If Brunei were to have its own avatar, it would be one depicting the epitome of culture and an abode of peace.

Its wealth of culture can be traced back to its deep roots in Malay origin. Regaining independence from the United Kingdom on the 1^st of January, 1984, Brunei is located on the northern shores of the Island of Borneo, which shares with Malaysia and Indonesia.

Brunei’s rich culture is coupled with amazing dense rainforests and an awe inspiring coastline.

For those after a tropical getaway, Brunei is sure to entice the senses. With an average yearly mean temperature of 27 degrees C, Brunei’s climate is one of the reason’s this stunning destination wins so much praise with travellers and tourists.

Classed as a developed country, Brunei experiences one of the world’s fastest growing GDP, averaging economic growth at an average of 56% from 1999 to 2008.

Budding golfers will find the 18-hole championship golf course designed by Jack Nicklaus at the height of class standards. While offering day golfing, The Empire Country Club also offers exclusive night golfing, allowing travellers an escape from the tropical heat.

With a population of some 373,000 individuals, Brunei’s main language is Bahasa Malay, but English is widely spoken throughout the region.

The well established tourism infrastructure contains over 2,500 rooms, spread around 30 establishments. Accommodation ranges from run of the mill accommodation, right through to illustrious seven-star accommodation at the Empire Hotel and Country Club, every budget is catered for in this thriving region.

Arriving to Brunei is easy courtesy of an international airport that is serviced by several mainstream Asian airlines and Brunei’s own Royal Brunei Airlines.

Visas are available to Australians for 30 days, while most other nations are capable of 14 day visas and 30 day visas, depending on their nationality.

As a predominantly Muslim community, Brunei does not sell alcohol, but allows discrete consumption at hotel restaurants and lounges. Tourists are allows to bring up to two bottles of liquor and up to twelve cans of beer, which must be declared to customs upon arrival.

One of Brunei’s most iconic cultural treasures is the Jame’ Asr Hassanal Bolikiah Mosque. As a gift from His Majesty, the mosque is often called the Kiarong Mosque and is located near the Brunei capital of Bandar Seri Begawan. The gold domes overlook the incredible landscape of gardens and fountains.

Tourists may visit the mosque any day, except on Thursdays where non-Muslims are not accepted. Strict rules must also be followed when visiting the mosque.

Sea crafting is not only limited to swimming at sea. Boat tours are available, one of the most popular being a 45 minute boat trip to Pulau Selirong from Muara. Wildlife includes kingfishers, eagles, macaques and proboscis monkeys.

Travellers who prefer land based amusement can also venture through the amazing forest canopy wooden walkways of the Ulu Temburong National Park.

I cannot recommend Brunei any more for people after an enticing and memorable Asian travel experience. It’s hard to return once sampling the amazing culture and sights of tropical Brunei.

Contact your local travel agent for sample itineraries and flights to the stunning Asian country.

For more information:

Brunei tourism: www.bruneitourism.travel

Brunei Association of hotels: www.hotelsofbrunei.com

Brunei Government; www.brudirect.com

Brunei news / current affairs: www.brudirect.com

Brunei calendar of events and general information: www.bruneidiary.info

Brunei weather: www.bruneiweather.com.bn

Royal Brunei Airlines: www.bruneiair.com

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