Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia

For symphony or other high culture, you’ll have to head to Kuala Lumpur. There are lots of festivals here, though, you’ll find something to do every week, from local dance festivals to food exhibitions, art festivals to charity sports events.

This city also offers all the usual water sports of a beach destination… snorkeling, diving, boating. The waters off the Sabah coast are rated among the best in the world for diving.

Plus, trips to Mt. Kinabalu are within a few minutes of the city, offering incredible hiking and climbing opportunities.

Explore hot springs and wetland centers. Discover exotic wildlife at various animal reserves, by taking nature and wildlife walks, or visiting the marine park.

A legacy of its colonial past, English is a recognized language in Malaysia (which is a step below being an official one). You’ll find English used widely in retirement haven Kota Kinabalu.

Home to a diverse population, you’ll hear Mandarin and Malay on the streets, as well as Penang Hokkien and Tamil.

The accent of the English spoken here can take a little getting used to and is colloquially known as “Manglish” (Malaysian English). It’s safe to say that Malaysia leads Southeast Asia in English speakers and, aside from Singapore, its neighbors all lag far behind.

Kota Kinabalu is home to a good number of expats from all over, including a significant number of Australians.

From the lush greenery to the spectacular Mt. Kinabalu, plus the breathtaking sunsets off the South China Sea that expats rave about… this is a nature lover’s paradise. 

Add to that the lower population than many other, more known expat havens in Malaysia, this low-key destination has a lot to offer the retiree looking for a tranquil, serene destination that keeps them close to nature.