Kota Kinabalu

Tanjung Aru, one of the world's three great sunsets; Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park is a 20-minute boat ride from downtown, and in the evening you can see proboscis monkeys and fireflies on the river.

Kota Kinabalu is the capital of Sabah state in Malaysia, on the west coast of northern Borneo, facing the South China Sea with the Crocker Range behind it. It was formerly known as Jesselton and was almost flattened in World War II; today it is a laid-back seaside city with a large Chinese community, and Mandarin is widely spoken. The core activities fall into three types. First, going out to sea: boats from Jesselton Point in the city reach the islands of Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, such as Gaya, Sapi and Manukan, in 10–20 minutes, with Mamutik, Mantanani and other islands farther out. Second, sunsets and seafood: the sunset at Tanjung Aru Beach and the barbecue at the waterfront night market are Kota Kinabalu's signature experiences. Third, Borneo nature and culture: to the south, proboscis monkeys and fireflies on the Klias River, the Wetland Centre, Lok Kawi Wildlife Park, Mari Mari Cultural Village and Kiulu rafting. The climate is tropical rainforest, 25–32°C all year; February–April is driest, and from November to January the northeast monsoon makes the sea a little rougher. The international airport is about 15 minutes by car from downtown, with direct flights from many Chinese cities, and taxis or Grab are convenient in the city. We suggest 4–5 days, plus 2 more days if you add Mount Kinabalu and Kundasang. Use sun protection, expect to pay a conservation fee for island trips, and ask for prices before ordering seafood at the night market.

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