Weekend Trip to Bintan, Indonesia.

Let the waves hit your feet and sands be your seat!!!

Bintan, a popular weekend destination from Singapore is only an hour ferry ride away. The peaceful island is a perfect escape from your daily life with lot of things to offer.

However our trip was just to get some fresh air after a hectic couple of months. Hence, we ignored all the activities just to enjoy the sea view from our resort and ate all the nice dishes possible. Here are few things to know before you plan for a trip to Bintan.

Tickets:

1. Book your ticket in advance in case you are going for a long weekend. Tickets are on high demand on holidays/long weekends.

2. Bintan Resort Ferries (BRF) are the most popular ferry operator , starts from Tanah Merah ferry terminal.

Link: www.brf.com.sg

Visa:

Indians do not require a visa to stay up to 30 days in Indonesia, as at January 2020. You may need to show the return tickets at immigration counter.

Resort bookings:

1. There are plenty of options you can explore, however we chose to stay near Bandar Bintan Telani Ferry terminal, for which Nirwana Resort Hotel is an extraordinary option. They have shuttle to pickup and drop for all their guests.

2. We have used booking.com for our reservation. We booked the room with complimentary breakfast.

Food:

1. There are variety of options available in the resort. Room service comes with extra charge.

2. The breakfast was served with huge variety.

3. Outside food it not accessible as there is no nearby market place.

4. You can walk to CALYPSO Floating bar to see a spectacular sunset holding you favourite drink.

5. Try the Kelong Seafood Restaurant if you are a big fan of seafood.

Other points to Note:

>People with motion-sickness / seasickness should use recommended medicine before boarding the ferry.

>It is needless to mention that the island is costly may be because the place has been built for tourists only. Food that you buy, the activity that you choose to do or any essential (you might forget to carry) are all expensive.

>It is better to get money exchanged from Singapore. Credit card is accepted at all places, however they will deduct extra charge for that.

>If you have time in hand there are various activities that you can plan. Try different games, fishing, ride ATV, Relax at the infinity pool. You can take a mangrove trip or go for exciting water sports activities. Visit one of the traditional fishing villages for a taste of local culture and food. There is something for everyone you could never run out of options.

>A certain number of crowd come here to play golf. However I cannot help much on the same.

Overall, I consider Bintan as a funfilled weekend destination and suggest you to plan your visit once the travel restrictions are finally lifted. Till then Stay Home,Stay Safe.