This tiny country offers visitors a wealth of activities, from jungle canopy tours to shopping and water sports. A good starting point is Brunei Tourism (bruneitourism.travel), which connects planners with local DMCs and suppliers.
Brunei Tourism director of marketing, Chris Robles, says: “Brunei offers something different for groups. There is plenty of open space and little ongoing construction. It is extremely safe and there are no hawkers or traffic jams. We have established the infrastructure and capability to handle large groups thanks to our history of servicing cruise ships. The restrictions on alcohol mean Brunei is not suitable for everyone, but it’s ideal for those who want a family-friendly environment with a range of activities on offer.”
The Empire Golf & Country Club remains the country’s premier resort hotel, and is a destination in itself. Groups will be impressed by the large-scale lobby, the treasures from names like Baccarat and the panoramic views of the South China Sea. In addition to the golfing facilities, the cinema, bowling alley and marine centre can be booked by groups or incorporated into spousal programmes. The luxurious suites are a favourite for small receptions and private dinners.
Last year, the hotel expanded its business event capabilities with the addition of the Seaview Wing (104 guestrooms) and the Grand Hall. The standalone waterfront facility is well equipped for events and can seat 2,000 people theatre style. There is also a sizeable reception area. All guestrooms in the main atrium (184 rooms) will be upgraded throughout the year with new furniture, flat screen televisions and iPod docking stations. The resort’s seafront Pantai restaurant will be upgraded in the first half of the year along with the Atrium Café.
The Empire’s Complete Meeting Package is available for groups with a minimum of 10 rooms. The package includes dinner on arrival night, accommodation in a superior room, buffet breakfast, full-day meeting with refreshment breaks, buffet lunch, all-day coffee tea and soft drinks, and basic audiovisual equipment for US$183 per person.
Radisson Brunei (formerly Sheraton) relaunched in May and continues to be upgraded. The 142-room hotel is located downtown, close to the water village,
Regalia Museum and the much-photographed
Sultan’s mosque.
Its pillared ballroom seats 150 theatre style and will be fitted with new audiovisual facilities this month. WiFi and cabled internet access is available throughout the hotel. The restaurants have been renovated and Deals is a favourite for executive lunches and private dinners. The central pool area is a popular option for receptions of 150 people. Guestrooms will also be refurbished this year.