Kota Kinabalu

Sabah is home to a rich tapestry of more than 30 different indigenous ethnic groups, each with its own unique culture, language and traditions. The largest include the Kadazan-Dusun, the Bajau and the Murut. In KK, visit the Sabah State Museum to learn about the region's fascinating history, archaeology and diverse ethnographic heritage. For a more hands-on experience, the Mari Mari Cultural Village is a living museum where you can see and experience the traditional houses and ways of life of five of Sabah's main ethnic groups. Both attractions make an excellent introduction to Sabah's living traditions, and both are easily reached from the city centre.

As Kota Kinabalu lies on Borneo, flying is the only realistic option for travelling from Kuala Lumpur.

KK offers a wide range of accommodation for every traveller. The city centre has everything from luxury international hotel chains and business hotels to charming guesthouses and budget hostels. For a beach experience, several large family-friendly resorts line the coast, such as the Shangri-La Rasa Ria and the Shangri-La Tanjung Aru. You can even stay on some of the islands of Tunku Abdul Rahman Park for a more secluded escape, with the city skyline as your backdrop. As KK is compact, staying near the waterfront or the main shopping streets puts most attractions within easy walking distance.

As a coastal city, Kota Kinabalu is famous for its incredibly fresh and affordable seafood. Visit the waterfront night market (often called the Filipino Market) to choose your live seafood — from fish and prawns to lobsters and crabs — and have it cooked to your liking on the spot. Be sure to also try Sabah's local dishes, which often feature unique jungle ingredients and preserved foods you won't easily find elsewhere in Malaysia. Portions are generous and prices refreshingly low, so come hungry and order a spread to share.