Archive for January, 2010

Own a property at Bali

January 26th, 2010, Posted in Review

Bali is among the top 100 tourist hotspots in the world, which makes it a valuable property for villa and hotel owners. The culture, scenic beauty and natural greenery of the island make it a paradise for people to spend their vacations in. Bali Tourism has seen a progressive rise since the past few decades, as and when tourists started pouring in to view this volcanic island with its white sand beaches and enormous paddy fields. The best business in Bali is done by the villa owners. This is because there are a number of villas, large and small, old and new, which are rented to tourists. And since Bali is a tropical island, hence there is business all the year round. The villas are actually preferred by the tourists, because they cost nearly the same as a costly hotel suite or room, but provide much more on luxury and services as compared to hotels. This is because the Bali villas provide all the basic amenities along with a private swimming pool and also a private kitchen with a personal chef, who cooks you world class cuisines at any time of the day, on your request. Opting for Bali Villa Rental is a great idea indeed. Many of the villas that are rented in Bali were actually made by the Dutch, when they initially colonized in this island decades ago. Hence the villas bear a western touch in their design and architecture, which is preferred by most of the tourists. The living rooms and bedrooms are spacious and airy and placed in the right positions to exploit the brilliance of nature. The villas are positioned at many different spots on the island. This is due to the fact that life and culture at different places in Bali is different and there is something for everyone in this island. Bukit is a place for the people who love to view the calm and serene sea from there verandah. Seminyak is preferred by the party lovers who enjoy the bright night life of Bali during their stay. Canggu and Ubud are places where the peace loving people can enjoy the view of the vast paddy fields and rice terraces. So, once you have decided to own a property in Bali, you must consider the position first, which will prove a long-term viability for you. You must do some research on the hotspots of Bali, which are flocked by most people all the year round. It will be best if you chose a multi-season spot that will bring you business in every season of the year. Once the spot is set, you must compare prices of the property available there. Consider the returns and future gains on each spot. See if the property you are investing in will bring you good profits. Instead of buying a plot and building your own property, you can also rent or own a readymade villa or a hotel, which you can let out later. One thing you must remember while renting a home in Bali, is that you must monitor it from somewhere close to the location. This is because the owner often needs to handle the discrepancies between the tourists and the hotel employees and also look into the problems of his guests.

Discovering Kuta Lombok!

January 26th, 2010, Posted in Review

The first time I came to Kuta Lombok I had mixed feelings as its reputation around Lombok wasn’t so spectacular. I was pleasantly surprised to find a friendly and happy little community at one of the most scenic places on Lombok.

Witnessing big reef breaks, and having been told about strong currents, I wasn’t quite sure what I was getting into, concerning the diving, but I thought to myself, “Ok, now let’s see”. Crossing the bay on one of the little local outrigger boats we came to a massive sheer cliff, and dropped into one of the most amazing underwater sceneries that I’ve ever seen. Descending down along a steep slope lined with massive, coral rich, boulders we were joined by Giant Trevally and massive Grunts. Descending down towards where the big shadows were moving about, I was amazed by the abundance of macro life and huge lobsters we encountered on the way. At around 30m, we realized that the shadows we seen from above were huge potato groupers zipping in and out of the many crevices. As we continued on, a slight current carried us toward the mouth of the bay, and as we slowly ascended to around 15m a giant school of Mobula rays darkened the sky above us. They just wouldn’t stop circling, and it seemed like the school had no beginning or end. As we continued ascending we went right through the school of Mobula, and they weren’t at all bothered by our presence. On the contrary, it seemed more like they were enjoying the sight of the “strange creatures” they had encountered. Up until this day I’ve had plenty of great diving around Lombok, but this day ended for me with a huge smile on my face and a certainty that this is the place to set up a new dive shop in South Lombok.

In this area of South East Lombok, the water conditions are variable and occasionally subject to rougher seas. Nevertheless the dive sites are well suited for divers of all levels. The reefs are very intact, and apart from the many colorful reef fish, there is an abundance of macro life, crabs and lobsters to be found, and the chances of seeing turtles and white tip reef sharks are fairly high. You are also likely to sight blue spotted stingrays, cuttlefish, scorpion fish and more while diving this in this underwater paradise. Kuta, Lombok offers a great variety of possibilities for new discoveries as well as pristine reefs!

From Kuta it’s easy to take daytrips to all of the pristine dive locations around Lombok. Whether you want to experience Sekotong, Gili Trawangan, Belongas Bay or the not so well know dive sites of East Lombok, the local dive shop there specializes in organizing these dive daytrips and caters to your wishes in a professional manner. On these daytrips you can enjoy good service, the landscapes of Lombok, and visit the best dive sites around the island.

In Kuta one will find many activities to pass the time. Rent a boat and cruise around the bay, go horseback riding, rent a bicycle and explore the area, play beach volleyball and of course excellent diving. Kuta also presents itself very welcoming, and you’ll find many small restaurants and cafes with tasty international and Indonesian food. It’s a place where you can let yourself be spoiled by the friendly and open population.

Four Different Eco-systems in One City

January 25th, 2010, Posted in Review

The Dallas World Aquarium is actually much more than an aquarium though it’s name suggests differently. It houses a variety of animals-mostly those from tropical areas of the world- in their natural habitat in a series of specially designed eco-systems. This makes the visitors feel as if they are walking around the world as they experience the different plant life and climate of various locations from all over the globe.

Visitors can usually choose their own path around the complex allowing them to spend more time on the animals that intrigue them the most. There are four main sections of the zoo each one representing a different eco-system. One represents the ocean and is a huge salt water aquarium, a rainforest, the South American Rainforest, a series of South African Biomes and the centerpiece is no doubt the Mundo Maya exhibit which shows the gradual progression of biomes from the Highland Rainforest to the sea of the Yucatan Gulf in Central America.

The two most interesting exhibits are the aquarium and the Mundo Maya complex though the other two are breathtaking as well. The aquarium represents the waters of four continents, three oceans and various seas; the aquarium gives a glimpse of the underwater world. The exhibit has more than 85,000 gallons (321,800 l) of saltwater with marine life from around the world. Tourists can walk through the 22,000-gallon (83,280 l) tunnel to experience a panoramic view of reef life. Many animals found at the top of the food chain can be seen in the Predators exhibit. Ten 2,000-gallon (7,571 l) displays present marine life from around the world – Palau, Southern Australia, Lord Howe Island, Solomon Islands, Fiji, Bahamas, British Columbia, Sri Lanka, Indonesia and Japan.

Mundo Maya is an eight-story, immersion exhibit that takes visitors from the waters of the Yucatan’s gulf coast to the highland rainforests. This great culture believed that nature did not need to be conquered or subdued. Many plants and animals were given important roles in their daily lives. The land of the ancient Maya included the countries of modern day Belize and Guatemala, the western parts of Honduras and El Salvador, and five Mexican states (Yucatan, Quintana Roo, Tabasco, Campeche and Chiapas).

There are of course many Dallas hotels that offer access to sights and sounds of the city and are conveniently located. The decision making factor for a tourist when staying at a hotel in Dallas would be the price, cheaper accommodation is available at a number of motels and lodges while, some star class hotels offer guests and especially business travelers with many facilities.

MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT ISLAM

January 25th, 2010, Posted in Review

MISCONCEPTION #1: Muslims are violent, terrorists and/or extremists. This is the biggest misconception in Islam, no doubt resulting from the constant stereotyping and bashing the media gives Islam.   When a gunman attacks a mosque in the name of Judaism, a Catholic IRA guerrilla sets off a bomb in an urban area, or Serbian Orthodox militiamen rape and kill innocent Muslim civilians, these acts are notused to stereotype an entire faith. Never are these acts attributed to the religion of the perpetrators. Yet how many times have we heard the words ‘Islamic, Muslim fundamentalist. etc. ‘ linked with violence. Politics in so called  “Muslim countries” may or may not have any Islamic basis.   Often dictators and politicians will use the name of Islam for their own purposes. One should remember to go to the source of Islam and separate what the true religion of Islam says from what is portrayed in the media. Islam literally means ’submission to God’ and is derived from a root word meaning ‘peace’. Islam may seem exotic or even extreme in the modern world. Perhaps this is because religion doesn’t dominate everyday life in the West, whereas Islam is considered a ‘way of life’ for Muslims and they make no division between secular and sacred in their lives.    Like Christianity, Islam permits fighting in self-defense, in defense ofreligion, or on the part of those who have been expelled forcibly from their homes.   It lays down strict rules of combat which include prohibitions against harming civilians and against destroying crops, trees and  livestock. NOWHERE DOES ISLAM ENJOIN THE KILLING OF INNOCENTS. . The Quran says: “Fight in the cause of God against those who fight you, but do not transgress limits.   God  does not love transgressors. ” (Quran 2:190) ”If they seek peace, then seek you peace.   And trust in God for He is the One that heareth  and knoweth all things. ” (Quran 8:61) War, therefore, is the last resort, and is subject to the rigorousconditions laid down by the  sacred law.   The term ‘jihad’ literally means ’struggle’.   Muslims believe that there are two kinds of  jihad.   The other ‘jihad’ is the inner struggle of the soul which everyone wages against egotistic  desires for the sake of attaining inner peace. MISCONCEPTION #2: Islam oppresses women. The image of the typical Muslim woman wearing the veil and forced to stay home and forbidden to drive is all too common  in most peoples thoughts. Although some Muslim countries may  have laws that oppress women, this should not be seen as coming  from Islam.   Many of these countries do not rule by  any kind of Shari’ah (Islamic law) and introduce their own cultural standpoints on the issue of  gender equity. Islam on the other hand gives men and women different roles and equity between the two  is laid down in the Quran and the example of the Prophet (peace be upon him). Islam sees a woman, whether   single or married, as an individual in her own right, with the right to own and dispose of her property  and earnings.   A marriage gift is given by the groom to the bride for her own personal use, and  she keeps herown family name rather than taking her husband’s. Both men and women are expected to dress in a way that is modest and dignified. The Messenger of God (peace be upon him) said: “The most perfect in faith amongst  believers is he who is best in manner and kindest to his wife. ” Violence of any kind towards  women and forcing them against their will for anything is not allowed. A Muslim marriage is a simple, legal agreement in which either partner is free to include  conditions.   Marriage customs thus vary widely from country to country.   Divorce is not common,  although it is acceptable as a last resort.   According to Islam, a Muslim girl cannot be forced to  marry against her will: her parents simply suggest young men they think may be suitable. MISCONCEPTION #3:  Muslims worship a different God. Allah is simply the Arabic word for God. Allah for Muslims is  the greatest and most inclusive of the Names of God, it is an Arabic word of rich meaning, denoting the one and only God and ascribing no partners to Him. It is exactly the same word which the Jews, in Hebrew, use for God (eloh), the word which Jesus Christ used in Aramaic when he prayed to God. God has an identical name in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam; Allah is the same God worshiped by Muslims, Christians and Jews.   Muslims believe that Allah’s sovereignty is to be acknowledged in worship and in the pledge to obey His teaching and commandments, conveyed through His messengers and prophets who were sent at various times and in many places throughout history. However, it should be noted that God in Islam is One and Only. He, the Exalted, does not get tired, does not have a son ie Jesus or have associates, nor does He have human-like attributions as found in other faiths. MISCONCEPTION #4:  Islam was spread by sword and intolerant of other faiths. Many social studies textbooks for students show the image of an Arab horseman carrying  a sword in one hand and the Quran in the other conquering and forcibly converting. This, though, is not a correct portrayal of history.   Islam has always given respect and  freedom of religion to all faiths. The Quran says: “God forbids you not, with regards to those who fight you not for [your]  faith nor drive you out of your homes, from dealing kindly and justly with them; for God loveth those  who are just. 60:8) Freedom of religion is laid down in the Quran itself: “There is no compulsion (or coercion)  in the religion (Islam).   The right direction is distinctly clear from error”. (2:256) Christian missionary, T. W. Arnold had this opinion on his study of the question of the  spread of Islam: “. . of any organized attempt to force the acceptance of Islam on the non-Muslim  population, or of any systematic persecution intended to stamp out the Christian religion, we hear  nothing. Had the caliphs chosen to adopt either course of action, they might have swept away  Christianity as easily as Ferdinand and Isabella drove Islam out of Spain, or Louis XIV made Protestanism . . . ” It is a function of Islamic law to protect the privileged status of minorities, and this is why  non-Muslim places of worship have flourished all over the Islamic world.   History provides many  examples of Muslim tolerance towards other faiths: when the caliphOmar entered Jerusalem in the  year 634, Islam granted freedom of worship to all religious communities in the city.    Proclaiming to the inhabitants that their lives, and property were safe, and that their places of  worship would never be taken from them, he asked the Christian patriarch Sophronius to  accompany him on a visit to all the holy places.   Islamic law also permits non-Muslim minorities to set up their own courts, which  implement family laws drawn up by the minorities themselves. The life and property of all citizens in an Islamic state are considered sacred whether the  person is Muslim or not. Racism is not a part of Islam, the Quran speaks only of human equality and how all  peoples are equal in the sight of God.    “O mankind! We created you from a single soul, male and  female, and made you into nations and tribes, so that you may come to know one another.   Truly, the most honored of you in God’s sight is the greatest of you in piety.   God is All-Knowing, All- Aware. (49:13) MISCONCEPTION #5:  All Muslims are Arabs The Muslim population of the world is around 1. 2 billion.   1 out of 5 people in the world is a  Muslim.   They are a vast range of races, nationalities, and cultures from around the globe–from the  Phillipines to Nigeria–they are united by their common Islamic faith.   Only about 18% live  in the  Arab world and the largest Muslimcommunity is in Indonesia.   Most Muslims live east of Pakistan.    30% of Muslims live in the Indian subcontinent, 20% in Sub-Saharan Africa, 17% in Southeast  Asia, 18% in the Arab world, and 10% in the Soviet Union and China.   Turkey, Iran and  Afghanistan make up 10% of the non-Arab Middle East.   Although there are Muslim minorities in  almost every area, including Latin America and Australia, they are mostnumerous in Russia and  its newly independent states, India and central Africa.   There are about 6 million Muslims in the  United States MISCONCEPTION #6:  The Nation of Islam is a Muslim group. Islam and the so called  “Nation of Islam’” are two different religions.   NOI is more of a political organization since its members are not limited to a single faith. Muslims consider this group to be just one of many cults using the name of Islam for their own gain.   The only thing  common between them is the jargon, the language used by both. “The Nation of Islam” is a misnomer; this religion should be called Farrakhanism, after the name of its propogator, Louis Farrakhan. Islam and Farakhanism differ in many fundamental ways. For example, Farakhan followers  believe in racism and that the ‘black man’ was the original man and therefore superior, while in  Islam there is no racism and everyone is considered equal in the sight of God, the only difference  being in one’s piety. There are many other theological examples that show the ‘Nation’s teachings  have little to do withtrue Islam.     There are many groups in America who claim to represent Islam and call their adherents  Muslims. Any serious student of Islam has a duty to investigate  and find the true Islam. The only two authentic sources which bind every Muslim are 1. the Quran and 2. authentic or sound Hadith. Any teachings under the label of “Islam” which contradict or at variance with the direct  understanding of fundamental beliefs and practices of Islam form the Quran and authentic Hadith should be rejected and such a religion should be considered a Pseudo-Islamic Cult. In America there are many pseudo-Islamic cults, Farrakhanism being one of them. An honest attitude on the  part of such cults should be not to call themselves Muslims and their religion Islam. such an  example of honesty is Bahaism which is an off-shoot of Islam but Bahais do not call themselves  Muslims nor their religion, Islam. In fact Bahaism is not Islam just as Farrakhanism is not Islam. MISCONCEPTION #7:  All Muslim men marry four wives. The religion of Islam was revealed for all societies and all times and so accommodates  widely differing social requirements.   Circumstances may warrant the taking of another wife but the  right is granted, according to the Quran, only on condition that the husband is scrupulously fair. No woman can be forced into this kind of marriage if they do not wish it, and they also have the  right to exclude it in their marriage contract. Polygamy is neither mandatory, nor encouraged, but  merely permitted. Images of “sheikhs with harems” are not consistent with Islam, as a man is  only allowed at most four wives only if he can fulfill the stringent conditions of treating each fairly  and providing each with separate housing etc.   Permission to practice polygamy is notassociated  with mere satisfaction of passion.   It is rather associated with compassion toward widows and  orphans. It was the Quran that limited and put conditions on the practice of polygamy among the  Arabs, who had as many as ten or more wives and considered them “property”. It is both honest and accurate to say that it is Islam that regulated this practice, limited  it, made it more humane, and instituted equal rights and status for all wives. What the Qur’anic  decrees amount to, taken together is discouragement of polygamy unless necessity for it exists. It is also evident that the general rule in Islam is monogamy and not polygamy. It is a very  tiny percentage of Muslims that practice it over the world. However, permission to practice limited polygamy is only consistent with Islam’s realistic view of the nature of man and woman and of  various social needs, problems and cultural variations. The question is, however far more than the inherent flexibility of Islam; it also is the frank  and straightforward approach of Islam in dealing with practical problems.   Rather than requiring  hypocritical and superficial compliance, Islam delves deeper into the problems of individuals and  societies, and provides for legitimate and cleansolutions which are far more beneficial than would  be the case if they were ignored. There is no doubt that the second wife legally marriedand treated  kindly is better off than a mistress without any legalrights or expermanence. MISCONCEPTION #8:  Muslims are a barbaric, backward people. Among the reasons for the rapid and peaceful spread of Islam was the simplicity of its  doctrine-Islam calls for faith in only one God worthy of worship.   It also repeatedly instructs man to  use his powers of intelligence and observation. Within a few years, great civilizations and universities were flourishing, for according to the Prophet (pbuh), ’seeking knowledge is an obligation for every Muslim man and woman’.   The  synthesis of Eastern and Western ideas and of new thought with old, brought about great  advances in medicine, mathematics, physics, astronomy, geography, architecture, art, literature,  and history.  Many crucial systems such as algebra, the Arabic numerals, and also the concept of  the zero (vital to the advancement of mathematics), were transmitted to medieval Europe from  Islam.   Sophisticatedinstruments which were to make possible the European voyages of discovery  were developed, including the astrolabe, the quadrant and good navigational maps. MISCONCEPTION #9:  Muhammad was founder of Islam & Muslims worship him. Muhammad(pbuh) was born in Mecca in the year 570.    Since his father died before his  birth, and his mother shortly afterwards, he was raised by his uncle from the respected tribe of  Quraysh.   As he grew up, he became known for his truthfulness, generosity and sincerity, so that  he was sought after for his ability to arbitrate in disputes.   The historians describe him as calm and  meditative. Muhammad (pbuh)was of a deeply religious nature, and had long detested the decadence of his society. It became his habit to meditate from time to time in the Cave of Hira near Mecca. At the age of 40, while engaged in a meditative retreat, Muhammad(pbuh) received his first  revelation from God through the Angel Gabriel.   This revelation, which continued for 23 years is  known as the Quran. As soon as he began to recite the words he heard from Gabriel, and to preach the truth  which God had revealed to him,he and his small group of followers suffered bitter persecution,  which grew so fierce that in the year 622 God gave them the command to emigrate. This event,  the Hijra ‘migration’, in which they left Mecca for the city of Medina, marks the beginning of the  Muslim calendar.   After several years, the Prophet and his followers were able to return to Mecca, where they forgave their enemies and established Islam definitively. Before the Prophet saw dies at the age of 63, thegreater part of Arabia was Muslim, and within a century of his death Islam had spread to Spain in the West and as far East as China. He died with less than 5 possessions to his name. While Muhammad (pbuh) was chosen to deliver the message, he is not considered the  “founder” of Islam, since Muslims consider Islam to be the same divine guidance sent to all peoples before.   Muslims believe all the prophets from Adam, Noah, Moses, Jesus etc. were all sent with divine guidance for their peoples.   Every prophet was sent to his own people, but Muhammad(pbuh) was sent to all of mankind.   Muhammad is the last and final messenger sent to deliver the message of Islam. Muslims revere and honor him (pbuh) for all he went through and his dedication, but they do not worship him.   “O Prophet, verily We have sent you as a witness and a bearer of glad tidings and a warner and as one who invites unto God by His leave and as an illuminating lamp. “(33:45-6) MISCONCEPTION #10:  Muslims don’t believe in Jesus or any other prophets. Muslims respect and revere Jesus, upon him be peace, and await his Second Coming.    They consider him one of the greatest of God’s messengers to mankind.   A Muslim never refers to him simply as ‘Jesus’, but always adds the phrase ‘upon him be peace’ (abbreviated as (u) here).    The Quran confirms his virgin birth (a chapter of the Quran is entitled ‘Mary’), and Mary is considered the purest woman in all creation.   The Quran describes the Annunciation as follows: “Behold!” the Angel said, “God has chosen you, and purified you, and chosen you above the women of all nations.   O Mary, God gives you good news of a word from Him whose name shall be the Messiah, Jesus son of Mary, honored in this world and the Hereafter, and one of those brought near to God.   He shall speak to the people from his cradle and in maturity, and shall be of the righteous. ” She said: “O my Lord!How shall I have a son when no man has touched me?” He said:  “Even so; God creates what He will.   When He decrees a thing, He says to it, “Be!” and it is”  (Quran 3:42-47) Jesus (u) was born miraculously through the same power, which had brought Adam (u) into being without a father: “Truly, the likeness of Jesus with God is as the likeness of Adam.   He created him of dust, and then said to him, ‘Be!’ and he was. ” (3:59) During his prophetic mission Jesus (u) performed many miracles. The Quran tells us that he said: ” I have come to you with a sign from your Lord:  I make for you out of clay, as it were, the figure of a bird, and breath into it and it becomes a bird by God’s leave.   And I heal the blind, and the lepers, and I raise the dead by God’s leave. ” (3:49) Neither Muhammad (pbuh) not Jesus (u) came to change the basic doctrine of the brief in One God brought by earlier prophets, but to confirm and renew it. In the Quran Jesus (u) is reported as saying that he came: “To attest the law which was before me.   And to make lawful to you part of what was forbidden you; I have come to you with a sign from your Lord, so fear God and obey Me. (3:50) The Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) said:  “Whoever believes there is no god but God, alone without partner, that Muhammad (pbuh) is His messenger, that Jesus is the servant andmessenger of God, His word breathed into Mary and a spirit emanating from Him, and that Paradise and Hell are true, shall be received by God into Heaven. “(Hadith related by Bukhari). Visit for more www. homequran. com

Choose A Decent Minister

January 25th, 2010, Posted in Review

Marriage is a celebration in which couples begin their wedded bliss. Concept and customs of wedding varies between states, religions, casts, cultures. Marriage also relies on business condition of bride and grooms family. But both eastern and western marriages has its own importance. There are numerous differences between eastern and western wedding for instance differences in marriage reception, wedding halls, wedding party and many other stuff. Some times receptions are arranged after marriage, some times before. Commonly receptions organize in evening times. Dinner in reception is quite different to the other dinners. Western wedding include dance, music, orchestras, poetry, prayer. Some conventions symbolizes the relationship between partner and better half. Modern couples aren’t giving importance to these practice. Day by day these customs are disappearing. Marriage rings are the sign of expressing one’s love and love to his dear. It is the symbol of faith and confidence. The instant of exchanging wedding rings between bride and groom is unforgotten memory in their life. It symbolizes future relationship of couples.
Best man idea is frequently related to western weddings, specially in Brit tradition. Best man is responsible to present marriage rings during the symbolic moment of exchange of ring / s between the bride and the groom in front of all guests at marriage hall.
In western nations, wedding is a great moment which gives a new life to both bride and groom. Marriage is a predecessor to parenthood, taking the guarantee of a new generation.
There are several kinds of wedding are followed in western culture. They are Double wedding, Destination marriage, weekend marriage, white wedding, army marriage, civil marriage, sneak wedding for example.
Double marriage is a single celebration where 2 organized couples meet for 2 continuous marriages. In some of the states like Philippines, Indonesia wedding of 2 siblings in a year is known as unfortunate and it is announced as “sukob”.
A wedding in which couple and their guests travel from one place to another to attend the rite is sometimes known as Destination marriage.
The name indicates the color of the wedding gown, which was highly popular in Victorian period which represent the purity and innocence of youth. As grown white color symbolizes virginity. An army wedding is a wedding held at an army chapel. Marriage rite presided over by san diego minister, judges, mayors and other civil authorities or any great personalities. Civil marriage frequently happens in local towns, town halls or in front of judge in court yards. Marrying without acceptance or approval of fogeys or others is known as Sneak wedding. find more info at Choose A Decent Minister

Villa Insider’s Bali Villa Rental Tips

January 25th, 2010, Posted in Review

Originally published in Villa-Insider If you’ve never stayed in a villa in Bali, you might find it all a bit daunting the first time around. Don’t be discouraged, a little basic information is all you need to book with confidence. This article provides a list of insider tips for renting villa accommodations in Bali. Where are most rental villas in Bali? The most popular areas are: Seminyak, Ubud, Canggu, Jimbaran and Uluwatu. Seminyak and Canggu are located on the coast, northwest of Kuta. Ubud is located inland, in the center of the island. Jimbaran is near the airport. Uluwatu is the far southern tip of the island. Are villas in Bali staffed? Generally speaking, yes. Unlike a lot of other destinations, the tradition in Bali is for fully serviced villas. Many properties have not only maids, but also cooks and a manager. The top end properties will have a chef, a dedicated villa manager, butlers and a often a driver. Will I be charged tax and service fees? It depends on the management company. Some properties are priced “all-in,” others are “plus plus” — like you would expect from a hotel property. How will food and beverages be charged? Historically, most Bali villas charged you only for your groceries. Staff would ask you what you want to eat, then they would collect money from you to do the shopping. They would bring back the groceries, a receipt, and your change (if any!). Things are changing and now it is not uncommon to see villas adding a service charge. Some of the top end properties are even offering a la carte menus, like a hotel. Do I need to tip the staff? You should. It is up to you, but it is recommended. The amount should reflect the quality of service, but remember that salaries in Bali are quite low. Tips – even modest ones – can be big incentives. How can I find the best values in villa rental? Book direct where possible as you can negotiate more with the manager / management company / owner. Agents are often restricted in what they can offer in the way of discounts. Also, watch for last minute specials. Some villas offer deep discounts for last minute bookings. What’s better: A stand-alone villa property or a villa hotel? We like stand alone villas, due to the privacy and the exclusiveness. That said, villa hotels often offer more choice, a better range of accommodations and more dining options. If you don’t mind the loss of privacy, then a villa hotel may be a good bet for you. What’s the difference between a villa hotel and a villa resort? None. It’s just a question of names. View more in Villa-Insider

Anantara Seminyak Resort & Spa, Bali

January 25th, 2010, Posted in Review

Anantara Seminyak Resort & Spa Awaken to the rustle of a sea breeze through coconut palms. Toast the world-famous Seminyak sunsets from your private balcony. Dive into fabled Balinese culture and unique island discoveries from your luxurious Bali resort outpost on the island’s most sought-after stretch of shore. Anantara’s Bali resort at Seminyak features 59 suites of approximately 80 square metres, furnished in true Anantara style, including plasma screen TVs, contemporary Asian-inspired furniture, broadband internet connection and signature spacious baths. Anantara’s facilities include a destination restaurant on the ground floor, offering an al-fresco and indoor international dining experience, an onsite Anantara Spa, and two infinity-edge swimming pools overlooking the Indian Ocean. Anantara Seminyak Resort & Spa – Accommodation Each of Anantara’s 59 expansive Bali resort suites delivers the ultimate in luxury and comfort. Balinese wall hangings and designs combine with contemporary comforts such as satellite television on the plasma screen and surround sound stereo system. In the Ocean Suites, relax on your private terrace offering views of the stunning azure waters of the Indian ocean that are simply unforgettable. All Suites Feature: Open fire place Television DVD player In house movies Balcony/patio Butler/Maid service Tea & coffee making facilities Internet access Bathrobes Spa bath Air conditioning Mini bar In room safe Refrigerator Hairdryer Anantara Suite: Bedding is 1 King Bed. Maximum room capacity is 3 Adults & Children. Anantara Pool Access Suite: Bedding is 1 King Bed. Maximum room capacity is 3 Adults & Children. Anantara Ocean Suite: Bedding is 1 King Bed. Maximum room capacity is 3 Adults & Children. Anantara Seminyak Resort & Spa – Facilities DIINING The Paon: Begin your day with a lavish buffet breakfast, continue with a light lunch or afternoon tea. Then relax at this spacious beach style lounge, while sipping a refreshing cocktail, feeling the breezes off the Indian Ocean. Wild Orchid: Sink into the colourful silk cushions as you feast on traditional Thai cuisine. Enjoy cooking from Thailands diverse culinary regions combining fresh vegetables, traditional herbs and exotic spices, while tasting rare wines from various regions of the world. Open 6. 30am to 11. 00pm. Sunset on Seminyak: Enjoy some of the most inventive cocktails while lounging on plush daybeds and savouring the laid back island vibes. By evening, listen to the DJ mix beats to match the evocative sunsets and sample delights from the rich Asian tapestry of tapas, sushi and satay at the Satay Dining Bar. Discover new vintages in a tasting with the Wine Guru, who guides guests on a personalised journey through some of the worlds finest wines against the backdrop of the Seminyak coast. Dining by Design: Let the laid back spirit of Bali set the tone for an unforgettable dining experience designed exclusively for you. Dine with the sand between your toes or on the private dining platform. The possibilities are endless. FACILITIES 2 Infinity Pools Jacuzzi/spa Tennis court Gym/fitness centre Health spa centre Playground facilities Babysitting service Dry cleaning service Day Spa: Treat yourself to a Balinese massage, a full body experience of reflexology and aromatherapy or relax with a rich facial or body scrub using the local elixirs of the earth. Your journey connects you to the rich history and spirituality of Bali. ACTIVITIESA range of activities are organized by Ananatara Seminyak Bali in the gorgeous surrounds of the resort. Make your day laid back and relaxed or join in with some fun and adventure with the following activities. Charges apply for some activities. Balinese offering Beach Soccer Beachminton Kite flying Surfing Thai cookery class Windsurfing Yoga classes Bungee jumping Craft and design Elephant Golf Horse Riding River rafting Shopping Snorkelling and diving

Motorcycle is Economical Transportation

January 25th, 2010, Posted in Review

Motorcycle is a vehicle with two tires, which is have a kinetic energy that supported by an engine. It has two parallel tires which is designed particularly with high secure and considering the balance when the riders sit upon the seat. The control of the motorcycle it self is the handlebars, which is completed with buttons like electric starter, horn button, signal button, front lamp button, brake handle and so on. In front of the riders, there are monitor status lighted like Rpm monitor and speedometer, fuel meter, and a monitor which can informed the range that you had have reach. In the machine part, there are kick starter, sparking plug, smear oil tube and others part. That’s a simple explanation about motorcycle, right! In earlier, motorcycle is made for sober transportation only, but for now on, it is no longer like that. It has many functions during the technology development, and being needed the most by all society, from bottom up to top. Instead of using it for transportation, motorcycle is become sports medium, hobby, fashion, life style. Hence, there is many people make their own motorcycle community. For Indonesian people, especially for Jakarta community, using motorcycle is very popular. Not only the price is cheaper, but also the operational cost is a way cheaper than others transportation, but the most reason why motorcycle is very popular in Indonesia because it is great in traffic jams, one can easily maneuver between larger vehicles, and also is easy to park. Because of that, it is not surprised if numbers of motorcycle riders is increasing significantly. Maybe not only in Jakarta that motorcycle riders is increasing, in another country likes Malaysia, China, Thailand, Vietnam, and others, we can see that motorcycle is the most popular for personal transportation because it’s a simple and economical transportation. Cheap motorcycles are the most economical options for those who are looking for off-road and on-road rides. Touring bikes, cruisers, and sport bikes are the basic categories of motorbikes available in the market. Whether it is touring bikes, cruisers, or sport bikes, there are numerous ways to avail these motorcycles at a cheaper rate. The best option to purchase motorcycles at a cheaper rate is the Internet. Internet is jammed with numerous websites which provide a wider option in different models of motorcycles. There are at internet some of the online sites to avail motorcycles at a competitive rate. You can also buy motorcycles at a cheaper rate from wholesale dealers. Buying used motorcycles is also the best choice for getting motorcycles at a cheaper rate. One can easily find used motorcycles of different brands and models. There are many local dealers, who collect and refurbish used motorcycles. Purchasing of used motorcycles will have many downsides. Newspaper is the most common source to find cheap motorcycles, especially, the classified and the auction listing for cheap motorcycles. Apart from buying, you can also place your ads for cheap motorcycles of any brand or model depending on your need.

Bali Vs. Jogjakarta (indonesian) Silver Jewelry

January 25th, 2010, Posted in Review

Yesterday I found the website from Indonesia named Balidoll. com that sells the Silver Jewelry. (Unfortunately it used Bahasa and no English option). It’s Ok for me, I just want to watch their collection.
First I read that name is Balidoll. com, I think that collection have to come from Bali. When I watch their collection, then I found that there are many collection come from Jogjakarta (Jogjakarta). Why did I say that? Silver Jewelry from Bali and Jogja is very differing at its individuality. I will mention that right here.
Bali Silver Jewelry
Silver jewelry style from Bali is tending to thicker than others from Jogja, because it’s playing in correctness compile of the motif and form of the three dimension characters. Most of the Bali Silver Jewelry also forms by the solid silver. Let say the rings or pendants from Bali, We could see that there are made from solid frame silver which carved look like with the Bali ornaments style.
Jogjakarta Silver Jewelry
Silver Jewelry from Jogjakarta has a unique style, they playing with filigree and form of the silver yarn. It makes the Jogja silver Jewelry tend to attenuate than Bali ones. Jogja silver style made by jointing the yarn till form the framework. As the filigree style we will find the high art which really hand made by human being. The Jogja silver jewelry style cannot make with casting machine. It has to hand made. As the other hand made, then the Jogja silver jewelry not accurately equal from one to the others, although it had the same models.
After visit and looking at the website collections, I try to call the store owner Mr. Sutrisno Lamin, to confirming what I watch at his website. Mr. Sutrisno Lamin said that, He made the silver jewelry collections not limited to the Bali or Jogja style, but he called his collections by Indonesian style.
After all Mr. Lamin mention that he produce the silver by collecting of the traditional handicrafts worker group and outsource the production to them. He gives that group the silver to be made to the jewelry and then controlling the quality of the jewelry their made, that’s all. With that system he claims that many handicraft worker groups can get the better life by doing his working order. Sure, that was interesting to me.
One of other interesting ones is that he outsources his jewelry working order to the handicraft worker group at Kotagede town in Jogjakarta. So have I done wrong when I said that the Balidoll. com silver jewelry style is the Jogjakarta style? Let’s prove together.

Villa Insider’s Bali Villa Rental Tips

January 25th, 2010, Posted in Review

Originally published in Villa-Insider If you’ve never stayed in a villa in Bali, you might find it all a bit daunting the first time around. Don’t be discouraged, a little basic information is all you need to book with confidence. This article provides a list of insider tips for renting villa accommodations in Bali. Where are most rental villas in Bali? The most popular areas are: Seminyak, Ubud, Canggu, Jimbaran and Uluwatu. Seminyak and Canggu are located on the coast, northwest of Kuta. Ubud is located inland, in the center of the island. Jimbaran is near the airport. Uluwatu is the far southern tip of the island. Are villas in Bali staffed? Generally speaking, yes. Unlike a lot of other destinations, the tradition in Bali is for fully serviced villas. Many properties have not only maids, but also cooks and a manager. The top end properties will have a chef, a dedicated villa manager, butlers and a often a driver. Will I be charged tax and service fees? It depends on the management company. Some properties are priced “all-in,” others are “plus plus” — like you would expect from a hotel property. How will food and beverages be charged? Historically, most Bali villas charged you only for your groceries. Staff would ask you what you want to eat, then they would collect money from you to do the shopping. They would bring back the groceries, a receipt, and your change (if any!). Things are changing and now it is not uncommon to see villas adding a service charge. Some of the top end properties are even offering a la carte menus, like a hotel. Do I need to tip the staff? You should. It is up to you, but it is recommended. The amount should reflect the quality of service, but remember that salaries in Bali are quite low. Tips – even modest ones – can be big incentives. How can I find the best values in villa rental? Book direct where possible as you can negotiate more with the manager / management company / owner. Agents are often restricted in what they can offer in the way of discounts. Also, watch for last minute specials. Some villas offer deep discounts for last minute bookings. What’s better: A stand-alone villa property or a villa hotel? We like stand alone villas, due to the privacy and the exclusiveness. That said, villa hotels often offer more choice, a better range of accommodations and more dining options. If you don’t mind the loss of privacy, then a villa hotel may be a good bet for you. What’s the difference between a villa hotel and a villa resort? None. It’s just a question of names. View more in Villa-Insider