Banyan Tree Bintan is launching its newest villa addition, the Kelong Villa. This first-ever floating sanctuary in Bintan is located about 250 metres from the Laguna Bintan integrated resort in Indonesia and just an hour from Singapore.
Credit-Banyan Tree Bintan
Starting 15 July 2019, guest can book a stay at this eco-friendly accommodation that overlooks the South China Sea. The Kelong Villa was built and named as a tribute to the offshore stilted platforms and homes used by local fishermen. Here’s what to expect.
Credit- Banyan Tree Bintan
Guests will need to board a pokchai (motorized wooden boat) at the beachfront in order to reach Kelong Villa.
Credit- Banyan Tree Bintan
The customary sounding of the terompet (local handmade horn) greets guests upon their arrival. Guests will also be offered kueh putu ayu (steamed rice flour cake filled with palm sugar) and a healthy elixir of carrot, pineapple and ginger.
A luxurious foot bath with traditional herbs and pandan juice follows. Guests are then invited to wear traditional pandan sandals and treated to an hour’s full-body massage.
There’s an open-concept bathroom with a rain-shower around the corner if you were wondering how the toilet works here.
Credit- Banyan Tree Bintan
Kelong Villa’s traditional wood deco reflects the rustic nature of living on a kelong, but with modern luxuries. Enjoy breathtaking views of the South China Sea in isolation, then retreating to the silk and buckwheat bedding at the end of the day.
Credit- Banyan Tree Bintan
You can order food anytime via their in-villa menu which will be hand-delivered through pokchai by a host. Dinner comes in the form of a traditional family-style Lesehan dinner, featuring local specialities like Ayam Bakar (grilled chicken).
Credit- Banyan Tree Bintan
Kelong Villa has specially curated activities for those in need of a ‘Digital Detox’. Guests can escape from the outside world through activities including board games, fishing, or kayaking.
Credit- Banyan Tree Bintan
In celebration of this new opening, Kelong Villa is offering a special package for two (rates begin at S$840 / USD $610 per night).
Book your stay at Bintan’s first ever luxury floating villa here!