13-Nights Highlights of Borneo: Kuching, Kota Kinabalu, Danum Valley & More from $6,179

This state capital is strung out along the coast, with jungle-clad hills as a backdrop, and is home to a population of about 180,000. From an obscure fishing town, Kota Kinabalu has grown to a fashionable, modern town with deep-water anchorage. The highest vantage point, Signal Hill, offers an excellent view. Other sights include Papar - a scenic drive south from Kota Kinabalu, through paddy fields and jungle, the old town section (bandar lama) of Papar with several rows of quaint wooden shophouses, painted blue and laid out along spacious boulevards lined with palms and a large market in the center of the town; and Pulau Tiga National Park - a dip forest reserve virtually untouched and containing species not found on other islands.

It has justly been described as the most attractive city in Southeast Asia. Or, as one visitor described it: "It's like living in a garden." Kuching, Sarawak's capital, is one of the most liveable, people-friendly cities in the region with modern amenities and old world charm. Multi-story buildings blend with structures from colonial days and the colorful Malay and Chinese shop houses. The Sarawak River has long been the center of Kuching life and the Waterfront, a beautifully landscaped esplanade, is the main gathering place for Kuching's population, especially as the sun sets beyond scenic Matang Mountains. Across the river is Astana, once the home of the White Rajah's, now the Governor's residence. Nearby is Fort Margherita and the colorful Malay kampung. Just across the road is Main Bazaar, which houses curio and antique shops, travel agents and coffee shops. Sarawak Museum has beautiful gardens and the park built round the old town reservoir. The air-conditioned shopping malls in the city center stock brand name goods, local handicrafts and food outlets.