BALINALE: The Ultimate Sense of Asia’s Film Industry

10/11/2014 Shem MD Leave a comment

Bali is a great place to enjoy the vacation. Bali offers many beautiful beaches and temple. Bali also offers great variety of water sports. For you who like adventure, Bali is a perfect place to visit. It is not only the beauty of the land offered in Bali. Bali is also famous for its BALINALE, the abbreviation of Bali International Film Festival. You can have a vacation while seeing the great film in this event.

The film festival event becomes another tourism attraction in the Land of God. It is a good way to promote the tourisms of Bali to the world. Bali has become the setting of a Hollywood movie that involves famous stars like Julia Roberts, and BINALE is another way to attract the attention of world’s class filmmakers.

Balinale: History and Concept

This annual event is held at the Beachwalk Mall, Kuta Beach, Bali from 12th to 18th October 2014. It was first held in 2007 by Bali Taksu Indonesia Foundation to appreciate the film workers. The films given award are from all genres: fiction, documentary, feature, and others. This year’s event focuses on “Women in Film” to give appreciation to women who contribute much in filmmaking process, including filmmakers, writers, producers, directors, and actors.

This event is not only representing film, but also representing some activities, such as Free Open Air Cinema, Daily Film Screenings, Demonstrations, Film Industry Forums, Opening Night Premiere, Awards Presentation, Children’s Charity Program and a series of Educational Workshops dedicated to improve the skills of young independent Indonesian filmmakers. The event also included seminars or workshop; so new comers in filming industry can ask for some advice from the seniors.

Participants are not only from Indonesia, but also from Oscar, BAFTA, and Cannes award winning filmmakers. It will help BALINALE to achieve its mission for global creativity. This is evident from the fact that the event has been affiliated with some awarding events like Motion Picture Association. Besides going to this event, you can also taste the delicious food of Bali. There are many choices of food, which you can have in Bali.

The 2014 Balinale Event and Indonesia’s Film Industry

The 2014 event of BALINALE will involve 59 films, which come from 18 countries from around the world. However, most of them are Asian films, since the event involved 23 Asian countries, 2 international movies and 3 world premieres. This shows a significant increase in the number of films, which are nominated for awards. Last year, the film-awarding event involved only 37 films. In the event, you will be able to watch new release movies.

The best Indonesian movies will also take part in the film festivals. They include 12 Menit: Kemenangan Untuk Selamanya, Bajaj Bajuri The Movie, and Slank Nggak Ada Matinya. More interestingly, some Indonesian films will also be listed in the Free Open Air Cinema. They include Onomastika, Garuda Superhero, Volcanic Rock Breakers of Batur, and Perjalanan. The board of jury has carefully selected the best movies throughout Asia and related movies based on the pre-specified standards without discriminating the origin of the movie.

The annual event will be a place to see the bets movies from various categories, like documentary film, short films, or event full movie. In addition, special review screening will be offered to introduce new movies for the public.

Cultural and Historical Heritage, Editor's Picks, Festivals, Indonesia

Pekalongan Batik Week for the Real Feel of Indonesia

10/09/2014 Shem MD Leave a comment

Batik is very famous around the world. Since it is stated as a cultural heritage from Indonesia, batik has been promoted in many events. Many clothing items and fashion accessories now are made from batik, such as clothes, trousers, skirt, dress, some crafts, and bag. Batik provides you with ethnical look of Indonesia. Now, Batik is not only a fabric pattern worn by the Javanese royal families. Instead, it has been a national intangible asset. Various batik motives are now available in many areas in Indonesia, from Java to Bali, Sumatra, and even Borneo Island.

Pekalongan Batik Week

If you are a batik lover, you can go to Pekalongan Batik Week, in which batik is displayed in an outstanding way. The objective of this event is to preserve Indonesia’s precious art of batik. Located in Pekalongan City, Central Java, the event is held at Jetayu Cultural Area and displaying various batik motives from different areas in Indonesia. This event was started on August 8th and it will finish on October 12th 2014.

The activities held in Pekalongan Batik Week included Indonesia Culinary Festival, Welcome Dinner, Nusantara Archipelago Batik Exhibition, Pekalongan Batik Carnival, Batik’s Motifs for Public Officials’ Uniforms Competition, Batik Lanterns Festival, Fashion Show, Batik on The Street Theatrical Performance, Pekalongan Great Sale, Art and Cultural Performances, National Batik Gathering, Exhibition Booths competition, and more.

You will see for about 140 booths at Jatayu Sport Center. Provincial government, cities and regencies, state owned enterprises and various private sectors participate in this event. It is a good event to visit for those who want to know the wealth of batik crafting in Indonesia or for those who are looking for the best and limited batik motives. If you like to have a business or want to run a garment store with Batik clothing and accessory items, this event can be a start to seek for a business partner.

Pekalongan Batik Week is not only about the exhibition of batik, but also culinary event. You will find delicious food the regencies around Central Java. The taste of Java will blow you away. You will taste sweet, spicy, and crunchy foods here.

How is Batik Pekalongan Different?

Pekalongan has been known as the centre of Batik. Batik pekalongan is famous for Batik Pesisir or Coastal Batik motif. It is different from Royal Batik of Solo and Yogyakarta. The Coastal Batik is mostly dominated by brown, yellow, black, and blue colors. This batik has a great chance to be explored more because it has unique features. so, what make Batik Pekalongan different? Batik Pekalongan got the influence of China and Netherland in colonial times. Even though it is more like batik Yogya or Solo batik, batik Pekalongan has more combination and variation of colors. Batik making skill has been an integral part of the community economic life in this regency.

Many people from other cities buy batik here to be sold again. You will find many accessories that go well with batik here. The shape is so unique so you can buy it as a gift to your family. Visiting a country means learning the culture. You will find many beautiful traditions in Pekalongan. Pekalongan Batik Week will give you experience that you will never forget. Get the feel of batik by going to this event in Indonesia. Your stay will be welcomed by many friendly people from Indonesia.

Editor's Picks, Indonesia, Theme and Amusement Park

Themed Park in Indonesia To Spend Your Long Weekend Holiday

09/25/2014 Shem MD 2 Comments

Holiday is something to wait for many people in Indonesia. Daily routine creates boredom of mind which needs to be refreshed. By being a working mom or working dad, there will be less family time. So, holiday is the way reunite the family and make the relation closer. When it comes to holiday, people will flood the city with cars, motorcycles and other vehicles to go to places they want. Even a traffic jam does not stop people to go to their destination. It is worth to do because long holiday does not come up often. Usually, people in Indonesia get long weekend holiday on Ied Mubarak, Christmas, and school holiday. It is always fun to have a vacation.

There are many tourism spots that you can find in Indonesia. There are beach, mountain, lake, themed park, waterfall, cave, and many more. One spot which is often visited by families is themed park. It gives one stop entertainment fun. With all the facilities included, people can have a pleasure time with their family. Besides, kids will love it so much with the theme given.

There are some famous themed park that you can visit in Indonesia for your upcoming holiday. They are:

1.Jungleland Bogor

It is said to be the biggest themed park in Indonesia. Located in Sentul City, Bogor, it covers an area of 35 ha. You can find 31 rides here for any age with their uniqueness. The location is strategic with vast parking area. It can take in 1000 cars, 3000 motorcycles, and 300 buses.
There is also a package for students, so they can get discount. For individual or group, there will be different price. So, you had better go there in group to get discount. But going individually is fine too since the price is reasonable.You can enjoy a great adventure here.

2.Dreamland Ancol

It is an amusement park located in capital city of Indonesia, Jakarta. It is a great amusement park for many people in Indonesia. You can see Sea World, Atlantis Water Adventure and Marina Beach and Fantasy World. So, for you who like to play in the water, this is the perfect place. Not only that, you can buy beautiful souveneers here.
There is Art Market inside Ancol which sells paintings, handicraft, key chains and other souveneer products. You can find something antique here. Moreover, you can see the artists in their work. You can enjoy an artist who does painting, wood-carvers who makes the sculpture, and many more. For you who like a play, you can enjoy theater performance in a local dialect. Dreamland Ancol is open from Monday to Saturday, from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m.and Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

3.Bandung Trans Studio

Bandung Trans Studio is the biggest indoor themed park in Indonesia. It is located in Bandung, West Java and covers 4ha area. It has 20 exciting rides which are divided into three different zones: Studio Central Zone, The Lost City Zone, and Magic Corner Zone. Every zone has its own uniqueness. In the center of the place, you can see costume parade of characters in Hollywood. It is always fun to see.
One place that you should not miss when visiting Bandung Trans Studio is “Dunia Lain” or another world. It will give thrilling experience with many ghosts coming from the dark along the way.

There are still many more places that you can visit in Indonesia. While themed park is family best choice, you can have it for your long holiday. Choose one suits to you and your family!

Editor's Picks, Food, Indonesia, Street Food Guide

Special Food in Bandung To Blow Your You Away

09/18/2014 Shem MD 2 Comments

Bandung City in West Java, Indonesia is a great destination for tourists to visit. The city is known as flower city because of its many flowers park alongside the road of the city. People can enjoy fresh air as well as the historical view of the city. Bandung is also known for its distro clothing. There are many shops selling fine clothing, mostly for young people. You can also buy shoes, belt, and more accessories here.

One thing you should not forget about Bandung is its unique food. Make sure you taste it when you visit Bandung because you will not find any food, the same as here.

Food in Bandung has been known for years and you can find it easily along the way. Some special food that you can find in Bandung is:

1.Spicy Fried Meatball
People in Bandung call it as Basreng, stands for Bakso Goreng, which means fried meatball. This is served spicy. Unlike usual meatball which has broth, this food is served alone with spice. The seller will slice the meatball and then deep fried it. Then the spice seasoning is added together. The crunchy meatball with delicious seasoning will blow you away.

2.Chocolate banana
It is a combination of chocolate and banana wrapped in a spring roll paper. Then it is fried. The combination of banana and melting chocolate will make you want it more.

3.Fried Tofu
This in not the usual fried tofu. It is cut dice, mixed with seasoned flour then fried. It is best served hot. Many young people in Bandung like it.

4.Colenak
Colenak stands for di Cocol Enak which means delicious to thrust
This food is made of roasted tape (food from cassava) with red sauce made of grated coconut and palm sugar. This food is sweet and soft.

5.Seblak Basah
It is from sago flour which is made into crackers. Then it is fried again with seasoning and little water. The taste is delicious and chrunchy.

6.Cimol
Cimol is like a meatball but it is made from strach flour and seasoning then it is fried. On top of it is put the spicy powder. It is so crunchy and yummy and better served hot.

7.Siomay
Siomay is a kind of food made by steam it. It is famous not only in Bandung but also in many places in Indonesia. Some are even produced mass and exported to another country.

8.Tahu Lembang
It is a tofu made of cow milk. It is fried with the flour and the taste is delicious, soft inside and crunchy outside.

9.Cilok
Cilok is like a meatball, made of scratch flour. Usually it is filled with egg or meat. After boil it, you can eat it with dipping it in a tomato sauce. For this food, you can find it not only in Bandung, but als in many places in Indonesia. School boys and girls love it so much.

Eating food in Bandung is always fun. The special food of the city accompanied by the fresh air and the humble of the people make eating more fun.

Asia, Cultural and Historical Heritage, Destinations

Melaka : The World Heritage Site to be Your Holiday Destination

09/12/2014 Shem MD Leave a comment

Melaka is a state in Malaysia. It is well-known for its historic sites. The capital of this state is Melaka City. The city center, known for its historical, has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since July 7th 2008. This state represents one Malaysia as the culture vary. It is also known as the patriotic symbol of Malay since many Malays born here. Melaka was founded by Iskandar Shah, the last king of Singapura. He found Melaka as a good port. This state is led by a Governor (Yang di-Pertua Negeri).

Melaka covers an area of 1,664 km2 and it is divided into three districts: Central Melaka, Alor Gajah, and Jasin. The population of Melaka in 2010 is 66.1% Muslim, , 5.7% Hindu, 24.2% Buddhist , 3.0% Christian, 0.2% Taoist, 0.6% follower of other religions, and 0.2% non-religious. As the influence of colonialism era of Dutch and the descendants of Portugese, there are many historical places showing the culture of Portugese. They are Fort of Famosa, St. Peter’s Church, St. Paul Church, and Christ Church. It is a great place to have a holiday.

When you decide to visit Melaka, do not forget to see the historical places, as well as the delicious food offered. They are:

Fort of Famosa
Fort of Famosa is a fort which was built in 1511 by the Portuguese. Famosa means famous in Portuguese. This fort has been controlled by Portugal in1511-1641, Netherlands in 1641-1795, and Britain in 1795-1807. During Dutch invasion, this fort had much damage. This fort is the oldest building in Asia. The small gate named Porta de Santiago is the only part remaining. For you who like to have a historical experience, going to this fort is a great choice.

Jonker’s Walk Night Market
Hunting food is always fun at night. The cold air and the beautiful view of the lights will make it more romantic. You can enjoy food in Jonker’s Walk Night Market in Melaka. The food will satisfy your tounge with its finest meal.

Beside the food, you can also enjoy attraction shown. When you see a kungfu movie with throwing knives and eating fire scene, you can see it also here. The slogan is “Malaysia Boleh” which means Malaysia can do, you can get all the exciting things.

Morten Village
Another attraction given in Melaka is Morten Village. It is located in the middle of historic city. People call it “a living museum” with its many historical sites which is still used by the people. It has 85 homes and 52 Melaka traditional dwellings. It is always fun to visit Morten Village with the unique houses.

Spicy Food
Melaka is famous for its spicy food. You can try to have Chicken Spicy Food, Claypot Spicy Food, and many more. The uniqueness of the food here is the red sauce which is so spice. The food is eaten together with rice, staple food of Asian. For the side dish, you can have anything you want, from seafood, eggs, or meat. Usually it is put in the spicy sauce.

For you who do not like spicy food, you can have another food for your meal. But, one in a time, tasting this food is fine. You will not regret tasting the delicious food offered here. The foodstalls and restaurants are easy to reach along the way in Melaka. Malaka is waiting for you. So, are you ready to go there?

Destinations, Europe, Travel Tips

Island of Krk – Discover the Hidden Paradise

09/09/2014 Romeo Demes Leave a comment

Golden Island, as it was called since ancient times, Krk represents one of the largest island on the Adriatic Coast and the one with the most developed economy. Since 1980 the island is linked to mainland via a sustainable bridge. Island’s landscape is highly diverse – the north is almost a pitch of desert due to its strong winds, while the southern part abounds in green vegetation and creeks. Relief favors the cultivation of grapes as well as the creation of the famous “Vrbnicka Zlahtina” wine, which is exported to several regions in the country.

Tourist facilities include modern resorts such as huge Omisalj, Njivice and Malinska on the northwest coast and historic towns which preserve plenty of medieval features on the east coast, such as Krk and Baska. If you cannot travel to the island during summer, then you should know that spring and autumn are also ideal seasons – if the weather is on your side you can do plenty of sea swimming in June, September and October. On the island there are several marked trails that will take you through forests as well as seashore paths. It is also worth exploring the underwater world as there are several diving-licensed clubs in Krk, Croatia.

The main administrative center is the city of Krk Island, a city founded before the Romans have settled on the island. Main attractions of the city include the Cathedral of the Assumption in XIII-XVI, Romanesque church of Sv Kvirin (XII century), a fortified castle and a Franciscan monastery. If you are staying longer than one day you can find various accommodation options that will suit your needs. In case you are looking for a longer stay or even thinking about living on this beautiful Island, Krk has some real estate agencies which can help you out.

Baska

Baska is the best resort on the island of Krk, the largest island in Adriatic. Its position assures continued prosperity so Baska is
among the top 10 destinations in the Adriatic. The resort is located inside a smooth valley, in a bay surrounded by olive trees and vineyards. In the background anyone can observe the Velebit mountain, which is ideal for climbing, hiking and mountaineering. Beach is presumed to be only 2 km away from the city, being just one of the 30 beautiful Adriatic beaches which are available to visitors and locals.

Vel a Plaza, the main beach, is located inside the city center and is surrounded by bars, restaurants, cafes and hotels. Natural beach made of pebble is ideal for children and those who cannot swim. One can rent pedal boats, umbrellas and sunbeds.

In Baska there are several museums, cultural and sports facilities. They originate from one of the oldest and most impressive cultures in Europe. Baska was originally a Romanian place, being located on the area where it is found today. Much of the original town was destroyed by Venetians. In the early sixteenth century the new town Baska developed on the site, greeting visitors with plenty of attractions. There are a few houses from the sixteenth century in there which are still in very good condition and nowadays are used as shops. Not far from the town lies the church of Sv Lucija, where the famous inscription was discovered.

Malinska

Malinska is a tourist resort located on the western side of the island. Its name was derived from “Mlin” which means windmill. Beach resort consists mostly of gravel. For entertainment there are available various nightclubs, including the popular Crossroad. Promenade Rajska Cesta expands on a distance of several miles and enables visitors to rejoice from beautiful feet walks or bike trips.

KRK Island also offers few interesting places for those interested in scuba diving, such as:

Peltasis (1968)
Punta Silo – for beginners but also for experienced divers (3-35 m)
St. Marak – 18-22 m – includes fishes and octopus.
Vrbnik cave – the cave entrance lies at 15 m depth
Tenki reef – maximum depth is of 40 m
Kamenjak – two rocks found at a distance of 25 m; diving is possible up to 35 m deep.
Glavina – a beautiful location found at 25 m depth

Most certainly, Krk island in Croatia is a beautiful place worth exploring. Furthermore, it is perfectly suitable for those who want to escape city’s conglomeration and move in a tranquil place where plenty of entertainment and relaxation options are available.

Asia, Editor's Picks, Theme and Amusement Park

Singapore’s sensational Sentosa

09/09/2014 Len Rutledge 1 Comment

Words: Len Rutledge Pictures: Phensri Rutledge

Sentosa is a very popular island just south of the main Singapore island. It is visited by some five million people a year. It was first developed about 40 years ago but was often a disappointment to visitors. Now it is coming into its own and I suggest that it is a ‘must-visit’ place to see for all Singapore visitors. There are now sufficient offerings of interest to adults and children to keep everyone amused for a day or two.

Sentosa Express

There are basically four ways to reach Sentosa Island, the cable car from Mount Faber or Harbourside, the Sentosa Express light rail from VivoCity, the footbridge from near VivoCity, or a taxi from anywhere within Singapore.

The Sentosa Express light rail station is on the 3rd floor of the VivoCity shopping mall beside the large food court. You need to buy a ticket which currently costs S$4 round trip. The train operates every 5-8 minutes from 7 a.m. to 11:45 p.m. daily. Once on the island you can walk to many of the attractions but there are also three bus routes and one beach tram route to help you reach some of the more distant attractions.

Sentosa cable car

The cable car is the most exciting way to reach Sentosa. It begins at The Jewel Box on Mount Faber which houses a retail shop, the cable car station and five different restaurants and bars. This was constructed with the cable car in 1974. There is also a cable car station in HarbourFront Tower 2 near VivoCity. The current cable car cost is $26 (Adult) and $15 (Child) and while this seems high there is no disputing the fabulous view you get on the ride across to the island.

Beaches

Beach Station is the end of the Sentosa Express light rail system and is a transfer hub for the bus and beach tram services. The beach stretches both east and west from here and you can walk in either direction.

Tanjong Beach and Palawan Beach are to the east. Tanjong Beach is popular for its tranquillity and solitude. The sand is clear, the water at times less so. The Tanjong Beach Club offers seafood from around the globe, tropical fruit cocktails, beach volleyball, a pool and entertainment at night.

Family-friendly Palawan Beach has good sand and interesting shops and eateries. There are wading pools and water fountains for kids to cool off in, an aviary and the Animal & Bird Encounters show. A suspension bridge links to the Southernmost Point of Continental Asia, a small islet with a viewing deck at the top of the towers which are located there.

Long Siloso Beach stretches to the west of Beach Station. This is claimed to be Singapore’s hippest beach, and on weekends it is alive with people day and night. There are bars, several shopping options, and bistros and restaurants.

This is also where you can access the 450 metre Zip-line which travels 75 metres above ground level at speeds of up to 60 km/h, across the jungle, the beach, and the sea.

Merlion Plaza

Merlion Plaza has the Imbiah Sentosa Express station and the centre-point here is a 37-metre tall replica of the Merlion complete with viewing galleries and a souvenir shop. An admission fee applies. This forms a north-south axis through the island. The northern end leads to the Festive Terrace while in the south a winding walkway leads to the beach.

Escalators connect to the Imbiah Lookout area where there are several food outlets including Starbucks, The Arches, and Tastes of Singapore.

Images of Singapore

I think Images of Singapore is one of the better attractions in this area. It is an historical museum with exhibits showing the history of Singapore using multi-media displays, multi-screen theatre presentations and wax models. There are numerous exhibitions covering Malay rule, the British period, the Japanese occupation, and early independence under Singapore’s first Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew.

Madame Tussauds Singapore will open late 2014 and will include a boat ride known as ‘The Spirit of Singapore’, featuring iconic local landmarks. The ride will connect the new wax museum to the existing ‘Images of Singapore’ attraction in the same building.

Resorts World Singapore

Resorts World Sentosa has added a number of further attractions to the island. Marine Life Park is claimed to be the world’s largest oceanarium. It consists of several major attractions: S.E.A. Aquarium, the innovative Maritime Experiential Museum where you can experience Singapore’s past as a trading port, Dolphin Island, and Adventure Cove Waterpark.

Then there is the Trick Eye Museum which refers to an art technique that turns two-dimensional paintings into three-dimensional images through the use of optical illusions.

There are two free shows that you should see. Lake of Dreams is a spectacular choreographed display of fire, water and light with a musical score. It is presented every night at 9.30 p.m. at Festive Walk. Crane Dance is produced each night at 9.00 p.m. at the Waterfront.

Universal Studios Singapore

This has become sensational Sentosa biggest attraction. There are seven zones around a lagoon all with roller coasters or other movie-themed attractions. You can purchase your day passes online and save time queuing when you arrive at the park. A one day pass costs S$74 for adults and S$54 for children.

On weekends the park can get quite crowded so arriving early is a smart move. Normal operating hours are 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. but they do vary throughout the year.

Other attractions

There is much more to Sentosa. Some of the other attractions are Underwater World and Dolphin Lagoon, Fort Siloso, Wavehouse Sentosa, The Tiger Sky Tower, The Butterfly Park and Insect Kingdom, Sentosa Nature Discovery and Nature Walk, Sentosa 4D Adventureland, Skyline Luge Sentosa, and iFly.

Wings of Time features dancing water fountains, enhanced pyrotechnic effects, and a live cast. You view the performance from a large open-air viewing gallery. The 25-minute show runs twice nightly every evening at a cost of S$18.

Len Rutledge is the author of Experience Singapore, an ebook available from Amazon at http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00NBJD2XY

Asia, Destinations, Editor's Picks, Theme and Amusement Park

Wizarding World of Harry Potter in USS Osaka Japan

09/04/2014 Shem MD Leave a comment

Many and many people being a fan of J.K Rowling for her adventure series of Harry Potter. The great imagination of her has lived up the characters with all the environment on it. Having all the books in a movie, people adore the work and feel Harry Potter as alive. They want to be in an adventure in a movie. Since, Universal Studio created a place, alike to the movie, so that many people will feel the adventure. One out of four Universal Studios was built in Osaka Japan.

What is it look like?
Opened on June 18th 2010, the studio offers dark ride in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. It is a themed park taking the environments from J.K. Rowling’s book, Harry Potter. It gives the magical exciting feeling for people to see it. Hogwart castle, the famous building in Harry Potter was built here.

Feeling for living in Hogwart castle will not complete without riding a scenic dark ride. It uses KUKA robocoaster technology. Riding it will take you to flight around Hogwart castle. It will take you spin around and turn to see Quidditch match, Dementors, and Whomping Willow. Do not be afraid of the safety since it is completely safe.

To enter it, you have to queue first and then enter the back door. As in the movie, Hogwart castle is full of fun magical items. You can see it here, like Mirror of Erised, sorting hat and talking portraits. You can also see classes like you see in the movie. For instance, the Defence Against the Dark Arts classroom, the Griffindor room, and Ravenclaw room. You can also see Dumbledore’s office and some characters in Harry Potter showing tricks.

After seeing the rooms and the classrooms, you can go on to the ride.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=juG18_VahLc

Ride in Hogwart Castle

You will be welcomed by Hermione Granger who asks you to say “Observatory”. It is supposed to transport you into your desire location. The ride will take you to Floo Network, Astronomy Tower, and then go to Observatory. Then the ride will take you up to see Quidditch match. Hagrid will appear as you travel under the bridge, asking whether you see the dragon. You will find the thrilling adventure when the dragon pursuits you and when you get down, as if falling out in the bridge floor, the dragon will breathe fire to you. Of course, it is a false fire.

The ride does not stop here. It will take you to Forbidden Forest. Then it goes to the Quidditch pitch. As the rides goes, the thrilling music will come up accompanying the thrilling adventure. When the Dementors come, the ride will take you to Chamber of Secrets through a hole. Dementors will be gone by the spell of “Patronus” from Harry Potter and you can go back to your place.

Are You interested?
For its all excitment, it can be your choice to spend your holiday. Besides, the weather and food in Osaka is great. If you are a fan of Harry Potter, this will be an unforgetable experience for you. For its all excitment, it is a regret to miss. Besides, the weather and food in Osaka is great. But before entering The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, you need to choose the seat as the requirement is minimum 120 cm tall. For you who have large size of body, do not need to worry because there is a modified seat for larger size. So, are you ready entering the world of magic in Osaka Japan?

Destinations, Europe, Luxury Travel

“Allure of The Seas” : The Enchanted Biggest Cruise Ship

08/31/2014 Shem MD 2 Comments

People in the past might find Titanic as the biggest ship at the old time. Beside of the big size and all of its lux, this ship is well-known for its love story in a movie. People still remember it until today. In 2010, it came a new cruise ship, “Allure of the seas”, stating the biggest cruise ship which was noted as the best overall indivudual cruise ship in 2013.

“Allure of the seas”, as its name represents the enchanting of the ship. It is a ship owned and operated by Royal Caribbean. As it is the biggest cruise ship, the width is almost 4 footbal fields. The ship can carry up to 6,296 passangers and 2,384 cruiseships. There are 2700 rooms in this ship which is the same as 775 rooms in Buckingham Palace. It has 16 passenger decks and it can go to the speed 22.6 knots (41.9km/h; 26.0 mph). It weighs 225,300 tons, or the same with 9,000 tanks.

This cruise ship is said to be the most innovative cruise ship in the world. This comes for a lot of entertainment and facilities offered by her. You will find high class service in its finest quality. To enjoy music, you can have Tony Award-winnning Broadway musical Chicago. This music will lead you to your finest mood and mind. You will forget seeing your watch by enjoying the performance. For you who are starbucks lover, you do not have to worry. “Allure of the seas” is the first cruise ship having Starbucks in. So, daily coffee is settled.

If you bring kids with you in “allure of the seas”, you can take them to enjoy DreamWorks Experience by watching Kungfu Panda, Shrek, etc in 3D movies.

As it comes to dine, there are 25 different choices for you to have. You can choose any meal you want. If you want them all, you can have it by tasting in a small portion one by one. Still, you will be full. The food is vary from Mexican, Brazilian, and Royal Caribbean.

For you who like to be in the water, you can swim or playing in a FlowRider surf simulator. Feel the waves and the adventure. Your kids will love it. But, you need to guard them when you take them in.

The fun does not stop there. After playing with the waves, you can see the aerial acrobats in the Aqua Theater. It must lighten up your day.

Anyway, will you get bored on this luxurious cruise ship? Well, it might happen. But, do not worry! You can refresh your mind by going to the finest restaurant in it. Or maybe you can have a walk and stop at Candy shop.

For you who like to view and print your bill, just go to one spot named guest kiosks. You can also check your schedule and reservations here.

Giving the feeling of comfort with all the entertainment and service given, it is not wrong to call it the best cruise ship to spend your time in a vacation. It can be a choice for you who want to have a family vacation.

Destinations, Europe, Travel Tips

Adriatic Paradise – The Coast Which Has It All

08/24/2014 Romeo Demes Leave a comment

Have you ever visited a place so magical and other worldly that it robbed you of your breath every time you rounded a bend and took in a new sight? No, I am not talking of a fairy tale wonderland but the irrepressibly beautiful Mediterranean country of Croatia with its long and undulating Adriatic Sea coastline speckled by a thousand islands of all shapes and sizes. If there ever was a sailing paradise anywhere on the world, then this coast wins that designation hands down.

What Makes Croatia’s Adriatic Coast so Special for Sailing?

There is no one reason why sailing off the coast of Croatia comes at the very top of the list of many adventure and thrill seekers. It has the sights, the history, clear blue waters and its central location in Europe makes travel easy and convenient for travelers from all around the world. In short, the following is a running summary of the major reasons why sailing around this enchanting coast should be at the top of your holiday plans.

1. Dalmatian Island Hopping

If Croatia had nothing else to offer the discerning visitor other than its embarrassingly rich collection of islands, it would still command worldwide respect as one of top travel destinations on the globe. Sailing from one end of what is more popularly known as the Dalmatian coastline to the other you will be treated to an unbelievable cornucopia of islands, some of them large and densely populated, others teeming with untamed verdant vegetation and yet others dry and rocky, bereft of all forms of life. The one common denominator is that they are all beautiful to behold with the surrounding azure waters making them stand out in their majesty.

The most popular of Croatia’s islands are Brac, Korcula, Hvar, Mljet and Vis. Each of them has its own unique flavors which draw visitors by the droves every year. Sailing from one to the other, popularly known as Dalmatian Island Hopping, is an enduring passion for adventurers who never tire of exploring the region year after year. Almost every one of these islands is ringed by beautiful sandy or pebble beaches. While the major islands are interlinked by a regular ferry service, the bet way to explore the region is aboard a chartered boat. You can charter your own boat from the myriad boat charter agencies in Croatia’s cities such as Dubrovnik or Split.

2. Tour Croatia’s Magical Cities

The historical and cultural heritage of Croatia is quite unprecedented in terms of scale and variety too. Indeed, Croatia has more UNESCO protected cultural heritage sites than such established and ancient European nations as Germany, Italy or France. The most significant of these are walled cities pristinely preserved since their heyday back in the middle ages. If you want a trip back to antiquity and travel back wholly amazed, just book the next flight to Croatia and you are in for one hell of a ride.

3. Savor the Tastiest Mediterranean Fare fresh From the Sea and Vineyard

Croatia has an enduring seafood culinary culture as intriguing as the best of Greek Islands or the Mediterranean coast of Italy. The best of seafood dishes are tempered with even more delightful influences from Croatia’s interior offering everything from game meat, vegetables and dairy products as well.

If you are passionate about sailing and adventure in general, you will love the great experience of touring Croatia, a country located conveniently at the meeting points of Central Europe, Southern Europe and the Mediterranean region. With its unequaled landscapes, scintillating culture and a historical heritage quite unmatched by any other destination in Europe, there is every reason to go on tour to Croatia if you have never been there and also to make a return visit if you have tasted its delights in the past.

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