Crisis hides treasures in North Sulawesi

Crisis hides treasures in North Sulawesi

MANADO, North Sulawesi (JP): Indonesia's economic crisis has
not only unveiled the country's numerous maladies but also
concealed many of its magnificent tourist resorts. Among them are
those in North Sulawesi province.

The province, the northernmost part of the island of Sulawesi
which is close to the Philippines, boasts a number of must-see
tourist resorts. Already it is home to one of the best known
diving centers in the world. But it offers much more.

1. Bunaken marine park, one of the best sea gardens in the
world and a diver's paradise. It is located off the coastal city
of Manado, the capital of the province.

2. Tangkoko Batuangus natural reserve, about 65 kilometers to
the northeast of Manado. The reserve houses, among others, the
Sulawesi tarsiers, the world's smallest primate, and the tailless
monkey (macaca tonceana).

3. Tinoor, a highland spot at the feet of Mount Klabat, about
500 meters above sea level, where you can enjoy a bird's eye view
of Manado and its surroundings.

4. Tomohon, called the city of flowers, is nestled in a hill
between two active volcanoes and has a mild climate.

5. Tondano, a hilly area near Tomohon. Enjoy hot water springs
and the scenic Tondano Lake.

6. Lembeh-Tangkoko, near Bitung port. Take a look at fish, sea
horses and shrimps in miniature. They can only be photographed
using special cameras.
7. Lake Mooat, near Kotamobagu about 200 kilometers southwest of
Manado. Take in the cool fresh air in this highland and enjoy
beautiful scenery.