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Behnaz Sanjana brings you the low-down on how to make the most of an Indonesian holiday, from personal experience of the world’s most varied archipelago.

The islands of Indonesia enjoy a premium place on the globe; the nation sunbathes right across the Equator, and is also where the Indian and Pacific oceans hobnob with one another.
Although it may not be possible to tour the entire country in one go (unless you relinquish normal life and decide to backpack, which many adventurers do), a look-see at Yogyakarta and Bali is a prudent start. So don your sarong and read on for all the breathtakingly beautiful sights and experiences that await you there.

Charismatic Culture – Yogyakarta
Apparently the centre of Java’s artistic and academic heritage, parts of Yogyakarta are very much like any other Asian city today. But once you’re familiar with the spirit of this sultanate, you’ll endearingly call it Jogja, as the locals do.

This is an opportunity to marvel at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Borobudur Temple Compounds. The tiered structure of this gargantuan Buddhist temple holds 72 stupas and tells the story of the life of the Buddha through its hand-carved reliefs. The many interesting snippets you will learn about its structure and history are certainly food for thought. The sprawling compounds have a few bodhi trees, should you wish to try your hand at Nirvana, much like Gautama Buddha did.

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Meandering around little hamlets by horse and carriage and lunching amidst the surreal surroundings of the Plataran restaurant is a good idea if you have some time to spare in Borobudur.
Kraton Ngayogyakarta Hadiningrat is the sultan’s residence and also gives a fair glimpse into the life and times of royalty gone by. A few of its many open-air pavilions stage musical performances for visitors to get a taste of traditional Indonesian song and dance.

But the sultans of yore indulged in royal hedonism at Taman Sari, a now defunct water castle. It was the monarchs’ private garden, adorned with shimmering blue pools and waterways, some of which have been restored. You’ll have to visit the place to be privy to the secrets lurking about there.

Malioboro Street is a jolt back to the present, with hawkers lining the pavements, haggling wholeheartedly with tourists for quirky souvenirs. There are numerous food stalls to sample Javanese staples, if you think your belly can handle it. Take care not to be run over by the teaming becaks, (traditional cycle-rickshaws) or motorbikes.

Visit Kota Gede, the silver industry hub, to come away with some fine baubles that will be a lasting memory of the bustle that is Jogja.

Sun and Surf – Bali

This is the place for the ideal tropical island experience. Never-ending stretches of beach, coconut trees bordering verdant paddy fields, rich coral reefs and the blush of frangipani in your hair.

Kuta Beach is a beachcombers’ paradise, best known for its surfer-friendly waves and nightlife. The main promenade, adjacent to the sands, is lined with cafes that serve up exotic coolers and calamari done just right, amongst a host of other fun bites. There is an art bazaar and street shops to visit as well. Rent a scooter from the hundreds lined up against the beach to easily zip around the island. Kuta is also where you should ideally stay; in the midst of all the action.

Batubulan literally means moonstone – and you’ll see why. Walk around the village’s shaded, winding ways and the artful sculptures seem to call out to you: little monks with bowed heads, intricate Hindu deities and serene-faced reclining Buddhas, amongst many others. The area’s noted for its fine stonework temples too.

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Catch a Barong performance in any of the temple premises in Batubulan. This mythological story enacted using loud sounds, costumes and gestures is an inherent part of Balinese culture. Love it or not, you won’t be able to ignore it.

Named one of the world’s most beautiful lakes, Lake Bratan sets the stage for the Ulun Danu Temple. The juxtaposition of the water temple and its many ancillary pagodas over the shimmering lake makes it a sight to behold and capture in your mind’s eye for the future, when you feel you need to escape everyday life. Stray wisps of cloud, cool highland air and fog-shrouded mountains in the background add to the mystical element of this attraction.

Tanjung Benoa is a great spot to trawl the ocean bed and explore Indonesia’s magnificent marine flora and fauna. Opt for scuba diving, snorkelling or sea-walking for your underwater escapade. If that does not float your boat (ahem!) there’s jet skiing, tubing, flying fish and banana boating to be done at Hot Dog Water Sport and Dive Centre.

For some ‘monkeying around’, let the thick green canopy of Ubud’s Monkey Forest swallow you. No matter in which direction you choose to set off, you’ll be awed by the myriad shades of nature. The picturesque bridge over the deep ravine, moss-covered stone sentries and ancient temples make for Facebook-worthy photo-ops. Follow the guidelines of the wardens, and the primates who rule this alternate universe will let you pass by without much ado.

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Exploring the island is incomplete without soaking up the atmosphere of Jimbaran Bay, touted as Bali’s Beverly Hills. Come sunset, the eateries lining the beachfront lay out their candle-lit tables with succulent seafood, amidst the sound of the waves and a soft and gentle ocean breeze.