Exotic Malaysia-Kota Kinabalu
Kota Kinabalu on the island of Borneo is a holiday-makers’ paradise. The city itself offers a variety of amazing pursuits in its own right including amazing cuisine and shopping.
Sabah cuisine is some of the best Malaysia has to offer. While you’re there make sure you try the world famous Fish Sauce Mee Hoon at Kop iPing Café, the custard buns at Kedai Kopi Jeong Hin and Ikan Bakar (grilled stingray) at Lotus Restaurant. If you’re after street food, get up early and head to Gaya Street markets on Sunday or head to the Philippine Night markets at sample the grilled fish.
That’s just the beginning because Kota Kinabalu is also the gateway to great adventure including the Kinabalu National Park. Mountain climbing, jungle trekking, hot springs; in fact pretty much something for everyone.
Day Trip to Mount Kinabalu Poring Rainforest
Mount Kinabalu is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you’re game you can put on your hiking boots and attempt to reach the peak at a stunning 4000 meters above sea level. The terrain you’ll see on the way ranges from tropical rainforest at the base to subalpine at the peak. April is the best month but can get a bit busy so think about getting there slightly early to avoid any crowds. No head for heights, then stay down and trek through the rainforest.. if you can handle the 100ft high Canopy Walkway.
Visit Orangutans at Lok Kawi
A great option for people without much time in Sabah, the Lok Kawi Wildlife Park is only 30 minutes away from the capital of Kota Kinabalu. The 280-acre wildlife center is home to several tigers, elephants, orangutans, and other protected animals. While the animals are kept in large enclosures, every effort is given to make the setting as close to the natural habitats as possible.
To reach Lok Kawai Wildlife Park, take southbound bus #17 to the town of Lok Kawi, then hail a taxi to the park.
Diving Trips
Take a cruise to the crystal clear waters of the Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park from Kota Kinabalu. Little to no current means that you’ll get perfect view of soft and hard coral, , pufferfish, lionfish, stingrays, sea stars, cuttlefish and moray eels. All a 15 minute speedboat ride away from KK.
