To those who were following me on Instagram (instagram.com/wheressherlyn), I think you guys want to come into a conclusion that Brunei Darussalam is one of my favorite countries to travel to (so far) since I’ve been visiting so many Instagrammable spots in Brunei. Some of you might be asking why (because let’s face it, everybody thinks Brunei is a boring place to visit). True enough, you can explore the whole country if you will plan a one-week trip there (compared to my home country, Philippines, which is composed of 81 provinces of 7641 islands), but there will always be reasons to go back. In my case, it’s the food and the so many Instagrammable spots in Brunei!
Brunei Darussalam travel experience is a little different from other tourist destinations to travel to in Southeast Asia because it’s literally so quiet in there, there are almost no public transportation, and it is an alcohol-free country (and therefore no typical city nightlife). To someone like me who is used to city life (Hello, Manila!), an occasional travel to Brunei Darussalam is always a breath of fresh air, literally and figuratively, and it’s never gonna be boring.
I am not a Tourism Ambassador for Brunei or something, but I want to break the notion of most people that Brunei is a boring place to visit. In fact, it can be a very interesting place for all kinds of travelers: foodies, photographers, culture/heritage buffs, and even families. Tip though: I highly encourage you to rent a private car if you want to go around Brunei because public transportation is so limited. To give you a little glimpse about this beautiful country, let me share 23 Instagrammable spots in Brunei that you can visit:
ALSO READ:
FLYING AROUND SOUTHEAST ASIA: DIRECT FLIGHTS TO AND FROM BRUNEI DARUSSALAM
Taman Mahkota Jubli Emas (Golden Jubilee Crown Park)
This beautiful park was a part and a result of the Bandar Seri Begawan Development Master Plan. This is how urban planning should be, guys!
Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Pedestrian Bridge
This bridge is beautiful enough, and the presence of this crescent moon makes it more magnificent. Oh, this moon? Looks spectacular at night!
Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque
One of the most beautiful mosques in the world. Its main dome? Made of pure gold!
Tamu Kianggeh (Kianggeh Open-air Market)
Locals say that the ‘marketness’ of this place was lost because it went a major rehabilitation as part of the government’s city plan for Bandar Seri Begawan. It is now roofed and more organized, compared to a scene with rainbow parasols and everyone busy shopping.
Teng Yun Temple
Teng Yun Temple is the first and oldest Chinese Temple in Brunei.
Brunei River
This is the shortest river in Brunei and it is a must for everyone to try the water taxi.
Perpuspaan Main Gate 1968
This is the monument that commemorates the coronation of the present Sultan of Brunei in 1968.
Mausoleum of Sultan Bolkiah
There is so much cultural heritage vibe in this place. I really love how Bruneians pay so much respect to their former Sultans. This is the quietest part of Brunei that I have been to. So solemn.
Mercu Dirgahayu 60
The Mercu Dirgahayu 60 is a birthday gift presented by the people of Brunei to His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah on his 60th birthday.
Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Complex
The biggest shopping complex in Bandar Seri Begawan.
The Clock Tower
This clock marks the Zero Mile in Bandar Seri Begawan and is also a monument built to commemorate the visit of the first King of Malaysia in 1959 (and therefore symbolizes the friendship of Malaysia and Brunei).
Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien
A beautiful place where the traditional Bandarku Ceria happens every Sunday. I love the Family Vibe there.
Royal Regalia Museum
You will learn so much about the Sultan and the royalty upon visiting this museum. I am a fan of Thailand’s King Bhumibol Adulyadej but after seeing this I got to appreciate the Sultan of Brunei as well. With the collection of gifts Brunei received from other countries, you can tell a lot about Brunei’s international relations. Ha!
Kota Batu Old Graveyard
This is the largest archaeological remains found in Brunei and was also believed to be a burial site.
Empire Hotel and Country Club
This 7-star hotel? So majestic! And the sunset view is priceless.
Gadong Night Market
Ahhh. Perfect for foodies! Need I say more?
ALSO READ:
TRAVELER’S COMPLETE GUIDE TO EATING IN BRUNEI DARUSSALAM: 23 RESTAURANT RECOMMENDATIONS
Jame’ Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque
The largest mosque in Brunei and one of the two national mosques (Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque is the other one). It is also known as the Blue Mosque.
Kampong Ayer
Also known as the “Venice of the East”, Kampong Ayer literally means ‘water village’ and is the world’s largest settlement on stilts.
Tasek Lama Recreational Park
A nice spot for hiking and relaxing by the waterfalls.
Soto Babu Nini
This is the place where you can get a typical Bruneian comfort food with a nice view and very colorful architecture.
Rimba Garden Central
If you want to be one with nature, this is the place to be. It also has a nice outdoor garden which serves as a wedding venue.
Bukit Shahbandar Forest Recreational Park
Another popular hiking destination in Brunei. (And lookie! I got featured at the Brunei Tourism Board Instagram account!)
Tanjung Batu Beach
This is the most tranquil beach I ever went to. As in.
Instagrammable Spots in Brunei: More recommendations are welcome!
So, does Brunei still look boring to you at this point? Hit me up for questions about this beautiful country at email address sherlynmaehernandez@gmail.com or at Instagram account instagram.com/wheressherlyn. Book your flights to Brunei now!
For more articles about Brunei, click on the banner below:
