Since 2020 is shaping up to be year of the pandemic staycation we decided to rediscover relaxation in our own backyard…

The Four Seasons Bahrain Bay is architecturally one of the most Iconic buildings in the Kingdom. It is rumored that the distinguished “H” shape is a tribute to King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and was tactfully used to obtain his support for the project. Located on its own exclusive island, this luxury resort lives up to the Four Seasons name with its exceptional dining options, modern design and unmatched service.

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One of the pricier hotels but well worth the cost; the modern rooms, luxurious grounds and world class resturant options are probably the best of Bahrain. Reduce the cost and add value by taking advantage of AMEX/ 4SZNS status freebies.

My top 5 favorite perks of booking through the AMEX Platinum card:

Room upgrades: We booked the Premier room and ended up receiving the Four Seasons Executive Suite on the 27th floor which is a huge jump in space and price.
$100 Resort food/drink credit: This hotel normally gives this via spa credit but because of the current COVID restrictions we were able to use it on food & beverages.
Early (Noon) Check in: I’ve actually checked into a Four Seasons as early as 7 AM!
Late (4PM) Check out: Standard checkout time is 4pm with the Amex, but upon arrival I was asked when I would like to leave… never, but actually 5PM gave just a little extra time to pack up before spending the rest of out credit on sunset cocktails. This is probably my favorite perk as it essentially gives you an entire extra day.
Free breakfast. This is a HUGE MONEY SAVER on longer vacations, especially when nice hotels charge about $30 pp every morning. At the Thompson in Nashville they gave me something crazy like $60 pp to spend on their breakfast menu… I spend ALL of it and had boxes delivered to store my lunch and dinner for later. #winning

How crisp and amazing is this cream and green interior? I love everything about these rooms.

At the back of an expansive walk in closet is this this marble beauty. Huge tub? Check. Separate shower? Of course. Far away and separate toilet room? Great for pooping in romantic situations. TV in the mirror? Alhamdulillah! Plus all that other Gucci stuff bathrooms have … like soap.

Seeing my name on all the TVs makes me feel like a grown up boss b*tch.

The resort offers four pools: a kids play pool, the iconic infinity pool, a serene indoor lap pool and “Azure” the adults only pool. I am typically a beach goer but the pool water is chilled which was perfect for the higher temperatures mid day. Further assistance from the heat was provided by this refreshing white wine sangria - best enjoyed with SPF and a chilled glass.

COVID mitigations are hot button right now, they served food and drinks but didn’t deliver them poolside, you had to walk over to the counter to order and to pick up your own food + drinks.

DINNER AT THE CUT BY WOLFGANG PUCK

Night one of outdoor dining returning to Bahrain and we decided to try CUT restaurant on the third floor terrace. It was still quite warm outside but the ambiance was chill; we enjoyed sweeping views of the skyline reflection illuminated against the water at night. We started with a bottle of champagne, and several rounds of appetizers before moving onto the main course. When in Rome do as the Romans do, I ordered the filet minion medium rare and it may have been the best steak of my life. It is no wonder that CUT has won so many accolades because despite the hefty price, the food is truly exceptional.

Pro tip: don’t skip the complimentary bread basket. I would have never even considered that as a viable option but I was dining with a group of fitness minded sexy people and I heard the most confusing words of my life… “No we don’t need the bread, thanks. “ Me (internally), “Huh???” After regaining my wits after what felt like a personal attack I used a low key series of hand gesturing to cue the waiter that I in fact did want the aforementioned carbs (I mean we had pre-gamed in the room and our scallop appetizers were more like one single scallop diced into the world’s tiniest pieces). He brought out what I can only describe at the sexiest yet semi pretentious presentation of biscuits, crostini, pretzels, loaves, and sauces; it was amazing and can you guess who ate it?EVERYONE.

Breakfast anyone?

Room service delivery is the new standard in continental breakfasts. Because I book through AMEX it is always included at no additional cost. We had the choice of American breakfast or traditional Bahrani breakfast and went with both because variety is the spice of life.

Almost too good to eat…Almost

For better or worse this beach and the bar restaurants on it are 100% for hotel guests-and the security is SHARP! It wasn’t so awesome when my friends and I tried sneaking in for sunset drinks a few months back but we sure did appreciate the serenity and space during our recent trip. They have beach games like volleyball and pickle as well as waterslides to keep you entertained and complimentary cabanas to help you kickback and relax.

Not pictured: The indoor pool and workout facilities are absolutely stunning, extremely clean and inclusive of any equipment you would need to get a good pump in.