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Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque in Bandar Seri Begawan

Wednesday, October 10, 2012 0 Comments

bowdywanders.com Singapore Travel Blog Philippines Photo :: Brunei :: Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin  Mosque in Bandar Seri Begawan

Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin  Mosque 

If you happen to have dream of Brunei one night, it will probably look something like this. Picture this: pristine pillars, uninhabited silence, and golden domes engulfing your lucid dream. Why Brunei? I don’t know either, but hey, it is a picture perfect sight! And although there are so many ways to picture Brunei’s bold glory, this one definitely should be it. The Masjid Omar Ali Saifudden is an instant favorite.

This is one beautiful mosque. When I had a glimpse of this from my bus ride to the other side of the city, I felt so engrossed to see it as soon as I can. Eager? Yes. I was completely blown away by the influence and certainty it exuded. The cab driver gave a quick preview on why this is one of the finest mosques ever known to Brunei mankind. From details like Renaissance inspired and Italian influences in Architecture, to marbles and gold, to manmade lagoons and lush gardens – it just justified how much of an inspiration it has on its people.
bowdywanders.com Singapore Travel Blog Philippines Photo :: Brunei :: Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin  Mosque in Bandar Seri Begawan

To reach the place, you have to do it by foot or by scouring the city for one of the (very limited) cab rides they offer. Side story: I almost believed the hearsays that the country’s capital only offers 40 cabs! The rest, you should take via other means, car rental, bus rides or train trips. Although not proven factual, still, if you see how the transportation is here, you’ll deem it as true. But it’s not something to be ashamed of or feel sorry for, because this is like this for a very valid reason. Vehicles here are el-cheapo. They OWN personal vehicles (amazing?). Almost everyone does. Because of course, you most probably know already, Brunei is rich in oil. Rich in oil = cheap automobiles.

bowdywanders.com Singapore Travel Blog Philippines Photo :: Brunei :: Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin  Mosque in Bandar Seri Begawan

Back to the main part - you may take the local bus but it will still drop you off a little far from the place, so walking is still required. In any case, be sure to see it for your eyes. It’s just there, panoramic perfection personified. For the most part, it looked white, shinning and intricate. It has a golden dome on top, which most mosques have in Brunei, and it has a beautiful man-made lagoon beside the mosque.

bowdywanders.com Singapore Travel Blog Philippines Photo :: Brunei :: Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin  Mosque in Bandar Seri Begawan
bowdywanders.com Singapore Travel Blog Philippines Photo :: Brunei :: Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin  Mosque in Bandar Seri Begawan

Once you enter the place, you’ll feel the culture and the solemnity of the place. Culture = Brunei feel. Solemnity = Islamic feel. The place is shrouded with utmost reverence. You’ll unconsciously obey the ways and appreciation for their faith. The pillars and the arts are helpful in convincing you to be inspired about Islamic faith. You’ll feel passion. You’ll feel admiration.

Personal favorite of the place would have to be the structure on the lagoon. Stunning! Together with some cloudy effect and humid feel, the lagoon mirrors the image of the floating structure, which makes it ten times more stunning. See for yourself.

bowdywanders.com Singapore Travel Blog Philippines Photo :: Brunei :: Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin  Mosque in Bandar Seri Begawan
bowdywanders.com Singapore Travel Blog Philippines Photo :: Brunei :: Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin  Mosque in Bandar Seri Begawan

[BRUNEI TRAVEL] Read the rest of Explore Brunei Travel Blog Series:


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Bowdy is an amateur adventurer, a coffee sleepyhead, and a start-up rooter, with a penchant for classic-looking photos. At last count, he has visited some 60 countries, and is now living in Singapore. He's always in search of fascinating routines to exploit, within the edges of after-office hours and (un)limited holidays.

For collaboration ideas, email bowdywanders@gmail.com.

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