4 Outdoor Destinations in Batam, Indonesia

From the number of people in hotels in Batam Center to Nagoya's shopping malls, it's apparent that Batam's tourism industry has been booming over the years. Aside from being a favorite destination of shoppers and the fashion-conscious crowd, Batam also attracts sightseers and pilgrims with its places of worship and architectural wonders. Those who wish to see beyond the dazzling lights of the shopping complex have the option of coming to these destinations and having their fill of designs and structures that represent Batam's people.

• Maha Vihara Duta Maitreya Buddhist Temple is one of the biggest Buddhist temples in Southeast Asia. It features statues of Buddha, the Goddess of Mercy Guan Yin, and Guan Gong. Aside from the visual treat, this temple also offers food for the body. Inside the structure is a restaurant that has Buddhist items as well as vegetarian dishes and fruit drinks. The temple can be found close to Batam Center Ferry terminal.
• Mesjid Raya or Grand Mosque is a large structure that welcomes pilgrims before they depart for Mecca. It is also the biggest mosque in the whole of Batam. The building is close to Batam City Government Center, making it a convenient destination for tourists and locals alike. It is only 15 minutes from the airport and Nagoya, Batam's business and shopping center.
• They say you've never been to Batam unless you've seen the Barelang Highway Bridges with your own eyes. This architectural wonder connects the islands of Batam, Rempang, and Galang and stretches to a total of 2 kilometers. Barelang Bridge itself is made up of 6 different types of bridges.
• In the 1980's, the Vietnam War forced refugees to search for a new home in Galang Island, one of the many islands that make up Batam. Over the years, this community of refugees grew. They then built a village that reflects their culture's aesthetics, resulting to what is now known as the Vietnamese Refugee Village. Aside from the unique style of the buildings in the area, the village also has a park which bears a replica of the boats that the people used to escape the war in the 80's.

Once the day is over, you can head back to your hotel and treat yourself to a filling dinner. To relax your body after a tour around the area, you can also opt for a massage. Choose to stay at a hotel in Batam Center, like The BCC Hotel & Residence, that have their own spa so you can relax without leaving the hotel premises.