Heres my Suggested Itinerary for a weekend stay in Bandar Seri Bengawan, Brunei

1 — Marvel at the Detailed Architecture and Marble Carvings of Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque. Guests are allowed to enter during off prayer hours, with no admission fee , but a decent outfit is expected.

2 — A Visit to the Royal Regalia Museum that houses the collection of gifts to the Sultan from all other Nations around the world. The diverse collection of valuable crafts and artifacts, is in a way an experience of world history under one roof.  Entrance is Free for all.

3 — A Stroll around Downtown Bandar Seri Bengawan offers significant views of Islamic – Asian Tropical Architecture at every corner.I find the city a worthwhile strolling experience for architects as well as enthusiasts of Architecture.

4 — Enjoy local Muslim Food at Gadong Night Market . Ready made dishes at Night markets are inexpensive. you can buy a chicken meal with vegetable and rice for  B$ 2.00 ( thats around 65 pesos ) . Goat Meat , chicken and fish viands are available at B$ 1.00 ( 33 pesos )

5 — Enjoy a Shabu shabu Dinner ( Steam boat Dinner , as locals call it ) at downtown Bandar Seri Bengawan.

6 — Saturday Night out at Empire Hotel at Jurung District , BSB …. and spend late night chit chats over Milk Tea and Coffee ( because liquor is rare to find in Brunei )

7 —– (Sunday morning) Participate in a community Outdoor Exercise  at the grounds of Tasek Lema Waterfalls / Nature Park

8 — Go Swimming at the Sultan Bolkiah’s Sports Stadium Park

9 — Watch a Local Charity Show where you can actually meet a lot of Filipinos working as Teachers in Brunei . A lot of Filipinos excel and are highly regarded in Brunei for Various skills , which is nice to know. Since It was my free time , I just tagged along with my host , Leona , who co-arranged this charity show for special children.  It was also a good opportunity for me to get inside the Sultan’s Convention Centre =)

I would have wanted to get inside the Sultan’s Palace but it only opens at certain times of the year. As such, locals recommend tourists to visit Brunei , the week after Ramadan . It is when the Kingdom is at its most festive. They also said that The Sultan’s palace opens for locals and tourists , and sumptuous buffet is served by the royal family for three days , which is open for everybody.  And if lucky enough, you might also get a chance to see the Sultan . Thats something I look forward to experience when I visit Brunei Again =)