Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
style around a central hub, are bright and attractive. There's a complimentary bus service
to Bab al-Bahrain twice a day.
Regency InterContinental$$$
HOTEL
( 17 227 777;
www.intercontinental.com/manama
; King Faisal Hwy; s/d BD95/105; )
In the middle
of downtown but offering uptown accommodation, this old favourite has recently enjoyed
a makeover. The hotel's contemporary black and grey elegance works well and the rooms
make up for in pillows what they lack in window size. The Downtown Bar with nightly
live jazz attracts the in-crowd.
Gulf Hotel$$$
HOTEL
( 17 713 000;
www.gulfhotelbahrain.com
; Bani Otbah Ave; s/d BD98/108; )
Despite being 4km
from the city centre, this veteran hotel is the most convenient for the Gulf International
Convention Centre. With an extravagant foyer, velvet lounges and marble halls, the interi-
or appears to belong to an Italian palazzo. The hotel's proximity to the most popular
Western expat eating haunts of Adliya is an added bonus.
Movenpick Hotel Bahrain $$$
HOTEL
( 17 460 000;
www.moevenpick-hotels.com
; Muharraq Town; s/d BD100/112; )
It's usually hard
to recommend a hotel near the airport but with the chain's usual inimitable feel for a land-
scape, this is one airport hotel that comes highly recommended. Built around an infinity
pool that overlooks the tidal waters of the Gulf, the hotel whispers 'holiday' from the
front door. Breakfast is not included.
Ritz-Carlton Bahrain
Hotel & Spa$$$
RESORT
OFFLINE MAP
( 17 588 000;
www.ritzcarlton.com
; Al-Seef; s/d from BD149/174; )
Undoubtedly Bahrain's most
luxurious and opulent hotel, boasting its own private beach and secluded island, though
some may find the dark, polished interior of black marble and gilt-edged furniture op-
pressive and pretentious. The service is faultless, but staff are unfriendly. Nonetheless, if
yours is a Bentley, you'll be in good company and the Friday brunch is worth saving your
appetite for.
