HOLIDAYS IN SPECTACULAR SABAH – WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Spellbinding Sabah is a paradise on earth destination where you'll enjoy the holiday of a lifetime, surrounded by breathtaking beauty, epic natural wonders and glorious sunshine.

This enchanting getaway on the northern point of Borneo in Eastern Malaysia is a dream come true for couples, families and groups of friends craving an unforgettable adventure.

Virgin rainforest, diverse and unique culture, idyllic tropical islands with sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters and unrivalled Sabahan hospitality are among the delights which await.

You’ll also discover enthralling wildlife, superb sports and leisure amenities, thrilling outdoor attractions, water sports galore, fantastic food and world-class luxury hotels.

Whether you yearn for relaxing days, lazing in the sun on the sands, an exciting time immersing yourself in rich history and culture, or a lively adventure exploring awe-inspiring natural attractions, magnificent Sabah easily can easily meet your needs.

We've decided to turn the spotlight on this mesmerising natural playground to reveal why it’s the perfect choice for a one-of-a-kind holiday to remember.

Where is Sabah and how long does it take to fly there?

Located where the Sulu and South China seas meet, Sabah is the second largest state in Malaysia and shares the island of Borneo with Sarawak, Brunei, and Indonesian Kalimantan. Kota Kinabalu is the capital city and the Malaysian Ringgit is the local currency.

You can fly indirect to Kota Kinabalu Airport, in Sabah, from all airports in the UK. The flight time is approximately 15 hours, with a transfer required along the way. Sabah is 8 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).

What language is spoken in Sabah?

Bahasa Malaysia (Malay) is the official language spoken in Sabah, while other languages include a range of Chinese dialects (such as Mandarin) and English. All the indigenous tribes also speak their own language.

English is widely spoken and understood in most parts of Sabah, and locals will certainly be delighted if you try to speak a few words of Malay.

What is the weather like in Sabah and when is the best time to visit?

Sabah is located close to the Equator and has a tropical climate, meaning it is blessed with hot and sunny weather throughout the year, while experiencing unpredictable and short-lived downpours of rain.

August and September are great months to visit the beaches along the east coast, while October to November is an ideal time to visit Kota Kinabalu in the west, as it’s normally much drier around this time of year.

Lowland areas such as Kota Kinabalu, Kudat, Sandakan and Tawau experience average temperatures of 32°C, which drop to a cooler 21°C in the highlands of Ranau, Kundasang and Tambunan.

What makes Sabah so special?

Sabah has it all for the nature-loving adventurer – a magical land where a sacred mountain peak grazes the sky, flame-furred orangutans swing across the rainforest canopy, warm waters lap against powdery-white sands and a myriad of diverse ethic groups celebrate their rich cultural heritage.

There’s never a dull moment in this fascinating destination, with the chance to climb, trek, swim and explore Sabah’s magnificent terrain, rivers, lakes, mountains and caves.

Sabah is fondly referred to as the 'Land Below the Wind', due to the fact the state lies beneath the typhoon belt of East Asia and escapes being battered by typhoons.

With a warm welcome wherever you go, a multitude of natural treasures and year-round blissful sunshine, it’s no surprise Sabah makes a big impression on every visitor.

What are the top attractions in Sabah?

There are so many amazing things to see and do in Sabah that your only challenge will be trying to fit them all in during your holiday.

Nature and wildlife are big factors in the appeal of Sabah, with cascading waterfalls, rolling rivers, dense jungles and giant caves to wow you, while orangutans, proboscis monkeys, pygmy elephants, sun bears, turtles and endemic species of birds are among the amazing creatures you’ll discover.

It’s certainly worth paying a visit to Sabah’s fascinating conservation and wildlife sanctuaries, including Danum Valley Conservation Area, in Lahad Datu, which is home to banteng, gibbons, clouded leopard, mouse deer, slow loris and many other inhabitants.

You can also check out the impressive Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre for orphaned orangutans where there’s an outdoor nursery viewing area and the chance to enjoy enthralling feeding sessions.

Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary is the place to spot wildlife of the winged variety, including blue kingfishers and hornbills, as you cruise along the Kinabatangan River. You might even come across a saltwater crocodile popping its snout above the water.

Kinabalu National Park is Malaysia’s First World Heritage site which covers 6 types of vegetation zones, from lowland rainforest to alpine scrub. It is also home to Mount Kinabalu, the highest mountain in Malaysia and an array of exciting nature trails where you’ll be awestruck by the natural beauty all around you.

The park is contained with the ‘Aspiring Kinabalu Unesco Global Geopark’, which covers an area of 4,750 square kilometres in the districts of Ranau, Kota Belud and Kota Marudu in the north-western part of Sabah.

It’s also worth checking out the imposing temples and mosques in Sabah which include the 9-tier Peak Nam Toong Temple in Kota Kinabalu, the Puu Jih Shih Buddhist Temple overlooking Sandakan Bay and Kota Kinabalu City Mosque.

Historical attractions include Agnes Keith House which offers an insight into Borneo’s British colonial past and Sandakan Memorial Park, which honours the British and Australian military personnel who died there while being held prisoner in World War Two.

Other popular places to visit include Mari Mari Cultural Village, Rasa Ria Reserve, Tabin Wildlife Resort, Poring Hot Spring and the Tower of Heaven.

What are popular outdoor activities in Sabah?

You’re spoilt for choice in Sabah when it comes to invigorating outdoor activities on the land and sea.

ATV Borneo Adventure is a thrilling experience where you’ll get to explore the highlands on a quad bike, while hiking adventures up Maragang Hill will culminate in incredible views of Mount Kinabalu.

Other popular pursuits in Sabah include jungle trekking, river cruises, ziplining, caving, rock climbing, mountain biking and white water rafting on the Kiulu River. You can also practice your swing on a range of championship golf courses.

You can also take to the sea for water sports galore, with stand-up paddleboarding, jet skiing, waterskiing and wakeboarding among the options available. Other activities include sea walking, scuba diving, sailing, snorkelling and boat trips to Sabah’s main islands which include Sipadan, Mataking, Lankayan, Selingan (Turtle Island), Pulau Tiga, Pom Pom, Mabul and Kapalai.

What are the beaches like in Sabah?

Sabah is home to hundreds of kilometres of gorgeous tropical coastline boasting pristine sands, turquoise waters, swaying palms, secluded islands, beautiful coral reefs and stunning sunsets

You’ll discover everything from sweeping stretches of sand, with safe and shallow waters for a feast of family fun, to tranquil coves and bays where romantic couples can enjoy relaxing hours in complete privacy.

Kelambu Beach at Kudat is one of the best beaches in Sabah where aquamarine waters and beautiful white sands are engulfed by astounding verdant islands.

Tanjung Aru is another magnificent beach, with its orange sands and gentle waves, Si Amil Beach is a peaceful escape far from civilisation and Pantai Dalit Beach is a superb sandy expanse which is nestled beside lush tropical vegetation and dense jungle.

Other amazing sandy treasures include Tindakon Dazang Beach, Pulau Tiga Beach, Bak Bak Beach and Kalampunian Beach.

Is there plenty to keep children entertained in Sabah?

Families will enjoy a bundle of fun in Sabah, with a host of excellent attractions to make every day a real winner.

Children can get really close to nature, with the chance to explore the phenomenal outdoor attractions and marvel at the incredible wildlife all around.

Young travellers can look forward to a plethora of delights, from island-hopping around the Tunku Adbul Rahman Marine Park to taking a cruise along the Kawa Kawa River in search of the big-nosed proboscis monkeys.

Other options include venturing the canopy walkways of Kinabalu Park, visiting Teck Guan Cocoa Museum, observing the long-haired inhabitants of Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, snorkelling on coral reefs teeming with marine life and enjoying traditional sandcastle-building sessions on the amazing beaches.

Is the transport system good for getting around Sabah?

There are many modes of transport for getting around Sabah, with a bus being the most economic choice. Big air-conditioned buses will take you to key cities on the East Coast such as Tawau, Sandakan, Semporna and Lahad Datu.

Taking a taxi is probably your best option if you want to get to a destination quickly or if it’s in a more remote location. Taxis stands can be found near the main hotels, bus terminals and shopping malls. You can also download an app and use the e-hailing taxi services operated by various firms including airasia and Grab.

Island destinations in Sabah are accessible by boat services, with Jesselton Point in Kota Kinabalubeing the most popular boat terminal. Options for island-hopping boat trips are also available.

Is Sabah good for shopping?

If you fancy some retail therapy during your holiday, Sabah can offer everything from bustling markets where you can barter for a bargain to huge shopping malls offering an impressive choice of merchandise.

The main malls are found in the capital Kota Kinabalu, with jewellery, electronics and high-end fashion among the choices available. These include Imago Shopping Mall, Centre Point Sabah, Suria Sabah and 1Borneo Hypermall, the largest shopping complex in East Malaysia.

Kota Kinabalu’s has several superb markets including Gaya Street Sunday Market, Handicraft Market and a colourful night market where you’ll savour mouth-watering fresh seafood dishes served in charming open-air cafes.

What is the nightlife like in Sabah?

There's plenty going on after dark in Sabah, with night clubs, discos, beach bars and live music venues among the choices available for people who like to party.

The liveliest night spots can be found in Kota Kinabalu, including Breeze Beach Club, Shenanigans and BED (Best Entertainment Destination) at the waterfront complex.

You’ll also find plenty on in Australian Lane and Larong Dewan where you’ll discover fantastic bistros, bars and restaurants, including Bar Flips, Biru-Biru, Mamasita, El-Centro and Wine'O'Clock.

Other options include the chance to enjoy a Kota Kinabalu Night Tour featuring a dinner and traditional dance show, listen to soothing sounds in a dreamy jazz bar or watch a movie in a modern multi-screen cinema.

What is the traditional food and drink in Sabah?

Sabah is home to mouth-watering dining experiences, with everything from world-class gourmet cuisine to authentic street food.

A myriad of culinary choices awaits, with sago worms, cured seaweed and an appetiser made of wild ginger among the intriguing options you'll come across.

Ngiu Chap is a delicious noodle soup which is considered a signature dish of Sabah and consists of a mix of meats and rice vermicelli, Tuaran Mee is a much-loved dish featuring noodles with pork eggs rolls, beef or chicken, and Hinava is a popular raw fish meal.

Butod consists of sago palm consuming-worms which are stir-fried or cooked in broth, while Latok is a type of seaweed served with grilled fish.

Coconut pudding is a popular dessert you’ll find everywhere and Milo Ping is a quintessential Sabahan drink comprising a mixture of Milo (powdered chocolate drink) and sweetened condensed milk.

Discover the wonders of Sabah on a fabulous sunshine getaway. Start planning your holiday today at Destination2.co.uk.