Bintan Lagoon Resort – Old is Definitely Gold: Review
PUBLISHED November 6th, 2015 04:00 am | UPDATED January 19th, 2016 02:36 pm
The adage “old is gold” might be a timeless saying. But if there ever was an instance where that particular proverb rang true, it was when I packed my bags and visited Bintan Lagoon Resort; which happens to be the oldest resort in Bintan.
Bintan Lagoon Resort
After a mostly smooth-sailing journey on Bintan Lagoon Resort’s private ferry, an air-conditioned bus took me on a leisurely ride to the resort’s lobby, where I was promptly escorted to my room by the friendly staff.
Deluxe Plus Room at Bintan Lagoon Resort
If you choose to stay in the Deluxe Plus room like I did, you’ll be greeted by a luxurious king-sized bed with fluffy pillows, an elevated platform right next to the bed with comfy cushions perfect for lounging, as well as a balcony with a bird-eye’s view of Singapore’s Pasir Panjang coastline (which we didn’t know looked so scenic from across the straits!). Along with a sleek marble-tiled bathroom, the room’s amenities were completed by a coffee-making machine, personal safe, and a mini-bar. All rooms come with free WIFI but it must be said, the signal strength can and should be greatly improved upon.
Cempaka Villa at Bintan Lagoon Resort
On top of rooms and suites in the main building, there are three different kinds of villas to choose from – Cempaka, Buganvil, and Angsoka villas. If you’re a huge golf enthusiast however, the charming Cempaka Villa would be right up your alley. Located on the edge of the 18-hole Jack Nicklaus course, these rustic buildings conveniently provide you with your own personal golf buggy. Whoosh down the sinking slopes of the picturesque fairway, as you polish up that professional Tiger Woods swing. Golf equipment such as clubs, shoes, and shirts are also available at shops in the vicinity, so no worries about getting geared up.
Jack Nicklaus Course at Bintan Lagoon Resort
However, the highlight of my stay was, without a doubt, the excellent mangrove tour. Zipping along a meandering river in an open-aired speedboat, I was in awe of the natural beauty that Bintan possessed. The rugged forest coast right at the edge of the water was teeming with a swathe of mangrove species, whose branches only seemed to care about interweaving and interlocking each other with a beauty that was fatalistic, yet poetic. My enthusiastic local guide also shared with me stories of how natives gave offerings to a ‘crocodile spirit’ after vicious crocodile incidents in the past, and he pointed out to me various wildlife species in the area such as snakes, crabs, and otters.
Al Fresco Dining at Rice Restaurant
Famished from my exhilarating journey, I was glad to head down to Rice Restaurant after a hot and soothing shower. A stunning seaside restaurant and bar, the menu consists of Indonesian-styled dishes and Western favourites. My recommendation? After dinner, open a bottle of wine and sit in the al fresco area for a night of invigorating sea breeze and intimate conversation. Hand-held fireworks can also be purchased from the staff (something you definitely can’t find in Singapore) – just remember to shoot them away from a crowd!
My stay at Bintan Lagoon Resort was a greatly enjoyable one. While it may not be the most exciting of destinations, it’s a safe and quality bet if you’re just looking for a short getaway from Singapore. My only regret was that I didn’t stay long enough to explore more of Bintan, but I shall leave that for next time!
Room rates for all the suites and villas can be found here.
