Brunei

Brunei’s compact capital is an easy introduction to the country’s royal heritage, Islamic architecture, and river life. Begin at Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, whose golden dome and reflecting lagoon are especially striking near sunset. The Royal Regalia Museum offers a detailed look at Brunei’s monarchy, while the waterfront is the launching point for boats to Kampong Ayer, the famous stilt village spread across the Brunei River. A short water-taxi crossing typically costs around BND 1, while a longer village cruise or private charter costs more, so agree on the price and route before boarding. Dress modestly at religious and cultural sites; carry a light scarf for mosque visits, where visitors may need to cover their shoulders, knees, and hair. Keep your itinerary flexible around prayer times and religious holidays. Hello’s trip-planning tools can help group the capital’s museums, mosques, waterfront, and Kampong Ayer into a practical one-day route.

Public transport is affordable but limited, particularly outside Bandar Seri Begawan. City buses generally cost about BND 1 per ride, though routes and operating hours may not suit a tightly timed itinerary. Taxis are available at the airport, hotels, and shopping centres, while Dart, Brunei’s local ride-hailing service, can be useful for point-to-point trips. If you plan to explore beaches, rainforest areas, or towns beyond the capital, consider renting a car or arranging a driver. Brunei drives on the left, and visitors hiring a car may need a valid licence and an International Driving Permit. Kampong Ayer is best reached by water taxi from the downtown waterfront, and river excursions can also reveal mangroves, proboscis monkeys, and fireflies. Keep small notes for buses, boats, and informal vendors. Hello eSIM lets you stay connected without roaming charges when you buy and activate it before landing, making maps, Dart bookings, and messages easier while travelling.

Brunei’s food scene is casual, generous, and strongly influenced by Malay and Bornean flavours. Try nasi katok, a simple but satisfying plate of rice, fried chicken, and spicy sambal, or look for ambuyat, a traditional sago-based dish served with dipping sauces. Gadong Night Market is ideal for sampling grilled skewers, noodles, seafood, kuih, and fresh drinks in one relaxed stop. Food courts and small stalls are often excellent value, but many vendors accept only cash, so carry Brunei dollars in smaller denominations. Larger hotels, supermarkets, and established restaurants commonly accept cards. Brunei is a Muslim-majority country, so pork and alcohol are generally unavailable, and halal food is widely accessible. When eating with companions, Hello’s expense-splitting feature can make it simple to divide shared platters, market snacks, and taxi fares. Use budget tracking in BND to see how quickly meals, tours, and transport are adding up.

For a deeper nature experience, plan a guided trip to Ulu Temburong National Park, where rainforest, rivers, and canopy viewpoints offer a vivid contrast to the capital. Visits usually require advance arrangements and boat transport, so reserve early and allow extra time for weather. Brunei’s tropical climate means sudden rain is normal; pack quick-drying clothing, insect repellent, comfortable shoes, and a waterproof bag for phones and documents. In public spaces, choose respectful clothing that covers shoulders and knees, especially near mosques and government buildings. Remove shoes when asked, avoid loud behaviour in religious sites, and request permission before photographing people or homes in Kampong Ayer. The Brunei dollar is the local currency and has the same value as the Singapore dollar, which is also accepted in many places. Keep cash for small businesses, water taxis, and market stalls, and record purchases in Hello’s budget tracker as you go.