A rental villa in Bali is a great way to spend your well earned few weeks with family members.

However, whether you go for a luxury Bali villa or a standard private Bali villa, how you spend your holiday, and what you do will almost invariably be defined by the number and ages of the children in your family.

This quick guide is intended to provide you with insights into Bali for families, with Bali travel tips and tricks.

Of course, we will start our list in priority, with the most important people, the young ones. If you wish, you may want to scroll down to the right age group for your children.

Infants

A Bali villa holiday is an ideal choice to make (over hotels and the like), if you are traveling to the island with an infant.

At a rental villa you have greater flexibility, support, and often much needed space.

Invariably, Balinese adore children, especially the younger ones. At your Bali rental villa you will more than likely get eager support to look after the little ones whilst you take a much deserved dip in the pool.

Today in Bali, most of your infant’s and your own needs will be met readily. Clean bottled water should be available at your villa, at no extra cost. Most rental villas will offer a microwave, so handy for warming up bottles. Some will even provide child friendly cutlery, so you don’t have to carry your own. Needless to say, as a favourite international tourist destination, Bali offers some very good international standard hospitals and English speaking doctors, if the need arises. Read more…

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As you may know, Indonesia is a country comprised by several islands, 17,508 to be exact, this geographically divided nation is united by the tight religious bonds that most of it’s habitants share, this south east Asian country has around 222 million people and is better known by the number of beautiful beaches accessible to them.

In recent years Indonesia has been struggling to keep the nation safe and mentally healthy by fighting against material which enters the country and deprives youth of it’s innocence and ultimately ending up in social corruption.

In March 2008, this country has given a step forward towards achieving its goal of keeping a mentally healthy society by passing a bill which criminalizes those who access internet sites which contain adult related material or digital content which is violent in nature. Many Indonesia’s citizens support such measures, in fact two years ago Muslim groups forced the Playboy magazine to move out and re-establish its office in Bali. Read more…

There are loads of people who states that Bali is the closest location to paradise on earth, and for a excellent reason. In the midst of its varied landscape of hills as well as mountains, rugged coastlines plus sandy beaches, and thriving rice terraces plus barren volcanic hillsides, it presents a splendid scenic surroundings to its colourful, totally non secular and unique society.

Offering world class surfing in addition to diving amenities, plus a big number of cultural, historical plus archaeological points of interest along with an massive assortment of lodging, Bali is a getaway where people from all ages and all income tiers be able to enjoy.

At hand are quite a few major cities in Bali which you be able to head in the direction of, Denpasar is one of them. It is a lively city that is utterly multi-cultural and unquestionably has a lot to offer. One can locate temples, palaces as well as museums in Denpasar. It is also famous for its shopping, having a selection of shopping choices that can delight even the most discerning customers. Read more…

Dream Holidays in Indonesia

Indonesia is one of the most interesting and intriguing places to visit; many people seek to spend Dream Holidays in Indonesia mostly due to the diverse variety of cultures and the breathtakingly beautiful scenery, which is known to make people return year after year.

Indonesia is the largest archipelago state of the world consisting of five main islands: Sulawesi, the infamous Java and Sumatra, Irian Jaya and Kalimantan; it also includes a small group of archipelagos.

If you go to Indonesia you will come across with an opulent cultural heritage; once there you will have a huge dilemma what to visit, but there are definitely some places which are a must see. The Bali Island is one of them: is it one of the most known islands in the world because of its natural beauty, the endless sandy beaches and the tropical ambience. It’s a place where surfers, nature lovers and savvy scuba divers gather every year, while travelers who want to relax and unwind from the bustling environment of the western cities.

In Borneo, lays the infamous province of Kalimantan, where the largest rainforest in the world is located. Wildlife and dense, lush greenery are celebrated there, attracting thousands of tourists every year, especially those who want to admire a natural phenomenon in person. It is one of the wealthiest resources of Indonesia that is why the authorities do their best to preserve it. Krakatau volcano is also one of the most known attractions in Indonesia due to its catastrophic eruption back in 1883, which was one of the most catastrophic natural events ever recorded in human history. Tourists today can take a daily boat trip to the volcano.

Indonesia is a very rich country in terms of culture, featuring a very unique and picturesque setting and gives endless chances of fun and recreation to its numerous visitors on their dream holidays. The slogan that Indonesians use when referring to their country is ‘Unity in Diversity’ which is actually quite true; Indonesia is a rich hub of civilizations and traditions, which adds to its unique and gripping atmosphere. Indonesia is a country that offers so many attractions of all kinds to its visitors and travelers that it’s quite hard not to fall in love with the place. Everyone agrees that Indonesia is a place one must visit at least once in his life.

Browse through any of the well known travel magazines and you’re sure to find Bali, Indonesia, listed among the top 10 travel destinations in the world.

With its exotic blend of ancient culture, majestic scenery, the world’s finest hotels and the warmth of the tropical oceans surrounding the island paradise, it’s hardly surprising.

Bali is located in the Indonesian archipelago only eight degrees south of the Equator. The island measures 90 kilometres (55 miles) from north to south and 140 kilometres (90 miles) from east to west, making it easy to go out for an excursion anywhere in Bali and return to your hotel by nightfall.

Towering volcanic peaks that rise mystically through the clouds, terraced rice paddies carved into the mountainous landscape, iridescent crater lakes, lush tropical rain forests and sandy white beaches lapped by warm ocean currents are only a few of the wonders that draw millions of visitors to this tiny island each year.

Bali Tricks for First Time Travellers

Let’s look at some valuable travel tips to help you experience the very best that Bali has to offer:

1.    Bali’s tropical weather means that travel at any time of the year is suitable, however its best to check when the major Indonesian holiday periods and religious ceremonies occur to avoid the influx of domestic tourists.

2.   Bali accommodation offers superb value, particularly if you are travelling on a budget. To ensure you get the best value for money, book ahead.

3.    Getting around in Bali can be quite an experience, to say the least! Road rules are nonexistent and traffic can be downright dangerous. Don’t assume that traffic will stop for you at a pedestrian crossing if you are on foot. If you are driving, the best piece of advice is to paraphrase a famous saying, “When in Bali, drive like the Balinese.”

4.    Many of the luxury Bali hotels and villas will organize a driver for you, or you may choose to hire a bicycle if you don’t have far to travel.

5.    As a tourist, you are bound to be hassled by local drivers shouting “Transport?” wherever you go. If you wish to hire a local driver, make sure he is clear about where you want to go and arrange a fixed price before you get in the car. Drivers are keen to barter with you, so it is customary to bargain until you get a price you are comfortable with.

6.    And while we’re on the subject of bartering, it’s perfectly acceptable to barter in the local markets and stalls, but don’t try it in the larger department stores — the sales assistant may be quite offended.

7.    Hawkers will descend on you from the moment you step outside your hotel, particularly if you are located in one of the major tourist areas. Although it may seem rude to you, the best advice is to ignore them altogether. Don’t make eye contact or slow down to look at the merchandise they are selling unless you are interested in purchasing something, or being distracted for what may seem an eternity trying to get rid of them.

8.    Beware of counterfeit goods unless that is what you’re looking for. Bali is well known for its knock-offs and you can buy anything from fake Rolex’s to fake Rayban’s at the local markets.

9.    It’s likely you may be offered illicit drugs in the highly populated tourist spots. Ecstasy, pot, yabba (crystal meth) and shabu-shabu (methamphetamines) are the most popular drugs on offer in nightclubs and on the beaches, particularly in the Kuta area.

If you don’t want to become another high-profile drug case, simply ignore the offers.

10.     Bali locals are among the most friendly and relaxed people you will find anywhere in the world, but that doesn’t mean you can drop your guard when it comes to scams and rip-offs.

Be wary of moneychangers who offer you amazingly good rates for exchanging foreign currency, touts who offer you the cheapest ride to your destination without confirming a fixed price and anyone who wants the money before handing over the goods.

11.     And perhaps the best tip for new travelers to Bali is the one that is bound to be least successful –- don’t look like a tourist!

This sage piece of advice is written almost tongue-in-cheek because the diminutive, friendly Balinese bear no resemblance whatsoever to their much larger framed Western neighbours. Not only that, our cultures are vastly different and so is our language. The most you could possibly hope for is to look like an ex-pat from your native country who has chosen to live an idyllic lifestyle on the island.

However, a couple of words of Bahasa will help with that “Oh, I’ve lived here for years” attitude. Selamat pagi (good morning), tolong (please) and terima kasih (thank you) will take you a long way in East-West relations.

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Everyone need traveling nowadays. Grand Java Tours as one of Indonesia tour operators ready for being part of your service when you plan to visit Indonesia, specially Java.

As your travel planner, Grand Java Tours will adjust to serve as your wish we provide  the Tour Package on your memorable holidays.

The tour program we offer mostly cover  Java and Bali only. But we also provide the tour beyond these areas like Kalimantan, Nusa Tenggara, Sumatra and Sulawesi.

We offer many various program such as : Javanese Wedding Celebration, Java Overland Tour, Student Tour, Honeymoon Package, et cetera.

Beyond conventional tour packages, we have constantly updated and  improved our program, that create a special interest group such as: Javanese wedding  celebration, Convention tours and many other tailor  made excursion.

Please be assured of our best services and excellent care.

Thank you very much for attention and trust.

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Student Package

Yogyakarta well known as the city of students, as Yogya is one of Indonesias most foremost centers of education and learning and has a great number of students from all over the country among its population.

According to official statistic, about 30 percent of the citys inhabitants. Gajah Mada University is Indonesia s oldest state-owned universities and also one of its most prestigious.

Besides centre of education, Yogya is famous as center of Javanese culture. So many important heritage could be visited in this area. Here, you can learn the cultural activities as the root of the culture. The visitors can learn how to play the Gamelan music, how to make a batik, how to dance and so many other things can be done in Yogya.

All student Package are designed for group tour only, the hotel we selected on these package all are in budget hotels (3 jasmine  2 star). However, if you need higher class for the accommodation, please inform us right away as we will be very happy to assist you in anyway possibilities.

For further info, do not hesitate to contact us.

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THE AUSTRALIAN STUDENT JOIN

THE TRADITIONAL FEAST (KENDURI)

To understand better about the culture and living of Indonesian people, its not enough by seeking information from news paper, TV or listen from the other experience. Of course, will be much better if you come directly and get involved on their daily life.

This also done by 15 students of MELBOURNE HIGH SCHOOL (MHS) Australia. Through wonderful packaged arranged by GRAND JAVA TOURS cooperate with Australian Tour Operators, 15 MHS students accompanied by 2 teacher , along 9 days learn about the culture and as well the way of live of the people in Yogyakarta. They even take a shower, has their meals and as well sleep at the village community. These 15  students stay with new family at Maguwoharjo village.

Within 9 days they stay here in Yogya, 5 days they stayed at hotel and the rest they stay with local people here. They have their new family here. They involved directly, learn directly the way of life of these villager.

The fact, within short period get mingle with the local people here, they find that Indonesian people are friendly, polite, and tolerant. Not as they read  on their news paper or as they seen on their Television said Anny the Director of Grand Java Tours among the process of The traditional feast (Kenduri) which is attended by 15 students and 2 teacher at Sanggar Tari SEKAR RINONCE  Maguwoharjo, Tuesday  Sept 24, 2002.

At this village  they also enjoyed Jathilan, The Trance Dance  which performed local Jathilan group. After the Jathilan, in the evening they join with the local people of Traditional Feast (Kenduri) for the successful of the local people for winning the championship commemorate the Indonesian Independence.  The feast filled by open and gathering pray, then cut of the Conical Shape Rice (called  Tumpeng  in Javanese language). Uniquely, The Australian students wear the traditional clothes during the feast, complete Javanese clothes.

Pip Capon, on of the teacher of MHS who accompanied the students said to Bernas the student as well as her self  are very happy to get along with the villagers. The Indonesian is very friendly, very polite and tolerant. This fact is very different as what we know from the media. We the conclude that what we got on the news paper and as well TV was not completely right  said PIP CAPON.

Before stayed with the people at Maguwoharjo, these student also get along for join the local school here said Anny. They join the class at SMK Nitikan Umbulharjo, then they going  home with the student to their house. They stay with the family of the student. Join their daily activity, going to school with the local bus, serried in the bus, as well stay with them.  Doing that way, Anny said, these students know how they  take a study, go to school one serried bus, until  their activity  at home.

By learning the culture, language, education and living of Indonesian  people, these foreign student know more deeply about Indonesia. And their impression, Indonesian people are very polite, soft, friendly and tolerant, said Anny Yulijanti.

Here is a starter list of 20 new things you may want to try when you are next in Bali:

1) Bird Park; You don’t need to be a bird watcher to enjoy this colourful park. Take a morning off, and discover the beauty of an array of tropical birds Bali has to offer. Even better, arrive later in the afternoon, and enjoy some amazing sun-set melodies. A great choice for enthusiasts and families. (located at Taman Burung – open 08:00 – 18:00 daily)

2) Cruising; Pick a boat of your choice, and head for the high seas! Nowadays Bali has a great selection of safe boats to choose from. Go for a fun filled family outing or go more adventurous with some of the latest cutting edge crafts which deliver the speed. (Bali Hai Cruises, Sea Safari Cruises, Bounty Cruises)

3) Bali Dance Performances; Be enthralled by unique Balinese dances! Try to catch one of each of: Kecak, Legong and Fire Dances, at least. There are dozens of different troupes to choose from, each with their own following. Keep in mind, shows in hotels and tourist restaurants offer vanilla flavour, and sometimes mechanical re-creations of the real thing. Head out to some of the villages, and you will be handsomely rewarded with the authentic fare.

4) Designer Shopping; No, I am not talking about the â??fake originals’ that litter the streets of many other Asian locations. In the recent years, Bali has attracted some of the most talented original designers, and artists from around the world (both the East and the West). This coupled with the inherent artistic capabilities of the Balinese, means that Bali today enjoys a large number of original designer shops. You can find anything from post-modern lighting installations, to Imperial Chinese style sideboards, and from original water fountain designs to some of the best jewelry designed and manufactured anywhere in the world.

5) Diving; Put your PADI license to use, or if you are a diving newbie, just do it, and get your PADI certificate in Bali! A range of dive organizers for the experienced, and dive schools for the new comers are available to choose from. Some offer PADI â??Youth Scuba’ courses for ages 5+. Read more…

For travelers, Indonesia is a paradise. This archipelago has so many things on offer- natural landscapes, beautiful temples and a rich culture and heritage. Staying in the hotels in Indonesia will leave you spellbound. The facilities and services that these Indonesia hotels provide are simply great! The friendly gesture of the staff, coupled with an array of facilities and services will make tours to this country worthwhile and a memorable experience.

Majority of Indonesia accommodation options are located at various focal points of the cities. They provide easy access to all the major tourist attractions and transportation. In all the important cities like Jakarta, Bali, Lombok or Batam, travelers will find a hotel of their choice and budget. Indonesia offers all kinds of hotels and resorts for both leisure and business travelers.

The Novotel Mangga Dua Square is situated in Jakarta, the capital and largest city of Indonesia. The hotel is located close to major shopping and entertainment venues of Jakarta. With a fresh contemporary Asian design coupled with friendly staff and top-notch amenities, this Novotel Mangga Dua Square is a favorite among both business travelers and vacationers. Read more…