christine

<BR>Is the island 'just' a resort island or is there lots of things to see outside the resorts?

David

I went to Bintan a couple of years ago, and didn't get the impression there was much to do outside the resorts. <BR> <BR>The Banyan Tree resort is very nice if you do go. <BR> <BR>Remember to bring insect repellent for mosquitoes -- especially at night.

lh

BANYAN TREE VS. HOTEL SEDONA?? <BR> <BR>i'm also planning a quick getaway to bintan when i visit singapore this summer, and made a resevation at the banyan tree. rates are good, but still about US$300/night. i also saw that the sedona hotel seems fairly nice and is less that half the price of the banyan tree. i know they cater to different clientele, but has anyone stayed at either or both and can compare or share notes? <BR> <BR>thanks.

Liz

Look on the net for better prices for the Banyan Tree. GO to the Banyan site. They have sale prices for the summer which are shown in Singapore dollars. Just convert them.

lh

thanks liz, but that is the converted price for the summer promotion. you've got to add 10%+10% for asian hotels.

Sherri

Christine, <BR> <BR>I live in Singapore and have stayed at both the Banyan Tree and the Sedona. The island is mostly a resort island... definitely not much outside the hotels. <BR> <BR>Depending on your expectations: Banyan Tree is definitely a "get away from it all" kind of place with nothing much to do besides lounging beside your private jacuzzi or the resort swimming pool. Great place if you need to totally unwind. <BR> <BR> My husband and I enjoyed Sedona a little more, even though it caters more to families. There's just a livelier atmosphere there. There were several restaurants, a nightclub, 2 very large swimming pools, and the rooms are very clean and quite nice. Hope this helps. <BR> <BR>Both are excellent choices... your decision should depend on what type of get-away you're looking for. <BR> <BR>Also, listen to David's advice and DO NOT forget the insect repellant. (Insist on your malaria shots to be safe). <BR>

lh

dear sherri, <BR> <BR>thanks- your answer was just what i was looking for. i've stayed at both types of resorts around asia, and have surprisingly always enjoyed the more 'commercial' type hotels- esp when there isn't anything else to do but people watch. and considering the US$200 price difference for the mid-range rooms, i'll take the sedona. <BR> <BR>any restaurant recommendations? <BR> <BR>thanks.