Referred to locally as ‘KK’, this capital of Malaysia’s Sabah state on the northwest coast of the island of Borneo is a gateway to tropical splendor, authentic tribal life and extraordinary wilderness. Scuba or snorkel the turquoise waters of Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park just off Kota Kinabalu’s coast. After snapping photos of the city’s ‘floating’ mosque – an illusion created by its reflective lagoon – witness the homes and lifestyles of five distinct ethnic tribes at Mari Mari Cultural Village. In the shadow of towering Mount Kinabalu, immerse yourself in the lush rainforest, exotic wildlife and fascinating flora of World Heritage-listed Kinabalu Park.