by Wan Azfarozza Wan Athmar
Hari Raya is all about long jams on highways, and blasting Hari Raya songs in the car, all in the name of the ‘Balik Kampung’ spirit. However, these past few years, new trends have emerged where many have decided to take long holidays to travel with families. A trip to an island in Sabah can be one option to consider. This Raya why not hop to a beautiful island known as Mantanani.
An hour drive from Kota Kinabalu
The island is a gem and it is reachable by car. You can book a ride with JSK Mantanani at Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal Kota Kinabalu. They will provide a comfortable and spacious van from the terminal to JSK Rampayan Jetty, Kota Belud. Be there at 9 am and the ride will take more or less about an hour’s drive. From Rampayan Jetty it will take around 45 minutes by speedboat to one of the most beautiful islands in Sabah.
Blue oceans and warm smiles welcome you.
As you reach closer to the island the sea changes its color from blue to crystal clear greenish blue. It is a spectacle to see such a beautifully picture-perfect and Instagram-worthy moment. That breathtaking view accompanied by the warm welcome you receive from the staff of JSK Mantanani Island Resort makes the journey all worthwhile. Once you arrive, you will be escorted with a buggy ride to get to the designated villas. As you reach the main reception the staff welcomes you with a music performance.
Choices, choices, choices!
The resort has several choices of villas for you to choose from. It all depends on your preferences. They have Deluxe Rooms, Garden View Villas, Sea View Villas and Premium Sea View Villas. The rates range from RM920 to RM1,560. If you choose to do water activities, the resort offers snorkeling and diving trips but if you are not into that, the resort itself has many facilities to entertain the guests. The resort has a karaoke KTV room, a sports bar, kayaks, cycling expeditions, and barbecue amenities. The island itself is such a wonder to explore. The marine life is abundant with squids, crabs, fishes, and so much more. If you are lucky enough, you might get the chance to witness “Blue Tears” along the seashore. When bioluminescent phytoplankton rub against salty waters it causes the algae to glow in electric blue.
JSK Mantanani Island Resort currently has a special promotion package, Santai-Santai Staycation with a minimum 3 days 2 nights stays, the starting rate is from RM1,548 for 2 pax. The promotion is valid from 11 March until 9 April 2024. Now, how does all this sound for an amazing VacayRaya? Wear that blue-themed Raya attire you will blend in nicely with the view! For more information go to https://jskmantananiresorts.my/
