Bintan is one of those classic tropical islands that offers peace and quiet in the lap of luxury - any way you desire it.

The next time you visit Singapore and begin to long for just a few days by yourself in a world of tranquility and luxury, take the ferry across to Bintan island. A forty-five minute ride will transport you from one of South East Asia's busiest cities to one of its most idyllic islands. Bintan is not only the largest landmass among the 3200 islands in Indonesia's Riau archipelago., but it is also the most accessible. The island combines all the charms of a typical tropical paradise, like sun, sea, sand and forests, making it one of the perfect spots to enjoy an idyllic getaway.

Bintan is hardly a place where one goes to see sights. Its main attraction is the island's ability to relax and rejuvenate both mind and body, by allowing you to set your own pace. The island's largest town, Tanjung Pinang is quaint and charming in its own way. The older part of the town, Jalan Plantar II, still has stilted houses that jut out over the sea. The houses are connected by raised walkways, which allow the residents to access other homes as well as the beach. Across the harbour from Tanjung Pinang lies the village of Senggarang, with its 300-year-old Kwan Yin Temple. The temple, which is the oldest in the Riau group, is situated near the mouth of the Snake River or Sungai Ular. You can charter a Sampan and sail up the mouth of the river to see the temple with its gory murals depicting various forms of torture and the horrors of hell. Another unique aspect of the temple is that it is held together by the roots of a giant banyan tree that has grown through it. Senggarang is also renowned for its Land, Sea and Earth Temples, which are more than a hundred years old. The temples are the focus of attention during Chinese festivals when many Singaporean Chinese throng them to pay their respects.

If you're in the mood to laze around or see the countryside at a relaxed pace, Bintan is just the place for you. Take a leisurely ride on a Sampan up the crocodile-infested Snake River. Glide past traditional attap houses and fishing boats. Explore the mangrove forests in a country boat, wander around cobbled village streets or take a short walk on a nature trail. The picturesque fishing village of Teluk Kawal or the quiet, untouched island of Karimun are also worth a visit, if you're looking for a place to find your own space.

If it's history you seek, take a sampan ride out to the original home of the Melaka Sultanate on the island of Pulau Penyengat. The island houses an old Dutch fort and relics of the 18th century Johor Riau Sultanate. On the island, you'll find ruins of the royal palace and a 170-year old mosque with a glittering dome. But what attracts tourists to Bintan is the ability to enjoy nature's bounty in the lap of sheer luxury.

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