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The Kingdom of Bahrain is an archipelago of 33 islands, the largest of which is Bahrain Island. Located in the Persian Gulf with Qatar to the southeast across the Gulf of Bahrain, it is connected to Saudi Arabia via the King Fahd Causeway. Bahrain is the smallest of the independent Persian Gulf States measuring only 55km long by 18km wide with an economy that depends on oil and the financial industry. These industries attract many visitors to the country and although a small island, visitors will find a lovely Bahrain hotel that caters for both business and leisure guests.
This small Middle Eastern island country is ruled by the Al Khalifa royal family and is popular amongst visitors for its more relaxed laws, compared to other Muslim countries in the region, with regard to alcohol and entertainment. For the most part the island is made up of level expanses of sand and rock. Known in ancient times as Dilmun, the island state was an important trade center ruled at different times by the Persians, Arabs and Portuguese until the late 18th century when the Al Khalifah family took over. Bahrain became a British protectorate in 1820 and only gained full independence in 1971.
Guests to a Bahrain hotel are advised not to visit during the hottest months of year. With temperatures soaring to 50 degrees from May-September and hot dry summer winds that can bring sandstorms, the heat and humidity can be excessively uncomfortable. Winters are pleasant and guests are advised to remember a sweater for the cool evenings.
Regarded by some as an "excellent introduction to the Persian Gulf", a Bahrain hotel attracts many tourists. These are predominately from Arab states but more and more westerners are arriving to enjoy the 5000 years of civilization this island offers. With the Qalat Al Bahrain castle which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the National museum, there is plenty for guests to explore. The Tree of Life is well worth a visit for its oddity. This tree grows in the middle of a desert surrounded by oil wells and factories relating to the petroleum industry. Other fascinating sites include the Al-Fateh Mosque, one of the largest in the world, the Pearl Monument and Pearl Museum highlighting the historical importance of this industry and the ancient remains of the Barbar Temples. The Bahrain International F1 circuit has done a lot to attract visitors to the country who need to book a Bahrain hotel well in advance to get accommodation during this time.
The capital and largest city of Bahrain is Manama which is the most sophisticated of the cities with many five star luxury Bahrain hotels. For those on a budget, cheaper three star hotels are located close to the commercial and business hub and only a short walk from the seashore. There are also quite a few mid-range hotels close to the center of town and near the airport and these include most of the amenities and facilities one would expect from hotels of this class. Lovely new and luxurious five star hotels abound conveniently located in the Seef shopping district, the commercial hub and in the diplomatic area. The landmark Gulf Hotel was the first and biggest five-star Bahrain hotel built on the island and is well-known for its blend of traditional Arabian hospitality with modern amenities and facilities.
Guest rooms are spacious and decorated in a variety of styles including classic, marine and Italian. Executive floors and suites command panoramic views over the Gulf while chalets and immense villas lining the waterfront with glimmering infinity pools, private Jacuzzis and terraces are great for families and long-stay guests. The stylish décor is timeless with a contemporary feel including warm pastel colors and fine fabrics to create a tranquil and peaceful atmosphere. Modern amenities include a mini-bar, tea and coffee maker, satellite TV, high-speed internet access and 24-hour room service.
Plenty of leisure facilities are offered to guests at any Bahrain hotel. These include modern gyms equipped with state-of-the-art exercise equipment, swimming pools, childrens pools and play areas and tennis courts. The luxurious spa at the waterfront Dragon Hotel and Resort in the heart of the Amwaj Islands with a Toni and Guy hair salon is a wonderful place to relax and unwind and feel the effects of rejuvenating treatments and revitalizing massages.
Fabulous restaurants at a Bahrain hotel serve an array of cuisine types from Indian and Asian to Lebanese and Chinese and plenty of Arabian and local specialties that are not to be missed. From delicious shawarmas to delectable seafood dishes served with local flavors, guests are in for a gourmet treat.
Apart from sightseeing, the city offers guests to Bahrain plenty of other fun opportunities. Although in the middle of a desert, guests can enjoy an 18-hole grass golf course with lakes and plenty of date palms and desert plains. Haggling at the local souk markets for jewelry, gifts and fabrics is a must as is camel riding to get an authentic desert experience. Pearl diving, horse racing and horseback riding, dolphin watching and bird watching at the nearby Hawar islands are other popular pastimes for guests to a Bahrain hotel. The beaches are a great attraction and offer wonderful scuba diving, fishing, sailing and snorkeling opportunities.
A Bahrain hotel offers the perfect base to explore this ancient island kingdom and immerse oneself in the wonders of Bahrainian culture and history. Stunningly located on the waterfront and providing easy access to shopping, the commercial hub and tourist attractions, they provide luxurious accommodation, fine dining and are ideal venues to host elaborate celebrations, meetings and conferences.
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