A rusting hulk of a steam engine sits alongside the tracks of the Yukon and White Pass Railroad in Skagway, Alaska. It once carried supplies and men into the Yukon looking for their fortunes in the Canadian gold fields. Abandoned almost 70 years ago it’s too heavy and too remote to salvage, so it just sits there silently rusting…
Join us as we visit historic treasures, natural wonders and vibrant cities set against backdrops that are endlessly changing and visually magnificent.
Located on the northern part of the island of Borneo on the South China Sea. Borneo is home to large expanses of tropical jungles that are the last refuge of orangutans and pigmy elephants. Indiscriminate logging has greatly impacted the environment but international attention from organizations that work to protect the forests, such as the Borneo Project, the World Wildlife Fund, and the Rainforest Foundation are beginning to have an effect.
The Crocker Range features Mount Kinabal, the highest mountain in Borneo and Malaysia. With an elevation of 13,435 feet, it is the third-highest peak on an island on Earth. The area is popular with hikers and climbers but is also a favorite destination for recreational diving as people are drawn to the crystal clear tropical waters and the large number of coral reefs.
The mountains of the Crocker Range provide a backdrop for Kota Kinabalu
Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia is a vibrant city seemingly filled with contradictions. New high-rise buildings are everywhere often sitting next to apartments with washing strung across the balconies. Open air markets operate next to shopping malls and directly opposite the city’s waterfront is a ramshackle water village*.
Cruise ships dock at the International Cruise Terminal with a less than a half hour walk into the CBD.
Disembarking – This port has a developed cruise ship pier but the ease of disembarking varies by the actual location and individual ships gangway designs. The International Cruise Terminal pier disembarks not far from downtown. For passengers using wheelchairs there can be a moderate ramp incline to deal with.
Port City Characteristics – This port has an average wheelchair infrastructure typical of large cities. The port area has moderate inclines in sidewalks. Intersection crosswalks often have curbs or other wheelchair obstacles. Traffic is a serious issue as there are few crosswalks or traffic controls. Our experience would suggest it has the character of a high speed demolition derby.
Malaysian money is the Ringgit that is worth about 22¢ US. Credit cards are welcome at most outlets but it is recommended that you change a small amount of currency for buses and the city market.
Buses: The city has a network of public buses that operate on several routes throughout the city. The buses are relatively inexpensive and are a good option for getting around if you’re on a budget.
Taxis: Taxis are widely available in Kota Kinabalu and can be hailed on the street or booked through calling. Taxis are metered, but it’s always a good idea to confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.
Grab: Grab is a popular ride-sharing app in Southeast Asia that operates in Kota Kinabalu. You can use the app to book a ride with a private car or taxi.
Car rental: If you prefer to have your own transportation, you can rent a car from one of the many rental companies in the city. Just be aware that traffic in Kota Kinabalu can be congested, especially during peak hours and traffic laws seem to be mostly ignored.
The area has much to see and do and the highlights include:
Snorkeling and Diving – Kota Kinabalu has some additional great snorkeling and scuba locations and there are numerous dive excursions to select from. Here are a few additional considerations:
Sapi Island: This island is part of the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park and is known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. There are several snorkeling spots around the island, including along the shore and out in deeper water.
Mamutik Island: Another island in the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, Mamutik Island has several snorkeling spots that are easily accessible from the beach. The waters around the island are home to a variety of fish and coral species.
Gaya Island: This island is also part of the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park and has several snorkeling spots around its perimeter. The waters here are known for their clarity and are home to a variety of marine life, including reef sharks and sea turtles.
*We were told that the water villages are mostly filled with people from the Philippines fleeing civil conflicts and the are not being allowed to enter Malaysia.
When cruising Alaska in May often the weather can be cold and wet and 2023 is living up to that promise. Traveling south from Seward we passed an isolated lighthouse sitting under an ominous sky. Another picture I couldn’t pass up.
Join us as we visit historic treasures, natural wonders and vibrant cities set against backdrops that are endlessly changing and visually magnificent.
We’ve been searching for the words to describe the experience of being at Machu Picchu and we haven’t come up with anything adequate. The place overwhelmed us and trying to find a logical explanation of how it was built without the wheel or beasts of burden or steel tools left us stumped.
The only thing we can offer is a photographic walk around this amazing mountain top. Enjoy…
The central Inca ruins sit in a mountain saddle, surrounded on three sides by steep drops of almost 2,000 feet into the Urubamba River valley below. Sitting above the central ruins, on three additional peaks, sit additional structure ruins with steep agricultural terraces cascading down the mountains.
Beyond the puzzle of how it was built there remains the mystery of why it was built? There are many guesses but nobody has an actual answer. This amazing complex of what seem to be palaces, plazas, temples and residences may have been a ceremonial religious site, a military stronghold, or perhaps a retreat for an emperor. Its incredible location and amazing structures could fit any of those requirements but the mysteries continue to be part of its attraction.
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The South China Sea is a popular cruising destination providing amazing ports of call like Singapore, Hong Kong and the cities of South East Asia.
Most cruises circling the South China Sea depart from Singapore with some departing from Hong Kong. If it’s a first trip be sure and plan a few days in your departure port.
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This is typical street wiring in Saigon, Vietnam (a few prefer to call it by its official name, Ho Chi Minh City) but you’ll see this sight throughout Southeast Asia. It also isn’t unusual to see two or three technicians hudled in front of a junction box with the door open and a similar tangle pouring out. Wireless is really the answer.
Join us as we visit historic treasures, natural wonders and vibrant cities set against backdrops that are endlessly changing and visually magnificent.
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The Intentional Travelers 