Group trips to Brunei Darussalam

Brunei Darussalam is in the Brunei Darussalam Time Zone, which is 8 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+8). Brunei does not observe daylight saving time, so this remains consistent throughout the year.

If it is 12pm in the UK, it will be 8pm in Brunei. If it is 12pm in New York, USA, it will be 1am the next day in Brunei.

Make sure to adjust your schedule accordingly when planning your activities or calls.

The currency used in Brunei Darussalam is the Brunei Dollar (BND). The daily exchange rate can vary, but as a rough guide:

• 1 GBP is approximately 1.70 BND
• 1 USD is around 1.35 BND
• 1 EUR is about 1.55 BND

You can exchange currency at local banks or authorized money changers.

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Brunei Darussalam, especially in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. However, carrying some cash can be handy for smaller establishments or market stalls. ATMs are readily available, and you can use them to withdraw cash with your international card. Always check with your bank regarding any foreign transaction fees before your trip.

Tipping is not a common practice in Brunei Darussalam. Most restaurants and services already include a service charge in the bill, so additional tipping is not expected. However, if you receive exceptional service and would like to express your gratitude, a small tip is appreciated but not mandatory. It's more common to simply say thank you to acknowledge good service.

In Brunei, you might want to consider buying a local SIM card for reliable internet during your stay. Providers like DST and Progresif offer prepaid SIM cards with data plans that are easy to purchase at the airport or in major towns. Wi-Fi is available in urban areas, especially in hotels, cafes, and shopping centers, but it might not be as widespread in rural regions. For convenience, a local SIM or an e-SIM data plan could be a good option to ensure you stay connected throughout your travels.

In Brunei Darussalam, the official language is Malay. However, English is widely spoken and used in business and education. Here are some useful Malay expressions you might hear or use:

• Thank you: Terima kasih
• How much?: Berapa?
• Excuse me: Maafkan saya

Malay is the primary language, but you'll find that many locals can communicate well in English, making it easier for international travelers to get around.

In Brunei Darussalam, the plugs are Type G, which are the same as in the UK. The voltage is 240V, and the frequency is 50Hz. If you're coming from a country that uses a different plug type, you should bring a universal adapter to ensure your devices can be charged. This way, you'll be all set for your electronic needs while visiting Brunei.

In Brunei Darussalam, the main religion is Islam, specifically Sunni Islam. If you're visiting, it's important to respect local customs, including dressing modestly. Women should consider covering their shoulders and knees, especially in religious or public places. Keep in mind that during the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn until sunset, which may affect the opening hours of restaurants and shops. Major religious holidays include:

• Hari Raya Aidilfitri, marking the end of Ramadan
• Hari Raya Aidiladha, the Festival of Sacrifice

When packing your backpack for Brunei Darussalam, it's important to consider the tropical climate and local customs. Here's a handy list of items to include:

• Clothing:
  • Lightweight, breathable tops
  • Long pants or skirts for modesty
  • Light jacket or sweater for air-conditioned places
  • Swimwear for hotel pools
• Shoes:
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Sandals for the beach and casual outings
  • Slip-on shoes for visiting religious sites
• Accessories and Technology:
  • Sunhat or cap
  • Sunglasses
  • Power bank for devices
  • Camera or smartphone with a good camera
• Toiletries and Medication:
  • Sunscreen and insect repellent
  • Basic toiletries like toothbrush, toothpaste, and shampoo
  • Common travel medication like pain relievers, antihistamines, and anti-diarrheal tablets

Remember to dress modestly, especially when visiting mosques or rural areas, as Brunei is a predominantly Muslim country.

Brunei Darussalam has a tropical rainforest climate, meaning it's hot and humid throughout the year, with plenty of rainfall. Here's a breakdown of what to expect:

• Coastal Areas: Temperatures range from 24°C to 32°C. The humidity stays high, and rain can be frequent.
• Inland Areas: Similar temperatures but with slightly more rainfall. The rainiest months are from October to January.

The best time to visit is during the drier months from February to April when the weather is slightly cooler and less humid.