Travel to Brunei
Brunei Darussalam is situated on the island of Borneo in the South East Asia. Like many other countries, Brunei got independence from British rule in 1984. The Sultan acts as the governing body for the country. The monarchy system has brought about great political steadiness for over seven hundred years. And natural resources like oil and gas have given financial security and independence. The country is essentially sheltered by beautiful rich tropical rain forest on all sides. It is modern with avail of latest facilities, without losing its serene lifestyle. It is a unique blend of modernization with natural environment, religious values and rich Malay traditions.
The Attraction
Abound in natural and scenic beauty, this little country is a major tourist attraction with a whole lot of aesthetic and native traits to offer. It offers various recreational activities for tourists visiting the country. There is lot of foreigners who have invested in local business and industries. Therefore Brunei is a mixture of varied cultures and traditions, encouraging foreign tourists to come this magical land and feel at home.
Great Tourist Destinations
Rainforest at TemburongOne of the most popular destination of both the native locals and foreign tourists is the Rainforest at Temburong. It is the most beautiful tropical rainforest and easily accessible by water taxi. With literally no roadways to access it, the speedy boat ride leaves you drenched and ecstatic. It is really adventurous with occasional stops over the river sections or shallow waters. The way to the national park follows the sloppy rough terrains alongside the river. The canopy walkway is sensational with a magical view from the top of the ridge right above the trees. It is over sixty meters in height and will give you a never to forget experience if you are lucky to watch the sunrise and the leisurely rising of the jungle world.
Museums and MosquesLocated in the city, the Brunei Museum has a wonderful collection of art works dating to the ancient ninth and tenth centuries. Likewise the religious Islamic mosques are also major attractions due to its cultural values. The Sir Omar Saifuddien Mosque is located at the heart of the city and is one of the largest mosques in the island of Borneo. It is adorned with golden domes and rests on a mock lagoon in close proximity to the Brunei River. There is a replicate figure of an ancient royal outside the mosque by David Kirkland. It is one of the most beautiful architectural moques in the world. It is well lit at night adding to its ethereal beauty. There are many other museums and mosques like the Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque and Natural history museum of Brunei.
Nurul Iman PalaceThe Palace of the Sultan, the royal Istana Nurul Iman Palace is touted to be the biggest palatial residence in the whole world. The palace has an astounding one thousand seven hundred rooms. Situated at the hilltop, it overlooks the city. The majestic and royal domes of the palace are enclosed with twenty-two carat real gold leaves. The gigantic size and elaborately designed palace is a fantastic feast for the eyes to behold. The royal palace is open to visitors only during the Muslim festival of Eid-ul-Fitri, when the Sultan of Brunei meets the foreign visitors and dignitaries.
BeachesBrunei’s beaches are unspoiled and beautiful with white sand. It is a wonderful escape in natural surroundings and you can relax in nature’s lap with all the privacy you need as it is not overly populated or crowded. There are numerous beaches like Muara Beach, a mere 27 kms from the capital city with recreational garden and playing arena for kids. Then there is Kenangan Beach, which is a scenic beauty minutes away from Tutong Township. Meragang is another quiet and pristine beach idle for lovers and people who want to get away from city life and become one with nature.
Traveling Around
Travelling and sight seeing is pleasurable experience in Brunei. There are many types of enjoyable means of travel like bicycle rides, railways, motorbikes and posh four wheelers. So for enjoying the scenic landscapes and rural untainted atmosphere, it is best to ride a cycle in your own pace. There are various groups organizing bicycle tours round the countryside. Likewise a motorcycle tour of mystic and wonderful places in Brunei is a fun and thrilling ride.
Although Brunei has a modern outlook, it has proudly maintained its eco-cultural background with majestic rainforests, lovely mangroves, and pristine clean beaches along with ancient buildings, architectural constructions and strong Islamic tradition in tolerance with other religious sects.