Someone had recommended the Perhentian Islands to me and had raved about the place, so I was keen to check it out. I was blown away; I have never seen water so clear as I did in the Perhentians, nor sand so white. You could see tens of metres down, and it was as hot as bath water in the shallows. Prime scuba/snorkel terroritory, on a long snorkel trip I was lucky enough to spot a shark and a giant turtle surfacing. On the beach every night, the locals cook up today's catch and you can eat barbequed fish (plenty of choice). The only downer about the whole place was that beer was scarce and pricey, and it wasn't the best quality, but this is due to Malaysia's Muslim majority supporting a government that whacks up tax on alcohol (as well as the locals not wanting to have much to do with it due to their beliefs, understandably). I highly recommend the Perhentians for a visit.
Mount Kinabalu
Climbing Mount Kinabalu was right up there with the best experience of my whole year-long round the world trip, and I would strongly recommend attempting the climb, as it's very accessible. The best advice I can give is for you to take your time when planning. Make sure you have sturdy shoes, a headtorch, gloves, warm jacket and trousers, food and drink. The first climb up to Laban Rata at 3,300 metres is fine; you then stay overnight (accommodation is sparse, and MUST be booked in advance) and get up at 2 or 3am (ouch!) for a climb in the dark up to the summit ahead of the dawn which you watch from 4,000 metres. The climb is a fair challenge, and you may start to feel the effects of altitude sickness, but it's well worth it to see the sun rise at 13,000 feet. It's not an experience I will forget in a hurry.
Harold
