Exploring the Scenic Wonders of Wonosobo: A Family Adventure Through the Dieng Plateau #wonosobo #nikonz8

Yogyakarta, Indonesia Travel Guide by Alexandro Randika Nugraha

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Exploring the Scenic Wonders of Wonosobo: A Family Adventure Through the Dieng Plateau

Embarking on a family journey through Indonesia's Wonosobo region offers natural beauty, cultural experiences, and photographic opportunities. Our adventure began in Yogyakarta, with our local driver set off on a four-hour drive to the Dieng Plateau, renowned for its cool climate and stunning landscapes.

Scenic Stops with Mountain Views

As we ascended towards the plateau, the majestic Gunung Sindoro dominated the horizon. Once we reached the top, we booked a bumpy jeep ride touring the area. Our route included stops at various vantage points, each providing panoramic views of Sindoro and neighboring peaks. These spots were perfect for photography enthusiasts like me, armed with a Nikon Z8 and a 7artisans 35mm manual focus lens. Watch the video for pictures and videos that I took. 

Visiting Curug Sikarim Waterfall and Gardens

Our journey led us to Curug Sikarim, a serene waterfall amidst lush greenery. The surrounding gardens offered a tranquil setting, allowing our family to relax and immerse ourselves in nature. The mist from the waterfall presented unique challenges and opportunities for photography, enhancing my skills in capturing movement and natural elements.

Experiencing Pintu Langit (Door to the Sky)

A highlight of our trip was Pintu Langit, aptly named "Door to the Sky." This spot offers breathtaking views, with a special platform for a small fee. Standing among the clouds, we felt a profound connection to the vast landscapes below. The experience was humbling and exhilarating, providing ample opportunities for memorable photographs.

Exploring Telaga Menjer and Kebun Teh Panama

We also visited Telaga Menjer, a serene lake surrounded by rolling hills, perfect for capturing reflections and the calmness of nature. Our journey continued to Kebun Teh Panama, a tea plantation garden where we took photos and enjoyed the lush greenery. The expansive tea fields provided a unique backdrop for both photography and relaxation.

Accommodation and Local Culture

We noticed numerous hotels and campsites catering to tourists, predominantly Indonesian families and groups. The cool climate and the sensation of living among the clouds made the Dieng Plateau a refreshing escape from urban life. Traveling through local towns and markets enriched our experience, offering insights into the region's culture and daily life.

Return to Yogyakarta and Culinary Delights

After a day of exploration, we returned to Yogyakarta, dining at Malioboro, a vibrant area known for its diverse culinary offerings. The bustling atmosphere and delicious food that we enjoyed before retiring to our accommodation at Omah Tenterem Villa. We planned to visit Mount Merapi the next day, adding another chapter to our Indonesian journey.

Current Weather and Exchange Rate

As of March 1, 2025, Wonosobo experiences mild temperatures, with daytime highs around 81°F (27°C) and cooler nights at approximately 66°F (19°C). Visitors should prepare for occasional rain and varying cloud cover. The current exchange rate is approximately 16,444 Indonesian Rupiahs (IDR) per 1 US Dollar (USD), offering favorable conditions for travelers.

Recommended Reading for Travelers

For those planning a trip to Yogyakarta and its surrounding regions, consider these top-rated travel guides available on Amazon:

• Yogyakarta, Indonesia Travel Guide by Alexandro Randika Nugraha - Yogyakarta, Indonesia Travel Guide: Insider Recommendations for Must-See Sights and Attractions

This guide offers in-depth insights into Yogyakarta's top attractions, cultural sites, and practical travel tips. 

• Greater Than a Tourist- Yogyakarta Indonesia by Fanny Nadia Pollatu - Greater Than a Tourist- Yogyakarta Indonesia: 50 Travel Tips from a Local

Provides unique travel tips and insights from a local perspective, enhancing your travel experience beyond typical tourist spots. 

• Travel Guide to Yogyakarta & Bali 2023 by Trails & Tales - Travel Guide to Yogyakarta & Bali 2023: The Ultimate Guide for the Best Experience in Indonesia

Combines insights into Yogyakarta and Bali, offering comprehensive information for travelers seeking diverse experiences. 

• Wanderlust Yogyakarta: A 2024 Modern Explorer's Guide to Javanese Delights by Bailey Hodgson - Wanderlust Yogyakarta: A 2024 Modern Explorer's Guide to Javanese Delights

A modern explorer's guide highlighting contemporary attractions and traditional delights in Yogyakarta. 

These resources provide valuable information to enhance travel planning and enrich your experience in Yogyakarta and its surrounding regions.

Conclusion

Our family adventure through Wonosobo and the Dieng Plateau was a blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and personal growth in photography. The region's serene landscapes and welcoming communities make it a must-visit destination for those seeking a respite from urban life and a deeper connection with Indonesia's rich heritage.

(This article is written and edited with the help of AI and is subject to mistakes.)

#indonesia #wonosobo #gunungsindoro #diengplateau #travel #vacation #nikonz8 #7artisans #35mmlens 

P.S. Greater Than a Tourist- Yogyakarta Indonesia

My new Viltrox 13mm F1.4 AF lens for Nikon Zfc unboxing

VILTROX 13mm F1.4 f/1.4 Nikon z Mount Lens, Super Wide Angle Autofocus APS-C Lens for Nikon Z50 Z30 Z6II Z7II Z6 Z7

Hey guys,

Check it out!

I got the chance to test out my new Viltrox 13mm, f1.4 AF lens on my Nikon zfc, and I love it. Though, it's not for all situations. Especially, when I want closer shots of my subject. Sometimes, it's too broad. Hence, having to change the lens frequently. Lol.

I was planning to go out again today and use the Viltrox 13mm lens but, the weather forecast says it's gonna be cloudy the whole day. It's actually dark in my room right now. I was hoping for some bright blue skies. Anyway, since it's a holiday, it's a great chance to rest my body aka body maintenance.



VILTROX 13mm F1.4 f/1.4 Nikon z Mount Lens, Super Wide Angle Autofocus APS-C Lens for Nikon Z50 Z30 Z6II Z7II Z6 Z7

I really like how sharp the 13mm is. It really does give a little difference in the view perspective. Most reviewer says it's great for landscape. I usually set my camera to auto. And, it works well with the viltrox lens. It does give a little wider view.

The lens is a tad heavy. You can really feel the build quality and how much you pay for it. As I'm using it with the Nikon zfc, it really gives my camera a distinctive look. Yup, I know people eyeing my camera while carrying it around.



Z fc DX-Format Mirrorless Camera Body w/NIKKOR Z 28mm f/2.8 (SE)

Maybe, it's because I'm like the only one carrying a camera. Well, there is this one other guy with a bigger lens than mine. Kinda funny, cause he's probably wondering why mine, the lens, is shorter if I'm gonna shoot some birds.

I didn't really go to the Sungei Buloh Wetlands Reserve (Google Maps) to get some bird shots. I also wanted to try my new Nikon Nikkor Z DX 50-250mm lens. I'm also loving the lens. Though I couldn't get much closer shots, I can still enlarge and crops the pics later.



NIKON NIKKOR Z DX 50-250mm f/4.5-6.3 VR Ultra-Compact Long Telephoto Zoom Lens with Image Stabilization for Nikon Z Mirrorless Cameras

Well, you need to go out there and start shooting photos if you want to improve and I certainly learn a lot by doing it. Every time I went out hiking or cycling to interesting places to take photos, I discovered what kind of lens I should or not use. 

I basically got myself the Nikkor z dx 50-250mm because I like zooming in or out to get the shots that I want or preferred. When I first used the 28mm prime lens, I really miss the zooming capabilities of my Nikon Coolpix P950. Of course, the prime lens offered a different perspective too. 



Nikon NIKKOR Z 400mm f/4.5 VR S

When I went to the wetland reserve, I wasn't thinking of getting bird shots. Luckily, I had the 50-250mm. So, I managed to get some good bird shots. But, I soon realized, I'm a couple mm lens shorts. I couldn't get any closer. Now, I'm thinking can or should I get a teleconverter? 

I just saw this Nikon Nikkor z 400mm (without a tc) and have been watching some reviews and Nikon official videos on it. Looks like pretty amazing pictures and videos. I also like how some reviewers say it's much shorter and lighter compares to other big lenses.

Check out some of my 13mm and 50-250mm pics I took at the Sungei Buloh Wetland reserve below:

The last pic is cropped from a 50-250mm shot. The lens couldn't get any closer but I can enlarge and crop it. Still looks good. Also, using the 13mm is also great for a vertical shot. Useful, when taking a pic of the tall tower. You don't have to stand further out.

Because I'm lazy, I shot mostly in jpegs and just edit a bit of color, brightness, saturation, etc. For more pics and videos of the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve. Check out my video here. Pls like, share & subscribe!

What do you guys think?

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Subscribe to our blog and youtube channel for the latest post and video uploads!

Happy photography!

#Nikon #Viltrox #Nikonzfc #viltrox13mm #nikonnikkorzdx50to250mm #NikonSg #NikonCreators

P.S. VILTROX 13mm F1.4 f/1.4 Nikon z Mount Lens, Super Wide Angle Autofocus APS-C Lens for Nikon Z50 Z30 Z6II Z7II Z6 Z7

Nikon ZFC Nikkor Z DX 50 250mm & Viltrox 13mm - Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve

Z fc DX-Format Mirrorless Camera Body w/NIKKOR Z 28mm f/2.8 (SE)

Hey guys,

Check it out!

Here I am again, typing on my new Macbook Pro M1 pro. Okay, I'm typing on my external gaming keyboard and using a gaming mouse setup. But, I am using my MacBook. Yesterday, I wirelessly and it seems to get easier and faster once I'm able to quickly link my Nikon Zfc to the Mac.

My camera is linked to the Mac via wifi, and it automatically transferred all my pictures and videos. The first time I did it, was exasperating. As I didn't really know how to do it. This time round everything runs smoothly. I was able to quickly start video editing with iMovie.



Z fc DX-Format Mirrorless Camera Body w/NIKKOR Z 28mm f/2.8 (SE)

Yesterday, was Xmas and a holiday. Wishing all a happy and merry Xmas. I went out with my friend to Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve (Google Maps). An excellent place to test out my new Nikkor Z DX 50-250mm and also the Viltrox 13mm which I just got and didn't really have a chance to try out.

I must say it's kind of a hassle to keep having to change between the two lenses. Wearing cargo pants with many big side pockets or having a lens pouch is recommended. Any time I want a wide shot, I'll use the Viltrox 13mm. But, if I want a closer shot and needed to zoom, I'll change to the 50-250mm.



COOLPIX P1000 Digital Camera with 125X Optical Zoom + Pixibytes Pro 6 Pcs Bundle:

I'm thinking maybe, for this kind of nature photography, I should have used my Nikon Coolpix P950. With its 83x optical zoom and up to 2000mm digital zoom. I could have easily gotten a closer shot of the birds. It's not to say the Nikkor Z Dx 50-250mm and Viltrox 13mm aren't good enough though.

I still can get a good zoom shot and later crop a close-up. If I had the money, I might get a longer-range lens. It's still a lot of fun to take pictures with both lenses. Loving the ability to get a wide shot with the 13mm. Especially, when you can look out to a beautiful wide open area.



VILTROX 13mm F1.4 f/1.4 Nikon z Mount Lens, Super Wide Angle Autofocus APS-C Lens for Nikon Z50 Z30 Z6II Z7II Z6 Z7

Really depends on your budget and what you're going for. In any case, for my beginner level, this setup is more than enough for me. Though, I really like to try out the new Sony a7rv. Guess, I'll have to start saving. Lol. One thing is for sure, I feel like I'm in the minority using a camera than a mobile phone. 

I do see, mostly guys, with their cameras and long-range lens. But, the rest of the people are just tourists taking pictures with their mobile. A little funny when they saw me with a heavy backpack. The silver Nikon Z fc does attract glances. I do feel you can do more with a full camera and lens setup. 



NIKON NIKKOR Z DX 50-250mm f/4.5-6.3 VR Ultra-Compact Long Telephoto Zoom Lens with Image Stabilization for Nikon Z Mirrorless Cameras

I have always thought of buying a camera and photography but it's only now that I finally decided to get one. The Nikon Coolpix P1000's ability to zoom to the moon intrigued me. Though I managed to get a good deal with the P950 instead. And my journey in photography started.

Now, after using the camera for a while, I'm starting to learn and enjoy it. Check out some of the pics I took with the Nikkor z dx 50-250mm and Viltrox 13mm wide angle lens. I use Nikon NX Studio for simple jpeg format edit. For more pics and videos check out my video on youtube.

What do you guys think?

Not bad for an amateur photographer eh? :p

Help support this blog and youtube channel. Buy me Coffee @

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/W04oadL

*Shop the latest deals on Amazon via our links to support us. Tq! :)

Subscribe to our blog and youtube channel for the latest post and video uploads!

Happy photography!

#Nikon #nikonzfc #zfc #Viltrox #NikonSG #NikonCreators #nikonphotography #sungeibulohwetlandreserve 

P.S. Z fc DX-Format Mirrorless Camera Body w/NIKKOR Z 28mm f/2.8 (SE)

done! change new road bike R87 Titanium promend pedals #shorts

ROCKBROS Advanced 4 Bearings Mountain Bike Pedals Platform Bicycle Flat Alloy Pedals 9/16"

Hey guys,

Check it out!

My new PROMEND R87 titanium road bike pedals arrived and I immediately go to work fitting them to my Java Veloce road bike. Yes, I know, it's not the road bike pedal with cleats. As I've explained in my last blog post, I don't have road bike shoes and I mostly cycle to nature parks and beaches.

I like visiting those places and taking pictures. Walking around in a road bike shoe with cleats won't be practical. I don't even like wearing those road cycling shirts and shorts. Though, I'm thinking of trying it out maybe in the future. Check out some of the places I've been to in this video.



ROCKBROS Advanced 4 Bearings Mountain Bike Pedals Platform Bicycle Flat Alloy Pedals 9/16"

Well, I tested my new pedal on my Java Veloce road bike and it actually feels good. It's a little smaller than a mountain bike version. On my commute to work, there is a lot of stops so, wearing shoes with cleats would be troublesome.

I also don't ride on the roadside but on the pathway. So, it's a slow ride having to navigate through people hogging the path. Traffic in the morning is heavy and the road isn't smooth on the side. There are cracks everywhere. I'm afraid of slipping and falling where cars might run you over.



SHIMANO PD-EH500 Urban Riding & Cycle Touring Double-Sided Bike Pedal

Once in a while, usually in the evening, the road and pathway are clear and I'm able to go fast. In fact, yesterday I was able to go a little bit faster. But, I was afraid of making a mistake as it's not a smooth pathway with many metal grating and little holes.

I have fallen from my road bike before that's why I'm careful when riding on bad or slippery surfaces. Unless it's an empty road or cycling lane that's clear of other cyclists or people. Then, it's a joy to ride and go for speed. So far, I'm happy with my new road bike pedals.



Magene C406 Bike Computer with Holder, Waterproof GPS Cycling Computer, Wireless Smart Road Bicycle Monitor, 2.5 Inch LCD Screen

I'm also starting to learn and enjoy using the magene c406 bike computer. I didn't understand how to use it at first. On my last cycling trip I was fed up not being able to link it that I decided to use the Strava app on my iPhone 13 instead. 

It's only now I realized that I've made a mistake and using the wrong app. I thought, I already bound it to the magene app at first but because I haven't been using it, I forgot. I know now how to start recording, save it and upload it to the magene and Strava app.



Magene H603 Chest Strap Heart Rate Monitor, ANT+ and Bluetooth Compatible with Fully Adjustable Strap, iPhone & Android Compatible

I'm not a professional or even an amateur cyclist. More of a hobbyist. I don't do any kind of training except cycling to work and home. But, using a bike computer and using the Strava app to check my daily stats is actually kinda nifty and fun.

I didn't think I want to at first but now I want to know my heart rate data. That's why I decided to get the magene H64 heart rate monitors. It'll be interesting to know my heart rate reading, especially when going up the "little slope of hell". Cycling is way fun! 

What do you guys think?

Help support this blog and youtube channel. Buy me Coffee @

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/W04oadL

*Shop the latest deals on Amazon via our links to support us. Tq!

Subscribe to our blog and youtube channel for the latest post and video uploads!

Happy cycling!

#roadbike #mountainbike #bikepedals #cycling #cyclinglife #magenec406 #magene

P.S. ROCKBROS Advanced 4 Bearings Mountain Bike Pedals Platform Bicycle Flat Alloy Pedals 9/16"

Nikon P950 CNY 2022 Cycling Bikepacking with Mountain Bike MTB Pasir Ris Changi Beach

Nikon COOLPIX P950 Digital Camera || 24-2000mmLens || 16 MP || Built-in Wi-Fi || Vibration Reduction + Camera Kit Special Including 64GB Memory, Spider Tripod, Photo/Video Editing Package & More

Hey guys,

Check it out!

Yesterday, Tuesday 1st Feb 2022 was the first day of CNY aka Chinese New Year. I believe it's the year of the tiger. I've been planning to go out cycling either last Sunday or on Tues. It's a public holiday, so, I can rest on Wednesday before having to go back to work on Thursday.

I've also been planning to bring along my Nikon P950 camera. That's why I bought the bike handlebar front bag. I can quickly attach and dis-attached the bag to the holder and bring it along when I need to. Pretty nifty. This way, I don't have to bring along another backpack.



Nikon COOLPIX P950 Digital Camera || 24-2000mmLens || 16 MP || Built-in Wi-Fi || Vibration Reduction + Camera Kit Special Including 64GB Memory, Spider Tripod, Photo/Video Editing Package & More

I actually smashed my mountain bike into a metal railing while trying to do a jump at the side of the road and I've forgotten about my camera. I only saw that my new handgrips were ripped and the ring missing. It was only later that I remembered and check it.

Luckily, my camera didn't even have a single bend or scratch. Meanwhile, I hurt my right thumb and scratched my helmet visor. I've decided to order a new one. That visor might actually have saved me from having a broken nose, again. 



KRACESS Adult Bike Helmet Bluetooth Smart Helmet with Driving Recorder and LED Taillight Function for Urban Commuter Detachable Visor Mens/Womens Bike Helmet(Black)

I also scratched my face and tummy. Only realized it when I look in the mirror after returning home. I don't know what the heck happened. I was confident of clearing the little bump. Might have hit the root of the tree and that askew the wheels to the right towards the railing.

If the railing weren't there, I would have fallen into the big drain. Damn, I was kind of lucky. I checked my nose if there was blood and there was none. Didn't feel any pain and didn't break anything. At my age, it'll be a little difficult to be injured. Yet, I do stupid stuff. Lol!



2021 Gravity FSX 1.0 Dual Full Suspension Mountain Bike with Disc Brakes (White, 21in)

Well, in spite of that little incident, I had a really good cycling, bikepacking day. I went from one beach to another beach, got a little lost but got back to the track following my Google map. Of course, I took a lot of videos and photos both with my trusty old Samsung Note 10+ and P950.

I should have charged my phone when I'm not using it as it died when I was almost home. I brought two extra batteries for my camera and only use two of them. I'm still a newbie photographer and there are some things I still don't understand how it works.



Insta360 ONE R 1-Inch Edition Co-Engineered with Leica – 5.3K 30fps Action Camera with 1-Inch Sensor, 4K 60fps, Stabilization, IPX8 Waterproof, 19MP

I'm thinking of getting the latest Insta360 camera with a 1-inch sensor. I like the idea of being able to get great pictures at night or when the weather or places are a little darker. If I had the camera, I would have actually captured my attempt at the jump and crashing stupidly into the railing.

One of the reasons, you don't see any video of me riding the bike is because I can't hold the big P950 at the same time. I even tried using my mobile phone but it shakes terribly when it's on the handlebar. I don't have any good holder for it.

The pictures above are some of the places I cycle to and took with my Nikon P950. You can see more pics and vids on my youtube video. If you like it, give a comment on my video and check out my other videos on my main youtube channel here.

Well, what do you guys think?

Help support my blog and youtube channel. Buy me Coffee @

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/W04oadL

*Shop the latest deals on Amazon via our links to support us. Tq!

Subscribe to our blog and youtube channel for the latest post and video upload!

Happy cycling!

#cycling #cyclinglife #nature #mountainbike #nikonp950


P.S. Nikon COOLPIX P950 Digital Camera || 24-2000mmLens || 16 MP || Built-in Wi-Fi || Vibration Reduction + Camera Kit Special Including 64GB Memory, Spider Tripod, Photo/Video Editing Package & More