Is it worth while going to Sabah in mid November to mid December?

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Shoestring_Traveller
Shoestring_Traveller

Hi,
We are planning on leaving Sweden for a few weeks in the middle of November and returning in the middle of December. This is the worst time of year here, cold and dark and wet. (It gets better when the snow arrives.)

We are considering going to Borneo. I realize that there may be some rain in Sabah as well. Is it still worthwhile going there?
Will roads be flooded preventing traveling?
Are the jungle treks too muddy? Have the monkeys left on holiday? ;-)
Will there be enough sun to enjoy the beach?
Is the sea too rough for going diving?

Is there something that is particularly good to do this time of year?

I have heard some rumors of terrorism and kidnapping. Are there some particular areas that should be avoided or things to keep in mind to minimize the risk?

Or can you recommend another destination for this time period.

Thanks in advance for your advice!

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Laszlo
Laszlo

My first trip to Sabah was in December and was perfectly fine. It will surely be nicer than Sweden at the same time.
The terrorism danger is minimal, but if you want to reduce it further, avoid the islands off the east coast.

My info & thoughts:
on East-Indonesia.info: Indonesia, Maluku, West Papua, Raja Ampat & Indonesian Visas
on Thorn Tree: Seeing Orangutans, Kalimantan, Kiribati & Tuvalu
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schmolphin
schmolphin

I think the area you should avoid is Lahad Datu. You can still visit there with tours or in groups, a better option if you need to go that area.

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Shoestring_Traveller
Shoestring_Traveller

Thanks for your replies!

Pritty much any place is better than Sweden i November !
The question is if Boreo is the place to go, or if another destination is better at his time.
Can I count on enjoying the beach in November? Are the winds too strong or the surf too high?
What temperature should i expect?

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Laszlo
Laszlo

In general, I wouldn't go to Borneo for beaches.

For beaches, you could go to Thailand which will mostly enjoy its drier season in December.
Ditto the Maluku region of Indonesia.

My info & thoughts:
on East-Indonesia.info: Indonesia, Maluku, West Papua, Raja Ampat & Indonesian Visas
on Thorn Tree: Seeing Orangutans, Kalimantan, Kiribati & Tuvalu
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missdiela
missdiela

Im not suggest you for malaysian Beaches during Monsoon Season which (Nov till early Jan)..

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schmolphin
schmolphin
In response to #2

Update: I've been to Lahad Datu & Semporna last month during my 1 month solo trip and I safely say that it is safe to go there.

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