There are moments during travel when all you really need is a place that allows you to slow down, breathe, and simply enjoy the beauty around you. That was exactly the kind of experience we had during our recent stay at Mercure Kota Kinabalu City Centre.

Located right in the heart of Kota Kinabalu, this hotel offers guests a comfortable and convenient stay while being surrounded by the charm and vibrant atmosphere of Sabah’s capital city. 

From the moment we arrived, the ambience already gave us a relaxing feeling calm, welcoming, and perfect for those looking to unwind after a busy schedule or simply enjoy a quick escape from daily routines.

One of the things we appreciated most during our stay was the overlooking environment surrounding the property. Whether during sunrise or late afternoon, the views of the city created such a peaceful atmosphere. 

There is something special about watching the city slowly come alive while enjoying a quiet moment from above. It felt soothing and refreshing at the same time.

Of course, no staycation is complete without enjoying the hotel facilities, and we definitely had a wonderful time at the pool area. The pool ambience was relaxing and enjoyable, making it a great spot to spend quality time while appreciating the Kota Kinabalu skyline. It was simple, peaceful, and honestly one of the highlights of our stay.

Another pleasant part of the experience was the breakfast buffet. While the breakfast spread may not be the grandest compared to larger luxury hotels, we can honestly say that it was just right for a satisfying breakfast experience. 

The selection was decent, fulfilling, and enough to start the day comfortably. What made it even more enjoyable was the dining atmosphere overlooking the city streets, giving us a calm and cozy morning before heading to our next destination.

What makes this hotel memorable is not about extravagant luxury, but rather the comfortable and relaxing experience it offers. Sometimes, it is these simple and genuine moments that leave the biggest impression during our travels.

For travelers planning to visit Kota Kinabalu, whether for business, leisure, or a short staycation, Mercure Kota Kinabalu City Centre is definitely a good option to consider while enjoying the beauty of Sabah.

School holidays are fast approaching, and many families are now looking for places where they can relax, enjoy good food, and spend quality time together. Recently, I had the opportunity to experience a wonderful evening at Hard Rock Cafe Puteri Harbour, and honestly, it turned out to be more than just a dining experience.

Located at the beautiful Puteri Harbour area in Johor Bahru, Hard Rock Cafe offers a lively atmosphere that is suitable not only for adults but also for families with children. From the moment we entered the premises, the hospitality shown by the staff made us feel truly welcomed. 

The energy of the place, combined with the music and warm ambiance, instantly created a relaxing and enjoyable environment.

The food selection was enjoyable, with a variety of dishes suitable for sharing with family and friends. Every corner of the cafe carries the signature Hard Rock identity, making the experience feel unique and memorable. 

One of the highlights for me was also the merchandise section, especially the collectible pins that caught my attention immediately.

Beyond the food and atmosphere, what truly made the experience meaningful was the welcoming service and positive vibes throughout the evening. It felt less like simply dining outside and more like creating small but memorable family moments together.

If you are planning activities for the upcoming school holidays, Hard Rock Cafe Puteri Harbour is definitely worth adding to your list. 

Whether you are coming for the food, music, family bonding time, or simply to enjoy a different atmosphere, this place offers an experience suitable for all ages.

The programme was part of Handal Indah’s ongoing community engagement initiative aimed at educating children and families about the importance and future of public transportation in today’s modern cities. 

The initiative allows eligible Malaysians to enjoy unlimited free rides on the BAS.MY Johor Bahru bus services, further encouraging the community to embrace public transportation as part of their daily lifestyle.

Many parents expressed their satisfaction and appreciation towards the programme, describing it as a meaningful educational experience for young minds. Beyond learning about transportation, the event also created memorable moments for the children, many of whom were thrilled by the opportunity to step inside the buses and imagine themselves becoming future bus captains.

The initiative reflects Causeway Link’s commitment towards community engagement, education, and inspiring the younger generation to appreciate the importance of public transportation in building a more connected and sustainable future.

KOTA KINABALU, 2026 : Something is changing in the way people move around the city. At bus stops, terminals, and along key routes, more commuters are making the shift to BAS.MY Kota Kinabalu—not just for convenience, but for the value it brings.

At the centre of this growing momentum are two initiatives that are quietly reshaping daily travel: Kad Konsesi and Kad 30 Hari. While both offer unlimited rides, they serve different groups. 

Kad Konsesi (Pink Card): Free Travel for Eligible Groups

For many, especially those who require greater support, the Kad Konsesi is more than just a card. It represents access and mobility.

For the working population, the Kad 30 Hari offers a practical and cost-effective commuting solution.

April 1, 2026 | Kota Kinabalu:  A new chapter in urban mobility has begun in Kota Kinabalu as BAS.MY Kota Kinabalu officially launches its operations, introducing a modern, efficient, and people-focused approach to public transportation.

The operation comes at a crucial time as global fuel prices continue to rise, prompting many commuters to seek more affordable transportation alternatives. BAS.MY Kota Kinabalu provides a timely solution offering a reliable and cost-effective service that helps reduce the burden of daily travel expenses.

One of the standout features of BAS.MY Kota Kinabalu is its fully cashless payment system, ensuring faster, safer, and more convenient transactions for passengers.

This transition reflects a broader shift towards modern, digital-first public services, enhancing the overall commuting experience.

This includes:

Passengers are therefore strongly encouraged to always tap in and tap out to ensure accurate fare charges.

BAS.MY Kota Kinabalu represents more than just a transport service, it reflects a commitment to building a greener and more sustainable city. By encouraging the use of public transport, the initiative helps reduce traffic congestion and lower carbon emissions, contributing to a cleaner urban environment.

BAS.MY Kota Kinabalu is part of the government’s effort to improve public transportation under the Stage Bus Service Transformation (SBST) Programme, led by the Ministry of Transport Malaysia. The programme in Sabah is overseen by the Commercial Vehicles Licensing Board (LPKP) Sabah and operated by Jaguh Bayu Sdn Bhd.

School holidays always call for something special and this time, we found the perfect family escape at LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort. From thrilling rides to underwater adventures and refreshing water play, our visit turned out to be a complete, fun-filled experience for both kids and adults.

Our adventure kicked off at the LEGOLAND Theme Park, where excitement greeted us at every corner. The park is thoughtfully designed with a variety of zones, each offering unique rides and attractions.

What stood out most was how inclusive the park is—whether you're a thrill-seeker or just looking for light-hearted fun, there’s something here for everyone.

It’s more than just an aquarium—it’s an immersive journey beneath the sea.

With the hot weather in full swing, the LEGOLAND Water Park was the perfect way to cool down. From exciting slides to relaxing lazy rivers, this was easily one of the most enjoyable parts of our visit.

The kids couldn’t get enough of the splash zones and interactive play areas, while we took some time to unwind and enjoy the lively atmosphere. It’s the kind of place where time flies when you’re having fun.

A quick tip for visitors: don’t forget to stay hydrated and apply sunscreen, especially if you plan to spend a long time outdoors.

Our school holiday trip to LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort was more than just a day out it was a complete family experience filled with laughter, bonding, and unforgettable moments.

Whether you're planning a short getaway, a family outing, or simply looking for things to do in Johor Bahru, this destination offers a well-rounded adventure that truly delivers.