"An X'mas Trip to a Muslim Nation " a Bandar Seri Begawan Travel Page by tHe_boRNEaN

Many people in the West have probably never even heard of Brunei. Well, in case you haven't, Brunei Darussalam is wedged in the middle of the Malaysian state of Sarwak, on the island of Borneo where I live. History tells us that the locals were trading with China as early as 600 AD. A sultanate was formed by the 14th century, and this kingdom stretched as far as the Philippines by the 17th. But then the Brits came along and soon outclassed the locals in numbers and firepower. Brunei became a British Protectorate in 1906. In 1984, Brunei became an independent monarchy under the leadership of Sultan Hassanil Bolkiah, who is still king today. Now, Brunei is a peaceful but modern state, with all the comforts of America set alongside the "naturalness" of Africa.

Welp.....hard to say.Some people tell me Brunei is a boring hell, but I disagree. You just need to know where to go. For starters, you may want to see the Sultan Omar Ali Saiffudien Mosque, which is as symbolic to Brunei as the Statue of Liberty is to the US, or Big Ben to England. The newer Jame' Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque near Kiarong is a true feast for the eyes. Then of course there's the Brunei Museum with its collection of antiques, and the Malay Technology Museum which showcases the lives of Bruneians in years gone by. The Kampong Ayer water village can be visited on one of many city tours. Then there's the Jerudung Park, a famous amusement park. In the past this was really popular, however, now the park has apparently fallen into ruin with some rides shut down. Even the nearby hotels, such as the grand Empire Hotel & Holiday Lodge Hotel, have suffered tremendously. Please do think about it & consult your guide or taxi driver before visiting the park. Lastly, for beach lovers, visit Pantai Seri Kenangan outside the city of Bandar Seri Begawan, or Tungku beach. Nature lovers should also include a visit to Ulu Temburong Ntl. Park with its tropical setting.