Take a break is actually a holiday, a real holiday in which everything is as you want it to be. You want a day of laziness? No problem. You want a day full of excitement? No problem. Your guide is the key to the perfectly free holiday. Come along with your friends or just with your partner...
One of Java's and Bali's best qualities, besides its fertile land, is the hospitality of the people. Sincere, friendly and lighthearted are only some of their best merits. This certainly will add to your feeling of having a break of almost everything.
Long & short itinerary - 12 days: Take a break
This most relaxing experience will guide you via Yogyakarta, Malang, the active volcanoes Bromo and Ijen, to the turtle beach Sukamade and Bali's most beautiful snorkeling spot.
You can read the itinerary below. If you click on a day, you can read the full description. You can choose in which class of hotel you prefer to stay: budget, standard and luxurious.
Arrive in Yogyakarta 
Arrive in Yogyakarta
After your travels to Yogyakarta, what would be better than having the feeling of being in Indonesia? That will certainly be possible in Yogyakarta as the cultural heart of Java. Malioboro is a fine street to start your adventures. Along this street you will also meet other destinations that might attract your attention.
We pick you up at the airport or train station and bring you to your hotel.
Accommodation
| BUDGET | STANDARD | LUXURIOUS |
|---|---|---|
|
Dewi Home Stay/EDU Hostel
|
Ibis Malioboro
|
Hotel Santika
|
In a small corridor, just a 3 minutes walk to the Malioboro boulevard; traditional hostel Dewi Home Stay with a lush garden. Or stay in the more modern and relatively new EDU Hostel with a roof top terrace and a cozy swimming pool.
Start your stay in Indonesia well. You are close to the famous Malioboro boulevard to do some first exploration, or if you wish some relaxation in your hotel after your journey to get to Yogyakarta, there is a spa and an outdoor swimming pool.
Santika Jogja is tastefully accentuated with classic Javanese artistry which shows the city’s rich cultural heritage. This property is steeped in old world charm, yet offers all the necessary facilities and conveniences that every modern traveler desires.Yogyakarta holiday 
Yogyakarta holiday
As it is your break, decide if you would like to do something. If the answer is yes, we will assist you with one of the tours mentioned under the heading Optional Tours. You can discuss with your guide, if you would like to do something that isn't on the list.
Holiday still going strong!
Holiday still going strong!
Another day in Yogyakarta with many choices to make - if you wish. You can also just relax and do as you wish.....
By Executive Train to Malang
By Executive Train to Malang
A train ride is quite something else compared to transport over the road. As the views from the road are blocked by ribbon development, the views from the train can be marvelous as you pass villages and almost ever green sparkling rice fields. The train departs at 8 o'clock in the morning and you will arrive around 4 o'clock in Malang. You will be picked up at the train station and brought to your hotel.
Accommodation
| BUDGET | STANDARD | LUXURIOUS |
|---|---|---|
|
Kampong Tourist
|
Ibis Styles Malang
|
The Shalimar - Boutique Hotel
|
Your private bamboo gazebo on top of another hotel is waiting for you! A warm shower with a panorama. Spectacular city and mountain views, complete with a freshly served drink and WiFi, you couldn't feel more relaxed. The bar is open from 07.00 till 22.00.
Ibis Styles Malang is situated on the main road between Malang and Surabaya which makes access to the city center both easy and adventurous. All rooms are equipped with air conditioning and WiFi. A swimming pool is also available.
The Shalimar Boutique Hotel is a glorious example of colonial architecture of the 1930s. Malang, the refreshing city in the hills 
Malang, the refreshing city in the hills
An outspoken European atmosphere, situated at an altitude of 444 meters sandwiched by mountains and volcanoes. That is Malang. The city was beloved by the Dutch in the colonial era, as it is today by tourists, both local and foreign. In modern Malang you still find a lot of Javanese, Dutch, and Chinese architecture. Malang is still one of a kind, with a wonderful personality and identity, turning the city into an attractive place to explore.
Optional tours: Tea plantation Wonosari, Sempu island, cooking class or a temple tour
Optional tours: Tea plantation Wonosari, Sempu island, cooking class or a temple tour
Malang and its surroundings have a lot to offer, that makes it more than just a transit to Mt. Bromo. South of Malang you will find unexplored white sandy beaches, while Batu offers modern outings such as the zoo, many kinds of museum and swimming pools. You can also dig further in Java's ancient history and visit temples. Or, a local cook will teach you the inside outs of traditional Javanese dishes in her house in the kampong... Please note that today is a free day in your program. You can choose one of the optional tours if you wish.
Botanical Garden Purwodadi - Madakaripura Waterfalls - Cemara Lawang village
Botanical Garden Purwodadi - Madakaripura Waterfalls - Cemara Lawang village
Walking through the ornamental entrance gates of the Botanical Garden a long avenue stretches away from you as far as the eye can see with Mt. Baung just visible in the far distance. Enormously tall Jacaranda and Golden Shower trees line the central path that divides the gardens into two halves. Just to mention some items: an area of palms, the amazing giant arum; one of the largest flowers in the world, two meters in height and 40 centimeters across, and five pretty ponds, a series of glasshouses features 525 species of orchids.
The enchanting Madakaripura Waterfalls are of importance to the local Hindus, who are the ancestors of some famous kings of the kingdoms once reigning in Java. You will find these waterfalls at the end of a dazzling green valley.
Then, when you are in time, one can see a beautiful sunset just from the ancient crater edge.... Situated at an altitude of 2300 m it can get cold in the evening. Average day temperatures are about 20 ºC.
But, if you would like to do none of the above, or would like do an optional tour, we can drive you directly to Cemara Lawang village at any time that suits you.
Accommodation
| BUDGET | STANDARD | LUXURIOUS |
|---|---|---|
|
Home Stay
|
Cafe Lava Hotel
|
Jiwa Jawa Bromo
|
As Mt. Bromo is a tourist destination, basic home stays are available but at a certain price. Don't expect to much of the price-quality balance, as it is certainly out of proportion. Depending on the availability, we will make arrangements.
Cafe Lava sits right at the edge of the ancient caldera and therefore guarantees some beautiful views just nearby. The hotel has a WiFi spot in case you need connection.
The warmly decorated rooms have flat-screens, and tea and coffeemakers, and some have a balcony with mountain views. There’s no air-conditioning as it is not necessary. Room service is offered.Sunrise Mt. Bromo - next destination is Mt. Ijen 
Sunrise Mt. Bromo - next destination is Mt. Ijen
Early morning today... you have something on your program!? An exciting sunrise over an outer space landscape that is incomparable with other stunning parts of the world. You can either see the sunrise from the famous viewpoint at Mt. Pananjakan or from any other spot, such as King Kong Hill or Mt. Seruni. The choice depends on the mode of transport you prefer; either walking or by Jeep.
After the sun has risen and you feel warm again, you will descend to the black Sea of Sand which you will have to cross to reach the crater rim of the active volcano Bromo. Walking up the carter, you already get an impression of the tremendous lunar-like surroundings in which you are standing.
Once back at the Jeep, you will be heading back to your hotel to have breakfast as you might feel hungry. After you have packed your bags, your journey continuous in the direction of Mt. Ijen.
Accommodation
| BUDGET | STANDARD | LUXURIOUS |
|---|---|---|
|
Catimor Homestay
|
Ijen View Bondowoso
|
Jiwa Jawa Ijen
|
Catimor Home Stay is near Ijen crater lake and situated at the Ijen Plateau next doors a coffee factory. A swimming pool will refresh your mind after a long day.
Located in the not-that-alive-city named Bondowoso, the hotel offers a swimming pool, a spa and a children play ground. This relatively small hotel has only 55 rooms. Bondowoso isn't a booming city, but a good pass through on your way to the Ijen crater lake.
"Where the beauty of nature and the charm of culture come harmoniously together", according to the Jawa Resort Ijen. Proper waste management, no tree cutting policy and carbon footprints minimalisation are their commitment to preserve the environment.Ijen Blue Fire, Ijen carter lake and the famous miners 
Ijen Blue Fire, Ijen carter lake and the famous miners
Ijen Blue Fire is the largest blue flame area in the world. This blue glow which is unusual for a volcano isn't lava, as often thought. The glow is the light from the combustion of sulphuric gases. The gases emerge from cracks in the volcano at high pressure and temperature. When they come in contact with the air, they ignite, sending flames up to 5 meters high. Interested? Then you will have to wake up early. Please note that this tour only suits those in a healthy and good condition.
If you don't feel like waking up early, it will be less early before you depart but not that late as the advice is to descend before noon. Besides you still have to travel to Sukamade as well. The Ijen crater lake in its colorful glory is something words can't describe. It contrasts beautifully with its surroundings. Take your time to memorize your views before descending to Paltuding. Meet the sulphur miners, make some small talk, offer them a cigarette, buy some souvenirs and feel at home.
Once back at the parking area, you can visit the sulphur weighing station where the miners get paid. You will find it just behind the parking area.
After a small coffee break with a local snack, you will continue to Sukamade. In Jajag you will change cars to a four wheel drive Trooper or Jeep. You will pass extensive plantations, drive along the coast and Merah and Hijau islands before arriving in Sukamade turtle beach in Meru Betiri National Park. As there is only one option to spend the night, namely the Ranger's Lodge, you won't have a choice. Around 7 in the evening a ranger will pick you up and guide you to the beach to meet with egg-laying turtles. The possibility that you will meet the turtles is not 100%, but something close. Watching these giant creatures emerge from the surf and struggle-up the beach to lay their eggs on a moonlit night is an incomparable experience.
Accommodation
| BUDGET, STANDARD AND LUXURIOUS - NO CHOICE AVAILABLE |
|---|
|
Sukamade Ranger's Lodge
|
The Sukamade Ranger's Lodge is only place to stay at Sukamade itself. A big wide terrace, and the 12 rooms are clean with cold water and Indonesian-style bathrooms. Electricity runs from 18:00 until 22:00 after which it is kerosene lamps only.Release baby turtles and get to the beach in Bali 
Release baby turtles and get to the beach in Bali
Sukamade beach is a natural, quiet, beautiful place and part of the 50,000 hectare Meru Betiri National Park. The eggs are taken by the rangers to protect them from predators, both human and other animals. These are incubated in the safety of the park hatchery and the youngsters are released to the ocean on the very beach from where the eggs were laid. The stability of the turtle population has been helped by a careful system of tagging and monitoring, as well as the use of the special hatcheries. You will release the baby turtles early morning.
After you are set and done, you will be driven to Ketapang harbour to take the ferry to Bali. In Gilimanuk you will be picked up and head strait to Pemuteran in the province of West Bali.
Snorkeling in one of the most beautiful spots of Bali 
Snorkeling in one of the most beautiful spots of Bali
Just off the northwest coast of Bali lies the little island Menjangan surrounded by hectares of marvelous coral reef. The island is situated in West Bali National Park. The diverse eco biology is its main attraction. Many visitors rate snorkeling in this area as the best snorkeling spot in Bali. Awesome to get a day out in this marine park.
Accommodation
| BUDGET | STANDARD | LUXURIOUS |
|---|---|---|
|
Molas Homestay
|
Kubuku Ecolodge & Resto
|
Kinaara Resort & Spa
|
This tiny homestay with just 3 rooms is run by a family. The rooms feature a seating area for your convenience. Each room is fitted with a private bathroom.
Kubuku means 'little home', complete with spa, meditation and yoga.... welcome. Kubuku Ecolodge & Resto is a small hotel with only 14 rooms. They all are situated among the mango, banana, lemon, papaya, and guava trees with either mountain and garden views.
The 20 rooms have a unique wooden construction, with a seating area, safe, fan, electric cattle, hairdryer, and an en suite bathroom with hot and cold shower. On outdoor pool and free WiFi in the public areas are also for your convenience.
Time to say goodbye
DESCRIPTION: You will be picked up in your hotel at any time you wish. Our advice is that that shouldn't be too late, as it is quite an undertaking to visit two genuinely fascinating temples. Which one you would like to see first is up to you. When it is time, you will have a local lunch in a restaurant.
DESCRIPTION: at 8 am a motorcycle is waiting for you at your hotel. He will bring you to the meeting point just 1 km northeast of the Prambanan temple in about 45 minutes. Your guide will show you the sparkling rice fields, hand made bricks, a tobacco factory, and all other activities the occur during your cycling tour. You will have a better understanding of daily village life after this tour. You will visit the Prambanan temple after your cycling tour. After your visit to the Prambanan temple, you will be driven back to your hotel. Expected arrival time is 3 pm.
DESCRIPTION: as it 7 in the morning when you are picked up, prepare yourself. It will take about 1,5 hours to reach the Borobudur. Take your time to visit this colossal Buddhist monument that has survived Mt. Merapi’s eruptions and many earthquakes. The temple remains as mystifying and charming as it probably was about 1200 years ago... 
DESCRIPTION: Taking an off road jeep on a Merapi Lava tour to visit Java's most active volcano. Experience an adventurous Merapi Jeep adventure by an off road jeep to see slopes of Mt. Merapi that were destroyed by its last eruption. Points of interest are the Alien Rock (a rock of about 2 meters in height that looks like an alien), a bunker that locals built to hide in case of an eruption, a very very small and simple museum and beautiful sights over an alienated landscape with a recent history. You will also pass through several villages that were affected by Merapi's eruption.
DESCRIPTION: this long trip to obviously special highlights in Java departs early morning at 5 or 6 o'clock. The 8th century Buddhist temple is an UNESCO world heritage site. One can count 7 terraces representing the steps from earth to heaven. You can also visit the Pawon temple and the Mendut temple, that form a complex with the Borobudur. 
DESCRIPTION: several times a year students do their internship at our office, ranging from tourism and English to administration. Part of their job is to guide foreigners through the city. They have done some studies about the history of Malang and they understand daily life and the modern interesting spots to visit. Most often it is a walking tour, but if your prefer to get around by becak or private blue minibus (microlet), it can be arranged.
DESCRIPTION: cook a traditional East Javanese meal in an Indonesian kitchen. First you will shop with your guide at the local market Klojen for the ingredients. The market Klojen is at its best in the morning; abundant and fresh. Your guide can explain whatever you wish to know and more. After you feel comfortable, you can shop yourself. Once you collected all the ingredients, you will be guided to the cook's house in the kampong. You might meet the cook her house mates and children... Then you start preparing all the ingredients necessary for the meal. Listen to the cook as she will give you instructions. Preparing and cooking itself might take about 3 hours, depending on the meal you choose. While cooking you can note and ask the cook about the necessities for the East Javanese cuisine. 
DESCRIPTION: Malang's old history can partly be read at the temples within the vicinity of the city. Five temples with a story are waiting for you; Badut, Kidal, Jago, Singosari and Sumberawan. Badut temple is one of the oldest temples in East Java and is a legacy of King Gajayana, who was the ruler of the Kanjuruhan Kingdom. The temple was built in 760 AD and is near Malang's city center. Kidal is the oldest temple in East Java with beautiful reliefs depicting the legends of Garuda. Jago temple was originally built by the king Kertanegara Wisnuwardhana. He built it to honor his father who died in 1268 AD. The kingdom of Singosari was founded in 1222 AD by a commoner named Ken Arok. He managed to marry the princess Ken Dedes of Janggala after she murdered her husband. Sumberawan temple is known by the public for its magical powers. The springs under the temple's 'stupas' are considered sacred. More than a few visitors take a bath or bring some water home.
DESCRIPTION: Batu is a village up hill to the northwest of Malang. Batu was first discovered as a health resort with many natural water sources. Indeed, one can find several sulphuric hot springs and loads of waterfalls, of which most are hard to reach as they are located in difficult terrain and natural forests.
DESCRIPTION: 5 o'clock in the morning, that is the deal. Early pick up to bring you to the exotic blue lagoon called Segara Anakan at the island which is called Sempu. It is a three hours drive to Sendang Biru village, where you have to get on the boat to reach the island. But, enjoy your breakfast picnic-style first. You will find the biggest fish auction of the regency Malang in this village at the beach. You can visit the auction and the traditional harbour before heading to the island. In the harbor, you roughly will find two types of boat. The smaller ones set sail for about two or three days, while the bigger ones can stay on the ocean for one or two weeks and sail as far as Australia. 
DESCRIPTION: on the slopes of Mt. Arjuno, the peaceful Tea Plantation Wonosari in Lawang village - just north of Malang city - offers panoramas over the lowlands and the tea plantation itself. Most interesting is the tea factory - operating hours differs with the process - and a walk over the plantation itself. Meet the tea leave picking ladies... A small tour of only 30 minutes will explain the basics about the tea growing process. On the compound one can find a small supermarket, a local restaurant, a mini 'zoo', a swimming pool with icy water, souvenir shops, and a jogging track.
