Exploring Malaysian Borneo – Lahad Datu

Our travel itinerary required an overnight stay in Lahad Datu. Facing limited options, we reached out to the Borneo Rainforest Lodge for a recommendation, and that’s how we discovered Bike n Tours Bed and Breakfast.

The journey from the Kinabatangan Nature Lodge to Lahad Datu took roughly two hours, passing by picturesque cocoa and palm oil plantations along the way.

Located in a quiet residential neighborhood, Bike n Tours Bed and Breakfast greeted us with exceptional warmth and hospitality, even though we arrived well before our check-in time. Tisha and Simon, our hosts, served their homemade blue pea flower tea, a refreshing drink served with palm sugar and lime juice on the side, allowing you to adjust the flavors to your liking. When the lime juice is added to the tea, it changes from blue to purple and pink adding a unique touch to the experience.

After spending three nights in the rainforest, our primary desire was to relax and feel genuinely clear. Our room exceeded expectations, offering ample space and direct access to the dolphin plunge pool.

Although we briefly ventured into town via Grab in search of an ATM, our hosts recommended a local cafe for lunch which, unfortunately, was closed. Our backup plan led us to Kentucky Fried Chicken.

The remainder of the afternoon was spent sipping on freshly made lemonade in the shade by the pool—a literal oasis in the middle of Lahad Datu.

With little interest in exploring the town further, we had arranged to have dinner at Bike n Tours for an additional MYR50. As it was a bed and breakfast, we didn’t anticipate a lavish meal. However, to our surprise, the porch had been transformed into Hawa’s Artisan Kitchen, a heartfelt tribute to the host’s late mother. The meal started with tapioca chips, and was followed by chicken potato stew, rice, eggplant, soup, and vegan coconut ice cream for dessert.

Each dish was not just a well prepared, but was presented with a charming backstory, intertwining Malaysian culture and locally sourced ingredients. The concept of “garden to table” was evident, and we appreciated the environmentally conscious use of coconut shell bowls, supporting local coconut sellers.

Without a doubt, this meal at Bike n Tours Bed and Breakfast was the culinary highlight of our three-month journey through Malaysia.

The breakfast on the following morning was just as delightful. We began with a fresh fruit smoothie and a satisfying bowl of oatmeal, which alone would have sufficed, but were then given a delicious egg and tomato sandwiched between a freshly baked bagel.

Refreshed from a relaxing stay, it was time to continue our tour of Borneo.

Next up — Danum Valley