Artitaya Borneo Golf & Resort

This resort is widely celebrated as a premier golf destination, offering a signature golf course with breathtaking sea views that provide a unique and challenging experience for players. It is particularly well-suited for golfers, including a significant number of Korean visitors, and also serves as an excellent retreat for families seeking a peaceful getaway. Guests frequently highlight the serene environment and the overall value for money. While some facilities show signs of age, the resort's natural beauty and recreational offerings remain a strong draw. To make the most of your stay, be prepared for its secluded location, which contributes to its tranquility but requires planning for transport to and from urban centers.

Facilities & Amenities
The resort features expansive and clean swimming pools that are a major hit with families and children, with some accommodations even offering direct pool access. While the rooms are generally described as spacious, feedback on their overall condition and comfort is mixed, with some guests noting they appear older and could benefit from upgrades. Connectivity can be an issue, as many guests reported poor mobile phone lines and unreliable Wi-Fi coverage that often lacked internet access. Additionally, some areas of the resort are noted for insufficient lighting at night. For convenience, there is an in-house convenience store, though its cleanliness has been questioned, and bicycles are available for rental, offering an alternative way to explore the grounds.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest opinions on overall cleanliness are varied, with some finding it satisfactory while others suggest improvements are needed, particularly regarding the general environment. However, the swimming pools consistently receive high praise for their cleanliness and maintenance. Rooms are generally described as spacious, providing ample living area, though the beds and overall room comfort receive mixed reviews, with some guests finding them less comfortable than expected. A recurring issue mentioned is low water pressure in the bathrooms, which can impact the showering experience. Some guests also noted noise from the wooden floors outside their rooms, particularly when luggage trolleys are moved, which can disturb the peaceful atmosphere.

Dining & Food Quality
The resort offers a diverse dining experience, with the food quality generally receiving positive remarks, often described as good and reasonably priced. Many guests appreciate the locally popular and high-quality dishes served. The breakfast is typically served at the Club House restaurant and is considered basic but satisfying. A unique aspect is the availability of Korean-style mid-day meals, catering to the significant Korean guest demographic. However, some guests noted that the lunch buffet has fixed timings and may not be immediately available. There is also a coffee corner where guests can enjoy meals, adding to the casual dining options available on-site.

Location & Accessibility
The resort is situated in a relatively secluded location, approximately one hour and twenty minutes to one hour and a half by car from downtown Kota Kinabalu and about one hour and ten minutes from the airport. This distance means it is far from the city center, making public transportation a challenge, though ride-sharing services like Grab are available. Some guests found the signage leading to the resort from the main road to be unhelpful, making it difficult to locate. Despite its isolation, the location is advantageous for those traveling to Labuan, being a convenient fifty-minute drive to the Menumbok Jetty. Its remote setting contributes to a peaceful atmosphere, away from urban crowds.

Staff & Service
The staff at the resort consistently receive high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and attentiveness. Guests frequently highlight the warm welcome and the staff's willingness to assist with various requests, contributing significantly to a positive experience. The check-in process is often described as quick and efficient. Many guests appreciate the availability of laundry service, noting its promptness and convenience. The presence of Korean-speaking staff is a notable advantage, particularly for international guests. However, some guests noted the absence of a concierge or bellman service, and golfers specifically mentioned issues with caddy availability, sometimes only after several holes.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware of certain environmental concerns, as some reviews mention deforestation and the smell of burning trees in the surrounding area, which can impact the air quality and overall experience. The resort provides complimentary welcome fruits upon arrival, a thoughtful touch appreciated by guests. For those requiring an extra bed, it is available for a nominal fee. While the resort offers various forms of entertainment for tourists, some golfers noted that they are required to carry their own golf bags after a round, which can be inconvenient. The resort's target market appears to be primarily golfers, and its facilities and services are largely tailored to this group.