The Center of Brunei
by DSwede
Do all roads lead to Bandar Seri Begawan? I'm doubtful that they do, however all mileage markers are measured from the capital city's cross roads.
The Clock Tower shown here in the central Bandar district is mile marker "0" for all road networks leading away from the city.
In the background of the photo is the Haji Sir Muda Omar Ali Saifuddein Park.
Compliments of VT'er "SangAji", he clarified that there is another clock tower at Kuala Belait located next to the taxi stand and bus stop that represent mile zero from the opposite end ie. about 67 miles away
Weather Conditions
by Rice_Paper
Normal temperature range between 24ºC in the night to 32ºC during day. Most of the rain takes place from October through March. Rains can be heavy and sudden. The country experiences humidity throughout the year.
You can visit this part of the world anytime of the year except rainy season and the month of Ramadan when most of the Muslims go on fast.
Jame`Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque
by frankcanfly
`A symbol of Islam`s firm hold in the country`
This is the interior of the male prayer hall. You must hide your camera to capture a photo. The hall can accommodate up to 3,500 worshippers. That`s 24 carat gold you`re looking at.
Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah & his birthday
by victorwkf
Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah is the current Sultan (king) of Brunei. Essentially, Brunei is still a kingdom where the Sultan (king) still holds the power. In fact, Sultan Bolkiah has been the Sultan since the 1960s and one of the longest rulers in the world. He used to be the richest man in the world, and still is one of the richest men in the world. You will know more about Sultan Bolkiah if you visit the Royal Regalia Museum at Bandar Seri Begawan, where there are lots of photos and information about him and his family.
The birthday of the Sultan is on 15th July. If you are at Bandar Seri Begawan during this period, you will see lots of banners and beautiful lights along the streets celebrating his birthday (see photos). During the day itself, there will be grand celebrations at Bandar Seri Begawan and the week following that is lined with various activities, including carnivals and roadside shops along many roads in Bandar Seri Begawan (these roads will be closed to traffic).
Another country which I have visited where the Sultan still holds power is Oman (Sultan Qaboos in this case). Please visit my VT Oman pages if you are interested.
No shoes in the house
by BorneoGrrl
When you enter someone's house, chances are you will have to take off your shoes. It's a normal custom in Asia and if you're not used to it, you have to start practicing because should you just walk into someone's house with your shoes on, it's considered rude and unclean.