Water Castle (Tamansari), Yogyakarta, Java

Advantages: Easy to get to, cheap
Disadvantages: Crowded

...if they don't know. They might think it's polite, but it drives me crazy. Okay, now the good stuff. Java has some sights that are unparalleled in my experience, and make all the hassle worthwhile. In Eastern Java, watching the sun rise over Gunung Bromo, a clutch of extinct and not-so-extinct volcanoes, is a sight I will never forget. Nor is climbing the central volcano of Merapi, one of the most active in the world. The ancient city of Yogyakarta, the island's cultural and intellectual capital, is probably the nicest place in the whole island with its ancient palace, colourful trishaws and supreme skill at batik painting, not to mention the extraordinary ancient Buddhist temple of Borobodur or the Hindu ruins of Prambanan. All these things are strange and wonderful and beautiful experiences, it is just that they are the exceptions here, whereas... Read review

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Advantages: Stunning sunrise, volcanoes, stargazing
Disadvantages: Cold, but that's it!

...and then sunbathed for a bit outside our room on the grass, breathing in the fresh air and writing notes in our diary about the day. Taking in the view for the last time, we headed for the restaurant and waited for the local bus, cheaper than the bus that had brought us up by the way. Our next destination from here was Yogyakarta in the centre of Java, but that’s a whole ‘nother story. HOW LONG TO STAY Minimum of 1 night, maximum of 3 nights. There is only the sunrise to see really, although the surrounding area is stunning. There is also a volcano you can climb beyond the crater itself, too big (and too smoking) for our liking. COSTS You should allow £4 each for acommodation and food will cost you a measly £2.50 per person in the restaurant - it's hearty stuff that you will love and it'll keep you warm at the low temperatures... Read review

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Advantages: Outstandingly Beautiful and Romantic Setting. Interesting History. A Great day Out.
Disadvantages: Difficult to Find - Otherwise None!

...to the elements and fell into some state of decay. George Cubitt purchased the ruin in 1864 for £5000. He drained the moat and discovered many of the missing stones, which had simply fallen from the castle walls into the water, he then employed a stonemason, Charles Thompson, to replace these and, where necessary, to cut and fix in place new ones. He stopped at reconstructing the outer walls of the castle; there was no intention to return the status of it to that of a family home. During this period the castle was covered in ivy and had trees growing in the central courtyard. In a sense it is difficult to imagine a more romantic setting, or home than this, every fairy princesses dream come true, yet, unlike the Disney castles, this one is and was very much for real. Bodiam Castle is one place that actually succeeds in bringing back... Read review

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