Classic Brunei (4 days)

Touchdown in Brunei's capital city of Bandar Seri Begawan. You will be met at the airport and transferred via private car to your hotel. After freshening up, step out to see the city. Marvel at the Istana Nurul Iman – the sultan's palace. Regarded as the largest palace in the world, this immense modernist complex is closed to the public and best-viewed from vantage points not far from Bandar Seri Begawan. For a close-up look at royal treasures, you'll visit the Royal Regalia Museum, which houses outfits, artifacts and gifts belonging to the royal family, then enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure, shopping in Bandar Seri Begawan city center or enjoying the luxury facilities at your hotel.

This morning you'll head to Kampong Ayer Water Village, an overwater settlement of some 39,000 people, with more than 1,300 years of history. Walk the wooden boardwalks between stilt houses or zip around its districts in a water taxi. Next, take a River Safari to spot the curious proboscis monkey with its mottled fur and potbelly. The mangroves of Brunei are home to many species of wildlife, including crocodiles, migratory bird and butterflies.

Go on a full day adventure at the beautiful Ulu Temburong National Park. Tucked deep into a forest reserve, a combination of speedboat, 4x4, and traditional longboat along the River Temburong is required to reach the national park. The long journey is worth it: the protected park is 50,000 hectares of pristine rainforest and an ecological jewel. Walk through the canopy on suspension bridges and wooden walkways, spot the diverse wildlife, and visit the ethnic Iban and Dayak people. This indigenous group live in Native Longhouses, a unique timber dwelling. If you wish, take on the rapids with some downstream rafting before returning to the city.

After breakfast, spend your day at leisure until your private transfer to the airport for your flight onward.