Hello darlings! Last weekend, Skew and I left our worldly worries behind and hid out in Bintan. Well almost; auto-roaming calls and SMSes still haunted us from time to time. *rolls eyes*

As told, the beach by Nirwana Gardens Hotel is surprisingly clean and the waters fairly clear (though far from pristine). We checked in on Sunday (an off-peak period) and with the low occupancy rate, we shared the entire strip of beach with a family of three and another couple. The unexpected tranquility was much appreciated. ;)

Skew trying his hand at archery.

Infinity pool.

Without a doubt, Bintan accepts Singapore currency. But the standard of living is much higher than we were told. A three-course dinner at the Kelong Seafood Restaurant set us back by SG$90 and our tummies saw no satisfaction. Each can of Coke is SG$4 and juices cost SG$7-8. For a moment I thought we were holidaying in Europe (?!). Crappers.

But we didn't let the exorbitant prices get to us; I had cheese crackers and dips and chocolate pies on stand-by. Best Friend sent us an email that led us to the neighbouring beach club which serves really awesome three cheese thin crust pizza (SG$11). And we lamented why we hadn't known about this little joint earlier!

For the curious little ones, judging by my barely-there tan lines, the spray-on sunscreen SPF50 from Coppertone really saved our arses. Despite the prolonged hours by the beach and pool, we hardly turned lobster. Awesome, no?!

Where is our next destination,

Gie