Pulau Tiga

The Pulau Tiga Marine National Park has soared to world fame as 'Survivor Island' because of the popular Million Dollar Prize Money TV series 'Survivor' by the CBS TV network, USA. This is the exact island that the entire first series was filmed! The fact that this island was chosen was due to its untouched natural landscape and marine life.

The Pulau Tiga Park covers an area of 15,864 ha and was gazette as a National Park in 1978. As far back as 1933, the main island, together with the two smaller islands of Kalampunian Besar and Kalampunian Damit were designated as Forest Reserve.

Other Islands
There are two more islands in the Pulau Tiga Park, approximately 20 minutes by boat to the north of the main island, Pulau Tiga. They are very different. Kalmpunian Besar is a small sand cay built up from unconsolidated coral fragments, and the shape of the island shifts and changes with the prevailing monsoon winds and currents. Kalampunian Damit (also known as "Snake Island") is celebrated as a breeding ground for the amphibious sea snake Laticauda colubrina, which comes to the shores to lay eggs. The snakes can usually be seen coiled in a tangled mass under boulders or among tree roots.

Pulau Tiga Park

Pulau Tiga's three low, forest covered hills barely up to 100 m in height, are largely the result of the mud flows from the mud volcanoes that have built up the island. Mud volcanoes from where natural gas builds up enough pressure to escape along cracks in the earth's surface, carrying with it mud, water and rocks. Normally the volcanoes bubble fairly quietly, but occasionally more violent eruptions do occur, as happened on Pulau Tiga in 1941 when an eruption of the eastern volcano was heard as much as 160 km away! The outburst smothered almost 30 ha of forest with boiling hot, liquid mud. These mud volcanoes are interesting and must be visited when you are on the island. Directions of trails are available from the Park or Pulau Tiga Resort, and the paths are well maintained and indicated.


Because of its history as a Forest Reserve, Pulau Tiga is one of the very few undisturbed offshore islands left in Sabah, and this is reflected in the luxuriant plant life. The shore is lined by trees with wide crowns and branches spreading low over the sand. Behind the shelter of the coastal fringe lies a fairly open forest of pole-like trees with the two giant 'ranggu,' easily recognized by their grayish-yellow trunks.

A mangrove lagoon with crystal clear waters lies near the Park Headquarters. Animal life on this islands is abundant with multiple species of birds such as the magnificent black-and-white Pied Hornbills, Nightjars, Magpie-Robins, and of course the curious megapodes. Flying foxes roost behind the mangrove inlet. These large, orange-brown bats are a magnificent sight at dusk when they flap slowly towards the mainland in search of fruits for their evening meal.

A troop of long tailed macques frequent the trees and Monitor Lizards are abundant. The Golden Skink is often encountered along the trails. Coral reefs fringing parts of the islands are easily accessible, with some species of corals not found elsewhere on the west coast!

DIVERS HAVEN

Come dive into the silent world of legendary clear waters and explore the 7-km coral reef that surrounds the island. It is home to many marine life including sharks, barracudas, school of colorful coral fish and sea turtles.

Whether you are a snorkel, beginner's diver or certified diver, the Dive Center offers you various underwater adventure to suit your needs. The team of expert instructors and fleet of comfortable dive boat will guide you on an experience you will treasure.
The Dive Center also offer scuba diving courses from a beginner level to a professional Divemaster.

With only one resort on Pulau Tiga, you can guarantee a relaxed and tranquil dive holiday. Pulau Tiga Resort offers PADI dive courses and many dive sites for the novice and experienced divers including some unexplored dive locations. A rich variety of marine life can be seen including nudibranchs, bamboo sharks, cuttlefish, marbled stingray and of course, a visit to nearby “Snake Island” guarantees sightings of banded sea snakes. The surrounding reefs are shallow with healthy coral and water visibility ranging from 6m to 20m. Several species of mammals, numerous birds (including the very rare megapode), a variety of reptiles and amphibians and hundreds of species of insects can be found on Pulau Tiga making it truly wild tropical island.

Package

Departure Time: 5.45pm (don’t be late)

From: Sutera Harbour Marina

Includes: 1 night dive

Price: RM 80

Other Fees: Park fees (RM20 Malaysian or RM50 Non-Malaysian), torch rental at RM30 (unless you want to swim in pitch blackness, but that’s not so much fun)

Overnight Package
Departure Time: 7.30am (don’t be late)

From: Jessleton Point

Includes: return boat transfers, 4 guided boat dives, accommodation in a twin-share standard room (bathroom, aircon, fan), meals (buffet lunch, dinner, breakfast, lunch, tea & coffee & non-alcoholic beverages), guided walk to volcanic mud baths, boat trip to Snake Island, park fees.

Price: RM 517 per person sharing

Other Fees: None! (but if you’re drinking alcohol, that’s gonna cost you).

How To Get There
Pulau Tiga is located about 10 km (6 miles) offshore of Sabah near Kuala Penyu town on the tip of the Klias Peninsula. If you are in Kota Kinabalu, it will take about 90 minutes by road followed by a 20-30 minutes powerboat trip from town (a sub-district of Kuala Penyu) to the island and its marine park. If you are in Labuan, you can take the ferry to Menumbok and then the speedboat to Pulau Tiga. Alternatively, you can also charter a speedboat from Kota Kinabalu or Labuan.

Daily Standard Boat Transfer Schedule
Kuala Penyu to Pulau Tiga Resort: 1000 hrs ; 1500 hrs
Pulau Tiga Resort to Kuala Penyu: 0900 hrs ; 1400 hrs

Links
http://www.impressions.com.my/pulau3/3main.htm
http://www.peregrineadventures.com/South-East-Asia/Trip/Overview.html?trip=Pulau%20Tiga%20Escape&tripid=2908&bhcp=1
http://www.cuti.com.my/tour/info.php?id=1692
http://www.visit-malaysia.com/sabah-wet-tour/survival-island.htm
http://www.pulau-tiga.com
http://www.go2borneo.com/tour.php?browse=product&pid=7
http://www.etawau.com/Island/PulauTiga.htm

Mount Merapi @ Yogyakarta

Driving through Yogyakarta’s countryside is a pleasure due to its various scenic spots of idyllic villages and fertile farmland spread out with the horizon of the mountainous landscape. The vicinity of Yogyakarta is a natural vacation land that offers all possibilities for an enjoyable holiday. There are hill resorts on the mountain slope for relaxation with invigorating weather. Mountain lovers will experience a real adventure of mountaineering. Mount Merapi is situated north of Yogyakarta with a height of 2.920 metres above sea level. From a distance, one can always see the white smoke appear from the top of the volcano, raise to the air and the moving clouds in the deep blue sky.The crater of the volcano is a sandy plateau of about four hectares with several smaller craters, which are still active. The top of the volcano can be observed from the distance that is from Turi village, country area at the western side of slope, about fifteen kilometres from Yogyakarta. For a better view, a visit to Plawangan, the observatory resort, can be reached by walking up a pathway from Kaliurang for about an hour.

In the observatory resort, visitor can use a binocular to observe the top of the volcano. The best time to relish the beauty of Merapi is approximately around the sunrise moment, at six to eight in the morning. When the volcano is not active, visitors my climb up to the top of Mount Merapi that can be reached within seven to eight hours. The shortest by route of to the top is from Selo, a village between Merapi and another mountain, the Merbabu. It takes about three hours to reach the top from by using this shortest by route of. For those who interested climbing Mount Merapi are advised to obtain some valuable information from the Department of Volcanology in Yogyakarta. At the moment Mt. Merapi is safe to climb, but do it with a qualified guide.

There are several features to enjoy if you like going tracking / hiking:
1. Sun Rise: similar to other mountains / volcanos on this region, you may enjoy the glare of Sun Rise. Please take the NORTH route from Selo (via Blabak, Magelang Town) to enjoy this feature.
2. Volcano: Merapi is a living volcano. It has 4 years Eruption Period, means it is erupts every 4 years in average. If it is in a “Calm” condition, you may enjoy the beauty of its lava and steam flowing out the crater, from the summit. If it is on “Wild” condition people may admire the strength of nature from the nearest Resort (Kaliurang – 6 km from the crater) or even from your 5 star hotel windows at Yogyakarta City; some 30 km south direction from the volcano! Seeing glaring Hot Lava flowing down in the night, and Huge Pyroclastic Flows (Wedus Gembel, NUe Ardante) destroying everything in its path

3. Culture: Local Culture could be vaccinating. Every year, Local Sultan held a ceremony to give Merapi’s Guardian god a Gift to ask for mercy from its anger.

Merarpi Trekking

There are at least three good tracks for climbing Merapi. They are:
The Kaliadem/Kinahrejo track on the southern side
The Babadan track on the western side
The Selo track on the northern side.

The Selo track is regarded as the easiest and safest, certainly the most suitable for beginner climbers. Those with experience in climbing will need about four to five hours to reach the summit.

If you want to enjoy sunrise from the peak, it is recommended you start your ascent at about 1 a.m. People using the Selo track for this can spend the night before at Plalangan village or Blumbangsari village, where residents rent rooms and can provide guides.

The Babadan track is the most direct of the three, but is not usually recommended, mainly because most of Merapi's volcanic activity over the last decade has taken place on this side of the mountain. But there are 2 famous routes to reach the summit.

A. South Face
The Base Camp is Kinahrejo Village some 3 km east of Kaliurang Resort. You may stay at the famous Mbah Maridjan’s house. It is less then 1 hour trip from the famous City of Yogyakarta. Please note that this route is not recommended for the beginners (although the 1st time ever I climb mountain was using this route, but I was accompanied by experienced ones). It is one of the most demanding / hardest Tracking Route in the Island of Java. Besides need 8 – 10 hours trip, please do not forget to bring good gloves to prevent your palms and hands cuts by sharp pyroclastic stones. Near the top, there are no vegetations; and the elevations are greater then 70 deg. (some points are 90 deg.).

Last but not less, you have to wear mask to breath while walking near the crater!

B. North Face
It is easier path. The Base Camp is Selo Village. If you are from outside of Yogyakarta / Central Java Region (or even from outside Indonesia Country), please get information how to go to this village from the City of Yogyakarta (the 2nd Tourism Destination in Indonesia after The Island of Bali). You may hire Professional Guides there. They speak English, French, Japanese, and other languages. For more information about Yogyakarta, you may find on the internet.

If you love photography, and would like to take hundreds of breath-taking Sun Rise pictures, this route is highly recommended. The best point to take pictures is at Pasar Bubrah, right in the foot of the summit (approx. 4 – 5 hours hike from Selo Village).

BOOKING
To book your trip or inquiries about the price of the trip, please email: travel@sriramatour.com

Web www.sriramatour.com/sr/spint/adt01.asp#booking

Package Tours
Tourist guides are provided for tourists who want to visit tourism objects or do climbing mount. The fee are shown below (based on 2006 data).

Climbing mount Merapi

-Professional Guide Rp 150,000.00 (one time climbing)

-Local Guide Rp 100,000.00 (one time climbing)

-Porter Rp 150,000.00 (maximal 15 kg per porter)

Price : US$ 45.00/Pax (minimum 2 pax)

Payment : Cash

Day 01

Picked up at your hotel lobby in Yogya or Adi Sucipto airport, and direct drive to Kaliurang Mountain resort. Stay overnight at Vogel's Home Stay with simple but clean, Accommodation including dinner.

Day 02

The next day at 03.30 AM you will start your trip accompanied with professional guide of Merapi. You will explore the depths of Kaliurang tropical rainforest. A five-hour return walks through the rainforest, through the valley, gorge and river to slope on meeting Merapi. Also see original and real village life, where people carry their loads on their back while at work. Experience a variety of tropical plants and fruits, birds, giant spider, unique vegetables and the beautiful landscape in the cool mountain air. Breakfast will be served in the small bamboo hut., outside the village nest to the riverbank in the open air overlooking the mountain. You wil return again at 09.00 am. After taking a rest for a while, you will transfer to your hotel in Yogya or transfer to the airport for flight home

Inclusion :

Return - transfer Yogyakarta - Kaliurang

1 night accommodation sharing basis at Vogel's Homestay

1 x dinner at Vogel's;

Merapu package including simple breakfast,professional local guide, flas light rent, refreshment (mineral water & snack)

Note : Please bring your sport shoes, warm clothes, and personal medichine

Link

http://trekking-merapi.blogspot.com/

http://www.jogjatour.com/index.htm

Rambah Beach

Located close to Tanjung Piai, Rambah beach is naturally a good place for birdwatching, particularly during the birds migratory season in the months of September and March. Fishing and picknicking are also popular activities here. Once in a while, the local folks hold bird singing competition on this beach. This beach is in close proximity to Pulau Pisang and Kukup fishing village.

This beach is easily accessible by road and offers visitors all the absic facilities to make your visit here pleasurable. Facilities available include rest shades, changing rooms, shower rooms, washrooms, car parks, restaurants, food outlets and accommodation. Swimming, jet skiing, boating, banana boat ride, windsurfing, fishing, sun-bathing, beach games and camping are popular activities here.

Getting there

From the North South Expressway (NSE), take the Simpang Renggam exit (Interchange 247) and head towards Benut on Highway 96. From Benut, drive south on Highway 5 to Pontian Kecil. From Pontian Kecil town, head south for another 8km and look out for signboards indicating the way to Rambah beach.

Fishing Bay Resort

Location
With its picturesque boat-lined riverfront, the fishing town of Mersing on the east coast of Johor is well-known as the main ferry terminal for passengers bound for the famous Tioman Island and other outlying islands in the Seribuat Archipelago.

Location Information
Fishing Bay Resort is 15 km north of Mersing town near Air Papan. It is just a 2 ½-hour drive from Singapore. This scenic resort in Malaysia lies secluded between two hills in Teluk Buih Beach, also known as Bubble Bay. Tioman Island – a popular destination for foreigners and locals alike – is a mere 45 minutes away from this lovely resort.

How to get here
FROM SINGAPORE
Catch a bus (Transnasional) at Lavender Street (bus fare is approximately S$ 21.00) that leaves daily at 10:00 AM and 10:00 PM and travel straight to Mersing. You can call our resort for complimentary pick-up from Mersing town to Fishing Bay Resort or take a taxi from Arab Street to the bus terminal in Larkin, Johor Bahru and take another taxi to Fishing Bay Resort, Teluk Buih, Air Papan, Mersing.

FROM JOHOR BAHRU
By bus
Several bus companies operate direct services to Mersing, including Transnasional; other services that use the east coast highwayalso call at Mersing.

When leaving Mersing, if you don't pre-book the bus to J.B. or Singapore, they are most likely full. The alternative for the spontaneous traveller is to take the local bus to Kota Tinggi (RM 6.90, less than 2 hrs.) and from there the local bus to Johor Bahru's Larkin terminal (RM 3.80, less then 1 hour).
From Singapore, the most economical way is by local bus to the border (e.g. No. 170, which finally goes to Larkin), then minibus to Johor Bahru's Larkin bus terminal (e.g. CW 1 & 2 or No. 170; they depart right behind the money changer after clearing Malaysia immigration), and proceed to Mersing from there. The bus costs RM 8.80 one way - but an early start will be required if an overnight stop in Mersing is to be avoided. There is a 8:30AM bus from Larkin, which can be easily caught if one is at the Singapore checkpoint around 7AM.

A search on the web suggests the following services from J.B. to Mersing: Cepat Express, S&S Express and Johora Express, but a check in Jan 2008 with a call to Cepat Express reveals that only Causeway Link and S&S Express continue to operate the service. Causeway Link's Express Service operates non-stop from Larkin to Mersing, departing Larkin daily at 11:30am and 7pm. Costs RM10 per adult.

A more convenient alternative is to take a Transnasional bus from Lavender Street bus terminus in Singapore all the way to Mersing. The bus lets down passengers to clear Singapore immigration, then again across the bridge at Malaysian immigration where all luggage has to be taken off the bus to clear customs. The earliest bus departs Singapore at 9AM, reaching Mersing by about 1PM, just in time for the 1:30PM speed boat. Bus tickets cost S$ 26.45 per adult, S$ 14.95 per child one way.

As of Jan 2008, Transnasional has a Singapore to Mersing service that departs Lavender (Singapore) at 10pm, arriving at Mersing 4 hours later. Costs S$ 26.50 per adult.

* For your convenience, transportation to and from Fishing Bay Resort can be arranged (advance notice required).
*10% discount for airline crew, hostelry staff, government officers, and senior citizens (on weekdays only, not inclusive of promotional offers)

Location Address Fishing Bay ResortLot 525, Teluk Buih, Air Papan 86800Mersing, Johor Darul Takzim Malaysia
Rate SGD53++
Web www.fishingbayresort.com/

Puduraya Bus Station

Estimated Bus Fares: (from Puduraya Bus Station)
Cameron Highlands - RM 16 (5 Hrs)
Ipoh - RM 12 (2.5 Hrs)
Johor Bahru - RM 20 (4 Hrs)
Kuala Terengganu - RM 30 (7 Hrs)
Lumut - RM 17 (4.5 Hrs)
Melaka - RM 10 (2.5 Hrs)
Penang RM 25 (5 Hrs)
Singapore RM 25 (5.5 Hrs)

Taxi
If you want to take a taxi out of Kuala Lumpur to long distance destination (often not faster than taking a bus) Puduraya bus station is the right place to get one. Taxis depart from upstairs at Puduraya bus station. Fares are negotiable, depending on the distance.

But the taxi won’t leave the terminal until it has four passengers. Malaysians use this service mostly only at peak travel periods, so you could be waiting for some time for a cab to fill up. Otherwise you’ll have to charter a whole taxi.

Estimated Taxi Fares: (from Puduraya Bus Station)
Bukit Fraser - RM 120
Cameron Highlands - RM 140
Genting Highlands - RM 60
Ipoh - RM 160
Johor Bahru - RM 240
Lumut - RM 200
Melaka - RM 140
Penang - RM 240

Remarks:
1. Taxis picking up customers from Puduraya bus station often charge an exorbitant sum - sometimes refusing to run the taxi meter but instead negotiate on rates (Try walking down the street to hail for a taxi instead). The taxi rate hits sky high after midnight.

2. There have been many cases of street crime, targeting foreigners in particular. Be careful especially when waiting for night coaches. So stay alert!

Tips on driving a car in Malaysia

It doesn’t take long to learn that there are a lot of motorcycles on the roads of Malaysia and while this is not uncommon in Asia it’s much more unusual in western countries so it’s worth learning a few things about them. My first four tips concern getting used to some practices of motorcyclists.

1. The Speeding Motorcyclist. If one forgets how young people think they cannot die it is easy to believe some motorcyclists have a death wish. Certainly there are rather a large number of motorcyclists who seem unaware and/or unconcerned about the very high death rate among motorcyclists in this country - more than half the road deaths are motorcyclists. He (they are usually young and male) will pass your car on either side, often very close with the small motorbike engine screaming at maximum revs, and then swerve in front of you to change lanes, exit or just test his driving skills. This can be quite unsettling (for which read “bloody annoying”) but sounding your horn and screaming abuse will be wasted as he will be long gone and anyway the wind in his ears will prevent him hearing anything.

2. The Motorcyclist at traffic lights. At traffic lights when you just miss the green light and console yourself that you are first in line for a quick get away when they turn green, don’t expect it to happen. It is very likely your car will soon be surrounded by a large number of motorcyclists all revving their engines for a grand prix getaway while some of the less powerful bikes, often overloaded with passengers struggle to get moving again often right in front of you. All of which means you will need to expend some effort to avoid hitting any of them even though the temptation may be to leave your hand on the horn and drive straight through them.

3. The Motorcyclists Rear Light. All motorcyclists in Malaysia are required to drive with their lights on all the time. While most will quickly discover if their front light does not work the rear one can often be out for a while. It is necessary to bear this in mind when driving at night or other times when there is poor visibility.

4. Motorcyclists, Rain and Bridges. As most new arrivals quickly learn the rain in Malaysia can be extremely heavy and it only takes a few seconds to get very wet. Motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable and the practice in Malaysia is to shelter under the nearest bridge. Obviously this can add up to quite a few motorbikes under one bridge and it is very common to find the slow lane full of parked motorbikes when you enter a tunnel or go under a bridge. If the rain is very heavy you may only see them at the last minute with potentially disastrous consequences. The rule is try not to enter a tunnel or bridge in the slow lane unless you can clearly see there are no bikes waiting there.

5. Red Traffic Lights Don’t Always Mean “Stop”. If the traffic lights have just changed many cars will carry on through them. This practice has decreased somewhat since cameras were installed at many lights in KL but nevertheless it still happens so be careful if you are approaching a light that has just gone green. Motorcyclists will often go through any red traffic light so it’s worth bearing that in mind if you are travelling rapidly towards a traffic light that has just turned green.

6. The Slow Lane is Not For Cars. Very few Malaysian drivers are willing to drive in the “slow” left hand lane on a three lane road. Most will drive happily in the middle or even the fast lane. While it has been explained to me that this is because of motorcyclists the reality is I have often seen completely empty inside lanes which had no traffic of any kind as far as the eye could see. This of course encourages many drivers to overtake on the inside lanes and this is quite a common practice in Malaysia.

7. The Aging Trucks. There are still some very old trucks (lorries) on the road. In the last few years many larger more powerful trucks have been introduced onto the Malaysian roads but there are still plenty of the older ones around. You can recognise them as they often have either half a door or no door at all. These lorries usually travel slowly and going up a hill they travel so slowly the casual observer would be justified in thinking they have actually stopped so exercise caution when coming up behind a truck on a hill - the gap may close much more quickly than you expect. Trucks will sometimes break down and there will be no warning sign behind the truck such as a hazard sign or flashing lights. At night they may have no lights on particularly if the engine has packed up. One expatriate wife was killed when she drove into the back of one of these stalled trucks.

8. Joining The Major Road. One of the most common practices in Malaysia is not to pause when coming out of a side road. It would be fair to say that in Malaysia many drivers ask themselves only one question - can that driver stop his car before hitting me if I don’t stop and pull out in front of him. If the answer is “Yes” then many will keep going. So do not be surprised when a car suddenly approaches a side street in front of you and does not even pause before pulling out in front of your car.

9. The Highway - Long Distance Buses. Long distance buses pose another problem. The upgrading of most bus fleets has substantially reduced the belching black fumes they used to emit but the drivers sometimes seem to be just as bad. Some still drive as though their size justifies any action they take. Sadly this country experiences quite a regular number of terrible bus accidents which suggests that more work needs to be done on either the quality of the buses or the drivers or both. It is not at all uncommon for buses to decide to overtake when they choose without consideration for you approaching rapidly in the fast lane. Of course it’s not just buses that do this but they can be more intimidating.

10. The Highway - Driving in the Fast Lane. Which is the fast lane? The answer of course is the right lane but some drivers, once they have settled into it, will not leave it and when you come up behind them, no end of horn blowing or flashing lights will move them. You will then have to decide whether to break the law and pass them on the inside or wait patiently behind them. Even those that know they should move back to the slow lane after overtaking will rarely move back until they have passed every vehicle in their field of vision. This can be rather frustrating but again horn blowing and flashing lights will rarely encourage them to move back until their mission is accomplished.

11. Passing on the Inside. It is not uncommon for some drivers on motorways who confront the above two practices, to not even attempt to get the vehicle in front to move out of the fast lane. They will just pass on the inside without indicating their presence at all so if you find that you are returning to the slow lane a little later than you should have done always check the inside lane or you may end up being hit. This rule is equally important on other roads and especially when turning left as motorbikes can often appear from nowhere in your inside lane.

12. Blinking Hazard Lights Doesn’t Mean I’ve Stopped. In many counties putting on all four blinking lights indicates that you have stopped your car. In Malaysia it is quite common for drivers to do this when they drive slowly in heavy rain, apparently at one time the government suggested this. Some motorists will also put on their hazard lights in preference to side lights when they enter a tunnel.

13. Two Laws that May be Different from Your Own Country. In many countries you can use a hand phone while driving. In Malaysia this is against the law and only hand-free kits are permitted. The other law which is different from some countries (like the United States) is that you are not permitted to turn (left) at a red light.

14. Drive Around the City During Major Festive Holidays. One time when it is wise to stay off the highways is during Hari Raya and Chinese New Year when hundreds of thousands of Malaysians “balik kampong” meaning return to the village. Although some fly and many take the train, the roads also fill up. Those that see these holidays as a chance to discover the countryside may find the speed of progress gives them more time than they wish to examine the landscape. This is a good time to drive around the city for some sightseeing and photography because you should find the city streets pleasantly deserted.

IMPORTANT: In recent years, there have been an increase in cases of car mugging, in order to prevent this from happening to you, do take the following precautions.

1. Don’t stop if a passing motorist tells you that something is wrong with your vehicle or if someone bumps you from behind. Pull into the nearest service station or well-lit public area. Call the police.

2. At stoplights, leave plenty of room between your vehicle and the one in front of you in case you must pull away quickly. Always keep doors locked and windows rolled up when driving or when parked. Keep valuables in the trunk or in the locked glove compartment.

3. Learn emergency vehicles’ signals. Police lights are red and blue. Do not stop for flashing white headlights alone. Do not resist in the rare event that a stranger demands your valuables. Your well-being is more important than your belongings.

4. Don’t pick up hitchhikers under any circumstances. Always be aware of the pedestrian traffic around your vehicle.

5. Always park in a well-lit area. Have car keys in hand and check in and around the car before entering.

6. Don’t take shortcuts to save time or exit expressways prematurely to save tolls. Tolls are a nominal charge, change is available at many booths, and your safety is most important.

7. If your car malfunctions on a major thoroughfare, lock the doors, turn on the hazard lights and wait for the police to arrive. If someone offers help, have them call the police.

River Kwai Jungle Rafts

The River Kwai Jungle Rafts have a little piece of paradise to offer you in the heart of the jungle and visit to this floatel moored along the historical river is a unque opportunity to step out of your everyday world into the harmony of nature. Getting to this magical place is half the fun. An exhilerating forty-minute boat trip from Pakseng through spectacular gorges, beckoning beaches and clusters of brilliantly coloured birds, delight the senses as one ventures deeper into the wild heart of the jungle.

To assure that your stay is pleasurable, the jungle Rafts provide a menu which is as good for the body as the atmosphere is for the mind and spirit. You can select Thai or Western cuisine for the evening and begin the day with a hearty American Breakfast.
Bathe away the last traces of the outside world under breathtaking waterfalls, view wild orchids on jungle jaunts or explore deep inside mystical caves. You may wish to ride an elephant through the bush to “Mon” village, or just bask in the sun, before diving off your verandah for a cooling swim in the River Kwai.

As day fades into night and the mood of the river becomes more reflective, the magical sounds of Mon music can be heard echoing through the night and the night wanders on like the river, whispers and smiles pass across candlelit wooden tables and a thousand tales come alive.

133/14 Ratchaprarop Rd., Rajthevee, Bangkok 10400 Thailand

E-mail : info@thailandvoyage.com

Web: www.thailandvoyage.com/hotel/Kanchanaburi/The_River_Kwai_Jungle_Rafts/index.html

http://www.r24.org/hothai.com/kanchanaburi/junglerafts/pictures.html

http://www.infohub.com/TRAVEL/SIT/sit_pages/7152.html

Tel (662) 616-0966

Fax (662) 616-0967

China Train Schedules/Railway Timetables

The Treehouse Cityguide provides this translation of the official China Railway schedule website as a service for travellers using the railway system in China. The train timetables you view using this page come directly from the official site, so you can feel confident that the information you get here is as up-to-date as possible.

Huizhou - 惠州

Introduction

Huizhou City is situated in the south-east of Huizhou and is a vital communication hub for linking Hong Kong, Guangzhou and Shenzhen to the areas in east Huizhou. It is one of the province's most famous historical cities and home to such significant historical sites that many of them are protected, not just at a provincial level but also at a state one.

Huizhou is commonly known as Goose City since according to legend an immortal figure rode into town on a wooden goose searching for an idyllic spot in which to make his home. He was in search of a place brimming with natural beauty and with its lakes, mountains, protected wildlife zones and springs, along with a temperate climate, Huizhou is undoubtedly such a place.

In recent years, Huizhou has become an increasingly attractive area for both Chinese and foreign investment.

A city endowed with good harbors it borders Shenzhen, with Hong Kong and Guangzhou not far away.

With the beautiful West Lake, the Tangquan Hot Spring and the Luofu Mountain it is not surprising that Huizhou has also become a popular destination for tourists from Hong Kong, Macau, and overseas.

Location: Situated in the southeast of Guangdong Province, Huizhou is off the Dayawan Bay of the South China Sea and is neighbor to Shenzhen and Hong Kong.

Huizhou West Lake

Tel：0752-2248116

Location: WestLake Scenic Area, Huizhou, Guangdong Province.

Transportation: Take buses No. 9, No.21 and No.29 from Huizhou City.

Price: RMB 5.

Open-time: 6:00am—10:00pm

**Shopping Tips**

The business is prosperous in Huizhou City. Not only local special products are numerous, but also many well-known brands do business here. Every holiday, numerous people flood into Renrenle, Liri Plaza, Wanjia Department Store and so on.

**Where to Shop**

Shopping centers in Huizhou are mainly located on Business Walk Street, Nantan South Road (Xinlianxing Plaza) and Nanmen Business Street.

**What to Buy**

Local special products in Huizhou: Huizhou preserved vegetable, Dongjiang sticky rice wine, Longmen bamboo root, Luofosan essential herbs oil, Fushen shirt, TCL appliances (mobile phone).

**Special Focus**

Luofoshan essential herbs oil: The pharmaceutical factory at the foot of Luofoshan collects over 100 herbs growing locally, and according to ancient recipe, extracts and produces this medicinal oil. Due to the reasonable ratio of ingredients, mild action, fragrance, excellent effects, could be used both orally and externally, it became a good drug for both at home and on journey.

Nankunshan is one of the resorts with the richest touring special products and most characteristic scenic spots. In addition to dry pickled sparrow, dry mountain fish, bee-honey and Longmen rice cake produced in Longmen County, there are others that are produced from mountain areas such as Kun bamboo wine, Guanyin vegetable, mao bamboo root, glossy ganoderma, mao tea and etc. Special introduction: there is a local special product street at Nankunshan, all kinds of products can be purchased there.

Transportation

By Bus

From Guangzhou's Tianhe Terminal, buses start at 6.15am providing a service up to 8.00pm. From Shenzhen's Donghu Terminus, the service starts at 6.30am and finishes at 7.30pm, while from Shenzhen's other station, Lo Wu Terminal they start half an hour later at 7.00am and finish at 7.40pm. All the buses above run every 20 minutes. Ticket prices from these terminal range from 40RMB to 50RMB

City Transport

Taxis in these cities are easy to find so if you prefer to opt for this service then be prepared to pay 5RMB for the first 2kms and 0.5RMB every subsequent 200ms.

Huizhou Train Station Timetable - Huizhou, Guangdong

http://treehouse.ofb.net/go/en/searchtrainstations/%E6%83%A0%E5%B7%9E

One Day Trip

Line 1: Huizhou——Tang Spring——Luofoshan

Line 2: Huizhou——Xihu Lake——Walk Street----Tang Spring

Line 3: Huizhou——Jinguowan——Dayawan entertainment park

Line 4: Huizhou——Pinghai ancient city

Line 5: Huizhou——Dayawan fishing——Dajia Island

Links

http://www.newsgd.com/citiesandtowns/huizhou/info/200412280085.htm

http://www.chinatravelguide.com/ctgwiki/Special:CNHotelSearchResults?CityName=Huizhou%2C+Guangdong (Accom)

http://www.flickr.com/photos/drnantu/sets/72157594461215157/ (picture)

当你逐渐长大——请不要忘记他们......

TANJUNG PIAI HOMESTAY

Experience true village life close to one of Malaysia's verdant mangrove forests. Kampung Perpat Timbul homestay programme near Tanjung Piai, lets you in on true to life village activities. Visit the local apiary where you can see how honey is collected and taste fresh honey straight from the honeycomb. You can also try your hand at creating various delicacies from coconuts, including fresh and baked treats, cakes and candies. You can also see how 'Gula Melaka' is processed the traditional way.

Visit one of several acquaculture farms or kelongs by the sea or take a boat trip around the mangrove swamps to get up close and personal with mangrove wildlife. And after a long day's fun, take a break and eanjoy a refreshing drink of fresh coconut juice straight from the tree. A true-to-life experience of the lifestyle of a typical Malay kampung community awaits you at Kampunr Perpat homestay programme in Tanjung Piai. About 30 families in Kampung Perpat Timbul are currently participating in a homestay programme organized by Agrotourism Tanjung Piai.

Home stays generally cost RM35 per day for accommodation only, or RM50 for accommodation, breakfast and dinner.

For details, bookings, contact:
Agro Tourism Tanjung Piai, Encik Aziz Samad at (+607) 696 0220 / +6012-750 2140 or Homestay Coordinator, Hamjat Hj. Idris at (+607) 6960389.

Contact Info:Kg. Perpat Johor Tel: +607-2234935, 2241432 Fax: +607-2237554

Sipadan Island

Sipadan, located 30 km off Semporna on the East Coast of Sabah is rated as the world's top dive sites. For the true diving enthusiast, the island needs no introduction. Praised by the internationally renowned oceanographer and filmmaker Jacques Cousteau as one of the best diving spots in the world, it is unique as the only oceanic island in Malaysia. Its geographic position puts Sipadan in the centre of the richest marine habitat in the world, the heart of the Indo-Pacific basin. Sipadan rises 600m from the seabed to provide spectacular wall dives and underwater garden. More than 3,000 species of fish and hundreds of coral species have been classified in this richest of ecosystem.

Sipadan is also renowned for its unusually large numbers of green and hawksbill turtles, which gather there to mate and nest. It is not unusual to see more 20 turtles on each dive. Another unique feature to divers is the turtle tomb that contains many skeletal remains of turtles. The residential schooling barracuda and big-eye trevally are one of the highlights on every diver's Wish-list, which often gather in thousands forming spectacular tornado-like formations. Mantas, eagle-rays, scalloped hammerhead sharks and whale sharks may also be seen, as well as an abundance of macro life. For sustainable-conservation purpose, Sipadan is presently, open to only 80 guests at any one time. There are six resorts on Sipadan.

What to Bring - In point of fact, you'll need very little in the way of clothing at Sipadan, so pack lots of cameras, film, and dive gear, and just a few pairs of shorts and t-shirts, plus one light, long sleeved shirt or jacket. Comfortable footgear is important if you plan on doing some touring after Sipadan. I suggest a sturdy pair of walking or running shoes (wear these on the plane), and a good pair of "Tiva-style," waterproof sandals. But at Sipadan, remove your shoes on arrival and stow 'em, everyone goes about barefoot. The dive shop provides ample storage for your gear, and a 110 v. charging station for your strobes. It's preferable to bring your basic dive gear, but don't feel obliged to haul a bunch of back-up equipment, as Borneo Divers keeps a good supply of well-maintained rental gear on hand. Water temperature generally ranges from 80-84 degrees Fahrenheit, but if you intend to maximize your bottom time, I suggest that you do bring a light weight, full wet suit, or a good dive skin. A dive computer will certainly add to your dive time and safety.

Where to Stay
The Malaysian government has decided that all existing onsite dive resort operators were to move their operations out of the Sipadan Island by 31st December 2004. The move is aimed at conserving and maintaining a balanced marine and land ecosystem on Sipadan’s environments. However, Sipadan will remain as a dive site and divers are to be ferried by operators operating from the mainland or nearby islands other than Sipadan and Ligitan.

On an overnight trip to Sipadan, choose to stay in one of these resorts:
Borneo Divers & Sea Sports (Sabah) Sdn Bhd
Explore Asia Tours Sdn Bhd (Sipadan-Mabul Resort)
Seaventures Tours & Travel Sdn Bhd
Sipadan Water Village Resort Sdn Bhd

The Basic Program - Borneo Divers' program includes air transfer forward from Kota Kinabalu, land transfer from Tawau to Semporna, and boat transfer from Semporna to Sipadan. Airport taxes, the cost of the hotel overnight in Tawau or Semporna, and meals in transit are not included. Once at Sipadan, the basic package includes lodging, tax, three daily meals, three boat dives per day, and unlimited beach tanks, with the dive shop open for business from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Coffee, tea, and juice are available all the time and are free. Canned soft drinks, beer, and alcoholic beverages from the well-stocked bar are additional. Based on twin share, Borneo Divers' 1996 basic package prices at USD $1455 per person, per week. For additional nights, add $130 per person, per night, which includes lodging, meals, and diving. (For durations less than seven nights, subtract $130 per night from the $1455 weekly rate.) To my mind, the best duration is 7-10 nights. For an additional $375 you can ride in high-style, with round-trip helicopter transfer from Tawau to Sipadan, though this service has recently been unavailable. When you are ready to travel, I can confirm that for you if you are interested in arriving Donald Trump-style.

Getting There
From Kota Kinabalu, take a 55-minute flight to Tawau and enjoy an hour’s drive to Semporna.

From Semporan, Sipadan is another 40 minutes by speedboat. Be sure to pre-arrange transportation with your respective resort/dive operator.

Recommendated Website:

http://wikitravel.org/en/Sipadan

Permas Jaya Go-Kart Circuit

This is the longest karting circuit in Malaysia with a high speed sweeping left-hander after the main straight, followed by 3 successive flat-out right-hand corners, an uphill straight, a double right-hander, then a series of 2 hair-pins before turning back into the start-finish line.
Reviewer Experience: amateur league racer

For normal track day, it's open for half track or 0.9km, less than 1 min to complete.

Full track is 1.3km, which can take up to 2min to finish, which is opened during race.

RM$30 for 80cc 2-stroke or 160cc 4-stroke.

RM$40 for 100cc 2-stroke

RM$50 for 390cc 4-stroke

RM$70 for 125cc 2-stroke

Opening time, weekday 11am - 9pm, weekend 10am - 9pm.

Each ride is 10min.

For power drifting, 390cc is enough.

The plan for the day is:

1)Take bus 170 or CW1 from across the road, over the causeway. Clear customs. (30 mins)

2)Walk to citysquare and eat lunch. Flag taxi at citysquare where we are less likely to get conned, (60 min)

3)Take taxi to Lot 681, Jalan Permas Jaya, Permas Jaya, 81750 Johor Bahru (15 min)

4) Play for 1 hour (2-3 10 minute runs, at 30 ringgit each)

5) Take taxi to citysquare (15 mins)

9) Take bus 170 or CW1 back to Singapore.

Stuff to bring:

PASSPORT (fill in the immigration form if you have, else can take from checkpoint)

MONEY (200 rm should be enough)

RED UNDERWEAR (for good luck, in case go karting turns into bumper car-ing) hee hee hee

Contact Details
Address: Lot.681, Jalan Permas Jaya, Permas Jaya, 81750 Johor Bahru
Phone Number: +607-386 8512
Fax Number: +607-386 8510
Email: louis@permasgokart.com
Website: http://www.permasgokart.com/

Traveling to Thailand??

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Getting out of AIRPORT to TOWN?

Getting out of AIRPORT to TOWN? this website help alot.... thanks to SFY for providing this link! Happy Traveling......

Beaches of Malaysia

Malaysia has a costline of 4,800 km and over two hundred islands. Beaches are one of Malaysia's natural assets. Soft- golden sand, secluded bays and spectacular tropical sunsets beckon enticingly. Beyond the shores, warm clear waters and teeming marine life have delighted underwater adventurers.

Many beach resorts offer facilities for water-sports. These include water-skiing, boating, cruising, snorkelling, scuba diving and trips to offshore islands. The best beaches are found along the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia. Powdery beaches fringed by casuarinas, lapped by glassy aquamarine waters that is superb for snorkelling, diving or just swimming.

Pulau Langkawi

Pulau Langkawi is the main island of a group of 104 islands off the coast of Kedah. It is known for its natural beauty as well as its many legends, the most well-known being of a beautiful lady, Mahsuri, who was accused of adultery, a crime she did not commit, and was executed.

The island abounds with scenic beaches. There is Pantai Tanjung Rhu, Pantai Kok, Pantai Teng, Pantai Cenang and Pantai Pasir Hitam (black sand beach). Among the activities you can enjoy are snorkelling, scuba diving, boating, water skiing, wind surfing and parasailing. The seas around the island teem with fish and fishing trips can be arranged through your hotel.

How to get there:

By Air:You can get to Pulau Langkawi on a direct flight by Malaysia Airlines from Kuala Lumpur and also from Penang. Direct flights from Singapore are also available.

By Rail:Rail services are also available from Kuala Lumpur to Alor Setar. Then take a taxi to Kuala Kedah to board the ferry to Pulau Langkawi.

By Road: The North- South Express- way makes driving pleasurable from Kuala Lumpur to Kuala Perlis, a journey which takes about 5 hours . From here board a ferry to the island. Regular ferry services are available from Kuala Kedah and Kuala Perlis on the mainland to Kuah, the main towns on Pulau Langkawi. The trip takes about an hour.

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Pulau Pangkor

Approximately 84 km south of Ipoh in Perak is the coastal town of Lumut - the jumping- off point to Pulau Pangkor. Lumut is the home base of the Royal Malaysian Navy but sun seekers go to Teluk Batik, located approximately 6 km from the town. This stretch of beach is the haunt for campers, picnickers and watersports enthusiasts.

But for most travellers to this coastal state, the ultimate destination is Pulau Pangkor, which has enchanting beaches on its western coastline. Among them are Teluk Belanga, Teluk Nipah and Pasir Bogak. There are also quiet coves and untrodden bays at Tortoise Bay, Teluk Nipah and Teluk Chempedak. The island is famous for fish-based resources and activities related to these can be seen around the island. There is a variety of attractive accommodation.

How to get there:

By Air:Pelangi Air offers direct flights from Kuala Lumpur to Pangkor.

By Road: The road journey from Kuala Lumpur to Lumut takes approximately 2 hours. At Lumut, take a ferry to Pulau Pangkor, a half hour Journey.

By Rail: KTM Bhd (Malayan Railways) operates daily services from Kuala Lumpur to the north with a stopover at Ipoh. From Ipoh, taxis are available to Lumut. Then take 3 ferry to Pangkor.
For further information, please contact: Perak Tourist Information CentreState Economic Planning UnitJalan Dato' Sagor Jalan Dewan 30000 Ipoh, Perak Tel: 05-2532800Fax: 05-2418173

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Pulau Pangkor Laut

Pulau Pangkor Laut is a smaller island off Pulau Pangkor. It is privately-owned but accessible to those who like to experience the ultimate in luxury and tropical splendour in a world-class resort— Pangkor Laut Resort. The resort is located on Emerald Bay, voted one of the world's best beaches.

Tanjung Bidara

Tanjung Bidara is 35 km from Malacca town. The beach is ideal for swimming, watersking or canoeing. Chalets and motels are available.

Pantai Kundur

Pantai Kundur, a small fishing village, is approximately 17km from Malacca town. For a night with a difference, go night-fishing at a Kelong, a wooden house built on stilts over water.

Tanjung Keling

Tanjung Keling is about 10 km from Malacca town. It has a stretch of white sandy beach set within a coconut palm grove. There are a number of things to do here. Among them are picnicking, swimming and canoeing. North of the beach is the Tanjong Keling Mosque with its unique octagonal minaret and tiled steps. One kilometre away lies the grave of Hang Tuah, the legendary Malay warrior.

Pulau Besar

Pulau Besar is located 10 km off Malacca's coast. It is known for its sandy beaches and entrancing legends and sacred shrines.The island has an international class hotel and several chalets. Activities on the island includes snorkelling, swimming, fishing and jungle trekking.

How to get there:

A boat service (for a maximum of 12 persons) operates from Pengkalan Pernu to the island daily at RM4 per person for a return trip. For a faster mode of travel, catamarans are available from the town's jetty.For further information, please contact:Malacca Tourist Information Centre Jalan Kota,75000 Malacca.Tel: 06-2836538 Fax: 06-2849686

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Port Dickson

Port Dickson is one of the best known seaside resorts in Malaysia. It has good recreational facilities. Popular sea sports are windsurfing and watersports.

How to get there:

By bus:Take the Kuala Lumpur Seremban bus, then board the Seremban - Port Dickson bus.

===============================================================

Desaru

Desaru, or the Village of Casuarinas is a 25km stretch of sandy beach fringed by casuarina trees. It lies on the south-east corner of Johor. A host of facilities for sea sports await the visitor—swimming, snorkelling, boating, canoeing, windsurfing, waterskiing and catamaran-sailing. A place visitors should not miss is the Tanjung Balau Fishermen's Museum.There are various artifacts that were employed by fishermen during their nature of work such as fishing traps, tackles and floats in the museum. Fishermen folklores are also displayed here. The museum is located at Tanjung Balau Fishing Village.
===============================================================

Pulau Sibu

A refreshing hideaway, abounds with lush tropical vegetation and endless stretches of golden beaches.

How to get there:

To get to the islands, proceed to Tanjong Leman, south of Mersing, which is approximately 138 km from Johor Bahru. The journey by road takes approximately 2 hours. Tanjong Leman is the springboard to the islands. Many boats are available at the jetty to ferry visitors to these idyllic islands. There are also a number of islands which lie off Johor's coast. These include Pulau Besar, Pulau Tinggi, Pulau Rawa, Pulau Aur, Pulau Pemanggil and Pulau Tengah. These are surrounded by clear waters and have a bountiful marine life.

Teluk Chempedak

5 km from Kuantan, Pahang, the beach has a range of watersports facilities such as sailing, surfing, and waterskiing. A wide range of accommodation, from international standard hotels to beach chalets are available.

Cherating

Cherating is located about 74 km north of Kuantan. The sun-soaked golden beaches are excellent for a host of leisure activities such as windsurfing, swimming, snorkelling and parasailing. Among the beach's attractions is the rustic atmosphere in the kampungs whose friendly people usually play hosts to visitors.

How to get there:

Take a taxi or bus from Kuantan or Kuantan Airport. Kuantan is accessible by air and road from many points within the country as well as from Singapore.

Pulau Tioman

Pulau Tioman lies 60 km off the southeast coast of the peninsular. It is the fabled 'Bali Hai' island in the Hollywood musical 'South Pacific'. The island offers relaxation, adventure, fishing and water sports.

How to get there:

The boat ride from Mersing takes about 1 1/2 hours while from Singapore will be about 4 1/2 hours. Pulau Tioman is also served by Pelangi Air and Berjaya Air.

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Tanjung Jara

Tanjung Jara is a stretch of golden sandy beach embraced by the blue-green waters of the South China Sea. Located here is the Tanjung Jara Beach Resort which sprawls on 31 hectares of tropical setting. The hotel, styled after a Malay palace, won the prestigious Aga Khan award for the best architecture among hotels.

Recreational activities on the beach include windsurfing, sailing and speed boating. Tours to the neighbouring islands such as Pulau Tenggol and Pulau Kapas can be arranged.

How to get there:

There are regular bus services and many taxis plying the Kuala Terengganu - Dungun route.

===============================================================

Pulau Perhentian

Pulau Perhentian lies 21 km off Besut in Terengganu. The sea journey takes about one and a half hour from Besut. Blessed with a long stretch of white sandy beach, Pulau Perhentian is the ultimate sun-n-surf paradise. The waters off the island are perfect for snorkelling, scuba-diving, wind surfing, sailing and deep-sea fishing. The island is developed with chalets and campsites.

How to get there:

From Kuala Terengganu, take a bus or taxi to the jumping-off point of Kuala Besut.It takes about an hour. From the Fisheries Complex at Kuala Besut, take a boat to Pulau Perhentian. The boat ride takes about 1 1/2 hours.

==============================================================

Pulau Redang

Another enchanting island off the coast of Terengganu is Pulau Redang, the largest of a group of islands, that has until recently slumbered in idyll. The island is the site of a RM 345 million tourism development project which comprises an 18-hole golf course, 150 chalets, a horse ranch, sports complex and a tourism centre.The waters off Pulau Redang is known for its marine diversity and offers one of the best dive sites in the region.

How to get there:

Ferry service is available from the Kuala Terengganu jetty and it takes 45 minutes.

===============================================================

Pulau Kapas

From Marang, hop in to a boat and head out about 6 km to this island renowned for its clear emerald waters and fantastic coral find. Perfect for boating, fishing and snorkelling, it just takes a 30minute boat ride to reach this dream of a hideaway.

How to get there:

To get to the islands, board a bus or taxi at Kuala Terengganu for the fishing village of Marang. It costs about RM 1 by bus and RM 10 by non-airconditioned taxi. Air-conditioned taxis chargeRM 15.

Yogyakarta's footprint

Yogyakarta Overview

Situated on the Indonesian island of Java, Yogyakarta is both the name of a province and the capital city within the province. Yogyakarta is commonly called the ‘cultural heart’ and ‘soul city’ of Java, thanks to its rich history, heritage and commitment to preserving Javanese tradition.

Visitors flock to the city in their thousands to see its plethora of cultural attractions, among which are royal buildings, religious structures and fascinating museums. The Borobudur Temple is a highlight, often mentioned alongside Cambodia’s Angkor Wat and Egypt’s Karnak Temple for its historical importance and architectural significance. The Sultan’s Palace, or kraton, is also high up on the city’s list of culturally significant sites.

Yogyakarta’s commitment to preserving traditional Javanese arts such as batik, gamelan music, puppet shows, drama and poetry has give the city its reputation as a centre for culture. There are plenty of opportunities to appreciate these art forms in Yogyakarta, with regular displays and a number of annual festivals dedicated to showcasing the performing arts.

Eating out in the city can be an enjoyable experience, with local eateries in Yogyakarta offering popular Indonesian dishes as well as local specialties. If trying the traditional food is an integral part of the holiday for you, then Yogyakarta won’t disappoint with its varied selection of street vendors, authentic eateries and upmarket restaurants to choose from.

Airport Transfer

Polonia International Airport is about 15 minutes drive from the city. Do not be surprised that the domestic terminal of the airport is much better than its international terminal. Do take note that there is no money changer for other currency but USD. From the airport, you can choose to take a taxi in front of the terminal or you can proceed towards the exit of Polonia airport, where there are more taxis. You can hire a taxi for only Rp 20 000, compared to its normal price of Rp 35 000, if you bargain well. You can also take the public bus, provided that you know the number for your destination and that would be Rp 6 000 per person. However, those not familiar with the Indonesian language are encouraged to take taxis instead.

Yogyakarta’s Public Bus Route

Line 1 / Jalur 1:
Giwangan Bus Station – South Ring Road - Ngangkruk - Ngeksigondo - M. Supeno Street -
Jokteng Wetan (East Pojok Beteng) - Jokteng Kulon (West Pojok Beteng) – Tendean Street –
Cokroaminoto Street - Magelang Street – Jombor Bus Station

Line 2 / Jalur 2:
Giwangan Bus Station – Pramuka Street - M. Supeno Street - Kol. Sugiyono Street -
Sisingamangaraja Street - South Ring Road - Parangtritis Street - Brigjend. Katamso Street -
Suryotomo Street - Abubakar Ali Street - Suroto Street - Cik Di Tiro Street – UGM Boulevard

Line 3 / Jalur 3:
Giwangan Bus Station - South Ring Road - Imogiri - Sisingamangaraja Street - Kol Sugiyono
Street - Tamansiswa Street - Gayam Street - Kenari Street - Ipda Tut Harsono Street - Adisucipto Street - Gejayan Street – North Ring Road - Kaliurang Street – UGM Boulevard

Line 4 / Jalur 4:
Giwangan Bus Station – South Ring Road - Ngangkruk - Gedongkuning Street - Kusumanegara
Street - Suryotomo Street - Suroto Street - UGM Boulevard- C. SImanjuntak Street - Jendral
Sudirman Street - Mangkubumi Street - Malioboro Street - Senopati Street - Kusumanegara Street- Gedongkuning Street – South Ring Road – Giwangan Bus Station

Line 5 / Jalur 5:
Giwangan Bus Station - Pramuka Street - Jokteng Wetan (Pojok Beteng Wetan) - Parangtritis
Street - Mangkuyudan Street - Panjaitan Street - M.T. Haryono Street - Wakhid Hasyim Street -Bayangkara Street - Tentara Pelajar Street - Magelang Street - Jombor Bus Station – North Ring Road – UGM Boulevard

Line 6 / Jalur 6:
Giwangan Bus Station - Gambiran Street - Veteran Street - Kusumanegara Street - Hayam Wuruk Street - Yos Sudarso Street - Wahidin Street - Prof. Yohanes Street – UGM Boulevard

Line 7 / Jalur 7:
Giwangan Bus Station - Tegalgendu Street - Pembayun Street - Kemasan Street - Ngeksigondo
Street - Gambiran Street - Veteran Street - Gedongkuning Street - Janti Street - Adisucipto Street - Gejayan Street – North Ring Road

Line 8 / Jalur 8:
Not Operating

Line 9 / Jalur 9:
Giwangan Bus Station –Pramuka Street - Ngeksigondo Street - Gedongkuning Street -
Kusumanegara Street - Tamansiswa Street - Jokteng Wetan (East Pojok Beteng) - Tamansiswa
Street - Suryopranoto Street - Ki Mangun sarkoro Street - Kusumanegara Street - Gedongkuning Street - Ngeksigondo Street - Pramuka Street – Giwangan Bus Station

Line 10 / Jalur 10:
Giwangan Bus Station – South Ring Road - Rejowinangun - Kebun Raya Street - SGM - Ipda Tut Harsono Street - Kenari Street - Bausasran Street - Mataram Street - Abubakar Ali Street - Atmo Sukarto Street - Kusbini Street - Langensari Street - Munggur Street - Adi Sucipto Street - Kledokan - Babarsari – East Ring Road - Babarsari - Kledokan - Adi Sucipto Street - Urip
Sumoharjo Street - Suroto Street - Mataram Street - Hayam Wuruk Street - Bausasran Street -
Kenari Street - Veteran Street - Gambiran Street – Giwangan Bus Station

Line 11 / Jalur 11:
GIwangan Bus Station – South Ring Road - Rejowinangun - Gedong Kuning Street- Kemasan
Street - Pembayun Street - Tegalgendu Street - Tegalturi Street - Menukan - Parangtritis Street – South Ring Road - Jokteng Kulon (West Pojok Beteng) - S. Parman Street - Patangpuluhan - R.E. Martadinata Street - Letjen Suprapto Street - North Jlagran - Pasar Kembang - Malioboro - KHA Dahlan Street - R.E. Martadinata Street - Patangpuluhan Street - Bugisan Street – South Ring Road - Parangtritis Street - Menukan - Tegalturi Street – Giwangan Bus Station

Line 12 / Jalur 12:
Giwangan Bus Station - Pramuka Street - Pandeyan Street - Glagahsari Street - Kusumanegara
Street - Sultan Agung Street - KHA Dahlan Street - Cokroaminoto - Tentara Pelajar Street -
Borobudur Plaza - Monginsidi Street - UGM Boulevard- Monginsidi Street - Tentara Pelajar Street - Cokroaminoto Street - KHA Dahlan Street - Sultan Agung Street - Suryopranoto Street - Ki Mangunsarkoro Street - Kusumanegara Street - Glagahsari Street - Veteran Street - Pramuka Street – Giwangan Bus Station

Line 13 / Jalur 13:
Not Operating

Line 14 / Jalur 14:
Jombor Bus Station- Monumen Jogja Kembali - Jetis - dr. Sardjito hospital- Kaliurang Street –
North Ring Road - Condong Catur Bus Station - Gejayan - Urip Sumoharjo Street - Wahidin
Street - Langensari Street -Gondosuli Street - Cendana Street - Kusumanegara Street - Veteran
Street - Gambiran Street - Perintis Kemerdekaan Street - Pandeyan - Glagahsari Street -
Kusumanegara Street - Cendana Street - Gondosuli Street - Munggur Street - Gejayan Street -
Condong Catur Bus Station – North Ring Road - Kaliurang Street - Jetis - Monumen Jogja
Kembali – Jombor Bus Station

Line 15 / Jalur 15:
Giwangan Bus Station – South Ring Road - Parangtritis Street - Mangkuyudan Street - Gading
Street - Jokteng Wetan (West Pojok Beteng) - Brigjend Katamso Street - Ibu Ruswo Street - KHA Dahlan Street - Wates Street - Gamping Market - Sidoarum - Godean Street - Pingit - Monginsidi Street - Jetis – UGM Boulevard

Line 16 / Jalur 16:
Giwangan Bus Station - Tegalturi Street - Sisingamangaraja Street - Menukan - Parangtritis Street - Katamso Street - Suryotomo Street - Senopati Street - Senopati Street - Sultan Agung Street - Suryopranoto Street - Sukonandi Street - Kusumanegara Street - Cendana Street - Kenari Street - Ipda Tut Harsono Street - Adisucipto Street - Gejayan Street - Condong Catur Bus Station

Line 17 / Jalur 17:
Condong Catur Bus Station - Gejayan - Colombo -Prof. Yohanes Street - Jend. Sudirman Street – Tugu (Pillar) - Jetis - Borobudur Plaza - Pingit - Samsat (Administrative Police Dept) - Letjen
Suprapto Street - Wirobrajan - S. Parman Street - Jokteng Kulon (West Pojok Beteng) - Jokteng
Wetan (East Pojok Beteng) - Tamansiswa Street - Suryopranoto Street - Mangunsarkoro Street - Kusumanegara Street - Veteran Street - P. Kemerdekaan Street - Veteran Street - Kusumanegara Street - Tamansiswa Street - Jokteng Wetan (West Pojok Beteng) - Jokteng Kulon (East Pojok Beteng) - S. Parman Street - Wirobrajan - Bayangkara Street - Pingit - Borobudur Plaza - Jetis- Tugu (Pillar) - C. Simanjuntak Street - Terban - Colombo – Gejayan – Condong Catur Bus Station

Line 18 / Jalur 18:
Not Operating

Line 19 / Jalur 19:
Jombor Bus Station – West Ring Road - Godean Street - Kyai Mojo Street - Tugu (Pillar) -
Mangkubumi Street - Malioboro - KHA Dahlan Street - Wirobrajan - Cokroaminoto Street -
Godean Street – West Ring Road – Jombor Bus Station

Yogyakarta Activities

A selection of activities suitable for young visitors can be found in Yogyakarta. The beaches are among the best places to entertain kids of varied ages, while the Kids Fun Park with its varied selection of rides and games is also popular. Aside from amusement parks and beaches, children can spend time learning how to fly a kite, a popular pastime in Indonesia.

Yogyakarta Sightseeing

With an excellent selection of places of historic and religious significance at their disposal, sightseeing enthusiasts will enjoy Yogyakarta. Borobudur Temple is without doubt the highlight of any sightseeing tour here and invariably takes a top spot on visitors’ must-see lists. Other places of interest include historic temples and mosques, and a number of unique natural features.

Yogyakarta Business Time

Business Offices: 09:00 to 17:00, Monday to FridayBanks: 08:00 to 15:00, Monday to Friday; 08:00 to 13:00, SaturdaysPost Offices: 08:00 to 14:00, Monday to Thursday; 08:00 to 11:00, Fridays; 08:00 to 12:30, Saturdays Shops: 09:00 to 21:00, Monday to Sunday

Recommendated Site for more info

http://wikitravel.org/en/Yogyakarta

http://www.wyattwang.com/HTML/YogyaSoloBromo/YogyaSoloBromo_feb2007_1.html

http://www.travbuddy.com/Yogyakarta-tourist-attractions-1311494

http://a4guide.com/en/indonesia/yogyakarta/map/yogyakarta-city-map/

http://www.jogjatravels.blogspot.com/search/label/Jogjakarta%20Map

http://www.travellerspoint.com/budget-accommodation-en-ci-1402.html