Brunei
While kingdom of Brunei and its famous ruling Sultan are synonymous with wealth around the world, the country is also a stunning location to travel to and explore.
Brunei travel guide
Located on the northern coast of Borneo in South-East Asia, Brunei is a small country with a big heart and lots to enjoy. A wealthy country, home to the largest oil fields in the region, it also boasts spectacular natural surroundings, warm, hospitable people and water villages where locals live as they have for centuries. There’s also a number of lavish palaces, a skyline dominated by domes, mosques and minarets, sublime Malay cuisine and a tranquillity that has earned it its name (Darussalam translates to ‘abode of peace’).
Of course, there’s more. Brunei is the world’s oldest reigning monarchy and the only Malay-Islamic monarchy in the world. Despite this, the country only gained independence in 1984. Once a very important center of commerce that connected Asia to the rest of the globe, its capital, Bandar Seri Begawan, is now a charming blend of Malay culture, Islamic faith and incredible wealth, home to glorious mosques, an extraordinary floating city and the largest royal palace on earth.
The city is culturally diverse and devoutly Muslim, comprising a majority of residents of the Malay Muslim faith, many Chinese people, a variety of indigenous groups, as well as migrant workers who come from throughout Southeast Asia and the Pacific. Luxury abounds in the city, with extraordinary lavish hotels to stay in, excellent museums to explore and a wealth of shopping, dining and entertainment options, including fabulous amusement parks and water parks. It’s not a bustling place, though. Brunei is relaxed, tranquil – different. And don’t forget… right outside the city is Borneo’s jungle paradise.
The Jame' Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque is a wonderful looking building that stands tall in Brunei.
Best time to visit: In the dry season, from January to May when it’s warm, but not sweltering. February and March are the driest months.
Best Area for Sightseeing: You’ll find treasures all over the city, so take a look below at our section, Things to do in Brunei, for a list of what to see.
Shopping in Brunei: You may not be able to drink alcohol in Brunei, but you can certainly shop till you drop. Shopping is a major pastime, and you’ll find plenty of shopping malls to choose from. The best place to shop is Gadong, a big mall with 150 stores and Centerpoint, next door, or in the chic boutiques in Kiulap.
Food & Restaurants in Brunei: You’ll find Brunei’s cuisine is a heady mix of Indian, Middle Eastern, Chinese and Malay flavors. Brunei also offers a wide selection of Asian eateries, including Chinese, Korean and Southeast Asian restaurants. The street food and food stalls are also worth sampling. You can enjoy an authentic Brunei dining experience at Tamu Selera, boatsing carts and stalls offering a selection of delectable traditional, Malaysian and Indonesian dishes. Regarding lunch on Fridays: everything in Brunei closes from 12 to 2pm for prayers.
Nightlife: As Brunei is devoutly Muslim, religious laws forbid selling or consuming alcohol throughout the country. You won’t find any bars or nightclubs here. Instead, activities include shopping and dining out, or a combination of both. While the city center is quiet after dark, Gadong is far more vibrant, as it’s home to a lively night market, offering stunning food.
Things to do in Brunei:
- Visit the stunning Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, a lavishly adorned mosque and the tallest building in the city.
- Explore Kampong Ayer, once called ‘The Venice of the East’, an extraordinary collection of stilt villages situated in the middle of the Brunei river.
- Discover Brunei’s past at the Brunei Museum.
- See nipa and bamboo huts, fishing boats and hunting blowpipes in the Malay Technology Museum.
- Spend some time exploring the largest residential palace on earth, Istana Nurul Iman, the official residence of the Sultan of Brunei.
- Visit the largest mosque in the country, the Jame Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque, built in honor of the current sultan of Brunei, with its 29 stunning golden domes.
- Learn all about the Royal family at the Royal Regalia Museum, with extraordinary displays including crown jewels and the ceremonial chariot.
Best way to get around: The cheapest way to get around is on a public bus. Another inexpensive way to get around is by water taxi – hail one from any dock.