Insider Travel Tips

Brunei is one of the safest countries in the world. You can walk around the capital city at night without having to watch your back.

Being a Muslim-majority country, Brunei follows a strict dress code that involves women wearing a hijab and not showing any skin. Female travellers are not expected to follow suit. But at mosques and religious buildings, all women are expected to cover their head, so remember to pack a shawl or scarf.

Most of the sightseeing in the country is limited to Bandar Seri Begawan, so it makes sense to book accommodation in the city. From here, you can get to the famous water village of Kampong Ayer by taxi or foot. Kampong Ayer has stilt homes that local boats ferry you to and fro. Cruises are a popular way to explore the village - you can see the homes and also proboscis monkeys further down the river.

Brunei is a budget-friendly destination. Hotels start from $25 Bruneian dollars (BND) or about $18 USD, and private hotels from $40 BND. Meals are also on the cheaper side. There are multiple options to get around this fairly small country.

You can catch a bus at the main bus terminal in the heart of Bandar Seri Begawan. It is the most cost-effective way to get around Brunei. The bus routes go all around the district and connect the capital city to rural areas. However, buses are best if you have time on your hands to explore places more leisurely and aren't packing many attractions in one day.

Taxis and rideshares are a comfortable way to travel. The main terminal for taxis is located at the bus terminal. Dart is the local ridesharing service and works like Uber.