Guest Post: 10 Fantastic Things to Do On Bintan Island

If you are looking for an exciting new destination for your annual getaway, listen up, as there is a gorgeous island that can be found a 45 minute boat ride away from Singapore’s Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal. Based in the Riau Archipelago of Indonesia, Bintan Island or Negeri Segantang Lada is an absolute dream, with white sandy beaches luxury Bintan resorts and interesting culture. It’s high time that you get to know this island for yourself, so book yourself a trip and you can make the most of these activities and sights:

1) Play a round of golf:
On Trip Advisor, Ria Bintan Golf Club has a five star review, and is rated the best attraction on Bintan Island. However there are other options including Bintan Lagoon Resort Golf Club, which is actually rated the second best attraction. Golf is the activity to get involved in during your stay, so make sure you bring along some suitable attire.

2) Relax on the beach:
It is no secret that this part of the world is renowned for beautiful beaches, and Bintan Island is no exception. You’ll be able to find a quiet place amongst the white sands where you can sit and watch the turquoise waves roll into shore.

3) Enjoy local cuisine:
There are restaurants on Bintan Island that offer a great combination of Asian flavours for you to try, so make sure you do a bit of research when it comes to where you want to spend your mealtimes. It’s always worth trying local cuisines rather than sticking to international choices as it will be more exciting for your taste buds.

4) Spoil yourself silly:
Wake up your tired muscles with one of the spa treatments available on Bintan Island. The big resorts will offer a range of options to suit your requirements and budget, so have a further look online.

5) Have an elephant experience:
You may have seen an elephant at the zoo, but have you ever ridden on one? Visit the Bintan Elephant Park which is home to seven Sumatran elephant. The park offers rides in the forest, interactive feeding, all alongside a show.

6) Thrill yourself on an ATV:
Get your adrenaline pumping with a ATV ride through jungle trails; there are sharp bends and steep slopes to keep you on your toes. Some companies also offer the chance for you to ride an ATV down a sandy beach to make the most of the view.

7) Sleep like a King or Queen:
Sometimes the most excitement can come from where you are due to rest your head. There are some amazing resorts on Bintan Island that offer both long and short-term luxury for visitors, so have a look at what is available now and in the coming months. My recommendation would be the all new Sanchaya Estate which is looking fabulous and due to open in March next year.

8) Go snorkelling:
Get an insight into what is going on in the waters surrounding the island by having a snorkelling session. You’ll want to bring your waterproof camera along to get some pictures of the sea life as it is simply awe-inspiring.

9) Try scuba diving:
Of course, if snorkelling isn’t enough for you, you could try scuba diving. Bintan Island is a good place for beginners or those who would like a refresher; the waters aren’t too deep here but there are some coral reefs to explore.

10) Go fishing:
Finally, try your hand at fishing the traditional way on Bintan Island. You will ride on a sampan along the Sebung River and cast a net to trawl fish, and find out the techniques to catch crabs too.

It can be said that Bintan Island offers something for every traveller, whether they are looking for a new experience or a chance to do something they already love. That is why this Indonesian island might be the perfect place for you to visit in the near future.