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Overview - Brunei
Summary: Brunei is a sultanate in southeastern Asia bordering
Malaysia and the South China Sea that during the 15th to 17th centuries
stretched through many of the islands in the surrounding archipelago.
Independent since 1984, and ruled by the same family for over six
centuries, Brunei is mostly flat plains by the coast that rise to
mountains in the east and hilly lowlands in the west, and is split
geographically by Malaysia. Built with a strong economy from its
petroleum and natural gas fields, Brunei is also strengthening it’s
banking and tourist sectors.
Capital: Bandar Seri Begawan
Time Zone: UTC+8
Population: 365,251
Languages: Malay, English, Chinese
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Power: 240 V, 50 Hz
Currency: Bruneian dollar - Currently 1 BND = 0.6777 USD $
Climate: Brunei has a tropical climate, with variations tempered by
the surrounding sea, and is usually hot, humid and rainy.
Societal Rule:
As a Muslim society, respect the community and remove shoes before
entering a mosque or someone’s home, and avoid giving and receiving
with your left hand. Women should dress conservatively, covering their
arms and legs. Avoid political criticisms, and don’t insult the sultan
or the royal family.
Cash On Hand: Traveler’s checks and currencies can be exchanged
in banks and even some hotels and major stores in the capital. Although
credit cards are accepted in most places in Bandar Seri Begawan,
acceptance of credit and foreign currency is limited in other parts of
the country.
When To Visit: September to January is the warmer and wet rainy
season, with the balance of the year not much drier and cooler. As a
muslim society, Ramadan will leave many restaurants closed as muslims
fast from dawn to dusk.
Food: Local foods are influenced by Malaysian, Indian and
Chinese styles, and are usually rice based with spices. Alcohol is
prohibited.
Tipping: A 10% service charge is normally added to the bill at
tourist eateries, otherwise, tipping is not required.
Brunei Travel Information
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