MIDDLE EAST BAHRAIN DESTINATIONS S


maller, less hectic and more culturally diverse than its


more famous neighbour Dubai, the Kingdom of Bahrain offers a naturally beautiful alternative for those with a curiosity about the Middle East. Bahrain is the only island


nation in the Arabian Gulf and lies midway between Qatar and the east coast of Saudi Arabia. The archipelago of 33 low-lying islands is connected to the Saudi city of Al Khobar by the 15-mile King Fahd Causeway. Sunseekers will be glad to


know that there’s no shortage of public and private beaches here, and the waters are relatively warm year-round. As an Islamic nation, Bahrainis


generally dress conservatively and visitors to the country are asked to cover up with long- sleeved clothing, trousers or


a longer skirt, but the dress code across large hotel complexes is somewhat more relaxed. While most Bahrainis recognise


that the country is not yet the go-to destination in the Middle East, the tourism authorities are working hard to put it on the map, particularly among European travellers. In a nod to Bahrain’s growing


tourism expectations, The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain, unveiled more than $1.5 million dollars in property enhancements this year, including a revitalised marina and dock area and a new outdoor heated pool.


◗ SELL: CARS TO CARTIER The Bahrain International Circuit in Sakhir – 20 miles southwest of the island’s capital, Manama, and the self-proclaimed home of


Bahrain was once the centre of the global pearl industry – even the Cartier brothers sourced pearls there


motor sports in the Middle East – has been staging Formula One’s favourite night race since 2004, having been appointed the region’s first racing destination by governing body the FIA. Don’t underestimate the appeal: the 2018 Bahrain Grand Prix in April attracted 33,000 people on race day alone, and more than 95,000 over the course of the weekend for concerts and family activities. The circuit provides


entertainment year-round, with multiple motor sports events, including a racing experience that allows visitors to drive a car or motorbike around the circuit. Bahrain was once the centre of the global pearl industry – even the Cartier brothers sourced pearls from the region and frequented Bahrain’s oyster beds after their first visit to the kingdom in 1912. Workers would traditionally


dive without any specialised equipment, often clutching nothing more than a weighted rope as they were lowered into the water and held their breath. The experience for visitors


today is obviously somewhat more enjoyable. Group excursions depart from Ras Rayyah, the northern tip of Muharraq Island, and allow less-experienced visitors to snorkel in the


29 November 2018travelweekly.co.uk65


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