An In-Depth Backpacking Bahrain Travel Guide For Solo Female Wanderlusters
If you are looking for a relaxing holiday destination that doesn’t include a long flight, is ideal for 4-5 days, and is easy to get around, then Bahrain should be your next stop! I spent 5 days in this middle eastern country and experienced the best of it. Situated in the Arabian Gulf, the Kingdom of Bahrain is an island country in Western Asia. If you are seeking a city break with a blend of culture, history, and good food, then Arab country is ideal for both kinds of tours–budget and luxury! The country took me by surprise and I really enjoyed my time there.
Let me take you on my journey with the hope that its ‘magic’ will get rubbed on you as well. Here are the highlights of my trip:
Half-Day Desert Tour
If you want to experience Bahrain in a story-like atmosphere with Arabic flavour, then go on a half-day tour. A Bahraini guide will narrate local-flavoured stories along with giving every little detail about the places you will visit. You can explore a majestic, arid landscape during these 4 hours. My guide also made me try Khobez with cheese! I would highly recommend this tour.
My Bahrain Half-Day Desert Tour included these places:
Bahrain Fort
Staring out across the Gulf, Bahrain Fort (also known as Qal'at al-Bahrain or Portuguese Fort) was built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The most important Dilmun finds in Bahrain have been made here. There is a stylish, modern visitor centre, and an excellent museum supporting the fort. After wandering the ruins, don’t forget to cherish the serene sea views with a drink at the Museum Café. If you are a history buff, then include this archaeological site in your Bahrain vacation. I would recommend going there in the evening.
Bahrain National Museum
Considered one of the finest museums of its kind in the Gulf region, Bahrain National Museum is counted among the country’s main cultural landmarks. The building is centrally located on an artificial peninsula overlooking the island of Muharraq. It houses the permanent exhibition area, temporary exhibition halls, an art gallery, a lecture hall, a gift shop, and a café. Here, you will get a glimpse of 6000 years of Bahrain’s history. There are Halls of Graves, Dilmun, Tylos and Islam, Customs and Traditions, Traditional Trades and Crafts, and Documents and Manuscripts.
The Avenues
The first shopping and leisure destination of its kind in the Kingdom of Bahrain, this tourist attraction stretches for 1.5 kilometres along the sea. It is located in the heart of Manama and gives an outdoor feeling while you are indoors. There is a ceiling that allows sunlight in. There are stores, restaurants, and cafes overlooking Bahrain Bay. Along with that, there are family entertainment areas, cinemas, a public park, walkways, and parking spaces. You can also go for a boat ride here.
Bab Al Bahrain
One of the oldest markets in Bahrain, this place is a must-visit if you are looking to buy Arabic perfumes, jewellery, Bahraini sweets, local handicrafts, traditional antiques, handmade carpets, local spices, fine teas, and souvenirs. It’s real fun choosing from hundreds of collectable items! Bab Al Bahrain marks the main entrance to the Manama Souq. The shopping experience here is exceptional and should not be missed at any cost. The entire area is lovely and you can simply walk around the place to get a glimpse of Bahraini culture and tradition.
My major expenditure
Here’s a glimpse of my Bahrain solo trip:
I hope my travel experience will help you in planning a wonderful escapade to this incredible Arab country.
Happy travelling!