Brunei

With more than 40,000 residents and just moments from Bornean rainforest, Kampong Ayer in Brunei is less of a water village and more of a city on stilts.

Brunei isn’t a large country, and using the capital as your travel base allows visitors to see the best of the nation’s hotels, nature, and diving.

Brunei is one of Southeast Asia’s better-kept tourism secrets, steeped in a rich history and tropical beauty. The wildlife isn’t easy to find, but it is more than worthy of the search.

Brunei may not be the most exciting destination with no bars or nightlife, but for a short visit it offers plenty to do and see and its people are amongst Asia’s friendliest.