Brunei
Brunei, a small but wealthy nation on the island of Borneo, is known for its lush rainforests, rich cultural heritage, and oil wealth.
The capital, Bandar Seri Begawan, is home to opulent landmarks like the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque and the lavish Istana Nurul Iman palace. Brunei’s culture is rooted in Malay and Islamic traditions, celebrated through festivals, traditional music, and handicrafts.
The cuisine features flavorful dishes like ambuyat (a sago-based dish) and a variety of fresh seafood. With its pristine landscapes and strong cultural identity, Brunei offers a unique experience of tradition and natural beauty.
Passport
Travelers from many countries can enter Brunei with a valid passport. Here is a general guide:
Visa-Free Entry
Citizens of the following countries can enter Brunei without a visa for short stays (ranging from 14 to 90 days, depending on the country) with just a valid passport:
- United States (90 days)
- United Kingdom (90 days)
- European Union (90 days for Schengen Area countries)
- Canada (14 days)
- Australia (30 days)
- New Zealand (30 days)
- Malaysia (30 days)
- Singapore (30 days)
- Japan (14 days)
- South Korea (30 days)
Visa Required
Citizens of countries not on the visa-exempt list must obtain a visa before traveling to Brunei. A valid passport is required, and you can apply for a visa at a Bruneian embassy or consulate.
Note: Always check the latest entry requirements based on your nationality before planning your trip, as regulations can change.
ID Card
Brunei does not allow entry with an ID card only. All travelers, except citizens of Brunei, must present a valid passport upon arrival.
Toll Roads in Brunei
Brunei does not have toll roads or a vignette system. Most roads, including highways and major routes, are free to use.
Driving Tips in Brunei:
- Left-Hand Driving: Brunei follows left-hand driving.
- Road Conditions: Brunei has well-maintained roads, especially in urban areas and along major highways. However, some rural areas may have less developed roads.
- Seat Belts: Wearing seat belts is mandatory for all passengers.
- Speed Limits: Speed limits are strictly enforced, with urban areas typically set at 60 km/h, rural roads at 80 km/h, and highways at 100 km/h.
Weather in Brunei
Brunei has a tropical rainforest climate, with high humidity and warm temperatures throughout the year. It experiences a significant amount of rainfall, particularly during the monsoon season.
Dry Season (March to October)
Brunei’s dry season features slightly lower rainfall, though showers can still occur. Temperatures during this period range from 77°F to 90°F (25°C to 32°C).
Wet Season (November to February)
The wet season is marked by heavy rainfall and occasional thunderstorms, especially between December and January. Temperatures remain warm, ranging from 77°F to 88°F (25°C to 31°C), with high humidity.
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: The dry season from March to October is generally considered the best time to visit, with less rain and pleasant weather.
- Prepare for Rain: Even during the dry season, rain is common, so packing waterproof clothing and an umbrella is recommended.
Currency in Brunei
The official currency of Brunei is the Brunei Dollar (BND). The Brunei Dollar is abbreviated as BND and is symbolized as B$.
Banknotes and Coins
Brunei Dollar banknotes are available in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 50, 100, 500, 1000, and 10,000 B$. Coins are available in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20, and 50 cents.
Currency Exchange
Currency exchange services are widely available in major cities and airports. ATMs are also widely available, allowing you to withdraw BND directly from your bank account.
Credit and Debit Cards
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Brunei, especially in urban areas, hotels, restaurants, and shopping centers. However, it’s advisable to carry some cash for smaller businesses and rural areas.
Travel Tips
- Notify Your Bank: Inform your bank about your travel plans to avoid issues with card transactions in Brunei.
- Currency Conversion Fees: Be aware of currency conversion fees when using your card abroad. Some ATMs and merchants may offer dynamic currency conversion, which could involve higher fees.
- Small Change: Carry small change for public transport, markets, and small shops.