One of the real surprises on our trip: The island of Pulau Labuan is actually not a real holiday island. But if you want to get from Kota Kinabalu to Brunei by ferry, it is a good choice to make a stop-over. The Papaya Beach Resort is an affordable and cozy accommodation 15 minutes by taxi from the ferry terminal. The 10 en suite rooms are very spacious and at ground level. The interior is simple. Nevertheless, the atmosphere and the location right on the beach is worth a stay. The whole team was very helpful and friendly.

The restaurant menu offers little choice – at least one meal per night. But the dishes are served all fresh and were delicious. There is no alcohol, but can be brought. If you buy fish from the fishermen right on the beach, as we did (we bought crabs and snails), the cook and manager prepares it in the evening for you. Really recommendable!