Java
Largely characterized by its volcanic mountains forming an east to west backbone around the island, Java is the heartbeat of Indonesia and home to some 130 million people. With practically every religion having passed through at some point or other it has a bold mixture of flavors that amount to a diverse melting-pot of cultures. The largest province, West Java is blessed with magnificent natural wonders consisting of volcanic peaks, meandering rivers, bottle-green valleys and fertile plains offering ample opportunity for exploration. Beyond the immense natural beauty of the region many travelers visit this area to in order to learn more about the Sudan culture and language, unique to the province.
Central Java, the most commonly visited province is home to a number of ancient temples including the magnificent Borobudur and Prambaman. Within Central Java is Yogyakarta, generally regarded as the islands cultural and creative pulse it is a popular choice for those eager to immerse themselves within the elaborate textiles, music and performances of Java first hand. Other highlights within this area include the Tamansiri (water palace) bird market and town of Surakarta (Solo). East Java is best visualized as the spine of the region it has three of Indonesia most famous volcanic peaks and is consequently a popular destination for our hiking and trek tours. This area also encompasses the island of Madura a notably off-the-beaten-track destination perfect for those wanting to avoid the tourist trail and immerse themselves in some untamed adventure.
Where should I stay on Java?
Budget
The Margo Utomo occupies a superb location in close proximity to Mt Ijien amid sprawling hills and coffee plantations. Located on the grounds of a plantation this unique property seeks to provide guests with a 'village like' atmosphere while offering first-class service alongside a beneficial introduction to the surrounding landscape. Consisting of 51 guestrooms each fashioned with subtle accents of Indonesia, complete with private balconies enjoying sprawling views. Alternatively, the centrally located Jorje Village Inn is just a short walk from Malioboro Street, famous for its shopping. A characteristically quaint boutique hotel, featuring 24 exquisitely decorated rooms; you are ensured a comfortable stay in these spacious and well-equipped guestrooms. A consistently good choice can always be found with the Ibis hotel brand that excels in providing clean and concise accommodation. Their no fills approach to providing minimally adorned, centrally located accommodation guarantees a convenient choice as well as a rested evening after a day of exploration.
Midrange
Offering the grandeur of 1930's colonialism at even more attractive rates, this is an ideal choice for those wanting to step back in time to a by-gone era, while still enjoying the functioning aspects of a modern hotel. Situated in the upscale residential area of Malang, the Graha Chakra offers the usual insight into residential Java, away from the tourist trail and hustle and bustle of the city. The Java Banana is a classically designed eco-lodge situated in Wonotoro, East Java, elevated 200 meters above sea level an attractive feature of this property of this property is can be found in the soothing mountainous sub-climate, it is also home to the highest art gallery in Indonesia. Enjoying sprawling vistas from every room, this property is ideal for nature lovers with an appreciation for understated luxury.
Perched on the edge of the rainforest, each of the guestrooms at the Ijien Mountain Resort looks out over the lush rice paddies. The perfect choice for those who desire unparalleled tranquility amid abundant nature from a holiday, the isolated mountain setting is inspiring, to say the least. Situated near the vibrant Malioboro district in the heart of Yogyakarta, The Phoenix hotel is a colonial landmark featuring elegantly adorned rooms that fuse elements of European and Asian décor. Built in 1919, the hotel experience is very much one of immersing guests in an old world charm fused with the functionality of the modern-era. This property rates highly for location, design and its wealth of facilities which include a sensuous spa and popular colonial-style bar.
Ringed by eight volcanoes, Losari Spa Retreat & Coffee Plantation's antique-filled villas are set in 25 hectares of gardens, coffee plantations and authentic Dutch colonial buildings. Boasting one of Indonesia's only Turkish hammam baths, the award winning spa is a definite highlight, as is not so surprisingly the coffee. It should also be noted that as an active participant in the efforts to preserve Javanese heritage, the company have developed a foundation assisting community development through cultural heritage preservation and environmental conservation.
Splurge
For those looking to splurge on accommodation Tugu Malang is considered to be one of Java's quintessential properties. The hotel is something of a tourist attraction in itself where half a day could easily be spent exploring the extensive selection of Javanese art and antiques. You might even describe it as part museum, part art gallery and part hotel. Situated in the old town of Malang there are few distractions here.
However, there is little doubt that when it comes to the jewel in the crown of Java's hotels the Amanjiwo sparkles just that little bitter brighter. A boutique resort that is almost as memorable as its neighbor, Borobudur, Amanjiwo has been constructed by the locally hewn limestone, coral-beige paras yogay. Featuring 36- suites equipped with everything from IPods to art galleries, to private-pools.
What should I see on Java?
In his book 'The Road Less Travelled' Author Bill Bryson remarked that Borobudur was the bold traveler's equivalent to Angkor Wat. Carved from 55,000 square meters of lava-rock and decorated with 2,672 relief panels and 504 Buddha statues, no trip to Indonesia would be complete without a visit to this spectacular structure. One of the true wonders of the Buddhist world, it was left undiscovered until the late 19th century when archaeologists stumbled across the overgrown monument in the Javanese jungle hidden under a layer of volcanic ash.
Miss the crowds and take an early morning tour of Borobudur, when the sun is rising and the flocks of tourists have yet to arrive. Alternatively, photographers should venture there in the late afternoon when the lighting is at its best. As well as this an itinerary should include the last great monument of the Central Javanese period, Prambanam, a temple in the form of the central world mountain as described in Buddhist cosmology. Although much of this work was devastated in an earthquake in the 16th century, the bas-reliefs that remain are exquisite and it is well worth teaming a visit with an early morning visit to Borobudur.
Beyond temple hopping, visiting the smoking and dormant volcanic peaks of Java equate to some of the most awe-inspiring scenery on the planet. Made up almost entirely of volcanic origin, the ash produced from these accounts for the islands immense fertile land, and in many respects is the lifeblood of the region. The most famous of the 40 plus volcanoes inhabiting the island are Mt Bromo and Mt Ijien. Mt Bromo like temple tours is best frequented in the early morning for sunrise before embarking on short trek to the crater rim of the active volcanoes. Alternatively an excursion to Mt Ijien in east Java incorporates a 1 hour uphill trek which is rewarded with sensational panoramic views.
Considered to be the cultural heart of Indonesia, Jogjakarta, is well discovered on one of our tailored itineraries offering the perfect opportunity to immerse you in the inherent craftsmanship and artistic sensibilities of the Javanese.
What can I do?
Each of our tour Itineraries has been crafted to bring elements of adventure and insight to a trip through the acts of exploration and experience. Java is an ideal destination for this, featuring what seems like infinite opportunities to discover enigmatic landscapes, our sunrise excursions to volcanic peaks uncover some of the finest natural spectacles known to man. As the sun rises at Mount Bromo, it warms the mist shrouding the Tengger Plateau that runs along the spine of Java and with this the air clears to reveal of wrinkled indigo mountains and hulking volcanoes for as far as the eye can see. It is in large measures the ash released from the volcanoes that makes Java such a fertile area, home to abundant plantations including coffee, tea and coconuts, to name but a few. Many of the islands restaurant and resorts are built into these fertile landscapes that make for great trekking ground.
The Dieng Plateau consists of a marshy plateau that forms the floor of a caldera complex created after the eruption of Mountain Prau. Best frequented at sunrise or set in order to experience the exceptional views, renting a push or motorbike is also a great way to explore the area.
Where to Eat?
As you might expect Indonesian cuisine reflects the diverse number of cultures inhabiting the region with Java's food being particularly renowned for its sweetness. For those feeling the urge to satisfy a sweet tooth should head to Café Oen, an ice cream depot in Malang where the waiters are dressed in waist coats and bow ties. One of the islands hidden treasures this 'classic café' has been open since 1930 and is now ran by the great grandchildren of the original proprietors. At the volcanic fringed Losari Plantation you can choose between Java Red the casual option offering the perfect spot to relax over an Italian lunch, or Java Green, the more upscale choice where classic Indonesian fare is fused with Mediterranean dishes with mouth watering results. If you are eager to get a real taste of Javanese cuisine then the traditional style eatery, Pecel Solo, is feted as being one of the best in Java. Being the culinary paradox that it is, the best food to be had in Asia is more often than not the cheapest too!
