This is the first trip together. We had 7 initially, but Bok was unable to join us due to a sprain. What fun would it be having her around! Though she was not there, she was mentioned in most of our conversations. Heh. We were on time and ready to set off!
This is my third time to Batam and I was curious to check out Turi Beach. Expectations were a lil higher cos I read about the resort from a friend who was there earlier this week. With the resort overlooking the beach, it is def worth checking out. Furthermore, the view is more spectacular than that of Batam View. Turi is unique cos the 2 wings are stylish in their own rights. Riani features Balinese-style resort rooms with traditional teak and thatched-roof while Tirta projects a more contemporary feel. Putting up at Tirta would cost about twice as much as Riani. We headed over to Riani.
Resort is located up the slope!
The service was a let down though. Firstly, different staff offered discounts for the spa sessions. The initial personnel quoted that there was a 10% discount with 2 or more people. So the bookings were made. A little while later (while we were still waiting for our keys), another staff asked if we wanted to do massage and they could offer 30% discount! It was good that they heard that for the difference is quite significant.
Secondly, we were quoted the wrong price of the cab to Batam Center. Instead of SGD5 per person, it was actually SGD10. The hotel staff just said it was their mistake and did not attempt to do anything about it. We were kind of stuck with the cabbies. It was good that Sau, Ser and Sok were firm in getting the hotel reception to handle this matter.
At Batam Center, we treated ourselves to A&W and grocery shopping..! The mall was really kind of empty.
Only get to eat it in Indon and Msia
We were able to hurdle around in my room after the shopping trip while the rest head for massage. The ladies were also busy painting their nails. Heh. The four of us thought it was time well spent. After I returned, I counted the number of years of knowing each other. Was quite surprised to realize that it has been 7 years. Thankful for the opportunity to spend time in CF together and to be able to share openly thereafter. We talked about challenges in life, family, work, church...! May God continue to keep us close to Him no matter the stiuations we are in.
Towards the evening, we strolled leisurely to the jetty and we were just in time to catch the sunset. It was plainly awesome!
Dinner at Taming Sari was not too bad. The price range was similar to what we may find in SG. I had Hot Plate Tofu and fresh orange juice. Although there is not much variety, the food is of decent and acceptable quality.
Guess we were all fatigued and we rested early that night. What a refreshing and different way of spending a Saturday.We got up early the next day (as we probably had decent sleep) for breakfast at Taming Sari. We loved the Prata!
Protein RichWe had time for a swim at Aqua pool. Or rather just "play with water". Quite a nice way to end the stay at the resort. I was told later that there is a newer pool at Tirta.
It was a relaxing trip!
never fail to post such nice pictures. :)
Posted by: Canon in R | 28/05/2009 at 02:07 PM