With limited accommodation options in Brunei, a stroke of luck came to me when I found the BK Hostel in Bandar Seri Begawan! Beyond the pink and green palette of the common entertainment area and the artificial plants, it's a humble abode with everything you may need. Affordable, centrally located, and aesthetically pleasing, I booked my first ever single room and this just became one of my favorites!
Location of BK Hostel in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei
Strategically located along the Jalan Sultan Omar Ali Saifudden, BK Hostel is in the main historical town center in Bandar Seri Begawan, the capital of Brunei. All the essentials are just next door such as the main bus terminal, local restaurants, a Japanese restaurant, and known food chains such as Burger King and Pizza Hut.
Through its small green door, BK Hostel is located between a local restaurant and a pharmacy called Guardian. The door leads you straight to a flight of stairs and the first floor is where BK Hostel is.
Not only it is just steps away from all the essentials, it can't be more perfect for tourists and travelers like me. The magnificent Sultan Omar Ali Saifudden Mosque is just a block away while the biggest water village in the world is literally at the end of the street. The Royal Regalia Museum and the nearby Tasek Lama Recreational Park are also a walking distance away. Okay, Tasek Lama Recreational Park is 30 minutes away on foot but it's still a walking distance for me ๐
BK Hostel Property
A self-service hostel run by host Wc (that's his username in Airbnb), BK Hostel does not have any staff at all. The idea of a self-service hostel sounds overwhelming sure. However, I know my way around the hostels already so I am not bothered anymore. The host is proactive anyway and has provided the necessary information (check-in instructions, Wi-Fi details, and housekeeping rules) in advance.
Single Rooms (Room D)
In one of the seven rooms in the hallway, I was assigned to Room D. Basic but decent, clean, and is exactly what I need. Not as colorful as the outside, I didn't mind the plain color and was happy to get a small window above my head.
Not the best view though, it faces the wall of the next building (where Burger King is located). There's only one unforeseen factor I experienced during the stay, the soundproofing of the building. Not the hostel's fault though, you will hear and feel the impact of the metal roll-up doors of the local restaurant downstairs. You can think of it as an alarm when they are opening up and closing down, I guess ๐
Common Areas of BK Hostel
Moving on to the common areas, the basics are pretty much covered. A living area slash entertainment area, a kitchen and dining area, and bathrooms are all present. As an additional, two washing machines are also available for use.
Oh, and if you're taking a large suitcase like me, make sure you're ready to drag it. Because no one will help you. Yes, I managed to drag my 27-kg suitcase and it felt easier this time compared to my experience in Seoul where I had to drag it up to the 3rd floor! I swear, I hate suitcases!
Looking a little bare and empty, you can still get by and make use of the items in the Kitchen and Dining Area. Tools are quite limited though however if you just want to reheat food from outside, the microwave can save the day!
Hostel Cost
Booked through Airbnb, this is what I paid for my 2-nights stay:
The amount paid is in UAE Dirhams and it is equivalent to BND 55.00 upon conversion to the local currency. It's not a bad price with an average cost of BND 27.50 per night. Brunei can be a little expensive so I find BK Hostel affordable especially since they have single rooms only.
Conclusion
Without a doubt, BK Hostel is a solid choice in Bandar Seri Begawan in Brunei. Whether for a short-term stay or a long-term stay, your privacy is sorted with their private rooms. It is located in a sweet spot and you won't break the bank to afford it!
Ready to book? Check it out from Airbnb:ย Room D of BK Hostel in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei
