The Ultimate Bahrain Travel Guide

Music in Bahrain: 5 ways to experience Bahrain's music scene

Bahrain was the site of the first Persian Gulf-based recording studio, and it has a long bluesy sawt folk tradition that's connected to the sounds of other cultures including African, Indian and Persian styles.

You'll also find Fidjeri here. It's a style of music historically sung by pear divers, with a lead singer backed up by a chorus of others singing and clapping.

Bahrain has interesting connections to music.

1. Check out the events listed by the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities. They're a sensational source of opportunities to hear local musicians as well as many other events that'll add cool experiences to your holiday. I recommend going to a “Five P.M. at Bab” performance of traditional music, if one is scheduled when you travel to Bahrain. It's worth attending a concert at the Bahrain National Theatre if you can too.

2. For a fun window into the fact Bahraini music isn't always serious, check out the music video created for the Dose coffee shop advertisement. It's worth checking out the other music by this local talent (Flipp & Daffy).

3. Attend a traditional music performance at the beautiful Mohammed bin Faris Sut Music House museum.

4. Listen to the chill music of Ali Bahar. He released and performed songs in a local dialect. His chill vibe led him to be known by some as the Bob Marley of the Gulf during his lifetime.

5. Tune into the contemporary vibe of Bahrain by streaming Bahrain Radio English 96.5 FM. The host discussions combine with a multicultural and multilingual blend of music to give you a good feel for the friendly, internationally connected, and up-beat Bahraini lifestyle.

6. Tune into some traditional music from Bahrain and the wider region by streaming Bahrain Traditional Music FM 95.0.

7. Experience live electro DJs and other music styles within the bars of Juffair, dancing amongst both local residents and lively Sailors visiting from multiple countries on shore leave from the Navy Bases.

Welcome to a holiday full of music fun! Welcome to Bahrain!

Top 5 Instagrammable Locations in Bahrain

Wow. This is hard! There's so many photo spots in Bahrain. It's hard to pick shoot locations. At a pinch, I'd say the top instagrammable locations in the Kingdom of Bahrain are:

1. Bahrain Fort

2. Bahrain World Trade Centre and Moda Mall

3. Bahrain National Museum and inside the Bahrain National Theatre

4. Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay

5. Salamabad Farmers Markets

6. Manama Souq and the Gold Souq

7. Shaikh Ebrahim Center

8. UNESCO listed Bahrain Pearling Path

9. Bahrain Shri Krishna Temple

10. Matam Ajam Al Kabeer

Popular hashtags for Bahrain travel posts on instagram, facebook, twitter and other social media include: #manama #bahrain #travel #travelphotography ... and the location (e.g. #lpodwaterpark ) . Consider adding related hashtags such as #fort , for example.

Fun in Bahrain: 10 Reasons you must visit Bahrain

Ok, let's wrap it up. I've told you about the attractions and the music. In a nutshell, you should visit Bahrain for its:

1. incredibly friendly culture and truly different nocturnal lifestyle vibe

2. diversity of fascinating historic architecture blended with innovative modern architecture

3. museum treasures

4. music culture

5. high adrenaline experiences

6. unusual internationally-connected history

7. souq shopping

8. oodles of instagram worthy locations and experiences

This is a fun and interesting destination in the arabian gulf. Bahrain should totally be on your middle east travel bucket list!

Share your Bahrain Holiday Tips!

I know there are even more things to do and see in Bahrain and I want to hear ideas from you! Comment below or head over to our Travel Fun Music Community Facebook Page , Travel Inspiration Instagram account or join the Our Travel Addict Conversations on Twitter. You can also leave tips in the comments on the Travel Fun Music YouTube Channel . Use the #travelfunmusic hashtag and it’ll show up on our website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Bahrain a safe country?

Yes! Crime rates in Bahrain are really low and violent crime is very rare, even if you're walking alone at night! It's very safe.

Why is Bahrain famous?

Bahrain is renowned for its Formula 1 track, verdant groves of date palms, and lively night life as a holiday destination in the Gulf region. Since ancient times it has been an hub for trade and a source of natural resources for the surrounding area. It's also well known within Navy communities, hosting foreign Navy bases that support security within the wider region. Bahrain Island is also famous for its UNESCO world heritage sites and being the site of the ancient kingdom of Dilmun, a commercial centre that did nautical trade with many countries. Bahrain's pearls are also well recognised internationally within boutique jewelry circles.

Why is Bahrain so rich?

Bahrain one of the richest Arab countries. It ranks 23rd in the world. The nation's high ranking is generally due to its high-income economy, exports, and tourist attractions. Petroleum production is Bahrain's most exported product, Aluminium is the second most exported product, and Bahrain also exports financial services and construction materials.

Is there winter in Bahrain?

Bahrain features an arid climate. Bahrain has two seasons: an extremely hot summer and a relatively mild winter.

Is Bahrain alcohol-free?

No. In Bahrain, alcohol is available in hotels, bars, night clubs, and licenced alcohol shops. Drinking alcohol in public is illegal though, and being drunk in public (e.g. drunk and disorderly) can actually get you in trouble with the police.

Is Bahrain safe for females?

Yes! Bahrain is a very safe holiday destination for women.

Can I wear shorts in Bahrain?

In certain places, yes. As a fail-safe guide, treat wearing shorts like you would a bikini or speedos. They might be ok on the beach, but if you wear them in other places you risk looking like a weirdo and making people uncomfortable. In Bahrain, you'll find that the hotels and private beach areas have the lowest standards of dress code. Wearing shorts and singlets in a village community setting is going to look really trashy, rude and arrogant. Don't be that tourist! Opting for modest clothing is one small way you can repay the respect and kindness you'll experience in Bahrain. It's also a good idea to cover up against UV radiation in this very sunny climate.

What is famous in Bahrain to buy? Must have Souvenirs

The best Bahraini souvenirs are Bahraini handcrafts and traditional goods such as local pearls, pottery from the local producers at A'Ali, handcrafted textiles made in Bani Jamra, date syrup and dates.

If you're short on time and want to be sure you're getting authentic, locally designed and made products all in one place then check out the 'Productive Families' outlets such as the Capital Mall for Bahraini Handmade Products. You'll also find beautiful woven baskets made locally using traditional methods at the Salamabad Farmers Markets (all year) and Budaiya Farmers Markets (in winter). Both are regulated by the government to ensure that local traditions are promoted and protected.

Currency in Bahrain

The currency is the Bahraini Dinar (BHD). All businesses also accept cash payments in Saudi Rials (SAR), which is the currency of Saudi Arabia. You can find currency exchanges in Bahrain, both in Manama but also in villages and shopping centres throughout the entire country. But, there are a lot of ATMs and they don't charge high fees (if any fees at all!). Also, major credit and debit cards are accepted in all accommodation, shops, supermarkets and restaurants. You don't need to tip, but it shows appreciation for good service.

Mobile Phone Service in Bahrain / Roaming in Bahrain

SIM cards are easy to buy at the Bahrain International Airport and also in branded shopfronts in most shopping centres and town/village centres. The main service providers are STC and Batelco. Prepaid SIM cards are available and you can expect to pay between the equivalent of $22 USD to $40 USD for a month, for example. You can easily recharge your mobile credit online or at SADAD kiosks all over the country. The entire country has excellent mobile phone reception coverage, plus free wifi hotspots are very common. Most people and business operators use WhatsApp for making and receiving calls and messages, instead of mobile calls and sms.

The calling code for Bahrain is +973.

Bahrain Airbnb

Airbnb is active in the country. Bahrain Airbnb listings aren't very common though. You'll find more options if you seek out hotels.

Best places to stay in Bahrain (Hotels in Bahrain)

The most popular places in Bahrain are:

• Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain

• Art Hotel Bahrain

• Grove Hotel Bahrain

• The Gulf Hotel Bahrain

• Crowne Plaza Manama

• InterContinental Bahrain

• Bahrain Carlton Hotel

Personally, I really like places where there's a bit more connection to Gulf culture. Even if you're not staying there it's worth checking out The Merchant House (for the art etc), The Royal Saray Resort (for coffee on the terrace and people watching), and the Al Areen Palace & Spa (go for breakfast and/or a swim or spa treatment, then ask for a tour).

Tip: If staying in the suburb of Juffair, it pays to seek out hotels that specify they're 'family friendly' unless you're open minded regarding business activities that operate at night.

Getting Around Bahrain

The local bus service is designed for workers, not tourists. The most efficient way to get around is by taxi. Car and bicycle hire is available, but the driving style in Bahrain is 'exciting' (especially at night) and parking can be very difficult. Most attractions are within a short taxi ride away anyway and you'll safe yourself the stress! If you need all-abilities access, it's best to check google street-view first to ensure the footpath and other mobility factors can accommodate your needs at your intended destination. All Uber services are licenced taxis. You can hire a dedicated personal driver and a car for a daily rate, but it's understandably more expensive.

Getting To Bahrain / How to travel to Bahrain

You can fly in via the brand new Bahrain International Airport. From the Airport, it's best to get a taxi or uber to your accommodation. In theory, you can also drive in over the King Fahad Causeway via Saudi Arabia although this is seldom practical.

How to get a tourist visa to travel to Bahrain

Plan and be ready for border control procedures. Many tourists can get a visa on arrival, but it's also easy to arrange one online beforehand using the Kingdom of Bahrain's Evisa System portal. The Immigration and Customs Officers at the Airport have very high integrity and you don't need to worry about getting scammed. Don't bother paying for any 'middle man' or travel agent etc - the tourist visa system is very professional and well organised here!

P.S. I've also received these questions. Don't worry - I haven't forgotten you folks! I just haven't had the chance to update this article to answer them yet! Sorry!

• What to wear / what to pack for a trip to Bahrain.

• The Perfect Bahrain Travel Itinerary (with a map to download)

• 10 Things I Wish I Knew Before Visiting Bahrain

• Top 10 Free Things To Do In Bahrain

• Top 10 Things You Can’t Miss In Bahrain