Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
( 089-219616;
www.wildlife-expeditions.com
;
9th fl, Wisma Khoo Siak Chiew, Lebuh
Empat)
Also has accommodation in Sukau. There's also a
KK office
( 246000; Wisma
Merdeka)
.
Sleeping
Sandakan doesn't bowl folk over in the lodging department, and budget options are
sparse. That said, if you can shell out into RM80-and-above territory, there's some decent
deals. If you're only passing through Sandakan to see the orangutans, it's better to stay at
Sepilok itself, since the rehabilitation centre is only 25km from town.
Nak Hotel $$
( 089-272988;
www.nakhotel.com
; Jln Pelabuhan Lama; s/d incl breakfast from
RM85/118; )
The Nak is a solid midrange hotel that's a fair steal if you're travelling
as a couple or with friends, and nice value even if you're by yourself. The oldest dedic-
ated hotel in town has a somewhat Soviet-chic exterior, but once you get inside rooms are
quite attractive: nice monochromatic colour schemes with hints of East Asian and Borneo
-inspired design flairs. This is a well put-together spot, which is no surprise given the
hotel's kick-ass roof lounge, Balin (
Click here
)
- a must even if you aren't staying here.
HOTEL
Sea View Sandakan Budget & Backpackers Hotel $
Offline map
( 089-221221; Lot 126, 1st fl, Jln Dua, Harbour Square 14; dm from RM30, r from
RM50; )
The name of this place is a little deceptive; you won't be getting many sea
views per se (especially because it seems a new building is going up right on the water-
front). That said, this is an excellent little hostel, with clean, good value rooms, helpful
staff and a friendly vibe.
HOSTEL
Mark's Lodge $$
( 089-210055;
www.markslodge.com
; Lot 1-7, Block 36, Bandar Indah; r from
RM154; )
The word 'boutique' is written in fogged glass across the front entrance -
just in case you didn't get the memo. This business-class hotel, located at Batu 4 (Bandar
Indah) is a solid option for a comfortable sleep. The rooms are all about the 'dark tropical
wood floors plus white sheets' look, and it comes off quite well. It's a RM15 taxi ride into
town.
HOTEL
