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