Having stopover in myriad places in Indonesia is what makes this country a wonderful place to visit. The beauty of scenic natural landscapes blended with various unique culture of its people. Enjoy the untouched beaches, mountains, lakes, and many more pleasing destinations as well as the magnificent city skylines throughout the country. And when you decide to see them all, a visit won’t be enough to embrace the wonders of Indonesia. Click the Destinations, Attractions, and Festivals to explore further.

Serang

Serang is the capital of Banten Province which formerly the administrative center of the broader Serang Regency, when Banten was still part of West Java. Serang is the center of the provincial government and business activities, and also the gate to some of the most spellbinding wonders of Banten that include the Ujung Kulon National Park, the Tanjung Lesung Resort, Sawarna Beach, and a whole lot more.

Serang was also known as the seat of the once-thriving Islamic Banten Sultanate and was becoming a prominent trading center in Southeast Asia. Today, its glorious past still radiate from the site of the old capital known today as the Old Banten Complex. Among those still preserved in its authentic colonial architecture is the Pendopo Gubernur Banten (The Governor’s Office of Banten).

Yogyakarta

Yogyakarta, together with its twin city Surakarta (Solo), is the cradle of civilization on Java. This city was the seat of power that produced the magnificent temples of Borobudur and Prambanan in the 8th and 9th century and the new powerful Mataram kingdom of the 16th and 17th century.

Yogyakarta was known with the slogan of “Jogja The Never ending Asia“ for its endless appeals. Today, it is also renowned as “ Jogja Istimewa “, a tagline that elaborates its special values.

This city is one of the foremost cultural centers of Indonesia. From strolling through the living museum of The Kraton or The Keraton (Sultan’s Palace), to hanging out at the famous Alun Alun, to watching silversmiths produce amazing jewelry at Kotagede and maybe try a splurge shopping up at Malioboro road.

Chasing sunrise in famous temples like Prambanan and Borobudur in the neighboring town of Magelang, are only some of the many more ways to never get bored in this relatively small yet bustling city.

Halmahera

The remote Halmahera island, also called Gilolo or Jailolo, is the largest island in Maluku (the Moluccas), K-shaped almost like a miniature Sulawesi. With white sandy beaches, unspoiled forests and the spectacular Mt Mamuya in the distance, this island offers stunning scenery. This is a rugged and mountainous landscape and much of the island is still covered in forest.

The most popular activities on the island involve exploring its beautiful waters. Surf at Dorume Beach, known for its huge waves, especially in December; which is the best time for surfers to visit. Along with it’s massive surf, the attraction here is the very fine sands of the beach that seem to glitter in the sun as they contain metallic grains.Take in the scenery at the peaceful Talaga Biru, which literally means Blue Lake. This is a small natural pond with crystal-clear water, located near Mamuya village in Galela district.

Kuta Beach

Once a sleepy village with a quiet, beautiful sweep of beach, Kuta today has become a popular beach destination in its own right, alive with tourists from all over the world, swimming, surfing or sunbathing by the beach. Others, casually dressed in shorts, T-shirts and flip-flops stroll along its main road, shopping around or enjoying meals at its many open air restaurants. When in Kuta you know that you are in a holiday town, and people here are in a holiday mood.

Back in the 1960s, the only hotel was the Kuta Beach Hotel, but soon without much planning, Kuta developed rapidly into a haunt for surfers and backpackers, while the high-end market preferred to stay at the more sedate Sanur village on the opposite side of the peninsula. With time, Kuta’s popularity grew, and shops, restaurants, discos hotels, – from the simple to the exclusive – sprang up along the main road from Kuta to Legian, catering to the ever-increasing holiday crowd, that not only included international tourists but also domestic visitors from Jakarta and other big cities.

Banda Aceh

Its auspicious position on the tip of the westernmost point of the Indonesian archipelago has made the town of Banda Aceh a recognized transit point as well as a hub for education, commerce, and government. As a tourism gateway in the westernmost entrance to Indonesia, you are invited to learn the remaining magnificence of old Aceh Darussalam golden era as they are spiritually valuable to the nation. The tourist information center in Banda Aceh has carefully identified the enduring remains and they demonstrate how this magnificent land has been spiritually resilient. Though around sixty percent of the town’s infrastructure was destroyed, the city is now looking new as considerable developments took place right after the disaster. Ulee Lheue is a shoreline facing Malacca Strait and the Pacific Ocean on the west, and it offers the best sunset views in the country.

A nation is often measured by how advanced its technology is Indonesia’s major cities adopt modern lifestyle that is complete with stunning skyscrapers, vibrant nightlife and technologically advanced offices.

City Lifes

TeamLab Future Park Installation, Enjoy the Digital Art Gallery Experience
The teamLab Future Park is a whole new interactive art exhibition right here in Jakarta. It offers a harmonious collaboration between art and technology, and it wants YOU to be a part of the interaction! How is it interactive one may ask? A ball might light up if you touch it, or an animal and a flower will move if you walk past and so much more.

Bargain Shopping In Metropolitan Jakarta
Confronted with Jakarta’s gleaming lights and sparkling metropolitan life, you may well be forgiven to think that Indonesia’s capital city has only high end exclusive malls, haute couture fashion, and luxurious shopping experiences. Well, this is where you’re wrong. For, aside from being the center of international branded items, top designers fashion, and exclusive products in Indonesia, the city is also a hotspot for bulk and bargain shopping.

Restaurants in Bali that Make Your Dinner Experience Magical
It is no mystery that Bali is home to some captivating and awe-inspiring panoramic views. This magical island is rich in breathtaking landscapes, from its vibrant luscious green paddy fields, its remarkable and majestic seasides, its colossal and magnificent mountains to its mesmerizing waterfalls and rivers.

Shop and Dine in Jakarta’s Luxurious High-End Malls
It is no secret that Jakarta, the capital of the world’s fourth most populous country, has a plethora of malls all around the city, some of which may boast to be amongst the most luxurious in Southeast Asia.

Shopping

Shop till You Drop in Malioboro
Malioboro is the most famous street in Yogyakarta. Located in the heart of the city, this is the main street and was once the ceremonial avenue for the Sultan to pass through on his way to and from the Keraton. Some say that the name Malioboro derives from the name of the British governor Marlborough from the era when Britain ruled the archipelago, between 1811-1816.

Bandung Factory Outlets, Apparel and Leatherware Galore
Home to Indonesia’s many textile factories, the city of Bandung offers a large number of factory outlets where Jakarta shoppers regularly flock to, to find the latest trendy apparel at reasonable prices. Those planning to travel to cool climates will stock on warm clothing here in Bandung.

Lembang, A Mountainous Getaway from the Hectic Urban Life
Embrace the natural beauty of Lembang. Forget your home for a while, enjoy the cold fresh air and the petrichor emanating from the rain.

Located north of the magnificent city of Bandung, Lembang is a perfect getaway destination for nature lovers from the hustle and bustle of a city. Lembang highland is bestowed with picturesque sceneries, scenic tea plantations, and a nice change of cold weather from humid heat.

Pasar Baru Trade Center, Fascinating Historical Marketplace in Bandung
Located just a short walk from Bandung’s Central Train Station, Pasar Baru Trade Center (PBTC) offers Bandung’s finest products and the sensation of old fashioned shopping style which involves the interactive art of Bargaining. Initially called simply Pasar Baru or the New Market, it is actually the oldest operating marketplace in the city of Bandung.

Indonesia is a huge nation comprised of hundreds of cultures derived from local regions, making it one of the most diverse countries in the world. Explore the unique culture and heritage of each region in Indonesia!

Arts & Culture

Debus, The Ancient Martial Art and Culture of Banten
The province of Banten which was once part of the vast West Java province, was formed in the year 2000, and is today the youngest province on the island of Java. However, its people are long known in history to have their own distinct culture. One of its cultural traits that is definitely most spectacular and breathtaking is the ancient art of Debus. Debus is the traditional martial art unique to Banten that is imbued with supernatural powers.

 

Batik Solo: Keeping The Tradition Alive
The two famous traditional cloths produced in Solo are batik and lurik. Batik is an important icon of Indonesian culture. The batik which comes from the areas around Solo and Yogya is known as court batik. Traditionally the colors used in this batik are blue to symbolize earth, brown to symbolize fire and white to symbolize air and water. Batik Solo uses sogan (chocolate brown) on a pale yellow background.

 

Triwindu Antique Market, Exciting Ancient Trading Experience
Triwindu Antique Market is the center of excitement for lovers and collectors of antiques. Also known as Windujenar Market, Triwindu Antique Market is located on Jalan Diponegoro, not far from the Mangkunegaran Palace in Solo, Central Java. Upon entering the market complex, you will be greeted by a pair of statues, a man and a woman sitting in the cross-legged position. Solely dedicated to the sale of antiques, the atmosphere in Triwindu differs from other markets.

Traditional Ceremonies

The Yadnya Kasada Ceremony at Mt.Bromo
Mount Bromo in the Bromo Tengger-Semeru National Park in East Java is yet another one of Indonesia’s internationally popular tourist destinations and one of the most visited attractions in East Java. This unique volcanic mountain possesses a magnificent panoramic view and a mystical atmosphere unlike any other. With a cloud of smoke billowing from its crater, and its rugged surface rising high above the sandy landscape below, photos of Mount Bromo have graced magazines, newspapers, travel websites, post cards and brochures across the country and beyond. Recently, CNN GO listed Mount Bromo as one of its 50 Natural Wonders: The Ultimate List of Scenic Splendor.

Janger: Bali’s Dance For The Young at Heart
Dance moves that are simple but full of joy. The Janger dance is one of Bali’s unique dances created in the 1930s. With gamelan batel or gender wayang instruments playing in the background, Janger is danced by 10 pairs of young men and women. The group of women is called janger, while the men are called kecak. They would alternately dance together and sing the Janger song.

The Barong and the Kris Dance: The Eternal Battle Between Good and Evil
The wondrous island of Bali is not only blessed with fascinating beaches and outstanding landscapes, but it also has an amazing traditional culture that remains well preserved, highlighting the daily life of its people.

The Barong Dance is among the many art forms closely associated with spirituality, it is often performed in ritual ceremonies. Portraying the classic battle of “Good vs. Evil”, the dance is one of the most well-known and loved on the island.

The Penti Sacred Rituals in the Village of Wae Rebo on Flores
Every November, the Manggarai ethnic group in East Nusa Tenggara Province will conduct the sacred rituals of Penti which takes place at the Wae Rebo Traditional Village on Flores Island. As this is a unique occasion, make sure to witness the event.

Penti is a ritual of thanksgiving to celebrate the past year’s harvest and prayers for a prosperous, new agricultural year. The event is filled with a series of ancient rituals that usually last for one full day and night. The celebration is of such huge communal importance that all village members -even those living outside the village-will join the rituals.

Museums

KALIURANG on the slopes of sacred held MERAPI VOLCANO
Yogyakarta is a well known tourist destination, at the heart of Java’s age old herigate, art and culture. The city’s surrounding natural landscape is luxuriant with green paddy fields, streams of rivers, hills, looming volcanoes, beaches, and waterfalls.

One favorite destination in the province of Yogya is Kaliurang — a hill resort on the slopes of Mount Merapi Volcano, that offers a perfect cool climate for your getaway. Originally built as a holiday retreat for Dutch planters during colonial times, Kaliurang is located just around 25 kilometers north of the city center of Yogya.

 

The Ambarawa Railway Museum
On May 21, 1873, the Ambarawa Railway Station was built and named the Willem I Railway Station since it was the Dutch King Willem I who ordered its development. There were two types of railways running from Ambarawa. The 4ft 8.5in gauge passing Kedungjati to the northeast, and the 3ft 6in gauge line running south towards Yogyakarta via Magelang. Ambarawa was a hub between the two regions having different gauge sizes.

 

The National Museum, Indonesia’s Cultural History in One Place
Located on Medan Merdeka Barat, the National Museum is the pride of Jakarta, providing visitors an insight into Indonesia’s long history in cultural heritage from prehistoric days up to today. Having recently been expanded, the museum houses an impressive collection of no less than 109,342 objects covering Indonesia’s Prehistory, Archaeology, Ethnography, Numismatics-Heraldic, Geography and Historical Relics.

 

Enrich Your Photo Content in Motomoto Art Museum in BSD, Tangerang
In the age of Instagram, more and more places are popping up with fresh ideas to accommodate the need to take that perfect Instagramable shot. Motomoto Art Museum and Resto in QBIG, BSD City, Tangerang, Indonesia can cater your needs to those awe-inspiring Instagramable posts while also savoring some delicious food.

 

TeamLab Future Park Installation, Enjoy the Digital Art Gallery Experience
The teamLab Future Park is a whole new interactive art exhibition right here in Jakarta. It offers a harmonious collaboration between art and technology, and it wants YOU to be a part of the interaction! How is it interactive one may ask?

A ball might light up if you touch it, or an animal and a flower will move if you walk past and so much more.

Temples

Prambanan, the Most Beautiful and Graceful Hindu Temple in Indonesia
Located not far from the Buddhist Borobudur temple, the proximity of the two temples tells us that on Java, Buddhism and Hinduism lived peacefully next to one another. Prambanan is a magnificent spectacle and an icon of Indonesia’s cultural heritage. The temples at Prambanan were built in the 9th century and is known locally as Roro Jonggrang, coming from the legend of the ‘slender virgin’.

 

The sacred Royal Cemetery of IMOGIRI, Bantul Yogyakarta
Imogiri is the sacred held cemetery dedicated exclusively as last resting place for the kings and queens and royal descendants of the Islamic Mataram Kingdom, who until today rule the palaces of Yogyakarta and Surakarta.

Located on a beautiful hill, about 17 kilometers southeast of Yogyakarta, it is easily accessible by car and bus. The name “Imogiri” or often written “Imagiri” is derived from the Sanskrit word “Himagiri” which means “mountain of snow”. Although there is no snow here, yet the royal graveyard is reachable only by steep stone sets leading to its summit, so it will feel quite like climbing asnowy mountain to reach the peak. The set of stairs are symbols forimportant milestones. The set of 45 stairs mark the year when Sultan Agung passed away in 1645,the set of 9 symbolize the Walisongo, the nine religious leaders who spread Islam on Java, while the longest sets of 346 symbolize the 346 years of construction of the complex.

 

Kalasan Temple, The Oldest Buddhist Temple that Predating The Great Borobudur
Kalasan Temple is believed as the oldest Buddhist temple in Central Java and Yogyakarta, even predating the colossal Borobudur Temple. It is located on the southern main road between the cities of Yogyakarta and Solo, approximately 2 Km from the Prambanan Temple compound. The temple stands on a 45×45 meters rectangular base.

 

Mendut Temple: Witness the Holiest Day of the Buddhist Year in Indonesia
The month of May will be an exciting time for travelling to Yogyakarta. You can witness the eminent celebration of Buddhist holiest day, known as Vesak 2561/2562 that falls on May 11th, 2017. The date is set accordingly to the time of the brightest full moon that appears on the month of May or known as the Purnama Sidhi. Here in Indonesia, the procession annually held around the area of magnificent Buddhist temples of Central Java, one of them is the Mendut temple.

 

Singosari Temple
Not much remains of the once powerful 13th century East Java kingdom of Singosari. An unfinished temple and two giant statues that once stood guard in front of the palace are the only traces left of this great kingdom.

The kingdom of Singosari was founded in 1222 by a commoner by the name of Ken Arok, who managed to marry the beautiful princess Ken Dedes of Janggala after murdering her husband. Ken Arok later attacked neighbouring Kediri and thus united the two realms that were split by King Airlangga in 1049 as inheritance to his two sons.

 

Sam Poo Kong Temple, Beautiful Merge of Historical Cultures
The Sam Poo Kong Temple, also known as Gedung Batu (the Stone Building), is the oldest Chinese temple in Semarang, capital of the province of Central Java. Unlike most temples, the building does not belong to any specific religion, but rather functions as a place of worship for people of various ethnicities and religious groups including Buddhists, Taoists and muslims. The temple is located on Jalan Simongan, West Semarang.

Heritage

Grebeg Sudiro: Chinese New Year Celebration in the City of Solo
Chinese-Javanese communities in the royal city of Solo, otherwise known as Surakarta, celebrate the Chinese New Year (Imlek) with the Grebeg Sudiro carnival. The carnival showcases the acculturation between China and Java. It is usually focused around Pasar Gede.

The Philosophy
The word grebeg is a Javanese term for traditional celebration or a carnival, usually for, but not exclusive to, Islamic events, such as the commemoration of the birth of the Prophet Muhammad, the Islamic New Year, and Eid al-Adha. The harmony between Javanese and Chinese culture is reflected during the Grebeg Sudiro carnival. A mountain-shaped pile of offerings (gunungan) comprising of basket cakes (kue keranjang), fruits and vegetables will be paraded around Pasar Gede before being swarmed by the crowds in a matter of minutes. The crowds are encouraged to obtain the offerings as it embodies the Javanese philosophy of “ora babah ora mamah”, meaning “you have to earn what you eat”. The offerings also symbolize gratitude to God Almighty.

 

The Kraton, Reflection of Javanese Cosmos

The Kraton (also spelled keraton or karaton) or the Palace of Yogyakarta, is a grand complex that was meticulously planned to reflect the Javanese cosmos.
This elegant complex of pavilions was constructed based on ancient beliefs, of the connection between the God, human and the natural realms. Each feature holds a special symbolic meaning related to the Javanese worldview, who consider the importance of Mount Merapi and The Indian Ocean.

The Kraton was built in the center, facing directly north towards the majestic Mount Merapi. Its south side was built facing the Indian Ocean, believed to be the abode of Kanjeng Ratu Loro Kidul, the Queen of the South Seas and the mystical consort of the Sultan.

This splendid example of traditional Javanese architecture has no equal. The basic and original layout of the main building of The Kraton began its construction during the reign of Sultan Hamengku Buwono I, in 1755 – 1756.

 

Tamansari Water Castle: A Place for Princesses to Bathe and be ‘Hunted’ by the Sultan
Located near the Kraton, this place was also known as the garden for the Sultan of Yogyakarta. Tamansari was originally built for multiple purposes yet now only several buildings remain. Some of its original functions were a place to rest, to meditate, to work, to hide and to defend the Sultan’s family. In this present day, some of its buildings have now become homes for local residents and only the mosque, resting and bathing space, and underground tunnels are accessible by tourists.

With its combination of eastern and western style building, this unique escape of the royal family has its own appeal and story. The most famous place in Tamansari is the bathing and resting place of the Sultan and his Princesses named Umbul Pasiraman. Most tourists find this place interesting as there is a unique story behind its origins.

This is where to spoil your senses: hearing, sight, touch, smell and taste. Explore the many flavours Indonesia has to offer by taking a bite out of some local delicacies or delighting in traditional spa treatments.

Be Delighted with Yogyakarta’s Delicious and Luscious Delicacies
This city offers many luscious delicacies. From bakpia cookies, wingko babat, to enting-enting kacang, visitors will be delighted to find there are so many delicious choices here in this town. Gudeg is one of Jogjakarta’s specialties. This dish is made of young jackfruit with traditional herbs, sometimes with eggs and chicken. Cow’s inner skin, cooked until tender, usually accompanies gudeg with steamed rice.
image 360 Experience Indonesia in 360

Bandung Culinary, From Various Street Food to Haute Cuisine
Many people visit the capital of West Java province to pamper their taste buds. You’ll be amazed with what Bandung has to offer. From various food sold on street vendors to haute cuisine, every visitor will be able to find something to their liking here.

One of the most well known dish, timbel, consists of nasi timbel, lalapan, sambal dadak, a piece of chicken (fried or roasted Sundanese style), fried beancurd, fried tempeh, a slice of jambal (salted fish). Nasi timbel is a favorite among locals and visitors. Batagor baso tahu goreng (literally means, fried meatballs & beancurd) is one of the most well-sought specialty. Made from blended fish and beancurd, with a special peanut sauce, batagor’s popularity remains constant.

Experience Jakarta Street Food Scene for Local Delicacies
Living in a country that has endless variety of food and drinks, Indonesians do eat out, but the majority does not go to restaurants. The local food scene relies heavily on street food. Indonesians savour the delicious meals offered by ubiquitous street vendors day and night for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Street food is a quick meal sold by a vendor with a push cart, basket, at a stall, or possibly at a store where customers can see the preparation of food clearly. It provides a close connection between the customer and the street food, unlike having a plate of food in a restaurant. The types of food offered vary from a simple fried tofu to a much more complicated dish like gudeg (raw jackfruit cooked in a Javanese traditional way that originated from Yogyakarta).

Dining Experience in Metropolitan City of Jakarta
Jakarta today offers an excellent variety of sophisticated fine dining restaurants located in many parts of this sprawling metropolitan city. The best Indonesian cuisine and international restaurants are found in unique surroundings as they are located in elegant and well appointed places. You can eat with special nostalgic atmosphere of fine, graceful dining like in those colonial days long gone. The Oasis Restaurant on Jalan Raden Saleh in Central Jakarta, the Bistro Boulevard on Teuku Umar, Bunga Rampai on Jalan Tjik Ditiro and the Jittlada Thai restaurant on Jalan Sultan Agung are just a few prime examples. The Café Batavia across the old Stadhuis at Fatahillah Square in Old Batavia also will take you one back to the grand style of grand meals in the Dutch colonial era.

Seminyak, the World-class Dining Scene
An essential part of the swathes of stunning beaches along the south coast of Bali next to the vibrant ambience of Kuta, is Seminyak beach and the town of Seminyak, which has its own eclectic mix of world-class restaurants, high end spas, designer boutiques, international surf shops and lifestyle brand outlets, that truly offer some of the best experiences on the enchanting island of Bali.

Over the years, Seminyak has developed a world-class dining scene. Seminyak is packed with some of Bali’s finest and most well-established restaurants, while several of its roads are recognized as must-visit dining destinations. Dubbed as a food-lover’s haven, rich flavors from all around the globe, prepared by highly skilled chefs – some of whom are notable figures in the international culinary scene – can be found here. From Italian, Spanish, Mexican, Japanese and Thai, as well as innovative Indonesian fusion, all the choices of world’s cuisines are offered here, sure to promise quite a feast.

Nutritious Tinutuan Porridge: A Taste of Manado Cuisine
Among lovers of the archipelago’s delicious and diverse culinary delights, Manado’s cuisine has become a sort of by word of the exotic Bunaken Marine Park in North Sulawesi. At a first glance, this typical Manadonese porridge may not look that attractive, but despite its rather disorderly appearance, this traditional dish is tasty indeed, and should not be bypassed while visiting the city of Manado capital of North Sulawesi.

Medan’s Delightful Lontong Sayur
There are many things to do when traveling to regions across Indonesia. Well, in Medan, there is one thing you must do and that is eating the ultra delicious Lontong Sayur Medan.

Lontong Sayur Medan is a complete dish filled with yummy proteins that can be eaten for breakfast, lunch or dinner. The dish consists of a soup known as sayur lodeh (vegetable soup cooked with coconut milk), tofu and tempe, lontong (steamed rice in banana leaves), sambal, boiled egg, rendang, and many other optional side dishes.

Entertainment

The Graceful Pakarena Dance from Makassar
From the enchanting waters overlooking the capital city of Makassar up to the highland of Toraja, South Sulawesi is a land blessed with fascinating splendors. While nature provides the magnificent settings, the indigenous people present an equally fascinating culture. One of the well preserved cultural traditions of South Sulawesi takes shape in the Pakarena Dance.

 

The Cempaka Diamond Fields
The land of South Kalimantan is blessed with some of the most sparkling treasures that mother earth provides, especially those that radiate the most exquisite glow, namely: Diamonds. Sending out its beautiful glow all around the world, these sparkling gems are unearthed from various diamond fields in the province, but the most notable are found at the Cempaka Diamond Fields, by the town of Banjarbaru, in South Kalimantan.

 

Bintan Lagoon, One-Stop Luxurious Getaway Destination
Covering a total area of over 300 hectares, Bintan Lagoon offers 470 luxurious suites and villas, two championship golf courses, a dedicated Convention Centre, an array of sea sports and land-based activities for the whole family, a number of international restaurants, and to top it off, its own ferry service from Singapore with terminal in its own grounds with on-site immigration clearance. What more could one ask for a memorable holiday?

 

Ria Bintan Golf, Golfing Paradise with Wonderful Ocean and Forest Course
A gem of a resort in the north of Bintan island, set amidst pristine white beaches, clear emerald waters and lush tropical forests is the Ria Bintan Resort. Aptly named Ria Bintan (ria means celebration), this golf and beach resort facing the South China Sea has become the toast of holiday-makers. Covering a total area of 447 hectares, Ria Bintan is developed in stages, comprising the Club Med Ria Bintan, two 18-hole championship golf courses, a clubhouse, complete recreation facilities, and 1,500 resort rooms in villas and chalets which open to magnificent sea views.

Bakera: Traditional Spa of the Minahasa, around Manado
Handed down for generations, some of Indonesian authentic traditional spa treatments are still practiced until today and have made their way into the modern spa and wellness scene alongside other popular methods around the world.

One of the most unique is the Bakera treatment of the Minahasa ethnic group living around Manado, capital of North Sulawesi. This is a traditional treatment especially applied on women to stay healthy and keep in shape after giving birth.

Bakera is specifically aimed to tighten the female’s reproductive organs. Minahasans call this “bakancing” which is to tighten and bring back elasticity to the female’s reproductive organ after it slacked in the processes of pregnancy and giving birth.

Oukup, Natural Spa and Medicinal Treatment the Batak Way
The Batak ethnic groups living in North Sumatra have long realized that nature is not only man’s main source of life but it also provides precious medicinal cures. Traditional natural treatments – in modern days called Spa – have long been part of daily life in Central Tapanuli, in Sibolga, Simalungun and even on the island of Nias. Here, the Batak traditional Spa treatment is known as Martup or Oukup.

The Sanchaya – Intimate Bintan Resort for Your Staycation
View the crystal clear waters of the South China Sea from your windows and immerse yourself in the breath-taking colonial-inspired interior design of The Sanchaya. This private beachfront estate located within Bintan Resorts is unlike any other. A refreshing oasis that sits in the beautiful Lagoi Bay at Bintan Island.

Bintan Lagoon, One-Stop Luxurious Getaway Destination
Covering a total area of over 300 hectares, Bintan Lagoon offers 470 luxurious suites and villas, two championship golf courses, a dedicated Convention Centre, an array of sea sports and land-based activities for the whole family, a number of international restaurants, and to top it off, its own ferry service from Singapore with terminal in its own grounds with on-site immigration clearance. What more could one ask for a memorable holiday?

Pamper Yourself at These Favourite Spas in Bintan
Spa treatment in Bintan Island has been increasingly popular over the years, so why not pamper yourself and revitalize your body and soul. Slide into a moment of pure bliss as your body is treated by the hands of professional masseuses, and your mind drifts into its inner sanctuary. Massages are known to help blood circulation, release tension and stress. Spa getaway is perfect for those looking to unwind. While in Bintan, why not enjoy one or two of our selected recommendations? Because we know you deserve a break even on your holiday!

Fun Experiences to Enjoy at the Beautiful Bintan Resorts
Just a ferry ride away from Singapore and Johor Bahru-Malaysia, Bintan, the largest Island in the Riau Islands Province, has grown to not just a favorite getaway from the two neighboring countries but now also an important center for international sport tourism events. Here, a range of international sport tourism events such as Tour de Bintan, Bintan Triathlon, IRONMAN, Spartan Race, Bintan Golf Challenge, and more are held annually that attract both participants as well as supporters to join in the excitement. While the thrill of the competition may already be an attraction on its own, the island offers a lot more fun and exciting experiences one can enjoy before and after the event, or even between competitions.

Hot Springs

Ciater, The Revitalizing Hot Springs
The cool highlands of Subang in West Java provide an idyllic setting for an unforgettable personal experience where the crisp mountain air and the refreshing sounds of bubbling mountain streams soothe the soul. The town of Ciater is known for its natural hot springs with their healing qualities which promote physical well being. Here the Ciater Hot-Springs Spa makes the most of nature’s rich rehabilitative resources, by pampering its guests in tranquil surroundings, delivering professional care through therapies and treatments that revitalize both the body and mind.

 

Lembang, A Mountainous Getaway from the Hectic Urban Life
Embrace the natural beauty of Lembang. Forget your home for a while, enjoy the cold fresh air and the petrichor emanating from the rain.

Located north of the magnificent city of Bandung, Lembang is a perfect getaway destination for nature lovers from the hustle and bustle of a city. Lembang highland is bestowed with picturesque sceneries, scenic tea plantations, and a nice change of cold weather from humid heat.

 

The Town of Cipanas
Away from Cibodas, and further down the road is the town of Cipanas. Here is the Cipanas Palace, the President’s mountain residence set amidst manicured lawns and refreshing hot springs.

Cipanas has grown into a sizable town, where is a market where tourists come to shop for fresh vegetables, fruits, flowers, decorative plants and souvenirs.

And everywhere along the Bogor-Cipanas route up to Bandung there are plentiful hotels, from the most exclusive accommodation complete with meeting facilities, to housing estates, to the more simple accomodation. There are also many flower gardens, fruit gardens, playgrounds and much more for families to enjoy.

 

Loksado, the Place where Culture Meets the Stunning Natural Landscape
Loksado is a sub-district of the Hulu Sungai Selatan Regency where the well preserved indigenous Dayak culture meets the stunning natural landscape. It is a lush landscape decorated with wonderful waterfalls, rushing rivers, and the enchanting culture of its indigenous people. This particular part of Kalimantan is home to the indigenous Dayak Meratus tribes–a sub ethnic group of the Dayak in Kalimantan that occupy traditional houses called Balai. Today, there are at least 43 of these Balai that can be found in 9 villages across Loksado. A Balai is a traditional wooden long house with tens of rooms measuring 3×4 meters and are occupied by tens of families.

 

Suban Hot Spring, The Pool of Rejuvenating Warmth
Covering a total area of approximately 30 hectares, amidst a picturesque landscape of green hills, the Suban Hot Spring is the perfect place to rid yourself of all tensions of the bustling day and just soak up the relaxing warmth of nature. The water that fills the pool is drawn from a number of springs that flow down from the Bukit Kaba Hills and are channeled through bamboo pipes. With another relatively short trekking adventure, you can also visit two waterfalls that are not too far from the hot springs. The first waterfall is 50 meters high while the second is 15 meters up. Aside from the refreshing splashes of pouring water, visitors will be indulged with the stunning panoramic scenery of the waterfalls and the serene ambience of nature.

Indonesia archipelago amazingly rich in animal and plant life : Orangutan, Anoa, Babiroussa, Tarsius spectrum – the smallest monkey in the world, Komodo dragon, the spectacular Bird of Paradise.

The diversity of endemic wildlife in Indonesia is amazingly beautiful. If you love up-close interactions with them as well as learning the importance of animal kingdom, a wildlife tour presents you the answer with a visit to some Indonesia’s established National Parks.

Indonesia national park contribute to preserve the diversity of the flora and fauna, you can visit : Gunung Leuser and Kerinci Seblat National Park (in Sumatra), Ujung Kulon, Halimun Salak, Baluran, and Bromo Semeru Tengger National Park ( in Java), Betung Kerihun, Kutai, and Tanjung Puting National Park (in Kalimantan) ; Tangkoko, Nantu Forest and Bogani Nani National Park (in Sulawesi) ; Komodo National Park (in Flores), and many more National Park wait to be explored.

Ujung Kulon National Park, One of the World’s Most Pristine Natural Ecosystem
Ujung Kulon National Park is situated about 300 km from the capital city of Jakarta, or about 140 km from Serang, the capital city of Banten Province, Ujung Kulon National Park encompasses a total area of 122,955 hectares consisting of 78,619 hectares land area and 44,337 hectares of seas. The national park stretches across the Ujung Kulon Peninsula, Panaitan Island, Peucang Island, Handeleum islands, and Honje Mountain Range. Administratively, Ujung Kulon National Park is located within the Sumur and Cimanggu districts, in the Pandeglang Regency, in the province of Banten. Ujung Kulon National Park is one of the world’s most pristine natural ecosystem and Indonesia’s prime national park.

Ujung Kulon National Park, One of the World’s Most Pristine Natural Ecosystem
Ujung Kulon National Park is situated about 300 km from the capital city of Jakarta, or about 140 km from Serang, the capital city of Banten Province, Ujung Kulon National Park encompasses a total area of 122,955 hectares consisting of 78,619 hectares land area and 44,337 hectares of seas. The national park stretches across the Ujung Kulon Peninsula, Panaitan Island, Peucang Island, Handeleum islands, and Honje Mountain Range. Administratively, Ujung Kulon National Park is located within the Sumur and Cimanggu districts, in the Pandeglang Regency, in the province of Banten. Ujung Kulon National Park is one of the world’s most pristine natural ecosystem and Indonesia’s prime national park.

Mangrove of Maerokoco: The Photogenic Eco Tourism Destination in Semarang, Central Java
The rise of social media featuring live video and multiple photo updates play a significant role in promoting new travel destinations worldwide, faster than ever before. Internet users, especially those who actively engage on screen, are now sharing every details of their days moreover of where they spend their holidays. One of the places that gains popularity from travel hashtags and holiday images on social media thread is the recently opened Mangrove Trekking of Maerokoco.

Bogor Botanical Garden, Stroll at Leisure to Admire the Variety of Old, Gnarled Trees
Bogor Botanical Garden is located in Bogor city and spread about 87 hectares with the impressive out-of-town Bogor Presidential Palace fronting it and soaring Mt. Salak at its background and boasts over 400 species of palm trees, 5,000 trees gathered from around the tropical world, and an orchid house containing 3,000 varieties. Records show that the Bogor Botanical Gardens harbours 3,504 plant species, 1,273 genus in 199 families.

Taman Safari, Modern Zoological Garden with Various Collections of Flora and Fauna
Bogor Botanical Garden is located in Bogor city and spread about 87 hectares with the impressive out-of-town Bogor Presidential Palace fronting it and soaring Mt. Salak at its background and boasts over 400 species of palm trees, 5,000 trees gathered from around the tropical world, and an orchid house containing 3,000 varieties. Records show that the Bogor Botanical Gardens harbours 3,504 plant species, 1,273 genus in 199 families.

Cibodas National Park
“Puncak” – meaning “the Peak”, has been known ever since Dutch colonial days as the mountain resort for Jakarta’s inhabitants to breathe in fresh mountain air over the weekend. With its grand vistas facing the volcanic peaks of Salak, Gede and Pangrango, here is where Jakarta’s rich build their out of town bungalows atop hills overlooking green ricefields irrigated by gurgling streams.

Mountains & Craters

KALIURANG on the slopes of sacred held MERAPI VOLCANO
Yogyakarta is a well known tourist destination, at the heart of Java’s age old herigate, art and culture. The city’s surrounding natural landscape is luxuriant with green paddy fields, streams of rivers, hills, looming volcanoes, beaches, and waterfalls.

One favorite destination in the province of Yogya is Kaliurang — a hill resort on the slopes of Mount Merapi Volcano, that offers a perfect cool climate for your getaway. Originally built as a holiday retreat for Dutch planters during colonial times, Kaliurang is located just around 25 kilometers north of the city center of Yogya.

This area has many holiday villas and has grown into a refreshing site, popular with visitors of all ages. Here one can enjoy nature by trekking, dip into cool waterfalls, visit museums, get spiritually inspired or wander through galleries relating to the history and heritage of Java’s royal houses.

Tangkuban Perahu, The “Overturned Boat” with Astonishing View
Tangkuban perahu is an active volcano, situated 30 km north of the city of Bandung in the direction of Lembang. It is the only crater in Indonesia that you can drive up to its very rim. Mount Tangkuban Perahu has a distinctive shape, and looks like an “overturned boat”. Here you will be greeted by sulfur fumes which the crater continues to emit although the volcano is not active.

White Crater, The Magical Splendor and Hypnotizing Ambience of a Crater
Kawah Putih is located near the charming little market town of Ciwidey, approximately 50 Kilometers south of Bandung. The Crater Lake is one of two craters of Mount Patuha, with the dry Kawah Patuha or the Patuha Crater located 600 meters to its northwest, being the other. Stepping into Kawah Putih is like entering a different realm.

Reog Tengger: Mystical Dance of the Tenggerese on Mount Bromo
Standing majestically in the huge caldera of the once ancient Mount Tengger, is Mount Bromo, The icon of East Java, a truly magnificent wonder. Its spectacular sunrise and stunning picturesque scenery have captivated tourists from all around the globe. Mount Bromo is also the home of the Tengger sub-ethnic group who until today still preserve their age-old traditions and way of life. One of these is the art of Reog. Although Reog itself originates from the neighboring regency of Ponorogo, the Reog Tengger has its own distinct characteristics that distinguish it from Reog Ponorogo.

The Mighty Mount Rinjani
The mighty Rinjani mountain of Gunung Rinjani is a massive volcano which towers over the island of Lombok. A climb to the top is one of the most exhilarating experiences you can have in Indonesia. At 3,726 meters tall, Gunung Rinjani is the second highest mountain in Indonesia. The climb to the top may not be easy but it’s worth it, and is widely regarded as one of the best views in the country.

MAUMERE : Dive, Climb Mt. Kelimutu and celebrate Easter at Larantuka
Capital of Sikka Regency on the north eastern coast of Flores Island in East Nusa Tenggara Province, the city of Maumere is the perfect staging place to embark on your unforgettable adventure to explore the exciting beauty of Flores. The town itself is blessed with a picturesque landscape of hills and mountain and crystal clear aquamarine colored ocean.

Lake Kelimutu, A Perfect Place for Exploring the Extraordinary
Mt Kelimutu National Park is the smallest among six national parks in the stretch between Bali and the Nusa Tenggara islands. Its size obviously does not matter much when it offers one of the most spectacular wonders that nature has to offer. There are three lakes on the mountain sharing the same name, Kelimutu, meaning ‘the boiling lake’. Each has its own colors and a local name. But all are believed to be the resting place of departed souls.

Valleys & Canyons

Tebing Keraton, North Bandung’s Fascinating Natural Landscape
Tebing Keraton can be simply interpreted as “The Royal (Palace) Cliff”. The name perfectly illustrates the majestic vista of north Bandung’s fascinating natural landscapes as ones stands on the cliff. At 1,200 meters above sea level, Tebing Keraton is located within the Ir H Djuanda Forest Park, at Ciburial Village, Cimenyan sub-district, in the Bandung Regency. At the main area, there is a rock that bulges over the edge of the cliff which makes it a perfect place to observe over the incredible natural surroundings.

 

The bewitching Chinatown of Bandung: An Oriental Touch in the City of Flowers
Bandung has a new attraction. When you happen to visit Bandung, do not miss its latest attraction called: Bandung Chinatown. Although part of the city has always had an area which is popular as a busy trading and shopping center whose inhabitants are mostly of Chinese descent, but now part of Bandung’s Chinatown has been renovated and revitalized giving it a new magnetic appeal.

 

Reog Tengger: Mystical Dance of the Tenggerese on Mount Bromo
Standing majestically in the huge caldera of the once ancient Mount Tengger, is Mount Bromo, The icon of East Java, a truly magnificent wonder. Its spectacular sunrise and stunning picturesque scenery have captivated tourists from all around the globe. Mount Bromo is also the home of the Tengger sub-ethnic group who until today still preserve their age-old traditions and way of life. One of these is the art of Reog. Although Reog itself originates from the neighboring regency of Ponorogo, the Reog Tengger has its own distinct characteristics that distinguish it from Reog Ponorogo.

 

The Amazing JATILUWIH RICE TERRACES: Beauty and Bali’s Local Genius
Visit the beautiful island of Bali, travel to its highlands, and you cannot but be amazed by the beauty of the thousands of hectares of lush green paddy fields that cascade in terraces from the upper reaches of volcanoes down to the deep valleys below as if sculpted from the mountain side. Among the many fields that stretch almost all across the island, the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces in the heart of Tabanan Regency is the best example of Bali’s outstanding picturesque rice fields and represent the Subak system as Bali’s Cultural Landscape which has been inscribed a UNESCO’s World Heritage Site in June 2012.

 

Batu Cermin, Cave in a Dark Stone Hills of Labuan Bajo
Batu Cermin, or Mirror Rock, is actually a tunnel or cave in a dark stone hills of Labuan Bajo, West Manggarai, Flores, East Nusa Tenggara. Sunshine comes in through a hole in the tunnel and then bounces on the stone walls that again reflect small lights to other areas inside the cave like a mirror. That’s why this site is called mirror rock.

In this tropical country, explore the magnificent white sandy beaches, great volcanoes or colourful marine treasures. One lifetime would not be enough to explore Indonesia’s natural wonders.

Marine Life

THE ISLAND OF MOROTAI
Locals who still remember World War II would tell visitors that back in 1944-145 Morotai was a hive of military activities with tens of sorties roaring daily from aircrafts taking off and landing at airstrips along Daruba Bay,endless stamping of thousands of military boots marching across the island, and navy ships anchoring daily carrying supplies and reinforcement. For Morotai back then, was the strategic base of the Allied Forces from which they attacked posts in the Philippines and Borneo in their fight against Japanese forces during World War II.

Explore the Pristine Aquamarine of Weda Bay in Halmahera
The little known underwater sea gardens of Weda Bay in Halmahera, in the province of North Maluku, recently emerged into world’s media limelight when the rare Walking Shark (Hemisayllium halmahera) was discovered in this remote area. Located in Central Halmahera in the subdistrict of Weda Tengah, Weda Bay offers divers amazing sights in these pristine aquamarine waters. Here are abundant fish life, from pygmy seahorses, tuna fish, dolphins, to napoleon wrasse and sharks, and numerous other species of underwater life.

Um Island, A Unique Environment for Relaxing Getaway
Um Island sits right across the the Malaumkarta village in Makbon, a short distance away from Sorong in West Papua. Makbon is an inland lagoon, located north of the Bird Head Peninsula. Um Island is known as the habitat for bats and seagulls. Bats on this island look for food during daylight, while seagulls fly out at night. Quite the opposite of what we are familiar with.

The Enchanting Arborek Tourism Village of Raja Ampat
The village of Arborek is fast rising as a pioneer among the 18 beautiful villages in West Papua that have embarked on developing local regulations for community-based marine conservation, With recently claiming the 1st spot in 2015 Provincial village Competition for West Papua ,the village of Arborek has gained an outstanding reputation among both the local authority and international community. With the assistance of the national and local government, from research centers, and non-government organizations, the local people have succeeded in formulating local regulations.

Misool Island, a Tropical Hideaway in the Raja Ampat Archipelago
Misool Island is a remote, tropical hideaway, one of four largest islands in the Raja Ampat archipelago, world renowned dive destination in the province of West Papua. Located off the west coast of the main island of Papua, directly bordering the Seram Sea, the waters are a veritable traffic lane for many large sea creatures, including whales.

Kofiau Island, World’s Coral Diversity
Kofiau Island is the smaller and least visited amongst the major islands in Raja Ampat, the world’s coral diversity bull’s eye. This island is comprised primarily of raised coral limestone and some volcanic hills covered in low lush rainforest, all offering a wealth of nature & beautiful scenery. If you ever wanted to go where few others have been, head this way.

Lakes

Lake Sentani, A Peaceful Paradise
Travel into inner Papua can be relaxing when commenced with a visit to Lake Sentani, a scenic beauty over glittering water located near Jayapura, capital city of Papua. To best experience the excitement of boating on the lake, rent a motorized canoe available at one of the villages. The guide who has taken you on the overnight tour from Jayapura will show you where to get one of the dugout canoes. Experience the thrill of being caressed by the warm breeze while speeding on the lake, photograph the stilt houses, know the local, and make friends with your guide.

Lake Kelimutu, A Perfect Place for Exploring the Extraordinary
Mt Kelimutu National Park is the smallest among six national parks in the stretch between Bali and the Nusa Tenggara islands. Its size obviously does not matter much when it offers one of the most spectacular wonders that nature has to offer. There are three lakes on the mountain sharing the same name, Kelimutu, meaning ‘the boiling lake’. Each has its own colors and a local name. But all are believed to be the resting place of departed souls.

Danau Biru (Blue Lake), A Breeze of Alluring Nature
The gurgling sound of the stream running over rocks, accompanied by the chirping sounds of birds and the breeze of fresh air, all lend that special sense of serenity that awaits the visitor to Danau Biru; “The Blue Lake”. Located by the Walasiho Village, Wawo District, North Kolaka Regency, Southeast Sulawesi, the lake lies on the border between the regencies of North Kolaka and Kolaka.The bright blue color of the lake will definitely tempt anyone to just dive in and submerge oneself in its refreshing water.

White Crater, The Magical Splendor and Hypnotizing Ambience of a Crater
Kawah Putih is located near the charming little market town of Ciwidey, approximately 50 Kilometers south of Bandung. The Crater Lake is one of two craters of Mount Patuha, with the dry Kawah Patuha or the Patuha Crater located 600 meters to its northwest, being the other. Stepping into Kawah Putih is like entering a different realm.

Tolire Lake, the Beautiful Panoramic Lake Surrounded with Legends
A brilliantly blue volcanic lake, Tolire Lake is set in a crater at the foot of Mt Gamalama, on the island of Ternate, North Maluku Province. The Lake is comprised of two lakes, roughly 200 meters apart: Tolire Lamo, The Greater Tolire Lake, and TolireIci, the Small Tolire. The Great Lake is almost perfectly round, somewhat resembling a giant pan. Its mystical waters change colors with the seasons, from a bright blue during the summer, to a dark green or brown throughout the rainy season.

Rivers & Waterfalls

KALIURANG on the slopes of sacred held MERAPI VOLCANO
Yogyakarta is a well known tourist destination, at the heart of Java’s age old herigate, art and culture. The city’s surrounding natural landscape is luxuriant with green paddy fields, streams of rivers, hills, looming volcanoes, beaches, and waterfalls.

One favorite destination in the province of Yogya is Kaliurang — a hill resort on the slopes of Mount Merapi Volcano, that offers a perfect cool climate for your getaway. Originally built as a holiday retreat for Dutch planters during colonial times, Kaliurang is located just around 25 kilometers north of the city center of Yogya.

This area has many holiday villas and has grown into a refreshing site, popular with visitors of all ages. Here one can enjoy nature by trekking, dip into cool waterfalls, visit museums, get spiritually inspired or wander through galleries relating to the history and heritage of Java’s royal houses.

The Surreal Madakaripura Waterfall, Vestige of The Great Majapahit Kingdom
Leaving misty Mount Bromo behind and descending into the Probolinggo Regency, one will find a spectacular sight secluded within the Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park: this is the enchanting Madakaripura Waterfall. Believed to be the final meditation place of military Commander-in-Chief, Gajah Mada, of the great Javanese kingdom of Majapahit in East Java, the towering waterfall is fondly dubbed the eternal waterfall, since its waters never cease to pour down an endless rain of blessings on those fortunate enough to walk underneath it.

CANDI GUNUNG KAWI TEMPLE COMPLEX: BALI’S VALLEY OF KINGS
At the bottom of a lush river valley running through the little town of Tampaksiring just northeast of Ubud, lies one of Bali’s largest ancient temple complexes, the Candi Gunung Kawi. Comprising a collection of ancient ‘Candi’ or shrine reliefs carved directly into the face of a rock cliff, this is definitely one of the most stunningly unique archeological sites besides being an important sacred place for the Balinese.

Bantimurung Bulusaraung National Park: Roaring Waterfall, Kingdom of Butterflies
Located in the Maros regency in the province of South Sulawesi, the Bantimurung Bulusaraung National Park is a mere 50 km from Makassar or 20 km from the Sultan Hasanuddin international airport. The Bantimurung National Park has a total area of approximately 43,750 hectares and is divided into three major types of ecosystems, namely the karst ecosystems, a lowland forest ecosystem, and a lower montane forest ecosystem.

Loksado, the Place where Culture Meets the Stunning Natural Landscape
Loksado is a sub-district of the Hulu Sungai Selatan Regency where the well preserved indigenous Dayak culture meets the stunning natural landscape. It is a lush landscape decorated with wonderful waterfalls, rushing rivers, and the enchanting culture of its indigenous people. This particular part of Kalimantan is home to the indigenous Dayak Meratus tribes–a sub ethnic group of the Dayak in Kalimantan that occupy traditional houses called Balai. Today, there are at least 43 of these Balai that can be found in 9 villages across Loksado. A Balai is a traditional wooden long house with tens of rooms measuring 3×4 meters and are occupied by tens of families.

Beaches

Tanjung Lesung, The Place to Layback and Immerse in the Beauty of Nature
Located on Java’s most western coast in the district of Pandeglang in the province of Banten, the Tanjung Lesung resembles the Lesung, which in the local Sundanese language means the receptacle for rice pounding. Tanjung Lesung is a developing integrated beach resort for recreation and hotels overlooking Mt Anak Krakatu, all that is left of the once-mighty Krakatau volcano. This huge 1,500 hectares area of Tanjung Lesung has been developed by the Banten West Java Tourism Development Corporation (BWJ) since 1996, patterned after the famed Nusa Dua Resort in Bali. The resort is envisaged to contain top range hotels and restaurants, a convention hall, a number of golf courses, marina and theme park.

Sawarna Beach, The Truly Captivating Beach on The South Coast of Java
The tourism village of Sawarna is the entry point to this natural wonder. As you enter the village, you will be greeted by lush green paddy fields, serene village ambiance, and refreshing breezes. Sawarna Beach is located at Gendol, Bayah District, Lebak Regency, in the province of Banten, Jakarta’s neighbor to the capital’s west. Sawarna Beach offers a host of natural wonders such as asits rushing river, lush forest, rocky hills, caves, and more. The beautiful landscape is also shrouded in the myth of “Nyi Roro Kidul”, the mythical Queen of the South Seas, besides being replete with the history of coal exploitation in the nearby areas of Bayah and Lebak.

Parangtritis, a Mystical and Enchanting Beach in Yogyakarta
Parangtritis is located around 28 km (17 miles) from Yogyakarta this is the ideal distance to come for a day trip to take a break out of the city and soak up the roar of the waves and the astounding atmosphere. Here you’ll see some incredibly green lush hills set against the backdrop of a raging ocean.

With raging surf and salty sea breezes it will be hard not to feel rejuvenated and refreshed as soon as you arrive here. At night, the star light on the silvery-black dunes give the beach a mystical feeling, and it won’t be hard to understand why there are many local myths about this area. This whole region is filled with beaches, caves, lakes, paths and gravesites, each with their own mystical story.

Pangandaran, The Fabulous Beach Destination
Pangandaran is one of West Java’s best kept-secrets as far as international tourists are concerned. Located on a peninsula on the south coast of West Java, about 91 km from the town of Ciamis, Pangandaran offers uniquely black and white sand, calm waved beaches and spectacular sunsets. The beach resort facing the Indian Ocean is 223 km from Bandung and 400 km from Jakarta, and lies halfway between Bandung and Yogyakarta.

Indrayanti Beach
Indonesia is an archipelago of endless seaside escapades. The romantic Indrayanti Beach in Gunungkidul District of the Special Region of Yogyakarta is no exception. This beach offers couples who intend to travel to a peaceful romantic vacation a unique panoramic view compared to other beaches. Aside from its silky white sand surrounded by enormous powerful rocks, the clear blue hypnotizing color of the sea invites visitors to come and plunge into the underworld. The sea is still clear and beautiful because trash or any other waste has not contaminated in this remote area.

Umang Island, The Perfect Island for Tropical Getaway
Umang Island is a small island located in Banten province and is the perfect tropical gateway, especially when you’ve done some business in Jakarta. Umang Island Resort and Spa, which offers the same comfort as a star-rated hotel with relaxing ambiance and maintained by a single management. The location is also very strategic for nature trekkers as it’s near the UNESCO heritage site Ujung Kulon National Park. Umang Island is also well-protected from the West Java sea storms as there’s Tanjung Lesung beach to the north and Panaitan Island to the west.