Sandakan's Hidden Gem: Awan D11 Homestay Review (You WON'T Believe This!)

HOMESTAY AWAN D11 Sandakan Malaysia

Sandakan's Hidden Gem: Awan D11 Homestay Review (You WON'T Believe This!)

Sandakan's Hidden Gem: Awan D11 Homestay Review (You WON'T Believe This!) - Seriously, You WON'T (And I'm Still Recovering)

Okay, buckle up buttercups, because I'm about to unleash everything I've experienced at Awan D11 Homestay in Sandakan. This isn't your average cookie-cutter hotel review; this is a full-blown, emotional rollercoaster that will hopefully help you decide if this "Hidden Gem" is worth your time (and sanity). I'm still sorting through the memories, the mosquito bites, and the sheer wonder of it all.

First Impressions (My Jaw Dropped… Then Dropped Again… And Again):

Alright, let's be real. Sandakan isn't exactly on everyone's bucket list. But Awan D11? That place is hiding out, like the best-kept secret in Borneo. The "Hidden Gem" title? Absolutely earned. It's nestled away, away, away, making it feel like a real escape.

Accessibility… Mostly Good (But a Few Quirks):

Getting there felt like a minor adventure (more on that later). Once I arrived, accessibility wasn’t always perfect, but definitely better than some places I've been. There is a Car park [free of charge], which is a HUGE plus for getting there but I'll note, the roads getting there are a little on the rustic side. Now, the good news: I spotted an elevator. So, if you're concerned about stairs, that’s a massive win. The facilities for disabled guests are a nice touch, though I'd suggest contacting them directly to clarify the exact specifics. I definitely noticed the efforts they've made.

The Rooms: Cozy, Comfy, and Surprisingly High-Tech (Free Wi-Fi Saved My Sanity!):

My room? Sigh… It was glorious. Seriously. Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! I could cry with joy. The internet was actually usable, which is a miracle. So, working remotely was possible and streaming my shows wasn’t a torturous experience. Inside I found Air conditioning, A comfortable bed with a nice blanket, a mini-fridge (essential for chilling my water and a few "recovery" beers), and a desk (which, let’s be honest, I didn't use much – hello vacation!). The décor was simple, clean, and comfortable. Everything was arranged properly, and the lighting was absolutely perfect for my needs.

Important Note: They also have Internet [LAN] if you’re old-school. I, fortunately, loved the convenience of the Internet access – wireless. I had Free bottled water so I could stay hydrated in the tropical heat. The Coffee/tea maker was a lifesaver.

For the Kids (Or the Kid in You):

I did not bring kids, so I can't say definitively. But they do have a Babysitting service and Kids facilities, so they seem to cater to families.

Food, Glorious Food (And I Ate Everything):

Okay, let’s talk food. This is where Awan D11 really shines. They have Asian breakfast. If you are not a fan of the local fare dont worry, they serve Western breakfast as well. There is also a Breakfast [buffet] where you can try both! There is also room service [24-hour] – need I say more?

The restaurant itself? Charming. I sampled the Asian cuisine in restaurant – and the flavors exploded on my tongue. I found a Vegetarian restaurant which was amazing! Oh, and the Coffee shop? I had a cup of coffee almost every day.

Things to Do? Oh, You Betcha! (And Relaxation is a Must):

Okay, let’s be real. Sometimes you just want to chill. And Awan D11 provides.

• Swimming pool [outdoor]: Stunning. Seriously. The [Pool with view] feels like an oasis in the middle of the jungle.
• Spa/sauna: They have both! Pure bliss.
• Massage: Needed after a long day of exploring!
• Gym/fitness: For the overly motivated (or those trying to work off a buffet!).
• They offer a Body scrub and Body wrap which are quite inviting.

More rambling on things to do:

I enjoyed the Terrace for an evening drink. If your trip is anything like mine, spending time outside is a must.

Cleanliness and Safety: (They’re Serious About These):

This is where Awan D11 REALLY shines.

• Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, Room sanitization, Rooms sanitized between stays – They are on it.
• I spotted Hand sanitizer, Smoke alarms, Fire extinguisher, and First aid kit around.
• The staff is trained in safety protocol, which gave me peace of mind. The security [24-hour] and CCTV in common areas also helped.

Services and Conveniences: Making Life Easier (And Cooler):

• Air conditioning in public area, is a necessity!
• Cash withdrawal, Laundry service, and Dry cleaning – essential.
• Luggage storage (because who wants to lug their bags around?).
• Concierge: Helpful!
• Daily housekeeping: Rooms were spotless.
• Food delivery
• Car park [on-site]

Getting Around (Because You'll Want To):

• Airport transfer: Definitely consider it. Getting around Sandakan can be tricky.
• Taxi service: Helpful.

The (Slightly) Messy Bits:

Okay, it wasn't perfect. Things that could be improved? The signage could be a little clearer. The roads getting there? Not for the faint of heart. And the occasional mosquito managed to sneak in (but come on, you're in Borneo!).

My Rating:

4.5 out of 5 stars. Why not 5? Because nothing is perfect. But Awan D11 is pretty darn close.

The Verdict:

Book it. Seriously. If you're looking for an escape, a place to unwind, and experience genuine Bornean hospitality, Awan D11 Homestay is the place. The location, the staff, the food, and the overall ambiance make it an unforgettable experience. Trust me, you won't believe it. I’m already planning my return… (and stocking up on mosquito repellent).

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STOP! Don't Just Read This, BOOK IT NOW! (My Persuasive Offer):

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For a limited time, book your stay at Awan D11 Homestay and receive:

• A FREE upgrade to a room with a balcony (Subject to availability).
• A voucher for a complimentary meal at their renowned restaurant (choose from their amazing Asian or Western cuisine!).
• Exclusive access to a curated list of insider tips for exploring Sandakan (from amazing local experiences).
• PLUS, a chance to win a free massage at their luxurious spa!

This offer is only valid for the next 72 hours! Don't miss out on this opportunity to experience the "Hidden Gem" of Sandakan. Click the link below to book your unforgettable adventure!

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HOMESTAY AWAN D11 Sandakan Malaysia

Alright, buckle up, buttercups, because we are about to dive headfirst into the glorious, messy, and utterly unforgettable experience that was my "trip" to Homestay Awan D11 in Sandakan, Malaysia. Forget the polished travel brochures. This is the REAL deal, folks. Prepare for scattered thoughts, questionable decisions, and the kind of memories that'll make you snort-laugh years later.

DAY 1: Arrival & Jungle Fever (The Initial Chaos)

• Morning (7:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Flight from KL. Ugh. Flights are the worst. The security line was a clusterf*ck of lost passports and panicked children. Found my gate, thankfully. Sat next to a guy who spent the whole flight clipping his toenails. Yeah, that set the tone perfectly. Landed in Sandakan, the air hit me like a wet, warm blanket. So different from the manicured, air-conditioned comfort of KL.
• Afternoon (12:00 PM - 4:00 PM): The pick-up from the airport… well, it was more of a "where the heck is our ride?" moment. Turns out the homestay driver was running late because he got caught up in a mahjong game (I swear, that's what he said!). Finally, we piled into a battered, but charming, minivan. The drive to Awan D11 was, let's just say, scenic. Lush green jungle on either side, potholes that threatened to swallow the van whole, and the faint scent of… something interesting… from the back. I tried to hide my apprehension.
• 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM : Checked in. The homestay itself? Basic. Rustic. Charming. The word "rustic" is a polite way of saying "could use a good scrub." But honestly? It was perfect. The staff, the family running the place, were the most welcoming people. I already loved them.
• 5:00PM - 7:00 PM: Settled in, and I immediately went for a wander alone. I wanted to soak in the atmosphere, but I got disoriented almost immediately! Found a trail and started walking, thinking, "how deep into the jungle am I?" I felt like Indiana Jones… except I was wearing Crocs. Got utterly lost, convinced I was going to be eaten by a snake, or worse, a grumpy orangutan. Turns out I was very close to the homestay. Lesson learned: always carry a map (and maybe bear spray).
• Evening (7:00 PM - onwards): Dinner was a communal affair. I ate with a family from the host who were incredibly kind, the food was delicious, and the conversation was… well, let's just say my bahasa Malaysia skills are still a work in progress. I ate and ate, which must have explained the bloated feeling in the morning!!

DAY 2: Orangutans & River Ramblings (The Memorable Moments)

• Morning (7:00 AM - 12:00 PM): The raison d'être of the trip: The Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre. Okay, I'm getting emotional here. I saw these majestic creatures swinging through the trees, munching on bananas, and behaving in such an adorable way it made me weep. We're talking full-on, snot-covered sob-fest. Seriously, it was the most beautiful, heartbreaking, and inspiring thing I've ever witnessed. The care and love the staff showed the orangutans was palpable. This one experience alone made the entire trip worthwhile. This feeling is exactly why i went to Sandakan. I'd go again and again, honestly.
• Afternoon (12:00 PM - 4:00 PM): After the emotional rollercoaster of the morning, got to a river cruise. The boat trip was cool. We saw proboscis monkeys (those giant-nosed, goofy-looking primates). The river was alive with wildlife. The guide (again, a lovely local) kept pointing things out, and I kept failing to spot anything until the monkeys were either in front of me or a mile away.
• 4:00 PM onward: Back at the homestay for a rest before dinner. I just sat on my porch, drinking a very cold Tiger beer, watching the sun set. Feeling both fulfilled and completely exhausted. Thinking maybe I can order some food. I was wrong. The sun set in a blaze of glory, casting long shadows over the jungle. The air filled with the symphony of the jungle. Amazing.
• Evening: Dinner. Communal again. The food was incredible, but I think I was so emotionally drained it that I barely ate. The conversation was great, despite the language barriers.

DAY 3: Departure & Reflections (The Reality)

• Morning (7:00 AM - 10:00 AM): Woke up feeling surprisingly okay, considering the sensory overload of the last few days. Had a final, heartbreaking farewell to the family hosting us. Even though I was ready to leave, I was also sad to go.
• 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Left the homestay for the airport.
• Afternoon (12:00 PM - onward): Back at the airport. The flight back to KL.
• Evening: Back home. I'm exhausted, a little sunburned, and my clothes still smell vaguely of jungle. I might even try to learn some bahasa Malaysia.

Quirky Observations, Messy Ramblings, Imperfections, and Emotional Reactions:

• The Mosquitoes: They were relentless. I swear, I'm probably a walking, talking biohazard zone of bites right now. Pack the DEET. Seriously.
• Food: So much delicious food! I'm pretty sure I gained five pounds. Worth it. Every single bite.
• The Heat: It was HOT. I was constantly sweaty. I embraced it.
• The Unexpected: The whole trip felt less like a planned vacation and more like an adventure. And that's exactly what I needed.
• Emotional roller coaster: At one point I cried. Like, hard. When I saw the Orangutans. I'm not even sorry.
• The Locals: They were unbelievably welcoming, patient with my terrible language skills, and genuinely kind. It made the whole experience so much richer.

Final Verdict:

Homestay Awan D11? Messy, imperfect, and utterly brilliant. Go. Just go. Embrace the chaos, the heat, the mosquitoes, the language barriers, and the amazing experience of truly connecting with nature and the wonderful people in the area. You won't regret it. I'm already dreaming of going back. Maybe next time I'll bring actual jungle navigating skills. Or at the very least, a net for the mosquitoes.

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HOMESTAY AWAN D11 Sandakan Malaysia

Okay, Spill the Beans! What's the BIGGEST Surprise About Awan D11?

Alright, buckle up buttercups, because this isn't your sanitized hotel review. The BIGGEST surprise? Honestly? That it *actually feels like a hidden gem.* I mean, the pictures online... they’re nice, sure, but they *don’t* prepare you for the sheer *charm* of it all. Imagine: you're driving along, a bit lost (because, let's be real, Sandakan isn't exactly overflowing with neon signage), and then BAM! You turn a corner and there it is, nestled amongst the trees, almost *blushing* in its quiet beauty. It’s not sleek and sterile; it’s warm, welcoming, and – dare I say it? – *soulful*. That's the biggest surprise. And the second biggest? The breakfast. Oh, the breakfast... (more on that later, trust me).

Is it REALLY Clean? I'm a Germaphobe (Don't Judge Me!)

Look, I get it. We've all got our cleanliness quirks. Me? I *cannot* abide by a sticky doorknob. Awan D11… it's clean. Not obsessively so, like you might find in a clinical setting (thank goodness, I’d pass out), but genuinely well-maintained and spotless *enough* for even the most discerning germ-averse traveler. The sheets were fresh, the bathroom was pristine (and the water pressure? Glorious!), and I didn't find a single rogue dust bunny plotting world domination under the bed. They clearly care about hygiene without sacrificing the cozy vibe. Phew!

Alright, Let's Talk Breakfast. You Hinted At Something... Epic?

EPIC doesn't even *begin* to describe it. Okay, picture this: You roll out of bed, still half-asleep, wander into the common area, and BAM! The fragrance of freshly brewed coffee hits you like a warm hug. Then, there it is: a spread of local fruits (that rambutan? Divine!), fluffy pancakes dripping with syrup, perfectly crisped toast, and… I’m getting emotional just thinking about it… the *nasi lemak*. Oh, the nasi lemak! Fluffy rice, fragrant coconut milk, spicy sambal that’ll make your tastebuds sing, and crispy fried anchovies that… I’m drooling again. Seriously, I almost ate myself into a food coma every single morning. It was so good, I considered faking a stomach ache just to get another plate (don't tell anyone!). Breakfast alone is worth the stay. Seriously.

The Rooms: What's the Vibe? Are They Cramped?

The rooms are comfortable, not palatial. Think cozy, not cavernous. They're clean, well-appointed with essentials (air conditioning, a comfy bed, decent wifi – essential for the Insta-obsessed like myself), and decorated with a charming, slightly rustic flair. They're not the fanciest rooms you'll ever see, but they feel warm and inviting. I stayed in the "Bilik Keluarga" (Family Room) and it was pretty spacious for the four of us. And honestly? After a day exploring Sandakan, all I really cared about was a comfortable bed and a functioning AC, which Awan D11 delivered in spades. No complaints here! The mosquito net saved my butt (literally!).

The Location: Is It Convenient to, You Know, *Things*?

Okay, the location is *slightly* off the beaten path, which is part of its charm. It's not smack-dab in the middle of the city center. You'll probably rely on Grab or taxis for getting around. However, it's not a dealbreaker at all! This is where the "hidden gem" part comes in. Once you're at Awan D11, you feel like you're miles away from the hustle and bustle, which is a *huge* bonus. It's a short drive to Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre (a must-do!), the Sandakan Memorial Park, and other key attractions. Plus, that slight removedness makes it quieter and more peaceful. It's a trade-off I'd make any day.

Let's Talk Mosquitoes! Are They a Bloodsucking Menace?

Yes. Yes, they are. Welcome to Borneo! Look, they are present, but the good news is: Awan D11 is prepared. They provide mosquito nets (use them!), and I didn't get eaten alive. Bring insect repellent. Load up on it like it’s going out of style. And be strategic about your outdoor time, especially around dusk. It's a small price to pay for paradise (and the aforementioned amazing breakfast!). I got one bite – that was my fault, I didn’t reapply repellent. Lesson learned: you win some, you lose some. And the bugs *kind of* win.

Is the Staff Friendly? Because I Need Warm Fuzzies.

Oh. My. Goodness. The staff! They're the real MVPs. Genuine, friendly, helpful – they’re the kind of people who make you feel like you're staying at a friend's house, not a hotel. They were always smiling, offering tips on what to see and do, and going above and beyond to make our stay comfortable. Seriously, they helped us arrange a tricky tour, and even offered us extra towels after our torrential downpour walk. It's the small things that make a big difference. They were so genuinely warm and welcoming, I almost didn’t want to leave!

Any Quirks or Imperfections I Should Know About?

Alright, full disclosure: the Wi-Fi can be a little spotty in certain areas of the property, but honestly, that's hardly a dealbreaker when you're surrounded by such beauty. The bathroom in my room could use a little *tiny* update, but hey, I wasn’t there to critique the grout. It was clean, functional, and got the job done. And, the biggest "quirk" – and I mean this in the most endearing way possible – is that it’s *not* a big, impersonal chain hotel. It has character, it has heart, and it has a few little imperfections that give it that authentic, homey feel. embrace them. It’s part of the charm.

Would You Stay There Again? Seriously, Would You?

In a heartbeat. I’d book it again right now if I could. Honestly, I’ve been recommending Awan D11 to everyone I know. It’s rare to find a place that manages to be both charming and comfortable, remote yet convenient, and friendly without beingLuxury Stay Blog

HOMESTAY AWAN D11 Sandakan Malaysia

HOMESTAY AWAN D11 Sandakan Malaysia

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