Last weekend, E and I went for a short but relaxing stay at the Banyan Tree Bintan resort. It took only an hour’s trip from Singapore by high-speed catamaran before we arrived at the resort before noon.Since our villa was not ready yet, we embarked on an early lunch at the Pantai Grill, situated right on the white sandy beach and shaded by palm trees. It was very sunny and hot that day and all the other travellers had sought refuge in the airconditioned indoor Lotus Cafe (which definitely does not have much ambience and is very sanitised) but not us! I love beachside grills - it's that magical combination of the casual sun, sea and sand vibe and smoky hot seafood that shouts HOLIDAY! like nothing else can. Basking in the strong breeze, admiring the turquoise blue sea and savouring the smell of salt in the air, I was pretty much blissed out.
E had the grilled red snapper fillet (USD14), served with a delish rosemary tomato compote. The fish was beautifully grilled to perfection in a banana leaf casing (such a tropical feel!) and smeared with a savoury spice mix. My choice of grilled jumbo prawns (USD17) with caramelised lemon was fresh and tasty although rather predictable. The food was overpriced by Indonesian standards, but not unreasonable for a resort of this standing. 
We left lunch feeling supremely relaxed and chilled out and started making our way to our villa ..... (to be continued). 
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