Travel Guide: Seamless Entry and Exit Tips from Kota Kinabalu to Kuching
Few people share the nitty-gritty details about traveling from Kota Kinabalu to Kuching, so I’m here to fill in the gaps. Since Kota Kinabalu is in Sabah and Kuching is in Sarawak, these are two different states, and you’ll need to go through customs when flying between them. Here’s a step-by-step guide to make your journey smoother:
1. **Exiting Kota Kinabalu:**
Head to the international terminal. After passing through security, you’ll see signs clearly marking the channels for travelers heading to other countries or other states. Make sure to choose the channel for traveling to other states.
2. **Boarding Pass and Arrival Cards:**
It’s crucial to print a paper boarding pass! [Flying Kiss R] Don’t rely on e-boarding, as customs will need to stamp it. AirAsia offers free printing at self-service kiosks. After security, there’s also a corner where you can pick up arrival cards (for entering other states), which customs will stamp.
3. **Customs at Kota Kinabalu:**
When exiting Kota Kinabalu, you’ll go through a foreigner channel. Customs officials will ask about your plans in Kuching and how long you intend to stay. The departure stamp will be placed on your ticket! [Wow R] or on your arrival card.
4. **Entering Kuching:**
Upon landing, you’ll need to enter Sarawak, and there’s a dedicated foreigner channel. Officials will inquire about the duration of your stay, and they will stamp your passport with an entry stamp! [Sly Smile R] The duration of your stay will be handwritten by the customs officer. Generally, all states offer a 30-day visa-free period.
**Pro Tip:**
To summarize, the exit stamp from Kota Kinabalu will be on your ticket, and the entry stamp from Kuching will be on your passport. Keep your ticket safe; you might need it when you leave Kuching.
**A Personal Anecdote:**
Today, when I entered Kuching, I accidentally went through the staff channel and nearly entered illegally [Disdain R]. So, remember, pay attention to the signs and don’t just wander in and hop into a taxi [Laugh Cry R].
