Bahrain
Bahrain : Country Information
Bahrain's small size and central location among Persian Gulf countries require it to play a delicate balancing act in foreign affairs among its larger neighbors. Possessing minimal oil reserves, Bahrain has turned to petroleum processing and refining, and has transformed itself into an international banking center. The new Amir is pushing economic and political reforms, and has worked to improve relations with the Shi'a community. Bahrain, a group of 33 islands, with an area of 707 square kilometres, is situated in the Arabian Gulf, off the east coast of Saudi Arabia. The local time is GMT + 3 hours.
Bahrain is rich in history and ancient civilizations have only recently been discovered by international archaeologists. Its believed that for tens of thousands of years, nomads traveled over Bahrain's desert and primitive flint tolls found, testify to this history. Recent finds have evidenced that Bahrain was indeed the site of the lost civilization of Dilmun dating from the third millennium BC, often refered to as the fabled Garden of Eden and described as "paradise" in the Epic of Gilgamesh.
Bahrain : Day at Hawar Island
Inclusive of Lunch
The Hawar Islands are the Bahrain's best-kept secret. An archipelago of more than 6 islands situated just 20 kilometres off south- east mainland Bahrain. The unique habitat has been designated as an environmental protection area. It is home to over 250,000 birds, many are species including protected wildlife and an abundance of beautiful marine life. Pristine beaches, cool blue waters and rarely seen birds will greet you. Hawar Resort, the sole but classy hotel on the island, offers excellent sports and recreation facilities.
Bahrain : Arabic Dinner Night with Belly Dancing
Relax at the Al Berdouni Restaurant at Regency Intercontinental and enjoy, a feast of grilled meats, fresh salads, and delectable Arab sweets. While enjoying this, you will be entertained by the bewitched belly dancer swaying to the haunting strains of Arabic live music and other International entertainments. You won't want this enchanting evening to end.
Historic Bahrain
Half day excursion
4 hours 40 min.
Itinerary
Shaikh Isa Bin Ali House:
Situated in Bahrain's second city, Muharraq, the house was constructed by Shaikh Hassan Bin Abdulla Bin Ahmed Al-Fatih and was used by Shaikh Isa Bin Ali as his residence and center of Government from 1869 - 1932. The house consists of four main sections : the family wing, the Shaikh's wing, the Guest's wing and the attendant's wing. The house is designed in traditional style where the rooms are directly overlooking an open courtyard, with a wind tower, a feature of the traditional architecture in the Arabian Gulf region. The house represents the 19th century construction style in which local building materials were used. Such materials included coral stone, mortar and palm tree trunks. The windows are decorated in ventilated gypsum geometrical designs for which Bahrain was well known.
Bahrain : Desert Camp
The desert camp is situated on the Sakkir area, to the south west of Jebel Dukhan at a distance of nearly 40 minutes drive from the Capital Manama. This location has been selected to provide a genuine Arabian Gulf Desert atmosphere.
Here we invite you to experience the life of a Bedouin from close quarters. The scene is set in a typical colorful Bedouin Tent, at a tranquil location beside the Arabian waters, and under the canopy of twinkling stars. On arrival, you will be ushered a traditional 'Qahwa' welcome, featuring Arabic coffee and dates. As your heart beats itself to the rhythmic tune of the Bedouin Music, the aroma of succulent, freshly barbecued meat shall pervade the atmosphere. You can enjoy the ' Ghozi ' - whole roasted lamb on the spit, served on a bed of flavored rice. You can also relax inside our colorful tent, furnished with traditional Bharaini cushions and mats or enjoy camel riding, singing and dancing around the evening campfire
A Glimpse of Bahrain - Full day excursion
Bahrain has long been famous for its friendly welcome to visitors. No wonder, it is known as the Island of Golden Smiles. The island boasts of one of the oldest civilizations on earth. For the lovers of history and culture, Bahrain is a haven. Except for June, July and August, it has guaranteed fine whether through out the rest of the year. It has kept pace with modernisation with out sacrificing its great traditional values. One will find an exceptional choice of hotels, restaurants and night-clubs to relax and enjoy. Though the population is only 700,000, it attracts over 4 million visitors every year. Some of the sample itineraries are given. Since many facilities have different opening times on different days, itineraries may change on different days to suit the opening timings.
