Edging the South China Sea on the northern coast of the great island of Borneo – between the Malaysian states of Sabah and Sarawak – Brunei is both a natural gateway for South-East Asia and a uniquely fascinating travel destination in its own right, ideal for a stopover. In the capital, Bandar Seri Begawan, you can marvel at some outstanding modern architecture – including the spectacular lagoon-side Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, the Istana Nurul Iman (the Sultan’s official residence and world’s largest residential palace) and the Royal Regalia Building, as well as the breathtaking shopping mall Yayasan SHHB (Brunei’s best spot for some superb shopping). You can enjoy excellent dining - both Western and Asian - in a range of tempting restaurants, as well as at ‘hawker’ food centres serving fine local delicacies. Take time for a river cruise and visit the intriguing maze-like Kampung Ayer, a traditional wooden village built on stilts over the water (the largest in the world of its kind).

Further afield is Ulu Temburong National Park, separated from the rest of the nation by Brunei Bay and a slice of Sarawak, and altogether another world. Here you can experience a magical river trip up to Bangar the main town, and explore the rich diversity of the lush rainforest.