Stay: Bawah Reserve, Indonesia
A private island oasis, a short hop from Singapore.
Riau Archipelago, Indonesia
36 rooms, from 2,800 usd including meals
Bawah is about as close to a paradise island near Singapore as one can get, set across 6 islands amidst a 1,000 acre marine park of coral reefs. Rooms range from luxury beachfront tents to over-water bungalows, and some have private pools. Amenities include 2 restaurants (one is open daily) and 2 bars, spa, gym, and a 22 meter infinity pool. Numerous activities including tennis, boat trips, snorkeling/scuba, cooking and bar-tending classes, batik making, private dining, and more. Reviewers give this property nearly unanimous 5-star reviews, noting the service as “next level” attention to detail, the variety of spa treatments, and an outstanding sommelier, with many choosing this property for a honeymoon or milestone celebration. A three-night minimum stay is required
Getting There:
As this is a private island, getting there is part of the adventure: Transit includes a private car from your hotel in Singapore for 950 usd per person, a service which guests review extremely highly (they comment that the personally-escorted transit through the entire journey is exceptional).
30 min ferry to Batam from Singapore – 20 min car to Private Airport – 1hr 20 Seaplane flight = 2hr 10min
Trips from Singapore start in the morning, depending on the ferry schedule; this ensures you arrive at Bawah in time for a leisurely afternoon snack and spa treatment. The return journey sees you arriving back in Singapore in the early evening, again depending on the ferry schedule. More about transfers here. Indonesia allows US citizens to obtain a visa on arrival for 35 usd.
Bawah Reserve, Riau Archipelago, Indonesia
Photo source: Hotel Website, Vue Magazine, Luxury Travel Advisor, Remote Lands, Luxury Escapes, World’s 50 Best
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