Hotel Prima

Hotel Prima Sandakan is a useful base for trips to Sepilok and for pickup or drop-off for the port or Kinabatangan River tours. The port is too dated to stay near. It’s in a fairly quiet area, with enough shops to keep you occupied between excursions, and the price is good for what you get. The room was decent. There are a few small things to improve, like replacing the shower holder. They require a 50 RM deposit, but return it at checkout.

There are only stairs, so heavy luggage could be a hassle, though I’m sure staff might help carry it if asked. Otherwise, I’d definitely stay again when visiting Sandakan. I paid rm140 for a king room, which was budget friendly. The room was big, and everything worked, including the kettle, aircond, shower heater, and lights. It was very clean, especially the bathroom, and the staff were friendly. Restaurants, convenience stores, and banks are all within walking distance.

I hardly slept during my stay. The walls are so thin I could hear the neighbor snoring as if he were in the bed beside me. At night, teenagers partied in the large parking lot next to the hotel. The rooms are outdated but sort of okay for a couple of nights, if you take sleeping pills. What’s the point of a hotel if you can’t sleep there?

The staff were helpful and responsive, and arranged early check-in for us twice, which we really appreciated between long trips. Rooms were clean and comfortable, with good wi-fi and air conditioning. It’s a handy little hotel in Sandakan, good value, with decent restaurants and services close by. The airport, Sandakan downtown, and Sepilok attractions are a short drive away.