5 interesting places to visit when travelling in Brunei:

A nation nestled on the island of Borneo, Brunei is surrounded by Malaysian territory and the South China Sea. It is not an extremely famous place but filled with much charm nonetheless. With beaches and diverse rainforests, it has a few intriguing types of flora and fauna that can be found in the Asian region. Here are five places one can visit when in Brunei; (the order of the spots re not rankings sand are positioned at random).

1. Ulu Temborong National Park
A nature reserve established in 1991, it is Brunei's first ever national park. With a plethora of activities and sights to see, the national park is a great place for nature lovers. One of the most exciting adventures is embarking on its Canopy Walkway where the lush greenery of the rainforests surrounds us. This allows us to see all the different wildlife in their natural lifestyles and habitat. The height of the walkway is 60 meters over the ridge of the mountain so acrophobias beware before you take the plunge; although safety wise, the walkway is built and support with steel cables.



2. Kampong Ayer
Take a stroll at the 'Water Village' and enjoy the sea breeze. Built on stilts over the Brunei River, Kampong Ayer proudly presents local cultural and historical heritage. It is also referred to as the “Venice of the East”. Water taxis are easily accessible through the plank walkways and docks with the minimum fare of B$1. Being above water doesn't prevent the village from having proper social infrastructures like schools, mosques, security and other necessities of life. This tranquil village can really soothe the soul from the hustle and bustle and give a new perspective towards life.

3. James 'Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque
The largest mosque in Brunei with a total of 29 domes brushed in magnificent gold. Locals call it the Kiarong Mosque, which is built in 1992 to commemorate the 25th Anniversary of His majesty the Sultan’s reign. Its four terrazzo-tiled minarets stand out, shadowing the rest of its surroundings. Located 3km away from city center, it is nearly impossible to miss it if one is heading towards Gadong. It is fairly easy to reach with public transportation and wheeled vehicles. The gold domes shine brightly amongst the dark night sky when the mosque is lit up come dusk.

4. Royal Regalia Building
A building that allows photography only until the entrance, its exterior alone draws one to instinctively pull out the camera and take plenty of shots. The Royal Regalia Building includes a massive collection of treasure featuring the life of the Sultan. The building displays series of portraits that give a good overview of the life of the ruler. Chariots can be seen as well that present the flair of Sultan during times of coronation or formal events. The life of the Sultan seeps through the many objects on show serving as a way for locals to better understand their ruler and culture.


5. Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque 
A major landmark of Brunei, it is a 'must see spot' for travellers in this region. It looms over the Brunei River alongside Kampong Ayer and literally glows in the dark. The mosque has strict rules for visitors and might not allow tourists due to it being a place of worship. However, it is considered as one of the most beautiful and well-built mosques in Asia. The mosque was built to symbolize the 28th Sultan of Brunei, which it is named after. The 28 domes are representative of the sultan's turn in reign.

With all these attractions, it might be high time to give Brunei a visit. It might be a great change of pace for some despite some negativity surrounding the country. However, let's not hate before we try so till the next time, safe travels everyone!!