Batam is one of the Riau islands in Indonesia, just a short ferry ride from Singapore. Some of the things that come straight to my mind when talking about Batam are Kueh Lapis (Layered Cake), Polo factory outlet, finding a 2nd wife (Mistress) and etc.
Finally, I had this chance to make a trip there to take a look myself. This trip was pretty short, therefore we just explored around the city area.
When you vist Batam, these are some of things that you can do if you are bored.
1. Go for a few rounds of Go-kart
If you looking for some adventurous activities in Batam, Go-kart might be one of your top choices.
2. Visit a Buddhist Temple
Visit Maha Vihara Duta Maitreya Monastery, the biggest Buddhist temple in Batam to do some praying and also try out their vegetarian restaurant.
 |
| Maitreya holding a Chinese Goat Zodiac |
 |
| Maitreya with Chinese Rat Zodiac |
3. Food Hunting
Skip those common seafood restaurant and try out their famous local foods. A&W is available in Batam as well, this is the fast food which Singaporean missed the most.
 |
| Ayam Penyet (Smashed Fried Chicken) |
 |
| Mie Goreng Jawa (Stir-Fry Noodles) |
 |
| Soto Ayam (Chicken Soup with Vermicelli) |
 |
| Teh Botol Sosro (Sweetened Jasmine Tea) |
 |
| A&W (American Fast Food) |
4. Play some games at Time Zone (Mega Mall Batam Center)
Amusement centre is every child's favourite place. Some of the games definitely bring back some of your childhood memories.
5. Walk the streets
Do not restrict yourself to your hotel and your destination. Do take a walk down the streets and observe the lifestyle of the local people.
6. Take a photo of The 2014 National MTQ Building
The 2014 National MTQ Building is a piece of photogenic architecture in Batam which you can spend your time finding your best shot.
7. Stay in Hotel Harmoni One
Hotel Harmoni One has a swimming pool and a gym room at the rooftop for you to do some workout and relax yourself before hitting your next food hunting destination.
<< Hotel Harmoni One >>
=================================
Very likely I will be coming back to Batam again in the future but not just staying in the city area. I would like to explore around for the villages and beaches.
::::::::::::::: Direction :::::::::::::::
Batam City
Getting There: from HarbourFront Centre Ferry Terminal take ferry to Sekupang Ferry Terminal
Year visited: 2016 (January)
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Written by: Q.J.
Photography by: Q.J.