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Kingdom of Bahrain

INTRODUCTION

Bahrain is regarded as one of the best tourist destinations in the Middle East, and with good reason. Made up of thirty-three different islands with endless exploring opportunities, the country is rich with ancient culture and modern glamour. Bahrain is truly a jewel of a country: once you visit, you will wonder why it took you so long!

HISTORY

Bahrain is thought to be the site of the ancient civilization of Dilmun, which flourished during the third and second millennia B.C. and then vanished during the sixth century B.C. Bahrain is rife with archaeological sites, including burial mounds, temples and villages that are thought to be part of ancient Dilmun.

For the next thousand years, the islands were part of the Persian Empire, but in the seventh century A.D. they were taken over by an utopian Islamic sect that converted the region to Islam. They in turn were succeeded by a different Arab dynasty 100 years later. In 1521, the Portuguese invaded, only to be displaced by Iran in 1602.

Iran practiced indirect rule for most of its tenure in Bahrain, and in the late 1700s the Al Khalifa family rose to power, making the first of several treaties with Britain in 1820. The resultant era of peace and prosperity effected Bahrain's growth into a modern state and a giant of Persian Gulf trade.

Britain exerted considerable influence over Bahraini government and politics during that period, and the British presence increased when oil was discovered in Bahrain in 1932. However, growing anti-British sentiment after World War II caused their star to wane, until Bahrain finally became an independent emirate in 1971.

Despite violent conflict between government and the cleric-led opposition movement during the 1990s, the turn of the new millennium saw King Hamad ibn Isa Al Khalifah ascend the throne. He immediately instituted reforms, including women's suffrage and parliamentary elections. Three years later, in 2002, Bahrain was declared a kingdom.

Following a series of protests across North Africa and the Middle East, protests demanding greater political and social freedoms broke out in Bahrain mid-February, 2011. Starting mid-march the government responded violently to protester resulting in widespread international condemnation. The clashes and protests have continued between the government and protestors.

The US State Department has urged US citizens to defer travel to Bahrain and suggests that US citizens currently in Bahrain consider departing due to violent clashes between the police and protestors and the deterioration of law and order in parts of the country.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Capital: Manama

Languages: English, Farsi and Arabic

Currency: Bahraini Dinar

Climate: Bahrain is an arid country, but its proximity to the ocean makes the weather quite mild during the winter. Summers in Bahrain are more hot and humid.

Time Zone: UTC + 3

Power: 230 V 50 Hz

ATTRACTIONS

In addition to imposing mosques and historical sites, Bahrain possesses a vast array of archaeological treasures drawn from 5,000 years of history. During the third millennium B.C., the civilization of Dilmun flourished in Bahrain. The remnants of their temples, cities and burial mounds can still be visited today. Travelers who want to mix play with history can check out the Lost Paradise of Dilmun Water Park, which features a wave pool, spa and 14 other aquatic attractions themed around the ancient civilization. In addition, several museums feature impressive collections of Bahraini artifacts.

Bahrain is perhaps most renowned among the international jet set for its fantastic resort islands?. In an archipelago nation, visitors can have their pick of island getaways, but the gleaming tourist playgrounds that are Bahrain's man-made islands are something else entirely. Imagine a marina shaped like a palm tree, a neighborhood of villas with canals instead of streets, or an island entirely devoted to one gigantic water park -- among the resort islands, luxury and sheer imagination have no limit.

The Bahrain Grand Prix was the first Formula One race held in the Middle East when it had its debut in 2004, and it remains a vastly popular attraction every April, hosting spectators and competitors from all over the world.

The wonderfully warm shallow waters of Bahrain are a paradise for diving. Here, snorkelers, divers and underwater photographers can swim among an amazing variety of marine life. Some of the most prevalent species include clown fish, trigger fish, sturgeon, turtles, rays, lion fish, grouper, snapper, crayfish and even whale sharks, while tuna, mackerel and barracuda cruise above.

Home to both glitzy shopping malls and traditional markets, shopping in Bahrain is an experience in itself. Travelers willing to haggle will come away with a real sense of accomplishment, as bartering is the order of the day (at least in the markets, that is). See what price you can get, don't take it too seriously, and enjoy the experience. You just might make a friend -- vendors will appreciate your willingness to play along!

RESTAURANTS

NIGHTLIFE

LODGING

Accommodations in Bahrain offer visitors a wide variety of choices. Lodging can range from world-class five-star hotels, such as the Sheraton, Ritz-Carlton, and Hilton, to more affordable local accommodations.

PERSONAL STORIES