Following the success of its inaugural chapter in June, India: Beginning with Balance with Reema Datta, Bali‘s creative village, Desa Potato Head, is preparing for the second chapter of its landmark series, Merasa Origins: Java, taking place this September. Tracing the cultural roots of Balinese wellness practices across India, Java, and Bali, this three-part series brings together leading practitioners from each distinct tradition. Unfolding across three four-day chapters throughout the year, the programme combines physical practice, philosophy, and ritual within a fully integrated setting, each exploring a different point along this historical lineage. Designed to be experienced as complete systems rather than isolated techniques, Merasa Origins offers a deeper understanding of how these ancestral traditions have been shaped by place, carried across generations, and continue to inform contemporary wellbeing today. About Merasa Origins At Desa Potato Head Bali, wellbeing is understood as something lived rather than prescribed. The Indonesian word merasa, meaning “to feel,” reflects this approach, pointing to an experience that is sensed first and understood over time. Across the Desa, this takes form through a daily rhythm of movement, meditation, workshops and treatments. High-energy training sits alongside slower, more introspective practices, from sunrise meditation and breathwork to plant-based healing, traditional therapies and sound immersions. Guests move between these states naturally, engaging with wellbeing in ways that are both active and restorative. Merasa Origins builds on this foundation. Conceived as a series of immersive chapters, it explores the deeper cultural and philosophical roots behind these practices, tracing how they evolved and continue to shape contemporary wellbeing in Bali today. Tracing the lineage The journey begins in India, where Vedic knowledge laid the foundations for practices such as yoga and Ayurveda, alongside early ideas about the relationship between body, mind and cosmos. Over time, these philosophies travelled east to Java, where they merged with Buddhist teachings and local belief systems, forming a distinct spiritual language. In the 14th century, this synthesis continued into Bali through the Majapahit empire, where it became embedded in everyday life. What is now recognised as Balinese wellbeing is the result of this layered history, shaped over centuries and still practiced today. Merasa Origins follows this path as a lived experience, allowing participants to engage with each stage in context rather than in isolation. The programme unfolds across three immersions in 2026, each rooted in a different point along this lineage: India in June, Java in September and Bali in November. Each takes place entirely within Desa Potato Head, where accommodation, practice and community exist within one continuous environment. Across four days and three nights, each immersion follows a clear arc, moving from activation into reflection and, finally, integration. September 2026: Java – Entering Depth The second immersion, Java: Entering Depth (10th to 13th September 2026), centres on the introspective philosophy of the ancient Javadwipa lineage, inviting participants to observe not only the ritual itself, but the self within it. Guided by recognised Tantric priest Pak Sugeng and spiritual anthropologist Serj Hunt, this four-day chapter draws on Hindu Buddhist Tantra and Javanese Kebatinan alongside practices passed down through sacred lineage. The experience opens with a welcome dinner, setting an intentional tone of presence, humility and attention to detail for the days ahead. From there, a steady rhythm emerges. Days begin with centering practices that combine Javanese dance and collective morning mantras, while subsequent sessions shift into guided workshops exploring Tattwa Tutur, the three forms of Broto and the deeper frameworks of Right Relationship. Each practice approaches ritual not as performance, but as a mirror reflecting intention, devotion and inner clarity. Sacred reenactments focus on the physical and spiritual devotion of Yadnya and Upacara, while quieter sessions turn inward, working with ethics, understanding of truth and personal reflection. Afternoons allow space for rest and integration before participants return to more introspective workshops, knowledge sharing and guided inquiry. Shared meals and informal moments of connection run throughout, creating a sense of continuity between practice and daily life. As the immersion deepens, collective rituals come into play, including a Tolak Balak ceremony centred on protection and the clearing of negative forces. The final day shifts into stillness, with quiet reflection followed by a closing lunch and ritual of blessing. Designed as a point of integration, it offers a way to carry forward what has been experienced, not as a fixed outcome, but as something that continues to unfold beyond the retreat. The subsequent immersion in Bali (November 2026) will conclude this journey, completing the ancestral lineage and offering a final layer of understanding of how these wellness traditions continue to adapt, survive, and flourish today.

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I am sure you would never imagine that Yogyakarta, which I have always considered a secondary destination in Indonesia, is in fact a city capable of offering an attentive visitor cultural and historical insights of great value. Here, culture and history are not confined within books or tourist guides but take shape in the architecture of temples declared UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as Borobudur and Prambanan, in the sacred enclosure of the Sultanate that still governs the province today, and in popular artistic manifestations that animate the city. And it is precisely in the center of Yogyakarta that this complex and layered identity becomes immediately perceptible. Urban life flows at its own pace, made up of continuous balances between tradition and everyday life. Along Malioboro Street, the most famous and frequented artery, there are shops, stalls, carts, and small informal spaces that tell an authentic and deeply popular Yogyakarta. Not a commercial street, but a meeting and observation place, where the traveler catches fragments of real life. Walking on Malioboro means immersing oneself in an atmosphere made of sounds, colors, and repeated gestures, where the past is not staged but simply lived. It is here that the most accessible face of the city offers itself without filters, naturally preparing for the discovery of its most symbolic places and the stories that lead from the urban heart to the Kraton and, a little further, to the great temples of the Javanese plain. Welcome, then, to Yogyakarta, “Jogja” for friends, which I do not believe is an exaggeration to define as the soul of the island of Java. In my opinion, it even surpasses the capital Jakarta, which, when I visited it, did not leave me particular emotions and which, among other things, will be replaced by Nusantara, the new capital under construction on Borneo Island, whose name recalls the idea of a “land among the islands.” But the role of Yogyakarta goes beyond its cultural dimension. Thanks to the wisdom and commitment of its Sultan, the city played a fundamental role in the birth of the Indonesian Republic, to the point of being awarded, unique among the provinces of the country, the status of Sultanate. The origins of this Sultanate date back to 1755, following a treaty mediated by the Dutch East India Company. Prince Mangkubumi became the first Sultan of Yogyakarta with the title of Hamengkubuwono I and founded the city together with the Kraton, destined to become its symbolic center. In the period following World War II, while Indonesia fought for independence, Sultan Hamengkubuwono IX made a decisive choice, aligning his people and resources alongside the young Indonesian state. Yogyakarta thus became the de facto capital of the emerging republic during the most delicate years of the conflict, a role that earned it official recognition of its special status and the confirmation of the Sultan as hereditary governor. The Sultanate of Yogyakarta still represents today a unique form of integration between traditional authority and republican administration, widely accepted at the national level and deeply felt locally as a pillar of the historical and cultural identity of the province. Kraton The Kraton, the royal palace of Yogyakarta, represents the symbolic and cultural heart of the city. Passing through its gates means entering a space where daily life and tradition intertwine following ancient rhythms. Guards in traditional uniforms guard courtyards and pavilions, while gamelan music and measured movements of dancers recall a still-practiced ceremonial. We are not talking about a simple historical site because the Kraton is a lived place, a religious and cultural center where refined arts such as Javanese classical dance, music, and court etiquette are passed down. Inside, precious manuscripts in ancient Javanese characters are preserved, testimony to a deeply rooted literary and philosophical tradition. Visiting the Kraton thus offers an essential key to understanding the identity of Yogyakarta and the journey toward the surrounding great temples. Prambanan Leaving Yogyakarta, the landscape opens up and the city gradually gives way to the plain. It is here that Prambanan reveals itself with its unmistakable silhouette, a set of elongated towers that create one of the most spectacular Hindu complexes in Southeast Asia. Dedicated to the Trimurti — Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva — Prambanan tells of an era in which power and sacred dimension were deeply intertwined. The bas-reliefs decorating the temples narrate episodes from the Ramayana with a richness of details that give movement and depth to the figures, inviting the visitor to read the stone as a timeless story. Borobudur Continuing westward, the journey leads to Borobudur, the largest Buddhist monument in the world and one of Indonesia’s most powerful symbols. Unlike the verticality of Prambanan, Borobudur develops as an ascensional path, designed to be traversed slowly, also because the climb is tiring. The bas-reliefs decorating its terraces tell of the life of the Buddha and his teachings, transforming the ascent into a meditative experience. Reaching the summit, silence and the vastness of the landscape offer a moment of contemplation that represents the culmination of the spiritual journey of the Yogyakarta area. Mendut Ideally concluding this itinerary is the Mendut temple, more intimate and less monumental, but no less significant. Its intimate atmosphere invites a silent and reflective visit, offering a more human and meditative dimension after the grandeur of the larger complexes. Visiting Mendut concludes the journey through the sacred sites surrounding Yogyakarta, leaving the visitor with the sensation of having crossed a territory where spirituality, history, and culture follow one another naturally. Yogyakarta and its temples thus tell a journey that goes beyond simple cultural visit. From the living heart of the Kraton to the great sacred complexes of the Javanese plain, each stage helps unveil a land where history, faith, and identity have layered over time, leaving the memory of a profound and harmonious experience. Photos by Guglielmo Zanchi (Pluto) Here you can watch the video about Yogyakarta by FantasiaAsia:

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Gamelan is one of the most fascinating and representative aspects of Indonesia’s musical culture, especially on the islands of Java and Bali. This musical tradition, rich in history and spirituality, offers a unique experience that captures the heart of anyone lucky enough to hear it live. In this article, you’ll discover what makes Gamelan from Java and Bali so special, the differences between the two traditions, and why this music deserves a prominent place in your Indonesian travel itinerary. What is Gamelan? The term “Gamelan” refers to a set of traditional musical instruments, mainly percussion, consisting of gongs, metallophones, xylophones, bells, and other brass and bronze instruments. This music, which can be sacred or secular, is performed in ensembles of various sizes, often accompanying religious ceremonies, cultural rituals, dances, and theatrical performances. Its unique sound, characterized by rich, resonant, and hypnotic tones, creates an atmosphere of spirituality and meditation. Gamelan of Java Javanese Gamelan, also known as “Gamelan Jawa,” is one of the oldest and most complex in the country. It features instruments such as the gong ageng (large gong), the gender (keyboard metallophone), the bonang (series of bells), and the kendang (drum). Javanese music is deeply rooted in the island’s religious and cultural traditions, often associated with Hindu and Buddhist ceremonies, traditional dances, and theatrical performances like wayang kulit (shadow puppets). Javanese Gamelan is distinguished by its intricate structure and tightly synchronized rhythms, creating a rich tapestry of nuances and dynamics. The music is often accompanied by symbolic movements and dances that tell mythological stories, making each performance a truly spiritual experience. Gamelan of Bali Balinese Gamelan, on the other hand, is known for its vibrant energy, fast rhythms, and more aggressive melodies compared to Java’s. In Bali, Gamelan is closely tied to religious celebrations, purification rituals, and public events such as festivals and traditional dances. Main instruments include the gangsa (metallophone), kendang, bells, and other percussion instruments. One of the defining features of Balinese Gamelan is its role in sacred dances like Barong and Legong, accompanied by lively and engaging music. Balinese music often features improvisations and spontaneous variations, reflecting the island’s energetic and spiritual essence. Differences Between Javanese and Balinese Gamelan Although both types of Gamelan share instruments and basic characteristics, there are key differences: Sound and rhythm: Javanese Gamelan tends to have a softer tone, with slower, more structured melodies, while Balinese Gamelan is faster, more aggressive, and dynamic. Usage: Javanese Gamelan is often linked to religious ceremonies and formal theatrical performances, while Balinese Gamelan is more lively, used in festivals and public celebrations. Instruments: Both traditions use similar instruments, but playing techniques and arrangements differ, resulting in unique and recognizable sounds. Why Listen to Gamelan During Your Trip to Indonesia? Watching a Gamelan performance from Java or Bali is an unmissable experience for visitors to these stunning islands. Traditional music offers a deep immersion into Indonesia’s cultural, religious, and artistic roots, providing insight into its ancient traditions. Many tourist spots and temples host public or private concerts, perfect opportunities to discover and appreciate this unique art form. Conclusion Java and Bali’s Gamelan represent an invaluable cultural heritage capable of conveying emotion and spirituality through ancient sounds. Whether you’re passionate about music, culture, or spirituality, witnessing a Gamelan performance will undoubtedly be a memorable highlight of your Indonesian journey. Don’t miss the chance to explore this captivating musical tradition and let yourself be transported by its deep, ancient melodies.

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Nestled amidst the soft rolling hills and coffee plantations of central Java, the MesaStila Resort and Spa offers a sanctuary for those seeking an elegant refuge, far from the frantic pace of everyday life. At the same time, it provides opportunities for immersion in nature and cultural exploration. Crossing the gates of the property, the atmosphere immediately transforms: the scent of well-tended gardens blends with the songs of birds and the gentle murmur of fountains hidden among the greenery, evoking a sense of peace and harmony from the very first moment. The resort is a perfect blend of Javanese colonial design and contemporary comfort, capable of transporting guests into an experience that is cultural, aesthetic, and sensory all at once. Elegant villas and suites, scattered across 22 lush hectares, are built from restored traditional Javanese wooden houses, each featuring handcrafted furnishings and spaces designed to fuse tradition with luxury. From private terraces, guests enjoy panoramic views of rice fields, forests, and, on clear days, the majestic sight of nearby active volcanoes that surround the central region of Java—creating a dynamic and unforgettable horizon. A notable element of historical charm is the reception area, which has been converted from an old colonial railway station and carefully restored within the property. It is a tangible reminder of the area’s history and the legacy of the coffee plantations that once thrived in these lands. Spaces dedicated to wellness deserve special mention. The resort’s spa is not your usual spa: it is an authentic Turkish-style hammam, the first and one of the few of its kind in Southeast Asia. In an environment that blends traditional architectural elements with Ottoman cultural design, guests can indulge in vapor rituals, massages, scrubs, and treatments that combine ancient Middle Eastern techniques with healing practices from the Indonesian archipelago. Here, the aromatic warmth of steam, enveloping temperatures, and sequences of treatments are designed to deeply regenerate body and mind. La piscina a sfioro, circondata da piante tropicali e con vista sulle montagne, diventa un luogo ideale per rilassarsi al tramonto, mentre il panorama che si apre sulle colline circostanti offre uno spettacolo silenzioso e ipnotico, perfetto per chi cerca tranquillità e contemplazione. The infinity pool, surrounded by tropical plants and offering views of the mountains, becomes an ideal place to relax at sunset. Meanwhile, the landscape unfolding over the surrounding hills provides a silent, hypnotic spectacle—perfect for those seeking tranquility and contemplation. The culinary offerings reflect the resort’s philosophy: a harmonious blend of fresh local ingredients and international culinary creativity. The main restaurants are Java Red, which offers international dishes and local specialties inspired by Javanese tradition, and Java Green, which provides lighter, healthier cuisine with Mediterranean influences and recipes based on organic products cultivated on-site or in nearby villages. Alongside these, the Plantation Lounge, housed in a restored colonial warehouse, is the perfect spot for aperitifs, afternoon teas, or simply relaxing moments with a view of nature. The atmosphere at MesaStila is not only physical; it is that of a place that invites slowing down, observing, and living at a gentle pace. The resort is ideal for couples seeking romance, travelers passionate about Javanese art and culture, and those wishing to reconnect deeply with nature without sacrificing refined comfort. Every experience contributes to a memorable and immersive stay. Among the daily cultural and creative activities offered, guests can participate in batik workshops, the traditional art of dyeing fabrics with wax and pigments; gamelan music classes; lessons in traditional Javanese dance; and even Pencak Silat sessions, the indigenous martial art. There are also activities such as creating ornaments with janur leaves, guided visits to coffee plantations with explanations of the cultivation and processing process, and yoga or Qi Gong sessions immersed in nature. MesaStila Resort and Spa is more than just a place to stay: it is a sensory journey, a balance between discreet luxury and cultural authenticity—a perfect starting point for exploring the wonders of central Java, lulled by silence, beauty, and the attention to detail that makes every moment unique and unforgettable. Here you can watch FantasiaAsia video on MesaStila Resort and Spa:

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A stretch of coastline in Java is disappearing. In the village of Bedono, waves now lap where roads once ran, and residents like Karminah watch playgrounds vanish under saltwater. Jakarta’s response is ambitious: a proposed 700-kilometre sea wall around Java to protect an island that holds half of Indonesia’s 280 million people. The scale is staggering — and the debate is only beginning. The government frames the barrier as essential. Sea-level rise, stronger tides and the sinking of coastal land—exacerbated by groundwater extraction—are swallowing shorelines. The proposed defence carries an estimated price tag of about $80 billion. Officials say the wall is among their top infrastructure priorities and have set up an agency to steer the long-term project. But delivering such a plan will take decades, and funding strategies remain unclear despite appeals to regional and Middle Eastern investors. Engineering lessons and environmental doubts Proponents point to precedent: Japan and the Netherlands have long used hard coastal defences to fend off tsunami and storm surge. Structures like those can dissipate wave energy and protect ports, towns and farmland. For densely populated Java — home to Jakarta, a national capital under intense environmental pressure — a physical bulwark is tempting. Yet scientists and coastal managers warn of trade-offs. Large sea walls often shift erosion rather than stop it, degrading beaches and altering marine habitats. Melanie Bishop, a coastal researcher, notes these projects carry “significant environmental and social costs” — from lost mangroves and fisheries to restricted movement between land and sea for people and wildlife. Local fishers and crab farmers who have already abandoned villages fear the wall will come too late, or might even accelerate problems where the ground has already subsided. Nature-based alternatives and mixed approaches Some experts favour nature-first strategies. Restoring mangroves and coral reefs can build resilience over time: these living systems accrete vertically and dampen wave energy naturally. They also sustain biodiversity and local livelihoods better than concrete barriers. According to Climate Central, without decisive action, large parts of Java’s coastline could be underwater by 2100. A middle path is gaining traction among engineers: targeted, segmented defences combined with managed retreat and habitat restoration. Heri Andreas, a geodesy expert, likens a full-ring sea wall to “killing a mosquito with a cannon” — suggesting smaller, smarter interventions may be more effective and less damaging. The human cost and political timeline For communities already losing ground, such debates are urgent and personal. Some residents welcome any promise of protection; others worry displacement, lost livelihoods and the ecological cost. The project’s timeline spans multiple administrations, and as President Prabowo Subianto acknowledged, the leader who launches the wall may not be the one to finish it. Financial hurdles and technical complexity remain immense. Building long-term coastal resilience will demand not just engineering but clear social planning: compensation, relocation options and support for alternative livelihoods. Without these elements, a wall risks protecting infrastructure while leaving people exposed. What travellers should know For visitors to Java, coastal change is visible in some areas — receding beaches, altered fishing communities and coastal rebuilds. If you’re travelling to coastal towns: Visit local mangrove restoration projects and community-based tourism initiatives — they often welcome volunteers. Be mindful when photographing coastal hardship; ask for permission and consider supporting local businesses. Choose tour operators that engage with conservation or community projects to ensure tourism benefits locals. Looking ahead A 700km sea wall would be a dramatic symbol of adaptation for Indonesia, but it is not a silver bullet. The project underlines the scale of climate impacts facing islands and coastal megacities worldwide. Whether Java’s answer will be concrete, green, or a hybrid will depend on science, politics, money — and the voices of communities who call the shoreline home. For now, Bedono’s shrinking road remains a stark reminder: the choices made today will shape coastlines for generations.

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The cultural heartland of Indonesia, Java is studded with ancient treasures engulfed by pea-green paddy fields and rain forests lined with pristine white beaches. The capital of Jakarta buzzes with modern dynamism while elsewhere, overlooking the Unesco-protected site of the Borobudur temple, Amanjiwo awaits, named ‘Peaceful Soul‘ for the serenity, privacy and beauty of its setting. Experience the many facets of the island – from city to sanctuary – with our Aman journey; a train voyage through Java to Amanjiwo in partnership with luxury rail operators, PT Kereta Api Pariwista on selected dates throughout 2023. With dedicated carriages adorned in the Aman style the journey is designed to offer timeless elegance in the utmost comfort. Taking guests across Java, the once-in-a-lifetime experience begins in Jakarta Gambir station, where the bustle of the vibrant city soon becomes a distant memory. After a warm Javanese welcome into the station’s exclusive lounge, embark on a panoramic seven-hour journey through Central Java where temples turn to tree-lined hillsides, with a new story appearing around every corner.  Travel in style, with an exquisite Aman breakfast and lunch served on board, surrounded by the opulence of one’s private carriage. Learn along the way, accompanied by Amanjiwo‘s resident anthropologist, Patrick Vanhoebrouck, who shares the region’s historic and cultural highlights. Sip on a crisp glass of champagne with afternoon tea before reaching Yogyakarta Tugu station feeling refreshed, where a 60-minute private transfer to Amanjiwo awaits. Perfectly placed for further exploration of the region, the Ed Tuttle-designed resort offers panoramic views of the Kedu Plain and Mount Merapi on the horizon. Reclaimed from the jungle in the 19th century, Amanjiwo‘s 36 thatched-roofed suites lie in two perfect crescents below the central rotunda 一 most with individual swimming pools opening onto private, tranquil gardens. The resort’s restaurant, bar and terraces all foster serenity, overlooking a ring of volcano es, while stone steps descend in tiers to a magnificent swimming pool. Dedicated to holistic wellness, Amanjiwo offers a spa menu informed by traditional Javanese healing, while a fully equipped gym suite, tennis court and private yoga sessions help guests to find peace from within.  With three-nights to experience this inspiring location, guests are able to fully-immerse themselves in Amanjiwo‘s sacred roots, continuing their journey through Java. Just two-kilometres away, the temple of Borobudur – a 9th-century marvel with 504 life-size Buddha statues 一 reveals ancient secrets, while trekking through the lush surrounding landscapes to local villages unearths an entirely new way of life. Throughout their time at Amanjiwo, each guest will receive daily breakfast and one special Amanjiwo experience. Choose from a traditional Makan Malam degustation dinner served in the grand colonial restaurant, a private Aman picnic on the banks of the Progo river or enjoy sunset martinis overlooking dramatic vistas of the Menorah Hills 一 an idyllic opportunity to reconnect with loved ones in this magical place. On the final morning, wake early, taking in the colours of sun rise before a private transfer departs to Yogyakarta Tugu station. Spend the return trip to Jakarta reflecting on the discoveries made, cherishing memories of an exceptional Aman journey.  The Journey Through Java is available on selected dates throughout 2023: •           17 – 19 February •           17-19 March •           7-9 April •           21-23 April •           5-7 May •           19-21 May •         2-4 June •           30 June – 2 July •           14-16 July •           18 – 20 August •           29 September -1 October •           20 – 22 October •           24 – 26 November •           22-24 December The journey includes a luxury return train journey from Jakarta Gambir to Yogyakarta Tugu station inclusive of breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea and alcoholic beverages alongside a three-night stay at Amanjiwo with daily breakfast, private return transfers and one culinary experience included. Website: www.aman.com/resorts/amaniiwo

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“It’s a very tough life for us sulphur quarry workers,” Ali said, “I had to stop quarry work at Ijen crater when I was just 35 years old as my back was in bad shape and the pain in my legs was giving me too much trouble.” Ali is now a porter and has given up hauling 90 kgs of sulphur every day, preferring the easier task of 20 kg backpacks. He lives in a small village near Ijen crater, close to the small city of Banyuwangi, East Java. Ali is from the Osing tribe. There are 400,000 Osing tribal people who live in the Banyuwangi Regency. The Osing have a colourful past and are descendants of the Hindu Blambangan Kingdom. These days however, most of the Osing have converted to Islam but still recognise some of their original heritage, and this is celebrated in traditional ceremonies. The Osing are very superstitious and in the more traditional villages their belief systems still hold to pre-Islamic traditions, conducting rituals honouring the spirits, deities and black magic. Today, most Osing live a life based on a blend of the three belief systems; Islam, Hindu, and Buddhism.  Their adat or traditional law also incorporates animism. They share strong ties with their Balinese neighbours as they were all part of the Blambangan Kingdom. Known for their warrior spirit and strength, they resisted aggressive attacks from the Demak and Mataram long after the rest of Java succumbed to Islam. The kingdom was finally defeated in 1640, however, 370 years later they still hold onto their strong Hindu belief. The Osing language is a mix of Javanese and Balinese and is still widely spoken today. I was very fortunate to be invited to an ancient Islamic rite of passage while visiting the Osing people.  It was a circumcision ceremony, and my guide told me all Muslim males have to experience this rite and go through circumcision before the age of 11. When I entered the village, there was a colourful festival already in full swing. There were a series of loud banging of drums combined with traditional Javanese music, boisterous singing and people dressed in creepy costumes who took great delight in scaring the life out of the kids as they chased them along the village roads, thinking they were monsters and evil spirits. The pervading atmosphere at the ceremony was a happy and joyous affair for the whole community, albeit not for the celebrated boy. On this particular occasion, there was just one boy, six years old, who was to undergo the circumcision. He was treated like a prince and was paraded through the village on a golden chair, accompanied by two princesses (on motorbikes) who were assigned to protect him throughout his special day. I was eagerly ushered along the procession line and was told I would be an honoured guest.  I was spontaneously invited by the family to partake in a slametan, which is a feast of traditional Javanese village food consisting of cones of rice, meat from cows and pigs sacrificed for the occasion, and an assortment of delicious side dishes. The slametan is taken very seriously, and it is believed this custom appeases the spirits, brings good fortune to the village and protects those that are circumcised, as well as a good excuse for a party! Normally, a village circumcision ritual involves many boys, however, if the family is wealthy and can afford the high cost, the complete ceremony will take place for just one boy, which was the case at this particular ceremony. Lucky for me I was visiting Banguwangi on a full moon, which Ali explained is when circumcision and many other auspicious ceremonies are scheduled. The Banguwangi area and eastern tip of Java is a region of stunning natural beauty with lush terraced rice fields, towering volcanos, and beautiful beaches to the south.  It is the least populated area in Java, an island packed with 145 million people, and it’s worth having a week or so to discover the five National Parks and reserves. The rich volcanic soils and high rainfall produces a bounty of food, and some of the best coffee in Java is grown in this area. Around the town Kalibaru, there is a huge plantation area where hundreds of workers are involved in the production of rubber, cloves, tobacco, coconuts and sugar cane.  Even the famous Rafflesia, the largest flower in the world, can be found around these parts. It is not difficult to see why the Osing people are so happy living off the land of their ancestors, blending their traditions and mystical beliefs with modern influences. They live in harmony with their Madurese neighbours that have settled in the area as well. The Madurese are mostly involved in the fishing trade and their culture seems to mix in well with the Osing people. The local government in Banyuwangi is very keen to attract tourists, and there is a calendar of events including regular dances, music performances and traditional cultural festivals.  In order to attract more visitors, Blimbingsari Airport, near Banyuwangi, opened in December 2010. The Osing people honour their ancient cultural ways, living in harmony with their environment. They have an open, generous, hospitable nature and genuinely welcome guests and travellers to experience their culture. It is a lesser-known place to visit in Java, and I would highly recommend it for a wonderful taste of Javanese magic. Text and Photos: David Metcalf David Metcalf runs photography and cultural tours in Bali, Asia, and the USA. David operates the Taksu Photo Gallery in Ubud, Bali. He supports education and health programs in Bali and Kalimantan. Read about David HERE ! https://www.davidmetcalfphotography.com E-mail: davidmetcalf3@mac.com TAKSU Photo Gallery Centre for creative photography Jl. Wenara Wana (Monkey Forest) Road 11A 80571 Ubud / Bali / Indonesia Website: www.taksuphotogallery.com Phone:  +62 811 1331 255 / +62 812 5388 1385 / +62 361 972 500

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