Description
North Maluku is a tropical paradise located in the eastern Indonesia. It consists of many small and big islands, approximately 353 of them, which spread out surrounding the ocean. Moreover, not all of the islands in north Maluku are inhabited. One example of the uninhabited is Dodola Island. This island serves as an example of magnificent tropical beach. White sand with approximately 16 km of length surrounds it and the water is clear. In this island, visitors can do alot of exciting activities, such as swimming, sunbathing and diving. Beside Dodola Island, Maitara Island also offers a fantastic sea life. This island is located in the middle of Tidore and Ternate Islands.
History
Ternate and Tidore have been visited by foreigners since the 16th century. Europeans tried to seek the expensive spices and monopolize them. These days spices are still deemed valuable but not much as before. The sultanate still exists until today and you can view the vast richness of the culture and history in the museum and keraton (castle).
Pala (nutmeg) and cengkeh (clove) are abundant here, and are used in plenty of cooking and sweets.
Entry
Ternate can be reached by Domestic flights from Jakarta via Makassar or direct flight from Makassar and Manado. Furthermore, the European people actually have already known North Maluku since long time ago.
People & Culture
Like in Maluku, the people here have mixed blood.
North Maluku is dominated by Muslim, and for those who are interested in fantastic buildings might want to take a look at Sultan's Mosque. Multi-tiered pyramid form, this mosque is located on the south of palace in Ternate.
Cuisine
Since it's dominated by Muslim people, you can find plenty halal food here. Sea food dishes are also abundant. Various rice and fish dishes should be sampled. You might want to order cool drinks as well because the weather can be hot.
Tourism Office
Jl. Kamboja No.14 A, Ternate
Phone. (62-921) 326277, 327396
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