Planning a business trip to the Middle East? Why not make it an epic bleisure with your friends or family! Bahrain holds a unique place in the Arabian Gulf as one of the most liberal locations in the region. What is absolutely amazing about this scenic island is that you can experience its numerous delights in just 72 hours.
Bahrain, the Island of Pearls, is known for its date palm trees and coffee-loving culture. The nation’s friendly community, great food and world-class entertainment are set to make your visit here and memorable one. With the evolving character of modern-day work culture, travelling can be masterfully altered to fit even the busiest schedule. So, why not combine a business trip with a personal one, and visit this nation that has it all!
World UNESCO sites
You should start your explorations with the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Bahrain. One is the Dilmun burial mounds which dominate the area to the north of the island.
Another one is Qal’at al-Bahrain (known as Bahrain Fort). It’s a sandy yellow fortress and by far the oldest intact building on the island. A small slice of the kingdom’s mediaeval history, this heritage site comprises four elements: the tell, an ancient sea tower, a sea channel, and palm groves. While at the fort, you should definitely try out its magnificent horseback riding activity.
Third, the Muharraq pearling path which is a testimony to the millennia-old pearl collecting tradition. This path is a gigantic 330,000 square meters which includes oyster beds and buildings related to the 19th-century pearl industry. The path is a remarkable example of the island’s attempts at preserving its rich history. The houses along the trail were those of wealthy merchants of that era. Many of these have now been restored and converted into museums, libraries, auditoriums to showcase their story to visitors.
The tranquil beaches
Bahrain has some of the most tranquil islands and miles of fine sand beaches. You can choose to spend your vacation lounging around, eating delicious meals, and drinking cool beverages by the sea. It also makes for the perfect family getaway. While your children have their fun playing with the sand, you can chill on the beach with a beverage in your hand.
The islands of Al Dar and Jarada offer a variety of exciting activities like pearl diving and shucking (where you have the chance to locate and keep your very own pearl), parasailing, boat excursions, jet skiing, and more. You can even choose to have a fantastic barbecue at the beach.
Hawar Island is a protected area rich in endangered species, marine flora, and fauna. This lovely island is well-known for its wildlife, and a tour of the island has to be one of the best things to do in Bahrain.
Shop till you drop
Meandering your way through the narrow roads of local markets is one of the best ways to absorb a country’s culture. Everyone enjoys shopping and brings mementos and trinkets home from their travels. If you want to shop for some exotic spices and authentic Arabian items then simply visit the souks of Bahrain.
However, if you are the kind of shopper who is on the lookout for international brands, the plethora of malls here will spoil you for choices. Here are some of the malls and souks to look up when in Bahrain: Moda Mall, The Avenues, City Centre, Seef Mall, Al Qusayrya Market, Gold Souq, etc.
Get your adrenaline rush
There has to always be at least one activity that gets your blood pumping, something that makes you feel alive. Defy gravity on your next visit to Bahrain and experience the feeling of “free fall” at Gravity, the first ever indoor skydiving facility in the country with the tallest wind tunnel in the world. Kids and adults both are welcome to experience this thrill.
If you’re visiting Bahrain with your friends, family, and kids, take them karting on the Bahrain International Circuit’s (BIC) track. The BIC is a must-visit automobile venue located in Sakhir which in the southern region of Bahrain. It also holds events such as drag racing, the GP2 Series, and the annual Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix. And of course, there is the thrilling 4×4 experience on the sand dunes.
Also Read: Get ready for Bahrain’s Festive Season this December!
For the history buffs
The destination is brimming with forts, museums and cultural sites just waiting to be explored. Experience the rich history and heritage of the island destination and set out to explore the stunning Arad Fort, Bahrain Fort, the Bahrain National Museum, Muharraq houses, Currency Museum, Sheikh Salman Bin Ahmed Al Fateh Fort, Al Fateh Mosque, Vertical Garden etc.
Also Read: Prime Minister inaugurates Exhibition World Bahrain
The endless offerings of Bahrain
From the streets of Manama to the scenic islands, the Kingdom of Bahrain is overflowing with experiences for every kind of traveler. You can watch potters at work at the A’ali Pottery Workshop, where the artisans still use ancient kilns in a tradition that has been handed down generation to generation. Take a tour of the Al Areen Wildlife Park, where all plant and endangered animal species have been protected for over 30 years in their own natural environment.
A perfect place for family fun is the Lost Paradise of Dilmun water park, which provides fun for all ages with special facilities and play areas designed to keep children amused for hours on end. A marvel in the desert that is worth a trip is the Tree of Life, which is famously known to have survived for over 100 years with no source of water. The Royal Camel Farm is on the outskirts of Manama and is a different kind of experience where one can feed the camel and even taste the milk.
A place of marvel, of architectural wonders and of unending excitement is Bahrain. It is a place that satisfies the heart and quenches the thirst of wanderlust. A slice of paradise in the Middle East, Bahrain is an idyllic destination for those that prefer a holiday, combining natural beauty with fascinating history, adrenaline thrills and a peaceful atmosphere. So what are you waiting for? Set out on your adventure, and don’t forget to drop in on this wonderful island in the Middle East!
