Travel in Bandar Seri Begawan - Getting Around
There is plenty of transport in Bandar Seri Begawan, meaning that visitors should have no problems getting around. While buses are by far the cheapest form of transport, there are a good number of local taxis, which include water taxis.
While there may not be as many different transport options as in many other big cities, travelers should have little trouble finding transport to take them wherever they need to go.
The roads are good in Bandar Seri Begawan and are clearly marked, making hiring a car a good option for those who plan to explore the city and the surrounding area. The city is well lit at night and this is one time that the nationwide alcohol ban is an advantage as it means that traveling around the city after dark is relatively safe. Add to that the fact that many people are at home by 21:00 and driving in the evening can be a very pleasant experience.
Taxis
Getting around by taxi is much easier in Bandar Seri Begawan than in many Asian countries as all taxis are metered, meaning that there is no need to negotiate the fare and worry about being overcharged. Taxis meters start at US$2 for the first kilometer and go up about US$0.66 per additional kilometer. However, it is important to note that this rate goes up considerably after 18:00. Also, taxis charge extra for large pieces of luggage, so it is best to travel light.
Taxis tend to congregate in areas such as the bus station and in popular tourist areas. They can also be seen driving around the city and can be hailed easily. It is also possible to phone ahead to book a taxi for a certain time.
Buses
Bandar Seri Begawan’s bus system is comprehensive and at about US$0.66 for each journey to anywhere in the city, this is by far the cheapest way to get around. All bus routes start at the large bus terminal at Jalan Cator, and this is a good place to board the bus to be sure of getting a seat.
Buses usually arrive at 20-minute intervals, picking and dropping off passengers at any required point along the route. Bus 39 passes by the museum and continues on to Gadong, while buses 37, 38 and 39 go to Muara. Bandar Seri Begawan’s buses are easy to recognize as they are actually large blue vans, which can seat about 20 people and have their numbers and routes written on boards in the front window. Buses run each day between 06:30 and 18:00.
Water Taxis
Traveling by water taxi is a fun and romantic way to get around. It is possible to hail a water taxi at virtually any dock, although most tend to be found at stands behind the Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah mall and at the canal market.
A particular popular water taxi trip is along the Brunei River to the water village known as Kampong Ayer. This trip takes about half an hour each way and should cost around US$15. Although these boats tend to zip along the river, travelers who want to take photographs during the journey should ask the boat driver to slow slightly.
Bicycle
While bicycles can be hired from certain travel agencies and hotels, many people find that cycling around the city can be a rather hot and sticky affair. However, this is a great way to get around for those who like the freedom of exploring at their own pace.
The excellent condition of Bandar Seri Begawan’s roads means that travelers should have no trouble cycling around. In addition, much of the city is flat, which certainly makes life easier. The best time to travel around by bicycle is just before sunset, when the temperature drops by a few degrees. Pleasant breezes tend to come from the river, which makes peddling along the riverfront road rather enjoyable.
Walking
Many people choose to explore Bandar Seri Begawan on foot, especially the center of the city as this is where many of the tourist attractions such as the Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, Royal Regalia Museum, Yayasan Complex and Kampong Ayer are located.
Most major attractions are located within comfortable walking distance of each other and comprehensive street maps are available at the airport as well as major hotels and restaurants. The streets are rarely crowded and many people are happy to give directions to confused tourists. There are few people on the streets after around 21:00, so it is probably best to avoid walking alone late at night unless you know exactly where you are going.
Car Hire
Car hire is provided by a number of international rental companies. One of the best places to rent a car is at the airport and there are a number of companies to choose from here such as Avis and Hertz. Drivers should note that people drive on the left side of the road in Bandar Seri Begawan and the rest of Brunei.
Car hire starts from around US$55 for a regular sedan car, while 4WDs cost a little extra. Gasoline costs around 30 cents per liter and driving around the city is easy and stress free and there isn’t too much traffic.
