#HotelReview : Billabong Scuba, Mabul

Using iPhone6s #majorlove

I decided to stay at Billabong because let's face it; I think Billabong Scuba is one of the best budget accommodation in Mabul. 

From my point of view, there are two extremes in Mabul; budget vs luxury resorts.

Most of the so called 'hotel' in Mabul offers packages [2D1N, 3D2N etc] since you'll need to pay for the 1 hour boat ride to the island plus food and snorkeling. Everything is done in-house.

To be honest, I chose Billabong Scuba because it looks the nicest *vain*.

However, my initial interaction with them were not that great. 

• Contacted them via email [in English] asking for the package price. 3D2N in seaview chalet cost RM763 per person. Was told that they don't accept 2D1N bookings
• Which is a bit weird considering I've read people sharing their experiences online
• Using another email address, I contacted them again [in Malay this time] and wallaaaaa .... the price for 2D1N package is RM510 per pax
• For your information, sea view chalet is the best class of accommodation they had. Other room types are cheaper
• In the end, we ended up paying only RM426 during check in. Tak pasti kenapa.

The sea view chalet

Things To Take Note

• They only have 1 boat trip from Semporna to Mabul everyday - at 8am
• The checkout time is at 12noon but the boat to Semporna will come at 3.30pm
• Electric is only available from 11am-4pm and 6pm to 6am 
• Don't bring food into the room [rats]
• 3 snorkeling trips daily; 8am, 10am and 1.30pm

What I Love About Them

• guided snorkeling + free water confidence lesson. These guided snorkeling is very useful as the ocean current was ridiculous. Hahaha
• compared to other places, they offered cheaper cooking charges. Ranges from RM5-RM15.
• comfortable bed
• good food
• in the morning and evening, the locals will be selling fresh seafood just below the resort

All these for RM50

RM90 lobster

What Could Be Improved

• the toilet was a bit run down [toilet bowl cover was broken]
• streamlined the communication ; how can different people quote different prices?

Other than that, it was great considering it's a budget accommodation.

RM510 per pax [Quoted Price]

• welcoming drink
• return boat transfer
• accommodation with en suite bathroom and AC
• 3 snorkeling trips around Mabul /Kapalai
• 2 lunch, 1 dinner, 1 breakfast
• 24/7 hot drinks + bread + spread

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