Last month, we needed a breather.
Work and life were hectic, and we just wanted to take the kids somewhere to relax. We finally chose Club Med Bintan, a resort that’s super convenient to reach from Singapore—and it turned out to be the perfect decision!
Getting There Was Easier Than Expected
We departed from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal and arrived in Bintan in just about an hour. Once we got off the ferry, Club Med’s pickup area was right at the end of the pier. We gave our names, and the staff immediately arranged a shuttle — we didn’t have to carry our luggage at all, which was a big relief!
Our child was excited and asked when we stepped off the ferry, “Are we on holiday now?” Honestly, from that moment on, it did feel like the vacation had officially begun.
A Room with a View — And Comfort
We booked a sea-facing room, and the view was breathtaking. Just opening the window revealed an endless blue ocean. Even just zoning out on the balcony felt healing. The room was spacious, clean, and full of thoughtful touches.
The hotel had prepared a special kids’ bed for our child, knowing we were bringing little ones along. It was fun and cozy, like a “mini kingdom” just for him. He fell in love with the room the moment we arrived.
The housekeeping staff left little surprises every day—they’d fold towels into cute animal shapes and decorate them with fresh flowers. Even we adults were impressed by the effort. After returning to the room each day, our child first ran in to see what “animal friend” was waiting — simply adorable!
Stress-Free with Kids
The Mini Club was incredibly well organised. Our child had activities all day — from arts and crafts to dancing, swimming, and beach games. The staff were professional, kind, and great with kids. He was having so much fun he didn’t want to leave.
For the first time, Ranger Buddies by Mandai will bring their experience to Club Med Bintan from 16 November to 30 June 2025. Learn and build a unique story around conservation and sustainability. We also embark on a mission with Coco the Tortoise to help its cousins, the ocean turtles. With Blending Augmented Reality and real-life exploration, we get to explore one mission at a time.
By the way, the Ranger Buddies is by Mandai, which aims to nurture every child into an everyday hero that champions conservation and sustainability. Ranger Buddies is a free-to-join programme that we get to participate in missions and animal-related content. It is developed by Mandai X.
These gave us the rare chance to attend a yoga class, and even sneak off for a relaxing spa session — a rare moment of adult-only time we thoroughly enjoyed!
Water Activities: Fun for All Ages
Their complimentary water activities were amazing! As a family, we tried kayaking and snorkelling. The water was crystal clear, and with our snorkelling masks on, we could see schools of colourful fish — even our child kept shouting in amazement.
The most unforgettable moment was during kayaking, when a manta ray swam right past our boat! It was like something straight out of the Discovery Channel — truly magical.
Spa: Healing in a Tropical Rainforest
We have to highlight their spa! The entire spa area is surrounded by lush greenery, with each room housed in a private villa facing the sea.
I had a traditional Indonesian massage, and the therapist was highly skilled — every touch was right. After the massage, you could enjoy ginger tea on the outdoor deck nestled in the rainforest, with birds chirping, swings swaying, and the soft scent of essential oils lingering in the air. It was pure bliss.
Food That Satisfies Body and Soul
Club Med’s dining experience did not disappoint. All meals — from buffet and à la carte restaurants to seaside bars — were included in the stay so that we could eat and drink to our hearts’ content.
Breakfast was a highlight. I loved the traditional Indonesian chicken noodle soup, which was rich and comforting. Our child was obsessed with the freshly made pancakes and fruit juice. Every meal left us completely satisfied.
We’d stroll along the beach in the afternoons, stop by the bar for grilled snacks and cocktails, and watch the sun slowly set over the ocean breeze. Moments like these reminded us what vacations are truly about.
Surprising Nightly Entertainment
Every evening featured a different themed performance — from acrobatics and fire shows to kids’ specials. Each show exceeded our expectations, and the atmosphere was always vibrant and engaging. Everyone, young and old, could feel part of it.
Our child even got on stage during a kids’ glow party, dancing and laughing more freely than usual. It felt like the cheerful, carefree energy of the night had inspired him to shine.
We came to Club Med Bintan hoping for a break, and left with memories that will stay with us for a long time. It gave us the rest we needed, the laughter we missed, and the quality time we craved. We’re already dreaming about our next trip back.
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