The thing you need to realize before you stay at the Banyan Tree (any Banyan Tree) is that it is going to cost a lot of money. I would say that if staying at the Banyan Tree means you can't afford another few nights somewhere else as part of your holiday, don't stay here. It cost us $1000 a night once all the extras were added (food, airport transfer, massages etc.) and there is no escaping the fact that it's not five times better than a hotel that costs $200 a night for example.
With that said, if you can afford it, the Banyan Tree is outstanding. The staff are all incredibly helpful, and utterly dedicated to the goal of helping you to have a relaxing time.
My wife and I had a pool villa, which was amazing. Having your own pool is really a treat, although if you don't go for one of those rooms, there are a couple of very nice swimming pools in the resort. The villa itself was in good condition (some people have said it's in need of refurbishment, and that will be happening next year, but honestly, there is nothing specifically wrong with it now), with a comfortable bed, excellent showers (one of which was outside) etc.
Food at the resort was good, and the massages we had were first class.
All told, for a piece of real luxury, the Banyan Tree is worth a visit.
One tip for visiting any resort on Bintan. Assuming you are traveling there from Singapore using the Bintan Resort Ferry, pay the extra for the Emerald Class ticket (I think it's SGD20 more), since the ferry lets the Emerald Class passengers off the boat first, which puts you at the front of what can become a very long, and very slow queue at the immigration desk.
- Banyan Tree Hotel Bintan
- Bintan Banyan Tree
