Every religion or culture all over the world has their own way to define and celebrate their new year. For example, the Chinese have the Imlek year and to celebrate it, have, as they called it in their own language, "Gong Xi Fat Choy". The Moslem societies have their Muharam year, and any of the people over the world using the Gregorian calendar, celebrate the New Year on January 1st.

The same thing also occurs in Bali, however the Balinese use many different calendar systems. They have adopted the Gregorian calendar for business and government purposes. But for the endless procession of holy days, temple anniversaries, celebrations, sacred dances, building houses, wedding ceremonies, death and cremation processes and other activities that define Balinese life, they have two calendar systems. The first is the Pawukon (from the word Wuku which means week) and Sasih (which is means month). Wuku consists of 30 items starting from Sinta, the first Wuku and end up with the Watugunung the last one. The Pawukon, a 210-day ritual calendar brought over from Java in the 14th century, is a complex cycle of numerological conjunctions that provides the basic schedule for ritual activities on Bali. Sasih, a parallel system of Indian origin, is a twelve month lunar calendar that starts with the vernal equinox and is equally important in determining when to pay respect to the Gods.

Westerners open the New Year in revelry, however, in contrast, the Balinese open their New Year in silence. This is called Nyepi Day, the Balinese day of Silence, which falls on the day following the dark moon of the spring equinox, and opens a new year of the Saka Hindu era which began in 78 A.D.

Nyepi is a day to make and keep the balance of nature. It is based on the story of when King Kaniska I of India was chosen in 78 A.D. The King was famous for his wisdom and tolerance for the Hinduism and Buddhism societies. In that age, Aji Saka did Dharma Yatra (the missionary tour to promote and spread Hinduism) to Indonesia and introduce the Saka year.

The lead upto Nyepi day is as follows:

Melasti or Mekiyis or Melis (three days before Nyepi)
Melasti is meant to clean the pratima or arca or pralingga (statue), with symbols that help to concentrate the mind in order to become closer to God. The ceremony is aimed to clean all nature and its content, and also to take the Amerta (the source for eternal life) from the ocean or other water resources (ie lake, river, etc). Three days before Nyepi, all the effigies of the Gods from all the village temples are taken to the river in long and colourful ceremonies. There, they have are bathed by the Neptune of the Balinese Lord, the God Baruna, before being taken back home to their shrines.

Tawur Kesanga (the day before Nyepi)
Exactly one day before Nyepi, all villages in Bali hold a large exorcism ceremony at the main village cross road, the meeting place of demons. They usually make Ogoh-ogoh (the fantastic monsters or evil spirits or the Butha Kala made of bamboo) for carnival purposes. The Ogoh-ogoh monsters symbolize the evil spirits surrounding our environment which have to be got rid of from our lives . The carnivals themselves are held all over Bali following sunset. Bleganjur, a Balinese gamelan music accompanies the procession. Some are giants taken from classical Balinese lore. All have fangs, bulging eyes and scary hair and are illuminated by torches.The procession is usually organised by the Seka Teruna, the youth organisation of Banjar. When Ogoh-ogoh is being played by the Seka Teruna, everyone enjoys the carnival. In order to make a harmonic relation between human being and God, human and human, and human and their environments, Tawur Kesanga is performed in every level of society, from the people's house. In the evening, the Hindus celebrating Ngerupuk, start making noises and light burning torches and set fire to the Ogoh-ogoh in order to get the Bhuta Kala, evil spirits, out of our lives.

Nyepi
On Nyepi day itself, every street is quiet - there are nobody doing their normal daily activities. There is usually Pecalangs (traditional Balinese security man) who controls and checks for street security. Pecalang wear a black uniform and a Udeng or Destar (a Balinese traditional "hat" that is usually used in ceremony). The Pecalangs main task is not only to control the security of the street but also to stop any activities that disturb Nyepi. No traffic is allowed, not only cars but also people, who have to stay in their own houses. Light is kept to a minimum or not at all, the radio or TV is turned down and, of course, no one works. Even love making, this ultimate activity of all leisure times, is not supposed to take place, nor even attempted. The whole day is simply filled with the barking of a few dogs, the shrill of insect and is a simple long quiet day in the calendar of this otherwise hectic island. On Nyepi the world expected to be clean and everything starts anew, with Man showing his symbolic control over himself and the "force" of the World, hence the mandatory religious control.


Ngembak Geni (the day after Nyepi)
Ngembak is the day when Catur Berata Penyepian is over and Hindus societies usually visit to forgive each other and doing the Dharma Canthi. Dharma Canthi are activities of reading Sloka, Kekidung, Kekawin, etc.(ancient scripts containing songs and lyrics).

From the religious and philosophy point of view, Nyepi is meant to be a day of self introspection to decide on values, eg humanity, love, patience, kindness, etc., that should kept forever. Balinese Hindus have many kind of celebrations (some sacred days) but Nyepi is, perhaps the most important of the island's religious days and the prohibitions are taken seriously, particularly in villages outside of Bali's southern tourist belt. Hotels are exempt from Nyepi's rigorous practices but streets outside will be closed to both pedestrians and vehicles (except for airport shuttles or emergency vehicles) and village wardens (Pecalang) will be posted to keep people off the beach. So wherever you happen to be staying on Nyepi Day in Bali, this will be a good day to spend indoors. Indeed Nyepi day has made Bali a unique island.

The year has gone fast and the time is nearly upon us when [in western countries] Santa Claus gets a hernia trying to get down a chimney to deliver presents, his reindeer rebel for better pay, and in certain parts of the globe snow is falling. That’s right, I’m talking about Christmas. This is a time of good cheer, attending parties and in general, enjoying yourself to the max. After a slow recovery, it’s then headlong into New Years Eve celebrations. But, what is Christmas like in a predominately Muslim Indonesia.

Naturally on the main tourist islands, hotels cater for western tourists by erecting Xmas Trees ornately decorated, and some have functions for Xmas dinners. ‘Merry Christmas’ signs appear suddenly. Shopping hours seem to be extended and the seasonal specials seemingly jump out of nowhere. The biggest signs of Christmas are in the malls where the tradition of the Western festive season can be seen. Most of the major stores in the larger cities have huge Xmas trees and restaurants tend to put on some manner of Xmas fare.

In the Christian communities around the archipelago much the same is done with festivities. In Yogyakarta, there is always a big Xmas tree in the Malioboro Mall and the ubiquitous Indonesian man dressed in a Santa Claus suit sporting a white beard and giving out small presents. It’s the same in Jakarta and the others. All the major department stores join in on the festive season.

But, it is on the streets where Xmas comes into vogue. It is warming to see Christians and Muslims participating together to enjoy Christmas in harmony. In Bali and on the island of Lombok you will find the major hotels putting on some kind of celebration. I have had many Xmas’s in Yogyakarta and for me that is the place to be.



In Indonesia, Christmas is a public holiday celebrated by almost everyone (Christian or otherwise). Typically it is also the boom time for retailers as Christmas season is also the time most people get their year-end bonuses.

Originating from Western culture, where the holiday is characterized by the exchange of gifts among friends and family members, some of the gifts are attributed to a character called Santa Claus (also known as Sinterklaas in Bahasa Indonesia).

Christmas is celebrated throughout the Christian population, but is also celebrated by many non-Christians as a secular, cultural festival. Because gift-giving and several other aspects of the holiday involve heightened economic activity among both Christians and non-Christians, Christmas has become a major event for many retailers.

What is the uniqueness of Christmas in Indonesia?
It's such an uniqueness to explore Indonesia in Christmas.

Christmas will be the sweetest one yet, as the local Family welcomes you into their home. Streets are
transformed into festive cheer. Expect bold colours, sweet smells and enchanting lights, all set to ignite your senses.

At the centre of the celebration, the Family is busy making merry this joyous season. Shopping for the perfect holiday gifts for loved ones, visiting the Church of Indonesia, see Indonesia in different light. If you flew to Manado, North Sulawesi, Bukit Kasih is one of the perfect spot. Bali has got the biggest event for tourists.



Unlike in Europe or otherplaces in this world.
There are no snoe in this Equatorial Emerald.
Because the sunrise will always there almost everyday.

If you're a beach lover.
You can go surfs in some perfect surfers spot in Indonesia (Padang, Bali, Nusa Tenggara, South Sumatera and West Java)
or sunbathing in beautiful beaches, or try something new,
Have you ever playing water slide on the open sea?
In Indonesia, Bali can be your destination.

The rest of the day is spent visiting relatives or serving visitors.
It's the best time for you all who has Christian family in Indonesia.

Eventhough that Indonesia is the largest Muslim Populous in this World.
Indonesia is Unity in Diversity.
So many religions apreciate this event.
And nowadays, Christmas is one of the must happen event in Indonesia.
Christmas becomes one of the biggest public holiday in Indonesia.
And it becomes more spectacular as in December so many events happens in Indonesia.
Almost every malls in Indonesia especialy Jakarta and Bali is full of wonderful decoration.

To many, it has become a tradition. Under the dazzling lights and festive decorations of the streets, bazaars offering traditional handicrafts, clothes and just about everything else never fail to attract the crowds at both precincts. Food stalls offering Indonesian cuisine do just as well, given all the popular dishes and desserts on display.

Because the influence of Chinese, in Indonesia, people usualy lights the fireworks.
People also ussualy celebrate their Christmas Eve with their families in their house.



Here is something for everyone this joyous season. What's more, kids holiday for free at more than 30 participating attractions and restaurants, while clubbers get to party for free at hottest night spots in Indonesia this festive season!

The Christmas spirit is very much alive and made merrier with the tropical warmth and hospitality of Indonesians. Visitors will find ample restaurants, bistros, shopping malls and hotels with special events planned for the occasion. Join in the celebration!

Explore the unique of Hari Raya Natal Celebration in all over Indonesia.


Jos Indonesian Praise & Worship

One of the 7 wonders in the ancient world, Borobudur is located near Magelang. Borobudur, a Hindu Buddhist temple, was built in the 9th century. This temple has Gupta architecture of India's influence.

Constructed on a hill about 46 meters high, Borobudur has about 55,000 m3 or stones. Borobudur is design symbolizes the structure of the universe. This design influences temples in Angkor, Cambodia. This temple was found in 1815, under volcanic ash. About 41 kilometers northward from Jogjakarta, Borobudur offers spectacular sight in this modern world.

Borobudur temple is located in the district of Magelang, Central Java. It isconsidered one of the world’s wonders and has the largest and most complete ensemble of Buddhist relief in the world. UNESCO has listed the temple as World Heritage Site.
The village of Candirejo is located some 3 km from Borobudur Temple. A traditional Javanese village, Candirejo is being promoted for village tourism, portraying traditional Javanese culture and daily life through traditional houses, art performances, ceremonies, farming and local food.



Borobudur is design symbolizes the structure of the universe, this design influences temple in Angkor Wat Cambodia this temple was found in 1819 under volcanic ash about 41 kilometers northward from Yogyakarta, Borobudur offers spectacular sign in this modern world.

Magnificent Buddhist temple ranking as the most famous in the city of Magelang Central Java, Borobudur is also Known as one of the finest religious structures of its kind.



The temple listed among the seven wonders of the World is offers some interesting features both inside and outside notable features include a varied selection of Budha Statues of differing size, and pozes and the bar reliefs on the lower terraces.

How to Get There :
The temple of Borobudur and Candirejo Village can be reached from
Yogyakarta by public buses that start from Umbulharjo Terminal or by taxis
and rental cars. The distance is approximately 42 km from Yogyakarta.
Borobudur is only 1 hour away by car from Jogjakarta. You can either join a tour or rent a car to this spot.



The Best Season to Visit :
Almost anytime during the year, but preferably in the dry season
(April to September).


Where to Stay :
Inns and hotels in Jogjakarta.


Moving Around :
You'll explore this site on foot. Climb this magnificent temple and marvel at various carvings on the stone around you.



Dining Guide :
You can bring your own food or buy them around this site.


Souvenir Tips :
Souvenirs related to Borobudur can be bought in Jogjakarta. You can buy silver Borobudur's miniature (silver plated ones are also available), keychains, and many more. T-Shirts and postcards with an overview of Borobudur are popular as keepsakes.

Other Things to See or Do :
Marvel at the magnificent view. For better understanding of this temple, you can join a tour or hire a licensed tour guide here. Climb the temple to reach the top, where you can see an vacant space signifying emptiness as completion. There's a superstition saying that if you climb this temple with one wish deep in mind, try touching Buddha's figure inside the stupa, which is bell-like in structure. If you're able to touch the Buddha, your wish will come true. Take note of the stone carvings. There are many stories in these stones.



Travel Tips :
*Dress lightly and comfortably.
*Hire a licensed tour guide, so you'll get better information.
*Wear a hat or an umbrella. Bring along a raincoat, just in case.

Contact:
Koperasi Desa Wisata Candirejo
Jl. Raya Borobudur Sendangsono Km3
Kabupaten Magelang 56553
Telp./Fax. 0293 - 789675
Ian : 08175414855
Email : ianmanoreh@yahoo.com

The 1st Asian Beach Games were held in Bali, Indonesia from October 18, 2008 to October 26, 2008. The opening ceremony has been held in the Garuda Wisnu Kencana memorial park in Nusa Dua, Badung.

BIDDING PROCESS
There was no bidding process for Bali to host the inaugural edition of the Asian Beach Games. Although there were six other country that show their interest to host the games, Bali was chosen by acclamation to host the games.

It will be the second time for Indonesia to host an Asia level multi-sports event, after Jakarta held the 1962 Asian Games.



TORCH RELAY
The Bali Asian Beach Games Torch Relay started on October 8, 2008 at Mrapen, Grobogan, Central Java which is famous for it's eternal flame. The flame was lit with the aid of natural gas.

From Mrapen, the torch was carried to Semarang. In the capital city of Central Java, the torch was carried to the Governor Office by Indonesia's famous sprinter, Suryo Agung Wibowo.

On October 9, 2008, the torch arrived in Jakarta. On the next day, the torch has been paraded from the City Hall to Indonesia's Minister of Youth and Sport Office, and finally arrived at the Istana Merdeka to be given to President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono.



On October 10, 2008, the torch headed to Bali for a 9 day inland tour accross 10 regions (1 city and 9 regencies).

More than 500 people(45 per district) were involved in the Torch Relay as torchbearer. They came from the sports world: athletes (local, national, and international), coaches, and officials. Besides that, more than 2,000 people participated in the parade.

The journey was a showcase of Indonesian culture, especially Balinese traditional art, dance, and music to international audiences.



LOGO
The Official Logo of the 1st Asian Beach Games Bali 2008 represents the water element that embodies the sporting event.

The shining sun comes from the emblem of the Olympic Council of Asia and represents its vital role in Asia's sport development and spreading energy created by the solidarity of the OCA.

The selection of the light and deep-blue effects represents the color of Balinese waters.

The two vertical lines represent two Pura (Balinese Hindu temple), an image of the gate to a Balinese house of worship which is signifies the ultimate hospitality of the Bali society in honouring and welcoming people from all over Asia.

The two big waves represent the commitment as well as the enthusiasm of the host city to hold the 1st Asian Beach Games.

The letters "BALI 2008" are red to show the spirit of sportsmanship and the typeface selection emphasizes the pride of all athletes competing in Bali.


MASCOT
The official mascot of the 1st Asian Beach Games is Bali Starling (Leucopsar Rothschildi), locally known as “Jalak Bali”, as well as the official mascot of Bali and a bird species endemic to this Island.

The bird symbolizes Bali with all its uniqueness and serves as a reminder that the bird, like Bali, is beautiful, yet sacred. It is therefore apt that the official mascot of Bali was chosen as the official mascot for the first Bali Asian Beach Games.]


OPENING CEREMONY
The opening ceremony of the 1st Asian Beach Games has been held in the Garuda Wisnu Kencana, a great monumental cultural park in Nusa Dua, the most luxurious region in Bali.

Indonesian President, Yudhoyono has officially opened the games when the torch reached the Garuda Wisnu Kencana.

The show showcased highlights Indonesian cultural arts, and featured international performers such as Mark Lazarro from India and Christian Bautista from the Philippines, and also famous national singer and composer, such as Reza Artamevira, Andre Hehanusa and Erwin Gutawa.

Andre Hehanusa, Christian Bautista, and Mark Lazarro sang To Be One while Indonesian female singer, Reza Artamevira, performed the games anthem, Together We Inspire the World.

About 41 country leaders and several very important persons, including British Royal Family and Qatari Royal Family members, were present at the opening ceremony.

The 2008 Asian Beach Games were closed by Indonesia's Vice President, Jusuf Kalla on October 26, 2008.


SPORTS



* Beach basketball
* Beach handball
* Beach kabaddi
* Beach pencak silat
* Beach sepaktakraw
* Beach soccer
* Beach volleyball
* Beach water polo
* Beach wrestling
* Bodybuilding
* Dragon boat racing
* Jet Ski
* Marathon swimming
* Paragliding
* Sailing
* Surfing
* Triathlon
* Windsurfing
* Woodball


VENUES
Kuta Beach
Bodybuilding, Dragon Boat Racing, Surfing
Nusa Dua - Benoa
Beach Basketball, Beach Kabaddi, Beach Pencak Silat, Water Polo, Beach Wrestling, Jetski, Paragliding, Woodball
Sanur Beach
Beach Sepaktakraw, Beach Volleyball,
Mertasari Beach
Beach Handball, Beach Soccer, Marathon Swimming, Triathlon
Serangan Island
Sailing, Windsurfing


PARTICIPATING



There were 42 Asian countries confirmed to participate in the game. Indonesia sent 214 athletes, the largest team, which participated in all 19 sports.
Participating countries in the 2008 Asian Beach Games
*Afghanistan
*Bangladesh
*Bahrain
*Brunei
*Cambodia
*China
*Chinese Taipei
*Hong Kong, China
*Indonesia
*India
*Iran
*Iraq
*Jordan
*Japan
*Kazakhstan
*Kyrgyzstan
*South Korea
*Kuwait
*Laos
*Lebanon
*Macau, China
*Malaysia
*Maldives
*Mongolia
*Myanmar
*Nepal
*Oman
*Pakistan
*Philippines
*Palestine
*North Korea
*Qatar
*Singapore
*Sri Lanka
*Syria
*Thailand
*Tajikistan
*Timor-Leste
*United Arab Emirates
*Uzbekistan
*Vietnam
*Yemen


VIDEO

THEME SONG

Lyrics
When the world is changing
And life is different today
Then it was yesterday
We feel uncertain, we feel weary

When we meet new people
Different colors, different cultures
We know we are united
In sports and togetherness

Chorus :
That is why we are here
Together we become friends
That is why we are here
Together we compete in sports
Together we are united
Together we inspire the world

When a traveler is browsing in Kraton, then she/he should not miss The Water Castle or known as Tamansari, less than 1 Km west of Kraton. Just west of the Kraton, are the ruins, pools, arches and underground passages of the former pleasure gardens. It was built in 1758 by Sultan Hamengkubuwono I as a rest house and pleasure park for the Royal family. Tamansari means beautiful garden. It was badly damaged due to an earthquake in 1867. Some parts of it, for instance "Umbul Binangun" bathing pools have been restored.

Just west of the kraton, are the ruins, pools, arches and underground passages of the former pleasure gardens, the Taman Sari (Water Castle). Literally “fragrant garden” Built in 1758 by Sultan Hamengkubuwono I, the Sultan and his harem would relax here and from the tower over looking the female bathing pools. It is located in the old part of the city within walking distance from the Bird Market. Open everyday from 8 am to 2 pm.

Upon seeing the ruins of Taman Sari, some cultural experts say that it has multi purposed functions, such as :
1. A Rest house, in the form of water castle with beautiful park. The air is fresh due to :
* Artificial lakes and canals
* Bathing pools
* Large gardens with several kind of varieties of trees

2. A place for sport and entertainment

* Boating and swimming
* Deer hunting
* Classical dance Bedoyo and Srimpi
* Gamelan music

3. A place for meditation

4. An important palace and shelter for the Sultan. It was well protected. It had 2 Bastions
with 12 and 6 Cannons.

The Castle itself divided into two (2) complexes. They are :

1. Umbul Binangun - swimming pool complex
It is the swimming pool where only the Sultans women can frolic. In this complex only woman employees serve the Sultan. Theres also a three story tower, with Sultan private bedroom stands south of the swimming pool and The Sultans private bath-pool is behind the tower. Somewhere in the south part of the palace, there is a special place, believed to be Sultans meeting place, from time to time with the Goddess of the South Sea, Kanjeng Ratu Kidul.

2. Pulo Kenongo - Complex
Pulo Kenongo, the Palace of Kenongo Island was found in the middle of Segaran Taman Sari. (Taman Sari artificial lake, which was connected by water canal to the other artificial lake nearby the kraton) Kenongo is a name of flower trees planted in the front yard, where the fragrance spread out in the palace. Just like in a palace, there were living rooms, bedrooms, rooms to make Batik, a hall to perform classical sacred dance of Bedoyo and Srimpi, gates and sentry-boxes guarded strongly by the palace soldiers.


Getting There
There are two ways to visit this place. The one is through Pasar Ngasem Bird Market, just go inside and find an alley called KP III, turn left, walk about 200 m, there is the Pulo Kenongo rest house complex. The other is through Jalan Taman Sari, from Pasar Ngasem, go by becak to South Square, around 0,5 Km turn right, there is the East-main Entrance, leads the way to the Royal Swimming pools.


Where to Stay
Tourist who wants to stay in the heart of the city has many choices since there are a lot of star and non-star hotels available.


Moving Around
On foot


Other Things to See or Do
Sightseeing into the castles complex and buy some souvenirs at Pasar Ngasem.


Dining Guide
There are many local 'warungs' (food stalls) that serve local foods. You can try one of the famous Yogyakarta local dish calledGudeg, a curry of jackfruit, chicken and egg served with rice.


Souvenir Tips
Pasar Ngasem - Bird Market, here is a market place which sells several kinds of cute birds and pets. Traditional products and household earthenwares are also sold here. In this area Batik Painters do not only sell their products, but some also give instruction in this art. Art shops and galleries of medium quality can be found allong the alleys.


Travel Tips
* No travelers is allowed to take picture of Sultan private bedroom at Umbul Binangun - Swimming Pool Complex.
* For short distances you can take a becak (pedicab) to drive you around.
* Some drivers offer you a city-tour for almost a whole day for 10.000 Rp per person.
*Dress comfortably. Wear sneakers and a hat, the temperature in Jogjakarta is quite high. Bring along an umbrella, in case of rain.
*When visiting Kraton or Taman Sari, avoid wearing shorts or mini-skirts. Your pants or skirts should be long enough to cover your knees. This conveys the message that you understand the local customs. And the locals will also respect you more.
*Bring along a camera to capture the memorable moments. You are allowed to take pictures in this site with a minimum fee.