Sounds like nothing's changed. I had to pass through Brunei almost ten years ago on a RTW trip. Having heard about the price of accomo, I bought a flight out beforehand and never left the airport. I returned two weeks later in time for 4-5 hours' sightseeing, and flew out.

If that three days is a commitment, you might want to do something similar. Kota Kinabalu perhaps? Interesting place, lovely island beaches and clear warm water.

Cheers.

Actually, I think Brunei is more expensive than it seems. Not much to do/see. If you want a stop on the island of Borneo, consider Kota Kinabalu or Kuching. If you have to fly through Brunei because of the airline you are flying, make your stop as brief as possible and see if the airline offers a special rate at hotels.

Hmmm I'm getting increasingly concerned about this stopover. Maybe I'll look for a cheap package holiday ex Brunei as you suggest Kathie

guykb,
while I have not been to Brunei yet, it is in my plans in the near future (with Kota Kinabalu). I have done some research and found all day city tours (7 hours) for $ 70 - that is not unreasonable. When I priced out the Sheraton it was $ 125 with breakfast (+ 10% tax) - that too seems reasonable to me.
Try these links:
http://www.exploreborneo.com/tours_pcks_brunei.php
http://www.tourismbrunei.com/info/tour.html
These tours are even less:
http://www.bruneitourism.com/subfolder/packages.html#
Try the Sheraton - looks very nice.
Good luck - don't give up. You may never been there again.