IT feels like time has sped up with the speed of light this year. With the whirlwind of public holidays we have enjoyed from Christmas to most recently, Valentine’s Day, it would seem like it is finally time to settle down and get back to the business of, well, business as usual.
But for those with perpetual wanderlust, the next escapade is probably already on your minds.
If you’re looking for a quick and relaxing getaway, how about looking east to Kota Kinabalu.
A perfect three day break which embodies nature, sun, surf, a charming city with a laid back character and plenty of delectable eats. With only a 2 hour 35 minute flight from Kuala Lumpur, the trip itself is enough to make you feel like you’re embarking on a distant journey, without the travel fatigue.
Here are some fun things to do if you only have three days in KK:
Sun and surf
Take a full day to explore the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. This marine park consists of five beautiful islands where you can go to snorkel, dive, and enjoy the stunning beaches.
The Jesselton jetty is located right in the city, allowing easy access to boat operators and travel companies situated on site that can organise your trips out on the water without any prior bookings. Spontaneity is more than welcome, with operators willing to cater to the needs of any group – large or small.
Hiring a catamaran for a private cruise is a great way to see the cityscape of KK and the impressive vista of distant Mount Kinabalu from the water. An afternoon spent languidly sipping cocktails, enjoying snacks and frolicking in the water from your hired leisure boat would be the vibe for any Instagram-worthy excursion.
The sunsets in Kota Kinabalu are absolutely stunning and particularly romantic from the water. Many a marriage proposal have been conducted in this setting – so if you are looking for a unique way to propose, this could be it.
Discover hidden gems through the local street arts scene
For the active wanderers and the curious travellers who seek authentic local experiences, you can embark on a guided street art tour to explore the hidden gems of the neighbourhood.
In collaboration with Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu and curated by a resident of KK himself, Jared Abdul Rahman, travellers and local guests can listen to the real stories and inspiration behind a collection of iconic works of street art from raw, organic graffiti to curated, commissioned murals through this 60-minute walking tour.
Highlights include an interpretative piece on the environment named 'Vanishing Wall' (2019) by East Tribe, a collaborative work under the creative leadership of Kenji Chai, and a more understated piece linking to the area’s gentrification titled 'Auntie' (2019) by Akid One.
This fascinating tour will take you through some very interesting neighbourhoods, so wear comfortable shoes, tons of sunscreen and a sun hat! Pit stops at local cafes for refreshments will be factored in, so you may end up visiting spots you would not have discovered on your own.
For foodies, KK is known for its delicious seafood and street food. A quick Google search will give you many options and locations, but one definite dinner recommendation would be The Crab House. Only a two minute stroll from Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu, and the freshest catch and in-house karaoke rooms for a night of delectable food and fun is yours to be had.
Other notable places to visit are the Kota Kinabalu City Mosque in the heart of the city and one of the most iconic landmarks in KK, and the Sabah State Museum. Here you can learn about the culture and history of Sabah through the exhibits and guided tours, and may even catch a musical performance if one is on.
Where to stay?
If you desire to be centrally located in the heart of the city’s lively dining and entertainment district, the Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu provides a convenient launchpad for adventurous explorers and local residents to discover authentic experiences and hidden gems in the coastal capital of Sabah.
The 23-storey hotel features 222 spacious guest rooms with balconies and floor-to-ceiling- windows, and is crowned with an infinity pool, a duplex restaurant and bar on the rooftop, offering sweeping views overlooking Signal Hill, the islands at Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park and the South China Sea.
Just a 15 minute drive from the Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI), it is conveniently just steps away from shopping hotspots and the Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal.
Set against the lush backdrop of Signal Hill, the hotel’s contemporary, inviting architecture and interiors by globally renowned architect Kengo Kuma reflect the heritage of Sabah. The interior design is inspired by the majestic jungles of Borneo, with bamboo found in the lobby representing the vegetation in the forest floor while the greenery-accented rooftop creates the sense of being at the canopy overlooking the blue waters and verdant hills.
The hotel also features art by local and international artists, including works of collage, intricate wood carvings, ceramics, and mosaics with materials both created and found in nature, throughout both the public spaces and within guest rooms, which highlight both the diverse traditional cultures of the people of Borneo and its natural biodiversity.
An impressive wood wall sculpture by native artist Anniketnni Madian graces the lobby. Inspired by Pua Kumbu textiles of the native Sarawak, her intricate patterns celebrate and blend native culture and the natural landscape of Malaysia.
Other works of art featured are Norleen Nosri’s ceramics sculpture at the Level 3 meeting space, a wonderful framed paper cut butterfly series by Raku Inoue on the gallery wall in ON22, Gabriel Schama’s wood wall sculpture at the lift lobby on level 22, Agnes Lau’s ceramics on wood panel on every guest room floors, and printed wall murals of the majestic Mount Kinabalu by Regev Amrani in every guest room.
After a day of exploring all that KK has to offer, cool off in the show stopping double-edged infinity rooftop pool which offers an incredible sight of the hills on one end, and the sea on the other.
A perfect spot for sundowners to take in the panoramic island sunset, the rooftop bar, ON23, provides a welcoming atmosphere ideal for evening drinks as well as daytime relaxation, where guests can choose from craft cocktails inspired by Sabah botanicals and ciders alongside shared plates and snacks. The restaurant, ON22, offers vibrant Asian flavours and creative beverages alongside mesmerising views from day to night.
The friendly staff, colourfully and quirkily clad in Melinda Looi-designed uniforms, are always on hand and excited to share their local knowledge and tips on under-the-radar attractions, ensuring travellers and locals alike never miss a moment of adventure and latest happenings in the city.
But ultimately, after a full day of adventure, the anticipated luxury a traveller can look forward to is a stylish airy domain, solid water pressure in the shower, crisp cool bedding on a deliciously comfortable bed and a room with a stunning view... a perfect homebase for your KK adventure. – The Vibes, March 6, 2023
