Sitra: Bahrain's Enchanting Island Oasis

• Helloمرحبا
  [marhaban]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wadaeana]
• Yesنعم
  [naam]
• Noلا
  [laa]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [min fadlik]
• Thank youشكرا
  [shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [atharana]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [kaifa halak?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [bikhayr. wa'ant?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتكلم الإنجليزية؟
  [hal tatakallam al'iinjlia?]
• I don't understandأنا لا أفهم
  [ana la afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأريد أن أرى القائمة، من فضلك
  [urid 'an 'ara alqaimah, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحم
  [ana la aakul allahm]
• Cheers!في صحتك!
  [fi sahtik!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأود أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [awad 'an 'adfa', min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [alnajdah!]
• Go away!انصرف!
  [ansarif!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [atassal bialshurtah!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بطبيب!
  [atassal bitalib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضللت
  [laqad dillat]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أريد أن أشتري...
  [urid 'an 'ashtari...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتفرج
  [ana faqat atfarij]
• How much is it?بكم هذا؟
  [bikam hadha?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hadha ghaali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك خفض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuk khafd alsaa'ra?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam alssaa'a?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [alssaa'at alwahidah]
• Half past (10)العاشرة والنصف
  [al'ashirah walnusf]
• Morningالصباح
  [alssabah]
• Afternoonالظهر
  [aldduhr]
• Eveningالمساء
  [almasa']
• Yesterdayأمس
  [ams]
• Todayاليوم
  [alyawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [ithnayn]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thulathah]
• 4أربعة
  [arba'ah]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsah]
• 6ستة
  [sittah]
• 7سبعة
  [sab'ah]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamania]
• 9تسعة
  [tis'ah]
• 10عشرة
  [asharah]

• Where's a/the...?أين هو/هي...؟
  [ayn huwa/hia...?]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [ma huwa al'unnwan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [hal yumkinuk 'an tarini (ealaa alkhariitah)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى يأتي الحافلة التالية؟
  [mata ya'ti alhafilat altaliat?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ....)
  [tadhkirat (ealaa ....)]

Sitra, like the rest of Bahrain, was part of the ancient Dilmun civilization, which dates back to around 3,000 BCE. Dilmun was a prominent trading hub due to its strategic location along the trade routes between Mesopotamia and the Indus Valley. Archaeological evidence suggests that Sitra was inhabited by people who engaged in trade, agriculture, and fishing during this period.

During the early Islamic era, Bahrain, including Sitra, became a significant center for Islamic learning and culture. In the 9th century, the region came under the control of the Qarmatians, a radical Islamic sect. The Qarmatians established a utopian community and were known for their wealth and military strength. Sitra, along with other parts of Bahrain, was influenced by their rule until the 11th century.

In the early 16th century, the Portuguese established control over Bahrain, including Sitra. They were attracted by the island's strategic location and its pearl fisheries. The Portuguese built fortifications to protect their interests and maintain their dominance in the region. Their rule lasted until the early 17th century when they were expelled by local forces.

In the late 18th century, the Al Khalifa family, originally from Kuwait, established their rule over Bahrain. The Al Khalifa dynasty brought stability and development to the region. Under their leadership, Sitra became an important agricultural area, known for its date palm groves and fresh water springs. The dynasty continues to rule Bahrain to this day.

The discovery of oil in Bahrain in 1932 marked a turning point in the country's history. Sitra, like the rest of the nation, benefited from the economic boom that followed. The oil wealth led to significant modernization and development, transforming Sitra from a primarily agricultural area to a more urbanized region with improved infrastructure, healthcare, and education.

Despite modernization, Sitra has preserved much of its cultural heritage and traditions. The island is known for its traditional crafts, including weaving and pottery. The local community still practices age-old customs, particularly during festivals and religious celebrations. Fishing and agriculture remain important aspects of Sitra's cultural identity, reflecting its historical roots.

Sitra is an island city in Bahrain, located just a short distance from the capital, Manama. The nearest international airport is Bahrain International Airport, which is approximately 20 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a taxi or use a ride-hailing service to reach Sitra. The journey typically takes around 25-30 minutes. Alternatively, you can rent a car at the airport if you prefer to drive yourself.

Getting around Sitra is relatively easy. Taxis and ride-hailing services like Uber and Careem are widely available and convenient for short trips. Public buses operated by Bahrain Public Transport Company also serve the area, connecting Sitra to other parts of Bahrain. If you prefer more flexibility, renting a car is a good option. Sitra has well-maintained roads and ample parking facilities.

The official currency in Bahrain is the Bahraini Dinar (BHD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are readily available throughout Sitra, and you can easily withdraw Bahraini Dinars using your international bank cards.

Sitra is generally a safe place for tourists, with a low crime rate. However, it is always wise to take standard precautions such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific neighborhoods in Sitra known for high crime rates targeting tourists, but staying vigilant is always recommended.

In case of emergency, dial 999 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Bahrain has modern medical facilities, and there are several hospitals and clinics in and around Sitra. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are also available for minor health issues, where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in public places. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting mosques, ensure you are appropriately dressed and remove your shoes. Public Transport: Do give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake or a polite nod. Eating & Drinking: Do try local cuisine and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Sitra like a local, visit the traditional markets (souqs) where you can buy fresh produce, spices, and local crafts. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about their culture. Don't miss the Sitra Fishermen's Port, where you can watch traditional fishing practices and enjoy fresh seafood. For a relaxing experience, visit one of the local coffee shops and try a cup of traditional Arabic coffee.