Bantul

Consider over 17000 islands spread through an area three times larger than the biggest European country, all of it covered by warm equatorial waters. Interact with hundreds of ethnicities populating the islands. Trace the centuries of history with all the accompanying cultural treasures: arts, crafts, legends, rituals. Observe volcanoes - extinct, dormant and active. Enter large expanses of jungle, often untouched, and in some locations even unexplored. Get used to cities interwoven with agriculture and villages crawling together to form centers of trade: don’t be surprised to see farmers working in a rice field between a shopping mall and a bank. Similarly, take for granted the magic mixed with daily life. Don't forget lagoons so transparent that to observe multi-colored coral gardens on the bottom one doesn’t even need to snorkel – but snorkeling is more fun, of course. Test your balance against world-class surf. Try hearty, filling, tasty food and delicious coffee wherever you go. And, last but not the least, meet some of the most chilled-out, hospitable and helpful people in the world. In short, experience Indonesia, an extremely versatile travel destination. Whether you’re looking for sportive thrills, cultural exploration, or a quiet holiday in a beach bungalow, here you will find it without effort.

Indonesia

If Jakarta is the financial center of Java, Yogyakarta is its cultural capital. This bustling metropolis is one of the most visited destinations in Indonesia, due to its proximity to Indonesia’s two most important archaeological sites – Borobudur and Prambanan (in Central Java). At the same time modern and traditional, this city quickly charms all visitors. Yogyakarta is the guardian of Javanese culture, as it treasures many historical landmarks and preserves centuries-old traditions. An unmissable highlight of Yogyakarta is the kraton, the sultan’s palace, which serves as a hub of traditional life. Yogya, as locals popularly call it, is also a huge urban city with its contemporary cultural attractions such as street art and galleries. For those of you in the quest for active volcanoes, don’t miss Mt. Merapi located on the border between Central Java and Yogyakarta. Erupting regularly since 1548, Mt. Merapi is the most active volcano in Indonesia.

Yogyakarta

Giriloyo in Bantul is an artisans' village producing batik tulis - hand-painted batik fabric. Aside from private workshops, there is a tourist center showcasing the methods of batik painting. Batik cloth can also be purchased here directly from the craftsmen. © Mark Levitin

Giriloyo, Bantul, Yogyakarta

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