Full Name: Kingdom of Bahrain - means 'two seas'.

Location: Middle East, Gulf coast

Capital: Manama

Population: 754,000

Major language: Arabic

Major Religion: Islam

Life expectancy: 74 years (men), 77 years (women)

Currency: Bahraini Dinar

Internet domain: .bn

Country dialling code: +973

Voltage: 230 volts AC, 50Hz (Awali, 110 volts AC, 60Hz).

Time Zone: GMT/UTC +3

Weights & Measure: Metric

Flying time: From London to Bahrain is 7 hours 15 minutes. From New York to Bahrain is 13 horus and 30 minutes.

When to go: Avoid during Ramadan festival as the population fasts during the day and things are restricted.

Health: Be sure to consult with your doctor. You may need jabs for Diphtheria, Hepatitis A, Rabies, Tetanus, Typhoid, Hepatitis B and Tuberculosis. Water is generally safe to drink. Modern hotels tend to have their own filtration systems.

Climate: Bahrain offers warm weather throughout the year but June to October are very hot and humd with temperatures hovering around 42°C/108°F. From December to April you can expect temperatures between 10-20°C/50-68°F. The coolest months are between December and March and there is very little rainfall.

Entry/Visa: A valid passport with at least six months left before expiry is required. A visa is required. UK, Australia, Canada and USA nationals may obtain their visa on arrival at Bahrain International Airport or King Fahad Causeway if holding a valid passport and return/onward tickets.

Notes:
Avoid showing the soles of your feet or accepting food with your left hand as these acts offend. When offered a tea or coffee it is polite to drink two small cups.

3 August 2008