Bahrain

The tiny nation of Bahrain in the Persian Gulf is one of the wealthiest countries in the world – thanks to its oil money. It also has a rich history of over 5000 years. The oil wealth has resulted in modern infrastructure projects for its citizens as well as travelers – like the King Fahd Causeway connecting Bahrain to Saudi Arabia. 

Manama – Bahrain’s capital, is a modern and bustling city. Like other oil-rich middle-eastern capitals, Manama also boasts a futuristic skyline, stunning architecture, and mega shopping malls. While on one hand the 240m tall twin towers of Bahrain World Trade Center dominates Manama’s skyline, the colorful markets and souvenir shops in the historic souq (market) of Manama, on the other offers a glimpse into its past. A small section of the souq is known as Little India, where you can hear people talking in Hindi. Some of the Arab world’s most sough-after dates and natural pearls are a few things that you can purchase when exploring these souqs. Manama’s food culture has also evolved in the recent past and delicious food can be found almost everywhere in the city. Apart from these, some of the city’s most notable highlights include Bahrain National Museum – known for its outstanding collection of ancient and modern-day artifacts, Al Fateh Grand Mosque – one of the world’s largest mosques and UNESCO World Heritage listed archaeological site of Bahrain Fort (also known as Qal’at al-Bahrain) – ruins of a 16th-century Portuguese fort.

There are many surprising elements to this country – Bahrain’s own Formula 1 Grand Prix for example. Exploring the desert landscape, colorful bazaars and glamorous Manama is an Arabian adventure that you cannot afford to miss.