Bahrain: Pearl of the Arabian

SWATI

Stretches of sand and desert with no life around - that's the image that comes to mind when you think of the Gulf. But that's not what all Gulf countries are made of, and certainly not The Kingdom of Bahrain.

A small island country situated in the Gulf (Arabian Gulf and surrounded by the Arabian Sea) is loaded with beautiful beaches such as the ones on Dar Island and Hawar Island. The opening of the King Fahad Causeway between Saudi Arabia and Bahrain in November 1986 ended the island's 6000 years of isolation. Two artificial islands were constructed to accommodate services like customs, immigration, health, the Coastguard and mosques. Tower-shaped restaurants were designed so that patrons could enjoy the beautiful view of the sea separating the two countries.

Bahrain was initially thought of as a burial mound used by other countries. However, excavations revealed that Bahrain was home to the ancient Dilmun civilization. The Bahrain National Museum situated in Manama, the capital of Bahrain offers more insight into Bahrain's history and culture. Another museum worth visiting is the museum of Pearls & Diving, a few meters away from Bab Al-Bahrain gateway. Pearling was the major form of earning a living in the pre-oil era.

Well, there is a bit of desert here and there! And amidst one stands tall the 'Tree of Life'.This tree has come to be known as the 'Tree of Life' because of the mystery surrounding its existence in the middle of the desert and without any known water source. For those who want to experience the Arabian Gulf desert atmosphere should check out The Desert Camp, situated in the Sakhir area, to the south west of Jebel Dukhan at a distance of nearly 40 minutes drive from the capital, Manama.

A visit to Bahrain will be incomplete without visiting the traditional markets known as the Souq. Everything from gold to food to clothing to pottery is available here!