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Digital Nomad Guide to Brunei | Digital Nomad Exchange
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Digital Nomad Life in Brunei

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Summary: Brunei is not a popular destination for digital nomads. The most popular cities for digital nomads are Chiang Mai, Bangkok, and Bali. Digital nomads like living in Brunei because of its low cost of living, excellent infrastructure, and friendly locals. A digital nomad can live on a monthly budget of around $1,000 in Brunei. The culture of Brunei is a mix of Malay, Chinese, and Indian influences. Brunei is a very conservative country, and visitors should respect local customs and traditions. The country is known for its beautiful mosques, lush rainforests, and stunning beaches.

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How do I meet people in Brunei?

When we asked people living in Brunei about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"Expats in Brunei often join clubs and activities such as the Brunei Expat Club, which organizes events and activities for expats to meet and socialize. Expats can also join sports clubs, such as the Brunei Rugby Club, or join a local gym. Other ways for expats to meet people in Brunei include attending local events, such as the Brunei International Festival, or joining a local church or temple. Expats can also join online forums and social media groups to connect with other expats living in Brunei," said one person in Brunei.

What is life like in Brunei?

When we asked people living in Brunei what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"Life for expats and digital nomads in Brunei is generally quite pleasant. The country is known for its friendly people, low cost of living, and excellent infrastructure. Expats and digital nomads can enjoy a variety of activities, from exploring the rainforest to visiting the many mosques and temples. The country is also home to a number of international schools, making it an ideal place for families to settle. Additionally, Brunei is a safe and secure country, with a low crime rate and a strong economy. All in all, Brunei is an excellent destination for expats and digital nomads looking for a comfortable and affordable place to live," said one person in Brunei.

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Where should I live in Brunei?

We asked digital nomads and expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Brunei is to search online for rental listings. There are many websites that offer listings of apartments, houses, and other types of rental properties in Brunei. Additionally, you can also search for rental listings in local newspapers and classifieds. Additionally, you can also ask friends and family who live in Brunei for recommendations. Finally, you can also contact real estate agents in Brunei who specialize in rental properties," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Brunei.

What do I need to know before moving to Brunei?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Brunei, they said:

"Before retiring in Brunei, expats should be aware of the country's strict laws and regulations. Expats should also be aware of the cost of living in Brunei, which is generally higher than in other countries in the region. Additionally, expats should research the availability of healthcare and other services in Brunei, as well as the climate and culture of the country. It is also important to research the visa requirements for expats, as well as the process for obtaining a work permit. Finally, expats should be aware of the local customs and etiquette in Brunei, and make sure to respect them," said one person in Brunei.

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What do people appreciate most about the culture in Brunei?

"Expats in Brunei appreciate the country's strong sense of community and the warm hospitality of the local people. They also enjoy the country's rich cultural heritage, which includes traditional music, dance, and art. Additionally, expats appreciate the country's commitment to religious tolerance and the fact that Brunei is a safe and secure place to live. Finally, expats enjoy the country's natural beauty, with its lush rainforests, stunning beaches, and crystal-clear waters," said one person in Brunei.

"Simple life, standards, and expectations. People are generally and almost naturally friendly and helpful. Lack of many advances in conveniences compared to other countries makes you appreciate the basics in a new light. The willingness to trust in the capabilities and willingness of people to address everyday activities," said one expat who made the move to Bandar Seri Begawan.

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What do people find most challenging about the culture in Brunei?

"the language and the norms in compliance with their religious practices and beliefs," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Bandar Seri Begawan.

"Expats in Brunei often find the local culture to be quite conservative and traditional, which can be challenging to adjust to. The country is also quite isolated, so it can be difficult to find a sense of community and make friends. Additionally, the local language, Malay, is not widely spoken, so communication can be a challenge. Finally, the cost of living in Brunei is quite high, so expats may find it difficult to maintain their desired lifestyle," explained one person living in Brunei.

What residency documents or visas did I need if I will be in Brunei for a while?

"If you plan to stay in Brunei for a while, you will need to apply for a valid visa. Depending on your nationality, you may need to apply for a tourist visa, a business visa, or a student visa. Additionally, you may need to provide proof of your financial stability, such as a bank statement, and a valid passport," explained one person living in Brunei.

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What cultural blunders should I try to avoid making in Brunei?

We asked people in Brunei if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. They wrote:

"It is important to be respectful of Brunei's culture and customs when visiting the country. It is considered rude to show disrespect to the Sultan or the royal family, so it is important to avoid making any negative comments about them. Additionally, it is important to dress modestly and to avoid public displays of affection. It is also important to be aware of local religious customs and to avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during Ramadan. Finally, it is important to be respectful of local customs and to avoid discussing sensitive topics such as politics or religion," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Brunei.

"None that I can remember. We tried very hard to be careful from the start and learned to study the culture and get information from all sources. People are still generally easy to talk to and cooperative if you need assistance to understand their culture. They appreciate your efforts to conform," explained one person living in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei.

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What are healthcare services like in Brunei?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Brunei, they replied:

"Healthcare services in Brunei are provided by both public and private institutions. The public healthcare system is managed by the Ministry of Health and is funded by the government. It provides a range of services, including primary care, specialist care, hospital care, and preventive health services. The quality of public healthcare is generally good, with modern facilities and well-trained staff. Foreign residents have access to the public healthcare system, although they may need to pay for some services. Expats in Brunei can use the public healthcare system by registering with the Ministry of Health and obtaining a medical card. They may also be able to access private healthcare services, depending on their insurance coverage," explained one digital nomad living in Brunei.

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What are the pros and cons of living in Brunei?

"Expats and digital nomads living in Brunei appreciate the country's low cost of living, its friendly people, and its safe and secure environment. They also enjoy the country's natural beauty, with its lush rainforests and stunning beaches. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads find the lack of nightlife and entertainment options in Brunei to be a bit of a downside. Additionally, the country's strict laws and regulations can be a bit of a challenge to navigate," said a member in Brunei.

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About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

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