In the middle of Borneo, where green jungles tell old stories and blue seas hug colourful coral homes, there's Sabah in Malaysia—a super cool place perfect for people who love fantastic adventures and many different things to see. They call it the "Land Below the Wind" because it's a cosy hideout from big storms. Sabah is like a special blanket made of fantastic nature and excellent traditions. Sabah is like a giant colouring book waiting for you to fill it with incredible memories.
Let's dive into the simple awesomeness of Sabah!
Fast Facts
Before we dive into the details, here are some fast facts about Sabah that you need to know:
Currency: Malaysian ringgit (MYR)
Language: Malay (official), English (widely spoken), and various indigenous languages and dialects
Airport: Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI), the main gateway to Sabah and the second busiest airport in Malaysia
Getting around: Public transportation (bus, taxi, ferry), ride-hailing app (Grab), car rental, or tour package
Connectivity Options
You don't have to worry about staying connected in Sabah, as internet access is widely available and reliable, especially in urban areas and tourist spots. You can use a 4G mobile network or wifi to keep in touch with your family, friends, or work. The best options for travellers to get internet access in Sabah are:
Buying a 4G SIM card or eSIM from one of the local operators, such as Celcom, Maxis, Digi, or U Mobile. You can buy them at the airport, convenience stores, or online. They offer various plans and packages to suit your needs and budget.
Using free wifi at hotels, cafes, restaurants, or public places. However, be aware of the security and privacy risks, and avoid using sensitive or personal information on public wifi.
Culture and Diversity
One of the most fascinating aspects of Sabah is its culture and diversity. Sabah is home to over 30 ethnic groups and over 80 languages and dialects. The largest ethnic group is the Kadazan, the indigenous people of Sabah with a unique and rich culture and history. The other major ethnic groups are the Bajau, Murut, Rungus, and Chinese. Sabah is also home to various religions, such as Islam, Christianity, Buddhism, Hinduism, and animism. The cultural diversity of Sabah is reflected in its festivals, cuisines, arts, and crafts.
You can experience the culture and diversity of Sabah in many ways, such as:
Visiting the Monsopiad Cultural Village, where you can learn about the legend of Monsopiad, the Kadazan warrior and headhunter, see his collection of skulls, and participate in some of the cultural activities, such as blowpipe shooting, rice wine making, and bamboo dance.
The Harvest Festival, also known as Kaamatan, is celebrated by the Kadazan and other indigenous groups in May. You can witness the rituals, dances, music, and games that mark the end of the rice harvesting season and taste the local delicacies and drinks, such as have, that, and tapas.
Exploring the Filipino Market, also known as Pasar Kraftangan, is a bustling and colourful market in Kota Kinabalu. You can shop for souvenirs, handicrafts, pearls, and batik and eat some street food, such as satay, nasi lemak, and pisang goreng.
Weather and Health
Sabah has a tropical climate, with hot and humid weather throughout the year. The average temperature is around 28°C, and the average humidity is about 80%. Sabah has two seasons: the dry season (May to September) and the wet season (October to April). The best time to visit Sabah depends on your preferences and activities, but generally, the dry season is more favourable for outdoor activities, such as hiking, diving, or snorkelling, while the wet season is more suitable for indoor activities, such as museums, galleries, or shopping.
Travelling to Sabah requires some health and safety precautions, such as:
Get your vaccinations before you travel. Contact your health professional at least eight weeks before your trip to ensure your vaccinations are current. Some standard vaccinations for travellers to Sabah are hepatitis A, typhoid, tetanus, and rabies.
Taking malaria precautions. Sabah is a malaria risk area, especially in the rural and forested areas. Speak to your healthcare provider about taking anti-malarial tablets, depending on your destination, and avoid mosquito bites by using repellent and nets.
Being aware of the wildlife. Sabah is home to various wild animals, such as monkeys, snakes, leeches, and scorpions that can threaten your health and safety. Be cautious and respectful when encountering them, and do not feed, touch, or provoke them. If you are bitten or stung by any animal, seek medical attention immediately.
Safety and Money
Sabah is generally a safe and friendly state, but you should still be careful of some potential risks, such as:
Petty crimes, such as pickpocketing, snatch theft, or robbery. Keep your valuables and documents safe, and do not carry large amounts of cash or wear expensive jewellery. Be alert and aware of your surroundings, and avoid walking alone at night or in unfamiliar areas.
Scams, such as overcharging, fake tickets, or fake products. Research and compare prices before buying anything, and avoid falling for any offers that seem too good to be true. Use reputable and licensed operators or vendors to request receipts or confirmation.
Travelling to Sabah also requires some money and visa arrangements, such as:
Checking your visa requirements. Most nationalities can enter Sabah visa-free for up to 90 days if they have a valid passport and proof of onward travel. However, some nationalities may need a visa or an e-visa to enter Sabah. Check the official website of the Malaysian immigration department for the latest information and requirements.
Knowing your money. The currency of Sabah is the Malaysian ringgit (MYR), divided into 100 sen. The banknotes come in 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100 MYR denominations, while the coins come in denominations of 5, 10, 20, and 50 sen. The exchange rate as of December 2023 is 1 USD = 4.12 MYR.
Carrying cash in the interior. While most places in Sabah accept credit cards and have ATMs, some rural and remote areas may need these facilities. Therefore, it is advisable to stock up on cash, tiny notes and coins before venturing into the countryside.
Not expecting to tip. Tipping is not customary or expected in Sabah, except for some high-end hotels or restaurants that may charge a service fee of 10% or more. However, you can tip if you are satisfied with the service or want to show appreciation, but it is not obligatory or mandatory.
Bargaining, but not too hard. Bargaining is a common practice at markets and shops in Sabah, where you can negotiate the price of goods or services. However, be respectful and reasonable, and do not bargain too hard or too low. A good rule of thumb is to start at half the asking price and work up to a mutually agreeable price.
Where to Stay in Sabah
Sabah has many accommodation options, from budget hostels and guesthouses to luxury resorts and villas. Depending on your location, preference, and budget, you can choose the best place to stay in Sabah. Here are some of the recommended hotels in Sabah, in different locations and price ranges:
Mountain Valley Resort: If you want to wake up to the breathtaking view of Mount Kinabalu, the highest peak in Malaysia, this is the place for you. This hotel in Kundasang offers mountain views and a natural hot spring pool to relax and rejuvenate. The hotel has 24 rooms, with amenities such as air conditioning, TV, and wifi. The hotel also has a restaurant, a garden, and a playground. The price per night is around 150 MYR.
Nature Lodge Resort Sepilok: If you want to experience the rainforest and the wildlife, this is the place for you. This hotel in Sandakan is near the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, where you can see the adorable and endangered orangutans. The hotel offers a rainforest setting and a variety of activities, such as jungle trekking, bird watching, and firefly cruise. The hotel has 23 rooms, with amenities such as a fan, mosquito net, and balcony. The hotel also has a restaurant, a bar, and a swimming pool. The price per night is around 200 MYR.
Sipadan Kapalai Dive Resort: If you want to explore the underwater world and the coral reefs, this is the place for you. This hotel in Semporna is near Sipadan Island, one of the best diving spots in the world. The hotel offers a water village-style accommodation and a diving paradise, where you can see colourful corals, fish, turtles, and other marine life. The hotel has 59 rooms, with amenities such as air conditioning, a fridge, and a safe. The hotel also has a restaurant, a spa, and a dive centre. The price per night is around 800 MYR.
What to Do in Sabah
Sabah has a lot of things to do and see, from natural wonders to cultural attractions. You can enjoy various activities and experiences in Sabah, such as hiking, diving, snorkelling, rafting, wildlife watching, cultural learning, and more. Here are some of the recommended activities and experiences in Sabah, in different locations and themes:
Sabah Day Tour: A day tour that covers the highlights of Kota Kinabalu, such as the Signal Hill Observatory Platform, the Sabah State Mosque, the Tanjung Aru Beach, and the Filipino Market. You can enjoy the panoramic views of the city and the sea, admire the architecture and design of the mosque, relax and swim at the beach, and shop and eat at the market. The tour includes transportation, guide, and entrance fees. The price per person is around 100 MYR.
Gomantong Cave and Kinabatangan River: A day tour that explores the natural wonders of Sabah, such as the Gomantong Cave, home to millions of bats and swiftlets, and the Kinabatangan River, home to various wildlife, such as proboscisprobosci's monkeys, crocodiles,, and birds. You can witness the unforgettable spectacle of the bat exodus, collect the edible bird's nests, cruise along the river, and spot the animals in their natural habitat. The tour includes transportation, a guide, lunch, and a boat ride. The price per person is around 300 MYR.
Sapi and Manukan Twin Islands Day Tour: A day tour that visits two of the five islands in the Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park, where visitors can enjoy snorkelling, swimming, sunbathing, and other water activities. You can see the colourful corals, fish, turtles, and different marine life in the crystal clear waters, relax and tan on the white sandy beaches, and have fun and adventure on the islands. The tour includes transportation, a guide, snorkelling equipment, and a barbecue lunch. The price per person is around 200 MYR.
Monsopiad Cultural Village Experience: A half-day tour that immerses visitors in the culture and history of the Kadazan tribe, the largest ethnic group in Sabah, and showcases their traditional dances, costumes, crafts, and rituals. You can learn about the legend of Monsopiad, the Kadazan warrior and headhunter, see his collection of skulls, and participate in some of the cultural activities, such as blowpipe shooting, rice wine making, and bamboo dance. The tour includes transportation, guide, and entrance fees. The price per person is around 150 MYR.
Semporna Snorkeling and Diving Day Tour: A day tour that offers snorkelling and diving opportunities in the crystal clear waters of Semporna, where visitors can see colourful corals, fish, turtles, and other marine life. You can choose from different islands and dive sites, such as Sipadan, Mabul, Kapalai, and Mataking, and enjoy the underwater scenery and diversity. The tour includes transportation, a guide, snorkelling or diving equipment, and lunch. The price per person is around 400 MYR for snorkelling and 800 MYR for diving.
Conclusion
Sabah, Malaysia, is a travel destination you should take advantage of. Sabah has something for everyone, whether you are an adventure seeker, a nature lover, a culture enthusiast, or a foodie. You can experience Sabah's natural beauty and cultural diversity and discover its attractions, activities, cuisines, and people. Sabah is a land of wonders and wonders, and you will not regret visiting it. So, what are you waiting for?
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