What you need to know before travel to Brunei

IbanWanderlust,

Brunei is a small Muslim country located on the island of Borneo, neighboring Malaysia. Despite its small size, Brunei offers a rich tapestry of cultures, local delicacies, and attractions.

I often receive questions from travaller and friends asking where to visit when traveling to Brunei and what local foods to try. In this blog, I’ll share my experiences exploring interesting places in Brunei and highlight the must-try local delicacies.

Table of contents:

  1. Brunei Overview
  2. Itineraries

1. Brunei Overview:

Brunei Darussalam, commonly known as Brunei, is a small sovereign state located on the island of Borneo in Southeast Asia. It is officially known as Negara Brunei Darussalam, which translates to the “Nation of Brunei, the Abode of Peace.” The country is known for its serene and peaceful environment.

  • Country: Brunei Darussalam
  • Continent: Asia
  • Capital: Bandar Seri Begawan
  • Population: Approximately 453,163 (as of 2023)1
  • Major Religion: Islam (Official state religion)
  • Official Language: Malay (Bahasa Melayu)
  • Currency: Brunei Dollar (BND)
  • Dialing Code: +673
  • National Airline: Royal Brunei Airlines
  • Plug Type: Type G power outlets.
  • SIM Card: DST and Progresif Cellular.
  • Taxi Apps: Dart
  • Transportation: While Brunei has taxis and buses, the country is relatively small and easy to navigate. Car rentals are also available for those who prefer to explore at their own pace.
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2. Itineraries

1: Exploring Bandar Seri Begawan

  • Start your Brunei adventure with a visit to the majestic Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque, an iconic architectural marvel located in the heart of Bandar Seri Begawan.
  • Stroll through the charming streets of the city and make your way to the Gadong Night Market, where you can sample delicious Bruneian street food and shop for souvenirs.
  • Conclude your day with a visit to The Mall Gadong, a bustling shopping center perfect for retail therapy.

2: Riverside Adventure

  • Embark on a thrilling River Safari to explore Brunei’s lush mangroves, wildlife, and picturesque riverbanks.
  • After the safari, head to the nearby Kampung Ayer Floating Village, where you can witness traditional stilt houses and learn about the unique lifestyle of its residents.
  • In the evening, take a leisurely walk across the iconic Jambatan Sultan Haji Omar Saifuddin, a picturesque bridge overlooking the city’s skyline.

3: Cultural Exploration

  • Begin your day with a visit to the Royal Regalia Museum, home to an impressive collection of royal artifacts and treasures.
  • Next, explore Masjid Jame’Asr Hassanil Bolkiah, a grand mosque with stunning architecture.
  • Head to the Brunei Darussalam Maritime Museum to learn about the nation’s maritime heritage.

4: Nature and Adventure

  • Travel to Ulu Temburong National Park, a pristine rainforest haven known for its incredible biodiversity. Enjoy canopy walks and river excursions in this natural paradise.

5: Modern Brunei

  • Discover the innovative side of Brunei with a tour of the Brunei Energy Hub and The Big Wall Brunei, showcasing the country’s technological advancements.
  • Visit the Taman Mahkota Jubilee Emas – BIBD Frame Brunei for panoramic views of the city.
  • Spend the evening at Jerudong Park, Brunei’s amusement park, filled with thrilling rides and attractions.

6: Cultural Sites

  • Explore the cultural landmarks of Brunei, including Teng Yun Temple and Masjid Ash-Shaliheen.
  • Visit the Kompleks Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkhiah to appreciate Brunei’s dedication to education and cultural preservation.
  • Make a stop at Muzium Kuala Belait, which showcases local history and heritage.

7: Nature Retreat

  • Begin your day with a serene visit to Tasek Merimbun, a tranquil lake surrounded by lush greenery.
  • Head to Taman Eko-Korridor for more nature exploration, including a walk along Jambatan Sg Kebun.
  • Wrap up your Brunei adventure with visits to the Arts & Handicraft Centre, Tamu Kianggeh, Masjid SOAS, and Pusat Sejarah Brunei for a deeper understanding of Bruneian culture and history.

Optional Extension:

  • For those interested in a unique cultural experience, make a trip to Istana Nurul Imam, the Sultan’s grand palace, if possible, as access may be restricted.
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Footnote:
  1. https://www.worldometers.info/world-population/brunei-darussalam-population/ ↩︎
Brunei