Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Local Transport
Bicycle
Within cities, bicycles have become a rare sight as increased prosperity has brought the
creature comforts of gas guzzling to Malaysia and Brunei. However, some guesthouses
rent or lend bicycles to their guests. Out in the country, locals still use bicycles to get
around small
kampung
(villages), and if you can get hold of a bicycle - rental options are
rare - this can be a very pleasant way to soak up the atmosphere.
Boat
Small motorboats and motorised longboats are often used for short trips across rivers and
bays. Examples include traversing Kuching's Sungai Sarawak and transport from central
BSB (Brunei) to the water village of Kampung Ayer.
Taxi
Taxis are common in Borneo's larger cities; meters, drivers who use them and fixed rates
are less common, except in Kuching. Luckily, you'll find that most drivers in Borneo are
quite honest. Just be sure to set the price before starting out and only pay upon arrival.
Tours
One way to get the most out of a national park visit, jungle trek or longhouse sojourn is to
go with a guide who knows the territory (and, in the case of longhouses, the headman).
Indeed, it's the only way to see some things - for instance, the summits of Gunung Mulu
and Mt Kinabalu, the longhouses of Sarawak's Batang Ai region and the Kelabit High-
lands, and Ulu Temburong National Park in Brunei.
Borneo has a wealth of excellent guides and tour agencies. Most guesthouses and hotels
have relationships with at least one local tour operator, and some run their own in-house
travel agencies. It's best to ask other travellers about their experiences with these before
plunking down any money.
