KOTA KINABALU SABAH BORNEO, MALAYSIA

KOTA KINABALU SABAH BORNEO

Kota Kinabalu, a thriving capital of Sabah, grew out of a fishing village at the very end of the 19^th century. Previously, Jesselton named after Sir Jessel, the Vice-Chairman of British North Borneo Chartered Company, it became known as Kota Kinabalu in 1968. The highest mountain in South East Asia, Mt Kinabalu, towering over the city, inspired the new name.

The builders of British Colonial Empire in Borneo suffered from malaria and other tropical diseases. Atkinson Clock Tower has been built in memory of one of the builders, who died in his twenties. History mingles with new constantly expanding architecture. The past is well documented and visible not only in the Sabah Museum. Interesting photos and historical clippings from old papers are displayed in restaurants and coffee shops.

There are many stories from the past. Wah-weh was a lottery in which one needed to guess a number chosen from 36 numbered animals. A Chinese character selected as clue did not often help to win. Original photo of a chief of horsemen Bajau tribe from Kampung Mekabong is featured on a stamp for British North Borneo.   

Tradition is represented in waterfront art markets offering tribal crafts. Population of KK is a mixture of Malaysian, Indian, Chinese and local tribes that contribute to fascinating crafts and delicious cuisine. The harbor is a safe anchorage for squid boats that rest during the day and fish at night with powerful lights attracting squid.  

Historical buildings mingle with numerous Mosques. Signal Hill offers an excellent view of KK, the harbor and surrounding islands. Kota Kinabalu is not just a starting point for Mt Kinabalu climb. The climb to the Peak is one of the major attractions and an exciting event for the fit. A walk in Kinabalu Park however offers close contact with nature represented in amazing flora and fauna, variety of orchids, rhododendrons and elusive Rafflesia flowers.

Tanjung Aru is the most popular place to view sunsets and has many restaurants and resorts along the beach.

KK is a city of thrilling tradition, history, and adventure, not to be missed while visiting Malaysia.                  

EL NIDO, PALAWAN ISLAND, The PHILIPPINES

EL NIDO, PALAWAN ISLAND

El Nido is a fishing village in the north-western part of Palawan Island. It is slowly changing its status to a tourist paradise since it is located in the picturesque Bascuit Bay. There are some scenic islands of amazing rock formations and dense jungle scattered in the bay.

Local boats – bangcas - travel to some astounding snorkelling and diving spots. The town caters for all visitors' needs. El Nido's main beach is lined with cafes, bars and restaurants. Sitting in one of those after a busy day of sightseeing, swimming and snorkelling is the most relaxing afternoon occupation for travellers. It is fun to watch some late arriving bangcas leading their guests through surf, while sipping a cool drink.

A stroll along the beach allows for chatting with local people as well as other visitors and swapping information about “must visit” places. There is no end to the possibilities for nature lovers; Bascuit Bay is one of the most scenic bays the Philippines can be proud of. Picnics on secluded white sand beaches under the shade of palms are part of the deal of bangca trips.

El Nido boasts a selection of gourmont and local restaurants. One can never be bored by choices offered.

There is a Hilltop Restaurant in El Nido. It is worth visiting but requires a fair hike up the hill. The cuisine is delicious and the view rewarding so the effort is well worth it.

A visit to Malampaya Sound or scenic Port Barton requires a longer boat trip and good weather with calm seas. El Nido is a great strating point for trips even further afield, like Culion Island and Coron.

El Nido and north west Palawan Island are full of natural treasures and both offer an unforgetable experience.

CALAUIT ISLAND SAFARI, PHILIPPINES

CALAUIT ISLAND SAFARI

Calauit Island is a very special and unique island. It is close to the northern tip of Busuanga Island. However, much smaller than Busuanga, Calauit is the home to African and local wildlife. The wildlife Park started back in the late 70s by then President Marcos continues to impress wildlife lovers and environmentally friendly folk. 

Giraffes have a life span of 25 to 27 years, so none of the original African giraffes are here. All have been born in the park and well looked after by the staff.  Florante has been looking after the animals for the past 27 years.

“The animals live in a natural habitat,” said Florante. “They are wild and we need to take precautions for your safety and treat them as such, thus feeding is done from behind the fence”.

Visitors travel in a jeepney through vast areas of the park. Ricky is a good driver in this rough terrain and always cautious to avoid collision with freely running animals. The only animals in an enclosure are crocodiles, pythons and wild boar, for obvious reasons. Giraffes and zebras are timid and keep their distance. Giraffes are attracted to the leaves of Iniam Tree, especially at breakfast time. The trees are nicely trimmed not leaving a gardener much to do.

To experience the closeness with the animals is a great feeling. The safari is quite unique allowing for a close contact with the animals. This is how it differs from an African safari, where the distance requires binoculars to view the animals. Here in Calauit Wildlife Park one can touch a giraffe while she is busy having her breakfast. The skin is smooth and delicate, the experience magic. It is also great to see local monkeys, bear cat, porcupine cohabiting in the park.


Both Florante and Ricky love the animals. They share the information and tell tales. The forest monkeys fight mangrove monkeys, they tell us. Crocodiles dig wholes in the mud and disappear; we are lucky to see one heading for its hiding whole. The time spent on safari is a valuable and wonderful experience.