October 23, 2008
[Bunaken Park] Heaven of Diving and Snorkeling
0 comments Posted by ... at Thursday, October 23, 2008The Bunaken National Marine Park was formally established in 1991 and is one of the first Indonesian growing system of marine parks. The remaining 3% of the park is land, including the five islands of Bunaken, Manado Tua, Mantehage, Nain and Siladen.
The waters of Bunaken National Marine Park is very deep (1566 m in Manado Bay), clear (up to 35-40 m visibility), refreshing in temperature (27-29 C) and the port some of the highest levels of biodiversity in the world. Choose any interest group - the corals, fish, echinoderms or sponges - and the number of families, genera and species is bound to be surprisingly high.
Bunaken is the standout favorite, with the highest density of schooling fish and more likely to see the larger species, such as turtles, sharks, and Napoleon Wrasse. There are enough sites here to keep any diver happy for more than a week without going elsewhere. Bunaken The reef is a chain of more than 40 stars, five-point dive. The Marine Park is spectacular with the greatest concentration of tropical fish, coral species and world-famous diving wall. Clear, warm waters , light and the currents of the seas calm, allowing easy access to the submarine in hopes of attracting visitors to the five islands of Bunaken -Manado Tua National Marine Park that sits directly on the coast of Manado.
Most diving is done near Bunaken and Manado Tua, because of its many excellent sites. The following is the representative of diving in the area.
1. Lekuan Walls, This long wall in Bunaken is divided into three sites: Leku I, II and III. Together, they represent the best of the park. Steep walls are marked with deep cracks, sea fans and giant sponges. The shallows are full of fish. The wall, often protected by strong currents, is frequented by bumphead parrotfish, turtles, and Napoleon Wrasse.
2. Mandolin. Mandolin has a knockout reef crest and a wall that attracts thousands of schooling fish such as the Fusiliers, surgeonfish, unicornfish, and bannerfish. They are acclimated to the divers and are easily approachable.
3. Tanjung Kopi. Tanjung Kopi is a great wall with a small school of barracuda and a host of sweetlips. Nudibranches and fire governments are easy to spot here.
4. Siladen Island. Siladen has a beautiful wall of soft corals that flourish when the current is running. The shallows are nice with lots of schooling fish and snappers.
Bunaken island is easily accessible from Manado by motorized outrigger boat start from Manado port, Molas, Kalasey and Tasik Ria beaches. The public boats from Manado to Bunaken are leaving daily for about 2 hours (depending on the tide). Back to Bunaken in Manado usually early in the morning, around 7-8 am. You can explore the land on foot. And you can use a boat to go from one to another dive sites.
Other things to see and do in Bunaken, such: Diving, swimming, and snorkeling. Walking around the beach and sampling the tempting seafood cuisine.
Travel tips :
1. Entrance labels and tickets can be purchased through marine tourism operators based in Manado and in the Bunaken National Park, or can be purchased from one of three ticket counters in Bunaken and Liang villages on Bunaken Island and on Siladen Island;
2. You should be aware that during the absolute peak season months of July and August usually gets very busy. Many of the best resorts and dive operators can not accept walk-ins during that time, as they are fully reserved. Better make a reservation before;
3. Try to hire equipment from larger firms as these tend to be more reliable, but remember the responsibility of checking the equipment is ultimately yours.
The waters of Bunaken National Marine Park is very deep (1566 m in Manado Bay), clear (up to 35-40 m visibility), refreshing in temperature (27-29 C) and the port some of the highest levels of biodiversity in the world. Choose any interest group - the corals, fish, echinoderms or sponges - and the number of families, genera and species is bound to be surprisingly high.
Most diving is done near Bunaken and Manado Tua, because of its many excellent sites. The following is the representative of diving in the area.
1. Lekuan Walls, This long wall in Bunaken is divided into three sites: Leku I, II and III. Together, they represent the best of the park. Steep walls are marked with deep cracks, sea fans and giant sponges. The shallows are full of fish. The wall, often protected by strong currents, is frequented by bumphead parrotfish, turtles, and Napoleon Wrasse.
2. Mandolin. Mandolin has a knockout reef crest and a wall that attracts thousands of schooling fish such as the Fusiliers, surgeonfish, unicornfish, and bannerfish. They are acclimated to the divers and are easily approachable.
3. Tanjung Kopi. Tanjung Kopi is a great wall with a small school of barracuda and a host of sweetlips. Nudibranches and fire governments are easy to spot here.
4. Siladen Island. Siladen has a beautiful wall of soft corals that flourish when the current is running. The shallows are nice with lots of schooling fish and snappers.
Bunaken island is easily accessible from Manado by motorized outrigger boat start from Manado port, Molas, Kalasey and Tasik Ria beaches. The public boats from Manado to Bunaken are leaving daily for about 2 hours (depending on the tide). Back to Bunaken in Manado usually early in the morning, around 7-8 am. You can explore the land on foot. And you can use a boat to go from one to another dive sites.
Other things to see and do in Bunaken, such: Diving, swimming, and snorkeling. Walking around the beach and sampling the tempting seafood cuisine.
Travel tips :
1. Entrance labels and tickets can be purchased through marine tourism operators based in Manado and in the Bunaken National Park, or can be purchased from one of three ticket counters in Bunaken and Liang villages on Bunaken Island and on Siladen Island;
2. You should be aware that during the absolute peak season months of July and August usually gets very busy. Many of the best resorts and dive operators can not accept walk-ins during that time, as they are fully reserved. Better make a reservation before;
3. Try to hire equipment from larger firms as these tend to be more reliable, but remember the responsibility of checking the equipment is ultimately yours.
Bromo, about 145 km south of Surabaya
Bromo mountain, located in Tengger. It's cover some 800 square kilometers in the center of East Java. It is the largest volcanic region in the province and is Mt. Semeru, which rises 3676 meters above sea level. At its northern end is the spectacular Tengger Caldera the largest of Java, with its 10 km barren desert-like sea of sand. In the place of the boiler deeply fissured volcanic cones of Batok and Bromo, the latter is still active with a cavernous crater blowing smoke into the sky. To the south is a plateau of rolling uplands dissected by valleys and dotted with several small scenic lakes, extending to the foot of Mount Semeru, a tower of gray skirted the southern cone forests dominate the landscape. The uniqueness of the area of the property is reminiscent of a lunar landscape, rather than anything related to the land offers impressive experiences such as observing and watching the sunrise in the crater of a volcano
Across the sands of the sea is Mount Batok with its nearly perfect cone. To the south, Mount Semeru, the highest mountain on Java provides a backdrop of fines for this scenario supernatural. While crossing the sea of sand, low-lying fog that often surrounds the boiler plant, adds to the mystery of your surroundings. As the temperature drops several degrees, the combination of cold air and echoing the strange from the horse's hoof creates a fantastic sensation of walking through a vast frozen lake. Temperatures at the summit of Mt. Bromo range of 5 to 18 degrees Celsius.
In the south, there is a plateau of rolling uplands dissected by valleys and dotted with several small lakes landscapes extend to the foot of Mt. Semeru, a tower of gray skirted the southern cone forests dominate the landscape. The offer of Kasodo ceremony is held each year by Tenggerese the 14 days of full moon Kasodo (Tenggerese Calendar). Tengger inhabitants of the mountain gather at the edge of Mt. Bromo's active crater to present annual offerings of rice, fruits, vegetables, flowers, livestock and other products to the local god of the mountain. As followers of the religion that combines elements of Hinduism and Mahayana Buddhism, to ask God's blessing of supreme Hyang Widi Wasa.
Bromo Tengger Semeru can be reached by private and public vehicle. There are four gates to access the place, Probolinggo, Wonokitri, Ngadas and Lumajang. Probolinggo approach is the easiest and by fat the most popular route, especially if you go by public bus from surabaya or malang, Wonokitri is the closes and the easiest one if you go by private vehicle from Surabaya (5 hours journey). To get closer to Mt. Bromo you must rent 4×4 vehicles (there are many 4×4 vehicles rental there).
The tourists are driven to the small town of Ngadisari, about six miles northeast of Bromo. It is the base camp of the expedition. Needs for the trip includes a flashlight, warm clothes and some alcoholic beverages as a protection against the freezing temperatures ranging from zero to five degrees Celsius (33 to 41 degrees Fahrenheit). Ngadisari of the ascent to the crater is about two hours on foot. The horse-back (ponies can be hired), the trip takes about an hour and a half. Tours usually start around midnight. Ngadisari hotel also has facilities. This allows hikers to spend the night and get up a little later than midnight for the hike to Bromo. The last stage of the trip is the flight of steps leading to the Bromo crater rim, and finally, the incomparable view of the rising in the east.
The tourists are driven to the small town of Ngadisari, about six miles northeast of Bromo. It is the base camp of the expedition. Needs for the trip includes a flashlight, warm clothes and some alcoholic beverages as a protection against the freezing temperatures ranging from zero to five degrees Celsius (33 to 41 degrees Fahrenheit). Ngadisari of the ascent to the crater is about two hours on foot. The horse-back (ponies can be hired), the trip takes about an hour and a half. Tours usually start around midnight. Ngadisari hotel also has facilities. This allows hikers to spend the night and get up a little later than midnight for the hike to Bromo. The last stage of the trip is the flight of steps leading to the Bromo crater rim, and finally, the incomparable view of the rising in the east.
Travel Tips :
1. Check the latest travel advice for your destination and subscribe to receive free e-mail notification each time the travel advice for your destination is updated.
2. Before travelling overseas register your travel and contact details online or at the local embassy, high commission or consulate once you arrive, so they can contact you in an emergency
3. Make copies of your passport details, insurance policy, travellers cheques, visas and credit card numbers. Carry one copy in a separate place to the originals and leave a copy with someone at home
4. Check with health professionals for information on recommended vaccinations or other precautions and find out about overseas laws on travelling with medicines
5. Make sure your passport has at least six months validity and carry additional copies of your passport photo with you in case you need a replacement passport while overseas
6. Leave a copy of your travel itinerary with someone at home and keep in regular contact with friends and relatives while overseas
7. As soon as you arrive in another country, you are subject to that country?s local laws
8. Necessities for the trip to Bromo include a torch, warm clothing, comfortable trekking shoes, and glove as a protection against the freezing temperature which hovers between zero to five degrees Celsius (33 to 41 degrees Fahrenheit).
9. If you buy or rent something please negotiate.
10. In Bromo Sunrise starts at 4.50 am till 6.00 am (If weren't cloudy), so you may leave from your hotel or guesthouse at 3 am or even less than that.
11. Don’t forget to bring your camera.
12. Before start trekking, hiking or climbing, be sure that you already eat, or you can bring some food and drink from your places of stay.
13. Some Emergency case please dial 0335 108 ( Telkom Information Center ). When you dial 108 , you can ask the telephone number of your hotel , police or your embassy office.
Indonesia will make history from the 18th – 26th of October 2008 when it plays host to the first Asian Beach Games in the world. Bali will become the venue of this international event which will see 45 countries participating with over 10,000 athletes, officials, media and volunteers all flocking to the Island of the Gods for this world class event.
Over 50,000 people are expected to support their participating countries in the 13 sports that will compete in this first time event entrusted by the Olympic Council of Asia. The areas of Kuta, Sanur, Pulau Serangan, Tanjung Benoa and Jimbaran have all been selected to act as the venues for each of the sports. Beach Volley Ball, Surfing, Jet Skiing, Sailing, Wind Surfing, Beach Takraw, Beach Hand Ball, Beach Soccer, Para Gliding, Dragon Boat Racing, Triathlon, Marathon Swimming, and the new sport, Wood Ball are the sports to be competed in.
The Asian Beach Games is a multi-sport event held every two years among athletes representing countries from Asia. The games are regulated by the Olympic Council of Asia. The Asian Beach Games celebrate cooperation and unity despite differences. Athletes from a wide variety of nations are able to travel, meet new people, and bring back memories about the rest of the world to their home nations. The Asian Beach Games forge unity and friendship between their member nations by joining athletes, trainers, and officials together.
The logo of the 1st Beach Games in Bali Asia 2008 represents the element of water that embodies the sporting event.
The brilliant Sunday comes from the emblem of the Olympic Council of Asia and represents its vital role in Asia's sport development and diffusion of energy created by the solidarity of the OCA.
The selection of light and deep blue color represents the effects of the Balinese waters.
The two vertical lines represent two "Pure" (Balinese Hindu temple), a picture of the door of a Balinese house of worship that is, ultimately, it means the hospitality of the society of Bali and in compliance with welcoming people throughout Asia.
The two big waves represent the commitment and enthusiasm of the host city to celebrate the 1st Beach Games in Asia.
The letters "BALI 2008" are colored red to show the spirit of sportsmanship and the type of selection emphasizes the pride of all athletes competing in Bali.
The Opening Ceremony of the 1st Beach Games in Bali Asia 2008 will be held on October 18, 2008 at Garuda Wisnu Kencana in Bukit in Jimbaran. The Garuda Wisnu Kencana comprises 239 acres . Wisnu or Vishnu is the Hindu God who is the protector of the Hindu trinity, Brahma is the creator, Vishnu the preservation and Shiva the destroyer. The only statue of half man half-bird a day to be a national monument. On the front of the head of the Garuda bird, which has already been completed is an outdoor stage and Amphi-theater for various events and ceremonies. The Closing Ceremony of the Games was also held at the Place Garuda Wisnu Kencana.
The brilliant Sunday comes from the emblem of the Olympic Council of Asia and represents its vital role in Asia's sport development and diffusion of energy created by the solidarity of the OCA.
The selection of light and deep blue color represents the effects of the Balinese waters.
The two vertical lines represent two "Pure" (Balinese Hindu temple), a picture of the door of a Balinese house of worship that is, ultimately, it means the hospitality of the society of Bali and in compliance with welcoming people throughout Asia.
The two big waves represent the commitment and enthusiasm of the host city to celebrate the 1st Beach Games in Asia.
The letters "BALI 2008" are colored red to show the spirit of sportsmanship and the type of selection emphasizes the pride of all athletes competing in Bali.
October 14, 2008
The presence of quandaries during any travel is undoubtedly part of any travel to an unfamiliar place and you could almost agree with that line of thought. However, if you follow little policies and guidelines there is a good way for quandary consequences to be reduced to little. Something is bound to happen whether good or bad. If they are meant to happen, they will whether or not you like it. The distressing thought however is that you would be left thinking that the travel should have been an affable one should the quandary remained where it should remain in the first place.
It should be a very good experience to be able to travel and see places once in a while. However, we are not in control all the time. Bad memories ensue and you can do nothing about it other than just to let it be. The shoddy thing that could happen is when you could not let go and you find yourself in your room shaking in fear or spending time downtown at police stations. Your perception of things as simple as they are will gauge your safety when you go traveling to an unfamiliar place.
There will be times when we have nothing but our hunches and gut feeling that there is something off and smells fishy. If this is so then do not just leave it alone, as much as possible do something about it. Always make sure that all the items that are important are safely tucked away including your IDs, files and documents, passports, credit cards and all the likes that are likely the most common things that can be lost.
Expensive items should be included in the list of no-no when you are packing for a certain travel time especially when you are really not familiar with the place at all. If you are going to lose something, make sure that they are the ones least important to you if you come to this point of time. Do not carry around too much cash around if you are only going to go out on stroll or to see some scenic beauties in the place.
During your travel especially with your spouse, do not only use one reputed credit account. This is part of the safety little guidelines being designed to protect travelers because if one happens to be lost, there is always the presence of another thing. You should be prepared for possible perils on your trip and not slack off with security because then you would only wind up regretting at the end of your travel stay. Keep important things always in the line of your sight. You will be better off enjoying the rest of the travel if you know everything is safe.
If you decide to hike out, always make sure that you are not walking along the area where motorcycles and cars would be able to drive through. You have to know that criminals nowadays are becoming good at what they do. They do not just enter any room blind. It is more likely you are going to be a victim if you do not take heeds any little precaution.
There will be times when we have nothing but our hunches and gut feeling that there is something off and smells fishy. If this is so then do not just leave it alone, as much as possible do something about it. Always make sure that all the items that are important are safely tucked away including your IDs, files and documents, passports, credit cards and all the likes that are likely the most common things that can be lost.
Expensive items should be included in the list of no-no when you are packing for a certain travel time especially when you are really not familiar with the place at all. If you are going to lose something, make sure that they are the ones least important to you if you come to this point of time. Do not carry around too much cash around if you are only going to go out on stroll or to see some scenic beauties in the place.
During your travel especially with your spouse, do not only use one reputed credit account. This is part of the safety little guidelines being designed to protect travelers because if one happens to be lost, there is always the presence of another thing. You should be prepared for possible perils on your trip and not slack off with security because then you would only wind up regretting at the end of your travel stay. Keep important things always in the line of your sight. You will be better off enjoying the rest of the travel if you know everything is safe.
If you decide to hike out, always make sure that you are not walking along the area where motorcycles and cars would be able to drive through. You have to know that criminals nowadays are becoming good at what they do. They do not just enter any room blind. It is more likely you are going to be a victim if you do not take heeds any little precaution.
October 10, 2008
There is a village that almost all of the residents make crafts based copper and brass in our small town, near the village where I was born, called Tumang Village.
This crafting early from production of household equipment like boiler, pot, pan etc. which its raw materials is copper plate, brass or aluminium. This effort walk hereditary which is there's only one in Indonesia
So far, the production of copper have represented one of the outcome of the masterpiece of society Tumang where this swan song have rounded into the industrial home as of society economics.
Copper, brass, and aluminium crafting yielded for example : water fountain, matting, bathtub, bowl, Jar, Calligraphy, hang-desk-stand lamp, mirror frame, relief, sink, furniture and utensil, and many more.
This crafting can be used as a home interior design, construction, mosque, church, etc. As well as decorative media, crafting this brass copper is functional also as such must its.
Easily accessible place, many of transport that can be used to the village Tumang. If perchance I'm on holiday in my village I certainly ready to accompany you to Tumang, see the centers of brass and copper handicrafts there. So, feel free to contact me anytime
This crafting early from production of household equipment like boiler, pot, pan etc. which its raw materials is copper plate, brass or aluminium. This effort walk hereditary which is there's only one in Indonesia
So far, the production of copper have represented one of the outcome of the masterpiece of society Tumang where this swan song have rounded into the industrial home as of society economics.
Copper, brass, and aluminium crafting yielded for example : water fountain, matting, bathtub, bowl, Jar, Calligraphy, hang-desk-stand lamp, mirror frame, relief, sink, furniture and utensil, and many more.
Easily accessible place, many of transport that can be used to the village Tumang. If perchance I'm on holiday in my village I certainly ready to accompany you to Tumang, see the centers of brass and copper handicrafts there. So, feel free to contact me anytime
October 9, 2008
Luggage sets are the items that not only carry your belongings but carry them with more organization, style and security. Luggage sets not only assure you that your belongings are safe but also are in perfect sync with your personality. That is why you will find a huge range available in the market that suit different packing needs, budgets and personalities. No matter what your idea for it is but it is for sure that you will find one that fits your bill. This article aims in guiding you to different types of luggage sets available in the market and will assist you in making a wise choice.
These are broadly classified into two categories i.e. large luggage sets and small luggage sets.
Large Luggage sets: mainly consist of suitcases and Pullmans. The difference is the type of material used.
Hard-sided Suitcases: are the most durable types and are generally made from plastic, metal and other molded materials. They are built for heavy and rugged use and can sustain abusive handling during travel.
Semi Soft-sided Suitcases: are also made from plastic and other molded materials and offer more space compared to the hard sided suitcases making your belongings more secure.
Soft-sided suitcases: are lightweight and generally expandable with no internal framework allowing more room for clothes.
Small Luggage Sets: are compact and used for a variety of purposes. They include
Business cases: that can hold your laptop, important papers, and in some cases a pair of clothes for an overnight trip.
Totes and Casual Bags: feature pockets and shoulder straps but the ideal tote bag is the one which is small and can be used for casual outings.
Duffle Bags: are typically soft sided bags with more room to carry lots of clothes and accessories but do not guarantee resistance to rough use.
Backpacks: are usually designed for more casual traveling and outdoor trips but are more spacious and organized with multiple pockets and shoulder straps for ease of carrying around.
Carry on sets: are small and can be easily carried under airplane seat. Come handy during short overnight trips.
There are some important aspects to you need to consider if you want to buy the best one. While buying, you need to make proper choices about the material used in its construction, type of hardware used in it, and the organizational features which makes it more versatile. It is also important that the set you want to buy should be able to accommodate all your belongings with proper organization. Also consider new design features, for instance transformer bags that begin as one bag and with the help of zips and other mechanism end up as another. Also the piggyback bags where one bag is attached to another by a zipper. You can also consider special luggage packing systems those are designed to organize clothes and keep them wrinkle-free. Consider both hard sided and the soft sided luggage before making your choice. Most of the models equipped with wheels should be considered as it reduces efforts to carry the heavy luggage. When considering wheeled models, look for wheels that have a wide track, have a bearing system and recessed into the actual frame of the bag.
These are broadly classified into two categories i.e. large luggage sets and small luggage sets.
Large Luggage sets: mainly consist of suitcases and Pullmans. The difference is the type of material used.
Hard-sided Suitcases: are the most durable types and are generally made from plastic, metal and other molded materials. They are built for heavy and rugged use and can sustain abusive handling during travel.
Semi Soft-sided Suitcases: are also made from plastic and other molded materials and offer more space compared to the hard sided suitcases making your belongings more secure.
Soft-sided suitcases: are lightweight and generally expandable with no internal framework allowing more room for clothes.
Small Luggage Sets: are compact and used for a variety of purposes. They include
Business cases: that can hold your laptop, important papers, and in some cases a pair of clothes for an overnight trip.
Totes and Casual Bags: feature pockets and shoulder straps but the ideal tote bag is the one which is small and can be used for casual outings.
Duffle Bags: are typically soft sided bags with more room to carry lots of clothes and accessories but do not guarantee resistance to rough use.
Backpacks: are usually designed for more casual traveling and outdoor trips but are more spacious and organized with multiple pockets and shoulder straps for ease of carrying around.
Carry on sets: are small and can be easily carried under airplane seat. Come handy during short overnight trips.
There are some important aspects to you need to consider if you want to buy the best one. While buying, you need to make proper choices about the material used in its construction, type of hardware used in it, and the organizational features which makes it more versatile. It is also important that the set you want to buy should be able to accommodate all your belongings with proper organization. Also consider new design features, for instance transformer bags that begin as one bag and with the help of zips and other mechanism end up as another. Also the piggyback bags where one bag is attached to another by a zipper. You can also consider special luggage packing systems those are designed to organize clothes and keep them wrinkle-free. Consider both hard sided and the soft sided luggage before making your choice. Most of the models equipped with wheels should be considered as it reduces efforts to carry the heavy luggage. When considering wheeled models, look for wheels that have a wide track, have a bearing system and recessed into the actual frame of the bag.
Instead of staying in a hotel during your vacation, you may want to consider renting a vacation home on your next trip. There are a lot of benefits to renting a home instead. Besides the fact that homes are almost inevitably larger, they offer many of the conveniences of your own home, such as the ability to cook, large areas to hang out, enough bedrooms for your entire family instead of all sharing one from the same large room, and probably 2-4 bathrooms to avoid those uncomfortable family bottleneck situations when everyone is trying to get out at the same time.
Finding a vacation rental home is actually easier than you may realize. The Internet is packed with web sites dedicated just to renting out houses. First, plan your destination, and then look for available rental homes in that area. It is as simple as that. You also many want to talk to friends who have visited the same area in which you are headed. If they rented a home and had a great experience, a first-hand recommendation is usually a reliable referral.
Many homeowners rent their homes, specifically in high tourist areas, simply because of the income they are able to generate. So, it is highly likely you will find a lengthy selection. If you can’t find anything to your satisfaction on the Internet, you can place a call to a realtor who deals in home rentals in that area.
Before renting a home, make sure you know the price. Additionally, ask what is included in the price, such as telephone use, pool use, and any amenities on the property. Verify the safety of the general area, and ask for references. In a vacation spot, homeowners usually have rented their houses in the past and are more than happy to provide phone numbers of previous guests who have enjoyed their stay and offered their willingness to receive such calls.
Usually if you are renting a home that is arranged through a realtor, the realtor will have already done a lot of the legwork for you, so you can rest assured you are getting a great home to rent. It will also normally be in a little safer area because the realtor has completed background checks to ensure the homeowners are reputable.
Lastly, there is a certain level of cleanliness that you must maintain while vacationing there. Ask about the clean up work required of you before your departure; and by all means leave the house in at least the same shape as when you arrived.
With the rash of reports from travelers around the world getting stung by bedbugs and bringing them home it is no wonder people are in fear every time they leave home. Whether you are hiking in a remote area staying in a flophouse or traveling first class staying at a five star resort you are in danger of an attack of these blood thirsty vermin. Here are a few things you can do to dramatically reduce your chance of bed bug bites though.
• First, never put your bags or clothes on the bed. This common mistake is a virtual invitation for the bugs to hitch a ride home with you. Never leave your clothes or bags on the hotel floor.
• Look behind the headboard and pull the bed out a foot or so look all around the bed for black specks. These creatures are very small if you see anything suspicious call the front desk. Leave the bed out from the wall during your stay. Bed bugs can not fly so if they have been coming from the nightstand they will have to get to you some other way.
• Take a roll of clear packing tape with you while you travel. Wrap the legs of the bed sticky side out to trap the bed bugs trying to get to you. I know this seems extreme but you would rather feel weird than get stung.
• Pull all of the bedding off the sides of the bed and look under the seams of the mattress. You are looking for something that looks like dirt smudges. This is the trail of blood and feces left by the bed bugs. If you find this leave the hotel once you find an infestation you should leave as fast as possible.
• If you are an avid traveler I suggest taking two new king-size sheets and sewing them together on the bottom and sides. Use this at night like a big sleeping bag. Make sure and inspect and fold in the morning. Place this in a garbage bag and seal it while returning home. Unpack this before anything else and wash with the hottest water you have before using again.
• Before leaving the hotel carefully inspect you luggage. Look under all the seams, the bugs you are looking for are sometimes small as a pinhead. Any discoloration, red marks, or stains are tell-tale signs of bed bugs.
• Upon arriving home do not unpack your luggage in your bedroom. Unpack your luggage in your garage. Immediately wash your clothes in the hottest setting your fabrics will stand. Bag up any dry cleaning and take it there ASAP. Leave your luggage in the garage or place a bag around the luggage before returning to your room.
I know this seems like overkill but if you ever get bedbugs you will gladly apply these helpful tips the next time you travel, trust me..
In my next article I will explain how to handle finding bed bugs after you have stayed at a hotel. Even if you find them you do not have to bring them home.
• Look behind the headboard and pull the bed out a foot or so look all around the bed for black specks. These creatures are very small if you see anything suspicious call the front desk. Leave the bed out from the wall during your stay. Bed bugs can not fly so if they have been coming from the nightstand they will have to get to you some other way.
• Take a roll of clear packing tape with you while you travel. Wrap the legs of the bed sticky side out to trap the bed bugs trying to get to you. I know this seems extreme but you would rather feel weird than get stung.
• Pull all of the bedding off the sides of the bed and look under the seams of the mattress. You are looking for something that looks like dirt smudges. This is the trail of blood and feces left by the bed bugs. If you find this leave the hotel once you find an infestation you should leave as fast as possible.
• If you are an avid traveler I suggest taking two new king-size sheets and sewing them together on the bottom and sides. Use this at night like a big sleeping bag. Make sure and inspect and fold in the morning. Place this in a garbage bag and seal it while returning home. Unpack this before anything else and wash with the hottest water you have before using again.
• Before leaving the hotel carefully inspect you luggage. Look under all the seams, the bugs you are looking for are sometimes small as a pinhead. Any discoloration, red marks, or stains are tell-tale signs of bed bugs.
• Upon arriving home do not unpack your luggage in your bedroom. Unpack your luggage in your garage. Immediately wash your clothes in the hottest setting your fabrics will stand. Bag up any dry cleaning and take it there ASAP. Leave your luggage in the garage or place a bag around the luggage before returning to your room.
I know this seems like overkill but if you ever get bedbugs you will gladly apply these helpful tips the next time you travel, trust me..
In my next article I will explain how to handle finding bed bugs after you have stayed at a hotel. Even if you find them you do not have to bring them home.
Jet lag is an awkward side effect of jet travel when you cross too many time zones for your body's liking. Face it, most of us have enough problems when we shift just an hour to daylight savings. Follow these tips on avoiding jet lag to help reduce the effects.
Not all these tips are relevant for every trip, especially if you're traveling on business at short notice, but at least some of them should be useful for you.
1. Adjust your sleep time
Start helping your body clock to adjust to the new time zone by changing the times that you go to sleep at night and awaken in the morning. You'll start to become accustomed to the new times. Make the adjustment about an hour each night.
2. Set your watch
As soon as you board your flight, set your watch to the new time. We look at our watches an amazingly high amount of times, so adjusting the time as soon as possible will help your mind realize that it's changing clocks.
3. Drink water. Lots of it
Sure, you can ask the stewardess for water but they have hundreds of other passengers to look after as well. Buy a bottle of water once you've passed through airport control and drink plenty of water during your flight.
4. Say no to coffee and alcohol
They both act as dehydrators. So they'll help to dry up your body even more than the flight already does. Soft drinks or water are to be preferred.
5. Get some rest on the flight
Depending on how enthusiastic the cabin staff are, this may be easier said than done. And if that child behind you rocks your seat once more, then that's another story. If you get the option, a window seat or one in the center of a block of seats will minimize the number of people who need to ask you to move out of their way. Noise canceling headphones aren't standard issue on many flights, so if you are a regular traveler then treat yourself to a set. They really do cut down the disturbance of engine noise.
6. Go walkabout occasionally
OK, this is at odds with getting rest. But sitting down for hours on end isn't a good idea either. Walk up and down the aisles a few times. Not so much that you're pacing them but certainly go for this exercise a few times on a long flight. Just be certain not to time your expedition for meal or drinks or duty free services.
7. Adjust to your new time zone on the plane
If it's daytime at your destination, stay awake. If it's night where you are going, get some sleep. You can catch up on the in flight entertainment when you've got a bigger screen and better sound. Start adjusting as soon as you can.
8. Keep adjusting at your destination
Even if you've been on a plane for hours and hours. The sooner you start adjusting, the better. So if you arrive in the dead of night, get to sleep. A dose of melatonin may help here - it's a natural sleeping aid that's already produced by your body.
Not all these tips are relevant for every trip, especially if you're traveling on business at short notice, but at least some of them should be useful for you.
1. Adjust your sleep time
Start helping your body clock to adjust to the new time zone by changing the times that you go to sleep at night and awaken in the morning. You'll start to become accustomed to the new times. Make the adjustment about an hour each night.
2. Set your watch
As soon as you board your flight, set your watch to the new time. We look at our watches an amazingly high amount of times, so adjusting the time as soon as possible will help your mind realize that it's changing clocks.
3. Drink water. Lots of it
Sure, you can ask the stewardess for water but they have hundreds of other passengers to look after as well. Buy a bottle of water once you've passed through airport control and drink plenty of water during your flight.
4. Say no to coffee and alcohol
They both act as dehydrators. So they'll help to dry up your body even more than the flight already does. Soft drinks or water are to be preferred.
5. Get some rest on the flight
Depending on how enthusiastic the cabin staff are, this may be easier said than done. And if that child behind you rocks your seat once more, then that's another story. If you get the option, a window seat or one in the center of a block of seats will minimize the number of people who need to ask you to move out of their way. Noise canceling headphones aren't standard issue on many flights, so if you are a regular traveler then treat yourself to a set. They really do cut down the disturbance of engine noise.
6. Go walkabout occasionally
OK, this is at odds with getting rest. But sitting down for hours on end isn't a good idea either. Walk up and down the aisles a few times. Not so much that you're pacing them but certainly go for this exercise a few times on a long flight. Just be certain not to time your expedition for meal or drinks or duty free services.
7. Adjust to your new time zone on the plane
If it's daytime at your destination, stay awake. If it's night where you are going, get some sleep. You can catch up on the in flight entertainment when you've got a bigger screen and better sound. Start adjusting as soon as you can.
8. Keep adjusting at your destination
Even if you've been on a plane for hours and hours. The sooner you start adjusting, the better. So if you arrive in the dead of night, get to sleep. A dose of melatonin may help here - it's a natural sleeping aid that's already produced by your body.
If you travel a lot or you haven't traveled before, you may still be familiar with the term "flying standby". Flying standby is a term the airline industry uses when a traveler wants to fly on a flight with an open seat. Travelers that usually purchase a ticket the day of will usually have to fly standby if there a limit number of tickets available.
If you find yourself flying standby in the future, there are a few tips you can follow in order to make the trip at the airport a lot easier.
Don't check your luggage
If you're flying standby, don't check in your luggage. A lot of the times an airline will look for people that have carry on only. If you have checked in luggage, it's just going to be a bigger hassle for the airliner to find your luggage and throw it on the plane. If you just bring carry on luggage, you're going to increase your chances of getting on the flight.
Early flights work
If you can get to the airport early, you'll find that earlier flights are usually easier to get on since many people technically don't travel early in the morning. If you find yourself traveling in the afternoon, this is peak traveling time and you may find that the flights are going to busier compared to the mornings.
Try calling the airline's customer service department
Before you make the trip to the airport, check with the airline before hand and see if there are flights available that you can possibly standby for. Most of the times, the airline will be friendly and give you some flights that you can possibly fly standby on. If you do find that airline you call doesn't have a standby flight available, try and call other airlines to see if they have possible solutions.
Stay at the gate
It's important that you stay near the gate when you're on the standby list. If you tend to walk away during the time when the flight is about to be boarded, you may find that the employee tried to call your name. Sometimes, you're not the only one on the list. This is why it's important that you stay nearby so that if your name is called, you can be there to get on the flight as soon as possible.
You may find that most of these tips will help you in your standby success. If you find that the situation is too stressful, always remember that it's best to be patient. When flights generally board, you will find that most employees are pretty stressful during this time. Always remember to treat others as you want to be treated. Trust me, the employees will keep note of this and will treat you a little nicer than the other customer is furious with the staff. If you keep your head on your shoulders and have a lot of patience, flying standby should be a piece of pie
Don't check your luggage
If you're flying standby, don't check in your luggage. A lot of the times an airline will look for people that have carry on only. If you have checked in luggage, it's just going to be a bigger hassle for the airliner to find your luggage and throw it on the plane. If you just bring carry on luggage, you're going to increase your chances of getting on the flight.
Early flights work
If you can get to the airport early, you'll find that earlier flights are usually easier to get on since many people technically don't travel early in the morning. If you find yourself traveling in the afternoon, this is peak traveling time and you may find that the flights are going to busier compared to the mornings.
Try calling the airline's customer service department
Before you make the trip to the airport, check with the airline before hand and see if there are flights available that you can possibly standby for. Most of the times, the airline will be friendly and give you some flights that you can possibly fly standby on. If you do find that airline you call doesn't have a standby flight available, try and call other airlines to see if they have possible solutions.
Stay at the gate
It's important that you stay near the gate when you're on the standby list. If you tend to walk away during the time when the flight is about to be boarded, you may find that the employee tried to call your name. Sometimes, you're not the only one on the list. This is why it's important that you stay nearby so that if your name is called, you can be there to get on the flight as soon as possible.
You may find that most of these tips will help you in your standby success. If you find that the situation is too stressful, always remember that it's best to be patient. When flights generally board, you will find that most employees are pretty stressful during this time. Always remember to treat others as you want to be treated. Trust me, the employees will keep note of this and will treat you a little nicer than the other customer is furious with the staff. If you keep your head on your shoulders and have a lot of patience, flying standby should be a piece of pie
October 7, 2008
Me and family wish you all a glorious Eid al Fitr 1429 H, Eid Mubarak, Minal Aidin Walfaidzin
After fasting one month in ramadhan, finally we met the day-awaited, the Idul fitri. Some things that have been waiting for when the Idul Fitri comes, the Eid prayer, sungkeman, opor ayam (Javanese chicken curry) and ketupat (compressed rice with a squarish shape) !!
Opor and Ketupat is a special menu ta the day, this food was never behind, almost all in the family and the people who lived in Indonesia for Foreign Affairs would never skip the menu this one.
During the month of Ramadan, Muslims observe a strict fast and participate in pious activities such as charitable giving and peace. It is a time of intense spiritual renewal for those who observe it. At the end of Ramadan, Muslims around the world observe a joy for three days of celebration called Eid al-Fitr, the Festival of Fast Breaking or in Indonesia called Idul Fitri / Lebaran
Opor and Ketupat is a special menu ta the day, this food was never behind, almost all in the family and the people who lived in Indonesia for Foreign Affairs would never skip the menu this one.
During the month of Ramadan, Muslims observe a strict fast and participate in pious activities such as charitable giving and peace. It is a time of intense spiritual renewal for those who observe it. At the end of Ramadan, Muslims around the world observe a joy for three days of celebration called Eid al-Fitr, the Festival of Fast Breaking or in Indonesia called Idul Fitri / Lebaran
On the day of Eid, Muslims gather early in the morning in outdoor locations or mosques to perform the Eid prayer. This consists of a sermon followed by a short congregational prayer.
After the Eid prayer, Muslims usually scatter to visit various relatives and friends, give gifts (especially children), and make phone calls to distant relatives to give well-wishes on vacation. These activities traditionally continue for three days. In most Muslim countries, all on 3-day is an officer of government and school holidays.
It's easy to make this Ketupat and Opor Ayam, here is the recipe,
KETUPAT, these firm rice cakes are usually cooked in individual baskets of woven coconut leaves so that the rice swells until it fills the basket and becomes firmly compressed. Here is a simple and more practical way of producing similar results, called lontong.
Ingredients:
* 500 gr short or medium grain rice
* 4 cups water
* banana leaf or aluminium foil
Method:
1. Bring the water and rice to the boil
2. cover tightly with lid
3. turn heat very low and cook for 35-40 minutes until all water is ubsorbed
4. stir vigorously with wooden spoon
5. then press rice into a cake tin or pie plate to depth of about 2,5 cm (1 inch)
6. use a piece of washed and greased banana leaf or greased aluminium foil to cover the surface of the rice and put another plate on top
7. press down very firmly the plate
8. put a weight on top and leave at room temperature for a few hours, until very firm.
9. remove weight, plate and banana leaf and use a wet knife to cut rice into squares.
10. serve with Opor Ayam (Javanese Chicken Curry)
OPOR AYAM
Ingredients:
1 tsp coriander seeds
6 shallots, peeled and cut into chunks
2 cloves garlic, peeled
1 piece galangal, about 1 1/2 inches long, peeled and roughly sliced (optional)
1 piece ginger, about 2 inches long, peeled and roughly sliced
3 tsp peanut oil
1 thick stalk lemon grass, stem end and brittle top cut off
2 pieces cinnamon stick
5 kaffir lime leaves
3 pounds skins-on chicken legs , thighs or both (if possible, have thighs cut in half and knuckle cut of legs) patted dry
2 cups unsweetened coconut milk
3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, more to taste
method:
1. in a small food processor, whirl coriander seeds until finely ground. and shallot, garlic, galangal and ginger, process t smooth paste, adding a tablespoon or so water if needed.(ingredients can also be chopped finely, than pounded together in mortar and pestle)
2. heat oil in a large heavy pot over medium heat. when oil is hot enough to gently sizzle a pinch of paste, add all the paste and cook, stirring often until golden. reduce head as needed to provent browning.
3. using a heavy object like a glass measuring cup, smash lemon grass stalk, crushing lightly just until bendable. Tie in a knot, pulling gently on both ends. Add to pot with cinnamon and lime leaves, cook 1 minute more, until cinnamon is fragrant.
4. scrape paste to one side and chicken to pot. Raise head and brown chicken lightly on both sides, about 10 minutes total. Add 1 cup coconut milk, 1 1/4 cups water, and salt, stirring well adn scrapping up browned bits from bottom of pot. bring to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered 40-50 minutes, until chicken cooked through and sauce is thickened. do not boil.
5. Add remaining coconut milk and heat through. taste for salt, let cool slightly and serve
After the Eid prayer, Muslims usually scatter to visit various relatives and friends, give gifts (especially children), and make phone calls to distant relatives to give well-wishes on vacation. These activities traditionally continue for three days. In most Muslim countries, all on 3-day is an officer of government and school holidays.
It's easy to make this Ketupat and Opor Ayam, here is the recipe,
KETUPAT, these firm rice cakes are usually cooked in individual baskets of woven coconut leaves so that the rice swells until it fills the basket and becomes firmly compressed. Here is a simple and more practical way of producing similar results, called lontong.
Ingredients:
* 500 gr short or medium grain rice
* 4 cups water
* banana leaf or aluminium foil
Method:
1. Bring the water and rice to the boil
2. cover tightly with lid
3. turn heat very low and cook for 35-40 minutes until all water is ubsorbed
4. stir vigorously with wooden spoon
5. then press rice into a cake tin or pie plate to depth of about 2,5 cm (1 inch)
6. use a piece of washed and greased banana leaf or greased aluminium foil to cover the surface of the rice and put another plate on top
7. press down very firmly the plate
8. put a weight on top and leave at room temperature for a few hours, until very firm.
9. remove weight, plate and banana leaf and use a wet knife to cut rice into squares.
10. serve with Opor Ayam (Javanese Chicken Curry)
OPOR AYAM
Ingredients:
1 tsp coriander seeds
6 shallots, peeled and cut into chunks
2 cloves garlic, peeled
1 piece galangal, about 1 1/2 inches long, peeled and roughly sliced (optional)
1 piece ginger, about 2 inches long, peeled and roughly sliced
3 tsp peanut oil
1 thick stalk lemon grass, stem end and brittle top cut off
2 pieces cinnamon stick
5 kaffir lime leaves
3 pounds skins-on chicken legs , thighs or both (if possible, have thighs cut in half and knuckle cut of legs) patted dry
2 cups unsweetened coconut milk
3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, more to taste
method:
1. in a small food processor, whirl coriander seeds until finely ground. and shallot, garlic, galangal and ginger, process t smooth paste, adding a tablespoon or so water if needed.(ingredients can also be chopped finely, than pounded together in mortar and pestle)
2. heat oil in a large heavy pot over medium heat. when oil is hot enough to gently sizzle a pinch of paste, add all the paste and cook, stirring often until golden. reduce head as needed to provent browning.
3. using a heavy object like a glass measuring cup, smash lemon grass stalk, crushing lightly just until bendable. Tie in a knot, pulling gently on both ends. Add to pot with cinnamon and lime leaves, cook 1 minute more, until cinnamon is fragrant.
4. scrape paste to one side and chicken to pot. Raise head and brown chicken lightly on both sides, about 10 minutes total. Add 1 cup coconut milk, 1 1/4 cups water, and salt, stirring well adn scrapping up browned bits from bottom of pot. bring to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered 40-50 minutes, until chicken cooked through and sauce is thickened. do not boil.
5. Add remaining coconut milk and heat through. taste for salt, let cool slightly and serve
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
