1) Bring local currency, Rps in smaller denominations. (in case the money changer at batam decides to take a break)
2) Make sure you bargain for everything you buy and every service you hire. Just to make sure you don't end up paying more than you should. Batam is a great place to test your negotiation skills. ;-)
3) Make price comparisons whenever possible.
4) If you are there for just shopping or just a Batam spa treatment, then you probably don't need to stay the night.
5) Make sure you get your Batam ferry tickets ahead of time if possible. But you will need your passports before buying the tickets.
6) Early morning Batam ferry tickets sell like hot cakes.
7) There are a three Batam ferry operators at Harbourfront Centre, 3rd floor so check for the best time for yourself.
- Batamfast
- Penguin
- Berlian
9) Do check the exchange rates before you go.
10) Credit card is widely accepted in Batam. But if you want cheaper price, then pay in cash. Discounts are not available for credit card payment.
11) Eat the local desserts in Batam, those are pretty good.
12) Generally, seafood and the usual day-to-day cuisines in Batam are more salty and the drinks are sweeter then what is served in Singapore. So, be prepared for it.
13) Clothes shopping don't expect wonders of wonders but there are some interesting and fun shops there at Batam Shopping Centre. Batam Shopping Centre is probably the only good shopping place available there. So, don't bother going for any other.
14) There are some sleazy areas so, just avoid those areas if you are not comfortable with such things. But a good experience if you are curious what happens in such places.
15) Golden Prawn Seafood Restaurant which is a floating restaurant is the usual place the locals recommend to all tourist. It's like the highlight of the evening. But don't expect too much....or you might
g
et too disappointed.
