Brunei Travel Guide

A sparkling jewel on the north-west corner of Borneo, The Sultanate of Brunei is surrounded by and at one point even split by the state of Sarawak, Malaysian. The country is most well known as one of South-East Asia’s wealthiest countries, with a very high standard of living for its citizens.

Bandar Seri Begawan is the capital of Brunei: its most impressive site is the Sultan’s Royal Palace, known as the Istana Nurul Iman, the largest residential palace in the world. The Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque, with golden domes and coloured glass windows, is particularly stunning at night when illuminated by green lights. Don’t miss the free Royal Regalia Building, a museum of the sultan’s many treasures, including the royal chariot and the jewel- encrusted coronation crowns.

A highlight of any trip to Brunei is a visit to a traditional water village. Take a tour to Kampung Ayer, the ‘Venice of the East’, the world’s largest water village, home to more than 30,000 people. The houses here are joined by interconnecting timber walkways.

There is no end of activities to keep you busy, drive through Brunei's beautiful countryside, seeing villages and buffalo along the way. Visit a typical country house and learn about jungle medicine, vegetables, local trees and fruits. Check out mini palaces or stop at a local sea-side market before heading back to your hotel along the coastal road.