Friday, July 29, 2011

Borneo Travel to Kuching - Capital of Sarawak, Borneo

With incredible outdoor attractions, multiple endangered species, and enough rainforest to keep even hardcore trekkers busy for a long time, Borneo travel is a exactly what every backpacker dreams of. Unfortunately many budget travelers making their way around Southeast Asia tend to bypass Borneo, buying into the myth that the world's third-largest island is out of their budgets.

Malaysian Borneo is comprised of two states - Sarawak and Sabah - which are separated by the small, independent nation of Brunei. The bustling city of Kota Kinabalu in the northern state of Sabah receives a lion's share of tourism in Borneo, while Sarawak - both cheaper and more peaceful - manages to stay off the mass tourism radar. Backpackers wanting to stick to a shoestring budget should definitely consider visiting Sarawak first.

Travel to Kuching, Sarawak

Kuching, the pleasant capital of Sarawak, takes many travelers by surprise. Considered one of the cleanest cities in Asia, Kuching's enjoyable waterfront and brick esplanade is well-manicured and spotless. The waterfront also serves as a venue for many of Sarawak's festivals; there always seems to be music or some form of free, cultural entertainment taking place. Chinatown in Kuching provides cheap accommodation and eateries, while free museums and green parks keep your Borneo travel budget happy.

Things to Do in Kuching

Museums and cultural centers in the city are free and are a great way to learn more about Borneo's indigenous headhunter cultures. Headhunting was common practice in Sarawak well into the 1950s; scores of removed heads still hang on display in local museums.

While Kuching has a few interesting draws, the rainforest just outside of the city is the real reason most people choose Borneo travel. Kuching serves as the perfect base for taking advantage of Sarawak's natural wonders. Gunung Gading National Park - only two hours away by bus - is the perfect place to luck upon the world's rarest and strangest flower: the rafflesia. Flowers bloom sporadically and unpredictably; check with the Forestry Office in Kuching to see if any flowers are in bloom. Even without rafflesias making an appearance, the Gunung Gading National Park is a peaceful retreat with accommodation and excellent trekking.

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