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Often called simply as BSB, Bandar Seri Begawan is the capital of Brunei and home to one of the richest men in the world - the Sultan of Brunei. A quick look at the city will not say as much, with an infrastructure not more impressive than that of its Southeast Asian neighbors. Its wealth from as an oil state has been directed to free healthcare and tax-free incomes for the populace and less on urban aesthetic.

It does, however, tend to show off some lavishness at some places. A look at the Istana Nurul Iman, the Royal Palace, is bound to give that impression, with its extravagances that include 1,932 cars and 1,788 furbished rooms. The city also has a very high standard of living, although its conservative nature has snuffed out any tourist's hopes for some kind of nightlife.

Gateway to Brunei

To most visitors, BSB represents the entire Brunei experience. While this is far from the truth, the city still is a traveler's introduction to the country. A far more accurate description for it would be as a gateway - considering its proximity to the nation's other attractions and being a hub for transportation. Bandar Seri Begawan, for the most part, provides a cultural encounter where one can learn a lot about Brunei's traditions and history.

A trip down Kampong Ayer, in fact, will reveal volumes. Built on stilts in the middle of the Brunei River, this water village is home to a people that has shunned the city life for its native culture. This is in spite of the government's offer to provide them with modern houses in prime real estate. Even a walk down the city streets will give tourists a taste of their unique culture fusing Arabian exoticism and a carefree Malay attitude.

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