National Park Vacation At Borneo's Mesilau Nature Park, An Alternative To Kinabalu National Park

One of the most popular Borneo destinations is undoubtedly Kinabalu National Park, where Mount Kinabalu resides. Each year, thousands of visitors visited Kinabalu National Park for either a refreshing National Park Vacation to escape the hot tropical sun and catch a glimpse of the highest mountain in South East Asia, or to conquer the mystical Mount Kinabalu.

Nevertheless, for a unique National Park Vacation in Borneo, you must make sure that you drop by at the lesser known Mesilau Nature Park, which is just about 30 minutes by road away from Kinabalu National Park. From Kota Kinabalu, the capital of Sabah, Malaysia Borneo, it only takes approximately 2.5 hour drive to reach Mesilau Nature Park.

Mesilau Nature Park is located within the vicinity of Kinabalu National Park on the Pinosok Plateau near Kundasang town. The stretch of the road from Kundasang town to Mesilau Nature Park, which is about 2,000 metres above sea level, is extremely steep and winding. However, the road condition has improved immensely in recent times, which makes the ascending ride a breeze.

On the way, you will surely be captivated by the spectacular views of the Kundasang valley with terraced hill slopes planted with highlands vegetables, and parts of the scenic beauty of the Kundasang Mount Kinabalu Golf Course, a challenging 18-hole golf course for avid golfers, undeniably, the highest golf course in South East Asia.

But once you get to Mesilau Nature Park, you will notice that the place is more natural and "virgin" than the now "commercialized" Kinabalu National Park. As the Park lies at the base of Mount Kinabalu, Mount Kinabalu will look even more spectacular with a sheer wall of granite towering a few thousand meters from the virgin forest floor and ending in jagged peaks. This breathtaking sight is aptly called the Mesilau Pinnacles.

To experience the best of what Mesilau can offer, you will need to spend a night or two at the eco-friendly Mesilau Nature Resort, which is nestled amongst the trees at the foot of the mountain within the Park. The Resort itself is amazing since it was carefully planned and built to blend into its natural surrounding.

The chalets are on slopes surrounded by trees with the full view of the Mesilau River flowing below. And for food, the Kedamaian Restaurant is famous for its piping hot steamboat, and barbecue dinners, which makes it a good excuse to stay overnight.

Mesilau Nature Park is also the starting point for the alternative and more challenging route up Mount Kinabalu. If you are of an adventurous kind, do trek the route up to a kilometres or two even if you are not planning to climb Mount Kinabalu. Since the Mesilau Summit Trail is relatively newer and less crowded than the old summit trail, your chance of encountering (tamed) wildlife is also brighter.

One prominent feature of the route is the seemingly abundance of orchids (Rhododendrons) and pitcher plants. The world’s largest pitcher plant, the “Nepenthes Rajah”, is recorded to grow in abundance here. For most visitors, a less taxing guided nature walk around the Park is recommended. It will leave you with lasting "natural" memories.

Mesilau will not fail to enchant you with its cool temperate climate (temperatures vary around 17-21 degree Celcius during the day and 10-15 degree Celcius at night) and serene surroundings as a truly astonishing nature’s paradise. Mesilau Nature Park and its Resort is an ideal venue for relaxation or retreat.

The bio-diversity of the flora and fauna found here makes Mesilau a haven for naturalists. It is one of the best locations in Borneo for an unforgettable National Park Vacation.(By: Rich Adz)

Article Source: http://www.travelarticlelibrary.com

Legends Of Yogyakarta!

Yogyakarta province is one of the most densely populated areas of Indonesia. The city came into being in 1755, after the division of Mataram into the Sultanates of Yogyakarta and Surakarta (Solo). Gamelan, classical and contemporary Javanese dances, the wayang kulit leather puppet theater and other expressions of traditional art will keep the visitor spellbound. Local craftsmen excel in the arts of batiks, silver and leather work.

In the middle of south Central Java lies the magical region of Yogyakarta, the cradle of Javanese culture and tradition. In the north the volatile, Mount Merapi – the Fire Mountain with captivating physical beauty stands vigorously guarding the surrounding nature.

This gigantic volcano, sometimes dangerous with its eruption and lava spitted from its crater, but at the same time gives tremendous fertility to the land. That's the reason why the farmers – inhabitants living in its slope do not want to leave their ancestor's place of birth. They have a mystical relation with Merapi to live in harmony with 'the rulers' of the mountain to keep them safe and peaceful.
It disclosed that the name Jogja, instead of Yogyakarta or Yogya, is used as a promotion to market Yogyakarta since Y is a difficult alphabetical start for most international audiences -both reading and spelling. While Jogja is easily pronounced as JOG-ja, even JOG could be used as nickname.

Yogyakarta is known for its silver work, leather puppets used for shadow plays (wayang kulit), and a unique style of making batik dyed fabric. It is also known for its vivid contemporary art scene. Yogyakarta is also known for its gamelan music, including the unique style Gamelan Yogyakarta, which developed in the courts.

Water Castle

Built in 1758 by Sultan Hamengkubuwono I just west of the kraton, part of this pleasure garden and castle is at present no more than an intriguing collection of ruins, pools, arches and underground passages enclosed by massive walls, however, the central courtyard with the nymph-baths has been restored.

The Water Castle is located in the older part of the city within walking distance from the Bird Market. A number of batik workshops line the avenue leading to the pleasure garden's entrance.

Imogiri

Imogiri is the official cemetery of the royal descendants from Yogyakarta and Surakarta. The royal graveyard is located on a hilltop, reachable by 345 stone steps leading to it.

Imogiri is about 17 kms southeast of Yogyakarta and easily accessible by bus or car. The tombs are built within three main courtyards.

Entry into the smaller courtyards housing the tombs of the princes is allowed only on Monday 09.00 - 12.00 or Friday 13.00 - 16.00. Traditional Javanese dress has to be worn, which however can be hired on the spot at a modest fee. The cemetery is closed during the Moslem month of Ramadhan.(By: James C.Cameer)

Article Source: http://www.travelarticlelibrary.com

Quick Guide To Bali

Bali’s idyllic location, constant warm temperature and welcoming people have made it a key destination for travellers from all over the world.

Where is it?

Bali is one of the Indonesian islands, set in the Indian Ocean, just 8 degrees south of the equator. It is popular for romantic breaks, honeymoons and weddings as well as being a key surfing destination.

Where can I stay?

Bali is a haven of warm climates, blue seas and wide sandy beaches. There are big hotels in Bali just as there are in any beach-led country, but the very best hotels are those that reduce the number of rooms and focus instead on giving guests the very best holiday experience. From a completely spoiled and luxurious boutique hotel to simple but perfectly designed accommodation, you can find a hotel that puts you at your ease and makes relaxation your only consideration. Take the Puri Ganesha Villas in the north of the island, bordered by green mountains on one side and the sea on the other, Puri Ganesha is a collection of just four two-storey villas, each with its access onto the private beach and its own seawater swimming pool. Or try the Nusa Dua, one of the newest boutique hotels on Bali, where 20 exclusive pavilions provide accommodation for their lucky occupants, with butler service and private pools.

What can I see?

One of the obvious attractions of Bali is the warm coastline and fabulous beaches. If you’re not a total beach bum though, there are many other areas that are worth a visit, including Ganung Batur, a volcanic cone with a lake in the surrounding caldera. The landscape is worth the climb, but the climate at this height is very different from that of the beaches, so be prepared for much cooler, damp conditions. Romantics could try the Bali Orchid Garden – the climate in Bali particularly suits these gorgeous flowers – or visit one of the ancient shrines and temples that dot the landscape.

How do I get around?

If you ever decide to leave your villa to go anywhere other than the beach – and you should, because otherwise you’ll miss nearly all that Bali has to offer – then use the cheap bus system, or for slightly more money, but also more comfort, use the regular tourist buses. You can also rent a motorcycle or bike for a slightly more adventurous trip around the island.(By: Chic Retreats)

Article Source: http://www.travelarticlelibrary.com

Trekking in Nepal

Trekking in Nepal is most popular activities tourist enjoys. Trekking means simply walking up and down in higher mountains crossing villages, high passes, dense forest, valleys. Trekking- hiking along the trails that form the main links between Nepal 's isolated villages and settlements is one the country's main attractions. The word trekking was almost unheard of in Nepal until the sixties but many of today's visitors came to Nepal solely. Trekking in Nepal is one of unique and adventerous activities in the world. Normally trekking walk over 18,000 ft. (5.500m) of height where they will enjoy panoramic snow covered mountains.
There are three most popular regions for trekking in Nepal, which are
Everest region:
By name, you can guess it's the land of Mt. Everest (8850m), highest mountain in the world. This is one dreamed destination for adventerous lovers. Everest region was the main destination from early, even before Edmund Hilary and Tenzing Norgey Sherpa summit Everest. Everest Region is famous for Sherpas and Buddhist culture. Beside Mt. Everest , we can see the panoramic view of Lhotse , Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Pumori and Kwangde and other higher peaks. Also, Everest region is rich for ancient Buddhist monasteries.
 
Annapurna region:
Annapurna Region is one of the most popular trekking destinations Nepal . This enormous forest of frozen Himalayan giants can be circumnavigated in a trek of 2 to three weeks, or it is possible to do shorter treks which bring you very close to the precipitous frozen slopes and glaciers. The Annapurna Sanctuary Pilgrimage trek takes you into the heart of a magnificent high valley surrounded by the Range. Each trekking is distinguished by a staff of well-known to local communities, experienced in trekking techniques and eager to make memorable trek, among the best one you have ever taken.
All Annapurna trekking start and end at Pokhara. It is possible to extend your trekking from Pokhara to Royal Chitwan National Park either by vehicle or River Raft for Elephant Safaris and game viewing or return to Kathmandu.
Langtang region:
Langtang-Helambu is in the north of Kathmandu . In this region Langtang, Helambu, Ganesh Himal will be covered. Gosaikunda ( Holly Lake ) and panoramic view of surrounding mountains are major attraction of this region. Langtang was declared National Park in 1976 and is a natural habitat of more than 1000 plants, 150 birds' species and numerous other mammals. Trekking will be started from Dhunche or Shyabru Bensi.(by: worldheritagetreks)

Guide to Caribbean vacations

Caribbean vacations are the pleasant and wonderful atmosphere where people prefer to spend their vacations. Caribbean islands are the collection of small islands which is located in West Indies. There are more than 100 islands which are found in between United States and Great Britain. Each year, there are lots of visitors who visit these wonderful spots.
Caribbean vacations are mainly selected by honey mooner’s, family people and even youngsters to spend their wonderful moments during their vacations. Caribbean are the collection of many small islands. Some of the popular islands are:
Antigua
Aruba
Barbados
Barbuda
Cayman islands
BVI Outer islands
Jamaica Montego bay
Nevis
Puerto Rico
Trinidad
These are some of the popular places in and around Caribbean islands. Some of the best travel packages are available for the tourist people which are in low prices which satisfy to all people for the Caribbean vacations. Caribbean vacations are famous for beaches, hotels, restaurants and sea foods. Some tourists select hotels which are near to the beach while stay. As soon as the people get down in Caribbean islands, they are in a dilemma in which hotel to select to spend their stay. There are many popular hotels that are situated in and around Caribbean.
So, to avoid those confusions, there are many travel agents who deals with the arrangements of travel tickets, restaurants etc. People can get into contact with those contact agents for the arrangements which save time and can enjoy the vacation without roaming for selection of restaurants.
The hotels are furnished with fully equipped facilities which make the visitors to feel comfortable. The prices range accordance with the selection of rooms with its starting price of 120$ per night. The facilities which are available inside the hotels are:
Excellent atmosphere inside the room with double bed rooms
Bar facility
Restaurants inside hotels
Television
Swimming pool
Refrigerators etc.
The following are the some of the popular hotels in which people can achieve maximum satisfaction inside the hotels. They are:
Almond casuarinas beach resort
Barbados beach clubs
Blue horizon
Divi south winds
Islands INN hotel
Little Good harbor
Mango bay hotel
Port St. Charles hotel
Turtle beach resort
Sun swept beach hotel
So, what do you still wait for? Enjoy Caribbean vacations with your family and have fun and entertainment.