Visit Java, Indonesia
There is so much on offer in Java, including white-sand beaches, breathtaking ancient religious monuments, bull racing and huge volcanic peaks.
Java is a study in contrasts: traditional and modern; rich and poor; spiritual and worldly stand side by side on this bustling island that is home to over 130 million people.
In fact almost two thirds of Indonesia's population live here on an island that covers just 7% of the country's total land mass. No wonder that the traffic jams can be so solid that, for many, they've become home.
Many cities have the look of a modern metropolis but still have patches of sugar cane, water is sold by the can and most of the hotels have experienced some sort of scandal or revolution, or a visit from Charlie Chaplin or Joseph Conrad.
The temples and volcanos are some of the most spectacular you will see and away from the cities the horizon is always pimpled with mountains and you are never far from the rice, which glows like green fire.
Places within Java
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- High in the mountains, this vibrant town is used as a weekend getaway for the city folk of Jakarta. Nearby is the Tangkuban Prahu volcano crater, surrounded by bubbling geysers and hot springs.
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- Close to Yogyakarta is the vast pyramidal structure of Borobudur, one of Southeast Asia’s greatest religious relics. Detailed galleries and terraces tell tales of ancient gods and immortalising long-resolved battles.
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- the main draw to Ijen National Park is the stunning Kawah Ijen, a beautiful crater lake with glistening turquoise waters. The bright yellow sulphur deposits create a barren but beautiful landscape.
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- The country’s capital is the usual entry point for your travels in Java and indeed most of Indonesia. There some good museums and other points of interest, shops, nightlife and accommodation options.
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- The smoking Gunung Bromo, best viewed at sunrise, has to be one of the most breathtaking views one will ever see. The nearby town of Malang has a real Dutch flavour and is a great place to wander around.
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- Krakatau is famous for the devastating eruption on August 27th 1883 which shook the world. You can visit the islands around the original volcano and see the new Krakatau forming, called Anak Krakatau, or 'Child of Krakatau'.
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- To the northeast of Yogyakarta is the huge Hindu temple complex of Prambanan - one of the most outstanding examples of Hindu art in the world. Built in the 9th century, it was reconstructed in the 1930s.
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- Surabaya is the second largest city in Indonesia. The old town is the highlight, with Chinese temples, a lively Arab Quarter, an ancient mosque and a tobacco museum all interesting ways to occupy your time here.
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- The royal city of Yogyakarta is one of Asia’s treasures. Old houses, museums and handicraft shops dot the city with woodcarvings, paintings and silverwork amongst the crafts on offer.
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