Batam is an island located 20 km south of the city-state Singapore City ) (Only in Indonesia with a One-hour time zone difference to change one), in Riau Islands Province -Indonesia. It has developed significantly in the last few decades into a commercial and tourism hub for tourists visiting from Singapore and other adjacent countries to relax or do business. Batam: Pretty much easy to travel to, being serviced by regular ferries from Singapore and Johor Bahru on the Malaysian peninsula. Read on for details about what to do in Batam and how you can get there too.
The process of getting to Batam depends on the location of the starting point, but the routes involve taking a bus or a taxi to the nearby Ferry Terminal, taking a ferry to Batam, and finally taking a taxi to the final destination.
By Ferry from Singapore: Among the choices, taking a ferry is the quickest and most accessible to get to Batam from Singapore. Currently, there are several ferry terminals in Singapore where transport is frequent to Batam Centre, Sekupang, Waterfront City, and Nongsapura terminals. This ride is about 1hr in duration depending on the type of ferry chosen; there are fast ferries and car ferries for the cheaper option. Tickets can be bought at the ferry terminals or through the online facilities.
By Ferry from Johor Bahru: Some of the ferry connections to Batam include Johor Stulang Laut Ferry Terminal in Johor Bahru, Malaysia. It is about one and a half hours in length for the ride. This is good for those who are visiting Batam from other places within Malaysia or any other part of the world.
Visa Requirements: Many nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival which is valid for thirty days for accessing Batam in Indonesia. Presently, it costs USD 35 to have a single entry into the system. It is important to clarify visa and entry requirements depending on the country of citizenship before traveling. VoA involves the use of cash as shown in the following:
Best Things to Do in Batam
Batam is a duty-free zone, hence it's a great spot to buy electrical devices, clothes and accessories, cosmetics, alcohol, cigarettes, chocolate, and many more. Look at stores offering cheap goods at malls like BCS Mall, Nagoya Hill Mall, and Mega Mall. Bargain with stores for less cost.
Enjoy Water Sports: Batam offers many chances for water sports as its coastline is more than 100 kilometers. Try parasailing, wakeboarding, water skiing, banana boat trips, and other associated fun sports beyond your comfort zone. Especially in Nongsa Beach, water sports involve riding the waves in boats and ships for that additional excitement.
Golfing Getaway: Batam also has some nice golf courses that are situated with magnificent mountain or ocean backdrops. Batam Island offers the best golf courses that you can play on during your vacation; Sukajadi Golf Course, Palm Springs Golf & Beach Resort, and Ria Bintan Golf Club.
Spa Retreat: Relax at the spas and massage parlors in Batam which offer Indonesian massage methodologies, facial treatment, body scrubs, aromatherapies, etc. Try employing simple treatments based on coconut, coffee, and flowers.
Seafood Feast: Spark your taste buds and appetite and try out some of the seafood meals that the Batam area has to offer. Visit restaurants near the waterfront or the fishing areas such as Bengkong Laut or Sei Carang since the choices and the freshness are much better there. This is not the place to miss your favorite dishes such as Chilli Crab, Black Pepper Crab, and Sambal Stingray.
Explore Cultural Attractions: Visit the Maha Vihara Duta Maitreya Buddhist Temple with tall and proud-looking pagodas, the Batam Museum to catch a glimpse of the local culture, and the Pengantin Island’s lighthouse which has historic significance. Other cultural attractions include Warembudisawit Art Building where you can witness a cultural show as well.
That gives the lists of attraction sites to visit within Batam and various means of getting there. There are many fantastic things to see and do on this island and with energizing entertainment, cultural delights, scrumptious food, and incredible outdoor activities – a holiday on this island is sure to be memorable. Oh Batam, when are you planning to book your tickets for Batam?
What are the top activities in Batam?
Batam offers a mix of relaxation and adventure. Enjoy water sports, explore the Barelang Bridge, visit the Maha Vihara Duta Maitreya Temple, or indulge in shopping at Nagoya Hill.
What are the best beaches in Batam?
Nongsa Beach is a popular choice for sunbathing and water sports. For a quieter escape, consider the less crowded beaches on nearby islands.
How can I get to Batam?
The most convenient way to reach Batam is by ferry from Singapore. Several ferry terminals offer frequent departures throughout the day.
What about shopping and dining in Batam?
Batam offers a variety of shopping options, from local markets to modern malls. Don't miss the chance to savor fresh seafood at a kelong restaurant.
Can I explore nature in Batam?
Yes, Batam has natural attractions like the Barelang Bridge offering scenic views and the opportunity to visit nearby islands.