Creative Events: The Future of Tourism

TDT | Manama
Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com

'Global tourism strategies should inspire Bahrain’s event management and hospitality industry. With thousands of tourists transiting through Bahrain every month, there is an untapped opportunity to engage short-stay visitors with unique experiences.'

Recently, I visited Langkawi, a popular tourist destination in Malaysia. The island is breathtakingly beautiful, surrounded by the sea on one side and lush green forests on the other. What truly surprised me was how much Langkawi resembled the Maldives. Everything felt eerily similar, from the overwater hotels to the room designs and artistic bed decorations. I do not know who copied the concept, but it is sold in both places, proving that a well-packaged tourism experience can be replicated successfully.

My first trip to the Maldives initially left me wondering how I would spend four days on a small island with limited shopping and sightseeing options. However, when I stepped into my hotel room, I was greeted with a list of exciting activities planned for guests.

From 24-hour dining options featuring cuisines worldwide to spa treatments and fitness sessions, the resort has carefully curated an engaging experience. One of the most enjoyable moments was the water exercise sessions, where professional trainers led guests in dance and fitness routines in the pool. It was an exhilarating mix of exercise and entertainment, with people laughing, jumping, and splashing around. Another unique experience was yoga on a yacht, allowing guests to meditate while floating in the sea. Water sports enthusiasts had endless choices, from jet skiing to parasailing and scuba diving. There were also beach volleyball matches, small boutique shopping areas, and evening parties with music and dance, where all tourists came together to celebrate. The hospitality industry in these destinations has mastered the art of keeping tourists entertained, ensuring their stay is fun-filled and memorable.

On a different note, I took a boat trip along the city’s famous riverwalk while visiting San Antonio, Texas. The most entertaining part wasn’t the scenic beauty but the jovial tour guide who cracked endless jokes while narrating the history of the place. The entire boat was filled with laughter, proving that it’s not just a destination’s natural beauty or skyscrapers that make it unique—but how tourists are treated and entertained. Another fascinating experience in San Antonio was the Ghost Bus Tour, which takes tourists on a thrilling nighttime journey through historically significant locations, mixing entertainment with storytelling. Bahrain could introduce similar attractions, offering structured four-day itineraries that combine sightseeing, entertainment, and cultural experiences.

Bahrain has the potential to create a similar impact on visitors. The country is rich in history, culture, and modern attractions, offering a blend of experiences for every kind of traveller. A well-designed itinerary could include visits to historical sites like Bahrain Fort, Al Fateh Grand Mosque, and the Bahrain National Museum on the first day. The second day could be dedicated to adventure, with a trip to the Formula 1 Track, the Sakhir Desert, and the legendary Tree of Life. The third day could involve shopping at the Manama Souq, exploring modern malls, and enjoying the vibrant food scene. On the fourth day, tourists could be engaged in hotel-based activities such as spa treatments, live music, dance performances, and themed events. For those extending their stay, trips to nearby islands like Al Dar and Hawar could add a relaxing, scenic touch to their holiday.

Global tourism strategies should inspire Bahrain’s event management and hospitality industry. With thousands of tourists transiting through Bahrain every month, there is an untapped opportunity to engage short-stay visitors with unique experiences. The country needs creative event management companies that can introduce innovative tourism packages, making Bahrain a transit hub and a compelling destination.

If creativity is the future of tourism, Bahrain has all the ingredients to become a thriving travel hotspot—it just needs the right event organisers and experiences to bring it all to life.