Beyond Bali: Why Indonesia’s Digital Tourism Ambassador is Falling in Love with the Riau Islands

By: Indonesian Tourism Ambassador Editorial Team Category: Travel & Destinations, Hidden Gems

BATAM, INDONESIA – When North American travelers think of Indonesian paradise, Bali is usually the first name that comes to mind. However, Dhea Ocktavia, the newly appointed Digital Tourism Ambassador of Indonesia 2025 (Duta Pariwisata Indonesia Digital), is turning the spotlight to a different, equally mesmerizing corner of the archipelago: The Riau Islands (Kepri).

In her latest viral campaign, Dhea shared a glimpse of her trip to Batam Island, sparking wanderlust among her followers and signaling that this region is ready for the international stage.

A Picture-Perfect Escape

Pictured against the stunning backdrop of the Barelang Bridge an architectural marvel often referred to as the “Golden Gate of Batam”Dhea showcased the region’s blend of modern infrastructure and tropical serenity. The azure waters and open skies frame a destination that is both accessible and exotic.

“Kepulauan Riau, aku benar-benar jatuh cinta!” (“Riau Islands, I have truly fallen in love!”), she captioned her post on Instagram, expressing a sentiment that many first-time visitors share.

Why the Riau Islands Should Be on Your radar

For travelers flying from New York, Los Angeles, or Toronto, the Riau Islands offer a unique proposition. Located just a short, 45-minute ferry ride from Singapore, it is the perfect tropical side-trip for anyone visiting Southeast Asia.

According to Dhea Ocktavia, here is why Batam and the Riau Islands are the “Complete Package” for your next vacation:

1. Affordable Luxury Accommodations From private villas overlooking the ocean to 5-star high-rise hotels, the region offers world-class stays at a fraction of the cost you would pay in the Caribbean or Hawaii. It is luxury without the heavy price tag.
2. A Culinary Odyssey For the foodie, Batam is a dream. The island is famous for its fresh, live seafood caught daily. Visitors can enjoy authentic Indonesian flavors, spicy sambal, and fresh crab or lobster right by the water.
3. The Ultimate Shopping Destination Batam is a Free Trade Zone. For tourists, this means incredible deals on fashion, electronics, and local goods. It is widely known as a shopper’s paradise where your currency goes a very long way.
4. Unspoiled Nature Beyond the city center lies a haven of natural beauty. The province is dotted with hundreds of islands featuring pristine beaches, snorkeling spots, and lush greenery perfect for eco-tourism.
5. Vibrant Nightlife As Dhea noted, the region boasts “world-class bars” and entertainment. Whether you want a quiet sunset cocktail or a lively night out, the island’s energy is infectious.

“An Invitation to the West“

As Indonesia’s Digital Tourism Ambassador for 2025, Dhea Ocktavia is on a mission to show the world that Indonesia is more than just one island. Her invitation is simple: “Yuk main ke sini!” (Come play here!).

For US and Canadian citizens looking for an authentic Southeast Asian experience that combines the convenience of city life with the relaxation of a tropical island, the Riau Islands are waiting.

Travel Tip:

• Getting There: Fly into Singapore Changi Airport (SIN), one of the world’s best transit hubs. From there, take a direct ferry from HarbourFront Centre to Batam Centre. No complex flights needed!