Java
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| Indonesia Java |
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| From Bali we took a short crossing on a decrepit ferry to Java, Indonesia's most populous island | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| Java is known for its volcanic activity. This is Mount Bromo, a very untouristed spot with a very "End of the World" feeling. The wind carries sulphurous ash over the grey landscape and an abandoned temple sits silently in the mountain's caldera not far from the base of the volcanic cone. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| Transportation to Bromo is rather basic. Dilapidated minivans called bemos run locals and whatever produce (or livestock) they carry to their small mountainside villages. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| At Merapi, another active javanese volcano, the villagers at the base hike partway up the mountain at least twice a day to gather feed (ie grass) for their livestock. We hiked at night to catch the sunrise in the morning, but the weather didn't co-operate. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| Java is known for several different art forms. We found some batik, a cloth partially covered in wax and repeatedly dyed to reveal intricate designs... and (on Carolyn's advice) saw a show of leather puppets and gamalan music. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| "Hey mister... Transport??" is a phrase that will always be etched in our memories. These Bechak drivers ply the streets day and night, living and sleeping in their vehicles. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| By the way, javanese coffee is TERRIBLE! | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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