Culture and adventure in Sabah

CEBU, Philippines - A trip to Sabah in Malaysia will never disappoint those who want a taste of culture and adventure. This is because this part of Malaysia offers a lot of activities that will give visitors a peek at the local culture and Sabah’s past, while at the same time quenching the thirst for adrenaline pumping adventures.

This balanced mix was exactly what we Visayas-Mindanao media got when Cebu Pacific flew us to Sabah’s capital, Kota Kinabalu, for a three-day sojourn.

Located in the island of Borneo, Sabah is one of the 13 states of Malaysia. It is the second largest state of Malaysia and shares the island of Borneo with another Malaysian state, Sarawak and the countries of Brunei and Indonesian Borneo.

A trip back in time

Mari-Mari Cultural Village. The best way to understand local culture is to know the people, and Mari-Mari Cultural Village is the best place to go to for an understanding of Sabahan culture. Located 25 minutes away from Kota Kinabalu, the Village gives visitors a closer look at the unique traditions and rituals of Sabah’s five tribes, the original inhabitants of the area – the Kadazan-Dusun or the rice farmers; the Rungus who lived in longhouses; the farming and hunting Lundayeh, the horse-riding or seafaring Bajau, and the headhunting Murut.

Each tribe’s culture is comprehensively showcased in the village. Visitors can go inside each tribe’s “house” and get a peek at how they live, their rituals and even their daily activities such as food and rice wine preparation.

Pinoys visiting Mari-Mari would find that there are quite a number of similarities in the customs and traditions of the tribes in Sabah and some of our local tribes, especially those from Mindanao. Among which are the use of bamboo in starting a fire and in cooking. Even our very own “tagaktak” has a counterpart in Sabah, the “kuihjala” or net cake of the Bajau.

There are also quite a number of half-Pinoys in the Village staff. In fact, our group’s tour guide was half-Filipino and could speak a little Bisaya.

North Borneo Railway. Take a peek at how the people in North Borneo transported goods back in the late 1800s and early 1900s with a North Borneo Railway steam engine train ride. The tour, aboard a British “Vulcan” steam locomotive, which features Japanese-designed carriages that have been restored and renovated, reflects the era of the steam train, giving tourists a feel of the 1900s. The tour starts at the Tanjung Aru Station and passes through Putatan town, makes a short stop at Kinarut town, goes through Kawang Village, and ends at Papar town. In Kinarut town, tourists are given an option to visit the Tien Nam Shi Temple, one of the oldest temples in the area, or the shops that sell traditional items and food stuff.

Snacks of freshly baked pastries and the famous Sabah tea, as well as a Tiffin set lunch of chicken satay, chicken biryani rice, fried mackerel fillet and mixed vegetables with prawns are served on board while tourists take in the beautiful Sabah countryside.

A haven for adventures

Whitewater Rafting. When traveling with kids, the Kiulu White Water Rafting tour is a perfect adventure activity. Located in the northwestern region of Sabah, the Kiulu River is a Grade I-II river that is suitable for beginners when it comes to white water rafting. The waters only get rough in a few areas in the river that paddlers will really get to enjoy the view. The more adventurous can also opt to do body rafting. The tour package includes a hearty BBQ lunch.

Island Hopping. For those who love the sun, sand and sea, an island hopping tour is a must when visiting Sabah. There are many such tours being offered. Our group went to Gaya and Sapi islands.

Snorkeling, sea walking, banana boat rides and parasailing are among the many activities offered in the tour. The Coral Flyer, considered to be the longest island-to-island zipline in the world, is also a must for visitors. The zipline starts in Gaya Island and ends in Sapi Island. Island hopping adventures include a sumptuous buffet style lunch of fresh seafood and fruits.

Rumah Terbalik. Not all adventures are of the physical kind. Some are puzzles that will make your mind wonder. The Rumah Terbalik or the Upside Down House of Borneo is one.

Located in Tamparuli, the Rumah Terbalik is the first of its kind in Southeast Asia and is one of three upside down houses in the world (there is one in Europe and another in Japan).

The house is literally upside down, as well as everything in it, including furniture and household appliances. What is supposed to be the ceiling becomes the floor for visitors. Although it is a bit disorienting at first, once you get the hang of it, the tour becomes enjoyable.

Visitors are not allowed to take pictures inside the house though. However, there are areas outside the house where picture taking is allowed, such as the garage, where there is an upside-down car, and a bathroom complete with toilet and sink.

For more information about Kota Kinabalu, the Sabah Tourism’s website is at: www.sabahtourism.com. Cebu Pacific Air flies thrice weekly from Manila to Kota Kinabalu. It’s easy to connect to Manila via the airline’s network of routes. Cebu Pacific’s website is at:  www.cebupacificair.com;  phones: (02)7020-888 or (032)230-8888. The latest seat sales may also be found on Cebu Pacific Air’s official Facebook and Twitter (@CebuPacificAir) pages.

Fun Holiday Parties

Holiday parties have now begun. And everyone is looking for a hip venue where to hold theirs – to surprise colleagues, friends  or family with a party to remember.  Whether it’s for a corporate Christmas gathering, a family reunion or just a casual night out with friends, there are ideal venues at the Mövenpick Hotel Mactan Island Cebu.

The hotel has numerous options to customize a party. There are various venues available, ranging from an intimate gathering at The Ibiza Beach Club to a gala event in any of the hotel’s function rooms. There are holiday menus designed to fit every budget. Every booking is exclusive of use of venue for four hours, buffet dinner, a round standard drink; basic sound system; Christmas décor; complimentary gift certificates for overnight stays, day-use or dining privileges and complimentary transfers.

The hotel may also provide a DJ, a live band or other popular live entertainment, for an additional charge. The in-house team of performers and talents will delight guests and set the mood for an impressive night out.

Mövenpick Hotel Mactan Island Cebu has flexible party packages that are unique, fun and completely worry-free. And there’s no worry travelling home after the party. Rooms are available for a night at special holiday rates, inclusive of breakfast buffet for two.

Inquiries or reservations may be phoned in at +63 32 499 7777 or emailed to [email protected].