B
intan Resorts is a multi-award winning, integrated beach
resort destination that is host to world-class resorts,
designer golf courses and an array of recreational
facilities and attractions. The Bintan Resorts area
generally refers to the entire northern coast of the Indonesian
island of Bintan. The island destination is more than just its
resorts. A holiday at Bintan Resorts will not be complete without
experiencing the easily accessible local heritage and culture of the
island on top of unwinding at your selected accommodation.
Here’s a three-day itinerary to get travellers started:
WORDS: RAEWYN KOH. PHOTOGRAPHS: BINTAN RESORTSexplore the wonders of Bintan Island
LONG WEEKEND
IN BINTAN
Day 1
After arriving in Bintan, take the
afternoon off to relax in one of Bintan
Resorts’ many top accommodation
options, then head out to explore what
the island has to offer. Take a trip down
the mangrove river and try spotting
local wildlife such as kingfishers, silver
leaf monkeys and mangrove snakes.
Depending on preference, opt for the night
tour and be enthralled by fireflies lighting up the mangrove
river. Otherwise, spend the evening at the Lagoi Bay Lantern
Park, which features large lantern displays of marine creatures
and endangered animals of Indonesia that light up after dusk.
Day 2
Take the day to explore the local
areas of Bintan. Trikora Beach,
for example, is a hidden beach
and a favourite weekend spot
among locals. Here, tourists
can rent a thatched hut and
enjoy light refreshments
while basking in the sea
breeze with loved ones or
travel buddies. Visit the local
boat maker down the Trikora
Coast to observe how traditional
fishing boats are made. For lunch,
make a stop at Pizzeria Casa Italia, a restaurant owned by an
Italian family that fell in love with Bintan. Enjoy one-of-a-kind
authentic wood-fire pizza while overlooking the beautiful vast
views of the South China Sea.
Following lunch, explore local culture by heading to the local
villages. Panglong Village, Berakit, is the largest sea gypsy
village in Bintan. The sea gypsies are sea nomads, who were
born, live and die at sea. Get a peek into their interesting local
life and culture with a visit here. Travel back in time to see stilt
houses on waters that form most of the rural village and daily
activities like salted fish being dried in the open.