Brunei

Brunei, the Abode of Peace, greets you with serene beauty and architectural wonders. Start in Bandar Seri Begawan, the capital, where the Jame'Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque dazzles with its 29 golden domes honoring the sultan—dress modestly (long pants, covered shoulders) to step inside and admire the intricate marble floors and chandeliers. Nearby, the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque rises elegantly from a lagoon, perfect for golden-hour photos.

Hop on a water taxi (B$2-5 one-way, about USD1.50) along the Brunei River to Kampong Ayer, the world's largest water village. Wander stilted homes connected by boardwalks, peeking into daily life—it's like stepping into a living museum. For history buffs, the Royal Regalia Museum (B$15 entry, USD11) showcases royal chariots and gifts to the sultanate.

Use the Hello app's trip planning feature to map these spots efficiently, ensuring you catch prayer times when mosques close to non-Muslims. Stay connected with its eSIM for real-time navigation without roaming fees. These sights blend opulence and tradition, leaving you enchanted by Brunei's peaceful vibe.

Bruneian cuisine is a comforting mix of Malay influences, hearty and affordable. Don't miss ambuyat, the national dish—a sticky sago starch you roll with chopsticks and dip into spicy sambal or peanut sauce (B$5-10 per serving, USD3.50-7). Pair it with nasi katok, crispy fried chicken over rice wrapped in newspaper, a late-night street food staple for B$2 (USD1.50).

Head to Jerudong Beach for fresh seafood feasts—grilled fish and prawns straight from the ocean, often B$20-30 for a shared platter (USD14-21). In Bandar Seri Begawan, night markets like the Gadong Night Market buzz with stalls offering kuih (sweet rice cakes) and satay. Vegetarians, seek out nasi campur veggie curries.

Dining with companions? The Hello app's expense splitting makes dividing bills seamless after a group feast. Track your budget in BND to avoid overspending on temptations. Brunei's food scene rewards curious eaters with simple, flavorful meals that fuel rainforest adventures.

Getting around Brunei's compact size is straightforward, but a car offers flexibility beyond the capital. Bandar Seri Begawan is walkable for main sights, but water taxis (B$1-20, USD0.70-14) are essential for Kampong Ayer. Rent a scooter (B$20/day, USD14) or car (B$50-80/day, USD35-56) for nearby spots—international license needed, drive on the left.

For Ulu Temburong National Park, book a speedboat and longboat tour (B$200-300 pp full-day, USD140-210) to hike canopy walkways amid proboscis monkeys and hornbills. Jerudong Beach is a 30-minute drive west for watersports; Muara Beach north for family picnics.

Public buses run infrequently, so taxis via apps like BruDrive (B$10-20 short trips, USD7-14) are reliable. Grab a local eSIM through the Hello app to stay online for ride-hailing and maps, dodging pricey roaming. Plan itineraries in the app to optimize your days—Brunei's roads are smooth, revealing rainforest glimpses at every turn.

Brunei's primary rainforests cover 70% of the land, offering untouched adventures. In Temburong District, the Ulu Temburong National Park shines: speedboat upriver, then trek to a canopy bridge for views of mangroves and waterfalls (full-day tours B$250 pp, USD175 incl. lunch). Spot long-tailed macaques, monitor lizards, and flying lizards.

Closer to the capital, Bukit Shahbandar Recreational Park (20-min drive) has easy trails to waterfalls—perfect for birdwatching rhinoceros hornbills. Tasek Lama Recreational Park offers urban escapes with jungle paths and swimming spots.

Pack insect repellent, light rain gear, and modest clothing. Entry is often free or low-cost (B$1-5, USD0.70-3.50). Use Hello's budget tracking to log tour costs in BND, and trip planning to slot in eco-excursions. These green havens deliver serene hikes and wildlife encounters, showcasing Brunei's commitment to preservation.