Sabah, Malaysia consistently tops the list of places to visit, including TripAdvisor's Traveler's Choice Awards 2018, published in...
Many visitors visiting Sabah for the first time will probably be aware of the many cultural and natural attractions that can be found there. Large parts of Sabah are still natural, pristine forests that are hard to reach, and if you really want to see some amazing sights, you have to walk off the beaten track.
Many of the natural attractions in Sabah are well known - Mount Kinabalu is The Highest Mountain in Malaysia, The Rafflesia is one of the rarest and largest flowers in the world, and for diving enthusiasts there is no better place to dive.
The tourism industry in Sabah
The tourism industry in Sabah and Malaysia is well regulated. They are aware of the importance of the economic benefits it brings to the local community and how it contributes to conservation.
One of the attractions of tourism in Sabah is that it is associated with a rich history and cultural significance. It is not too advanced, which reinforces the adventure and its rustic charm. Sometimes travelling to the destination is an adventure in itself, if you travel on a mountain road and enjoy the relative comfort of an air-conditioned coach.
One of the travel agencies I met in Sabah is aware of the role they play in caring for the tourists arriving in Sabah. This is partly due to their strong sense of hospitality and kindness, as well as their pride in the fact that they were born in Sabah.
Sabah or North Borneo in the historical context, is known for its nature and its natural beauty. Undeveloped islands retain their charm, the national park, where Mount Kinabalu is located, is still surrounded by unspoilt nature on all sides.
Do you need to go further into the wilderness? The Maliau Basin is a designated nature reserve that tourists can visit and observe wildlife in their natural habitat. Or the Kinabatangan River, Malaysia's second-longest river that flows through vast paths of pristine jungles.
To experience the true beauty of Sabah, you have to leave the city and head to the countryside. This is where travel agencies come in. Much of Sabah is still in the development phase, and getting around may not be as easy as better-developed tourist destinations.
Moving around Sabah
The best way to visit Sabah and experience Borneo in its fullness is to travel with a licensed tour operator. You have the support and facilities that allow you to enjoy your visit without stress. Many of the best destinations are out of town, with a travel time of three hours or more, over asphalted and unpaved roads.
Depending on the travel package and destination, meals and accommodation may be included. All you have to do is have fun and immerse yourself in the local culture.
The most famous dive site is located in Sipidan, and the only way to get there is by plane to Tawau, then a bus ride to a small town called Semporna. To make sure you have all travel connections correctly and with sufficient diving time, it is best to talk to a travel agent.
It is possible to move around on your own, but you will spend a lot of time making travel and accommodation arrangements. If you have a specific destination in Sabah that you want to travel to, but it's difficult to arrange it on your own, talk to a travel agent. This can make the difference and take the stress out of your holiday.
If you plan to explore a few days of Borneo, you should see what Borneo FullForce Tours and Travel can offer you. They offer day trips and accommodation packages. They are also well established in the tourism industry in Sabah.
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