Plan your trip to Brunei

Brunei lies in Southeastern Asia on the South China Sea, the eastern and western portions separated geographically by Malaysia. In the east, coastal plains rise to mountains and in the west hilly lowlands make up most of the terrain. The Brunei Sultanate, still in power today, reached a peak from the 15th to the 17th centuries when control stretched across the entire island of Borneo and into the Philippines. While the country did become a British protectorate in 1888, internal independence was retained while the United Kingdom became responsible for external affairs. In 1984, Brunei became a fully independent state. Ruled by the same family for over six centuries, vast petroleum and natural gas reserves provide the means for one of the highest living standards in the world.

Brunei attracts over a million visitors annually, with accommodations ranging from guesthouses to luxury hotels. Many monuments and landmarks are dedicated to the sultanate and Islam, the country’s official religion. The Sultan’s home in the capital of Bandar Seri Begawan, Istana Nurul Iman, is the largest residential palace in the world. The Royal Regalia Museum displays the Sultan’s crown, royal chariot and a collection of royal treasure. The Brunei Museum offers antique cannons, a large collection of gilded Korans and even treasure from shipwrecks off the coast.