We’ve all found ourselves in situations where we desperately need a break from our daily routines—a place to unwind, release stress, and temporarily forget about our responsibilities. In short, we need a holiday. But when time and money are in short supply, there’s no need to worry. If you’re looking to spend a meaningful weekend, perhaps indulging in some culinary delights, shopping, or taking a trip to the beach with your family, consider a short escape to Batam.
Batam, a city in Indonesia’s Riau Islands Province, is also the name of the small island it’s located on. Known as a key urban and industrial hub in Indonesia, Batam attracts people from all over the country, leading to a diverse population with various physical features and cultural backgrounds.
Batam offers a shopper’s paradise with affordable prices. You can easily find handbags from famous international brands, along with clothes, glasses, and other fashion items. The shopping hub of Batam is the Nagoya District, which is also renowned for its culinary scene. Here, you can explore countless stalls, shops, and hawker centers offering a wide variety of food to satisfy any craving. Seafood, Chinese, and Indonesian dishes are the most common, reflecting the district’s significant Chinese population. You can also find Japanese, Western, and Indian cuisine. The nightlife in Nagoya is vibrant, with pubs, bars, and inns scattered throughout the area.
Batam is home to the iconic Barelang Bridge, a must-visit destination named after the three islands it connects: Batam, Rempang, and Galang. The bridge is actually a series of six bridges, each offering tourists breathtaking views of the sea and the surrounding small islands. Along the bridge, you’ll find small stalls offering roasted corn, peanuts, and other snacks, perfect for a quick bite while taking in the stunning scenery.
When at Barelang, indulging in seafood is a must, especially while enjoying the coastal views. Numerous huts in the area serve delicious seafood, including the local specialty, gong-gong, a dish unique to Batam and its neighboring islands. The Barelang area also offers several other attractions, such as a historical tour of Kampung Vietnam on Galang Island, a visit to a dragon fruit garden, or a photo session at the picturesque Vio-Vio Beach, known for its white sand and beautiful views.
In addition to Barelang, the Nongsa area is another popular destination for tourists seeking a beach getaway and water sports.
There are plenty of other attractions in Batam, including Ocarina Park and the Masjid Raya Batam. For accommodations, KTM Resort and Montigo Resort are both excellent options. When it comes to souvenirs, locals and visitors alike recommend Mama Otak-Otak and Kek Pisang Villa for treats to bring back to family and friends.
Batam is also the closest part of Indonesia to Singapore, with a ferry ride taking just 30 to 45 minutes. It’s also conveniently near Malaysia. Batam is definitely worth considering for a great short escape—it’s a destination that won’t disappoint.
