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places to see I departing gwangju
Chasing Adventure in Borneo Written and photographed by Lianne Bronzo
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rom dense rainforests housing endangered animals to thousands of species of fish surrounding Sipadan Island, Sabah, the easternmost part Malaysia, is a paradise for those seeking adventure, nature and wildlife on Borneo, the third largest non-continental island in the world. ADVENTURE Adrenaline chasers can satisfy their cravings in Sabah. Adventurers from around the world travel to Borneo to hike Mount Kinabalu, just two hours outside the city of Kota Kinabalu. Proudly towering at 4,095 meters, this World Heritage site is the tallest in Southeast Asia. About 5,000 types of plants inhabit the national park including orchids, pitcher plants, and the rare rafflesia, the world’s biggest flower. Most people opt to do a two-day trek to reward their labor with an incredible sunrise. Surprisingly, no special equipment is needed to trek to the top, but it is recommended that the hikers are in decent physical shape. The two-day trek to Low’s Peak comes with a hefty cost including park fees, permits, guides, and the mandatory hostel. Expect to shell out at least 200,000 Korean won for the challenging, yet rewarding, hike. To sooth your guaranteed sore muscles, soak in the natural hot springs at Poring, a short trip away from the mountain. For those who like their calves but still want to
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get their blood rushing, there are more adventure options such as paragliding, kayaking and mountain biking. Whitewater rafting is also popular. With warm weather year round, Borneo is a great place for outdoor adventures. NATURE To be immersed in a true rainforest, a few days at the Danum Valley Conservation Area (DVCA) is a must. This relatively undisturbed lowland forest spans 438 square kilometers and is recognized as one of the most complex ecosystems in the world. Scientists working at the research center have revealed a tremendous variety of plants, 120 species of mammals, over 300 species of birds, and a seemingly infinite number of insects. With hired guides, visitors can go jungle trekking to waterfalls and caves, spotting wildlife along the way. For those on a budget, it is recommended to stay at the Danum Valley Field Centre, a world renowned research center focused on research, education, and training. This center mainly houses scientists and students, but there are beds available for tourists. As an island in a tropical climate, there is plenty of water to be explored. Perhaps the most famous place is Sipadan, renowned for its world class SCUBA diving. The island is surrounded by vibrant coral reefs and abundant wildlife not far from the shore.
2015-05-26
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