Escape to a Desert Paradise: Gurun Pasir Bintan

Bintan is renowned for its luxurious resorts and sandy beaches. It's a short distance from Singapore and a good escape from the bustling city life. One of the must-visit places in Bintan is Gurun Pasir Bintan. It is a man-made 'desert', previously a Bauxite mine. Over the years, it has become a tourist spot when the excavation site was transformed to sand dunes and the mineral residues of the mine turned the water clear blue. This place is highly instagrammable and frequented by both locals and tourists. It is my second time visiting this place and there are a few activities added - ATV riding and photo taking with eagle. It is worth going if you have time to spare! Address: Jl. Raya Busung, Busung, Kec. Seri Kuala Lobam, Kabupaten Bintan, Kepulauan Riau 29152, Indonesia Rating: 3/5 Entrance fee: IDR 25000 (SGD ~ $2)