Bahrain's ancient burial mounds. Photo credit @ The National
These are my top places to visit in Bahrain...
Burial Mounds: Whenever I'm heading on Shaikh Khalifa Bin Salman highway I look to the left and right and gape in awe that we have these ancient burial mounds scattered right in plain view. Built around 2600-2000 BC, there were over 350,000 of these burial mounds in the area. I insist that people go visit these UNESCO World Heritage sites if they haven't. To find them on the map, go here. Or google A'Alia Burial Mounds and Dilmun Burial Mounds.
Manama Souk: An essential on my list, Manama Souk is full of atmosphere. People running errands, tourists shopping, shopkeepers beckoning you inside their stores. The hustle and bustle in the Souk are like nowhere else on the island. I love getting lost down the narrow roads with no plan, then of course stopping for a bite to eat. Bonus, if you sign up to my weekly newsletter here you will be sent my list of top Souk Eats!
Pearl Diving: Bahrain equals pearls. So important were they to the culture and economy that at one point, pearls were use as currency. Nowadays you can still grab a snorkel (or scuba) and dive down to pick oysters, shuck them and hunt for pearls. I insist you give it a god, and maybe it will be your lucky day. Read more here.
Muharraq: Muharraq was once the capital of Bahrain and still retains its timeless charm. Head here for a walking tour (self-guided, or guided) and stop at the old houses, all beautifully restored. The warm of this neighbourhood will surely capture your heart. For where to eat when in this hood, click here.
Bahrain Fort: To stand at Bahrain Fort is to see Bahrain’s history. Ancient ruins, Portuguese settles, lush farms, modern city skylines and of course the big wide sea. PS. Come for the fort, stay for the food (here)
Jarada: The beautiful sandbar that only emerges for a few hours of the day, is about a 45-minute boat ride from the mainland. Jarada is a must visit in the warmer months. The water is crystal clear, gentle lapping waves and beautiful Carribean-esque white sand. What’s not to love! Ideals months to go are May, June, September & October.
