General
Bandar Seri Begawan
Kuala Belait
Seria
Water Village Boat Ride Overcharges
Inflated Boat Tour Fees
In Brunei's water villages near Bandar Seri Begawan, boat operators may quote tourists exorbitant prices for short tours, such as BND 50-100 for a 30-minute ride that typically costs BND 20-30. They exploit language barriers or claim additional fees for 'safety equipment' or 'local guides', often targeting visitors at the jetty near Kampong Ayer.
How to Avoid This Scam
- Book through licensed operators at the visitor center in Bandar Seri Begawan and confirm prices in advance, as rates are standardized by the Brunei Tourism Board.
- Use the official Brunei tourism app to check average costs and avoid unsolicited offers from operators lingering at the jetty.
- Pay with credit cards or e-wallets if possible to have transaction records, and carry small change in BND to negotiate fairly without showing large bills.
Market Vendor Overpricing
Exaggerated Souvenir Prices
At markets like Gadong Night Market in Bandar Seri Begawan, vendors sell local handicrafts such as woven baskets or brass items but inflate prices for tourists, charging BND 50 for items that locals buy for BND 10-20. They may claim items are 'rare' or 'handmade by royal artisans' to justify the markup, preying on first-time visitors unfamiliar with local costs.
How to Avoid This Scam
- Research average prices online via Brunei tourism forums and compare with multiple vendors before purchasing.
- Haggle politely but firmly, starting with half the quoted price, as bargaining is culturally accepted but vendors may use guilt tactics like 'this feeds my family'.
- Shop at government-regulated stores like those in the Royal Regalia Museum gift shop, where prices are fixed and authentic.