Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei

Capital City

With a population of just 50,000, Bandar Seri Begawan is a sleepy, tropical capital where government bureaucracy is a persistent headache. The city has undergone rapid development in recent decades, transitioning from a "water village" to a modern urban center. Yet the effects of its colonial past and wartime occupation linger - the climate is hot and wet, while the city's sanitation issues can be a nuisance. Nonetheless, Bandar Seri Begawan's cultural heritage, including the iconic Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, make it an appealing destination for tourists seeking an authentic taste of Brunei.