Here are 5 Unique Original Villages in Indonesia

Here are 5 Unique Original Villages in Indonesia

Indonesia Travel Destnations

Indonesia has endless stories about its natural wealth and beauty. It seems every corner of Indonesia has its own. Among them are unique villages with a strong culture and very tempting to visit. They still maintain their traditional style for hundreds years. And that's what makes them appeal to tourists. Well for you who are curious about them, here are Five Unique Villages In Indonesia.

1. Wae Rebo Village

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This village is located in Satarmase sub-district, Manggarai regency, East Nusa Tenggara. In this village there are at least 7 main houses that are conical with the same height and diameter. One house can be occupied by 6 to 8 families. In addition, the natural green around the village is also very beautiful to enjoy. The house of cones and natural beauty became the backbone of the perfection of the village of Wae Rebo.

2. Penglipuran Village

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Apparently Bali also has a unique village named Penglipuran Village located in Bangli. It is said that this village is touted as the cleanest village on the island. This tourist village is not so big, this village area is only 112 hectares with 9 hectares used for settlement. The air and the state of this village is still beautiful and very thick with Balinese culture. Balinese architecture house is lined up on the left and right side of the road. Trees, grasses and colorful flowers appear to flourish. As far as the eye can see that looks just beauty! What makes the atmosphere so fun is that the village is free of motor vehicles. You can be satisfied photographing while knowing more closely the culture of local residents without having to be afraid of smoke pollution. The entrance fee to the village is also affordable, which is Rp 7,500 per person.

3. Baduy Tribe Village

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Baduy village inhabited by Baduy tribe. Baduy village is divided into two namely Baduy Luar and Baduy Dalam. For those of you who want to come to this village can directly visit the Village Ciboleger which became the entrance to the Baduy Tribe settlement. Well for you photography enthusiasts, if you want to take pictures baduy village, you have to prepare stamina. Because Ciboleger Village you have to do trekking to the settlement of Baduy Luar and Baduy Dalam for about 5 hours. The journey is surely very exhausting, but along the way you can enjoy the cool fresh air and beautiful green hills.  After you arrive in the settlement, you can see their houses made of bamboo and neatly arranged. The river that flows in the settlement is also very clear, because the Baduy tribe very appreciate nature. From several branches of the river, they use only one daily. Other river branches with clear water can be enjoyed by the surrounding community and tourists who come. The forest is also very well maintained because the Baduy community always respect the mother-nature.

4. Trunyan Village

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Trunyan Village is located in Bangli Regency, Bali. Trunyam Village is a unique village because it still runs unusual customs. The green landscape of the village is complemented by the abundance of human skulls scattered everywhere. It must be scary for some people, but this is what makes Bungli village unique. This village has a grave on the east side of Lake Batur. Here, the corpse is not buried. The corpse was left alone on the ground to rot. It is different from other Balinese who make the majority of Ngaben ceremonies.

5. Kete Kesu Village

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Kete Kesu village is located in Tana Toraja, South Sulawesi. This village has unusual uniqueness. People in this tourist village have the belief that burying human bodies on a rock cliff is a good thing. So do not be surprised if you watch the skulls scattered on various sides of the cliffs in Kete Kesu. In the village of Kete Kesu, there are two ways of burial. The body was placed in a rock and a natural cave, or a house tomb called patane in Toraja. While on vacation to this village, you can see the coffins of Toraja people called erong. The shape is symbolized by the genitals and animal heads. Most of these erongs have reached 500 years!

Well that's five unique villages that will add to your holiday impression. Make sure the five villages are in your travel list. Welcome.

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How to get affordable airplane tickets outside of travel fairs, promotions

How to get affordable airplane tickets outside of travel fairs, promotions

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Cheap airplane tickets can be purchased without the use of travel fairs or promotions.

Below are tips on finding the best prices, according to travel website Skyscanner:

Destination is key

Your destination largely determines the ticket price. If you choose routes that are often served by several airlines, such as Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Bali, Yogyakarta and Surabaya, then expect prices to fluctuate. Hence, if while browsing the web you find the ticket price to be lower than usual, it is suggested that you book the flight right away.

However, when it comes to routes that are rarely served, such as Banjarmasin, Belitung, Tanjung Pinang and Banda Aceh, the price tends to be constant no matter when you book it. This is because the airlines that serve these routes apply a year-round fare system, meaning that ticket prices mostly stay the same, except during high season, such as Idul Fitri and year-end holidays.

Asses the airline

Prices are influenced by airlines. For low-cost carriers, it is suggested that you order the ticket as soon as possible as the price tends to increase the closer you book to your departure date. On the contrary, full-service airlines use year-round fares. Still, it is possible to get more affordable tickets on full-service airlines than low-cost carriers.

For certain airlines, it is advised to check their booking pages as often as possible. Lion Air, for instance, frequently changes its rates, up to three times a day.

If the targeted airline has increased the price of a flight, consider waiting for several days for the price to decrease. However, do not do so if the price has increased simultaneously across multiple websites or airlines with similar flights. Instead, consider booking sooner rather than later.

Timing is everything

Tickets are usually expensive during weekends, long holidays and high season. Therefore, try to arrange your trip during a low-season period, such as September to November or February to April.

Departure and arrival dates will also influence the price. Friday to Sunday, Friday to Monday, Saturday to Sunday and Saturday to Monday are the peaks for costly tickets. Instead, it is advised to choose Tuesday to Thursday, Wednesday to Friday, Saturday to Tuesday or Sunday to Wednesday departure and arrival dates.

It is also recommended to fly on the 20th of the month as the price tends to be lower compared to early or late in the month.

Watch for airline trends

For frequent travelers, consider signing up for airlines' newsletters and following their social media accounts to learn about promotion trends and types. Doing so will, over time, result in figuring out the lowest price a given airline is likely to offer its customers. (wir/kes)


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Banten governor wants to improve access to tourist destinations

Banten governor wants to improve access to tourist destinations

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Indonesia Travel Destinations

Newly-elected Banten governor and deputy governor Wahidin Halim and Andika Hazrumy met with President Joko Widodo at the presidential Palace on August 24 to discuss issues such as infrastructure, education and health.

Wahidin said that they have also expressed their hopes regarding tourism development to the President.

“Tourism depends on the infrastructure. If the access is good the tourism will be good as well,” said Wahidin.

Wahidin mentioned that tourist destinations in Banten attract domestic and overseas tourists. Banten has several tourist spots such as Anyer, Carita and Tanjung Lesung. The latter is listed in tourism ministry’s 10 Priority Destinations.

However, according to Wahidin the road infrastructure to these destinations still needs improvement, for example, the road to Tanjung Lesung is not yet sufficient. 

“We have a lot of beaches that are not yet supported by the infrastructure and so we are asking for a road expansion,” said Wahidin.

Tourism minister Arief Yahya said the latest development in Banten is that the first stage of land acquisition for the Serang – Panimbang toll road is already completed and the next step is road construction. This new toll road will shorten travel time between Jakarta and Tanjung Lesung. (asw)

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Charming Southeast Maluku attracts more tourists

Charming Southeast Maluku attracts more tourists

Indonesia Travel Destinations

The charming Kei Islands in Southeast Maluku regency are gaining fame thanks to intense promotion from the Tourism Ministry, as well as a rapid development in hotel accommodation and transportation infrastructure.

The Kei Islands are located amid the Seram, Banda and Arafuru seas. Two of the largest islands are Kei Besar and Kei Kecil.

Kei Kecil Island is known as a hidden paradise due to its pristine environment.

An ideal destination for nature lovers, the best time of year to visit is April and May, and from October to December, when the sea is calm enough to allow visitors to properly explore the island and its surroundings, according to local elders.

When The Jakarta Post toured Southeast Maluku at the end of July, the island was barraged by rain and strong winds on a daily basis, making it difficult to explore its beauty.

The quickest and easiest way to reach the Kei Islands is by air.

From the Pattimura Airport in Ambon, visitors will need to take another plane for a one-and-a-half-hour flight to the Karel Satsuitubun Airport in Langgur, the capital of Southeast Maluku. This airport has replaced Dumatubun in Tual, which is now an Air Force base.

From Langgur, the wonders of this east Indonesian island group can be further explored. In fact, Southeast Maluku offers numerous charms in more remote locations.

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Bair Island: The island’s unique landscape is a feast for the eyes with its clear waters and beautiful lagoons. (JP/P.J. Leo)

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Sparkling: Hawang cave in Letvuan village is located 15 kilometers from the city of Langgur. The reflection of sun rays on the water creates a sparkling blue glow throughout the cave. (JP/P.J. Leo)

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Ngurtavur beach: The name of the beach means “emerging sands.” It is one of Southeast Maluku’s most popular tourist destinations. (JP/P.J. Leo)

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Pristine: Bair Island from another angle. Many tourists compare the beauty of this island to Papua's famous Raja Ampat. (JP/P.J. Leo)

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Hoat Island: A local dries seaweed on Hoat island, which only has a handful of residents. (JP/P.J. Leo)

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Ngurbloat beach: A resident sweeps up leaves at Ngurbloat beach, the name of which means (JP/P.J. Leo)

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Welcome: A dock at Bair Island. (JP/P.J. Leo)


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6 Ways to make your travel story an internet sensation

6 Ways to make your travel story an internet sensation

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Become a travel blogger

Why not let the world read your travel experiences?? If you have this habit of maintaining a small diary, where you pen down your daily experiences then travel blogging could be an ideal option. Who knows, your blog could become viral across the Internet, inspiring others to backpack and kick start a road trip or follow your footprints. There are places that offer you conceive a fairy tale story or chronicle never heard spooky events, which you can share with your friends and fellow travelers. You don’t have to be a professional writer to draft your travel story. Instead, a travel blog is an excellent option for all kinds of travelers, backpackers and frequent flyers to name a few.

Be a creative photographer

The ‘feet first’ photo trend started way back in 2005, when Tom, a fellow traveler along with his companion clicked a picture of their feet pointing towards the sea. This idea spread like wildfire among travel bloggers and turned into a worldwide phenomenon. You can make use of this ongoing trend and let the world see where have you been to.

Create your own viral selfie series

Murad Osmann can inspire you enough to go around the world and create your signature “Follow me” series. You can either hold your beloved’s hand just like the “Follow me” series or create your own style and let others take cues from your travel story. Creativity has no limits. There are chances your works will get appreciated and liked by all.

Be a smart travel storyteller

Be a storytellerNot everyone loves to write and not everyone could be a good orator as you are. Stories are best enjoyed when they are foretold. Be a grandma, sit and record your travel experiences with your smart phone. We’re pretty much sure you could be an amazing narrator of your travel story just as the world’s best TV narrator Will Lyman. TravelUR offers you an excellent platform to not only share your pictures but videos as well and recordings as well.

Become a collector

If beaches are your most preferred vacation destinations then become a shell collector and if hiking has been on your bucket list then you can be a flower collector. Such things not only add on beautiful values to your travel memories, but people start relating your travel story with such collectibles. Souvenirs such as Statue of Liberty or Eiffel Tower are too mainstream now. Go on a shell hunting and discover some amazing staples nature must offer.

Create personalized travel postcard

Vintage postcards are a ‘thing’ now. These days, almost at every major tourist destination you can find a vintage postcard. So, pick a postcard and give the card a personalized touch by scribbling something like – “Paris I will miss you”.

So, those were our top 6 tips on how to make your travel story an Internet sensation. If you have been maintaining your travel stories, do share with us and inspire our fellow readers.

Happy reading!

https://www.travelur.com/blog/how-to-make-your-travel-story-an-internet-sensation-in-6-ways/

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Ubud: Inside Bali's cultural epicenter

Ubud: Inside Bali's cultural epicenter

Theodora Sutcliffe, CNN

(CNN) — The jewel of Indonesia, Bali has a reputation for its clifftop hotels and clear surf. But farther inland, the mystical temples and iconic rice paddies of Ubud provide a completely different Bali experience.

Bali's cultural capital since the 1930s, this highland town is a must-stop on any Indonesia itinerary.

Ubud's winning combo of food, arts, wellness and traditional Balinese culture continues to draw travelers, from backpackers to sybarites and group tourists. Here's how to experience the town at its best.

Feed your face

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For a small town, Ubud boasts an impressive culinary scene and fine dining is spectacular value.

Star New York pastry chef Will Goldfarb upped sticks for Bali in 2009, and his Room 4 Dessert sweets and cocktail bar serves up magical, textured confections, both individually and as part of a nine-course dessert degustation menu.

Dinner at Locavore, recognized as Indonesia's best restaurant on the Asia's 50 Best Restaurants list, means a feast of over 20 dishes, creatively and intelligently crafted from local ingredients.

In the magical garden setting of Mozaic, Michelin-trained chef Chris Salans fuses modern European concepts and techniques with indigenous flavors.

On a bit of a budget? Head to Hujan Locale, the Ubud outpost of celebrity chef Will Meyrick, for big, bold Indonesian flavors with a pan-Asian spin.

Set in its own rice field, Manisan, headlined by Indonesian culinary star William Wongso, offers largely faithful interpretations of dishes from across the archipelago.

Just outside Penestanan, a leafy district marketed as an artists' village, Moksa draws raw food fans with dishes and juices sourced from its own garden and nearby organic farms. It's one of many raw and/or vegan eateries that makes Ubud such a mecca not only for vegetarians but also those following other alternative diets.

Balinese classics like ayam betutu -- smoky, spicy chicken -- or babi guling -- roast suckling pig -- make up the breakfast of champions here.
Head to Ubud Market before 8 a.m. for authentic local dishes, or try Ibu Oka by the royal palace for succulent roast pork with crispy skin.
And finally, every May, Ubud hosts the annual Ubud Food Festival, a three-day extravaganza of lunches, dinners, tastings, talks and classes focused on food, glorious food.
Room 4 Dessert, Jalan Sanggingan, Ubud, Bali; +62 812 3666 2806
Locavore, Jl. Dewisita No.10, Ubud, Bali; +62 361 977 733
Mozaic, Jl. Raya Sanggingan, Kedewatan, Ubud, Bali; +62 361 975 768
Hujan Local, Jl. Sri Wedari No.5, Ubud, Bali; +62 361 849 3092
Manisan, Jl. Hanoman, Ubud, Bali; +62 361 846 8933
Moksa, Puskesmas Ubud II, Bali; +62 361 479 2479
Ibu Oka, Jalan Tegal Sari No. 2, Ubud, Bali; +62 361 976345

Take in some art

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Russian-born German painter Walter Spies arrived in Ubud in 1927. By importing friends and introducing Western artistic techniques such as perspective to Bali, he helped establish the village's reputation as an artistic and creative idyll. By the late 1930s, Ubud's forward-thinking royal family were actively developing the town as an arts and culture destination.

Today, Ubud is awash in art galleries, the overwhelming majority of them churning out mass-produced art -- yet the lush gorges and green hills still inspire Indonesian and expat artists.

ARMA, Puri Lukisan and NEKA museums all boast extensive, quality collections of Balinese art. With contemporary Indonesian pieces as well as works by Spies and Dutch-born Indonesian painter Arie Smit, NEKA is probably the most important.

The frames may dominate the art, but the sheer scale of the Blanco Museum, the exuberant circular home of Philippines-born artist Antonio Blanco, Bali's answer to Salvador Dali, still impresses.

Threads of Life is a fantastic commercial gallery that showcases Indonesia's rich textile tradition as well as helping save endangered dying and weaving techniques.

Gaya Ceramic offers spectacular ceramics as well as an artist-in-residence program. Ewa Gallery sells tribal art from the Sepik region of Papua New Guinea; Taksu showcases contemporary photography with a focus on travel.

Ubud is also a spectacular place to learn traditional Balinese arts, be they silversmithing, woodcarving, offerings or more.

Pondok Pekak delivers affordable classes in Balinese arts and crafts for both children and adults; learn silver-smithing at Chez Monique or Studio Perak.
ARMA, Jalan Raya Pengosekan, Ubud, Bali; +62 361 976 659
Puri Lukisan, Jl. Raya Ubud, Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali; +62 361 971159
NEKA, Jalan Raya Sanggingan Campuhan, Kedewatan, Ubud, Bali; +62 361 975074
Blanco Museum, Jl. Raya Penestanan No.8, Sayan, Ubud, Bali; +62 361 975502
Threads of Life, Jl. Kajeng No.24, Ubud, Gianyar, Ubud, Bali; +62 361 972187
Gaya Ceramic, Jl. Raya Sayan No.105, Sayan, Ubud, Bali; +62 361 976220
Taksu, Jl. Cok Rai Pudak, Banjar Teges Kawan Yangloni, Peliatan, Ubud, Bali; +62 361 970688
Pondok Pekak, Jl. Monkey Forest, Sebelah Timur Lapangan Ubud, Ubud, Bali; +62 361 976194
Chez Monique, Jl. Hanoman No.36, Ubud, Bali; +62 813 3845 4677
Studio Perak, Jl. Hanoman, Padangtegal, Ubud, Bali;+62 361 974244

Relax and recharge

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Strolling through the streets of Ubud, travelers are bombarded with ads for everything from sacred geometry to colonic irrigation, from ice-cream infused with crystal essences to ozone therapy and Tibetan singing bowl sessions.

Yet there's more to health and wellness in Ubud than goddess ceremonies and fad diets imported from California or blessing rituals dubiously appropriated from Balinese culture.

Set in its own manicured rice field besides a rushing river, the sinuous new bamboo yoga bale at the Four Seasons Resort at Sayan is undoubtedly the best location for yoga in Ubud.

An up-to-the-second range of classes runs from AntiGravity aerial yoga to laughter yoga and hot stone yoga, as well as power yoga, yin and hatha. A genius post-lunch class combines savasana in a hammock with tutored meditation for the perfect "afternoon nap."

The beautiful spa, with pavilions surrounded by ponds, serves up international treatments with a distinctively Balinese edge.

More affordably, Ubud veteran Yoga Barn offers a range of daily classes in yoga, meditation and alternative therapies, as well as a spa.

The spa at the historic Tjampuhan Hotel is a wonderland of hot and cool spring pools set amid exuberant sculpted grottoes in the river gorge.

Cantika Zest in Penestenan delivers treatments based exclusively on fresh ingredients: In their new workshop guests will be able to pick their own ingredients from the garden and mix their own facials.

Spa Bali is a contemporary day spa that blends fresh ingredients and Balinese techniques with urban touches like gel nails.

Four Seasons Resort at Sayan, Jl. Raya Sayan, Ubud, Sayan, Ubud, Bali; +62 361 977577
Yoga Barn, Jl. Raya Pengosekan, Ubud, Bali; +62 361 971236
Tjampuhan Hotel, Jl. Raya Campuan, Sayan, Ubud, Bali; +62 361 975368
Cantika Zest, Jl. Penestanan Kelod, Singakerta, Ubud; +62 851 0094 4425
Spa Bali, Jl. Raya Pengosekan, Ubud, Bali; +62 361 970897

Out and about

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The rich and vibrant culture of Balinese Hinduism is on full display in Ubud, while a walk along Campuhan Ridge or through the rice-fields reveals the complexity of the island's UNESCO-listed subak terrace system.

The Bali Bird Walk, a gentle three-hour amble through the rice-fields, is a great way to learn about local birds, nature and the culture that has shaped the landscape.

The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, an Indiana Jones wonderland of dangling creepers, mossy statues, teetering bridges and scores of monkeys, is Ubud's number one tourist draw.

Set right in the heart of town, it's an atmospheric attraction that can be explored in minutes -- just don't feed the monkeys, as they can bite and may carry rabies.

In Tampak Siring, a little to the north of Ubud proper, less-visited Gunung Kawi is home to 11th-century rock-cut temples: Go early morning or late afternoon to avoid the tour buses at the serene water temple, Tirta Empul, nearby.

From elaborate cremations to Barong dances -- the island's answer to south China's lion dance -- Hindu ceremonies are a major tourist draw.

It's worth taking time to experience one of Ubud's many traditional Balinese dance performances. The temple of Saraswati, goddess of the arts, is an atmospheric spot to watch the kecak, a riotous performance led by a bare-chested, beat-boxing male choir.

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Bali's best 5 hidden beaches - Indonesia Travel Destinations

Bali's best 5 hidden beaches - Indonesia Travel Destinations

Charlene Fang, CNN 

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(CNN) — Bali is not short of beaches. Which is why visitors may be wondering: which Bali beach should I head for?
Here are five Bali beaches that aren't overrun with other people.

1. Balangan Beach

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When the neighboring Dreamland beach got taken over by bulldozers and chain resorts, the surfers drifted over to Balangan.
The long stretch of white sand is flanked by rocky cliffs while the shore is lined by an assortment of warungs (local cafes) serving plates of indo mee and ice-cold Bintangs and cheap non-air conditioned huts.
The agenda at Balangan is simple: surf (if you can), go swimming when it is high tide, build intricate sandcastles -- the sand here is exceptional for doing so -- and laze about in a hammock watching the surfers, young and old, catch the waves.
Reef shoes are highly recommended as the beach has a sharp rocky base and some of it covered in slippery green moss.
For the virgin surfers, there are surf schools and numerous freelance instructors who'll be willing to take you out for a price.

How to get there: From Kuta, take the Bypass Ngurah Rai towards Nusa Dua. Look for the Uluwatu turn off to the right after about 10 minutes, after which, keep your eyes peeled for signs that direct you to Balangan.

2. Geger Beach

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For sun seekers dismayed by some of Bali's rougher waters, this is a beach you can actually swim on.
Situated close to the Nusa Dua golf course, the sparkling green-blue water here remains relatively calm with gentle rolling waves.
The sand is thick and soft, packed hard so you can play a game of volleyball or go for a leisurely beach run.
A string of restaurants make this a popular Sunday brunch spot, especially with the local expats and their young ones.
There are touts hawking their wares but they're relatively tame compared to other beaches and deck chairs can be rented.
Go at the right time of the day and you'll see seaweed farmers working between the area from Geger Cafe to Geger Temple.
Another big plus? This is one of the few beaches where topless sunbathing is allowed

How to get there: Located five minutes from the Nusa Dua golf course and next to the St Regis Nusa Dua resort.

3. Bias Tugal

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Referred to as Pantai Kecil (Little Beach), this spot is often deserted, except for the odd adventurous tourist and a couple of the warung vendors.
Tucked away near Padang Bai, the beauty of this beach is that it is hidden, accessible only after a 500-meter trek down a rocky path.
What greets you at the end of your mini-hike is a glorious body of water in varying shades of blue and turquoise fringed by a strip of fine white sand and swaying coconut trees.
The current here can be strong, for the non-experienced swimmers, make do with playing in the waves and soaking up the sun in relative solitude as you watch the boats entering and leaving Padang Bai for Lombok and the Gili Islands.

Which beach in Bali? From the ferry terminal of Padang Bai, head east up the hill and keep walking till you come across an exposed bit of the bay.

4. Ungasan

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This strip of beach situated on the southern most point of Bali is quite possibly the island's prettiest.
The only catch is that it'll cost you to enjoy this little slice of paradise.
If you're not staying at either the Karma Kandara resort or the neighboring Banyan Tree resort, the best way to access it is to spend a day at the popular Karma Beach Bali.
The entry fee is a little cheeky, but the view from the inclinator that brings you 150 meters down the cliff-face to the beach is almost worth the fee alone.
Here, the sand is fine and delicate, the water, an intense azure color -- not dissimilar from the Mediterranean -- and the waves roll in hard and evenly, forming pretty white patterns on the shoreline.
The best time to swim is before lunch when it is low tide and you can frolic at ease.
Later in the day, the waves become stronger, and the currents will sweep you across to the other beach, should you prefer a little more privacy and don't mind the lack of deck chairs.
Warning: do not laugh off the yellow Wet Floor signs placed on the rocks, they're placed there for good reason.
Go on a Monday when Karma Beach Bali screens a movie from 6:15 p.m., and if you really want to splurge, the Karma Kandara spa has a on-site beach sala.

How to get there: A Bluebird taxi from Seminyak area should cost about $16 (150,000 rupiah) to Karma Kandara resort.

5. Amed

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Situated about two hours drive from Ngurah Rai International Airport is Amed, where the sand is of the coarse black volcanic variety.
Instead of surfers and surf boards out on the water, the beach is lined with traditional outrigger fishing boats.
Those who venture up to Amed are usually keen to get in some quality diving as there are a number of wrecks located at nearby Lipah Beach and Tulamben.
For snorkelers, the coral and underwater life in Amed is abundant.
While the prettiest bays are found at Jemeluk and Lipah, the whole stretch of coastline presents a different, more natural image of Bali where the locals' primary source of income lies in salt mining and fishing.
When night falls, take a walk on the beach and look up to the sky bathed in stars.

How to get there: Turning east at the village of Culik which lies on the main east coast road from Karangasem to Singaraja.

Charlene Fang has written for the likes of Travel+Leisure, Condé Nast Traveler, Wallpaper*, ELLE and The Australian.


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646 regional languages identified so far: Ministry

646 regional languages identified so far: Ministry

Indonesia Travel Destinations

The Education and Culture Ministry is said to have identified 646 regional languages, according to the ministry's Language Agency head Dadang Sunendar.

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"We have already identified 646 regional languages. In the next two months, we estimate the number will increase," said Dadang in Jakarta on Friday as quoted by Antara news agency.

The identification of the nation's many languages is part of an effort to discover how many regional languages exist in Indonesia. Several of the languages are said to have gone extinct as they are not used anymore, including Hoti, Hukumina, Hulung, Serua, Teun, Palumata, Loun, Moksela, Nakaela and Nila — all found in Maluku. Some Papuan languages like Saponi and Mapia have also reportedly vanished. 

The ministry is currently holding a language ambassador contest in a bid to preserve Indonesia's regional languages. This year, each province is encouraged to send two language ambassadors.

"To become a language ambassador is not easy. Other than having to be able to speak Bahasa Indonesia fluently, they also have to have mastered regional and foreign languages," said Dadang.

Of course, all language ambassadors would have to be able to use regional languages found in their respective provinces. Dadang said they would receive language training for one week prior to representing their provinces.

"It's quite a challenge. We could not run the campaign alone. We have to collaborate with parents, teachers and the media," Dadang added.

South Kalimantan Language Ambassador, Muhammad Andri HF, said the province was home to 18 regional languages, but that the most popular language currently used was Banjar. "We try to preserve [regional] languages. We don't want them to become extinct," he said. (kes)

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French embassy to issue visas within 48 hours starting Nov. 1

French embassy to issue visas within 48 hours starting Nov. 1

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Indonesian tourists planning to go to France will not need to wait long for visa approval. Starting November 1, 2017, the embassy of France will issue visas within 48 hours. Previously, applicants had to wait up to 10 days to obtain the visa.

KompasTravel reports that the new rule will also apply to seven other countries namely Thailand, Russia, India, The Philippines, Cambodia, Laos and Myanmar. 

France’s prime minister, Edouard Phillipe said that tourist visits to France have declined following the Paris and Nice tragedies last year. In 2017, France aims to get 89 million international tourists. The target will continuously increase until the year 2020 where the country aims to get 100 million foreign tourists. 

In anticipation of a tourist boom, the government of France also adds more immigration personnel in the country's international airports. (asw)

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Five capsule hotels to stay at in Jakarta

Five capsule hotels to stay at in Jakarta

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A recent fad among budget hotels in Jakarta budget has been to offer capsule rooms, which are basically small rectangular shaped capsules with a bed inside. These are arguably cheaper accommodation options that have almost the same price point as hostels, which are mostly between Rp 200,000 (US$15) and 250,000).

Below are some of the options available across Jakarta you can consider:

Old Batavia Hostel

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Arguably one of the more popular capsule hotels that recently opened in the Cikini area in Central Jakarta. A 2-minute drive from the station, this hotel offers both capsule and normal room options.

The hotel is a 10-minute drive from Plaza Indonesia, Grand Indonesia Shopping Mall and Gambir Station. Soekarno-Hatta International Airport is 1-hour drive away. The area also has a lot of options for street food, so this would be the optimal place to stay for travelers on a budget.

Starting price: Rp 220,000 per night

HomieStay

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A new hostel/capsule hotel located in the Pantai Indah Kapuk area in North Jakarta. Unlike the choice above, this hostel would be a better option for those wanting to shop and explore coffee and foods.

The Pantai Indah Kapuk area has a mall and countless food options that include Indonesian, Korean, Chinese, Western and more. It is also a 10-minute drive from Mangga Dua Square shopping center. 

Starting price: Rp 200,000 per night

Packer Lodge

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Unlike the traditional capsule hotel, The Packer Lodge offers mixed dormitory style rooms that contain anywhere from 2 to 8 capsule style beds. These rooms usually include a kitchen and a shower that can be shared among groups of travelers.

The place is located in the Kota Tua area in West Jakarta and is a 15-minute drive to Mangga Dua and a 45-minute drive to Soekarno-Hatta Internatinal Airport.

Starting price: Rp 130,000 per night

Teduh Hostel Kota tua

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This hostel is different from the rest as it increases the number of people in a room to a staggering 22. In this place, you can book a single or double capsule where you will be put in a room filled with other people. These rooms include showers, clothes racks, a PS3, computers, oven and stovetops, and is a 5-minute walk from the Kota Railway Station. 

Starting price: Rp 250,000 per night

Wonderloft

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This hostel provides 8-person dormitory style rooms and is also located in the Kota Tua area. Mangga Dua Square is 2-kilometer from Wonderloft Hostel, while Dunia Fantasi is 2.4-km away. The nearest airport is Halim Perdanakusuma Airport, 16-km from the property.

The hostel provides a billiard table and is particularly favored by couples, as they seem to like the ambiance and consistently rate it a 9/10 stars on booking.com. (ken/kes)

Starting price: Rp 90,000 per night

TheJakartaPost

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