In Reply to: Java first this time ... any tips? posted by Bintangluke on Sunday, 7. March 2010 at 17:07 Bali Time:
I have been to Java many times.
I recommend taking an air conditioned train from Bandung to Yogjakarta.
The bus (16 hours) from Yogjakarta to Denpasar would be too hard for a 7 year old and a nana. Either fly or take shorter bus rides eg overnight at Mount Bromo.
Take a couple of becaks around Yogjakarta, see the Kraton, the Water Gardens and the traditional market (Pasar Berinharjo). Walk down Jalan Marlioboro. See a Javanese drama Ludruk or Wayang Orang, talk to the people in the tourist office about this as well as festivals, processions etc
Do not believe anything the touts say to you about Government batik exibitions.
The easiest way of going to Borrobodur is to buy a day tour in Yogjakarta. You can also buy a tour to Bali stopping overnight at Mount Bromo.