by Fe Esperanza Trampe
Our Philippine passports can’t really go that far, but why would you need to when there’s a whole other world just two hours away by plane?
With a land area roughly the size of Cebu province, and a population less than that of Marikina City, the Nation of Brunei is a small country. It’s not on most Filipinos’ travel bucket lists, and that’s exactly why you should go there.
You’ll be surprised at how much you can actually do in this Islamic state in a short span of time. Any single weekend here will definitely be well-spent, and there will barely be a dent in your bank account when you get back.
Attractions are 100% free!
Jame’ Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque
Brunei doesn’t really get a lot of tourists. And so, all of the tourist attractions here are free. From magnificent mosques to grand museums, and tidbits of a land lost in time, you surely won’t run out of things to do and places to see when in this small but proud country.
Teng Yun Temple, the only Chinese Buddhist Temple in Brunei
The best place to stay at when visiting Brunei will definitely be the city center of Bandar Seri Begawan. From here, you can walk to most of the country’s top attractions.
Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque
The Royal Regalia Museum and Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque are within blocks away from one another. Take a few more steps, and you’ll be at Bandar’s waterfront, overlooking Kampong Ayer.
The Sungai Kebun Bridge and Kampong Ayer
as seen from the Bandar Seri Begawan Promenade
Isn’t it amazing that the world’s largest water village is in one of it’s smaller countries? Taking a water taxi from Bandar to this floating sanctuary is a must. And it’s only $1.00!
Kampong Ayer
Nature is everywhere!
Taman Makhota Jubli Emas
You’d think that a small country would not have a lot of space, but that’s not the case when you’re in Brunei. Treat yourself to absolutely everything that nature has to offer when here!
Get out of central Brunei-Muara, and you’ll see endless patches of green. So much of Brunei has actually remained untouched, and is known as the home of many different wildlife species. One of these is the quirky proboscis monkey.
Empire Hotel and Country Club
Beaches are aplenty as well at this land by the sea. Engaging in water sports may come at a price tag, but simply just marveling at nature’s beauty from this part of the globe is free and rather priceless.
Empire Hotel and Country Club
Beautiful sunsets are something Bruneians are extremely proud of. They really are different in Brunei. Sit back and relax as Bruneians would do, and welcome in the cool of the night.
Kianggeh River in Downtown Bandar Seri Begawan
Food is delicious AND cheap!
Breakfast at Jing Chew
Whenever you go to a new place, always sample its local cuisine. Food says so much about the people who live there and the place itself, and it’s no different in Brunei!
Apam Balik (Malaysian Peanutbutter Pancake) from a Local Night Market
As Brunei is situated on the island of Borneo, and shares its borders with Malaysia, so much of its cuisine is influenced by Malay culture. They have the same teas and breads, and are also lovers of noodles and meat.
Naan bread and Teh Tarik at a local Indian Restaurant
Indian and Chinese influences also seep deep in Bruneian food, but always keep in mind that the country’s population is predominantly Muslim. That means that pork is an absolute no, and most food are cooked halal.
Chicken Rice
You can get generous meals for as low as $2.00 or the equivalent of ?70.00 at Brunei’s local markets. Expect servings to be huge and worth every cent!
Ayam Soto or Chicken Noodles from the Gadong Night Market
The most popular night market in Brunei is Gadong Night Market. It’s a bit far from the City Center, but is a quick and easy bus ride away from wherever you may be staying.
The Mall, the largest shopping mall in Brunei,
is right beside the Gadong Night Market
The locals are EXTREMELY friendly!
A local vendor from the Kianggeh Market playing traditional instruments
As we’ve said, Brunei doesn’t really get a lot of tourists. Because of this, its locals are generally friendly and happy to help tourists in need.
Inside the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque
Chat someone up at the market and ask them your questions. Almost all Bruneians are well-educated and can speak English very well. You’ll have to take a seat, because you will have so much to talk about!
At the University of Brunei Darussalam
Don’t be surprised to see a few Filipinos around as well. There are a lot of OFW’s in Brunei. Ready your Filipino-senses. It’s always nice to see a kababayan!
Bandar Seri Begawan Promenade
A trip to Brunei is not everyone’s cup of tea, but it may just be yours! With direct flights at ridiculously cheap prices, and so many more deals once on Bornean soil itself, what are you waiting for? P5,000.00-worth of pocket money will get you far in Brunei.
