Finding Pure Escapism on Two Indonesian ‘Castaway’ Islands

It’s hard to be original when having to describe one of those things that everyone has in their imagination, but is rarely properly experienced. That search for true tropical bliss, away from it all… you know, the  ‘sand-between-the-toes-while-sipping-cocktails-watching-the-sun-go-down-over-a-tranquil-sea’ type of place. But it turns out, such a place actually exists, and its hiding away in the Riau Archipelago.

These destinations are for those searching for authenticity and simplicity, with the modern hotel experience stripped away, but the luxury, service and comforts left behind. It all sounds too good to be true, really.

So where is this fabled place, exactly? Well, firstly, it’s two places: Pulau Suka and Pulau Pangkil, two private islands turned barefoot resort experiences, fashioned of the owner’s imagination (or one might say his dreams!), but very much to all our benefit. Joyo and Pangkil are found off the coast of the more well-known Bintan Island, part of the Riau Archipelago – closer to Singapore than Jakarta, but closer to Jakarta than Bali, making them not-too-distant journeys for residents of the capital in need of total disconnection.

On Pulau Suka is where Joyo Resort finds its home, with the Pangkil Island Resort is neighbouring counterpart. At both of these private island resorts, the standard hotel room is replaced by Driftwood Palaces (literally made out of driftwood) and traditional wooden joglos, the rustic aesthetic blending beautifully with the natural surroundings. The accommodations – fabulous Robinson Crusoe style creations – sprawl generously between the palm groves, gardens and coastal mangroves that give the islands their lush tropical atmosphere. In every direction, clean and crystal clear waters lap the white, powdery sands of the beachfront.

But don’t confuse this stripped-back experience for a lack of sophistication: from the beautifully carved four-poster beds to the Moroccan-style lamps and ethnic decor, the entire experience has been discerningly curated to accomplish a very palpable castaway charm, done with style. Of course, beneath the thatched roofs are all the modern comforts a traveller needs; and daily meals (even gorgeous dinner banquets) are cooked fresh by the professional service teams.

Yes, there’s no need for evening dress, or very much dress at all, as the islands offer total privacy, where the worries of the world are lost to the sea breeze as you dip your weary limbs into the encircling calm, azure waters. It’s the perfect escape for families who want to spend time kayaking, snorkelling through brilliant corals, playing games in open air pavilions and eating together whenever they want.

At the same time what could be better for a honeymoon, (or second honeymoon) or even better, the ultimate private wedding. Couples love this place, its natural feel allowing them to just be together in harmony, doing what they want, when they want. Undisturbed and completely at ease.

It’s hard to fathom that such an escape exists so close to Jakarta, and as mentioned, closer than Bali, making this a very accessible getaway – one that very few people in Jakarta have cottoned on to (for now!) Nature, unique design and the personalised service coming together is reminiscent of the early days of Bali, when luxury was the tranquillity and calm by the sea. Of course, unlike Bali, these islands will hardly change the next time you visit. Just leaving nature to do its wonderful things.

NOW! Jakarta

The article is produced by editorial team of NOW!Jakarta