Wednesday, May 2, 2007

Experiencing Paradiso in Paradiso

Thousand IslesThousand Isles near Jakarta has been a favorite destination for ages. Paradiso, containing four island's Kahyangan (formerly known as Cipir), Bidadari (used to be called Sakit), Onrust and Kelor offer spectacular views of the forest and the sea. The name Paradiso indeed comes from Paradise, for Kahyangan in Indonesian means Heaven in English, and Bidadari means Angel.

Getting There
Use a speedboat from Marina Jaya Ancol, Jakarta. It will take about 20 minutes. Bidadari island is only 15 kilometers away from Jakarta.

Where to Stay
Bidadari Island Resort. This resort offers floating cottages and seaview cottages. No need to worry about food for you'll be given food three times a day, plus the fee for the boat ride.

Thousand Isles
Bidadari Island Resort Jalan Lodan Timur 7 MarinaTaman Impian Jaya AncolJakarta 14430021-6401140 (phone)021-680502 (fax)

Moving Around
With a minimal fee, you can visit other islands (Onrust, Kelor, Kahyangan) by boat. You're free to explore Bidadari island on foot.

Dining Guide
Bidadari Island Resort will take care of everything.

Souvenir Tips
Bidadari Island Resort offers various kinds of souvenirs, from clothings to handicrafts.

Thousand Isles
Ruins of VOC's (Dutch Colonials) Fortress. Used to be center of Jakarta's (known as Sunda Kelapa, then) defense against the British invasion. Circular in design with 23 meters in diameter, rows of windows for cannons are still visible. Seven rooms in this fortress still exist.
Garden of plants with medicinal values. You can also see hundreds-years-old kepuh trees here. If you're lucky, you can even see some biawaks (giant lizard/monitor) around.
Adventurous people might be interested in jet skiing and banana boating. You can swim on the pristine azure ocean and fish on the fishing pier.
Interested in outbound training? Enjoy your holiday with canoeing, rafting, and climbing tress in Paradiso!

Travel Tips
Dress accordingly. Bring a swimsuit if you're interested in activities related to the ocean.
Bring your camera. Take pictures of your memorable time in Paradiso and share them with your families and friends.
Those who are interested in visiting Paradiso but not in staying overnight, can join the Overday Tour. With a reasonable fee you'll be able to visit Bidadari island. Welcome drink, lunch, boat fee and insurance included!
If you want to spend New Year's Eve at Bidadari Island, please book in advance. Bidadari Island resort has special packages and events to commemorate the changing of the year

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