OCTOBER 16, 2000 VOL. 156 NO. 15

TRAVEL WATCH Check Into the Past at One of Asia's Grand Hotels There's something to be said about a hotel that perfectly captures a bygone era, while providing modern creature comforts Hot Deals Zegrahm Expeditions is offering something a bit wilder Hot Spot Bintan Island is officially part of Indonesia, but you can also think of it as Singapore's backyard playground Kitsch Report A captured mountain hideout of the terrorist group Abu Sayyaf as a tourist attraction? Web Crawling This website is a good guide for travelers who need information about Japan's traditional inns, or ryokan Detour One of the most extensive collections of Nepal's architectural heritage Travel Watch Archive: Browse hundreds of Asian travel tips

Hot Spot

Bintan Island is officially part of Indonesia, but you can also think of it as Singapore's backyard playground: it's only 45 minutes away by ferry. Besides several fun-in-the-sun resorts, Bintan also has a few that appeal to the soul. The top accommodation is the romantic, award-winning Banyan Tree Resort, with 72 Balinese-style villas tucked into a hillside overlooking Tanjong Said Beach. There is an 18-hole golf course designed by Greg Norman and a luxurious spa for those who want to simply take it easy. Bintan's slow pace and the resort's secluded villas are perfect for a honeymoon. Published rates start at $270 a night. Go to www.banyantree.com or call (62-770) 693-100.

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