Taj Mahal India

Taj Mahal

For many visitors to this spectacular monument, the Taj Mahal India represents a symbol of romance and eternal love.

The Taj Mahal is considered one of the finest examples of Muslim architecture in the world and is universally admired. Images of the Taj Mahal temple are instantly recognizable. Regarded as one of the modern wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal reflects this accolade as being a certified UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Taj Mahal at first glance looks like some computer generated image from a movie. Its magnificent graying white marble and symmetrical architecture, look’s surreal and far to stunning to be real. You really do have to see it to believe it.

Situated on the bank of the Yamuna River in Agra India, the Taj Mahal is set amongst a magnificent backdrop offering views from many different perspectives. The Taj Mahal India is best visited more than once in a day. Both sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic and picturesque time to visit as the white marble stone slowly becomes bathed the golden yellow sun taking on a strange pink tinged look before fading once again into the Agra India night. While the Taj Mahal temple can be visited any time of the year, it is best seen in time with the seasonal climate of Agra India. October-March brings the most stable weather.

Taj Mahal history records that the monument was constructed between 1631-1653 taking 22 years between conception and completion. It is estimated that over 22,000 laborers and 1,000 elephants were used to transport the marble stone work and carry out the build. Built in the 17th Century, the Taj Mahal Agra was built in honor of the Prince Shah Jahan’s third wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who died while giving birth to their 14th child. Although myths surround the construction of the monument, insights into Taj Mahal history confirm that the creation of the monument was solely intended as an act of love by Prince Jahan to his late wife.

Central to the Taj Mahal temple is the tomb which stands central on top of a square plinth. At each corner of the base, stand’s four large minarets 40 meters tall. The entire monument is symmetrical. The central tomb is entered through an arched doorway and topped by a large dome. On each corner are 4 smaller domes that act to emphasize the central main dome. The centre dome is topped by a spire encompassing a half moon to reflect its Islamic heritage. Housed inside the central building is the false sarcophagus of Mumtaz Mahal and Shah Jaham although their actual graves are in a plain crypt beneath the inner chamber. Adorning the marble stone work of the main arch (iwan) and side arches (pishtaq) to the central tomb are elaborate inscriptions. Much of the decorative calligraphy found throughout the Taj Mahal India reflects passages from the holy Qur’an.

The monument is set amongst a well primed garden with raised pathways and sunken water features reflecting spectacularly the image of the Taj Mahal Agra. Visitors can walk the grounds freely.

An entrance fee is levied for entry into the complex. The actual entrance to the complex itself is through a red sandstone walled mosque which serves as a good spot for some scenic photographs.

Tourists from all over the world come to marvel at this magnificent site, discovering the romantic Taj Mahal history behind the monument and leaving in awe of the Taj Mahal Agra monument. It proves an unforgettable sight.

Malaysia Beach

Pantai Cenang

If you’re in Malaysia and have decided to take a Langkawi trip, you’re in for a most pleasant surprise! A relaxed and laid-back atmosphere, a blend of different people and stunning natural surroundings are all found on the island. Lying on the south western edge of Langkawi is Pantai Cenang with 2 kilometers of golden sandy beaches beckoning lazy days ahead. Pantai Cenang Langkawi is bordered by charming bungalows and chalets as well as casuarinas, resorts and luxury class hotels.

Dotting the beach there are a large variety of restaurants with an assortment of different cuisine making dining an enjoyable and exciting experience. Since this part of the island has been developing Langkawi tourism has risen and many more people head to the island, particularly to the Pantai Cenang area. Extremely relaxing days turn into interesting nights with contemporary entertainment more readily available at Pantai Cenang Langkawi.

Underwater World is one of the better known attractions in Pantai Cenang and makes a great Langkawi trip if heading away from the beach during your Malaysia vacation. A tunnel made of tempered glass is the feature here where visitors can walk the 15 meters through it and see a colorful array of marine life up close. Thousands of different varieties of fish and marine creatures are showcased at Underwater World both international and native to Malaysia. Underwater World is open daily from 10:00am to 6:00pm. Adult tickets are $5.15 and kids are $2.90.

Aquabeat is a fun destination for families during a Langkawi trip. Found beside the Lagkasuka Beach Malaysia Resort there is a wide variety of action rides providing spills and thrills for all. Outdoor Jacuzzis are available for those who don’t want to jump on the rides. Ice cream parlors, restaurants and some retail shops are all in the vicinity and there are lockers offered for your valuables.

Palau Rebak Island is another favorite spot to visit while on a Pantai Cenang Malaysia holiday. Hit the beach at low tide and you can walk across to this island in Malaysia where beautiful views of the Straits of Malacca can be seen bordered by the Andaman Sea. From low tide, you should start heading back after a couple of hours, as water levels will rise again. Boats for hire will also make the trip out to surrounding areas.

Palau Rebak Malaysia beaches are excellent for hanging out and kicking back. The sandy beaches, tropical blankets of lush greenery and a colorful assortment of birds add to the pristine allure. There is a small shopping area, a marina, one restaurant and a supermarket developed for growing Langkawi tourism.

During your Langkawi trip to Pulau Rebak, other things to do include trekking along island paths and trails taking in the beautiful countryside on the way. You can take a Malaysia tour here with a guide on the trekking trails where exotic birds such as Racquet Tail Dongos and Oriental Pied Hornbills can be spotted. Fishing charters are available for day or night trips during your Pantai Cenang Langkawi tour or choose a cycling expedition and explore rugged terrain, slopes and hills on mountain bikes.

Pantai Cenang beach itself is the major attraction during a Langkawi trip. The water is warm and clear making snorkeling perfect during Langkawi tourism. The water is teeming with colorful shells and small corals along with vibrant fish and other sea creatures. There are dive masters that offer Malaysia diving trips heading out from boats on Pantai Cenang. These can be anywhere from half day to full PADI licensing courses.

When heading on a Langkawi trip don’t miss this favorite part of the island. Make sure to explore the area well and take advantage of all the fun activities. Pantai Cenang is a great spot to string up a hammock and relax by day and head out in the evening to enjoy great nightlife along with other travelers and locals.

Hong Kong Disneyland

The fifth Disney theme park in the world, Hong Kong Disneyland is located in Penny’s Bay on Lantau Island. Built with Chinese customs and culture in mind, Disneyland in Hong Kong is a rich mix of the flair of the orient with the traditional outlay of the Disney parks you’ve come to know and love. If you are traveling to China with your family, or even if you are just a kid at heart, a sidetrip to the Disneyland in Hong Kong will be well worth your time. There’s a reason Disney theme parks have been one of the world’s most popular destinations for decades. And if you really want to splurge, make sure to stay at the Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel, so you can be surrounded by Disney Magic at all times.

Like its famous American counterpart, Hong Kong Disneyland is divided into four different themed lands – Main Street U.S.A., Adventureland, Fantasyland and Tomorrowland. Each one features whirling rides, affable characters roaming the paths, and other Disney-themed excitement.

Main Street is a whirl of lights at nighttime, like Christmas all year round. During the day it’s where you’ll find the parade of characters, and in the evening all heads turn towards Cinderella’s Castle, where a nightly fireworks display draws oohs and aahs from the crowd. Adventureland is outfitted with the Jungle River Cruise and the popular Tarzan’s Island. Feel the Gs when you get on the fan-favorite Space Mountain, as you are sent twisting and twirling into the darkness in Tomorrowland. This is also where you'll come across the Orbitron and Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters and various other space-related attractions. Fantasyland is the park’s largest section and features signature rides like the Mad Hatter’s Tea Cups. And children young and old always love the Winnie the Pooh ride, as you take a journey through the many adventures of the lovable bear. Here you’ll also find a slightly altered version of the It’s A Small World ride, tailored to include scenes from Chinese culture, along with other scenes unique to Disneyland in Hong Kong.

For those looking to make the park a focal point of their trip, the Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel is one of the best places you’ll find to stay, and is an essential part of any vacation package to Disneyland Hong Kong. Built to resemble a tropical cotton plantation and was its construction was inspired by the many other Disneyland hotels operating throughout the world.

No matter where you are, you can always take a trip back to your childhood by visiting one of the Disney theme parks. But none of them match the exotic flavor of Hong Kong Disneyland – so get a room at the Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel and see why the park is one of the finest Disney exports in the world.

Tokyo Disneyland

The first ever Disney theme park to be constructed on foreign soil, Tokyo Disneyland has become the most visited theme park in the whole world. The most popular rides are here, along with everything you’ve come to expect from a Disneyland venture: magic, fun, and days of entertainment for both child and adult.

Tokyo Disneyland opened in 1983, lovingly based upon both the American theme parks - Disneyland and Disneyworld. Taking the most popular parts of both of these parks is just one of the reason that no one does Disney better than Japan. There is even a Tokyo Disneyland hotel called the Disney Ambassador that is modeled just like the original in Anaheim. Strangely enough, it’s the only of the Disney parks that is not, technically, owned by the Disney Company – rather the characters are just licensed out to a Japanese corporation that runs the park. Even so, everything you’d expect from a Disney vacation are on display at the Tokyo Disneyland.

When it came time to expand overseas, to make another Disneyland, Japan was a great fit. Tokyo contains the world’s biggest population, mixed with millions of tourists per year, so the match between Disney and Japan’s largest city was destined for greatness. Now the park owns a sister property, Tokyo DisneySea, and continues to be one of the city’s major tourist attractions.

Like any Disneyland, Japan’s version is split four ways. Adventureland, Fantasyland, Tomorrowland and Westernland (this park’s version of Frontierland) are all on hand here, as well as Mickey’s Toontown and Critter Country. These layouts don’t differ much from the American institution – right down to Cinderella’s Castle, most of Tokyo Disneyland is a direct replica. Which is certainly not a bad thing - but there are a few differences. For instance, Main Street U.S.A. has been given the more cosmopolitan name of World’s Bazaar. The railroad that normally circles Adventureland is absent, and the Haunted House is moved to Fantasyland – the Japanese belief that ghosts can only exist in fairy tales still holds true, even in Disneyland. Japan’s version diverges little outside of these cosmetic changes. You’ll still find signature Disney rides like: Space Mountain, Star Tours and Splash Mountain.

For Disney magic that never stops, even after you’ve left the park, you can stay at the famed Tokyo Disneyland hotel, the Disney Ambassador. Every bit the same as the other Disney hotels, with all the same perks and amenities. If you are also heading over to Tokyo DisneySea, there is another Tokyo Disneyland hotel located adjacent to that park, called the Tokyo DisneySea Hotel MiraCosta.

You’re never too old or too young for a Disneyland adventure – so grab the kids and head to Tokyo Disneyland because, really, it’s a guaranteed hit. Guaranteed.

Thailand Beaches

For a little rest and relaxation, nothing beats Thailand beaches. To enjoy the best beaches of Thailand, head to the island of Phuket, located in the southern region of Thailand. Travel by ferry or by car to get to the island, or elect to fly into Phuket International airport, which features regular flights to and from Bangkok.

A typical Phuket beach is characterized by long stretches of white sand, clear turquoise waters and dazzling views. In selecting a beach, it is important to choose a location that matches the day’s mood. Those that are feeling more social will probably enjoy a visit to Patong Beach. This stretch of sand is positively bustling with things to do. Along with parasailing and jet skiing, this Phuket beach has masseuses as well as tour boat operators that are ready to do a customer’s bidding.

While the waters at most Thailand beaches are often as smooth as glass during the north-east monsoon season which runs from November until April, the waters become much more choppy in the south-west monsoon season. From May until October, surfers make Kata Beach their destination spot, enjoying the reasonably sized waves and the laid-back atmosphere.

While the southern tip of the island is usually crowded with tourists, it is possible to get away from the maddening crowd and enjoy one of the best beaches of Thailand: Freedom beach. Just off the beaten path from Patong Beach, this strip of paradise is accessible via a 10-minute long-tail boat ride from Patong. Quiet and isolated, this Phuket Beach also boasts a coral reef that offers picturesque snorkeling opportunities.

For those that are looking to enjoy Thailand beaches that are slightly more isolated, head to the northern part of Phuket. Along the way, you will encounter Nai Thon Beach, a location that boasts white sand that is so smooth and silky that it actually “squeaks” as you walk along it. This area has retained an untouched quality and while local hotels and bungalows are available to rent across from the beach, the establishments don’t have the same commercial feel as some of the Thailand beach resorts located to the south. Offering a smattering of restaurants and plenty of peace and quiet, this Phuket beach is worthy of a few nights’ stay.

Located less than 200 miles from Bangkok, Ko Chang Island is Thailand’s second largest island after Phuket. Boasting beautiful rainforests, rich marine life and a calm, peaceful atmosphere, Ko Chang Island is becoming the destination spot for tourists who are seeking the best beaches of Thailand. The island has only recently registered on the tourist radar, and as a result, the pace is still laid-back and calm. Rent a little bungalow on White Sands Beach or opt for a little more luxury at one of the Thailand beach resorts in the area. Along with shops along its main road, the beach also has a sprinkling of restaurants and clubs for a little fun once the sun goes down. Kai Bae Beach is a great destination spot for doing a little snorkeling or enjoying a little time out on the ocean in a kayak.

Sentosa Island

In Malay, Sentosa means tranquility and peace and to most tourists it offers exactly that during a vacation on picturesque Sentosa Island. Along the narrow north tip of the island lies the stunning Shangri-La’s Rasa Resort. It’s one of the more illustrious and luxurious of Sentosa Island resorts situated on Siloso Beach, a white, sandy stretch that looks over the crystal blue ocean of the South China Sea. As for Singapore island resorts, this high-class accommodation is also the only beachfront resort on the island, making it even more popular with visitors.

Moving south, the island widens out and as a whole resembles a large arrowhead. The Siloso Beach Walk stretches along the western side of Sentosa Island and eventually leads to the Musical Fountain, Merlion Walk, Lighthouse Beach Walk, and down to the Sentosa Resort and Spa, just past the midway point on the west island side. The Sentosa Resort and Spa is the second of only two five star Sentosa Island resorts offering luxury, tranquility, and world-class service on the island paradise.

Aside from two resorts, there are five Sentosa Island hotels to choose from. Overlooking Siloso Beach from a hilly incline, Sentosa Island hotels include Costa Sands offering guests quaint Malaysian-style beach huts that are simple yet charming. Offering colonial architecture and a lovely historic feel, the Sijoro is another of the Sentosa Island hotels offering accommodation to visitors. With a variety of choices offered at Siloso Beach Resort, guests can opt for unique tree house accommodation, family suites, or villas for vacations on Sentosa.

To the east of the Sentosa Resort and Spa are the only two Sentosa Island golf courses, Serapong and Tanjong. The Sentosa Golf Club is the gateway to two exceptionally designed and scenic Sentosa Island golf courses. The Barclays Singapore Open is held at Serapong, a multi-million dollar project that includes incredible upscale dining, meeting, and conference facilities. Both of the Sentosa Island golf courses offer eighteen holes of prime, championship golf, and are considered two of the best among Asia’s leading courses. Compelling and dynamic, both Tanjong and Serapong both feature stunning views and boast fairways lined with verdant natural foliage. The fantastic natural aspects lend a tranquil feel for those who prefer to spend more time at the spa, and less or no time golfing!

Visiting golfers can expect a truly enhanced golf experience playing at either of the Sentosa Island golf courses. At Sentosa’s Serapong course, golfers can anticipate an impeccable design created by Ronald Fream and used for many professional events. The course features a combination of exotic grasses including Zoysia fairways, Tiffeagle greens, and teeboxes covered in Paspalum CL 2000. Opened on Sentosa Island in 1972, the Tanjong golf course was originally designed by Frank Pennick and collaborated on by Chris Putman, a course architect, and the golf course designer Max Wexler. Tanjong boasts tall, swaying trees, natural hazards, bunkers, mounds, freshwater lakes, and undulating fairways designed for continuous, championship play.

Sentosa Island offers a number of excellent attractions and things to do for all ages. There are three separate Singapore beaches to choose from including quiet Tanjong, sports-oriented Siloso, and secluded Palawan Beach. Dolphin Lagoon and Underwater World offers stunning reef exhibits, a large aquarium and dolphin shows daily. The coastal Fort Siloso, Carlsberg Sky Tower, Sentosa Orchid Gardens, and Butterfly Park and Insect Kingdom are also wonderful attractions to visit. There are numerous nature walks across the island that offer a more in-depth look at the natural scenery and island’s wildlife. For a jaunt away from the hectic pace of the city, take time to visit Sentosa Island and soak in both the excitement and the relaxing benefits it offers tourists and locals alike.

Singapore Safaris

As the sun sets low and the sky begins to darken, there is another world full of action and excitement coming alive. In the stillness of the cool nights in Singapore, within a whopping nearly 100 acres provided by the Singapore Zoo, many animals begin their evenings with hundreds of eyes watching their every move. Almost one thousand animals comprising more than one hundred thirty different species live their days and nights out at the Singapore Zoo. The night safari in Singapore is one of the best ways to see what animals get up to when the sun isn’t beating down and the intense heat subsides.

The Singapore Night Safari consists of eight unique zones created to mimic the natural habitats of the many different species of animals. The geographic similarities of these professionally-made spaces offer an environment as close to the animals’ natural spaces as possible. During the Singapore tour at the zoo, visitors will witness environments such as the rainforests in southeast Asia, the river valley in Nepal, the dense and verdant jungles of Burma, the African savanna, the pampas in South America, and more. The Singapore tour offers two ways to explore these exotic environments. The Singapore Night Safari can either be enjoyed along the manmade walking trail or via the tram rides offered, or both. Either way, an adventure awaits!

One of the unique elements of the night safari in Singapore is that each evening a unique presentation of what animals naturally act like in the wild can be seen. Every evening there is a slightly different show as the varieties of animals come out. A large number of nocturnal animals can be seen illuminated by the moonlight as the tram takes guests through both the east and the west loop. As the Singapore safaris continue, the tram glides by a sizeable reservoir and weaves through a number of different habitats. After visiting reconstructions of the foothills of the Himalayas and the beautiful Indian subcontinent, the guide heading your safari in Singapore will take you long a walking path that allows a closer look at the array of animals active during the night hours.

Singapore safaris are offered in two select itineraries. The first includes the Creatures of the Night show, an exciting tram ride, and a walk along the Leopard Trail. This first itinerary kicks off with a show by a tribal dance by the Thumbuakar, a tribe hailing from Borneo’s rainforest. After the exotic presentation the Singapore Night Safari moves on to the different areas in the Zoo including the Fishing Cat Trail, the Forest Giant’s Trail, and then heads to the Zoo’s amphitheater for the Creatures of the Night show. Afterwards visitors will enjoy a forty-five minute, narrated tram ride along a dramatically changing landscape. Along the Leopard Trail, civets, leopards, and flying squirrels are only a few of the many nocturnal animals out on the prowl during the Singapore tour.

The last part of the itinerary includes a hop back onto the tram to explore the Equatorial Africa, the Asian Riverine Forest, the Malayan Region, and the Burmese Hillside. At the very end of each of the Singapore safaris there is an opportunity for some souvenir shopping at the onsite retail stores. The second itinerary includes all of the same elements as the first, but is carried out in a slightly alternative order and if visitors choose, they can arrange their own custom itineraries based on their particular interests. This wild and wonderful Singapore tour includes a delicious dinner at a well-loved local restaurant offering a variety of both Asian and Western style meals.

The Singapore Night Safari offers another excellent attraction for those visiting the area. With only a limited time in the country, and especially on longer visits, many choose the Zoo as well as shopping on Orchard Road and a visit to Sentosa Island as things to do during a visit to Singapore. Though many have visited countless zoos, Singapore’s approach with the Night Safaris offers one of the most unique angles. With this nocturnal approach, this is one zoo that will live up to your expectations and more. You’ll enjoy the opportunity to escape some of the daytime heat while experiencing rare encounters with many exotic animal species.

Lombok Indonesia

Lombok Island

Located just east of Bali and part of the volcanic Lesser Sunda Islands is the serine beauty of Lombok Island. Less developed than its neighboring islands, Lombok Indonesia boasts even better beaches and represents a low key tourism destination for real peace and quiet.

With a bigger volcano and greater diversity of landscapes than its neighbors, Lombok Island is both intriguing and inviting. The volcanic presence on Lombok reflects a string of volcanic islands part of the Malay Archipelago, known as the Lesser Sunda Islands. The Lesser Sunda Islands also consist of Bali and Timor stretching toward western Australia.

Accessible by sea and air a Lombok beach is a prime destination for those looking for white sandy beaches away from the crowds. Lombok Indonesia offers a perfect getaway for honeymoons, family holidays or individual travelers wanting total relaxation.

For things to do in Lombok, the Gunung Rinjani National Park surrounds the second highest volcanic peak in Indonesia. Topping the dramatic landscape is Mount Rinjani. Treks to summit the 3,726 m peak proves a popular challenge. Mountain treks to the summit go via a spectacular crater lake. The trek starts through the mountain lowlands where vanilla, tobacco, coffee, cinnamon and cotton crops are grown. At the foot of Rinjani Mountain is the Sendang Gile water fall.

Lombok Island boats some excellent diving and snorkeling including activities like fishing and kayaking. Lombok itself has several thriving local fishing communities.

Located just off the northwest Lombok Indonesia coast line, are the tiny Gili islands. The islands are rapidly growing in popularity among day trippers from Lombok and Bali as a tropical paradise. Accessible by local boat, each of the islands boast superb white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters and abundant coral reef resulting in some first class diving and snorkeling. Although accommodation exists on the islands, there is no motor transport. Experiencing the lazy rustic charms is definitely one for the things to do in Lombok list. Local boat tours offer full day tours of all 3 islands.

Another one for the things to do in Lombok list is a half day visit to the royal floating palace at Mayura. Situated in western Lombok, the palace was once head of the Balinese Kingdom. One of the holiest places in Lombok is the Wektu temple. The temple combines Hindu and local Wektu Telu religions. There is a small enclosed pond where in the depths of the water lurk eels. These eels however, are sacred to the temple. Tourists can enter the temple complex and discover the unique Wetu Telu religion, native to the island.

To sample further Indonesian culture, Kota Raja in rural eastern Lombok is a great place to shop for local handicrafts, woven baskets and bamboo carvings.

Top of your things to do in Lombok list has got to be to relax. And the best place to do that is on a Lombok beach. Undoubtedly the best known place on Lombok Island is Kuta beach. The magnificent stretch of virgin white sand is surrounded by stunning blue sea and rugged hills. While this Lombok beach is the centre of attention, for surfing enthusiasts, the famous waves here steal the show. Lombok’s high waves and less glamorous beach side culture bring small numbers of keen tourists and surfers from all over the world to experience and island similar to how Bali once used to be before tourist development took hold.

Lombok provides the perfect escape. Combining a serine Lombok beach, excellent snorkeling and diving and complete relaxation it is not hard to imagine why Lombok Island is perhaps the best kept secret in Indonesia.

Borobudur

Borobudur Temple

Located in central Java, the famous Buddhist temple of Borobudur is deservedly a tourist attraction in Indonesia not to be missed.

The remarkable Borobudur temple complex is a monument to the Lord Buddha. Constructed in the 9th century, Borobudur Indonesia has long since been a place for religious pilgrimage.

Comprising of 6 square platforms decorated with 504 Buddha statues stacking up like a pyramid, it is topped by 3 circular platforms on which a further 72 stupas are seated. Each stupa is bell shaped with intricate decorative displays. Located at the centre of the Borobudur monument is a large dome which is further topped by a larger lone standing stupa.

Having been abandoned following the decline of the Buddhist and Hindu kingdoms on Java sometime around the 14th Century, the monument was rediscovered by a British explorer Sir Thomas Raffles in 1814. Following a painstaking project to reclaim it from the jungle, it has since been restored and is now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Since its re-discovery, Borobudur has continued to serve as a place of worship and pilgrimage among the Buddhist religion. The monument has also developed into a major tourist attraction in Indonesia.

Annually, the Borobudur Indonesia temple becomes the centre of the Vesak festival. In commemoration of the birth, death and attainment of wisdom of Siddhartha Gautama, founder of the Buddhist religion, Borobudur becomes the epicenter of ceremony. The Vesak festival is marked by a procession of devotees walking between the Buddhist temples of Mendut and Pawon, ending finally at the Borobudur temple.

Guided tours of the Borobudur temple complex take you through a system of staircases and corridors that ascend up to the top platform. In reference to Buddhist cosmology, each ascent up to the next platform represents one stage further in the search for enlightenment.

Throughout Borobudur stand various Buddha statues. Some are cross legged in the lotus position, interspersed between the various square platforms while other smaller statues are contained within the bell shaped stupas. While most of the Buddha statues appear similar at first glance, closer inspection reveals subtle differences. The hand position of the Buddha varies between mundras, which correspond to the 5 cardinal points on the compass (North, East, South, West and Zenith). This subtle symbolism makes reference to Buddhist cosmology theory. Various panels adorning the tiered structure illustrate Buddhist teachings, cementing the belief that the site was intended as a place of worship.

For a real majestic view of this revered tourist attraction in Indonesia, be there for sunrise or sunset for a spectacular experience. You’d be assured of capturing some mesmerizing photographs to rival even the temples of Angkor in Cambodia. Local guides can be hired to escort you around the site and impart their wisdom. Alternatively, local tourist agencies offer group tours with transport to and from Borobudur Indonesia from the nearby town of Yogya.

Bali Indonesia

Bali Island

With beaches galore, Bali Indonesia is a sunbather’s paradise. Boasting a picture post card landscape, Bali Holidays are set amongst a backdrop of rice paddies, soaring volcanoes, lush tropical forests and warm Indian Ocean waters.

Bali tourism has long been popular among backpackers, young and trendy for its laid back vibe. Bali Indonesia has a lively art scene, with dance and writers festivals. Predominantly Hindu, a spiritual culture runs throughout the island with many of its temples and shrines the centre of daily ceremonies. The annual Galungan Festival presents the biggest religious festivity on the island.

Bali is just one of many Indonesia Islands and sits close to both Java and Lombok. Connections to Bali from Malaysia and Indonesia are well established. The western Bali port of Gilimanuk has regular ferries to Java. From Padang Bai ferry services run to Lombok every few hours. Rental bicycles, rental cars or motorbikes offer a particularly good way to break out from the regular Bali tourism traps and explore the island independently. Although most arrive in the transport hub of Denpasar, everyone heads straight out to Bali’s famous south coastal region.

The biggest of Bali attractions and certainly what Bali tourism is famed for the fantastic beach culture. Bali Indonesia has been blessed with some super beaches. Although Bali’s black volcanic beaches of the northern coast boasts a quieter atmosphere, it is the popular white sandy beaches of Bali’s southern coast that draws most visitors on Bali vacations.

Bali holidays are also famous among surfing enthusiasts. At Kuta, world renowned breaks come crashing into the beach providing excellent surfing. The good breaks here have led to a real hippy surf sub culture developing all over the coast. Beach parties by night are the norm, while by day Bali’s beaches are just as lively with about every beach activity you can imagine on offer. A further surfing hot spot at Padang provides fierce off shore breaks and perfect conditions for more challenging surfing. The beach here isn’t bad either!

Away from the Bali tourism centre of Kuta beach, are the up-market 5 star resorts that line beautiful Legian beach. The beaches here are much less crowded and have sweeping views of the coast. Popular for Bali vacations are the top resort hotels located in Nusa Dua right on the southern tip of Bali.

At Sunar beach, day tripping Indonesian’s and keen tourists enjoy the great views of the Indonesia islands mighty Gunung Batur volcano. For equally spectacular views, a trek up to the cliff top Hindu temple at Uluwatu rewards you with an absolutely magnificent site. Below the precarious drop stands Uluwatu beach, which is perhaps the islands greatest spot of sand. It is certainly one of many Bali attractions not to be missed.

For food and nightlife, superb restaurants in Seminyak provide Indonesian and Malayan cuisine. Both Seminyak and Kuta have a buzzing bar scene. Seminyak also provides good shopping. For local crafts and artwork, a series of craft villages between Sanur and Ubud in the central foothills is worth browsing. Located here is also a small forest full of monkeys within which are housed 3 sacred temples. The forest is also close to the spectacular rice terraces of Sayan.

Bali vacations are usually both a relaxing and adventurous experience. Those seeking active Bali holidays will be pleased to find white water rafting on the Ayung River and a series of trekking trails through the jungle canopy. Active Bali attractions also include some great scuba diving at Pulau Menjangan. Bali out of most of the Indonesia islands boasts some quite diverse dive sites with the most popular proving the shipwreck of the USAT Liberty, which was torpedoed by the Japanese in 1942.