Bahrain

[TeaAndALemonTart]

Has anyone been to Bahrain who can tell me if there's any decent beach clubs/ nice spots to sunbathe?

DH is working there for the F1 and I've been invited along and just wondering if it's okay for me to be exploring on my own and any tips.

Thank you

I grew up there! Beautiful hotels where you can buy a day pass to use the beach/pool. My favourites are the Ritz and the Four Seasons. Here is a nice list. I wouldn't feel very comfortable or respectful sunbathing on the public beaches. It is still a muslim country. Very very safe as a solo female traveller if you stick to the touristy bits. I wouldn't go too deep into the old souk by yourself but that really is the only place I would avoid. F1 time is a lot of fun - the island becomes very lively.

Thank you very much, that sounds great. I'm
Going to go!

The Ritz is probably my favourite. If you like Thai food, Monsoon is in a beautiful setting, and the food is very good. The Avenues has some restaurants overlooking the water and Lumee in Al Ali mall, and I think it's still in the Avenues has great food for reasonable prices.

The souq area is nice to wander. Has some great spices and gold....

Love Bahrain.

I live in Bahrain, yes lots of things to do:

Pearl trail in Muharraq

Seef Fort - Portuguese fort, with adjoining museums and fabulous cafe with a splendid view

There's currently an art exhibition at the national museum - beautiful building and nice location

Softer is another hotel to visit (beach)

Raffles just opened - looks quite lovely

La Fontaine - stunning gallery/restaurant - original old architecture

Jasra organic farm

Jasra Arts Centre (crafts)

If you are invited you can the F1, I'm sure there will be lots of parties you'll be attending

Oops Sofitel hotel I meant!!

Thanks for those, I'm making notes of where to go. It all looks lovely.

Is it an expensive place to live out of interest? I've always fancied living in the Middle East

@TeaAndALemonTart it is expensive - but I'm in England this week, and I'm finding the cost here equally higher, if not higher!

It's a wonderfully friendly place if you are raising young children, mainly due to home help and a plethora of nursery schools - however are now older and at school in England.

Most expats stay within their own national communities.

Certainly an adventure.