Tour operators take a quick trip to Bandar Seri Begawan

As part of its aggressive ongoing expansion program, Air Philippines, a firm believer in innovative marketing plans, recently hosted a dinner reception at the Dragon Room of the Cebu Plaza Hotel for colleagues in the travel industry to launch its four new additional flights to domestic destinations originating from Cebu. It includes Iloilo, Davao, Bacolod and Gen. Santos City.

Airline veteran Patria Chiong, senior vice president for marketing and sales, together with Maripet Baldemor, area head for the Visayas region, likewise announced the inauguration of its latest international charters from Davao to Manado, Subic to Hong Kong, and Manila to Bandar Seri Begawan.

And speaking of Bandar Seri Begawan, the mere mention of the complete name of Brunei’s capital city never fails to create exotic glittery images in my mind. Araceli de Veyra, the dynamic no-nonsense consultant of Brunesia Travel, pleasantly surprised a few leading tour operators and a couple of members of media with an unexpected but much appreciated invitation to join other guests on Air Philippines’ maiden inaugural flight from Manila to Bandar Seri Begawan. This time there was a twinkle in my eyes.

Upon our arrival following an exceptional flight, we were warmly welcomed by the Philippine Ambassador to Brunei, the amiable Enrique Zaldivar and Sheik Jamaduddin, the well-respected director general of the Brunei Ministry of Tourism.

Though we were forewarned before our departure that shorts and sleeveless blouses would not be allowed during our stay, in keeping with the strict adherence to their religious beliefs and practices, we knew, without the slightest doubt, that the visit would be one royal experience all the way. And it was.

After a quick change at the Holiday Lodge Hotel where we were billeted, we headed to the Royal Regalia Bldg. right in the heart of the city. We were astonished by the unique collection of Royal Bruneian artifacts, the jewel-encrusted coronation crown, the royal chariot, the gold and silver ceremonial armory and a replica of the throne used by His Majesty on state affairs.

Next stop was the Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, one of the most magnificent in Asia. We admired the soaring minarets and the golden dome, the flawless Italian marble, the gold mosaic and English-stained glass windows.

The evening found us strolling by the state-of-the-art Disneyland-style theme park, Jurodong Park Playground, complete with its adventure rides. We learned that this is the only amusement park in the world offering free admission and the complimentary use of all its attractions.

Friendly and hospitable Filipino Ara Miñano, a resident of the city who volunteered as our unofficial tour guide, took us to the popular food center filled with hawkers, similar to our turo-turo, where we savored a selection of local dishes and delicacies at reasonable prices.

The following day, we visited the country’s largest mosque, the Jame’ Asr Hassanil Bolkiah, built to commemorate the 25th anniversary of His Majesty’s reign. We were informed that most of the builders were Filipinos. We chanced upon some of them who were still employed at the mosque. Surrounded by some of our countrymen and standing in the middle of such a gigantic structure, it made each and every visitor proud of our overseas Filipino workers.

One could not possibly depart without seeing the Istana Nurul Iman, the official residence of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah that likewise serves as the country’s administrative center. We were utterly impressed by the splendor of the palace, which, incidentally, is open to the public once annually, even if only viewed from a distance.

Our last stop was the Empire Hotel and Country Club with its breathtaking panoramic vista of the South China Sea, the grandiose alabaster white marble columns, the stately chandeliers and the gold-rimmed lamps.

Before we could take another turn on our exciting walkabout, it was time to rush to the airport. But not without bringing home wonderful memories of the kingdom of unexpected treasures.

Another trip to Bandar Seri Begawan? There it goes again. Oh yes, anytime!