Travel in Asia
Miniscule in terms of land area, just 5,675 square kilometers, the country of Brunei is a tropical wonder just north of Borneo. This Islamic nation, also bordering Malaysia, enjoys one of the highest standards of living in the entire region.
Its capital city of Bander Seri Begawan, just known simply as BSB, has a waterfront pedestrian zone filled with all sorts of restaurants and other delights.
You won't find any nightclubs, as alcohol is illegal to sell or for public consumption. Public being the operative word, since non-Muslims are allowed to bring in some libations, so long as you've declared it with customs.
If you're an Israeli passport holder, you won't be allowed in. Others must have a passprt, return ticket, and for some--no visa is necessary. Aussies, you're going to need one--so get it before you leave home.
You don't have to worry much about precautionary vaccinations, but mosquito illnesses can happen; mostly Dengue Fever. Most water is safe to drink according to Western standards, but if you're not comfortable, stick to the bottled stuff. A local beverage is called ABC, a sweet drink that's actually called air batu campur.
There isn't too much worry about food borne illnesses, but you should avoid under-cooked meat or fish anyway. A yummy tasting dish of spicy beef with potato beans is "daging masak lada hitam". It'll take you longer to pronounce it than eat it.
Don't worry about caloric intake, you can burn everything off at the incredible golf course, that overlooks the South China Sea, at the Empire Hotel & Country Club; and set entirely within a tropical rainforest.
Walking around visiting places like the opulent Jame'Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque (that's best seen as the sun sets), or the Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, with its 44-meter minaret, gold domes, and chandeliers will certainly help keep you fit. This last mosque even has its own lagoon. Stunning, just doesn't quite cover it.
The beaches of Brunei are equally stunning, and the Muara Beaches are fantastic for both sunbathing and watersports.
It isn't all fun and sun in Brunei, this country has a long history. The Royal Regalia Museum details the opulence and history of the monarchy; while the Brunei Museum is filled with Islamic Art and glass, including 10th century ceramics.
You might find it refreshing to be in the air-conditioned indoors since the weather in Brunei can be quite hot & humid. It does cool off a bit during the winter--just not all that much. It rains a lot, mostly between October and December. Rather have some drier weather? Come to Brunei in February or March.
Rain will still come if you're visiting the Ulu Temburong National Park, one of the world's most untouched rainforest. You'll also find a lot of Brunei is jungle--perfect for the true adventure seeker.
