More commonly known for the country’s sultan and his extravagances than for its sights and attractions, this Southeast Asian country located on the island of Borneo, has been ruled by the same dynasty since the 15th century. It is the only remaining Malay Islamic Monarchy in the world. Though closed to the public for most of the year, Istana Nurul Iman – the Sultan’s lavish private home is open to the public, and a visit to the area gives you a sense of its size. Considered the largest residential palace in the world, it is situated on top of a hill overlooking the city. Among the features are over 1788 rooms and an air-conditioned stable for ponies. Brunei has only more recently tapped into its tourist potential, and as such there is little in the way of attractions to see, but the country is still heavily forested – covered by primary old-growth trees, and the Ulu Temburong National Park is a picturesque site. Other attractions include the Royal Regalia Museum, featuring the Sultan’s full regalia, and the Brunei History Centre, which contains genealogical records detailing the origins of the oil family.
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