Introduction to Candi Borobudur

The Borobudur Temple is considered as one of the Seven Wonders of the World. This temple is located at Borobudur District. South of Magelang in the Province of Jawa Tengah. (central Java), Indonesia.

The expression of experts who had been studying Borobudur Temple varied some way. Bernet Kempers’ expression was Borobudur is Borobudur, meaning that Borobudur Temple is very unique in her own way. Nieuwenkamp (an artist) imagined Borobudur as a big lotus flower bud ready to bloom which was floating on a lake. Nieuwkamps’ imagination was supported by N. Rangkuti (1987) that from the air, the Borobudur Temple looks floating.

From the geological studies, experts were able to prove that Borobudur area was one time a big lake. Most of the villages around Borobudur Temple were at the same altitude, 235 meters above the sea level. The same altitude included the Pawon Temple and Mendut Temple. Thus the area under 235 meters altitude was below the lake water level.

Based on the inscription dated 842 A.D., Capparis suggested that Borobudur was one time a place for praying. The inscription stated a phrase such as: “Kawulan i Bhumi Sambhara”. Kawulan means the origin of holiness. Bhumi Sambhara is a name of a place in Borobudur. Paul Mus stated that Borobudur Temple had the structure of stupa (conical form) with double expression. As a whole, the Borobudur Temple was an open-flat stupa but on the other hand, the temple expressed the idea of a closed world.

The latter expression could be felt when one is already inside the temple. Whenever a person is inside the temple, his or her view will be limited to high walls full on relief’s, the veranda is always squared in such away that once could not see other parts of the temple, even in a same floor. The same feeling happened if one stood on arupadhatu round platform, he or she will have a wider view only on that level but are not able to see the lower level nor the upper level like the one on arupadhatu and kamandhatu.

It could be said that Borobudur is a symbol of cosmic mountain covered by the sky roof, a specific world that could be reached through isolated alleys as stages. The closed structural design of the temple expressed the concept of a closed world, not just a technical reasons as had been suggested by other experts. (Daud AT, 1987).

Borobudur was built by Sanmaratungga in the eighth century and belongs to Buddha Mahayana. Borobudur was revealed by Sir Thomas Stanford Raffles in 1814. The temple was found in ruined condition and was buried.

The overall height was forty-two meters but was only 34.5 meters after restoration and had the dimension of 123 x 123 meters (15.129 square meters). There were ten floors. The first floor up to the sixth floor was square from. And the seventh to the tenth floor were round form.

Borobudur is facing to the East with a total of 1,460 panels (two meters wide each). Total size of the temple walls was 2,500 square meters, full of relief. The total number of panels with relief was 1,212. According to investigations, the total number of Buddha statue was 504 including the intact and damaged statues. The temple-undergone restoration from 1905 to 1910 and the last restoration were done in 1973 to 1983.

Source: indahnesia.com

Features Of Holland America Alaska Cruises

Author: Denise Walker

Holland America Alaska Cruises are the best cruises to Alaska. The Holland America Cruise Line specializes in Alaskan cruises and travel to the Yukon Territory. It is one of the oldest cruise lines around with nearly 140 years in the travel business.

The Holland America cruise liners are designed specifically for travel to Alaska. They have wide-open bows and wraparound decks. The lounges offer panoramic views. Passengers are offered complementary hot chocolate throughout the cruise.

Holland America is known for its amenities, including the staterooms, many of which have private verandas. The Mariner's Dream bed is an exclusive feature of their cruises. The cruise line also provides fine linens and 24 hour room service. Passengers can take advantage of the relaxing atmosphere of the Greenhouse Spa and Salon.

Passengers are offered an array of activities to participate in that highlight Alaskan culture. You can participate in the Native Artist-in-Residence program. You can listen to lectures or learn how to make native crafts. The on-board naturalist provides information about the environment and wildlife.

The Exploration Café is a hands-on experience into the Tlingit culture. You can learn how to prepare food Alaskan style in the Culinary Arts Center. You can also take advantage of the various food selections on board offered in the various dining areas.

You can get land tours with your Holland America cruise package. You can explore Alaska's national parks. You can go on hikes or go on the wild side on the rapids. Guided horseback tours are great ways to explore nature. You plan your own adventures. You can travel by Holland America railcar or bus. Both include state-of-the-art amenities and educational opportunities.

Land tours make your Alaska cruise more enriching because you get to explore the landscape of Alaska. You can learn about anything related to Alaska and its culture. Your cruise director can help you plan your cruise so you get the most out of your experience.

The Holland America Alaska Cruises offer unique experiences for the entire family. They provide comprehensive sea and land packages to make your Alaskan experience memorable. And it is all available with highest quality service and elegance. Visit Alaska in style!

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/features-of-holland-america-alaska-cruises-219560.html

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Are you considering Alaskan cruises? Learn why Holland America Alaska cruises should be at the top of your list of cruise lines.

Disney Prepares for 12th-annual Epcot International Food & Wine Festival

Author: Ryan Wiseman

The 12th-annual Epcot International Food & Wine Festival will take place September 28 to November 11, 2007, with a "Tastefully Inspired" theme and events that include food and wine tastings, celebrity-chef cooking demonstrations, beer and wine seminars, nightly concerts, street performers and children's activities. Admission to the 2007 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival is included with regular Epcot park admission.

"With delicous cuisine, an extensive list of international wines, fascinating seminars and live entertainment through the Eat to the Beat Concert Series, the 12th-annual Epcot International Food & Wine Festival promises something for everyone in the whole family," said Kyle Collins, Director of Interactive Marketing for HotelsCorp.com. "Make sure to plan your itinerary before arriving to Epcot so you can enjoy all that the 2007 International Food & Wine Festival has to offer."

INTERNATIONAL MARKETPLACE
The International Marketplace at the 2007 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival allows you to take a one-of-a-kind culinary tour around the world. Stop by each marketplace for eclectic appetizers that are in the $2-$4 range, along with recommended beer and wine pairings.

Africa: Morocco, South Africa
Asia: China, India, Japan
Caribbean: Dominican Republic
Continental Europe: Champagne, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Spain
Eastern Europe: Poland, Turkey
Latin America: Argentina, Chile, Mexico, Peru
North America: Canada, Great Beers of the World, Hops & Barley Market, Oklahoma, United States
Pacific Rim: Australia, New Zealand

SPECIAL EXHIBITS
The promenade at the 2007 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival will feature a variety of interesting cultural exhibits and demonstrations:

American Wine Adventure: Take a regional tour of the New York and Napa Valley wine regions at the American Wine Adventure.

Andes Mountain Wine Bar: Enjoy great wines from Argentina and Chile at the Andes Mountain Wine Bar.

Australia: Discover Down Under: Take a tasting tour of Australia's four major wine regions and pick out souvenirs at the Birdsville Provisions shop.

Dominican Republic: Daily culinary demonstrations, live entertainment crafts and more will take place at the Dominican Republic exhibit.

Festival Welcome Center: Conveniently located at the Wonders of Life Pavilion, the Festival Welcome Center will feature a Festival Wine Shop, wine and champagne bar and Festival Merchandise Shop. The Festival Welcome Center also will serve as the official celebrity book signing area.

The History of Beer in America: Learn the history of American beer with complimentary seminars that take place daily at 12:30 PM, 1:15 PM, 2:45 PM, 4:15 PM, 5:15 PM and 6:30 PM.

International Beers of the World: Enjoy complimentary seminars daily at the International Beers of the World exhibit.

Oklahoma 1907-2007: Cooking demonstrations, storytelling, exhibits and children's activities will all make up this unique exhibit as Oklahoma celebrates 100 years of statehood.

Pearville Fear: A county fair-style exhibit that celebrates the "variety, flavor, diversity and nutritional importance" of this popular fruit.

Peru: Learn all about Inca culture and Peruvian cuisine at the Peru exhibit, which also features arts & crafts displays and Peruvian culinary demonstrations.

10-Day Regional Experiences: Michoacan, Mexico (October 5-14, 2007); Puglia, Italy (October 19-28, 2007); Greek Wine Bar Island (October 26-November 4, 2007).

Turkey Welcomes You: Enjoy Turkish cooking demonstrations, traditional Turkish art and crafts displays, exhibits and a Grand Bazaar.

Twinings Tea Bar: Explore the interesting history of Twinings tea as you stroll through the beautiful Twinings Garden.

EAT TO THE BEAT CONCERT SERIES
All Eat to the Beat Concert Series performances at the 2007 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival will take place at the America Gardens Theatre in front of the U.S.A. Pavilion at Epcot's World Showcase. Show times are 5:45 PM, 7 PM and 8:15 PM.

Al Stewart: September 28-29, 2007
Otis Day and the Knights: September 30 - October 1, 2007
The Beach Boys: October 2-3, 2007
The Original Family Stone: October 4-6, 2007
Sheena Easton: October 7-9, 2007
Starship starring Mickey Thomas: October 10-13, 2007
David Cassidy: October 14-16, 2007
Little Richard: October 17-18, 2007
Juice Newton: October 19-21, 2007
The Four Tops: October 22-25, 2007
Village People: October 26-27, 2007
Expose: October 28-30, 2007
Jon Secada: October 31 - November 3, 2007
Chubby Checker and the Wildcats: November 4-6, 2007
The Contours featuring Sylvester Potts - November 7-8, 2007
David Sanborn - November 9-11, 2007

SPECIAL WINE & CULINARY PROGRAMS
A wide range of wine and culinary programs are scheduled for the 2007 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival (additional costs apply):

A South African Wine Adventure: Friday, October 12, 2007, World Showplace
Chefs A' Field - Kids on the Farm: Wednesdays, 10:30 AM-12:30 PM, Odyssey - The Chef's Showplace
The Cook, The Book and The Bottle: Fridays, 10:30 AM-12:30 PM, Odyssey - The Chef's Showplace
Discovering Wine: A Sensory Adventure: Various dates, Citricos, Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
Food & Wine Pairings: Various locales and dates
Odyssey Kitchen Conversations: Select Thursdays, 3-4:30 PM, Odyssey - The Chef's Showplace
Sweet Sundays: Sundays, 10:30 AM-12:30 PM, Odyssey - The Chef's Showplace
Vertical Wine Tastings: Saturdays, 1:30 PM-3 PM, California Grill, Disney's Contemporary Resort

FESTIVAL DINING OPPORTUNITIES
Don't miss the opportunity to experience incredible cuisine and an extensive wine selection during the 2007 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival (additional costs apply):

Exquisite Evenings at Epcot: Enjoy a five-course meal prepared by the Festival's team of celebrity chefs.

Party for the Senses - Eat, Drink and Celebrate: Enjoy a reserved seat at the Eat to the Beat Concert Series and then sit down to a delicious meal, along with entertaining acts from Cirque du Soleil La Nouba.

Regional Feasts: Celebrate cuisine from the diverse regions of the world during Regional Feasts, which includes a welcome reception, four-course meal and live entertainment.

Signature Dining: Celebrity chefs are invited to prepare a five-course meal at select Walt Disney World Resort restaurants.

FAMILY EVENTS
The 2007 Epcot Food & Wine Festival offers something for the entire family such as the Junior Chef Program, Behind the Seeds Greenhouse Tour, Kidcot Fun Stops, Pearville Fair and Oklahoma 1907-2007.

Article Tags: Eat To The Beat Concert Series, Epcot Food & Wine Festival, Epcot Annual Events

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/disney-prepares-for-12thannual-epcot-international-food-wine-festival-219720.html

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Orlando, Florida Guide, the best guide to Orlando, offers discount Disney World tickets, discount Universal Orlando tickets and discount Sea World Orlando tickets, as well as discount Orlando hotels and individually tailored Orlando vacation packages.

The Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona - a Great Vacation and Travel Destination

Author: Robert Benjamin

You must plan a vacation to Arizona to see the Grand Canyon. It is just simply amazing and the maze of canyons, fissures, and gorges intertwine and merge to create one of the world’s most amazing natural wonders. You can actually see the different colors of the rock in the many layers that make up the canyon not to mention the way the sun reflects on them, and then the shadow, affects their color, which is awe inspiring in and of itself. The beauty of the Canyon is one thing, the size is another and it is just as amazing if not more so.

The canyon is huge and that may even be an understatement. The canyon measures between 10 and 15 miles wide and is more than 200 miles long. At some parts of the canyon it measures nearly a mile to the bottom. Can you imagine looking over the edge of the canyon and the ground being a mile below? It truly is one of the must see places in the world, let alone the United States. The Grand Canyon National Park includes the Grand Canyon and other sites and is located north of Flagstaff, Arizona, by about 75 miles. It will take about an hour and a half to get to the north rim’s visitor center from Flagstaff, or if you are in Las Vegas plan on a five hour drive. The south rim’s visitor center requires a 200 mile drive although it is only 10 miles away if you could fly your car over!

The south rim is the best place to visit if you are only visiting one of the rims. That is because the views are outstanding and it has more facilities than the north rim center. More tourists visit the south rim because the north rim is closed from October to May. If you are a backpacker or don’t like crowds then you might prefer the north rim. The Grand Canyon Village is a great place to stay when visiting because there are hotels, souvenir shops, and restaurants near the south rim.

The best thing to do when visiting the Grand Canyon is to allow yourself plenty of time. There is a lot to see and although it might look like you can do it all in one day you may not be able to and really enjoy it. So, give yourself plenty of time when you are at the Grand Canyon so you can see all the rims, head down to the basin, whitewater raft, and just enjoy this beautiful natural wonder.

There is a website that has great information on USA Vacations and Unique Travel Spots Listed State By State and Season, the website is called: Seasonal Vacation Spots, and can be found at this url:

http://www.seasonalvacationspots.com

By Robert W. Benjamin

Copyright © 2007

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/the-grand-canyon-national-park-in-arizona-a-great-vacation-and-travel-destination-219436.html

About the Author:
Robert W. Benjamin has been in the software business on the internet for over 6 years, and has been producing low-cost software for the past 25+ years. He first released products on the AMIGA and C64 computer systems in the late 1970's-80's.

Bali Island Tourist Attraction

Author: Chris Chew

Bali, a beautiful island paradise in the Indonesian archipelago made international news when the island was rocked by suicide bombings in 2002 and 2005. However, the island is better known as an excellent vacation holiday destination and a major tourist attraction.

Tourists who have visited this South East Asian island will tell you that Bali exudes a certain magical charm and that is why, some people call Bali, the Island of Gods. After all, gods live in paradise don't they?

You will be pleasantly impressed by the many stunningly beautiful tourist attractions and the charming local people. If you are a scuba diver, you will be pleased to know that Bali is one of the top scuba diving destinations in the world.

Bali presents itself as a modern paradox because its ancient and traditional culture is still very much alive amidst modern living. While the basic conservatism of the Balinese people has enabled them to preserve many of their ancient customs, culture and religion, it has never hindered the acceptance of the new and innovative modern technological advancement.

The island is indeed a feast for the eye for tourists on holiday vacation in Indonesia. As the island is situated near the equator, it has almost equal amount of time for rain and sunshine making its environment very suitable for human inhabitation and as a result, Bali has been inhabited and civilized since ancient times.

Bali is also the only island in "middle Indonesia" that has more or less uninterrupted cultural continuity for hundreds of years. It is of this reason, Bali is the only part of Indonesia that remains "Hindu" and is still retaining elements of fusion of ethnic and Hindu cultures of more than a thousand years of cultural tradition.

When the island was colonized by the Dutch at the beginning of last century, the Dutch colonial masters were so impressed by the traditions of the Balinese that a concerted effort was made to preserve the island's mystical culture.

The Balinese society is a strong and cohesive one because the local people promote communal and family values. Feelings of alienation from parents and friends which are common in the western world are almost unheard of in Bali.

Children are carried everywhere or strapped to their mother's back until they are at least three months old. Religious rituals are performed regularly to keep the children safe, healthy and to protect them from harmful spirits. Every aspect of village life is organized in such detail that the individual's responsibilities and rights are meticulously defined by the Balinese tradition.

The Balinese are emotionally strong people and take the unfortunate incidents in their stride. The people are eternal optimists and believe that their Island of Gods enjoys a special place in the grander scheme of things. This is another reason why the local population can bounce back from the tragic terrorist attacks so quickly. Want to visit paradise? Then include Bali as your next holiday vacation destination for its many tourists attractions.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/bali-island-tourist-attraction-219048.html

About the Author:
Chris Chew is a frequent traveler. Read more travel articles at his site Bali Volcanoes and Thailand tourist attractions

Alternative Vacation Ideas That Cost You Almost Nothing

Author: Prayank

For most people, "vacations" mean getting away from humdrum of daily routine but it also turns out to be spending a bagful of money on frivolities. Although you certainly deserve to splurge every now and then, you might want to consider doing something altogether different this time for your time off.

To begin with think of how much hassle is involved in a traditional vacation - the travel, the packing, the tight schedules, the crowds, trying to find a bathroom. After going through all of this, you often need a vacation from the vacation itself.

Perhaps you might want some more self-fulfilling vacation ideas like the ones outlined here. Take your pick, or add one of your own.

Charity Work

If you like to meet new people, be active and make a difference, consider charity work as legitimate vacation ideas. There are many charities locally that help in the community, or nationally for which you take trips to other locations. Perhaps you might like to volunteer to walk dogs at a shelter for two weeks. Or you could contact Habitat For Humanity and see if you can help build low-cost housing. Your local church, senior center or YMCA might have charity work trips or programs available. You never know what charity vacation ideas are out there until you look up for it.

Self-Education Trips

Ever wanted to know how to hand glide or paint or just about anything else? Consider taking education vacation ideas. Many community colleges and YMCAs offer one or two week courses on just about anything you can think of. Also, you could look online to any travel agency, spa or teaching course. Perhaps you always wanted to learn how to read Tarot cards. Although you won't become an expert in a week, you will get to know the basics in online or in person seminars. Depending on your budget, you could incorporate a workshop or seminar into a trip far away.

Staying At Home

This is an option that almost consistently produces the best vacation ideas for you and your home. What is the point of a vacation, anyway? It's to relax and recharge. If you do a lot of traveling for your job, then a vacation at home is ideal. If, however, you never get out of the neighborhood, then a vacation at home will be the last thing you need. Getting a change of scenery can shake up your routine, give you new ideas and make you appreciate just how great your home town is.

If you are thinking of adopting a pet or making minor home repair projects or trying a new prescription medicine - even things like getting the carpets cleaned - you could plan your vacation at home around these events. These events can be rather stressful on your regular schedule - but doing them during your vacation at home makes the transition a lot smoother.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/alternative-vacation-ideas-that-cost-you-almost-nothing-219077.html

About the Author:
Prayank is a college grad and likes to share his views on various activities he is involved with. He can be contacted through http://www.8vacation.com

Ginn Reunion Resort Orlando

Author: Jeffrey Funk

When planning a winter vacation or looking to purchase an investment property, one of the top destinations that comes to everyone's mind is Orlando, Florida. This central part of the sunshine state has so much to offer that it's not hard to see why this location has been such a favorite for so long. With all of the theme parks, golf courses and easy access to over one thousand miles of shoreline, and hundreds of lakes, Orlando is definitely one of the hottest vacation spots in the country.

Not only are there some of the best attractions available here but Orlando also has some of the best weather that any spot could offer. The average temperature is between sixty-eight and seventy-eight degrees Fahrenheit and this makes the Sunshine State even more desirable for those seeking a winter retreat or an Orlando investment property.

There is one particular spot in central Florida that has proven itself to be a most desirable destination. That spot is Ginn Reunion Resort, a truly unique resort that offers everything that any outdoor enthusiast could ever want. Making the resort a perfect place to buy a Orlando investment property. This resort caters to those seeking outdoor activities and their golf courses are not for those seeking a leisurely stroll around the course. They are courses that are designed for the golfer that is looking for a true challenge and have been designed by some of the best-known golfers today. These golf courses have been designed by Arnold Palmer, Tom Watson, and Jack Nicklaus. The resort, which is close to twenty-five thousand acres, has been built around these magnificent courses and the grounds are perfectly maintained. If one ever decides to take a break from golfing, the resort is also located right beside Walt Disney World.

If one feels that their game is not yet up to par to play on these beautiful courses, Ginn Reunion Resort also features the new Annika's Academy of Golf and Fitness. This wonderful centre was inspired and created by Annika Sorenstam, a female golfer who has been ranked number one in the world. This magnificent academy is a teaching facility that spans 5,400 square feet. Henri Reis has been Sorenstam's coach for a very long time and is also the teacher at the academy. Henri is available at the facility to help visitors who want to improve their game and they will never have a better learning experience!

For those that are seeking something different than golf, Ginn Reunion Resort also offers six sub-surface, irrigated Har-Tru clay tennis courts. These courts have a huge pro shop adjoined to them as well as men's and women's locker rooms. And if that's not enough, there is even a professional regulation sand volleyball court that is sure to provide for hours of entertainment and friendly competition!

Visitors who can't think of outdoor activities without thinking of taking a dip, Reunion also offers a multi-level water park. This park spans five acres and features a 966-foot lazy river where one can lounge and relax while drifting along the river that will take them through caves and under bridges. The water park also includes a zero-entry lagoon, which is decorated with waterfalls and rock work. The lagoon also offers access to the river as well as a water slide that is one hundred and ten feet long and has a drop of fifteen feet.

With everything that Ginn Reunion Resort has to offer, it's easy to see why this is such a sought-after destination and also a popular Orlando investment property for those looking for a Florida retreat!

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/ginn-reunion-resort-orlando-217530.html

About the Author:
Jeffrey Funk - Licensed Florida Realtor Specializing in Orlando Investment Properties. For more information on the Ginn Reuinion Resort contact Jeff.