My singaporean BF said “Batam has nothing?”😏
Batam has nothing? 😏. Bro, if you think Batam has nothing, you just wasted your ferry ticket 😜. Maybe it’s not Batam that has nothing… maybe it’s you who hasn’t seen anything yet 👊
For me, Batam is one of my favourite getaways — not because I’m Indonesian, but because it offers so much more than just malls. I love the beaches where you can chill and watch the sunset , do water sport (banana boat and snorkeling 🤿 that’s my favourites) , the fresh seafood that tastes amazing right by the sea — you can even choose the fish yourself while it’s still alive in the tanks or sometimes directly from the sea! There’s a special way to get to those hidden spots where you pick your own catch, and then they cook it fresh just for you. It’s an experience you won’t get in the usual restaurants and all the beach clubs where you can sip a cold drink while listening to the waves.
If you want a little adventure, there’s ATV rides through natural trails and beachside paths — so much fun and definitely not something you find in a typical mall day out. Plus, the massages are super affordable and just perfect after a day full of activities.
Renting a car makes it easy to explore all these hidden gems — quiet beaches, lively beach clubs, and seaside resorts you won’t find if you just stay near the ferry terminal.
I’m not a mall girl, I’m the kind of person who loves to explore and seek adventure — not just hang out in malls like typical city kids , so I prefer Batam because there’s a lot of activities that I can do — and honestly, I still haven’t tried everything yet because of timing and money 😂. I’m in my saving era now, but I’ll bring you along once I’m rich again!
People go to Batam because we love exploring nature and the sea more than just shopping. Obviously, it’s totally different from JB — Batam is about island vibes, adventure, and amazing food by the beach, while JB is more about malls and city fun.
Don’t expect Bali vibes, lah — Batam’s got its own cool style 🤣
One of the best ways to truly enjoy Batam is to explore beyond the main ferry terminal. Renting a car or scooter gives you access to quiet beaches and hidden local spots where you can escape the crowds. I loved discovering peaceful coves where few tourists go, perfect for a calm day spent snorkeling or simply soaking up the sun. If you’re into water sports, banana boat rides are a super fun way to feel the island’s energy. Snorkeling is another favorite; the underwater world around Batam has colorful marine life and coral reefs worth exploring. Plus, choosing your own seafood right from the live tanks and having it cooked fresh on the beach is an unforgettable experience — the flavors are incredibly fresh and satisfying. For those craving a little adventure on land, ATV rides through natural trails offer a thrilling way to see the island’s scenic beaches and forests. After all that activity, a traditional massage won’t just relax your muscles but also recharge you for more exploring. Batam nightlife is another vibe—while not as intense as bigger cities, you’ll find friendly beach clubs where you can sip a cold drink and listen to live music or the ocean waves. Finally, chatting with locals reveals the welcoming Batam spirit, full of stories and warmth that visitors cherish. Whether you’re a nature lover, foodie, or adventure seeker, Batam proves to be much more than “just malls.” It’s a unique island getaway with its own charm and plenty to experience beyond the typical tourist paths.
My fav place to chill whenever I'm there for a short vacation is always Turi Beach Resort.