Why choose Sandakan
For the eco-tourist and wildlife enthusiast, Sandakan is not just a destination; it's an encounter with Borneo's soulful biodiversity. Once the capital of British North Borneo, this city serves as a crucial gateway to some of the world’s most significant conservation projects, including the renowned Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre. With a tropical rainforest climate, Sandakan offers lush landscapes that are as rich in history as they are in flora and fauna. It's a place where nature's resilience can be witnessed firsthand, and the Orangutan, the wise old man of the forest, roams free. An interesting tidbit: Sandakan is the birthplace of Agnes Keith, whose writings vividly captured life in Borneo during the 1930s.
Sandakan's pivotal role in ecotourism is magnified by its storied past, pivotal in the conservation of endangered species like orangutans and sun bears. While it's a haven for nature lovers, the city's historical significance during World War II, notably the Sandakan Death Marches, adds a layer of profound depth to its character. This history, though poignant, is often overshadowed by its natural beauty, providing a backdrop that encourages deeper exploration beyond the conventional tourist paths.
For those looking to taste the local flavors, nothing is quite as iconic as the Sandakan seafood bowl, a vibrant mix of fresh catch from the Sulu Sea, seasoned with indigenous ingredients like Borneo lime and bird's eye chili. This dish, often served with a side of fragrant rice cooked in ginger and pandan leaves, embodies the coastal city’s culinary ethos: fresh, simple, and explosively flavorful. It’s an accessible dish for anyone wanting to dive into the essence of Sandakan’s local cuisine without the need for an adventurous palate.
