Alicante

Alicante, and it's wonderful boulevard with palm trees and shopping streets, is one of the most well-known towns along the Costa Blanca. Known for its miles of sandy beaches, Alicante is a starting point for thousands of tourists every year. Famous for its excellent weather, the city invites you to take a trip along the coast or to the wonderful island of Tabarca. Along the Alicante harbor you find beautiful long alleys for nice relaxing walks, enjoying the palm trees and the mild climate. With many historical buildings around the entire city, Alicante offers countless sightseeing attractions, from cathedrals to churches and of course a wonderful harbor area. Additional to sightseeing, direct from the harbor area, a long wide sandy beach leads its way up to San Juan. Just drop your towel on the sand and enjoy a wonderful day in the sun.

During summer time, Alicante with its Airport, is a starting point for many Costa Blanca tourists, while during the winter months tourists and residents tend to live along the coast in places like Benidorm, Calpe and Denia. Alicante's location: The Costa Blanca lies on the east coast of Spain. to the south is the Costa Almeria and to the north, the Costa Dorada. Alicante has about 340 000 habitants (2005 numbers) and lies directly at the Mediterranean sea. The Alicante weather in winter is around 16 ºC. In summer the average is around 32 ºC. Alicante time difference to GMT + 1 hour. Language in Alicante: Two official languages are spoken. Spanish and Valencian, but you will get almost everywhere with English and/or German.

The Most Popular Beach in Yogyakarta, Indonesia : Parangtritis Beach

In addition to being the most popular beach in Yogyakarta, Parangtritis is worth visiting since it is closely related to such tourism objects as the Sultan Palace in Yogyakarta city, Parangkusumo Beach to the west of it, and the Merapi area at the north part of Yogyakarta. Located around 27 kilometers from the city center, Parangtritis Beach is also part of the Queen of South's authority.

The naming of the beach has its own history. Hundreds years ago, someone named Dipokusumo, who was a fugitive of Majapahit Kingdom, came to this area to meditate. When he saw water dripping from the crack of the coral reef, he named this area 'parangtritis', originating from the word parang (stone) and tumaritis (water drops). The beach close to the area was then named the same.

Parangtritis is a beach full of myths, which is believed to be the manifestation of the unity among Merapi Mountain, Yogyakarta Kingdom, and Parangtritis Beach. The legend tells that Panembahan Senopati and Sunan Kalijaga once met in this place after completing their meditation. Panembahan Senopati was reminded of being a humble ruler despite his supernatural powers.

The primary attraction of this beach is its natural view. The enchantment of the coastal scenery can be seen from different angles to give you different experiences. When you are standing at the seashore, you will see the wide ocean with the high waves and steeply mountainside on the east side.

To get the view from the site, just walk or hire the horse-cart westwards and you look southwards when you have reached the place. You may get to the place by riding a horse that you shall rent at negotiable price.

After enjoying the scenery of Parangtritis beach from the seashore, you can leave for Langse Cave for a different experience. On the earth road leading to the cave, you can look westwards to see Parangtritis from different angle. The high waves rushing to the shore will look silvery under the sun, and will look golden by the sunset time. YogYES got the opportunity to see this exotic view during its visit a couple of days ago.

Before reaching Langse Cave, we suggest that you pay a visit to the graveyard of Syeh Bela Belu that will give you spiritual experience. Usually, many pilgrims come on certain days such as certain Tuesday that is called Kliwon on Javanese calendar as one of the five Javanese days of the week.

From the graveyard, you may challenge yourself to continue your journey to Langse Cave that you have to go on foot to get to the cave that is 3 kilometers away through as high as 400 meters mountainside at the slope of almost 90⁰. To get into the cave that is also called the Queen of South cave, you have to get the permission from the tomb guard. According to the guard of Depok Beach several times entered the cave when he was young, we will get beautiful view of the south ocean at the mouth of the cave that directly faces the ocean.

On the fifth day of the fifth month of Chinese calendar, you will be able to see Peh Cun ceremony procession in Parangtritis. Peh Cun, originating from the word Peh that means oar and Cun that means boat, is Chinese expression of gratitude to God. This rite is also meant to commemorate Khut Gwan (Qi Yuan), a loyal patriot as well as a minister who was once betrayed by his colleague so that he committed a suicide.

Peh Cun ceremony is unique since there is no festival of dragon-decorated boats rowing like in other regions, instead there is an attraction of standing egg. The attraction begin at 11:00 a.m. and by afternoon, according to the myth, the egg will stand upright with no means of support are needed. By 01:00 p.m., however, the egg will suddenly fall down and no one can erect it anymore.

To get to Parangtritis Beach, you can take either one of the two routes. One is the route of Yogyakarta-Imogiri-Siluk-Parangtritis with the river and coral reel scenery on the way. The other is Yogyakarta-Parangtritis route that is easier to take with quite smooth road. It is suggested that you do not wear green clothes to respect local people who believe that green clothes will bring misfortune.

Sources: http://www.yogyes.com

London, England : Park In London

London's one of the greenest capitals in the world. As well as the famous Royal Parks, there are lots of other large London parks where you can lose yourself and get closer to nature.

Kew Gardens

No horticulturalist will want to miss the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew, ranked among London's four World Heritage Sites and a former Royal residence. The gardens grow more than 30,000 different types of plants from all over the world, including banana, coffee, breadfruit and paw-paw plants. You can also visit Kew Palace, former home of George III and his family.

Alexandra Palace Park

On a steep hillside in North London, the air doesn't get much fresher than at Alexandra Palace Park! It covers nearly 200 acres of parkland and the views across London are stunning.

Discover the peace and tranquillity of the conservation area - a diverse habitat of wooded parkland, wild scrubland, a pond and meadow. For the energetic amongst you, there's a wide selection of activities including a pitch and putt course, an ice-rink, a boating lake, a children's fun park, an animal park, a skate park and walking trails throughout the parkland.

Battersea Park

On the banks of the Thames, Battersea Park is home to Battersea Children's Zoo, the Japanese Peace Pagoda and 1km (1,100 yards) of riverside vistas. The summer boating lake is also a haven for birds and wildlife. As well as working up a sweat over the tennis courts, bowling green and athletics track you can indulge your creative side with an exhibition at the Pump House Gallery. In the summer, it plays host to many community events and charity races.

Painshill Park

The vision of the Honourable Charles Hamilton, Painshill Park was constructed as an 18th-century pleasure garden full of living pictures.

Near Cobham in Surrey, the 160-acre park has been beautifully restored to its 18th-century glory, with breathtaking buildings and landscapes. Make the trip there to see the Gothic Tower, Temple of Bacchus, Grotto and Gothic Temple. Events take place throughout the year including the dramatic re-enactment of the Battle of Painshill. A picnic area, restaurant and gift shop are also available.

Hampton Court Palace

The gardens at Hampton Court Palace form part of Royal gardening history. Cardinal Wolsey created the first garden in the late 15th century, but much of the layout we see today dates from the time of Henry VIII.

Visit the Lower Orangery for a glimpse of the oldest known vine in the world, still producing grapes each year, and wander around the restored Privy Garden of King William III. And, of course, a visit to Hampton Court wouldn't be complete without getting lost in the maze!

Syon Park

This 200-acre park on the north bank of the river Thames has something for all ages. Syon Park has 40 acres of gardens to explore, landscaped by "Capability" Brown in the mid-18th century. You'll find a renowned collection of rare plants and trees, a lakeside walk and the spectacular Great Conservatory. Built in the 1820s, it is thought to be one of the earliest of its kind in the country.

The park contains a garden centre, an aquatic centre - where endangered species of amphibians and mammals splash around in re-created habitats - and a children's indoor playground.

Thames Barrier Park

These 22 acres of parkland in the borough of Newham were designed following an international competition. Described as a "garden for the 21st century", the Thames Barrier Park offers views of the Thames Barrier and beyond.

As the park is on the banks of the Thames, you can see a great number of river birds here, particularly in winter. Grey herons feed along the shore and teal and shelduck are common sights, as well as the ubiquitous mallards and cormorants.

Sources : http://www.visitlondon.com

Lombok Tour

Lombok Island Information
Lombok is situated just to the east of Bali, and can be reached in just 25 minute by plane or an hour by the new fast boat service from Bali. Lombok is rapidly emerging as the new Indonesian destination and is a haven for those seeking the unspoilt beauty of the” Bali of old”. Indeed many people refer to Lombok as “ Bali 20 years ago”; however in this correct, when you want consider the landscape and cultures that are uniquely Lombok. As the old local saying goes: You Can See Bali in Lombok, but You Can Not See Lombok in Bali.
Lombok island is almost as large Bali, and like her famous sister, has a wide range of attraction and activities for all types of traveler. Wheatear you are looking for action and adventure, discovering different cultures and traditions, or lazing on perfect beaches in the sun.
The island of Lombok is the new tourism destination with a pristine environment, a fascinating culture, stunning beaches and island, jungle and waterfall, and world – class trekking on Mt. Rinjani and the island also combine these with fantastic diving, fishing and ecotourism opportunities, and an exotic tropical lifestyle, and it is obvious Lombok is winner.
Visit the small villages and town for a look at authentic lifestyles, unchanged by tourism, shop for traditional handicrafts, weaving and pottery; or witness fascinating dance and musical performances unique to Lombok. Wherever you go, you will be greeted with smiles and friendly Sasak hospitality.
Lombok island is also delight in clean oceans bordered by lovely sandy beaches, and fringed with coconut palms, Or visit the famous “GILI ISLAND” for world-class diving and snorkeling, boating and water sport. Swim in turquoise clear water by day and, at night, dine at some the bst restaurants in Lombok.

In Lombok island you will find a wide a variety of accommodation to suit your personal tastes and budgets from opulent luxury resort to quaint thatched bungalows on the beach. Enjoy sumptuous fine dining in Senggigi or eat grilled fish on the beach at Gili Island. Climb the world-famous volcano Mt. Rinjani 3726, or have a massage at the Mandra Spa, Challenge the huge waves of Bangko-Bangko, or have pedicure on Senggigi Beach. And so on…. The option are endless.

Come and discover the magic of Lombok, Get feeling stay in New Paradise in the world, and then let your imagine to fly over….!!!!

History

Lombok today has become Indonesia’s new “in” destination. Lombok ‘s area and population are just slightly smaller than Bali’s. There is cultural connection between these two islands.
The named “Lombok” is said to come from a fiery red chili pepper, used as a condiment in Indonesia, although this may be a folk etymology. Lombok also called “Bumi Gora” by the Sasak – the natives of Lombok , which means the dry farmland.

Little is known of Lombok’s prehistory, but it is mentiond in the 14th century chronicle of the great East Javanese Majapahit empire as a dependency. At this time also, Islam was introduced to Lombok and become the native’s religion up till now.
In the 17th century, Lombok was dominated by Balinese state of Karangasem and then continued by the Dutch. Lombok got its fully independence in 1949 became a part of the new province of Nusa Tenggara Barat (West Nusa Tenggara)

Geography

Lombok is a small island, which stretch just 80km from east to west and about the same distance from north to south. There are several clusters of small islands off Lombok’s coast, all called Gili, Sasak word means island. The best known islands are Gili Trawangan, Gili Air, and Gili Meno which have relaxing white sandy beaches, calm and clear water, varieties of colorful fishes, and the best snorkeling and diving in Lombok.
Lombok is also dominated by Gunung Rinjani, Indonesia’s highest volcano. Rinjani crowns a group of mountains that dominate the north – central section of the island.

Population

Lombok’s population is just over three million, dominated by Sasak (90%) and the rest is Balinese and several number of Chinese, Javanese, Bugis and Arabs. The Sasaks are Muslim and have much common with the Javanese. They have spread over central and eastern Lombok. Most of the Balinese lived in the western part of Lombok.

Society

In Lombok, artistic activity is strong in certain village but rare in others. Cultural performances are far less frequent than in Bali. Dance and music are directly tied to cultural identity in Lombok and particularly custom relating to birth, circumcision, courtship, and marriage.
The large Balinese minority in western Lombok retain their temple festivals and performing arts only at the festival.

Visit Bali, Indonesia

Visit Bali, the fabled “Island of the Gods” Has been enchanting visitors for centuries with its rich cultural traditions and spectacular panoramas. From lofty, mist enshrouded volcanoes and cool mountain lakes down through terraced rice fields to a golden strand lapped by azure waters, every square inch of Bali offers a fresh and unforgettable image. No less enchanting are its people, some 2.7 million souls whose artistry and piety are recognized throughout the world. Balinese Hinduism, a complex fusion of Indian cosmology, Tantric Buddhism and homegrown mythology, is the primary faith of Bali’s inhabitants, and so deeply woven into the fabric of their daily lives that the line between the spiritual and the material is blurry at the best.

Those of you keen on delving into the island’s fascinating culture will have plenty of opportunities, as colorful ceremonies and traditional performances occur with the regularity of sunrises. Most hotel offer nightly dance shows of one from another, tailored to tourist audiences none the less exquisite. The hill town of Ubud, the island’s premier arts center also has a full schedule of performances, and the nearby stone cutter village of Batubulan is famed for its Barong lion dances.The Shoppers among you will find Bali a treasure house handicrafts and fine work of art. The Balinese are incredibly gifted artists and craftsmen, and their material creations are imbued with the same sense of wonderment with which they regard they universe. Stone and wood carvings, traditional and modern paintings and intricately designed jewelry in gold and silver are readily available in shops and galleries throughout the island.
Bali offers not just various customs but also various “adrenalin pump” parks. Many exciting amusements are available in Bali, with something new opening all the time. The number of offshore and inland attraction are on the rise because many tourists want them. This tropical paradise has a unique blend of modern tourist facilities combined with wonderful shopping and a rich past and heritage. After white water rafting that has gained popularity in Bali, comes offshore rafting or ocean rafting. The more adventurous sort of amusement has now become an alternative sport for tourists. Meanwhile white water rafting is still a popular activity with trips on Ayung, Telaga Waja, Unda Rivers, etc. The tourists can refresh their mind by watching beautiful scenery along the route. Those are not enough, some of the best surfing beaches in the world can be found on the western side of the island whilst conversely the eastern side is a wonderful haven for families, with beautiful white sand beaches and gentle seas.
As for recreation, there is no shortage of options. Nature walks, horseback riding, diving, surfing even bungy jumping and white water rafting, await the adventurous here.

Alicante Airport Car Hire

Alicante Airport is located nine kilometres to the southeast of the region's capital city in the municipality of Elche. The airport provides a modern and convenient gateway to the Mediterranean coast, annually serving over eight million passengers arriving mainly from the UK, Netherlands and Germany.

A single, three-level terminal building caters for all domestic and international flights. The levels are designated P-1, P0 and P1, with departures on P1 and arrivals on P0.

There are ATM machines on each level of the terminal building, as well as currency exchange booths on levels P0 and P1. There is a post office located on level P-1.

The airport has an excellent selection of cafés, restaurants and bars, and both duty-free and regular shopping outlets are available. Products on offer include: cosmetics, sporting goods, delicatessen goods, clothing, toys, electronics, and there are several other stores with music, press and books available. Four travel agencies and three tour operators have outlets in the airport to aid with any further travel plans.

Limited conference facilities are available at the airport’s IFACH VIP Lounge. Conference facilities must be booked in advance. Contact the airport manager for further information on business facilities (tel: +34(0) 966 919 100). There is only the one VIP lounge, equipped with standard telecommunication facilities.

Those who require special assistance or wheelchairs should notify their airlines when booking their flight. Specially fitted toilets, ramps and lifts are located across the airport. Specially designated parking areas are available in the car park opposite the terminal.

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