Just a short distance away from Singapore is the marvelous Bintan island, a perfect holiday getaway that provides scenic environment as well as fantastic accommodation. Bintan is easily accessible by ferry. It only takes an hour or two from Tanah Merah Harbour in Singapore or Pelabuhan Telaga Punggur in Batam to reach Bintan. So, what exactly should you expect to see on this island? Well, we have listed 5 of our favourite scenic landscapes that show how beautiful Bintan really is.
- Gurun Pasir Busung
Originally a mining site, Gurun Pasir Busung was abandoned and now it resembles an Arabian desert. Its white sandy hills and pathways make for a nice little expedition and is a favourite among photographers looking to capture a stunning view of white sand hills overlooking a blue oasis, Telaga Biru. This artificial desert is located about 50 km from the city of Tanjung Pinang and around 15 minute drive from Tanjung Uban. Note that it is best to take private transport because only few public transportation reach the area. Renting a car or a motorcycle is possible from either of the two towns.
- Telaga Biru
It's hard to imagine that this crystal blue lake was once just a large crater in an abandoned mining site, but as time went by, it began to gradually filled with rain water resulting in a "post-apocalyptic oasis" in the middle of Gurun Pasir Busung desert. The entrance fee to this area is only IDR 10,000 per person, and as the spot is still quite secluded, there are not that many food or trinket sellers in the area just yet. This barren land is a great place to explore during your trip to Bintan.
- Pantai Senggiling
Perhaps you have never heard of Pantai Senggiling, a glorious white sandy beach that frames the blue sea. A well-kept secret on Bintan, and an absolute must go for photographers looking for that perfect shot. To get to the beach is a bit of a trek because it is only available on foot or motorcycle as the pathway is quite small. Entrance to this beach will also requires visitors to go through the properties of the locals; and though that is not a problem, it is important that we, as visitors, remain polite throughout our adventures here.
- Pulau Beralas Pasir (White Sand Island)
Imagine an entire island of sandy beaches, this is exactly what you can expect from Pulau Beralas Pasir. This uninhabited island is best visited when the tide is low. The island itself is accessible from a point on Bintan island called Pos White Sand Island. From here, you can take a boat to the island that will cost around IDR 150,000 round trip. There are cottages to stay on this island or you can set up a camp. Experience the chance to spend an evening on your own little island, camping out under the stars, but remember to bring your own meals because the island is uninhabited.
- Lagoi Bay
An up and coming area that is home to resorts and a number of facilities is Lagoi Bay. The place is perfect for family vacation because it offers a lot of beautiful places to see and there are also plenty tourism sites to enjoy, such as mangrove forest, parks, and large pools. However, accomodation in the area is rather pricey, but if you are willing to splurge a little, then you are in for a treat as Lagoi Bay does not disappoint.