Come 15 July 2019, guests of Banyan Tree Bintan can look forward to embracing a truly local experience of Indonesia and the natural wonders of the South China Sea as the Hotel is set to launch the brand new Kelong Villa.

Built and named as a tribute to the traditional offshore stilted platforms used by local fishermen, the Kelong Villa – otherwise known as a floating villa – will be an exciting new addition to the Hotel’s current all-villa accommodation offerings.

Located about 250 metres from the modern Laguna Bintan integrated resort, guests begin their stay experience by boarding a pokchai (motorized wooden boat) at the beachfront and arriving at their new abode in just under two minutes.

The warm hospitality Indonesia has come to be known for is on full display with the medley of arrival experiences that await each guest. It begins with the customary sounding of a terompet (local handmade horn) by the Banyan Host to signify the arrival of the guests as they disembark from the pokchai.

Therapists from the award-winning Banyan Tree Spa serve traditional welcome offerings of kueh putu ayu (steamed rice flour cake filled with palm sugar) and a healthful elixir of carrot, pineapple and ginger to refresh the palate. A luxurious foot bath with traditional herbs and pandan juice follows, and after, guests are invited to shed their footwear in favour of traditional pandan sandals.

The expansive interiors of the Villa feature the earthy tones of local Indonesian timber and traditional furnishings that are enhanced by unfettered, breathtaking views of the South China Sea. Amidst all the rustic comfort, luxury remains a priority here with exquisite silk and buckwheat bedding.

As an eco-friendly accommodation, the Villa offers a selection of amenities and activities that have been carefully curated to allow guests to disconnect from the distractions of the modern world. During their ‘digital detox’, guests can spend their time on an assortment of board games and books, or take to the waters with fishing rods, oars and a kayak for an adventure of their own or with local fishermen.

Kelong Villa Launch Offer

In celebration of the launch of the new Kelong Villa, Banyan Tree Bintan is offering the following package for 2 persons:

• Breakfast
• Indonesian afternoon tea
• Kelong Dinner
• Welcome foot bath ritual
• 60-minute full body massage at either Kelong Villa or Hilltop Pavilions
• Return land transfers between ferry terminal and resort

Checking out, a farewell elixir of sweet papaya, baby spinach and honey juice is served, along with lapis Surabaya, a local snack. Guests can then participate in the local tradition of freeing a handmade banana leaf boat and scattering flower petals in the ocean while making a wish of their own and reflecting on their experience. Following their return to their home country, the Banyan Host also sends a handwritten postcard to guests in thoughtful appreciation of their stay.

Rates begin at SGD 840 / USD 610 nett per night. For reservations and enquiries, please contact +62 770 693 100 or email Reservations-Bintan@banyantree.com. Terms and conditions apply.