Bahrain : pictures
Bahrain : Discover
Bahrain has long remained a little-known destination, even neglected in favor of Dubai, Doha or Abu Dhabi. And yet, this archipelago between Qatar and Saudi Arabia is surprisingly rich in history and hospitality. Here, the remains of the Dilmun civilization rub shoulders with the lively lanes of the old souks, Portuguese forts, century-old mosques and the remains of the pearling industry. The kingdom has succeeded in modernizing while preserving its ancestral traditions. In Manama, the capital, skyscrapers stand side by side with old quarters where art galleries, cafés and restaurants from all over the world mingle. To prepare for the post-oil era, Bahrain is opening up to tourism. And the archipelago has plenty to tempt travelers: white-sand beaches, gastronomic discoveries and immersion in a history that goes back thousands of years. A well-kept secret in the Gulf, well worth a visit.
