A throwback to the boisterous trading days of the past, Bahrain’s fabled ‘souks’ (Arabic for markets) are a wellspring of intoxicating colors, sights and smells. For those keen on an enlivening shopping experience, nothing rivals a visit to Bahrain’s famous Gold Souk or Gold City. A modern-day visual fiesta fit for Ali Baba and the forty thieves, the Gold Souk is the glittering highlight of any visit to Bahrain. Discover the quiet nooks and crannies where over 50 individual shops ply their trade; and be wowed by the sheer enormity and variety of gold on display. Bahraini gold is usually 21 carats and comes in a multitude of Italian, Indian and traditional Bedouin designs. Still unfazed by the clamor of merchants making a bid for your attention? Make a quick detour to other, smaller souks catering to spices, herbs and nuts. Half the thrill of shopping in such a stimulating ambience is perfecting the art of bargaining for your wares!

Abandon the Prada and Dior crowd for a retail odyssey to the Al Jasra Handicraft Center. Situated in the village of the same name, the Center is a treasure trove for handicrafts like cloth weaving, basketry and pottery. Give your credit card a good workout at the shopping mecca of Bab Al Bahrain. Located near the Gold Souk, this area plays host to a wide range of eclectic shops in the setting of a traditional Arabian souk. Scour in the back alleys for a hodge podge of electronic goods, musical instruments and made to measure garments. Or ease your traveler exile with a quick getaway to Bahrain's mega malls that marry the sublime with the sensational. Take in the 16-screen cinema complex at Seef Mall, have a heat-defying ice-cream sundae at Bahrain Mall or catch up on all the gossip at a cafe in Al A'Ali Mall.

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