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Beyond Ordinary Beaches: Solo Camping at Bukit Pengilon, Gunung Kidul, Yogyakarta<br /><br />Have you ever found yourself sitting idle, wondering where to go for your next adventure? The beach sounds appealing, but you want something different from the typical coastal experience. If this resonates with you, then you're in the same boat as I was, and I have the perfect solution to share.<br />Currently staying in Yogyakarta, I decided to explore one of the region's coastal gems. Yogyakarta is renowned for its stunning beaches, particularly in the Gunung Kidul area, which has undergone massive road infrastructure development in recent years. Access to Gunung Kidul from Yogyakarta city has become remarkably convenient and relatively quick. Among the coastal destinations in Gunung Kidul, my choice this time was Bukit Pengilon Beach.<br /><br />A Beach Unlike Any Other<br />Bukit Pengilon isn't your typical Gunung Kidul beach with pristine white sand perfect for water activities. Instead, it offers a breathtaking panorama of ocean views, coastal landscapes, rolling hills, and dramatic cliffs. The seascape from this vantage point is absolutely captivating, and I can confidently say that Bukit Pengilon ranks as the most beautiful beach in Yogyakarta. If you're visiting Yogya, you must experience this destination at least once.<br /><br />My Solo Camping Adventure<br />My beach getaway took place on May 30, 2025, and I planned an overnight camping trip to fully immerse myself in Bukit Pengilon's stunning scenery. This was a solo camping adventure, as none of my friends were available to join me at the time. I frequently embark on solo outdoor activities like camping because I genuinely enjoy the tranquility and peace that nature provides.<br /><br />Getting There<br />My journey began from Kaliurang, Sleman, Yogyakarta at 5:30 AM, arriving at Bukit Pengilon by 8:00 AM. The 2.5-hour drive passed smoothly despite moderate traffic conditions.<br /><br />Bukit Pengilon is accessible by both motorcycle and car, though cars cannot reach the main entrance directly. Car travelers must park at the designated area before the tourist site and either walk or hire local ojek (motorcycle taxi) services provided by village residents. The route from the parking area to the tourist site is quite challenging and steep, so motorcyclists should exercise caution.<br />Cost breakdown:<br /><br />Beach area entrance: IDR 8,000<br />Overnight motorcycle parking: IDR 10,000<br />Tourist site entry: IDR 2,000<br />Camping fee: IDR 20,000<br /><br />Optimal Visiting Times<br />The best times to visit Bukit Pengilon are during morning or late afternoon hours. Morning visits offer cooler sunlight and optimal lighting conditions for photography enthusiasts. As the sun climbs higher, temperatures can become uncomfortably hot for some visitors. Midday photography isn't ideal due to harsh lighting that diminishes the coastal panorama's visual impact.<br />If you have ample free time, consider staying until sunset, as the evening panorama is truly enchanting, especially by Yogyakarta standards.<br /><br />The Magic of Overnight Camping<br />For those with extended leisure time, I highly recommend experiencing this beach through overnight camping. Spending a full night at the coast proved surprisingly delightful and beautiful. You can enjoy your time while gazing at billions of stars overhead, accompanied by the rhythmic symphony of crashing waves.<br /><br />Stargazing Paradise<br />Astrophotography enthusiasts will find Bukit Pengilon an excellent choice for pursuing their passion. The starry panorama at Bukit Pengilon is absolutely magnificent. You can observe various stellar constellations including Scorpion, Ursa Major, and many others. Such pristine starry views are increasingly rare in Yogyakarta, particularly in urban areas where light pollution obscures celestial visibility.<br /><br />Why Bukit Pengilon Should Be Your Next Destination<br />After reading this account, I'm confident you'll be inspired to make this beach your next travel destination in Yogyakarta. Bukit Pengilon offers a unique coastal experience that transcends ordinary beach visits, combining natural beauty with adventure and tranquility.<br /><br />Whether you're seeking stunning photography opportunities, peaceful solitude, or an unforgettable stargazing experience, Bukit Pengilon delivers an extraordinary coastal adventure that will leave lasting memories.<br />Have you had similar experiences or questions about visiting Bukit Pengilon? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below!

(NewsUSA) - No matter who you are or what business you are in, you're vulnerable to a cyber attack. That's the unfortunate reality of the times we live in.<br /> <br /> Think you're immune? There are millions of cyberattacks in the United States every year, with big companies like Home Depot, Adobe Systems, Sony, Citigroup, Target, Facebook, Evernote and The New York Times taking the biggest hits and falling victim.<br /> <br /> And like Fortune 500 companies that seemingly have the resources to battle data breaches, small businesses are just as exposed, if not more so. According to a Verizon Data Breach Investigations Report more than 70 percent of the businesses in the study that were breached had fewer than 100 employees. Those breaches result in huge losses. Trend Micro found that "cybercriminals steal as much as $1 billion a year from SMBs in the United States and Europe, alone."<br /> <br /> Which begs the question: If both large and small companies and the U.S. government can be compromised (even with security protocols in place), then what does that mean for individuals?<br /> <br /> It's a question that Dr. Robert Short, chief technology officer and chief technical scientist of VirnetX, struggled with and finally answered in the form of Gabriel, a set of secure encrypted communication apps derived from a CIA-sponsored Department of Defense project.<br /> <br /> "The genesis of Gabriel really was trying to solve the problem of how you make security transparent to the user. The means to automatically create a secure connection whenever a secure connection is needed to wherever it is needed, and create it on demand," says Short. "That has always been the vision behind Gabriel."<br /> <br /> The difference between Gabriel and other products, says Short, is that users do not have to transmit data to or store data with any third party, including VirnetX. In this way, data is stored only on their own devices. Essentially, users maintain control of their own data.<br /> <br /> Gabriel users also have secure, encrypted (spamless) email, text messages, free voice and video calls and picture or file share with other trusted Gabriel users in their network -- all directly from their personal device.<br /> <br /> Gabriel runs on iPhone, iPad, Android, Windows and Mac OSX. For more information or to download Gabriel go to gabrielsecure.com, the App Store or the Google Play store.<br /> <br /> Ref: Datacenters - in Blogs

(NewsUSA) - Today most homeowners want to do right by the environment while also caring for the health and wellness of their own families. But they don't always know what measures they can take with the design, construction, and furnishing of their houses to achieve eco-friendly, health-enhancing results.<br /> <br /> "Many responsible consumers are uncertain what a 'sustainable' product or material is," notes Linda Jovanovich of the American Hardwood Information Center, www.hardwoodinfo.com.<br /> <br /> "It simply means the particular resource is self-replenishing - something we can use freely now without fear that its supply will run out in the future. Since American hardwood forests renew themselves almost twice as fast as they are harvested, the U.S. supply of hardwoods for flooring, furniture, cabinetry, and millwork is sustainable now and for generations to come."<br /> <br /> As well as being plentiful and sustainable, American hardwood is carbon neutral: Growing trees absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and break it down into oxygen, which is returned to the air, and carbon, which is used to create roots, trunk, branches, and leaves. In short, the use of natural American hardwoods throughout a house helps with the long-term removal of carbon from the environment.<br /> <br /> Hardwood can also benefit a household's general well-being.<br /> <br /> When artist Hadley Williams renovated her family home in California's Bay Area, she asked the makeover team - designer Sherry Williamson, architect Andrew Mann, and builder Michael McCutcheon - for a clean-lined, ultra-eco-friendly residence. They wrapped all the floors, ceilings, walls, and casework in the gutted interiors with plain-sawn American white oak, achieving a beautiful balance among aesthetics, sustainability, and healthfulness.<br /> <br /> Since the latter was a priority, each and every building product used was screened for a comprehensive list of more than 900 chemicals of concern. Using solid timber helped avoid the unhealthy volatile organic compounds (VOCs) found in laminate glues. Thanks to those efforts, the house has been certified LEED Platinum - the U.S. Green Building Council's highest ranking.<br /> <br /> Architect Stephanie Horowitz of Boston-based ZeroEnergy Design is another expert at creating contemporary, environmentally sensitive, family-friendly homes.<br /> <br /> "We regularly specify domestic, sustainably harvested hardwood floors," she says.<br /> <br /> "When paired with a non-VOC finish, a hardwood floor helps maintain healthy indoor-air quality while allowing us to support local business and overall environmental health."<br /> <br /> Such was the case with a house she recently designed for a client who wanted an exceptionally healthy and comfortable living environment in a traditional neighborhood. By installing quarter-sawn white-oak floors, and selecting other durable materials and finishes with low or no VOCs and no added urea formaldehyde, Horowitz was able to achieve LEED-platinum certification for the house and, more importantly, ensure that its inhabitants can breathe easy.<br /> <br /> Visit www.hardwoodinfo.com for more about sustainability and healthfulness in relation to home applications and products using American hardwoods.<br /> <br /> Ref: Decoration - in Blogs

(NewsUSA) - When it comes to getting fit, many consider cardio exercise the best solution. But strength training is also an essential part of any comprehensive exercise routine. Strength training can boost cardio health, burn calories and fat and put you on the fasttrack for fitness success.<br /> <br /> It's no surprise that strength training was listed as a top fitness trend for both men and women by the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM). It's also a key step towards improving quality of daily life -- whether that's countering long hours spent at a desk job or staying active with the family.<br /> <br /> "Everyone can benefit enormously from strength training," says celebrity trainer and Bowflex Fitness Advisor Tom Holland. "Muscle helps our bodies work optimally, providing us with functional strength and the ability to perform daily activities with ease."<br /> <br /> Here are some easy ways to add some strength training into your exercise routine:<br /> <br /> * Commit to a regular routine, and build from there. If you are new to strength training, consider lighter weights and fewer repetitions to get started. You can challenge yourself with larger increments and higher repetitions as you progress. "Success in strength training is all about overloading the muscle with precise weight and progressing appropriately," Holland says.<br /> <br /> * Use equipment, or keep it simple. Equipment such as kettle bells, dumbbells and medicine balls are all great options. For example, the Bowflex SelectTech 552 dumbbells (www.bowflexselecttech.com) replace 15 sets of weights with a space-saving design -- adjustable from 5 to 52.5 pounds at the turn of a dial. If you don't have easy access to weights, or want to start off simple, everyday objects, such as a frozen water bottle or cans of soup, can be used as substitutes.<br /> <br /> * Get back to the basics with functional fitness. Functional fitness focuses on strength and bodyweight training exercises to improve balance, develop muscle and condition our bodies. Basic exercises, such as squats or sit-ups, mimic movements used in daily life. Another option to keep your body tuned to daily activities is walking. You might not be ready for a 5k walk, but a machine like the Bowflex TreadClimber (www.treadclimber.com) can help you get started by combining the motions of a treadmill, a stair climber and an elliptical.<br /> <br /> * Fuel your strength training with protein. "Protein is essential to building lean muscle," says Holland. One easy solution is a protein shake or smoothie. For example, the new Bowflex Body (www.bowflexbody.com) nutrition line includes fitness shakes that provide a 15-gram punch of protein and essential vitamins for only 125 calories.<br /> <br /> Ref: Body Building - in Blogs

(NewsUSA) - Well, actually, it's both … the charm of hummingbirds is most certainly apropos and "a charm" of hummingbirds is actually factual! Yep, that's right, the collective noun for these unique creatures - just like a gaggle of geese or a flock of birds, is a charm of hummingbirds. Since the definition of the noun 'charm' is "the power of giving delight or arousing admiration," one doesn't need to be a wordsmith to see how right that is. <br /> <br /> Hummingbirds are charming. <br /> <br /> And there are over 330 varieties of the species, Trochilidae, which is their biological family name and they're found in the Western Hemisphere. When one sees a hummingbird, it's a stunning, stop-in-your-tracks sight. Their brilliant throat color is actually a result of the iridescence in the arrangement of their feathers, not color pigment. Light level, moisture, angle of viewing and other factors all influence just how bright and colorful their throats may appear. Perhaps you've heard them, too - the name hummingbird comes from the buzzing sound of their fast-flapping wings.<br /> <br /> Hummers are migrant birds, so although many stay close to the Equator, lots of varieties travel this time of year, so there may be a 'charm' coming to your backyard soon. If you have the desire to see one up close or are curious about how to attract them to your yard, the folks at Cole's Wild Bird Feed Co have got you covered. First, they figured out the engineering of an elegant, deceptively simple, easy-to-use (and easy-to-clean!) feeder. The patented Hummer High Rise has a clever design that offers a stress-free position for your charming guests to get their fill, a fantastic 360-degree vista, all the while keeping other unwanted creatures at bay.<br /> <br /> For example there's an ant moat that stops the armies of industrious workers who'd love to get some sweet nectar, from beating a path to the liquid food. The genius is, it's an actual moat, with nothing but H2O keeping the ants at bay, so while it does its job, it doesn't do harm. Nice! <br /> <br /> A charm magnet. <br /> <br /> The second definition for the noun 'charm' is a small ornament worn on a necklace or bracelet. Hummingbirds weigh on average the same as a nickel, so while you'll want to wear a replica from the jewelers, Hummers can be your own garden's jewelry all season long.<br /> <br /> And in return for their arousing your admiration, they'll feed on those annoying garden insects and pests. For their small size, hummers eat a lot. They are voracious eaters, feeding on mosquitos, gnats, spiders, aphids and other six-legged creepy crawlers. But, besides pests for protein, their primary 'food group' is nectar, which they get in by flitting from flower to flower and using their long beaks and equally long tongues to get their fill. All that flitting is exhausting!<br /> <br /> Since hummingbirds drink up to half their body weight a day of nectar you can help them out by keeping your High Rise fully stocked, for a one-stop fill of their favorite nectar treat.<br /> <br /> Let's not leave out the definition of the verb, "charm," which is to "delight greatly." If you want these Disney-esque caricatures to delight you on a regular basis with their wonder - and bring their distinctive song to your yard - there is something you can buy: the creme-de la creme of what these charmers crave: Nature's Garden from Cole's.<br /> <br /> By identifying and harnessing the nutrients of the hummer's favorite wildflowers, and tapping their vast store of wild bird knowhow, Cole's has created the next-best-thing to actual flower nectar - a proprietary formula that's far and away a cut above your 'garden-variety' sugar water. Nature's Garden is a healthy, all-natural alternative to homemade syrup, no mixing and no boiling required. It comes in an eco-friendly soft pouch; just shake and pour. You'll be delighted with how easy it is to keep your hummer feeder filled and overjoyed at seeing hummers frequent your yard. Your neighborhood hummingbirds will love it, so they'll keep coming back.<br /> <br /> A brief postscript: a natural predator to the hummingbird is the praying mantis. Despite their equally small size and saintly appearance, they feed on our fascinating feathered friends and are a real threat (and a protected species), so if you find a mantis hanging around your High Rise, take care to evict it gently, to a lower piece of real estate and keep hummers safe.<br /> <br /> Ref: Camping - in Blogs

(NewsUSA) - A non-surgical technique for lifting double chins, reducing puffiness around the eyes, and improving the appearance of wrinkles is now available in the form of an easy-to-use home kit called The Face Wrap. (www.facewrap.com).<br /> <br /> Previously available as a salon-only treatment, The Face Wrap lifts and tightens drooping areas on the forehead, face, and under the chin by firmly wrapping them up in a mineral-soaked, non-allergenic "face wrap" constructed of non-latex elasticized cotton fabric.<br /> <br /> "The liquid minerals are the secret to the Face Wrap," says Sarah Bolger, The Face Wrap's spokesperson. "The minerals, which are all-natural, draw out impurities from the complexion while giving the skin a firmed and tighter look on the outside and a rejuvenated feel to the underlying tissues."<br /> <br /> Bolger says the all-natural, one-hour facial beautification procedure is safe and painless.<br /> <br /> "Our Face Wrap kits have wrapped many thousands of faces, and we've learned how to produce wonderful changes," says Bolger. "For those looking for an alternative to cosmetic surgery, wrapping your face is an easier way to reduce double chins and puffiness, lift and tighten the skin and enhance your own natural beauty."<br /> <br /> Bolger also recommends exfoliating before using to allow the minerals to absorb better, and exercising the face daily with a few simple exercises.<br /> <br /> Working women want to look their best - especially after 50. But let's face it, most working women find it difficult to carve out an hour or two a week for visits to the day spa. That's the appeal of the home kit. The one-hour treatment can be done at home while reading or on the computer or while resting.<br /> <br /> Women generally look five- to ten years younger after a series of three to six treatments. Most people are surprised to see their cheekbones and jaw bones again!<br /> <br /> Visit www.facewrap.com for more information. The kit costs $139 and contains enough minerals for at least 20 treatments, or about $7 per treatment. A lot less than $80-plus for various salon treatments.<br /> <br /> Ref: Famous - in Blogs

When discussing Indonesia's most internationally recognized tourist destinations, Pura Ulun Danu Beratan in Bedugul, Bali, stands as an unparalleled landmark. This magnificent temple represents far more than a conventional tourist attraction—it embodies the perfect harmony between Bali's traditional architecture and the breathtaking natural beauty of the island's mountainous regions, captivating millions of visitors from around the globe.<br /><br />Primary Attractions of Pura Ulun Danu Beratan<br /><br />Pura Ulun Danu Beratan serves as one of Bali's most renowned icons, demonstrating the seamless integration of traditional Balinese architecture with stunning mountain landscapes. Bali's deeply rooted cultural heritage and spiritual traditions make this temple an extraordinary magnet for both domestic and international tourists.<br />Located in Candikuning Village, Baturiti District, Tabanan Regency, the temple stands gracefully on the northwestern shore of Lake Beratan. Its strategic position on the lake, surrounded by verdant hills, creates panoramic views that are both spectacular and highly photogenic.<br /><br />Rich History and Profound Philosophy<br /><br />Pura Ulun Danu Beratan possesses an extensive history, constructed in 1556 Caka or 1634 CE by I Gusti Agung Putu, the King of Mengwi during that period. Archaeological artifacts discovered within the temple complex are estimated to be approximately 500 years older than the Common Era, indicating that this area has served as a sacred site for the Balinese community for centuries.<br />The temple's construction originated from the story of I Gusti Agung Putu's defeat against I Gusti Ngurah Batu Tumpeng. Following his loss, the king performed meditation and spiritual retreat at the peak of Mount Mangu, seeking enlightenment and divine power. After receiving blessings, he arose and began constructing this temple as an expression of gratitude and a plea for protection.<br />The temple is dedicated to Dewi Danu, the goddess of water, lakes, and rivers in Balinese Hindu beliefs, recognizing the critical importance of Lake Beratan as the primary irrigation source for central Bali. The temple's construction also represents a petition for agricultural fertility, prosperity, welfare, and environmental preservation of the surrounding area.<br /><br />Magnificent Architecture and Temple Complex<br /><br />Pura Ulun Danu Beratan comprises four temple complexes and one stupa: Pura Lingga Petak as the place of worship for Lord Shiva, Pura Dalem Purwa for worshipping Dewi Danu, and a Buddhist Stupa symbolizing harmony and unity among religious communities.<br />The eleven-tiered meru building, which serves as the primary spiritual center of the complex, showcases captivating traditional Balinese architecture. Every detail of carving and ornamentation on the temple buildings reflects the exceptional artistic and spiritual values of Balinese society.<br /><br />Refreshing Mountain Natural Beauty<br /><br />One of the primary advantages of visiting Pura Ulun Danu Beratan is the remarkably cool and refreshing mountain atmosphere. Located in the Bedugul highlands at approximately 1,200 meters above sea level, this area offers clean air and cool temperatures, providing a stark contrast to Bali's typically hot and humid coastal regions.<br />The presence of the expansive and pristine Lake Beratan enhances the natural coolness of the area. Visitors can enjoy views of the tranquil lake with stunning temple reflections, particularly during morning hours when thin mist still envelops the water surface.<br /><br />Current Ticket Prices and Facilities Information<br /><br />For 2025, entrance ticket prices for Pura Ulun Danu Beratan have been adjusted. Domestic tourists are charged IDR 40,000 for regular days and IDR 50,000 for weekends and national holidays. International tourists pay IDR 75,000 for adults and IDR 50,000 for children.<br />In addition to entrance tickets, visitors must pay parking fees of IDR 3,000 for motorcycles, IDR 5,000 for cars, and IDR 10,000 for buses. Supporting facilities available in the area are quite comprehensive, including adequate parking areas, restrooms, food stalls, and rest areas.<br /><br />International Recognition and Iconic Status<br /><br />Pura Ulun Danu Beratan enjoys widespread international recognition. One of the highest honors achieved by this temple was when its image was immortalized as the design on Indonesia's former 50,000 rupiah banknotes. This distinction established the temple as one of Indonesia's most globally recognized landmarks.<br />The beauty and architectural uniqueness of the temple standing above the lake waters have made it an extremely popular photography subject on international social media platforms. Professional photographers and tourists from various countries travel specifically to capture the temple's extraordinary beauty.<br /><br />Tourist Activities and Experiences<br /><br />The Pura Ulun Danu Beratan complex covers a substantial area, allowing tourists to explore freely, enjoy various perspectives, and spend quality time at this location. Visitors can engage in numerous activities including exploring the temple complex while learning about the history and philosophy of each building. The well-maintained temple area, featuring colorful flower gardens, provides highly enjoyable visual experiences.<br />Photography represents the primary activity undertaken by visitors. Every corner of the temple offers compelling photographic angles, from temple reflections on the lake surface to silhouettes of towering meru structures against mountain backdrops.<br />Visitors frequently experience the spiritual atmosphere and tranquility emanating from the temple complex. Many guests report feelings of inner peace and spiritual inspiration during their visits to this sacred site.<br /><br />Optimal Visiting Times<br /><br />To achieve the best experience, visiting during morning hours between 06:00-09:00 WIB is recommended. During this period, the air remains exceptionally cool, sunlight provides optimal conditions for photography, and visitor numbers remain manageable. Additionally, morning hours often feature thin mist phenomena enveloping the lake, creating highly mystical and photogenic atmospheres.<br /><br />Conclusion<br /><br />Pura Ulun Danu Beratan transcends conventional tourist destinations—it serves as a window showcasing Indonesia's cultural wealth, spirituality, and natural beauty. The perfect combination of magnificent traditional architecture, refreshing mountain natural beauty, and profound historical significance establishes this temple as an essential destination when visiting Bali.<br />For those seeking travel experiences beyond ordinary recreation, Pura Ulun Danu Beratan offers a blend of education, spirituality, and visual beauty that creates lasting impressions. Do not miss the opportunity to visit this internationally renowned Indonesian icon and personally experience its unforgettable charm.<br />Have you visited Pura Ulun Danu Beratan? Share your experiences and impressions in the comments section. If this article proves beneficial, please share it with friends planning vacations to Bali.