Bab el-Bahrain Souk, Manama

Advantages: Undiscovered by most!
Disadvantages: Soon will be!

...As cabin crew i visit Bahrain on average once a month and I never fail to enjoy my trip. I can stay from anywhere between 12 hours and 10 days and love it everytime. Where do I start? Well, we usually stay in the Diplomat Hotel in Manama which is sheer luxury and caters for all your needs. The rooms are beautifully decorated and the tv keeps you up to date with news from around the world. When you drive up to the hotel really takes your breath away. The lights are magical and the heat as you step out of the air conditioned bus just makes the whole experience out of this world. So, what do we do? well, shopping usually features on the itinerary at least once a day and a good time to wander around the souk is after 5 when it is cool and the streets come alive. I can honestly say, hand on heart, i have never seen any women harassed... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful

Advantages: Can see it all in a day or two
Disadvantages: No beaches, lack of tourist attractions, expensive taxis

...of museums and the odd souk, but not a great deal more. Thursday nights are fun to 'watch' though as Bahrain become alive with people who have driven across the causeway from Saudi in a bid for a weekend of freedom. Beer, women and partying are all on the agenda and when money is no issue, you can be sure these guys are set for a good time! So for a holiday perhaps no, for a 24 hour sstop over - why not!... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful

Advantages: Good for short breaks
Disadvantages:

...Bahrain is a rare pearl in the Arabian Gulf. More relaxed than it's strictly Islamic neighbours - it combines the rich Arab culture with a more relaxed, somewhat Western, outlook. This small island, connected to the Saudi Arabian mainland by an enormous freeway, is oft a weekend escape for expats who can sample a pint of beer (alcohol is forbidden in most Muslim countries and anyone caught with it is severely reprimanded). It is also a place for great bargains. Wandering round the souk, you can find a range of goods at very competitive prices. From huge displays of 21 carat gold to sumptuous fabrics or hi tech devices, a visitor can take advantage of the competitive prices. Be warned though that you should be prepared to bargain!! For the historically minded, a visit to the ancient fortress is a must. Alternatively you could go... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful