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Borneo FAQ

Is tipping customary in Borneo?

Tipping isn't mandatory or customary in Malaysia or Borneo, but a tip of spare change or another small amount would be appreciated by restaurants and service workers, especially if the service has been particularly good.

What is the internet access like in Borneo?

Internet access is widely available in tourist areas like Sarawak, where there are plenty of internet cafes. Internet access is less frequent in rural and remote areas, so prepare to disconnect when venturing out of urbanised areas.

Can I use my mobile/cell phone while in Borneo?

You'll be able to use your mobile phone in most urban areas of Borneo, although some of the islands or remote, mountainous areas may not have network coverage. Ensure you have global roaming activated with your mobile carrier before you leave home if you wish to use your mobile.

What are the toilets like in Borneo?

You'll have to adjust to different standards of hygiene and sanitation while in Borneo. The standard toilet is of the squat variety and this may take some getting used to, although western-style toilets can be found in large hotels and some tourist areas.

What will it cost for a…?

Can of soft drink = 2 MYR
Basic meal from street stall or market = 3-5 MYR
Bottle of beer in a bar or cafe = 10 MYR
Seafood dinner = 20-25 MYR

Can I drink the water in Borneo?

Drinking tap water isn't recommended in Borneo. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water and fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water. Ask your leader where filtered water can be found; some hotels we stay in may have drinking water available. It's also advisable to avoid ice in drinks and peel fruit and vegetables before eating.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Borneo?

Major credit cards are sometimes accepted by large shops, hotels and restaurants in Borneo. However, they may not be accepted by smaller vendors such as small family restaurants, market stalls or in remote towns and rural areas. Make sure you carry enough cash for purchases, since credit cards aren't always an option everywhere in Borneo.

What is ATM access like in Borneo?

ATMs can be found in Borneo's cities and tourist areas, so withdrawing cash shouldn't be problematic for most travellers. Smaller villages and rural areas may not have ATM access, so prepare for this before venturing too far from a city or major town.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling in Borneo?

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

What public holidays are celebrated in Borneo?

Jan 1 New Year's Day
Jan 23-24 January Chinese New Year
Feb 5 Prophet Muhammad's Birthday
Apr 6 Good Friday
Apr 11 Installation of New King
May 1 Labour Day
May 5 Wesak Day (Birth of Buddha)
May 30-31 Harvest Festival
Jun 2 King's Birthday
Aug 19 Hari Raya Puasa (End of Ramadan)
Aug 31 Merdeka Day (National Day)
Sep 16 Malaysia Day
Oct 6 Sabah Governor's Birthday
Oct 26 Hari Raya Qurban (Feast of the Sacrifice)
Nov 13 Deepavali
Nov 15 Awal Muharram (Islamic New Year)
Dec 25 Christmas

Please note these dates are for 2012. Religious festivals are usually timed with the lunar calendar, so the dates listed above are estimates and vary from year to year.

Do I need a visa to travel to Borneo?

Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveller. The visa requirements for your trip vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. As a general rule most countries expect that you will have at least 6 months' validity on your passport. On arrival visitors may be asked to present return tickets and evidence of means to cover your intended stay.

We keep the following information up to date as much as possible, but rules do change - it's important that you check for yourself. Residents from other countries must consult the relevant embassies or your travel agent.

  • MALAYSIA:
    Australia: No - not required
    Belgium: No - not required
    Canada: No - not required
    Germany No - not required
    Ireland: No - not required
    Netherlands: No - not required
    New Zealand: No - not required
    South Africa: No - not required
    Switzerland: No - not required
    United Kingdom: No - not required
    USA: No - not required

    The above nationalities don't need visas to visit Malaysia as a tourist for up to three months. Other nationalities should check with their Malaysian embassy or consulate.

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