The JAVA Trail

If memory serves me this picture was taken in Bali rather than Java. We were planning a trip that would allow us to not only do Bali but steal a couple of days in Jogya/Solo and Surabaya.

This was one of the better trips to Bali - we managed to hotel hop which allowed us to settle down finally to a non-touristy hotel where the atmosphere was just right for us.

This is probably in 2005 - after the Bali bombings which saw a dramatic drop in visitor numbers. I must admit that some shops being managed by muslim indonesians were no longer there and have moved out of Kuta but everything else was pretty status quo. Art Collectors expecting a bargain was also disappointed as most artefacts started appearing in Jakarta and Singapore so stay put if you're there....things will eventually come your way!

For those who knows Bali, they can be rest assured that there is nothing to worry about since Kuta is more 'romantic' to first time visitors and revellers of "Pattaya-like' action while the best spots are still unknown to them.

Historically though, most balinese were from the mainland of Indonesia. With the increase of converts to Islam, hinduism was slowly being isolated and believers + royals began moving towards the Island. Left behind are beautiful structures which reflected the once thriving hindu culture and the traditions of old.

The entrance to one of the temples above in Prambanan (Solo) is quite spectacular. This is one of the must sites to visit. It was built prior to Angkor (13th-14th) century and therefore as timelines go is rather momentus within the asia pacific context out of India itself.

Be forewarned though - there's the local line and the tourist line to get in. It is best that you arrange a guide from the hotel - bargaining is key and a little homework will get you to what you want to see within a day. I think the entrance fee is still in US dollars so be prepared. Locals get in pretty cheap...while in Japan its the other way around!!

You can spend quite a while here. The traditional lava rock structures are relentless in their attention to detail. There is also a very eering sense of serenity and there will be some local worshippers coming in and out - decked in vibrant colours.

We stayed there for about 1 hour the most as were eager to get to Borobudur which is a 9th Century structure made famous by 'VISIT Indonesia' ads. There is also the fact that we wanted to be there while tourists were still out for lunch.

I've dropped a couple of pictures here. If you are an ardent photographer being there early in the morning to catch the mist and just before sunset will give you sensational shots but we were on a deadline and well this was taken on a 4 mega pixel camera...we've upgraded since then to an 8 mega pixel but someday with a 10 mega pixel SLR, I bet you can get better shots especially with a wide angle lens. Hint! Hint...partner cued for a reply??

I thought I'd drop one shot of Borobudur which sums it all. Yes, the structure is not huge like Angkor but it is old and strangely more real -meaning you can actually get personal with the site. It is easy to take in and has less ground to cover - not as "roccocoish" as the Bayon but intricate enough to call attention to itself.

Do enjoy your travel through Java - don't forget that a train trip from Solo to Surabaya is also worth your while especially if taken during the day. You'll not only be able to see the lush countryside...this is more spectacular than the ones in Thailand or Malaysia, there is also the volcanic mountains which sits furiously as a backdrop. Once in Surabaya, try staying at the Hotel Majapahit. This was built by members of the Sarkies Brothers i.e. The E&O in Penang, The Strand in Yangon and the Raffles in Singapore. And yes, they have a spa if you feel like indulging and the rooms are fairly generous. Bon Voyage!