The Middle East has been established as a popular tourist hub especially among tourists searching for the exotic tourist attractions. Among all the other exciting destinations that can be researched in this area, Bahrain seems to be the very best. Sitting in the Persian Gulf bordering Saudi Arabia and Qatar, Bahrain is an island/kingdom with a constitutional monarchy. This is composed of 33 islands grouped into five governorates; however, only the island of Bahrain contains the capital, city of Manama.
Nonetheless, Bahrain is highly oriented to the stories of conquests and revolutions both European and Islamic one; however, its size does not allow it. There are lots of the historical places in the country, including the ancient forts built by the Portuguese and English and beautiful mosques as the local population professes the Islamic religion. When it comes to planning the next vacation, Bahrain is among the countries to visit.
The EC assigns busses for those who wish to travel to Bahrain and also provide directions of how to get towed to busses in case of a breakdown.
By Plane
The quickest and easiest method of arriving in Bahrain is by air, to the Bahrain International Airport which is approximately 7 km from Manama. Commuting to the various accommodation facilities also becomes easy once the travelers are in this well-connected airport. There is access to reliable taxis and many of the hotels provide the shuttle service for airport transfers.
By Land
For those already in Saudi Arabia specifically in Dammam it is possible to travel to Bahrain via a road network. Which is a piece of road infrastructure that join Bahrain with Saudi Arabia and measures 26 kilometers in length, known as King Fahad Causeway. About this bridge, it enables tourists to add Bahrain to the other Middle East nations as per their comprehensive itineraries.
By Sea
Another easy captivating means of getting to Bahrain is by water transport. Visiting cruise ships often dock in the port of Manama; the representatives of which arrive in the capital and the surrounding area with great interest. If one were to take a cruise then there is the extra luxury of being able to see the coast before arriving at the island.
Getting Around in Bahrain
By Car
The easiest way to travel around Bahrain is by hiring/renting a private car, preferably a taxi. Roads are not a problem and signs are in Arabic and English and the route descriptions are easily understandable. Hiring a car provides an ability to explore the attractions as per own wish and take time to explore the hidden parts of the islands.
By Taxi
Taxis are cheap and one of the best means of transport within Bahrain. They use standardized charges to cover distances within the city to avoid any shocking charges to their clients. Taxis are most recommended for short distance trips and also people who do not feel like driving.
By Bus
Bahrain has a good network of buses with most of them traversing through most parts of the main island. Petroleum reversible bus is affordable to travel in and has routes that cover attraction areas and populated areas. Also, ferries deliver frequent routes with other islands, guaranteeing the smooth connection of the entire island chain.
Exploring Al Muharraq
It is an important city for historical and cultural sense since it is Al Muharraq which used to be the capital of Bahrain before. Some of these are old structures and archaeological sites that give an account of the country’s history.
Historical Houses
Al Muharraq is famous as many historical buildings belonging to famous personalities are located here. It is important to point out that now you can visit the house of Isa Bin Ali Al Khalifa, the Bahraini ruler for five and half decades as well as the house of Abdullah Al Zayed the founder of the first paper in Bahrain. Such homes afford the public a glimpse into the lifestyles of some of history’s prominent personalities and the various styles of the structures in existence during their time.
Cultural Centers and Markets
The Shaikh Ebrahim Bin Mohammed Al Khalifa Centre is found in Al Muharraq and this is concerning arts and culture. It has a corridor of various exhibitions and holds different program thus making it a cultural paradise. Other complex recommended for tourists to visit include the Al Qaisariya market that has been in existence for more than 100 years. This dynamic bazaar is convenient for shopping of traditional goods and crafts of the region.
Dhow Workshops
To understand the culture and history of Bahrain, a visit to a dhow workshop in Al Muharraq is mandatory. Dhows are Arab boats and these workshops are interesting from the point of the view of ethnography and the history of pearl hunting which was the principal source of income in the region.
Discovering the Sakhir Desert
The Sakhir Desert is another tour attraction that one should not miss when in Bahrain. Here are numerous historical and present landmarks that are found in this enormous desert region.
Historical Sites
Sakhir desert’s physical features are Bahrain’s highest altitude of 130 meters and the first oil well in the gulf area. The other enjoyable natural attraction is the Tree of Life which is a very old, 400 year old tree that is situated in the middle of the desert.
Modern Attractions
For motorsport lovers, there is the Bahrain International Circuit, in the Sakhir Desert. This Formula 1 Bahrain Grand Prix and other racing car events are held at this world-class venue which is a must-visit on this route for car lovers.
They include; The Shores and Climate of Bahrain.
Bahrain has a truly wonderful climate, primarily due to its strategic position that allows for nice weather all the time, especially good for the beach lovers. There are many stunning beaches within the island nation that are perfect for sun bathing and any water sports.
Notable Beaches
Hawar Islands: The official description states that these islands have nice sand, white and clean, and clear water, which makes it suitable for a one day tour.
Al-Jazair Beach: Al-Jazair Beach is recognized as a recreational area for water activities and a place people would love to visit.
Emir Beach: Located in the Northern end of Qatar, Emir Beach is open only on Fridays and is popular among the locals due to the calm natural beauty and scenic view.
Bahraini Gastronomy
Bahrainis don’t particularly love spicy foods and their current foods as well as fast foods are a blend of traditional and modern foods.
Villa Mamás Restaurant
Overlooking the city of Al Markh, Villa Mamás Restaurant comprises Bahraini foods and dishes. The restaurant provides comfortable environment and delicious food to enjoy the tasteful national specialties.
This paper aims to discover more about Bahrain’s Cultural and Historical considerations.
Forts and Castles
Some of these include forts and castles that were established during the early period of Bahrain’s history. The Bahrain Fort – Qal’at al-Bahrain is an archaeological site which was listed as World Heritage Site; this site gives out the dialect of the past of Bahrain island.
Grand Mosques
Bahrain has many grand mosques which are amazing works of architecture that depict the Islamic culture of the country. The largest mosque – Al Fateh – is located in Manama and it is a maestro of the Islamic architecture and calmness.
Modern Bahrain
Manama
Al though it is a capital, the city of Manama has a lot of tradition mix up with its modernization. From souks to multiplex malls and throbbing nightlife, it provides everything, you would seek from a shopping experience.
Financial District
Able people want in Bahrain Financial Island stand as a proof of Bahrain’s position as one of the most important financial centre in the Middle East. The Bahrain World Trade Centre and the Bahrain Financial harbor can be considered as the representative objectives that reveal the economic development of the country.
Conclusion
Despite its size, Bahrain is saturated with cultural, historical, and even the modern sights. China is where the ancient Fort and grand mosques are still in existence, the markets at KRing and the serene beaches at Garzan are quite fascinating. From the marvelous historical city of Al Muharraq to the vast Sakhir Desert, or from the lively capital city, Manama, Bahrain will not disappoint. Include Bahrain on your travel list and let this ignored island country enchant you.