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SAAT KITA TIDAK PEDULI

2009-07-18T06:04:00.001-07:00

INI PERISTIWA YANG TERJADI DI SEBUAH BANDARA DI JAKARTA... IRONIS

LEBIH DETAIL
SEORANG NENEK YANG TIDAK BISA DUDUK DITEMPAT YANG DISEDIAKAN UNTUKNYA

BEDA BANGSA BEDA NERAKANYA

2009-07-18T05:36:00.000-07:00

Seorang warga Indonesia meninggal dan karena amal perbuatannya buruk lalu ia dikirim menuju ke neraka.Di sana ia mendapatkan bahwa ternyata neraka itu berbeda-beda bagi tiap negara asal.

Pertama ia ke neraka orang-orang Inggris dan bertanya kpd orang-orang Inggris di situ: "Kalian diapain di sini?"Orang Inggris menjawab: "Pertama-tama, kita didudukan di atas kursi listrik selama satu jam. Lalu didudukan di atas kursi paku selama satu jam lagi. Lalu disiram dengan minyak tanah dan disulut api.

Lalu, setan Inggris muncul dan memecut kita sepanjang sisa hari."Karena kedengarannya tidak menyenangkan, si orang Indonesia menuju keneraka lain. Ia coba melihat-lihat bagaimana keadaan di neraka AS, neraka Jepang, neraka Rusia dan banyak lagi. Ia mendapatkan bahwa kesemua neraka-neraka itu kurang lebih mirip dengan neraka orang Inggris.

Akhirnya ia tiba di neraka orang Indonesia sendiri, dan melihat antrian sangat-sangat panjang yang terdiri dari orang berbagai-bagai negara (tidak cuma orang Indonesia saja) yang menunggu giliran untuk masuk neraka Indonesia.

Dengan tercengang ia bertanya kepada yang ngantri: "Apa yang akan dilakukan di sini?" Ia memperoleh jawaban: "Pertama-tama, kita didudukan diatas kursi listrik selama satu jam. Lalu didudukan di atas kursi paku selama satu jam lagi. Lalu disiram dengan minyak tanah dan disulut api. Lalu setan Indonesia muncul dan memecut kita sepanjang hari."

"Tapi itu kan sama persis dengan neraka-neraka yang lain toh. Lalu kenapa dong begitu banyak orang ngantri untuk masuk ke sini?""Di sini service-nya sangat-sangat buruk, kursi listriknya nggak nyala, karena listrik sering mati, kalaupun nyala tegangannya rendah sekali,...kursi pakunya nggak ada, tinggal potongan2 saja dan pakunya juga sudah tinggal sedikit, karena kursinya sering jadi rerebutan.

Minyak tanahnya juga nggak ada tuh, karena mau dikonversi ke gas, namun gasnya juga gak ada, malah di tahun 2009 ini katanya mau naik lagi dan setannya adalah mantan anggota Dewan, jadi ia cuma datang, tanda tangan absensi, lalu pulang."

INSIDE KA'BAH

2009-07-18T04:27:00.001-07:00

DIVING IS BUNAKEN

2008-09-18T06:16:00.000-07:00

Diving Bunaken means diving North Sulawesi, one of the most pristine nature areas in the world. Relax and unwind on our tropical island beach while you enjoy a refreshing drink and soak up an amazing orange sunset, or experience the fine seafood cuisine an friendly nature of the Bunaken Island villagers.

Every Bunaken dive is a great experience. For sheer exhilaration, join us for some blue-water drift dives down with the really BIG critters, as you drift effortlessly along the world-renowned vertical walls of the Bunaken Island and Manado Tua Marine Park. A time you will never forget, diving in North Sulawesi, Indonesia.

The Bunaken National Marine Park was formally established in 1991 and is among the first of Indonesia's growing system of marine parks. The park covers a total surface area of 89,065 hectares, 97% of which is overlain by sparkling clear, warm tropical water.

The remaining 3% of the park is terrestrial, including the five islands of Bunaken, Manado Tua, Mantehage, Nain and Siladen. Although each of these islands has a special character, it is the aquatic ecosystem that attracts most naturalists.

The waters of Bunaken National Marine Park are extremely deep (1566 m in Manado Bay), clear (up to 35-40 m visibility), refreshing in temperature (27-29 C) and harbor some of the highest levels of biodiversity in the world. Pick any of group of interest - corals, fish, echinoderms or sponges - and the number of families, genera or species is bound to be astonishingly high.

Oceanic currents may explain, in part, why Bunaken National Marine Park is such a treasure trove of biodiversity. Northeasternly currents generally sweep through the park but abundant counter currents and gyros related to lunar cycles are believed to be a trap for free swimming larvae.

This is particularly true on the south side of the crescent-shaped Bunaken Island, lying in the heart of the park. A snorkler or diver in the vicinity of Lekuan or Fukui may spot over 33 species of butterfly fish and numerous types of groupers, damsels, wrasses and gobies.

Biologists believe that the abundance of hard corals is crucial in maintaining the high levels of diversity in the park. Hard corals are the architects of the reefs, without them, numerous marine organisms would be homeless and hungry. Many species of fish are closely associated with particular types of corals (folious, branching, massives, etc.) for shelter and egg-laying.

Some 20,000 people live on the natural resources of Bunaken National Marine Park. Although there are inevitable conflicts between resource protection and use by people, the Indonesian government is taking a fairly unusual and pragmatic approach to park management.

The idea is to promote wise resource use while preventing overexploitation. Local communities, government officials, dive resort operators, local nature groups, tourists and scientists have played an active role in developing exclusive zones for diving, wood collection, fishing and other forms of utilization.

If successful, Bunaken Marine Park will stand as an important example of how Sulawesi, and the rest of Indonesia, can work to protect its natural resources.

KECAK DANCE

2008-09-18T06:00:00.000-07:00

The Kecak dance is one of the most famous of Balinese dances. It is unusual because it has no musical accompaniment like many other Indonesian dances do, the rhythm of the dance is produced by the chanting 'monkey' chorus.

Instead, a troupe of over 150 bare-chested men serve as the chorus, making a wondrous cacophony of synchronized "chak-achak-achak" clicking sounds while swaying their bodies and waving their hands .From that chanting noise of "Cak-cak-cak", then it gave the dance its name Kecak.

What makes the Kecak such a fascinating dance to watch are the fifty or so men in the checkered pants. They are both the choir and the props, providing the music for the story in a series of constant vocal chants that change with the mood of the actors.

They don't sit still, either, they wave their arms to simulate fire, and reposition themselves around the stage to represent wind and fire, prison cells, and unseen hand of protection from the gods.

The dance is played in five acts and lasts roughly 45 minutes. It taken from the Hindu epic Ramayana, which tells the story of Prince Rama and his rescue of Princess Sita, who has been kidnapped by the evil King of Lanka, Rahwana and somehow with the help of the white monkey army, Rama rescues his wife and defeats the evil Rahwana.

Attending a Kecak recital is a must for any visitor to Bali. It is a wondrous experience, and a window into the musical and artistic culture that make the Balinese a special people.

BEDOYO KETAWANG DANCE

2008-09-18T05:06:00.000-07:00

The most famous of all Javanese court dances is the bedoyo ketawang, performed in the Surakarta palace on the anniversary of the Susuhunan's coronation.

This is a sacred and private ritual dance said to have been instituted by Sultan Agung in the early 1600s, the greatest of the Mataram kings.

It celebrates a reunion between the descendant of the dynasty's founder, Panembahan Senapati, and the powerful goddess of the South Seas, Kyai Loro Kidul.

Nine female palace guards perform the stately bedoyo ketawang, attired in royal wedding dress, and so sacred is it that they may rehearse only once every five weeks on a given day.

Until recently, no outsiders were permitted to witness the performance, for it is claimed that Loro Kidul herself attends and afterwards "weds" the king.

The other important Javanese court dance, Serimpi, was traditionally performed only by princesses or daughters of the ruling family.

It portrays one or two duelling pairs of Amazons who move in unison, fighting with dainty daggers and tiny bows and arrows. Following the of dance schools in the early 1900s, it became the standard taught to all young women.

The reliefs at Borobudur, depicting popular dances and musical entertainment, suggest that dance once figured prominently in Javanese life. However, outside of the courts, very little dancing remains in the area today.

KOMODO AND KOMODO ISLAND

2008-09-17T04:15:00.000-07:00

The biggest lizard in this world, it's sometimes called komodo dragon. There is nothing dragon like about the komodo, though. Admittedly a komodo (Varanus komodoensis) is huge an adult can grow to be 3 meters high with approximately 70 kgs in weight, but it is not as fierce as many people thought.

For instance, komodo dragons do not pursue their preys actively or show vicious streak in their coup de grace. Checking on a komodo dragon's mouth and teeth must be every dentist's nightmare, for they are incredibly smelly and full of germs. A komodo dragon usually eats the youngs/wounded animals. But bigger komodo dragons are known to attack bigger livestocks.

A bite from a komodo dragon is enough. Then the komodo dragon will follow its prey for days, if necessary. The germs are bound to take effect. When the prey dies, the komodo dragon feasts.

Located between Sumbawa and Flores island, Komodo National Park was founded as a conservation for komodo dragons. Six years after the establishment in 1980, UNESCO declared that this park is a World Heritage Site and a Man and Biosphere Reserve. Komodo

National Park consists of three main islands, i.e. Komodo, Rinca, and Padar, also other smaller islands. One of the richest marine environments, this park is also the home for at least 1,000 species of fish, hundreds of species of reef-building, coral, and 70 types of sponges. You can also find sharks, manta rays, whales, dolphins, sea turtles, and dugongs in this park.

Getting There
You can go to Lombok or Flores island first, then embark on a boat/ship to this island.

Where to Stay
You can contact the above tour operators for more information. You can also plan to stay in Bali, and spend a whole day for visiting Komodo Island.

Moving Around
On foot. If you join a tour, the tour will see to everything, including the transportation.

Dining Guide
Traditional restaurants and small cafes.

Souvenir Tips
Wooden carving resembling komodo and other animals.

Other things to See or Do

See komodo dragons live even in action, if you're lucky enough to watch their feeding time (officers of this park supply food like fresh chicken to komodo dragons).

Marvel at the diversity of the plants and animals.
Swim on the pristine beaches.
Snorkel to glimpse the diversity of the marine life. Dont forget to Visit a traditional village in order to observe their way of life.

RAJA AMPAT (THE FOUR KINGS)

2008-09-17T03:51:00.000-07:00

The Raja Ampat, or “Four Kings,” archipelago encompasses more than 9.8 million acres of land

and sea off the northwestern tip of Indonesia’s West Papua Province. Located in the Coral Triangle, the heart of the world’s coral reef biodiversity, the seas around Raja Ampat possibly hold the richest variety of species in the world.

The area’s massive coral colonies show that its reefs are resistant to threats like coral bleaching and disease —threats that now jeopardize the survival of corals around the world. In addition, Raja Ampat’s strong ocean currents sweep coral larvae across the Indian and Pacific Oceans to replenish other reef ecosystems. Raja Ampat’s coral diversity, resilience to threats, and ability to replenish reefs make it a global priority for marine protection.

Apart from the reefs, this area also has some of the most stunning top-side views in the world; lime stone islands that reminds you of, but are even more dramatic than, the famous Rock Islands of Palau; big cathedral-like caves inside the islands; quiet lagoons with crystal white sand and water in every shade of blue and green; bird life such as the Birds of Paradise that brought Alfred Russel Wallace to this region over a century ago; the most stunning sunsets you'll ever see; and - almost no tourists...

One reason why I decided to prepare this site was that you won't find any information on this area in standard Indonesian travel guide books such as Lonely Planet. The Raja Ampats, located west of the Birds Head Peninsula, are administratively part of Papua Barat/Iran Jaya, but they are very different from the rest of west Papua, which the travel guides are focused on. Geographically and when it comes to nature, history and culture, the Ampats are in many ways closer to Moluku.

Raja Ampat* means "the four 'kings'", a name dating back to the 15th century, when the Sultanate of Tidore - one of the muslim sultanates in the original Maluku west of Halmahera - appointed four local "rajas" in Misool, Salawati, Batanta and Waigeo.

Even earlier, Seramese traders from small islands off the eastern tip of Seram had established trade settlements, sosolot, throughout the region, exchanging cloth, beads, and other products from western Indonesia for trepang, plumes, forest products and slaves from Papua. There where also a strong ties to the island of Biak east of the Bird's Head Peninsula.

Rock paintings found in caves in Misool and in on the west coast of the Birds Head, as well as bronze artifacts, show that trade with other parts of Asia was already established 2 - 3 000 years ago.

Going further back, it should be noted that just 10 000 years ago, at the end of the last ice age, most of what is currently sea in this area was still land, roughly corresponding to the lighter blue parts in the Raja Ampat Map. This means that most of the early coastal settlements in this area are now submerged, and will require underwater archeology to be found and explored.

CHICKEN SOTO

2008-09-17T03:43:00.000-07:00

CHICKEN SOTO (Soto Ayam )

Ingredients :

* 1.5 liter water
* 1 tea spoon salt
* 2 Indian bay leaf
* 1 Laos
* 1/2 (500 g) Chicken
* 3 tea spoon Blueband margarine

Grind these following items:

* 1 tea spoon Black pepper
* 5 pieces Garlic
* 5 Candle Nuts

* Prepare the chili sauce (Sambal): 15 pcs red chili - boiled and grinded them.
* 2 tea spoon of Roasted peanut - grinded them.
* 2 tea spoon of Bango Sweet Soy Sauce
* 1 tea spoon of lemon juice
* Side Items: 150 g bean sprouts.

* 75 g vermicelli, wash it in the warm water to make it soft.
* 2 chicken eggs, boiled, cut into small pieces
* 2 tea spoon of Roasted peanut
* 75 g Cassava chips
* 2 tea spoon of Fried onion
* 1 green onion leaves cut into small pieces
* 1 Chinese celery cut into small pieces

How to cook :

Boil the water with salt, indian bay leaves and galangga. Put the chicken meat, boiled them until it's tender.
Lift the chicken out,and then fry it until its color become yellow brown and dry it.
Shredded the chicken meat into small slices.
Stir the Blue band margarine in the frying pan and fry the spices until it smells delicious. Added the spices to the chicken broth water.
Reduce the heat to low and wait until it boils.

How to prepare:

Put the shredded chicken into small bowl and add the bean sprouts, vermicelli, and the boiled egg.
Pour the hot chicken broth into the bowl. Add the roasted peanuts, cassava chips, fried onion, green onion leaves, and chinese celery

YOUNG COCONUT ICED DRINK

2008-09-17T03:39:00.000-07:00

Es Kelapa Muda (Young Coconut Iced Drink)

Ingredients :
* 2-3 young coconuts in the can
* 1 litre coconut water
* ice cubes
* Cocopandan/Strawberry syrup
* 500cc water

Method:

* Mix coconut flesh, coconut water and syrup.
* Serve in glasses and add ice cubes.

MADURA CHICKEN SATAY

2008-09-15T03:27:00.000-07:00

Ingredients:

* 7 Shallots
* 10 Candle nuts
* 8 Garlic cloves
* Bamboo skewers (as needed)
* 7 lbs. (3.5kg) Chicken (cut into 1" cubes)
* 1 cup (250ml) Water
* 1/4 cup (62ml) Oil
* Salt (as needed)
* 2 cups (500ml) Sweet soy sauce
* 2 Red peppers
* 16 Birdseye chili's (optional)
* 2 lbs. (1kg) Roasted Peanuts (ground to a paste)
* 1/4 cup (62ml) Lime juice

Instructions

1. Ground shallot, garlic, candle nut, Holland red pepper, and birdseye chilis to a fine paste.
2. Heat oil in a saucepan then saute the paste until fragrant.
3. Add ground peanuts, 1 cup sweet soy sauce, salt and water.
4. Mix well and slowly bring to a boil.
5. Remove saucepan from heat and add lime juice. Cool to room temperature.
6. Impale chicken pieces on bamboo skewers until 3/4 full.
7. Marinate chicken satay for at least 2 hours with a quarter of the sauce and 1 cup of sweet soy sauce.
8. Sprinkle salt to satay before grilling.
9. Grill satay for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally.

Tip: Soak bamboo skewers in water for at least 1/2 hour so they don't burn. Use chicken thighs for best flavor and texture.

Serve satay with sauce and rice.

Condiments: sliced onions or shallots, birdseye chilis, limes.

BALI THE LAND OF GOD

2008-09-09T05:06:00.000-07:00

Bali’s population of over 3,000,000 souls spread over the whole island, including those in the smaller islands of Nusa Penida, Nusa Ceningan, Nusa Lembongan, Serangan and Menjangan Island.

The overwhelming majority of Balinese are Hindus, with the increasing number on non-Hindu migrating from the closest neighboring islands of Java and Lombok.

The coastal areas in the south are the most populous area with over 370,000 people living in various professions in the capital of Denpasar. Farming has been the primary way of living in Balinese life.

Where else fishing, trading and craftsmanship are also in fashion from generation to generation. Yet with the fast growing of tourism since past few decades, young people start to build up a new touch in their living culture.

Life in Bali is very communal under the organization of villages. Temple ceremonies, marriage, cremation, farming and even the creative art festivals are decided by the local community institution called “Banjar”. The responsibilities in the day-to-day life are normally administered by both the Banjar and the government.

The local government mostly responsible for schools, health clinics, hospitals and roads, and Banjar is responsible for all other aspects of life. There is another association exists in the banjar named “Subak” that concerns to the production of rice and organizes the complex irrigation system.

Every family who owns a rice field must be a member of their local Subak, which then ensures that every member gets his fair distribution of water.

A banjar consists of an average of 50 to 150 family members, owning a meeting venue called the Bale Banjar, which is used for regular gatherings and a center for local gamelan orchestras and drama groups

CLIMATE

With sunshine shining throughout the year, Bali has a tropical monsoon climate, with pleasant day temperatures between 20 to 33 degrees Celsius or 68 to 93 degrees Fahrenheit. Rainy season starts from October to March, when the West monsoon brings heavy showers and high humidity.

June to September is considered the driest season, with low humidity and it can be fairly cold in the evenings, the best time for any outdoor activities.

Something unique can be found about climate in Bali. Even when it rains most times in the most parts of Bali you can often enjoy sunny days on the "Bukit", the hill south of Jimbaran.

On the other hand, you may expect cloudy skies and drips throughout the year in Ubud and the mountainous areas. Most interestingly perhaps, the international weather reports for "Denpasar" or "Bali" mention showers and rain storms all times of the year. In higher regions such as in Bedugul or Kintamani you'll expect to wear either a sweater or jacket when evening falls.

AMAZING SUNRISES AT DIENG PLATEU

2008-09-07T04:09:00.000-07:00

Dieng plateu holds thousands of natural charms and has a rich ancient heritage. One of the many activities that tourists usually participate in on the plateu, other than indulging in the splendor of ancient temples, is watching the sun rise.

If lucky, in one day you can see the "golden sunrise" and the "silver sunrise". Tremendously beautiful. Although administratively it is part of Wonosobo regency, the plateu is located at the crossroads between Wonosobo, Banjarnegara regency, Temanggung regency, Kendal regency and Batang regency.

To be able to watch sunrise, you have to be at the Sceneries Shelter at Tieng village, some five kilometers from downtown Wonosobo. It takes less than 30 minutes to get there.

If leaving the town early at around two or three in the morning, the morning chill and the thick air will be another challenge to beat for the post sits at 1,700 meter above sea level.

However, the biting air will be compensated for with the scenic view. As we descend to the post, dots of light from Wonosobo and its nearby cities form a dramatic panorama.

Nearest villages like Kejajar and Rowojali look like they are standing behind a curtain of morning mist which is slowly falling from the dark sky. The color of life changes every second. Gradually, Sindoro mountain and Kendeng mountain will also be seen afar.

If the sky is clear sunrise can be enjoyed thoroughly. First, in the darkness, we can see the pinkish sky accentuated with strokes of golden rays of the sun -- really golden. Soon, the sky turns orange and the sun shows its round shape.

In a matter of a second, the chill is replaced with a friendly warm wind, blowing off the mist. When the curtain of mist has been completely drawn, there is a sea of lush green farm around us. You can hear the sound of chirping birds and farmers' chattering in the distance.

But don't get too absorbed in this rare beauty for we have another sunrise to chase at the Dieng temple compound, around ten minutes from the Sceneries Shelter.

The moment may not be as spectacular as the first, but it has an entirely different flavor. The sun rises from behind clusters of temples, which sit 2,093 above sea level.

From behind the Hindu temples, if, again, the sky is clear, the sun shines only one ray. It is silvery -- that's why it's called silver sunrise -- and penetrates through the old stones of the temples.

THE WONDERFUL OF ROTE ISLAND

2008-09-04T03:48:00.000-07:00

Located in East Nusa Tenggara, Roti Island lies between the Indian Ocean on the west and the Timor Sea on the east. It is 80 km long from southwest-northeast and about 23 km wide and has an area of 467 1,210 square km. Roti island is part of Kupang Regency but has its own regency.

Along with some other nearby small islands, such as Ndao, it formed the kabupaten (regency) of Roti Ndao. The capital of Roti is Ba’a, which is located on the western side of the island.

The village of Pepela is located on the north-eastern end of Roti and on the southern side of a large sheltered bay. Here you will sandy beaches and mangroves, while coral reefs are located in its centre. The uninhabited Dana Island (also called Ndana) just south of Rote is the southern most island of Indonesia.

Roti island is beautiful with hills, valleys and escarpments but it is underwater where the beauty lies. Here the diving is good with spectacular walls and caverns, and a huge variety of marine life. Agriculture is the main form of employment.

Fishing is also important, especially in the eastern village of Papela. In the village of Pepela, the sandy beach drops away steeply providing a deep-water anchorage close inshore. The bay is attractive and provides year round shelter from the strong easterly and westerly monsoonal winds.

There is excellent surfing in the south around the village of Nembralla. It has a beautiful beach that offers a natural panorama and fascinating sunsets. Nembralla Beach is one of the very few beaches ideal for surfing.

June to October are the best months for surfing and don’t be surprised to be sharing the waves with surfers from around the world. The architecture of Roti Island is unique and so is their exquisite Ikat weaving.

Roti has many historical attractions including fine antique Chinese porcelains, as well as ancient arts and traditions. The popular traditional music instrument Sasando comes from Roti Island.

SWIMMING WITH SHARKS ON KARIMUN JAWA

2008-08-10T03:45:00.000-07:00

Karimun Jawa and 26 other islands are a district of Central Java's Jepara regency, divided into three subdistricts with a total population of some 4,000 families. Most are fishermen.

Located north of Jepara, Karimun Jawa is the main inhabited island, but there are also settlements on nearby Kemojan as well as Parang and Nyamuk islands.
Public facilities are limited, with only one junior high school (most students continue their education in Jepara).

Telephone service is limited to Karimun Jawa, with cellular phone access a goal for the future. But part of the islands' potential tourist attraction is this remote, undisturbed quality, a relatively short distance from Java, one of the world's most crowded islands.

There are many diving sites around the islands, including shipwrecks. Just across from the Karimun Jawa harbor, there is also a shark nursery on Menjangan Besar Island, which currently houses 10 black sharks.

"It is quite easy to take care of these baby sharks," said Mrs. Sum who is responsible for the nursery. "We only need to feed them 3-4 times a week, with 10 kilograms of fish at each feeding time." She added that Jakarta's Seaworld had acquired two white sharks from the nursery for its collection.

In contrast to white sharks, black ones are more passive and calm. A snorkling session with them proved that they are indeed retiring creatures. In fact, they swam away.

There are also barracuda and carp in the nursery. "These fish are for guests who are staying in the cottages," she said. The cottages are simple and cheap, costing only Rp 45,000 (US$5.48) per night.

Karimun Jawa is home to the Kura-Kura Hotel and Hotel Wisata. Kura-Kura Hotel is owned by the Central Java provincial administration and managed by Kura-Kura Resort.
Hotel Wisata is owned and managed by the Jepara regency administration.

A Kura-Kura Hotel staff member, Syaiful, told The Jakarta Post that the local administration should focus on developing the area to draw tourists. "Providing hotels alone is not enough and the authorities must also improve the access here," he said.

"I heard that they will operate a fast ferry next year which only takes three hours instead of eight." The local fishermen also rent out their boats for visitors to cruise around the islands, with fares ranging from Rp 100,000 to Rp 200,000 depending on the length of the ride.

Promotions are needed to get the word out to prospective visitors

For those who do make it to these parts, there are not many souvenirs to choose from. There are handicrafts made of seashells, such as key chains, pins and boxes, but the quality needs to be improved.

The island is also known for Dewa Daru wood which is believed to have powers as an amulet. The problem is the wood is believed to be so sacred that no ships or planes will carry it on board.

A special ceremony is mandated to ask permission from the spirits who are said to guard the island and the wood. With or without tempting souvenirs, a visit to this pristine island is worth all the hassle of getting there.

IJEN CRATER, A PERILOUS BEAUTY

2008-05-08T22:00:00.000-07:00

Behind the beautiful panorama of Mount Ijen, with one of the world's largest craters, in Bondowoso, East Java, lies a health hazard to the surrounding community.

The crater lake of Kawah Ijen is seen through the caldera's rising sulfur fumes. At least 50,000 people live in an area threatened by acidic water from the crater lake permeating through their wells.

For both local and foreign tourists, Kawah Ijen is a unique attraction. It is one of the few volcanoes in the country that has a crater lake. Of the country's more than 700 mountains, only a small percentage have such lakes, including Mount Rinjani (3,726 meters above sea level) in Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara, and the Kelimutu range in Flores.

Visitors are prohibited from approaching the crater, where a lava dome has emerged as a "mini Kelud", measuring 700 square meters, with a 130-meter diameter.

According to vulcanologists, the Kelud dome is a unique phenomenon in Indonesia's volcanic history and still has the potential for a devastating eruption.

Kawah Ijen is easily accessible by motor vehicle -- the best route is via Bondowoso and eastward through Wonosari to Sempol village and finally via Paltuding village.

This route covers 70 kilometers of smooth asphalt roads. It can also be reached through the town of Banyuwangi -- only 38 kilometers to the west of the villages of Licin, Jambu and Paltuding -- but the roads are quite steep.

For a morning climb, tourists can spend the night at the coffee estate guest house of PTP Nusantara XII state company in Kalisat, Jampit, at an altitude of 1,200 meters. A tourist inn, Pondok Wisata, also offers accommodation in Paltuding, besides a camping ground.

Masks, glasses and wet handkerchiefs are needed for protection against toxic fumes from the crater. By following the path worn down by sulfur miners, climbers will not get lost.

At the peak, a green crater can be observed at a height of 2,368 meters above sea level, with a total area of 5.5 hectares and caldera walls 300 to 500 meters high. The lake's water, totaling 200 million cubic meters in volume, can reach 200 degrees centigrade. With a depth of 200 meters, the lake is so acidic that it can dissolve clothes and human fingers.

IMPORTANT NUMBERS

2008-04-01T23:01:00.000-07:00

LIST OF IMPORTANT NUMBERS

AMBULANCE SERVICES
General Services Telp : 118, 334-030
Traffic Accidents Telp : 118, 334-030, 687-089
Fax 685-652

FIRE BRIGADE
Headquarters
Telp : 344-1309

Jakarta Pusat
Telp : 634-4215, 631-1216

Jakarta Barat
Telp : 568-2284

Jakarta Selatan
Telp : 769-4519, 769-0825, 751-5054

Jakarta Timur
Telp : 858-2150, 819-3113, 858-0588

Jakarta Utara
Telp : 493-045, 491-063, 437-0176

POLICE
POLDA METRO JAYA
Telp : 110, 525-0110, 570-4189, 523-4555

POLRES Jakarta Pusat
Telp : 390-9922

POLRES Jakarta Barat
Telp : 548-2371

POLRES Jakarta Selatan
Telp : 720-6011

POLRES Jakarta Timur
Telp : 819-1478, 819-0814

POLRES Jakarta Utara
Telp : 491-017

POLRES Tangerang
Telp : 552-3160

POLRES Bekasi
Telp : 884-1110

POLRES Depok
Telp : 775-9910, 752-0014

S.A.R.
Search and Resque (SAR) Telp : 550-7975, 550-7970
Fax. : 550-1513

AIRPORT
Soekarno Hatta International Airport
Telp : 550-5179, 550-5307, 550-5309
Fax 550-1684
http://www.angkasapura2.co.id

AIRLINES
Ansett Australia Telp 391-5501
Fax 391-5510

Bouraq Indonesia Telp 628-8827, 659-5194
Fax 600-1558

Cathay Pacific Telp 515-0777
Fax 515-1731
http://www.cathaypacific.com

China Airlines
Telp 251-0788, 251-0789
Fax 251-0787
http://www.china-airlines.com

Garuda Indonesia
Telp 251-2235, 251-2237, 570-6155, 251-2240
Eva Air Telp 520-5808, 520-5828, 520-5363
Fax 521-2520 l
http://www.evaair.com.tw

Japan Airlines
Telp 572-3211, 572-3235
Fax 572-3231

KLM Telp 252-6740, 252-6730
Fax 252-6750

Korean Air Telp 521-2176, 521-2180
Fax 521-2179

Lufthansa Telp 570-2005
Fax 571-1476
http://www.lufthansa.com

Malaysia Airlines
Telp 522-9690, 522-9682, 522-9705
Fax 522-9815

Mandala Airlines Telp 424-6100, 420-6646
Fax 424-3480

Merpati Nusantara
Telp 654-4444, 654-8888
Fax 654-1002

Philippine Arlines
Telp 526-7780
Fax 526-7789

Qantas Telp 230-0277, 230-0655
Fax 230-0420
http://www.qantas.com.au

Silk Air
Telp 520-8018, 520-8023
Fax 520-8013

Singapore Airlines
Telp 520-6899, 520-6881
Fax 520-8024

Thai Airways
Telp 314-0607, 330-816
Fax 330-792

UTA
Telp 521-1842, 521-1846

RAILWAY STATIONS
Gambir Telp 384-2777
Jakarta Kota Telp 678-515, 679-194

SHIPPING COMPANY
PELNI Telp 424-7747, 421-1921, 424-1963, 384-7337
Fax 385-4130

TAXICABS
Bluebird
Telp 794-1234, 798-1001, 794-4444

Citra
Telp 781-7771, 781-7233

Express
Telp 570-9009, 570-9010, 570-9011

Kosti
Telp 780-1333, 780-1290, 569-4965

Royal City
Telp 850-0888, Fax 850-8332

Silver Bird
Telp 798-1001, 794-1234

TELEPHONE SERVICES

Billing information
Telp 109

Complaints/Repair
Telp 117

International
Telp 101, 104

International Direct Dialing :
Indosat
Telp 001 + Country Code + Tel. Number

Satelindo
Telp 008 + Country Code + Tel. Number

Information Desk
Telp 108

Long Distance Information
Telp 105, 100, 106

Postal Services
Telp 161

Time of day
Telp 103

LIST OF HOTELS

2008-03-12T23:17:00.000-07:00

HERE ARE LIST OF HOTELS IN INDONESIA

CENTRAL JAKARTA (021)

Acacia Jakarta
Jl Kramat Raya
PHONE 390-3030, 390-3388
Arcadia Jl KH Wahid Hasyim
e-mail : arcadia@jkt.mega.net.id 114230-0050 230-0995

Aryaduta Jakarta
Jl Prapatan 44-48
PHONE : 231-1234,380-9900

Aquila Jakarta
Jl Pangeran Jayakarta
PHONE :601-9865, 601-9876

Atlet Century Park
Jl Pintu Satu Senayan
PHONE : 571-2041, 571-2191

Borobudur Intercontinental
Jl Lap. Banteng Selatan 1
PHONE : 380-5555, 380-9595

Cemara
Jl Cemara 1
PHONE : 314-9985,324-668

Cempaka
Jl Letjen Suprapto
PHONE :426-0066,426-0022

Dai-Ichi Jakarta
Jl Senen Raya 135
PHONE :344-2828,344-2929

Dusit Manggadua
Jl Manggadua Raya
PHONE :612-8811,612-8822

Golden
Jl Angkasa 1
PHONE :625-5555,625-6666

Grand Hyatt
Jl MH Thamrin 28-30
PHONE : 390-1234, 310-7300

Holiday Inn Crowne Plaza
Jl Gatot Subroto 2-3
PHONE : 526-8880, 526-8882

Ibis Kemayoran
Jl Bungur Besar
e-mail : sales@ibis.co.id
PHONE : 78-81421-0111, 421-1458

Ibis Manggadua
Jl Pangeran Jayakarta
e-mail : ibism2@vision.net.id
PHONE : 73625-0101 625-0505

Ibis Tamarin
Jl KH Wahid Hasyim
e-mail : ibistam@vision.net.id
PHONE : 77315-7706 315-7707

HOTEL Indonesia
Jl MH Thamrin
PHONE : 230-1008 230-1007

Jakarta Hilton International
Jl Jend Gatot Subroto
PHONE : 570- 3600, 573-3091

Kartika Chandra
Jl Jend Gatot Subroto
PHONE : 525-5000 520-4238

Le Meridien
Jl Jend Sudirman
PHONE : 18-20 251-3131, 571-1633

Mandarin Oriental
Jl MH Thamrin
PHONE : 314-1307, 314-8680

Mercure Pangeran Jayakarta
Jl Pangeran Jayakarta
PHONE : 44 628-7888, 628-94

Millennium Sirih Jakarta
Jl Fachrudin 3
PHONE : 230-3636 230-0880

Mulia Senayan
Jl Asia Afrika Senayan
PHONE : 574-7777, 574-7888

New Karya
Jl Jaksa 32-34
PHONE : 315-0519 314-2781

Pardede
Jl Raden Saleh I
PHONE : 314-6270 323-868

President
Jl MH Thamrin 59
PHONE : 230-1122 314-3631

Radisson Jakarta
Jl Pecenongan 72
PHONE 350-0077, 350-0055

Sabang Metropolitan
Jl H Agus Salim 11
PHONE : 384-5434, 384-3546

Sahid Jaya
Jl Jend Sudirman 86
PHONE : 570-4444, 573-3168

Sari Pan Pacific
Jl MH Thamrin
e-mail:saripan@panpac.co.id
PHONE : 6390-2707, 323-650

Sentral
Jl Pramuka Raya 63-64
PHONE : 421-3838, 421-3839

Shangri-La
Jl Jend Sudirman 1
PHONE : 570-7440, 570-3533

Sheraton Media Hotel & Towers
Jl Gunung Sahari Raya
http://www.sheraton.com/Media
PHONE : 3626-3001, 626-3011

Wisata International
Jl MH Thamrin
PHONE : 230-0406, 230-0578

North Jakarta (021)
Ancol Jl RE Martadinata 1
PHONE : 691-6009, 691-6011

Ancol Parkroyal
Taman Impian Ancol
PHONE : 640-5641, 640-5645

Danau Sunter
Jl Danau Permai Sunter
PHONE : 650-9969, 650-9970
http://asiatravel.com/sunlake

Horison Ancol
Jl Pantai Indah, Ancol
PHONE : 640-6000, 640-6123
e-mail : hhj@indo.net.id

Pondok Putri Duyung
Jl Lodan Timur 7
PHONE : 260-1680, 260-1691

Sanno
Jl Pluit Taman Raya
PHONE : 660-6060, 660-4944

SOUTH JAKARTA (021)

Ambhara
Jl Iskandarsyah
PHONE : 739-6759, 722-0582

Citra Regency
Jl Prof Dr Satrio Kav. 1
PHONE : 522-5225, 522-3737

Gran Melia Jakarta
Jl HR Rasuna Said Kav X-0
526-8080, 526-8181
e-mail : info@granmeliajakarta.com

Kemang
Jl Kemang Raya 2 H
PHONE : 719-4121, 719-4131

Kristal
Jl Tarogong Raya
PHONE : 750-7065 750-7110
e-mai : kris bc@rad.net.id

Regent Jakarta
Jl HR Rasuna Said
PHONE 252-3456, 252-4480
Setiabudi Palace Jl Setiabudi Raya 525-4640 525-4651

WEST JAKARTA (021)

Ciputra
Jl S Parman, Grogol
PHONE : 566-9658, 566-9655
http://www.hotelciputra.com/

City
Jl Medan Glodok
PHONE : 631-7008, 631-7374

Mercure Grand Residence
Jl S Parman Tanjung Duren
PHONE : 564-1555, 564-1550
e-mail : mercure@rad.net.id

Mercure Rekso Hayam Wuruk
Jl Hayam Wuruk 123
PHONE : 624-8680, 600-8441

Ibis Slipi
Jl Letjen S Parman
PHONE : 533-1570, 532-3880

Jayakarta Tower
Jl Hayam Wuruk 126
PHONE : 629-3000, 629-5000

Omni Batavia
Jl Kalibesar Barat 46
PHONE : 690-4118 691-5979

Santika Jakarta
Jl Aipda KS Tubun 7
PHONE : 533-0350, 548-3457

Bekasi, Depok, Tangerang (021)

Bumi Wiyata Pusdiklat & Hotel
Jl Margonda Raya Depok
PHONE : 777-8040, 777-5610

Horison Bekasi
Jl Raya Kalimalang Bekasi
PHONE : 884-8888, 884-7777

Ibis Cikarang Bekasi
Jl Jababeka Raya Bekasi
PHONE : 893-4488, 893-4343

Imperial Century
Lippo Karawaci Tangerang
PHONE : 546-0101, 546-0201

Sahid Lippo Cikarang
Lippo Cikarang Bekasi
PHONE : 897-2352, 897-2351

Sheraton Bandara Hotel Soekarno-Hatta Airport
PHONE : 559-7777, 559-7700
http://www.sheraton.com/BandaraJakarta

Quality Aspac Bandara Jakarta
Terminal II/E Bandara
PHONE : 559-0008, 559-0018
e-mail:airport@sision.net.id

BOGOR (0251)

Novotel Bogor
Golf Estat Bogor Raya
PHONE : 271-555, 271-333
e-mail : novbogor@indosof.net.id

Pangrango
Jl Pajajaran 32
PHONE : 321-482 314-060

BANDUNG (022)

Aquila Bandung
Jl Dr Djundjunan
PHONE : 235-746, 235-746

Chedi
Jl Ranca Bentang
PHONE : 230-333, 230-633

Grand Hotel Preanger
Jl Asia Afrika
PHONE : 431-631, 430-034

Grand Hotel Lembang
Jl Raya Lembang
PHONE : 278-6671, 278-6829

Hasanah Regency
Jl Lemahneundeut
PHONE : 215-730, 215-667

Horison
Jl Pelajar Pejuang 45
PHONE : 305-000, 304-711

Hyatt Regency Bandung
Jl Sumatera 51
PHONE : 421-1234, 420-4090

Imperium International
Jl Dr Rum
PHONE : 420-2244, 435-541

Istana
Jl Lembong
PHONE : 433-025, 432-737

Jayakarta
Jl Ir H Juanda
PHONE : 250-5888, 250-5388

Kedaton
Jl Suniaraja 14
PHONE : 421-9898, 439-944

Nyland
Jl Dr Djundjunan 125
PHONE : 640-705, 640-709

Panghegar
Jl Merdeka 2
PHONE 432-286, 431-583

Papandayan
Jl Gatot Subroto 83
PHONE : 310-799, 310-988

Patrajasa Bandung
Jl Ir H Juanda 132
PHONE : 250-2664, 250-4995

Perdana Wisata
Jl Jend Sudirman 66-68
PHONE : 438-238 432-818

Puteri Gunung Cottage
Jl Tangkubanperahu
PHONE : 286-650 286-902

Sahid Topas Galeria
Jl Dr Junjunan 153
PHONE : 642-631 642-632

San Gria Lembang
Jl Holtikultura Lembang
PHONE : 278-8777, 278-7045

Santika
Jl Sumatera 52-54
PHONE : 420-3009, 439-601

Savoy Homann
Jl Asia Afrika 112
PHONE : 432-244 436-187

Sheraton Bandung Hotel
Jl Ir H Juanda 390
PHONE : 250-0303, 250-0301
http://www.sheraton.com/Bandung

Sukajadi
Jl Sukajadi 176
PHONE : 233-888, 234-020

SURABAYA (031)

Cendana
Jl Kombes M Duryat
PHONE : 545-3333 531-4367

Elmi
Jl Panglima Sudirman 42
PHONE : 532-2571 531-5615

Equator Surabaya
Jl Pakis Argosari 47
PHONE : 568-7170 568-7172

Garden Palace
Jl Yos Sudarso 11
PHONE :532-1001 531-6111

Grand Kalimas
Jl KH Mas Mansyur 151
PHONE : 341-616 355-1047

Hilton Patra Surabaya
Jl Gunungsari
PHONE : 568-2703 568-2081

Hyatt Regency Surabaya
Jl Basuki Rachmat 106-128
PHONE : 531-1234 532-1508

Ibis Basuki Rachmat
Jl Basuki Rachmat 129-137
PHONE : 532-0696 632-9697

Ibis Rajawali
Jl Rajawali 9-11
PHONE : 339-994 339-995
e-mail : ibisraja@indosat.net.id

Majapahit Mandarin Oriental
Jl Tunjungan
PHONE :545-4333 545-4111

Mercure Grand Surabaya
Jl Raya Kupang Indah 37-39
PHONE : 732-8738 732-8731
e-mail : mghs_sby@rad.net.id

Mirama
Jl Raya Darmo 68-76
PHONE : 568-2501 567-1943

Natour Simpang
Jl Pemuda
PHONE : 534-2191 531-0156

Novotel Surabaya
Jl Ngagel 173-175
PHONE :568-2301 567-6317
e-mail : novosub@indosat.net.id

Radisson Plaza Suite
Jl Pemuda 31-37
PHONE : 531-6833 531-6393

Sahid Surabaya
Jl Sumatera 1-15
PHONE : 532-2711 531-6292

Santika Surabaya
Jl Pandegiling 41-47
PHONE : 566-7707 567-3242

Satelit
Jl Mayjen Sungkono 139
PHONE : 561-5876 566-0404

Shangri-La Surabaya
Jl Mayjen Sungkono 120
PHONE : 566-1550 566-1570

Sheraton Surabaya
Jl Embong Malang 25-31
PHONE : 546-8000 546-7000
http://sheraton.com/Surabaya

Surabaya Airport
Jl Bandara Juanda
PHONE : 866-6350 866-7003

Tunjungan
Jl Tunjungan 102-104
PHONE : 546-6666 545-5514

Westin Surabaya
Jl Embong Malang 85-89
PHONE : 545-8888 546-9046

Weta Internatonal
Jl Gentengkali 3-11
PHONE : 531-9494 534-5512

YOGYAKARTA (0274)

Ambarukmo Palace
Jl Adisucipto
PHONE : 566-488 563-283

Aquila Prambanan
Jl Adisucipto 48
PHONE : 565-005 565-009

Hyatt Regency Yogyakarta
Jl Palagan Tentara Pelajar
PHONE : 869-123 868-439
http://www.hyatt.com/

Ibis Malioboro Jl Malioboro 52-58 516-974 516-977
Jayakarta Yogyakarta Jl Adisucipto Km 8 566-418 566-415
Melia Purosani Jl Suryotomo 31 589-521 588-073
Mutiara Jl Malioboro 18 563-814 561-201
Natour Garuda Jl Malioboro 60 566-353 563-074
Novotel Yogyakarta Jl Jend Sudirman 89 580-930 580-931
Phoenix Heritage Jl Jend Sudirman 9-11 566-617 566-856
Puri Artha Jl Cendrawasih 36 563-288 562-765
Radisson Jl Gejayan 584-222 584-200
Santika Jl Jend Sudirman 19 563-036 563-669
e-mail : stikyk@yogya.wasantara.net.id
Sahid Yogyakarta Jl Babarsari Tambakbayan 587-078 563-183
Sheraton Mustika Yogyakarta Jl Adisucipto Km 8,7 511-588 511-589
http://sheraton.com/mustikayogyakarta
Yogya International Jl Adisucipto 38 564-750 564-171

Solo (0271)
Agas International Jl Dr Muwardi 44 714-888 720-747
Asia Jl Wolter Monginsidi 1 061-166 46-418
Novotel Solo Jl Slamet Riyadi 272 724-555 724-666
http://sentralnet.com/novotel
Sahid Kusuma Prince Jl Sugiyopranoto 20 46-356 44-788
Sahid Raya Solo Jl Gajahmada 82 44-144 44-133
Sheraton Solo Jl Adisucipto 47 724-500 724-400
http://www.sheraton.com/Solo
Solo Inn Jl Slamet Riyadi 716-075 71-076

Semarang (024)
Ciputra Semarang Simpang Lima 1 449-888 447-888
Centra Semarang Jl Haryono MT 1 556-724
Graha Santika Jl Pandanaran 116-120 413-115 413-113
Metro Jl Agus Salim 2-4 547-371 510-863
Plaza Jl Setiabudi 101-103 473-188 473-215
Patra Jasa Jl Sisingamangaraja 314-441 314-448
Santika Jl Jend A Yani 189 412-491 414-083
e-mail : hsantika@idola.net.id

Bali (0361)
Amandari Ubud 975-333 975-335
Amankila Klungkung 41-333 41-555
Amanusa Nusa Dua 772-333 772-335
Bali Beach Sanur 288-511 287-917
Bali Clarion Suites Nusa Dua 773-808 773-737
Bali Cliff Resort Pura Batu Pageh 771-992 771-993
Bali Dynasty Resort Kuta 752-403 752-402
Bali Hilton Nusa Dua 771-102 771-616
Bali Hyatt Jl Dn Tamblingan Sanur 288-271 287-693
Bali Imperial Legian 730-730 730-545
Bali Intan Cottages Legian 751-770 751-891
Bali Inter-Continental Jimbaran 701-888 701-777
Bali Padma Legian 752-111 752-140
Bali Sol Nusa Dua 771-410 771-360
Bintang Bali Kuta 753-292 753-288
Candi Beach Cottage Candidasa 235-807 235-808
Club Med Bali Nusa Dua 771-521 771-835
Four Seasons Resort Jimbaran 701-010 701-020
Grand Hyatt Bali Nusa Dua 771-234 772-038
Holiday Inn Kuta 753-035 754-548
Hyatt Regency Nusa Dua 772-032 772-038
Intan Bali Village Kuta 730-777 730-778
Kartika Plaza Beach Kuta 751-067 753-988
Legian Beach Legian 751-711 752-652
Mirage Resort Tanjung Benoa 771-888 772-148
Melia Bali Nusa Dua 771-510 771-360
Natour Kuta Beach Kuta 751-361 751-362
Natour Sindhu Beach Sanur 288-351 289-268
Nikko Bali Jl RayaNusa Dua Selatan 773-377 773-388
http://www.nikkobali.com
Novotel Benoa Bali Jl Pratama Tanjung Benoa 772-239 772-237
e-mail : novobenoa@denpasar.wasantara.net.id
Nusa Dua Beach Nusa Dua 771-210 771-229
Oberoi International Legian 751-061 730-791
Pertamina Cottage Kuta 751-161 752-030
Putri Bali Nusa Dua 771-020 771-139
Sahid Bali Seaside Kuta 753-855 752-019
Santika Beach Jl Kartika, Kuta Tuban 751-267 751-260
e-mail : santika@denpasar.wasantara.net.id
Sanur Beach Sanur 288-011 287-928
Sheraton Laguna Nusa Dua Nusa Dua 771-327 771-326
http://www.luxurycollection.com/LagunaNusaDua
Sheraton Nusa Indah Resort Nusa Dua 771-906 771-908
http://www.sheraton.com/NusaIndah

Lombok (0370)
Novotel Lombok Pantai Putri Nyale 53-333 53-555
e-mail : novotel@lombokine.net.id
Sheraton Senggigi Beach Resort
Jl Raya Senggigi Km 8 93-333 93-140
http://www.sheraton.com/Senggigi

Medan (061)
Dirga Surya Jl Imam Bonjol 558-651 549-327
Emerald Garden Jl Yos Sudarso 611-888 622-888
Garuda Plaza Jl Sisingamangaraja 711-411 714-411
Novotel Soechi Jl Cirebon 76 A 561-234 572-222
e-mail : novonet@indosat.net.id
Polonia Jl Jend Sudirman 534-222 538-870
e-mail : polonia@indosat.net.id
Tiara Medan Jl Cut Mutiah 574-000 510-176
e-mail : sm@tiarahotel.com

Padang (0751)
Natour Muara Jl Gereja 35-600 31-163
Pangeran's Beach Jl Ir H Juanda 51-333 54-613

Bukittinggi (0752)
Denai International Jl Dr Rivai 32-920 33-490
Dymens International Jl Nawawi 21-015 21-613
Novotel Bukittinggi Jl Laras Datuk Bandaro 35-000 32-800
e-mail : novotel_bkt@padang.wasantara.net.id
Melia Confort Pusako Jl Sukarno-Hatta 32-111 32-667
e-mail : jk239@padang.wasantara.net.id

Batam(0778)
Batam View Nongsa 761-740 761-747
Mandarin Regency Nagoya 426-888 458-057
Melia Panorama Batam Tanjung Pantun 452-888 452-555
New Holiday Nagoya 459-308 459-306
Nagoya Plaza Lubuk Baja 459-888 456-690
Novotel Batam Jl Duyung Sei Jodoh 425-555 426-555
e-mail : novbatam@ riau.wasantara.net.id
Puri Garden Jl Teuku Umar 458-888 456-333
Sahid Rasinta Batam Bukit Mas Housing 455-888 452-231

Bandar Lampung (0721)
Indra Palace Jl Wolter Monginsidi 258-258 262-440
Marcopolo Jl Dr Susilo 262-511 254-419
Sahid Bandar Lampung Jl Yos Sudarso 294 488-888 486-589
Sheraton Lampung Jl Wolter Monginsidi 175 486-666 486-690
http://www.sheraton.com/Lampung

Jambi (0741)
Novotel Jambi Jl Gatot Subroto 44 27-208 27-209
e-mail : novotel@jambi.wasantara.net.id

Palembang (0711)
Arjuna Jl Kapten A Rivai 356-719 358-505
King's Jl Kolonel Atmo 362-323 310-937
Sanjaya Jl Kapten A Rivai 310-675 313-693

Balikpapan (0542)
Benakutai Jl Jend A.Yani 31-896 31-823
Blue Sky Jl Letjen Suprapto 35-845 24-094
Dusit Inn Jl Jend Sudirman 20-155 20-150
e-mail : dusitc@indo.net.id
Grand Bahtera Jl Jend Sudirman 22-563 31-889
e-mail : bahtera@bpp.mega.net.id
Mirama Jl AP Pranoto 33-906 34-230

Samarinda (0541)
Bumi Senyiur Jl P Diponegoro 41-443 38-014
Mesra Jl Pahlawan 32-772 35-453
http://www.mesra.co.id

Pontianak (0561)
Kapuas Palace Jl Imam Bonjol 36-122 34-374

Banjarmasin (0511)
The Kalimantan Jl Lambung Mangkurat 66-818 67-345

MAKASSAR (0411)
Losari Beach
Jl Penghibur
PHONE : 326-062 313-978

Kenari
Jl Latumahina
PHONE : 874-250 872-126

Makasar Gate Beach
Jl Pasar Ikan
PHONE : 325-791 316-303

Makassar City
Jl Chairil Anwar 28
PHONE : 317-055 311-818

Makassar Golden
Jl Pasar Ikan 50
PHONE : 314-408 320-951
e-mail : mgh@upandang.wasantara.net.id

Singgasana hotel
Jl Sultan Hasanuddin 3-5
PHONE : 315-087 319-934

Sahid Makassar
Jl Dr Sam Ratulangi 33
PHONE : 875-757 875-858
e-mail : sahidup@upg.mega.net.id

Hyatt Makassar
Jl Somba Opu 297
PHONE : 859-541 854-542
e-mail : sedona@upg.mega.net.id

Victoria International
Jl Jend Sudirman 24
PHONE : 328-888 312-468

Yasmin Jl Jampea 5 320-424 328-283
e-mail : morante@upg.mega.net.id

Toraja (0423)
Marante Toraja Jl Jurusan Palopo 21-616 21-122
Novotel Toraja Rantepao, Tana Toraja 21-192 21-666
e-mail : novotor@upandang.wasantara.net.id
Sahid Toraja Jl Raya Gettengan 1 22-400 22-167

MANADO (0431)

Manado Beach
Jl Tasik Ria Mokupa
PHONE : 867-001 867-007

Novotel Manado
Jl Pierre Tendean
PHONE : 855-555 851-245
e-mail : novotel.mdo@indo.meganet.id

Sahid Manado
Jl Babe Palar 1
PHONE : 851-688 863-326

Sahid Kawanua Manado
Jl Sam Ratulangi 1
PHONE : 868-119 865-220

Santika Manado Tongkaina,
Molas
PHONE : 858-222 858-666
e-mail : santika@mdo.mega.net.id

JAYAPURA (0967)
Dafonsoro
Jl Percetakan, Jayapura
PHONE : 31-965 34-055

Matoa
Jl Jend A Yani, Jayapura
PHONE : 326-062 319-611

Muspago
Jl Muspago, Jayapura
PHONE 36-583 35-866

SORONG (0951)

Sahid Mariat Sorong
Jl Jend A Yani 1
PHONE : 23-535 23-431

TIMIKA (0901)

Sheraton Timika Hotel
Timika
PHONE 394-949 394-950
http://www.sheraton.com/Timika

TEMPLE NEAR JOGJA

2008-03-12T08:53:00.000-07:00

BOROBUDUR TEMPLE

The most famous of Indonesia's temples is this huge Buddhist pyramid. This is a Buddhism's largest shrine in Indonesia, built in the 9th century. Located north west of Yogyakarta, Borobudur Temple was completed in the second half of the ninth century.

Like the Hindu temple complexes Prambanan and the Dieng plateau, Borobudur was unknown and neglected for almost a thousand years, covered under thick layers of volcanic ash. From a far Borobudur Temple looks like a huge but ordinary stone construction.

But from nearby we can see that it consists of hundreds of wonderfully detailed statues and sculptures, representing Buddhist teachings mixed with images of Javanese life of a thousand years ago.

PRAMBANAN TEMPLE
Prambanan is a ten-century old Hindu temple. This temple is dedicated to the Hindu God Shiva, locally called Candi Loro Jonggrang, which means 'slender virgin.'

From an architectural point of view this beautifully sculptured spire, fifty meters high, indeed resembles a 'slender virgin.' Like the Buddhist stupa in Borobudur Temple, Prambanan was abandoned when the Buddhist and Hindu Javanese inhabitants moved to East Java.

Seventeen kilometers east of Yogyakarta, it is believed to have been built by King Balitung Maha Sambu in the middle of the ninth century. Its parapets are adorned with a bas-reliefs depicting the famous Ramayana story.

The first open-air theater on the southern side of the temple was built in 1960 and the new theater on the western side of the temple in 1988. During full moon evenings in the month from May to October, the Ramayana ballet is performed right here. The temple complex of Prambanan lies among green fields and villages.

It has eight shrines, of which the three main ones are dedicated to Shiva, Vishnu and Brahma. The main temple of Shiva rises to a height of 130 feet and houses the magnificent statue of Shiva's consort, Durga.

BEAUTIFUL YOGYAKARTA

2008-03-11T09:11:00.000-07:00

Yogyakarta or simply Yogya, is one of the foremost cultural centers of Java. Located at the foot of the active Merapi volcano & It stretches till the Indian Ocean, Yogyakarta was in the 16th and 17th centuries the seat of the mighty Javanese empire of Mataram., from which present day Yogyakarta has inherited the best of traditions.

The city itself has a special charm which seldom fails to captivate the visitor. This province is one of the most densely populated areas of Indonesia. The city came into being in 1755, after the division of Mataram into the Sultanates of Yogyakarta and Surakarta (Solo). Gamelan, classical and contemporary Javanese dances, the wayang kulit leather puppet theater and other expressions of traditional art will keep the visitor spellbound. Local craftsmen excel in the arts of batiks, silver and leather work.

Around the city of Yogyakarta, is the most famous part of Java and is, in fact, its cultural centre. This is in part because of the presence there of a variety of religious influences-Buddhist, Hindu, and other indigenous beliefs, which resulted in the construction of the impressive temples of Borobudur, Prambanan and the Dieng temple complex.

The 300 year old city of Yogyakarta is the cultural heart of Java. Here also is Indonesia's oldest palace 'The Kraton,' still the domicile of Jogya's royalty. Even now the current Sultan of Yogyakarta retains remarkable political prestige.

Yogyakarta offers an abundance of Javanese art, painting, silverwork, batik handcraft, traditional Javanese dances, as well as contemporary art. The city is the cultural centre not only of Java, but of the whole of Indonesia.
From Yogyakarta one can travel easily to the Borobudur Temple and Prambanan temples, which are half-day trips from the city. Yogyakarta is situated between the foot of the still-active Merapi volcano and the mystical Indian Ocean, home of 'Loro Kidul,' Queen of the South Seas.

Yogyakarta is often called the main gateway to the center of Java where it is geographically located. There is daily air service to Yogya from Jakarta, Surabaya and Bali as well as regular train service and easy accessibility by road.

NGAYOGYAKARTA HADININGRAT PALACE

The palace court with its grand and elegant Javanese architecture lies in the center of the city. It was founded by Prince Mangkubumi in 1755. The Prince was then called Sri Sultan Hamengkubuwono I. He chose the right location of the compound between the Winongo River and the Code River.

The palace stretches out from north to south.The front yard is called alun-alun Utara (the North Square), and the back yard is called Alun-alun Selatan (the South Square). The layout of the buildings shows that the Palace, the commemorative column and Mount Merapi lie in one line.

The palace meeting hall is called the Pagelaran, where formal meetings of palace officials are held, while the "Manguntur Tingkil" hall is the place where the Sultan is seated. The palace visitors can enjoy the atmosphere of the kraton in former times by visiting the life-size diorama of wedding ceremonies on the palace meeting hall, performed by puppets which are intentionally arranged to create such an atmosphere. Sets of Javanese musical instruments, antiques and heirlooms have made the palace of Yogyakarta worth to visit.

WATER CASTLE

Built in 1758 by Sultan Hamengkubuwono I just west of the kraton, part of this pleasure garden and castle is at present no more than an intriguing collection of ruins, pools, arches and underground passages enclosed by massive walls, however, the central courtyard with the nymph-baths has been restored.

The Water Castle is located in the older part of the city within walking distance from the Bird Market. A number of batik workshops line the avenue leading to the pleasure garden's entrance.

KOTA GEDE

Kotagede, about five kilometers southeast of Yogyakarta, is a neat little town which was once the seat of the mighty Mataram empire. In this old palace town with its walled-in houses, the graves of the first rulers of Mataram are still to be found. Since the 1930s, however, Kotagede has become famous for being the center of the Yogya silverwork industry.

Kotagede is easily reached by "andong", the four wheeled horse-drawn cart, by taxi, bus, or car. There are a number of workshops where visitors are welcome to watch silver being transformed into beautiful works of art known as "Yogya Silver".

BATIK RESEARCH CENTER
Situated on the eastern outskirts of the city, it has an interesting permanent exhibition of batiks in classic and modern designs. The process of batik can also be seen here, both the hand drawn and hand stamped.

EMBASSIES

2008-03-10T22:54:00.000-07:00

HERE IS YOUR EMBASSIES IN INDONESIA

AFGHANISTAN
Jalan Dr Kusumaatmaja SH 15, Menteng, Jakarta Pusat
Telp 314-3169, Fax 335-390

ALGERIA
Jalan HR Rasuna Said Kav 10-1, Kuningan, Jakarta 12950
Telp 525-4719, 525-4809, Fax 525-4654

ARGENTINA
Mulia Tower Building, Suite 1901
Jalan Jend Gatot Subroto Kav 9-11, Jakarta 12930
Telp 526-5661, Fax 526-5664

AUSTRALIA
Jalan HR Rasuna Said Kav 15-16, Kuningan, Jakarta 12940
Telp 522-7111, Fax 522-7101

AUSTRIA
Jalan Diponegoro 44, Menteng, Jakarta Pusat
Telp 338-090, 338-101, 310-7451, Fax 390-4927

BANGLADESH
Jalan Denpasar Raya 3, Kav 10, Kuningan, Jakarta 12950
Telp 525-1986, 522-1574, 314-1690, Fax 526-1807

BELGIUM
Wisma BCA, 15th Fl, Jl. Jend. Sudirman 22-23, Jakarta 12920
Telp 571-0510, 571-2322, 390-4036, Fax 570-0676

BRAZIL
Menara Mulia Suite 1602, Jl Gatot Subroto 9-11 Jakarta 12930
Telp 526-5656 to 526-5658, Fax 526-5659

BRUNEI DARUSSALAM
Jl Tanjung Karang No.7 Jakarta 10230
Telp 3190-6080,Fax 3190-5070

BULGARIA
Jalan Imam Bonjol 34-36, Menteng, Jakarta 10310
Telp 390-4048

CAMBODIA
Panin Bank Plaza Fl. 4, Jl Palmerah Utara 52, Jakarta 11480
Telp 548-3643, 547-3716, Fax 548-3684

CANADA
Wisma Metropolitan I, Fl 5, Jl Jend Sudirman 29, Jakarta 12920
Telp 525-0709, Fax 571-2251

CHILE
Bina Mulia Bld. I, 7th Fl.
Jalan HR Rasuna Said 10, Kuningan, Jakarta 12950
Telp 520-1131, 520-1132, Fax 520-1955

CHINA
Jalan Jenderal Sudirman 69, Jakarta Selatan
Telp 724-4489, 724-4515, 724-3336, Fax 720-7782

COLOMBIA
Central Plaza Bld. 16th Fl. Jl Jend. Sudirman 47, Jakarta Selatan
Telp 525-6446, Fax 520-7717

CROATIA
Menara Mulia, Suite 2101, Jl Gatot Subroto 9-11 Jakarta 12930
Telp 525-7822, 525-7611, Fax 520-4073
CD-117
CUBA
Villa Pejaten Mas G-4, Pasar Minggu, Jakarta 12520
Telp 780-6673, 750-9823, Fax 780-6673
CD-105
CZECHO
Jalan Gereja Theresia 20, Menteng, Jakarta Pusat
Telp 390-4075 to 390-4077, Fax 336-282
CD-40
DENMARK
Menara Rajawali, 25th Floor
Jalan Mega Kuningan, Jakarta 12950
Telp 576-1478 (Hunting), Fax 576-1535
email: dkemb9@cbn.net.id
Homepage: www.emb-denmark.or.id
CD-34
EGYPT
Jalan Teuku Umar 68, Menteng, Jakarta Pusat
Telp 314-3440, 331-141, 335-350, Fax 314-5073
CD-29
FINLAND
Menara Rajawali, 9Th Floor
Jalan Mega Kuningan Jakarta 12950
Telp 576-1650 (Hunting), Fax 576-1631, 576-1654 (Commercial Section) Tlx. 62128 FINAM IA
email: sanomat.jak@formin.fi
Homepage: www.finembjak.com/
CD-41
FRANCE
Jalan MH Thamrin 20, Jakarta Pusat
Telp 314-2807, 310-0504, Fax 314-3338
CD-14
GERMANY
Jalan MH Thamrin 1, Jakarta Pusat
Telp 390-1750, Fax 390-1757
CD-32
GREAT BRITAIN
Jalan MH Thamrin 75, Jakarta Pusat
Telp 314-4229, Fax 390-7493,
CD-15
HOLY SEE APSTOLIC NUNCIATURE
Jalan Medan Merdeka Timur 18, Jakarta Pusat
Telp 384-1142, 381-0736, 380-0736, Fax 384-1143
CD-17
HUNGARY
Jalan HR Rasuna Said X/3, Kuningan, Jakarta 12950
Telp 520-3459, 520-3460, Fax 530-3461
CD-43
INDIA
Jalan HR Rasuna Said S-1, Kuningan, Jakarta 12950
Telp 520-4150, 520-4152, Fax 520-4160
CD-13
IRAN
Jalan HOS Cokroaminoto 110, Menteng, Jakarta 10310
Telp 331-378, 331-391, Fax 310-7860
CD-45
IRAQ
Jalan Teuku Umar 38, Menteng, Jakarta 10350
Telp 390-4067 to 390-4069, Fax 390-4066
CD-20
ITALY
Jalan Diponegoro 45, Menteng, Jakarta 10310
Telp 337-445 Fax 337-422
CD-30
JAPAN
Jalan MH Thamrin 24, Jakarta Pusat
Telp 324-308, Fax 325-460
CD-49
JORDAN
Jalan Denpasar Raya Block A-13
Kav. 01-02 Kuningan, Jakarta 12950
Telp 520-4400, 520-4401, Fax 520-2447
CD-55
DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF KOREA
Jalan HR Rasuna Said Kav. X-5, Kuningan, Jakarta 12950
Telp 521-0181, 521-0182, Fax 521-0183
CD-65
REPUBLIC OF KOREA
Jalan Jenderal Gatot Subroto 57, Jakarta Selatan
Telp 520-1915, Fax 525-4159
CD-75
KUWAIT
Jalan Denpasar Raya Blok A-XII/1, Kuningan, Jakarta 12950
Telp 520-2477 to 520-2480, Fax 522-4931, 520-4359
CD-102
LAOS
Jalan Kintamani Raya C-15 no. 33, Kuningan, Jakarta 12950
Telp 520-2673, 520-9602, Fax 522-9601
CD-103
LEBANON
Jalan YBR V/82, Kuningan, Jakarta 12950
Telp 520-7121, 525-3074, 525-4306, Fax 520-7121
CD-115
LIBYA
Jalan Pekalongan 24, Menteng, Jakarta Pusat
Telp 390-8467, 335-308, 335-754, Fax 335-726
CD-107
MALAYSIA
Jalan HR Rasuna Said X/6, Kuningan, Jakarta 12940
Telp 522-4947 Fax 522-4974
CD-47
MEXICO
Wisma Nusantara 4th Fl
Jalan MH Thamrin 59, Jakarta 10350
Telp 337-974, 337-453, Fax 331-500
CD-42
MOROCCO
Kuningan Plaza Suite 512, South Tower
Jalan HR Rasuna Said C 11-14, Kuningan, Jakarta 12950
Telp 520-0773, 520-0956, Fax 520-0586
CD-98
MYANMAR
Jalan H Agus Salim 109, Menteng, Jakarta 10350
Telp 314-0440, 327-684, Fax 327-204
CD-23
NETHERLAND
Rasuna Said S-3, Kuningan, Jakarta 12950
Telp 525-1515, Fax 570-0734
CD-60
NEW ZEALAND
Jalan Diponegoro 14, Menteng, Jakarta 10310
Telp 336-680, Fax 315-3686
CD-59
NIGERIA
Jalan Taman Patra XIV no 11, Kuningan Timur, Jakarta Selatan
Telp 526-0922, 526-0923, Fax 526-0924
CD-81
NORWAY
Menara Rajawali 25Th Floor.
Jl. Mega Kuningan Lot #5.1 Kawasan Mega Kuningan Jakarta 12950
Telp 576-1523, Fax 576-1537
CD-19
PAKISTAN
Jalan Teuku Umar 50, Menteng, Jakarta Pusat
Telp 314-4008, 314-4009, 314-4011, Fax 310-3945, 310-3947, 314-4075
CD-21
PALESTINE
Jalan Diponegoro 59, Menteng, Jakarta 10310
Telp 314-5444, 310-8005, 323-521, Fax 310-8011
CD-104
PAPUA NEW GUINEA
Panin Bank Centre 6th Fl. Jl Jend Sudirman 1, Jakarta 10270
Telp 725-1218 Fax 720-1012
CD-80
PERU
Menara Rajawali, 12Th Floor.
Jalan Mega Kuningan Lot #5.1 Kawasan Mega Kuningan Jakarta Selatan 12950
Telp 576-1820 (Hunting), Fax 576-1825
email: embaperu@cbn.net.id
CD-108
PHILIPPINES
Jalan Imam Bonjol 6-8, Menteng, Jakarta Pusat
Telp 310-0334, 310-0302, Fax 315-1167
CD-16
POLAND
Jalan Diponegoro 65, Menteng, Jakarta Pusat
Telp 314-0509, Fax 327-343
CD-44
PORTUGAL
Jalan Indramayu 2A, Menteng, Jakarta Pusat 103110
Telp 319-08030, Fax 319-08031

ROMANIA
Jalan Teuku Cik Di Tiro 42 A, Menteng, Jakarta Pusat
Telp 310-6240, 310-6241, Fax 390-7759
CD-53
RUSSIA
Jalan HR Rasuna Said Kav X-7, Jakarta 12950
Telp 522-2912 to 522-2913, Fax 522-2916
CD-37
SAUDI ARABIA
Jalan Haryono MT Kav 27, Jakarta Timur
Telp 801-1533, Fax 801-1527
CD-27
SINGAPORE
Jl. HR Rasuna Said Blok X 4, Kav. 2, Kuningan, Jakarta 12950
Telp 520-1489, Fax 520-1486
CD-67
SLOVAKIA
Jalan Prof Moh Yamin SH 29, Menteng, Jakarta 10310
Telp 310-1068, 315-1429, Fax 310-1180
CD-109
SOUTH AFRICA
Wisma GKBI 7th. Fl., Suite 705
Jalan Jendral Sudirman 28, Jakarta 10210
Telp 574-0660, Fax 574-0661
CD-116
SPAIN
Jalan H Agus Salim 61, Menteng, Jakarta 10350
Telp 335-937, 335-771, 335-940, 314-2355, Fax 325-996
CD-68
SRI LANKA
Jalan Diponegoro 70, Menteng, Jakarta 10310
Telp 314-1018, Fax 310-7962
CD-33
SUDAN
Wisma Bank Dharmala 7th Fl.
Jalan Jend Sudirman Kav 28, Jakarta 12910
Telp 521-2075, Fax 521-2077
CD-63
SWEDEN
Menara Rajawali 9Th Floor
Jalan Mega Kuningan Lot #5.1 Kawasan Mega Kuningan Jakarta 12950
Telp 576-2690, Fax 576-2691
email: sweden@cbn.net.id
Homepage: www.swedemb-jakarta.com
CD-26
SWITZERLAND
Jalan HR Rasuna Said Block X 3/2,
Kuningan, Jakarta 12950
Telp 520-7451, 552-5107, Fax 520-2289
CD-31
SYRIAN ARAB REPUBLIC
Jalan Karang Asem I/8, Kuningan, Jakarta 12950
Telp 520-4117, 520-1641, Fax 520-2511
CD-57
THAILAND
Jalan Imam Bonjol 74, Menteng, Jakarta 10310
Telp 390-4055, 390-4225, Fax 310-7469
CD-28
TUNISIA
Wisma Dharmala Sakti 11th Fl.
Jalan Jend Sudirman Kav 32, Jakarta 10220
Telp 570-3432, 570-3492, 570-4220, Fax 570-0016
CD-101
TURKEY
Jalan HR Rasuna Said 1, Kuningan, Jakarta Selatan
Telp 525-6250, Fax 522-6056
CD-48
UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
Jalan Singaraja C-VI/16-17, Kuningan, Jakarta 12950
Telp 520-6518, Fax 520-6526
CD-24
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Jalan Medan Merdeka Selatan 5, Jakarta Pusat
Telp 344-2211, Fax 386-2259
CD-12
VENEZUELA
Jalan Denpasar III-YBR IV/19, Kuningan, Jakarta 12950
Telp 522-3019, Fax 525-0195
CD-85
VIETNAM
Jalan Teuku Umar 25, Menteng, Jakarta Pusat
Telp 310-0357, 310-0358, Fax 314-9615
CD-66
YEMEN
Jalan Yusuf Adiwinata 29, Menteng, Jakarta 10350
Telp 390-4074, 310-8029, 310-8035, Fax 390-4946
CD-61
YUGOSLAVIA
Jalan HOS Cokroaminoto 109, Menteng, Jakarta 10310
Telp 314-3560, 314-3720, Fax 314-3613
CD-39

THE MYSTERIOUS TORAJA

2008-03-03T21:48:00.000-08:00

Indonesia has many beautiful places, also amazing islands. In South Sulawesi province, there are several location, that we may say it like heaven on earth. Such as Tana Toraja regency (Land of Toraja) or we say it Toraja.

The Toraja are located on a mountainous region of South Sulawesi, Indonesia. Currently their population is approximately 650,000 people. Most of the population is Christian, and others are Moslem and Animist. The Indonesian government has recognized this animist belief as Aluk To Dolo ("Way of the Ancestors").

The word toraja comes from the Bugeness Language as "to riaja", meaning "people of the uplands". Torajans are renowned for their elaborate funeral rites, burial sites carved into rocky cliffs, massive peaked-roof traditional houses known as Tongkonan and unique wood carvings.

Toraja funeral rites are important social events, usually attended by hundreds of people and lasting for several days.

THE TONGKONAN (The House)

A tongkonan with colorful decorations on the wall. Tongkonan are the traditional Torajan ancestral houses. They stand high on wooden piles, topped with a layered split-bamboo roof shaped in a sweeping curved arc, and they are incised with red, black, and yellow detailed wood carvings on the exterior walls. The word "tongkonan" comes from the Torajan tongkon ("to sit").

Tongkonan are the center of Torajan social life. The rituals associated with the tongkonan are important expressions of Torajan spiritual life, and therefore all family members are impelled to participate, because symbolically the tongkonan represents links to their ancestors and to living and future kin.

The construction of a tongkonan is laborious work and is usually done with the help of the extended family. There are three types of tongkonan. The tongkonan layuk is the house of the highest authority, used as the "center of government".

The tongkonan pekamberan belongs to the family members who have some authority in local traditions. Ordinary family members reside in the tongkonan batu. The exclusivity to the nobility of the tongkonan is diminishing as many Torajan commoners find lucrative employment in other parts of Indonesia. As they send back money to their families, they enable the construction of larger tongkonan.

TRADITIONAL WOOD CARVINGS

A Torajan wood carving: each panel symbolizes goodwill. Each carving receives a special name, and common motifs are animals and plants that symbolize some virtue. For example, water plants and animals, such as crabs, buffalo and water weeds, are commonly found to symbolize fertility.

Regularity and order are common features in Toraja wood carving as well as abstracts and geometrical designs. Nature is frequently used as the basis of Toraja's ornaments, because nature is full of abstractions and geometries with regularities and ordering.

A UNIQIUE BURIAL SITES

Another component of the ritual is the slaughter of buffalo and they say it "tedong bonga" mean is albino buffalo. The more powerful the person who died, the more buffalo are slaughtered at the death feast.

There are three methods of burial: using coffin may be laid in a cave or in a carved stone grave, or hung on a cliff. . A wood-carved effigy, called tau tau, is usually placed in the cave looking out over the land. The coffin of a baby or child may be hung from ropes on a cliff face or from a tree. This hanging grave usually lasts for years, until the ropes rot and the coffin falls to the ground.