Asian Paradises

Land of Riches The landscape of Brunei is mainly equatorial jungle cut by rivers, and most human activity is restricted to the coastal areas and estuaries. Brunei's customs and beliefs are very similar to those of Peninsular Malaysia. Islam is the official religion but there is also Buddhism, Christianity and other religions. The official language is Malay, but English is widely spoken. Tourist sights in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei's neat, clean and modern capital city, include the minaret crowning the golden-domed Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque and the Royal Regalia museum, giving a glimpse of the opulence of the Brunei monarchy, as well as a number of other interesting museums and impressive mosques. The Istana Nurul Iman, the Sultan's residence as well as the seat of government, the world's is considered largest residential palace with 1788 rooms. It can be viewed from outside, but for three days during the festivities following the end of the fasting month of Ramadan, the palace is open to the public (subject to confirmation from the Sultan's office). Kampong Ayer, a centuries-old collection of 28 water villages built on stilts in the Brunei River, is reputed to be the largest collection of stilt habitations in the world and is a definite highlight of a trip to Brunei. The Jerudong area is Brunei's recreational park, complete with polo stadium, luxurious stables, a golf course, trapshooting, croquet facilities massive amusement park. Outside the capital, there are a number of easily accessible forest reserves and nature parks. Nature lovers can also enjoy an overnight stay in a pristine rainforest when visiting the Ulu Temburong National Park, only two hours from the capital. Mysterious lakes with receding water lines, traditional Malay and Borneo natives' villages and longhouses, waterfalls, mangrove forests and an oil and gas museum complete the tourism offerings packed into this small country. There are also many beaches along the 161 and a 10 www.paradisesonline.com

• Cover