Hi hng2000,
Just been there about two months ago, which is not what your friend had claim, however IMHO if your main objective is just sexual only with not much of entertainment than the fact is that Balai's ceweks is better than Batam in terms of looks, body, service & attitude but not in presentation (dressing & fashion senses) then cost wise is about 20% cheaper to cheong in Balai.
My advice is to go there on weekday instead of weekend & ask the hotel's transport to bring you to the villa which you will be spoiled from choices & bare in mind there are at least 20 - 30 ceweks per house & is at least 15 - 20 house at any one time.
Do recommend you to stay at Gabion Hotel which we have a fabulous Chinese Rest. on the roof level which serve great food, additional plus point is that you can use the hotel's FOC transport just leave a good tip for the driver on your last day of the trip.
Lastly just touching a little on entertainment which are as follows:-
Disco (only 2)
a) Santana
b) Bravo
Karaoke w/wo rooms
a) Maximillian 7th floor
b) KFC aka "Ken FxxK Chicken"
c) Paradise Hotel Grd floor & 3rd floor
Sports Massage MANY MANY but there isn't ANY SPA type health centre
Hope that the above information would of some assistance.
Thanks & Have A Godspeed Trip......
Darts