Trend-Plate: Kota Kinabalu ... The Charm Below The Winds

Just three hours away by plane from Kuala Lumpur, Kota Kinabalu is a marvellous gem across the pristine South China Sea. 

Located in Sabah, the Malaysian state nicknamed “Land Below the Winds”, Kota Kinabalu’s is a city that combines the best of modern living, well-preserved traditional heritage and a bevy of Instagram-worthy tourist spots.

Formerly known as Jesselton, Kota Kinabalu was part of the Bruneian empire that spans across the isles of Borneo and within the proximity of the Sulu Sea since the 15th century. In 1882, BNBC founded a small settlement in the area known as Gaya Bay, which was already inhabited by Bajau people. 

The first settlement was on Gaya Island. In 1897, this first settlement was burned and destroyed by the indigenous Bajau-Suluk chief Mat Salleh. Its current name was christened by the State Legislative Assembly under Chief Minister Mustapha Harun after the renaming bill was passed in December, 1967.

From the moment you touch down at the Kota Kinabalu International Airport (KKIA), you’ll be thrilled to know that there are plenty of things to do in this vibrant coastal city.

Where to stay: Depending on your budget, there are many types of accommodation types to choose from. For a touch of luxury and seclusion, book a room at the Nexus Karambunai Resort where you will be greeted by the beautiful vista of South China Sea. Rate starts from RM462.00 onwards.

What to do: Pearl hunters, make your way to the Filipino Market in the City Centre. Pearls aside, you also will be thrilled by the cornucopia of bargains, especially on local handicrafts and snacks. 

In between, do quench your thirst with fresh coconut juice, straight from the fruit. Modern shopping malls such as One Borneo is home to globally renowned fashion labels such as Coach, Lacoste and Nine West.

What to see: Take a boat trip to the nearby islands such as the Manukan and Mamutik Islands, tour around the city or take a day trip to the foot of Southeast Asia’s tallest mountain, the Mount Kinabalu. If you’d like to escape from the city’s coastal heat, head up to the Kundasang on the highlands where chilly air and fresh garden produce are aplenty.

Now, looks like you have started packing your bags but are you still figuring what to take along? Just check out these hot fresh-off-the-runway selections from Net-A-Porter that reflects the colourful and vibrant spirit of Kota Kinabalu whilst celebrating its diverse cultures and heritage.

(L-R): Equator printed cotton pareo by Eres, $336.00; Casa Azul printed rash guard by The Upside, $192.00; Tie-dye underwired bikini by Norma Kamali, $208.00

(L-R): Striped crochet-knit midi dress by Self-Portrait, $320.00; Metallic crochet-knit jumpsuit by Missoni, $1,389.00; Chinese Whispers embellished printed silk crepe de chine playsuit by Camilla, $590.00

(L-R): Embellished tulle-trimmed silk-satin gown by Marchesa, $6,650.00; Draped satin mini dress by Halston Heritage, $384.00; Concordia intarsia cardigan by Vivienne Westwood Anglomania, $366.00

(L-R): Lamé-embellished satin mules by Marco di Vicenzo, $692.00; Intrecciato leather shoulder bag by Bottega Veneta, $3,610.00; Leather-trimmed printed cotton-canvas hat by Loewe, $554.00

*Product photos by Net-A-Porter; location photos courtesy of Dailyhotel.com, YouTube, propertyhunter.com.my and Borneoholidays.com

All items featured here are available now at Net-A-Porter as well as in respective brands’ stores, selected leading department stores and mixed brand retailers worldwide.