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The Ultimate Brunei Cheat Sheet 2025: An Insider’s Guide to the Sultanate’s Hidden Gems

Insider's Brunei travel cheat sheet for 2025 with money-saving tips, cultural insights, and practical advice from a frequent visitor. Includes post-pandemic updates and local secrets.

Introduction: Your Gateway to the Abode of Peace

The first time I stepped off the plane at Brunei International Airport (BWN), I was hit by that distinctive tropical heat that seems to wrap around you like a blanket. It was 2018, and I had no idea this tiny, oil-rich sultanate would become one of my favorite destinations in Southeast Asia. Seven visits later, I’ve navigated the common tourist pitfalls, befriended locals who’ve shown me the real Brunei, and discovered that behind the gleaming mosques and strict laws lies a country of incredible warmth, both in climate and hospitality.

In 2025, Brunei remains one of Southeast Asia’s most underrated destinations—a place where pristine rainforests exist just minutes from opulent palaces, where street food costs pennies in one of the wealthiest nations on earth, and where the phrase “Selamat datang” (welcome) is genuinely meant. This cheat sheet compiles everything I wish I’d known before my first visit, updated with the latest post-pandemic changes and insider tips you won’t find in mainstream guidebooks.

Whether you’re planning a quick stopover or using Brunei as a gateway to explore Borneo, this guide will help you navigate this fascinating sultanate like a seasoned visitor rather than a confused first-timer (like I was, wandering aimlessly around Gadong Night Market with absolutely no clue what to order!).

Essential Travel Information for Brunei

Visa and Entry Requirements

One of Brunei’s biggest advantages is its relatively straightforward visa policy. In 2025, citizens from over 55 countries can enter visa-free for stays of 14-90 days, depending on nationality. Americans, Canadians, EU citizens, and most Commonwealth countries get 90 days, while many Asian countries receive 14-30 days.

Money-Saving Tip #1: Don’t pay for a visa if you don’t need one! I’ve met travelers who were scammed by “expedited visa services” online, only to discover they didn’t need a visa in the first place. Always check the official Brunei Immigration Department website for the most current requirements.

If you do need a visa, applications can be submitted online through the e-Visa portal. Processing typically takes 3-5 business days, and the fee is B$30 (approximately US$22) as of early 2025.

Currency and Costs

Brunei uses the Brunei Dollar (BND), which is pegged at par with the Singapore Dollar (SGD). Both currencies are accepted throughout Brunei, which came in handy when I ran out of local currency on my second visit!

Despite being one of the wealthiest countries per capita in the world, Brunei can be surprisingly affordable for travelers who know where to go. Here’s a breakdown of typical costs in 2025:

Expense Budget Mid-range Luxury
Accommodation B$30-60 B$70-150 B$200+
Meal (local) B$3-7 B$10-20 B$30+
Meal (Western) B$10-15 B$20-40 B$50+
Local transport (one-way) B$1-2 B$15-25 (taxi) B$40+ (private car)
Bottle of water B$0.80-1.50 n/a n/a
SIM card (7 days, data) B$10-15 B$20-30 B$40+

Money-Saving Tip #2: Unlike most of Southeast Asia, haggling isn’t common in Brunei. Instead, ask locals where they shop—I discovered the Tamu Kianggeh market offers produce at about 40% less than supermarkets after a friendly chat with my guesthouse owner.

When to Visit Brunei

Brunei has a tropical climate with temperatures consistently between 23°C-32°C (73°F-90°F) year-round. The wettest months are typically November to February, while the driest period is from March to October.

My favorite time to visit is April-May when the weather is relatively dry but tourist numbers haven’t peaked. During my May 2022 visit, I had Ulu Temburong National Park almost entirely to myself on a weekday!

Avoid visiting during Ramadan if you’re planning to experience Brunei’s food scene or need flexible daytime dining options. While tourists can still eat during the day in designated areas, many restaurants and food stalls operate on limited hours.

Getting to and Around Brunei

Brunei is served by Brunei International Airport (BWN), located about 8km from Bandar Seri Begawan. As of 2025, direct flights connect Brunei with destinations including Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Manila, Hong Kong, and several cities in China, Japan, and Australia.

Royal Brunei Airlines often offers competitive fares, and I’ve found their service excellent. In 2025, they’ve added several new routes, making Brunei more accessible than ever.

Getting around Brunei without a car can be challenging but not impossible:

  • Public buses – The purple bus system is cheap (B$1-2 per journey) but infrequent. Routes cover most of BSB and extend to Muara, Tutong, and Seria.
  • Dart – Brunei’s answer to Uber is the most convenient way to get around. Download the app before arriving.
  • Water taxis – A fun way to cross the Brunei River in BSB, costing around B$1 per person.
  • Car rental – Rates start from about B$70/day. International driving permits are recognized.

Money-Saving Tip #3: For a unique experience that saves money, use the public water taxis to cross the Brunei River (B$1) rather than walking all the way around or taking a Dart. The boatmen know all the best spots, and on my third visit, our water taxi driver gave us an impromptu short tour of Kampong Ayer for just B$5 extra when he learned we were first-time visitors!

Understanding Brunei’s Cultural Landscape

Respect for Local Customs

Brunei is a conservative Islamic country where Sharia law exists alongside civil law. While the headline-grabbing severe punishments generally don’t apply to visitors, respecting local customs is essential.

During my first visit, I made the mistake of wearing shorts and a sleeveless top while visiting the Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque area (not even entering it). The looks of disapproval were palpable, and a kind local woman gently suggested I cover up more. I was mortified at my ignorance.

Here are some key cultural points to remember:

  • Dress modestly in public (shoulders and knees covered for both men and women)
  • Remove shoes before entering homes, mosques, and some businesses
  • Alcohol is prohibited throughout the country (don’t try to bring it in or ask where to find it)
  • Public displays of affection should be avoided
  • Always use your right hand for eating or giving/receiving items
  • The Islamic call to prayer happens five times daily—be respectful during these times

When greeting locals, men should wait for women to extend their hands first for a handshake. Many Muslim women prefer not to shake hands with men outside their family. The safest greeting is to place your right hand over your heart with a slight nod—I’ve found this always well-received.

Useful Phrases in Malay

While English is widely spoken in Brunei, especially in tourist areas, learning a few basic Malay phrases will enhance your experience:

English Malay Pronunciation
Hello Halo HAH-loh
Thank you Terima kasih teh-REE-mah KAH-seh
Yes/No Ya/Tidak yah/TEE-dak
Excuse me Maaf mah-AHF
Delicious Sedap seh-DAP
How much? Berapa harga? beh-RAH-pah HAR-gah
Too expensive Terlalu mahal ter-LAH-loo mah-HAL

I still remember the huge smile I received from a food vendor when I exclaimed “Sedap!” after trying ambuyat (Brunei’s national dish) for the first time. Such a simple word created an instant connection.

Must-See Attractions in Brunei

Bandar Seri Begawan Highlights

Brunei’s capital offers a fascinating mix of Islamic grandeur, water villages, and jungle reserves:

Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque

This stunning mosque with its golden dome is Brunei’s most iconic landmark. Built in 1958, it’s surrounded by an artificial lagoon that creates perfect reflections for photographers.

Non-Muslims can visit outside prayer times (generally 8:30am-12pm, 1:30pm-3pm, and 4:30pm-5:30pm). Women will be provided with a robe and headscarf if needed.

Visit just before sunset for the most magical photos when the golden hour light hits the dome. I’ve found that the northwest corner of the lagoon offers the best angle for capturing both the mosque and its reflection.

Kampong Ayer (Water Village)

Often called the “Venice of the East,” Kampong Ayer is a network of villages built entirely on stilts over the Brunei River. Home to around 13,000 people, this centuries-old settlement has schools, mosques, shops, and even a fire station—all suspended over water.

Take a water taxi (B$1) from the waterfront near the Yayasan Shopping Complex to explore. For a deeper experience, I recommend visiting the Kampong Ayer Cultural & Tourism Gallery (free entry) to learn about the village’s history, then arranging a guided tour (around B$30) through the gallery.

When I visited in 2022, I stayed in a Kampong Ayer homestay for B$65 per night—an unforgettable experience that included homemade breakfast and the chance to live like a local.

Jame’Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque

Brunei’s largest mosque was built to commemorate the current sultan’s 25th year of reign. With 29 golden domes and four minarets, it’s particularly stunning when illuminated at night.

Non-Muslims can visit during designated hours (usually Monday-Thursday and Saturday from 8:00am-12:00pm and 1:30pm-3:00pm). Remember to dress modestly.

Royal Regalia Museum

Learn about Brunei’s sultanate and see incredible treasures including the royal chariot used for the sultan’s coronation procession, replicas of the throne, and numerous gifts from world leaders. Admission is free, and you’ll need to remove your shoes and store bags before entering.

The first time I visited in 2018, I spent just 30 minutes here, rushing through. On my return in 2022, I took the time to read the detailed explanations and ended up spending over two hours—the context makes the displays so much more fascinating.

Beyond the Capital

Ulu Temburong National Park

Nicknamed the “Green Jewel of Brunei,” this pristine rainforest offers a complete contrast to the opulence of BSB. The park’s canopy walkway, suspended 50 meters above the forest floor, provides spectacular views across untouched jungle.

Day trips from BSB (around B$120-180) typically include:

  1. Speedboat transport to Bangar town in Temburong district
  2. Longboat journey upriver
  3. Guided jungle trekking
  4. Canopy walkway climb
  5. Lunch at the park center
  6. Optional swimming at freshwater pools

The journey itself is part of the adventure, especially the exhilarating longboat ride navigating shallow rapids. Wear quick-dry clothing and bring insect repellent, sunscreen, and plenty of water.

Insider Tip: Book through Freme Travel or Brunei Nature Tours at least a day in advance. During my 2022 visit, I noticed that booking directly rather than through hotel concierges saved about 15-20% on tour costs.

Jerudong Park

Once touted as “the largest and most expensive amusement park in Southeast Asia,” Jerudong Park has been scaled back but remains a pleasant place to spend an evening. Entrance fees are reasonable (around B$15 for unlimited rides in 2025), and it’s popular with local families.

The park is about 20km from BSB. Take bus #55 or #57 from the bus terminal, or a Dart will cost approximately B$15-20 each way.

Pantai Seri Kenangan (Memorable Beach)

This curved beach in Tutong district (about 45 minutes from BSB) is unique as it’s surrounded by water on both sides—river on one side, sea on the other. It’s popular with locals for picnics and swimming but rarely crowded.

Take bus #39 from BSB bus terminal (B$6), or arrange a Dart (approximately B$35-40 each way). Combine this with a visit to Tasek Merimbun, Brunei’s largest natural lake, for a full day trip.

Culinary Adventures in Brunei

Must-Try Local Dishes

Bruneian cuisine blends Malay, Chinese, and indigenous influences, creating a unique culinary landscape. During my visits, I’ve made it a mission to try everything possible—sometimes to my digestive system’s dismay!

Ambuyat

Brunei’s national dish isn’t for everyone, but it’s a must-try cultural experience. Made from sago palm starch, it resembles a gooey, tasteless paste that you eat by twirling it around bamboo chopsticks (called chandas) and dipping it into flavorful sauces.

My first experience with ambuyat at Aminah Arif Restaurant in Kiulap was memorable—I kept dropping the slippery mixture before mastering the technique. The locals at the next table were highly entertained by my efforts!

Nasi Katok

Brunei’s ultimate comfort food and budget meal consists of rice, fried chicken, and spicy sambal sauce, all wrapped in brown paper. At just B$1 per packet, it’s the country’s most affordable meal and available practically everywhere.

My favorite versions are from Nasi Katok Buttermilk (near The Mall in Gadong) and Nasi Katok Lily (in Kiarong). The differences between vendors might seem subtle at first, but after trying about 15 different places, I can confirm there’s a wide range in quality!

Other Local Favorites

  • Ayam Penyet – Smashed fried chicken with rice and sambal
  • Kelupis – Glutinous rice wrapped in leaves
  • Beef Rendang – Slow-cooked beef in coconut milk and spices
  • Kuih – Colorful bite-sized sweet or savory snacks
  • Pulut Panggang – Grilled glutinous rice stuffed with spiced coconut

Where to Eat

Food Markets

Brunei’s night markets (pasar malam) offer the best value and most authentic food experiences:

  • Gadong Night Market – The largest and most popular, with over 150 stalls. Open daily from 4pm-11pm.
  • Tamu Kianggeh – Morning market selling fresh produce, spices, and ready-to-eat items.
  • Jerudong Park Food Court – Excellent seafood options in an outdoor setting.

At Gadong Night Market, head to the far eastern corner where locals queue for the best satay. During my last visit, I paid just B$1 for 5 sticks of perfectly grilled chicken satay with peanut sauce that put expensive restaurant versions to shame.

Restaurants Worth Trying

  • Excapade Sushi – Surprisingly good and affordable Japanese food with multiple branches
  • Kaizen Sushi – Higher-end Japanese cuisine popular with locals
  • PGS Cafe – Excellent local coffee and pastries
  • Rizqun Coffee House – Great buffet showcasing local specialties
  • Seri Damai Restaurant – Authentic local dishes in a comfortable setting

Money-Saving Tip #4: Many restaurants offer significant discounts (20-30% off) during off-peak hours, typically 3pm-6pm. I accidentally discovered this at Excapade Sushi and saved B$15 on my meal!

Dining Etiquette

A few cultural points to remember while dining in Brunei:

  • Always use your right hand for eating (if eating with hands)
  • Wait for the eldest person to begin eating first
  • It’s polite to accept food or drink when offered
  • Leaving a small amount of food on your plate indicates you’re satisfied
  • Restaurants close during prayer times, especially on Fridays

During Ramadan, be discreet when eating during daylight hours. Most restaurants will be closed until sunset, but larger hotels and some international chains provide screened dining areas for non-Muslims.

Accommodation Guide

Where to Stay in Brunei

Brunei offers everything from ultra-luxury hotels to simple guesthouses. Most accommodations are concentrated in BSB and nearby Gadong/Kiulap areas.

Luxury Options

  • The Empire Brunei – Opulent beachfront resort with championship golf course. (B$220-450/night)
  • Radisson Hotel – Centrally located luxury hotel with excellent facilities. (B$150-280/night)
  • The Royal Brunei Polo & Country Club – Exclusive retreat with equestrian facilities. (B$180-350/night)

Mid-range Options

  • Rizqun International Hotel – Connected to The Mall shopping center in Gadong. (B$80-150/night)
  • Traders Inn – Solid business hotel with good amenities. (B$70-120/night)
  • Times Hotel – Comfortable and centrally located. (B$60-110/night)

Budget Options

  • Badi’ah Hotel – Basic but clean rooms near the city center. (B$40-70/night)
  • Apek Utama Hotel – Simple but well-located budget option. (B$35-60/night)
  • Kunyit 7 Lodge – Charming heritage guesthouse in a refurbished shophouse. (B$40-80/night)

Unique Stays

  • Kampong Ayer homestays – Experience life in the water village. (B$50-90/night)
  • Ulu Ulu Resort – Eco-resort in Ulu Temburong National Park. (B$150-250/night)

Money-Saving Tip #5: Brunei hotel prices drop significantly on weekdays. During my visits, I’ve saved up to 40% by scheduling my stays from Sunday to Thursday. Even the prestigious Empire Hotel offers weekday promotions that make luxury surprisingly affordable.

Neighborhood Guide

When choosing accommodation, each area offers different advantages:

  • BSB City Center – Best for sightseeing and cultural attractions. Walkable to major sites like Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque and Royal Regalia Museum.
  • Gadong – Brunei’s commercial hub with The Mall, Night Market, and numerous restaurants. Good mid-range options.
  • Kiulap – Modern business district with shopping plazas and dining options. Popular with business travelers.
  • Jerudong – Upscale residential area near the beach and Empire Hotel. Quieter but requires transportation.
  • Muara – Coastal area with beaches. Limited accommodation but more peaceful.

I’ve stayed in most areas across my visits, and for first-timers, I recommend staying in central BSB or Gadong for convenience. On my first trip, I booked accommodation in Jerudong and spent too much time and money commuting to attractions.

Shopping and Souvenirs

What to Buy

Despite not being known as a shopping destination, Brunei offers some unique souvenirs:

  • Kain Tenunan – Traditional woven fabric with intricate patterns
  • Jungle products – Honey, handicrafts, and remedies from the rainforest
  • Silver and brass items – Traditional containers and decorative pieces
  • Wooden carvings – Especially from indigenous Iban and Dusun communities
  • Royal Brunei batik products – Clothing, scarves, and household items

My most treasured souvenir is a hand-woven songket fabric I purchased directly from a weaver in Kampong Ayer. At B$120, it wasn’t cheap, but watching her demonstrate the traditional technique made it worth every dollar.

Where to Shop

  • Yayasan Shopping Complex – Central location with a mix of local and international brands
  • The Mall Gadong – Brunei’s largest shopping center
  • Tamu Kianggeh – Morning market with authentic local products
  • Arts and Handicraft Center – Government-supported outlet for traditional crafts
  • Airport Duty-Free – Good for last-minute purchases

Unlike neighboring Malaysia and Indonesia, haggling isn’t common in Brunei except at informal markets. Prices are generally fixed, but asking politely about discounts when purchasing multiple items sometimes works.

Practical Travel Tips

Connectivity and Communication

Staying connected in Brunei is straightforward in 2025:

  • SIM cards – Available from DST, Progresif, or imagine. A 7-day tourist SIM with data costs B$10-25 and can be purchased at the airport or any provider’s retail outlet. You’ll need your passport for registration.
  • Wi-Fi – Available in most hotels, cafes, and public areas. Speed is generally good.
  • Power – Brunei uses British-style Type G plugs (three rectangular pins) with 240V supply.

Health and Safety

Brunei is one of the safest countries in Asia with extremely low crime rates. As a solo female traveler during several visits, I’ve never felt unsafe, even walking alone at night in BSB.

Health considerations include:

  • Vaccinations – Routine vaccines plus potentially Hepatitis A and Typhoid. Yellow fever certificate required if arriving from endemic countries.
  • Mosquitoes – Dengue fever exists in Brunei. Use repellent, especially near jungle areas.
  • Water – Tap water in urban areas is generally safe but bottled water is widely available and recommended.
  • Healthcare – High quality but expensive for foreigners. Travel insurance is essential.

The RIPAS Hospital in BSB is the main public facility with English-speaking staff and modern equipment. For minor issues, Jerudong Park Medical Center offers excellent care.

Emergency numbers:

  • Police: 993
  • Ambulance: 991
  • Fire: 995

Avoiding Common Mistakes

Based on my own embarrassing experiences, here are pitfalls to avoid:

Mistake #1: Underestimating Prayer Times

During my second visit, I planned a tight sightseeing schedule without considering Friday prayers. I ended up stranded outside closed attractions and restaurants for two hours. Now I always check prayer times, especially on Fridays when services are longer (roughly 12pm-2pm).

Mistake #2: Inappropriate Photography

I once casually snapped photos of the Sultan’s Palace (Istana Nurul Iman) from a public road, only to be quickly approached by security personnel. While they were polite, they explained certain angles were restricted. Always look for photography restriction signs and be respectful when photographing people, especially women.

Mistake #3: Misjudging Distances

Brunei looks small on a map, but getting between districts can take longer than expected due to winding roads and traffic. I once tried to visit three different districts in one day using public transport and barely made it back to BSB before the last bus. If you’re relying on public transportation, build in substantial buffer time.

Mistake #4: Expecting Late-Night Activities

Coming from neighboring Malaysia, I was surprised to find most establishments in Brunei close by 10pm. There’s no nightlife as you’d find elsewhere in Southeast Asia. Now I enjoy the early mornings instead, joining locals for dawn prayers (as an observer) and breakfast at bustling morning markets.

Sustainable Travel Tips

Brunei’s pristine environment is one of its greatest assets. Here are ways to travel responsibly while saving money:

  • Refill water bottles – Many hotels and restaurants will happily refill bottles, saving you money and reducing plastic waste.
  • Use water taxis – They’re not just atmospheric; they’re also more eco-friendly than cars for crossing the river in BSB.
  • Shop at local markets – Buying directly from producers reduces packaging and supports the local economy.
  • Choose certified eco-tours – For jungle experiences, operators like Freme Travel have sustainability certifications.
  • Respect wildlife – Never feed monkeys or other animals you may encounter, especially in Ulu Temburong.

Conclusion: Making the Most of Your Brunei Adventure

After seven visits to Brunei, I’ve come to appreciate this tiny nation as one of Southeast Asia’s most underrated gems. Beyond the headlines about strict laws and oil wealth lies a country of genuine warmth, fascinating contrasts, and natural beauty.

The sultanate offers a uniquely peaceful experience in an increasingly frenetic region—a place where ancient traditions and modern aspirations coexist, where you can explore pristine rainforests in the morning and marvel at golden mosques in the afternoon.

Your 5-Step Brunei Action Plan

  1. Start in BSB – Spend 2 days exploring the capital’s cultural highlights, including Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, Kampong Ayer, and the Royal Regalia Museum.
  2. Experience Ulu Temburong – Dedicate a full day to exploring Brunei’s pristine rainforest, ideally with an overnight stay if your schedule permits.
  3. Immerse in local food – Try at least 5 different local specialties, starting with the affordable nasi katok and working up to the challenging ambuyat.
  4. Venture beyond the capital – Make a day trip to either Kuala Belait (to see the oil town) or Tutong (for Tasek Merimbun and beach relaxation).
  5. Connect with locals – Whether through a homestay, guided tour, or simply chatting with shopkeepers, the Bruneian perspective will enhance your understanding of this unique country.

Whatever you do, resist the temptation to treat Brunei as merely a one-day stopover. Give it at least 3-4 days to appreciate its subtle charms and distinctive character. As one local told me on my first visit, “Brunei doesn’t shout for attention like our neighbors, but we have plenty to say if you take time to listen.”

If my experiences have taught me anything, it’s that Brunei rewards the patient, curious traveler with authentic encounters increasingly rare in more touristy destinations. The memories that stay with me aren’t of grand sights but small moments—sharing tea with a silversmith in Kampong Ayer, watching fireflies illuminate mangroves on a night cruise, or the impossible stillness of the rainforest at dawn in Ulu Temburong.

Safe travels to the Abode of Peace, and selamat jalan (good journey)!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Brunei worth visiting?

Absolutely! Brunei offers unique experiences you won’t find elsewhere in Southeast Asia. Its combination of pristine rainforests, Islamic architecture, water villages, and complete absence of mass tourism creates an authentic travel experience. It’s particularly valuable for travelers interested in Islamic culture, nature, photography, and experiencing a traditional way of life largely unchanged by tourism.

Is Brunei expensive to visit?

Brunei can be surprisingly affordable despite its reputation as a wealthy nation. Budget travelers can get by on B$50-80 per day including accommodation, food, and local transport. Mid-range travelers should budget B$100-200 daily. The biggest expenses are typically accommodation and guided tours to natural attractions like Ulu Temburong. Food, local transport, and attraction entrance fees are quite reasonable compared to neighboring Singapore or even parts of Malaysia.

Is alcohol really banned in Brunei?

Yes, Brunei is a dry country where the sale and public consumption of alcohol is prohibited under Sharia law. Non-Muslims can bring in a limited amount for personal consumption (2 bottles of wine or spirits and 12 cans of beer) but cannot consume it in public. In practice, this means Brunei has no bars or nightlife as found in other Southeast Asian countries. Travelers should respect these laws as penalties can be severe.

How many days do I need in Brunei?

While you can see BSB’s highlights in a single day, I recommend at least 3-4 days to properly experience Brunei. An ideal itinerary includes 2 days in and around BSB, 1 day for Ulu Temburong National Park, and 1 day to explore either the Tutong or Belait districts. With 5-7 days, you could explore all four districts and potentially include homestays or special experiences like proboscis monkey spotting or diving.

Is Brunei safe for solo female travelers?

Brunei is exceptionally safe for solo female travelers. The crime rate is extremely low, and locals are generally helpful and respectful. The conservative nature of society actually creates an environment where harassment is practically non-existent. However, women should dress modestly (covering shoulders and knees) out of respect for local culture, particularly when visiting religious sites or government buildings.

How does Ramadan affect travel in Brunei?

During Ramadan, most restaurants and food stalls close during daylight hours, reopening only after sundown. Hotels usually maintain dining facilities for non-Muslim guests, but these may be screened from public view. Attractions operate with reduced hours, and the overall atmosphere is more subdued during the day. However, evenings become lively with special Ramadan markets (pasar Ramadan) offering excellent food. If experiencing local cuisine is important to your trip, consider visiting outside Ramadan.

Can I cross between the two parts of Brunei?

Yes, you can travel between Brunei’s main western territory and its eastern Temburong District, which are separated by Malaysia’s Limbang District. In 2020, Brunei opened the Sultan Haji Omar Ali Saifuddien Bridge, eliminating the need to cross Malaysian territory. This 30km bridge has dramatically reduced travel time between BSB and Bangar (Temburong’s main town) from approximately 2 hours (including border crossings) to about 40 minutes by car.

Do I need a visa to visit Brunei?

Many nationalities, including citizens of the US, Canada, EU countries, Australia, New Zealand, and most ASEAN nations can enter Brunei visa-free for stays of 14-90 days, depending on nationality. Always check the latest requirements on the official Brunei Immigration Department website as policies may change. If you do need a visa, the e-Visa system makes application relatively straightforward.

References