All Seasons Group

Tourism in Bahrain

Geography

Bahrain is an archipelago of 33 islands, with a total land area in excess of 700sq.kms.Its name is derived from two Arabic words "thnain Bahr" meaning "two seas" and refers to the phenomenon of sweet water springs under the sea which mingle with the salty water.

This phenomenon is believed to be responsible for the unusual luster of Bahrain's natural pearls, the country's major economy before the advent of oil. In addition, the land was once blessed with a remarkable number of natural springs, which irrigated the fertile north and western belts for centuries. The central area is low lying and barren limestone rock covered with saline sand, which supports only hardiest desert vegetation.

The highest point of Bahrain is the Jabel Dukhan, 134 meters above the sea level. The majority of Bahrain's oil wells are in this area. The country offers a fascinating blend of eastern and western cultures as high rise buildings vie for space with more traditional dwellings and ancient traditions and historical sites mix with modern developments and cosmopolitan living.

Bahrain's population of around 600,000 consists of a significant percentage of expatriates from all over the world. Locals and expatriates live together and interact in a rare bond of fraternity and brotherhood. Such charms, along with an excellent network of hotels, apartments and restaurants, attract an increasing number of regional and international tourists.

		The Soukh : No Visit to Bahrain would be completed without a trip to the soukh , with its profusion of colors, sounds, and aromas. All wares are sold, from cloth of colors and textures to gold and jewelry as well as the traditional array of spices and local produce. Bartering is expected, and indeed turns the whole experience of shopping into a challenge to see who can obtain the best price. The central market, completed in 1978, provides modern facilities for trades, which were unavailable, when the market took place in the soukh.
It is well worth a visit, if only to enjoy the brightly colored display of fresh fruit and vegetables, as well as the scents of the herbs, nuts and spices.

The Gold Soukh : Bahrain gold is usually 21 carat and hallmark; it is available in an infinite number of styles, including traditional Bedouin designs as well as the more contemporary European jewelry. If you can't see what you want, then don't worry pieces can also be made to order, although it is wise to confirm a price before the craftsmen go to work.

The Cloth Soukh : Materials of all textures, colors and origins are available here from silk to cotton and wool. If you have a sketch or an item to be copied, the many tailors shops which are dotted throughout the soukh can make you a new suit or outfit- at a fraction of the original price!

Money & Currency : The Bahraini Dinar is linked with the US dollar at US$ 1= BD 0.375 and is divided into 1000 fils. Notes are available in the following denominations: 500 fils (brown), one dinar (red), five dinars (blue), ten dinars (green), and twenty dinars (peach). Coins come in units of 10,25, 50, and 100 fils. Money can be changed easily at any commercial bank or at one of the money changers found in the Soukh. There are no restrictions on the import and export of currency.

News and Media :
      Ministry of Cabinet Affair and Information :
             Bahrain television
      Arabic Newspaper :
             Akbar AlKhaleej
             Al Ayam
      English Newspaper :
            Bahrain Tribune
            Gulf Daily News

Tree of Life : Standing alone in the desert about 1.2 miles (two kilometers) from the Jebel Dukhan, this flourishing mystic tree provides welcome shade from the heat of the day, although its source of water remains a mystery.

Bait Al Qur'an : The House of the Qur'an was built to accommodate a comprehensive and valuable collection of the Holy Qur'an and manuscripts, a concept which is unique in the Arabian Gulf. All visitors are welcome, and the complex comprises a mosque, a library, an auditorium, a school and museum consisting of five exhibition halls.

Al-Khamis Mosque : The twin minarets of this ancient mosque are easily identifiable as you drive along the Sh. Salman Road. It's considered being one of the oldest relics of Islam in the region, and the foundation are believed to have been laid as early as 692AD. An inscription found on the site, however, suggests a foundation date sometimes during the 11th Century. It has since been rebuilt twice in both 14th & 15th centuries, when the minarets were constructed. The mosque has been partially restored recently.

Horse Racing : Bahrain's love of all things equestrian is further revealed in its splendid racetrack, together with a grandstand those seats 10.000 spectators. Meetings are held every Friday from October to March. Car parking and programs are free; however, betting is strictly prohibited.

Horse Riding :The Middle East is renowned for its love of horses, and Bahrain is no exception. There are a few stables to choose from, with mounts for all ages and abilities.

		Riffa Golf Club : Construction work has started on the first 18-hole green course in Bahrain. US-based Karl Litton, one of the leading golf course designers, has designed the BD 7 million ($18.6m) Riffa Golf Course. The Riffa Golf Club is being constructed to professional Golf Association standards with the first seven holes on a dramatic Wadi terrain and remaining 11 holes lay out around and over four lakes. The nearly 63 hectares (155 acre) site for the new golf course on undeveloped land has been carefully chosen for both access and terrain. The course is par 72 and is 6.286m (6.875 yards) in length with some 24 hectares (60 acres) of grass and will landscaped with palms and shrubbery to give a tropical feeling in the desert terrain.
Environment will be cheered to know that the green terrain will be watered and irrigated by using recycled wastewater brought in from the sea, factories and various plants, and not precious water destined for public consumption. Doing what is ecological correct has been as important to the committee as creating a course of International caliber. http://www.golfbahrain.com

Arad Fort : This 16th century fort of Arabic construction is probably one of the first landmarks you will see upon arrival to Bahrain due to its proximity to the airport. It has undergone extensive restoration, and is now illuminated at night, presenting a magnificent sight. Little is known of the fort history, and there is no firm evidence of the precise date of construction, but comprehensive excavations have been undertaken in order to discover its past. N.B. Stout shoes should be worn if you intend to pay a visit,in order that you can explore to the full- high heels are not suitable for climbing about on the ramparts!

Museum of Pearl Diving : The 'Museum of Pearl Diving' building is regarded as one of the most important and historic buildings in Bahrain. Its importance derives from being the first official center for the Bahrain Courts. In addition, it is a vital witness to what Bahrain has achieved through its long history in regard to the application of civil law and regulations, and the establishment of the principles of justice on solid legal foundations.

The building was opened by the late H.H. Sh. Hamad Bin Essa AI-Khalifa, then governor of Bahrain, in the Hijra year 1356 (Islamic Calendar), October 18th, 1937. The building at that time consisted of four Supreme Courts, in addition to three Directorates: (1) Sunni Waqf (Religious Endowments of the Sunnis), (2) Jaffaria Waqf (Religious Endowments of the Shiites), and (3) Minors Estate (Properties of Underage). In addition, there were rooms used as offices, and another room for filing purposes.

In 1984, the building was transformed into the Traditional Heritage Center. Its departments and rooms were dedicated to the display of various traditional aspects of Bahrain's heritage, except the Supreme Courtroom, to which no significant change has been made for 65 years. The Supreme Courts at that time included (1) a Civil Court, (2) an Appellate Court, and (3) a Criminal Court.The current 'Museum of Pearl Diving' building is under the authority of the Directorate of Archaeology and Heritage, which is one of the major Directorates of the Ministry

of Cabinet Affairs and Information. The 'Museum of Pearl Diving' building is a source of pride to Bahrain, for it contains the story of Bahrain, its governors, and its people from the past till the present.


		King Fahad Causeway : Opened in 1986, this remarkable 15.5 miles (25km) feat of engineering links Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. It is one of the most expensive bridges in the world. The causeway traverses Umm Nasan Island, which is a sanctuary for wildlife, and at halfway point there is a facility area, including a restaurant, which you can visit

Diving : "History and ancient history would suggest that diving itself was probably born in and around the warm shallow waters of Bahrain. Recorded as far back as 5000 years ago, Pearl Diving has been Bahrain's heritage for millennia and ,today, these same productive oyster beds (the largest of their kind in the world) continue to flourish, offering some very unique, rewarding and exciting recreational diving opportunities all year round.

With water temperatures ranging from 34C in summer to 20C in winter, providing comfortable diving conditions year round, up to 30 species of coral and in excess of 200 species of fish can be found, in particular, on the northern offshore reefs of Bahrain. Here, divers, underwater photographers and snorkellers can

discover a myriad of Indo Pacific species including clown fish, trigger fish, surgeon fish,turtles, rays, lion fish,grouper, snapper, crayfish and even whalesharks; while tuna, mackerel, trevally and barracuda cruise above. In addition to reef diving there are a number of wrecks around the island, including ships, planes,

tugs and barges that have something special to offer the inveterate diver. Dugongs (sea cows) can also be seen feeding on the sea grass in the southern waters of Bahrain during the cooler winter months. Scuba and snorkelling education, equipment, experiences and excursions are available to an international standard through a PADI 5 Star Dive Centre located in Manama".

		Arabic Coffee & Hospitality : The drinking of coffee is a traditional part of Bahrain welcome, and begins with the preparation of the coffee itself. Three cupfuls of vaster and a rounded teaspoon of coffee (gahwa) are poured into a saucepan and then boiled for about two minutes. Next comes the "relaxation" process, which is very important, as it allows time for the traditional exchange of greetings and welcome. After adding cardamom and saffron in rosewater, the liquid is poured

gently from the saucepan into the coffeepot, or dalla, taking care that the sediment remains in the pan. The coffee is then left to brew for five or ten minutes before being served in a small cup, or finjan. It is polite to accept a second cup if offered, but for third and subsequent helpings, the shaking of the cup from side to side indicates refusal. Coffeepots can be found in many shops on the island, as well as in the soukhs. They make an ideal reminder for the hospitality and welcome extended to visitors by the people of Bahrain.