Teluk Ijo, an alternative getaway in Banyuwangi

Teluk Ijo, Banyuwangi

Who would’ve thought that Banyuwangi is now one of the best tourism destinations in Indonesia?

It was just a city you cross when you want to go to Bali from Java Island and now, people actually stop by to visit some of its wonderful beach destinations. I was on touring with a few friends to Banyuwangi and one of our itinerary lists is Rajegwesi beach. We heard a lot about the beach and it took about 2 hours drive from our hotel at Kalibaru.

There is not much to see in Pantai Rajegwesi excepts some fishermen’s boats and not-so-pretty beach. However, it turns out that from Rajegwesi, we got to do a boat trip to Teluk Ijo (literally means the Green Bay).

This was my very first time to cross the water using fisherman’s boat and with a limited amount of safety kits. Our tour guide bargain the price with the boat owner and we managed to get in the boat – the 5 of us. Each boat is supposed to carry only 4 passengers. Thus, I was actually skeptical and not sure if it was due to safety or the money. It costs Rp. 35,000,- for a return trip.

It's kinda hard to take pics without resulting blury images. The boat's shaking and so are my hands! 

It’s a deal. A young man, who happened to be the owner of the boat I hopped into, asked me to get in the boat.

I asked him, “How about my vest?”

He replied, “Get in first, I’ll hand (the vest) you later.”

What went in my mind, “What?!”

What I actually said, “Oh, okay.”

It took awhile for me to get my left foot inside that never-calmed-rushed-by-the-waves boat!  It only gave a small space for 5 people and finally I sat on the humble seatings made from wood panels. The young man handed me my vest and in between the panic, the struggle to sit still when the waves hit my boat, I put on the vest.

Look at how I 'smartly' put on my vest. The blue stripes are my backpack's 

The belt was ripped and I couldn’t fasten it. I asked the man who happened to sit behind me. We were separated by the boat machine so I needed to scream when talking to him.

“I can’t fasten my belt, do you have any other (vest)?”

“I don’t have. It’s okay, Miss. The vest is fine.”

Okay, so it was like an accessory rather than a safety kit.

We crossed the water and I can hear myself screaming whenever the boat was hit by the waves. Thank God the machine made a loud noise so no one actually heard me screaming. I even wonder would they knew if I fell from the boat with the noise so loud? *Just wondering.

After 20 minutes of constant heart attacks, we finally arrived to Teluk Ijo. It is a small beach, a private one, with turquoise water and white sands. The reefs make a beautiful background that makes it an even prettier place. We took some pictures there before we headed back to Rajegwesi for another 20 minutes.

Clear turqoise water at Teluk Ijo

Yep, there is always a first time of anything. When was the last time you did something for the first time?

Things to see and do in USA

What do you want in USA? Whatever you want, the state has it! From culture walk to bachelor party, from wildlife to delicious cuisine – the United States have some of the best things to offer you. To round up the list, here are things to see and do in America!

Learn the history
Free entry for museums mean you can learn a lot about America from the past. Washington DC offers an ample of tours to visit monuments, American Art museum and also American Indian history to witness. You can hop a bus, take a walk or ride your bike – wake up early because there are plenty of things to do in Washington DC! You can also visit Martin Luther King national Historic site in Atlanta. This is the birth of civil right and he was buried here as well. It works as museum and heritage track with an ample of information to know more about the country.

Visit Elvis
Memphis has a story. It is where Rock n Roll were born and Elvis Presley was one of the most historical artist of all time. The home of the king has been visited by thousands of tourists around the world and Graceland offers VIP tour to trace back the life of Elvis Presley until his death in 1977. The tour itself promises a history with a visit in Heartbreak Hotel.
Each year, the sprawling city pays a tribute to Presley and how the king of rock n roll made a change to the music industry. The graveyard has received millions of visitors and his properties are very well preserved up till today.

Visit Vegas
Even when you are not into betting, you still need to see Las Vegas. This Nevada’s city offers iconic scenes you see from hundreds of movies and the colourful lights seem to never run out of way to attract visitors. The casinos are also another incredible architectures to witness with some places resemble Pyramids, New York city and Parisian. Bring along your cash and remember, what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas!

The White House
The iconic building has represent America at its best. The White House offers a free tour but for foreigners, there are requirements upon touring. You need to submit your request and pay a visit to the Embassy to complete the application. It is quite hassle but given the fact that you can enter the legendary white house? That’s time-worthy experience! Foreigners must also present their passport upon arrival; it is quite strict but it should be. It’s the President’s house anyway!

Skiing
The rugs of snow are too hard to resist. Enjoy skiing in advance as you arrive at the Redezvous Mountain. Also, you can enjoy the intermediate trails if you are a senior hiker. Another place to go on skiin is the Apres Vous Mountain. Test your nerve as you walk in the snow. Enjoy the chill!

Grand canyon 
You may see the national park in a postcard but when you come to America, you should see it for yourself. The Grand Canyon National Park has an impressive visuals. The sheer and overwhelming sceneries plus the size of 29 km wide – really takes your breath away! Many visitors drive along side the road to South Rim but it is possible to lay hands on Grand Canyon as you climb. Tours are generally offered in groups.

Niagara Falls 
The iconic Niagara Falls has been featured in almost any sector of life. From David Copperfield the magician to travel magazine; Niagara promises a bird-eye view of the falls and with closer look from helicopter or boat. This place is 12,000 years old and it resides between Canada and US. The easy access from both regions makes Niagara one of the best travel destinations in the USA.

The mall of America
There is no mall like this. The Mall of America offers an outdoor and indoor stores, restaurants, theatres, aquarium, etc. As one of the tourist attractions, it covers acres of land and has been visited by international and domestic visitors. Established in 1992, Mall of American Bloomington in Minnesota offers diverse of foods from its restaurants, 14 theatres to entertain your time and employs thousands of people to serve shoppers.

Disneyland 
Disneyland has been adored not just by kids but you are going to love your stay in here. One day seems not enough to explore the whole place because the Tomorrowland, Frontierland, Toon town and Adventureland are too big! This is a magical way to explore America and find your favorite Disney character and attractions including Indiana Jones adventure, Electrical laser parade, space mountain and more!

The Disneyland offers a resort inside the landscape so you don’t have to worry in case you miss a spot, you can always come back again later. There are 4 theme areas to visit and the glorious attractions will be something you can never forget.

Visit Hawaii
Apart from its adorable beaches, hula dances and pina colada, you can enjoy the volcano view of Kilauea. One of world’s active volcanoes – you can enjoy the crater view and caldera rim with that smokey atmosphere. This natural beauty is well preserved and the easy-access makes a complete vacation you can get from visiting Hawaii and beyond.

Montana ranches
Montana owns some of the best ranches in the States. If you like fancy resorts and horseback riding, then Montana view offers that plenty of fun for family outing. Try to ride and trail the Elk Mountain ranch it has a height of 9,500 feet above the sea level!

Broadway musical
From Anne Hathaway to Ewan McGregor, Broadway is the dream theatre and feel the vibe of talented artists perform a drama right here in the most iconic stage.

Top 10 tourist destinations in USA

The United States are composed by diverse cities and tourism destinations. It is hard to determine which city has the best attractions since each one of them own their unique and memorable places to visit. But to round up the top 10 tourist destinations in the USA that never seem to be outnumbering any other places; here are the summary list!



- Las Vegas, Nevada
It doesn’t matter if you are a group of bachelors or a family of four. Las Vegas has everything for everyone. With its popular tagline, “What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas,” the city will take you to a roller coaster of life. It suits almost any personality and the abundant liquor that keeps flowing may seem adhere to the tagline. You just can’t forget what happens there! Las Vegas owns its world class entertainments with all night casinos, hotels, (and strippers) ready to amuse you. From spa to pool bar, in Vegas, the rule is No Rule.

- Honolulu, Hawaii
With the endless surfs ready to give you waves, Honolulu is the heaven! Enjoy Hula dancers, incredible point breaks and smooth cocktails. You can’t help but to swim and enjoy all outdoor activities that Honolulu offers. Not in the mood to surf? You can go shopping or horse riding. The natural beauty and well preserved beaches make Honolulu the best destination in United States.

- New York City, New York
From Central Park to Museums, New York has the reason why it is named twice, New York New York! From hotels to restaurants, there is something amusing everytime you come here. There are also free attractions and interesting landmarks that help you to learn USA from the history. The iconic Central Park has been visited by millions of people annually. And NYC is where Grand Central Terminal resides. A beautifully designed station where thousands of people meet or say goodbye – this isn’t just a hub but this is a history and destination. The architecture itself dates back from medieval era with Beaux art style. Oh, and don’t forget the iconic Time Square where A-list musicians have been singing on its stage.

- Portland, Oregon
Parks and all the perks, as a laid back city, Portland offers an ample of craft distilleries, breweries and also a great nightlife. You can also walk or bike to see the landmarks and wander around the Japanese Garden. The Japanese Garden has 5 styles with peaceful ambience to enjoy the elements of stones, water, and plants. Portland has an eco-friendly design that really makes a memorable walking experience. You will be welcomed by various offers that are grab worthy.

- San Francisco, California
California is famous for the beach, and the bridge. The city of bay is popularly known for its mind-blowing long bridge and the climate that is really windy seems to add that inviting atmosphere to its art deco background. San Francisco is a world class city that people would fall in love with. The brim of wonderful coffee flavours and delicious meals make the city plus the music sceneries, they’re so alive and vibrant!

- Napa, California
If you want a lazy or quiet time in the USA, you still can obtain it from Napa city. Just like the Tuscan, Napa city owns some of the best wine in the world. It is a luxury holiday that promises an ample of amusement and entertainment in its laid back atmosphere. You can really opt for splurge worthy resorts or spoil yourself with a nice spa. The grapevines and the hills seem to greet you from distance with their breathtaking views! Apart from luxury live in Napa, there are also budget-friend hotels that give you the same ambience of cozy breakfast in the morning (and with stunning views as well).


- New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans boasts a set back ambience. Even with the constant threat of Katrina, the city is definitely one of the most enjoyable destination in the USA. Enjoy the foods in every corner and the creole music loudly play to entertain your ears. There are an ample of festivals from jazzy night, Mardi Gras and also great nightlife. Moreover, New Orleans has a history and impressive landmarks to visit. When you arrive at New Orleans, don’t forget to visit St. Louis Cathedral that has been reviewed as an excellent landmark. The offwhite color that washes the façade plus that castle-like architecture is a beautiful place! Use the free tours on foot and explore the city with its legendary stories.

- Chicago, Illinois
Chicago has windy climate but it catches attention due to the fact that modern art and live music make the culture seems so laid-back. Moreover, the adorable architecture that adorns the city will give you culture attractions in galore level! Chicago is also friendly for pedestrians. Thus, you can have walking tour and visit Millenium park or Wrigley Field. Chicago never really sleeps.

- Sedona, Arizona
In the middle of the desert Arizona, there is a gem called Sedona. This hippy city is like an oasis because there are resorts newly built to entertain the guests. This is the place to hike and explore with the impressive red rock views at Oak creek canyon. When you think that the sunset is beautiful, watch how Sedona makes a beautiful night view with nebula and galaxies expand above you. You can watch this without a telescope! You will feel like flying among the million stars!

- Seattle, Washington

source: Pinterest.com

The most iconic space in Seattle would be the Space Needle. The skyline is quite scenic here in Seattle. You will likely experience tourist flocks because of the laid back and relaxing atmosphere. Moreover, Seattle owns modern architectural designs that you can’t forget. What makes this city fabulous? It’s when you sip your Java coffee with your seat overlooks the mountains of Puget Sound. Impressive!

6 Must-See Things in Bangkok

200 years ago, Bangkok was a small trading center community. Today, it’s one of Asia’s best destination with it glorious and illustrious history. The dazzling palaces, the mouthwatering spicy foods, and the famous market; here is a summary list of things you must visit when you visit Bangkok!

1. Visit Wat Arun

Wat Arun is an impressive temple that showcases the towering spires. As one of the most beautiful temple in Asia, Wat Arun was built in the 19^th century during the reign of Khmer. The style is highly visible on the structure and construction. The stupa ornates a pattern of floral decks with porcelains glaze on the surface. The stunning view is even more beautiful at night.

Commonly known as the temple of dawn, Wat Arun is a symbol of Rattanakosin period. It is located in Chao Phraya River area. The riverside makes it more appealing but apart from that, Wat Arun has the most impressive design among many other temples in Thailand. The colorful decoration and the view over the water seem very majestic!

An hour visit to the temple is recommended because you can explore the surrounding area. You can also see another temple nearby, Wat Pho, that stands directly at the opposite of Wat Arun. Using shuttle boat, you can cross the river at 3 Baht.

2. Enjoy the sights

Apart from the temples and palaces, there are other landmarks for tourists. One of the best sightseeing is at Dusit district. The rapid development and the tourism in Bangkok have made it possible to access many districts easily. Chinatown has an impressive selections of foods that you can’t resist. Both are in Chao Phraya area.

Ban Nam Peung Floating market is only available on weekends. Here, locals and tourists packed the area with various choices of goods in cheap price. Many cycle tours come to Bang Kra Jao, the green lung of Bangkok.

The newest addition of sightseeing with a modern touch is the Asiatique. It features a huge ferris wheel, restaurants and night market plus famous ladyboy show. This is a mixture of local and eclectic style of culture. To come here, you need to cross the river by boat from Taksin Bridge. Asiatique gives a different feel of nights at Bangkok. You can have many acitivities here, from gastronomic trail, riding ferris wheel, and other boasting assortments that are delightful. This is also shoppers paradise with fashionable clothes and home décor accessories in more than a thousand stores.

3. The Grand Palace

One of the must see place in Bangkok is the Grand Palace. It is completely stunning and one of the best landmark in Thailand. Grand Palace is home to the Royal Family and administration office. Visitors can enter inside the palace and be intricate by the details. It is a beautiful and complex architecture that shows the craftsmanship of Thais. Within the walls, it is also the headquarter for war ministry departments. Apart from that, it is a spiritual place where people celebrate every year.

The complex houses various areas, the king’s palace (The Central Court), reception hall, and the layout is similar to Ayutthaya. The entrance involves administration offices and the Emerald Buddha is situated just outside the outer court. Not all halls are opened for public. There are only 3 of them which you can visit during the day. However, 3 is enough for an exquisite experience on the façade’s details. Grand Palace is a sacred place. Thus, it has a pack of rules for the visitors. Important tips when coming to Grand Palace.

-          No see through clothing

-          No sleeveless clothing for men and women

-          Wear shoes or sandals with socks because no bare feet is allowed

-          You can rent proper clothing with a certain deposit at the entrance

4. Museum and Galleries

As an old town, Bangkok boasts an amount of museums and art galleries. The open air historical sightseeing also owns local museums worth to check out. One of the best museums is Siam Museum. It’s an education museum where you can learn much about Thailand’s culture, economy, culture and ethnic.

Chinatown Heritage Centre showcases the history of Bangkok. It has arts and crafts traditionally made and all of the area is accessible by public. The Museum of Floral Culture is another beautifully designed museum by Sakul Intakul. As the newest addition of cultural attraction in Bangkok, Museum of Floral culture collects Asia’s floral civilization from Japan, Indonesia, Laos, and India. The beautifully preserved mansion with colonial architecture is housed in the complex of 1,800 square meters. This is a Zen Garden in Thailand! Another museum to visit is the Queen Sirikit Museum of Textiles. It is situated inside the complex of Grand Palace. Jim Thompson Museum is a privately owned museum established by Jim Thompson. As a US architect who visited Thailand during the World War II; he thought it was a potential market for silk weaving. Today, it owns some of the best artifacts in the teak house.

5. Floating Market and weekend market

One of the famous floating market in the world, Bangkok’s floating market houses boats of fresh tropical veggies and fruits sold by the locals. You can have ready to drink coconut water, spicy foods of Thai cooked right on the boat and other stuffs to enjoy. The tourists can enjoy relaxing boat tour provided by many companies nearby the river. The guided tour can help you to bargain the overpriced goods. Using boat tour, you can visit Damnoen Saduak market, Bang ku Market, Taling Chan and Tha Kha.

At Amphawa floating Market, you can see restaurants balconies that overlook the floating market. The seats are always filled with people that radiate different backgrounds. Classic foods like Pad thai and modern desert like Ice Cream are available. To explore more, you can rent tail boats and go to the nearby klongs. It is necessary to come a little earlier to avoid the overwhelming crowds.

Chatuchak is a famous market that only opens on weekends. The place is very popular for whole sales and trades. It has become a landmark of Thailand with more than 9,000 stalls and more than 200,000 visitors come here every weekends. You need to bargain the stuffs because normally they are overpriced but a day trip here is worth the squeezing. Everything is on sale and you can have good quality products in cheap price.

From books to ceramics, you can find almost anything in Chatuchak. The low-price feature seems to be a great tourism attraction.

6. Khao San road

Khao San road gets very busy at night. It can be said as a modern place where nightclubs and local foods blend for every kind of tourist. The cocktail bars in the eclectic market seem to be a very unique mixture and the scenic view will definitely poke your eye. From local to western plate, the foods definitely are mouthwatering! The thai people are very open minded and of course, this place is the right spot to spend your night if you can’t sleep! At Khaosan Road, you can also find clothes and stuffs you see in markets. The energy and vibe are just irreplaceable!