Read this blog: The one where we are able to drink in public again but can’t find the Drunk Monkey
Thursday 13th March 2025
We had not been particularly impressed with the value for money offered by the breakfast at The Empire Brunei so we agreed we would try and get something at the airport. Once we had gone through passport control, Ramadan restrictions no longer applied and so we were able to get coffee and some brunch from Starbucks. The staff seemed pleased to have something to do and we spent enough to qualify for a free branded hand held fan.
The airport seemed almost deserted and we could not imagine that any of the retail outlets were making a profit.
Once again, the flight was not full so we were able to have a window seat each. The flight itself was short and low. So low that we were not above the cloud cover and Robert could see the coastline for the whole flight [see Video of the day].
We ordered a Grab from the airport to The Waterfront Hotel. Our room gave us a fine view across the Sarawak River to the New Sarawak State Legislative Assembly Building with its distinctive gold roof shaped like a Malaysian a royal umbrella [see also feature photo].
We went to check and the hotel pool combined the benefits of being open air, under cover and having a bar.
We decided to take a stroll into Chinatown which centres around Carpenter Street which lead from the Harmony Gate, directly opposite our hotel.
Robert had identified a bar called the Drunk Monkey which was recommended and had beer on tap. It was also conveniently close to us in Chinatown. However, on arrival they said that they did not have any draft beer, so after we had ordered a bottle of beer to share to celebrate being able to drink and eat in public during daylight hours again, we realised that we had peaked too soon and that the Drunk Monkey was actually the bar next door. We obviously had to go and rectify the matter.
Walking back to our hotel we passed the Hiang Thian Siang Ti Temple which takes its name from the Deity of the North to whom it is dedicated.
The restaurant was once again serving a Ramadan buffet but in the pool bar we were able to order from the menu and enjoy the view as the sun went down [see Selfie of the day]. Robert went for a local speciality whilst Matilda went for a slightly safer option. He subsequently confirmed that it was probably spicier than she likes.
The New Sarawak State Legislative Assembly was illuminated.
As was Dataran Ibu Pertiwi [below right] which at 99 metres is the tallest flagpole in Southeast Asia. We planned to walk there in daylight the following day.
Video of the day:
Selfie of the day:
Dish of the day:
Route Map:
