Berakas
🇧🇳 Brunei
The Quiet Engine of Brunei
Berakas isn't your typical Southeast Asian nomad hub. You won't find the chaotic energy of Bangkok or the surf-and-smoothie-bowl culture of Canggu here. Instead, Berakas serves as the functional, polished heart of Brunei. It is a sprawling district that blends government prestige with residential quiet, sitting just north of the capital, Bandar Seri Begawan. For the nomad who values order, safety, and a slower pace of life, it feels less like a tourist stop and more like a high-end suburb where things actually work.
The vibe here is undeniably understated. Because Brunei is a dry country, the social scene doesn't revolve around bars or late-night clubs. Life in Berakas follows the rhythm of the prayer calls and the tropical sun. You’ll spend your mornings working from air-conditioned cafes and your evenings walking through manicured parks or coastal stretches. It is a place that rewards self-sufficiency and those who appreciate a "deep work" environment without the distractions of a party scene.
Functional Neighborhoods
While Berakas is technically a single district, it is divided into two main areas that nomads generally gravitate toward. Each has a slightly different personality depending on whether you want to be near the coast or the commercial center.
- Berakas A: This is where you’ll find the airport and a lot of the government infrastructure. It feels very official and organized. Most nomads come here for the connectivity and proximity to major transport links.
- Berakas B: This area leans more toward residential and recreational life. It includes the Lambak Kanan area, which is one of the largest housing estates in the country. It is where you go to see how locals actually live, away from the shiny government buildings.
- Madang and Rimba: These are adjacent pockets popular with expats. They offer a mix of modern housing and easy access to shopping complexes like the Rimba Point mall, which is a staple for groceries and quick bites.
The Emotional Landscape
Living in Berakas feels like taking a long, deep breath. There is a distinct lack of urgency that can be jarring if you are coming from a high-speed city like Singapore. You will notice the silence first. The streets are clean, the traffic is orderly, and people are exceptionally polite but generally private. It is a "low friction" destination where you don't have to worry about being scammed or navigating aggressive street markets.
Expats often mention that the biggest hurdle is the car-centric design. Berakas was built for driving. Walking between neighborhoods isn't really a thing here due to the heat and the layout of the roads. However, the ease of using the Dart app (Brunei's version of Grab) makes getting around manageable. There is a sense of security here that is rare; you can carry your laptop in a park at dusk without a second thought. It is a sanctuary for the focused professional.
Living Costs & Practicalities
Brunei uses the Brunei Dollar (BND), which is pegged 1:1 to the Singapore Dollar. This makes it one of the more expensive corners of Borneo, but still quite affordable compared to Western hubs. You should budget roughly $1,500 to $1,600 per month for a comfortable lifestyle. While there aren't many dedicated "coworking spaces" in the traditional sense, the cafe culture in areas like Kiulap (just a short drive away) and the libraries in Berakas provide reliable spots to set up shop.
- Internet: Speeds are generally solid, with fiber connections common in most modern rentals. You can expect 50 Mbps to 100 Mbps in most residential areas.
- Safety: Brunei consistently ranks as one of the safest countries in the world. Petty crime is almost non-existent in Berakas.
- Climate: It is hot and humid year-round. Expect heavy rain during the monsoon seasons between October and January.
The trade-off for this peace and safety is the social ceiling. If you thrive on meeting a new group of travelers every night, Berakas might feel lonely. But if you have a project to finish or a business to scale, the lack of "noise" is your greatest asset. It is a place to be productive, enjoy the pristine nature of the nearby Berakas Forest Reserve, and experience a side of Borneo that is orderly, wealthy, and deeply traditional.
The Monthly Budget
Living in Berakas puts you in the heart of Brunei's administrative and residential hub. It isn't the cheapest spot in Southeast Asia, but it offers a high quality of life for those who value safety and quiet. Most nomads find they need around $1,500 to $1,600 per month to live comfortably here. This covers a private apartment, eating out frequently, and getting around via ride-sharing apps.
The local currency is the Brunei Dollar (BND), which is pegged 1:1 to the Singapore Dollar. This makes budgeting predictable. You'll find that while alcohol is non-existent in public due to local laws, your "vice tax" disappears, often leaving more room in the budget for high-end coffee and weekend trips to the rainforest.
Housing and Neighborhoods
Berakas is split into several areas, each with a slightly different price point. Since public transport is limited, your choice of neighborhood dictates your daily costs. Expats and remote workers usually gravitate toward Berakas A or the Kampong Anggerek Desa area because of their proximity to government offices and modern amenities.
- Kampong Anggerek Desa: This is the tech heart of the area. Expect to pay between $700 and $950 for a modern one-bedroom apartment. It's walkable to several cafes and the iCentre coworking space.
- Madang and Rimba: These are more residential and suburban. You can find larger spaces here for $600 to $800, but you will absolutely need a car or a healthy budget for the Dart app.
- Utilities: Electricity and water are heavily subsidized. Even with the air conditioning running all day, your monthly utility bill rarely tops $40 to $60.
Eating and Drinking
Food is where you can really control your spending. If you stick to local "kedai kopi" (coffee shops), a solid meal of Nasi Katok or Laksa costs between $1.50 and $4. If you prefer air-conditioned cafes or international cuisine, prices jump significantly.
- Local Meal: $3 to $5 at spots like Thiam Hock or various stalls in the Gadong area nearby.
- Mid-range Dinner: $15 to $25 for a meal at places like Kaizen Sushi or Excapade.
- Coffee: A flat white at a specialty cafe like Roasted Sip or Two Sons Coffee will run you $5 to $7.
- Groceries: Shopping at Supa Save (the expat favorite for imported goods) is pricey. A weekly shop for one person usually hits $80 to $100. Stick to Hua Ho for better local prices.
Working and Connectivity
Internet in Berakas is generally stable and fast, especially in the newer residential blocks. Most apartments come with fiber connections. If you need a dedicated workspace, the iCentre in Anggerek Desa is the primary hub for startups and digital types. A hot desk here typically costs around $15 to $20 per day, with monthly memberships offering better value.
For mobile data, look for DST (Easi) or Progresif for prepaid SIM at the airport or in the Times Square Shopping Centre. A prepaid plan with 10GB to 20GB of data usually costs about $25 to $35 per month. Coverage is excellent throughout the Berakas district.
Transportation
Brunei is a car-centric society. There is a bus system, but it's often unreliable for professionals on a schedule. Most nomads rely on Dart, which is the local version of Uber or Grab. A short trip within Berakas usually costs $5 to $7, while a ride into the capital, Bandar Seri Begawan, costs about $10 to $12. If you're staying longer than three months, many expats recommend renting a small car for roughly $450 to $550 per month to save money and gain freedom.
For Digital Nomads: Kampong Anggerek Desa
If you're looking for the closest thing to a tech hub in Brunei, Anggerek Desa is your spot. This area houses the iCenter and Knowledge Hub, which are the primary magnets for the local startup scene. It's the most practical choice for anyone needing a stable workspace and a professional environment.
- Rent: Expect to pay between $700 and $1,100 for a modern apartment.
- Vibe: Professional, efficient, and surprisingly social during lunch hours.
- Coworking: The iCenter offers desk space for around $15 per day, while the nearby Anggerek Desa Technology Park is where you'll find most of the local digital talent.
Nomads usually grab coffee at Alter Ego or Roasted Sip to get some deep work done. The internet speeds here are among the most reliable in the district; you'll typically see averages of 50 to 100 Mbps on fiber connections. It's a walkable pocket in a very car dependent country, which is a rare perk.
For Expats: Kampong Madang and Manggis
Expats often gravitate toward Madang and Manggis because they strike a balance between suburban quiet and retail convenience. You're right next to the Rizqun International Hotel and the Mall Gadong, which are just a short drive away. These neighborhoods feel established and integrated with a mix of local families and long term foreign residents.
- Rent: Large detached houses or spacious townhomes run between $1,200 and $2,000 per month.
- Convenience: Hua Ho Department Store in Manggis is the go to for groceries and household imports.
- Dining: This area is famous for its diverse food options, from high end cafes to local favorites like Thien Thien Chicken Rice.
The lifestyle here is laid back. Most expats find that having a car is non negotiable in Madang, as public transport is sparse and the tropical heat makes walking to the store a chore. It's a peaceful area where you can actually hear the birds instead of traffic.
For Families: Kampong Lambak Kanan
Lambak Kanan is one of the largest residential areas in Berakas and is perfect for families who want more space for their money. It's a massive housing scheme area with plenty of playgrounds and schools nearby. You'll find a strong sense of community here that's harder to pin down in the more transient parts of the city.
- Rent: You can find large family homes for $800 to $1,300.
- Schools: It's close to several international schools and the Berakas Secondary School.
- Nature: The Berakas Forest Reserve is just a 10 minute drive away, offering hiking trails and beach access for weekend outings.
Families appreciate the safety of the cul de sacs and the proximity to the airport, which is handy for quick regional getaways. While it's further from the city center, the local markets provide everything you need for daily life at lower prices than the expat enclaves.
For Solo Travelers: Kampong Rimba
Solo travelers and younger visitors often prefer Rimba because it's close to the University of Brunei Darussalam. This gives the area a more youthful, energetic feel compared to the sleepy suburbs. There are more budget friendly eateries and small apartments catering to students and solo residents.
- Rent: Studio units or shared housing can be found for $400 to $650.
- Social: The Rimba Point shopping cluster is a popular hangout with affordable food courts and retail.
- Transport: It's easier to catch a Dart (Brunei's version of Uber) from here than from the outskirts of the district.
Living in Rimba puts you near the Horticulture Business Centre, which is a great place to wander if you enjoy greenery. It's a good home base for exploring the rest of the country without feeling isolated. Most solo travelers find the locals here very friendly and willing to help with directions or food recommendations.
Connectivity and Speed
Brunei has some of the fastest internet in Southeast Asia, and Berakas is no exception. Since this area houses the airport and many government ministries, the infrastructure is solid. You can expect fiber optic speeds ranging from 50 Mbps to 100 Mbps in most modern apartments and residences. It is reliable enough for seamless video calls and heavy uploads, which isn't always the case in neighboring Borneo regions.
For mobile data, grab a SIM card from DST or Progresif right at the airport or at the Times Square Shopping Centre. Most nomads go with the DST Easi prepaid plans. You can get a decent amount of data for around $10 to $20 BND. Coverage across Berakas is excellent, even when you are tucked away in a cafe or near the stadium. Just keep an eye on your usage; while the speed is great, data caps on prepaid plans can sneak up on you.
Coworking Spaces and Productive Hubs
Berakas does not have a massive inventory of dedicated coworking brands, but the few options available are high quality. Anggerek Desa Technology Park is the heart of the local tech scene. You will find iCentre here, which is the primary incubator and coworking hub in the country. It is a professional environment where you will rub shoulders with local entrepreneurs and developers rather than just backpackers. Monthly hot desk rates are affordable; inquire directly, making it a competitive option compared to Singapore or Kuala Lumpur.
If you prefer a more corporate vibe, check out Regus at the RB Campus near the airport. It is a bit more expensive, but it offers the standard international amenities you expect. It is a favorite for those who need a polished boardroom for a quick meeting or a quiet office for a few days of deep work. Expect to pay around $15 BND to $25 BND for a day pass.
The Cafe Office Scene
When you want to trade the office chair for a sofa, Berakas has a thriving coffee culture. The area around Citis Square and Times Square is packed with spots that are laptop friendly. Local expats often frequent The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf or Starbucks for the guaranteed Wi-Fi and air conditioning, but for a better atmosphere, try Roasted Sip. It is a local favorite with great beans and enough power outlets to keep you going for a few hours.
Another solid choice is Piccolo Cafe. It is usually quiet during the mid morning slump, and the staff won't mind if you stay for a couple of hours as long as you keep the lattes coming. Just be aware that during Friday prayers between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM, almost everything in the city shuts down. Plan your deep work blocks around this time because you won't find a cafe or office open.
Practical Tips for Working in Berakas
- Power Plugs: Brunei uses the Type G British three pin plug. If you are coming from the US or Europe, bring an adapter, though most modern malls sell them for a few dollars.
- Peak Hours: Traffic in Berakas can get surprisingly heavy around 7:30 AM and 4:30 PM due to the high concentration of government offices. If you are heading to a coworking space, try to time your commute outside these windows.
- Digital Nomad Community: The community here is small but welcoming. Most networking happens organically at the iCentre or through local Facebook groups like Brunei Expats. Don't expect huge digital nomad meetups; it is more about one on one connections here.
- Cost of Living: Expect to spend about $1,500 BND to $1,600 BND per month for a comfortable lifestyle including a nice apartment in Berakas and regular cafe visits.
Staying Safe in Berakas
Brunei is consistently ranked as one of the safest countries in Southeast Asia, and Berakas is no exception. Since it houses many government ministries, the Prime Minister's Office, and the international airport, security is visible but not intrusive. You can comfortably walk around most residential areas like Kampong Lambak or Kampong Anggerek Desa after dark without looking over your shoulder. Petty crime is rare, though it is always smart to keep your car locked and your valuables out of sight when parked at public spots like Berakas Forest Reserve.
The biggest safety concerns for nomads here are actually related to the environment and local laws. If you are heading out for a run or a hike in the Berakas Forest Reserve, stick to the marked trails. Heat exhaustion is a real risk in the humidity, and the local wildlife, including macaques and the occasional monitor lizard, should be given plenty of space. On the legal side, remember that Brunei follows Sharia law. While this mostly affects the Muslim population, visitors must respect local customs. Alcohol is not sold anywhere in the country, and smoking is prohibited in almost all public spaces, including parks and near government buildings. Fines for littering or smoking in the wrong spot are steep, often starting around $300 BND.
If you are driving, be mindful of the rain. Tropical downpours in Berakas can turn roads into rivers in minutes. Local drivers are generally polite, but the sudden lack of visibility during a storm is a genuine hazard. If you get into a minor fender bender, it is common practice to move the vehicles out of traffic and call the police at 993 to file a report for insurance purposes.
Healthcare Facilities and Services
You are in good hands when it comes to medical care. The primary public facility is Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha (RIPAS) Hospital, located just a short drive from Berakas in the capital. However, for most day to day needs, nomads head to the Berakas Health Centre. It is efficient, though public clinics can sometimes have long wait times for non emergencies. For a faster, more premium experience, many expats and long term travelers prefer private clinics.
- JPMC (Jerudong Park Medical Centre): About 20 minutes from Berakas, this is the gold standard for private care. It feels more like a hotel than a hospital and has excellent specialists.
- Riverview Medical Clinic: A popular choice for quick consultations and vaccinations.
- Miri (Malaysia): For certain procedures or medications not available locally, some residents make the two hour drive across the border to Miri, though this requires a multiple entry visa.
A standard consultation at a private clinic usually costs between $30 BND and $60 BND, excluding medication. Most pharmacists in Berakas, like those found in the Times Square Shopping Centre, are well stocked and speak perfect English. You can get most basic over the counter meds without a hassle, but always bring your original prescriptions for anything specialized. Make sure your travel insurance covers medical evacuation, just in case, though the local facilities can handle almost any standard medical issue.
Emergency Contacts
It is helpful to keep these numbers saved in your phone while you are staying in the district. Most operators speak English well, so you won't have trouble communicating in a crisis.
- Police: 993
- Ambulance: 991
- Fire and Rescue: 995
- Search and Rescue: 998
Tap water in Berakas is generally considered safe to drink by the authorities, but most nomads and locals prefer to use a filter or buy bottled water for the taste. If you are staying in an older apartment in the Anggerek Desa area, the pipes might be dated, so sticking to filtered water is the safer bet to avoid a rogue stomach bug.
Navigating Berakas feels a lot different than getting around a typical Southeast Asian capital. It is a spread out district that encompasses the airport, several government ministries, and quiet residential pockets. You won't find a sprawling metro system here, so your mobility depends on a mix of ride hailing and your own set of wheels.
The Ride Hailing Standard
In Brunei, Dart is the undisputed king of the road. Since there is no Uber or Grab, you will want to download the Dart app before you even leave the airport terminal. It works exactly like the apps you are used to, and it is incredibly reliable for getting between the Berakas forest parks and the cafes in Gadong.
- Short hops: Expect to pay around $5 to $7 BND for a ten minute trip within the district.
- To Bandar Seri Begawan: A ride from the heart of Berakas to the city center usually runs between $10 and $15 BND depending on the time of day.
- Peak hours: Traffic can get surprisingly heavy around 4:30 PM when the government offices let out, so prices might nudge up slightly then.
Car Rentals and Driving
Most expats and long term nomads living in Berakas eventually decide to rent a car. The roads are excellent, fuel is cheap and subsidized (check current rates), and parking is rarely an issue. Driving is on the left side of the road, and the local driving style is generally patient and polite compared to neighboring countries.
You can find rental kiosks at the Brunei International Airport, which is conveniently located right in the Berakas area. Companies like Avis or Hertz operate here, but local agencies often provide better long term rates. For those staying a while, you can often negotiate monthly rates closer to $450-$550 BND.
Public Buses
The public bus system, known locally as the purple buses or Franchee, is an option if you have plenty of time and a tiny budget. The fare is a flat $1.00 BND, which you pay in cash to the conductor. While it is the cheapest way to get around, the schedules are more of a suggestion than a rule. Most nomads find the lack of air conditioning and the indirect routes a bit too taxing for a daily commute to a workspace.
Walking and Micromobility
Berakas is not exactly a walkable district in the traditional sense. The tropical heat and the way the neighborhoods are designed around large motorways make walking between areas difficult. However, the Berakas Forest Reserve and Shahbandar Hill offer great trails if you want to get on foot for exercise rather than transport.
Biking is growing in popularity, especially on Sunday mornings when certain roads in the capital are closed to cars, but for daily life in Berakas, the lack of dedicated bike lanes means you will be sharing the shoulder with fast moving traffic. Most travelers stick to cars for safety and comfort.
Practical Transport Tips
- Airport Transfers: If your accommodation doesn't offer a shuttle, use Dart. The airport taxi stand has fixed rates that are usually higher than the app.
- Currency: Keep small bills like $1 and $5 notes handy if you plan on using the bus or tipping drivers.
- Navigation: Google Maps is generally accurate for road directions, but it does not always have the most up to date bus routes.
If you are staying in the residential areas near Kampong Lambak or Madang, having the Dart app ready is your best bet for a stress free stay. It gives you the freedom to hop over to the Times Square Shopping Centre or the Citis Square food courts without worrying about finding a parking spot in the midday sun.
The Linguistic Landscape
You'll find that getting around Berakas is surprisingly straightforward if you speak English. While Bahasa Melayu (Malay) is the official language, English is the de facto language of business, education, and administration. Most locals in the Berakas A and B districts are fluently bilingual, so you won't have much trouble ordering a Kopi C at a local cafe or discussing your data plan at the Mall in Gadong.
The local dialect, Melayu Brunei, has its own distinct rhythm and vocabulary. It's quite different from the standard Malay spoken in Kuala Lumpur or Singapore. You'll hear it everywhere, from the aisles of Jaya Hypermart to the stalls at the Pasar Pelbagai Barangan Gadong. Learning a few phrases goes a long way in building rapport, even if everyone switches to English the moment they see you struggling.
Digital Connectivity and SIM Cards
Reliable internet is the lifeblood of the nomad lifestyle, and Berakas delivers reasonably well. Most expats and long-term travelers opt for one of the two main providers: DST or Imagine. Both are available at major shopping centres and airport, making it easy to get set up within an hour of landing.
- Easiest Setup: Grab a DST Easi prepaid SIM card. You can pick these up for about BND 15-30, which usually includes some initial credit.
- Data Packages: Expect to pay around $20 to $30 for a decent monthly data bundle. Speed is generally reliable for Zoom calls and uploading large files, though it can throttle during heavy rainstorms.
- Home Fiber: If you're renting an Airbnb or a serviced apartment in areas like Kampong Lambak, check if they have Imagine fiber broadband. Speeds often hit 100Mbps or higher.
Key Phrases for the Road
While English is prevalent, using a bit of the local tongue shows respect for the culture. It's particularly useful when you're exploring the more traditional residential pockets of Berakas. Bruneians are generally modest and polite, so a "please" and "thank you" carry a lot of weight here.
- Terima Kasih: Thank you. You'll use this constantly.
- Sama-sama: You're welcome.
- Berapa harganya?: How much is this? Useful at the night markets.
- Inda: No. (This is a specific Brunei Malay word; the standard Malay is 'Tidak').
- Bah: This is the most versatile word in Brunei. It can mean "okay," "let's go," "I agree," or just act as a filler. Use it at the end of a sentence to sound like a local.
Social Etiquette and Communication Styles
Communication in Brunei is often indirect and soft-spoken. Raising your voice or being overly aggressive is seen as a major faux pas. When meeting someone for the first time, a light handshake is common, but some local women may prefer not to shake hands with men for religious reasons. A simple nod and a smile are always safe bets.
For digital nomads looking to network, WhatsApp is the undisputed king of communication. Whether you're booking a table at tapioca.bn or joining a local hiking group for Bukit Shahbandar, everything happens over WhatsApp. Most businesses will have a "WhatsApp to order" number prominently displayed on their Instagram profiles, which is the other primary way locals discover new spots and events.
Navigating Officialdom
If you need to visit government offices in the Berakas Power Station area or deal with immigration, keep your communication formal. Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered) and be prepared for a bit of bureaucracy. Things move at a slower pace here, and a patient, friendly attitude will get you much further than trying to rush the process. Most forms are available in both Malay and English, so the paperwork side of things is rarely a barrier.
The Tropical Rhythm
Berakas doesn't really have seasons in the traditional sense. Since it sits just north of the equator on Borneo, you're looking at a tropical rainforest climate that stays fairly consistent year round. The temperature usually hovers between 24°C (75°F) and 32°C (90°F). It's the kind of humidity that makes a midday shower or a blast of air conditioning feel like a luxury, so most nomads plan their outdoor stints for the early morning or after the sun dips.
While it's warm every day, the rain is the real variable. Brunei experiences two distinct monsoon seasons. The Northeast Monsoon hits from December to March, while the Southwest Monsoon rolls through from June to October. You'll see the heaviest downpours in November, December, and January. These aren't usually day long drizzles; they're intense, dramatic thunderstorms that clear up as quickly as they start. Local expats usually carry a sturdy umbrella and keep a weather app like Windy or AccuWeather handy to time their commutes between the Berakas forest reserves and the cafes.
When to Book Your Stay
The best window to visit is generally from February to April. This period falls right after the heavy winter rains but before the peak heat of the summer months. The skies are clearer, the humidity is slightly more manageable, and it's the ideal time to explore the trails at Berakas Forest Recreation Park without getting caught in a deluge. Most travelers find this window offers the best balance for both focused deep work and weekend exploring.
If you want to experience the local culture at its peak, try to time your visit for Hari Raya Aidilfitri or the Sultan’s Birthday on July 15. During the Sultan's celebrations, the capital and surrounding areas like Berakas light up with night markets and festivities. Just keep in mind that during the month of Ramadan, the pace of life slows down significantly. Many restaurants close during daylight hours or offer limited takeaway options, which can be a bit of a hurdle for nomads who rely on cafe hopping for their workspace.
What to Pack for the Climate
Dressing for Berakas is a bit of a balancing act. You need light, breathable fabrics like linen or moisture wicking tech gear to survive the outdoor heat. However, the indoor spaces, especially the malls at Aman Hills or government buildings, often crank the AC to freezing levels. Most nomads recommend always having a light hoodie or a pashmina in your laptop bag.
- Lightweight Rain Shell: Essential for those sudden 4 PM downpours.
- Modest Attire: Since Brunei is a conservative Islamic country, you'll want clothes that cover your shoulders and knees for public spaces and meetings.
- Dry Bag: If you're carrying a MacBook or expensive camera gear, a waterproof bag is a lifesaver during monsoon season.
- High SPF Sunscreen: The tropical sun is intense, even on cloudy days.
Plan for a monthly budget of around $1,500 to $1,600 to live comfortably here. This covers a decent apartment in a residential spot like Kampong Lambak and plenty of budget for local eats. While it's not as dirt cheap as some neighboring hubs in Southeast Asia, the stability and quiet pace make it a unique choice for a focused work retreat.
Getting Around and Staying Connected
Berakas is the functional heart of Brunei, housing the airport and most government ministries, so it is better connected than other districts. You will want to download the Dart app immediately upon landing. It is the local equivalent of Uber or Grab, as there is no traditional ride-sharing here and street taxis are surprisingly rare. A typical ride from the airport to a rental in Berakas A or B usually costs between $5 and $10 BND.
For your phone, head to a DST or Imagine kiosk. Most nomads opt for the DST Easi prepaid plans. You can get a SIM card for about $10 BND and add a data pack like the Mobi 30, which gives you a solid chunk of data for around $30 BND a month. Fiber internet in apartments is generally reliable, with speeds often hitting 50 to 100 Mbps, though it is always smart to ask your host for a speed test screenshot before booking.
Money and Costs
The Brunei Dollar (BND) is pegged 1:1 to the Singapore Dollar, and you can actually use Singaporean notes and coins interchangeably here. It is a cash-heavy society for small purchases, though card acceptance is growing at larger supermarkets like Huaho or Supa Save. Budget around $1,500 to $1,700 USD per month for a comfortable lifestyle. This covers a modern apartment, frequent dining out, and transport.
- Monthly Rent (1-bedroom): $700 to $1,000 BND
- Local Meal (Nasi Katok): $1 to $1.50 BND
- Mid-range Dinner for Two: $40 to $60 BND
- Gym Membership: $50 to $80 BND per month
Digital Nomad Workspots
While dedicated coworking spaces are still a developing concept in Berakas, the cafe culture is strong. Roasted Sip is a favorite for those who need a few hours of laptop time; the coffee is excellent and the Wi-Fi is stable. If you need a more formal environment, Anggerek Desa Technology Park is the place to look. It houses several startups and innovation hubs where you can often find desk space or networking opportunities with local tech entrepreneurs.
Cultural Etiquette and Safety
Brunei is exceptionally safe, with very low crime rates. You will feel comfortable walking around at night, though the lack of sidewalks in some areas makes Dart a better choice. Since it is a conservative Islamic country, you should dress modestly. This means keeping shoulders and knees covered when visiting government buildings or public markets. Also, remember that Friday prayers occur between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM, during which almost every business, restaurant, and grocery store will close. Plan your lunch and errands accordingly.
Alcohol is not sold in the country. Non-Muslim visitors can bring in a limited allowance (two bottles of spirits and twelve cans of beer), but you must declare this at customs upon arrival at the airport. Most expats and nomads find that the lack of a traditional nightlife scene is balanced out by the incredible hiking trails and water sports available nearby.
Healthcare and Essentials
For any medical needs, Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha (RIPAS) Hospital is the main public facility nearby, but most expats prefer Jerudong Park Medical Centre (JPMC) for its private rooms and faster service. It is about a 15 to 20 minute drive from Berakas. Make sure your travel insurance covers private clinics, as costs can add up quickly for specialist visits. For daily essentials, the Supa Save in Berakas is the go-to for familiar international brands and high-quality produce.
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