Jakarta to have a new batik museum

Seeking to house its growing batik collection and attract more visitors, the management of the Textile Museum in Central Jakarta is preparing to open a separate batik museum within the existing complex.

“We’re looking to complete the planning [for the new museum] by the end of this year,” museum head Indra Riawan said Monday.

Built in the 19th century as a private French residence, the museum, on Jl. K.S. Tubun, showcases 1,800 items from around the archipelago, most of them batik.

Indra said the museum’s management had planned to renovate the 300-square-meter contemporary-textile gallery to make room for the new batik museum.

He declined to say when the new museum would open, with funding still being sought from the city administration before the start of renovation.

“We have so far secured a commitment from the Indonesian Batik Foundation to put some of their collections in the new museum,” Indra said.

source : Hasyim Widhiarto, The Jakarta Post

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Maluku preparing for sail Banda 2010

After a successful Sail Bunaken 2009 in Manado, North Sulawesi, the Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Ministry will organize a similar international event in Banda, Central Maluku, next year.

To be called Sail Banda 2010, the event would be the brainchild of Maritime and Fisheries Minister Freddy Numberi, Alex Retraubun, director general of coastal area and small island affairs at the maritime and fisheries ministry, said.

"The Banda Islands are known worldwide for their historical significance and undersea natural beauty, and therefore Maluku will host Sail Banda 2010," Retraubun said in the eastern Indonesian city of Ambon recently.

Banda is known as the original and only source of the once precious spices, nutmeg and mace, trade commodities that had a significant impact on world developments in the 15th century.

Early European reports described the tropical Banda Islands as a jewel-like cluster surrounded by crystal waters and brilliant coral reefs, and the most beautiful cluster of islands in Maluku.

Banda is made up of eleven small volcanic islands namely
Neira, Gunung Api, Banda Besar, Rhun, Ai, Hatta, Karaka, Manukan, Nailaka, Syahrir and Batu Kapal.

Syahrir island or formerly known as Pisang Island, and Batu Kapal Island which combine well for a morning dive, a picnic on the beach, and an afternoon dive are just 20 minutes by boat from the hotels on the town of Banda Neira.

All those Banda islands offer stunning tropical scenery, a remarkable history, friendly villages, and some of the globe`s most pristine, biologically diverse corral reefs which are good for that international event later next year.

Therefore members of Sail Banda 2010 international committee from various maritime countries will soon arrive to survey three locations in Maluku for consideration as the event`s venue.

Maluku provincial administration`s communication and information spokesman, Bakrie Lumbessy said in Ambon recently that the committee members would in the near future survey three locations, namely Lucipara islands in the Banda Sea, Banda Islands, and a diving site in Southwest Maluku district.

"Soon the international committee of Sail Banda 2010 will visit Maluku to survey the three locations in the province," Lumbessy said.

He said the same committee had successfully organized the Sail Bunaken event in
North Sulawesi which was participated in by hundreds of sail boats and yachts from various countries last August.

According to Lumbessy, all the three locations for the Sail Banda 2010 offer undersea panoramas featuring many coral reefs and ornamental fish.

"Especially for an undersea flag raising ceremony, it will be conducted in one of the outlying islands in Southwest Maluku district," Lumbessy said referring to Wetar, Kisar, Romang, or Maupora islands.

He said Sail Banda 2010 was scheduled to run from July 27 to August 28, 2010 and to be participated in by hundreds of sail boats and yachts from various countries around the world.

The Banda Sea which is known to have the deepest basin in the world also had areas abounding in colorful coral reefs and ornamental fish on which visitors could feast their eyes.

Banda islands also had various cultural tourist spots and famous historic sites that had been named by UNESCO as one of the world`s cultural heritages.

The Maluku provincial administration`s information and communication office had also asked for the active role of the press in the province and all elements of the public to jointly make Sail Banda 2010 a success.

Meanwhile, the national shipping company PT Pelni is also ready to help make the Sail Banda 2010 event a success by putting more ships into service on its route to the Banda Islands in Central Maluku, a spokesman said.

Bachtiar, head of PT Pelni`s Ambon branch office, said in Ambon that the national shipping company felt it bore the moral responsibility to support the international maritime event in Banda.

"The exact date of Sail Banda 2010 has actually yet to be confirmed but we at PT Pelni are ready to help make the event a success," Bachtiar said.

He said the company was currently operating MV Ciremai and MV Kelimutu on its route to Banda in Central Maluku, Tual in Southeast Maluku, and a number of ports in West Papua and Papua.

Asked if the number of ships for Banda would be increased in the runup to Sail Banda 2010, Bachtiar said it was the responsibility of PT Pelni`s head office to decide.

"But because Sail Banda 2010 is an international event, I think there will be a good coordination between the transportation ministry and PT Pelni to increase the number of ships sailing to Banda," Bachtiar said.

Meanwhile, Maluku Culture and Tourism Office spokesperson Florence Sahusilawane said Sail Banda 2010 is expected to reflect an international shipping expedition.

She said the international event is being designed by adopting the past period of "hongitochten", punitive expeditions conducted by the Dutch to suppress uprisings in Seram, particularly in the clove-rich peninsula of Hoamoal and nearby islands with traditional boats.

Therefore, Sahusilawane called on villages across Maluku which have typical traditional boats to take part in and liven up the Sail Banda 2010.

She said the promotion of Sail Banda 2010 would not be very difficult because Banda islands had been known worldwide since the past as spice islands, and even UNESCO has named the islands one of the world heritages.

Maluku Governor Karel Albert Ralahalu said recently that some 150 sail boats from
various countries had been registered to take part in Sail Banda 2010.

"I met Culture and Tourism Minister Jero Wacik in Jakarta recently and he said about 150 sail boats have signed up for the international maritime event in Maluku next year," the governor said.

source: antara news

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Garut Widiarta Defeats Marlon Gerber to Win the Rote Open 2009 Indonesian Surfing Championship Tour

19 September 2009, Nemberala, Rote Island: In a very closely contested 30 minute final at scenic Bo’a Beach on the East Indonesian island of Rote, Garut Widiarta narrowly defeated Marlon Gerber to bring home 20 million Rupiah (USD 2,000) and 3,500 points in the inaugural Rote Open 2009 presented by the Coca-Cola Indonesian Surfing Championship Tour.

“I feel a bit lucky to have been in this final and win against Marlon, especially because it’s on not an easy wave to surf on my backhand. Marlon has been surfing insanely in every heat, so I’m actually surprised that I beat him” said Widiarta after the final. “All the guys were surfing so good, like Lee (Wilson), Dede (Suryana), Betet (Merta) and Marlon, so I was really fortunate to come out on top.”

“Winning this event here at Rote means a lot to me, because now I have a real shot at the ISC Championship. I’m honestly tired of being number two or three or four. I want that number one spot”, he added with a grin.

Marlon Gerber was good-natured about his loss, saying, “It was pretty hard out there, being up against Garut who is surfing so well and with the wind conditions what they were. I know I just needed one more good wave, but I just couldn’t find it in time.” Gerber had been blowing up in each heat, carving big turns and taking to the air at every opportunity, seemingly unstoppable until he met up with Widiarta in the final.

Widiarta had earlier send reigning 2008 ISC Champion Dede Suryana packing in Round 4 and then bested current number one ranked Lee Wilson in Semifinal One, while Gerber had gotten the better of Betet Marta, Tai Graham, and Made Awan on his run to the final.

The event had been blessed by solid surf each day of the three days of competition at the right-hand point break of Boa’s Beach, with conditions ranging from 6-foot glassy conditions on day one to 3-4 foot wind blow surf for the final. Bo’a Beach is a very consistent wave that can be surfed on virtually every tide and seems to always have a surfable wave on offer, making it an ideal contest in addition being an excellent vantage point from which to view the surfing action. Hundreds of spectators thronged the beach each day of the competition to view these surfers compete.

The government of Rote Ndao in conjunction with event organizer PTR Communications and the Coca-Cola ISC Tour produced this four-day surfing event on the island of Rote in East Indonesia in an effort to promote tourism and provide a great venue to hold a six star prime ISC tour surfing competition. The event was opened to international and Indonesian surfers with 90 surfers from Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, Indonesia, Italy, Switzerland, Uruguay and the USA competing in four divisions; Open Pro, Masters, Women’s, and Local.

Each day at the contest site the local government officials and event organizers treated the contestants and spectators to cultural programs including dancing, music, and speeches to show off their unique and interesting culture.

At the closing ceremony the governor of Rote Leonardus Hanning expressed his appreciation to all for producing such an excellent event, and committed to having PTR Communications and the Coca-Cola ISC Tour back next year and as long as he is in office (a five year term).

Coca-Cola ISC Tour CEO Tipi Jabrik was also very happy with the event, stating “The waves, the people, and the place here are very special and unique. We’ve had a great competition and I’m looking forward to next year already. Many thanks to the government and to the local people for being such kind and generous hosts.”

Contest Results:

Open Pro

1. Garut Widiarta (Indonesia)
2. Marlon Gerber (Switzerland)
3. Lee Wilson (Australia)
4. Made Awan (Indonesia)

Masters

1. Made Lapur (Indonesia)
2. Wayan Widiarta (Indonesia)
3. Made Lana (Indonesiai)
4. Diego (Argentina)

Women’s

1. Herlani Theresia- (Indonesia)
2. Stella Hermina (Indonesia)
3. Jennifer Mikotha (Canada)
4. Chika Kirin (Indonesia)

Local

1. Yermi
2. Dani
3. Bastian Mboro
4. Mus Ely

The Rote Open 2009 is presented by the Coca-Cola Indonesian Surfing Championship Tour and sponsored by the government of Rote Ndao, PTR Communications, Garuda Indonesia, Merpati Airlines, Trans Nusa Airlines, and Heineken, and was sanctioned by the Coca-Cola ISC Tour.

Text by Tim Hain/Igo, Images by Tim Hain - Coca-Cola ISC Tour

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Noordin M Top`s death (Malaysian terrorism mastermind) to boost foreign tourists trust in Indonesia

The death of terror mastermind from Malaysia Noordin M Top in a police raid at Kepuhsari village, Solo, on Thursday will boost foreign trust in Indonesia, Bali in particular, as a tourist destination, a tourism industry observer said.

Malaysian-born Noordin M Top was known as a fugitive wanted by the police for his role in many terror attacks over the past nine years, so his death will be a relief to international tourists wishing to come to Bali, tourism industry observer Dewa Rai Budiasa said here Saturday.
In any country tourists intend to visit for a vacation , security and comfort are among the main things they will consider, he said.

The news about the death of the most wanted terror suspect in Southeast Asia was also received with some excitement by the families of the 2002 Bali bombing victims, especially the Indonesians and Australians who died in the attacks, according to Dewa Rai.

But he also said Noordin`s death did not mean the threat of terrorism had completely disappeared because there were still disaffected people across the country who could follow in Noordin`s footsteps.

Meanwhile, Dewa Rai said, the tourism industry in Indonesia, Bali in particular, was now beginning to pick up.

The number of foreign tourist arrivals in Bali in the January-July period in 2009 rose by 11.8 percent to 1,242,297 from 1,110,462 in a corresponding period in 2008. "This is very encouraging," he said.

A drastic increase happened in the number of Australian visitors to Bali putting Australia on top of the list of countries where foreign tourists came from in the January-July period of 2009, replacing Japan.

The number of Australians who visited Bali during the January-July period in 2009 227,402 , or up 38 percent from 164,641 in the same period in 2008.

The second largest contributor of tourists to Bali was Japan with 186,026 visitors or down 10.7 percent from 208,506 in 2008.

China came in third place on the list with 116,806 visitors in the January-July period in 2009 or up 54 percent from 75,511 in 2008.

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Transport : Sea Transportation

pesatnews.com

With the purchase of new passenger transport vessels, PELNI, the state-owned shipping company, now has six modern ships serving all main ports from Banda Aceh in the westernmost tip of the country to Sorong in Irian Jaya in the East. Built to accommodate 1000 to 1500 passengers in four classes, the ships are air-conditioned, whereas first class cabins have attached bathrooms and TV sets. 

Not luxurious but comfortable, the ships offer an alternative to flying and is a more leisurely form of travel. There are regular schedules and routes, all touching in at Jakarta their main base. Foreign cruise lines operate in Indonesian waters, though not regularly. A 40-passenger luxury cruise ship, the MV Island Explorer, offers trips to the eastern Indonesian islands from Bali part of the year, and from Jakarta to Sumatera the rest of the year. There are also ferries between islands, though comfort may not be as desired. For adventure travellers, a ride on a Pinisi Bugis schooner could be exciting if advance arrangements are made. One of the last sailing fleets in the world, about 3,000 of these schooners still ply between islands, trade goods as they have been for centuries.

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Transport : Land Transport

Train service only available throughout Java and part of Sumatra around Padang, West Sumatra, Medan in North Sumatra, South Sumatra and Lampung. Several train run between Jakarta and Surabaya. The most comfortable are the air-conditioned "Argobromo", "Mutiar", and "Bima" which travel at night. The Argobromo and Mutiara passes through Semarang, while the Bima take the southern route through Yogyakarta. Another train, the "Senja Utama" is an express service to Semarang, Yogyakarta and Solo. It has reclining seats but no air-conditioning. 

Train to Bandung have regular service from Jakarta and Yogyakarta. The "Argogede" offers two services a day between Jakarta and Bandung, while the "Parahyangan" offers nineteen services a day. Bus services are available and the best known are those serving the Bali-Banda Aceh route, traveling night and day. Many are air-conditioned and have reclining seats as well as TV with video programmes. These are numerous bus services between major cities in Java and also limousines which provide door to door service.

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Transport : Local Transportation

In most bigger cities taxis are available, though only in Jakarta, Bandung, Semarang and Surabaya are metered taxis common.. For metered taxis the flagfall is 1500 rp., plus 500 rp. for each additional kilometer. For taxis without a meter you must bargain the fare in advance.

In many other cities and in tourist areas you can hire a car and driver, usually paid by the hour or for each one-way trip. Rates differ from city to city, but they are usually from Rp. 5.000,- to Rp. 8.000,- per hour for use within city limits. Other rates apply when going out of town. Bargaining is necessary for these cars, the final price depending on the year, make and condition of the car.  

Airport Transportation Service 

Limousine service to and from the airports of Jakarta and Surabaya are available. They are comfortable and air conditioned and cost less than half the taxi fare, but chances are that you may not be let off at exactly are address you are heading for. In this case, combine it with a taxi by getting off the limousine at a spot closest to your destination. Many major hotels also offer airport transport as a service to their guests. 

Busses 

Large busses aren't used much as a means of local transport except in major cities, where the standard fare is about 300 rp. Express and AC buses along major thoroughfares are slightly more expensive, about 1800 rp.

The quality and condition of inter-city busses will vary considerably depending on where you are in Indonesia. On Java and Bali, and in many popular tourist destinations, comfortable AC busses with built in video and karoke systems are common. In more remote areas only public busses are available. Check with your hotel desk or a local travel agent for availability, schedules and prices.

Mikrolet, Oplet/Bemo and Colt

These different names all apply to the same type of vehicle, depending on where you use them. They usually operate on routes between a city and its suburbs, and can seat up to 10 passengers per vehicle, but are often filled far beyond this number. This is, in fact, part of their charm, a trip by bemo will give you first-hand exposure to the local population, as this is by far the most popular means of land transport across Indonesia. Fares are not uniform, depending on the distance covered by the passenger. Bemos are often available for charter, however, you must bargain the fare in advance, after having obtained information on the approximate rates from your hotel clerk. They should cost less than hiring a chauffeur-driven car or a taxi. 

Motorcycles

Renting a motorcycle can be one of the most exhilarating and interesting ways to travel in Indonesia. In many major tourist areas, such as Bali and Yogya, they are readily available for about 15,000 rp. - 25,000 rp. a day, depending on the make and condition. Insurance is usually covered in the rate. In Bali you do not need a driver's license and in Yogyakarta it is easy to receive a temporary one for a small fee. At many beach resorts motorcycles are also popular, and can be rented by the day.

A word of warning: extreme caution should be taken in renting a motorcycle for a number of reasons. Indonesians drive on the left side of the road, like in most Commonwealth countries, but even this is familiar to you, the local conditions, driving habits, traffic laws and road signs are not. In most cases you will be held responsible for any damage to the motorbike, whether you feel you are responsible or not. Therefore, if you prefer to stay on the side, hire one with a driver and wear a helmet.

Bicycles

Bicycles are available in Bali, Yogyakarta and many other tourist areas. They rent by the day for about 5,000 rp. There is no insurance on the bike or rider, so make sure to ride carefully by keeping left most of the time. The best aspect of bike touring, aside from the exercise, is the leisurely pace and direct contact with the landscape and people. A pleasant ride in the countryside, surrounded by rice paddies and stops in small villages could easily be one of the highlights of your travels in Indonesia! 

Ojek

An Ojek is a motorbike hired with its driver. You may pay him for one single trip, a maximum of 1000 rp, or by the hour or day. Be sure to bargain beforehand. The agreed upon fare depends on distance covered. Ojeks can be found in cities and suburbs, usually at intersections or side roads. Ojeks come in handy where roads are either too narrow or bumpy for four-wheel vehicles. Rarely, if ever, will ojek owners rent our their motorbikes without driving them themselves

Bajaj and Becaks

Another mode of transport is the Bajaj (pronounced bahji), with the driver in the front, and room for two passengers behind, powered by a small motorcycle engine. Make sure to bargain for the fare before climbing in!

A much more common form of local transport in cities and towns throughout the archipelago is the Becak (pronounced "baychahk"), a three-wheeled cycle-rickshaw seating two people, without luggage. Becaks are found in most small cities and towns on Java, having been here for over four decades. Unfortunately becaks are gradually disappearing in the big cities, giving way to motorized transportation. In Jakarta they have practically disappeared all together, but can still be found in the suburbs, where streets are narrow and other public transportation is rare. In other cities like Surabaya, Bandung, Semarang and Denpasar they can still be used for short distances. Make sure you agree on a fare before you get in, and expect to be charged more for two people than one, and for every extra piece of luggage you have.

Becak drivers are notoriously hard bargainers, and remember it is their muscle power that is getting you to your destination, not a motor! 

Dokar

No longer available in Jakarta, dokars, or horse-drawn carts can be found all over other parts of Indonesia. They differ in size and shape from place to place, either two-wheeled or four-wheeled, but are usually drawn by one horse. Depending on the size of the cart, a typical dokar can seat between two and four passengers. Here too, bargaining is necessary, the starting fare usually being around 1500 rp., with an additional 400 rp. per person per kilometer being the norm.

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Transport : Air Transportation

Air transport is the easiest and most comfortable means of travel in Indonesia. Garuda Indonesia, the national flag carrier, operates both international and domestic routes. Domestically it serves 33 cities, including all the provincial capitals. The only all-jet airline on domestic routes, it, has several daily flights from Jakarta to Bali, Medan, Ujung Pandang, Manado and Yogyakarta. It also operates shuttle flights to Surabaya and Semarang several times a day. Garuda has introduced the ‘Visit Indonesia Air Pass’, which offers special fares on its domestic flights. The passes are sold in conjunction with travel on Garuda from Europe, USA, Australia and Japan, and have to be purchased from Garuda Offices in those countries. Its international network serves London, Amsterdam, Brussels, Frankfurt, Paris, Zurich, Rome, Vienna, Cairo, Abudhabi, Jeddah and Riyadh. In Asia and Australia destinations include: Ho Chi Min City, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Taipei, Manila, Tokyo, Kuala Lumpur, Nagoya, Seoul, Singapore, Brunei, New Zealand, Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, Darwin, Portland and Auckland.

Garuda serves Honolulu and Los Angeles in the U.S. Merpati Nusantara Airlines is the second national carrier and flies to about 110 destination in Indonesia, with some flights to Australia (Darwin), Brunei Darussalam, Davao (Philippines), and east Malaysia (Kuching). Bouraq and Mandala airlines also have regularly scheduled services. There are some other privately owned airlines which mainly operate charter flights. Indonesia’s three main gateways are Soekkarno-Hatta International Airport in Jakarta, Polonia Airport in Medan and Ngurah Rai Airport in Bali.

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Finding Mola

Text and Photos by Meliana Salim

Nusa Penida is a diver's playground with numerous sites worthy of exploring and home to the rare Mola-Mola and Manta Rays.

The beauty of underwater Indonesia is virtually unmatched.

I shudder at the thought of hypothermia.

At a chilly 19° Celsius and 30 metres down, my three-millimetre wetsuit is no match for the brutal thermocline: the wild temperature variations as steep as 8° Celsius in the space of mere metres. I rub my arms vigorously in an attempt to maintain my body temperature. We are on a hunt. Photo hunt, that is.

"When I dive, I feel alive. Everything else is just a surface interval", said Dr. Phil Nuytten, a renowned Canadian ocean explorer.

A statement I can easily relate to. I am blessed, as I live in the highlands of Bali. For a scuba fanatic, it's a dream come true. I often feel the need to descend from the hills to answer the call of the ocean and lubricate my lungs. The beauty of living on a tropical island is that world-class dive spots are simply a phone call and an hour's drive away.

Divers from all over the world congregate in Bali between July and October to catch a hopeful glimpse of the migratory Ocean Sunfish, also known as Mola-Mola (from the Latin word for millstone, aptly used to describe their roundish figure). These magnificent creatures currently hold the record for the heaviest bony fish on earth; a 3.1-metre long specimen weighed in at 2,235 kg (Carwadine, 1995).

Mola-Mola spend much of their time at cold depth feeding on their favourite diet: jellyfish. Their coarse sandpapery skin is covered with up to 40 different genera of parasites. Occasionally they emerge from the deep to rejuvenate at cleaning stations where schools of bannerfish await, eager to offer parasite riddance services. And one of these cleaning stations is conveniently located at Bali's own Nusa Penida, a mere 40-minute boat ride from Sanur Beach.

Nusa Penida is the largest of three islands (Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan) lying off the southeast coast of Bali. This 17-kilometre long island is home to stunning corals and diverse marine life. It is a diver's playground with numerous dive sites worthy of exploring: Crystal Bay, Blue Corner, Bat Cave, SD, and Toyapakeh, to name a few. Besides hosting the Mola-Mola's seasonal migrations, Nusa Penida is also home to Manta Rays at Manta Point.

It is a gorgeous mid-July day at Crystal Bay – a signature dive site in Nusa Penida famed for the most consistent Mola sightings. The site isn't named 'Crystal Bay' for nothing; the waters are so clear it seems as if we're looking through a piece of glass. I'm accompanied by my dependable dive buddy, I Made Wirawan, the founder of Bali Marine Sports dive centre, who comes equipped with his natural ability to detect Mola-Mola from a great distance. Mola sightings are dependant on various dive conditions: weather, time of day and month, and dive traffic.

Made signals for me to follow him. We descend further and come to a halt at a sloping reef, facing the open ocean with bated breath. We have limited time to stick around at the risk of running low on air and facing decompression sickness. My heart is racing and I no longer feel the icy water. And there it is, a 3-metre wide Mola parking motionlessly. Six overzealous bannerfish are feasting on its parasite-infested spotty silver skin. The Mola seems to be at peace with this complimentary grooming ritual. It's a pretty bizarre-looking fish with a massive head, rounded tail, and long sweeping fins atop and below.

I maneuver myself carefully so as not to disrupt its spa session. According to several reports, the Mola also habitually rests flat at the surface of the ocean to sunbathe, hence the common name "ocean sunfish". A series of questions run through my head: Why do they choose to come to Bali? Where do they go from here? How do they reproduce? What are their roles in the marine environment? And how many are there left in this world?

Startled by a group of oncoming divers, it swiftly wakes up from an apparent trance. Its initial glide is smooth and graceful, but within seconds it speeds up and disappears into the abyss, leaving behind disappointed bubble-makers.

In mid-October last year I had the pleasure of meeting Dr. Tierney Thys, a passionate Californian marine biologist, a National Geographic Emerging Explorer and a filmmaker, during her workshop to the students of Green School, Bali's innovative answer to alternative education. She was on a mission to place satellite tags on the Mola and collecting tissue samples for genetic and toxin analysis in the hope of uncovering the secrets of these remarkable creatures.

Dubbed as 'the next generation's champion of ocean exploration' by National Geographic, Dr. Thys and her team have dedicated almost a decade travelling the world's ocean and studying the mysterious ways of the Mola. Despite their massive size, the Mola remains a creature of mystery; we still don't know much about their reproductive cycle, population, migratory route, and hunting habits.

"It's got these big eyes and a goofy look that draws you in to the ocean environment and sparks more questions", claimed Dr. Thys.

"We want to get people thinking about the ocean and not thinking that land is separate from the ocean but that it's a big continuum. We can't have healthy land with an unhealthy ocean."

It is easy to have a certain expectation of entitlement when you've come a long way to see the Mola, but keep in mind that the well-being of the marine life comes first. Go with a reputable dive company with safety-minded dive instructors, be prepared for strong unpredictable currents, and respect the sanctuary of the Mola.

One can't help but feel humbled in the presence of such evolutionary prehistoric creature. Human civilization is a mere drop in the ocean. Scuba divers and other ocean explorers have been given the privilege of witnessing some of Nature's most incredible masterpieces. We are stewards of the ocean and with this come a great responsibility to raise awareness and protect Earth's underwater inhabitants.

To learn more about Dr. Thys and her research or to adopt a Mola- Mola, please visit www.oceansunfish.org

Recommended Dive Centre:
Bali Marine Sports
Phone: (62-361) 270386, 289308, 288776
Email: bali4mola@yahoo.com
www.bmsdivebali.com

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Bastianos Diving Resort at Bunaken, a Natural choice

Have A Bunaken Diving Experience at Bastianos!

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

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

Swim with dolphins, sharks, giant turtles and other colorful coral-reef fishes as our Bunaken diving team guides you over vivid, unspoiled coral gardens, all less than a five-minute boat ride from the resort. It's all about discovering an underwater-paradise at the Bastianos Diving Resort. We're on the west coast of Bunaken Island, a short trip from Manado in North Sulawesi.

Diving and Stay at Bunaken : All Part of the North Sulawesi Diving Experience | Diving and stay at Lembeh Strait.

There are dozens of spectacular dive sites that are homes to all creatures great and small diving : Bunaken National Park, off the Manado Coast, around Bangka islands and in the Lembeh Strait - all locations we can take you to on request.

The knowledgeable and experienced Bastianos Bunaken dive team, supervised by local PADI Instructors, will guide you on your Bunaken diving underwater adventure. As licensed PADI operators, the team put premiums on diver safety and respect for the environment.

When you're not diving, there's plenty of time to relax at our comfortable, friendly resort. You will stay in tidy cottages right on the beachfront or nestled into the hillside under shady trees. And every chalet has a private terrace to take advantage of the island's stunning orange sunsets.

If you are interested.
Please contact us :
patriatour@gmail.com
telp. (021) 92205912

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Enchanting Ubud

text and image meliana salim

Walk along with Meliana Salim, as she shares with you a treasured collection of the moments and hidden secrets that make Ubud one of the most loved places in Bali.

Jacques Yves Cousteau once said that "when one man, for whatever reason, has the opportunity to lead an extraordinary life, he has no right to keep it to himself". Having spent two wonderful years in the heart of Ubud, I've had my fair share of defining moments, people, and places that make everyday living here truly extraordinary. Ubud is a constant magnet of incredibly fascinating and multifarious globetrotters. This is a compilation of 'Ubud Moments' lovingly put together with the generous recommendations from residents whose lives have been touched by our enchanting and enigmatic town: such is the magic of Ubud.
I believe when Bali was dubbed 'The Morning of the Earth' they were referring to the mornings in Ubud. The best way to experience the blissful dawns is by foot.

Book a guided three-hour herbal walk with Ni Wayan Lilir and I Made Westi (http://baliherbalwalk.com). This is complemented by an introductory knowledge to Bali's living pharmacy and herbal remedies growing by the wayside, and an insight on rice cultivation methods used by farmers. Lilir and Westi come from a family of healers and farmers who are keen to use their skills as guides to help preserve Bali's unique indigenous heritage.

Greet the morning sun with a pleasant trek up the Campuhan Ridge. Begin at the turn-off to Ibah Resort near the Campuhan Bridge and follow the signs that lead to a temple dating back to the eighth century, Pura Gunung Lebah. Walk along a hillside of elephant grass until you reach Bangkiang Sidem Village (which literally translates to 'the back of the black ant'). The beautiful walk is approximately three kilometres long and passes through rice paddies and deep ravines before winding back to the main road.

Stop by Kakiang Café on Jl. Raya Pengosekan for the best croissants, pastries, and chocolate truffles in town. This inconspicuous Japanese-owned bakery also serves the elusive Maccha Latte – a green tea latte packed with antioxidants. Regulars include a grumpy elderly gentleman with his faithful novel and breakfast guests from the nearby Kakiang Bungalows.

bali buddha café and bakeryPack a picnic breakfast from Ubud's beloved health café and bakery, Bali Buddha (www.balibuddha.com) and head to the Ubud Botanical Gardens in Kutuh Kaja. Meet German-born author and developer Stefan Reisner and "come to a standstill after thousands of miles of noisy travel" in five hectares of tropical beauty: trespass into nature, meander through a natural ravine, get lost in a maze and gaze at your reflections in lily and lotus ponds.

Indulge in a truly one-of-a-kind luxury treat: The Royal High Tea Picnic. Exquisitely planned by the lovely long-term Ubudian Anneke van Waesberghe, take a short walk into another world designed by Esprite Nomade, a luxury lifestyle concept company catering to the high-end hospitality industry. Step into a lavish Safari-style tent with floating silken panels, pop the champagne, and enjoy the footbath and massage in the midst of the jungle. It is luxury redefined. For reservations call 08123849924.

There's a never-ending array of lunch spots in town and it takes countless disappointing meals to finally narrow them down to a few worthy of mentioning.

bali buddha café and bakeryForget what you read and know and head to Laka-Leke Restaurant (www.lakaleke.com) in the quaint woodcarving village of Nyuh Kuning for the best crispy duck in Ubud. It is a true hideaway in every sense: dine in tree-shaded pavilions amongst lush gardens, lily ponds, and rice fields. A local favourite, Warung Mina, on the road leading to Maya Ubud Resort, offers fresh grilled gurame served with traditional sambals. Warung Nasi Ayam Kedewatan Ibu Mangku is dominated mostly by out-of-towners and domestic tourists. There's no need to ask for the menu as they serve only one dish: chicken rice. This is almost like a chicken version of the famed Ibu Oka's babi guling. Ask for mild spices if you don't want your makeup melting down your face. Another local hotspot is Warung Makan Teges located outside of Peliatan, in Teges Village. This traditional roadside warung serves both chicken and pork rice.

The Smile Shop (www.senyumbali.org) in Banjar Taman is Bali's first charity shop and is run by volunteers and staff of the Smile Foundation of Bali, a non-profit, independent organisation founded by Mary Northmore, with the mission of bringing health care to people with craniofacial disabilities. All items for sale at the shop are donated brand new or good-as-new. To volunteer your time in the Shop call Mary on 0811 295 963. To donate money or drop off goods, call Carrie on 0813 3848 7498. All proceeds go towards bringing health care to people with craniofacial disabilities.

Shop with a conscience at Threads of Life (www.threadsoflife.com) on Jl. Kajeng, a fair trade business dedicated to sustaining Indonesia's traditional textile arts. Founders Jean Howe and William Ingram aim to alleviate poverty in rural Indonesia through culture and conservation. Enroll in introductory workshops on the history and traditional use of Indonesian textiles, weaving and dyeing techniques, and the ancient art of batik and dyeing with fresh indigo.

Immerse yourself in arts and culture and explore your creativity with Suzan Kohlik from her charming Sari Api Studio on Jl Suweta. Choose from various ceramic workshops or custom-designed classes and learn to work with clay, by hand building, or wheel-throwing. Email Suzan at sariapi@indo.net.id or telephone her on 0361 977 917. Life model painting sessions are all the hype every Wednesday and Saturday at Pranoto's Art Gallery on Jl. Raya Ubud (www.age.jp/~pranoto/).

Run by the artist couple Pranoto and his Australian wife Kerry Pendergrast, this lively gallery hosts exhibitions and a large collection of paintings by Indonesian and international artists.

A recommended detour from Ubud is a visit to Horizon Glassworks Studio and Gallery at Jl. Raya Kengetan (www.horizonglassworks.com). Witness the passionate hot glass artist, Ron Seivertson, express his glassblowing, painting, and sculpting talents through this sensitive, beautiful medium.

Pay a visit to the magnificent studios of Bali's most famous sculptor I Wayan Winten at his studios in Teges Village. Winten is a highly respected cement artist whose claims to fame include the statue of Bima Dewa Ruci on Simpang Siur roundabout near Kuta and the forty metre tall Pandawa head in Solo's water park. His high-profile clients range from President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono to Martha Tilaar. If you're lucky he might just invite you to his nearby home to say hello to his lollipop-loving pet bat.

bustling jalan monkey forest Take a pause from your travels and hop into Ubud's charming independent booksellers. Meet friendly Thierry, the French owner of Rendezvous Doux on Jl. Raya Ubud, an international library and café boasting a collection of rare books and a daily screening of 1930s black-and-white movies of classic Bali. Trade your book in for a new read or donate it to Books for Bali Project at Ganesha Bookshop (www.ganeshabooksbali.com), an initiative that supports literacy and learning in the Balinese community. Located off the football field on Monkey Forest Road, Pondok Pekak Library is a classic oasis for more than 10,000 books and a creative, nurturing space for learning Bahasa Indonesia, Balinese dance, music and other art forms for children and the young-at-hearts.

A trip to Ubud is not complete without a visit to a spa. Nourish your body and soul at Spa (www.spahati.com), a blissful haven on Jl. Raya Andong whose operations help to generate income for Bali Hati Foundation (www.balihati.org) – a non-profit organisation that implements educational and social programmes in the Balinese community. If you are serious about your wellbeing, avoid the hyped-up, overbooked celebrity healers and start your personal wellness or healing programme with Dr. Sujatha Kekada at Amrtha Siddhi (www.amrthasiddhi.com), a no-nonsense Ayurvedic and yoga health centre. Dr. Kekada specialises in customised treatment and personalised yoga tuition as part of an overall treatment plan and healing progress of her patients.

For an intimate dining venue with an unpretentious atmosphere and superb modern Southeast Asian cuisine, head to the 'Kemiri' at Uma Ubud (www.uma.ubud.como.bz). Raw food genius Chris Miller, the Australian-born Chef, spoils guests with a refined, healthy gourmet menu featuring seasonal organically grown local ingredients in the Ikebuchi-designed, open-air space. Customise your own menu for private dinners-to-impress. The fabulous poolside bar has a cult-like following of young expatriates in Ubud. It is the place to see and be seen on New Year's Eve in the hills.

A true Ubudian would know that Thursday is tuna night at Ubud's favourite expatriate hangout, Naughty Nuri's Warung. Skip the ribs and order a tuna-themed dinner: tuna steak, tuna sashimi, and tuna satay. Come early and beat the busloads of tourists as dinner reservations are almost impossible on Thursdays. If you can't squeeze onto the bench, head down to nearby Nacho Mama's, Nuri's sister warung for the same great menu plus a selection of Mexican fare. Work off those Storm beer calories by signing up for a Saturday afternoon Bali Hash House Harriers run (www.balihashone.com).

Amandari (www.amanresorts.com/amandari/home.aspx) turns 20 this year. Its recent appointment of talented Executive Chef Christian Hinckley has brought an influx of foodies to the unassuming resort. Prior to Bali, Chef Christian has worked as a Sous Chef alongside the legendary "Chef of the Century" Joël Robuchon at The Mansion, a three Michelin star restaurant in Las Vegas. Keep an open mind and allow Chef Christian to entice you with his impeccable modern bistro cuisine and refreshing philosophy of "surprise and delight" at The Restaurant.

Gaya Gelato opened to rave reviews last July and has since gained a fast reputation for serving the best gelato on the island. This delightful gelateria is the brainchild of Massimo Boccedi: each scoop is lovingly prepared using the finest, freshest ingredients to stay true to its authentic Italian roots. A much-welcome addition to the Gaya Fusion family (www.gayafusion.com), it'll be almost impossible to decide on one flavour, so try them all. Don't miss Gaya's delectable Sunday Brunch and free art programme for children taught by top artists.

Spend a thought-provoking night out in the company of controversial documentaries and movies every alternate Monday at The Yoga Barn on Jl. Pengosekan. A notable mention is Gaya's screening of Tuesday evening art films in their spacious, minimalist gallery. Alternatively, challenge your brain on quiz night every Friday at Fly Café on Jl. Raya Sanggingan. Come well-prepared as they take it very, very seriously.

Learn to salsa every Monday and Friday night at eight pm at Indus Restaurant in Campuhan, where expatriates can be found dancing the night away to Latino music by Buenna Terra. There's also Open Mic Night at Flava Lounge on Jl. Pengosekan every Wednesday starting from eight pm. Participate in a lively jam session with an eclectic mix of local musicians, travellers, and the odd celebrity like Michael Franti thrown in for good measure.

woodcarvers at bedulu villageLate-night owls and glitterati rejoice at the addition of Mozaic Lounge (www.mozaic-bali.com) – its upscale art deco chic a little piece of Seminyak in this tranquil town. Tantalising tapas style teasers are accompanied by signature cocktails, cool lounge tunes, and sophisticated live jazz music every weekend.
A favourite pastime to start a lazy Saturday is visiting Ubud's own Farmer's market on the verandah of Pizza Bagus on Jl. Pengosekan. The market is held from nine-thirty until two o'clock every Saturday. Show your support for Bali's chemical-free farmers and small businesses by buying their organic produce.

There are endless tales of travellers falling in love with Bali on their first visit and consequently moving to Ubud. If you find yourself in this soul-searching and home-hunting situation, enjoy the ride and check out the postings on the local notice boards for inspiration. Some of the best in town are Kafé on Jl. Hanoman, Bali Buddha, Pizza Bagus (best place for free wi-fi), and Juice Ja Café on Jl. Dewi Sita (exchange your old DVDs while you are there).

What is it about Ubud that makes dreamers, thinkers, and wanderers from all over the world fall head over heels in love and call it home? The name 'Ubud' originates from an ancient Javanese word 'Ubad' which literally means 'medicine'. Ubud is indeed the medicine to life: it is a place to eat, pray, love, and heal. Open your heart and mind and immerse yourself in everything that Ubud has to offer.

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