Kota Kinabalu provides an interesting mix of venues to write about. My gosh, I’m not sure how tours on a cruise ship get put together. There’s no rhyme or reason to this one. Hopefully it gives a snap shot of this Malaysian port.
Kota Kinabalu is on the island of Borneo in Malaysia. Kota means fort. The city has a population of about half a million people. It is known for being the gateway to Kinabalu National Park, the home of 4,095m-high Mount Kinabalu.
Our tour started with a stop to see the Tun Mustapha Toura. This 30 story, 122 meter high glass tower is a large cylinder and seems to be positioned as the iconic building for the city. A bit like the Eiffel Tower or Sydney Opera house. It isn’t quite as impressive, but a landmark none-the less.
It was built during the period (1970s) when Brutalist architecture was all the rage so it must have stood out. Maybe a bit shocking, actually.
After this we had a viewing of a impressive looking mosque with a beautiful reflection pond. We didn’t go inside which is too bad. Often mosques have stunning ceilings appealing to camera toting tourists like me. I enjoyed the view and captured a few images.
And then we went to a Buddhist temple where we were allowed to go inside to see the rather nondescript interior. The big Buddhas were the focus. Here’s one I particularly enjoyed.
And then, well we made a rather bizarre stop. We went to a museum of sorts that combined a replica of a historic village and a train and truck collection. Hmmmm. Odd combination, but interesting. I’d love to know how this museum developed.
The highlight of the village was the skull hut. You can imagine the story behind this place. I amused myself playing with the double exposure function on my camera working to place a skull on the face of our guide. I wonder what she’d think if she knew. It’s not exactly your typical tourist shot.
I also enjoyed capturing a small child who didn’t seem particularly interested at all in any of it.
I liked the bright red truck in the small exhibition of a train car and some vehicles. I’m not sure what the connection was between skull huts and trains and trucks, but maybe I wasn’t paying close enough attention.
On to the last stop of the day. A Market. I love markets especially they are geared for the locals not tourists. This seemed to be a combination of both. Aren’t these ladies happy looking? All round faced, smiling and cheery. They were sorting pearls for sale to the tourists. Of course, I ended up buying a small earring set.
What’s next? Singapore. Come back next week for a look at this fascinating City State.
Susan’s note: Unfortunately I am experiencing some issues that are requiring my attention. As a result, I am going to an every other Monday schedule for DesignDestinations instead of the weekly plan I have been on.
