Batam - Discovering Indonesia

Travelling to Batam

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Batam, a pretty good destination in Indonesia (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Batam and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Batam, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Indonesia, here's everything to know about Batam for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Batam

Batam is an island located in the Riau archipelago of Indonesia, just a short ferry ride away from Singapore. It is known for its beautiful beaches, golf courses, and duty-free shopping that attract tourists from nearby countries. With a booming industrial sector, Batam is also a popular destination for business travelers. The island features a diverse culture and offers an array of activities for visitors, including sightseeing, water sports, and exploring its many temples and other historic landmarks.

What to visit in Batam

Sure, here are some popular tourist attractions in Batam, Indonesia: 1. Barelang Bridge - It is a series of six interconnected bridges that span across the sea, linking Batam, Rempang, and Galang islands. The bridge offers magnificent views of the sea and is a popular spot for photography enthusiasts.
2. Nagoya Hill Shopping Mall - It is a modern shopping complex that houses an array of shops, restaurants and entertainment facilities.
3. Batam Island Beaches - Batam is home to many beautiful beaches, including Nongsa Beach, Hang Lekir Beach and Melayu Beach. Travelers can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, or just lounging on the sandy shores.
4. Kepri Mall - It is a popular shopping mall in Batam, with over 200 shops selling apparel, electronics, and other goods. It also has a food court that serves local and international cuisines.
5. Batam Miniature Park - This park showcases miniature replicas of different Indonesian landmarks, such as Borobudur Temple and Jakarta monuments.
6. Maha Vihara Duta Maitreya Temple - It is a Buddhist temple and the largest of its kind in Southeast Asia. Visitors can explore the temple complex, admire the intricate statues and pagodas, and learn about Buddhist beliefs and practices.
7. Ocarina Park - This park offers a range of water-based activities, such as swimming in the pools and lakes, water cycling, and beach volleyball.
8. Galang Island - It is located between Batam and Singapore and is known for its picturesque beaches, parks and hiking trails. The island was historically used as a refugee camp for Vietnamese boat people, and visitors can learn about this history at the Galang Refugee Camp Museum.
Overall, Batam offers a mix of modern and natural attractions, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking a getaway from city life.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Indonesia, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Batam

The best time to visit Batam, generally speaking, is between the months of June and October when the weather is relatively dry and pleasant. The monsoon season, which runs from November to February, can bring heavy rain and strong winds which may disrupt travel plans. However, it is worth noting that Batam is a year-round destination with plenty to see and do regardless of the weather.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Batam

To get to Batam from Singapore, you may take a ferry from the Harbourfront Ferry Terminal or Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal. There are a few ferry operators that serve the route and the journey takes about 50 minutes to one hour. If you are traveling from other cities in Indonesia or nearby countries, you may take a flight to Hang Nadim International Airport in Batam. The airport is serviced by several major airlines such as Garuda Indonesia, Lion Air, AirAsia and many more.
Alternatively, there are also ferry services from Johor Bahru and Tanjung Pinang to Batam. If you are driving, you can take the Tanjung Pinang-Batam highway from the Sekupang or Batam Center international ferry terminal.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Batam, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Batam

Sure, here are some typical foods of Batam (Indonesia) with a short description for each of them: 1. Otak-otak - A fish cake made from ground fish meat mixed with tapioca starch, spices, and herbs. It is then wrapped in a banana leaf and grilled over charcoal.
2. Sate Padang - A traditional dish made of beef or lamb meat, skewered and grilled over hot coals. It is served with a rich yellow sauce made from coconut milk, chili, and spices.
3. Nasi Goreng - A classic Indonesian dish of fried rice mixed with egg, meat, vegetables, and spices.
4. Gado-Gado - A nutritious salad made with boiled vegetables, tofu, tempeh, and hard-boiled eggs. It is topped with a peanut sauce dressing.
5. Mie Goreng - A popular noodle dish made with fried noodles, egg, vegetables, and meat or seafood.
6. Sop Buntut - A hearty soup made from oxtail, potatoes, carrots, and other vegetables. It is served with rice and sometimes chili sauce.
7. Ikan Bakar - A grilled fish dish marinated in a spicy sauce made from soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and chili.
8. Es Campur - A colorful dessert made from shaved ice, mixed fruit, and sweet syrup. It is a refreshing treat on a hot day.
You can find general info about typical foods in Indonesia here.

Is Batam an expensive destination for tourists?

Batam can be an expensive destination for tourists depending on the activities and accommodation that travelers choose. However, compared to other popular Southeast Asian destinations, such as Bali or Thailand, Batam can be considered relatively affordable. The cost of food, transportation, and attractions is generally lower than in many Western countries. It is important to do some research and planning ahead of time to find budget-friendly options for accommodation, activities, and dining. Overall, with proper planning and budgeting, Batam can be an enjoyable and affordable destination for tourists.

Where to find accomodation in Batam

The most convenient areas to stay when visiting Batam are Nagoya and Batu Ampar, both located near the island’s main ferry terminals and close to many attractions, restaurants, and shopping centers. Nagoya is the commercial hub and most developed area on the island, with plenty of accommodation options ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury hotels. Meanwhile, Batu Ampar is a quieter area that offers easy access to the beach and golf courses, and is a good choice for those looking for a more relaxing stay.
You can check hotel prices at Batam here:
Booking.com

Is Batam a safe destination for tourists?

Batam is generally considered a safe place for tourists. The island has a low crime rate and visitors are unlikely to encounter any serious safety concerns. However, like any destination, it is always a good idea to exercise caution and common sense, particularly when it comes to personal belongings such as passports, wallets, and electronics. It is also important to be aware of potential scams or fraudulent activities that may target tourists. As long as visitors are mindful and take necessary precautions, they should be able to enjoy a safe and pleasant trip to Batam.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Indonesia here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Batam.

What type of travelers will enjoy Batam the most?

Batam Island in Indonesia has plenty to offer for all types of travelers. It is an excellent destination for couples, young people looking for fun, and families. Couples will appreciate the romantic atmosphere of Batam Island. They can enjoy a day at a luxurious spa, take a sunset cruise around the island, or explore the charming temples and historical sites. There are also many restaurants and cafes where they can sample the delicious local cuisine.
Young people looking for fun will find Batam Island to be an exciting destination. There are many thrilling activities to enjoy, such as beach sports, water sports, and amusement parks. The island is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with many bars, clubs, and pubs to choose from.
Families will find Batam Island to be an excellent destination for a fun-filled vacation. There are many family-friendly activities available, including water parks, animal parks, and cultural experiences like visiting the local markets or taking a cooking class. The island also has many accommodation options suitable for families, including resorts with kids' clubs and activities.

How to get around Batam

In Batam, you can choose to travel by mainly three modes of transportation. 1) Private Car/Taxi: You can hire a private car or taxi to move around the city. This is a convenient option if you have a specific itinerary as you can hire the car for the entire day. 2) Buses: The city has a network of air-conditioned buses that are an affordable option for travelling around the city. These buses are comfortable and run on specific routes. 3) Motorbike Taxi: Popularly known as 'ojeks', motorbike taxis are a quick and affordable option to move around in heavy traffic. However, they could pose a risk if you're not an experienced rider.

What to see around Batam

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Batam, Indonesia: 1. Bintan Island - This is a beautiful island located about an hour's ferry ride from Batam. You can visit the beaches, go cycling, or try water sports.
2. Maha Vihara Duta Maitreya Temple - This is a Buddhist temple located in the hills near Batam. It is known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful surroundings.
3. Galang Island - This is a small island near Batam that was used as a refugee camp during the Vietnam War. It is now home to a museum that showcases the history of the camp and the refugees.
4. Barelang Bridge - This is a series of 6 bridges that connect the islands of Batam, Rempang and Galang. It is a beautiful drive and you can stop at several viewpoints to take pictures.
5. Ocarina Park - This is a recreational park located in the centre of Batam. There are many activities for families, including a water park, a dolphin show, and a Ferris wheel.
For every travel information about Indonesia you can click here.

Wild Trips is the Wikipedia of travel: in the unfortunate case you find an error, please write to us to correct it... Thank you!
Follow us on Facebook if you like wild trips around the world and beautiful itineraries in Italy: https://www.facebook.com/wildtrips.