OFFBEAT
Bintan or Batam? Many travellers ask which Indonesian island they should visit when making holiday plans. Why choose just one when you can have twice the fun by visiting both. Here are five reasons why you should head to Bintan and Batam on your next vacation.
The most convenient way to get to both Bintan and Batam islands in Indonesia is to fly into Singapore from any major city in India. There are ferries that leave from the Singapore harbourfront at several times every day. The ferries are fitted out with air-conditioning and snacks and beverages are available onboard.
The ferry ride to Bintan and Batam takes between an hour and an hour-and-a-half. There are ferries that leave from Harbourfront and Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal (10mins away from Changi Airport) several times daily.
Tip: Book in advance to avoid long queues, especially on weekends.
Book Your Flight to Singapore (nearest airport)
Book Your Flight to Singapore (nearest airport)
Both Bintan and Batam boast of some great luxury resorts with the choicest amenities at rates that are very affordable. World-class spas, epicurean restaurants with an array of cuisines and even designer boutiques…it’s all right here! Indulge in bespoke experiences like chartered boat rides, private gourmet picnics and candlelight meals on the beach without burning a hole in your pocket!
Recommended affordable resorts:
Book Your Stay at Bintan SpaVilla Beach ResortBook Your Stay at Bintan SpaVilla Beach Resort
Book Your Stay at Bintan Lagoon ResortBook Your Stay at Bintan Lagoon Resort
Book Your Stay at Marjoly Beach ResortBook Your Stay at Marjoly Beach Resort
Read more: Planning a Holiday to Southeast Asia? Check Out These Ideas
Some of the most picturesque golf courses can be found on Bintan and Batam islands. Touted as the ‘best golfing experience in Asia’, Bintan exclusive golf clubs boast of scenic coconut groves and foliage-framed greens. Batam’s golf courses are equally charming with hallmark breathtaking views of the waterfront and natural forest.
Recommended courses: Laguna Bintan Golf Club, Ria Bintan Golf Club.
One of the signature actives to enjoy in Bintan and Batam is water sports. Try it all here including canoeing, jet skiing, wakeboarding and surfing. The waters here are crystal clear and perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving too! Other fun activities are fly fishing and banana boat rides. What’s more, the beaches in Bintan and Batam make beach bumming so easy that you may never want to leave.
Read more: 10 Tantalizing Things to Do in Bali for Free
The islands of Bintan and Batam are undoubtedly spectacular and serene. Once the sun goes down, however, the disco lights come on and DJs start to work their magic. There are a few nightclubs where you can dance like nobody’s watching to pumping and thumping music. If you prefer something with a more chilled out vibe, there are lounges too where you can enjoy a mellow sundowner and a night filled with jazz and funk grooves.
Recommended clubs: Silk Nightclub, Dope Club, Flyboyz, Hoobar and Cuba Sky Lounge, F Lounge Pub & KTV, Basecamp Resto & Bar.
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