Batam is an island in Indonesia and is a popular tourist destination. The island is also popular for its shopping areas since it is part of the free trade zone. In 2006 a resolution was passed which made Batam part of a Special Economic Zone together with Singapore and eliminated VAT and other tariffs for goods shipped between Batam and Singapore. This has made Batam become a shoppers’ paradise. There are several places where you can get great discounts on a variety of products.

Center Point

Jalan Imam Bonjoi

This one of the more upscale shopping centers in Batam and it is popular with Singaporeans. The mall has several shops, restaurants, supermarkets and much more. If you are looking to spend part of the morning shopping, this is a good place to begin. Several big hotels have their own shuttle services to pick up and drop their customers to this shopping mall.

DC Mall

This is one of the largest shopping malls in Batam. The mall has several brand clothing stores like, Abercrombie & Fitch, Fila and Esprit. You can get good clothes at bargain prices of $10 at the mall. The mall has many shops unoccupied from the time the casinos in the mall were closed.

Robinson & Ramayana

This is an authentic Indonesian shopping mall where you will not find many foreigners. However, if you visit any country, taking a trip to one of the local shopping malls is a good idea; you will be able to get some amazing bargains. This shopping mall is the perfect place to pick up some authentic Indonesian clothing and a host of other things. There are several places where you can eat at in the mall, both Indonesian and western cuisine is available. The mall is open every day from 9:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Lucky Plaza

Nagaya Town

This is a good place to pick up electronic items including CDs and DVDs. There is virtually every electronic item on display at the shops in the plaza, but remember to bargain to get a good price. The mall also shops selling shoes, clothes and make-up for ladies.

Panbil Mall

At Panbil Mall you can get almost anything you need at very reasonable prices. The mall is a popular stop for many working class people staying nearby. The smaller shops in the mall offer good prices and allow bargaining, but the bigger departmental stores do not allow bargaining. This is a good place to pick up stuff at real Indonesian prices.