Images via Canva
Picture this: You text the group chat, it’s vacay szn, everyone is saying Bali, but the budget is not budgeting.
Hold up though, because we did some digging and found your next best option… Batam, Indonesia!
That's right, a hidden-gem destination that has it all, and is on the more affordable side.
Here are reasons why Batam is worth a visit:
#1 Batam is nearer than you think!
You can see Batam from Singapore… as a matter of fact, many travellers head on over to Johor Bahru or Singapore first via flight/train/bus, then hop on a ferry ride to the island.
All you gotta do is decide how you’re travelling to Puteri Harbour Johor Bahru, then get a return ferry ticket to Batam for RM195 and you’re set!
Image via Onn Hafiz Ghazi (Facebook)/CNA
For those who’d like to travel from Singapore, a roundtrip ferry ticket from Harbourfront Terminal in Singapore to Batam will cost you about S$80 (RM280), or you can purchase the ticket directly from Horizon Fast Ferry at the terminal In Singapore.
Catching a ferry to Batam can help lower your expenses, since flying from KL to Batam will cost more than twice the price of a ferry ticket!
#2 They have pretty beaches and resorts too!
The beach, the sea, the sunsets… like Bali, Batam has some pretty cute beaches and stays as well!
Nongsa Beach
If you’re looking for a more secluded experience, then this is the beach to be at. It’s protected by a bay, so you’ll be able to enjoy gentler waves and a more #healing time. Besides that, the sunsets are to die for!
Where you could stay: Rona Nongsa, The Nove Apartment Kaina Tower, Nongsa Village, Montigo Resort Nongsa, Turi Beach Resort
Estimate cost/night: RM200 - RM250
Marina Beach
More suited for family time, this beach has a white sandy shoreline with shallow waters and views that slap so issa perfect spot for lovebirds. There’s also a green garden area that you can picnic with friends or do some light walking/jogging exercises if you like.
Where you could stay: Harris Resort Waterfront
Estimate cost/night: RM300
Vio Vio Beach
Located on Galang Island in Batam, this beach is the perfect place if you’re looking to just sloth. Its long coastline makes sunbathing and ‘tan lines for days’ very easy, and if you’re on the beach till nightfall, you’ll be able to literally see a sky full of stars.
There’s also a glamping or water activities option in case that slow life gets a bit boring for you!
Where you could stay: Viovio Beach & Resort, Swiss-Belhotel Harbour Bay Batam, KTM Resort Batam
Estimate cost/night: RM200 - RM300
#3 Indonesian food always eats!
Reason #3 is a no brainer, because Indonesian food... duh! The yummiest penyets, mouth-watering desserts, street food, you name it, Batam has it.
Some must-go-to spots when you travel to the island include Bhinneka, Kampoeng Penyet, and Waroeng Sunda Teh Sinta for Indonesian rice. Their dishes are rich in flavour—you’ll be so full, and still want more! They’re also reasonably affordable.
On top of that, Batam also has other types of cuisines, like French food at the Saveurs De France or sushi at Sushiozu.
For a variety of local street food, you can head to Batam Pasar Malam and when it’s desserts time, some of the more popular cafes include Sharlotte, Itsumo, and Sukupu.
Take me to a holiday in Batam stat!
The perfect hidden gem for a quick getaway. Batam’s pretty beaches, tasty food and budget-friendly vibes make this a perfect trip with your besties!
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