Bahrain Travel Information

Bahrain is a small island nation located in the Persian Gulf, and is known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and modern attractions. From exploring ancient ruins and traditional markets to visiting modern malls and theme parks, there's something for everyone in Bahrain. Here are the top 10 things to do when visiting this fascinating country.

1. Explore the Bahrain Fort

Built over 2,000 years ago, the Bahrain Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the island's most important historical landmarks. Visitors can explore the fort's ruins and learn about its rich history and cultural heritage.

2. Visit the Bahrain National Museum

The Bahrain National Museum is the country's largest museum and offers a comprehensive look at Bahrain's history and culture. Visitors can learn about the island's ancient civilizations, traditional life, and modern history.

3. Walk Around Manama Souq

Manama Souq is a traditional market that has been in operation for centuries. Visitors can stroll through the souq's narrow streets and admire the colorful shops, while bargaining for souvenirs and traditional goods.

4. Admire the Bahrain Pearl Monument

The Bahrain Pearl Monument is a modern landmark that symbolizes the country's rich cultural heritage and its connection to the sea. Visitors can admire the monument's sleek design and learn about the history of pearl diving in Bahrain.

5. Relax on Al Dar Islands

Al Dar Islands is a group of scenic islands located just off the coast of Bahrain. Visitors can relax on the white-sand beaches, snorkel in the clear waters, and enjoy the island's natural beauty.

6. Visit the Al Fateh Grand Mosque

The Al Fateh Grand Mosque is one of the largest mosques in the world and a magnificent example of Islamic architecture. Visitors can admire the mosque's grand dome, intricate carvings, and intricate tile work.

7. Explore the Bahrain International Circuit

The Bahrain International Circuit is a modern racing facility that hosts the Bahrain Grand Prix. Visitors can take a tour of the circuit and learn about the history of motorsports in Bahrain.

8. Enjoy a Day at Al Areen Wildlife Park

Al Areen Wildlife Park is a large wildlife reserve that is home to a variety of animals, including giraffes, cheetahs, and gazelles. Visitors can take a guided tour and admire the park's diverse wildlife.

9. Visit the Tree of Life

The Tree of Life is a solitary 400-year-old tree that stands in the middle of the Bahrain desert. Visitors can admire the tree's beauty and learn about its cultural significance.

10. Shop at the Bahrain City Centre

The Bahrain City Centre is a modern mall that offers a wide range of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Visitors can browse the mall's shops, enjoy a meal, or catch a movie.

Climate

Bahrain has a desert climate, with hot and dry summers and mild, humid winters. The average temperature in the summer months is around 35°C (95°F), while in the winter it is around 20°C (68°F).

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Bahrain is between November and April, when temperatures are mild and there is little rainfall. This is also the peak tourist season, so visitors should book their accommodations in advance.

If you're looking to avoid the crowds and enjoy the hot, sunny weather, the summer months of June to September can be a good option. However, temperatures can be extremely hot during this time, so visitors should take precautions to stay cool and hydrated.

Here are some general travel tips regarding entry requirements that apply across all countries:

Passport

Make sure that your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival in the country you are visiting. Some countries will not allow you to enter if your passport is set to expire within a certain period of time.

Visa

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if you need a visa. Some countries require a visa for entry, while others do not. Make sure to apply for a visa well in advance of your trip as the process can take several weeks. Check the latest Visa requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Health Requirements and COVID-19 Rules

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if there are any health requirements for entry. Some countries require vaccinations or proof of medical insurance. Check the latest health requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Travel Insurance

Consider purchasing travel insurance, especially if you are traveling internationally. Travel insurance can cover you in the event of trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and other unexpected events. Our travel insurance partner is SafetyWing. For dangerous activities and/or countries consider a rescue service like those offered by our partner, Global Rescue.

Customs

Be familiar with the customs and laws of the country you are visiting. Some countries have strict laws regarding drug possession, alcohol consumption, and dress codes.

Currency

Check the currency exchange rate and make sure you have enough local currency for your trip. Some countries may not accept credit cards or travelers cheques, so it is always good to have some cash on hand. At WhereNext we recommend use a Wise debit card, which provides low cost currency conversions and ATM withdrawals.

Research the country

Research about the culture, customs and laws of the country you are visiting. It will help you to understand the place more and also prepare you better for the trip.

Contact Information

Make a copy of your passport and keep it in a separate place from your passport. Also, leave a copy of your itinerary and contact information with a friend or family member at home.

Bahrain has a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and style, including:

Hotels

Bahrain has a variety of international hotel chains and local boutique hotels, ranging from luxury to budget-friendly options. Hotels in the capital city of Manama and along the coast offer convenient access to tourist attractions and beaches.

Resorts

Bahrain is home to several resorts, including beachfront properties and desert resorts, offering a range of amenities and activities.

Serviced Apartments

Serviced apartments are a convenient and budget-friendly option for visitors who are looking for more space and independence. These apartments come with kitchen facilities, housekeeping services, and a range of amenities.

Homestays

Homestays are a great option for visitors who are looking to experience local life and culture. These homes are usually run by local families and provide visitors with a unique and authentic experience.

Campsites

For visitors who are looking for a unique outdoor experience, Bahrain has several campsites that offer a range of facilities and activities. These campsites are located in scenic locations, including deserts and along the coast, and are perfect for nature enthusiasts.

Bahrain has several transportation options for visitors, including:

Taxi

Taxis are a convenient and affordable option for getting around Bahrain. Taxis are metered, and visitors can easily flag one down on the street or book one in advance.

Rental car

Rental cars are available in Bahrain, allowing visitors to explore the island at their own pace. A valid international driver's license is required.

Bus

Bahrain has an extensive bus network, with routes covering the main cities and tourist destinations. Buses are affordable and frequent, but can be crowded during peak hours.

Water taxi

Water taxis are available in Bahrain, providing a convenient and scenic way to travel between the main islands and other tourist destinations.

Private transfer

Private transfers are available in Bahrain, offering a convenient and hassle-free way to get to and from the airport or other destinations. Visitors can book these transfers in advance through their hotel or travel agent.

Money Tips for Travel

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans to avoid any potential issues with international transactions.
• Bring a mix of cash, credit, and debit cards--and possibly a travel money card.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.
• Make sure to have a backup option for accessing money in case your primary method doesn't work.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• NEVER accept currency conversion at ATMs! Always get your home bank to convert at much better rates.
• Think about getting a Wise or other travel debit card; these can provide much better rates and some free ATM withdrawals.

ATM and Credit Cards

• Research the availability of ATMs and credit card acceptance at your destination before you depart.
• Keep your ATM card in a safe place and be mindful of your surroundings when using it.
• Try to stick to using ATMs that are affiliated with major banks.
• Keep your credit card information safe and secure, and be aware of potential scams.
• Make sure your cards have the necessary security features, such as chip and pin.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.

Exchange Rates

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• Be careful of places that may offer to exchange money at rates that seem too good to be true.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It covers a wide range of needs--even some you might not expect!

Medical Coverage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for medical expenses if you become ill or injured while traveling. This can include coverage for doctor visits, hospital stays, and emergency medical transportation. It's also a good idea to ensure that your travel insurance covers COVID-19 related illness and delays!

Trip Cancellation and Interruption

Travel insurance can provide coverage if you need to cancel or interrupt your trip due to unexpected events such as illness, weather, or travel bans. It can also provide coverage if your trip is delayed or if your travel provider goes out of business.

Lost or Stolen Luggage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for lost or stolen luggage, as well as personal items such as passports and electronic devices.

Emergency Assistance and Evacuation

Many travel insurance plans offer emergency assistance services, such as providing information on local hospitals and doctors, assistance with replacing lost or stolen documents, and help with arranging transportation in the event of an emergency. At WhereNext we have partnered with Global Rescue for evacuation services, which are highly recommended if you are undertaking dangerous activities or are travelling to dangerous parts of the world.

Liability coverage

Travel insurance can also provide liability coverage in case you cause an accident or harm someone while you are traveling.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It can help cover the costs of medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost or stolen luggage, and more. It's always a good idea to review the coverage and compare the different options available before making a decision. At WhereNext we both use and have partnered with Safety Wing for general travel insurance.

When traveling, getting mobile access is very important these days. If you are working remotely, wanting to update social media, or need to access your banks SMS authentication messages having a reliable service is a must. At WhereNext we recommend:

eSIM

Services such as those offered by our partner, Airalo, allow you to easily order and install an eSIM for different countries or regions that you are traveling in.

Dual SIM phone

If you have a phone that supports dual SIM's then you can get a SIM on arrival for each country, this is probably better done at a telco store rather than at the airport.

Extend your home plan

Depending on where you live and your mobile service provider you may be able to extend your plan to cover mobile roaming at reasonable rates.

Keep your primary SIM

With the amount of accounts we all have that require two factor authentication via SMS, keeping a constant number for these accounts is a must.

There are several online communities and platforms that you can use to meet people while traveling, both for making new friends or for networking professionally. Some popular options include:

Facebook groups

There are many Facebook groups dedicated to connecting people while traveling, from expat groups and travel communities to groups specific to certain cities or regions of the country. You can search for groups based on your interests or location and connect with others who share similar interests.

Meetup

Meetup is a platform that allows you to find groups of people that share your interests in your local area. There are Meetup groups all around the world, and they cover a wide range of topics, such as language exchange, sports, and cultural activities.

Internations

Internations is a social network for people who live or work abroad. It has a large community of expats and organizes regular events, activities and gatherings that allow members to connect and socialize.

Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is a platform that connects travelers with local hosts, who offer free accommodation and a chance to experience the local culture. It's a great way to meet locals and make friends!

Reddit

Reddit has a large community, and there are several subreddits dedicated to connecting expats and travelers. You can use it to ask questions, get advice, and connect with others who are also living or traveling in the country.

Linkedin

LinkedIn is primarily a professional network, but you can also use it to connect with people who work in the same industry or have similar backgrounds. It can be useful to connect with people before you arrive and establish a few professional contacts to help you get started.

At WhereNext, we use Nomad List as a global community and then research more local ones for our destination. These are just a few examples of online communities you can use to meet people; please suggest any others that you think are appropriate for this destination.