Bintan Island
Bintan Island has been admired by tourists all over the world for its luxurious resorts and high-end establishments. It sure is easy to escape to Bintan for a short vacation from the bustling city of Singapore or Batam. Its location as part of Riau Archipelago is the perfect spot to relax and chill in one of those resorts, sipping a cold drink by the pool and back by the end of the weekend. However, Bintan actually offers more than that. This biggest island in Riau archipelago has so much to offer to range from a bunch of various natural beauties, cultural spots, adventurous attractions, and the list goes on!
Getting to Bintan Island from Singapore is the easiest thing! You can ride ferries from Tanah Merah for about 2 hours. If you are in Batam, there are daily ferries leaving every 20 minutes and the ride will take about an hour. However, if you are from neither of those islands, you can also get to Bintan by plane. There is only one airport in Bintan which is Raja Haji Fisabilillah Airport that serves local and international flights. You can also browse your hotel to accommodate you while in Bintan here and now to get the best deals!
Things to Do in Bintan Island
1. Indulge with The Sea Gypsies at Panglong Village
Orang Laut or sea gypsies are the first settlers of Bintan Island, they used to live nomadic in boats off the shores of Indonesia. Orang Laut now lives in Panglong Village and they still make a living by being fishermen as the old times. They make their own fishing nets and boats and live in their organized lodging with their names on each house. Indulge with the locals to learn and be mesmerized by their way of living!
2. Back to The Past in Senggarang Village
History never stops to astonish every visitor in Senggarang Village. This place is a piece of evidence that Bintan Island is indeed a melting pot of diverse cultures and people in the past. This village holds different styles of architecture of their buildings. Houses are left open because this village is known for its open community. Walk along the village to take a sneak peek of the people’s daily life, and don’t miss out on the chance to visit Banyan Tree Temple!
3. Relax or Challenge Yourself at Crystal Lagoon
Crystal Lagoon is undoubtedly an impressive attraction in Bintan Island. This man-made saltwater lagoon has white sandy beaches, crystal clear and calm water and 60 hectares in width or equally 50 Olympic-size pools! In this lagoon, you can enjoy water sport activities to your heart’s content. Jetovator, kayak, paddling, swimming, you name it!
4. Amazed at the 500 Lohan Temple
Vihara Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva might be the perfect replica of the Chinese temple in Bintan. This Buddhist temple is known as the home for 500 life-size Lohan Statues in the backyard. Each statue has its own facial expression thus known as the thousand faces. Be prepared to see the grand gate and shrine at one of the holiest places in Bintan.
5. Chillax at Trikora Beach
Trikora Beach is the beginning of tourist development in Bintan Island. The beach is divided into the resorts’ area and for the public. The view of clear water and dotted granite rocks will chill you up. Don’t miss the chance to sunbathe, enjoy the sunny day and taste the local delicacies of seafood in Trikora Beach.
6. Snap Photos at Gurun Pasir Busung (Busung Desert)
Don’t forget to visit Gurun Pasir Busung as you visit Bintan Island to admire the diverse landscape of this beautiful island. Amidst the endless rainforest, beaches, and mangrove forest, you will find this mysterious desert in Bintan. Admire the endless sand dunes forming a dreamy landscape and make great photo spots!
7. Escape to White Sands Island
When you need very private time with your loved ones or by yourself, escape to White Sands Island! This is a private island where you can customize your vacation to your needs! The sands are as white as can be with turquoise water waiting for you to dive in. Try to snorkel with breathtaking marine life underwater, kayaking around this dreamy island, or camping under the stars!
Read Also : 20 Best Things to Do in Batam Indonesia (2019)
8. Discover in Mangrove Tours
For those who love adventure, try the Mangrove Tour to see the wildlife of Bintan. There are several preservations you can visit and one of them is in Sebung River. Take an hour tour to see various mangrove trees, learn the historical context of the mangrove forest, and of course to see the wild animals!
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