WOW, it is not often we book a hotel purely as a bed for the night then instantly regret having to leave it, but Four Points Sandakan was it! This hotel was booked purely as a stop-over before being collected and taken into the jungle for a few days. We arrived just before sunset and were instantly struck by the odd incongruity of this single large box of a hotel amidst the ramshackle buildings of little Sandakan. Our pick-up driver dropped us off at the main entrance which leads up to the huge first floor reception with enormous panoramic windows looking out across the sea. The young lady at check-in informed us she had allocated us a room with the best sunset view and would check us in as quickly as she could so that we could enjoy it. True to her word we were up in our room within a matter of minutes. Our room looked across the bay to, yes, to the most perfect sunset which we watched while enjoying a cup of tea. The room was huge and probably very like any other Sheraton Executive Club Room – spotlessly clean, large bathroom, very comfortable bed etc. The Club Lounge was well stocked and staff attentive but it closed early. Whilst trying to decide on dinner a member of staff suggested we ate in a quiet lounge area and allowed us to pick from a menu where we were. The hotel was huge but the surroundings felt a little less welcoming after dark, so after a quick walk we returned to the pool. The pool was on the roof with an infinity edge looking out across the bay. The lack of light pollution both from Sandakan and the Four Points allowed us to enjoy a star filled sky. Towels were provided as well as changing facilities and staff were constantly cleaning and tidying. Swimming in the pool and star gazing is something we will always remember. Breakfast was in the main restaurant and buffet-style. There was a great variety of both Western and Asian foods that would certainly suit all tastes and service was quick and efficient – important when so many people move on early in the morning. We would return here in a heartbeat and heartily recommend it but be warned you won’t want to leave!
PROS: Too many to list but try to arrive before sunset.
CONS: Need to use hotel pick up from airport. Surrounding area closes early and is not particularly pleasant after dark.
Hotel Website: www.fourpointssandakan.com
mrandmrsyoung 