I flew into Brunei’s capital, Bandar Seri Begawan, from Kuala Lumpur and spent 24 hours there. I was really pleasantly surprised by the country; the people were all very friendly and I felt completely safe during my whole visit, even at night. You don’t really need more than 24 hours in the country, so here is an outline of things to do to get the most out of it.
Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque
Contents
Logistics
The only way to get into the city is by taxi. You can book these outside the airport, and it will cost around B$25 (£13) for a 4 person car. If you can download Dart, this will be a cheaper option, however I had difficulty doing this because I didn’t have a Brunei phone number.
The Brunei Dollar (B$) is exactly the same as the Singapore Dollar and the two can be used in each country. Most places take cards, however, so you won’t have much use for cash.
Things to Do
Kampong Ayer: Stilt Village
This is the world’s largest village on stilts! In a direct contrast to the modern city lies this collection of wooden houses connected by creaky and dilapidated walkways above the lagoon. But Kampong Ayer has a mosque, utilities, cafés, and restaurants. It is a lot of fun to walk along the many walkways and admire the colourful wooden houses and witness life in this part of Bandar Seri Begawan. I was the only tourist in the village when I went - it was very quiet.
You can take a boat over to one of the many entry points for less than B$1 (60p), and it only takes 5 minutes. People come up to you on the edge of the lagoon and ask you if you want a ride. Unlike many south east asian countries, they aren’t trying to scam you - everyone charges the same price and there is no need to haggle. To get back, wait by one of the entry points and someone will come along to offer you a ride!
Royal Regalia Museum
The Royal Regalia Museum offers a great overview of the Sultanship in Brunei and showcases some impressive royal items and artwork. Entry costs B$6 (£3.50) and you can spend anywhere up to 2-3 hours in here.
A miniature set in the Royal Regalia Museum
Jame ‘Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque
The Jame ‘Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque is a beautiful mosque a little bit outside the centre of Bandar Seri Begawan, but is within walking distance. You’ll need to check prayer times to make sure you can enter, but otherwise it is free to visit. You will be given a cover to enter the prayer areas, and you can walk around and admire the architecture and design of the building. I was in awe of this place.
Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque
The Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque is probably the most famous of this city; you have probably seen pictures of it! It is gorgeously situated right in the centre, surrounded by water, which makes for beautiful photos. You can enter this mosque as well (no entry fee), but again make sure it is not during prayer times. There is a sign outside designating these times so you know. You can also ask the locals, they are very friendly and will explain the procedures to you.
Where to Stay
Coliving Bandar
There aren’t many hostels in Bandar Seri Begawan, but Coliving Bandar is perfectly located in the centre of the city, right by Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, and as such is walking distance to most attractions. It isn’t the most social, but then again Brunei isn’t really a backpacker destination!
Inside the Jame ‘Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque
Budget
My daily average for 2 days in Brunei was £30, which included accommodation, food, local transportation, a SIM card, and activities, but not flights. Hostels range from £12 to £15 per night, and food can be found from between £3 and £6 a meal. Brunei is more expensive than other southeast Asian countries, but most activities are free and as such remains affordable.
I hope this helps in forming an itinerary for Brunei. As I mentioned, Brunei was probably the biggest surprise for me - I really enjoyed my time there and hope you will too.
As always, try and minimise your impact and leave only your footprints behind :)
Comments