Bunaken National Marine Park

EXPERIENCES OF SULAWESI

Bunaken is one of Indonesia's most famous diving and snorkeling areas and it draws visitors from all over the world. In addition to banana-shaped Bunaken Island itself, the 890 km2 of marine national park includes the neighboring islands of Manado Tua (a distinctive cone-shaped extinct volcano), Siladen, Montehagen, Nain, and Nain Kecil.

Some 20,000 local inhabitants make their living from the waters in the Bunaken National Marine Park, and this has inevitably led to some conflicts. By and large though, the co-operation between national and local government authorities, conservation groups, business owners and local communities has been very successful here. This has led many to cite Bunaken as a model example of how Indonesia should be preserving its natural marine treasures.

History

Bunaken was formally established as a national marine park in 1991.
landscape

Mangroves on the east coast of Bunaken
Mangroves on the east coast of Bunaken

The park is famed for the clarity of its water (35m visibility is common in the summer dry season), the abundance of coral and fish, and for the precipitous "walls" at some sites. Bunaken Timur, right off the east coast of the island and featuring all of the above, is rated by many as the single best dive site in all Indonesia.

In places the water is extremely deep here - 1,500 metres plus.

Flora and fauna

Bunaken has a quite stunning biodiversity including:

* No less than 70 different genera of coral
* five species of sea turtle
* an extraodinary range of fish - 70% of all fish species that exist in the Indo-Western Pacific Ocean are found here
* white tip and black tip reef-sharks are common
* wonderful resident dugongs
* barracuda and tuna make regular appearences from more pelagic waters
* occasionally saltwater crocodiles

Climate

Bunaken is barely a degree above the equator and thus tropical. The wet season, from November to mid-April, brings frequent rains sometimes in storms lasting for several days which freshen the air nicely but also reduce marine visibility. The dry season is from May to October, when temperatures climb to a roasting 35° and visibility reaches a maximum.

Bunaken receives less rain than the north Sulawesi mainland and is well ventilated with sea breezes.

For Permits and fees

As of September 2008, entry to the park costs Rp 50,000 per day or Rp 150,000 per calendar year. Children below 10 years are exempt.

Even though the fee is not automatically levied upon entrance to the park, it is the responsibility of all visitors to pay it and reputable dive shops & resorts will always charge this to their guests. As proof of payment, you will receive a waterproof plastic tag that must be carried at all times. Spot checks are not uncommon by the patrol boats.

The park is managed by a multi-stakeholder board comprising of government and non-government members to include representatives of the 30,000 people who live within the boundaries of the park. Though deemed by some as not being transparent and lacking in effectiveness, the management board together with the water police have, over the years, been able to stop cyanide fishing, dynamite fishing and more recently participated in the release of 700 napoleon wrasse that had been illegally caught in and around the park. Though not perfect and certainly having room for improvement, the management board does have an important role in the conservation of the area and this could not happen without the support of all visitors in adhering to the purchase of the entrance tag.

view

Tourism on Bunaken has been very much geared towards serious divers over the years but the trend seems to be changing. More and more casual snorkelers are visiting the area as are those who wish to just relax immersed in nature. Possible activities for landlubbers include:

• Beach-combing, especially at low tide when the reef top is accessible.

• Hiking to some of the secluded coves on the eastern and northern part of the island. Trails are poorly marked.

• Fishing, but only outside of the park boundaries. Hire a boat or join one of the local fishermen.

• Dolphin & Whale watching, either on diveboat trips or by hiring a boat privately.

The thing to do in Bunaken is dive, dive and dive! However, the steep walls and occasionally strong, rapidly changing currents mean that many sites cater more to the intermediate/advanced diver. There are beginner-friendly sites too and all dive shops can arrange introduction dives and Open Water Dive courses.

The North Sulawesi Watersports Association offers oodles of detail on diving in the park.

All dive shops in the park are affiliated with resorts, so see sleep below for listings.

Snorkeling is fantastic in front of many of the resorts around the island, with an incredible amount of marine life inhabiting the shallows. Remember not to snorkel without fins as the currents can sometimes be strong and change quickly even when they are not. Pick a reference point on the island and do not stray too far unless you are a very confident swimmer.

Most visitors choose to sleep at their dive resort, almost all of which offer full board and attractive package offers.

Those resorts on the south and west sides of Bunaken Island are on a strip of coarse yellow sand beach whilst the frontage of those on the east side is a mixture of mangroves and small beaches.

Lodging On Bunaken Island

• Bastianos Dive Resort, ☎ +62 431 3325678 (info@bastianos.com), . Full service dive resort.

• Bunaken Cha Cha Nature Resort, ☎ +62 813 56930370, On the eastern side of Bunaken; 10 cottages all with en-suite bathrooms (hot water showers), large balconies, all superior cottages are equipped with A/C. Private white sand beach, "House Reef" with floating pontoon for snorkelers, massage treatments available. Restaurant above the beach, Wifi throughout the resort, PADI Dive Center. Skype: bunakenchacha. Packages start from US$75 per person/per night ; Accommodation & Dive Packages from US$165 per person/per night.

• Bunaken SeaGarden Resort, (Pangalisang beach), ☎ +6281244738802,. On a beautiful location at Pangalisang Beach, a small and cosy resort with spacious cottages built in a traditional style. All cottages have nice veranda and modern style bathrooms. Right in front of the resort you wil find the Bunaken Timur Reef. The high tide creates a long natural swimming pool along the resort and at low tide a shady and sandy beach appears. From €15 inclusive all meals, coffee, tea and water.

• Bunaken Village Resort, Located along the Pangalisang beach on the east coast of Bunaken. 8 cottages, restaurant, dive shop, beach bar, and swimming pool around a nicely landscaped small garden. Rooms €25-28, 2 boat dives €45.

• Cicak Senang Resort (Happy Gecko), Liang Beach, ☎ +62 852 5665 0099 (cicak.senang@gmail.com), Five wooden bungalows on a hillside with spacious bathroom and a beautiful view. Breezy beachside restaurant and bar. Good snorkeling right in front of the resort. Snorkeling tours and dolphinwatching tours are offered. The owner Jerry is a Bunaken original who knows a lot about the island and he is happy to show you around. Families with children welcome. Rp 250,000 per person per night fullboard.

• Froggies Divers,. A high quality dive operator with comfortable bungalows and excellent food.

• Living Colours, ☎ +62 812 4306063,. Diver-oriented resort run by the shop of the same name. The bungalows are spacious and clean. Rooms €35/person including three excellent meals.

• Lorenso's Bungalows, 5 min down the coast from Living Colours, offering cheaper but more basic bungalows at Rp 125,000- 250,000 per person

• Two Fish Divers, ☎ +62 811 432805, Small and friendly PADI Gold Palm IDC Resort based on Bunaken Island. Cottages are basic but comfortable, and are right in front of the mangroves. The food is reliable, if monotonous. Vegetarians are usually offered fresh grilled fish in place of meat dishes. Offers fun dives for experienced and inexperienced divers, with small groups of 2-4 divers per dive guide. Also offers a full range of PADI dive courses from Open Water Course through to Instructor. Rooms from €12 to €25 per person..

On Siladen Island

• Onong Resort, Siladen Island, . A boutiue dive resort operated by Celebes Divers. Seven individual cottages, well fitted out and all air-conditioned. In house restaurant plus full service dive shop and a serious marine biology research centre.

Siladen Resort and Spa, Siladen Island, Luxury resort aimed at non-diving visitors as well as keen divers. Spa, restaurant and in-house dive operation. Individual beach view or garden view villas.

T O B A L A K E

Toba Lake

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World famous is the crater Toba Lake in the Batak highlands; approximately five hours drive from Medan. Toba Lake is the largest lake in South East Asia and also one of the most spectacular, surrounded by tall mountains and with the large island of Samosir in the middle. If we descend from the mountain we see the lake glittering in all its beauty. The Dutch writer Rudy Kousbroek even called Toba Lake, 'the most beautiful place on earth'. Most visitors stay on the peninsula of Tuk Tuk on Samosir, named after the linguist Herman Neubronner van der Tuuk. In general people stay several days on Samosir to discover the island, to visit traditional Batak villages, to swim in the lake and go to the hot springs in Pangururan.

The centerpiece of North Sumatra, Lake Toba's bracing climate and magnificent panoramas clear the mind and soothe the soul. For decades a magnet from regional and foreign visitors alike, Toba has developed into a full-featured highland resort while retaining the rustic charm and relaxed ambiance that define Toba's attraction. Formed by a stupendous prehistoric volcanic explosion, the 100 km long lake is the largest in Southeast Asia and one of the deepest and the highest in the world. The drama of that cataclysmic birth persist in 500 meter cliffs dropping into the blue-green waters, surrounded by steep, pine covered sloped, the climate is fresh and pleasant, with just enough rain to support the lush vegetation.

Toba Lake is a 100kms x 30kms volcanic lake in North Sumatra, Indonesia. Toba Lake has become one of the main tourist attractions for a long time in North Sumatra apart from Bukit Lawang and Nias, visited by both domestic and foreign tourist.



The Origin of Toba Lake
It is estimated that Toba Lake was formed during a volcanic eruption about 73.000-75.000 years ago and which was the most recent super volcano eruption. Bill Rose and Craig Chesner from Michigan Technological University estimated that volcanic materials that were spewed out the mountain totaling 2800km3, with 800km3 ignimbrites rock and 2000km3 volcanic ash that is estimated was blown (wind) to the west for 2 weeks. This incident caused mass death (destruction) and to several species also causes extinction. According to some DNA proof, this eruption also shrinks the humankind population to around thousands back then.

After this eruption, a caldera was formed that was filled by water afterwards and now known as Toba Lake. The pressure from the dormant magma, which has not yet erupted, caused Samosir Island to emerge. The region that now known as Samosir Island originally was a peninsula that attached to the Sumatran mainland. In this peninsula the Netherlands built the water canal 10 m width.

For the first time visitors, going through Medan-Parapat route seeing a lake as big as that made Samosir appear like an amazing grand island. However, the island perspective will certainly faded with the increase in Toba plateau visitor, Nias and the other places in the south, through Medan-Berastagi route. Samosir occupied a central geographical position in the Toba plateau region. With the declaration of the Toba Samosir Regency (the inhabitants 302.000 lives, the area with wide of 3.440 km including the lake) it finally ascend from only a shadow into a Regency. Moreover, the width of Samosir Island exceed Singapore (647 km), in fact Toba Lake almost twice bigger than Singapore. The Samosir image in tourism books as the backpackers location must be changed because this historic place must restore the greatness of its past.


Legend of Toba Lake
Once upon a time, lived a young orphan farmer in the northern part of the Sumatran Island. This area was very dry. The young man lived from farming and fishing. One day he went fishing, he already fishing for half of the day but still not getting any fish yet. So he returned home for the day turns to night, but when he nearly left he saw a big beautiful golden fish, he then caught the fish and brought it home. He intended to cook the fish right away but watched the beauty of this fish he then cancelled his intention. He chose to keep it as pet, and then he placed it in a big pond and feed it. On the next day, like usual, he went to his farm, and on the noon he comeback home, to have lunch. But when he arrived in his house he was very startled for the meal had prepared to be eaten. He then fears that the fish might be stolen, and then hastily he ran to the back of his house.

However, the fish was still in place, for a long time he thinks, “Who cooks those meals”, but because his is very hungry, he ate those meals. But this incident continued to occur again repeatedly, every time he came home for lunch, the meals are prepared on the table. Then one day this young man made a strategy to find out who cooks those meals, the next day he then began to commence his strategy, he then hide around the trees close to his house. He was waiting for a long time, but the smoke in his kitchen still has not been seen, and when he then intended to return home, he began to see the smoke in the kitchen.

"Hey woman, who are you, and where are you came from?” the woman began to drop tears, and then the young man saw his fish was no longer in the pond. He asked the woman, “hey woman, where is the fish in that pond?” the Woman cried intensely, but this young man continued to ask and finally the woman answers, “I was the fish that was caught by you”. The young man then startled, but because he felt that he had hurt the feelings this woman, then he said, “Hey woman, did you want to become my wife??” the Woman then startled, he stay quiet, then the young man said “Why are you silent??” Then the woman said, “I wanted to become your wife. But with one condition.” ”What is the condition?” the young man quickly asked, the woman then said, “In the future if our child was born and grew, never even once you said that he/she was anakni Dekke (child of a fish) ”. The young man then agreed to that condition and swore he will never say it.

Then they were married and granted a child. When the child was 6 years old, this child turn to be very naughty. Then one day the mother told her child to deliver meals to his father field, the child then went to deliver rice to his father. But in the middle of the trip, this child was felt hungry, then the child opened food package for his father, and ate the food. After finished eating, the child then wrapped it back and continued the trip to his father's field. On arrival the child gave the food package to the father, the father was very happy, the father then sat and immediately opened the food package that was sent by his wife to be carried by his child. But he was very startled when he opened the package there is only bones remained. The father then asked his child “Hay my child, why there are only bones left in this package??” And the child answers,” In my trip I felt hungry, so I ate the food.” Listened to that the father was very angry, he then slap his child and said, "Botul maho anakni dekke (Why you child of a fish),". The child is then ran home crying and ask to his mother “Mak, Olo do na in dokkon amangi, botul do au anakni dekke? (Mother, is it true what father said, that I am a child from a fish?) ” Heard his child's words his mother was startled. While dropping tears and saying in her heart, “My husband has violated his swore, and now I must return to my place.” Then the sky was suddenly become dark followed with lightning, thunder, storm, and rain. The child and the mother disappeared, from their footprint emerged a spring that flowed water as swiftly as possible. Until this area was turned into a lake, that was named as “Tuba Lake” the lake without mercy, but because of the bataks was difficult to say “Tuba”, then this lake was mentioned as

TOBA LAKE.
According to the local Citizen, the mother return as a huge fish (the lake guardian), and until today no one is able to measure the depth of this lake. Many tourists that tried to dive into the lake but never return. The lake depth in the book is only estimation not as a fact.

Get around

Local transportation around the lake takes the form of boats (cheaper, school boats with limited schedules and more expensive public boats that operate throughout the day).

Public Boats from Parapat and surrounding areas sail from either Ajibata or Tigaraja to Tuktuk or Tomok at Samosir Island. The fee is 7,000 IDR per trip. There is also bigger ship which transports Cars and Busses sailing between Tigaraja and Tomok.

Hire a motorcycle for a day or two and get out and about (Rp.70,000 per day including full petrol - you can bargain down to Rp.50,000 per day in low season if you hire for several days). Take a map. There are no police checking licenses and there is not much traffic - just watch out for the big trucks, buses and diabolical bridges. A good journey to take on a motorcycle would be to travel North from Tuk Tuk around to the western shore, stopping at the tourist sites along the way such as the many and varied traditional houses and villages. The roads are very bad in the centre of the island (bumpy and washed out) and it takes half a day to cross this way (verse 1-2 hours by coast road which is more scenic anyway). You can expect to ride at least up to 100km in the day.

It may be obvious but just remember there are no taxis around Tuk Tuk. Sure you can walk the small part of the island in an hour or so but if you are heading out for the night plan ahead on how you will get back home. The locals are very friendly people who will go out of their way to help. However, some corners of the island are very quiet at night and you may find yourself on a long long walk.

Most of the cottages and guest houses at Tuk Tuk will rent you a very serviceable bicycle for a nominal fee, this is a very much preferred way to get around, but be very careful for the cars as nobody looks and there does not seem to be any right side of the road, even when its the left side.

Restaurant

The main road around Tuktuk is lined with small restaurants of varying quality. Also on offer is magic mushroom and various "happy herb" pizzas if you want that.

• Jenny's Restaurant, (There is only one or two roads so simply ask for Jenny's.). Jenny and her husband Rinto run the very simple but cozy restaurant with view on the wonderful lake Toba. You will notice that every day the table cloth are being changed, a usually rare to find nicety and convenience. The curry is delicious. A must-try is the fresh lake-fish, steamed or grilled. Even western food like Schnitzel (breaded pork or chicken chop pan fried) is very good. For dessert try the fresh papaya that grows in the back-yard or a golden-brown banana pancake with chocolate sauce and a sprinkle of coconut. Once all the guests in the small place with only about 5 tables are fed and happy, Rinto will take the guitar from the wall and entertain his patrons

• Tabo Cottages, Tuk-tuk, ☎ +62-625-451318 (tabores@indo.net.id). They have free Wi-Fi and the western-styled food served in the restaurant is very good. They have also European quality natural yoghurt.

• Cotney Restaurant, (by the Samosir resort). Specialties include delcious rendanags, curries, and the best smiles on the island by the two lovely sisters who run the restaurant. Internet is also offered for the cheapest price on the island.

• Maruba Restaurant, Tuk-tuk (In between Amberoba Hotel and Rodeo Accommodation). Ita Manurung cooks delicious food, including traditional Batak & Indonesian food. Her boneless fish curry is sensational. She also cooks a variety of Western meals such as schnitzels and stuffed roast chicken and bakes fresh bread and baguettes most days. You can order a Batak feast one day in advance. There are a selection of main dishes to choose from and all are served with Batak style vegetable dishes and rice. Some choices are Ikan Na Neura (Very fresh raw fish marinated with candlenuts, spices & lime juice), Napi Nadir (Batak style curry made with grilled chicken), Saksang (Chopped pork cooked with Batak spices and fresh pig's blood (blood is optional!)

cafe

There is one discotheque on Fri and Sat nights - expect the latest 80s music. Better to drink at your guest house generally.

Saturday night is often the highlight on the local calendar. You can hear a chorus of parties going around the Tuk Tuk area. At Samosir Cottages you will also see a wonderful local Batak performance that is a mixture of traditional dances and fantastic drinking songs (Lesoy!!- Cheers!!). Everyone is so talented it seems as the local people watching the performance also join in or start up their own sing along table after the main show. Harry and his Dad both perform in the band and sell a fantastic souvenir that you will enjoy when back at home.

There are also a number of fine spots around the Tuk Tuk area to catch a sunset beer. Reggae Bar is perched high up looking over the lake while the Hibiscus Bar on main street is hosted by two wonderful local girls and plays cool tunes with a little encouragement. Thats the thing to remember in Tuk Tuk. This area is in a depressed tourist state but is actual a wonderful gem that should be on the world stage. So while some places may look like not much is going on- GO IN - and the momemtum will build into a fun filled night with new friends.

LODGING

There are numerous hotels and guest houses, mainly in Tuk tuk but with a few scattered in other small towns around the island. During Chinese New Year (end of Jan/early Feb), many Indonesians come for vacation and will pay generously for their rooms (about triple the rate). To accommodate these guests, some guest house owners may ask their existing guests to vacate their rooms, but only giving them very short notice. Therefore, when arriving before Chinese New Year, check with the guest house owner to ensure your stay will not be interrupted.

• Bagus Bay, Bagus Bay, ☎ +62-625-451287, [1]. is a lovely place next to the lake. A dark wood and bamboo bar/restaurant give the place a particularly relaxed feel. The rooms are basic and range between Rp.30,000 and Rp.100,000. Good food and cold beer at a reasonable price. edit

• Barbara`s Guesthouse, Ambarita, ☎ +62-625-7000230 (barbarasguesthouse@laketoba.de), [2]. is a small quite relaxing place a few km from Tuk Tuk with lovely scenery and very good swimming. Rooms are clean and located in several houses. Prices per night from Rp. 35000 upwards. Western- and Indonesian style food is served in the restaurant and on the terasse direct to the lake. Guesthouse manager Gordon gives gladly general tourist information and good tips about Sumatra edit

• Hotel Carolina, Tuk-tuk, ☎ +62-625-451210 (carolina@indosat.co.in). A nice place with 49 rooms set in a lush tropical garden. It has a good restaurant with a verandah overlooking the lake. Staff is very helpful. Prices start with a bargain of Rp.50.000 for small Batak style cottages up the hill with cold water only and go up to Rp.100.000 for the luxury rooms on the lake shore which come with hot water, a bath tub and a fridge. Rates subject to a 10% tax. Good access to the lake for swimming with a pontoon to relax. The Hotel can organise trips, rents out motorbikes, has an internet parlour and even offers free WiFi, though the speed can be very slow. edit

• Christina Guesthouse, Tuk-tuk, ☎ +62-625-451027, [3]. is a small relaxing place with lovely scenery and good swimming. Rooms are clean and located in several houses (e.g. traditional Batak-houses). Prices per night from Rp. 50000 upwards. Internet & Skype are available for reasonable price. Western- and Indonesian style food is served in the restaurant. Guesthouse manager Juan gives gladly general tourist information and good tips about Sumatra. edit

• Liberta Homestay, Sosor Galung, ☎ +62-625-451035. is a good budget choice for 35000Rp/night+. It has quiet private cabins on the lake. Friendly owner Mr Moon will sing, cook, and go out of his way for you. edit

• Mas Cottages. Mas Cottages is closer to the ancient ceremonial stone chairs than downtown Tuk-Tuk. It is a quiet sanctuary from the rest of the world with a variety of accommodation options all directly on the lake including VIP suites and traditional Batak houses. Safety and security are unparalled at Mas Cottages. Prices are a bit higher for this secluded location at 60-70,000 rps. edit

• Romlan, ☎ +62-625-451386 (romlantuktuk@yahoo.com). is a small guesthouse with about 15 rooms and includes two batak cottages (40,000 per night) and traditional rooms in a single and two storey building (about 60,000 per night). The rooms are super clean and very comfortable with attached bathroom and nice furniture. All rooms have direct lake view and the swimming area is good for swimming and relaxing. Also great local and indonesian food including some German meals. Highly recommended. Ask the boat to stop at the private dock. edit

• Samosir Cottages, Tuk-tuk, ☎ +62-625-451170 (info@samosircottages.com), [4]. accommodates many of the travellers who arrive late in Parapat, as there is usually a representative to ship them to the cottages. This is not a bad thing, however - the place is large, with a big variety in the price of rooms (Rp 30,000 and upwards). The waterfront is clean, and the restaurant is large and serves good food.The Batak music performing every Wednesday night and Saturday Night is great edit Ron the Boss and Togi the driver will be very helpful and sincere people. They also own Samorsir Villa Resort 5 minutes drive away which is newly built in 2007.

• Tabo Cottages, Tuk-tuk, ☎ +62-625-451318 (tabores@indo.net.id), [5]. The rooms are very clean and quite modern by Sumateran standards. They have free Wi-Fi and the western-styled food served in the restaurant is very good. Prices start at around Rp.120,000 per night and climb up from there. edit

Stay safe

The local Batak people are very respectful and loving christians. Some of the local males may try turn on the charm too much especially if you are a group females. Be cautious as always but from our travels we saw no material need for specific security concerns day or night.

Get out

There seem to be a few 'Taksi Trans' operators that carry passengers between Parapat and Medan. Takes four hours, costs (July 2009) 65,000 rp per person. There are seven to a van, and if you book early, you can get the passenger seat next to the driver. John from Raja Taksi Trans speaks good English, and operates from a table in a cafe just up (70m) from the Tuk Tuk ferry, in the Harbour area of Parapat. . At the Medan end, the airport desk no is 061 7366333, or 7366555. I don't know how responsive or reliable the Medan end is. I booked the 9.30AM van from Parapat, on the understanding that it would not go until I arrived from Tuk Tuk on the 9.00AM ferry. Trouble is, the 9.00AM ferry is sometimes cancelled, and the 8.00AM ferry is often cancelled. Best to take the 7.00AM ferry from Tuk Tuk, and have breakfast in Parapat.

From the harbour in Parapat, jump in a local mini-van (Rp 2,000) towards the Parapat bus station. From there you can reach nearly all the big cities in Sumatra and even Java. A night trip to Bukkintinggi in an air-con coach costs around Rp 180,000 with the A.L.S. company. Prepare for one of the worst night of your trip.

B A L I

B A L I

experiences for traveler

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The Island of Bali in Indonesia is an Ultimate Island and a perfect holiday destination for people who are seeking adventure and a totally relaxing moment. Bali has earned itself a long string of plaudits, including the “Morning of the World,” “Island of the Gods” and the “Last Paradise on Earth.” Although it has undergone much development, most of the island still deserves those appellations. Its natural beauty, the colorful Balinese Hindu festivals and the friendliness of the people lure vacationers here again and again. The Bali Island is the most popular and world renowned vacation paradise in Indonesia since year after year, this island is voted by the readers of all major travel magazines. The Island of Bali is most enchanting and amazing travel and holiday destination in the whole world.

The Island of Bali in Jakarta Indonesia offers a wide range of attraction to tourist, visitors and adventure seekers. This island is highly regarded by tourist and visitors as the “Ultimate Island” because of its physical beauty and the climate is very pleasant all year-round. This perfect island holiday destination is also offering various and different customs to tourist. The Island of Bali has many amusements available for visitors and tourist. There are also many inland and offshore attractions. But there are also many attractions that rise every now and then because of the number of tourist and visitors that want them. Tourist especially Americans, Europeans and Australians like to be here in this tropical island of Bali because of the unique blend of modern facilities combined with traditional of past heritage.

Beautiful Beaches and Lakes

The Island of Bali is blessed with world class white sand beautiful beaches and beautiful nature. The endless sand beaches enveloped most of Bali’s shores where silvery waves. The beaches of The Island of Bali are amazing and magnificent. From the stretch of sand in Kuta, fenced far in the South by the runway of Denpasar International Airport; the peaceful elegance of Nusa Dua; the mysterious quietness and somberness of Candidasa, as a temple dedicated to the sea goddess submerges; to the spectacular sunsets of Lovina in the North. Since we are speaking of beaches, there is one attraction that the beaches of Bali that attracts most to the adventurers and especially the surfers, the waves. The Tropical Island of Bali is one of the beat surfing destination in the world. Experienced surfers around the world come here to Bali Island to challenge the great and wildest waves. Not only the sea that gives attraction in Bali Island but also Lakes. There are four lakes in Bali. Lake Batur, the old crater of Mount Batur, is the largest. Kintamani offers an excellent panoramic view of the lake, and the lake itself effectively fences in the Bali Aga people in Trunyan. Lake Bratan, the second largest, is near the town of Bedugul. Lake Buyan and Lake Temblingan are also near.

Bali Island Water Sports

Bali Island has many exciting activities to offer especially watersports. Since This tropical island paradise has a tropical climate all year round, this island is good for diving and watersports. There are lots of diving operators that operate in Bali. The popular watersports that Bali Island has to offer to tourist are kiteboarding, kitsurfing, surfing, diving, offshore rafting and many more. The white water rafting is the most popular waterport here in Bali and the offshore rafting or ocean rafting comes next.

Bali Island Surfing and Diving

The Tropical Island of Bali is an island paradise that is surrounded by crystal clear blue water. Here in Bali Island, there is an all year long sunshine and it gives a very good chance of many offshore attractions. The Island of Bali is also popular for diving and snorkeling in which are among the major attractions in Bali. Experienced and novice divers around the globe will experience and many underwater marine creatures such as beautiful and colorful coral reefs and tropical fish. Bali diving sites offers a lot of beginners and professional divers. There are abundant soft and ahrd coral reefs with a variety of marine life such as dolphins, rays, turtle, sea snakes and moray eels. There are many unexplored, unexploited and uninhibited dive sites in Bali that are also best in diving. The waters of the Tropical Island of Bali is offering magnificent waves that is perfect for surfing. Surfing in Bali Island is introduced by Australian surfers in the 60’s. Because of the good tropical climate in Bali, surfers can surf everyday. Out-standing reef breaks are found in Kuta and Sanur. Sanur reef is a real pleasure because, here you will find a tube-forming wave that will carry you back to the seashore and in this way.

Popular Attractions in Bali Island

Here are some of the attraction is the Tropical Island of Bali that is worth visiting for such as Tanah Lot, Lovina, Klungkung Royal Palace, Pura Besakih, Taman Burung Bali (Bali Bird Park), Monkey Forest Sanctuary, Uluwatu, Waterbom Park & Spa, Gunung Agung (Mount Agung) and Museum Semarajaya.

How to get there in Bali Island: Bali is small island, just 140 Km by 80 Km and lies between Java, the most highly populated and influential of all the islands, and Lombok, one of the quieter and moderately slower paced islands. Like many islands, Bali has developed a world of its own. It not only captures what is special about Indonesia but also has a uniqueness of its own.

By Plane: Bali is well connected with rest of the part of the world by air. The tourist can take a flight to the Ngurah Rai international airport or the Denpasar Airport which is located in Denpasar, the capital of Bali. You will get flight from this airport for all the major cities of Indonesia, Asia and Australia. By Bus: Getting to Bali by bus is a convenient and cheap way of reaching the city. All the areas of the city are easily accessible by bus service. There is Bali Bus Service from Java and Lombok. Bus service is available for airport also.

By Taxi: Travel in Bali in Indonesia is very convenient. One can get around the city by taxi at a slightly higher rate than what the buses charge. Bali Taxi Service are available for transfer from airport.

By Sea: Getting to Bali by Ferry is a convenient and efficient and a fast way of transport. Bali Ferry Service is available from Gilimanuk to Ketapang.

The tropical island of Bali in Indonesia has numerous 5 star luxury and resorts for the luxurious and comfortable accommodation of tourists, travelers and guest in their travel vacation getaway. Here are some of the luxurious hotel and resort of Bali:

In Kuta including Tuban, Legian, Seminyak, Canggu

Alam Kulkul Resort, Kuta	Le Meridien, Tanah Lot
Aneka Beach Hotel, Kuta	Legian Beach Hotel, Legian
Bali Dynasty Resort, Tuban	Legian Paradiso Hotel, Legian
Balihai Resort & Spa, Tuban	Matahari Bungalow, Kuta
Bali Padma Hotel, Legian	Pelangi Bali Hotel, Seminyak
Bolare Beach Bungalows, Berawa Beach	Poppies Cottages, Kuta
Casa Padma Suite, Legian	Ramada Bintang Bali, Legian
Discovery Kartika Plaza, Tuban	Ramayana Hotel, Kuta
Downtown Apartments, Seminyak	Resor Seminyak, Seminyak
Grand Bali Sani Suites, Seminyak	Sahid Bali Hotel, Legian
Green Garden Hotel, Tuban	Santika Beach Hotel, Tuban
Hard Rock Bali Hotel, Legian	Satriya Cottages, Tuban
Inna Kuta Beach, Legian	Sofitel Seminyak, Seminyak
Jayakarta Bali Hotel, Legian	The Legian, Seminyak
Kuta Lagoon Resort, Kuta	The Oberoi, Seminyak
Kuta Sea View Hotel, Kuta	The Samaya, Seminyak
Kuta Paradiso, Tuban	The Sofitel, Seminyak

In Nusa Dua, Tanjung Benoa & Jimbaran

Aston Bali Resort, Tanjung Benoa	Karma Kandara, Uluwatu
Ayodya Resort (Previously Bali Hilton), Nusa Dua	Laguna Resort & Spa, Nusa Dua
Bali Intercontinental Resort, Jimbaran	Melia Benoa, Tanjung Benoa
Bali Royal Suites, Tanjung Benoa	Melia Bali, Nusa Dua
Bali Tropic, Tanjung Benoa	Nusa Dua Resort & Spa, Nusa Dua
Bvlgari Bali, Uluwatu	Puri Bambu, Jimbaran
Conrad Bali Resort, Tanjung Benoa	Sekar Nusa Resort, Nusa Dua
Four Season Resort Bali, Jimbaran	St. Regis Bali, Nusa Dua
Grand Hyatt Bali, Nusa Dua	The Bale, Nusa Dua
Grand Mirage Bali, Tanjung Benoa	The Calyx, Uluwatu
Jimbaran Puri Bali	The Ritz Carlton Bali, Jimbaran
Keraton Bali, Jimbaran	The Westin Resort, Nusa Dua
Karma Jimbaran, Jimbaran

In Sanur

Bali Hyatt Resort	Puri Santrian
Inna Grand Bali Beach	Santrian Resort
Inna Shindu Beach Hotel	Sanur Aerowisata
La Taverna	Sanur Paradise Plaza Suites

In Ubud Area

Alila Ubud, Ubud	Komaneka
Bali Spirit Hotel, Ubud	Kori Ubud Resort
Cahaya Dewata Hotel, Sayan	Panorama Hotel, Ubud
Four Seasons Bali, Sayan	Pertiwi Resort
Fibra Inn, Ubud	Pita Maha Resort, Ubud
Kamandalu Resort & Spa, Ubud	The Viceroy, Ubud
Klub Kokos Bungalows, Ubud	Ubud Hanging Gardens

In East Bali

Candi Beach Cottage, Candidasa	Rama Candidasa
Kubu Bali Bungalow, Candidasa	The Watergarden, Candidasa
Mimpi Resort, Tulamben

In North Bali

Jepun Bali Resort, Tejakula	Mimpi Resort Menjangan, near Gilimanuk
Krisna Beach Cottage, Lovina	Menjangan Jungle & Beach Resort, near Gilimanuk
Lovina Cottage, Lovina	Rambutan Beach Cottage, Lovina
Matahari Beach Resort & Spa, near Permuteran

In Nusa Lembongan

Bali Hai Tide Huts	Gili Gede Resort
Coconut Beach Club	Nusa Lembongan Resort

the cartoon characters that i like. --------> pokemon (Y)

P O K E M O N

Pokémon, abbreviated from Pocket Monsters, is a Japanese animated series, which has since been adapted for the North and South American, Australian and European television market. It is somewhat based on the Pokémon video game series and a part of the Pokémon franchise.

Originally a single series, Pokémon, it has since been made into three series, including Pokémon: Advanced Generation and subsequently Pokémon Diamond and Pearl, which sequentially continue the story of Pokémon, while its spin-off Pokémon Sunday (formerly Weekly Pokémon Broadcasting Station) has broadcast a series of stories revolving around some of the recurring characters, Pokémon Chronicles or, as it is known in Japan, Pokémon Side Story.

plot

Ash Ketchum (Satoshi in the original Japanese series) has just become a Pokémon trainer in the Kanto Region. He picked Pikachu because, after breaking his alarm clock, Ash was late for his appointment and all the conventional starter Pokémon (Bulbasaur, Charmander and Squirtle) were gone. He has a childhood rival named Gary (Shigeru in the original Japanese series). Ash accidentally destroys a bike belonging to a girl named Misty (Kasumi in the original Japanese series), who starts to follow him to get her bike back, but soon becomes a close friend. Misty endeavors to be a great water Pokémon trainer. Shortly thereafter, Ash battles Brock (Takeshi in the original Japanese series), the leader of the Pewter City gym. Ash initially loses to Brock's Onix, but wins the Boulder Badge in a rematch. Brock then turns over gym leader duties to his estranged father and accompanies Ash and Misty on their journey in order to become the world's greatest Pokémon breeder.

Ash's Kanto journey culminates with him collecting the necessary eight badges to compete in the Indigo League Pokémon Tournament held annually on the Indigo Plateau in Viridian City. Upon his arrival Ash shrugs off repeated suggestions that he should spend his time training and preparing for the tournament. He ultimately loses in the quarter-finals to Richie, a new rival who happens to use many of the same Pokémon as Ash, including a Pikachu named "Sparky".

After the Indigo League, Ash returns briefly to Pallet Town before setting out on a new journey to the Orange Islands where he will compete in the Orange League. Brock eventually parts company with Ash and Misty to pursue Pokémon research with Professor Ivy. At this point a new character, Tracey Sketchit (Kenji in the original Japanese series) joins Ash. Ash collects four badges and competes against the Orange League champion, Drake, a very experienced trainer. The battle comes down to Pikachu versus Drake's Dragonite with Pikachu delivering a devastating Thunder attack to score the knockout blow.

Victorious in the Orange League, Ash again returns to Pallet Town where he and Misty are reunited with Brock who leaves Professor Ivy for an unknown reason. Tracey decides to stay in Pallet Town to work with his idol, Professor Oak as Ash, Brock and Misty head west to the distant land of Johto. Pokémon: The Johto Journeys marks the introduction of a new series of Pokémon beyond the original 150 named and frequently seen throughout the Kanto and Orange Islands regions.

In the fifth season (Pokémon Master Quest), Ash is defeated by a Pokémon trainer from the southern land of Hoenn region and decides to journey there next after a brief visit home. Before arriving in Pallet Town, Misty receives a message from her sisters requesting that she return to Cerulean City to take over gym leader duties. Brock then decides that he has been away from home too long and must return to help his father take care of his many brothers and sisters. This marks the last time to date that the original trio of friends journeys together. In Pallet Town, Ash receives a more modern-looking outfit from his mother and sets out for the Hoenn region with only Pikachu, choosing to leave his other Pokémon with Professor Oak.

In Hoenn, Ash meets May (Haruka in the original Japanese series) and her younger brother Max (Masato in the original Japanese series), who join in his journey. May is excited by the Pokémon Contests that take place in Kanto and Hoenn, while Max joins the group to gain experience so that one day he will have his own Pokémon and become a Gym Leader like his father Norman, the Gym Leader of Petalburg City. Having solved his family issues, Brock returns (also in a new outfit) to accompany Ash. This season, Gary leaves his promising career as a Pokémon Trainer to become a Pokémon researcher. Misty visits the group and takes Ash, Brock, May and Max to the Togepi Kingdom.

After Ash completes the Hoenn League, he returns home to Pallet Town, as do May and Max return to Petalburg City, and Brock returns to Pewter City. Ash meets up with Misty, Tracey, Professor Oak and his mother at his homecoming celebration. Professor Birch and Max arrive in Pallet Town that same evening, and May and Brock arrive the next day. Ash and May learn of the Battle Frontier and the new contests in Kanto region and decide to travel together to compete. Brock, Max and Misty decide to join them on their new journey, however, Misty leaves the group again in the next few episodes to return to looking after the gym.

After Ash becomes champion of the Kanto Battle Frontier, May as well as Drew, Solidad and Harley travel to the Johto region to participate in the Grand Festival held there. Max returns to Petalburg City to get ready for his own Pokémon journey and Brock returns to Pewter City, once again. Ash learns of a new region called Sinnoh, where he embarks on a new journey. Ash planned to bring only Pikachu, but Aipom snuck on the boat. Brock comes back a few days later in Sinnoh and they both meet Dawn (Hikari in the original Japanese series), a new trainer who hopes to become a great Pokémon Coordinator, like her mother. Ash meets a new rival, paul (Shinji in the original Japanese series), who prefers to capture the strongest Pokémon, leaving the weak who are released, in strong contrast to Ash's methods. Ash also meets Gary several times throughout Sinnoh, and is briefly rejoined by May during the Wallace Cup. Then, after Ash gets in to Hearthome for his 5th badge, he runs into Barry. Now, Barry is commonly running into them on and off. Barry and Ash have battled against each other twice, once at his anime debut, and then for the right to challenge Palmer to finish off the Twinleaf Festival. As Dawn, Zoey, Nando, Ursala and Kenny enter the Grand Festival, Kenny loses the first round and departs Lake Valor, thus leaving the series.

Pikachu, He is the most I like pokemon. he is the coolest electric pokemon for me.

link about this cartoon :

about pokemon : http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pok%C3%A9mon_(anime)

other :
http://www.csmonitor.com/Innovation/Horizons/2010/0514/Pokemon-Black-and-White-Details-on-new-heroes-starters

if you have game console especially nintendo ds, you can download many series game about pokemon , and so you can download and get it.

download :
pokemon soul silver

pokemon heart gold

pokemon dash

pokemon platinum

pokemon ranger shadows of almia

pokemon mistery dungeon of darkness

pokemon diamond

pokemon pearl

heemm the nice friends hemm

the boys : seno - niko and the girls : dinda - niken



they're the people who fill my days like colours.