Things To Do
in Brunei
Brunei, officially known as Brunei Darussalam, is a small, wealthy nation located on the island of Borneo in Southeast Asia, surrounded by Malaysia and the South China Sea. It boasts vast reserves of oil and gas, which fuel its economy and afford its citizens one of the highest standards of living in the world.
The country is ruled by an absolute monarchy, with the Sultan of Brunei wielding extensive powers and enjoying a lavish lifestyle, while the nation itself is known for its lush rainforests, diverse wildlife, and strict Islamic laws.
- "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Apa khabar?" - How are you?
- "Sama-sama" - You're welcome
- "Selamat tinggal" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the magnificent Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque. Enjoy the serene atmosphere and capture stunning photographs of this iconic landmark.
After lunch, head to the Malay Technology Museum to learn about Brunei's rich cultural heritage. Discover traditional crafts and technologies that have shaped the nation.
Finish your day with a stroll along the waterfront at Bandar Seri Begawan. Relax and appreciate the beautiful sunset over the Brunei River.
Visit the Tasek Merimbun Heritage Park early in the morning. Take a guided boat tour to observe the diverse wildlife and tranquil surroundings.
Grab lunch at a local eatery before heading to the Ulu Temburong National Park. Enjoy a canopy walk and immerse yourself in unspoiled nature.
Return to your accommodation for a relaxing evening. Dine at a restaurant offering traditional Bruneian cuisine.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- High standard of living due to wealth from oil and gas resources.
- No income tax, which increases disposable income for residents.
- Rich cultural heritage with a strong emphasis on Islamic traditions.
- Low crime rates, making it one of the safest countries in the world.
- Access to beautiful natural landscapes including rainforests and beaches.
- Limited political freedoms and restrictions on free speech.
- Economy heavily reliant on oil and gas, making it vulnerable to market fluctuations.
- Limited job opportunities outside the oil and gas sector.
- High cost of living, which can be challenging for expatriates.
- Strict laws and regulations that may feel restrictive to some residents.
Best Activities in Brunei
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the lush rainforest and spot diverse wildlife while enjoying the beautiful scenery.
Engage in activities such as jet skiing, windsurfing, and kayaking in the crystal-clear waters of Serasa Beach.
Observe a variety of bird species in their natural habitat at the tranquil Tasek Merimbun Heritage Park.
Tours
Uncover the best of Brunei with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Brunei
Visit one of these nice places.
A vast rainforest area with opportunities for stunning views and natural photo opportunities.
A historic water village offering picturesque scenes of traditional stilt houses and river life.
A serene park with hiking trails and a reservoir, providing panoramic views of Bandar Seri Begawan.
Food in Brunei
Brunei Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A starchy and gooey staple made from the interior trunk of the sago palm, typically eaten with a variety of flavorful side dishes like spicy sauces and grilled fish.
Must-Try!
A simple but flavorful dish consisting of steamed rice, fried chicken, and sambal (spicy chili paste), often sold as street food or in local eateries.
A popular hot milk tea beverage known for its frothy top, made by pouring the tea back and forth between two vessels from a height to create a distinctive appearance and mix the ingredients.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Brunei better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling night market where visitors can sample a wide variety of local street food, from grilled meats and seafood to noodle dishes and tropical fruits.
A vibrant market offering fresh produce, local delicacies, and snacks, providing a great opportunity to experience Bruneian food culture.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Brunei, it is important to show respect for the royal family, including avoiding any disrespectful behavior or speech about the monarchy.
It is important to dress modestly and conservatively, especially when visiting religious sites and public places in Brunei. This includes covering shoulders and knees.
Using polite language and showing courtesy in interactions with others is highly valued in Brunei. It is common to use formal and respectful forms of address.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Brunei with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Brunei
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not expected or common in Brunei, as it is not a customary practice in the country.
Cash is widely used for small transactions in Brunei, while credit and debit cards are commonly accepted in larger establishments. Mobile payments and digital wallets are also gaining popularity.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Brunei.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Brunei with pleasant weather, lower humidity, and minimal rainfall. Ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the country's cultural and natural attractions.
Expect hot and humid weather with occasional rainfall. May experience some haze due to forest fires. It is still a good time for sightseeing and cultural experiences.
Period of heavy rainfall and increased humidity. May experience occasional thunderstorms and flooding. Outdoor activities may be limited, but it's a good time to experience lush greenery and local festivals.
Transition period with sporadic rainfall. Pleasant temperatures and less humidity make it suitable for outdoor activities and exploration. Opportunities to witness unique wildlife and migratory birds.
Brunei at Night
Hiking in Brunei
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A pristine rainforest with well-maintained trails, offering breathtaking views, diverse wildlife, and the chance to explore the canopy walk.
A popular hiking location close to Bandar Seri Begawan, featuring well-marked trails and scenic views of the surrounding forests and coastline.
Home to Brunei's largest natural lake, this area offers hiking trails through rich biodiversity and opportunities for bird watching.
A beautiful trail along the Kianggeh River, perfect for a leisurely hike while enjoying views of the river and local flora and fauna.
A challenging trail that leads through dense forests and up to stunning viewpoints, ideal for experienced hikers.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Brunei through these rare and unique activities.
Airports
How to reach Brunei by plane.
The main gateway serving Brunei, located in the capital city, Bandar Seri Begawan.
Located in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia, this airport is approximately 520 km from Brunei and serves as a major hub in East Malaysia.
Serving Miri, Malaysia, this airport is about 220 km from Brunei and provides both domestic and international flights.
Located in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, this major international airport is approximately 1,500 km from Brunei and serves as a key transit hub in Southeast Asia.
Renowned as one of the world’s best airports, it is located in Singapore, about 1,500 km from Brunei.
Located in Johor Bahru, Malaysia, this airport is around 1,300 km from Brunei and provides regional flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Brunei, comprising approximately 66% of the population. The Malays are the indigenous people of Brunei and play a significant role in the country's culture and politics.
The second largest ethnic group in Brunei, making up about 10-15% of the population. The Chinese community is primarily involved in business and trade.
Includes various ethnic groups such as the Dusun, Kedayan, Murut, and Iban, collectively representing around 20% of the population. These groups maintain distinct cultural identities and languages.
A small percentage of the population comprises expatriates and other immigrant communities, including Indians, Europeans, and other Southeast Asians.
The Soul of Brunei
Discover the essence of Brunei through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Brunei, with a strong following and local leagues.
Badminton is widely played in Brunei and has produced several competitive players.
Basketball enjoys popularity among the youth and is played in local schools and communities.
Cricket has been growing in popularity in Brunei, with various clubs and tournaments.
Silat is a traditional martial art that is culturally significant and widely practiced in Brunei.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Bruneian cuisine heavily features meats and seafood, some restaurants and cafes in urban areas like Bandar Seri Begawan offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, often centered around fresh vegetables, tofu, and tempeh.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find suitable options like rice-based dishes, seafood, and certain noodle soups in Bruneian eateries. It's advisable to communicate dietary requirements clearly with the staff.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Brunei with these cultural adventures.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Brunei.