Kota Kinabalu
Once the province of pirates and war lords, the northern coast of Borneo is relatively unspoiled by tourism. The bustling port city of Kota Kinabalu boasts gardened homes and busy shopping districts with colorful native handicrafts. Just beyond the city limits lie the tropical jungle and the shrouded peak of Mount Kinabalu.
Attractions
Major shopping malls are located along the main artery of Kota Kinabalu, and you find just about anything from branded goods to local handicraft. Recreational activities in KK include diving, a mere 15 minutes from the city in the crystal clear waters of the Tunku Abdul Rahman Park! The ferries to the park leave from KK's harbour district at the northern end of the City.
Shopping
Local handicrafts are your best buy, such as baskets, beadwork and pottery. The Filipino Market is a good place for cultured pearls; it has everything from fake gemstones to wooden salad bowls, shirts and traditional local medicines.
Food
Popular dishes include hinava (marinated raw fish) and supterjun (a soup). The favorite dessert is hinompula, made from tapioca, sugar, and coconut.
Currency
The currency used is called the Ringgit Malaysia (RM).
| Cruise Lines | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Costa | ||||||||||||
| Holland America | ||||||||||||
| Princess |
Carnival Carnival Destiny on 03/09/09 · $469
Carnival Carnival Pride on 05/10/09 · $739
Norwegian Cruise Line Norwegian Gem on 03/21/09 · $739
Norwegian Cruise Line Norwegian Jade on 05/02/09 · $899
NCL America Pride of America on 04/11/09 · $1,249
Carnival Carnival Elation on 02/12/09 · $219
Celebrity Celebrity Mercury on 03/30/09 · $799