Brunei
Travel tips for Brunei: safety advisories, currency and cash vs. card, tap water, plugs, local phrases, food, and advice from travelers.
Cash and cards
Cards widely accepted. While hotels, malls, and larger restaurants reliably accept cards, you will need cash for night markets, water taxis, and local eateries; conveniently, Singapore Dollars (SGD) are accepted everywhere at a 1:1 rate.
Try the food
- Ambuyat: A sticky, translucent sago starch eaten by twirling it around a bamboo fork and dipping it into a savory, sour fruit sauce.
- Nasi Katok: A simple, ubiquitous, and beloved dish consisting of plain white rice, a piece of fried chicken, and a generous dollop of spicy sambal.
- Kelupis: Traditional glutinous rice rolls tightly wrapped in nyirik leaves and steamed, often served with curries or peanut sauce.
Say it in Malay
- Hello: Selamat sejahtera
- Thank you: Terima kasih
- Please: Tolong
- Excuse me: Maafkan saya
- How much is this?: Berapa harganya?
- The bill please: Minta bil
- Yes/No: Ya / Tidak
- Goodbye: Selamat tinggal
Essentials
- Voltage
- 240V, 50Hz
- Driving
- Left side
- SIM tip
- Purchase a DST or Progresif prepaid SIM card at the arrivals hall in Brunei International Airport, or install a regional eSIM before traveling.
Etiquette
Tipping is not expected or customary, but dressing modestly by covering shoulders and knees is essential out of respect for local Islamic culture.