Stunning Sabah
EL Singapore|December 2019
ANTHIA CHNG discovers two island resorts in Malaysian Borneo, where the rainforest meets the sea in spectacular fashion.
Anthia Chng
Stunning Sabah

#1 BUNGARAYA ISLAND RESORT

Known for pristine beaches and crystal clear waters, Gaya Island is located just off the Borneo coast. The island is home to a handful of upscale resorts, including the secluded Bungaraya Island Resort, which I had the recent pleasure of reviewing. Sitting on the hillside overlooking Polish Bay, the five-star property gives you the best of both worlds: jungle surrounds and seafront living.

After landing at Kota Kinabalu Airport (2.5 hours by plane from Singapore), I was welcomed by the friendly Echo Adventures staff for the easy 30-minute car ride to Jesselton Point. This is the main jetty for speedboat transfers to and from Gaya Island. Return-trip transfers are included for those staying in Bungaraya or sister resort Gayana Marine Resort, which are just 10 minutes apart by speedboat. If you’re a guest at either property, you can make a quick day trip to the other any time you like!

A comfortable 15-minute boat journey later, I found myself in tropical bliss, greeted by the bright blue skies and shimmering, see-through waters. No wonder Gaya has been touted as the “Malaysian Maldives”.

There are 48 timber villas at Bungaraya, all decorated in traditional Bornean architecture, and suitable for a variety of travellers, including honeymooning coup le s , so lo adventurers, and families with kids. My home for the night was a Deluxe Villa, equipped with a generously-sized living area and a bedroom upstairs. Right outside the bedroom was a balcony, which became my favourite hangout spot. There it was a case of nature at its best: a beautiful composition of the sound of crashing waves merging with the chirping of the birds and insects inhabiting the surrounding forests.

Recreation Time

هذه القصة مأخوذة من طبعة December 2019 من EL Singapore.

ابدأ النسخة التجريبية المجانية من Magzter GOLD لمدة 7 أيام للوصول إلى آلاف القصص المتميزة المنسقة وأكثر من 9,000 مجلة وصحيفة.

هذه القصة مأخوذة من طبعة December 2019 من EL Singapore.

ابدأ النسخة التجريبية المجانية من Magzter GOLD لمدة 7 أيام للوصول إلى آلاف القصص المتميزة المنسقة وأكثر من 9,000 مجلة وصحيفة.

المزيد من القصص من EL SINGAPORE مشاهدة الكل
6 Ways To A Super Smile!
Expat Living Singapore

6 Ways To A Super Smile!

Aesthete Smilestudio has an experienced team of dentists who provide a comprehensive range of services that meet the individual needs of each patient. Here's their advice on how to achieve an amazing smile - and the health benefits that can follow.

time-read
1 min  |
September 2024
Pain and Shine
Expat Living Singapore

Pain and Shine

It was the usual Singaporean day, with a bright, sunny sky and not a cloud in sight. And, also in typical fashion, the world suddenly turned dark as the heavens opened.

time-read
2 mins  |
September 2024
SuccessTUT Yet Stressed?
Expat Living Singapore

SuccessTUT Yet Stressed?

How are you, really? According to a study by the Institute of Mental Health, one in seven people in Singapore has experienced a mental disorder in their lifetime.

time-read
2 mins  |
September 2024
Empowering amily & Child
Expat Living Singapore

Empowering amily & Child

As parents and caregivers diligently seek out therapeutic care for a child, they too may need support. DR BRIAN and CHLOE BENJAMIN of Benjamin Psychological & Therapeutic Services (Benjamin PTS) share how both parents and children can thrive.

time-read
2 mins  |
September 2024
CARING FOR A CURVED SPINE
Expat Living Singapore

CARING FOR A CURVED SPINE

Physiotherapist HAN YEN has a special interest in helping people who suffer from scoliosis. Here she tells us more about the symptoms, causes and treatments she uses to ease the condition.

time-read
3 mins  |
September 2024
Why We Love This Holland V Salon
Expat Living Singapore

Why We Love This Holland V Salon

Holland Village is dotted with great salons, but The Hair Lounge stands out for offering not only super chic haircuts and colour but top-notch service that turns every visit into a treat. In fact, some of us here at EL have been going there for years!

time-read
2 mins  |
September 2024
A Spa scape
Expat Living Singapore

A Spa scape

If you love to unwind with some pampering in a luxurious spa, this one could be for you! We head to one of our favourites here in Singapore.

time-read
1 min  |
September 2024
Lookin' Sharp!
Expat Living Singapore

Lookin' Sharp!

Gents, up your suave factor with a perfectly fitted bespoke suit from one of these four top tailors in Singapore. There's something for the ladies too!

time-read
2 mins  |
September 2024
Looking for a Push Present?
Expat Living Singapore

Looking for a Push Present?

Buying jewellery as a push present has become popular recently. These gifts, often given by partners to new mums, are tokens of appreciation and reminders of the journey of bringing new life into the world.

time-read
2 mins  |
September 2024
East Coast Chic
Expat Living Singapore

East Coast Chic

With its green parks, glistening water and charming cafés, Singapore's East Coast is all about laidback tropical vibes. Here, KARA BENSLEY of Joo Chiat boutique The Wyld Shop styles two fabulous outfits-of-theday (OOTD) that will see you through exploring the best spots in the neighbourhood - and all around Singapore - in style!

time-read
1 min  |
September 2024