Brunei

Discover Brunei

Fun Foods

Ambuyat, Nasi Briyani, Soto

Imagine living in a country where an entire neighborhood floats on water, complete with schools, fire stations, and hospitals built on stilts. That's Brunei, where thousands of people still live in Kampong Ayer, the world's largest water village that's been around for over 600 years!

Brunei wasn't always tiny. Back in the 1500s, Sultan Bolkiah ruled an empire that stretched across most of Borneo and even nabbed Manila for a bit. His navy was so powerful that neighboring kingdoms thought twice before messing with Brunei. But here's the twist: by the 1800s, pirates and rival kingdoms had chomped away at Brunei's territory like kids attacking a birthday cake.

Enter the British in 1888. They swooped in and made Brunei a protectorate, which is fancy talk for "we'll protect you, but you have to listen to us." For nearly 100 years, the British called most of the shots. Then in 1984, Brunei said "thanks, but we've got this" and became independent.

Today, Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah is the 29th ruler in a dynasty that's lasted since the 1300s, making it one of the world's oldest continuous monarchies.

Want to spot some seriously weird monkeys? Take a river cruise to find proboscis monkeys with noses so big they look like they're wearing Pinocchio masks.

Visit the golden-domed Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, the capital's most recognizable landmark.

Explore Kampong Ayer by hopping on water taxis that zoom between houses on stilts. It's like Venice, except with way more humidity and the occasional crocodile.

Bruneians celebrate Hari Raya Aidilfitri after Ramadan with massive feasts and open houses where even strangers are welcome. The Sultan's birthday bash features parades, fireworks, and celebrations that last for days. It's basically a national party where everyone's invited.

Here's something wild: Brunei's national dish is Ambuyat, a sticky blob made from sago palm that you twirl on bamboo sticks and dip in sauces. It doesn't taste like much on its own, but that's the point.

Hit up Gadong Night Market for skewered meat, fresh fruit juices, and snacks for less than a dollar.

No alcohol anywhere though. Brunei follows Islamic law, so the country's completely dry, and everyone dresses modestly.