Borneo
Borneo has an equatorial climate.
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Climate
Sarawak has a monsoon season between October and February while Sabah’s wettest period is November to February. Don’t be deterred! The rain may be heavy but intermittent - and it’s cooling.
It’s tropical - so be prepared for some rain anytime during your stay.
Daytime temperatures range between 22 and 32°C whilst in the Mount Kinabalu region the temperature drops to 15-22°C
Currency
Money can be exchanged at banks or Money Changers found in major shopping centres. One Australian Dollar is approximately equal to 2.60 Malaysian Ringgit.
In Brunei the Brunei Dollar and Singapore Dollar (notes only) are readily accepted.
Travellers cheques and most credit cards are accepted at all hotels, major department stores and restaurants.
Visa
Visa to Malaysia for stays under one month are not required by most nationalities.
Australians visiting Brunei by air can apply for a 72 hour visa on arrival at the Brunei Airport.
It’s best to check with you travel agent on what may apply to you prior to departure.
Tipping
Tipping is not customary in Borneo.
What to wear
Light summer clothes are best to suit the warm, humid climate. Sandals or walking shoes are necessary for rainforest trails. When visiting mosques and places of worship it is polite to cover your shoulders and knees.
Health
No vaccinations are required and malaria treatment is generally not required unless spending time in remote and seldom visited areas.
We suggest you contact your own physician or travel doctor for your own circumstances.
Food
Try it all! You can learn a great deal about a country and its people from the food they serve & eat. A diverse range of Malaysian curries, local fruits and vegetables found in no other place. Western food is also readily available at resorts & most restaurants.
Brunei is a ‘dry’ country – alcohol cannot be purchased, however you are allowed an alcohol allowance to be brought in for personal consumption.
Electricity
240V & a UK flat 3 pin plug is used.
What else?
Take a cheap poncho with you. You never know when a tropical afternoon thunderstorm may occur.
Mosquito repellent is needed around some of the coastal areas to ward off sand flies, but surprisingly rainforests can be relatively free of mosquitoes.
…and Borneo’s people can be some of the friendliest in South East Asia.
Have fun!