The small oil-rich state of Brunei is largely covered by rainforests and thanks to its prosperity in natural gas and petroleum resources there is far less pressure here to exploit its natural environment.  It is the fifth richest country in the world in terms of GDP per head and is among the most peaceful and tolerant countries.
 
Bandar Seri Bagawan
 
The western half of Brunei contains all of the country’s oil wealth, with most of the population strung out in towns along the coast.  It is also home to the capital city, Bandar Seri Bagawan.  Here you will find the beautiful waterfront, recently turned into a handsome pedestrian promenade.  Take a twilight or evening stroll along the river and see the marvellous Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque illuminate the skyline.
 
Temburong
 
The eastern half of Brunei is known as Temburong, and is home to only 4,000 permanent residents.  Temburong is mainly covered in lush primary rainforests including the Ulu Temburong National Park, making it the most ideal location for any jungle walking expedition.  Whether you want a jungle walk lasting a few hours or a few days, with over 70% of the country covered by rainforests there are many routes on offer to choose from.  The terrain is varied and will take you up ridges followed by descents into ravines and crossing streams. 
 
Muara Beach
 
Maura Beach is Brunei’s premier coastal destination.  It is ideally situated close to the main commercial and ferry ports and is less than 30 kilometres from the capital.  Green forests lead onto golden sands which disappear into turquoise waters providing a picture perfect setting.  Take a leisurely wander down the long, quiet esplanade and stop for a picnic in the well equipped picnic area.  Other beaches on the island include Serasa Beach and Meragang Beach which is popular with those who enjoy water sports including jet-skiing, kayaking, windsurfing and water skiing.
 
Kampong Ayer
 
Affectionately known as ‘Venice of the East’, Kampong Ayer is a water village built on stilts along the banks of the Brunei River providing housing for some 40,000 people.  Take a water taxi journey from downtown Bandar Seri Begawan and stroll among the colourfully painted houses on wooden boardwalks.  This is the largest and most famous water settlement of Southeast Asia and was historically the most important trade centre in Borneo.  Visit here to get a true sense of Bruneians’ traditional way of life.
 
Round Up
 
Most visitors to Brunei spend less than a week here but for those with more time on their hands, take your time and enjoy this fascinating array of outstanding natural and manmade attractions.
 
 
WHERE TO STAY: Empire Hotel & Country Club
See the architectural masterpiece that is the Empire Hotel & Country Club, set in acres of tropical gardens at the doorstep of one of the oldest rainforests in Southeast Asia.  Its golf course has views over the South China Sea and it is also Brunei’s only beach resort.
 
WHAT TO DO: Brunei Sub-Aqua Diving Club
If you are a suitably certified scuba diver you can go out with the Brunei Sub-Aqua Diving Club on their weekend dives.  This long established club has a large 11m catamaran that takes up to 16 divers focusing on wreck diving.  Explore several visually exciting modern and WW2 wrecks in the South China Sea.
 
WHERE TO EAT: Nur Wanita Restaurant
Serving up northern Thai cuisine, Nur Wanita is a popular lunchtime hotspot for nearby office employees.  Try the not-too-spicy tom yum soup, the Thai-style fried kway teow, mango chicken rice, Chiang Mai curry noodles and deep-fried kangkong with meat gravy.

Share this article: