The Residence Bintan

Getting around the resort was easy and pleasant, and the ferry transfer was comfortable. We appreciated that they had a car seat for our toddler. There were lots of activities for kids and several dining options, with good quality food at the restaurants. Our beachfront villa felt private and luxurious, with plenty of space, a great beach view, and a clean pool. The cot for our baby was clean and in good condition, and they’d even provided a baby bath without us having to ask. Loved our stay and will absolutely come back.

The infinity pool was clean and looked out over the beach. They also provided two bicycles, and you could request a buggy to get between your room, the pool, the beach, and the restaurant. It’s secluded and away from the city, but the resort has what you need. I stayed for two nights and didn’t leave. The room was great and the food was nice. A special mention to danny in the dining room, who was warm and friendly while serving us breakfast and dinner. You can’t order GrabFood or Gojek here, though.

The isolation turned out to be a real plus. This resort sits at the far end of the island, about an hour from the ferry terminal by complimentary transfer, with its own private beach. Even though there are families as well as adults, having a separate villa means you still get a sense of privacy. The grounds are spacious, relaxed, and beautifully landscaped. Since there isn’t much nearby, you’ll be eating at the resort. Prices are on the high side, and the Asian food is generally better than the western choices. Some dishes were average and others great. At Rica Rica, try the Gado Gado, and don’t miss the Nasi Goreng Kampung at the Main Dining Hall. The sea is good for water sports, with enough ripples, but calm enough to sit and soak in. The pool is a lovely size with a stunning sea view, though the chairs get claimed quickly, so go early. Book a massage, it was amazing. The gym is on the small side, but the grounds are so expansive that walking or cycling around them makes it easy to get 10k steps. I’d worried this might be a loud, overly family-friendly place, but the secluded setting kept it serene despite the crowded island villas elsewhere.

We had plenty to choose from for food, and it was nice, though not very cheap, more like Singapore prices. There’s also a shuttle from the ferry terminals, plus lots of activities at the resort. On Friday and Saturday nights, there’s live acoustic music at the bar by the pool, which I’d recommend. I came to Nice resort in Bintan for my birthday weekend, and the staff left a surprise message on the bed and a cake. They also brought small local desserts to our room each night. Everyone was very friendly.