Kota Kinabalu

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Short-Term Accommodation

Sections

Types of Short-Term Accommodations

  1. Hotels and Resorts:

    • Luxury Hotels: Options like the Shangri-La's Tanjung Aru Resort & Spa and Le Meridien offer high-end amenities, pools, and beachfront access.
    • Mid-Range Hotels: Hotels such as the Horizon Hotel and Gaya Centre Hotel provide comfortable stays with good service at reasonable prices.
    • Budget Hotels: There are several budget-friendly options like Tune Hotel and Hotel 7 Suria, which offer basic amenities at lower rates.

  2. Guesthouses and Hostels:

    • Guesthouses like the Borneo Beach Villas and hostels such as the Borneo Backpackers are popular among budget travelers, providing a more communal atmosphere.

  3. Serviced Apartments:

    • For longer stays, serviced apartments like the Citadines Kinabalu Kota Kinabalu offer hotel-like services with the convenience of a kitchen.

  4. Vacation Rentals:

    • Platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo list various properties, from private rooms to entire homes, catering to different budgets and preferences.

Average Costs

  • Hotels:

    • Luxury: RM 400 - RM 1,200 per night
    • Mid-Range: RM 150 - RM 400 per night
    • Budget: RM 50 - RM 150 per night

  • Guesthouses/Hostels:

    • RM 30 - RM 100 per night for dormitory beds; RM 100 - RM 200 for private rooms.

  • Serviced Apartments:

    • RM 200 - RM 600 per night, depending on the size and location.

  • Vacation Rentals:

    • Prices vary widely, typically ranging from RM 100 to RM 500 per night.

Booking Procedures

  1. Online Booking:

    • Use platforms like Booking.com, Agoda, or Airbnb for easy comparisons and reservations. Most sites allow you to filter by price, amenities, and location.

  2. Direct Booking:

    • Many hotels and guesthouses offer discounts for direct bookings through their websites. Itโ€™s worth checking for special promotions.

  3. Walk-Ins:

    • Depending on the season, you may find walk-in availability, especially in budget accommodations. However, this is riskier during peak tourist seasons.

Local Regulations and Customs

  • Check-in Requirements:

    • Most accommodations require a valid ID (passport for foreigners) at check-in. Some may ask for a deposit, which is refundable upon check-out.

  • Tourism Tax:

    • A tourism tax of RM 10 per room per night is applicable to foreign tourists staying in hotels and guesthouses. This is usually added to your bill.

  • Cultural Considerations:

    • Respect local customs and practices. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and be mindful of local etiquette.

Other Relevant Considerations

  • Location:

    • Choose accommodations based on your itinerary. Areas like the Waterfront, Gaya Street, and Likas Bay are popular for their proximity to attractions.

  • Transportation:

    • Public transport options are limited, so consider accommodations that offer shuttle services or are within walking distance of major attractions. Taxis and ride-hailing services like Grab are widely available.

  • Safety:

    • Kota Kinabalu is generally safe for tourists, but itโ€™s advisable to take standard precautions, such as securing valuables and avoiding poorly lit areas at night.

  • Local Amenities:

    • Look for accommodations near convenience stores, restaurants, and markets for easy access to food and supplies.

Conclusion

Kota Kinabalu offers a diverse range of short-term accommodation options to suit various budgets and preferences. By understanding the types of accommodations available, average costs, booking procedures, and local customs, you can make informed decisions for a comfortable stay. Enjoy your time in this beautiful coastal city!