Brunei mark February 23rd the National Day, honoring the moment of gained independence from British protection with grand, colorful parades. Although it's a small nation spanning less than 6,000 square kilometers, most of their land is covered with untouched tropical rainforests.

        Thanks to its massive oil production, citizens enjoy a tax-free lifestyle with no personal income tax at all. Brunei is also home to Kampong Ayer, the world’s largest stilt village. This "Venice of the East" has a history stretching back over a thousand years and is still a vibrant home to more than 30,000 people, accounting for nearly 10% of the entire population.

Written, translated, and illustrated by: Ratchanok T.