PARADISE FOUND

The path less travelled leads to the beauty and serenity of the Anambas Archipelago.

- CRYSTAL WOO, ABDUL AZIZ DRAIM.

The only way to get to the remote Bawah Reserve is via a private seaplane, navigating across the South China Sea to reach the Anambas Archipelago, a group of previously uninhabited sunny islands with rich protected marine life in Southern Riau. Ever on the lookout for destinations less travelled, Bawah Reserve just beckons to be discovered and explored. Getting there means an overnight in Singapore, the Lion City in order to catch the morning ferry to Batam, Indonesia, essentially travelling by sea to our next-door neighbour. From Batam, the seaplane takes over and flies non-stop to Bawah Reserve at Anambas.

DAY 1: TRANSIT IN SINGAPORE

One day in Singapore is hardly enough but the immediate goal here is to have a restful stay for the adventure ahead and Parkroyal Collection Marina Bay, Singapore’s first Garden-in-a-Hotel gives all that, then takes it further.

Championing sustainability, this tranquil hotel (designed by neofuturistic architect John Portman, revamped and reopened in late 2020) is roofed with smart solar panels and aims for zero plastic use. A quick stroll through the Urban Farm located at Level 4 (next to Peppermint, the all-day dining restaurant with arguably the best seafood tom yum soup in town) further shows their serious commitment in preservation and conservation. More than 60 varieties of herbs, flowers, fruits and vegetables are grown here and their fresh produce inspires seasonal menus.

Herbs are also used in the Parkroyal Collection Sleep Ritual turndown service with lemon balm, peppermint, rosemary and basil. A hotel with gumption and heart, it requires minimal effort to surrender to relaxation, and major love to the top-floor room with balcony. I retire for the night, excited for tomorrow.