Cempedak Island may be less than three hours away from Singapore, but it’s everything a romantic seaside getaway should be and more. Here’s why this private island is perfect for when you want things to get a lil’ sexy.
Cempedak Island may be less than three hours away from Singapore, but it’s everything a romantic seaside getaway should be and more. Here’s why this private island is perfect for when you want things to get a lil’ sexy.
Wake up to rays of sunshine and birdsong
There are hardly any other people around
There are just 20 villas available, so only 40 guests can stay on the island at any one time. If you’ve always wanted more time to be truly alone with bae, you’ll be in for a treat.
It’s adults-only
The island doesn’t allow anyone under the age of 16 to visit, so you won’t have to worry about annoying kids at the next table (or the next villa, for that matter) ruining the mood.
Chill at your private pool
You’ll have your own private pool
There’s an infinity pool with a gorgeous view that’s open to all guests, but if you want privacy, you can take a dip in the private one at your villa. While not as huge, it’s big enough for two. After all, isn’t getting cosy with bae the whole point of going to a private island?
Things can get pretty fun
The whole point of going away as a couple is to spend quality time together, so make it a point to put away your phones and take part in the many activities offered. You guys can go kayaking, snorkeling or standup paddleboarding for free, or go sailing, island hopping or rock climbing for a reasonable fee. And if you want to catch your man’s heart through his stomach, you can give a cooking class a go. For the perfect end to your day, wind down with a facial or massage at the spa.
All your meals are planned for you
For an additional $95++ per day per adult, you get three meals and access to a range of activities (such as free use of kayaks, windsurfing boards and snorkeling equipment). The fixed menu includes local and Western dishes made with the freshest seasonal ingredients.
You get what you pay for
A night’s stay will set you back $500++. While not exactly cheap, it’s reasonable given that you’ll be getting the full private island experience. OK, there’s a catch: all guests must stay for a minimum of two nights, so a visit will cost at least $1,000++. But considering it’s an island paradise, why would you want to spend just a night there?
There’s a whole other reason to love Cempedak Private Island…
The management is big on sustainability and has put in place initiatives to help conserve the environment. Most of the buildings (including the villas) are made of bamboo, and there is minimal use of cement, plastic, glass and other man-made materials around the island. Don’t expect disposable cups, bottles, straws and toiletries to be provided, so be sure to prepare all that’s necessary beforehand.
Plus, the management supports local communities by sourcing supplies (be it food or materials) from nearby areas and providing the local people with education, skills and jobs. In fact, they started a charity called The Island Foundation to establish learning centres so the local children will have better opportunities.
So if you’re thinking twice about dropping $1,000 on the getaway, know that besides getting to spend quality time with your man, you’ll also be contributing to the local community. How’s that for being a loved-up, responsible tourist?
GETTING THERE
The island may just be 9km off the east coast of Bintan, but getting there can be a bit complicated. The journey involves an hour-long ferry ride from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal, an hour-long private car ride and another 30-minute boat ride. That said, it isn’t as taxing as you might imagine—all your luggage will be taken care of the moment you board the private car.
IMAGES CEMPEDAK PRIVATE ISLAND
