August 17, 2010

Sabah, Malaysian Borneo: An adventure paradise close to home

With ample opportunity for diving, jungle trekking, wildlife spotting, mountain climbing, caving, rafting or four wheel driving, Malaysia offers a zenith for adventure seekers and the island of Borneo, is often considered Malaysia’s adventure capital.

Malaysian Borneo boasts 16 of the nation’s 19 national parks and Kinabalu Park, with the towering Mount Kinabalu is undoubtedly the island’s biggest attraction.

Even for those not wishing to climb the mountain itself, the park has numerous walking trails with spectacular views. The area is a botanical paradise; over 1,000 species of orchids grow, insectivorous pitcher plants are at home in the park, as are dozens of species of rhododendrons. Nearly 300 bird species live in the park along with multiple other animals from squirrels to snakes. Lucky visitors may even catch a look at the Rafflesia, the world’s biggest flower.

Responsible for most of the accommodation in Kinabalu Park and Asia’s first fully integrated lifestyle resort in Kota Kinabalu, Sutera Harbour is a popular choice for visitors.

Sutera Harbour Resort is a 384-acre fully-integrated property development on the coastline of Kota Kinabalu city centre in Sabah, Malaysia.

Sutera Harbour’s upmarket Magellan or affordable Pacific Sutera properties are located just ten minutes from the airport and five minutes from the heart of Kota Kinabalu and are a great base to spend a few days discovering Kota Kinabalu, gaining strength or braving other soft adventure activities such as white water rafting on the nearby Padas River.

Both hotels are located in the one resort with 14 restaurants, spacious rooms, two luxurious Mandara Spas and world-class recreational facilities including a 50 metre lap pool, a fully equipped gymnasium, bowling alley, squash and tennis courts.

Operating most of the accommodation in Kinabalu Park, Sutera Harbour can easily organise a three night adventure for climbers. Sutera Harbour run cosy accommodation at Park Head Quarters, the Laban Rata rest house at 3272 metres on Mount Kinabalu and accommodation at the therapeutic Poring Hot Springs where many climbers soak their weary muscles after the climb.

For climbers who seek a little additional adrenaline and a physical challenge, Mountain Torq’s Via Ferratta experience offers brave climbers the chance to hang off a mountain at 3776 metres with little or no mountain climbing experience.

Mountain Torq’s Low’s Peak Circuit is the world’s highest Via Ferratta at 3776 metres or there is the lower and slightly less arduous Walk the Torq route at 3520 metres. Climbers who attempted the Via Ferratta have preference to stay in Pendant Hut, a cosy and eco-friendly alpine lodge located on the Laban Rata rock face.

Even the hardest adventurers need time out to rest and rejuvenate and Sabah’s pristine white sand beaches, luxurious resorts, designer golf courses and blissful spas offer idyllic downtime.

With an engaging range of outdoor activities, including a Nature Reserve, Orang Utan education centre and an ecologically friendly championship golf course, Shangri-La's Rasa Ria Resort is the premier luxury resort in Kota Kinabalu that offers the best of Sabah in a lush, 400-acre tropical setting beside exquisite Pantai Dalit Beach.

For some purely indulgent luxuriating, the Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria Resort is a beautiful place to spend time at sea level. Stretching along a white sand beach on the South China Sea, the resort boasts some of Kota Kinabalu’s best restaurants, lush recently refurbished Ocean Wing Rooms, two pools, an orang-utan sanctuary and a fabulous spa where a traditional massage will relieve tired muscles.

When travelling around Malaysia or to other parts of the world, a few days in Malaysia’s vibrant capital, Kuala Lumpur is a must. Mouth-watering food, affordable accommodation, exceptional shopping, spas and a lively multicultural environment, make KL a popular stopover destination for Australians.

The KLIA Express high-speed train service costs 35 RYM one way, or around $AUD 12.00, takes visitors directly to the city centre where a range of great value hotels are conveniently located close to efficient transport.

For active appetites, sampling Malaysian delicacies derived from Malaysia’s three main ethnic influences; Malay, Chinese and Indian, will be a highlight. Spicy aromas and exotic fruits greet you at every turn and the delectable flavours are complemented by very palatable prices.

Along with indulgent eating, pampering and relaxation, Kuala Lumpur boasts a range of unique attractions including the majestic Petronas Twin Towers, fun parks, the KL Lake Gardens, the historic National Museum and the royal Istana Negara (official residence of his majesty The King of Malaysia).

A tower of zest and charm, this hotel is centrally located in the heart of the business and shopping district of Kuala Lumpur.

Centrally located in Kuala Lumpur, the Berjaya Times Square offers a convenient base to get the most out of a stopover in Kuala Lumpur.

To book a holiday to Malaysia, call Flight Centre on 1300 939 414 to book or see
www.flightcentre.com.au/world-travel/malaysia

Malaysia airlines flies 47 times a week from Australia to Kuala Lumpur and has regular
connections to Kota Kinabalu www.malaysiaairlines.com

For more information visit www.tourism.gov.my


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Deals available from Flight Centre

Flight Centre has a two-night package that includes accommodation at the 4-star Berjaya Times Square in a Deluxe Suite and breakfast daily. Priced from $149* per person twin share.

Valid for travel from August 16 to December 14, 2010, and from January 4 to March 31, 2011 and valid for sale until September 30, 2010

Phone Flight Centre on 1300 939 414 bookings or see www.flightcentre.com.au/world-travel/malaysia

Flight Centre has a two-night package that includes accommodation at the 5-star Shangri-La Rasa Ria Resort & Spa in a Superior Rainforest View Room and breakfast daily. Priced from $239* per person twin share.

Valid for travel from September 1 to December 20, 2010, from January 5 to 31, and from February 8 to March 31, 2011 and valid for sale until September 30, 2010

Phone Flight Centre on 1300 939 414 bookings or see www.flightcentre.com.au/world-travel/malaysia

Flight Centre has a two-night package that includes accommodation at the 4-star The Pacific Sutera in a Deluxe Golf View Room and breakfast daily, plus a welcome host, a welcome tea, a tropical fruit basket, a welcome gift, and nightly turn down service. Priced from $189* per person twin share.

Phone Flight Centre on 1300 939 414 bookings or see www.flightcentre.com.au/world-travel/malaysia.

Flight Centre has a two-night package that includes accommodation at the 5-star Magellan Sutera a Deluxe Garden View Room and breakfast daily, plus a welcome host, a welcome tea, a tropical fruit basket, a welcome gift, and nightly turn down service. Priced from $205* per person twin share.

Phone Flight Centre on 1300 939 414 bookings or see www.flightcentre.com.au/world-travel/malaysia


GETTING THERE …

Return economy airfares to Kota Kinabalu with Malaysia Airlines are priced from $1069* per person, departing Sydney.

Price includes airfare taxes and is valid for travel between September 1 to December 8 and from January 15 to March 31, 2010.

Phone Flight Centre on 1300 939 414 bookings or see www.flightcentre.com.au/world-travel/malaysia

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