Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei

You might ask: How did you travel by land from Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia to Brunei? 

Well first off we did not travel by plane or by bus. We travelled via road and mostly sea. As most people would say it is easier to take the 1 hour plane ride but of course it is more expensive since there are no budget airlines from Kota Kinabalu to Brunei. We were to take the 8 hour bus ride to Brunei but to our dismay and lack of time since we just finished our island hopping trip we missed our bus. 

We do not want to stay further in Kota Kinabalu for we still have a flight to catch the next day. So we follow what the locals suggested us to do: Take 3 rides until you reach Brunei. 

1. Kota Kinabalu to Menumbok, Malaysia 

    Our last resort was to rent a car going to Menumbok to catch the 8:30 pm ferry ride going to Labuan. Travel time is 2 hours maximum. 

2. Menumbok to Labuan, Malaysia (ferry)

     30 minutes travel time. Since there were no more ferry rides to Brunei during the night. We opted to stay in Labuan for the night and catch the 8 am ferry ride the next day. 

3. Labuan, Malaysia to Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei (Ferry) 

      3 hour travel time

Our original plan was to ride a bus going to the city and from there we will be just going around the place since Elsie has a 4:00 pm flight. But everything changed when Elsie talk to Ross, a lady from Brunei who is seated beside us in the ferry. She by any way do not know who we really are but offered us a ride to the city since she is living there. Elsie and I said yes abruptly as she looks very nice and would not do us any harm. 

Since we only have 5 hours left in Brunei, Ross extended her hospitality by touring us around for FREE. She took us to some touristy places where we can take pictures and enjoy the beauty of Brunei.

Breakfast in Labuan. Oh how I miss Nasi Lemak and Teh Tarik 

The Empire Hotel and Country Club 

Our first stop in Brunei. The infamous Empire Hotel, where you can find the largest pool in Brunei. The place is truly grandeur and spectacular! But of course it comes with the price as well.

Tunku Beach, Brunei 

No you are not allowed to swim here but this place is usually visited by locals for some picnic and family time. They have some stores in the area where you could buy food, clothes and souvenirs. One can simply sit on the rocks and enjoy the scenic view. 

With Ross, our angel who has toured us and help us catch our flight. We will never ever forget you you our dear Ross. I truly believe that there are still good people in the world like Ross. Thank you again for your hospitality. :-)