Captivating culture
Explore the deep traditional roots and modern skyscrapers of capital city Manama, and discover a captivating historical past and rich culture. Nature-lovers usually head for Al Jazair’s coral reefs, and then go dolphin-watching off the northern island of Sitra.
WHAT TO SEE
Ancient and modern
Walk on the ramparts of Bahrain Fort (Karbabad Village) and take in beautiful city views. Visit 19th-century mansion Beit Sheikh Isa in Muharraq, returning to the 21st century via exciting Middle Eastern art at the Albareh Art Gallery (www.albareh.com) in Adliya, then head to the desert for some serious pampering at the Banyan Tree Spa (www.banyantreespa.com) in Al Areen.
WHERE TO SHOP
Seek the souk
Manama Souk’s myriad alleyways are filled with bargains, from spices to fabrics. Seef’s chic shopping malls offer designer jelabiyas (kaftans) and international labels, while Muharraq is the place to buy traditional sweets. Other good buys include Persian carpets and the Bahraini incense bakhoor.
WHERE TO EAT
Feast on this
Visitors can enjoy a variety of Middle Eastern specialities across the island, from inexpensive Lebanese mezze at Veranda in Adliya (Shaikh Isa Avenue) to hearty Iraqi dishes at Melh Al Zaad in Manama, or fragrant
Persian at Seef Mall’s Yas-e Isfahani (+973 1758 1151).
HOW TO GET THERE
KLM operates one direct daily flight to Bahrain International Airport from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol.
Tourist information www.bahraintourism.com
Looking for handy, up-to-date travel information? Check out KLM’s Destination Guide pages – and book your flight – on klm.com. Content provided by Frommer’s Unlimited © 2010, Whatsonwhen Limited.
DON’T MISS
Fascinating artefacts
The Bahrain National Museum, located on the East Corniche, relates Bahrain’s absorbing history through various exhibits, most notably a burial mound transferred from the desert, an exhibition of Bahraini customs, and artefacts from the ancient civilisation of Dilmun. Shaikh Hamad Causeway, East Corniche, Manama; +973 1729 8777
