The Robinson Crusoe Getaway

Three hours from Singapore is Bawah, the latest private island in Indonesia that transports you to a virtuallyuntouched natural paradise.

Portrait of Tammy Strobel
Three hours from Singapore is Bawah, the latest private island in Indonesia that transports you to a virtuallyuntouched natural paradise.
Bawah is haven and heaven – with Wi-Fi.
Bawah is haven and heaven – with Wi-Fi.

The best islands are the ones in movies – The Blue Lagoon, Cast Away, The Red Turtle. The ones that, untouched by meddling hands, naturally evolve into Eden over time and would make you feel like Eve if you were marooned on them.

Bawah comes a close second – except with Wi-Fi, hot showers, and the option of reading Daniel Defoe. Comprising a cluster of five virgin islands (in total, they’re about half the size of Sentosa) with three lagoons, 13 beaches, and primary forest that has 150m-tall trees, the resort – designed by Sim Boon Yang , co-founder of EcoID Architects – is accessible only by seaplane from Batam.

It aims to take you back to a time when people lived with, not against, their natural habitat.

No trees were felled, no land was burnt, and no heavy machinery was introduced to create this paradise. The 35 villas (divided into four types) were constructed from bamboo harvested in Java. Structures like the bar and dining rooms are tree houselike to stay integrated with the forest.

To further lessen human impact on the surroundings, only 70 people are allowed to stay here at any point of time.

• Price for Eden It starts from US$5,880 (S$8,002) for two for a 4D/3N Garden Suite package.

This includes everything from transport (ferry and plane ride) to three meals a day and all activities except water sports and diving.

• What to do in paradise Stuff that’s good for the mind, body and soul.

• Read: A wood panelled library is stocked with literary classics, as well as books on natural history and architecture.

• Be with nature: Hike in the forest, snorkel or dive in the surrounding waters, or do non-motorised water sports like paddle boarding or sailing. Fishing is prohibited, which = rich marine life.

• Watch a movie: At an open-air cinema.

• Get in touch with yourself: Choose between customised spa and yoga programmes.