Borneo
Perfect for an exotic holiday, Borneo is a unique adventure. Encounter Orang Utans in their natural habitat, climb Mount Kinabalu visit turtle island or relax on the white sandy beaches and marvel at the amazing crystal clear water magnificent corals filled with an abundance of marine life.
Kota Kinabalu is the capital of the East Malaysian state of Sabah in Borneo and the prefect base from which to explore the pristine beaches and legendary diving spots in the South China Sea with Sipadan island perhaps the best option as well as providing the ideal opportunity to see Orang Utans in their natural habitat or at Sepilok sanctuary. With its pure white sands, crystal clear water, magnificent coral and abundance of marine life and boasting the highest mountain in Malaysia, Mount Kinabalu, Borneo is a paradise for diving enthusiasts and nature lovers.
One of our favourite resorts is: Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria Resort.
Shangri-La's Rasa Ria is a luxury 5-star resort that boasts 400 acres of tropical gardens and rainforest as well as its own nature reserve for Orang Utan viewing and a championship golf course. It's only a 30-minute drive away from the capital Kota Kinabalu so the hotel represents the ideal location if you want to unwind and get to know the local wildlife. Unexpected encounters with hornbills that glide right overhead, peacocks walking by during breakfast, a friendly bear cat greeting you from a tree or the occasional wild rabbit, iguana or squirrel crossing your path are all part of the magic of this remarkable resort.
Shangri-La's Rasa Ria Resort offers many opportunities to experience the unique natural wonders of Borneo, including a Nature Reserve with an Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre, the only one of its kind in the region. The Nature Reserve offers a tantalising glimpse into Borneo's tropical forests. The reserve, the first of its kind in Sabah, is a key part of our commitment and contribution towards a sustainable environmental conservation that combines leisure travel with ecological sensitivity.
Shangri-La's Rasa Ria Resort goes beyond the offerings of Kota Kinabalu hotels by providing numerous options for relaxation. This includes the magnificent Spa at Dalit Bay, a wide range of water sports, Rasa Ria's own catamarans for cruises and deep sea fishing, a challenging 18-hole championship golf course, ATV safaris, tennis, horse riding, a fitness centre and, of course, a fun-filled Kids' Club to care for younger visitors.
Malaysian culture resonates in each guest room with soft earth tones and intricately carved panels to make you feel at peace in the serene surroundings and luxurious ambience. All ground floor rooms have private lanais accessible through verdant gardens while all the upper floor rooms offer private balconies with views of the lush landscape and sea, and have a two-level layout with daybed, creating an en-suite feel while the Ocean Wing offers 90 square meters that comes complete with a private outdoor bathtub on each balcony that presents sweeping views of the sea. Guests staying in the Ocean Wing have the exclusive use of its own private swimming pool.
For more information on Luxury Far East Holidays call 01243 779 737