Sunday, August 20, 2017

Exploring the Underwater World – Scuba Diving from Kota Kinabalu in Sabah, Borneo, Malaysia

Sabah, Borneo is located within the Coral Triangle. You don’t have to travel far in Sabah to appreciate its tropical waters. Kota Kinabalu has Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park on it’s doorstep. Find out more about this popular scuba diving location.

Sabah is part of Malaysian Borneo, located in south east Asia and is surrounded by the South China Sea on the west coast, Sulu Sea on the East coast and the Celebes Sea on the South Cost. Sabah is located within the Coral Triangle - the Coral Triangle is known for being home to some of the most diverse marine life in the world. Fortunately you don’t have to travel far in Sabah to appreciate its tropical waters. Kota Kinabalu, the capital city, has Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park on it’s doorstep. The marine national park is only 20 minutes by boat from Kota Kinabalu, Sabah's Capital and Malaysia's youngest city. This makes it a popular choice for visitors interested in diving, snorkelling, watersports or just chilling out on the islands beaches. The rest of this article provides an overview of the scuba diving sites located in Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park located just in front of Kota Kinabalu.
The Marine Park, named after Malaysia's first Prime Minister, came into existence in 1974 and at that time it was Sabah's second National Park. It is home to five islands – Pulau Gaya, Pulau Mamutik, Pulau Sapi, Pulau Manukan and Pulau Sulug. The three busiest islands are Sapi, Mamutik & Manukan (each with the facilities to cater for tourists). All five islands are fringed by coral reefs and home to dive sites and areas suitable for snorkeling. With over 20 different dive sites in Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park the visiting diver, or those wanting a try dive, really are spoilt for choice. Let’s take a closer look at the reefs surrounding each of the islands and the variety of marine life you can expect to see.

Sapi is the second smallest island in the Marine Park. It is fringed by a reef on it’s east, south and west shores. Sapi House reef is probably the most popular dive site in the Marine Park for divers. It is home to a shallow coral reef, artificial reef balls and a sandy bay which is ideal for diver training. On the home reef you’ll see a wide variety of coral reef fish – Damsel Fish, Fusiliers, Barracuda, Parrot Fish, Wrasse, Puffer Fish, Porcupine Fish, Bat Fish – and it’s the most popular reef for visiting Hawksbill Turtles. Along the sandy bank you’ll find some interesting marine life too including Garden Eels, Blue Spotted Rays, Gobies, Lion Fish, File Fish, Puffer Fish, Anemone Fish, Pipefish, Flounders (known locally as the Ikan Sebelah – or ‘side fish’), nudibranches and more. The house reef is 3m – 18m with a sloping reef. It rarely has currents making it perfect for a check out dive or a very relaxing dive either enjoying the fish life in the shallow reefs, muck diving along the sandy area or checking out the marine life around the artificial reef balls.

There are also some good dive sites on the south coast of Sapi – Rons Reef and Rays Reef – both have gentle slopping reefs from 8m – 18m and can be a nice gentle drift dive when the tides changing. Another nice dive site on the west coast is the reef extension know as Clements Reef. Clements Reef has very pretty hard and soft corals interspersed with coral cover boulders and Barrel Sponges. It is 8m on the top of the reef with a gentle sloping reef fringing the dive site down to between 18m – 25m. A nice deeper coral reef site.

Mamutik, a slightly quieter island, is home to a nice beach and two decent dive sites – the fringing reef located on the north and western side of the island (which has a 10m x 5m patch full of anemones with False Clarke Anemone Fish, or Nemo’s). It also has a dive site called ‘the Pyramid’ located off the west facing side of the island – so called due to it’s shape. The Pyramid is an interesting dive site – it may not have the best corals in the Marine Park but it has interesting critters on it’s slops (Nudibranches, Scorpion Fish, Shrimps etc.) and typically has a large schooling group of Barracuda at the top of the pyramid. The dive sites have the nicest conditions during the North East trade winds (November – March) when they are more protected from the prevailing winds.

Manukan’s best dive sites are on the west coast, facing out to the South China Sea. These are probably the least visited coral reefs by divers – as most Dive Operators don’t make the effort to visit reefs that are the furthest distance from Kota Kinabalu. Typically you’ll be the only divers in the water when diving the west reef. Home to a shallow reef (5m – 12m) full of large table corals with a gently sloping sand bank from 10m – 20 dotted with coral boulders. Around these coral boulders you can often find an interesting mix of Nudibranches, Lion Fish, Shrimps, File Fish, Puffer Fish, Porcupine Fish, Moray Eels, Sea Cucumbers and more.

Gaya is the largest island in Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. Whilst most of the island is fringed by coral reefs, the nicest quality reefs (in terms of coral coverage, health of the corals and mix of marine life can be found at a small number of locations – Soft Coral Garden on the west coast (so called due to the volume of colourful soft corals covering it), Policy Bay and the reefs just to the east of Police Bay. Police Bay is a protected bay during the south west trade winds providing for nicer visibility. The reefs towards the edge of the entrance to the bay (on the northern tip) have lovely steep sloping reef walls from 10m to 25m – 30m and often have large shoals of Snappers and Fusiliers.

Last, but by no means least, Sulug. Sulug has a ‘tongue shaped’ coral reef protruding from it’s north face. The reef has a flat top at 5m – 7m with steeper slopes which can reach 25m. The slopes are covered in coral covered boulders and bombies. It’s on the northern reef slopes where you’ll find the most Orangutan crabs, a surprising range of Nudibranches and some of the largest Gorgonian Fans. If you’re lucky you may also get to see a Frog Fish or a Ghost Harlequin Pipefish during the mating season.

Whether you be visiting Kota Kinabalu, Sabah as an experienced diver, a new diver, wanting to learn to dive or enjoy a try dive there are dive sites in Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park to meet your needs.

Kota KinaBalu Hotels: Matching the International Standard

Its bustling street, modern establishments and variety of entertainment facilities invite flocks of tourist every year. Kota kinabalu is considered to be the financial district of Sabah too. With Sign...


Its bustling street, modern establishments and variety of entertainment facilities invite flocks of tourist every year. Kota kinabalu is considered to be the financial district of Sabah too. With Signal Hill and old KK town at one end of the city, it features several shopping avenues for the visitors on the other end. On Sundays, the liveliness of Kota Kinabalu along the Gaya Street is something which you should not miss out.

Tunku Abdul Rahman Park is also a spot that deserves a big round of applause for presenting fantastic water activities on the beautiful beaches to the visitors. However, such facilities become meaningless if no proper accommodation facilities are available at the destination. Fortunately, Kota Kinabalu is exceptionally rich in terms of excellent accommodation. Visitors hardly need to put nay great effort in searching for the hotels that suits to their budget. Accommodation of all variety at excellent locations in the city is available.

Kota Kinabalu Hotels offer experience to the occupants that is rich in terms of service, food and other essential amenities. Several renowned hotels are in the list which a visitor can choose from. Berjaya Palace Hotel, Hyatt Kinabalu, Casuarina Hotel, Le Meridian and several others constitute the list of beautiful accommodation in the city. The amenities available in these hotels will never allow you to undermine their standard in comparison to the International hotels in other parts of the world.

Borneo - Sandakan Wildlife Search

Sandakan is situated on the East Coast of Sabah, Malaysian Borneo. On its West is the interior mountain range and on the East is the Sulu Sea. Sandakan is definitely a dream location for travelers interested in wildlife and nature. Our Sandakan Wildlife Expedition brings you closer to three of the worlds most exciting conservation programmes: Turtle Conservation on the Turtle Island Parks, Orang Utan Rehabilitation Center in Sepilok and the Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary. In addition, this expedition takes you to Gomantong Caves where the largest collection of edible birds' nest is found. 

Turtle Island Park

The Turtle Island Park, lying some 40Km north of Sandakan and close to the Philippines border, comprises of a group of three beautiful tropical islands - Pulau Selingan, Pulau Bakungan Kecil and Pulau Gulisan. The total park covers an area of 1,740 hectares embracing not only the three islands but also the surrounding coral reefs and the sea. Pulau Selingan and Pulau Bakungan Kecil seem to attract the Green Turtles to come and nest here while the Hawksbill Turtles prefer Pulau Gulisan. No obvious reasons can be found for these turtles' choice of nesting areas. The Green and Hawksbill Turtles come ashore to nest all year round but the best time to visit is between July to October because more turtles come to lay their eggs during this period. However, at least a few turtles do come up to nest every night of the year.

Turtles normally arrive on the islands after dusk. While waiting for the sun to set and the arrival of these turtles, there are many activities that you can explore. The tropical white sandy beaches are ideal for relaxing and tanning whilst the crystal clear water is fantastic if you fancy snorkeling or watching the beautiful sea lives and corals. The park is also a great spot for a BBQ picnic under the long hours of golden sunshine. You can also wander around the island to witness how many turtles have arrived in the island the previous few nights as these turtles leave their marks on the sand. 

The Park Rangers will inform you after the first sighting of incoming turtles. You will be escorted to the nesting turtle by the rangers to watch the eggs being laid. Clutches of freshly laid eggs are then excavated and transplanted to the protected turtle hatchery, with minimum delay, to ensure that other wild predators, mainly monitor lizards, do not eat or destroy them. After a period of incubation, the eggs will hatch and the hatchlings will be released to the sea. The release of hatchlings is normally done early morning or night and are released at various locations on the islands again to avoid wild predators. When the hatchlings are released on the shore, they scatter in all directions and instinctively head for the sea. Once they enter the water, they are washed ashore by the incoming waves, but after a few attempts they swim strongly out to the sea. The hope is for these hatchlings to survive the rough sea and to one day return to the Turle Island Parks.

Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre

The most popular native of Borneo is the Orang Utan; one of nature's most endangered animals. Located 25Km from Sandakan is the world-famous Sepilok Rehabilitation Centre which has been around since 1964. Set in 43 square km of protected and beautiful rainforest at the edge of Kabili Sepilok Forest Reserve, the sanctuary helps once captive Orang Utans learn to fend for themselves in the wild. This sanctuary also enables you to come in close contact with these amazing animals and witness an exciting conservation programme in action. However, you are restricted to walkways and are not allowed to touch these animals in order to protect them from any diseases. The centre also provides medical care for orphaned and confiscated Orang Utans as well other wildlife such as Gibbons, Sumatran Rhinos and Elephants. 

In their natural settings, Orang Utan babies stay with their mothers for a period of six years while they are taught the skills needed to survive in the wild, with climbing as the most important skill. At this centre, these babies are paired up with older Orang Utans to learn these essential skills. Meal times are the highlights to both the Orang Utans and visitors to the centre. There are two feeding times each day. This is when about 60 semi-wild Orang Utans swing from their jungle habitat on to the feeding platforms for their daily meals of milk and bananas. Once there is no food left, these animals zip back into the jungle but occasionally some will come back to pose for the last remaining visitors. 

There is an Information Nature Education Centre and a mini-theatre within the sanctuary where you can watch a documentary video on the work of the Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre.

Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary

The Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary lies within the massive floodplain of the lower Kinabatangan River. The sanctuary covers an area of 27,000 hectares and is one of the richest eco-systems on earth. This area is a must visit for any nature lover wanting a taste of an incredible nature experience. These floodplain forests develop as the river meets the lowland. Common features of the floodplain forests are ox-bow lakes, freshwater swamp rainforests and limestone hills. 

These wetlands around the lower Kinabatangan link aquatic and terrestrial habitats and help regulate water quality and quantity, as well as maintain the ecosystem's ecological functions, forming a sanctuary for a rich and diverse fauna and flora. It has the highest density and diversity of wildlife in Malaysia. It is also one of only two known places on Earth where ten primate species, including the endangered proboscis monkeys (endemic to Borneo Island), orang utans and Sumatran Rhino. In addition, the rich sanctuary is also home to 200 species of bird as well as 50 mammal species. 

The best way for you to view the wildlife and tropical wilderness of this area is by taking an early morning or an evening river cruise along the Kinabatangan River and also a cruise to the ox-bow lakes. See also the colourful local villagers living along the river on stilt houses. You can stay at the excellent Sukau River Lodge, which is erected from local materials consisting of wooden huts built on stilts. 

Gomantong Caves

The Gomantong Caves, located in limestone hills around the lower Kinabatangan River, have been popular for their edible birds' nests for centuries. These nests are known for their medicinal values amongst the local Chinese community and are collected by using local materials of rattans and bamboo to make ladders that hang over 100 feet above the cave floor. 

Once these nests are collected, they are soaked in water where all the mud and feathers are removed leaving clear birds nest which can be sold to the local Chinese community or exported around the world. The collectors of these nests can earn a very high amount of money and consequently, the collecting of nests is tightly controlled by a licensing system.

For Exciting Scuba Diving, Malaysia is an Ideal Destination

Borneo is a sovereign state made up of parts of Malaysia, Indonesia, and Brunei.  An island set north of Australia in the South China Sea, Borneo offers miles and miles of coastline from which boats launch daily for some of the world's best scuba diving.  Malaysia is known for lush rain forests and calm, warm waters, giving divers and other tourists a delightful opportunity to enjoy new experiences in this beautiful area.


Borneo is a sovereign state made up of parts of Malaysia, Indonesia, and Brunei.  An island set north of Australia in the South China Sea, Borneo offers miles and miles of coastline from which boats launch daily for some of the world's best scuba diving.  Malaysia is known for lush rain forests and calm, warm waters, giving divers and other tourists a delightful opportunity to enjoy new experiences in this beautiful area.

With so many coastal towns and villages, it is no wonder that scuba diving is such a booming business.  Diving in Malaysia is an ultimate goal for many enthusiasts, and dive sites dot the areas around the island.  Just a short boat ride away is the Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park, which consists of a series of five islands, around which divers enjoy shallow diving in the calm, safe waters of the South China Sea.  Beautiful reefs and fantastic sea life abound to the delight of those who wish to partake.  

If you are visiting Malaysia, and have never tried diving before, you will find that this is a great place to try.  Diving centers offer dive equipment for beginners and experts alike.  Mares, a leader in diving equipment, is stocked widely throughout the island.  Of course, these diving centers are not just for shopping.  Rent a boat for the day, which will come with a captain and a first mate who know the waters and will take you to the most rewarding dive sites.  Rookies can find diving instructors who will first guide them through the scuba shop to ensure they have the right gear; then they will go out with them for instruction and coaching.

If you are planning a trip to Malaysia, and diving is a priority for you, consider one or more of the following cities:  Sipadan Island, Mabul, Kapalai, Layang Layang, and Lankayan.  Each offers outstanding diving opportunities, as well as beautiful surroundings, and comfortable accomodations.  

Less than an hour from the mainland of Borneo is Sipadan Island, which, for some, is the ultimate site for diving.  Multiple big and small fish populate the waters near the island, as well as sea turtles and sharks.  Just a short trip north of this island is Mabul, which offers the finest in macro diving.  This form of diving involves the use of a macro lens camera to examine and photograph very small sea life.  Kapalai is an island resort near Sipadan Island, which is an ideal site for a vacation, even if you have no interest at all in diving; however, divers will be treated to a show when they observe squid, needlefish, and mandarinfish at home in the waters surrounding the resort.

A dive shop is available on each island and in every town to ensure that you have everything you need for your expedition.  If you have never tried this popular sport and pastime before, but are curious about scuba diving, Malaysia is one of the most beautiful and rewarding places in the world that you can try.

Flights to Borneo And Chapter for the Wildlife of Borneo

Borneo is the famous island of Malaysia. Borneo is home to various exotic and rere wildlife and birdlife. The Borneo rainforests are some of the oldest undisturbed areas of rainforest in the world. . The months from March to October receives the great monsoons. It is nonetheless a paradise of herbalists, botanists, and zoologists and they get and plan special flights to Borneo to enhance their knowledge and expertise. Some of most stunning rainforest have been included into National Parks, which to some extent, are a good enough reason to make the effort to visit Borneo. Sarawak and Sabah are main towns in the state. 


Borneo, the natures’ blessed island is ranked on number third in the world and largest in Malaysia. Basically, Borneo is the hilly region with thick rain forests. The forests of Borneo are rich with the flora and fauna. The climate is hot and wet, enjoys the rainfall of between 150 and 200 inches annually. The months from March to October receives the great monsoons. It is nonetheless a paradise of herbalists, botanists, and zoologists and they get and plan special flights to Borneo to enhance their knowledge and expertise. Because of loads of rainfall, the plantation is quite varied. About 11,000 diverse species of flowering flora, over 700 species of trees are observed in Borneo. That is the logic that the herbalists and chemists from all over the world reserve Borneo flights to get the best medications of various diseases and prepare chemicals. 

Borneo is quite enriched with wild life. According to a survey by WWF in 1994, it was estimated that at least 222 species of mammals, 420 geneses of birds, and 394 fresh water fish are found in Borneo and still new species are discovered each year. 

The beautiful island of Lankayan in Borneo contains a large collection of sharks and whales. From March to May the oversize undisruptive sharks are regularly seen in the island. The travel agencies offering cheap flights to Borneo make special offers for diving activity in the package. 

Lankayan is also a good destination for tourism. Families and children looking for relaxation and recreational vacation trip must visit the island and many people each year reserve cheap flights to Borneo and have fun in the island.

Sukau Rainforest - located on the Kinabatangan River, the forest of Sukau houses probably the most concentration of wildlife in Borneo. 1,000 plants’ species, 250 species of birdlife, and 90 fish species are observed in the forest. Many renowned botanists avail Borneo flights to study these creatures every year.  Some trunk monkeys, crocodiles, macaques, pygmy elephants, and otters are also observed here.

Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre – the center is working for the interests of orang utans (trunk monkeys) established in 1964. The center strives for the orphaned and treatment of the injured ones. The center provides a great chance to view the monkeys in their natural habitat. The scientists globally engaged in the cause specially go for flights to Borneo to visit the centre. 
http://www.borneoflights.co.uk
Tabin Wildlife Reserve – is dealing with the cause of various wildlife which is rare in earth and endangered such as the Sumatran rhino, Tembadau, Borneo Pygmy elephant and some birdlife. Many tours operators giving Borneo flights offer special tour to the reserve in the package. 

Borneo - Exotic Island Paradise


SABAH is Malaysia's premier nature adventure destination situated in the northern tip of Borneo Island, the third largest island in the world. Sabah is popular for its wildlife conservation attractions, rain forest, surrounding nature and islands, beach resorts, tropical white sandy beaches, crystal clear water, and its warm and friendly people. If you are thinking of visiting Borneo, these places of interest and activities will whet your appetite!

Mount Kinabalu

Let me begin with my favorite place and definitely not to be missed if you are visiting Borneo, Mt. Kinabalu (4,093m). It is the summit of Borneo and the tallest mountain in South East Asia. This mountain is sacred to the locals. Thousands from around the world have trekked to its peak. At the feet of this mountain is Kinabalu National Park, a botanical paradise where rare plants are found: rare orchids, nepenthes pitcher plants and the rafflesia, the largest flower in the world.

Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre

If you haven't heard yet, the most popular native of Borneo is the Orang Utan. The world-famous Sepilok Rehabilitation Centre enables visitors to come in close contact with these amazing animals. This sanctuary allows visitors to witness an exciting conservation programme in action. Set in 43 square km of beautiful rainforest, the sanctuary helps once captive Orang Utans learn to fend for themselves in the wild. Watch how these orphaned Orang Utans being taught to climb, and then go to a platform where you can witness them coming in from within the forest for their daily meals of milk and bananas.

Danum Valley Rain Forest

If nature is close to your heart, then this next destination I am going to introduce you is a must visit, Danum Valley. Danum Valley is nestled deep in the rain forest of Borneo where nature is at its most pristine. As you travel deeper and deeper into the jungle, you will suddenly come across a magical paradise of the Borneo Rainforest Lodge (BRL), erected overlooking the magnificent setting of the Segama River and flanked by tall hill ranges. BRL is an impressive resort, designed by naturalists and built on stilts using traditional timber materials, and has the comfort of a 3-Star Hotel. I totally recommend Danum Valley to those who yearn to see wildlife in a primeval Borneo rainforest - the rare Sumatran rhino, proboscis monkeys, Orang Utan, elephants and over 275 species of birds. 

Tunku Abdul Rahman Island Park

When you think you have enough of sightseeing and you want to take a day's break idling around to charge your energy, then I suggest you take a 30-minute boat trip to Tunku Abdul Rahman Park. The park is made up of five beautiful islands and is a well-known sanctuary where peace and tranquility prevails. The tropical white sandy beaches are ideal for relaxing and tanning. The crystal clear water is fantastic if you fancy snorkeling or watching the sea lives and corals. The park is also a great spot for a BBQ picnic under the long hours of golden sunshine. Other activities include windsurfing, fishing, parasailing, kayaking and bird watching.

Golfing Holidays

If golf is your sport, then try the numerous high quality golf courses in Sabah. One of the courses as described by its designer - "I had to create a masterpiece by combining the natural splendor of the mountains and the seas, with ingenious architecture, and create a first class championship course to provide an enjoyable, yet challenging game for top professional golfers and amateurs alike" - Graham Marsh. Enough words said for the quality of golf courses here. 

White-Water Rafting

For the true adventure seeker looking for an adrenaline-pumping activity, Sabah offers some of the most exhilarating thrills in the world. My scariest experience, only because I am not a good swimmer, is white-water rafting down the Padas River (a grade-3 river). Whilst trying to negotiate the rapids along this raging river for a distance of about 5 kilometers, do enjoy the breathtaking view that the surrounding rain forest does offer. However, be warned, don't take your eyes off the rapids and waves too long! 

Scuba Diving

Off the North Eastern coast of Borneo lies a tiny jewel of an island, Sipadan, with a marine ecosystem so perfect and unique that it is world renowned as one of the best dive spots in the world. Sipadan Island rises as a pristine Coral Sea mount, 650 meters from the floor of the Sulawesi Sea. This pinnacle off the eastern coast of Borneo is an oceanic magnet for marine life. As soon as you enter the crystal clear waters of Sipadan Island, you'll understand why you have endured a journey that has taken you halfway around the world. As you begin to descend into this tropical water, you'll also understand why the World Wildlife Fund says, "No other spot on the planet has more marine life than this island."

Lombok Island Is An Undiscovered Paradise

Do you need a vacation? Or do you need time to relax and unwind? You don't want to go where there are millions of other tourists there which will spoil your time off from work.

One place that you may not have heard of is Lombok Island. It is an undiscovered island paradise in Indonesia which may be the answer to your dreams.

What type of vacation are you looking for? Do you want to simply relax and do nothing? Or perhaps you want a vacation filled with plenty of activities that have intriguing sights and sounds. Or maybe you want to have an exotic adventure filled with nightlife and shopping. Any one of these and many others can be attained at Lombok Island.

This island is located east of Bali and is the owner of magnificent white sand beaches, a tropical climate and friendly people. Mount Rinjani National Park is also located here which has the third largest volcano in Indonesia with a measurement of 3726 meters. The best time to plan your trip is from the months of May to October. The peak season during the months of July and August so you will want to plan your trip early and make sure you have reservations!

There are many activities to do on the island of Lombok. You can do rock climbing, scuba diving, trekking, biking, sailing, snorkeling, bamboo rafting, surfing, fishing, boating, paragliding, parasailing, and even golfing. If you can name it you can do it here. You can trek on the mountain or on a natural trail. Most trips are usually done with an average of 15 to 20 people and accompanied by a local guide. You can even go camping and view some of the natural animals and vegetation.

The major city of Senggigi holds plenty of local nightlight filled with many dining establishments and dining restaurants. You will be sure to find something that will want to remind you of your visit and other unique items to take back as gifts. You will find exotic foods that will provide you with experiences unlike any other.

You can also take a small trek or tour to view the local plant life. There are also wetlands that you can view and enjoy. While there you might see a komodo or other natural animal life on the island. This is your chance to see animals in their natural habitat that you would normally see in a zoo.

When you visit Lombok Island you might not get a chance to see everything. You might be so overwhelmed by all the activities and adventures that happen here. You might decide not to do anything at all but simply meditate, relax, and get pampered. That can be done here as well. Whatever your vacation ideal is you can have it when you come to Lombok Island. It is a tranquil place with unheard of beauty and lulling waters that soothe your senses. The colors are so vibrant they appear to have been painted by an artist. You will not want to leave.

Important Places in Indonesia

Dreaming of becoming in one of the beaches in Bali? If you love dynamics and unforgettable and romantic beach expertise, Indonesia is the best place for you. Character and tradition will be the highlights of Indonesian tourism. The country's tourism is focused on tropical destinations that's why the accommodations and resorts are being developed. The country is also a household to 7 entire world heritage websites declared by UNESCO. 


Dreaming of getting in one or more of the beaches in Bali? If you love nature and unforgettable and romantic beach practical knowledge, Indonesia is the best position for you. Nature and traditions will be the highlights of Indonesian tourism. The country's tourism is focused on tropical destinations this is one of the reasons why the accommodations and resorts are becoming developed. The state is in addition a house to 7 globe heritage websites declared by UNESCO. 

The normal ecosystem in the country is well-preserved simply because among the 17,000 islands, the only inhabited islands are 6,000. Diving and surfing include the activities that most tourists do in the country. Since Indonesia has 17,000 islands, there are quite a few diving and surfing web-sites all over the country. A few of the diving web sites are Bunaken at the tip of Sulawesi, Tulamben Bay in Bali, Nusa Lembongan, and Nusa Penida. As for the surfing sites, there are quite a few surf breaks along Sumatra, Aceh, Bali, Banten, Sumbawa, and Mentawai Islands. G-Land within the Bay of Grajagan and Lagundri Bay in Nias island will be the two famous surf breaks in Indonesia. 

Apart from the diving, surfing, and beach hopping, there are quite a few our natural resources in Indonesia in which six of them are listed as entire world heritage websites. The largest nature in Sumatra are the Gunung Leuser National Park that is 9,500 sq km, Kerinci Seblat Nationwide Park that is 13,750 sq km, and also the Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park that is 3,568 sq km. The nature preserve the endangered animals like Sumatran elephants, Javan rhinoceros, and Orangutans. 

Borobudur Temple Compound in Central Java created through the 8th century is one of the heritage internet sites. Other heritage internet sites are Prambanan Temple , and Sangiran Early Man Website. It is these that are the destinations that you shouldn't miss when you're in Indonesia. You should also pay a visit to Yogakarta where lots of galleries are found for you to find out the Indonesia art and traditions. 

Types of Jewelry Cultural Version of Java Indonesia

In Indonesia, especially Java region often connect with the world of all things mystical / supernatural, this is because cultural traditions are very strong in Java.

Here are categories of the cultural treasures of Java in Indonesia :

• agate 

Carnelian can help with issues of physical and emotional personality. The legend says that users are protected from the dangers of carnelian and bless the wearer with courage. Carnelian is believed to cure insomnia disease (severe insomnia), offering a beautiful dream and help balance the body. Types of agate with the ability to: 
Moss Agate: improving the relationship with the natural environment. green moss helps to eliminate toxins in the blood and balance the emotional energy. red moss helps to purify the blood and increase stamina. 
Tree Agate: Introspection clearly help to see the world through a broader perspective and to reduce fever and toxicity 
Agate line / Band: help pull the power, a feeling, not enough strength and courage to overcome 
Agate / Interwoven: overcoming the despair and depression, caused excitement and muscle tension and spasms. Blue Agate helps the body fluids and give peace of emotional balance. 
Agate is like a spring bird: strengthening the blood vessels and overcome anxiety for no apparent reason. Useful in reducing anxiety in hunting or driving directions 
Carnelian beads: additional protection against traveler / wanderer, an adventurer of the stone
Carnelian Eyes: Protect from damage to the body and remove negative thoughts 
Agate dendrites: the balancing of blood sugar levels. It is the cornerstone of the adventurers to the safety and strength to ensure 
Carnelian India: to give physical strength to overcome insecurities / no peace and the elimination of physical and mental weaknesses 
Botswana Agate: Coping with the uncertainty of the direction and personal goals 

• Alexandrite 

Alexandrite can help people deal with ourselves to improve trust and increase your ability to feel happiness. In Russia, alexandrite is to wear a good sign is believed. Alexandrite is also the sexual potency, and it is not enough to overcome a feeling of love in their lives. 

• Amethyst 

Used to the strength of the internal / spiritual and intuitive person to increase supervision. Also used to relieve headaches. According to legend, use the Amethyst or drinking from the cup it will prevent poisoning. 


• Aquamarine 

Aquamarine is often used for a good life and merciful love. It is said to relieve depression and sadness. It is also believed to feel the love at couples who were married longer and help to bring new friends. According to legend, aquamarine as earrings / stud earrings and love to bring good influence worn. Other uses are for the eye / vision to help, thus ensuring the retention of body fluids and the safe passage through the ocean. 

• Blood Stone 

His main tool is to stimulate the flow of energy healing for all, combating of trauma, removal of restrictions and emotions stimulate the circulation. Bloodstone is believed to be in a position to stop the bleeding just by touch. In addition to its role in traditional medicine in the blood stone is also used to add insight into the worldview of a man. In the Middle Ages, Bloodstone is believed to be something special, because the power points / red stains on the stone than the blood of Jesus Christ (Jesus Christ). 

• Carnelian 

Carnelian used to the mind (not in a position to see the reality) is clear. Suitable increase of balancing the process of thought and creativity and the level / energy level. Around the year 1700, carnelian is to force protection, happiness and comfort. In the year 1800 is able Carnelian need as human beings, the courage to help talk. 


• Chrysoprase 

Chrysoprase is often used for the protection of intellectual and overcome mental fatigue / emotional. Often referred to as the Stone of Victoria ("Victory Stone" refers.) In 1800, Chrysoprase is said to help thieves are lost sight of (invisible). Other properties that strengthen the heart and eyes helps to focus at work, to prevent nightmares, drive out demons and eliminate the clutter of the mind. The stone is also used by people who use a lot of work with the brain (author, composer). 

• Citrine 

Citrine is to help people connect with the spirit / mind helps the assimilation of food to help people who do not communicate openly and can the development of peace of mind. 

• Diamond 

Diamond, the quality of the self and the ability to see things clearly both positive and negative, direct and honest. Also in overcoming the sense of security materially instability. The quality of the stone, the better the Power Accessories. It is a symbol of courage is not invincible. Hindus believe that the diamond is not of good quality or with a patch that brings misfortune to lift / remove Batara Indra from the highest place in heaven. Currently, most diamonds poor quality (eg poor color), still used for industrial purposes. 

• Emerald 

Emerald is used for emotional healing and is exceeded Physics in neurological diseases and lack of perception and inner clarity. In Persia and her said, "Whoever has that charm of such a special protection is given by God." According to legend, the Emerald is the memory of the owner to help the speed of mind and creativity, and predict the future increase. 

• Garnet 

Diseases of the thyroid gland in balance, overcoming the lack of tolerance toward others, which have the hardness of the heart and feelings are not enough popularity. 

• Gold Stone 

Goldstone can provide additional protection against traveler / hiker. And "one of the adventurers stones. 

• Jade 

Jade is said to be helping someone to relax and wise. Described as a rock to help with a very good balance, someone to focus the mind and not overcome the lack of action and thought practicable. Jade is the essence of love, valued as a special stone. It is some of the secrets of justice is believed to be included in the body. Legend has it that Spanish explorers in Central America, the talisman of the jade used for the prevention and cure hip and kidney. Other uses for health to improve the healing of vital organs. Green Jade can relieve digestive disorders, liver function and to reduce damage to the eye. Red Jade femininity helps in the fight against disease, especially in the organic content 

• Jasper 

Jasper can ward off evil spirits and bites to protect against snakes and spiders. Of Health, Jasper help work the healing process of gastric ulcer, the balance of the endocrine glands. In the fourth century Jasper as the bearer of a great flood is known. Jasper and the types of assistance could be given: 
Leopard Skin Jasper is to give people what they need. 
Poppy Jasper helps to bring happiness in life. 
Opalite Jasper can help you sleep soundly. 
Jasper Chocolate female hormone function and help overcome the uncertainty. 
Green Jasper is helping small bowel function, prevent constipation, reduces the pressure on the wounds of the intestine and the stomach to fight, but also reduce stress / depression is severe or increase a positive mental attitude. 
Red Jasper job balancing the stomach and pancreas, increases energy and provides protection against external pressures 

• Lapis Lazuli 

Lapis helps us to understand themselves better and to broaden perspectives. It also helps the inability of the leadership accept someone else. If you make a choice between conscience and reason, providing wisdom and honesty. According to legend, the layer protects the wearer from evil forces. A remedy for the melancholic soul, and sometimes fever and strengthen the body during the experience of spiritual consciousness. 

• Moonstone 

Moonstone is this balance Yin / Yang, the regulation of pituitary function, clarification and strengthening of the senses. also helps people reduce less sensitive / responsive to themselves and others (the self). In India, moonstone stone valued as sacred / holy. It is suspected that bring a better future. Legend says that Moonstone is a very precious gift for lovers as it would arouse passion and tenderness usually as the stone of love and affection to create. 

• Onyx 

Onyx and Sardonyx helps to coordinate the body, protecting against the bad influence of the surrounding and uncontrollable. Black Onyx is used to change a bad habit. Mexican Onyx (white and brown chalcedony) help to sleep. Sard is protective against magic or witchcraft. It can also be sharpened sense of humor of the wearer. 

• Opal 

Opal used to that way of helping the individual has the ability to love, share and strengthen the mental stability. The Arabs believed that opals fell from the sky, as a set of pulses from that Opal was the color of fire. Opal is an ancient symbol of honesty and trust considered. Opal is a powerful in ritual magic. Cause quality opal contains every color of the stone of birth may be used or full of energy and strength from a combination of all the birth stones, the stones are also used, mentioned for the other birth within the spell or replace magic rituals for other purposes . Often associated with the virtual nature, and Astral Projection is also past lives (each color represents a life from the past to remember). Opal has the ability to heal, especially on intellectual skills such as creative imagination to increase the power of the thoughts that others have not been used. Opal credible in terms of health can help the process of assimilation of proteins. Fire Opal is used often worn in fundraising activities for the needy, usually as a pendant with a gold necklace, surrounded by 10-12 Diamond, is believed to be the power, money, have a large collection. Black Opal is a tool of choice witch / magician, is used to increase the acceptance of magic / witchcraft and show them their strengths. Black opals near the heart like a necklace made of gold worn and should be carried out demons cast to protect the protection of people against the evil eye and travelers on their way to distant places. Opal was also used as a magic potion to cure the body to expel bad dreams and as a means to increase energy efficiency. White opal, when used at night, when the full moon ritual, said that bringing the power of the goddess of the moon to wear for the people who run it. Opal is very popular in the Middle Ages, when ophthalmios "or" eye stone "due to the widespread belief that the Opal is useful for the vision sensor and diseases of the eye. Hairy treat blonde woman wearing a necklace of opal, from loss of hair color to protect. Black Opal is very respected as a lucky stone. 

• Pearl 

Pearls help one to understand themselves better and to improve self-esteem. Pearl makes the wearer can feel the love people to give these pearls and enhance femininity. Other uses that help the formation of antibodies and helps fight infection and to educate the inability of a person to another. 

• Peridot 

Peridot will help ensure that someone can make the dream a reality. Legend has it that pirates love Peridot protects the power of darkness / demons. If  Peridot with gold alloy (gold), protects the wearer against terrors of the night. Health, Peridot help function of the adrenal glands, providing a balance of physical energy and helps people who do too often emotional tension / stress. 

• Quartz 

Quartz is for the balance, increase energy use, combating negative thinking, eliminate bad habits and a variety of healing. Quartz also overcome feelings of rejection reaction or by a person. Quartz is a colorless crystal was formed, was used by meteorologists to be seen since the Middle Ages and into the future. receive types of quartz, and can help you, is: 
Druze Quartz: to help someone with the skills to the problem (they have is to understand a deep understanding) 
Quartz: Reduce the negative way of thinking for themselves. 
Smokey quartz / quartz Chocolate: emotional support 
White quartz / quartz-white: improving self-esteem. 

• Rose Quartz 

Rose quartz is used to feelings for someone, balance to open heart and an apology / forgiveness. Rose Quartz is also believed to hold the skin and to overcome a severe inferiority adolescent.

• Ruby 

Ruby is to open his heart to love, overcoming fear, ugly and unloved and eliminate the lack of happiness. Ruby is also used for the protection of sensitive behaviors and the prevention of deviant behavior (in order to prevent the onset of schizophrenia). According to ancient legend, is able to combine Ruby / reconcile lovers. 

• Sapphire 

Sapphire can free the mind, increase peace, happiness, and increase the motivation and meaning in life orientation. King Sapphire around their neck as a powerful defense against the threat (from danger). This stone protects the wearer from feeling envious and make them feel closer to God Stone is believed that some people, they have no chance of the goal / end to help feel better. Sapphire can enhance the health of potassium, magnesium, calcium and the release of depression. 

• Topaz 

Topaz is used to add strength, prevention of diseases of the kidneys and the bladder. Ancient stone carved eagle used to express Topaz Manuk to the goodwill of kings, queens and captains. The Greeks believed that Topaz gives strength. Topaz helps the feeling of anger (on the emotions to calm down again to overcome) and protect against outside pressure. 



• Tourmaline 
Tourmaline is used to prevent the occurrence of lymphatic tissue disease and anemia. Also used to improve the success and results. Pink Tourmaline for the protection and improvement of balance in women, and Green Tourmaline improve the balance in men. According to legend, the user of the dangers and lack of happiness will be warned. 

• Turquoise 

Turquoise help people start a new business activity. Can warn the wearer of the risk / disease that attacks with its change of color. In the 13 Turquoise century is said to fall to the institution to protect, especially from a horse. Also used to relax the body to overcome confuse, mental health, calm the emotions. The Indians believed that if turquoise was recorded in a bow, the arrows shot missed the target. Also believed to bring luck and happiness. 

• Zircon 

The zircon crystal is used for a variety of healing. Zircon helps to make peace with itself and to increase to cope with negative feelings or feelings of frustration and positive behaviors. makes the wearer more thoughtful, respectable and wealthy. Loss of light and brilliance of Zircon is said to warn of the dangers for the owners

Go Jakarta: How to appreciate the ‘Big Durian’

Colossal chaos under a blanket of pollution. That is the common perception of Jakarta. But much like its nickname ‘The Big Durian’, this bustling Southeast Asian metropolis may turn your nose at first...


Colossal chaos under a blanket of pollution. That is the common perception of Jakarta. But much like its nickname ‘The Big Durian’, this bustling Southeast Asian metropolis may turn your nose at first, buts its rich culture, tremendously friendly residents and historical charm are so full of flavor, they soon become addictive. Let me take you on a fruitful journey into the heart of this fabulous, bewildering city.

If you’re interesting to travel to Indonesia, Jakarta is simply too massive to explore without fragmenting your experience into specific things to do. Here is our suggestion list:

  • Be seen in the trendy suburb of Kemang. With its selection of boutiques, fine dining and drinking lounges, this is the place to see and be seen.
  • Visit the phallic-shaped, flame-lit national monument (MONAS) otherwise known as Suharto’s “last erection”.
  • Sojourn into the Thousand Islands. The further you venture away from the city, the more pristine the water and vibrant the wildlife. Check out Pulau Sepa, Pantara and Pelangi for the best diving and snorkeling, or if you can, make friends with a billionaire who owns one of the islands!
  • Shop at Plaza Senayan (Pondok Indah) SEA’s second largest shopping mall
  • Traipse around Old Jakarta and see the Museum Wayang (puppet museum)
  • Stay in absolute style at the Mandarin Oriental or designer hotel Kemang Icon
  • Go clubbing at the upscale Dragon Fly and the internationally famous, 24 hour pumpin’, Stadium
  • Munch at restaurants with local cuisine to die for, such as Dapur Babah, Pendoka Kemang or Lara Djonggrang
  • Dream on at Jalan Taman Impian Jaya Ancol themepark

Follow these trip advices, and your holidays in Jakarta could be a delightful vacation after all.

Jakarta – A Place to Make Everyone's Holiday Dreams Come True

Jakarta gives you guaranteed fun. Come to the land of entertainment and jump into the actual pool of celebration. Surf on the waves, walk on the lawns, ride on the horse, trek on the mountains, wander for shopping, enjoy the nightlife and do whatever you like. Come to Jakarta and experience the real holiday.


Though Indonesia is a historic destination the country gets updated with the modern cultures and lifestyles easily. Experience the very truth by planning a holiday in the nation and examine tall skyscrapers as well as traditional villages which can prove to you in a better way. Accommodation is also available in both the styles. You can stay in contemporary hotels in Indonesia to get a fresh new feel or check out for traditional Indonesia hotels to explore the culture and tradition.
Is it possible to see the entire country in less than a day? Of course yes. Go and see the Indonesia in Miniature Park located in Jakarta, the capital city of the nation. This park portrays all the important tourist attractions in the country in a miniature version. You may also stay in some nice Jakarta hotels to visit other sightseeing locations in the city. The Taman Suropati Park is a nice place that could make your evenings special. Take a walk on the jogging tracks, relax on the lawns and enjoy the sceneries. Bluish clean beaches in the Thousand Islands are a must to see. Snorkeling and diving are the most common sports to take part. You could also hire a glass bottom boat to see the marine life. Jakarta also offers a chance to see the marine creatures in their own habitat. The Sea World is a featured tourist spot in the city offering marine life shows and displays all types of fishes. The Shark Aquarium found within the complex has a number of sharks. This is a nice place to take your kids.
There are lots of shopping options in Jakarta. Come and experience the local shopping in the Flea Market at Jalan Surabaya. The market has a great collection of antique artwork, craft items, traditional dolls, and toys for children and more. Of course there is a Chinatown in the city where you can buy DVD's at a cheaper price. Lots of electronic goods, dresses, accessories and jewelry are also available. The Fish Market has various varieties of fishes ready to cook. There are also many eateries featuring sea foods and fruit juices. Jakarta has many shopping malls and featured stores where you can buy branded goods at a cheaper rate. Do visit the Mall Artha Gading and the Ambassador Mall without any excuses.
Visit the villages in the city to explore the tradition and culture. Tours are available to have a close encounter with the locals in the villages and learn about the history and lifestyle of them. You can very well find well-equipped hotels in Jakarta in this area. See the ceramic exhibits in the Widayanto Ceramic House and buy various ceramic made items to decorate your home. Visit the Ragunan Zoo without any excuses as there are a number of native species of animals and the entry fee is also very cheap but you will have more fun at the zoo. Come with your kids to make their vacation special by giving them an opportunity to see the rare species of interactive animals.

Diving in the Gili Islands

Thinking about booking a diving holiday in Indonesia? The Gili Islands are tiny slices of paradise and they're great for diving. Hopefully my experiences of diving in the Gili Islands will inspire you to plan your own Indonesia adventure.


Ever since I did my PADI Open Water in Ko Tao back in 2005, I have been obsessed with diving. The feeling of complete freedom and serenity when you are under water is heaven for me, and I just can’t get enough of it. That’s why I knew that the Gilis were a must for my recent trip to Indonesia. I had heard of the tiny island of Gili Trawangan from a friend who had lived there for 6 months, working as a dive master. She had firsthand experience of the brilliant diving in this area and I only needed to talk to her for five minutes before I was convinced.

As I was going with my sister and another friend, both of whom hadn’t dived before, she recommended that we went to Big Bubble Dive as the groups are small, and the instructors are friendly. The Gili Islands are the perfect place to learn to dive. The atmosphere is nice and relaxed, with lots of divers of different levels of experience. You are also sure to see a huge range of fish on every dive, and a lot of the dive sites are shallow enough for training dives.

There are 16 dive sites located around the three Gili Islands; Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno and Gili Air. You can reach all the sites by Jukung boats and the travel time is no more than about 25 minutes. This means that you don’t have to spend half your time travelling to get to the dive site! This is a big plus point for me as I tend to get a bit sea sick, especially after a dive, due to the salt water invasion of my nose.

I did a total of 8 dives, and each one was absolutely fantastic. I saw loads of beautiful things including cuttlefish, octopus, black tip reef sharks, boxfish (my personal favourite), pufferfish and turtles, to name but a few.

On my last dive, I was due to buddy up with my newly qualified sister. However, one of the Dive Masters suggested that I go with another group to do a more experienced drift dive as it was, in his opinion, the best dive site in the area. Thank God I did! This was the most spectacular dive I have ever done. I was lucky enough to spot a beautiful, 2 metre long bumphead parrot fish. This fish was unbelievably incredible to watch, shimmering deep green in crystal clear waters. This dive was truly the highlight of my entire Indonesia itinerary.