left our jobs, went to Asia

Seaside in city of Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia

"Couldn't have a dip in the sea in Semporna, as there was no beach, but we'll surely catch up with that in Kota Kinabalu", we thought arriving to Malaysia's 10th biggest city, capital of Sabah province.

Rats.

In Kota Kinabalu, tourism, as an industry, is in the first place. From the rear end.

If you start from the city center and go left - will hit the smelly as hell fish factory. Pictured above.

If you reach the sea just going straight, without making turns, port and chemical cargoes await:

Seaside port of chemical cargoes in city of Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia

Run right, and there's the warship lurking:

Seaside warship in city of Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia

Ultimately, the quest failed. We were not able to find a beach in Kota Kinabalu, at least in a reasonable walking distance from the center. Could always take a boat to the island nearby, but that's 7 USD one way. And probably 20 USD if you want to go back.

I probably sound upset, do I?

Not at all. I know a perfect activity in this city - updating cringel.com.

And if that's done, Mount Kota Kinabalu, Orangutans and other attractions are waiting just outside the city.