Issue link: http://read.uberflip.com/i/1096207
49 MAR-APR 2019 MEETINGS & CONVENTIONS MCMAG-ASIA.COM A bonfire sends sparks spiralling into the night sky. Fireworks cascade overhead. An Indonesian rock band plays Queen's Bohemian Rhapsody and hundreds of Chinese partygoers clap, dance and cheer. Welcome to another big incentive travel night at Bintan Lagoon Resort (BLR), where a group from a Chinese beauty products company is intent on making the most of a short visit to this Indonesian island, linked to Singapore by a ferry ride of little more than one hour. Next morning, many of the group are up early to watch the sunrise over the South China Sea, posing for selfies on the resort's private beach, or jogging and exploring Bintan's largest integrated resort. Activities aplenty When guests arrive from the Tanah Merah ferry terminal in Singapore, via the public ferry or Bintan Lagoon Resort's own ferry terminal, there's plenty to explore at the 300-hectare hotspot. Activities range from adventure training and beach volleyball to all-terrain vehicle driving and basketball. For serious golfers there are two 18-hole, par-72 championship courses available. On the topic of food, Gerald Hendrick, senior vice president and general manager of Bintan Lagoon Resort, says the 'C' in MICE stands not for conventions but for 'Culinary Experiences' at the resort. "Food is so much part of what we offer here that I like to give it prominence," he says. Team-building adventures and activities are right next to world-class meeting venues at Bintan's largest integrated resort. There are 14 wining and dining options across the resort, offering flavours from Indonesia, Japan, Europe and Asian-Western. Many ways to meet For corporate events, BLR offers eight functions rooms, with the flexibility to accommodate up to 400 people in a theatre style setting. The Conference Centre's banquet hall can hold up to 1,300 standing guests for cocktails. Outdoors, the beach and golf course are popular for themed dinners and memorable weddings. The resort offers 450 rooms and suites, including 57 self-catering villas, ranging from three- to four-bedroom configurations. The good news for Bintan Lagoon Resort is that the Indonesian central government has recently given the go-ahead for BLR's private ferry terminal to be operated publicly. And a new international airport being developed will also be capable of accepting twin-aisle aircraft, thus allowing flights from China, Japan and elsewhere. WORDS IAN JARRETT FAST FACTS Total event size: 1,858 sqm Total event venues: 8 meeting rooms, 1 conference centre, 1 banquet hall and several open air spaces. Contact: reservations@ bintanlagoon.com Bintan Lagoon Resort Bintan Lagoon beach dinner Bintan Lagoon team building Editor's Pick