Julia Perez Dicalonkan Jadi Bupati Pacitan

Kabar terbaru sekaligus mengejutkan datang dari ibukota jakarta, artis seksi Julia Perez Dicalonkan Jadi Bupati Pacitan, dan menurut kabar bahwa sang artis sudah dipinang oleh 8 koalisi partai yakni Partai Amanat Nasional, PKPB, PKPI, PBB, Partai Patriot dan Gerindra, serta Hanura.

Jupe sendiri tidak menampik kabar tersebut, dirinya mengaku bahwa pada tanggal 23 Maret yang lalu sudah dihubungi oleh perwakilan dari 8 koalisi partai calon pengusungnya nanti di Pilkada Pacitan 22 desember 2010, dan sejak saat itu tampaknya sang pelantun lagu dangdut belah duren tersebut mulai menjaga segala statement serta tingkah laku yang memang selama ini sudah dikenal luas oleh publik sebagai artis hot.

Barangkali yang mejadi sorotan disini adalah langkah 8 koalisi partai yang memilih Julia Perez untuk dicalonkan jadi Balon Bupati Pacitan, hal itu tak lain karena ada keinginan kuat untuk menarik investor dari Jakarta agar bersedia menanam modal investasinya di Pacitan apabila nantinya Julia Perez terpilih, berdasarkan pertimbangan terkait hubungan relasi yang cukup luas dengan beberapa pengusaha jakarta maupun kota besar lainnya, akhirnya 8 koalisi partai tersebut menjatuhkan pilihan kepada Artis yang sempat beberapa waktu lalu dihebohkan dengan kemunculan foto-foto dirinya saat mabuk di sebuah bar di Jakarta tersebut.

Nah, kita lihat saja apakah wacana yang sedang berkembang tesebut akan tetap konsisten sampai jangka waktu yang lama mengingat terdengar kabar bahwa sang Pacar yakni Gaston Castanio tidak setuju Julia Perez Dicalonkan Jadi Bupati Pacitan, selain itu waktu pelaksanaan Pilkada Pacitan sendiri masih terbilang lama, yakni akhir tahun ini, tepatnya tanggal 22 desember 2010

Java indonesia

Borobodur, Java © Judith Duk

Java is the most populous island in Indonesia providing many contrasts of scenery, people, religions and cultures. The island boasts immense beauty, from peaceful villages and a beautiful, fertile countryside to smoking volcanoes and ancient monuments. However there is also an unattractive side visible in its dirty, overcrowded cities, particularly the capital of Jakarta, clogged with traffic and pollution, with evident differences in wealth and wretched poverty between the people. Java is a mosaic of sights and impressions. It is also Indonesia's political stage and the cultural, educational and historical centre of the archipelago.

The island is dominated by an active volcanic mountain range stretching along its length. To the north is the unappealing city of Jakarta, a mixture of the modern and luxurious, with a glamorous city centre and some fine Dutch architecture; along with the filth, crime and squalor of a big city. South of the mountainous spine in central Java, lies the most popular city in Indonesia, Yogyakarta, the centre for Javanese art and culture, and nearby the astounding Hindu complex and Buddhist monument of Prambanan and Borobudur. Mt Bromo to the east is an active volcano amid stunning scenery.

Java offers the visitor a vivid and rewarding experience of an intensely striking land and culture, a tapestry of religions and historical influences, and splendid landscapes that make it the enchanting 'Garden of the East'.

Excursions

Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park

The national park is a spectacular volcanic landscape and one of the most impressive natural sights in Indonesia. The ancient Tengger crater in its midst stretches for six miles (10km) and within its sheer volcanic walls are three peaks, namely Batok, Kursi and the smoking Mt Bromo. Thousands of tourists make the journey up Mt Bromo for the unforgettable spectacle at sunrise (during the dry season) when the surrounding landscape takes on an otherworldly quality. The views from the top and into the smoking crater are unbelievable. To reach the foot of the volcano one must cross the vast Sea of Sand out of which Mt Bromo rises, either on horseback or by foot, and then climb a flight of stairs that leads to the crater rim where the unmistakeable smell of sulphur permeates the air. The small village of Cemora Lawang, perched at the edge of the crater, is the most popular place to stay and has the best views of the area.

Address: Park office: Jl.R.Intan No 6, Malang, East Java; Telephone: (0341) 41828 (Park office)

Sumatra

Bukkitinggi, Sumatra © Judith Duk

Sumatra is the second largest island in the archipelago and is about the size of California, formed by a longitudinal spine of mountains including 90 volcanoes. The majority of the population live in the foothills, plateaus and highlands of this range as farmers. The entire island was once covered in dense rainforest, but today most has been destroyed by the need for agricultural land, which is the country's prime earner with exports of palm oil, rubber, tobacco, coffee and tea.

Sumatra is a beautiful island with volcanoes and hot springs, lakes and rivers, rolling green foothills, plantations and wild jungle scenery. Many reserves protect the island's wealth of indigenous wildlife, and elephants, tigers, rhinos, orang-utans and tapirs can be seen on organised safaris within protected reserves.

The island is home to numerous people and races, among them the Muslim Minangkabau and the great highland people, the Batak, inhabiting a fertile volcanic plateau, who have a language, dress, religious belief, architectural style and culture of their own. Lake Toba, the spiritual centre of the Batak, is lined with resorts and is a major tourist destination. The busy hill town of Bukittinggi is the hub of the Minang culture, surrounded by spectacular scenery and close to Lake Maninjau, a sparkling volcanic crater lake surrounded by the jungle-covered crater walls.

This is an island of plenty - with its scenery, wildlife, natural resources, cultural diversity and extraordinary architecture Sumatra has much to offer the visitor.

Resorts

See our separate guides to the following Sumatra holiday resorts: Lake Toba

Attractions

Gunung Sibayak © James Gagen

Berastagi

A great place to stop off for travellers en route to the holiday resort of Lake Toba, the town of Berestagi is famed not only for its passion fruit, but also for the two active volcanoes; Gunung Sibayak and Gunung Sinabung. Gunung Sibayak boasts fantastic hot springs where visitors can relax and unwind in the warm waters which are believed to have therapeutic properties. More active travellers can climb this mountain instead, where breathtaking views over the island of Sumatra can be enjoyed from atop.

View over Lake Maninjau © James Gagen

Lake Maninjau

Lake Maninjau is set like a burning sapphire stone in the crater of the mountain and is a spectacularly beautiful place to relax and unwind. This caldera lake located in west Sumatra and is thought to have been formed by a volcanic eruption around 52,000 years ago and set at some 1545 feet (471m) above sea level, the average temperature of the water in the lake is around 86°F (30°C). Visitors can enjoy cycling the 37-mile (60km) circumference of the lake, or plodding through the neighbouring rice paddies while others can swim, canoe, hike the surrounding mountains or explore the local villages.

Surfing Sorake, Nias © jenjoaquin

Nias Island

Famed for its right-hand reef breaks, Nias is a key surfing destination for many travelling through the area, with the best known surf spots being Sorake Bay and Lagundri Bay. But this fascinating island also boasts a rich cultural history with prehistoric remains which are thought to have been built in the megalithic Stone Age. Tourists visiting Nias Island can enjoy the war dances performed by locals, while the beauty of the island can be enjoyed by all who visit its shores. Popular activities other than surfing include scuba diving and snorkelling around the clear waters brimming with fantastic marine life.

Padang © A. www.viajar24h.com

Padang

The capital of Sumatra, Padang offers a compact and enjoyable cross-section of Sumatran life and its various cultures. Many surfers stop here on their way to the Batu or Mentawi Islands, but the town itself boasts a few noteworthy attractions such as the Adityawarman Museum which features a collection of antiques, or the cultural centre where locals perform traditional dances on Sundays or even pencak silat (martial arts) performances. Many people come here for the markets, for which Padang is famed, but Padang beach is also popular for its spectacular sunsets and hundreds of colourful food stalls.

Excursions

Bukit Lawang

The little village of Bukit Lawang is situated on the eastern banks of the pretty Bahorok River facing one of the grandest forest areas in South East Asia, the Mount Leuser National Park. With its restful and pleasant setting, it was once one of the most popular tourist destinations in Northern Sumatra, the town existing primarily to cater to the tourist trade, with guides, restaurants and a variety of delightful guesthouses strung along the river. Since November 2003, however, Bukit Lawang has struggled to recover from the massive flash flood that wiped out most of its infrastructure, taking a huge dip in tourism that once formed the backbone of its economy. The charm is still there though, and its major attraction, the Orang-Utan Rehabilitation Centre across the river welcomes visitors more enthusiastically than ever. The Rehabilitation Centre was set up to help orphaned orang-utans that had been displaced because of land clearing or rescued from captivity, and teaching them the necessary skills to be able to survive in the wild. Visitors have an opportunity to view the apes twice daily when they come swinging through the trees to collect the bananas and milk left on feeding platforms in the forest, providing visitors with one of the more memorable experiences in Indonesia. Jungle trekking and tubing down the river are other popular activities.

Bukittinggi

Meaning 'high place', Bukittinggi is situated on a hill and set among majestic mountains, green plantations and rice terraces. One of the friendliest and most easy-going towns in Sumatra, it is home to the Minangkabau people and the area is seeped in the Minang culture, which is Muslim and strongly matrilineal. It is the commercial, educational and administrative centre of the highlands. One of the features of the town is the characteristic architecture - wooden houses with curved roofs soaring to a point representative of buffalo horns and decorated with beautiful wooden carvings. The Jam Gadang (Great Clock) is a Maningkabau-style clock tower and the town's landmark, overlooking the bustling market place that is crammed with fruit, vegetables and clothing stalls, and rickety horsecarts whose drivers insist on squeezing them through the colourful chaos.

Yogyakarta

'Yogya', as it is known, is one of the most attractive and ancient historical cities in Java. It was established in 1755 when Prince Mangkubumi built the Kraton Palace, called himself Sultan and created the most powerful Javanese Kingdom since the 17th century. Today it remains a symbol of resistance to Dutch Colonial rule, as well as the centre for classical Javanese art and culture, including batik, Ramayana ballet, shadow puppetry and music.

At its heart lies the quaint Old City with the elegant Sultan's Palace at its centre, containing the Water Palace, an interesting bird market and several museums and galleries. Guarded by traditionally dressed gentlemen, the splendid interior features extravagant pavilions and courtyards. Leading away from the centre are boulevards and backstreets filled with the confusion of labyrinthine markets containing galleries, shops and numerous other craft industries - a shopper's paradise for souvenirs and Javanese art. The silver centre of Yogya, Kota Gede, has streets lined with silver workshops creating the well-known distinctive design and variety of silver pieces. Workshops allow the visitor the opportunity to watch traditional art in action. On every corner becaks (bicycle rickshaws) clamour for business, eventually wobbling their way down the windy streets with bargain-weary passengers inside.

With its ancient historical city, museums, cultural performances, lively atmosphere and plethora of accommodation and restaurants, as well as its proximity to two of the most impressive religious monuments in the country, it is no wonder that this splendid city is a major stop on the tourist route.

Attractions

Wayang Kulit (Shadow Puppets)

Shadow Puppet performances have become a part of Indonesia's cultural heritage. The puppets are lovingly handcrafted out of buffalo or goatskin with moveable limbs that are worked by a highly skilled puppeteer from behind a backlit screen, casting the shadows of the puppets into a spellbinding story. The puppeteer is usually the director, producer and main narrator of the shadow world. The stories have their origins in classic Hindu mythologies and Ramayana tales and are narrated in the local dialects.

Excursions

Borobudur

One of the greatest Buddhist monuments in South East Asia, Borobudur was built in the 8th century and stands on top of a hill surrounded by volcanoes and overlooking green fields. It is an immense multi-tiered structure with the Great Stupa (bell-shaped monument) at the top standing 128ft (40m) above the ground, surrounded by numerous smaller stupas, some still containing Buddha statues inside. It is part of a 2.5 mile long (4km) chain of smaller temples, with the Mendut Temple containing three exquisitely carved giant statues of Buddha and two disciples inside. The terraces of Borobudur are covered in sculpted reliefs, with narrative panels illustrating Buddhist beliefs and teachings, and covering an estimated length of 3.5 miles (6km). These masterpieces of individual artistic value have been acknowledged as the most complete and splendid collection of Buddhist reliefs in the world. Built out of millions of blocks of the local volcanic rock joined without the use of mortar, it is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is the primary tourist attraction in Java. The temple lies 25 miles (41km) northwest of Yogyakarta.

Website: www.borobudurpark.com; Transport: Inclusive tour from Yogya, or local bus from Yogya's Umbulharjo bus station; Opening time: Daily from 6am to 5pm; Manohara Hotel's Sunrise Tour allows visitors into the temple at 4.30am

Lombok

One island to the east of Bali, Lombok has yet to be discovered by the package tourist - the beaches and coastal villages are comparatively undeveloped and the locals are relatively indifferent to tourists. Although it is inevitably compared with its better-known neighbour the island differs in many respects - physically, culturally, linguistically and historically. The indigenous Islamic Sasak people make up 90 percent of the population, and although they appear to live amicably with the Balinese minority there is some animosity, not surprising given that a lot of the economic advantages of increased tourism have eluded the native Sasak.

The mountainous north of the island is dominated by the spectacular volcano of Mt Rinjani, at 12,221ft (3,726m) the third highest peak in Indonesia and a popular four-day trek for locals and tourists alike. To the south are the central plains which contain the most productive agricultural areas as well the major conurbation on the west coast, an amalgamation of the towns of Ampenan, Mataram, Cakranegara and Sweta. Further south again, beyond a range of low inland hills, are the sweeping bays and pure white sands of the southern beaches, all of which can be explored from Kuta (not to be confused with Bali's Kuta), the main resort town of southern Lombok and surfing Mecca of the island. Several groups of islands lie off the Lombok northwest coast, the best known are the three Gili Islands - Trawangan, Meno and Air - which have been popular with backpackers for many years seeking a simple lifestyle of sea, sun and sand, although, as with much of the island, they are now becoming more widely discovered and as a result more expensive.

Bali

Beautiful Bali © michis_0806

Bali has long been equated with an exotic paradise, a picturesque vision of green rice fields and plantations, soaring volcanoes, cool lakes and rushing rivers, lush forests and palm fringed beaches. It is Indonesia's number one tourist destination and as a result suffers from commercialisation and overcrowding, but this is confined to a few main areas. The original charm of the 'Island of the Gods' and its smiling people is still very much in evidence, especially in the many small rural villages and fascinating places of the fertile interior.

What makes it distinctive from the rest of Indonesia is the belief in a predominantly Hindu faith, incorporating the ancient Indonesian animist conviction that natural objects are inhabited by good or bad spirits into every aspect of local life on the island. It is evident in their ceremonies, daily rituals and attitudes, visible in the offerings of flowers and food that adorn the roadsides, the charms hung inside taxis, and the numerous vibrant festivals that occur throughout the year. It is perceptible in their reverence for the Holy Mountain, the soaring volcanic cone of Gunung Agung, which is the spiritual centre of the Balinese universe. Scattered around the island are thousands of Hindu temples and places of worship. Art is also an integral part of daily life and every village has its artists, from the internationally acclaimed painter to the aspirational young cow herder. Ubud, the cultural centre, with its streets lined with art and crafts shops, also has performances of traditional Balinese dance and music. Art, together with tourism, is an important source of revenue for the island.

With its fine beach, the popular resort of Kuta is the most visited destination, but there are numerous other beach resorts around the island, and many more peaceful settings on the east coast at Candidasa, Sanur and the fishing village of Padang Bai, and on the northern coast at Lovina. There are a number of good diving sites and reef snorkelling close by.

Despite the shock of terrorist bomb attacks in October 2002 and 2005, which were aimed at foreign holidaymakers and killed about 225 people in total, Bali is still the tropical paradise of rich culture and beautiful land and seascapes that has attracted those in search of an idyllic vacation for so long; however visitors are still advised to contact their foreign office for the latest travel advice before travelling to Indonesia, and Bali in particular.

Resorts

See our separate guides to the following Bali holiday resorts: Kuta and Lovina

Attractions

Bali Bird Park © A. www.viajar24h.com

Bali Bird Park

Featuring the largest and most spectacular collection of birds, the Bali Bird park boasts over 1,000 birds of 250 different species. Kids will love spotting their favourite bird and learning about the species. Birds such as Macaws, peacocks, parrots, white herons and many more can be seen. The bird park also features a restaurant, café and gift shop for visitors to take home a souvenir.

Address: Jl. Serma Cok Ngurah Gambir, Singapadu, Batubulan; E-mail: sales@bali-bird-park.com; Website: www.bali-bird-park.com; Telephone: +62 361 299614; Opening time: Open daily from 9am – 5.30pm; Admission: US $21.5 (adults); US $10.5 (children). Both costs exclude 10% service charge

Bali Botanical Garden © JackVersloot

Bali Botanical Gardens

A great place for the kids to let off some steam, the Bali Botanical Garden features a range of micro-climates for kids of all ages to enjoy. There is something here for everyone, such as a lily pond, waterfalls, a mambo grove, a rainforest observation post and even a chocolate grove. There's also a children's play area for the little tots, while older children will love the maze - but be careful not to lose them!

Address: Kutuh Kaja, Ubud; E-mail: info@botanicgardenbali.com; Website: www.botanicgardenbali.com; Telephone: +62 361 970 951

Stone carving © Jos Dielis

Batubulan

The small village of Batubulan is marked by stone figures of gods and demons on the side of the road. Known mostly for its stone carvings, Barubulan is popular with cultural tourism and travellers looking for a unique souvenir to take home with them. Visitors to the village can even enjoy visiting the workshop and watching the artists at work.

Elephant Cave entrance

Elephant Cave

Built in the 9th century, Goa Gajah, or Elephant Cave, is located near Ubud and originally served as a sanctuary and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With a wonderfully carved elephant entrance featuring menacing creatures and demons, children will find a visit to this historic cave an unforgettable experience. The main figure was once thought to be an elephant, hence the name and in the 1950s, a bathing place was excavated, thought to have been built to ward off evil spirits. Children will love the history and mystery surrounding the cave.

Address: Peliatan, Ubud; Telephone: +62 361 943 401

Mount Batur © tropicaLiving

Gunung Batur

The still-active Gunung Batur volcano, is known as Bali's second holiest mountain and symbolises the female element of the island, while the male element is symbolized in Gunung Agung, a neighbouring smaller volcano. A great place for hikers to stretch their legs, the walk up Mount Batur is not easy, but the views are spectacular and if you're lucky you might even spot a few monkeys along the way. There is a great lookout point for those who'd rather hire a car and drive to the old crater rim overlooking Lake Batur. The sunrise walks are recommended.

Pura Besakih

Pura Besakih

Locally known as the mother Temple of Bali, Pura Besakih is located on the slopes of Mount Agung and is the biggest and holiest of all Balinese temples. Dating back to the 14th century, the three main temples are dedicated to Shiva, Brahma and Wisnu, and another 18 separate sanctuaries belonging to different regencies and caste groups surround these.

Pura Kehen © Jos Dielis

Pura Kehen

One of the most valued temples in Bali, Pura Kehen is a garden temple located in the town of Bangli in East Bali and can be traced back to the 11th century. Founded by Sri Brahma Kemuti Ketu, Pura Kehen is the second largest temple on Bali and the most sacred in the region. Many visitors are mesmerized by the temple's grandeur and steep steps leading up to the gateway.

Balinese long-tailed Macaques © Sam Fraser-Smith

Sacred Monkey Forest of Padangtegal

Featuring over 115 species of trees, many of which are considered holy and used in various Balinese spiritual practices, the Monkey Forest in Ubud is a fantastic place for kids to spend the day exploring. Children can see the Balinese long-tailed Macaques up close as they scramble through the forest and banyan trees and lush tropical vegetation. There are also a few temples to explore while visiting the forest.

Address: Jalan Monkey Forest, Padangtegal, Ubud; E-mail: info@monkeyforestubud.com; Website: www.monkeyforestubud.com; Opening time: Open daily from 8am - 6pm

Tanah Lot at sunset

Tanah Lot

Meaning 'Land in the middle of the sea' Tanah Lot is an exquisite sea temple built atop a rock formation off the island of Bali. A popular tourist spot and a great location for fantastic photographs, Tanah Lot is surrounded by poisonous sea snakes at the base of the rocky island, which are believed to guard the temple from evil spirits and intruders. The temple was built by one of the last priests to arrive in Bali from Java in the 16th century.

Waterbom © basibanget

Waterbom Bali

With thrilling rides, a spa, pool bar and even a food hall, Waterbom Bali is the perfect place to take the family for a day of cooling off in the Balinese heat. Older kids will love rides such as the race track, the Superbowl, the Macaroni, Jungle Ride and even the Smashdown, while the younger ones will enjoy paddling round the Kiddy Park.

Address: Tuban, Kuta; Website: www.waterbom.com; Telephone: +62 361 755 676; Admission: Splash band: Rp 505.000 can be topped up

Excursions

Prambanan Temple Complex

Rivalling the Buddhist monument of Borobudur, this magnificent Hindu temple is the largest in Java and the most beautiful in Indonesia. Prambanan was built in the 9th century, possibly to compete with the splendour of Borobudur, or to celebrate the return to power of the Hindu dynasty in Java at the time. The complex is dominated by three main temples, Shiva, Brahma and Vishnu, each dedicated to their god, and the walls are decorated with exceptional relief carvings depicting scenes from the famous Hindu classic tale of Ramayana. The Shiva Temple is the largest of the three, soaring above the others at a height of 154ft (47m), containing the impressive statues of Shiva, his elephant-headed son Ganesh and the goddess Durga. From May to October the Ramayana Ballet, a traditional Indonesian dance based on the Ramayana story, is performed on an open-air stage at the complex during the full moon and is a spectacular sight involving hundreds of dancers, singers and musicians.

Website: www.borobudurpark.com; Transport: Prambanan is a 30-minute bus or taxi journey from Yogyakarta; Opening time: Daily from 6am to 6pm

Ubud

Set in the hills north of Denpasar, Ubud is the cultural centre of Bali and the major attractions of the town and its surrounding villages are the art museums and galleries, notably the Neka Museum, containing a huge collection of traditional and modern Balinese paintings. An enormous variety of Balinese art and crafts line the streets and crowd the market place of Ubud, and frequent performances of traditional dance and music, and restaurants offering some of the best food on the island, compel visitors to stay much longer than intended. Ubud is also close to several sites of interest, including the 'Mother Temple' of Besakih, majestically situated high on the slopes of the Agung Volcano, and hiking in the scenic Batur region with its volcano and lake are popular excursions.

indonesia Attractions

Attractions in Indonesia are as varied as the 17,000 islands and give visitors endless things to do. Some of the best include viewing the volcanic sceneries in Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park on Java. The island is also home to the grungy metropolis of Jakarta and the historic Yogyakarta. Here you can find glitzy nightclubs to traditional puppet theatre. The neighbour island of Bali is an attraction in itself, luring visitors with white sands of Kuta beaches, endless surfing spots and Ubud's cultural attractions.

Sumatra offers visits to traditional towns such as Bukit Lawang and Bukittinggi and stunning landscape. The giant island of Borneo shares its jungle treks with visitors and native orang-utans alike. A lumbering ferry line connects all the island's attractions and is an adventure itself. The best time is visit is between April and October during the dry season which also makes transport easier.

Wayang Kulit (Shadow Puppets)

Shadow Puppet performances have become a part of Indonesia's cultural heritage. The puppets are lovingly handcrafted out of buffalo or goatskin with moveable limbs that are worked by a highly skilled puppeteer from behind a backlit screen, casting the shadows of the puppets into... see full details

Prambanan Temple Complex

Rivalling the Buddhist monument of Borobudur, this magnificent Hindu temple is the largest in Java and the most beautiful in Indonesia. Prambanan was built in the 9th century, possibly to compete with the splendour of Borobudur, or to celebrate the return to power of... see full details

Borobudur

One of the greatest Buddhist monuments in South East Asia, Borobudur was built in the 8th century and stands on top of a hill surrounded by volcanoes and overlooking green fields. It is an immense multi-tiered structure with the Great Stupa (bell-shaped monument) at... see full details

Tanah Lot

Meaning 'Land in the middle of the sea' Tanah Lot is an exquisite sea temple built atop a rock formation off the island of Bali. A popular tourist spot and a great location for fantastic photographs, Tanah Lot is surrounded by poisonous sea... see full details

Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park

The national park is a spectacular volcanic landscape and one of the most impressive natural sights in Indonesia. The ancient Tengger crater in its midst stretches for six miles (10km) and within its sheer volcanic walls are three peaks, namely Batok, Kursi and the... see full details

Ampenan

The vast metropolis of Ampenan, Mataram, Caimanegara and Swete, with a population of around 250,000, comprises four towns, the boundaries of which are all but indistinguishable to the casual visitor. While Sweta is the main transport hub and site of the island's biggest market,... see full details

Jalan Jaksa area

Most South East Asian capitals have a backpacker area. This one is grubbier than most. Plopped in an unremarkable part of downtown it is thick with travel agencies and guesthouses. A few bars with live music cater to the travel... see full details

Jayapura

This is often the first stop for travellers to Papua, and as testament to its remoteness many of the visiting westerners are thought to be either mine workers or missionaries. Although the wilds of Papua are a quick trail away... see full details

Indonesia Miniature Park/Taman Mini

Contrary to its name, the Indonesia Miniature Park covers 100 hectares of land in cultural examples of all 27 provinces that make Indonesia. The best examples of these are the architectural structures that are true to their region's traditional designs. The park also regularly... see full details

National Monument

Visitors will inevitably be pulled to the National Monument to inspect the enormous phallic obelisk that can be seen from much of the city. The first president Sukarno began to build the structure as a symbol of nationalism complete with 35 kilograms of... see full details

Gunung Batur

The still-active Gunung Batur volcano, is known as Bali's second holiest mountain and symbolises the female element of the island, while the male element is symbolized in Gunung Agung, a neighbouring smaller volcano. A great place for hikers to stretch their legs, the walk... see full details

Pura Besakih

Locally known as the mother Temple of Bali, Pura Besakih is located on the slopes of Mount Agung and is the biggest and holiest of all Balinese temples. Dating back to the 14th century, the three main temples are dedicated to Shiva, Brahma... see full details

Pura Kehen

One of the most valued temples in Bali, Pura Kehen is a garden temple located in the town of Bangli in East Bali and can be traced back to the 11th century. Founded by Sri Brahma Kemuti Ketu, Pura Kehen is the second... see full details

Batubulan

The small village of Batubulan is marked by stone figures of gods and demons on the side of the road. Known mostly for its stone carvings, Barubulan is popular with cultural tourism and travellers looking for a unique souvenir to take home with... see full details

Indonesia Basics

The Basics

Time: Indonesia spans three time zones. GMT +7 (West, including Java and Sumatra), GMT +8 (Central, including Bali, Sulawesi and Lombok), GMT +9 (East, including Irian Jaya).

Electricity: Electrical current is 120/230 volts, 50 Hz. A variety of plugs are in use including the European two-pin and UK-style three-pin.

Money: Rupiah (IDR) is the official currency and is divided into 100 sen. Foreign currency can easily be exchanged at banks, hotels and money changers in major tourist destinations; US dollars is the most accepted currency. Cash often yields a better exchange rate than travellers cheques, which are not always accepted. It is recommended that travellers cheques also be in US dollars. Most major credit cards are accepted at hotels, restaurants and stores catering to the tourist trade. ATMs are available in main centres. Small change is often unavailable so keep small denomination notes and coins for items like bus fares, temple donations and cool drinks.

Currency Exchange Rates
IDR1.00 =	US$ 0.11	£ 0.07	C$ 0.11	A$ 0.12	R 0.83	€ 0.08	NZ$ 0.16

Note: These rates are not updated daily and should be used as a guideline only.

Language: Bahasa Indonesia is the official language, but many dialects are spoken. English is widely understood in Jakarta and tourist resorts.

Entry requirements for Americans: United States citizens require a passport and a visa.

Entry requirements for UK nationals: British citizens require a passport and a visa.

Entry requirements for Canadians: Canadians require a passport and a visa.

Entry requirements for Australians: Australians require a passport and a visa.

Entry requirements for South Africans: South Africans require a passport and a visa.

Entry requirements for New Zealanders: New Zealand citizens require a passport and a visa.

Entry requirements for Irish nationals: Irish citizens require a passport and a visa.

Passport/Visa Note: All passports must be valid for six months from date of entry. Return tickets, documentation for onward travel and proof of sufficient funds (US$1,000 or valid credit card) is essential to be considered for a visa on arrival. Most nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival for a fee of US$10 for seven days or US$25 for a stay of up to 30 days, provided the passport contains at least one unused visa page for the visa-on-arrival sticker. A visa can also be purchased prior to arrival. Passengers holding an APEC Business Travel Card do not need a visa provided the back of the card affirms that it is valid for travel to Indonesia.

Travel Health: There are a number of health risks associated with travel to Indonesia and medical advice should be taken at least three weeks before departing. Malaria is a year round risk except in Jakarta, other large cities and the tourist resorts of Java and Bali. The dengue fever mosquito is found throughout Indonesia and visitors should be aware of a significant increase in reported cases of dengue fever throughout all the country's provinces during the rainy season. Outbreaks of chikungunya fever, also from mosquitoes, have occurred regularly in Indonesia in recent years. Visitors to Java and Sumatra are advised to ensure all polio inoculations are up to date before travel. Outbreaks of bird flu have also occurred and many people have died from the disease; Indonesia has the world's highest death toll from the virus. Travellers are not at risk but are advised to avoid close contact with caged, domestic and wild birds, and ensure that all eggs or poultry dishes are thoroughly cooked as a precaution. Outbreaks of Anthrax and leprosy occur. Travellers' diarrhoea is a major risk; visitors should only drink sealed bottled water and avoid dairy products, uncooked meat, salads and unpeeled fruit. Poor sanitation and eating contaminated food can increase the risk of cholera, typhoid and other diseases. The standard of local medical care is poor and very expensive. It is essential that you take out full medical and travel insurance covering all eventualities. A yellow fever certificate is required from those travelling from infected areas.

Tipping: Major hotels add a 10% service charge to bills in Indonesia and, where it is not included, a tip of between 5% to 10% of the bill, would be appreciated. Airport porters usually receive around Rp 2,000 per small bag. Tipping taxi and rental car drivers is not mandatory, but if you do choose to tip, Rp 1,000 is sufficient for taxi drivers and a little more for rental car drivers.

Safety Information: Following the bombings in Bali in October 2005, there remains a high risk of terrorism directed against foreigners throughout the country and reports indicate that terrorists are planning further attacks on Westerners and western interests and are likely to be carried out at locations frequented by tourists. Extreme caution is advised in public places, including transport terminals, shopping malls and public buildings, and especially in restaurants, hotels and places of entertainment in tourist areas. The security situation remains unsettled in Sulawesi and foreigners are advised to avoid parts of Maluku, particularly Ambon, and Central Sulawesi. Visitors are also advised to be cautious if travelling to Aceh. Religious violence between Christians and Muslims and unstable politics has also made many parts of Indonesia unsafe for travellers; there is continued risk of harassment of Westerners by fundamentalists. Indonesia has a high crime rate and theft and petty crime is common in tourist areas and on public transport. Credit card fraud is on the increase. It is strongly recommended that visitors contact their foreign office for the latest travel advice before travelling to Indonesia. Flooding and landslides occur frequently during the rainy season between December and March. The safety of air travel in Indonesia has come under the spotlight following a series of fatal airline accidents; six of its airlines have failed to meet international safety standards, including the national carrier, Garuda, and in June 2007 the EU announced that all Indonesian airlines have been banned from entering the EU.

Local Customs: Indonesian people are generally friendly and polite and while they understand that western culture is different to their own, it will be appreciated if their customs are respected. Religious customs should also be respected, particularly during the month of Ramadan when eating, drinking and smoking during daylight hours should be discreet as it is forbidden by the Muslim culture. Visitors should always be polite and avoid public displays of affection. It is considered impolite to use the left hand for passing or accepting things. Appropriate dress is important in places of worship and women should dress conservatively, covering the shoulders and legs, especially in Muslim areas. The concept of 'saving face' is very important and public displays of anger, and personal ridicule and blame are considered extremely vulgar and bad mannered. In Jakarta a new law bans people from giving money to beggars, buskers and unofficial traffic guides in an attempt to 'bring order' to the city. Offenders could face up to six months in jail and $5,000 fines. Gambling is illegal.

Business: Due to the hot and tropical climate, when conducting business in Indonesia, formal business attire in a light, cool material is the best option. Indonesia is largely Muslim so dress should be conservative, especially for women. Business cards are often exchanged and it is customary to shake hands with a slight bow when greeting and leaving. Some Indonesian names can be long and hard to pronounce and making an effort to get it right when greeting someone will be appreciated. It is best to use formal titles such as Doctor, or 'Bapak' for Mr. and 'Ibu' for Madam. Business hours vary, government offices are usually open from 7am to 3pm and small businesses from 8am or 9am to 4pm or 5pm.

Communications: The international access code for Indonesia is +62. The outgoing code is 001 or 007 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 00144 for the United Kingdom). When using Voice Over Internet Protocol, the outgoing code is 017. It is not necessary to dial the first zero of the area code. City/area codes are in use, e.g. 36 for Bali and 21 for Jakarta. For operator-assisted international calls, phone 101. The local mobile phone operators use GSM networks and have roaming agreements with most international operators. Internet cafes are available in the main towns and resorts.

Duty Free: Travellers to Indonesia over 18 years do not have to pay duty on 50 cigars or 200 cigarettes or 100g tobacco; alcohol up to 1 litre; perfume for personal use; and personal goods to the value of US$250 per passenger or US$1,000 per family. Travellers not entering on a tourist visa will have to pay duties for photo and film cameras unless these have been registered in their passport by Indonesian Customs. Electronic equipment may not be imported to the country. Prohibited items include Chinese medicines and prints, narcotics, firearms and ammunition, pornography, cordless telephones, fresh fruit or goods to be used for commercial gain.

Jakarta indonesia

The Jakarta skyline at daybreak © flydime

Jakarta is not a city for everyone but many find it an inevitable stop on the way to more tranquil Indonesian destinations. What has amassed is a decentralized sprawl of low slung buildings amidst occasional high rise towers. With no central Jakarta area it is difficult to experience the city's highlights which are scattered about the enormous districts.

Travelling far in the city is laborious and adding to the difficulty is heavy traffic and haywire street grids throughout dense and stretching sprawl. Yet despite, or possibly because of, Jakarta's reputation as a difficult city, little visited areas and unique attractions feel like personal discoveries.
Jakarta has a reputation as a rich person's playground. Grungy streets contrast to modern shopping complexes and examples of ostentatious wealth. Visitors can enjoy a bit of this in garish nightclubs and elegant restaurants.

Jakarta is a boiled down representation of everything Indonesian giving visitors a quick introduction or synopsis of the country's various and incredibly diverse cultures, architecture, food, languages, religions, and combined histories.

Indonesia Travel Guide

Barong sculpture © Ingeborg Mehus

Indonesia is the world's largest archipelago, comprising of five main islands and a multitude of smaller archipelagos, with about 17,000 islands strung across the equator.

A rich history of kingdoms, conquests, colonialism, trade and natural disasters has bequeathed it with an exhilarating kaleidoscope of cultures and traditions, people, languages and religions, aspirations and problems, and the dramatic scenery of changing landscapes.

Unfortunately it is this very diversity of ethnic groups and religions that has put a country of such exotic natural resources to the test. Racial divides and fierce religious hostility, government corruption, uprisings, economic negligence and, more recently, terrorist attacks have been frequent blights on the Indonesian fabric of society. But it is also these diverse cultures that have given the country a splendid heritage of traditions and art, and for centuries it has been a magnet, constantly drawing thousands of people to its shores despite its turbulent nature. Its position along the Pacific 'ring of fire' contributes to its uneasiness; the country is prone to frequent earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

Indonesia offers something for everyone. Sumatra has an untouched wilderness and a diversity of wildlife, highland tribes and unique architecture, wonderful resort-lined lakes and quaint hilltop towns. Java features steaming volcanoes, astonishing historical monuments, a sprawling capital city and traditional dance, music and art. The image of paradise is epitomised in Bali, an island of artistic people and elegant temples, stunning scenery, palm groves, beach resorts and diving. Further east, Komodo is the home to the world's largest lizard, the Komodo dragon.

It is a land of vigorous colour, of tensions and upheaval, but also of festivals and dancing, golden sunsets and friendly white toothy smiles.

Agar Kepala Bayi Enggak Peyang

Walaupun seiring masa pertumbuhan bentuk kepala buah hati pasti akan mengalami perubahan, tapi kebiasaan tidur pada satu posisi saja akan berakibat buruk pada bentuk kepala bayi kita.

Kondisi tulang tengkorak bayi yang belum kokoh atau rapuh, membuat kebiasaan tidur yang salah pada anak menjadi penyebab mengapa bentuk kepala bayi ada yang tidak sempurna alias peyang. Kondisi ini baru bisa disadari jika kita melihat kepala buah hati kita dari atas. Dari sudut pandangan tersebut, kita bisa melihat salah satu bagian belakang kepala si kecil lebih rata dibanding sisi yang lain, di sisi yang “rata” tulang pipi akan terlihat menonjol, dan kuping pun terkesan lebih maju.

Biasanya masalah ini terjadi pada bayi yang menghabiskan sebagian besar waktu mereka di dalam boks bayi, kursi pengaman di mobil, atau kursi bayi. Meskipun bagi ibu ini merupakan posisi paling pas untuk membuat si kecil tertidur pulas, tapi ada beberapa hal yang bisa kita tetap lakukan untuk mencegah terjadinya masalah ini, seperti:

1. Ubah arah. Letakkan bayi kita yang tertidur di tempat tidur mereka, tapi sesekali ubahlah arah kepala si kecil. Cara lain yang juga dapat membantu adalah dengan mengganti tangan kita saat menggendong, setiap kali ingin menyusui.

2. Gendong lebih baik. Ketika sang buah hati terbangun dari tidur, angkat dan gendonglah mereka untuk membantu meringankan tekanan dari kepala si bayi setelah tertidur lama di ayunan, boks, atau bangku bayi.

3. Waktunya untuk telungkup. Tetap dengan pengawasan kita yang ketat, letakkan bayi untuk bermain dalam posisi telungkup. Pastikan permukaan tempat si kecil bermain keras. Dan, apabila kita ingin meninggalkan ruangan, angkat dan ajak si kecil bersama kita.

4. Jadilah orangtua yang kreatif. Letakkan anak di posisi dimana ia harus memutar badannya dari “sisi yang peyang” untuk melihat ke arah kita, mengikuti gerakan atau suara tertentu di dalam kamar. Sesekali pindahkan boks si bayi untuk memberikan mereka pandangan yang baru. Usahakan jangan biasakan bayi tidur di atas bantal atau alas yang lunak.

Sistem Kemitraan dalam Usaha ISP Rumahan

Bila tertarik ingin menjalankan bisnis internet service provider (ISP) kelas rumahan, sebaiknya Anda terlebih dulu mengurus izin mendirikan usaha serta izin menjadi distributor ISP dari Departemen Komunikasi dan Informatika serta membangun menara.

Namun jika tak mau repot dengan urusan perizinan, Anda bisa juga menjadi pengusaha internet rumahan dengan menjadi mitra usaha serupa yang telah lebih dulu beroperasi. Salah satu ISP yang menawarkan kemitraan adalah Net Home.

Saat ini Net Home baru menawarkan sistem kemitraan usaha yang berlokasi di daerah Bekasi dan sekitarnya. Namun, kini, Net Home mulai mengepakkan sayap ke Depok dan Jakarta. Khusus untuk dua wilayah ini Net Home baru menyediakan layanan set up jaringan internet dengan sistem beli putus.

Ini berbeda dengan wilayah Bekasi dan sekitarnya. Net Home sudah berani menawarkan kemitraan ke investor. Bermodalkan Rp 13,5 juta, mitra berhak mendapatkan instalasi internet, bandwidth dengan kecepatan 128 kilobyte per detik, serta menara pemancar yang siap beroperasi.

Tak perlu khawatir sulit mengoperasikan bisnis ini meski Anda tidak memiliki keahlian atau pengetahuan yang cukup mengenai teknis jaringan internet. “Kami menyediakan teknisi yang siap melakukan perbaikan jaringan,“ ujar Deddy Kurniawan, pemasar Net Home, berhawa promosi.

Selain itu, Net Home juga akan ikut mencarikan pelanggan bagi semua mitranya. “Jika kami yang mendapat pelanggan, kami akan menyalurkan ke mitra yang berada di daerah pelanggan itu,” ujar dia.

Tak hanya itu. Mitra juga punya hak selalu ikut serta dalam iklan dan promosi Net Home di semua media, baik itu di majalah, koran, maupun di internet. Dengan berbagai fasilitas dan kewajiban tersebut, Net Home memakai sistem bagi hasil sebesar 60% dari total omzet yang diperoleh si mitra.

Omzet mitra usaha tentu saja diperoleh dari pembayaran biaya langganan konsumen yang tak lain pemakai yang menggunakan jejaring internet. Untuk menjadi pelanggan, mereka harus membayar biaya registrasi sebesar Rp 200.000. Biaya ini belum termasuk kabel dan radio penangkap sinyal alias jaringan internet (dekoder) yang bisa disediakan sendiri oleh pelanggan. “Kalau pelanggan menginginkan, kami bisa menyediakan semua alat ini,” kata Deddy.

Untuk itu, pelanggan harus menambah pembayaran total menjadi Rp 1 juta untuk biaya instalasi berikut modem. “Biaya pendaftaran berikut biaya instalasi menjadi hak Net Home,” ujar Deddy.

Lalu, dari mana mitra mendapat keuntungan? Tentu saja mereka bisa memperolehnya dari penerimaan layanan berlangganan internet oleh konsumen. Saban bulan pelanggan harus membayar biaya berlangganan sebesar Rp 250.000.

Dengan asumsi seperti ini, jika mitra punya minimal lima pelanggan saja, dia akan mendapatkan omzet sebesar Rp 1,25 juta dari uang berlangganan. Dari omzet ini, mitra memang harus menyetor Rp 750.000 ke Net Home. “Sisanya untuk si mitra,” ujar dia.

Menurut hitungan Deddy, dengan jumlah pelanggan stagnan hanya 10 pelanggan, mitra bisa balik modal dalam 14 bulan. “Semakin banyak jumlah pelanggan, waktu yang dibutuhkan untuk balik modal tentu semakin cepat,” ujar dia.

Deddy yakin, semakin tingginya animo masyarakat untuk menggunakan internet, pasar dalam bisnis ini akan terus mengembang. Bahkan jika dalam satu tahun bisa punya 45 pelanggan, omzet mereka mengembang jadi Rp 11,25 juta, dengan keuntungan sekitar Rp 5,62 juta per bulan untuk mitra. Tentu saja, si mitra harus tetap menjaga kualitas layanan internet tetap stabil dan cepat.

“Berarti ada konsekuensi penambahan bandwidth,” ujar Deddy. Mereka tak lagi bisa mengandalkan kapasitas semula yakni 128 kilobyte per detik yang hanya bisa melayani sekitar 15 pemakai internet.

Namun, ini tak jadi soal bagi mitra karena penambahan bandwidth tidak berarti ada biaya tambahan. Net Home akan menambah langsung kebutuhan tambahan bandwidth tersebut.

Bagaimana, tertarikkah Anda mencoba peruntungan berbisnis akses internet ini?

Bisnis ISP Kelas Rumahan

Semakin banyak orang yang enggan berpisah dari internet, barang sehari pun. Tak sedikit orang dan perusahaan yang makin bergantung pada internet, dari sekadar untuk menyapa teman lama sampai melancarkan urusan bisnis nan serius.

Tak heran, kini warung internet (warnet) selalu penuh pengunjung. Kian banyak pula orang yang lebih suka mengakses internet di rumah dengan cara berlangganan layanan akses internet sendiri. Selain tak perlu keluar rumah, mereka lebih bebas menentukan waktu ngenet.

Sekarang banyak tawaran berlangganan internet di rumah. Selain menjadi pelanggan layanan internet service provider (ISP) kelas kakap, termasuk melalui operator telepon seluler, kita bisa juga berlangganan layanan dari ISP-ISP kecil.

Sebenarnya nyaris tak ada beda antara ISP kelas rumahan ini dan ISP kelas kakap. Asal tahu saja, kebanyakan pebisnis ISP kelas rumahan ini sebenarnya mendapatkan akses internet dari ISP besar juga. “Intinya, kami berbagi jaringan ke pelanggan,” ujar Mulyadi Bakir, penyedia ISP kelas rumahan.

Praktik bisnis ini memang mirip dengan bisnis warnet. Perbedaannya, pelanggan tidak perlu bertandang ke warnet bila ingin berselancar ke dunia maya. Penyedia layanan ISP akan menyediakan jaringan internet ke rumah pelanggan.

Ternyata, bisnis ini cukup mendapat sambutan yang positif. Selain karena kualitas internet lebih stabil ketimbang akses internet dari operator ponsel, akses internet melalui ISP umumnya juga lebih cepat ketimbang di warnet. Itu sebabnya, banyak orang lebih suka menggantungkan layanan dari ISP kelas rumahan ini.

Mandiri
Tengok saja, pengalaman usaha Mulyadi yang menggeluti usaha internet rumahan ini sejak empat tahun lalu. Menamai usahanya dengan nama Warnet Rumahan, Mulyadi mengawali usaha dengan membuka warnet. Seiring dengan banyaknya permintaan pelanggan untuk pemasangan instalasi internet ke rumah, Mulyadi bertekad membangun jaringan. “Modal awalnya hanya Rp 40 juta untuk membuat menara dan jaringan,” cetus dia.

Berbeda dengan bisnis warnet yang digelutinya, usaha ISP yang dilakoninya lebih mudah. Dia, misalnya, tak perlu menyediakan komputer, pemilik rumah yang jadi pelanggan pasti punya komputer sendiri. Mulyadi hanya perlu membagi bandwidth atau kapasitas jaringan internet yang dibelinya dari ISP kelas kakap.

Cara Mulyadi menggulirkan bisnis ini kurang lebih seperti berikut. Dia berlangganan internet dari ISP perusahaan telekomunikasi dengan kapasitas bandwidth sebesar 1,7 megabyte berbiaya berlangganan Rp 1,1 juta per bulan.

Dari jatah bandwidth yang dia peroleh, Mulyadi bisa melebarkan jaringan internet ke sekitarnya melalui teknologi tanpa kabel. Para pelanggan kudu membayar jaringan yang dipakainya Rp 250.000 per bulan.

Sayang, tawaran ini kurang menarik di mata pelanggan. Kata Mulyadi, banyak pelanggan lebih suka memanfaatkan jaringan internet yang dia sediakan dengan sistem perhitungan per jam. “Biayanya cuma Rp 3.500 per jam,” katanya.

Nah, dengan pola perhitungan per jam inilah Mulyadi justru memperoleh penghasilan lumayan, yakni Rp 400.000 per hari. Dalam sebulan Mulyadi bisa membukukan omzet Rp 12 juta. Setelah dikurangi biaya operasional serta gaji pegawai, keuntungan bersih yang dia dapat sekitar Rp 4 juta.

Rupanya, ada sebab pelanggannya lebih suka hitungan per jam seperti di warnet. “Pelanggan bisa memaksimalkan penggunaan internet di rumah saat membutuhkan tanpa perlu ongkos besar,” terang dia. Mulyadi juga diuntungkan dalam pembagian kecepatan dan kestabilan layanan internet karena pelanggan umumnya tak memakai dalam waktu bersamaan.

Selain usaha ini, Mulyadi juga bisa memperoleh penghasilan lain dari melayani pemasangan dan instalasi jaringan internet di seluruh DKI Jakarta. Khusus untuk layanan internet berlangganan di rumah, jangkauan pasar dia baru seputar rumahnya di Cikokol, Tangerang.

Kalau tertarik ingin menjalankan bisnis serupa, sebelum membuka usaha sebaiknya Anda terlebih dulu mengurus izin mendirikan usaha serta izin menjadi distributor ISP dari Departemen Komunikasi dan Informatika serta membangun menara. “Ini enggak gampang, tapi bisa dilakukan,” ujar Mulyadi berbagi tip.

5 Alasan Anda Perlu Latihan Kekuatan

Istilah "latihan kekuatan" lebih kurang bermakna serupa dengan latihan daya tahan dan latihan beban. Semua istilah tersebut menandai segala bentuk aktivitas yang menggunakan tenaga berlawanan (menggunakan weights, gravity, tube, machine, dan sebagainya) untuk membentuk otot, meningkatkan kekuatan, memelihara, dan meningkatkan jaringan otot.

Terlepas dari usia, jenis kelamin, atau target, setiap orang dapat memperoleh manfaat dari latihan daya tahan. Berikut adalah lima alasan utama Anda berlatih daya tahan:

Hidup yang bertenaga. Orang yang tidak pernah menjalani latihan akan kehilangan hingga 40 persen dari kekuatan total tubuhnya pada usia 65 tahun. Ini bukanlah konsekuensi dari proses penuaan alami, tetapi risiko yang harus ditanggung akibat menjalani hidup dengan bermalas-malasan. Untungnya, banyak hal yang dapat dilakukan untuk menghindari hal ini terjadi.

Latihan daya tahan akan memberikan Anda kekuatan untuk melakukan banyak hal di kehidupan sehari-hari, mulai dari membuka tutup stoples yang keras, mengangkat anak Anda ke jok mobil, dan membawa banyak tas belanjaan dengan satu tangan. Bahkan meski Anda masih sanggup untuk berlari mengejar pesawat dari satu ujung airport ke ujung lainnya, tak ada artinya bila Anda tak sanggup membawa serta tas Anda.

Membangun tulang kuat. Otot kuat dan tulang kuat saling berkaitan. Semakin Anda latih daya tahan Anda, semakin banyak tekanan yang Anda berikan pada tulang. Ini merangsang peningkatan kepadatannya. Meningkatkan kepadatan tulang melalui latihan daya tahan akan membantu mengurangi resiko penyakit osteoporosis—penyakit yang melemahkan dan membuat rapuh tulang Anda.

Mencegah cedera. Otot-otot yang kuat dan sehat lebih tahan terhadap kemungkinan cedera dan mampu menstabilkan tubuh, membantu menghindari Anda dari kecerobohan yang mengakibatkan Anda jatuh atau terkilir. Latihan daya tahan memperbaiki keseimbangan tubuh, memperkuat otot-otot inti yang melindungi punggung Anda.

Daya tarik seksual. Latihan kardio akan membakar kalori, sedangkan latihan daya tahan akan membentuk dan memperkuat otot. Seorang pelari maraton mungkin akan sanggup berlari jauh, tetapi ia tak akan membuat mata-mata memandanginya saat berada di pantai. Latihan daya tahan membantu membentuk tubuh Anda, misalnya bila Anda memiliki pinggul lebar, Anda bisa berlatih untuk memperlebar pundak Anda dengan beberapa set latihan menggunakan shoulder press machine setiap minggu.

Meningkatkan metabolisme Anda. Latihan daya tahan membangun otot. Pembentukan otot merangsang peningkatan metabolisme Anda (jumlah kalori yang dibakar dalam sehari untuk menjalankan fungsi tubuh). Ketika tubuh Anda membakar kalori dengan lebih efisien, Anda akan merasakan lebih mudahnya menurunkan berat badan.

Ketika Suami Ternyata Penyuka Seks Oral

"Saya baru menikah beberapa bulan lalu. Meski sudah melalui proses berpacaran yang cukup lama, saya bisa dibilang buta sama sekali soal kebiasaan atau kecenderungan seks suami. Setelah menikah itulah saya baru tahu bahwa suami saya menyukai seks oral. Saya tidak masalah, tetapi hanya khawatir. Apakah seks oral bisa menyebabkan penyakit? Mengingat penis adalah alat kelamin yang cenderung kotor karena mengeluarkan urine." (Surat dari Shilla, Cikini)

Kalau Anda menyebutkan alat kelamin cenderung kotor, itu salah. Demikian menurut dr Ferryal Loetan, ASC&T, SpRM, MKes (MMR), konsultan seks dari RS Persahabatan, Jakarta. Alat kelamin, baik pria maupun wanita, bisa membersihkan dirinya sendiri, tapi tentu saja sesuai dengan kebutuhannya. Misalnya bekas kencing. Kotoran yang ada bisa bersih sendiri.

Jadi kalau melakukan seks orang tidak perlu takut terhadap air kencing karena umumnya sudah tebersihkan lebih dulu. Namun, jangan lupa untuk memerhatikan kebersihan daerah di luar alat kelamin, seperti daerah pubis, sela-sela paha, dan sekitar anus. Caranya mudah. Mandilah yang bersih serta gunakan sabun yang baik dan lembut. Ingat juga, kalau sedang ada masalah di mulut, misalnya sedang sakit gigi, radang gusi, sariawan, dan sebagainya, jangan melakukan seks oral, apalagi kalau kelaminnya terkena penyakit kelamin. Kenapa? Hal itu bisa menularkan penyakit.

Bubur Ayam Opor

Bahan bubur:
1 liter kaldu ayam
500 ml air
1/2 sdt garam
2 cm jahe
1 btg serai
100 gr beras, cuci bersih

Bahan opor ayam:
1 sdm minyak goreng
250 gr fillet dada ayam
50 gr wortel, potong dadu 1/2 cm, rebus
1 lbr daun salam
1 btg serai, memarkan
1/2 cm lengkuas, memarkan
200 ml susu kedelai tawar
1/2 sdt garam
1/4 sdt gula pasir

Bumbu:
4 bawang merah, haluskan
2 siung bawang putih, haluskan
3 btr kemiri
1/4 sdt ketumbar, sangrai
1/2 cm kunyit

Pelengkap:
Bawang merah goreng
Emping goreng

Cara membuat:
1. Bubur: Dalam panci berbeda, didihkan kaldu dan air bersama jahe, serai, daun salam. Setelah mendidih, masukkan beras, masak terus di atas api kecil sambil sesekali diaduk agar tidak gosong. Menjelang matang, tambahkan sisa garam. Aduk rata.

2. Opor ayam: Panaskan wajan, masukkan sekaligus minyak dan bumbu halus, tumis hingga harum. Masukkan daging ayam, wortel, daun salam, serai, dan lengkuas, terus aduk sampai ayam berubah warna. Tambahkan susu kedelai, masak terus sampai mendidih dan kuah agak mengental. Bumbui dengan garam dan gula. Angkat, sisihkan.

3. Dalam mangkuk saji tuangkan bubur hangat. Siram dengan opor ayam, lalu taburi bawang merah goreng dan emping goreng.

Untuk 4 porsi

Tip:
1. Agar beras mudah lunak, rendam dulu dalam air panas matang selama 15 menit.
2. Agar tidak repot, siapkan opor ayam dan pelengkap pada malam sebelumnya.

4 Jenis Suplemen yang Perlu Anda Konsumsi

Jika kita memasuki apotek atau toko obat, ada begitu banyak suplemen multivitamin yang dipajang di rak. Tetapi, pernahkah kita tergerak untuk membelinya, kecuali bila dipaksa oleh sang pramuniaga? Sebagian besar dari Anda mungkin akan berpikir, jika Anda sudah mendapatkan vitamin dan mineral dari sumber bahan makanan alami, untuk apa mengonsumsi suplemen tersebut?

Masalahnya, seberapa sering sih, kita makan dengan sehat? Apakah buah-buahan dan sayuran itu kita konsumsi setiap hari sudah sesuai takaran yang dianjurkan?

Menurut Dr Alan Logan, dokter naturopati dan pengajar di Harvard’s School of Continuing Medical Education, dalam kondisi dimana kebutuhan vitamin dan mineral Anda tak tercukupi, ada empat jenis suplemen yang bisa Anda konsumsi. Ingat, suplemen bukanlah pengganti makanan sehat yang harus kita konsumsi, melainkan makanan tambahan.

1. Multivitamin atau mineral. Mengonsumsi suplemen ini secara rutin tiap hari akan memastikan Anda mendapatkan semua vitamin dan mineral yang Anda butuhkan. Karena semua vitamin dan mineral itu saling melengkapi untuk memberikan manfaat kesehatan yang terbaik. Jika Anda mengonsumsi vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, atau berbagai vitamin antioksidan lain sendiri-sendiri, hal ini justru akan merugikan. Anda akan mendapatkan pengaruh pro-oksidatif. Konsumsi satu multivitamin yang tidak melebihi takaran dosis harian.

2. Vitamin D. Paparan sinar matahari pagi akan memberikan cukup vitamin D selama beberapa minggu. Namun penggunaan sunscreen dapat menghalangi kemampuan kita menyerap vitamin D. Dr Logan juga mengatakan bahwa mengonsumsi vitamin D secara terpisah (di luar multivitamin) tidak akan merugikan. Sayangnya, sebagian orang di beberapa tempat yang kurang mendapatkan sinar matahari tidak akan mendapatkan kemewahan ini. Karena itu, mereka perlu mengonsumsi suplemen dengan vitamin D untuk memenuhi kebutuhannya. Dosis yang disarankan adalah 1.000 IU (International Unit) sehari.

3. Minyak ikan. Asam lemak ini biasanya ditemukan dalam ikan atau tumbuh-tumbuhan. Ikan dianggap sebagai sumber omega-3 yang lebih baik daripada tumbuhan, karena omega-3 yang terdapat pada tumbuh-tumbuhan (disebut asam alpha linolenic) perlu dikonversikan oleh liver menjadi DHA untuk mendapatkan manfaatnya. Sedangkan kebanyakan Omega-3 yang ditemukan pada ikan sudah dikonversikan oleh ikan itu sendiri. Maka, jika Anda tidak mengonsumsi ikan berlemak minimal tiga kali seminggu, Anda perlu mengonsumsi suplemen minyak ikan.

Sementara itu jika Anda seorang vegetarian, Anda bisa mendapatkan asam lemak Omega-3 dari tumbuhan, seperti flaxseed, walnut, dan kacang-kacangan lainnya. Pastikan juga Anda mendapatkan cukup vitamin B6 dan vitamin B3, asam folat, seng, dan selenium, untuk memaksimalkan angka konversinya. Dosis harian yang disarankan adalah 1 gram minyak ikan dengan EPA/DHA.

4. Probiotik. Jika Anda tidak mengonsumsi makanan yang difermentasikan, seperti yogurt, secara teratur, Anda mungkin tidak akan memperoleh cukup banyak bakteri baik ke dalam sistem untuk mencerna dengan semestinya. Sebagai gantinya Anda bisa mengambil suplemen probiotik. Perlu Anda ketahui, banyak juga yogurt yang memiliki kualitas rendah. Karena itu, pintar-pintarlah memilih yogurt yang lebih murni dan alami. Jenis probiotik yang bisa menjadi pilihan antara lain kefir, atau yogurt Yunani.

Pria Berwajah Lebar Tidak Bisa Dipercaya?

Hasil penelitian yang diadakan tim psikolog dari Universitas St Andrews, Inggris, belum lama ini menunjukkan, pria dengan bentuk wajah lebar memiliki karakter tidak bisa diandalkan atau tidak dapat dipercaya. Sebagai gambaran, pria seperti David Tennant lebih bisa dipercaya daripada juri American Idol Simon Cowell.

Penelitian ini melibatkan sejumlah pria untuk mengikuti gim komputer dengan tujuan mendapatkan uang. Permainan ini memberikan ruang bagi pesertanya untuk saling mempercayai partisipan atau bahkan mengeksploitasi rekannya.

Ketika permainan tersebut akan dimulai, setiap peserta ditunjukkan foto wajah tanpa ekspresi partisipan lain. Setiap peserta harus memilih partisipan mana (berdasarkan foto tersebut) untuk kemudian dijadikan rekan yang dipercaya menggunakan uang atau tidak. Tujuan akhirnya adalah mengejar sejumlah hadiah uang, dengan kerja tim.

Kepala peneliti Michael Stirrat mengatur permainan tersebut untuk menyelidiki apakah ada hubungan antara persepsi tentang kepercayaan dengan perilaku. Hasilnya, ditemukan bahwa sejumlah pria partisipan lebih percaya untuk memberikan uang kepada pria berwajah lebih tirus.

Stirrat mengatakan, pada umumnya masyarakat membuat penilaian instan kepada orang asing, apakah harus mempercayainya atau waspada terhadapnya. Penelitian terhadap sejumlah pria ini mencoba membuktikan basis atas persepsi masyarakat tersebut.

Yang perlu disimak adalah, teori evolusi seleksi seksual memprediksikan wajah pria memberikan sinyal apakah dia dominan secara fisik, dan kemungkinan mengeksploitasi. Hasil penelitian ini membuktikan pria dengan wajah lebih lebar memiliki kecenderungan mengeksploitasi kepercayaan dari orang lain, dengan tujuan mendapatkan uang untuk dirinya sendiri.

Meski begitu hasil ini tidak bisa dijadikan kesimpulan akhir, karena penelitian masih berlanjut. Menurut Stirrat hasilnya memang penting namun perlu juga dipahami bahwa tak selamanya pria berwajah lebar itu jahat. Pada jenis permainan lain, pria berwajah lebar lebih cenderung mengorbankan uangnya untuk orang lain.

Penilaian ini tak berhenti sampai di sini. Namun menurut si peneliti, fakta yang muncul adalah pria berwajah lebar punya dua kecenderungan pilihan. Pria dengan ciri fisik ini memiliki kapasitas untuk menjalani jalur kriminal dan atau aparat penegak hukum. Sederhananya: menjadi penjahat, atau polisi.

8 dari 10 Wanita Pilih "Liposuction" ketimbang Olahraga

Menurunkan berat badan bukan termasuk perkara gampang untuk sebagian besar perempuan. Diet akan membuat mereka menahan liur berbulan-bulan. Olahraga pun akan cukup menyiksa mereka. Hasilnya juga tak langsung terlihat.

Oleh karena itu, jangan heran bila 8 dari 10 perempuan memilih operasi plastik untuk menurunkan berat badan mereka ketimbang mengubah pola makan dan pola latihan. Demikian hasil survei www.goodsurgeonguide.co.uk.

Cara ini dipandang sebagai jalan pintas untukmendapatkan hasil yang memuaskan. Ketika ditanya prosedur apa yang ingin mereka lakukan untuk menghilangkan kelebihan berat badan, liposuction menduduki peringkat pertama (34 persen), diikuti gastric bypass atau semacam prosedur mengecilkan lambung (26 persen), memotong kalori (14 persen), dan tummy tuck (8 persen). Adapun perempuan yang memilih olahraga hanya 2 persen, dan 6 persennya lagi mengombinasikan diet dan olahraga.

Survei ini juga mengungkapkan bahwa 26 persen perempuan tak pernah berolahraga dan lebih memilih menahan sakit pascaoperasi daripada mengunjungi gym sekali seminggu.

Secara keseluruhan, survei ini menemukan bahwa 56 persen pria dan wanita di Inggris lebih memilih kehilangan berat badan melalui operasi daripada mengurangi makan dan menambah latihan.

"Obesitas adalah isu besar di Inggris. Bangsa ini sangat ingin untuk menjadi sehat, dan kami juga perlu menjadi lebih bugar. Operasi bisa memperbaiki dengan cepat dan memberikan hasil yang hebat. Namun, cara ini tidak selalu memperbaiki kesehatan yang mendasarinya atau masalah psikologis yang timbul," ujar Christiana Clogg, pemilik situs The Good Surgeon Guide tersebut.

Menurutnya, orang yang mempertimbangkan operasi penurunan berat badan juga dapat dikatakan mengalami self-esteem yang rendah.

Trik Membangkitkan Seks Pasca-Melahirkan

Peran ibu memang lebih kompleks dari sekadar multitasking. Perempuan terlatih membagi waktu dan perhatiannya sebagai istri, ibu, dan diri sendiri. Apalagi jika urusannya sudah menyangkut anak, kaum ibu menjadikan sang buah hati sebagai prioritas utama. Lantas bagaimana dengan romantisme, apalagi kehidupan seks dengan suami pasca-melahirkan?

Penulis buku The Mominatrix’s Guide to Sex, Kristen Chase, menyarankan sebaiknya lakukan sejumlah pendekatan untuk menjaga kehidupan seks. Ada beberapa cara praktis untuk menggairahkan kembali hasrat seks pasca-melahirkan:

1. Lupakan aturan seks pasca-melahirkan setelah enam minggu
Ada anggapan bahwa, enam minggu setelah melahirkan, vagina mulai normal dan kondisi fisik sudah siap untuk memulai aktivitas seks kembali. Sejumlah perempuan memang bisa pulih dalam waktu enam minggu. Namun, kebanyakan perempuan tidak mengalami hal ini. Jangan bandingkan kondisi Anda dengan yang lain karena setiap orang memiliki pengalaman berbeda. Kesiapan fisik bukan satu-satunya faktor untuk kembali beraktivitas seks. Kesiapan emosi dan intimasi juga memengaruhi kapan Anda kembali mengambil peran sebagai istri dalam hubungan seks dengan suami.

2. Suami-istri perlu menjaga kedekatan emosi
Setiap hari, kesibukan mengurus anak, rumah tangga, dan pekerjaan akan terus berulang. Akan lebih mudah jika Anda dan suami saling memberikan perhatian setiap hari. Cami Zimmer, pakar hubungan berpasangan di Minneapolis, mengatakan bahwa kedekatan emosi bisa dibangun oleh suami-istri. Misalkan, di tengah kesibukan, suami-istri membiasakan untuk selalu saling menatap, tersenyum, berciuman yang bukan sekadar pamitan saat berangkat kerja, dan berpegangan tangan. Gestur sederhana ini memberikan efek kedekatan, rasa aman, dan rasa tak sendirian.

3. Hubungan harmonis hanya untuk anak Anda
Ayah dan ibu yang bahagia memberikan perasaan aman bagi anak-anak. Untuk menciptakan hubungan suami-istri bahagia, bagian utamanya adalah menjaga hubungan seks agar tetap bergairah. Jika fokus utamanya adalah anak-anak, maka hubungan seks dengan pasangan akan lebih memiliki tujuan. Niatan kuat untuk selalu terlihat positif di mata anak-anak menjadi alasan yang tak terbantahkan bagi suami-istri untuk lebih sering menjaga intimasi, dengan hubungan seks tentunya.

4. Buatlah tantangan seks dan berikan target
Menetapkan target juga bisa diterapkan dalam frekuensi hubungan seks. Sepakati dengan suami untuk membuat tantangan seks, baik dari frekuensi berhubungan maupun gaya hubungan seks. Cara ini bisa membantu pasangan meningkatkan gairah seksnya. Artinya, tak melulu harus berhubungan badan setiap hari, tetapi bisa juga dengan memakai lingerie yang cantik saat mau tidur atau memuji tubuh suami yang terlihat masih terlatih. Sempatkan juga menonton pertunjukan yang "seksi" bareng suami. Tantangan seks ini bisa membangun Anda dan pasangan.

5. Lakukan hal spontan
Melakukan hal spontan untuk keluar dari rutinitas sehari-hari tak melulu harus sesuatu yang besar dan makan biaya, misalnya bulan madu kedua ke Bali. Zimmer menyarankan untuk melakukan hal spontan yang lain dari biasanya. Pergilah ke supermarket bersama pasangan, beli bahan makanan, dan coba resep baru di rumah. Menjalani aktivitas di luar kebiasaan bisa menyenangkan atau malah menimbulkan masalah. Ini tergantung cara Anda dan pasangan dalam menyikapinya. Prinsipnya, luangkan waktu bersama untuk berbagi momen yang membangun intimasi.

6. Berilah perhatian kepada diri sendiri
Anda pasti memiliki definisi sendiri untuk perawatan diri, yaitu mendatangi pusat kebugaran, ke salon untuk mani-pedi, atau bermain futsal bersama teman-temannya (untuk suami). Apa pun bentuknya, luangkan waktu untuk diri sendiri. Chase mengatakan bahwa cara Anda dalam menghargai dan merasa nyaman dengan diri sendiri akan memengaruhi aktivitas seks dengan pasangan. Jadi, selalu berikan ruang bagi pasangan untuk menikmati waktunya sendiri.

7. Jadwalkan kencan menjelang malam
Kencan bagi orangtua menjadi penting untuk meningkatkan kedekatan emosi, tak melulu dengan makan malam bersama dan menitipkan anak ke orangtua. Coba lakukan kencan di rumah setelah anak-anak tidur, mandi bersama, bermain games yang Anda berdua sepakati, menyewa film kesukaan, lalu duduk berdampingan dengan sedikit pelukan dan sentuhan kecil; lebih sederhana bukan?

8. Selalu komunikasi dengan pasangan
Anda dan pasangan tidak akan pernah menemukan kesesuaian mengenai apa yang Anda butuhkan tanpa adanya komunikasi. Lakukan komunikasi sesering mungkin, termasuk dalam hubungan seks. Katakan apa yang membuat Anda bergairah atau tidak bergairah. Ketika Anda terlalu lelah mengurus anak dan rumah, dan suami kurang memberi perhatian untuk membantu, katakan saja. Soalnya, ketika kelelahan, Anda juga menjadi tidak mood untuk melakukan aktivitas seksual.