Malaysia
MALAYSIA, TRULY ASIA
November 2017.
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This was my second international travel and this time I wanted it to become more special, that's why I decided to take a backpacking trip - yup, alone.
I want to give myself a treat every November with a global tour to celebrate my birthday. I started this habit last year. (See Hong Kong)
So, here's the challenge. This was my first international trip solo. I was hesitant at first, thinking if I can do this on my own. I took the risks. Here came the Bahala Na Syndrome.
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In solo backpacking, these are the things that you might want to consider- Safety, Budget, and the Language. These three brought me to Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia.
Safety - I asked my colleagues and friends who were able to visit the country before, and based on them, Kota Kinabalu (KK) is a peaceful and safe place. This was proven when I went there. It's not just about the safety and peacefulness, you would feel like you're at home. Aside from similarities in facial features, 40% of them are Pinoy or Half-Pinoy. (The figure was based on my opinion XD)
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Budget - I could say that KK is really cheap. The costs and rates there were cheaper than the Philippines. You could have a fully loaded meal for just PHP 100, and you could enjoy a three-island hopping experience for just PHP 500. Dope!
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Language - It would be hard for you to travel alone for you might experience language barrier. Last year when we went to Hong Kong, a local shouted at me for not using his language to communicate with him when I asked him for direction (it was an isolated case, people there were reserved but nice). Knowing from my research about Malaysia, it was proven that English was widely spoken in their country. Aside from that, some of the Malaysians knew how to speak Tagalog.
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To describe my backpacking trip in KK using a word - Easy.
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Where to stay?
I have a friend who visited KK months prior to my flight. He asked me if I already booked a place to stay. I said I haven't tried booking online and would just act in good faith that I could settle just by walking in.
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It turned out that he has a friend in KK that owns a hostel. Problem solved. He booked me a hostel reservation in Asian Adventure Lodge, it's located in the heart of the city. Ms. Shiela, the half-Pinay owner, was accommodating, and she could speak Tagalog so well given that she hasn't visited Philippines.
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Their rate for backpackers is RM 20 per night - 240 PHP.
PHOTO TAKEN FROM OSTROVOK.RU
How to explore the place?
KK is just a small place, you can explore it just by walking. To visit the well-known sites, I used the Grab application, their booking rates were cheaper than the one here in Manila.
Where to go and what to do?
I only had three full days to explore the city but I was able to visit most of its famous attractions. Here are the 10 places that I visited:
1. Jesselton Point
This is where you could buy your tickets for the island hopping experience. You could also enjoy the sea side view while having your breakfast. This is the starting point of your island adventures.
2. Islands of Kinabalu
I visited three of the islands of Kinabalu; Manukan, Sapi and Gaya. All of these islands have crystal blue-colored water and white sand.
3. Filipino Night Market
Great way to spend the night trying their best food. I tried their chicken wings.
4. The Streets of Kinabalu
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Let your feet bring you to the Instagram-worthy angles of the streets.
5. Masjid Negeri Sabah
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One of the well-known mosques in KK. If you want to go into the premises, don't wear shorts.
6. Atkinson Clock Tower
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Wooden structure built in 1905. One of only two structures that survived the World War II. Built in memory of first district officer of Jesselton, Mr. Francis George Atkinson.
7. Masjid Bandaraya
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This is the famous mosque in KK also known as the floating mosque. It is situated beside the sea, reason for the floating illusion/effect.
8. Puh Toh Tze Temple
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Sabah also has Chinese influence in their architecture and religion. This state is proud with their diversity and multiculturalism. You ccould visit the Buddhist temple located in Tuaran Road.
9. Suria Sabah
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One of the biggest shopping center in Kota Kinabalu. This establishment was built on July 2009. It houses several restaurants, souvenir shops, apparel and clothing lines, game centers and cinemas. You could experience dining here with their affordable yet delicious meals while enjoying the beautiful view of the South China Sea / West Philippine Sea.
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I'd seen the movie, Justice League, here. The film was in English with Malaysian subtitles.
10. Lok Kawi Wildlife Park
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This is my favorite spot among all of the attractions in KK. Here, you would encounter the country's common and rare species of creatures from both animalia and plantae kingdom. Aside from island hopping, this one would also guarantee you a great experience with nature.
What to eat?
The state is famous for their local foods like Nasi Gorem, Sayap Ayam, Kon Lau Mee and Sambal Chicken. I like the Iced Horlic for a drink.
Writer's Final Words
If you want to know yourself better and want to get out of your comfort zone by trying to explore alone, Kota Kinabalu is a great place to start. Aside from it being economical, the idea of it having a resemblance of our culture would make you feel comfortable and welcome. The state has lots of adventure to offer and you would feel happy and excited to experience both their nature and culture. Gear up and try to rely on yourself by trying this solo backpacking tour. One thing is for sure, after this, you would never come back being the same person again.