Travel guide – bahrain
bahrain
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Overview
Sophisticated, modern and cosmopolitan, Bahrain, a kingdom of 33 islands in the Arabian Gulf, is welcoming an increasing number of international tourists who come to experience the country's fascinating blend of eastern and western cultures. It is one of few middle-Eastern countries where the Government is currently prosperous and stable, and the capital, Manama, on the main island, boasts excellent hotels, restaurants, shopping malls, an intriguing souq (bazaar) and all the other facilities visitors need for a great holiday. In addition, the beaches are stunning, the weather hot and sunny, English is spoken and understood everywhere, and the kingdom has the remnants of more than 5,000 years of civilisation to be explored: its future as a popular holiday destination for westerners, despite a currently high risk of terrorist attacks, seems assured.
Back in the mists of time Bahrain was attached to the Arabian Peninsula. Nature separated it from the mainland, but man has now rejoined it with a 16-mile (25km) long causeway linking it to Saudi Arabia. During construction of the causeway and a new road network, the islands' archaeological significance came to light with the discovery of thousands of burial mounds dating from the third millennium BC, part of the well-ordered ancient city of Dilmun that existed where a forest of skyscrapers now reaches for the sky.
Throughout its history Bahrain has been prosperous, first on the strength of its good position for trade and fishing, and the abundance and quality of the pearls found in its waters, and more latterly because of its oil resources (Bahrain was the first country in the Gulf to exploit its "liquid gold").
A visit to Bahrain, whether on business or pleasure, is an interesting, relaxing and rewarding experience.
Climate
The most pleasant time of year in Bahrain is during spring or autumn when sunshine is virtually guaranteed, along with warm temperatures tempered by soft breezes. Summers can be very hot and humid, though the humidity is modified at the end of the season when a dry northwesterly wind blows, known locally as the "Al Barah". Winter is cooler and influenced by low-pressure systems, which bring rainfall. Average rainfall is low, but most of it falls in winter.
Health
No vaccinations are required or recommended for visitors to Bahrain. Medical facilities are good in the main cities, but health insurance is recommended because visitors must pay for treatment. There are many well-stocked pharmacies in the country. Water is deemed clean and safe by the authorities, but visitors usually prefer to drink bottled water, which is widely available.
The basics
Time
GMT +3.
Electricity
Electrical current is 230 volts, 50Hz except in Awali where it is 110 volts, 60Hz. Bahrain uses UK style 3-pin power outlets.
Language
Arabic is the official language, although English is widely understood and is used by most businesses.
Tipping
If service charge is not added to the bill, waiters and taxi drivers expect a 10% tip. Porters will be happy with about 100 fils per item of baggage.
Safety
Although the crime rate in Bahrain is relatively low, visitors should be fully aware that along with other states in the Gulf region, the country is rated as high risk for indiscriminate terrorist attacks by Al Qaeda on Western interests. Visitors are advised to be vigilant at all times particularly in public places.
Customs
Although it is a liberal state, Bahrain is an Islamic country and many locals find scanty clothing and immoderate public behaviour offensive. Visitors should dress and act respectfully when out and about. Homosexuality is illegal.
Communications
The international direct dialling code for Bahrain is 973, and the outgoing code 00. There are no city or area codes. Public phone booths are easily located, some accepting freely available phone cards and some coins. The country is covered by a GSM 900 and 1800 mobile phone network. There are several Internet service providers and Internet is available at most of the larger hotels in Manama.
Duty Free
Travellers to Bahrain over 18 years do not have to pay duty on 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars and 250g tobacco; perfume up to 237ml; 1 litre alcoholic liquor and 6 cans of beer for non-Moslem passengers only; and gifts to the value of 250 dinars. Arms and ammunition, methylated spirits, drugs and jewellery require an Import Permit.
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