THINK Brunei and words like oil and riches come to mind. But the small Islamic country on the north-western shore of Borneo with a population of less than 400,000, throws up more surprises than a seasoned traveller would expect.
For starters, take a stroll along the stilted walkways of Kampong Ayer, also known as the Water Village.
Built entirely on water, this self-contained community in the suburb of the capital, Bandar Seri Begawan, houses about 30,000 people.
But while it retains its rustic charm, it is far from backward as it is equipped with electricity, Internet access and its own hospital and police station.
One of the largest mosques in the sultanate, the Masjid Jamie Asri Hassanal Bolkiah mosque features elaborate Islamic architecture.
July is the month to visit if you want to catch some grand festivities.
For a few weeks, the country celebrates the birthday of its king, Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, with military parades, cultural performances and night bazaars.
You could also follow the Sultan's trail in visiting any of Brunei's four districts: Belait, Brunei-Muara, Temburong and Tutongs.
The monarch makes his annual visits to meet his people in these districts, so expect elaborate cultural performances to be put on to welcome him.
Performers display paraphernalia of their beloved Sultan in the streets in a meet-the-people session in Tutong district.
After the heady celebrations, take a slow drive around the city and admire the architecture of the mosques. Then stroll through the night markets for some aromatic barbecued food to end the day.
While Brunei may not be high on the 'must-visit' list for most travellers, my week-long stay there has shown me that the sultanate contains a few hidden charms which make it a worthwhile stopover.
A street vendor bastes satay sizzling on a bed of charcoal at a night market.
Native Bruneian girls wear head-bands of\ ceramic beads to welcome visitors in Temburong.
A school girl laughs from the sidelines of the padang.
This article was first published in Life!, The Straits Times on August 2, 2008.
