Maximillian Edition 1, 2015 by Maximillian Publishing

Beautiful

Movie Locations

And the Mountains

Echoed

Edition 1, 2015

Indonesia IDR 35,000

Timeless

Yogyakarta Edition 1 | 2015

Edition 1 | 2015

Editor’s Letter Editorial Department (maximillian@maxx-m.com) Editor in Chief Melani Semuel (melani@ptmaximillian.com) Senior Editor Ester Pandiangan (ester@ptmaximillian.com) Priscilla Picauly (editor@ptmaximillian.com)

@traveliciousgal

Art Director Toni (design@ptmaximillian.com) Sales & Marketing Department

“The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page.” ~ St. Augustine I always thought I was a true city girl who could not live without the hustle and bustle and all the conveniences of a big city. Until a couple of months ago, when I visited a secluded resort located in the rainforest. There were no cars, no cellular phone signal, no television and no wi-fi. It was so secluded that I couldn’t escape even if I wanted to. At first it was strange going back in nature, but it wasn’t long before I started to enjoy it. It was nice breathing fresh air, drinking in the deep greens of the surrounding forest and being serenaded by the sounds of nature. It was a real treat for my body and soul. And most of all, I realized how good it can feel to live without a mobile phone. I promised myself after that eye-opening getaway that I would seek out new places and new experiences whenever possible. In this edition, we have found the absolute best places on earth to relax, refresh and enjoy the exotic destinations. From island-hopping at Belitung to experiencing the art and culture of Ubud; from exploring the exoticism of Turkey to discovering Thailand, we have it covered in our Travel Story. We also explore one of my all-time favourite destinations, Yogyakarta. And those of you who, like me, love to eat, “Travel Bites” is just for you. Some of you might be familiar with Maximillian, for others, this might be your first experience with the magazine. After an absence of a couple of years, Maximillian is reborn. Maximillian has undergone a major revamp, and in this edition we present you with the new bigger, bolder and, of course, better version of Maximillian magazine. Targeted to smart travellers, people who know how to work hard and travel harder, Maximillian is filled with inspiring destinations that make you just want to pack your bags and embark on a journey. Happy reading

Melani Semuel

Marketing Managers Clarisa Mutriafica (clarisa@ptmaximillian.com) Marlina Agustin (marketing@ptmaximillian.com) Assistant Marketing Manager Rafidha Najib (sales@ptmaximillian.com) Maxx Media is published every semester by P.T. Maximillian (www.ptmaximillian.com) President Director Raynaldo Semuel Managing Director Melani Semuel General Manager Arisudana Gunawan INDONESIA OFFICE Jl. Batu Jajar No. 35A Central Jakarta 10120 Indonesia Ph. +62 21 352 4526 Fax. +62 21 344 7203 www.maxx-m.com LEGAL CONSULTANT Boyke Semuel, SH Semuel & Associates Jl. Batu Jajar No. 35A Jakarta Pusat 10120 Ph. +62 21 352 4526 Maxx Media is distributed in major cities in Indonesia, Hong Kong and Singapore at retail price. Opinions expressed in this magazine are those of the authors and such, the Publisher does not accept responsibility of the content thereof. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. All trademarks and rights to the name of Maxx – Media are reserved by Melani Semuel, SH.,LL.M, BusSys c 2006

CONTENTS Destination

16 – 32

And the Mountains

Echoed

Landscape Travel Bites

Travel Story

33 – 77

We take readers on a journey to some of the most exotic destinations in the world.

Life’s Good

70 - 77

Located near Buahan village and surrounded by ancient trees and tropical forest, Hanging Gardens Ubud is a true hidden paradise.

t r av e l

Story Hidden

Paradise

Embrace

the Wondrous

Archipelago

With many of hotels covering all of Indonesiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s major cities, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a Santika hotel waiting for you no matter where you choose to roam. Every Santika hotel offers the same winning combination of traditional designs and service that comes from the heart. So wherever your leisure or business travel may lead you, you will find Santika Indonesia Hotels & Resorts at your service.

| bekasi barat | bugis - singapore

reservation center ph: (62-21) 270 0027 fax: (62-21) 270 0350 e-mail: reservation@santika.com online booking: www.santika.com www.amarishotel.com

www.santika.com

pettarani - makassar | setiabudi - bandung

Timeless

CONTENTS

Yogyakarta

Explore Yogyakarta

82 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 99

There is always something new in Yogyakarta to surprise and delight you. We look at some of the sights visitors to Yogyakarta must see.

Intermezzo

102 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 130

Movies, Festival, News Flash, Fun Facts, On the Go.

Beautiful

ovie Locations

And the Mountains

Echoed

Cover Picture by : Priscilla Picauly

Timeless

Yogyakarta

Beautiful

Movie Locations

VER A N DA H OTEL @ PAKUBUW O NO B Y B R EEZB AY JAPAN

“ Indulge in the semi-retro luxury ambience. In the heart of South Jakarta’s prestigious district, Veranda is your preferred hotel at Pakubuwono ”

Jl. Kyai Maja No.63 Kebayoran Baru, Jakarta Selatan 12130 T. (+62-21) 7391.0808 | F (+62-21) 7391.0909 | W. www.verandahotels.com

Contributors Samuel Bimastani

Samuel studied chemistry in school but got hooked on photography by snapping pictures during a trip with friends. Since that day, he has dedicated his life to photography. “Photos are a media to feel something that happened in the past and can transport us through time,” said Samuel.

Eka Dalanta & Andi Gultom

Eka Dalanta is a former editor of a lifestyle magazine in Medan. Now she and her partner, Andi Gultom, manage travel website www.kemanaaja.com. Both Eka and Andi love travel, photography and videography. You can follow them on Instagram @ ekadalanta and @andigultom.

Monik Pandiangan

Monik's childhood dream was to work as a nurse in a war zone. She is almost living that dream working for an international humanitarian organization and living in Afghanistan since August 2011. She loves travel and enjoys nothing more than a warm breeze and a remote village. She plans to publish a book of poems about living and loving.

Hieu Leminh

Hieu is a language teacher in Thailand. Hieu is always eager to learn something new, especially culture and language. Her biggest dream is to travel the world. And don’t bet against her living that dream, because she believes the best way to predict the future is to create it.

Edition 1 | 2015

Destination >> Landscape

And the Mountains

Echoed

It’s not about conquering nature. Scaling mountain peaks is about getting in touch with your inner adventurer, communing with the natural world and reaching for the sky. Text by Ester Pandiangan | Photos by Tektok Team & Priscilla Picauly

“I

feel like I am closer to God when I am on the mountain,” said Alz, a 30-year-old member of the Tektok Team of hikers. I met them at a fast-food restaurant in the centre of Jakarta, far from the peaks they have scaled. Joining Alz were three other Tektok members – Lanang (27), Doni (19) and Zulham (28). They spoke of their overriding passion for mountains, and how trekking had changed their lives. “Living in a city that is so big and crowded, sometimes it feels like it is hard just to breath. Hiking gives me the space I need to live,” Lanang said. Doni said, “I played futsal when I was in high school, but I wanted

to do something different when I went to college and hiking just felt right.” Zulham chimed in with what could be the founding philosophy of Tektok. “We humans are tiny things, and journeying to the summit makes us realize how wonderful Mother Nature is. Sometimes it makes me feel ashamed at how arrogant I sometimes am in life,” he said. When I asked the Tektok members which was their favourite mountain, they said every mountain was special.

Rinjani, the second-highest volcanic moun-tain in Indonesia, looms over Lombok Island, a mysterious sentinel watching over this tropical paradise. Rinjani is home to a gorgeous lake, Segara Anak, where many hikers make camp to experience the beauty of Rinjaniâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s morning views. When the weather is clear, Rinjani offers sweeping views of Mount

Agung on neighbouring Bali from its peak. Like a femme fatale, you have to pay dearly to experience this ancient beauty. People call Rinjani the Seven Hills of Regret because its tracks are so difficult and it leaves trekkers weary down to the bone.

Rinjani

(3,726 metres) (3,726 metres)

Edition 1 | 2015

Destination >> Landscape

Semeru is located near Malang, East Java, and is home to the mysterious Lake Ranu Kumbolo. There are fantastic mountains views and, if you are lucky, you will see Wedus Gembel, the name for the hot clouds that periodically gather around the summit, adding an extra dimension Semeru.

Semeru is the highest mountain in Java and on the wish list of any trekker worth her name. Summiting Semeru is an achievement for hikers. Semeru is known variously as the Summit of Gods, the Roof of Java and Mahameru.

Semeru

(3,676 metres)

Merbabu is a stunning destination with gorgeous views that are a reward for a track that is difficult even for experienced hikers. It takes about eight hours to reach the summit on a track that winds through thick forest and fog. Merbabu has seven summits but the most famous ones are Kenteng Songo, Syarif and Triangulasi, which is the highest point on Merbabu.

Merbabu

(3,1

42 m

e tr es)

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Destination >> Landscape

Sindoro and its twin, Sumbing, tower over Central Java and trekkers often make these twin peaks one destination. Located between the cities of Temanggung and Wonosobo, Sinodoro offers some rare views, such as the Dieng Plateau when the weather is clear or the magnificent sight of mountains like Sumbing, Merbabu, Merapi, Ungaran, Slamet and Ciremai. Sindoro is blanketed by green forest and trekkers have to be prepared for face-to-face meetings with the local wildlife.

Sindoro

(3,136 metres)

Sindoro

(3,136 metres)

Ciremai, in West Java, is a difficult mountain to love. The only views come from the summit and track is hard, running through thick forest. Many hikers have described unusual experiences on the way to the summit, hearing voices even though no one is nearby or seemingly losing the track and passing the same way several times.

,078 metres) 3 ( i Cirema

s) e r t e m 8 6 (2,9

i p a r e M

This is one of the most popular mountains for trekkers because of the views. There are a number of popular tracks, including Selo (Boyolali, Central Java), which takes about five hours to reach the summit. Kaliurang (Sleman, south of Yogyakarta) is another choice, but more difficult and takes about six to seven hours to reach the summit.

There are many legends surrounding Merapi including Bubrah Market, which people say is a devil market on the top of the mountain. Every Thursday night, people say, voices can be heard from the summit, like people bargaining in the market.

Edition 1 | 2015

Destination >> Landscape

Papandayan (2,665 metres)

Located in Garut, Papandayan is one of the most visited mountains in West Java. This is the perfect mountain for an introduction to the joys of trekking, with an easier track than any other mountain in West Java. The flat ground is not too strenuous and Papandayan has beautiful views and a magical landscape, including Dead Forest and Edelweiss Field. Papandayan is recommended for newbies. As an aside, this is also a popular destination for couples taking pre-wedding photographs.

Prau

(2,565 metres)

Like Papandayan, Prau is one of the easier mountains in Java. It takes one to three hours to trek to the summit, and there are also plenty of gorgeous views to be had here. Prau offers sweeping views of the mountains of central Java including Sindoro, Sumbing, Merbabu, Merapi and Slamet. There are

also golden sunrises not to be found anywhere else. Many hikers come back to Prau time and again because the mountain never runs out of surprises and spectacular views. Located in the Dieng Plateau, Prau is a superb destination.

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Destination >> Travel Bites

Street

Foods For food hunters, there are no rules about where and what to eat. Relaxing over a gourmet meal in a fine-dining restaurant is great, but so is sitting elbow to elbow in a crowded food stall. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all about the food. So, letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s explore some of our favourite street foods around Indonesia and the region. Text by Priscilla Picauly | Photos by Priscilla Picauly & Septiany UD

Gang Gloria (Gloria Alley) in Jakarta Whether you live in Jakarta or are just visiting, Gang Gloria is a destination not to be missed by adventurous foodies. Located near Glodok Market in North Jakarta, this little alley holds some big food surprises. Es Kopi Tak Kie should be your first stop. This simple coffee shop (there is no air-conditioning) has been in existence almost a century and is still attracting new fans. Try the Es Kopi (ice coffee) or Es Kopi Susu (ice coffee with milk), which have a classic taste thanks to the traditional recipes. In front of Tak Kie is Bakmi Amoy (Amoy Noodles). The specialty here is Bakmi Ayam (chicken noodles), Bakmi Babi (pork noodles) and Nasi Campur (mixed rice with pork). If you are looking for a halal meal, head to the end of Gloria Alley and turn left. In a simple blue shop is Gado-Gado Direksi, which serves up the traditional vegetable salad with creamy peanut sauce. It is so delicious and only costs 25,000 rupiah. Or you can try the Rujak Shanghai, a fruit salad with squid, jellyfish, water spinach, cucumber, and a homemade tomato sauce and smashed peanuts.

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Destination >> Travel Bites

Around George Town in Penang

Penang is the best city in Malaysia to satisfy your hunger for Peranakan cuisine. Walking around George Town, with its historic buildings, is also an opportunity to explore the street food. Nothing could stop me from enjoying the spicy Nasi Kandar, even though spicy food isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t my favourite. Nasi Kandar originates from Penang and is steamed rice served with a variety of curries. There are numerous eateries offering Nasi Kandar, like Nasi Kandar Hameediyah, Nasi Kandar Kassim Mustaffa, Nasi Kandar Beratur and Nasi Kandar Bintang Air Itam. My friend recommended Nasi Kandar Line Clear. Having been around since 1947, Line Clear is one of the oldest Nasi Kandar outlets in Penang. Located in a small alley at the junction of Lebuh Chulia and Jalan Penang, Nasi Kandar Line Clear is known for its selection of curry side dishes. Nasi Kandar Line Clear is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

At night, in Lebuh Chulia comes alive with dozens of hawker carts to cater to the backpackers staying in the area. Among the dishes on offer is Wan Tan Mee, thin egg noodles drowned in soup stock with wan tan (dumpling) and cha siu (barbecued pork). There are Curry Noodles, egg noodles with coconut milk, and Kway Teow Soup, noodle soup mix with pork stock, noodles and slices of meat. Hawkers in Lebuh Chulia operate daily from 7pm to 11.30pm.

Khao San Road & Khlong San Plaza in Bangkok

It’s not an official visit to Bangkok if you don’t explore Khao San Road. Khao San Road teems with hotels, hostels, restaurants, bars, massage parlours and food hawkers. There is too much street food here to try everything. Highlights include Phad Thai, Mango Sticky Rice and Fried Satay, with chicken, beef, pork, shrimp, squid, any kind of meat you like, served with a special dipping sauce. For the adventurous foodie in search of something exotic, try the fried grasshoppers, bamboo worms, silk larvae, crickets, weevils or even spiders and scorpions. You pay just 10-20 baht for each insect and an unforgettable gastronomic experience. For the record, I thought the bamboo worm was the tastiest. Done with Khao San Road, head over to Khlong San Plaza. You can get here by taking the cross-river ferry from Si Phraya Pier, next to the Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel and River City Shopping Centre.

There are numerous stalls around the market selling foods you won’t find in Khao San. Try visiting Wat Thong Thammachat, Wat Thong Noppakhum and Pong Patchamit Fort.

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Destination >> Travel Bites

Pub Street in Siem Reap because of all the tourists, Pub Street might be more to your taste. The street is lined with food hawkers, stores, restaurants, bars and massage parlours, and Pub Street is not too crowded, so you have room to walk and explore all the food stalls. There are dozens of cool-looking bars along Pub Street, but I headed straight for the stalls selling fried insects. Now we’re off to Siem Reap. Siem Reap is famous as the home of Angkor Wat, one of the biggest and most historic temples in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site. From sunrise to sunset you can visit the many sacred temples inside the complex. But in the evening, when it’s time to relax and have fun, there’s only one place to go – Pub Street. If you have trouble enjoying Khao San Road in Bangkok

There were also little fried orange snakes on bamboo stick, which turned out to be crispy, salty and surprisingly delicious. A lot of the street food on Pub Street includes pork and there is also plenty of Thai food. Don’t forget to explore the night market for souvenirs like T-shirts, bracelets, wallets and handbags.

Old Quarter in Hanoi Hanoi has a more positive ambience than Ho Chi Minh City and I spent several days exploring the city, in particular the famous Old Quarter, which I called the Maze because of the confusion of small streets and alleys. The Old Quarter is a foodie paradise, with street food on the main streets and up and down the alleys. Pho (read: fho) is everywhere and it is all delicious. A Vietnamese colleague took me to a small alley near Hoan Kiem Lake, just 300 metres from the Water Puppet Theatre, where we had the best pho during my time in Vietnam. There is also Bun Cha, a dish with grilled pork patties (cha) and white vermicelli noodles (bun), which is usually served with banh goi (a pork, onion and mushroom spring roll), and herbs, chilli, garlic and dipping sauce. Another must-try dish is Cha Ca, small fish fillets marinated in turmeric and galangal. Cha Ca may not be as popular as pho or bun cha, but this is a truly iconic dish of northern Vietnam. Make sure to try this.

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Destination >> Travel Bites

Pantai Losari (Losari Beach)in Makassar Pantai Losari is famous for its sunsets and good food. Pantai Losari is only 15 minutes from Soekarno Hatta Harbour and 45 minutes from Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport. Pantai Losari may not have the white sand and clear blue waters of a beach in Bali, but it does boast unbeatable sunsets. And most people come for the food and the entertainment. Starting around four or five in the afternoon, tourists and locals begin gathering around the Pantai Losari sign, waiting for the sun to dip below the horizon while enjoying the musical stylings of the pengamen (street musicians). Pantai Losari is also famous for Pisang Epe, toasted banana with brown sugar sauce, one of the iconic dishes of Makassar. Along Penghibur Street, just across from Pantai Losari, is a line of gerobak (food stalls) serving Pisang Epe. If you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to risk missing the sunset, you can stay where you are the Pisang Epe sellers will come to you. Nice!

Along Sungai Segah (Segah River) in Berau Berau Regency in East Kalimantan is probably not the first place people think of when considering culinary destinations. But the growing city of Tanjung Redeb, the capital of Berau, has shown great potential as a tourism destination. One of the most well-known destinations in Tanjung Redeb is Sungai Segah and the many food stalls that have set up shop along the banks of the river. This romantic river destination features sunsets, traditional boats (jukung) and a choice of street foods. There are dozens of food stalls near the river, offering a choice of dishes including Nasi Goreng (fried rice), mie goreng (fried noodles), Bakso (meatballs), Roti Bakar (toasted bread) and many more. Recommended are the Pisang Gapit (toasted banana) and Sabara (traditional drink made from ginger and egg). Pisang Gapit is like Pisang Epe, just with a different sauce. Sabara is a healthy hot, spicy drink, perfect for cool evening on the riverside. The food stalls here open from around 5pm until midnight daily.

Edition 1 | 2015

t r av e l

Story

Exotic means different things to different people. It can mean art and culture, adventurous cuisine, deserted white-sand beaches. In this edition, we take readers on a journey to some of the most exotic destinations in the world. We discover unexplored gems and uncover new facets of well-known destinations. We are excited to share this journey into the exotic with you. Hope you enjoy the ride!

Edition 1 | 2015 33

Things You

Must Do in Ubud

There are lots of reasons people love Ubud. Elizabeth Gilbert found love there. And for some people, Ubud promises a sweet escape, a destination where they can recharge their souls and rediscover their better selves. What does Ubud mean to you? Text by Ester Pandiangan | Photos by Ester Pandiangan, Melani Semuel, Made Agus Wirayasa & Fivelements Puri Ahimsa

bud is so many things to so many people. It is art and culture, nature, food and shopping. There is so much to experience in Ubud that the experience can be dizzying. Here is a selection of things you must try during your time in Ubud.

1. Relax the Soul People who know Bali know that different areas of the island offer different experiences. If you like clubbing and nightlife but have a limited budget, head for Kuta. If you have a bit more money to spend on such activities, try Legian or Seminyak. Nusa Dua has private beach clubs. But if you are in search of calm and quiet, Ubud beckons. Everything feels slower in Ubud. It lacks the hectic pace of so much of the island and the area seems to shut down at 9pm. This is for people who want to relax with a cup of coffee or tea and a good book, shop for artistic treasures and revel in the simple pleasures of this dreamy idyll.

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TravelStory >> Bali

2. Centre of

Balinese Culture Ubud is the living, beating heart of Balinese culture. As you would expect, there are plenty of museums here, such as the Blanco Renaissance Museum, Arma Museum & Resort and the Puri Lukisan Museum. You can catch life performances of Balinese dances like the kecak, Ramayana, calon arang and barong. And in Pasar Ubud and countless other locations, you can find beautiful Balinese paintings, carvings and other art treasures. Bali is famous for its arts and many people come to Ubud to build their collections. It is not unusual for foreign visitors to come for the painting, dance and culture, and then just decide to stay.

3. Adventure But Ubud is not all about the soul. There is also physical adventure to be had, like rafting, cycling and hiking. Go rafting on the Ayung River or hiking at the nearby Mount Batur. There are glorious views to be had from the top of Batur and they are well worth the hours-long trek to the peak. A little further afield from Ubud are a number of great locations for snorkelling, including Padangbai and Blue Lagoon Beach.

4. Spiritual Experience A massage in Ubud is often not just about treating the body. Some therapists are also healers. They will pray to the gods, the spirits and universe, making a soulful entreaty on behalf of their clients. It is a spiritual experience. Pura Dalem Segara Temple, in Payangan, provides a Balinese blessing for visitors. It is a blessing ceremony to put aside bad habits and seek the blessing of the gods and the universe. One of the most unique and sacred ceremonies is the Agni Hotra, which you can find at Fivelements. It is similar to the Balinese blessing, and was adopted from ancient Indian Hindu traditions.

5. Culinary Paradise For a truly authentic taste of Ubud, you must try the pork. One of the best spots is Warung Babi Guling Bu Oka and in particular its famous crispy pork skin. There is, of course, plenty to choose from in terms of Western food, Indian food and more. You can also find lots of healthy options and vegan dining.

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TravelStory >> Bali

6. Health & Wellness There are plenty of health and wellness resorts that offer bespoke packages for guests in search of solitude and a deeper connection with their physical selves. Some resorts ensure total solitude for guests, creating their own private spaces, without televisions, the internet and all the other modern distractions. Guests come to shake off the stress of work and traffic and big city woes, seeking to clear their minds and cleanse and strengthen their bodies. How they eat is a big part of that, so the resorts create special menus that help in the detox. Photos courtesy of Fivelements Puri Ahimsa

7. Yoga Experience If the lotus position is your thing, Ubud is a hotbed of yoga and meditation. Maybe there’s something in the air or all those glorious panoramas, but Ubud lends itself to yoga. It’s so calm, quiet and peaceful. Yoga Barn, Fivelements and Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan are among the places offering yoga classes. When I was in Ubud, I met up with Wayan, a yoga guru at Four Seasons, and Made Agus Wirayasa, who leads classes at Fivelements. Both agreed that Ubud’s atmosphere lends itself to yoga. It’s like connecting your body, mind and soul to nature and earth.

Photo courtesy by Made Agus Wirayasa

Edition 1 | 2015 39

The Last

Frontier

Bangkaâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Belitung is hailed as one of the last natural frontiers in Indonesia, largely untouched by human hands. As we discovered, not only is this a true tropical paradise, but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only a 45-minute flight from Jakarta. Text & Photos by Melani Semuel

have always considered myself more of a mountain than beach person. During a recent visit to Belitung, however, I was blown away by the beauty of the place and its hundreds of beaches. The unique view of sterling, white beaches is adorned with picturesque granite rocks and crystal clear seawater, surrounded by hundreds of small islands; with all of this undisturbed beauty of Mother Nature, one can only wonder: is this heaven on earth? It is one of those inexplicable secrets that more people really should know about. Just like me, you can board a flight from overcrowded and overstressed Jakarta, and 45 minutes later step out into the warm sunshine and clean area of Belitung, one of the newest provinces in Indonesia. With

natural beauty and gorgeous beaches to spare, Belitung is the perfect destination for travellers, especially those seeking an escape from the concrete jungle of Jakarta. Belitung island, internationally renowned as Billiton, became an integral part of Bangka Belitung province in 2000.Â The Bangka-Belitung archipelago, off the coast of South Sumatra, offers the kind of quiet escape that can leave you feeling you are a great explorer uncovering virgin beaches, totally unspoilt by humans. Bangka-Belitung was historically known as a centre of tin production, so its natural beauty was largely overlooked. These days, the tin industry is beginning to be eclipsed by tourism, as word gets out about the provinceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s beaches, blue water, coral reefs and giant granite rock formations.

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TravelStory >> Belitung

There are 189 islands surrounding Belitung, each with powdery, soft, white-sand beaches, granite boulders and crystal-clear seas. Many people became aware of all that the islands have to offer with the release of Laskar Pelangi, a best-selling book set on the islands, and the wildly successful film adaptation of the novel. It tells the story of a group of village children in Belitung struggling to obtain an education. You can visit the site of the movie when you are there. The main attraction at Belitung is island-hopping and exploration. The best way to do it is to hire a fishing boat. We did just that at the white-sand beach of Tanjung Kelayang. Several granite islands can be reached by wading through the sea. More than likely, you will have the islands to yourselves,

to explore their unique boulder formations or just lie on the white sand. There is a small island made from granite rocks, including several giant ones shaped like a Komodo dragon. It took only 10 minutes to reach the island with the Komodoshaped stones. We clambered up the rocks to the highest point, which offered us a great panorama over the ocean, islands, beach and sand. Then off we went to Lengkuas, a little sliver of an island, less than a hectare in size, just off the coast north of Tanjung Binga village. The golden crown of Lengkuas is an old lighthouse that was built by the Dutch in 1882. You are free to climb to the top of it, where you can get an unbelievably gorgeous 360-degree view of the surrounding islands and sea. The best time to visit Lengkuas is from March

to November, when the waves aren’t too big, so you can enjoy sailing, snorkelling and swimming, just as we did. We put on our fins and facemasks and did some snorkelling above the reefs, frolicking among the vividly coloured fish, which darted amongst us, clearly undaunted by these human intruders. After the snorkelling, swimming in the ocean and playing in the sand we had worked up a ravenous appetite so headed to one of the islands and satisfied our hunger with the freshest seafood we’d ever had: All that juicy and fresh grilled fish, squid, shrimp and my favourite seafood – crabs. After lunch, we couldn’t help but swim back into the inviting ocean, the clear blue sea was so inviting. We enjoyed our time swimming in the sea and just soaking in the beauty of nature, before we continued our island exploration. Between Lengkuas and the fishing port of Tanjung Binga is another island, Burung Island. It’s bigger than Lengkuas, with white-sand beaches to the south and a rocky coast to the north. The

most interesting object on the island might be the granite boulder in the shape of a bird’s head, which is how it got its name, Burung (bird) Island. On our way back to the hotel, we stopped by a place called Kampung Bugis, located in Tanjung Binga, not far from Bukit Berahu beach. This is a traditional Bugis village, of the type normally found in South Sulawesi. The main point of interest here is the traditional fishing. We chilled down at one of the restaurants overlooking the ocean, savouring little snacks. During our stay at Belitung we continued to explore the island. Tanjung Tinggi is located between two peninsulas, and the stretch of sand is most notable for all the granite boulders along the beach. Some of the boulders are as big as a good-sized house, and are great for climbing on and getting some amazing views. There is also a fishing port, Pelabuhan Bilik, and along the bay a stretch of at least 20 traditional seafood restaurants, where you can grab a coffee or a fresh seafood from the ocean lunch. Tanjung Kelayang is another beautiful beach on Belitung, near Tanjung Tinggi. It is one of the most popular holiday destinations on the island and you can find a nice combination of white beach, scenic granite boulders and small islands just off the shore. If you want to swim, the eastern side of the beach

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TravelStory >> Belitung

is your best bet, with clear water that isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t too intimidating and nothing but white sand. Walk along the beach about 300 metres to the north and you will find group of granite boulders, spreading along the edge of the peninsula and the sea. Belitung offers incredible scenery, delicious seafood and unspoilt natural beauty. And the best thing is, you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to fly halfway around the world to enjoy it. Just a short hop from Jakarta, Belitung feels like a whole different world. While the capital is all about rushing around and traffic jams, Belitung offers quiet moments, empty beaches and fresh air.

Where to go Other than the thousand beaches with white sand and clear blue ocean, you can also visit Vihara Dewi Kwan Im (The Temple of Dewi Kwan Im). It is known as the largest praying place for the Kong Fu Chu in Belitung, built on Burung Mandi hillside. From this place, you can gaze at the open sea. Every February, the place is packed with pilgrims who come to pray in celebration of Chinese New Year. Although it is a holy place it is also open to the public.

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Charming

Medan

The colonial past has left a fascinating and valuable tourist trail in Medan. Beautiful heritage buildings are spread across the North Sumatra capital, drawing visitors away from the usual tourist haunts of Lake Toba and Bukit Lawang, showing the richness of the province. Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s explore the glorious past of Medan. Text by Eka Dalanta | Photos by Andi Gultom, Eka Dalanta, Priscilla Picauly

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TravelStory >> Medan

undreds of years ago, the Malay Sultanate ruled over Medan. It left behind a glorious legacy including the Great Mosque of Medan, Taman Sri Deli and Maimoon Palace.

The area around Lapangan Merdeka offers a fascinating journey back through the history of the city. Ideally, the area would be explored by foot, but be careful of the sometime hectic traffic and disappearing footpaths.

Medan Railway Station Field Station has undergone a total overhaul from its original form. The only thing remaining from the original building is the clock tower at the face of the station and the suspension bridge at the southern end of the station. Next to the station is a decommissioned steam locomotive built in Chemnitz, Germany in 1914.

Great Mosque of Medan Great Al Mahsun Mosque, commonly known as the Great Mosque of Medan, was built by Sultan Maâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;mun Al Rasyid Perkasa Alam, of the Sultanate of Deli, between 1906 and 1909.

Maimoon Palace Maimoon Palace was the Palace of the Sultanate of Deli. It was built by Sultan Mahmud Al Rashid, with construction beginning on 26 August 1888 and ending on 18 May 1891. Maimoon Palace consists of two floors and has a main building and two wings, on the left and right. Maimoon Palace has a unique design that combines elements of Malay Islamic style and Spanish, Indian and Italian style.

The mosque was based on a design by the Dutch architect Van Erp, who also designed Maimoon Palace. The mosque, including its symmetrical octagonal floor pattern, is a mixture of Moroccan, European, Middle Eastern and Malay style. The four corners of the mosque, each with a highvaulted roof veranda, complement the main dome on the main building of the mosque. On the left side of mosque is the sultanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s family tomb.

Lapangan Merdeka Medan Formerly known as the esplanade, this is where the city has traditionally come together. Night markets are often held here and the area has served as a valuable open space for Medan. Lapangan Merdeka also has important historical value. This is where the most important political and social moments have taken place over the last 100 years. It was in this field that Muhammad Hasan read the proclamation of independence for the first time, on 16 October 1945. During the Dutch colonial era this field was called Waterlooplein, and it was referred to as Fukuraido during the Japanese occupation. After independence was proclaimed the name was changed to Lapangan Merdeka, Freedom Square. Gedung Balai Kota Lama Medan This European-style building was built in 1900, designed by a Dutch architect named Hulswit, who gave this colonial administration building a very European feel. Bank Indonesia Building This building dates back to the early 1900s, when Bank Indonesia opened an office in Medan to support the growth of tobacco plantations in the area.

Hotel Inna Dharma Deli Originally known as Hotel de Boer, this is one of the oldest buildings in Medan. Hotel de Boer is a symbol of the progress of Medan. Construction of Hotel De Boer began in 1898, and the hotel quickly became famous under its owner, Aeint Herman de Boer, a Netherlands-born entrepreneur and restaurant owner in Surabaya. Hotel de Boer became Hotel Dharma Deli shortly after Indonesian independence and became a symbol of the newly empowered republic. During these turbulent times the hotel was often at the centre of the intrigue, and it once hosted the famous dancer and spy Mata Hari. Medan Post Office This orange-coloured building features a striking domed room. Inside, the building boasts large windows and colourful mosaics. It was built shortly after City Hall and to this day the building still serves its original function as a post office. PT London Sumatra Building The London Sumatra Building was built in 1906, coinciding with the birth of Princess Juliana of the Netherlands. The building is very European in style and feel and its owner was a plantation company based in London.

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TravelStory >> Medan

This five-story building was the first building to have an elevator in Medan, and that elevator is still in use to this day. The building originally served as the office of trade and plantations of PT London Sumatra and was strategically located on Jalan Jendral Ahmad Yani. Titi Gantung Medan This old bridge spans the railway line, near the railway station. The bridge has a winding shape and beautiful ornamentation. The bridge offers a glorious view of the city lights, especially when there is a night market at Lapangan Merdeka. Warren Huis Building Construction on the Warren Huis Building began in February 1916. It was designed by Warren Huis, a Dutch architect, and was the first shopping centre in Medan. It was later named the AMPI Building

when it served as the offices of the Indonesian organization. The building has not been well maintained and it now serves as a shelter for the homeless. Tip Top Restaurant Tip Top Restaurant has been a Medan mainstay for three generations and offers an atmosphere thick with memories of the past, when the graceful ‘tuan’ and ‘nona’ of the city would sit over Indonesian, European and Peranakan dishes. The history of the restaurant began in 1929. Originally named Jangkie, after the owner, it was located on Jalan Pandu. The restaurant moved to Kesawan in 1934 and was renamed Tip Top, which means perfect. It is to this day famous for its traditional ice cream and cakes, which are a musttry for visitors to the city.

Mesjid Lama Gang Bengkok This mosque was built in 1874, on land donated by Haji Muhammad Ali, better known as Datuk Kesawan, and the entire cost of construction was covered by Tjong A Fie, a merchant from China who migrated to Medan in the early 19th century. This is the second oldest mosque in Medan, built 20 years after the Mosque of Al Osmani in Labuhan Deli. Mesjid Lama Gang Bengkok offers an architectural record of the intermingling of Malays and Chinese in Medan. AVROS Building Perhaps the most striking feature of this building is its green dome-shaped roof. Built between 1918 and 1919, this was home to an association of Sumatran rubber planters, AVROS (Algemeene Vereeniging van Rubberplanters ter Oostkust van Sumatra).

It still contains a large archive of old materials and contracts with plantation workers, offering a recorded history of rubber plantations in east Sumatra. Tjong A Fie Mansion Tjong A Fie became something of a legend in Medan. He migrated to Sumatra from mainland China and soon built a successful business empire. The House of Tjong A Fie, on Jalan Ahmad Yani, is open to visitors who want a glimpse into the life of this successful businessman. The house, built in 1895, is filled with beautiful carvings and ornaments. It is a mix of Chinese, Malay and European architecture, and it is like stepping back in time to the 19th century when entering the house.

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Remember

Nepal

Beyond the human tragedy the earthquake has been a cultural disaster, and sadly, future generations may never have the opportunity to explore and experience the rich culture and history of Nepal. Text and photos by Ester Pandiangan

he earthquake that struck Nepal on 25 April 2015 devastated the South Asian country. It killed thousands of people, devastated in frastructure and shattered many of the country’s historical buildings like Bhaktapur Durbar Square in Kathmandu.

I was in Nepal in early March 2015, before the disaster. I still remember the cold wind slapping my face as I left Tribhuvan International Airport. The hotel car that picked me up at the airport wound its way through the small and bumpy roads of Kathmandu. I noted all the construction going on, including several multi-story buildings going up on Thamel Street. Nepal was a strange new world for me, but it did not take long for me to feel right at home. And by the time I had to fly home, I knew that I had lost my heart to the ancient beauty of Nepal. “Why on earth did you come to Nepal?” someone asked me. It was a difficult question to answer. Well, I am keenly interested in Hinduism and crazy about temples. Heck, even Tintin went to Nepal, and who wouldn’t want to follow in his footsteps. Nepal is natural beauty and a rich, ancient culture. It is a country of a thousand temples.

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TravelStory >> Nepal Hanuman Dhoka in Durbar Square is one of the biggest temple complexes and an icon in Nepal that is shared by Buddhists and Hindus. It is a special thing not found in other places. Though between religion and tradition, they worship the same goddess, Kumari. Kumari is the incarnation of many goddesses; Parvati, Uma, Durga and Kali. Kumari is the Living Goddess. Goddess; Nepalis select a pre-pubescent girl to worship as the living manifestation of the divine female energy. To be chosen as the Living Goddess, a girl must complete a series of rituals that show she is truly the Living Goddess. Some Nepalis truly believe in the Living Goddess and worship her as a goddess; for others, she is just a symbol. There is a myth that marrying a former Kumari means death for the man, which makes it tough for the women to find husbands once their reign as the Living Goddess ends. Of course, some women successfully transition to normal life post-goddess. I read about one former Kumari who now works at an IT company. It can be difficult for outsiders to understand the inner workings of this rich culture. Some of the temples in the Hanuman Dhoka complex have a bit of a wilder side, with

carvings of men and women in various sexual poses. It will remind people of the Khajuraho temples in India. Sex is a symbol of power and fertility; it also captures the spirit of freedom that typifies the country. My tour guide, restaurant waiters, shopkeepers, they all told me about a temple where Jimi Hendrix and his friends smoked marijuana and about the hippie hordes who have descended on Kathmandu for years. Overall, they found the visitors to be entertaining and good people. Sadhus are kind of like the hippies of a different generation. They are holy men who dedicate their lives to looking God through prayer, meditation and marijuana. You can spot sadhus at Pashupatinath Temple. Once a year there is a celebration for Siwa during which smoking marijuana is legal â&#x20AC;&#x201D; not just for sadhus but for everyone. It is one of the features of Nepal that visitors will never forget.

Must-Visit Places Narayanhiti Palace If you want to know the history of Nepal, you must visit Narayanhiti Palace. It was in the palace, in 2001, where Nepal witnessed one of its darkest moments. The heir to the throne, Prince Dipendra, killed nine members of the royal family. It is believed the prince was angry because his mother disapproved of his romance. Some Nepalis refuse to believe the official version of the massacre and embrace a conspiracy theory that an uncle was behind the killings. Pokhara and Nagarkot These are two of the most popular destinations for those who want to go tramping around the Himalayas. Nagarkot is smaller than Pokhara and doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have the variety that is seen in Pokhara. But Nagarkot boasts majestic views of the Himalayas. There are no restaurants in Nagarkhot, or much else. It is pure unity with nature.

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TravelStory >> Nepal

Bookshop As a book lover, I advise people to check out the bookshops in Nepal, because the prices are good and it completes the journey to know the history of the place you are visiting. Talking to shopkeepers is also a great experience. They are warm and share local stories with you. One shopkeeper gave me free postcards and said he would wait to hear from me once I got back to Indonesia. I regret that I had not sent him a postcard before the earthquake. Foodgasm Nepal is a country of culinary adventure. One of the best dishes is momo. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s kind of like a Chinese dumpling, with a thicker wrapping. Nepalese culture is close to India, including the cuisine, so Nepalese dishes tend to be spicy. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss the paratha, paired with a specialty sauce. Masala tea is like teh tarik but with a more complicated taste. Most cafes and restaurants, at least in Kathmandu, provide live music, either traditional or contemporary, to brighter up the night.

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Discover

Hat Yai

Hat Yai is known as a â&#x20AC;&#x153;transitâ&#x20AC;? city between Thailand and Malaysia, connecting the tourist hubs of Phuket, Krabi and Koh Lipe, famous stops in Thailand for their beaches, surfing and snorkelling. We show you how to discover Hat Yai in 24 hours. Text by Hieu Leminh and photos by Hieu Leminh and courtesy of Thailand Tourism

at Yai is just 50 kilometres from the border with Malaysia, known as the most cosmopolitan city of Southern of Thailand and there are daily bus rides from Hat Yai to Penang, Kuala Lumpur and even Singapore. Hat Yai welcomes thousand s of visitors every day, most just passing through on the way to their next destination. This transit city offers its own surprises and delights, from cultural attractions to local foods and shopping. Take 24 hours to discover Hat Yai.

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TravelStory >> Hat Yai

Temple of Bronze Buddha Statue – Wat Thavorn Wararam Wat Thavorn is famous for the giant bronze Buddha statue in the centre of the temple and the hundreds of images of the Buddha. The temple has 13 levels, topped by a bell, a hall for praying and a small school where students learn Chinese. Wat Thavorn attracts many tourists especially during the Lunar New Year holiday. The temple is easy to find, located next to Tesco Lotus Mall and just a five-minute walk from the city’s most crowded night market, Green Way Market.

Floating Market – Talad Nam Klong Hae Klong Hae Market is the place to visit for traditional Thai foods, spicy barbecue, crunchy fish snacks and fresh fruit drinks. The vendors cook, prepare and sell their foods from boats along the river. And when you are done, the vendor will collect your baht using a stick with a small basket attached to the end. The market has a real ASEAN spirit with visitors from Malaysia, Singapore, Myanmar and Vietnam every weekend, Friday to Sunday, from 4pm to 7pm.

Photos courtesy of Thailand Tourism

Hat Yai Municipal Park: Big Buddha – Hat Yai Panorama – Cable Car – Ice Dome Bangkok has Baiyoke Tower, Penang has Penang Hills and Hat Yai has Hat Yai Municipal Park. From the temple at the top of the park you can see all of Hat Yai and check out the huge bronze Buddha statue.

The park is 20 minutes by car from the city centre and is a must-visit, with its artificial animals, ice dome and cable car. Municipal Park is an ideal place for a picnic.

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TravelStory >> Hat Yai

Lee Garden The Lee Garden area is home to hotels and shopping malls (Lee Garden Plaza, Central Mall, ODEAN), street food and massage services. Imagine Khao San Road in Bangkok or Bukit Bintang in Kuala Lumpur. The centre of the city, Lee Garden is always lit up and decorated for every special event. Songkran Festival, New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eve or the Kingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Birthday, you will be lost in the crowd at Lee Garden. The area is a popular destination for souvenir shopping and spa and massage services. You can get a nice facial or body treatment for 200-300 baht an hour.

Kim Yong Market – Market Complex (Open daily from 9am - 6pm) Kim Young Market sells anything and everything: fresh fruits, dried fruits, chocolates, clothes, souvenirs and duty-free goods. Chocolates and cookies are known for their low prices because they come from the (border) duty-free zone.

Fried chicken with Khao Muk (Yellow Rice)

Open daily from 9 am to 6pm, Kim Yong is easy to reach by public transport.

The rice is coloured by natural ingredients, anchan flower for blue and momordica fruit for orange, and a coconut mixture gives the dish a sweet and milky taste.

What to Eat? Som Tam (Papaya Salad)

This salad is made from unripe minced papaya, palm sugar and lime. The salad can be mixed with salted crab, salted eggs or dried shrimp, and can be eaten with sticky rice for a full meal or taken as an appetizer.

This dish is famous in Hat Yai. The secret is in the chilli sauce: sweet at first taste and spicy the deeper you get

Mixed rice (Khaoyum)

Fresh fruits like durian, mangosteen and langsat are amongst the many tropical fruits found in Thailand. Fresh fruits can be found for sale on food vendor trolleys around the city or near tourist sites.

Tom Yum Kung (Thai Shrimp Soup)

This spicy soup features lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves, giving the dish a herbal flavour and adding heat to the soup. If you try this soup once, you will come back again and again.

Pad Thai (Fried Noodles)

These fried noodles are mixed with local onions and xi-iu, the dark soybean sauce, giving this an exotic taste. This typical Thai dish can be found everywhere but take care because it can be spicy.

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A Turkish Fling

You have undressed my heart And left it naked cold unbeat By the strait of Bosphorus Text and photos by Monik Pandiangan

Day One

Indonesians can obtain a visa for Turkey online and it only costs US$25.00. Immigration at Ataturk International Airport was packed. I thought, “Wow, there must be something going on to bring all these people here.” While standing in the immigration lines, scenes from Midnight Express played in my mind.

I loved the aubergine, and had some eggs, brown bread, butter and coffee. Visiting a traditional Turkish hammam bath was on my to-do list, so I went to a hotel that had been recommended to me for its hammam.

In the late 1960s, Turkey was a hot destination on the hippie trail, along with Iran, Afghanistan, Nepal, Pakistan and India. I call it the “Silk Route of hippies.”

The receptionist-cum-masseur was, of all things, Indonesian, Balinese to be exact. Ria had been living in Turkey for three years. It cost me 200 lira for the hammam peel and massage, but the massage was underwhelming. I threw on a towel and headed for the sauna and enjoyed a good sweat.

I checked into my hotel. I was on the fourth floor and had a bathtub, so I could enjoy a soak while listening to music. Around 8.30 that night I headed out of the hotel to find a money changer.

After 10 minutes, I headed for the female baths, a large marble stone room. I was the only guest and had the room. I sat next to one of the basins and the therapist started to bathe me.

One US dollar was equal to 2.65 Turkish lira. The old city was still lively at night. I visited a travel agency. From the ancient city of Ephesus, I could travel by bus to Pamukkale and Cappadocia. Aware of what was happening in Turkey’s neighbour Syria, I restricted my routes. Close to the travel agency was a crowded open-air restaurant and I had a dinner of grilled salmon and mojito at 11pm.

After several showers, I lay down on a large marble bed and she started to brush my body with a rough cloth. Then she washed me with soap and we went to the massage room. Did I say earlier that the massage was not great?

Day Two

Sultanahmet Square (in ancient times it was called the Hippodrome of Constantinople, a social centre and sporting arena) is home to several ancient monuments such as the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern, Walled Column, Serpentine Column,

Woke up early because I didn’t want to miss my first Turkish breakfast. There were scrambled eggs, fried aubergine, cheese, white and brown bread, and salad.

I stopped at a roasted chestnut stall on the street and paid 5 lira for 100 grams.

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TravelStory >> Turkey She was so rich that she was the top taxpayer in Turkey for several years in the 1990s and received awards for that. She died in 2001 and her only son closed down all her brothels. Too much tax means too much income means too many customers means too many prostitutes.

Day Four

Ottoman Dolmabahce Palace This is the most famous and largest European-style Ottoman palace. The Ottomans resided in the palace from 1853 until 1889 and 1909 to 1922. It was turned into a museum after Kemal Ataturk founded modern Turkey. Dolmabahce Palace is said to have the second-largest chandelier in the world, a gift from Queen Victoria. Obelisk of Theodosius and Ayasofya Hamam, an ancient public bath. Fifteen minutes from the Basilica Cistern, you will find the Kapalicarsi Grand Bazaar. In front of Blue Mosque is a garden with a fountain and benches where people sit, relax and enjoy the snack stalls.

Day Three

A lazy day for me. Woke up late and had a leisurely breakfast. I returned to my room and slept again, waking up around noon. I went downstairs and spoke with the black-haired receptionist who directed me to the Spice Market, also known as the Egyptian Market, which was a 15-minute walk from the hotel. As the name suggests, you can find all kinds of spices here, along with Turkish sweet delights, teas, Turkish lamps and golden trinkets. Me, I don’t fancy gold and don’t eat meat or sweet delights. It doesn’t cost much to make me happy but I still can’t find a man to love me. And diamonds aren’t my best friend either, so I just bought some jasmine and sleeping tea. The storeowner offered me some Viagra tea. I said, “Oh, I don’t need any assistance at all. I am at my peak.” While walking around the market, several men tried to start up a conversation with me. I guess it was unusual for them to see a lady walking alone like that. So I said many “no’s”. Simple. Talking about Viagra, Turkey once had a very rich businesswoman named Matild Manukyan who owned 14 licensed brothels in a red district called Karaköy.

There are classic pianos in several of the rooms and the palace has a lovely hammam built from alabaster. Unfortunately, photos are not allowed inside the palace. The palace is built on the European coastline of the Bosphorus Strait and served as the main administrative centre of the Ottoman Empire. It was a rainy day; I bet the sultan felt mellow on rainy days like this with views like this.

Spice Market Also called the Egyptian Market because it was built in 1564 using taxes from Egypt, which was occupied by the Ottoman Empire for nearly 400 years. Then we had lunch at Galata Bridge. Cruising on Bosphorus Strait At 2pm we took a cruise on the Bosphorus Strait, where Europe and Asia meets. It was still rainy and real cold. We could see the massive Dolmabahce Palace and other palaces and castles while cruising. Next on the itinerary was a short cable car ride that gave us a bird’s-eye view of old Istanbul, once called Constantinople. Constantinople was the centre of the Byzantine Empire and was protected by fortified stonewalls as instructed by Constantine the Great, until the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople on 26 May 1453 after a six-week of siege. Ruins of the walls can still be seen in some places.

Day Five

Perhaps Old City Viva Hotel has a motto, “I will never change.” For a relationship, this would totally melt my heart. But for a hotel breakfast? It’s a no-no. These monuments were erected to beautify Constantinople at the order of Byzantine leaders. Made of red granite from Aswan, Egypt, the Obelisk of Theodosius was transported from Alexandria, Egypt, in 390 and was originally 30 metres tall.

Walled Obelisk or Walled Column is also known as the Constantine Obelisk, for Constantine VII, who had it repaired in the 10th century. The original construction date is unknown. While not a monument, the historic Kapalicarsi Grand Bazaar offers general items like lamps, natural soaps, books, spices, teas, gold, groceries, clothes and more.

Day Six

Constructed in the sixth century, Basilica Cistern, or the Sunken Cistern, emanates an atmosphere that is dark and mysterious. Two stone Medusa heads serve as pillars to hold the cistern. Historical texts claim that 7,000 slaves were involved in the construction of the largest cistern among several hundred ancient cisterns that lie beneath the city. Hundreds of the slaves died. Located 150 metres southwest of Hagia Sophia and built during the reign of Byzantine Emperor Justinian I, the cistern has the capacity to store 100,000 tons of water, despite being virtually empty today, with only a few feet of water lining the bottom.

Day Seven

Arrived in Izmir, Ephesus at 7am after a 45-minute flight with Onur Air, a Turkish airline. From the airport we drove about 45 minutes to the city, the beautiful coast of Kusadasi soothing my eyes.

The current 19.59-metre-tall Obelisk of Theodosius has an inscription that describes celebrates the victory of Pharaoh Thutmose III on the banks of the River Euphrates in 1450 BC. The Serpentine Column was part of an ancient Greek sacrificial tripod to Apollo that commemorated the Greek victory over the Persian Empire in the Battle of Plataea in 479 BC. It was relocated to Constantinople from Delphi, Greece, in 324. The top of the column was adorned with a golden bowl supported by three serpent heads, but the bowl was destroyed or stolen during the Fourth Crusade.

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TravelStory >> Turkey Ephesus Open-Air Museum The ruins of Ephesus (one of the largest archaeological sites in the world) are amongst the best preserved of the many treasures of the Turkish coast and offer a glimpse of daily life in the ancient classical world. The enormous and complete ancient compound is amazing. The floor is made from marble and can get slippery, so be careful. The hometown of the philosopher Heraclitus, and possibly the final home of the Virgin Mary, Ephesus was visited by Cicero, Julius Caesar, Cleopatra and Mark Antony, as well as by the emperors Trajan and Hadrian. Ephesus was the first city in the world to have street lighting, and also boasts the earliest known advertising. The largest of its two theatres could hold 24,000 spectators, which gives an idea of the scale of the city at its peak. In 262 AD, Ephesus was destroyed by the Goths and, although it was not abandoned until several centuries later, the city›s glory was eclipsed forever. Excavation of the remains was begun in the 19th century, and it is estimated that 20 per cent has yet to be discovered, although what has been already uncovered offers a fine open-air museum on a scale that will impress even those usually unmoved by ancient ruins. Once a key port on the eastern Mediterranean, in its heyday the city’s markets were among the best in the classical world, and Ephesus achieved an importance that can only be imagined as you walk among the ruins. After the Roman conquest, the city became one of the largest and most important of the empire,

second only to Rome itself, and famed not only as a centre of commerce but also as a cultural, political and religious centre. It also has a famou s monument to Nike, the goddess of victory. The city’s most spectacular monument is probably the majestic two-storey facade of the Library of Celsus. In the early second century this building housed no fewer than 12,000 scrolls, making it one of the largest repositories of knowledge in the ancient world. Exactly opposite the library stand the ruins of a brothel. House of the Virgin Mary Some believe that the Virgin Mary stayed here with John the Apostle after the crucifixion of Jesus. Pictures are not allowed. The stone house radiates warmth. Except for the foundation, the rest of the house has been re-constructed. Temple of Artemis (Diana) Recognised as one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, there is very little left of the ancient temple. The temple was dedicated to the many-

breasted Lady of Ephesus, but even Artemis failed to save Ephesus from destruction. Earthquakes and invasions combined to lay waste to what was once the most powerful city in Asia Minor, although a walk through the ruins provides a hint of its former splendour. Both the city of Ephesus and Diana were mentioned in the Bible.

Day Eight

With my sweatpants, walking towards the beach and crossing Galata Bridge, listening to my music. I entered the hotel and sat, as usual, in the front office area (no lobby) and started checking my Facebook. He was flirting with me, but I acted innocent. I didn’t want to “ruin” my future with this “nowhere-to-go” flirt. Though I must admit he had a kind of magnetic presence with his long black hair and thick as caterpillar eyebrows and piercing look, plus his cute little triangle-shaped moustache above his lips. Very masculine, but I am strong and proud of myself.

Day Nine

Carrying a small bag of strawberries, I walked toward Hagia Sophia or Sancta Sophia. Ayasophia in Turkish is a former Greek Orthodox patriarchal basilica (church), later an imperial mosque, and now a museum. From the date of its construction in 537 until 1453, it served as an Eastern Orthodox cathedral and seat of the Patriarchate of Constantinople, except between 1204 and 1261, when it was converted to a Roman Catholic cathedral under the Latin Empire. The building was a mosque from 29 May 1453 until 1931. It was then secularized and opened as a museum on 1 February 1935.

Day Ten

Travel back to reality!

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More Than

Welcome

Hyatt Regency Yogyakarta offers elegant service and luxurious surroundings, making it the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ultimate destination. Text by Ester Pandiangan | Photos courtesy of Hyatt Regency Yogyakarta

hen I told friends I would be spending a few nights at the Hyatt Regency Yogyakarta, the response was unanimously positive, mixed with a touch of envy. Hyatt Regency Yogyakarta opened in 1997 and offers five-star luxury and service, making it a leading hotel in the city. My three-night stay certainly did nothing to hurt that reputation. Everything was the best at Hyatt Regency Yogyakarta. From the welcoming atmosphere to the mix of Javanese culture and modern luxuries, the hotel is a unique retreat in this royal Javanese city. I enjoyed a number of the special experiences on offer at Hyatt Regency Yogyakarta, such as the Ramayana Night Market, Sunday brunch and of course pampering spa treatments. Every Saturday evening, Hyatt Regency Yogyakarta presents the Ramayana Night Market, where guests can enjoy dinner while being treated to the beauty of the Ramayana ballet. They decorate the pool area at Kemangi Bistro, hang traditional lamps in the trees and serve traditional warung-style dishes. On Sunday, I enjoyed live acoustic music as I lunched at Kemangi Bistro. Kemangi Bistro offers authentic Javanese food and special dishes inspired by the locale, including Lava Merapi, made with one egg yolk and two egg whites.

After treating my tummy, I went to the spa and indulged myself with the Java Magic Sense treatment, shiatsu massage and a facial treatment. It was nearly four hours of pure indulgence. One of my favourite activities at Hyatt Regency Yogyakarta was riding a traditional horse cart, known as an andong. I explored a nearby village, met the locals and got a glimpse of their daily lives. The andong driver took us on small roads and through fields, giving me a private tour without the nuisance of cars and trucks. Hyatt Regency Yogyakarta also provides bicycles so guests can explore Yogyakarta by pedal power. It is possible, if you are feeling adventurous, to reach Prambanan Temple by bicycle. Hyatt Regency Yogyakarta offers guests five-star luxury and local traditions and culture, making this the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ideal destination.

Hyatt Regency Yogyakarta Jl. Palagan Tentara Pelajar Yogyakarta â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Indonesia Phone. +62 274 869 123 www.yogyakarta.regency.hyatt.com

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Lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;sGood

Wellness Escape

If you want to escape big-city stress, re-connect with nature and lose yourself in the soothing sounds and caresses of meandering rivers and tropical breezes, then you need to escape to Fivelements, Puri Ahimsa. Text by Ester Pandiangan | Photos courtesy of Fivelements Puri Ahimsa

recently had the opportunity to spend two nights at Fivelements, Puri Ahimsa and it was an unforgettable journey. Located far from the touristy centre of Bali, Fivelements, Puri Ahimsa is the perfect destination to clear your mind, commune with nature and re-discover your best self. Guests to this eco-friendly wellness centre are greeted by fresh air and a calming atmosphere. The architecture here is green-friendly and blends seamlessly into its luxurious tropical surroundings. For guests coming from the big city, the change of scenery is magical. Ubud is famous as a centre of healing and wellness, and Fivelements epitomizes the best that Ubud has to offer. Fivelements provides all-vegan cuisine to allow guests to cleanse their bodies and achieve a whole new level of wellness. The menu here offers a selection of raw food and foods cooked to a temperature no higher than 48 degrees Celsius.

Eating this healthy can take some getting used to for those us accustomed to grabbing quick and unhealthy bites and eating on the go around our hectic schedules. At Fivelements, they prepare food to retain its vital force, nutrients (vitamins, minerals, amino acids) and living enzymes required to digest food, repair cellular damage and create billions of healthy new cells every day. Fivelements provides guests a comprehensive yoga retreat. Before my first session, the guru, Made Agus Wirayasa, asked me about my experience with yoga and why I had decided to join his class. Made also asked me about my health history. Based on all that information, he designed a suitable programme that would maximize my health benefits. Made then led me through an intimate two-hour class that flowed by as Made guided me through a series of poses. At the end of class, Made gave me an amazing Zen Thai Shiatsu massage to relax my muscles. One of the most recommended wellness programmes at Fivelements is the healing ritual, which is like a massage for the body and soul. I experienced the Prema Healing Massage with Ibu Iluh, a gifted therapist who shared her own energy with me. Her carefully weighted palm pressure gave way to artful long strokes, suspended stretches and gentle acupressure.

I thoroughly enjoyed my wellness experience at Fivelements, Puri Ahimsa. This is the ideal destination for people looking for a peaceful escape, the embrace of Mother Nature and balance in their lives. Fivelements Puri Ahimsa Banjar Baturning mambal Bali â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Indonesia Phone. +62 361 469 206 www.fivelements.org

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Lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;sGood

Hidden

Paradise

Located near Buahan village and surrounded by ancient trees and tropical forest, Hanging Gardens Ubud is a true hidden paradise. Text by Ester Pandiangan | Photos courtesy of Hanging Gardens Ubud & Ester Pandiangan

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Lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;sGood

bud beckons the harried and harassed of the modern world with its natural beauty, laid-back vibe and tropical luxury. This is the kind of place that will capture your heart and never give it back. Hanging Gardens Ubud is a luxury resort built on 3.2 hectares of tropical heaven situated near Payangan, a village north of Ubud. It has a dreamy village atmosphere and beautiful views of rice fields, Ayung River, Dalem Segara Temple and what may be the most attractive pool in Ubud. One of the unique features of the resort is the funicular that takes guest from the top of the resort to the bottom, allowing them to avoid hiking up the steep 45-degree incline. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not the kind of thing you experience at most resorts and guests seem to have a blast on the ride. One of the most popular spots in the resort is the world-class pool, which seems to have developed a reputation as the spot for a world-class selfie.

The pool had been named the best pool in the world by a number of magazines and travel agencies. Being so photogenic, the pool at Hanging Gardens Ubud naturally lends itself to romantic dinners and even more romantic proposals.

explore the more intimate, hidden side of Ubud, as you interact with locals as they go about their daily activities, farming, going to market, praying. Children played around me in the road and it felt the way life was meant to be.

The restaurant at Hanging Gardens offers glorious views of the pools, but the best view may be that of Segara Dalem Temple. This magnificent temple is framed by forest and subtly lit by lamps. And the food at the restaurant is fabulous. Or you can choose a picnic lunch at a gazebo near the Ayung River. It is a delightful dining experience, the sound of the river and forest as far as the eye can see.

Hanging Gardens Ubud is committed to introduce local traditions to guests. In additional to leading the morning walks and cycling tours, Hanging Gardens also holds Balinese blessing, a ceremony to pray to the gods and Mother Nature for their blessings. This commitment is also reflected in the culinary offerings at Hanging Gardens, where local dishes like lontong and traditional cakes have pride of place on the menu. Come discover the hidden paradise of Hanging Gardens Ubud.

Hanging Gardens also offers spa treatments with a river view. I went for the full pampering, a decadent 3.5-hour spa treatment. It started with a welcome drink and ended with Champagne and chocolate, and in between was the soothing touch of the trained therapist. The resort offers a selection of activities for guests who manage to pry themselves away from the pool. There are morning walking and cycling, letting you

Hanging Gardens Ubud Desa Buahan, Payangan Gianyar, Bali â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Indonesia Phone. +62 361 982 700 www.hanginggardensubud.com

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for more information :

+62 22 820 68222 sales-harris-ciumbuleuit@tauzia.com 78

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Advertorial

Welcome

Harris Ciumbuleuit! Text by Ester Pandiangan | Photos courtesy of Harris Ciumbuleuit

fter opening Harris Hotel & Conventions at Festival Citylink Bandung, Tauzia Hotel Manage-ment, which oversees a portfolio that includes Preference Hotels, Harris Hotels, Yello Hotels and Pop! Hotels, proudly welcomes its latest property, Harris Ciumbuleuit. To celebrate their new “baby,” Harris organized a welcome party with the theme “Harris Go DiscGlow”. It was a fantastic celebration with VIP guests and the management Harris Hotels. Before the party, Harris organized a convoy of antique cars, Vespas and Bandros, Bandung’s unique tour busses, through the streets of the West Java capital The real celebration began that night in one of the Harris Ciumbuleuit ballrooms, with authentic Bandung food and performances by a DJ and musicians. Harris Hotel not only honours a healthy lifestyle – guests can find quotes about wellness throughout the hotel including in each room and the restaurant menu – and local culture. That is why on the second day of the celebration, Harris

organized a trip for the media to the Saung Angklung Udjo cultural destination to shine a spotlight on local Sundanese cultural. Located in the strategic business district of North Bandung, Harris Hotel Ciumbuleuit is just 20 minutes from the airport and 15 minutes from the train station. Harris Hotel Bandung is the perfect choice for business trips and family holidays. A comfortable, fun and enjoyable atmosphere, plus delicious breakfast, lunch and dinner buffets, ensures an unforgettable experience at Harris Hotel Ciumbuleuit.

Nature and Culture In Harmony Experience The Joy of Playing Angklung Together and Feel The Authentic of Sundanese Traditional Performances In Bamboo Afternoon Show, Everyday at 3.30 PM only in Saung Angklung Udjo

Saung Angklung Udjo Jalan Padasuka 118, Bandung 40192 West Java - INDONESIA , Phone: +62 22 727 1714, +62 22 710 1736 , Fax: +62 22 720 1587, Website : www.angklung-udjo.co.id Email : info@angklung-udjo.co.id

@angklungudjo

Saung Angklung Udjo

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Timeless

Yogyakarta Indonesian writer Yusi Avianto Pareanom said Yogyakarta is a city that attracts people with its mix of romance and melancholy. Text by Ester Pandiangan & Priscilla Picauly Photos by Ester Pandiangan, Priscilla Picauly & Courtesy of ViaVia Cafe and Asmara Art & Coffee Shop

henever I am danger of becoming bored with Yogyakarta, I find something new that reminds me why I come back time and again.

The last time I visited Yogyakarta, I met a man at a performance by the Indonesian poet Joko Pinurbo at Gadjah Mada University. Pinurbo was reading his poem â&#x20AC;&#x153;The First Night,â&#x20AC;? as the man and I sat rapt in the audience. It is the last memory I have of Yogyakarta. It was the perfect night and a reminder that Yogyakarta is the best city in which to fall in love. The atmosphere of Yogyakarta is magnetic and draws people back time and again. There is always something new in Yogyakarta to surprise and delight you. We look at some of the sights visitors to Yogyakarta must see.

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Explore >> Yogyakarta

Where to go? There are many destinations in Yogyakarta. Here is a quick guide to some of the best.

Inside Yogyakarta First-time visitors must visit Keraton Ngayogyakarta Hadiningrat, famously known as the Keraton of Yogyakarta. This palace complex is located on Jalan Rotowijayan. The palace is the centre of Yogyaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s traditional life, and despite the advance of modernity, it still emanates the spirit of refinement that has been the hallmark of Yogyakarta for centuries. This vast complex of decaying structures was built in the 18th century and is actually a walled city within the city, with luxurious pavilions and in which the current Sultan still resides. Outside the palace complex, in the centre of North Square (Alunalun Utara), there are two sacred banyan trees (pohon beringin). Back in the days of feudal Java, whiterobed petitioners would sit patiently, hoping

to catch the eye of the king. In the South Square (Alun-alun Selatan) are two similar banyan trees that some say can bring great fortune if you can walk between them blindfolded without mishap. West of the palace is the Water Castle (Taman Sari), built in 1758 by Sri Sultan Hamengkubuwono I. The Water Castle is located in the oldest part of the city, within walking distance of the Bird Market. Parts of the Water Castle are 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. In the past, this

former royal garden had multiple functions as a rest area, workshop, meditation spot, defence area and hiding place. One of the interesting things about this building is that Taman Sari combines European and Javanese architectural styles. A relief of birds drinking the nectar from flowery trees marks the completion of Taman Sariâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s construction. It symbolizes the year 1691 on the Javanese calendar, or 1765 on the Gregorian calendar. Taman Sari can be divided into four areas. The first is the artificial lake, Segaran, located in the west. The second area is a bathing complex to the south of the lake, called Umbul Binangun. The third, now completely gone, was Pasarean Ledok Sari and Garjitawati Pool, located to the south of the

bathing complex. The fourth area extends far to the east and to the southeast complex of Magangan. Today, the area around the Taman Sari complex is filled with the houses of the 2,700 residents of Kampung Taman. The community is known for producing batik and traditional paintings. Architectural and historical admirers will savour the opportunity to explore the temples in Yogyakarta and the surrounding areas. Prambanan Temple is the most famous of the temples and the most magnificent of Central Javaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s temples, or more precisely, complex of temples. Situated about 15 kilometres from Yogyakarta, the top of the main shrine is visible from a great distance and rises high above the scattered ruins of former temples. Prambanan is a masterpiece of 10th century Hindu culture.

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Prambanan Temple is the largest and most beautiful Hindu temple in Indonesia. The temple complex lies amongst green fields and picturesque 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 a magnificent statue of Shiva’s consort, Durga. There are 224 temples in the complex; the three main temples are Brahma Temple in the north, Vishnu Temple in the south and the biggest of the three, Shiva Temple, which lies between Brahma and Vishnu. Near Prambanan Temple is

a Mahayana Buddhist temple, Sewu Temple. This is the second-largest Buddhist temple complex in Indonesia after Borobudur. In Javanese, “sewu” means thousand, so the name means thousand temples. Keraton Ratu Boko must be on your to-do list for Yogyakarta. It is not far from Prambanan Temple and many people visit the two as a package. According to legend, Keraton Boko was the palace of the princess Loro Jonggrang and the setting of one of Java’s most mythical love stories. If you

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Explore >> Yogyakarta visit Keraton Ratu Boko, you must try Ratu Boko’s restaurant and enjoy Javanese tea and rock candy, served with free views of Mount Merapi and Prambanan Temple. It’s something to experience. Kota Gede, which is often called Sargede, is about five kilometres southeast of Yogyakarta. Since the 1930s, Kota Gede has been famous as the centre of Yogyakarta’s silverwork industry. The area houses a number of workshops where visitors are welcome to watch silver being transformed into beautiful works of art known as Yogya Silver.

In addition to silver, Kota Gede is famous for Kota Gede Royal Cemetery, where you can visit the graves of Mataram kings like Sutowijoyo and Ngabehi Loring Pasar, the founder of Mataram Kingdom, who was then called Panembahan Senopati. There is also the unique tomb of Ki Ageng Mangir. He was Panembahan Senopati’s son-in-law and also Panembahan Senopati’s enemy. Half his body was buried inside the special area for kings and Panembahan Senopati’s family members, and half was buried outside of the complex. There is a stone called Watu Gilang, which according to legend is where Panembahan Senopati killed Ki Ageng Mangir.

Info Box Keraton Ngayogyakarta Hadiningrat Jl. Rotowijayan 1 Phone. +62 274 373 321 Admission: Rp 12,500. Camera charge Rp 1,000 Guided tour by donation Opening hours: Saturday – Thursday, 8am to 1.30pm; Friday, 8am to noon Water Castle (Taman Sari) Jl. Taman Yogyakarta – Indonesia Admission: Rp 3,000 (domestic), Rp 7,000 (foreigner) Open daily from 8am to 2pm Prambanan Temple & Sewu Temple Jl. Raya Jogja - Solo KM. 16 Yogyakarta – Indonesia Phone. +62 274 496 401 www.borobudurpark.com Admission: Rp 30,000 (domestic), US$ 18 (foreigner) Open daily from 6am to 5pm

Keraton Ratu Boko Jl. Raya Jogja - Solo Prambanan Yogyakarta - Indonesia Phone. +62 274 496 510 Admission: Rp 25,000 (domestic), US$ 13 (foreigner) Open daily from 6am to 5pm Other destinations inside Yogyakarta: – Vredeburg Fort Jl. Jend. A. Yani No. 6 Yogyakarta – Indonesia Phone. +62 274 586 934 Admission Rp 2,000 Open Tuesday to Sunday, 8am to 5pm Jogja Kembali Monument Jl. Lingkar Utara Yogyakarta – Indonesia Phone. +62 274 868 225 Admission Rp 10,000 Open Tuesday to Sunday, 8am to 4pm

Going up to Kaliurang Yogyakarta is known as a city of culture and royalty. You can see part of this royal history at Ullen Sentalu Museum, located in Taman Wisata Kaliurang. It takes about an hour to see the entire museum, which traces the history of the Mataram Kingdom before it was divided between Yogyakarta and Solo.

name says it all. Merapi comes from the Javanese words “meru,” which means mountain, and “api,” meaning fire.

Among the attractions is the love story of Gusti Raden Ayu Siti Nurul Kamaril Ngasarati Kusumawardhani, a daughter of Mangkunegara VII and Gusti Ratu Timur. Princess Nurul was famed for her beauty; Indonesia’s first president, Sukarno, and Sutan Sjahrir are just two of the men who proposed to her only to be turned away.

which can be reached through the forest resort of Kaliurang, offers incredible views of molten rock oozing over the rim of the volcano, sometimes accompanied by hot lava pouring out, leaving behind a long trail of smoke. Because of Merapi, people in the area are blessed with rich soil from the numerous volcanic eruptions.

After visiting Ullen Sentalu, it is possible to continue your journey to Mount Merapi. This is one of the world’s most active and dangerous volcanoes. It contains an active lava dome, which regularly produces pyroclastic flows. It has been active for 10,000 years and remains one of the most active and dangerous volcanoes in the world. Its

To embrace your adventurous side, take the Merapi Lava Tour. Traveling by jeep and various vehicles, adventurers can see the remnants of the Merapi eruption that destroyed Kinahrejo and surroundings.

When Merapi is not rumbling and spitting out ash and rocks, visitors can trek its tree-covered slopes. The observation post located on Plawangan hill,

Info Box

Museum Ullen Sentalu Jl. Boyong KM. 25 Yogyakarta – Indonesia Phone. +62 274 895 161 www.ullensentalu.com

Merapi Lava Tour – Dusun Merapi http://www.dusunmerapi.com/ – Jeep Merapi www.jeepmerapi.com/

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Explore >> Yogyakarta

Wonosari District Gunung Kidul regency is one of the areas in Yogyakarta province that will get the adrenaline flowing with underground rivers in amazing caves. There are at least 12 caves in Gunung Kidul that have potential as tourist attractions, and two popular caves, Pindul and Jomblang. If you are looking for a challenge and a longer journey, Jomblang is the better choice, but Pindul also offers some unique experiences. Pindul Cave is located in Bejiharjo village, Karangmojo, and provides a real sense of adventure. When you enter the cave you will be enveloped in total darkness after about 45 to 60 minutes. In a 300-metre chamber in the bowels of the earth, you

A New-Comer, Kulon Progo Kulon Progo regency offers a variety of activities for visitors, like Glagah Beach, with its good break. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also a lagoon for young visitors who want to get wet. Kalibiru village is in the Menoreh Mountains, in the western end of Yogyakarta. Prince Diponegoro and his troops fought the Dutch in these mountains 200 years ago before he was exiled to Sulawesi. Today, Kalibiru is a tourist highlight in Kulon Progo. The best time to visit Kalibiru is the afternoon, and you should take a selfie on the stairs at the cliffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s edge.

can see clusters of bats, crystals and also amazing stalactites and stalagmites. In the middle is a large pool where you can take a rest or have a swim.Â If you are looking for a more challenging adventure, explore Jomblang Cave. This is a vertical cave with dense ancient forest below and a diameter of 50 metres with vertical sides 60 to 80 metres in height. Descending into the cave using the single rope technique for dozens of metres will definitely get your adrenaline flowing. When you reach the bottom, take a rest in a cubicle produced by natural erosion. You can then continue your journey by tracing the tunnel that connects Jomblang Cave with a vertical cave, Grubug, through which sunlight can be observed.

Info Box

Beaches in Gunung Kidul (Baron Beach, Indrayanti Beach, Kukup Beach, Krakal Beach, Sundak Beach) Admission Rp 10,000 Gua Pindul Cave Karangmojo, Gunung Kidul Yogyakarta – Indonesia Cave tubing package tour Rp 35,000 Jomblang Cave Semanu, Gunung Kidul Yogyakarta – Indonesia Package tour Rp 450,000

There are lots of beaches around Gunung Kidul. Which is best and which ones should you avoid? Baron Beach is a unique beach, located where a river dumps its contents into the ocean, creating a unique ecosystem. You can also find fishermen at Baron Beach selling fish, crab and squid. Baron Beach is hemmed in by Seribu Mountain, means of thousand mountains. The eastern end of Baron Beach is the best spot for taking pictures, and there is a pendopo, a traditional Javanese house. The beach is 20 kilometres from Wonosari city, the capital of Gunung Kidul. Indrayanti Beach has an interesting story as to how it got its name. Indrayanti was not originally the

name of the beach, but the name of the owner of a cafe and restaurant near the beach People saw signs for the café and restaurant with the name Indrayanti and pretty soon they were calling it Indrayanti Beach. Officially, the name of the beach is Pulang Syawal. Indrayanti offers a clean stretch of sand and beautiful sunsets.

Info Box

Destinations in Kulon Progo: Kalibiru Kalibiru, Hargowilis Yogyakarta – Indonesia Phone.+ 6813 9294 7249 Admission: Rp 3,000 Tree climbing: Rp 10,000 Glagah Beach Temon, Kulon Progo Yogyakarta – Indonesia Admission: Rp 4,000

Other destinations in Kulon Progo: Puncak Suroloyo, Sermo Reservoir, Grojogan Sewu Waterfall, Sidoharjo Waterfall, Kiskendo Cave, Kidang Kencono Cave

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Explore >> Yogyakarta

What to Eat? Yogyakarta without gudeg is like an envelope without a stamp. It would not be an official visit to Yogyakarta if you did not eat gudeg. Gudeg is made from gori (kind of jackfruit) cooked with coconut milk and lots of spices. The sweet-tasting gudeg is usually served with krecek (cow skin), telur pindang (egg), tahu (tofu), tempe bacem (soya cake), ayam opor or ayam bacem (chicken), and areh gurih (coconut milk dressing). There are three kinds of gudeg: gudeg kering, gudeng basah and gudeg manggar. Gudeg basah is absolutely perfect for breakfast, because itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s served with delicious coconut milk gravy. Gudeg kering has the same ingredients but is cooked longer than gudeg basah, for 24 hours or more. Gudeg manggar uses young coconut instead of jackfruit.

Bakmi Djawa (Java fried noodles) is another popular dish in Yogyakarta. If you are looking for the best Bakmi Djawa, most people recommend Bakmi Pak Pele. Before evening there is already a long queue at this food stall. Customers sometimes wait one or two hours for a plate of these famous noodles. Favourite dishes include Bakmi Djawa and Bakmi Godhog. Yogyakarta is also known for its angkringan, simple carts which sell local dishes like nasi kucing, gorengan and sate with friendly prices. You can find angkringan just about everywhere in Yogyakarta but there are a few places in the city famous for the carts, including Alun-alun Selatan, around Tugu train station, Wijilan and in front of the Kedaulatan Rakyat daily office.

The oldest and most legendary angkringan is Angkringan Lik Man, which sells kopi joss (black coffee served with a burning piece of charcoal from the cooking fire). Angkringan Lik Man is a pioneer of angkringan style in Yogyakarta. Angkringan generally operate from about 6pm to late at night. Lesehan is a style of causal dining while sitting on a mat or on the floor, which is something of a tradition in Yogyakarta. Lesehan Terang Bulan,

in front of Terang Bulan batik shop, is a popular lesehan-style cafĂŠ that is known for its fried duck and fried dove. Near Lesehan Terang Bulan is Pecel Beringharjo, serving the traditional salad from Central Java made from mixed vegetable and peanut sauce. A good time to enjoy Pecel Beringharjo is the morning.

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Explore >> Yogyakarta For other food experiences, you can explore Jalan Prawirotaman and Jalan Tirtodipuran, which are home to good coffee shops, cafés and restaurants. Asmara Art & Coffee Shop at Jalan Tirtodipuran No. 22 is one of the best live music cafés in Yogyakarta for rock, blues and jazz. Guests can also get up on stage and belt out their favourite tunes. Try the Javanese food at Warung Bu Ageng on the same road, owned by the Indonesian actor Butet Kertaradjasa. It has the best poci tea you. You can also try Mexican food, pizza and other Western dishes on Prawirotaman, which draws a lot of travellers. Try ViaVia Café in the same area. ViaVia uses organic rice and organic vegetables where possible, and serves a mix of Western and Indonesian dishes. They also have a dessert of the day, which goes great with a cup of freshly made coffee or aromatic Javanese tea. ViaVia also provides entertainment including art exhibitions and live music.

Info Box Restaurants in Yogyakarta: Gudeg Yu Djum Jl. Wijilan No. 167 Yogyakarta – Indonesia Phone. +62 274 786 0204 Open daily from 6am to 5pm Bakmi Pak Pele North Square (in front of Keputren elementary school) Open daily from 5pm to midnight Angkringan Lik Man Jl. Wongsodirjan Yogyakarta – Indonesia Open daily from 5pm to close Lesehan Terang Bulan Jl. Malioboro (in front Terang Bulan batik shop) Yogyakarta – Indonesia Open daily from 9pm to close Viavia Jogjakarta Jl. Prawirotaman Phone. +62 274 386 557 Yogyakarta – Indonesia www.viaviajogja.com Open daily from 7.30am to 11pm Warung Bu Ageng Jl. Tirtodipuran No. 13 Phone. +62 274 387 191 www.warungbuageng.com Open daily from 10am to 11pm

Asmara Art & Coffee Shop Jl. Tirtodipuran No. 22 Yogyakarta – Indonesia Phone. +62 274 383 143 Open daily from 6am to midnight Others restaurants: House of Raminten Jl. Faridan Muridan Noto No. 7 Yogyakarta – Indonesia Phone. +62 274 547 315 Open all day, every day Mbah Cemplung Fried Chicken Sendang Semanggi Phone. 0856 288 2741 Open daily from 8am to 5pm Shibishu Noodles Jl. Raya Bantul III Yogyakarta – Indonesia Thiwul Yu Tum Jl. Pramuka No.36 Yogyakarta – Indonesia Phone. +62 274 788 9300 Open daily from 6am to 8.30pm Sate Klatak Pak Pong Jl. Imogiri Timur KM. 10 Yogyakarta – Indonesia Phone. +62 274 3277 822 Opening daily from 10am to 11pm

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Explore >> Yogyakarta

Where to Shop? There is more to Yogyakarta than its cultural offerings. It is also a shopper’s delight. The main road, Jalan Malioboro, is always crowded, particularly at night, when its famous food vendors come out in force, turning the street into one of the greet street-food centres in the country. Many tourist shops and inexpensive hotels are concentrated along this street or in the adjoining tourist areas such Jalan Sosrowijayan. Visitors can find all kinds of goodies along Jalan Malioboro and surrounding streets, including batik cloth and garments, hand-woven fabrics, traditional jewellery, leather puppets, baskets, tortoise-shell accessories, trinkets, brassware and other decorative items, and all kinds of antiques. Batik is one of Java’s most famous creations, and if you go to Yogya, you have to check out the city’s renowned batik workshops and stores. Batik is often considered the unofficial uniform

of Indonesians and you can find batik trousers, Western-style shirts, robes and more. There are also batik housewares and other decorative items. Written batik is more expensive than printed batik because the process requires more time and expertise. There are hundreds of batik sellers spread across Yogyakarta, from street vendors to high-class boutiques. Besides shopping, Jalan Malioboro is knows for the traditional warm drink wedang uwuh, made from herbs and spices. Don’t forget to block out at least a full day to spend time on Malioboro. In addition to the food and shops, the street is home to some of the city’s most impressive historical buildings, including Tugu Keraton, Tugu Station, the Country Palace, Vredeburg Fortress and the1st March Attack Monument.

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Explore >> Yogyakarta

Need to Know! Royal Cemetery To know the Javanese and to know Yogyakarta, Kota Gede is a good place to begin. Located southeast of Yogyakarta is an archaeological site that contains the remains of the Keraton, the Royal Graveyard and Royal Mosque of Mataram. The site dates back to the late 1500s and early 1600s. In high Javanese, the site is called Pasar Gedhe. There is not much to see anymore of the Keraton, or Royal Palace, with little left but local legends and tales about the palace. While the mosque and the graveyard (the precursor to Imogiri, the current royal graveyard) are quite intact, only a few sections of the original palace walls remain.

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The ancient palace began to fall in disrepair when the centre of power shifted from Yogyakarta to Kartasura, near modern-day Surakarta. It further lost political and cultural significance after Imogiri became the royal cemetery for the sultan and his family. The remains of the Royal Graveyard in Kota Gede provide evidence of the past glory of the area. Graves trace the lines of connection from the Mataram Kingdom and earlier kingdoms, and the placement of the graves can be considered a physical representation of silsilah, or the genealogy of the rulers. The sacred inner part of the graveyard, where the mausoleum of Panembahan Senopati (the founder of the Mataram Kingdom) is located, is guarded and maintained by juru kunci (literally, keepers of the keys). The area contains a small gravestone covered in white fabric that marks the resting place of one of Senopatiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s grandsons, Prince Martapura, who held the throne of Java for less than a month.

Jual Buku Sastra Yogyakarta is known as a city of learning. Gadjah Mada University is one of the most famous universities in Indonesia. So donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be surprised by the number of bookstores in the city. Taman Pintar is one of the most famous bookstores and offers a selection of new and secondhand books. Then there is Jual Buku Sastra, located on Jl. Wijilan Gg. Semangat, near the famous Jl. Malioboro, which is no ordinary bookstore but rather a community of book lovers. There is no sign indicating that this is a bookshop and the building looks like a normal house. But once you enter, you are surrounded by the sight and smell of stacks and stacks of books. Jual Buku Sastra also organizes book discussions, poetry readings and book launches. Jual Buku Sastra is a meeting place for the literati, and if you are lucky, you will also get a nice cup of coffee and everlasting friendship.

Bakpia Home Industry Bakpia 25 is located on Jl. AIP II KS Tubun NG I/504, in Pathuk village. You will know you are near thanks to the delicious smell of the bakpia, a kind of Chinese-influenced sweet bun. If you are lucky, you will be greeted with a cup of Javanese tea and warm bakpia.

Bakpia can be found on just about every corner of Yogyakarta, but nothing can match the fresh flavour of this homemade bakpia. The bakpia here is still made using traditional methods, baked in a wood-burning over to keep the flavour.

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Explore >> Yogyakarta Mount Api Purba Nglanggeran Mount Api Purba is an ancient volcano and a fascinating destination for adventurers. It takes one to two hours to reach the 700-metre summit and the trail is not difficult. Once at the top you will be treated to breathtaking views.

Wayang Puppet Workshop Wayang is the famous puppet theatre from Yogyakarta. You can see the puppets made at Putro Wayang on Jl. Patehan Lor, not far from Alun-Alun Selatan and Keraton Palace. Pak Rahmad, the owner, is always available and happy to explain how to make wayang. He will tell you stories about wayang, talking about the different characters and answering all of your questions. Puppets cost about 800,000 rupiah but you can always bargain, which is its own art form in Yogyakarta. Speaking of bargaining, there are plenty of small shops around Keraton Palace selling batik and other arts and crafts. Explore them and try out your bargaining skills.

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Mount Api Purba is open 24 hours. Some people like to make the climb in the afternoon, so they can reach the summit in time to see the sunset.

IKLAN WAKAII

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Intermezzo >> Movies

Beautiful

Movie Locations

These exotic movie locations are perfect for your new travel inspiration.

Text by Umesh Bhagchandani

1. The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel – Rajasthan, India

Based on the 2004 novel “These Foolish Things,” by Deborah Moggach, The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel tells the story of several British pensioners who move east to a retirement home in India. With the movie’s surprise box-office success, there was a great deal of interest in its location. The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel takes place in the Indian state of Rajasthan, including the cities of Jaipur and Udaipur, famous for their historic sites and culture. The eponymous hotel itself is a real establishment, Ravla Khempur, located in the village of Khempur. The 17th century rural hotel once famed for its horses boasts 12 master bedrooms, tours and activities, such as village sightseeing, horseback riding and safaris (www.ravlakhempur.com). Director John Madden believes the building to have a magical quality and unmistakable charm. In Jaipur, filming took place around City Palace, a complex of palaces and buildings, including Chandra Mahal and Mubarak Mahal. Chandra Mahal Palace now houses a museum, and part of

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it is still a royal residence. Amer Palace is known for its artistic Hindu style, large ramparts and a series of gates and cobbled paths. Another visitworth location from the movie is Lake Palace, a luxury hotel on the island of Jag Niwas in Lake Pichola, Udaipur. Built in the 17th century, during the Mewar dynasty, the 83-room Lake Palace has been voted the most romantic hotel in India. (www.tajhotels.com/taj-lake-palace). Photos courtesy: www.wildfrontierstravel.com & www.filmhdwallpapers .com

2. Mamma Mia! – Skopelos, Greece

Do you know that Mamma Mia! is the highestgrossing musical film of all time, earning $600 million worldwide? The movie was adapted from the Broadway musical of the same name and features the songs of Swedish pop group ABBA. There were many reasons behind the success of the film adaptation: Meryl Streep, ABBA’s golden songs and the location. Besides catchy tunes like Super Trouper and Dancing Queen, no one can deny the movie’s inviting background. Staying true to the musical, the film takes place on the Greek island of Skopelos and the seaside hamlet of Damouchari in the Pelion area. Located in the Northern Sporades archipelago, Skopelos is amongst the greenest island in the Aegean Sea, with the blue water of Kastani Beach, the picturesque Nisi Glisteri and the church of Agios Ioannis Kastri.

Apart from the locations featured in the movie, Skopelos has many attractions for visitors. Explore the gorgeous sand beaches Staphylos and Limnonari, and pebble beaches Panormos and Milia. For a taste of the local culture, there are ancient monasteries and churches, as well as the Folklore Museum of Skopelos and the National Marine Park, which is the largest marine conservation area in Europe. For water sports enthusiasts, options include kayaking, canoeing, scuba diving and snorkelling. (www.visitgreece.gr/en) Photos courtesy: www.movpins.com & www.mccluskey.co.uk

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Intermezzo >> Movies

3. After the Dark –

Belitung & Bromo, Indonesia After the Dark (previously known as The Philosophers) made headlines two years ago by choosing to shoot in Indonesia. Directed by John Huddles, the movie tells the story of a philosophy teacher who challenges his students to choose which of them would take shelter underground and reboot the human race in the event of a nuclear apocalypse. The drama/sci-fi movie stars many young actors, including actress Bonnie Wright, best known for playing Ginny Weasley in the Harry Potter movies). Despite the heavy promotions and moderate critical success, the movie failed to generate much buzz. However, not all that hard work went unnoticed, and the setting in Indonesia was applauded. The film takes place all over the country, from Jakarta to Sumatra. Among the highlights were the scenes shot on Belitung Island, off the east coast of Sumatra. The island is a top destination for beach lovers with many

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spots to choose from, such as Bilik, in the Tanjung Tinggi region, popular for its pristine beach and fresh seafood. (www.indonesia.travel/) Also featured in the film were Prambanan Temple in Yogyakarta and Mount Bromo in East Java. The seventh century Hindu temple looked spectacular on screen, and the volcanic mountain served as a nice contrast for the movie’s fantasy element. Director John Huddles has said that filming in the country was very pleasing. “Indonesia, let me say plainly, is a storyteller’s paradise,” he said. “The beautiful spirit of the Indonesian people can’t be overstated. During our four months travelling their cities, temples, and islands, their hospitality allowed us to juxtapose dark images of a conjured apocalypse with an epic physical splendour.” Photos courtesy: www.movit.net & www.selasar.com

4. The Secret Life of Walter Mitty – Iceland

Perhaps the most famous movie to show off the Icelandic charm, The Secret Life of Walter Mitty is based on James Thurber’s short story and follows a daydreamer who is forced to leave behind his imagination and challenge himself by seeing the real world. Directed by and starring Ben Stiller, Walter Mitty offers breathtaking panoramas rarely seen in Hollywood movies. Although Iceland is no stranger to the big and small screen with movies like Prometheus, Thor and HBO’s Game of Thrones filmed there, Walter Mitty kicked it up a notch by including Iceland’s glaciers, volcanoes, black sands and waterfalls. Filming of the exciting skateboarding sequence took place in Seyðisfjörður, located in the east fjords, surrounded by Mount Strandartindur and

Mount Bjólfur. To the west is Grundarfjörður – on the Snæfellsnes peninsula – where another famous scene was shot, this one featuring Mitty on a bicycle. Remember the lava field? The Berserkjahraun is a 4,000-year-old lava field that made the movie’s climax a little more exciting. Iceland’s beauty doesn’t stop there. Scenes set in Greenland and Afghanistan were actually shot in Iceland, in the glacial Vatnajökull National Park, a marvellous landscape created by the combined forces of rivers, glacial ice and volcanic activity. Hoping to capitalize on the movie’s popularity, Iceland Travel launched a Walter Mitty-themed self-drive tour for travellers. (www.icelandtravel.is) Photos courtesy: www.iliketowastemytime.com & www.fubiz.net

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Intermezzo >> Movies

5. Midnight in Paris – Paris, France

Woody Allen has said that he tends to romanticize Paris, and that surely shows in this film. Set entirely in the City of Lights, a first for an Allen film, Midnight in Paris is about Gil (Owen Wilson), a screenwriter who mysteriously goes back to the 1920s every day at midnight while on a vacation in Paris. The quirky movie’s most popular scene is a midnight stroll on the Quai de la Tournelle along the Seine River. However, the movie does a beautiful job of showcasing some of the city’s most beautiful and romantic spots. First up is Claude Monet’s garden at Giverny, where we see Gil and his fiancée taking a romantic stroll through the lush and beautiful landscape. Located just over an hour outside Paris, Claude Monet’s garden is open for public viewing. Visitors can get to Giverny by shuttle bus from Paris. Once there, explore the garden that has inspired some of the world’s most famous Impressionist paintings (www. giverny.org/). Next, head up to the city’s most popular tourist spot, just like Gil and his fiancée, Château de Versailles. Known as France’s centre

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of political power from 1682 until the beginning of the French Revolution in 1789, Versailles is just a 40-minute drive from Paris. Tours combine the palace grounds, the Trianon palaces and Marie Antoinette’s estate (www.en.chateauversailles.fr/). After a long day, experience Parisian dining at its finest at Hotel Le Meurice’s Restaurant le Meurice, which has three Michelin stars, and Restaurant Le Dalí overlooking the Tuileries Garden. While you are at the hotel, make sure to stop and sip some classic cocktails at Bar 228. Photos courtesy: www.brides.com & www.wonderfulengineering.com

6. Mission: Impossible Ghost Protocol – Dubai & Prague

The Mission: Impossible franchise is not only popular for its awesome action sequences but also for its impressive locations. The first Mission: Impossible took place in the Czech Republic, while the second and third were shot in Australia and China, respectively. The fourth instalment, Ghost Protocol, raised the bar by showcasing the cool 162-storey tower (www.burjkhalifa.ae). shades of Prague and the magic of the United Arab While Dubai completes the movie’s modern Emirates. aesthetics, Prague offers something else. Remember Back in 2011, Ghost Protocol was the movie the scene when Ethan Hunt (Tom Cruise) snuck into everyone was talking about. Tom Cruise hanging the Kremlin in Russia? Filming actually took place from the towering Burj Khalifa was enough to inside Prague Castle. The castle complex was built give any viewer a heart attack. The world’s tallest in the ninth century, making it the largest ancient building is located in Dubai and visitors can ride the castle in the world. Inside you will find various elevator up to the 124th-floor Observation Deck for architectural styles, from Roman-style buildings some glorious views. Comprised of offices, hotels, from the 10th century through Gothic modifications shopping malls and entertainment precincts, from the 14th century (www.hrad.cz). there is plenty to keep everyone happy inside the Photos courtesy: www.1zoom.me, www.dubaidancefestival.com & www.filmquipmedia.com

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Intermezzo >> Movies

7. Vicky Cristina Barcelona – Barcelona, Spain

Know that you will dream of the world’s most exotic city after seeing Vicky Cristina Barcelona. After many visits to Spain, director Woody Allen proclaimed his love for the country with this movie. The abstract romance tells the story of two friends (Scarlett Johansson and Rebecca Hall) on a summer holiday in Spain, where they find love, trouble and self-discovery. The love triangle found a home in the nooks and crannies of northern Spain, focusing on Barcelona (in Catalonia), Oviedo and Avilés (both in Asturias). It’s impossible not to fall in love with Spain’s art and architecture, such as the Basilica of

La Sagrada Familia, Güell Park and Casa Mila La Pedrera – located in Catalonia. Sagrada Familia is the world’s largest Roman Catholic church, built by Gaudi in 1882 combining Gothic and curvilinear Art Nouveau forms (www.sagradafamilia.org), while Güell Park is a public park composed of gardens and architectonic elements located on Carmel Hill. Oviedo is home to the pre-Romanesque churches Santa María del Naranco, San Miguel de Lillo and San Julián de los Prados – all part of the Monuments of Oviedo and the Kingdom of Asturias. Some of the movie’s romantic scenes took place 35 kilometres from Oviedo, in Avilés. Among the most-visited spots in Avilés are San Juan Lighthouse and Ferrera Park, a 80,000-square-metre park consisting of forest, gymnastic equipment, a newspaper library, duck pond and a fully equipped children’s area. (www.spain.info/) Photos courtesy: www.woodyallenpages.com & www.metropolis.org

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Intermezzo >> Festivals

Fabulous Festivals around the World

Note the dates for the most fabulous festivals around the world! Text by Ester Pandiangan | Photos courtesy of each festival

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Bristol International Balloon Fiesta The Bristol International Balloon Fiesta is now in its 37th year and is Europe’s largest ballooning event. It’s a spectacular, free, four days of fun for the whole family from the 6th to 9th of August 2015. The fiesta is financed through sponsorships by local firms and businesses, as well as national companies. During the fiesta, sponsors are allocated a balloon to display their advertising banners and employees of the sponsors are encouraged to participate with the crewing of the balloons. With a total of 117 flights made from Ashton Court, the first Bristol International Balloon Fiesta proved to

be a roaring success, paving the way for future fiestas. From this small beginning, the Fiesta has grown year after year, flourishing into what has become Europe’s largest annual hot air balloon festival. Today, the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta attracts more than 100 hot air balloons with 500,000 members of the public attending over the four days of the event. The involvement of the business community is still central to the fiesta. During its 37-year history the fiesta has become as much of an icon for Bristol as Brunel, Wallace and Gromit, or the Concorde.

Photo courtesy: www.bristolballonfiesta.co.uk

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Intermezzo >> Festivals

Photo courtesy by Stanny Angga

Ubud Writers & Readers Festival Held annually in Ubud, Bali’s artistic and cultural heartland, the Ubud Writers & Readers Festival has become Southeast Asia’s largest and most renowned cultural and literary event. The mission of the Ubud Writers & Readers Festival is to create a world-class festival that celebrates extraordinary stories and amplifies brave voices, and tackles global issues and big ideas. The Ubud Writers & Readers Festival is the major annual project of the not-for-profit foundation Yayasan Mudra Swari Saraswati. It was first conceived of by Janet DeNeefe, co-founder of the foundation, as a healing project in response to the first Bali bombing. The next festival will be held 28 October to 1 November and will celebrate the theme 17,000 Islands of Imagination. The theme is the same one

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chosen by the Frankfurt Book Fair (to be held midOctober) for this year’s Guest of Honour Nation, Indonesia. The Ubud Writers & Readers Festival has elected to present a united front in order to best showcase the rich literature and arts of Indonesia to the world. The festival will this year play host to 160 of the world’s leading authors, thinkers, artists, advocates and social commentators, coming together from more than 25 countries across the globe. Exploring the theme 17,000 Islands of Imagination, the first-reveal program spans five days of more than 85 panel discussions, intimate literary lunches, workshops, night parties, poetry slams and food tours.

Glastonbury Festival Glastonbury Festival is a five-day music festival that takes place near Pilton, Somerset, England. In addition to contemporary music, the festival hosts dance, comedy, theatre, circus, cabaret, and other arts. Inspired by the ethos of the hippie, counterculture and free festival movements, the festival retains vestiges of these traditions, such as the Green Fields area, which includes sections known as the Green Futures and Healing Fields. Glastonbury Festival was held intermittently from 1970 to 1981, since when it has been held every year, except for â&#x20AC;&#x153;fallow yearsâ&#x20AC;? intended to give the land, the local population and the organisers a break, usually every five years.

Most people who stay at Glastonbury Festival camp in a tent. There are many different camping areas, each with its own atmosphere. Limekilns and Hitchin Hill Ground are quieter camping areas, whereas Pennard Hill Ground is a lively campsite. Campervans, caravans and trailer tents are not allowed into the main festival site. The purchase of a campervan ticket in addition to the main ticket allows access to fields just outside the boundary fence, and the cost includes access for the campervan or towing vehicle and the caravan.

Photo courtesy: www.gigaddict.co.uk

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Intermezzo >> Festivals

Photo courtesy of Japan National Tourism Organization

Karatsu Kunchi This Japanese festival takes place annually in the city of Karatsu, Saga Prefecture, on Japan’s island of Kyushu. The event takes place on the 2nd to 4th of November. The 3rd of November is a national holiday in Japan called Culture Day. Karatsu Kunchi is an epic event in which local people, in time with rhythmical music, pull large floats through the town to the sound of flutes and drums, shouting the traditional prompting, “Enya! Enya!” Huge helmets or lions decorate the base of the floats, known as Hikiyama, which are five to six metres high and weigh from two to five tons.

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The basic structure of each Hikiyama is made from wood, and topped with a large decoration made from clay or wood over which, along with hundreds of sheets of washi paper, linen and other materials are laid. The surface is covered with different types of lacquer and finished with gold and silver leaf. During the three days of the festival the whole town is in a festive mood. To welcome friends and relatives, rich food is laid out and drink flows freely. During the festival, no one is criticized for not observing good manners.

Photo courtesy of Singapore River One

Singapore River Festival There is no better way to celebrate Singapore’s golden jubilee than to go back to where it all began – the Singapore River. Taking place from Friday, 23rd October to Sunday, 25th October, the Singapore River Festival 2015 will offer visitors to the three quays at the Singapore River (Clarke Quay, Boat Quay and Robertson Quay) a kaleidoscopic line-up of exciting activities, good food, trendy markets, imaginative art installations and stunning performances by renowned local and international artists. This year, Singapore River One (SRO), as manager of the Singapore River, proudly present La Fura dels Baus, a famous theatrical group from Spain, as the

guest of Singapore River Festival 2015. They will perform their beautiful acrobatic choreography with more than 30 players. La Fura dels Baus is eccentricity, innovation, adaptation, rhythm, evolution and transgression. The company has pioneered the reconceptualization of two of the most significant aspects of the dramatic arts: the theatrical space and the public space. Visitors will be amazed as La Furla dels Baus pioneers the use of nonconventional space and invites spectators to play an active role in the performance. There is no creation without risk – a premise La Furla dels Baus has explored since its formation.

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Intermezzo >> Festivals Desert Hearts Spring Festival Desert Hearts is a biannual music and arts festival in Apple Valley, California. The community, a place where acceptance, creativity and passions flourish, hosts an intimate gathering of open-minded and like-minded individuals where friendships blossom and smiles surround you.

This past year was especially groundbreaking as they established their record label and had charttopping success with their first Desert Hearts Records releases. They brought their festival vibe indoors through their City Hearts parties in San Diego, San Francisco and Los Angeles.

This is a place to learn, grow, inspire and release, a safe haven away from Babylon where everyone can connect with nature, be themselves and do what makes then happy. One stage, one vibe and one beautiful growing family. House, Techno and Love was the foundation for the first small gathering in the Mojave and has continued to be the basis for these gatherings.

Desert Hearts was founded by San Diego=based friends and DJs Christopher Kristoff, Mikey Lion, Lee Reynolds, Matt Marbs Marbella, Deep Jesus and Mikeyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s younger brother, Porkchop. Andy Crane later joined the team to complete the Desert Hearts Crew. They welcome you to come join the magic they create as they come together as one.

Photo courtesy by Juliana Bernstein for Tiny Photography

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Profile

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op St Stop

Selfies! elfies! S

Hosting the popular television show “100 Hari Keliling Indonesia” has reminded Ramon Y. Tungka just how beautiful and fascinating Indonesia truly is. “It’s better to learn about your country before you learn about other countries,” Ramon says. Text by Ester Pandiangan Photos by Samuel Bimastani & Private Document

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Profile

amon Y. Tungka usually chooses to travel in Indonesia rather than go abroad And why not? No many countries have the natural b eauty or cultural diversity of Indonesia. After finishing the series “100 Hari Keliling Indonesia,” Ramon has gone back to acting — he appeared in Toba Dreams — and he is still travelling. He has also built his own tour company, Discover Indonesia (www.discoverindonesia.id).

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What made you decide to build Discover Indonesia? I thought this was the right time because I had learned so many things hosting “100 Hari Keliling Indonesia.” And I have the links, so it just made sense to do this now. What do you think about traveling in Indonesia and its future? There are so many travel agents that provide weekend trips now, and many people in Jakarta are going on weekend escapes to get away from the traffic, pollution and stress. People like to travel on Friday and get back on Sunday or even on Monday and go to the office from the airport. Everyone needs a holiday and travelling has become such an important activity now. What is your definition of a traveller? I don’t think just carrying a backpack and wearing boots makes you a traveller. You are truly a traveller when you have a good attitude when you travel, and manage your time and money. What is the worst mistake travellers often make? Being too obsessed with taking selfies when travelling. I’m not saying it’s bad to take photos and share them on social media. It promotes the places you visit. But don’t do it without paying attention to safety and your surroundings. I have seen people taking selfies and putting themselves in danger, like at Tebing Keraton in Bandung. Or when diving they

are too busy with their cameras, trying to get the best shoot, and as a consequence they damage the coral reefs. What places do you really want to visit and why? I am always crazy about old towns and exotic countries like Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Afghanistan, Kazakhstan, Tibet and Nepal. I had plans to go to Nepal but had to cancel because of the earthquake. What is the most exotic place you have visited? Italy! I’m so in love with its architecture, the atmosphere. My favourite is Tuscany; just beautiful. People know you as a hard-core traveller. Have you ever had any near-death experiences? Thank God, I haven’t had any accidents or been in any real danger. If you don’t follow safety procedures, there is a chance you will get hurt. I don’t like when people say, “Let’s get lost.” It’s better to be well prepared than say, “Let it flow.” Don’t play with nature. It’s kind of silly when people think they can conquer nature. What do you always bring when you travel? My heart and mind. It means you know the do’s and don’ts of every place you visit, how you act and treat local people. I also always bring a watch with a compass and a sarong.

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Intermezzo >>News Flash

Try Something NEO Archipelago International is proud to present one of their latest NEO hotels – Hotel NEO Eltari Kupang. Set in Kupang city, in East Nusa Tenggara, the hotel reflects the sights and sounds of this up-and-coming destination that is attracting an ever-increasing number of business and leisure travellers. The hotel has been in operation since June 2015 and features 137 stylish and comfortable guest rooms across four categories, as well as a coffee shop, a swimming pool and a spa and fitness centre. Perfect for business travellers, Hotel

NEO Eltari Kupang has three meeting rooms and a ballroom with complimentary high-speed internet connection, and ample parking available. All guest rooms are equipped with a full set of amenities and up-market facilities such as mini-bar, coffee maker and top of the line bedding with high-quality cotton linens and duvets. By offering such premium features, NEO hotels stay true to the group’s credo that well-designed and exciting hotels do not need to be expensive.

A Taste of France at Oakroom Restaurant & Bar As part of Oakwood Asia Pacific’s chef exchange program, and after the successful staging of the Indonesian Food Festival in Manila last September, Oakroom is pleased to present Executive Chef Jerome Cartailler from Oakwood Premier JoyNostalg Center, Manila for a weeklong presence to introduce its “A Taste of France” promotion at Oakwood Premiere Cozmo Jakarta, from 5 – 30 October 2015. Maximillian was able to sample some of the dishes during the launch and media luncheon. The threecourse set menu was wonderfully fulfilling. Our culinary journey to France began with a warm goat cheese salad with walnut vinaigrette. For the main course, we had a perfectly seared fillet of Norwegian salmon in aioli sauce with ratatouille. Profiteroles filled with vanilla ice cream and topped with warm chocolate sauce made for a sweet ending to the meal.

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Chef Jerome’s selection includes famous dishes like onion soup au gratin, egg cocotte and chanterelle in Parmigiano reggiano sauce, sautéed filet of beef served with gratin dauphinois and green pepper sauce. Chef Jerome’s table d’hote menu will be available for lunch only, while an a la carte menu will be available from 5 – 30 October for lunch (11.30am – 2.30pm) and dinner (6pm – 10pm). Reservations can be made at events. cozmojakarta@oakwoodasia.com or 62-21 2554 2300. Website: www.oakwoodasia.com.

ISLAND ESCAPE PACKAGE

IDR 3.274.000++ Above Package Includes: - 2 nights accommodation at Superior room - Welcome drink & chill towel upon arrival - Free WiFi - Daily buffet breakfast at Sunset Grill & Bar and daily afternoon tea at Aston Club Lounge for couple - One time snorkeling trip & one time set menu (3 courses) dinner for couple - Return transport from and to Gili Trawangan Harbor Terms and Conditions - Valid from 1 September - 23 December 2015 - Available upgrade to Aston Club room at IDR 298.000++ or to One Bedroom Villa at IDR 709.000++ per room per night - Rates above are subject to 21% government tax and service charge

Gili Meno Island

Gili Trawangan Island

Gili Air Island

Bali Island

Bali Sea Lombok Island

Intermezo | News Flash

Pizzalicious Package HARRIS Hotel & Conventions Malang has launched a special package for all pizza enthusiasts from the kitchen of HARRISIMO Pizzeria, the signature Italian restaurant in several HARRIS hotels around the country! For customers to enjoy this package, they need to book directly at harrishotels.com and pick the Pizzalicious Package, which includes a one-night stay in a HARRIS Room, breakfast for two, HARRIS signature fruit juice and a traditional woodoven Italian pizza! All this for only IDR 808,000nett/ package. The promotion is valid until 30 November 2015.

Air China Opens Direct Flight from Beijing to Johannesburg Air China began direct flights between Beijing and Johannesburg in October 2015. This is the direct route offered by a Chinese airline between China and South Africa. This is also the first Air China route to the African continent. This direct flight will take around 14 hours. Air China also plans to open a route from Beijing to the Ethiopian capital, Addis Ababa.

Dinner on Fire Located in the heart of Legian street, Rustik Bistro & Bar at Harper Kuta Bali Hotel is excited to announce the launch of “ Dinner on Fire“ every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Available between 6.30pm to 9pm, the menu will include a selection of exquisite food themes. Mongolian StirFry on Mondays is designed for guests who love Mongolian cuisine, Authentic Indonesian Super Satay on Wednesdays offers a selection of richly seasoned satay, and BBQ Night on Fridays is the perfect way to welcome the weekend. Diners will be entertained by live cooking show. Prices start from IDR 79,000 net per person, and guests will be greeted with a special welcome cocktail.

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Intermezzo >>News Flash

Singapore Airlines Extends Title Sponsorship of Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix

Singapore Airlines will extend its title sponsorship of the Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix for another two years, until 2017. The airline, which is a longstanding supporter of sports in Singapore, has been the title sponsor of the race since 2014. “As a strong supporter of both sports and tourism, we are excited to continue as title sponsor of one of the most exciting races in the F1 calendar. We look forward to further showcasing the race to the world, and helping to strengthen Singapore’s image as a world-class tourism, cultural and sporting event city,” said Singapore Airlines CEO, Mr Goh Choon Phong.

Central Anniversary Flower Extravaganza The first anniversary of Central Department Store was celebrated with five days of fresh floral decorations in an area of 800 square metres spanning all four floors. Central Department Store at Grand Indonesia Shopping Town, partnered by BCA, Centara Hotels & Resorts, MasterCard and Thai Airways, presented the first anniversary of Central Department Store Indonesia, with the Central Anniversary Flower Extravaganza that showcased the first and biggest fresh flower display ever at a department store in Indonesia, from 1st October 2015 to 5th October 2015. Central Department Store transformed their four floors into a garden of delight with the theme “Floral Paradise”. The Central Anniversary Flower Extravaganza marked the start of a special program for Central Department Store’s first anniversary, which is “Shop & Win Top Spender”, running from 1st - 31st October 2015, which will indulge Central Department Store customers with the ultimate prize of 5 holiday packages to the Centara Grand at CentralPlaza Ladprao, Bangkok, Thailand for 3 days and 2 nights, travelling with Thailand’s leading airline,

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Thai Airways. There are special prizes for the top spenders who use their MasterCard credit card, receiving an additional prize of an allowance worth IDR 10,000,000. Central Department Store will also provide shopping vouchers worth up to IDR 2,000,000 for the Top 10 Spenders in the same period. Central Anniversary Flower Extravaganza also offers interesting promotions such as discounts of up to 30 per cent on selected items (1-5 October), cash discount coupons worth up to IDR 750,000 for certain nominal spending amounts, and for customers who use their BCA Credit Card, there is an additional cash discount coupon worth up to IDR 100,000.

Advertorial

Suite Life at Amaroossa

For travellers in search of the ultimate in indulgence, check into Amaroossa Suite Bali and dive into your in-room private pool. Text by Ester Pandiangan | Photos courtesy of Amaroossa Suite Bali

f you are in search of a Bali hotel room that is the very definition of comfort and excellence, the Pool Suite at Amaroossa Suite Bali is your choice. The Pool Suite at Amaroossa Suite Bali features 43 square metres of luxurious space designed to deliver a truly great Bali experience that you simply cannot find anywhere outside Amaroossa Suite Bali. Outfitted from top to bottom with top-quality amenities and facilities, the Pool Suite is a fantastic choice for people with exquisite taste; the kind of people who want nothing but great value in their Bali hotel experience. Strategically located in the heart of Nusa DuaAmaroossa Suite Bali features a collection of 60 all-suite rooms divided into four types – Executive, Royal, Pool and Family Suite – all engineered to provide only the best modern Bali hotel experience. A great atmosphere, great service from friendly staff and, most importantly, great food await at Amaroossa Suite Bali. Chandu Bar is a relaxing

lounge where you can enjoy a soothing and calming atmosphere perfect after a busy day of work or activities. Amaroossa Suite BaliAmaroossa Suite Bali Kebo Iwa No. 2 Taman Mumbul Nusa Dua, Bali – Indonesia Phone. +62 361 846 8877 www.amaroossahotel.com

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Intermezzo >> Fun Facts

10 Travel

Fun Facts “People don’t take trips, trips take people.” – John Steinbeck Text by Ester Pandiangan These fun facts about some of the most-visited places in the world may inspire you to hit the road and experience them yourself. • When you are in Thailand it is best to avoid political discussions. It is generally safer to stick to safer topics, like the weather or the country’s natural attractions. And when in Bangkok take care if visiting Royal Square (Sanamluang) and Navanakorn Public Park, which are two popular spots for demonstrators. • It is forbidden for people to feed pigeons in San Francisco, California. • Austrian citizens are said to have the most vacation time of anyone in the world. Austria guarantees workers a legal minimum of 22 paid vacation days and 13 paid holidays each year. • France covers the most time zones. It uses 12 different time zones, the most of any country in the world. • With more than three million lakes, Canada has the most lakes in the world. Almost 9 per cent of Canada’s area is covered in freshwater. • The largest country in the world with no farm is Singapore. Although there are a number of small nations in the world that show no hint of having an agriculture-based economy (take Vatican City for example), Singapore is the largest of these urban city-states.

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• Don’t be surprised if you visit the Aloha State, but the Hawaiian alphabet only has 12 letters: A, E, I, O, U, H, K, L, M, N, P and W. • Here are some tips if you want to travel to Japan. First, the bus is more economical than the train. Second, Japan has plenty of free attractions such as museums, shrines, temples, historic neighbourhoods and parks. And third, hostels in Japan let you work for your room. You spend a few hours in the morning cleaning and you’ll get free accommodation for as long as you want. • Unlike most other countries, being drunk in public is totally legal and is actually pretty common in South Korea. Don’t be too surprised if you see drunk Koreans passed out on the sidewalk or on the train at night. • Motorbikes are everywhere in Vietnam, particularly in cities like Hanoi and Saigon. You will see motorbikes piled high with all kinds of things.

Intermezzo >> On the Go

No-Snag Hair Ties Say farewell to bad hair with no-snag hair ties from Minnie & Lola. Fashionably chic and kind to your hair, you can wear these in your hair or on your wrist as cute, funky colourful bracelets. Wear one, two or a stack, the choice is yours. These are high-quality hair ties that you can use again and again; when they get dirty, just use a gentle soap or cleanser and hand wash them. These no-snag hair ties come in a set of five, and all of the sets are limited edition, so when they’re gone, they’re gone. Be sure to get them while they’re still available. Minnie & Lola takes pride in the quality and workmanship of their products. These no-snag hair ties use high-quality materials imported from the United States, no flimsy, cheap elastic. Try these once and you’ll be hooked. Check out www.minnieandlola. wix.com/shop to order your hair ties or email Minnie & Lola at minnieandlola@outlook.com.

Fashion Item Must Have A scarf is one of the most versatile fashion accessories you can have. It can spice up any outfit and give you a new look. Wear it as a head wrap on bad hair days, over your shoulders to protect them from the glaring sun, around your neck, as a belt, as a swimsuit cover-up, and the list goes on. Buying a scarf is a worthwhile investment because it can be used year-round, so make sure to buy a high-quality scarf that is beautiful and will last. That is a Nani Iro double gauze scarf. Nani Iro scarves are of the highest quality, with hand-painted watercolour prints. These scarves are light and airy, but they can also be used during the rainy season or for extra warmth in cold weather. Double gauze fabrics, a Japanese invention, are two layers of fine fabric held together by a tiny grid of stitches that are virtually invisible. The materials used to make the scarves are imported from Japan and the scarves are limited editions, so the turnaround time for each scarf is about two to three weeks. Visit the Minnie & Lola’s website www.minnieandlola.wix.com/shop to find out more about double gauze and while you›re there make sure to check out the scarves. For more information or to place an order, please contact Minnie & Lola at minnieandlola@outlook.com

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