Kingdom of Bahrain

The Kingdom of Bahrain – otherwise known as the pearl of the Middle East. Most people have probably never heard of Bahrain. Well allow me to tell you a little bit about Bahrain and things to do should you ever have a day, or even a long layover here. Bahrain, unlike it’s neighbor Saudi Arabia, is a more progressive country. Only a 40 minute drive from Saudi, connected via a bridge, lots of Saudi’s will actually spend their holidays in Bahrain, to perhaps go for a drink, which is legal in Bahrain. Women are able to drive in Bahrain – only recently did women obtain the right to drive in Saudi Arabia. In Saudi Arabia, women are required to cover completely, whereas in Bahrain, women are free to wear whatever they choose. I would, however, recommend that you try to dress modestly. The country still is predominately Muslim, so it’s important to be respectful of their culture. You’re there to observe and take in some of the Bahraini culture, not to bring attention to yourself. And one last point, Bahrain is a very safe country. I actually feel safer here than I do anywhere in America.

Bahrain is a tiny-island nation, so a long layover would be enough to explore and get a feel for what Bahrain is about. For Americans to enter Bahrain, however, a visa is required, but don’t fret. Americans can buy a 2 week visa on arrival for around $20 USD. You’re welcome to purchase a SIM card at the airport, if you’d like but it’s not necessary if you off-line download the Bahraini map on Google Maps. Uber is available in Bahrain. The taxis are the Ubers, which may seem strange because unlike in America, the taxi companies are usually at odds with Uber drivers. But here, they do both! Ubers are relatively inexpensive as well. I’d recommend, however, renting a car. Rental cars and gas is so cheap here, and your time will most likely be limited so this is probably the most efficient option. Although I should warn you, gas may be cheap here, but the exchange rate from US dollars to Bahrain Dinars, is not. Currently, to buy 1 BHD you’d have to spend around $3 USD. Very important you keep that in mind, otherwise, you’ll be very surprised when you get your credit card bill. If you see something for $15 BHD, it’s actually around $45 USD. Until recently, there were no taxes here, so costs unfortunately are inflated. Also, the presence of an American Naval Base contribute to that inflation, unfortunately.

Nevertheless, for the first stop from the airport, I’d recommend visiting the Bahraini National Museum. I think it’s really important when visiting a country to also learn a bit about its history, and perhaps a few phrases in their language. English is widely spoken but Arabic is the dominant language. The museum, only costing 1 BHD’s ($3 USD) to enter, is a great place to get a bit of context before continuing on. Next stop would be the Grand Mosque, which is just right up the road from the Museum. The Grand Mosque can hold up to 5,000 worshippers and is incredibly beautiful. It is open to the public for free. Only restrictions on visitations would be during hours of prayer, which happens 5 times throughout the day, and on Fridays, which is like Sundays for Christians. The work week in Bahrain is actually Sunday to Thursday for that reason, but most places will be open everyday. At the Mosque, ladies will be required to cover their hair. Abayas, which resemble robes, are rented free of charge, as well as hijabs for covering your hair. You’re also welcome to bring your own scarf. Next, we’ll head over to the Bahrain Fort. This archaeological site is of settlement remains from over 5,000 years old. What I love about the Bahraini Fort is the visual juxtaposition between the old world and the new. Skyscrapers are increasingly filling the Bahraini skies, so I personally love the contrast between a several thousand year old fort and a beautiful, new skyline. Nearby the Fort, is the City Centre Mall. The Middle East, in general, is known for these spectacular and elaborate malls. Bahrain is no exception. The City Centre, in my opinion, is the best in country. With several floors and hundreds of stores, you can spend a few hours alone wandering the halls. It’s also a good place to escape the heat. Oh yeah, this is important – I highly recommend that you don’t visit in the summer (LOL). It’s hot AF – not kidding. It’ll be 120 degrees outside with 98% humidity and 0% chance of rain. Needless to say, its rough. Lastly, if the clock hasn’t run out, I’d recommend taking the 40 minute drive to the other end of the island, driving through the oil fields until you come across one of the most interesting and peculiar tree. Visually, it’s just a basic tree but it’s the story behind this tree that makes it fascinating. Surrounded by miles and miles of barren lands and desert, you’ll find the “Tree of Life.” Scientist still do not know from where it receives it’s water source. The question remains how this tree can be the only one to survive in the harsh climate of the desert. And yet, you’ll hear the chimes of hundreds of birds that seek refuge there from the sun. It’s some of the most beautiful sounds I’ve ever heard.

All right, so I’ve barely scratched the surface with things to do, not to mention the Manama Souks, the pearl diving and other water sports, or the Friday Brunches at the 5-star hotels. But I think this would give a you a good head start on getting a taste of Bahrain during what will most likely be a transient and short stay. Happy Travels!!!