A handful of smartphone apps, installed before you go, make a Kota Kinabalu trip far smoother. Download them, sign in and get everything ready while you're still in Korea — doing it on arrival is a hassle because of data and verification codes.
Seven apps to install
| ① Grab | Southeast Asia's ride-hailing app. Book a taxi, lock in the fare in advance, pay by card, even order food. The key to getting around (Chapter 21) |
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| ② Google Maps | Locations of the resort, golf course and restaurants, plus directions. Download the offline map (the Kota Kinabalu area) in advance for peace of mind |
| ③ Google Translate / Papago | English and Malay translation. Use the camera to decode menus and signs, and voice translation to chat with caddies and drivers |
| ④ Currency converter | Instant RM↔KRW conversion (Naver currency, XE and the like). Handy for paying on the spot and changing money |
| ⑤ Weather app | The tropical climate brings frequent afternoon showers. Check the chance of rain around your tee time (Chapter 4) |
| ⑥ Airline app | Boarding pass, schedule and delay alerts. Mobile check-in |
| ⑦ LINE | For on-the-ground support — Charm Tour @233uigab. Message them the moment anything comes up |
Sign in to Grab, Google Maps and your translation app before you leave Korea. If you register a payment card in Grab in advance, you can hail a taxi without cash on the ground. Bookmark 'Nexus Resort Karambunai' and Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI) in Google Maps and directions will come up in a flash.
The Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) is not a separate app — you complete it on the official website. Follow the guidance in Chapter 6 and fill it in via your browser three days before departure.
App screens and features may change with updates. Open each one once after installing to confirm it works properly.