Indonesia Romantic Retreat

Perched majestically between the Petanu River valley and the rice terraces of Peliatan is a landmark of luxury and design: Maya Ubud Resort & Spa. An outstanding blend of form and function; unique in concept, scope and location. Within minutes from the heart of the bustling artist's village of Ubud, yet far away from the everyday world.

Rooms and villas with all the comfort, facilities and conveniences you would expect. Dining alternatives include, informal riverside dining or sophisticated a la carte European and Asian cuisine. Classical interpretations, as well as innovative fusion cooking. Beside the swirling waters of the Petanu River, amidst the lushness of the rainforest, nestles the Spa at Maya. Private treatment pavilions provide an individual oasis in which refreshing and aromatic oils, sooth and relax. Enjoy light healthy cuisine in the adjacent River Café after a eisurely morning rice field walk, a village bicycle tour or in the after glow of a memorable massage.

ACCOMMODATIONS
1 Presidential Villa
2 Duplex Pool Villas
34 Deluxe Pool Villas
23 Superior Garden Villas
48 Superior & Deluxe Rooms

LEISURE
On-site: 2 Swimming Pools, Children's Pool, Riverside Spa, Tennis Court, Yoga, Pitch & Putt Golf Green, Library & Internet Service

Nearby: Village & Countryside Trekking, Mountain Biking

Hotel Mulia Senayan, Jakarta

Hotel Mulia Senayan is a 5 Star Luxury Hotel with 996 Rooms & Suites. With exquisite furnishings, state-of-the-art amenities and unsurpassed hospitality, Hotel Mulia Senayan takes prestigious hotel accommodation to a new level of elegance and sophistication for all business and leisure travelers alike.

The 996 rooms and suites vary from Mulia Splendor rooms to the Presidential Suite. Mulia Splendor rooms have a charming, intimate setting filled with lavish comforts that would inspire even the most discerning traveler to feel right at home. With its palette of gold and warm wood tones the rooms blend classic design with touches of contemporary style. The Presidential Suite indulges in the extravagant opulence and exquisite comfort. The suite comprises of two wings distinguishing its living and entertainment areas, with separate dining and living rooms and fully equipped kitchen with private outside access.

Edogin has a sleek, contemporary interior, traditional hospitality and delectable cuisine serve the finest in authentic Japanese-Californian fusion dining. Samudra Shark's Fin offers savory, piping hot Cantonese cuisine, from sumptuous a la carte dishes to the renowned Weekend Dim Sum Breakfast - amidst lush greenery and a cascading waterfall. Samudra Suki features delightful Thai and Indochine fusion cuisine to sumptuous Thai-style Steamboat, the myriad of traditional favorites and exquisite delicacies will certainly whet the appetite for more. il Mare, blends the concept of traditional Italian gourmet cuisine to signature specialties featuring seafood, meat and pasta dishes for lunch and dinner. The newly refurbished CJ’s Bar offers a great selection of drinks, live music and an exhilarating atmosphere. CJ's Bar is ready to make you jive until late every night.

Soothe your cares away in the luxurious outdoor or indoor Jacuzzis, or in the sauna and steam baths. For a truly heavenly experience, indulge in one of the hotels many pampering body treatments – either in the private massage studios with hydrotherapy shower capsules, or in the privacy and comfort of your room or suite. With an array of choices ranging from traditional body treatments, reflexology, shiatsu massages, facials, manicures and foot treatments, to Stone Aromatic Massage, you'll soon be lulled into a state of sheer bliss!

The Laguna, A Luxury Collection Resort & Spa

As part of The Luxury Collection, The Laguna Resort & Spa, Nusa Dua, Bali is a haven of relaxed luxury offering the highest level of personalised service to discerning travelers.

Located in the exclusive Nusa Dua resort area, on Bali's most beautiful beach, a tranquil haven of tropical gardens and sparkling lagoons, the resort features 271 guestrooms and suites reflect a contemporary Balinese style. A Lagoon Access Rooms allow the guest to step from their private balcony directly into crystal-clear lagoon waters, 24 hours personalised Butler service, 3 restaurants and bars, meeting facilities and spa.

The Legian - Seminyak Beach, Bali, Indonesi

The Legian Bali is an exclusive all-suite hotel set in landscaped tropical gardens, offering unrivalled views across the Indian Ocean. Perfectly situated between peaceful rice fields and a tranquil stretch of Seminyak Beach, this deluxe property offers a unique chance to experience the magical island of Bali in a relaxed setting.

The Spa at The Legian offers a uniquely relaxing experience featuring traditional, exotic Indonesian treatments from facials to aromatherapy massage.

ACCOMMODATIONS
The Legian Suite
The Seminyak Suite
2 Bedroom Suite
1 Bedroom Deluxe Suite
1 Bedroom Superior Suite
Studio Suite

LEISURE
Within The Legian's extensive landscaped grounds sits a two-tiered swimming pool. Surrounding the pools are extensive decks with attractive Balinese-style umbrellas, providing secluded places to enjoy the sun and sea view.

The Spa at the Legian overlooking Seminyak Beach and Indian Ocean. Located in the South Garden, overlooking the beach, The Spa at The Legian offers a uniquely relaxing experience featuring traditional, exotic Indonesian treatments from facials to aromatherapy massage. Two single spa suites and three double spa suites cater to individuals and couples while treatments are also available in the privacy of guests' suites.

EXPLORE
The Legian, Bali is situated on the island's southern coast close to the shopping and nightlife area of Kuta. The resort is in the peaceful district of Seminyak, boasting a beautiful beach front location. It also offers the perfect starting point for tours of Bali's rich cultural heritage. The artistic centre of Ubud, for example, is just an hour away while the island's unspoilt northern coast is within a day's drive passing through the spectacular volcanic highlands. And The Legian is a mere 20 minutes drive away from Ngurah Rai International Airport.

An emerald isle of stunning natural beauty and rich artistic traditions, Bali is a paradise rich in art and architecture, dance and ritual, and regal heritage.

Bali Bird Park and Reptile Park
Batubulan village
Batur Temple and Kintamani
Celuk and Singapadu villages
Elephant Safari Park
Goa Gajah Temple, Bedulu village
Gunung Kawi Temple
Mas and Kemenuh villages
Monkey Forest
Tampaksiring and Tirta Empul sacred spring
Tohpati village
Ubud - World famous artistic community
Uluwatu Temple
Waterbom Park