FlyingBlue Petroleum

There is magic in Bahrain.  Magic that unites water and sand. Magic that evokes those “Thousand and One nights” under the starry arch of a sky unmatched anywhere else in the world.  It is here where travellers can experience, in absolute tranquillity, a population in touch with its customs and traditions.  The Kingdom of Bahrain is an archipelago of 700km2, connected to Saudi Arabia by a 25km long bridge, an architectural wonder between land and sea.  135,000 people, one quarter of Bahrain’s entire population, live in the capital, Manama, a city that throws together traditional housing with modern sea-front towers.  The history of the island is the stuff of legends.  It is here where the famous Eden was situated, with its lush vegetation and countless springs.  Bahrain’s perfect location, in the center of the Persian Gulf, has enabled it to retain its strong commercial traditions, represented by several ancient buildings at the heart of the old town.  The Kingdom’s crowning achievement: the Formula One Grand Prix, held in the middle of the desert in the capital, Manama, yet also so close to the sea!

►Experience the first few hours of the Grand Prix

All the drivers and crew congregate at the Ritz Carlton, on the banks of a lagoon and artificial cove.  Here they discuss techniques, and have their first interviews with the journalists staying in the hotel.  The bar is THE place to be the night before the race.  The city’s most beautiful beach lies at the foot of the Hilton along with the most glamorous bar in the country: alive from nightfall with its oriental ambience punctuated by a pathway lit with lamps and hanging candles. A treat worth trying: the Race Cocktail*, created especially for the Grand Prix.

*Alcohol abuse is dangerous for your health.  Consume in moderation.

►A first lap of the circuit

Bahrain’s last Grand Prix on the 6th April 2007, televised worldwide, gave some impression of the party that goes on every year in the country.  A party in honour of the winner, Felipe Massa, and for his Ferrari, of which replicas can be bought at any toy stand in the souk, or local market. There is also a party atmosphere around the circuit where luxury cars mingle with camels.  More than just an exceptional place for a unique event, Bahrain’s Grand Prix is a centre for motorsport all year round.  During the Grand Prix, access is restricted. It  is therefore advisable to reserve your place online before coming.  A little extra advice:  It is possible to access the stands during trials, two or three days before the Grand Prix.  Driving lessons, private races and activities are also on the menu.  Being slap bang in the middle of the desert, it is essential to reserve places in the main grandstand (sheltered and ventilated).  You can visit the stadium the night before the race (for around $80).  Tickets are available up until the day before the Grand Prix.  If you speak fluent English, you can apply to work as an international volunteer for the Grand Prix.  A unique experience that gives you behind the scenes access to the event. You should apply at least 6 months in advance.

►Out of the ordinary!

The World Trade Centre (50 floors, 240m) and the Bahrain Financial Harbour (53 floors, 260m) have over several years become the architectural attractions of Manama.  You’ll be suprised to see such daringly tall sky scrapers just feet away from sand dunes.  The contrast seems surreal.  To get a better view, take a look from the top floor of the World Trade Centre.  The Sail Tower should also not be missed. A minaret, the only trace of local culture, stands at its feet.  Opposite, the ever present sea.  And just next door, the Formula One circuit.

^{Photo credit: Getty Images, Sunset, Masterfile, Corbis}