Paradise by the Sea: Bintan (Indonesia)

Bintan Island or Negeri Segantang, the largest of 3,200 islands in Riau Archipelago and the third largest of the 27 provinces in Indonesia, is an idyllic retreat offering a wide range of activities. The Island, with an area of approximately 1,140 sq kms and a 105-km-long coastline, is a popular beach destination. The charm and aura of Bintan, primarily a resort island, leaves a lasting impression on the minds of high-end travellers wanting to have a good time with family. The island also attracts Conference and Incentive groups. A short-haul destination for Indian travellers, Bintan can be accessed from Singapore. Indian visitors can combine their city holidays in Singapore with Bintan as a two to three nights  extension. There is a regular ferry service operated by Bintan Resorts Ferries (BRF) that plies between Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal, Singapore and Bandar Bentan Telani Ferry Terminal, Bintan Resorts. The duration of travel is 55 minutes. A niche destination as far as the Indian leisure traveller is concerned, Bintan offers a wide range of activities. While the Indian traffic to Bintan has been dominated by the FIT, honeymooners and family segments, there has been a marked increase in Incentive travel groups, corporate meetings and special interest Indian visitors (weddings and religious groups). Bintan has fantastic facilities to lure MICE and Wedding segments. The Northern Coast of the island is often referred to as Bintan Resorts, a consortium of five independently-owned and operated beach resorts, four designer golf courses, as well as a range of recreational facilities and attractions like spa, golf, water sports, shopping etc. The resorts include Angasana Bintan, Banyan Tree Bintan, Bintan Lagoon Resort, Bintan Lodge, Club Med Bintan Island, Nirwana Gardens and Ria Golf Lodge. These are among the big resorts on the island. For those who like to spike up the holiday with a bit of adrenalin rush, Bintan Resorts offers all-terrain vehicle rides through the challenging forest terrain. Located within minutes of Bandar Bentan Telani Ferry Terminal, and within easy reach of the resorts, are four magnificent championship courses designed by golf luminaries, Ian Baker-Finch, Jack Nicklaus, Greg Norman and Gary Player. Beautifully-crafted ornaments and display pieces, beach and swimwear, fashion apparel and accessories, and a host of other items are also available at the resort shops. Tourists can go resort-shop hopping, or explore Pasar Oleh Oleh and Kampoeng Lagoi Leisure Village. For a touch of authentic village life and shopping experience, one can take a day trip to the capital city of Riau Islands—Tanjung Pinang.