Located on the northwest of the island of Java, bustling Jakarta is Indonesia’s economic, cultural and political centre. What this chaotic capital lacks in idyllic beaches and palm-lined avenues it more than makes up for with its world-class nightlife, fascinating heritage, and its exceptionally hospitable locals. In the north of the city is the tourist-focused area commonly referred to as Kota Tua or simply Kota, which features an array of colonial buildings and excellent museums. Aside from its many historical treasures, Jakarta is known for its 174 giant, glittering malls. With its cosmopolitan shopping, diverse gourmet dining choices, and its abundance of performing and visual arts venues, Jakarta is more than just a convenient stopover for those on their way to Bali’s famous beaches.
It is no wonder the Raja Ampat Islands are fast earning a reputation as one of Indonesia’s hottest new travel destinations - this remote cluster of islands is blessed with exquisite scenery, idyllic beaches and an underwater environment second to none. Dubbed the ‘Amazon of the world’s reefs, ’ Raja Ampat is located in the famed Coral Triangle, said to be among the planet’s most biodiverse marine ecosystems as it is home to a staggering 75% of the world’s coral species (some found nowhere else on earth). The archipelago constitutes four major islands known as ‘The Four Kings’ and 1000-odd islets and limestone karst outcrops covered with verdant rainforest and dotted amid temperate aquamarine seas teeming with life. With countless diving and snorkelling spots to choose from, water enthusiasts will be eager to encounter ocean creatures - including manta rays, sea horses, turtles, dugongs and a dazzling array of tropical fish.
As previously described
Located on top of a hill near the town of Magelang, Borobudur is ancient Buddhist stupa and temple complex in Central Java, Indonesia. This impressive UNESCO World Heritage Site dates back to the 8th century and is the largest buddhist monument in the world. The complex is surrounded by an impossibly scenic landscape featuring active volcanoes, dramatic limestone cliffs, lush green rice fields and traditional rice-growing villages. It covers a massive area and is multi-tiered and intricately decorated with 2,672 relief panels and 504 Buddha statues. Interestingly, the temple was constructed without the use of any kind of cement or mortar as it was cleverly designed as a series of massive interlocking blocks. Visitors can stay at one of the guesthouses at nearby Borobudur town or can experience the site on a day trip from Mageland or the city of Yogyakarta.
Far from the boisterous beach party scene of Kuta, in the central region of this remarkable little island, lies Ubud - the cultural centre of Bali. Surrounded by lush, terraced rice paddies, and exquisite temples, Ubud is jam-packed with tourist attractions. Its busy town centre is lined with a slew of art galleries, cafes, craft shops, and spas. One of the town’s most visited sites is the Sacred Forest Monkey Sanctuary, home to hundreds of wild monkeys as well as three Hindi temples. Spend your days strolling around the lively streets of central Ubud or get away from the hustle and bustle by cycling along ricefield-lined rivers where traditional village life carries on relatively undisturbed. Nights can be spent enjoying live music concerts, or one of the nightly Kecak Fire and Dance or shadow puppet performances.
This upmarket Balinese village is characterised by mostly luxury accommodation, high-end spas, fashionable restaurants and bars and some lovely little boutiques. The atmosphere is much more sophisticated than the raucous party town of Kuta. During the day Seminyak's Petitenget Beach offers a peaceful retreat away from the hordes of tourists common on other parts of this lovely little island. However, after sunset a livelier nightlife scene takes over with premier dining and entertainment venues such as Ku De Ta and the Potato Head Beach Club, all garnering international recognition. Seminyak has somehow managed to achieve that much desired balance between tranquility and a vibey atmosphere. If you are looking for a more elegant and laid-back alternative to Kuta and Legian, Seminyak is just the destination for you.
