Before You Go
- Confirm passport validity and entry requirements.
- Check whether a tourist visa is required.
- Keep digital copies of important documents.
- Consider purchasing travel insurance.
Bandar Seri Begawan
Brunei Dollar (BND)
Malay
Feb–Apr
BNT (UTC+8)
Welcome to Brunei, a small, oil-rich sultanate on the island of Borneo, where gleaming golden-domed mosques rise beside untouched rainforest. Bandar Seri Begawan, the capital, is home to the stunning Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, its golden dome reflecting beautifully in a surrounding lagoon. Kampong Ayer, often called the "Venice of the East," is one of the largest stilted water villages in the world, offering a fascinating glimpse into traditional river life. Brunei's rainforests, among the best preserved in Southeast Asia, are home to proboscis monkeys, orangutans, and countless rare species. The Ulu Temburong National Park invites adventurous travelers to explore its pristine jungle via canopy walkways high above the forest floor. Brunei's wealth is reflected in opulent palaces and mosques, showcasing intricate Islamic architecture and design. The country's calm, orderly atmosphere offers a peaceful contrast to its lush, wild natural surroundings. Brunei welcomes travelers to discover a hidden gem of gold-domed elegance and untouched rainforest beauty.
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Helpful information to consider before and during your visit.
Discover some of Brunei's most popular flavors, traditional dishes and memorable local treats during your visit.
Ambuyat is a signature Brunei specialty known for its distinctive local ingredients, seasoning and traditional preparation.
This popular Brunei dish brings together familiar regional flavors and is commonly enjoyed in homes, markets or local restaurants.
A well-loved part of Brunei cuisine, Ayam Penyet reflects the country's culinary traditions and locally available ingredients.
Kelupis is a comforting regional favorite, prepared in styles that may vary between families, cities and different parts of Brunei.
Visitors often seek out Soto Brunei for an authentic taste of Brunei's everyday cooking and food culture.
This traditional favorite highlights the bold, savory or gently spiced flavors associated with cooking in Brunei.
Pulut Panggang is widely recognized in Brunei and is often served at casual meals, celebrations or community gatherings.
A memorable choice for travelers, Kuih Mor offers a flavorful introduction to the ingredients and techniques used across Brunei.
This classic food is an important part of Brunei's culinary identity and is best sampled freshly prepared.
Brunei is a small, oil-rich nation on the island of Borneo, surrounded on land by the Malaysian state of Sarawak. Its full official name, Brunei Darussalam, means “Brunei, Abode of Peace.” The country is governed by one of the world’s oldest continuing monarchies, and the Sultan of Brunei serves as both head of state and head of government. The immense Istana Nurul Iman is recognized as one of the largest residential palaces in the world, containing well over 1,000 rooms.
Much of Brunei remains covered by tropical rainforest, and the country has protected large areas from commercial logging. Ulu Temburong National Park preserves dense primary forest reached by boat and elevated walkways. These forests contain hornbills, proboscis monkeys, clouded leopards, and countless insects and plants. Brunei is also home to Kampong Ayer, a centuries-old settlement built on stilts above the Brunei River and often called the “Venice of the East.”
Tens of thousands of residents once lived in Kampong Ayer, which includes houses, schools, mosques, shops, and emergency services connected by wooden walkways and water taxis. Brunei has no personal income tax for most citizens, and the government provides extensive public benefits funded largely by petroleum and natural gas revenue. The country also preserves traditional crafts such as silverwork, brasswork, weaving, and the creation of ceremonial kris daggers.
Another little-known fact is that Albanians have a unique cultural tradition called "Besa," meaning "to keep one's promise." This centuries-old code of honor became internationally recognized during World War II when Albania was one of the few European countries where the Jewish population actually increased because local families risked their lives to shelter refugees. Albania also boasts the stunning Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër), a natural spring with crystal-clear turquoise water whose exact depth remains unknown despite multiple explorations.
Finally, Albania enjoys more than 300 sunny days each year, rivaling many Mediterranean destinations. The country is also famous for its "sworn virgins"—a centuries-old tradition in remote mountain villages where women could legally assume male social roles by taking a lifelong vow of celibacy, preserving family inheritance and leadership in the absence of male heirs.
