Manado or Menado is the capital of North Sulawesi Province of Indonesia, and estimated to have been resided since XVI century and was call "WENANG". Later, in 1623 the name was changed into "MANADO". Formerly known as "CELEBES" by the Duch. Manado is located on the shores of natural curve of Manado Bay and is surraunded by a mountains area. The culture of the people in Manado has been mixed one. Urbanization of people from Minahasa, Bolaang Mongondow, Sangihe Talaud, and Gorontalo was resulted mixed population and cultural. Manado is famed as a member of the "SPICE ISLAND" of colonial times, it still exports large amounts of cloves, vanilla and other spices.Tourism and Places of interest
As the largest city in the region, Manado is a key tourist transit point for visitors. Sam Ratulangi International Airport of Manado is one of the main entry ports to Indonesia. In 2005, no less than 15,000 international passengers entered Indonesia via Sam Ratulangi International Airport. Ecotourism is the biggest attraction in Manado. Scuba diving and snorkelling on the nearby island of Bunaken are popular attractions. Ban Hin Kiong
Temple is another tourism spot in the city, especially during the Chinese new year celebration. Souvenirs shops are located
on B.W. Lapian street. Other places of interest Lake Tondano, Lokon Volcano, Klabat Volcano, Mahawu Volcano , Ambang Volcano, AWU Volcano, Soputan Volcano, Waruga / Ancient Graves, Bunaken National Marine Park.
