Family vacations are always an adventure, especially when you’re travelling with a multi-generational crew like ours! Our recent trip to Batam, Indonesia, was no exception. With my parents, sibling, and the ever-energetic “Lee kiddos” in tow, we set off for a short but sweet escape filled with new experiences, delicious food, and plenty of laughs.
Batam, just a hop, skip, and a ferry ride away from Singapore, was the perfect choice for our family getaway. The kids were absolutely buzzing about their first-ever ferry ride. We opted for the Batam Fast Ferry, known for its comfortable journey and frequent departures. Watching their faces light up as we cruised across the water, taking in the bustling harbour and distant islands, was a memory I’ll cherish.
Ferry Tip: Booking your ferry tickets online in advance is a must, especially during peak season or weekends. This not only guarantees your preferred timings but also helps you skip the long queues at the terminal.
Our first stop was the beautiful Montigo Resorts. The sprawling grounds, multiple pools, and vibrant kids’ club instantly transported me back to my own childhood holidays at Club Med. It was the ideal place for the little ones to unleash their energy and explore. While they splashed about in the pools, the adults could relax poolside, soaking up the sun and enjoying some well-deserved downtime.
Montigo Tip: Montigo offers a variety of villa options, some with private pools. If your budget allows, this is a fantastic choice for families seeking extra privacy and space. Plus, the private pool means you don’t have to worry about sharing with other guests!
We kept our itinerary relaxed to give the kids time to adjust to their new surroundings. A morning trip to the Batam Mini Zoo was a definite highlight. This charming little zoo, perfect for younger children, allowed for up-close encounters with a variety of fascinating creatures. From playful monkeys and colourful birds to slithering reptiles and even a capybara, there was something to capture everyone’s attention.
Zoo Tip: The tropical climate can be quite intense, so remember to pack plenty of water and sunscreen to keep everyone hydrated and protected from the sun.
The rest of our time at Montigo was spent enjoying the resort’s many amenities. The kids, ever the adventurers, loved exploring the vast grounds on the resort’s buggies (a necessity given the sheer size of the place!). And with everything we needed within easy reach, it was a truly relaxing experience for all.
To satisfy our cravings for local flavours, we ventured out to Bale Bale Resto Seafood, just a short drive from the resort. The fresh seafood, cooked to perfection with vibrant spices and sauces, was a hit with the whole family. It was a wonderful way to experience Batam’s culinary scene and introduce the kids to new and exciting tastes.
Seafood Tip: Bale Bale Resto is a popular dining spot, so making a reservation, especially for dinner, is highly recommended.
On our second day, we embarked on a culinary adventure at Bhinneka Resto, where we indulged in a hearty Indonesian feast. The restaurant boasts an extensive menu of authentic dishes, from classic nasi goreng and satay to flavourful rendang and refreshing gado-gado. It was a fantastic opportunity to sample some local favourites and experience the rich diversity of Indonesian cuisine.
After our tranquil stay at Montigo, we moved to Radisson Hotel in Nagoya, Batam’s bustling city centre. This put us closer to the ferry terminal and gave us easy access to the local markets. Penuin Market was a sensory explosion, with its vibrant displays of fresh produce, aromatic spices, and tempting local snacks. We stocked up on goodies to take home, including dried shrimp (hei-bee), crispy tempeh chips, and the irresistible kueh lapis (layered cake). The kids, however, were more captivated by the sights, sounds, and smells of the market than the shopping itself. Navigating the bustling crowds with a gaggle of excited little ones was certainly an adventure!
Market Tip: Be prepared to bargain for the best prices at Penuin Market. It’s also a good idea to bring small denominations of rupiah for easier transactions.
On our last day, we treated ourselves to a delightful dim sum brunch at Si Fang Yuan Restaurant. The food was simply divine! From delicate har gow and fluffy char siu bao to crispy spring rolls and flavourful congee, there was something to tantalise every taste bud. It was the perfect way to end our culinary journey in Batam.
Dim Sum Tip: Si Fang Yuan, located in Nagoya City Centre, is a popular dim sum spot. To avoid the crowds, especially on weekends, aim to arrive early.
While my camera roll may be lacking in photos of our market escapades (thanks to the energetic kiddos!), the memories we created are far more precious. Seeing the world through the eyes of a child, with their boundless curiosity and sense of wonder, is a true gift. And despite the occasional meltdown and the constant need to keep little hands from grabbing everything in sight, I’m certain the kids had an unforgettable time.
Our Batam adventure reinforced the idea that family vacations don’t have to be extravagant or packed with activities to be memorable. Sometimes, the simplest moments – a shared meal, a splash in the pool, or a ferry ride with a view – are the ones that truly stay with us. And despite the inevitable tiredness that comes with travelling with little ones, the joy of sharing these experiences with loved ones makes it all worthwhile.
