Break it up in Brunei

Break it up in Brunei
By admin


There's no stopover destination quite like Brunei, which combines Islamic tradition with Asian culture. And getting there has never been easier with Royal Brunei Airlines now operating direct flights between Melbourne and Bandar Seri Begawan. From Brunei, clients can also head to Asian hubs such as Hong Kong, Shanghai, Manila, Kuala Lumpur and Jakarta.

For a different pitch, suggest clients take a few days to explore the relatively undiscovered sultanate on the island of Borneo. "Brunei remains largely undiscovered by Australian tourists and is a vastly different proposition from nearby destinations," Brunei Tourism's Australian account manager Ross Tutin said. Being Borneo, you can be sure that clients will experience a wealth of nature above ground and a wealth of architecture courtesy of the oil below ground. Tutin said that a day in the city and a day in the rainforest is the best strategy for a two-day break.  

Its small size should not be underestimated though – there is enough to do here to maintain momentum on even the lengthiest of stopovers. "We offer a delightful combination of attractions, providing an authentic travel experience, where tourism reinforces rather than overshadows the local culture and heritage," Tutin said.
Brunei defines itself as the green heart of Borneo. "Brunei has no crowds, no smog, the locals are very welcoming and the pace of life is blessedly slow," Tutin added.

The perfect two-day itinerary would be to start with a trip to the water village – Brunei's answer to Venice – called Kampong Ayer. Here you can stroll the lengthy boardwalks over the river which sustains the community that lives here. The next visit should be cultural – a trip to the stunning gold-laden mosques. To understand more about the history of Brunei, a trip to the Royal Regalia Museum or the Brunei Museum will add insight to your experiences.

Day two has to focus on the natural environment. "We proudly showcase Borneo's natural rainforest and wildlife as a nature lover's paradise," Tutin said. Escape the city onboard a traditional long boat and head to Ulu Temburong National Park where you can get up close and personal to Brunei's wildlife. Few experiences provide a finer natural insight than a canopy walk to greet gibbons and hornbills.

Email the Travel Weekly team at traveldesk@travelweekly.com.au

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