Singapore To Batam Island Indonesia
Batam Island lies off the Singapore Strait between the Malacca Strait, the Karimata Strait, and the South China Sea, and is the largest of a group of 1,796 small islands known as the Riau Archipelago that form a part of Indonesia.
Batam – although in Indonesia – is so physically close to Singapore (just 20 kilometres or 12 miles) that it is easy to get to on a fast ferry from Harbourfront Singapore and this makes Batam a perfect place to rest & get over your travel fatigue and jetlag.
This year, at the very start of our Six Month Long Grand Asian Adventure and after landing in Singapore after a 14 hour flight from London, the backpacking husband headed straight to Batam Island for a three-night ‘rest and recuperation’ stay.
On top of travel fatigue, of course, there’s the not so small issue of the time difference.
And believe me, feeling tired and jet-lagged and slightly confused and wobbly on your feet is not the best way to start out experiencing a new city, a new country, or a new adventure!
We now know – especially now we are travelling in our midlife and getting older – that after a long flight, we’re going to arrive at our destination extremely tired and lethargic and not feeling up to Exploring Singapore and all it has to offer – yet.
SINGAPORE TO BATAM ISLAND
A Backpacking Housewife Travel Tip
As older travellers, we like to pace ourselves and travel slowly and purposefully.
In fact, the backpacking husband and I have used Batam Island as an affordable and comfortable and alternative place to spend a few restful days over the past couple of times we’ve either arrived or departed Singapore.
Batam is a perfect place to rest & get over your travel fatigue and jetlag.
Batam has become our secret little oasis of regeneration!
Singapore To Batam Island Indonesia
Table Of Contents
- Singapore To Batam Island Indonesia
- A Backpacking Housewife Travel Tip
- Travel Fatigue
- The Solution to Travel Fatigue
- Accommodation on Batam Island
- I love Batam Island!
- More About Batam Island
- The Best Time To Visit Batam Island
- Travel Requirements for Batam Island Indonesia
- Questions?
Travel Fatigue
The Solution to Travel Fatigue
The best way to overcome travel fatigue is to give yourself adequate down time for proper rest and sufficient sleep.
My suggestion is that rather than giving yourself that down time sleeping your first day away and recovering in an expensive hotel in Singapore – if you have the flexibility – why not head over to Batam Island Indonesia instead?
Accommodation on Batam Island
You’ll be amazed to discover that prices for hotels on Batam are a fraction of hotel prices in Singapore.
And there are accommodations, hotel brands, star ratings, facilities, and prices, for all budgets.
Plus, It’s an easy commute to Batam Island.
That’s why Batam Island is a perfect place to rest & get over your travel fatigue and jetlag.
On Batam Island we stay at The Holiday Inn Resort.
I always use Booking Dotcom to make our booking.
FIND YOUR PERFECT PLACE TO STAY ON BATAM ISLAND USING THIS INTERACTIVE MAP
How To Get To Batam Island
It’s easy to get to Batam Island from Singapore Airport.
Just take a train directly from Changi Airport down to Singapore’s Harbourfront.
Then take a one-hour ferry crossing over to Batam Island – passing through Indonesian immigration once you get there.
Singaporeans and 8 other ASEAN countries don’t need a visa for travel to Batam from Singapore for a maximum of 30 days.
If you’re a citizen of another country, however, you should check the relevant entry requirements for Indonesia in advance of your trip. Most passports allow for a Visa On Arrival but do check to make sure your passport nationality qualifies you to purchase a 30 day Visa On Arrival (US$35/Equv in Cash) or you would have to apply for an advance visa at an Indonesian consulate or embassy.
You’ll also need to download and register on the Peduli Lindungi smartphone app.
Be aware that Batam Island is one hour behind Singapore time.
I love Batam Island!
The Holiday Inn Resort at Batam Island (4 Star) is a tropical oasis with wonderful resort facilities including the fabulous and authentic Balinese Treetree Spa (where I’ve had the best treatments and the most amazing massage I’ve ever had in my life).
There’s also a beautiful freeform swimming pool at the centre of the resort which is perfect for stretching out those tired and aching limbs after spending so long in an aircraft (economy in my case) seat.
In my experience, The Holiday Inn Resort on Batam Island is the perfect place to spend a few nights either just before or just after a busy few days exploring fabulous Singapore!
Batam is a perfect place to rest & get over your travel fatigue and jetlag.
More About Batam Island
Despite its proximity to Singapore and it’s location in one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes, Batam Island has fast become one of Indonesia’s most popular tourist destinations.
There is (reportedly) plenty to do if you are seeking cultural sites or even thrills with a choice of bungee jumping or go karting. For water sport lovers, there’s jet skiing, ski boating, canoeing, scuba diving, wind surfing, fishing trips and island hopping by boat.
For golfers, there are fifteen golf courses on the island.
Shoppers will find shopping malls as well as plenty of Indonesian arts and crafts stores.
Batam is also known for its coastline offering a choice of no less than a dozen beautiful golden or white sand beaches.
Batam is home to a diverse population, including people from various ethnic backgrounds and cultures.
The island’s population includes a mix of Malay, Chinese, and other ethnic groups.
This cultural diversity is reflected in its cuisine, festivals, and traditions.
The local cuisine in Batam is influenced by these various ethnic groups.
Traditional Indonesian dishes and seafood is a prominent feature of Batam’s culinary scene.
The Best Time To Visit Batam Island
The best time to visit Batam Island, Indonesia, largely depends on what activities you plan to do during your trip.
Batam Island experiences a tropical climate that is characterized by two main seasons: the dry season and the wet season.
Dry Season (June to August)
This is generally considered the best time to visit Batam Island.
The weather is relatively cooler and drier, making it more comfortable for outdoor activities and exploring the island.
The sea is calmer during this time, making it suitable for water sports and beach activities.
Shoulder Seasons (April to May and September to October)
These months mark the transition between the dry and wet seasons.
The weather is still relatively pleasant, with fewer crowds compared to the peak dry season.
It’s a good time for outdoor activities, and you might be able to find good deals on accommodations and activities.
Wet Season (November to March)
This period experiences more rainfall and higher humidity.
While it’s considered the off-peak tourist season, you might still find some sunny days.
However, heavy rain and occasional thunderstorms are common.
If you’re looking for budget-friendly options and don’t mind occasional rain, this could be a good time to visit.
Keep in mind that weather patterns can vary from year to year and unexpected weather events can occur.
Also, consider any specific activities you want to do, such as water sports, sightseeing, or cultural events, as these can influence the best time for your visit.
Travel Requirements for Batam Island Indonesia
Note 1: Singaporeans and 8 other ASEAN countries don’t need a visa for travel to Batam from Singapore for a maximum of 30 days. If you’re a citizen of another country, however, you should check the relevant entry requirements for Indonesia in advance of your trip.
Note 2: Most passports allow for a Visa On Arrival. But do check to make sure your passport nationality qualifies you to purchase a 30 day Visa On Arrival (US$35/Equv in Cash) or you would have to apply for an advance visa at an Indonesian consulate or embassy.
Note 3: You’ll also need to download and register on the Peduli Lindungi smartphone app.
Note 4: Be aware that Batam Island is one hour behind Singapore time.
Questions?
Have you ever been to Batam Island?
Have you been to Singapore?
Are you planning a trip?
Let me know!
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