My dh and myself are planning a trip to Asia since he wants to dive in Borneo and I would like to base myself someplace interesting for the 4-5 days he would be gone. From what I've read on this forum, Kuching sounds great and I'm just wondering what day trips you might recommend from the city-trips that whatever hotel we are staying at would probably have on offer. I would love to see orangutans, even at a rehab center, so hopefully, that would be one trip. From Kathie's report, the Hilton sounds lovely, and lots of walking opportunities from there. Any other rec. for day trips that the hotel might offer? Thanks.

Forgot to mention-this would be for Dec. which looks to be a bit rainy also.

I didn't use any of the hotel travel services. I would be more inclined to use one of the small travel agencies located in the shophouses across from the river. There are parks you can visit, an orangutang rehab center, longhouses, etc. Kuching itself is a great place to wander. We loved the river walk, little India, the museums, etc.

Sounds great! Are these travel agencies within walking distance of the Hilton?

Yes, they are. You'll want to spend some time wandering these shop houses. They contain lots of interesting shops. One of the shops has the local Sarawak pepper. We bought a pound or so - it's the best pepper!

I thought Sabah, Borneo was better known for its Diving. You also have the Sepilok Orangutan sanctuary in Sabah.

I personally enjoyed Sabah more than Sarawak

He's flying to some tiny island, something like Laylang Laylang, that is supposed to be the best diving in that area.