Bahrain – Travel Guide
Bahrain entices with a unique blend of tradition and modernity, a land where ancient heritage thrives amidst futuristic skylines. It’s a realm where historic forts and archaeological wonders stand alongside sleek skyscrapers and bustling markets. Bahrain’s rich cultural tapestry is woven with threads of hospitality and warmth, welcoming visitors to explore its vibrant souqs and serene coastal vistas. Amidst its dynamic urban landscape lies a treasure trove of history and natural beauty waiting to be discovered. Join us in uncovering the enchanting tales of Bahrain’s past and present.
All About Bahrain
Bahrain FAQ
What is Bahrain known for?
Bahrain, the small island country in the Persian Gulf roughly the same size as Rhode Island, is known for its many forts and palaces, and also for its mosques, ranging from quaint to glittering. Its many museums illustrate and showcase life on the island over the last three millennia. Bahrain is well-known for its global food scene, considering it is home to a majority expatriate population.
What are the best places to visit in Bahrain?
The island of Bahrain is roughly the size of Rhode Island, so it is very easy to arrive in the capital, Manama, sightsee for a few days, and then take day trips using private transportation to explore other parts of the kingdom, like Muharraq, just outside the city, and Riffa closer to the center of the island.
How many days should I spend in Bahrain?
We recommend approximately 3-6 days based on what you want to see and do. We offer flexible vacation packages so you can select your number of nights in each city, desired hotel and activities. We suggest a minimum of 3 nights in Manama.
What is the best way to get around Bahrain?
Bahrain is 30 miles long by 10 miles wide at its widest point. You can see Bahrain by arriving by air in Manama, the capital, and then seeing the rest of the kingdom by private transport such as taxi or hired car.
What is the currency of Bahrain?
The currency of Bahrain is the Bahraini dinar (written in shorthand as BD). U.S. dollars are not accepted. Be prepared with the correct currency on hand or exchange your dollars for dinars upon arrival. There are currency exchanges and ATMs at the airport, most hotels, and in many other locations across the country.
Do people speak English in Bahrain?
Due to Bahrain`s history as a British protectorate, its large expatriate community (including a U.S. military presence), and English-language instruction in Bahraini schools starting in the first grade, the vast majority of Bahrainis can speak English. Arabic is the official language, however, and there are some rural areas (where 10% of the population lives) where it may be difficult to locate an English speaker. Be prepared to learn basic Arabic phrases like hello/goodbye, please/thank you, and the numbers from 1-10, 50, 100, and 1,000. To say `Do you speak English`, say `Hal tatahadath al’injilizia?`
Best Time to Visit Bahrain
Manama features a tropical desert-like climate with extreme climatic conditions, summers are hot, humid, and dry with average daily temperatures in the triple digits and dry cold winters with average temperatures of 45 degrees and even hail storms. The average temperatures for the summer and winter seasons generally range from around 63 degrees to about 93 degrees.
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The best time to visit is during autumn when warm sunny temperatures and soft breezes are abundant.
March – May
Springtime
The springtime can be a very warm and humid time of year with temperatures soaring into the 100 and high humidity levels. Warmer temperatures run in the later months and the highs can range from 75-101 with extremely low chances of rain during this time. This time of year is one of the busiest seasons for tourism with plenty of activities to do and sights to see during the spring season.
June – August
Summertime
Summertime brings hot weather to Bahrain with extremely hot temperatures and the least precipitation throughout the year. August is the slow season for tourism when the cost of accommodations and other sightseeing attractions can be cheaper during this time. The hottest months of the year are July, August and then June with the warmest time being late July and highs can be up to 104 degrees and rarely below 90 degrees at night. The least humid month of the year is June, which is also the windiest month of the year.
September – November
Fall
The fall months in Bahrain bring warm comfortable weather with daily temperatures ranging from 75-102 along with some humidity and wind making it a refreshing time to visit. This can be one of the busiest times of the year due to more enjoyable weather, the hotels and other sights may be busier and more expensive during these months. September is one of the driest months in the year with the lowest chance of rain.
December – February
Winter
The wintertime in Bahrain is a wonderful time of year to visit with enjoyable weather boasting warm temperatures that range between 66-75 degrees along with some rain. This time of year can be quiet in Bahrain making it easy to access sights and attractions as well as affordable accommodations. The chances of rain and snow can occur from early to mid-January through February. The most humid month of the year is January.
Tipping in Bahrain
The Country of Bahrain has a liberal social atmosphere, it is considered rude to accept or give anything with the left hand, engage in public displays of affection, show the soles of your feet, and eat, drink or smoke in public places during Ramadan. Tipping is a normal practice in Bahrain for the service industry workers including waiters, taxi drivers, and hotel staff.
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Currency: Can I pay in U.S. dollars?
The currency of Bahrain is the Bahraini Dinar, BHD, or BD. US Dollars are not accepted, we advise you to exchange your dollars for Dinars before arriving on the Island. There are exchange counters at international airports, and banks found in the main cities on the island.
Restaurants, Cafes, and Bars: When should I tip? How much is customary?
There are many restaurants in Bahrain that normally add a service charge to the bill ranging from 10-15%, which normally is not shared with the wait staff. Diners can leave a tip at their discretion for the waitstaff with average tipping percentages ranging between 8-15% according to the level of service received.
Hotel Staff: Who should I tip?
In Bahrain, the average tipping percentage at hotels is between 2.00 – 5.00 USD and is based on the level of service received. It is normal to tip the bell boys around 2.00 USD and leave 5.00 USD for housekeeping.
Taxi Drivers: Should I tip?
Taxi drivers in Bahrain do not expect a tip, taxis run on meters, and tips can be based on an 8-20% range on the total cost of the journey. Normally tips are not expected for short journeys, but you can always round up to the next Dinar and leave the change.
Tour Guides: Is a tip required?
Leaving a tip for your tour guide is not a requirement, however, you may offer between 5-10% of the total price of the excursion if you wish to express your gratitude.
Top City in Bahrain
What to expect while traveling
