This article is sponsored by Klook.
Images via @sipadankapalairesort and SabahUp2Date; Edited by HITZ
You may get a bit FOMO when you see gorgeous photos of your bougie friends on their overseas holidays. Maldives, New Zealand and all the other countries with views that seem soooo surreal.
But don’t discredit your own backyard just yet. Malaysia has a few of its own magnificent sights to boast about too… which means you get the view, but save on expensive flights! And the best part is, many of these ‘overseas-looking’ spots are located in just one state… Sabah!
So, where can you find these pretty spots in Sabah?
#1 Mount Everest? It’s our beloved Mount Kinabalu, bah!
Image via Mount Kinabalu
Malaysia has such a unique range of biomes that we have an epic mountain that peaks at 4,095m, making it the tallest one in Southeast Asia!
If you have been dreaming of climbing Mount Everest, why not start with Mount Kinabalu where the climb can be just as challenging.
Image via Adventure Alternative
Klook has a Mount Kinabalu package that’ll cover your entire climb, where you’ll be guided by an expert and it’ll include your stay as well.
If you can make it to certain levels, you’ll enjoy views so epic that it’ll make your jaw drop. Plus, you’ll get a cert to prove you made it there!
#2 This ain’t New Zealand, it’s Kundasang…
Image via SabahUp2Date
If you think this comparison is sus, then stay woke, Malaysians! Because we have absolutely breath-taking sceneries right in our backyard.
Admin won’t deny New Zealand’s beauty, but why fly so far when Kundasang is just as gorgeous!
Image via Klook
Take an ATV ride around the area up Sosodikan Hill and you’ll get a magnificent view of Mount Kinabalu, historic earthquake sites, and loads of green valleys.
#3 Spend some RM in Sapi and Manukan Islands instead of USD in Maldives
Image via Klook
Errrrr, the ringgit ain’t doing that well so changing your cash into USD is gonna hurt. But if the island life and amazing adventures out in the sea are what you’re looking for, then head over to Sapi and Manukan Islands!
Image via Klook
Be mesmerised by the colourful marine animals that are visible in the crystal-clear blue sea and get active with all sorts of water sports available like banana boat rides, parasailing and more.
#4 Malaysia has its own ‘safaris’ too, ok. Not just Africa
Image via Klook
Did you know that we have some of the rarest floras and faunas in Sabah (and Sarawak) alone? You’ve read about Proboscis Monkeys and Rafflesia in textbooks, now it’s time to see them irl.
Take a journey down the Kilas Wetlands, where these creatures reside in, and appreciate our stunning mangrove forests.
Image via Klook
As the sun sets and the fireflies come out to play, you’ll be even more amazed by this long river.
#5 The Bahamas ain’t got anything on Semporna Island
Image via Klook
If you’re someone who truly appreciates coral reefs, then Mataking Reef Resort is the best place to check them out. The resort is lined with a powdery white sandy beach just like what you’d expect in the Bahamas.
Then, the moment you dip your head in the water for a swim, you’ll be amazed by the colourful reef life underneath. So, make sure you grab a snorkel or better yet, grab your diving gear if you’re certified and jump in that water ASAP!
Tak sabar to see Sabah? Book via Klook and enjoy discounts!
Image via Klook
Klook’s Tak Sabar Sabah campaign is inviting you to explore the Land Below the Wind—and making it friendlier on your pockets. After all, you gotta make sure you “Cuti-Cuti Malaysia” to be able say you know “Malaysia is truly Asia”, right?
Through the promo, you’ll get access to hotel stay promos and tour packages—so you can really see what Sabah has to offer. Some of the locations you can explore include Kota Kinabalu, Kundasang, Semporna and Sandakan.
Use the promo code “SABAH10” to enjoy 10% discount that’s capped at RM100.
Head over to Klook's website to redeem the promo code and check out all the packages and activities available.