The port town of Bitung with its fine natural harbor protected by the adjacent island of Lembeh is the center for shipbuilding and maintenance as well as commercial fishing. Also, since the harbor in Manado silted up, large ships now all call into Bitung, including some of the magnificent passenger cruise liners.
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The town itself has a quaint provincial charm and is distinguished by its 12m replica of the Eiffel Tower at one of the roundabout intersections leading into town. Apparently the unusual monument was built by a previous mayor who had studied in Paris in his earlier years and was built as a testament of his love for the "City of Lights".
TRIKORA MONUMENT. Is situated on a bluff at Lembeh Island Beach, the DC3 monument and park offer a nice opportunity to observe ships going by as well as being a gathering place on Sundays and holidays. Reachable by motorized outrigger.
LEMBEH STRAIT. Lembeh Strait is a 12 km long stretch of water separating Lembeh Island and the mainland. Bitung is actually the half way point along the shores of Lembeh Strait. This pristine section of water in North Sulawesi is home to many unique sea animals which include the pygmy seahorse, mimic octopus, ghost pipefish, as well as other larger species. It is a fantastic dive area for underwater photographers and the diversity of smaller creatures ensures many memorable photo opportunities. There are several undeveloped beaches on the shoreline of Lembeh Strait which are excellent for swimming and snorkeling.
The Bitung region is famous for its spices. All around the city vendors sell spices such as cloves, vanilla, cinnamon, and ginger. Souvenirs such as figurines manufactured out of cloves are also available in souvenir shops scattered across the city.
Another popular souvenir is handcrafted wood which is available in most shops in the city.
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