Travel is starting to make a comeback, and we couldn’t be happier. (We can feel the sand between our toes and the chilled cocktail glass in our hand already!) To keep things as uncomplicated as possible, an option close to Singapore makes sense for a family-friendly getaway or couple’s escape. And beautiful Telunas Private Island is exactly that – it’s in Indonesia’s Riau Islands, just 50km away by boat. We asked the resort team to bring us up to date on happenings in their pretty part of the world; and how we can get there to enjoy it!
Firstly – and most importantly – can our readers currently book a stay at Telunas Private Island?
The answer is YES! And you don’t even need to put down a deposit. You can therefore book today for a long weekend, summer or whenever, with no risk. We’re getting loads of bookings and inquiries, too, so we’re encouraging everyone who’s keen on a beach holiday at Telunas Island Resort to make their bookings asap, regardless of border status.
Once borders open for this area and quarantine is lifted, we will circle back to everyone who has booked to reconfirm dates and request a deposit.
Has anything changed at Telunas since we last had a chance to visit?
The world might have changed but Telunas Private Island hasn’t! At Telunas, there’s no Wi-Fi or televisions, no city streets bustling with traffic; it’s a place that has an unfailing ability to help simplify life and allow people to focus on connecting with those who are important to them. It’s all about relaxation and good old-fashioned fun – spending your days kayaking, stand-up paddle-boarding, swimming, reading a book or indulging in a spa massage. And, of course, the lush tropical beauty of our location hasn’t changed.
What style of accommodation can guests expect?
Our 15 overwater villas are unique for this area – there’s nothing like them so close to Singapore. The décor features up-cycled wood from local fishing boats, and they’re really big, with a large master bedroom with a king bed facing out to sea. Villa guests can relax on a double sun-lounger on the generously-sized private balcony. There’s also a living room with comfy natural rattan sofas and a coffee table, a kids’ loft with twin beds, and a natural stone bathroom featuring a spacious shower with a rainforest shower head. There’s also a water dispenser for cold drinking water and hot water for making tea or coffee, and a French press coffee maker with complimentary gourmet coffee.
Why is the resort a good option for families?
The big advantage Telunas has over the other island resorts near Singapore is its fully supervised kids’ club, known as “Kids Kampung”. This is a complimentary club for ages five through 12, where children get the chance to enjoy hermit crab races, sand castle building, traditional Indonesian games, scavenger hunts, arts and crafts and more.
While the club is great for when mum and dad want to go and have a couples’ massage, there is also a real sense of togetherness at Telunas. Kids and parents alike enjoy jumping from the jetty, or competing in friendly games of volleyball, soccer or table tennis, or throwing a frisbee on the beach.
Young guests love the villas, too, because they get their own loft bedroom with single beds and plenty of space to spread out and play.
There’s a kids’ menu filled with all the favourites, from pizza and spaghetti to yummy desserts every night. The important thing is that the chef is flexible; any special needs, gluten intolerance or food allergies can therefore be accommodated.
What are some other highlights of a Telunas Island Resort stay?
Here are just a few!
- Star-gazing at night, with no city lights.
- The seaside infinity pool with poolside bar to sip a cocktail and relax.
- Beach-front evening bonfires with s’mores and songs.
- Taking a cultural tour and visiting a neighbouring island.
- Dining open air in The Lodge.
- Romantic candlelight dinner for two on the pier – perfect for an anniversary, birthday or just celebrating the day.
- The over-the-water spa! Many Telunas guests love it so much that they have a treatment every day. It’s especially incredible at sunset, with the sea all around you and a gentle breeze.
- Taking the five-minute boat ride over to sister property Telunas Beach Resort; once there, you can swim, kayak or spend the day in a hammock on the beach.
- Hiking through a lush tropical forest to a secluded waterfall.
Even the boat trip across to Telunas is something that many guests really enjoy. It leaves Sekupang Ferry Terminal and winds through islands for about 90 minutes; this is a great time to unwind while you’re out on the water. Then, when you board the boat after your stay, you’ll see every staff member waving and wishing a fond farewell.
Tell us a bit about the priority Telunas is making for the environment and the local community.
Telunas is committed to bringing a sustainable positive impact to co-workers, surrounding communities, ecosystems and the local economy while providing incredible vacations for its guests. The team gets involved in all kinds of activities: digging wells; protecting endangered sea turtles; teaching English as a second language; supplying sports equipment and athletic venues for local kids; repairing and painting schools; replacing roofs for local islanders; and providing a computer lab and college scholarships for students.
A word from guests
“An unforgettable experience – one of the best holidays we have ever had.”
“A real charm. Fantastic sea view and sunrise view from our balcony, and a beautiful night sky filled with stars. We will definitely be back!”
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