Joanna James
With its lush jungle-fringed beaches, dense mangroves home to the island's numerous endemic flora and fauna and stunning resorts, Bintan Island are your go-to sport for complete relaxation. Read on to find out more.
Sea gipsies or an Orang Laut, as they are known natively, were locals living a nomadic lifestyle before settling down and putting down roots on the beautiful shores of Panglong. Which is also just an hour's drive from the island's port. While the village is predominantly made up of a confusing labyrinth of stilt houses, you will get the opportunity to learn about their traditional methods of seafaring and learn about the rich history of the village! Many a Bintan island resort including the likes of The Residence Bintan will be happy to arrange for a visit upon the request of their guests.
One of the four main beaches that make up the island's east coast, Trikora Beach effortlessly embodies what a laid-back and relaxing holiday is all about! This particular beach lays claim to gin-clear waters, with excellent visibly for snorkelling, chilled out beachside restaurants and plenty of areas to lounge or sunbathe to your heart's content. Do note that getting to Trikora Beach will require an approximately an hour's drive from most resorts in Bintan.
If you are sick of the beach and the endless hours spent sunbathing and frolicking in the ocean then a hike in the beautiful and verdant cool climes will be best. Do remember to pack your walking boots, plenty of mosquito repellent along with sufficient water and food. The highest peak on the island is Mount Bintan and it's known for offering some truly panoramic vistas of the lush valley below.
There is no better way to round off your trip with a long and relaxing massage. Bintan Island is home to plenty of hotels that come with their spas and wellness centres. Consider treating yourself to a relaxing spa treatment to start or end your holiday in style.
Home to the island's large Chinese population, the Senggarang is a charming little fishing hamlet made up of wooden huts built on stilts. A place of tradition, Senggarang was the first Chinese settlement in Bintan, and to date, showcases floating temples and shrines relevant to the Chinese culture. Do consider making your way there come lunchtime, to sample shrimp porridge, a beloved local speciality.
A bustling port occupying a sizeable part of the southwest coast, Tanjung Pinang is lively and definitely interesting to explore. Here visitors can browse through outdoor markets selling local delicacies and a plethora of arts and crafts. If you are a seafood lover, you will be glad to there are plenty of seafood restaurants serving fresh and delicious meals at reasonable prices!
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
