Prambanan Temple Video Tour Posted by sasha on Feb 24, 2015
Not far from Yogyakarta, you’ll find the amazing 9th century Hindu temple compound of Prambanan. Dedicated to Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva (the Hindu Trinity), this ancient temple was given UNESCO status in 1991 and is one of the most popular attractions in Java.
Chinese New Year Celebration in Indonesia: A Road to a New-found Identity Posted by asimonoff on Feb 20, 2015
In Indonesia, the Chinese New Year, also known as ‘Tahun Baru Imlek’ or ‘Tahun Baru Cina.’ However, interestingly, the word ‘imlek’ is originally from Hokkien language, which means ‘lunar calendar.’ Along with Chinese people around the world, Chinese in Indonesia celebrates this most important holiday, which begins on the second new moon after the winter solace, with…
Prambanan – Indonesia’s Largest Hindu Temple Posted by sasha on Feb 18, 2015
One of the highlights of traveling across Java is a visit to the 9th century Hindu temple compound of Prambanan. The largest Hindu temple in all of Indonesia and one of the biggest in SE Asia, this impressive structure was recognized as an outstanding religious complex when it was given UNESCO status in 1991. To…
Love and Courtship in Indonesian Culture Posted by asimonoff on Feb 17, 2015
In Indonesia, where family plays an important role in partner selection, a courtship and finding the right partner is a family affair. Most parents believe that the best candidates for their future daughter or son-in-law should have a good background based on the crucial aspects of “Bibit, Bebet, Bobot” which has a Javanese origin, referring…
Indonesian Vocabulary for Valentine’s Day Posted by sasha on Feb 12, 2015
Love is in the air as Valentine’s Day (Hari Valentine) approaches. As is the case in many countries all around the world, February 14th is a day for couples to show their love and singles to be miserable. In Indonesia, it’s common for guys to take their girlfriend (pacar) out on a date (kencan). Common…
Asking Questions in Indonesian Posted by sasha on Feb 5, 2015
Learn how to ask questions in Indonesian with this instructional video. Listen to a native speaker and repeat to practice!
Water Castle and Malioboro Street Video Tour Posted by sasha on Feb 2, 2015
For a fun day in Yogyakarta, start by exploring Taman Sari (also known as the Water Castle). A former pleasure garden of the sultan and royal family, part of this once grand complex has been restored and is open for visitors. Then, stroll along Mailoboro Street to shop for batik, check out the bustling streets…