Bahrain

Formerly the heart of the Gulf’s pearling industry, Bahrain’s archipelago of 33 islands still offers up a priceless collection of treasured experiences. The most difficult decision you’ll ever make is which islands and beaches to cherry pick for the perfect itinerary. On the north shore of the capital, Manama, Reef Island is an accessible spot for a cooling dip while the tiny island of Al Dar offers a little piece of paradise. Reclaimed from the sea but anything but fake in terms of ambience, Nurana Islands’ beaches are popular with locals and have the added Instagrammable bonus of views of the Manama skyline. The seven-strong Diyar Al Muharraq island chain is also manmade, and connects to the mainland via a causeway, with a wealth of leisure and dining experience to discover. Below the waterline, the Hawar Islands archipelago is where scuba diving aficionados can spot endangered green turtles, vivid schools of fish and even the elusive dugong.

Put your private yacht chef in the hot seat with a visit to the seasonal farmers’ market in Al Budaiaya where stalls are piled high with all kinds of colourful, locally grown vegetables and fruit, as well as plump dates and fresh coffee. It’s a great spot to mingle and interact with Bahrainis and expats on the hunt for foodie finds, and vendors also serve up delicious homemade breakfast and lunch dishes. Combine food and fun with a sunset kayaking trip on the Arabian Gulf while chef prepares a delicious beach barbecue.

Cultural exploits also loom large. A guided desert trail hack on an Arabian horse is an unforgettable intro to Bahrain’s heritage trail with the trip taking you past the UNESCO-listed Bahrain Fort, which was once the capital of the ancient Dilmun civilisation. The city’s old souk (market) is another step back in time moment, tucked away behind its more modern sister, Manama Suq. It’s also where you’ll find a number of authentic places to sample traditional Bahraini dishes.