On 15 July 2008, I will embark on a two-year bicycle exploration of the Indonesian archipeleago. During this 5000-kilometer odyssey, I will ride along quiet back roads and busy main streets; beside endangered rain forests and prosperous farmlands; through towns bustling with commercial activity and villages steeped in ancient culture; amid panoramas of breathtaking beauty and land devastated by natural disaster; and with stopovers at world-famous tourist destinations and little-known hideaways.
I am now riding through East Java to Jogjakarta. See a map of my route.
Equipped with a high-resolution digital camera, rugged, lightweight computer, Internet-capable mobile phone and global positioning receiver, I will chart my progress in words and images on this website. This international exposure will help to promote a positive image of Indonesia. By providing a grass-roots view of the Indonesian people — their innate tolerance, industry, and compassion — I will paint a portrait of the nation as it is, not as generally reported in the world media. My journey will provide graphic illustration of the safety and security of travel in Indonesia, and the attractions awaiting the mildly intrepid traveler.