Brunei - A Little Bit Different

Brunei is just that little bit different from other Asian countries, its hotels are sophisticated and smart, but its people are still shy of strangers - a welcome trait.

Brunei is a place often overlooked when thinking of a place in Asia that is somewhat different, but it has a lot to offer and it is a well run, clean and safe country. Car hire and chauffeur-driven cars are available, taxis are metered, buses run regularly and are low-cost, ferries link Brunei with other parts of Malaysia and airlines link all major cities.

There are only a few do's and don's to remember, to make your holiday go with a swing - or at least to make sure you don't offend anyone. Follow the advice below and your stay will be memorable in this very friendly country.

Do's and Don'ts

Bruneians are very tolerant and know that visitors are not always familiar with Islamic traditions. Nevertheless, visitors should keep some things in mind if they are to avoid upsetting the locals.

1. Observe the local dress code and dress modestly.

2. Do not shake hands with members of the opposite sex.

3. When you do shake hands, do so by lightly touching the hands and then bringing the hand to the chest.

4. Never point with your finger, but you can use the thumb of your right hand with the four fingers folded beneath it.

5. If female, always ask permission before entering a mosque.

6. Women should make sure to cover their heads when visiting a mosque and make sure that their knees and arms are not exposed.

7. When visiting a mosque, remove shoes. .

8 Never pass in front of a person in prayer, and never touch the Koran.

9. Gifts (particularly food) should only be passed with the right hand.

10. It is polite to accept even just a little food and drink when offered.

11. It is inconsiderate to eat or drink in the presence of a Muslim during the Islamic fasting month of Ramadan.

See Brunei Tourism