My Vacation Is Better Than Yours

Get some serious Instagram-worthy snaps while holidaying at this Bintan beach resort, says ELISA CHIA.

Portrait of Tammy Strobel

Get some serious Instagram-worthy snaps while holidaying at this Bintan beach resort, says ELISA CHIA.

My Reading Room
My Reading Room

A good Instagram feed makes your life look amazing, or so it seems. The folks behind Cassia Bintan obviously agree and did away with everything you have come to associate a beach resort with – the interior decor, at least.

No, you’re not going to find the property awash in an earthy colour palette with extensive use of wood finishes and furniture. That’s too #sameoldsameold.

Instead, this unconventional resort helps you step up your Instagram game with a riot of vibrant colours that will make you posts pop.

My Reading Room
My Reading Room
My Reading Room

We realised that once we arrived here for a three-day vacation. Caricatures on wall murals everywhere – by famous Indonesian artist Adi Dharma (www.instagram.com/stereoflow_id) – screamed for our attention, as did the luggage trolleys in neon colours.

And in our spacious twobedroom apartment, our mood was instantly lifted by the fresh turquoise wallpaper and decor. Even the pots and pans in the kitchenette were in that hue, which inspired us to cook a meal for the fun of it. We bought meat, seafood and vegetables from the resort’s Market 23, which is open 24 hours daily.

Comprising five low-rise buildings, Cassia is positioned as the first modern apartment style resort in Bintan Island. We loved that we could enjoy creature comforts of both home and hotel. It would be perfect if it had an in-room washing machine and dryer, as well.

Depending on your family size, you can choose between a one- and two-bedder. If you have older kids, you may want to opt for the loft units.

My Reading Room
My Reading Room

GET YOUR CAMERA READY

Before the trip, we debated if we should lug along our giant unicorn float. The kids were disappointed when we left it at home – but guess what? This resort has it, as well as many other awesome floats.

Besides the beachfront infinity pool at Cassia, guests can use the pools, join the activities and dine at its sister properties, Angsana and Banyan Tree. They are all a fun buggy ride away, or short walk from one another.

For instance, little ones from three to 10 years old can be left in the care of the Kid’s Club staff at Angsana, while parents go for a jet-ski ride or hop on an all-terrain vehicle.

Don’t miss the free yoga group classes during sunrise (at Angsana) and sunset (Banyan Tree) – the views were definitely Insta-worthy.

At Cassia, there are many free educational activities about the nature and environment for kids. Check the daily schedule for baby turtle feeding, nature walks and coral planting. There are nightly firefly tours, too.

Now post your #fambam photos on Instagram, sit back and wait for the likes and comments to trickle in. #win

FIND OUT MORE

www.cassia.com

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