At first we were not too sure , it was not so busy, however the staff be it reception or dining room and the wildlife expedition people were all magnificent. I worry as the hotel/resort was obviously at one time thee place to be and in a competitive market it must be suffering, I think we saw that. It has a charm not to mention freedom of movement , not that many guests, but the place grows on you. We regretted not having more time just to chill at the resort. The food was more than fair, plenty per portion and not too bad a variety, rooms were comfortable and yes if its still there we will be back. Bit far out of the City but you get used to that.

Seeing lots of negative comments about Sabandar Bay on the internet before leaving for Sabah I was worried that we had made a huge mistake.

Yes the hotel is 50mins from KK and tucked out of the way but this what makes it so great. When we arrived at 11:30pm with five other UK guests we were greated with non-alcoholic cocktails and huge smiles.

To my surprise the room was of 4star standard and had a sea & garden view.

The good sized well kept pool area was normally empty which gave you a sense of being in your own villa. The gorgeous white sandy beach is deserted apart from a few stray monkeys and we had some lovely relaxing walks.

Having booked with Travel Collection (which included some trips) we were delighted that extra trips could be added with Wildlife Expeditions (who were on site) and the itinerary changed to suit our needs. Although I would suggest booking Selingan (Turtles) Island before you go to avoid disapointment. The Sepilok Orangutang Sanctuary trips can be booked when you get there despite what it says in the brochure.

During our days and nights at Sabandar the staff couldn't do enough to help even setting the satellite tv up in the Karaoke Bar to allow me to watch an Arsenal game at 3am!

As far as night life goes it is quite in the hotel. The karaoke bar is good but under used and there is a well maintained snooker/pool/darts/games lounge.

We ventured out to KK on one occasion to see the markets and eat out. There were many food/entertainment options and we had a good time. As the shuttle bus from Sabandar doesn't run at night we booked a private taxi for 80RM (c£12) which in UK terms is reasonable.

Overall as a young couple looking for nice rooms, good service, a base for wildlife trips and a relaxing holiday we would thoroughly recommend Sabandar. If however you like to party every night and want entertainment then this is not the place for you.

One last thing, if you stop over in Brunei go on the Probiscos Monkey Tour its great and breaks up the stop over.

Thanks Sabandar for a holiday we will remember we will be back.

had two weeks of peace and quite, beach empty, like a private villa, not for those who like night life, but superb for those who want to get away from it all, along with Wildlife Expeditions who gave us fantastic trips and guides.It did not bother us that it was 1hr from airport, and will return, yes it is shabby chic, but nicer than concrete modern hotels. Staff excellent and could not have been friendlier, they deserve people to stay there.