Every company wants to build a solid team—not just one that works together, but one that trusts and supports each other. And honestly, shared moments of fun, challenge, and laughter can do wonders to strengthen those bonds.
Recently, our office HR team decided to organise a company retreat. After weighing various options, the final choice was clear: The ANMON Resort Bintan.
A Short Trip, Big Impact
Getting there was a breeze. We took a ferry from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal, and in just about an hour, we arrived at Bandar Bentan Telani Ferry Terminal. No long queues, no hassle—just growing excitement.
From the terminal, it was only a short 5-minute bus ride before we reached the resort. The view changed dramatically—white sandy paths, desert-like landscapes, and unique tent structures that felt like arriving at a modern desert oasis.
The ANMON team was already there waiting for us. Our bags were sorted out quickly, and check-in was smooth. Once we stepped into the glamping area, the resort’s charm hit us. The tents had minimalist, earthy interiors—air-conditioned, comfy mattresses, private bathrooms, and even a cosy little lounge space inside. It was a stay that felt both luxurious and relaxed.
Day One: Getting the Team Energised
1. Icebreaker: Name Text Exchange
After a light lunch, we gathered at the open area. The facilitators from ANMON’s teambuilding partner were already in action, starting us off with a simple but fun activity: the Name Text Exchange. Everyone had to write their name, favourite movie, hobby, and dream destination on a slip of paper. These were mixed and randomly given out. Our task? Find the person whose paper you received.
Sounds easy, but it got hilarious pretty fast. People were walking around asking, “Do you like sci-fi movies?”, “Did you say hiking’s your thing?” It was a good laugh and broke the ice instantly. It also helped us get to know our colleagues in a completely different light.
2. Game Time: Crazy Ball Challenge
Next up: Crazy Ball. The challenge? Use pipes to roll a ball across a path without dropping it or pausing. Easy to say—not so easy to do. We were yelling instructions like, “Steady, steady!” and “Faster, don’t stop!” We laughed, fumbled, and figured it out together. That’s when communication and coordination started to kick in.
3. Problem Solving: Rope Escape
In the evening, we moved on to Rope Escape. Pairs were tied together and had to figure out how to get “unlinked” without removing the rope. Sounds like a brain teaser? It was. Some got out fast, others took longer—but what stood out was how we started thinking together. It became a real test of logic, teamwork, and patience.
Day Two: Level Up the Challenges
1. The Dinosaur Egg Challenge
When the sun got hotter, we shifted to the Dinosaur Egg Challenge. The goal? Get a ping pong ball out of a long pipe using only water and the tools provided—without touching the ball. We had to work together, communicating every step: “Pour slowly!”, “Hold steady!” It was messy, chaotic, and fun. More importantly, it was a brilliant lesson in collaboration.
2. Coordination in Rope Square
Still pumped, we moved to Rope Square. Everyone held onto a long rope and got blindfolded. The task? Form a perfect square. Sounds simple? Not. Without a leader, it was all about trial and error. Voices flew: “Shift left!”, “Move forward!” We slowly figured it out. And when we did, the whole group just naturally broke into cheers. That’s when you know team bonding is real.
3. Leadership in Fishing Puzzle
Then came the Fishing Puzzle. One person could move; the rest gave instructions. It was like watching a mini leadership test—giving directions clearly, listening well, and staying calm under pressure. Mistakes happened, we laughed them off, and tried again. That shared effort made the wins even sweeter.
4. Creativity in Master Engineer & Mission Impossible
Later, we faced two engineering-style challenges. In Master Engineer, the task was to lift a ball out of a cup using random tools, without touching the cup or entering a restricted zone. We tried everything: ropes, spoons, sticks, and teamwork. Suddenly, everyone turned into mini-MacGyvers.
Mission: Impossible raised the bar. Same ball-and-cup task, but now we had to move the whole cup out of the zone too. The team clicked instantly—dividing roles, strategising fast, and bursting into laughter when our “traps” collapsed. The joy of figuring it out together was pure gold.
Nature, Water, and Laughter at Crystal Lagoon
After all the games, we cooled down at Crystal Lagoon—Southeast Asia’s largest saltwater lagoon. We did paddleboarding, kayaking, and silly challenges like “push your teammate off the board”—all in good fun. Some of us chilled by the water and took tons of pictures. Nature added a perfect touch to the bonding process.
Evening Vibes: Reflection, BBQ, and Bar Time
When the garden lights came on, we shifted to the BBQ area. Acoustic music in the background, delicious food, and a chance to reflect. The management asked us simple questions: “What did you learn today?”, “What was the most memorable challenge?” One said communication felt more real here than in emails. Another said leadership wasn’t about titles, but how you stepped up when needed.
The night continued at TIPI Bar—cocktails, mocktails, and plenty of conversation. Some shared ideas to improve work processes, others joked non-stop about the day’s funniest fails. Sitting at the outdoor lounge, under the stars, the atmosphere felt casual but deeply meaningful.
More Than Just Games
At ANMON, the games are not just for fun. Each one is designed with a purpose—to build trust, improve communication, test leadership, enhance problem-solving, and encourage reflection. It’s not just a break from the office—it’s a reset for your team. We didn’t just come back refreshed—we came back connected.
The ANMON Resort Bintan isn’t just a retreat spot. It’s a full-package experience. With well-designed glamping accommodation, fully-equipped meeting spaces, experienced facilitators, and a location just a ferry ride away from Singapore, it’s an ideal choice for companies looking for impactful team-building.
If you’re searching for a team-building experience that makes a difference—not just a checklist of games and meals—The ANMON Resort Bintan is where you’ll find it. Expect creative programmes, exotic settings, and unforgettable bonding moments—all in one seamless, meaningful package.