Finding paradise in Bintan By Cho Chung-un
Publisher:The Korea Herald - Publication Date: 18-04-2008

The Korean concept of a holiday is fast changing. In the '90s, Korean travellers preferred to go to Europe or to North America on bus tours. Some preferred to go backpacking to experience different cultures and lifestyles. But now a growing number of people, especially those in their 30s and 40s, are heading to southern tropical regions to find the peace of mind and rejuvenate their exhausted body.

Among the hundreds of travel packages in tropical regions, Club Med Bintan Island resort has become a hot spot for local tourists thanks to its geographic proximity.

With the Club Med's all-inclusive concept, guests are offered three or five healthy meals a day, holistic spa treatment, and exotic experiences around the 'Robinson Crusoe Island' -- with no need to read the fine print or negotiate prices.

Club Med Bintan Island, just a 55-minute ferry ride from Singapore, is set on a backdrop of white sandy beaches with lush green palm trees resting in the warm waters on the edge of the South China Sea. The resort is an ideal destination for those looking for a variety of sea sports and other recreational activities, including golf.

Under its 'Happiness means the world' campaign, the French vacation resort has undergone refurbishments since last year. The newly renovated resort will start greeting guests in September.

Designed by Delphine Leon, the resort added a mix of local and modern luxury into each room.

Restaurants -- The Terrace and Waterfall -- will see exotic transformations with newly added dishes under the direction of Ravin Balhoo, executive chef of Club Med. The restaurants offer a newer, fresher and sensorial culinary experience of Asian fusion and international dishes including, of course, Korean food.

Club Med Spa is a must-see if you want to have a refined, relaxed and more luxurious experience.

Exciting sports and recreational facilities such as archery, yoga, wind surfing and snorkeling are available. Club Med also offers swimming and fitness facilities and a private beach.

Golf enthusiasts have the luxury of teeing off at Ria Bintan Golf Club (www.riabintan.com), just five minutes away from the Club Med resort. The golf course has been nominated one of Asia's top five courses annually since 2004.

What sets Club Med resort apart from other luxury resorts, is its service specialised in taking care of children. Its signature Mini Club (children aged between four and 10) and Petit Club Med (children aged two and three) help children make friends from all around the world, with no need to speak perfectly in English. Club med leaders coordinate and participate in activities, nature walks, play time and quiet time for kids while parents enjoy private time on other parts of the resort.

Still don't know what to so at the resort? Take a towel, a couple cocktails, books you haven't had time to read. Kick back, relax and enjoy the moment. Think you could find peace of mind?

There you go -- paradise does exist.

Find more information, see clubmed.co.kr

foto

Attached Images

starfish.jpg (15.5 KB, 2 views)