Seria
,Seria is a town located in the Belait District of Brunei. It is known for being the center of the oil and gas industry in Brunei, with the country's largest oil refinery situated there. Seria is a bustling town with a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial areas.
Visitors can explore the Oil and Gas Discovery Centre and enjoy the beautiful sunset views along the coastline.
- "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): $30 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Explore Seria's Heritage
morning
:Start your day by visiting the Brunei Petroleum Museum to learn about the oil industry. Enjoy a walk by the beach to soak in the beautiful morning sun.
afternoon
:Head to the local market for lunch and experience the vibrant culture of Seria. Spend the afternoon visiting the picturesque Kampong Ayer, the water village.
evening
:Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, trying traditional Bruneian dishes. Wrap up your day with a sunset view at the beach.
Nature Adventure Day
morning
:Embark on a morning hike through the nearby Ulu Temburong National Park. The fresh air and lush greenery will energize you for the day ahead.
afternoon
:Experience a thrilling boat ride down the river and spot local wildlife. Afterwards, enjoy a packed lunch surrounded by nature.
evening
:Return to Seria for a relaxing evening. Visit a local café for dessert and take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront.
Highlights
Good
- Low crime rate, making it a safe place to live.
- Rich in natural resources, especially oil and gas.
- Beautiful natural scenery with access to beaches and rainforests.
- Strong government support for education and healthcare.
- Cultural diversity and rich heritage.
Bad
- Limited job opportunities outside the oil and gas sector.
- High cost of living compared to other regions in Southeast Asia.
- Limited access to a variety of goods and services.
- Smaller expatriate community, which can lead to a sense of isolation.
- Strict laws and regulations which may be challenging for some to adjust to.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Beach Picnic at Pantai Seri Kenangan
Enjoy a relaxing day at the beach with a picnic, swimming, and taking in the beautiful coastal views.
Visiting Oil and Gas Discovery Centre (OGDC)
Explore the interactive exhibits and learn about the oil and gas industry in Brunei through engaging educational activities.
Hiking in Tasek Merimbun
Discover the lush natural beauty of Tasek Merimbun, Brunei's largest lake, while enjoying a peaceful and scenic hike.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Seria with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Oil And Gas Discovery Centre
Offers a panoramic view of the oil and gas industry in Brunei, with great photo opportunities.
Pantai Berakas
Beautiful beach area with scenic views, ideal for capturing stunning photos.
Tanjong Batu
Scenic park and viewpoint featuring picturesque landscapes for photography.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Ambuyat
A traditional local delicacy made from the interior trunk of the sago palm. It is usually served with a variety of condiments such as sour fruits, vegetables, and sambal.
Must-Try!
Nasi Katok
A simple yet popular dish consisting of steamed rice, fried chicken, and sambal - a spicy chili paste. Look for small roadside stalls or 'warungs' for an authentic experience.
Kolo Mee
A noodle dish tossed in a flavorful mixture of shallot oil, soy sauce, and accompanied by minced meat, char siu (Chinese barbecued pork), or seafood.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Seria better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Tamun Tamu Seria
This vibrant open-air market is a fantastic place to experience the local food scene, with an array of stalls offering traditional dishes, fresh produce, and snacks.
Pasarneka Tamu Muhibbah
A bustling market where visitors can sample an assortment of street food delicacies such as satay, rojak, and various grilled skewers.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect for the Sultan
It is important to show respect for the Sultan and the royal family in Brunei as they are highly esteemed and revered in the country. Avoid any disrespectful gestures or remarks towards the monarchy.
Conservative Dress Code
When visiting public places, it is important to adhere to the conservative dress code in Brunei. Modest and non-revealing attire is preferred, especially for women, as a sign of respect for the local culture and Islamic traditions.
Use of Polite Language
Using polite language and showing respect towards others, especially elders, is an important cultural norm in Brunei. Addressing people with proper titles and using courteous expressions is highly valued in social interactions.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Seria with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
Tipping is not a common practice in Brunei, including Seria. It is not expected or required to tip at restaurants, hotels, or for services. However, if you receive exceptional service, it is appreciated but not obligatory.
Payment
In Seria, and Brunei in general, cash is widely used for everyday transactions. Credit and debit cards are also accepted in most places, especially in larger establishments. Mobile payment methods are becoming increasingly popular, providing convenient alternatives for payments.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Seria.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry Season (January to April)
The best time to visit Seria, Brunei, with lower humidity, little rainfall, and comfortable temperatures. It is the ideal time for outdoor activities and exploring the city.
Wet Season (May to December)
Expect heavy rainfall, high humidity, and occasional thunderstorms during this season. It is still possible to visit Seria, but outdoor activities may be limited due to the weather.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Lambak Kanan Recreational Park
A scenic park featuring walking trails and picturesque views, ideal for casual hiking and outdoor activities.
Bukit Shahbandar Recreational Park
This park offers a variety of trails through lush forest, suitable for both hiking and mountain biking, with trails for different skill levels.
Ulu Temburong National Park
A stunning national park known for its pristine rainforests and diverse wildlife, featuring well-marked hiking routes and canopy walkways.
Mendulong Hill
A popular local hiking destination that provides a challenging hike and rewarding views at the summit of the hill.
Berakas Forest Reserve
This reserve offers a range of trails for hiking within a tropical rainforest setting, perfect for nature lovers.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Seria through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Seria by plane.
Brunei International Airport (BWN)
The main international airport serving Brunei, located approximately 66 km from Seria.
Miri Airport (MYY)
An international airport located in Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia, about 87 km from Seria.
Labuan Airport (LBU)
An airport located on Labuan Island, Malaysia, which is roughly 110 km from Seria.
Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI)
The main international airport serving Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia, located about 240 km from Seria.
Sibu Airport (SBW)
An airport in Sibu, Malaysia, approximately 290 km from Seria.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Malay
The largest ethnic group in Brunei, comprising the majority of the population.
Chinese
The second largest ethnic group, primarily involved in trade and commerce.
Indigenous Groups
Comprising various ethnic sub-groups such as the Dusun, Kedayan, and Murut.
Sikh
A smaller community, predominantly found in business sectors.
Others
Includes a mix of expatriates and other minority groups.
The Soul of Seria
Discover the essence of Seria through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football
Football is the most popular sport in Seria and throughout Brunei, with a strong following and local leagues.
Badminton
Badminton is widely played in Seria, supported by various clubs and facilities, making it a popular recreational activity.
Cricket
Cricket has a growing community in Seria, with local matches and tournaments attracting enthusiasts.
Basketball
Basketball is enjoyed by many in Seria, with community courts available for both casual games and organized competitions.
Sepak Takraw
This traditional sport is popular in Brunei, including Seria, combining elements of volleyball and football played with a rattan ball.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
While Bruneian cuisine often features seafood and meat, many eateries in Seria offer vegetable-based dishes, such as Sayur Lodeh (vegetable stew) and Tahu Telur (tofu omelet), for vegetarians. For vegans, it is advisable to communicate dietary preferences clearly to ensure the exclusion of animal-based ingredients.
Gluten-Free Choices
Navigating gluten-free options may require careful communication with restaurant staff to ensure the absence of ingredients like soy sauce and wheat-based products. Opting for seafood and rice-based dishes can be a safer choice, but confirming the cooking methods and ingredients is recommended for those with gluten sensitivities.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Seria with these cultural adventures.