Apr 24 - I always wonder why it seems like the ‘no man’s land’ between border posts so often has crappy roads. As good as the roads are everywhere in Sarawak, the tiny bit connecting the two immigration posts is potholed.
Brunei immigration is quick. They just take our passports and stamp them, not even asking for the arrival cards I filled out online and had stored in Janet’s phone. Fortunately, it was free to submit, though I did not enjoy the paperwork.
The road parallels the coast, though enough inland that we can’t see the water. I do, however, see a few rigs burning natural gas, so some of the oil deposits must be just offshore.
I am impressed by the jungle, Brunei has made a great effort to preserve their natural spaces. Virtually all the way to Bandar Seri Begawan (BSB) there is thick vegetation on both sides of the road. Unlike Malaysia, with its endless rows of oil palms, the backcountry of Brunei is barely touched.
Driving around in BSB looking for the hotel (the taxi goes the wrong way), I note that the buildings have a similar, opulent architecture reminiscent of Kuching. I would also note that Arabic is common everywhere, on road signs and store fronts. Meaning Arabic lettering, not the language.
Our guesthouse is right on the waterfront, a great location to be for wandering the more interesting part of the city.
The feel here is so different from Sarawak. There is more emphasis on open spaces and sidewalks. Unlike Sarawak, everywhere we walk has a place for pedestrians. The buildings are a mix of styles, but definitely stuck in the decades past.
Based on the immense wealth of Brunei, I thought we might see some of the ultra-modern look that we saw in Kuwait City or Abu Dhabi. But it is not that way at all. It has that faded look of times gone by, with nothing new.
Also of note is the character of the people we see. Many people of Indian descent, much more than in Sarawak. And the distinctive Brunei dress of short cylindrical hats, brown waistcoats, and patterned aprons.
Spend the afternoon and evening walking around town.