I planned to visit the Gadong night market for an experience possible only in Bandar Seri Begawan. The night market also known as Pasar Gadong was not so far away from my hotel where I was staying in Bandar Seri Begawan, about a 10 – 15 minute drive. Still, I decided to take a water taxi for an exotic experience right after sunset. It was perfect cruising through the river. The high tide helped the driver to be able to drop me off right next to the market.
The Night Market
The night market gets busy around 5 pm and closes around 10:30 – 11:00 pm. This is a favorite place for Bruneians for a wide range of affordable yet delicious local food and a favorite meeting place for all walks of life.
The Gadong night market’s key attraction is the food, street vendors, and charming traditional activities. As I walked into this area, I saw rows after rows of stalls selling a wide range of local delicacies. It was interesting to see Chicken Wings or fish being grilled or cooked on banana leaves. It was mouthwatering to see freshly grilled lamb chops and beef Steaks.
BBQ – One of the Hot Item
The vendors were very friendly, came to know that BBQ chicken tail, locally known as ‘Tong Keng,’ is one of their favorites among the locals. I was a little hungry, but looking at all the delicious food, I was totally lost. Difficult to decide what to order from the choices of so many local delicacies such as Traditional Malay Kueh, Kelupis filled with either shrimp or beef, sellout, and even Tapai Manis as well as the ever-favorite chicken rice, fried noodles, not mention the BBQ grilled chicken, lamb and fish.
Finally, I settled down, choosing my food. Still, when I was visiting, there was a lack of sitting places in the night market. So I headed a little away from the market next to the river, where I had dinner overlooking the beautiful suburb and the river in the moonlight. It was 9:30 pm by the time I finished my dinner and time for me to return to the Jetty to get my return boat ride back to the city.
Other Stalls Selling Different Items
You will find stalls selling meals, snacks, fruits and vegetables, desserts, drinks, and even a few stalls selling clothing. If you want something fancy, walk across the short bridge to the shopping mall, where you will find a wide selection. I enjoyed being there for a couple of hours and watching the activities on a busy weekend evening. Here are some of the pictures that will tell the story.
Where to stay in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei
Jubilee Hotel, Bandar Seri Begawan
Jubilee Hotel is located in Bandar Seri Begawan City Center, and the hotel provides a free airport shuttle. Jubilee Hotel is a 15-minute drive away from the airport. It enjoys easy access to attractions, including the Water Village and The Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque. The private bathrooms have a bathtub and hot/cold shower.
Al Afiah Hotel, Bandar Seri Begawan
You’re eligible for a Genius discount at Al Afiah Hotel! Located in Bandar Seri Begawan and with Hua Ho Department Store reachable within a 5-minute walk, this 3-star hotel offers a 24-hour front desk and a business center. In addition, guests can enjoy city views. Selected rooms are equipped with a kitchen with an oven and a microwave. At the hotel, each room comes with bed linen and towels. Royal Regalia Museum is 1.2 miles from the accommodation, while The Mall is 1.1 miles away. The nearest airport is Brunei International, 5.6 miles from Al Afiah Hotel.
My Opinion and Last Word
Have you been to Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei? Any cool tips to share?
loved being in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei, and want to go back again. I hope my story has motivated you to visit Brunei.
Please leave a comment below! I’d love to hear from you to improve my knowledge.
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