NEED TO KNOW
GOLF
Ria Bintan Golf Club
Contact: www.riabintan.com
Green Fee: HK$975-1,345 (includes cart and caddie)
Laguna Bintan Golf Club
Contact: www.banyantree.com
Green Fee: HK$365-735
Bintan Lagoon Resort
Contact: www.mozaichotels.com
Green Fee: HK$920-1,475
Palm Springs Golf and Beach Resort
Contact: www.palmsprings.com.sg
Green Fee: HK$460-645 (includes cart and caddie)
ACCOMMODATION
The Banyan Tree resort on Bintan (www.banyantree.com) was one of the luxury chain’s first outlets and retains its status as the most palatial address on the island. After several years of use, it was inevitable that the resort would show some signs of age. However, a major recent refurbishment has given it a renewed lease of life and digs are as upscale and appealing as you would expect for the not inconsiderable price. Villas (from HK$4,200) come in a range of categories. If you have cash to splash, opt for the ones with their own private swimming pool.The resort boasts a range of leisure facilities; there are two pools, a spa, a library and a private beach. Meanwhile, dining experiences can be sampled at the resort’s three restaurants – Saffron (Thai), The Cove (European), Treetops (Asian fusion) – or through a private in-villa barbecue or a specially prepared beachside meal.
GETTING THERE
Ferries from Singapore to Bintan (brf.com.sg) and Batam (batamfast.com) leave Tanah Merah Terminal at frequent intervals. Return fares to Bintan cost around HK$390 and HK$300 to Batam. A seven-day visa for Indonesia is available on arrival for US$10.
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