Bahrain Insider - March'20

BAHRAIN

HOTELS & RESORTS | RESTAURANTS | CULTURE | ACTIVITIES

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Shopping for keepsakes (photo courtesy of BTEA)

COMMERCIAL Managing Director Victoria Thatcher

WELCOME TO BAHRAIN

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ith Manama named the Capital of Arab Tourism for 2020, Bahrain is back on the radar as a destination that begs discovery. The country has recently added to its roster of UNESCO World Heritage Sites with its Dilmun Burial Mounds, on the western side of the main island, inscribed in 2019. It also welcomed the largest underwater theme park on the planet: Dive Bahrain, which lures scuba fans with its submerged Boeing 747. Whether you’re seeking a quick history lesson, or action and adventure, this Gulf gem is sure to win you over with its modern luxuries and cultural clout. While it has many of the hallmarks of a wealthy Arab nation – luxury hotels, a curated skyline and carefully preserved heritage sites – it maintains a lower profile than many of its neighbours, and therein lies its charm. Peel back the layers and you’ll find plenty to love. Let our curated guide point you in the right direction…

3 Welcome

CONTENTS 07

HOTELS & RESORTS

On the beach or in the heart of the bustling city, we’ve rounded up the very best places to rest your head

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RESTAURANTS

Be dazzled by world famous chefs, taste the fresh catch of the day and join the locals at the street-side cafés

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CULTURE

Discover the makings of this modern Gulf gem, from its ancient civilisation to its pearling riches and beyond

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ACTIVITIES

Surrounded by beautiful coastline, this island nation delivers thrills and spills aplenty

ON ARRIVAL

Bahrain International Airport (BIA) enjoys a strategic location at the crossroads of the Gulf. It’s within an hour’s flight of every major city in the GCC – you can zoom there from Kuwait and Riyadh in just 45 minutes.

Plus, it’s an easy drive from Saudi Arabia (the country is connected to Al Khobar via a causeway and it takes around five hours by car from Riyadh). A liberal visa policy means that visitors from over 66 countries can get a visa upon arrival, while those from 113 countries have access to e-visas (check your individual requirements before you travel).

GETTING AROUND It’s relatively cheap and easy to get around by taxi.

You can hail one on the street or book from the likes of Arabian Taxi Company (+973 17 466602), Wasel (+973 17 255555), City Limo (+973 77 773737), or Taxi Under Request (+973 17 6829). Alternatively, you could consider hiring a car through dnata (dnatatravelcarrental. com), which offers special discounted rental rates from Hertz, Dollar Rent a Car and Thrifty Car Rental.

NEED TO KNOW

Jarada Island (photo courtesy of BTEA)

4 Welcome

Like most Gulf states, the best time to visit Bahrain is between October and March, when you can get outside and enjoy the gentle winter sun.

The weekend falls on Friday and Saturday.

An Islamic country, visitors should be aware of cultural sensitivities.

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Hotels & Resorts

SPLASH OUT

Whether you’re seeking timeless luxury or beachside splendour, these hospitality havens in the kingdom get our vote

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nown as the ‘Land of The Two Seas’ (its name stems from the Arabic for “two seas”), it may come as no surprise that sun, sea and sand take centre stage here, with many of the country’s most coveted hotels and resorts occupying premium spots along the coast.

You can revel in the sea’s salty goodness at Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa, which is set on an arc of pristine white-sand beach on the west coast. The resort is home to an impressive thalassotherapy complex, where you can be pampered with a variety of therapeutic seawaterbased treatments. Afterwards, make your way across the polished marble floors of the lobby, past the captivating Dilmun artworks, and outdoors to the private beach where you can top up on vitamin D as you splash in the surf. All the rooms are elegantly furnished but be sure to plump for a suite if you want a balcony with dreamy vistas: the Royal Suite is the height of luxury, with its sea view terrace, private infinity pool and bubbling Jacuzzi to relax in. The hotel has an exciting roster of dining venues, too, which range from awardwinning French seafood to delicious Arabic classics.

Further along the coastline, Lagoona Beach Luxury Resort and Spa, just five-minutes drive from the Saudi causeway, is another seafront paradise featuring picturesque stretches of private sand, including a popular ladies’ only beach. Sunny rooms and suites pop with colour and there’s a beautiful hammam to experience. Head to Chandelier restaurant for perfectly plated Italian fare, or savour traditional Lebanese at Da Rosa.

In Bahrain Bay, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay makes the most of its exclusive location (on its very own island), with its alluring blend of beachside fun, and easy connection (via a causeway) to the heart of Manama. There are picture-perfect scenes aplenty here, from the swaying palm trees, to the honey-coloured sun-drenched southern shore, and the dreamy infinity pool (there are speakers under the water that lend a party vibe).

8 Hotels & Resorts

Opening page: The RitzCarlton, Bahrain These pages: Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay Photo by Christian Horan

“THERE ARE PICTURE-PERFECT SCENES APLENTY HERE”

9 Hotels & Resorts

The rooms and suites evoke a classic glamour, with stellar views of the city.

Plus, there’s a serene spa, a splash park for little ones and not one, but two Wolfgang Puck restaurants to dine at.

Also in Bahrain Bay, Wyndham Grand Manama, is a top choice for its elegantly decorated rooms and suites.

The Himalayan Salt Room is a standout choice – the spacious abode features 800-million-year-old Himalayan salt walls bathed in colour to aid relaxation.

You can make good use of the hotel’s shuttle bus for an easy ride to mustsee local attractions, such as Bahrain National Museum, Bab Al Bahrain, and Manama Suq. Situated next to the vibrant souk, The Merchant House is a gem.

A splash of colour bombards you 10 Hotels & Resorts

“A SPLASH OF COLOUR BOMBARDS YOU THE MOMENT YOU SET FOOT INSIDE THIS BOUTIQUE HOTEL” the moment you set foot inside this boutique hotel, which lures art aficionados with its collection of contemporary art alongside exciting works by established artists from Bahrain and beyond. Add a library of over 1,000 curated books, an holistic spa and a rooftop pool and you’ve found yourself a special place to stay.

Just a short taxi ride away, Jumeirah Royal Saray sits confidently on a private beach in the Seef District.

Recreating the ambience of a traditional

Bahraini summerhouse, replete with a coastal feel, the rooms and suites evoke a regal glamour with tones that take a cue from lustrous Bahraini pearls – think nacre, shimmering silver and ocean blue. Sip an aromatic coffee made by baristas flown in from Colombia, relax in a pool cabana while soaking up the exotic vibes and watch the sun set over the palm trees.

Also located in Seef, The RitzCarlton, Bahrain is perfect for those who need to unplug. Boasting its own private lagoon and island, this exclusive retreat has plenty to keep you entertained. Play a round on the 18-hole, par 72 championship course, relax at the members-only Royal Beach Club or schedule some pampering at the sea-inspired spa, which offers

signature treatments that draw upon Arabian rituals. All the rooms and suites are spacious and modern, with deep soaking tubs and stunning views.

Moving to the heart of Manama’s business district, The Domain Hotel and Spa is instantly recognisable due to its signature triangular facade.

Rooms and suites are individually styled, and there’s a tempting line-up of lively restaurants to dine at. The standout, however, is the award-winning spa, with its Himalayan salt stone sauna and rooftop swimming pool.

In the Diplomatic Area, Golden Tulip Bahrain welcomes you with its classically furnished rooms and suites, two excellent restaurants, and spa offering therapeutic massages.

Close by, Crowne Plaza Manama (Bahrain) is another popular choice if you want to be within easy reach of the seafront and the citycentre shops. If you’re a light sleeper, check into one of the dedicated Quiet Zones to ensure you aren’t disturbed.

When you’re not off exploring, you can take a dip in the outdoor pool and sit down to a memorable meal at one of the hotel’s thriving restaurants – we rate Waves Seafood Restaurant for the local catch of the day.

Teaming timeless hospitality with a modern design, InterContinental Bahrain is also a firm-favourite.

Foodies will appreciate the collection of impressive dining venues here, from Mezdo Italian Restaurant to the

award-winning Legendz steakhouse.

If you’re travelling with kids in tow, the suites are the ideal fit, offering a separate bedroom for parents and an interconnected kids’ room – not to mention picturesque views across Bahrain Financial Harbour.

Just minutes away, Reef Resort offers a peaceful sanctuary in the heart of the city, nestled amid an expansive garden of swaying date palms. The rooms are spacious and bright, but the thoughtfully-designed villas are where you want to be – the largest of which is the grand five-bedroomed, multi-storey haven, which can accommodate up to 10 people. Bliss out in the adults-only, infinity-edge pool, and squeeze in an afternoon nap in a shady spot on the Opposite: The Merchant House This page: InterContinental Bahrain Overleaf: ART Rotana

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pool deck while the little ones enjoy hours of fun in the kids’ club. You don’t need to travel far for good food, as the hotel has six speciality restaurants to choose from.

Attached to City Centre Bahrain, The Westin City Centre Bahrain is a magnet for keen shoppers. Post-spree, you can plump for a soothing treatment at Heavenly Spa by Westin (we say try a therapy bath), followed by a blissful night’s sleep tucked up in a Westin Heavenly Bed. Over on Amwaj Islands, ART Rotana wows with its ocean-facing rooms and suites and cosy ambience. Families can push the boat out by booking the Royal Suite, which has three bedrooms (each with its own bathroom), as well as a separate living area, giving you plenty of space to spread out in. Feel a sense of calm wash over you as you 12 Hotels & Resorts

“FEEL A SENSE OF CALM WASH OVER YOU AS YOU LAZE ON THE PRIVATE BEACH” laze on the private beach while the kids splash around in the waterpark.

There are three temperature controlled swimming pools to take a dip in but, for ultimate relaxation, the outdoor hot tub more than delivers.

Another beachfront resort worth the hype, Al Bander Hotel & Resort, on the east coast, is a popular wedding and honeymoon spot. Betrothed or not, you can lap up the tropical vibes by staying in one of the Cabanas, complete with terrace overlooking the azure waters, or a luxury Chalet, which

has a patio ripe for soaking up the early morning rays over breakfast. There’s a lot to keep you on your toes here, from watersports to tennis. Or, you can simply watch the luxury yachts bobbing in the marina.

Further inland you’ll find rustic retreats nestled amid the dunes. One such oasis is the all-villa Al Areen Palace and Spa. Be surrounded by natural beauty when you stay in a Desert Pool Villa, which has its own private marble courtyard, swimming pool and an open-air, heated jet–pool.

Its Saffron restaurant specialises in Khaleeji and Indian fusion cuisine while Keizo serves up a spread of Far Eastern fare. The real draws here, however, are the wellness programmes that will put you through your paces to detox, re-energise or optimise your weight, depending on your goal.

Restaurants

TABLE TALK

Savour zesty seafood, feast on fiery curries or wear your glamorous best to savour a Michelin-worthy meal

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lending Mediterranean, Indian and Arabic culinary traditions in a swirl of flavour, Bahrain’s dining scene will lure you with its irresistible vibrancy. A melting pot of cultures, it’s no surprise that the kingdom is a mishmash of global influences, with renowned chefs eager to put their stamp on the destination.

Although you’ll find all flavours here, most visitors find Bahraini cuisine a real treat, and it doesn’t get much more traditional than Haji Gahwa, an old (we’re talking 1950s old) street-side café in the heart of Manama Suq. The twist? There’s no menu – it’s a random

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“THE TWIST? THERE’S NO MENU – IT’S A RANDOM SERVING DEPENDING ON WHAT TIME YOU VISIT” serving depending on what time of the day you visit, although the hearty biryanis are a staple.

Emmawash Traditional Restaurant, in Country Mall, is another top choice. The eclectic bistro is the brainchild of two childhood friends who wanted to bring a taste of home to the masses. Today, it’s

one of the most beloved eateries in the country for its cosy ambience.

For those who wish to end their meal on a sweet note, qayamat (a sweet dumpling) is the dish to plump for.

Add a dash of contemporary flair to authentic Bahraini recipes passed down generations and you’ve got Saffron By Jena. The fact that the restaurant is set amid the scenic sights of the old city, at Bab Al Bahrain, is an added bonus. From the hammour tahini to the saffron rice with lemon and mutton cubes, each dish is crafted with love by the restaurant’s creative cook (and owner) Narise Qambar.

A perk of being a multicultural kingdom is the marvellous array of international fare on offer, and Bushido Restaurant and Lounge is where Bahrain first fell in love with Japanese cuisine. Part of the Buddhabar network, this trendy lounge and restaurant in the heart of Seef offers an experience to remember. Cross the small moat to the venue, which is designed to transport you to feudal Japan, and bag a table in the main restaurant overlooking the lagoon.

Feast on sashimi, sushi and robata cooked on the open flames from Japanese charcoal for extra flavour.

For a subtle dusting of spice, Thai at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain invites you to chill in its laid-back lounge style setting. Here, you’re encouraged to share traditional dishes, including curries and satay, with Japanese sushi and tempura thrown in for good measure. The stars of the show, however, are the restaurant’s talented ‘liquid chefs’ who will craft you a refreshing drink inspired by juicy Thai fruits such as lychee.

Acclaimed chef Wolfgang Puck puts his modern take on traditional Asian food at Re Asian Cuisine at Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain. Try the

signature Angry Lobster - plump tails smothered with just the right amount of chili, black beans, sweet onions and soy sauce.

For stand-out Indian, it’s hard to beat Rasoi by Vineet at The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa. The first fine-dining restaurant in the country to be operated by a Michelin-star-winning chef, Vineet Bhatia will delight you with his contemporary Indian cuisine served in a sparkling setting that perfectly frames all the action in the show kitchen. There’s a private chef’s table dining room available to book for special occasions, too.

Opening page: Traditional Bahraini fare (photo courtesy of BTEA) Opposite, clockwise from far left: Cantina Kahlo; Re Asian Cuisine (photo by Joe Agdeppa); The Harvesters Pub & Terrace; Cantina Kahlo This page: Nirvana Overleaf: Re Asian Cuisine

15 Restaurants

More delicious Indian fare can be had at Nirvana at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain, which will wow you with traditional cuisine served in a fine dining setting.

Tuck into sizzling platters of grilled seafood and kebabs, along with bowls piled high with aromatic rice and curries as the live santoor player sets the tone.

Fiery flavours are also in the spotlight at Cantina Kahlo at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain. As much a feast for the eyes as it is for the stomach, the Mexican restaurant colours the palate with its spicy dishes and vibrant décor inspired by none other than Frida Kahlo. Competing for your attention is Margarita Mexicana at Gulf Hotel

Bahrain, which sources many of its ingredients direct from Mexico. The sauces are complex yet balanced, the homemade corn tortillas among the best you’ve ever tasted, and the table side guacamole marvellously moreish.

For ocean delights, let La Mer Seafood at Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa Hotel reel you in. Dine overlooking the sea to the sound of waves lapping the shore as your fresh catch is prepared to your liking. Alternatively, head to Fishbone

by Chef Susy Massetti, at Novotel Al Dana Resort, where you can taste white Bahraini shrimp against an idyllic beachy backdrop.

If nothing but a juicy steak will do, Legendz Steakhouse at InterContinental Bahrain will satisfy your craving with its prime cut meats – the fillet mignon is a solid choice, drizzled with the homemade barbecue sauce. The refined setting makes this a great venue for couples seeking a romantic meal. Lastly, Crowne Plaza Manama (Bahrain) has a dedicated steak night every Wednesday. Plus, its The Harvesters Pub & Terrace caters to larger appetites, with a tummybusting line-up of charcoal grilled favourites such as rib-eye, T-bone and tenderloin, which you can sharpen your teeth on as the live band plays.

“TRY THE SIGNATURE ANGRY LOBSTER - PLUMP TAILS SMOTHERED WITH JUST THE RIGHT AMOUNT OF SAUCE”

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Culture

MANY MOONS AGO

Ancient civilisations, historic forts and lustrous pearls, prize open Bahrain’s oyster of cultural riches

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nown as Dilmun in ancient times, Bahrain’s rich trading history is reflected in its impressive collection of archaeological sites that shine a light on its long-lost empires. Leave the glitzy skyscrapers of the capital sparkling in the distance and make your way to UNESCO World Heritage Site Qala’at Al-Bahrain, also known as Bahrain Fort, to get a sense of the city’s storied past. A 10-minute drive west from the capital of Manama, the dusty sandstone fort built by the Portuguese in the 16th century BCE is believed to have been the capital of the Dilmun civilisation. Wander through the atmospheric excavations and be sure to stop at the accompanying Qala’at Al-Bahrain Site Museum, which showcases a wealth of artefacts spanning five historical periods. Stop to rest your legs in the café, which overlooks the fort.

Delve deeper into the secrets of the Dilmun empire by making the ancient Dilmun Burial Mounds next on your itinerary. Located on the western part

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of the island, the mesmerising mounds, spread across 21 archaeological sites, earned their UNESCO stripes in 2019.

If you like to take the road less travelled, head to Saar Heritage Park, which is home to an early Dilmun town, with a temple at its highest point, that has been excavated extensively to offer a glimpse of daily life in Bahrain 4,000 years ago. South of the town is a series of interconnected graves, known as the honeycomb complex.

Discover more about Bahrain’s ancient origins by tracing 6,000 years of history at Bahrain National

Museum. The story of the kingdom comes alive within its nine main halls, which house everything from ancient burial mounds to old Quranic manuscripts and Assyrian clay coffins from 600 BCE. The Hall of Customs and Traditions offers a fascinating peek into Bahraini life, from birth ceremonies and wedding celebrations to different cultural customs.

Bahrain National Theatre can also be found here, along the waterfront.

One of the largest theatres in the Arab world, the country’s national theatre offers an impressive calendar of worldclass performances, including classical and traditional music concerts, ballet and opera.

Close by, Beit Al Qur’an pays a wonderful tribute to Islam’s holiest book, the Quran, with a significant collection of Quranic manuscripts and scriptures dating back to the 7th century BCE. Marvel at the miniature copies that can fit in the palm of the hand, and the Quranic verses inscribed on a grain of rice.

A journey through the kingdom’s spiritual origin is not complete, however, without a trip to one of the largest mosques in the world, Al Fateh Mosque. Built as a grand statement in honour of Sheikh Ahmed Bin Muhammad Bin Khalifa, who was known as Al Fatih (the conqueror), the stunningly designed mosque is a testament to the beauty of Islamic architecture and can house up to 7,000 worshippers at a time. The oldest in the kingdom, however, is Al Khamis Mosque, which dates back to 692 BCE. Although mostly in ruins now, it

still houses two beautifully restored, climbable minarets.

Long considered the epicentre of the gulf’s pearling past, Bahrain has been the hub of the world’s richest oyster beds for centuries and the tiny pearlescent gems are still considered some of the finest examples in the world today. The Bahrain Pearling Trail, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a two-mile pathway on Muharraq Island that’s a nod to a bygone era. Wind past oyster beds, beaches and restored heritage buildings relating to the pearl trade

“ALTHOUGH MOSTLY IN RUINS NOW, AL KHAMIS MOSQUE STILL HOUSES TWO BEAUTIFULLY RESTORED, CLIMBABLE MINARETS”

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Opening page: Bahrain Fort Previous pages, clockwise from far left: Traditional dhows (photo courtesy of BTEA); the ruins of Al Khamis Mosque; Bahrain National Museum (photo courtesy of BTEA) This page, clockwise from left: Al Jasra Handicrafts Centre (image courtesy of InterContinental Bahrain); shimmering pearls; Dilmun Burial Mounds (photo © Think Heritage Author: Melanie Münzn)

and make the Qal’at Bu Mahir fort on the southern tip of the island your last stop. Having once served as the main fishing harbour and gateway to and from the sea, the fort has stunning views of the city skyline.

Muharraq is also where you’ll find many beautifully restored traditional Bahraini houses amid its narrow lanes. Sheikh Isa bin Ali House is particularly striking with four courtyards and beautifully carved wooden doors. Meanwhile, Sheikh Ebrahim Bin Mohammed Al Khalifa Centre for Culture & Research delivers a summary of Bahrain’s history and heritage; from dazzling embroidery at Kurar House to a splendid showcase of Bahrain’s pearling history at the Bin Matar House, the former home of a renowned pearl merchant.

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“MUHARRAQ IS ALSO WHERE YOU’LL FIND MANY BEAUTIFULLY RESTORED HOUSES AMID ITS NARROW LANES” Often the old and new interweave intriguingly in Bahrain, and the kingdom is rapidly evolving as an exciting hub for art in the Middle East. Widely recognised as the main outlet for antique Middle Eastern art, Arabesque Art Gallery exhibits the oil and watercolour paintings of its owner, Wahab Al Koheji, as he depicts everyday life in Bahrain.

An added bonus is its great selection of captivating lithographs created by David Robert during his long tours of the region. Meanwhile, you can

find elegant pieces of calligraphy, as well as sleek and colourful canvases

by Ebrahim Mohamed Busaad in a wonderfully restored 1930s house at Busaad Art Gallery. La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art is another creative hub worth checking out for its compelling pieces.

Over at Al Jasra Village, learn more about the city’s indigenous art forms as you watch local artisans perfect their crafts at Al Jasra Handicrafts Centre.

From brightly coloured woven baskets, tapestries and mats to exquisitely painted stained glass mosaics, feast your eyes upon the swirling colours. Love what you see? Crafts can be bought directly from their maker or from the on-site gift shop. Alternatively, at the A’Ali Pottery you can admire craftsmen as they transform mud and clay into striking pieces of art.

Activities

TWISTS AND TURNS Set off on a thrilling adventure, where unforgettable, heart-pumping activities are yours to experience

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ith its island allure, it’s no surprise that Bahrain is a watersports wonderland.

Whether it’s shooting up into the sky on rocket-propelled boots or plunging deep into the Gulf’s azure waters in your scuba gear, you’ll find every marine activity imaginable here.

Nearby Bahrain International Airport is Dive Bahrain, the world’s largest underwater theme park complete with a sunken Boeing 747 (the largest aircraft ever to be intentionally submerged). In addition to its jumbo attraction, you can discover the replica of a traditional Bahraini pearl merchant’s house.

A world of swirling colours beckon at Fifi Wreck, a small tugboat located 10 nautical miles off the east coast of Bahrain, which is swarming with surgeonfish, angelfish, stingrays, sea snakes and sea turtles gliding their way through the water. Alternatively, rainbow-coloured corals and sponges make Caisson Wreck, which is further afield at 38 nautical miles north-east off the shore, yet worth the journey to see the concrete and steel structure, as well as the myriad fish that call it home.

You can celebrate Bahrain’s pearling past by diving for some of the lustrous gems on one of the many guided excursions. Simply buy your pearl diving pass from Ras Rayyah, book your trip with one of the listed licensed scuba diving centres and set off in search of treasures. You can collect up to 60 oysters from the sea. The best bit? You’ll get to keep any gems you find inside.

Splashing fun continues at Wahooo! Waterpark in Manama, which has a family-friendly line-up of more than 10 water slides and a wave pool. Test your bravery at The Master Blaster, a 190-metre high-speed slide, or chill on the Lazy River (just note that it’s closed on Sundays).

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The Lost Paradise of Dilmun Water Park is another favourite.

Located near Bahrain International Circuit, this sprawling waterpark, which is the largest in Bahrain, delivers fun in spades. From the tots pool to the wet and wild tube slides and the scream-inducing near-vertical speed slides, you’ll be glad to catch your breath in the therapeutic spa pool or on the sandy beach.

Back on dry land, roaring engines call speed freaks for some high-octane adventures at Bahrain International Circuit. You can watch top drivers jostle for prime position at the annual Bahrain Grand Prix (20-22 March 2020), which is a highlight in the region’s motorsport calendar.

But don’t fret if you miss it as the track offers a full line-up of thrills throughout the year, including the Dragster Experience, which invites you to roar down the strip at 274kph, and the chance to get behind the wheel of a Jaguar F-Type.

Those who enjoy the simple pleasures in life will appreciate a good game of golf at the Royal Golf Club.

Designed by world-renowned golfing legend Colin Montgomerie, the 18hole, par 72 championship golf course is an avid golfer’s green haven.

Escape further into the city’s stunning flora and fauna and book a mangrove tour at Tubli Bay with Bahrain Mangroves Tour to discover

“YOU CAN CELEBRATE BAHRAIN’S PEARLING PAST

BY DIVING FOR THE LUSTROUS GEMS ON ONE OF THE MANY GUIDED EXCURSIONS”

Opening page: The Bahrain Grand Prix at Bahrain International Circuit These pages, clockwise from above: Wildlife in Bahrain; Dive Bahrain; Wahooo!

Waterpark; Overleaf: An atmospheric souk (photo courtesy BTEA)

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the country’s beautiful, well-protected and nurtured natural landscape.

Meanwhile, at Al Areen Wildlife Park & Reserve endangered birds flutter around you in all their glory.

Take the bus tour for an up-close view of the diverse wildlife including the Arabian leopard, ostrich, Arabian gazelle, and the prized oryx.

Be sure to dedicate some time for shopping, as Bahrain’s roster of plush malls and atmospheric souks provide all the retail therapy you need.

Sitting beneath the World Trade Center, Moda Mall is your go-to for designer labels from the likes of Louis Vuitton, Emporio Armani, Dior, Fendi, Versace, and more. The city’s largest, however, is City Centre Bahrain, 24 Activities

“BAHRAIN’S ROSTER OF PLUSH MALLS AND ATMOSPHERIC SOUKS PROVIDE ALL THE RETAIL THERAPY YOU NEED” which has hundreds of shops under one roof. For a shopping spree by the waterfront, look no further than The Avenues - Bahrain. Located in the heart of Manama, it has a great mixture of big name brands, alongside crowd-pleasing eateries including The Cheesecake Factory and Dean & DeLuca. If you really want to delve deeper into the city’s cultural fabric,

however, we recommend you slip on your comfiest shoes and pound the cobblestone alleyways of Manama Suq. Here, you’ll find quaint little souvenir shops that display local creations, from exotic rugs and traditional clothing to spices and shisha pipes. If you want to add to your jewellery collection, head to Gold City, which will dazzle you with its rows of precious metals and assorted gems, including those legendary Bahrain pearls. Prepare to haggle – it’s part of the charm. Lastly, follow your nose to the Kingdom of Perfumes, where you’ll get to watch a master perfumer skilfully mix oils to produce a personalised aroma – talk about a keepsake to cherish.

Memories are the one gift you give to yourself.

Discover an island paradise in the middle of the city where pleasure and indulgence abound, including experiences at 13 award-winning food and beverage outlets, fun adventures at the Royal Beach Club and ultimate relaxation at The Ritz-Carlton Spa. Call +973 1758 0000 or visit ritzcarlton.com/bahrain for more information.

Š2020 The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C.