A Sailor's Life In Bahrain: An Insider's Perspective

Being stationed in Bahrain comes with its pros and cons. On the one hand, the country boasts a wide variety of cuisines, and there are many places to visit in the Middle East during the usual 18-month orders. On the other hand, the heat can be intense, and there is some of the worst traffic in the world. It is also very expensive to drink alcohol in Bahrain, and women may find it awkward dealing with the local culture, which involves local men staring at them.

The food is fantastic

Bahrain's food culture is heavily influenced by its trading history, with dishes borrowing from Arabic, Persian, Indian, Balochi, African, Far Eastern, and European cuisines. The country's small size means that it imports most of its food, so it is susceptible to outside influences on its cuisine and culture.

The country's national dish is Machboos, a fragrant rice dish cooked in a well-spiced chicken or mutton broth, served with meat or fish. Other popular dishes include biryani, harees, khabeesa, mahyawa, quzi, and zalabia. Arabic coffee, or qahwah, is the national beverage, and it often accompanies Ghuraiba, a brittle cookie made from flour, butter, powdered sugar, and cardamom.

Bahrain's modern, westernised side is also reflected in its food offerings. The country boasts several American chain restaurants, including Applebee's, Chili's, Fudrucker's, and Bennigan's.

For those with a sweet tooth, there are plenty of dessert options, such as Gaimat or Luqaimat, sweet fried yeast dumplings soaked in saffron syrup or honey. Another sweet treat is Khanfaroosh, a popular fried dessert usually served at breakfast with tea or coffee.

The country's proximity to the sea also means that seafood is a common ingredient, with dishes like Masli, a pot of rice cooked with chicken, meat, fish, or shrimp, and Mahyawa, a tangy fish sauce.

Bahrain's food is a delightful fusion of flavours and influences, offering a unique culinary experience that blends traditional Middle Eastern dishes with modern, western touches.

There's a lot of traffic

If you're stationed in Bahrain, you should be prepared for a lot of traffic. In fact, one person who spent two years there described the traffic as "some of the worst [they] have ever seen in [their] life".

Given the traffic conditions, it's recommended that you don't bring your own car to Bahrain. Instead, consider walking, biking, or taking advantage of cheap taxi and Uber rides. If you do need a car, you can always buy one locally—they're apparently very affordable.

If you do decide to bring your own car, be aware that you'll need to remove any window tinting before it can pass import inspection. Also, consider the potential costs of getting your car through customs and registration, as well as the long-term impact of the environment on your vehicle.

When it comes to accommodation, some people recommend living in Juffair, as it's close to the base and has everything you need within a 15-minute walking radius. Others suggest Seef as a nicer alternative, though it's further away. If you want to be close to the city, look for a place with a north-facing balcony or courtyard to escape the heat.

It's very hot

One of the most obvious things about being stationed in Bahrain is the heat. It gets very hot. Intense heat is something to be prepared for, with temperatures reaching 118°F (48°C) and feeling like 130°F (54°C). The heat is so extreme that almost everything is indoors, and the country is set up for extreme heat.

The heat can be a shock to those who are not used to it, and it can be a challenge to adapt. It is recommended to find accommodation with a north-facing balcony or a courtyard to sit in to escape the sun. The heat can also be a safety concern, with one person reporting that it is possible to get a DUI for riding a bike while intoxicated, as the limit is 0%.

Despite the heat, there are many positives to being stationed in Bahrain. The food is fantastic, and Middle Eastern cuisine is underrated. There is a wide variety of cuisines available, and some of the best souvenirs and rugs can be found there. The pay is also good, and it may be one of the fattest paychecks of your career. There is a lot of positive things to do in Bahrain, and it is a pretty good spot to make memories.

However, the heat is something that should not be underestimated. It can be intense and uncomfortable, but with the right preparations and mindset, it is possible to adapt and even enjoy your time in Bahrain.

There are some great souvenirs

Persian Rugs

Persian rugs are a great way to add a touch of local culture to your home. You can find authentic Persian rugs in Manama Souq, with shops like Ali Baba Cave Antiques selling unique collections. The Bradran Persian Store, established in 1935, also sells authentic rugs, some dating back to the 16th century.

Bakhoor and Arabic Perfumes

Bakhoor is a type of sweet-smelling incense derived from fragrant tree wood chips. It is an integral part of Arab culture, used for special occasions and everyday fragrance. Asghar Ali and Syed Junaid Alam are popular names for bakhoor, with outlets across the island and shops in malls. They also offer a range of Arabic perfumes with strong fragrances and beautifully designed bottles.

Abayas and Scarves

The abaya is a traditional loose-fitting garment worn by Arab women. You can find abayas in most malls and souks across Bahrain, and they make for a perfect souvenir or gift. Along with an abaya, a matching scarf is a great addition.

Dates

Dates are a staple in Bahraini cuisine and hold cultural significance. They are commonly consumed during Ramadan to break the fast. You can find fresh dates in local markets, and preserved dates in souks and malls, with various options like chocolate-coated dates, dates with nuts, and date jam. Bateel is a popular brand for dates.

Gold

Bahrain is known for its premium-quality gold, and Gold City in Manama Souq is a hub for gold shops. You can find 21-karat and 24-karat gold jewellery in modern and traditional designs. You can also opt for custom-made pieces studded with pearls, diamonds, and other precious stones.

Pearls

Bahrain has a long history in the pearling industry, and while it has declined since the 1930s, you can still find pearl shops and divers offering exotic collections. Most gold shops in Manama Souq sell pearl-studded gold jewellery. Popular places to buy pearls include Al Fardan Jewellery, Al Mahmood Pearls, and Mattar Jewellers.

Pottery

Bahraini pottery is renowned for its intricate designs and is a part of the local culture, dating back to ancient times. In the traditional village of A'ali, you can find artisans creating beautifully crafted pots, pitchers, lamps, and more. These make for unique souvenirs or gifts, showcasing the ancient traditions of the region.

Spices

Bahraini spices will add a unique flavour to your cooking. Common spices found in souks and markets include bzaar, cardamom, cinnamon, cumin, curry powder, saffron, and turmeric. You can buy these spices by the kilo from local vendors in the souks or opt for packaged spices in malls and retail shops.

With such a diverse range of souvenirs, you're sure to find something special to remind you of your time in Bahrain.

It's easy to travel to Europe

Being stationed in Bahrain means you're in a great position to travel to Europe. The distance between Bahrain and Europe is around 2,700-3,000 miles, and with a consistent speed of 50km/hour, you could reach Europe in around 96 hours. However, the fastest way to get from Bahrain to Europe is by plane, which takes around 11-13 hours and costs $210-$700. There are several flight routes you can take, with layovers in cities like Istanbul, Athens, Munich, and Frankfurt.

For example, you could fly from Manama to Frankfurt and then take a series of trains to reach your destination in Europe. Alternatively, you could fly to other European cities like Hannover, Nuremberg, or Munich, and then take connecting trains. These trips usually involve multiple transfers, but they are relatively straightforward and affordable.

If you're looking for a more scenic route, you could also consider taking a train from Bahrain to Europe. While this option can take upwards of 11 hours, it's a great way to see the countryside and experience the local culture. The train routes often involve multiple transfers and layovers in various European cities, but they provide a unique perspective of the continent.

When travelling from Bahrain to Europe, it's important to note the time difference. Bahrain is typically 1-3 hours ahead of Europe, depending on the specific location. This is something to keep in mind when planning your travel itinerary and booking accommodations.

Overall, travelling from Bahrain to Europe is relatively easy and accessible, with a variety of flight and train options available. The journey offers a great opportunity to explore new places, experience different cultures, and create memorable experiences.

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