a KK getaway (Part 2)

CEBU, Philippines – With Cebu Pacific Airlines’ affordable flights to many foreign destinations, tourists can now literally venture into visiting neighboring countries and explore its many wonders.

With seats in upright position and belts firmly fastened, we were ready to fly up up and away. And as the TV ads invitingly beckon, we were off to Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia – truly Asia.

Malaysia is a country known more for its beautiful scenery than its points of historical interests. Travel is easy and comfortable and the people are exceptionally friendly.

Apart from its superb beaches, mountains and national parks, it is one of the most developed and progressive countries in the region.

The people of Malaysia come from a number of different ethnic groups: Malay, Chinese, Indians and the various tribes of Sabah and Sarawak.

It is reasonable to say that the Malays control the government while the Chinese have their fingers on the economic pulse.

After spending a luxurious stay at Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria, we were off to experience another paradise, this time at Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru located just a couple of minutes from the airport. We met personable Resident Manager Philip Dewar and most attentive Director of Communications, Tulip Noorazyze who warmly welcomed us with cocktails at the overhung balcony while admiring the magnificent sunset.

The four-storied building resembling a starfish encloses a lush tropical garden and overlooks the resorts grounds. Walking into the room, we were greeted by a large wooden carving along the room corridor. Different textured fabric adorn the furnishings and walls while exquisite down-feathered duvets and pillows, hand-tuffed rugs and carpets pamper guests in a style that can only be Shangri-La.

We were pampered by the hotel’s array of luxurious amenities and accommodations. Each dining experience was simply a delight for the senses.

The highlight of our wonderful stay was the signature Chi Spa experience. This place provides the ultimate mood for a true escape that holiday-seekers yearn for. It is so easy to fall in sweet surrender and to leave ones senses to the healing guidance that literally reaches out the moment you step through the doors.

With deep blue skies, clear waters and fresh sea breeze, the Chi Spa is truly a special place where natural energies are restored, inner beauty is enhanced and a sense of well-being is created.

Shopping, simply a must for every tourist was very much a part of our itinerary. We ventured into a number of shopping malls.. The more popular ones include Kompleks Karamunsing, Centre Point, and the largest hypermall in Malaysia is Borneo 1.

The Gaya Street Sunday Market was a fun filled experience for everyone. Local hawkers sell a wide range of items from traditional ethnic cultural souvenirs to pets and flowers. The Kota Kinabalu Handicraft Market (formerly known as the Filipino Market) features vendors selling traditional handicrafts, souvenirs and foodstuffs.

Kota Kinabalu with its many facets endlessly delights guests with its unique wildlife, virgin rainforests, fabulous pristine, mile-long beaches and incredibly welcoming people.

Our travel companions bubbly and full of energy Viveva Singson, Corporate communications manager of JG summit and ever efficient, always ready with a helping hand RG Orense, Cebu Pacific’s corporate communications officer made certain that our Kota Kinabalu experience would remain unforgetable and memorable for a long long time.