I used to think escapes had to be long-distance to feel special. But one trip down to Bahrain changed that idea for me. From the moment you touchdown, there’s a sense of ease. Think cool breeze, modern waterfront resorts, and uninterrupted views of calm, glassy water. It’s a place that gives the Maldives energy, with the added benefit of avoiding long-haul flights! This little island state boasts its own Formula 1 Grand Prix track (which was enough to convince me to travel) as well as a burgeoning art and foodie scene. My time, albeit short, can be summarised in a few words: calm, cool, and comfortable. It’s the ideal destination for relaxing or sightseeing without feeling overwhelmed or exhausted. Need some help planning your next holiday? This guide has got you covered!
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A City Rich In History – Manama Gives The History Buffs An Unforgettable Experience
Bahrain is perfect for travellers who like to try a little of everything. You can spend the entire day doing absolutely nothing, or you can fill it with experiences without overpacking your schedule. Day one saw me enjoying a leisurely breakfast by the marina, followed by a stroll through Bab Al Bahrain and the Manama Souq. The souq is a tight knot of narrow streets with traders selling a breadth of goods. I’m talking about heady spices and gold to rich, scented perfumes. As the place that sells great products at massive bargain rates, I picked up spices and perfumes as souvenirs for friends and family back home. Bahrain has the potential to bring out your nerdy side, and that’s exactly what it saw me do!
Day two took me to Qal’at Al Bahrain (Bahrain Fort), where I soaked up a bit of history. This site encapsulates the essence of the Dilmun civilisation, one of the oldest known in the region. I wandered through the fort, which was once a vital hub for trade and cultural exchange. This site is gradually uncovering layers of history through ongoing excavations. I spent time at the site museum, where more than 500 artefacts bring the past to life, before ending the visit with a quiet coffee at the seaside café.
For Those Who Love Getting Splashed – Water Garden City Is The Place To Be
While I don’t usually participate in water activities, Bahrain genuinely surprised me with how much it has to offer. Water Garden City, a lively urban beach, is every water sports enthusiasts dream! One of the most terrifying yet exciting activities was gliding across the water on a floating bike. I even got to try eFoil boarding, which lifts you above the water and feels surprisingly smooth. Around me, people were jet skiing and hopping onto banana boats, adding to the place’s energy.
Located in the heart of Manama is Bahrain Bay. This spot is perfect for stand-up paddle-boarding, especially early in the morning when the water is still, or in the evening when the skyline reflects off the sea. Together, these spots showed me a different, more playful side of Bahrain, especially for someone who doesn’t usually seek out water adventures.
Sakhir Grand Prix – Where The First F1 Race Took Place In The Middle East
My travel would’ve been incomplete without visiting the Sakhir Grand Prix! So on day four, I finally got to do nothing but fawn over a nearly empty F1 Grand Prix track. Seeing the track on which Michael Schumacher won a race in the Ferrari F2004 during the track’s debut year was truly a dream come true. While I didn’t get to see the race track under the iconic floodlights (F1 races here are usually held in the evenings), it was still an experience to walk around and imagine the adrenaline coursing through the air during a race weekend.
For The Foodies
As a Dubai kid, there’s never been a shortage of food choices from around the world. However, a sample of the halwa Bahraini is enough to make you forget any other dessert you’ve tried in your life. In most Asian countries, halwa is usually prepared with semolina or flour. Bahraini halwa uses corn starch and rapeseed oil, and it is served with a gel-like consistency similar to soft nougat. From the first bite, you’ll savour flavours of crunchy nuts, cardamom, saffron and nutmeg. Most Bahrain locals will offer you some at every possible opportunity, and I cannot stress this enough – if you have a sweet tooth, do NOT skip out on this sugary dish!
For a taste of fresh and local ingredients, day three saw me browsing around a farmers’ market. In Bahrain, there are tons of farmers who sell their produce and wares, and it would be a shame to miss out on this! From sampling dishes at their food stalls to spending time at a mini petting zoo, there’s a lot to do in such a short amount of time!
Luxury Without Breaking The Bank
As someone in my early 20s, my bank balance isn’t really screaming luxury travel with an unlimited budget. So this is where Bahrain really stands out as its a country where luxury feels accessible. Over here, you get the experience of a taste of the Maldives, luxe resorts with sea-facing rooms and spa facilities that don’t come with price tags that make you hesitate before booking. Activities are priced as well, with affordable day passes to beach clubs and dining options. Unlike most travel destinations, commuting here was simple. I wasn’t overpaying for my cab rides and didn’t need to constantly budget every coffee, meal or cab ride, making the whole experience a lot more relaxing.
It’s A Smart Escape You Don’t Want To Miss Out On
Bahrain is a smart escape. It’s close enough for a spontaneous trip and stunning enough to feel indulgent. The best of all, it’s affordable enough to actually enjoy. It’s the destination where you don’t have to stress over planning, and it works well for a long weekend or a much-needed reset. If you’re thinking of a trip that’s lowkey but memorable, then Bahrain is definitely a destination that should be on your list. For more information about Bahrain, visit the official Bahrian website.
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