The Traveling Gal

Follow my journey from Hong Kong to Miami during a 70-day partial world cruise on the Oceania Insignia.  Today I experienced the grandeur of Brunei.  Following is a pictorial of a few of the sights.

Brunei is a sovereign state located on the north coast of Borneo, in the South China Sea.  This small country has the largest number of oil fields in Southeast Asia.  With its vast gas and oil reserves, Brunei’s immense wealth is obvious from the opulence depicted in the photos within this post.

The Istana Nural Iman Palace, home to the Sultan of Brunei, is an impressive sight.  The $400 million residence includes nearly 1,800 rooms; 257 bathrooms; and a 5,000 seat banquet hall.

Within the Royal Regalia Museum, one can view exhibits from the Sultan’s lavish coronation, including His Majesty’s royal chariot and various gifts from visiting foreign dignitaries.

Jerudong Playground Park is the smallest and most expensive amusement park in Southeast Asia.  The park was built and funded by the government of Brunei and had no admission fees and free rides when it first opened.  Although the grounds appear to be impeccably maintained, only few rides remain; most are for sale or have been sold.

The Empire Hotel is a Brunei landmark, so opulent that its lobby chandelier costs more than a million dollars.