What's New at Kota Kinabalu in September

It's Ramadan, the Muslim fasting month which happens to fall between end of August - middle of September of the Gregorian calendar this year (2009), and it is the prelude to Hari Raya Aidilfitri (a religious event which in Sabah as well as in the rest of Malaysia; it is celebrated as a public holiday).

During Ramadan, a feature that is prominent in Kota Kinabalu are the food stalls that come to life only during Ramadan selling 'speciality street food' for the fasting month. Don't take the term 'street food' as a knockdown, they are cuisines in their own right. The hustle and bustle as the locals crowd view the fares on display is a sight to behold.

In Kota Kinabalu, the two best spots to visit and experience the carnival atmosphere are the Asia City and Gaya Street stalls - the better spot being the Asia City stalls and the best time to drop by is between 3pm and 5pm when it's 'peak season'. Browse around the stalls, so long as you have a friendly smile on your face, you are quite likely to find a kindly soul who would answer your curiosity.

As to the kinds of foods available, it is best to see them for yourself and sense the aromas 'a picture is better than a thousand words'. Cuisine-wise, there is yet much to be discovered about Malaysian food which has become a blend of history and various cultures.

However, if you are game for a dare - why not get in touch with us; we could arrange a culinary tour and will recommend the 'delights' that may be more suited to a Westernised Palate - you need not fear the dreaded "Montezuma's Revenge".