Wealthy Bahrain, seat of the Bronze Age, Dilmun trading empire is the most liberal country in the Gulf state.
3 August 2008
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.