From Island Calm to the Energy of Singapore
My recent visit to Singapore began a little differently, with a side trip by ferry to Bintan Island in Indonesia.
So close to Singapore yet offering a completely different atmosphere, Bintan is an easy addition for anyone who would like to combine a busy city stopover with a few days of relaxation.
I stayed at Hotel Indigo Bintan, which immediately impressed me with its relaxed boutique feel. The rooms have been thoughtfully designed with a strong sense of place, and the resort enjoys beautiful views across the South China Sea. Between the peaceful beach, infinity pool and wonderful sunrises, it felt a world away from the energy of Singapore.
The food was excellent, but it was the warmth of the staff that really stood out. It is always the personal touches that make a hotel memorable, and Hotel Indigo delivered those in abundance.
I also visited Club Med Bintan, giving me the opportunity to compare two very different styles of accommodation on the island. Seeing hotels firsthand is incredibly valuable. Photographs can show how a property looks, but they cannot always convey its atmosphere, location or which travellers will feel most at home there.
From Bintan, I returned to Singapore for my first ILTM Asia Pacific. The event brought together luxury travel advisors and some of the world’s leading hotels, lodges and travel suppliers for several very full days of appointments.
Among the properties and experiences showcased were Marina Bay Sands and PARKROYAL COLLECTION Pickering in Singapore, Inverlochy Castle in Scotland, Shutters on the Beach in Santa Monica, Great Plains Conservation in Botswana, Sofitel Paris, Belmond London and Lizard Island in Queensland.
It was a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with familiar suppliers, discover new properties and learn more about emerging travel trends. More importantly, these conversations help me make better recommendations by giving me direct contacts and a deeper understanding of what each experience can offer.
Singapore remains one of my favourite stopover destinations, but this visit reinforced how easily it can become a holiday in its own right. Add a few peaceful days on Bintan Island and it creates a lovely twin-centre escape - city energy & island calm.