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Best things to do in Kanchanaburi

Kanchanaburi is the third largest province in Thailand. The province has a lot of various landscapes. There are many mountains and there are flowing 2 main rivers through the province. Those rivers are the river Kwai Yai and the river Kway Noi. The province has also a dark history during WW2. Due to the war, there are many museums which commemorate the events that took place. There are also many rainforests and waterfalls to discover which will amaze you.

Pay your respect to the fallen ones
The Kanchanaburi war cemetery is a memorial for WW2. The people who have fought during the war are buried on this cemetery. Here you’ll find the graves of 5085 Thai fallen soldiers and 1896 Dutch fallen soldiers who gave their life for others to have a live a life of freedom. There is also a smaller cemetery where war soldiers are buried. This war cemetery is the Chungkai war cemetery and here, you’ll find the graves 1426 Thai fallen soldiers and 313 Dutch fallen soldiers. Both cemeteries are memorial sights.

Watch the rescued elephants
Elephant World Sanctuary is a non-profit organization where you’ll see elephants who have been cared for due to a handicap, sickness, abuse and many other horrible things. Here, you can gather food for the elephants, so you can help them. Furthermore, it’s also possible to stay for the night at the sanctuary.

Travel over the river Kwai
The steel bridge over the river Kwai is one of the most important landmarks of Thailand. The bridge is well-known for the battle during WW2 and several movies which show the events during the war. The damaged bridge was renovated after WW2 in 1946 and nowadays, it’s possible to walk over the bridge. The bridge is also still used for train rides so by passers who want to walk over the bridge have to be careful for trains

Temple visit in Kanchanaburi
The temples of Wat Tham Sua and Wat Tham Khao Noi are twin temples. Both temples are located on a mountain which have a view over Mae Klong Hill. The temples are actually twin temples, but the temples are very different from one another. The Wat Tham Sua is built in Buddhism style while the Wat Tham Khao Noi is built in Chinese style. Both the temples are not connected to each other, so it will challenge you reach both the temples.

Cool down at the waterfall
Go to the Say Yok Noi waterfall and see the true beauty of nature. When you visit the waterfall, you’ll see an enormous rock formation. This rock formation is 15 metres high and is all covered by flowing water of the waterfall. The area of the waterfall has also an immense biodiversity of birds and mammal. The waterfall is also home to the world’s smallest mammal “the Kittes Hog-nosed Bat”. Furthermore, there are also several caves in the surrounding area which you can explorer.

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Best thing to do in Padang

 

Padang is the port of West Sumatra. Padang is also the largest port of West Sumatra. Because of this, Padang is a real trading city. Mostly of the goods which are traded are cinnamon, rubber, coffee, tea, cement and coal. Padang has also a very popular beach which houses a legend. During you stay in Padang, you cannot skip  the local cuisine, cause it will be a pity to be missed.

Lake Maninjau

You have to visit lake Maninjau during your stay in Padang. The has a is a stunning sight to see and there are a lot of activities which you can do. Just try fishing and catch a big one, go for dinner with a romantically atmosphere due to the beautiful sunset or enjoy the view of the lake by just looking to it. The lake is just like a mirror which don’t make you feel bored due to the ever changing sky which will be reflected by the lake.

Travel to China in just one day

You are reading it right. You can get in one day a full-china-experience! Visit China town in Padang and be surrounded by a totally different atmosphere which you get from the Indonesian culture. During your visit, you must see the Chinese temple of China town. This is the landmark of China town itself, so you haven’t been there if you haven’t visited the temple. The surrounding area of China town doesn’t have many restaurants which means that you have to try the local food if you want to eat something, but that’s not a problem because the local food is delicious and really cheap.

Enjoy your day on Air Manis Beach

Have you ever heard of the legend of Manis Beach? The locals say that once upon a time there was a rebellious boy. Hey was always against his mother, even when the mother tried to be the best for his son. And then god decided to turn the boy into stone as punishment for his behaviour. Can you find the boy of stone on the beach? The beach is also perfect for relaxing and enjoying the sunset. The sunset which you see on the beach is also the second reason why this beach is so famous. Do we see you at Air Manis Beach?

Visit the Pagaruyung Palace

This Palace is one of the most famous historic object in West – Sumatra. The original palace is actual burned, but the palace have enough cultural value to rebuild it. Nowadays the palace has also a different location. The first palace was built on the peak of Pagaruyung’s Batu Patah hill. Nowadays, the palace is located to the south where the first temple stood. You have to visit the palace, cause it brings you back in time.

Try the local cuisine

During your stay in Padang, you cannot miss out the local cuisine. One thing you have to try is Rendang. Rendang is curry and beef. The chef cooks for you the curry and beef up to 8 hours to give its signature black colour. During the time the curry get prepared, the chef is also caramelizing some coconut milk to add to the dish. The dish has also different variations with chicken and vegetables, so everyone can eat it.

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Best things to do in Koh Samui

Koh Samui is a famous tourist destination among many tourists across the world. It’s so well-known for its white beaches, waterfalls, viewpoints over the sunset and sunrise, temples, spa’s and many more. The island has enough hotels which will fit anyone’s budget. The best period to travel to Koh Samui is from January till July, due to the dry season.

Relaxation on the beach
Koh Samui has many beaches to offer which attract many tourists from all over the word. One of them is Chaweng Beach and this is also the biggest beach on the island which attracts the most tourists from all over the island. With its white powdery sand, coral reefs and rocky cliffs, many tourists enjoy their time here at the beach. There are also a lot of hotels and restaurants surrounding Chaweng beach which also makes the beach very popular among tourists.

Refresh yourself in one day
When you go to Koh Samui, you have to go to one of the spa’s, because the spa’s in Koh Samui are the best spa’s in Thailand. The spa’s in Koh Samui will make you feel reborn after you’ve got a message, body scrub or any other treatment they offer. One of the best spa’s in Koh Samui is Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary and Holistic Spa. This spa offers multiple day programs which will make you feel as a totally new person after you’ve done one of their programs.

Koh Samui in a spiritual sight
The Wat Plai Laem is a must see during your stay on Koh Samui. This temple is home to the statue of the goddess of mercy. The statue has 18 arms and this is a wonderful sight to see. Visitors who donate an amount of money will be given a bag of seafood to feed the fish of the temple. The temple itself is relatively new, but the art of the temple shows an old traditional style which is admired by many visitors who go to the temple.

The landmark of Koh Samui
The biggest landmark of Koh Samui is the Big Buddha. This statue is located in the north of Koh Samui 3 kilometre from the Airport. The Big Buddha is 12 metres tall and looks over the sea. If you want to see the Buddha, you have to climb a big staircase, but it will be rewarded with a beautiful sight over the see and the Buddha itself. There are also many shops which are convenient if you have to buy lunch or want to buy a souvenir.

Party on Koh Samui
The nightlife in Koh Samui is famous in Thailand for being one of the most popular party destinations of the country, if not the world. On the island, you have a big variety in clubs, pubs, bars, parties and many more. Koh Samui is well-known for its legendary full moon parties which are celebrated on the white sandy beaches. The full moon parties are organised by open air clubs who hire national and international DJ’s who provide you of the best music. When you want to go out to “regular” clubs on the island, you have to visit Chaweng. Here, you’ll find the biggest nightlife scene on the island with big clubs, bars, restaurants and many more.

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Best things to do in Manado

Manado is the capital city of North Celebes and there are plenty of activities which you can do during your stay in this city. First of all, we have to talk about Bunaken which is a famous divers destination due to its high biodiversity underwater. After you took a dive, you have to trek Gunung Mahawu which will amaze you with fantastic sights. Still haven’t seen enough? Go on safari to see the most interesting and beautiful animals. Do we see you in Manado?

Explorer the underwater world of Bunaken
During your stay in Bunaken, you have to go to Manado. This diving spot welcomes all divers, even if you are a beginner. During your diving adventure, you’ll encounter with a lot of life underwater. The spot has a high biodiversity and has even one of the highest biodiversity’s in the world. It is even possible to swim with sea turtles, which you have to do when you get the opportunity. The water is also pleasurable to jump in, due to its naturally warm temperature.

Trek on the volcanoes in the surrounding area
Volcano trekking is something you have to do during your stay in Manado. You can go to the Gunung Mahawu which will show you beautiful panorama’s at the end of the trek. During you trek, you will also be amazed by the beauty of nature. The trek itself will show you a lot of fresh green landscapes which gives you a surreal feeling and at the end, you will see a crater lake. This crater lake changes colour every day so be amazed by the sight of the active volcano.

Go on a small beautiful safari
Just 60km away from Manado, you will find the Tangkoko Batuangus Nature Reserve. This small reserve shows a lot of biodiversity in little time. This reserve is also the home of the Tarsiers which are called the ghost animals due to their appearance. Encountering with these animals will make your visit even more special. There are also a lot of different birds which have beautiful shapes. Be amazed in this small part of rain forest.

Cultures which are living together in peace
Manado is a city which has a majority of Christians, but there are also Hindu’s, Muslims and Buda’s. All of these religions live peacefully together and they even made a big monument which symbolize that. The monument is called the hill of love and you really have to see that, because it shows what people are capable of when it comes to handcrafts. In the hill, you see two enormous faces carved out of stone. These people are unified and that’s why the people of Manado see this as a symbol for their respect.

Meat which you have never tasted before
Manado‘s cuisine is different than the other parts of Indonesia. Due to the majority of Christians, Manado is a destination with different norms when it comes to food. The area has a lot of different kinds of meat. Do you want to taste something else which you usually don’t eat? Than you have to go to Manado. They serve every kind of meat which has 4 legs and they even sell meat from snakes. Curious about their cuisine now?

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Best Things To Do in Lombok

Lombok is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Indonesia. There are many tourist attractions in Lombok which makes tourists impressed with its beauty. You need to make a good travel plan so you don’t miss every inch of the beauty of Lombok. You don’t need to worry, we have a recommendation for activities which you can do during your vacation in Lombok.

Climb the majestic Mount Rinjani
Mount Rinjani is the second highest volcano in Indonesia, which has been a favorite destination for a long time under many tourists who travel to Lombok. The mountain which stands firmly and dominates the view of East Lombok is located in the beautiful and rich Mount Rinjani National Park area with many attractive natural attractions. With its challenging and varied terrain, Mount Rinjani is one of the most popular mountains to visit. Novice climbers can start climbing from Sembulan Lawang which offers an amazing view over the savanna. You can also stop at Lake Segara Anak which has crystal clear water and an amazing view over the lake which give you the feeling that you are living in a fairytale world.

Refresh your mind at Sendang Gile and Tiu Kilep waterfalls
The most famous waterfalls in Lombok are Sendang Gile and Tiu Kilep, whose water merges in one stream. The two waterfalls are located nearby each other and are located in the middle of the lush forest under the foot of Mount Rinjani. Get ready to be welcomed by cool air and natural green scenery. Along the road leading to the two waterfalls, you will be rewarded with a view of a dense protected forest, the majority of which is covered by tropical plants. Blowing mist fills the surrounding area of the valley, the beauty of the water falling from the cliff and the track to reach it is like going through the forest with a cool river flow, past the cave and also a unique bridge on the cliff will make the spirit of adventure definitely challenged.

Try the delicious Ayam Taliwang
One of the specialties of Lombok which is very loved and has been known to various parts of Indonesia is Ayam Taliwang. The combination of savory chicken and wide variety of spices is the reason why this dish is so popular. Ayam Taliwang will be more delicious when made by using native chickens that are still around two months old. This young chicken will give a soft, savory taste, and very spoil the tongue. Ayam Taliwang becomes more delicious if served with water spinach. If you visit Lombok, put Ayam Taliwang on your list of priorities that you should try.

Relax on the edge of Senggigi Beach
Senggigi Beach in West Lombok holds one of the best coastal landscape views in Indonesia, which is a pity to be missed by anyone visiting Lombok. Senggigi Beach has a long coastline with clean sand so it is a suitable place to relax and enjoy the view over the sea. At some points there are also trees that grow quite lush which is suitable for family picnic activities. You can also swim or just soak on the beach, because Senggigi Beach has a shape like a bay with small waves and calm water.

Enjoy the underwater world of Gili Trawangan
Gili Trawangan is a small island in Lombok that offers beauty due to its extraordinary exoticism to the sea and culture. Located on the west side of the island of Lombok, lined with two other islands starting from Gili Trawangan, Gili Air and Gili Meno. The small islands are like the golden eggs of Lombok which are a popular tourist destinations in the region. You can observe the natural beauty of the underwater, because it’s filled with natural coral reefs, fish and also the life of the increasingly rare sea turtles adorn the underwater scenery. Because of those reasons, the Gili’s are perfect dive and snorkel destinations.

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Best things to do in Lampung

Lampung is a smaller city in South Sumatra. Getting around in Lampung is ideal by scooter or scooter taxi. Speaking about scooter taxi, this is something which you certainly have to do during your stay in Lampung. This city is easy to explorer in a short time which means that you also have enough time to discover the area surrounding Lampung and that’s a good thing, due to all the activities you can do like visiting elephants or explorer other small islands. Interested? Than you have to read more about our recommendations of Lampung

Go to a small paradise
The island of Pahawang is a small secret tropical paradise for people who like snorkelling and relaxing. Sounds great, isn’t it? During you snorkelling trips, you even get the chance to encounter with several clownfish. Have you ever seen the movie finding Nemo? Than you will feel like you are playing in the movie. There are also several corals which have several colours, so you won’t get bored looking to them. Don’t you want to snorkel? No problem, just take your towel and go to the beach to relax.

Encounter with elephants
During your stay in Lampung, you have to go to Way Kambas. This is the elephant park of Sumatra which exists during the time that Sumatra was ruled by kings and sultans. Back in the days, the elephant where raised to be fighting in war. Nowadays, the elephants are trained to help humans. This is beneficial for both humans and elephants, because elephants help humans and humans protect elephants from harm.

Shop your new clothes and other goods in Boemi Kedaton Mall
Boemi Kedaton Mall is one of the largest shopping malls in Lampung. This mall is also new so it will give you a modern – like feeling when you are shopping due to all the renovations which took place. There are a lot of stores which vary from souvenir stores to clothing stores, to beauty stores. Because of this, the possibility is high than you can stay here for a long time during your time shopping in the mall.

Spending you day at the beach
During your stay in Lampung, you have to go to Mutun beach. Why? This beach offers a lot of activities which you can do and the beach is easy accessible from Lampung city. When you arrive you see a lot of people who are canoe-boating, banana-boating, swimming, etc. These are all activities which you can do during your stay here. Not interested to do activities? Don’t worry, you can always take you towel with you and look for a quiet place ate the beach.

Taste the cuisine of Lampung
During your stay in Lampung you cannot miss out the cuisine which the area has to offer. One of the most famous dishes of Lampung is Seruit. This is a fish with a kind of mango or shrimp. Tourists love this food, just like locals. The fish is made out of a harpoon which is with a filling which is delicious. Are you hungry now? Than go to Lampung and join us for dinner.

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Best Things To Do in Banyuwangi

Banyuwangi “the sunrise of Java” this is the name of the eastern tip of Java which is given by the residence of the island. Banyuwangi offers many natural sights which are a feast for the eye. Have you ever seen a big blue flame? Then here is your chance, because there are just 2 places where these kind of flames exist. Or maybe you want to have an African-Style holiday where you’ll see African wild life in front of your eyes. Do you want to relax? Banyuwangi is a perfect place. The following are recommendations for activities during your holiday in Banyuwangi.

Witness the beauty of blue fire in Ijen Crater
Mount Ijen feels special due to its rare phenomenon in the form of blue fire which only exists in 2 places on the world. Blue fire is a process of sulfur evaporation that looks bright blue at night. The blue fire moment will be only at 02.00-04.00 local time. With an estimated start at Ijen Cater, you’ll do a trek of 2 hours. Otherwise, you won’t be able to see the blue fire phenomenon. Tourists will start at Kalipuro around 1:30 in the morning.

See rare flora and fauna in Baluran
Baluran is a national park that is often dubbed as the “African of Java” and that is not without reason. In Baluron is a savanna landscape similar to the savanna landscape in Africa. The national park area which has an area of approximately 25 thousand hectares has a variety of flora and fauna that are protected by the state. You’ll be treated by views of meadows and exotic mountains. You can get acquainted with protected animals such as bulls, buffaloes, deer, and long-tailed macaques. During the rainy season, there are many animals that look for food in savanna which covers almost 10,000 hectares. you still have to be careful with wild animals such as snakes and a herd of bulls that can come at any time considering this still wild life.

Visit the unique Selendang Arum waterfall
Selendang Arum is a waterfall located in Sumberasih sub-village which is rarely touched by humans due to its somewhat hidden location. With its height of 20 meters and lush trees, Selendang Arum Waterfall is a beautiful sight to see. This waterfall is called Selendang Arum due to its rock-like shawl. The water runs through stone walls which sparkles when exposed to sunlight just like an present an exotic feel resembling a shawl.

Surfing at G-Land beach
G-Land Beach, also named Plengkung beach, is the best surfing spot in Indonesia. Both beginner and professional surfers can surf at the G-Land beach, due to three levels of waves at the beach which are ranked from 3 to 4 meters for beginners to 6 to 8 meters for professionals. The surfing experience of G-Land beach gets even better with the atmosphere which is still beautiful. Its remote location and surrounding dense forest makes the air pollution-free. You will get an unforgettable surfing experience on this beach.

Go on an adventure in the forest of Alas Purwo
There is one more location in Banyuwangi which is a pity to be missed. This location is Alas Purwo National Park. Navigating this area is like exploring the wild version of Indonesia, which is said to be the oldest land in Java. The national park, which covers 44,037 hectares and has been designated a National Geopark, is home to hundreds of species of flora and fauna. Not far from the gate, you will see a Hindu temple called Site Kawitan, which in Jawi Kawi means oldest temple. This is related to Alas Purwo, which is believed to be the first creation made be humans on Javanese land. You can also visit the vast Sadengan savanna where you can see peacocks, deers and Javanese bulls.

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Best things to do in Kupang

Kupang is a less known tourist destination in Indonesia, but the best thing about Kupang is that this destination is totally different from the rest of Indonesia. This city is located on the island of Pulau Timor. The landscapes are similar to the landscapes of Africa and because of this, you have the feeling that you are in a totally different continent. The people in Kupang are dying to meet you, especially when you are a foreigner from a western country. Already interested? Keep reading our recommendations for Kupang.

The forest in the sea
With forest in the sea, we mean mangroves. Mangrove is not touristic and you can see that on the way how it’s built. During your visit, you will think that you are walking on a tree-house-like architecture and this gives you an exciting feeling. The structure is really stable, but it doesn’t feel and look like it. The locals are making pictures of the mangroves and when they see you, you have to go on a picture with them.

Drive around the island of Pulau Timor
Driving around the island is for itself a very nice activity to do during your stay in Kupang. When you are exploring the island, you will see a landscape of a dry rainforest which is extraordinary sight to see for you as a tourist. There are also several markets you will pass. It’s a good idea to stop at one of those markets, cause you will have to opportunity to buy traditional handcrafts which are unique to the island. You will probably be the only foreigner at a market like that and the local people will admire you during your visit.

Eat at the boulevard of Kupang
At the boulevard of Kupang, you’ll find some nice terraces to have a meal or something to drink. Mostly of the time, the terraces have 2 levels which provides you for more places. The music which is played is modern music which gives you a real holiday feeling. On the beach are many seats which are waiting for you to take place, so you can enjoy the sunset while you are dining or just drinking something. This is a must do during your stay in Kupang.

Crossing the border to Timor Leste
When you go to the north of the island, you’ll be going to the border of Timor Leste. This is a different country, but you will get the opportunity to set a few footsteps in the county. The landmark of Timor Leste is waiting for you at the border of Indonesia. It is a massive pole with the name of the country on it and this is a good stop to make a picture which will make your trip memorable. After you have been there, you can go back to Indonesia which has also a landmark with the letters of Indonesia which you have to see.

Seek refreshment at Oenesu Waterfall
This waterfall is easy accessible and not touristic, but it is still big and it’s a wonderful sight to see. The waterfall even has its own parking place. Reaching the waterfall itself is a little bit tricky after you have parked your car. That’s because there is not a real walking path, but that makes the waterfall look more natural than it already is and you will have a little bit of a challenge during your visit. After you reach the end, you will be rewarded with an amazing view and you can even jump off the waterfall if you brought you swimming clothes with you.

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Best Things To Do in Raja Ampat

Raja Ampat is heaven on earth for many snorkelers and divers. The beauty of the underwater world in Raja Ampatis extraordinary and that’s known by the whole world. to its terrific underwater scenery, Raja Ampat also has another charm on the surface of the sea that is no less captivating. With its extraordinary natural beauty, Raja Ampat has become a dream destination that you have to visit once in your life. Want to go to Raja Ampat? Following are the interesting activities for our recommendation.

See exotic birds paradise in the village of Sawinggrai
Sawinggrai village is one of the most famous tourist villages in Raja Ampat which is home to 36 species of exotic birds. One of those birds is famous for being the paradise icon of Papua. During the breeding season, the male paradise birds will perform an attractive dance to attract females and this is beautiful sight for many tourists. The most famous activity in the village is preserving the birds, so they won’t die out. The present of these birds will entertain you during your visit at Sawinggrai. You can also do a lot of culinary tours in this area which will encounter you with flavours you have never tasted before.

Be amazed by the clear water at Timbul Beach
Timbul Beach is actually a stretch of sand that forms a small island in the middle of the ocean of Raja Ampat. The existence of Timbul Beach depends a lot on the ebb and flow of the ocean. The island will fade away from time to time due to the tides. The island will appear when the tides are high, but the island will fade away when the tides are low. The island is Called Timbul Beach, due to the strange phenomenon. Snorkeling at Timbul Beach an amazing, due to the colored and extraordinary shaped reefs underwater. Because of those reefs, Timbul Beach is one of the most beautiful snorkeling spots in Raja Ampat. Not to mention the colony of ornamental fish which is so beautiful, is also not afraid of the camera which will provide you from beautiful pictures. Without doubt, it’s safe to say that the shallow of the beach is amazing.

Visiting a beautiful group of islands in Pianemo
Pianemo is a group of small islands located in the West of Waigeo District. The residence also call the group of islands Piaynemo, but the islands are better known under the name of Pianemo. The Pianemo islands are the iconic of Raja Ampat. You have to put much effort to see the beautiful scenery of Raja Ampat. First you have to pass 300 stair steps and after you have done that, you’ll be rewarded with a view of the ‘tiny paradise’. The residence of Papoea believe that the paradise is created by the power of god. You can freely capture every corner of the karst rock cluster with its calm and clear blue or green sea water in a picture.

Get to know the friendly residents of Arborek Village
Arborek Village is a tourist village that is not too broad, only about 7 hectares, so it will not take a lot of time and energy when traveling around the village. The population in the village of Arborek is around 197 people which exists out 40 families. People in this village are known for their craft in making hats and string bags. Unlike most women in other villages who help their husbands as fishermen, almost all the mothers in this village produce handicraft as a livelihood. Walking down the village road will provide an opportunity for you to interact with the villagers of Arborek, especially with the children who will warmly greet and get to know you.

Marvel at the beauty of the underwater world on Kri Island
Kri Island is an island located in Yenbuba, Meos Mansar, Raja Ampat Regency, West Papua. You can find 374 species of fish with beautiful corals on Kri Island. Barracudas, jacks, batfish and snappers live side by side with small reef fish, sharks, groupers, turtles and many other species. The island is beautiful with clear sea water so you can see fish and coral just by looking at it from above the surface. The most popular spot on Kri Island is Cape Kri where you can swim with sharks and fish without the hassle of diving into the ocean floor.

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Tips to enjoy Nyepi Day in Bali

 

Nyepi or Silence Day is a very unique holiday that you will only find on Bali and its neighboring islands Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida. Its purpose is to celebrate the Balinese New Year. Since Balinese people follow a different calendar system, and this year Nyepi (Silence Day) takes place on March 7, 2019.

Despite of all the rules to be followed, such as wandering restriction around outside of your house, and not to be seen or heard, The Silence Day is a unique experience you could try and enjoy during your stay in Bali. With some useful tips below, your Nyepi experience will be fun and memorable.

1. Plan your arrival; Ngurah Rai International Airport is perhaps the only international airport in the world that totally ceases its operations for a full 24 hours every year. Due to the closure, all flights both arriving and departing from the airport will be inoperable. It’s always a good idea to plan your flights in or out to avoid the actual Nyepi date. In other words, arrive early – perhaps in time to watch the lively parades of Nyepi Eve!

 

2. Find yourself a nice accommodation, with a swimming pool, to enjoy the tropical climate even on Silent Day. Hotels in Bali are well geared up to offer their guests the best experiences during Nyepi, which basically confines them to their resort grounds, as traveling is one of the restricted rules during Nyepi Day.

 

3. Ogoh-ogoh Parade, a cultural highlight you don’t want to miss. The evening before Nyepi each village will have a huge parade presenting large artfully crafted monsters, made from bamboo and recycled paper, called Ogoh-Ogoh. They will be carried through the streets, accompanied by traditional music and mostly even a performance act. It is really impressive watching this cultural Highlight.

 

4. Stock up snacks & DVD. Visitors are exempt from the Nyepi restriction of lighting fire (for cooking – as long as the light and fire is not visible from outside your room or villa), so it’s okay to stock up on snacks or food for your kitchenette. The same goes for in-room entertainment such as DVDs (entertainment and other luxuries are also restricted among the Balinese during Nyepi). The local government has pushed for TV stations to cease broadcasting over Bali’s airwaves over Nyepi. Your hotel’s satellite channels will mostly remain available, including internet and Wi-Fi.

 

5. Book a full spa treatment. Nyepi is a great opportunity to make good use of its silence and seclusion, so why not spend some quality spa time with a full-day treatment? It’s a perfect time to reflect, reconnect and truly unwind.

 

6. Stargazing. Despite, having a relaxed day and just enjoying doing nothing, you will see the most amazing night sky during Nyepi Day. Since every place is supposed to shut down the lights, you will be able to see a million stars!

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Best things to do in Krabi

Krabi is a province in the south of Thailand which has a beautiful scenery both the inlands as at sea. Krabi has many different small islands, gigantic cliffs, gorgeous waterfalls and exotic wild life. Krabi is the ideal destination for a laid back holiday without mass tourism. It’s less crowded then Phuket and more laid back than Koh Samui.

Enter a tropical quiet paradise
One of the islands you have to visit during your stay in Krabi is actually a group of islands which are called the Phi Phi islands. This group of islands is famous for its beaches with white sand surrounded by palm trees and turquoise water. The island is a tropical quiet paradise which provide you from a relaxing holiday. The Phi Phi islands also have a very nice attitude when you compare it to other islands. There are just a few places in the whole world which are just as laid back as the Phi Phi islands. Stress doesn’t exist on the island.

Snorkel your way through Koh Poda
you have to see is Koh Poda. This island is the perfect place to snorkel and dive and it’s still a secret to many tourists. If you want to see a beautiful underwater world without that many tourists, then Koh Poda is the place to be. When you want to see an island within one day, you can go to Koh Hong. This island is easy to reach and it’s small enough to see all the nature sights in one day. Tourists are also not allowed to stay for the night on the island.

Replay the movie “the beach”
Travel to Maya Bay and see the former scenery of the movie “the beach”. Relax at the beach which is as white as snow and have a view over the beautiful rock formations of the bay. Buy your drinks and snacks in a small shack at the beach. You can also dive and snorkel at Maya Bay. You’ll see the amazing rocks and sea life underwater. It’s also possible to explorer the area by boat. You can hire a kayak, so you don’t have to spend your whole day on the beach.

The Emerald pool in the lush forest
The Emerald pool is surrounded by lush green trees which are really high. The pool itself is a hot water spring which makes it really pleasant for swimming. The pool has also a wild verity of flora and fauna which you can only find in the Emerald pool and the surrounding forest. The water of the lakes has an amazing turquoise and emerald colour which the name of the lake refer to.

Follow the footprints of Buddha
Krabi has many caves which can be visited by tourists and each cave has its unique sights. The first cave you have to visit during your visit to Krabi is the Krabi Tiger Cave. This cave is unique, because it’s actually a temple. The cave is filled with many Buddhism handcrafts and statues. You’ll also find the footprint of Buddha which is the main attraction of the cave. During your visit to the Krabi Tiger Cave, you’ll also see many monkeys which walk freely through the area.

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Travel Tips to South East Asia

Planning a holiday all the way to South East Asia might be an exciting thing to do in your vacation agenda. But what if you have never been to Asia before? What things you should be preparing for an excellent journey to Asia?
Here we share some tips for everyone who will travel to South East Asia:

1. Essential Documents
Prepare your passport and its digital copy. Some countries are free visa entry, some will apply Visa on Arrival. Don’t forget to check the immigration information in advance, for every country you will be visiting. If it needs visa in advance, you can arrange it in your home country.

2. Travel Duration
If it’s your first time to South East Asia, my tips is: don’t rush! Many traveler choose to travel fast in order to fulfill their bucket list in such a limited time. 1 night here, 1 night there, and then cross the border to the next country. It’s exhausting, besides you could not get enough experience of the places you are visiting. Spend at least 3 nights in each city to know more about the area, the culture, the local life, and the culinary. Because traveling is not about how many places, but it’s about how much experience you get during the journey.

3. Eat like locals
Want to experience an absolute travel? Try the local street foods! South East Asia is so famous with its street foods. Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, Indonesia, you name it. All of them have their own authentic street foods to offer. Almost in every city, there’s a street foods market, both day and night. Make sure you do at least once, roaming around the packed night market and eat the local foods in one of the stall. I’m sure you will not end up with 1x visit only!

4. Drink from the bottle
To avoid any bacteria or germs infecting your liver, try to drink only from a sealed bottled drink.
We don’t say that South East Asia is dirty and has a high risk of diarrhea, but the different climate between Northern hemisphere and the South East Asia could also be the main factor your body immune needs to deal with. And if you are not in your peak performance, the risk of getting sick from any germs is still possible to happen. So protect yourself.

5. Light packing
Traveling to the tropical South East Asia doesn’t require any of bulky outfits. As the weather is relatively warm all year long, light clothes would much work for entire occasion. T-shirt, casual shirt, short, light dress, and sandals are the essential, plus a sun glasses. Only in the rainy season you might need a hat or umbrella. But if you are a kind of who love to dance in the rain, you probably don’t mind to get a bit wet. In some areas of SEA there’s winter season (like in Hanoi), but the winter in SEA is still relatively warm for the people from Northern hemisphere. It’s around 14-20’c.

6. Join in at least one cultural exchange activity.
By joining in an activity that has some culture activities to offer, you will get a new unforgettable experience during your travel. For example visit a farmer’s house, traditional market, join in an art workshop, lunch with the royal family in the formerly palace (in Bali), join in one hour teaching at the local school, farming with local farmers, and etc.

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