| The State of Bahrain, with its capital Manama, is roughly the size of Singapore. Encompassing an archipelago of 33 islands, it is the only island-state in the Arab world and known as the most liberal of the Gulf countries. Bahrain, often called the Pearl of the Arabian Gulf, is the largest of the islands at 30 miles long and 10 miles wide. Bahrainâs history goes back to the roots of civilization. Since its early history Bahrain has been an important trading center, known then as Dilmun. Bahrain literally means "two seas," which is an appropriate name considering its strategic position on the great trade routes of antiquity. It also refers to the natural springs of water rising from beneath the sea, used by the countryâs famous pearl divers. During the Middle Ages Bahrain changed hands frequently until the Omani took control in the late 15th century to be followed by the Portuguese who valued Bahrain for the number and quality of pearls and a thriving pearling trade. In the 17th century Bahrain became part of the Persian Empire before the Al-Khalifa family established themselves as the countryâs rulers. In 1932, oil in commercial quantities was found in Bahrain, the first such strike on the Arab side of the Gulf. Exports began soon afterward and a refinery opened in 1936. The Bahraini were the first to enjoy the benefits that came from oil revenues, enabling them to improve the quality of education and health care. Since Bahrainâs oil revenues are not on a level with those of Kuwait or Saudi Arabia, it encourages the country to diversify its economy, taking advantage of its long history as a trading nation and lengthy contact to the outside world. The 1986 opening of the 15-mile-long King Fahad Causeway, linking Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, resulted in a boost to business and tourism. Manama offers both a modern downtown center as well as traditional areas. In fact, only a few blocks inland from shiny high-rises are sections, which have changed little in the last 50 years. A good introduction to the countryâs history and culture can be found in the National Museum and the Heritage Center.Wind Towers intermingle with mosques, souqs and dhow building yards, providing interesting sights for visitors. While the official language is Arabic, English is widely spoken. |
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| The Ship is scheduled to dock at Port Salman, a distance of three miles from the Manama town center. Metered taxis are generally available outside the port gate. The fare is paid according to the meter reading. |
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| Bahrain is known for the finest quality in pearls, and gold jewelry comes in a dazzling array, both in traditional and modern designs. The Souq of Manama is a shopperâs dream. In addition, there are modern shopping malls plus the government tourist shop, Bab Al-Bahrain, where you can find an extensive selection of local handicrafts such as pottery, basket ware, woven rugs and tapestries. While bargaining is an accepted practice in many small shops and the souq, prices are fixed at Bab Al-Bahrain. Normal opening hours are 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Saturday through Thursday. The local currency is the Bharaini dinar; U.S. dollars are widely accepted. |
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| Asian specialty restaurants, ranging from Indian and Pakistani to Thai and Filipino as well as Western cuisine and fast-food chains such as McDonalds, KFC, Pizza Hut and Burger King cater to all tastes and pocket books. Lavish hotel restaurants vie with Steak Houses and a Hard Rock Café. Bars are almost all located in hotels. Most restaurants add a service charge of 10-15 per cent to the bill. However, an additional tip at your discretion is appreciated. |
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Bait Al-Qurâan
Located in Manama, the "House of Qurâan" is characterized by a most distinct Islamic design. It is home to a rare collection of Islamic manuscripts, prints and books that have been collected from all over the world.
Oil Well Museum
This museum was built to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the first discovery of oil in the Arabian Gulf. It houses exhibits of old photographs, drilling equipment and a working model of an oilrig.
AâAli Burial Mounds
Located in the vicinity of Al AâAli village, these burial mounds - once as many as 170,000 - date to around 2000 B.C. and form the largest prehistoric cemetery in the world. The village is also known for its pottery workshops. Some of the designs have been handed down unchanged since the late Dilmun era, 3,000 years ago.
Saar Settlement
This archaeological site is the most recent discovery of the Dilmun era and consists of residential dwellings that were inhabited by the Dilmunite people 4,000 years ago. Other discoveries on this site include the Saar temple and a unique type of tombs labeled "interconnected tombs."
The Tree of Life
Standing along in the desert, this well-matured tree has raised the curiosity of visitors and specialists alike for many years. It remains a mystery where the tree draws its water, as there is no known water source. The location is south of Oil Well Number One. |
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