Bahrain

Bahrain is a small island country situated near the western shores of the Persian Gulf.

Places of interest include the Al-Fatih Mosque, Beit al-Quran Museum, Museum of Pearl Diving and the Royal Tombs.

Bab al-Bahrain, the 'Gateway to Bahrain' was built by the British in 1945 and redesigned in the 1980's.

The Qal'at al-Bahrain (also known as the Bahrain Fort) is an archaeological site which has unearthed antiquities from 2300 BC up to the 18th century. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Manama Souq, in the warren of streets behind Bab al-Bahrain, is the place to go for electronic goods, t-shirts, nuts, spices, sheesha bottles and souvenirs. There are also lots of jewellery stores selling gold and pearls.

There are some beaches here, ranging from small areas ideal for picnics, to larger public beaches a taxi ride away. Be sure to observe local customs and avoid revealing swimwear.

Restaurants serve a mix of local Arabic dishes as well as seafood and fish (grouper, mackerel or bream) and some international options such as Chinese.

Traditional dishes include 'machboos' (meat or fish served with rice) and 'muhammar' (sweet rice with dates or sugar). Bahrainis also eat 'falafel' (fried balls of chickpeas) and 'shawarma' (lamb or chicken wrapped in pita bread). The traditional flatbread is called 'khubz'.

Cruise ships may dock at either Khalifa Bin Salman Port or Mina Salman Port. Shuttles are usually available for a fee. Ensure taxis use their meters.