Explore Indonesia
Batam: A Blue Diamond in Kepulauan Riau
Batam has a rich history of being a major economic player in the region. Strategically located, close to Singapore and Johor, it has attracted investments in a number of key industries from a number of countries. With new leadership and vision, Batam is now ready to move to the next level of economic growth. Lukita
Bringing Back the Culture of the Traditional School
In my travels around the Indonesian archipelago, I have experienced and encountered a variety of traditional cultures. In many communities, I have witnessed a disconnection between the older generation and the younger one. While traditional culture is still alive in some villages, there are others where traditions have completely disappeared. Will those with a connection
Five Reasons to Visit Bali This Month
Bali is always buzzing with new hot places arriving on the island’s shores. Below is our round-up of the latest new places to look out for, as well as delicious news from some of the island’s top restaurants. bali always has the new place which can be the reason to visit the island of God,
BIJOUX Bajo
Once a regency of sleepy fishing villages with empty white sand beaches and bay islands, Manggarai in East Nusa Tenggara is now on the verge of becoming the next “it” tourism destination in Indonesia. Its extraordinary marine life is definitely an attraction, but more so are its unspoiled, off-the-beaten-track natural gems that draw travellers from
Dining in the Bali Sea Breeze
June is the perfect month to feel the sand between your toes and the fresh tropical air. Picture yourself strolling along a beach, relaxing on silky soft sands, with the gulf of neighbouring islands glistening in the distance while the gentle touch of the ocean breezes flutter through the palm trees nearby. And keeping the
Up, Up, and Away at Tanjung Lesung Rhino Kites Festival
This year’s Tanjung Lesung Rhino Kites Festival attracted attendees from around the world, with an array of kites transforming West Java’s skyline into a medley of colour. Rhino Cross Triathlon 2018 provide entertainment value by flying kites but it also offers sports tourism, which is believed to be a fast-growing sector of the global travel
Travel to Belitung for Beaches, Boulders and Books
Belitung Island emerges gracefully from the Java Sea inviting exploration. It does not disappoint. It is unquestionably a place of extraordinary and untouched beauty. The beaches, with their chalky white sand, are some of the most exquisite in South East Asia. Granite boulders rise out of the sea like giant megaliths. Stephanie Brookes and David
Celebrating Indigenous Dance and Rituals at Gawai Festival
The crocodile appeared on the stage in the form of a human. The dancer writhed and slithered, accompanied by the deep tones of the didgeridoo. This opening dance at the 2018 Gawai Festival was received with loud cheers from the crowd. Dayak women dance at Gawai Festival. Photo by David Metcalf/NOW!JAKARTA The Gawai festival committee
The Journey of a Lifetime: Exploring the Spice Islands of Indonesia
To begin to understand the rich history of Indonesia, one must explore some of its most remote islands. The 11 Banda Islands are located in the heart of Banda Sea, the deepest in Indonesia. Despite its remote location, European ships sailed there from the early 1500s in search of “Gold” (Nutmeg). The value of the
Lembata, a Jewel in the Solor Archipelago
Sitting between Timor and Flores, Lembata is the largest island in the Solor Archipelago. Small villages dot the landscape, and tourism is still very low-key. Lembata is island in East Nusa Tenggara which offer low-key cultural tourism with its unique coastal community. Photo by Stephanie Brookes And Tonny Lebuan/NOW!JAKARTA The island has a rich tradition
Parks & Recreation: Bali Natural Spaces are a Treat
As much as we love Bali for its rich culture and traditions, sometimes a visit to an elephant or going on a safari park is what’s called for to keep your little ones entertained. Fortunately, Bali is home to a variety of exciting attractions fit for a fun family day out, making it an easy
Unique Christmas Traditions Across Indonesia Blend Religion with Local Culture
Indonesia diverse culture and tradition means festivals here combine religion with culture. From Sabang to Merauke, each region symbolises Christmas using local tradition to deliver the same message about Christmas. Wayang Kulit show adapts the story of Jesus Birth during Chritmas celebration in Yogyakarta. NOW!JAKARTA Rabo-Rabo, Jakarta Kampung Tugu, Cilincing, North Jakarta is a place
Holy Night in the Land of Spirits, Celebrating Christmas in Bali this Year
Christmas may come as a ‘quiet’ day here in Bali as a predominantly Hindu island. Yet, tucked away in the Jembrana regency side of the almost 20,000-hectare West Bali National Park, one could find a little Christmas surprise package. Yes, the western Bali villages of Palasari and Blimbingsari, areas known as the dwelling place of
